Chitting is a method of preparing potatoes or other tubers for planting. The seed potatoes are placed in a tray (often in egg cartons) in a light and cool place with a little water. All but three or four of the "eyes" (sprouting parts) of the potato are removed, leaving the strongest growths only. Once the sprouts are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, the seed potatoes are planted in the ground.