In the frosty frontiers of places like the Yukon and parts of Alaska, where winter whispers tales of -50 degrees F, growing veggies is a true test of resilience. Here, the Red Gold potato, with its red skin and golden heart, stands tall against the chill. These zones might have a short growing season, but with a greenhouse or container garden, you can enjoy potato planting year-round, making every season a potential potato bonanza.

Zones 2 through 6 stretch over a vast expanse, including Alaska and a good chunk of the continental U.S., where cooler summers smile on a variety of potatoes. From the early birds like Russet Norkotah and Yukon Gold to the long-haul champs Ranger Russet and French Fingerling, planting starts in the crisp air of April and May. It's a potato paradise where variety truly is the spice of life.

Zone 7a gardeners, marking your calendars for St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about wearing green; it’s the perfect day to plant your spuds. From the lofty heights of Green Mountain to the exotic Banana and Sangre potatoes, this region enjoys a Goldilocks growing season—not too hot, not too cold. It's all about timing, with planting kicking off as early as March to beat the last frost and reap a hearty harvest.

In Zone 7b, the climate’s a tad warmer, but the potato-planting schedule is just as generous, running from March to September. Here, the Purple Viking reigns supreme, an all-purpose spud that's as versatile in the kitchen as it is in the garden. It's a variety that might just steal the taste trophy from the beloved Yukon Gold, offering gardeners a delicious dilemma of choice.

As we step into the warmth of zones 8a and 8b, the potato-planting season stretches its legs, starting in February and extending through April. But don’t put your gardening gloves away just yet; a midsummer planting promises a fall harvest that’ll keep your kitchen stocked. Varieties like Red Pontiac and Yukon Gold love the sun here, thriving under its rays and the careful attention of the hilling method, where potatoes are buried treasure waiting to be discovered.

Zone 9’s coastal vibes offer a laid-back potato planting schedule from the tail end of January into the crisp fall of October and November. While general russets might give you the cold shoulder, Norgold M and Century russets are ready to party, perfectly suited to the mild winters and gentle summers of places like coastal California and central Florida.

In the sun-kissed soils of zones 10a and 10b, potatoes get an early start in January and February, with a curtain call for a second crop in October or November. For a harvest that's both bountiful and beautiful, mix early and late-season varieties. The drought-resistant Reba and the gourmet's choice, Rose Finn Apple fingerling, are stars of the show, promising a performance that's as rewarding as it is delicious.

Zone 11, with its tropical beats, is all about December through February plantings. While the high temps might challenge a second crop, early birds like Rocket and Swift are ready to take the stage, promising a harvest that's swift and satisfying, just in time to beat the summer heat.

Potatoes in the sizzling scenes of zones 12 and 13 face a tough crowd. Here, traditional spuds bow out, making room for the sweet potato’s moment in the sun. In Hawaii and Puerto Rico, the sweet potato, or u’ala, thrives, demanding just the right amount of rainfall to flourish from March to May, with varieties like Beauregard taking the spotlight.