When can potatos be planted in Zone 5a/6?

Question

Also, can they be planted in open acreage without fences? How safe can they be from being dug up by animals?

Answer 1

Pennsylvania tradition is planting potatoes around St. Patrick's day but the best time is when soil temperatures are around 40 to 45 degrees F.

They should be safe from most animals for quite awhile, as they aren't really palatable to many creatures yet. You may take issue with the hornworm, but there are ways to keep them away.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/using-bacillus-thuringiensis.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/potato/how-to-grow-potatoes-when-to-plant-potatoes.htm

https://extension.psu.edu/getting-your-vegetable-garden-ready-for-spring