How to Plant Sweet Potato in Water

Are you looking for a simple and fun gardening project? Growing sweet potatoes in water is easy and straightforward, even for beginners. Follow these steps to learn how to plant sweet potato in water and achieve a bountiful harvest.

Step 1: Choose Your Sweet Potato

Start by selecting your sweet potato. There are many types of sweet potatoes, but make sure to choose a fresh, healthy one that's free from cuts, bruises, or soft spots. Look for sweet potatoes with small sprouts since they are perfect for water propagation. Avoid using sweet potatoes from the grocery store because they may be treated with chemicals that inhibit growth.

Step 2: Prepare Your Sweet Potato

Rinse your sweet potato under running water to wash off any dirt and debris. Then, cut the sweet potato in half, lengthwise. Place one half of the sweet potato on a flat surface with the cut side down, and insert four toothpicks at a 45-degree angle into the sweet potato's sides. The toothpicks will support the sweet potato above the water and prevent it from sinking.

Step 3: Add Water and Wait

Fill a glass jar or a vase with water, but do not submerge the entire sweet potato. Leave about one-third of the sweet potato above the water level, with the toothpicks holding it in place. Place the jar or vase in a well-lit area, such as a windowsill or a balcony, and wait for the sweet potato to grow. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and prevent mold or bacteria growth.

Step 4: Watch It Grow

After several days, you should see small sprouts emerging from the sweet potato's top. Some sweet potatoes may take longer to sprout than others, depending on the temperature, humidity, and sunlight. Once the sweet potato has grown enough roots and leaves, you can transplant it into soil or continue to grow it in water. Make sure the plant is exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight a day and water it regularly.

Tips and Tricks

Use warm water to accelerate the sprouting process.

Remove any leaves that are yellow, brown or damaged to avoid rot and mold

Don't overcrowd your sweet potatoes in one container, as they need enough space to grow.

Sweet potatoes love humidity, so mist the leaves with water regularly to keep them healthy and hydrated.

Conclusion

Planting sweet potatoes in water is a fun and rewarding activity that's perfect for anyone who enjoys gardening. With just a few simple steps, you can grow your sweet potato using water and watch it transform into a thriving plant. Remember to choose a fresh, healthy sweet potato, add water and be patient as you wait for the sprouts to appear. Follow these tips and tricks to grow your sweet potatoes successfully and enjoy delicious, homegrown produce!