How to Plant Sprouted Sweet Potato

Sweet potato is a nutritious and tasty vegetable that can be easily grown in your own backyard. If you have a sprouted sweet potato lying around, you can use it to grow your own sweet potato plants. In this article, we will guide you through the process of planting sprouted sweet potato to yield a bountiful harvest.

Preparing the Sweet Potato

The first step is to select a sprouted sweet potato that is healthy and fresh. Look for one that is firm and has a few sprouts coming out from the eyes. Once you have selected your sweet potato, wash it thoroughly in running water and let it dry for a day or two. This will allow the sprouts to develop further, giving them a better chance of growing into a healthy plant.

Planting the Sweet Potato

The next step is to plant the sweet potato in a container or in the ground. If you are going to plant it in a container, make sure it is at least 12 inches deep and 15 inches wide. Fill the container with well-draining soil and plant the sweet potato at a depth of 4-6 inches. Water the soil thoroughly to encourage the roots to establish themselves.

If you are going to plant the sweet potato directly in the ground, choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Dig a hole that is 4-6 inches deep and plant the sweet potato in it. Cover the sweet potato with soil and water it thoroughly.

Caring for the Sweet Potato Plant

Once you have planted the sweet potato, it is important to take proper care of it to ensure a bountiful harvest. Water the sweet potato plant regularly, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 6-8 weeks to promote healthy growth.

Sweet potato plants are susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to monitor the plant regularly. If you notice any signs of pests or disease, take appropriate measures to prevent them from spreading.

Harvesting the Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are usually harvested 3-4 months after planting. You can harvest them when the leaves start to yellow and die back. Use a digging fork to gently loosen the soil around the sweet potato plant and dig out the tubers.

Store the harvested sweet potatoes in a cool, dry place for at least a week before eating. This will help to cure them and improve their flavor. Sweet potatoes can be stored for up to 6 months if stored properly.

Conclusion

Planting sprouted sweet potato is a great way to grow your own nutritious and tasty vegetable. With a little care and attention, you can yield a bountiful harvest of sweet potatoes that can be enjoyed by your family and friends. So why not give it a try and see how easy it is to grow your own sweet potato plants?