The correct answer is 5. 2 - 6. 4. Potato (Solanum tuberosum) originated in South America. Also called as poor man's friend. Potato is a cool weather crop. Optimum temperature for growth and development of potato ranges between 18 - 20°C. Potato prefers long day conditions for its growth. Potato can be grown in any type of soil except saline and alkaline soil. Soil with a pH of 5. 2 - 6. 4 is considered ideal.