Wiktionary
chitting
vb. (present participle of chit English)
Wikipedia
Chitting
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 and given a little water. All but three or four of the "eyes" (sprouting parts) of the potato are removed, leaving the strongest growths only. After the sprouts are about long, the seed potatoes are planted in the ground.
Usage examples of "chitting".
The bar was crowded with well-dressed professional types chitting and chatting relentlessly.