How to Plant Sweet Potato in Pot

Sweet potatoes are a popular and tasty root vegetable that can be easily grown in a pot. They are full of nutrients and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them a great addition to any vegetable garden. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to plant sweet potato in a pot.

What You Will Need

Before we get started, here are the essential items that you will need to grow sweet potato in a pot:

A large pot (at least 12 inches deep and 24 inches wide)

Good quality soil

Sweet potato slips (seedlings)

Watering can or hose

Fertilizer

Sunlight

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose the Right Pot

The first step in growing sweet potato in a pot is to choose the right pot. The pot should be large enough to accommodate the sweet potato plant and should have good drainage. We recommend using a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and 24 inches wide, with a drainage hole at the bottom.

2. Fill the Pot with Soil

The next step is to fill the pot with good quality soil. Use soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH level of 5.5 to 6.0. Fill the pot about two-thirds of the way full with soil, leaving enough space for the sweet potato slips to be planted.

3. Plant the Sweet Potato Slips

Sweet potato slips are small, rooted sprouts that grow from a mature sweet potato. You can purchase sweet potato slips online, at a local nursery, or you can start your own slips by rooting a sweet potato in water.

Once you have your sweet potato slips, plant them in the pot by digging a hole that is large enough to accommodate the roots of the slip. Place the slip in the hole and cover the roots with soil, leaving the top of the slip exposed.

4. Water the Plant

After planting the sweet potato slips, water them thoroughly. Water the plant once a week or more often if the soil dries out quickly. Be sure not to overwater the plant, as this can cause the roots to rot.

5. Fertilize the Plant

To ensure that your sweet potato plant grows healthy and strong, it's important to fertilize it regularly. You can use a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer that is high in potassium, which is essential for sweet potato growth. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.

6. Provide Adequate Sunlight

Sweet potato plants need plenty of sunlight to grow properly. Place your pot in an area where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. If you don't have a space that receives that much sunlight, consider using grow lights to supplement the natural light.

Harvesting Your Sweet Potatoes

After about three to four months, your sweet potato plant should be ready for harvesting. To harvest your sweet potatoes, gently remove the soil around the base of the plant and carefully dig out the potatoes. Clean the potatoes by brushing off any excess dirt, and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to use them.

Closing Thoughts

Growing sweet potato in a pot is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy this delicious vegetable. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you'll be on your way to growing your sweet potato plant in no time! Happy planting.