Introduction

Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can be grown in pots. Growing sweet potatoes in pots is a great option for those who have limited space, as it allows you to cultivate these nutritious tuberous roots on your balcony or patio. In this article, we will guide you through the steps needed to plant sweet potatoes successfully in pots.

Choosing the correct pot

The first step in planting sweet potatoes in pots is choosing the right container. Remember that sweet potatoes need a lot of space to grow, and they like well-draining soil. So, it’s best to select a large pot with a minimum of 15 to 20 inches diameter and a depth of around 12 to 18 inches. A pot that is too small can hinder the growth of your sweet potatoes, resulting in smaller and less flavorful tubers.

Preparing the soil

The next step is to prepare the soil. Sweet potatoes prefer well-drained, rich soil that is slightly acidic (with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5). You can prepare your soil by mixing 2 parts of high-quality potting soil with 1 part of sand, perlite or vermiculite. This mixture allows for good drainage, which is important for preventing waterlogging and root rot.

Planting the slips

The slips are the small stems that grow out of the sweet potato that are used to grow new plants. One sweet potato can provide 4 to 5 slips, and it takes about 6 weeks for the slips to develop. When the slips are around 5 to 6 inches long, it’s time to plant them in your pot. Simply plant each slip about 4 inches deep in the soil, with the leaves sticking out above the surface.

Watering and fertilizing

Water the sweet potatoes regularly to keep the soil slightly moist but not too wet. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little water can cause the leaves to wilt. Fertilizing is also important for the growth of sweet potatoes. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal. Fertilize the slips once a month during the growing season.

Harvesting the sweet potatoes

After 90 to 120 days, your sweet potatoes will be ready to harvest. You should stop watering the plant 2 to 3 weeks before the harvest to allow the soil to dry out. This will make it easier to dig up the sweet potatoes without damaging them. To harvest the sweet potatoes, carefully dig them up with a garden fork or spade, being careful not to nick or cut the tubers. Once harvested, let the sweet potatoes dry out for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

Planting sweet potatoes in pots is a great way to enjoy these nutritious and delicious roots while saving space in your garden. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can produce healthy, flavorful sweet potatoes from the comfort of your own home.