How to Plant Sweet Potatoes in a Pot

Growing sweet potatoes in a pot is a great way to enjoy this delicious vegetable without needing a garden. With the right techniques, you can easily grow sweet potatoes in a container. In this article, we鈥檒l go through the step-by-step process of how to plant sweet potatoes in a pot.

Choosing a Pot

The first step in growing sweet potatoes in a pot is selecting the right container. Sweet potatoes need a spacious pot for their roots to grow, so make sure to choose a 15-gallon pot or larger. The container should also have drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. For a healthier plant, choose a pot with good drainage.

Selecting Soil

For sweet potatoes to thrive in a pot, you need to choose the right soil. Sweet potatoes need nutritious, well-draining soil to grow well. You can make your potting soil by mixing potting mix, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts. Add slow-release fertilizers to improve soil fertility. Alternatively, you can purchase soil specifically formulated for growing vegetables if you don鈥檛 want to make your own.

Planting Sweet Potatoes

After selecting the pot and soil, it鈥檚 time to plant your sweet potatoes. You can grow sweet potatoes from slips or vine cuttings. To use slips, order them from a certified supplier or grow them yourself by rooting a sweet potato in water. Vine cuttings can be taken from a mature sweet potato plant.

To plant, fill the pot with potting soil until it鈥檚 half full. Choose two or three healthy-looking slips or vine cuttings and place them in the pot, ensuring that their leaves poke out of the soil. Cover the slips or vine cuttings with the remaining soil until it鈥檚 1-2 inches below the container rim.

Caring for Sweet Potatoes

After planting, it鈥檚 vital to care for your sweet potatoes correctly. Regular watering is a must; sweet potatoes need moist soil to grow well. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. In addition, sweet potatoes need a lot of sunlight; ensure that your pot is placed in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.

Sweet potatoes are vulnerable to pests and diseases, but proper care can mitigate such risks. You can use natural pest control methods or insecticidal soap to control pests. Ensure to remove any yellow or diseased leaves promptly.

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

Growing sweet potatoes in a pot takes 100-120 days before harvesting. A well-maintained sweet potato plant can produce two to three potatoes per pot. Sweet potatoes in a container need extra care when harvesting. You need to water the plant thoroughly one day before harvesting. Roots are delicate, and you鈥檒l need to avoid damaging them while digging the potato. You can use a garden fork or use your hands to remove the potatoes gently.

In conclusion, planting sweet potatoes in a pot is an excellent way to enjoy this delicious vegetable without a garden. Remember to choose a spacious container, use fertile and well-draining soil, and follow proper care techniques. With these tips, you can produce your harvest of mouth-watering sweet potatoes.