How to Plant Sweet Potatoes in a Pot

If you are interested in growing sweet potatoes but don't have the space for a traditional garden, you can still enjoy a bountiful harvest by planting sweet potatoes in a pot. Follow these simple steps to grow sweet potatoes in a container:

Prepare the Pot

You'll need a large pot, at least 12-16 inches in diameter and 12-16 inches deep, with holes on the bottom for drainage. Choose a potting mix that's rich in organic matter and provides good drainage. Fill the pot with about 2-3 inches of gravel or broken clay pots to help with drainage.

Choose Sweet Potato Plants

You can grow sweet potatoes from cuttings or slips, which can be difficult to find. Consider purchasing seedlings instead, which are readily available at nurseries and garden centers in the late spring or early summer. Choose disease-free seedlings with green, healthy leaves.

Plant the Seedlings

When planting sweet potato seedlings, make sure to space them several inches apart, depending on the size of your pot. Bury the roots in the potting mix, leaving the leaves uncovered. You can plant several seedlings in one pot, but make sure they have enough room to grow.

Water and Fertilize Regularly

Sweet potatoes require regular watering to promote healthy growth. Water deeply once or twice per week, depending on the weather conditions. Make sure the potting mix stays moist but not overly saturated. Fertilize the plants once every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Care for the Plants

As the sweet potato plants grow, they will need support to prevent them from sprawling over the edges of the pot. Insert stakes or trellises if necessary. Prune back any dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and address them promptly if necessary.

Harvest and Storage

Your sweet potatoes will be ready to harvest in the fall, around 90-120 days after planting. Look for signs that the leaves have died back or are beginning to turn yellow. Dig up the sweet potatoes carefully, starting around the edges of the pot and working your way towards the center. Store the sweet potatoes in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.

Growing sweet potatoes in a pot is a fun and rewarding experience, and it can be done even with limited space. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious harvest of fresh sweet potatoes right from your own porch or balcony.