Learn how to grow sweet potatoes in pots at home with this easy step-by-step guide.
Choosing the right pots and soil
When it comes to choosing the right pots for growing sweet potatoes, it’s important to select containers that are at least 20 inches in diameter and 15 inches deep. This will provide enough space for the sweet potato plants to thrive and produce a good yield of tubers. Options for containers include plastic, terracotta, stone, or glazed ceramic pots. Additionally, grow bags are recommended as a lightweight, inexpensive, and space-saving option for growing sweet potatoes.
Types of soil
The soil used for growing sweet potatoes in containers should be fertile and well-draining. A quality potting mix is essential, and it’s beneficial to mix in some organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide nutrients for the plants. Avoid reusing old potting soil or using old garden soil, as these may retain too much moisture and increase the risk of tuber rot.
- Choose a potting mix that is fertile and well-draining
- Mix in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide nutrients
- Avoid reusing old potting soil or using old garden soil
Planting process
When planting sweet potatoes in pots, it’s important to start with high-quality potting soil. Fill your chosen container with a fertile and well-draining potting mix, making sure to mix in some organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to boost fertility. Additionally, adding a handful of slow-release balanced fertilizer into the soil can help provide the necessary nutrients for the plants to thrive.
Planting the slips
Once you have prepared the soil in the container, it’s time to plant the sweet potato slips. These can be obtained from nurseries, garden centers, or online. Alternatively, you can grow your own slips by suspending a sweet potato tuber in water using toothpicks. Once the slips are 2-3 inches long, they should be planted into the prepared soil in the container.
Choosing the right container
Select a container that is at least 20 inches in diameter and 15 inches deep, with holes in the bottom for drainage. This will provide enough space for the sweet potato plants to grow and produce a good yield of tubers. Options for containers include plastic, terracotta, stone, glazed ceramic, or grow bags, with the latter being lightweight, inexpensive, and effective at air pruning the roots.
- Fill the pot with the right soil
- Plant the slips
- Choose the right container
Positioning and care
Place the container in a sunny spot in your backyard, ensuring that the plant receives six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Regular watering and feeding are essential for the plants to thrive, as they require more attention when grown in containers. Check the moisture levels in the soil and maintain a regular fertilizing schedule to keep the nutrients available for the plants.
Harvesting
It can take up to five months for sweet potatoes to be ready to harvest. When the foliage starts to turn yellow and dies back, it’s a sign that the tubers are ready. Carefully lift the tubers from the soil, taking care not to damage them. When growing sweet potatoes in containers, it can be easier to harvest by tipping the contents of the pot out and rummaging through the soil for the tubers.
By following these steps and providing the right care, you can successfully grow sweet potatoes in pots and enjoy a bountiful harvest of this delicious and versatile crop.
Maintenance and care
Sweet potatoes require regular maintenance and care to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some essential tips to keep your sweet potato plants healthy and thriving:
Regular watering
Sweet potatoes need regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil consistently moist, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Check the moisture levels in the soil regularly and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilizing schedule
To ensure that your sweet potato plants have access to essential nutrients, it’s important to have a regular fertilizing schedule. Use an organic vegetable fertilizer and feed your plants at least monthly to keep them healthy and productive.
Harvesting
When it comes time to harvest your sweet potatoes, pay attention to the foliage. Once the foliage starts to turn yellow and die back, it’s a sign that the tubers are ready to be harvested. Take care when lifting the tubers to avoid damaging them, especially when growing them in containers.
By following these maintenance and care tips, you can ensure that your sweet potato plants thrive and produce a bountiful harvest of delicious tubers.
Harvesting and storage
Once the sweet potato foliage starts to turn yellow and dies back in late summer and fall, it is time to harvest the tubers. Carefully dig around the base of the plant to avoid damaging the tubers. When growing sweet potatoes in containers, it can be easier to harvest as you can simply tip the contents of the pot out and rummage through the soil for the tubers.
Storing sweet potatoes
After harvesting, sweet potatoes should be cured to improve their flavor and allow them to store for longer. To do this, place the sweet potatoes in a warm, humid place (around 85-90°F) for about 10-14 days. After curing, store the sweet potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place with a temperature of around 55-60°F. They can be stored for several months under these conditions.
- Harvest sweet potatoes when the foliage turns yellow and dies back
- Cure sweet potatoes in a warm, humid place for 10-14 days
- Store cured sweet potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place
In conclusion, growing sweet potatoes in pots is a simple and rewarding process that can be done by anyone, even those with limited space. By following the proper steps and providing the right conditions, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this nutritious and delicious vegetable. So, give it a try and start growing your own sweet potatoes in pots today!
