Published: June 14, 2022 Last Updated: December 1, 2024
QUESTION: What is the eye of a potato?
An eye of a potato is actually called the axillary bud. They are essentially the sprouts of a potato. These sprouts will emerge from a potato to grow stems and leaves. When a potato sprouts, it’s a sign that it’s out of its dormant stage and ready to start growing. A potato can have anywhere from 2 to 8 sprouts on it, sometimes even more. A potato that that has grown eyes or buds are also called seed potatoes. They are small to medium and are used to grow more potatoes. The potatoes that have eyes on it will be soft and dehydrated.
How does the eye grow?
The eye of a potato will grow from the small dent in it. It starts off growing like a minor bump. When you see minor bumps, it’s time to put them on a windowsill, so that it’ll grow healthy shoots. You can still eat the potato if it has minor bumps. Just rub off the eyes with your hands when you go to wash them. If the potato turns green, don’t eat it, as it contains toxins
