growing spuds & slug control - some advice please

[kia cat]

We're growing some potatoes in an old dustbin. Earthing up when the shoots develop.

[1] Slug/snail control: I'm guessing slug pellets on the earth aren't a good idea if we'll be eating the crop? Would winding a load of copper wire round the top of the bin work?

[2] Cropping: Presumably the plant has done all it can after flowering and when the stems start yellowing off?

[3] and finally do you have to buy seed potatoes, or can you use ones that have started shooting in the veg rack?

Thanks

[Hawkwalk]

1 - slug pellets are ok and wont infect the spuds if placed on the surface. You can get less harmful ones now which are fairly safe. A copper band might also work.

2 - Normally yes unless you get an early variety which can be ready as they come into flower. (probably too late for those now anyway)

3 - you dont have to buy seed potatoes but it is recommended as they are certified clean and free from disease and are more likely to give you a better crop.

[rowanwitch]

I'm doing that too...I am using a mixture of sharp grit and a plastic cup of beer (half full) sunk into the soil. The magpies queue up every morning for their marinaded slugs...