Sweet potatoes are a super source of vitamin A. A half-cup of sweet potato contains more than twice the daily amount of vitamin A needed for normal vision. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins C, B-6, and manganese. They also assist in the functions of metabolism.
When to Plant Sweet Potatoes
Timing is one of the most important factors in developing a successful crop of sweet potatoes. The small plants (slips) should be set during the last of April or early May. If they aren’t available locally, you can order them online.
The preferred sweet potato vine varieties are Jewel, Beauregard, Centennial, and Georgia Jets. The varieties for small spaces are Bush Puerto Rico and Vardaman.
Growing Conditions
Sweet potatoes grow and produce best when planted in well-drained, fertile sandy-loam soils about one foot deep or raised beds about one foot high. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Sweet potatoes produce a smaller amount of smooth, high-quality roots in sandy soils with low fertility.
- They grow many rough, low-quality roots in clay soils with high fertility.
- Sweet potatoes produce cracked, misshaped, and rough-skinned roots in soils with poor drainage.
Sweet potato plants must be located in sunlight all day.
- Slips should be set one to two feet apart in a single or a double row.
- Slips should also be set down so three nodes are below the soil surface.
- Apply water to soak the soil.
Fertilizer & Mulch
You can apply mulch under the lateral vines or move vines each week to prevent the nodes from developing secondary roots.
After one month, you should apply additional fertilizer at one-half pound with a ratio of 1-2-2 for each 35 feet of row.
Gardeners should allow plenty of space for the vines or tie them to grow up on a trellis.
FAQ: Growing Sweet Potatoes
Q: What’s the best time to plant sweet potatoes?
A: Sweet potatoes thrive in warm climates and should be planted once all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have reached at least 60°F. Depending on the region, this typically falls between late spring and early summer.
Q: What type of soil is ideal for growing sweet potatoes?
A: Sweet potatoes prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0. They don’t perform well in heavy, compacted, or rocky soils.
Q: How much sunlight do sweet potatoes need?
A: They require full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: How should I prepare the planting site for sweet potatoes?
A: Till the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and incorporate a generous amount of compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
Q: What’s the proper spacing for sweet potato plants?
A: Sweet potato slips (young plants) should be planted about 12 to 18 inches apart in rows 3 to 4 feet apart. This spacing allows room for the vines to spread and the tubers to expand.
Q: How often should I water sweet potatoes?
A: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Sweet potatoes generally require about 1 inch of water per week from rainfall or irrigation.
Q: Do sweet potatoes need fertilizer?
Sweet potatoes benefit from an early application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting time. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes foliage growth at the expense of tuber development.
Q: How do I combat pests and diseases in sweet potatoes?
A: Practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering to reduce leaf wetness, and keep the area free of debris. Use appropriate organic or chemical treatments only as necessary, and follow label instructions.
Q: When are sweet potatoes ready to harvest?
A: Sweet potatoes are usually ready to harvest 90 to 120 days after planting when the leaves start to yellow. Dig a test potato to check the size before fully harvesting.
Q: How should I harvest sweet potatoes?
A: Carefully dig around the plants with a spade or fork, starting a few inches from the vines. Lift the entire plant gently to avoid damaging the tubers.
Q: What is the proper way to cure sweet potatoes?
A: After harvesting, cure sweet potatoes in a warm (about 85°F), humid (85% humidity) environment for 7 to 10 days. This process improves their flavor, texture, and storage longevity.
Q: How long can sweet potatoes be stored?
A: Cured sweet potatoes can be stored in a cool (about 55°F), dark, and well-ventilated place for up to 6 months. Avoid refrigerating them, as cold temperatures can affect their taste.