How to Plant Sweet Potatoes in Florida

If you live in Florida and want to grow your own sweet potatoes, there are some important things to consider. Sweet potatoes grow differently in Florida than in other parts of the country due to the unique climate and soil conditions. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to plant sweet potatoes in Florida.

Preparing the Soil

The first step in planting sweet potatoes in Florida is to prepare the soil. Sweet potatoes prefer a well-drained loamy soil that is high in organic matter. If your soil is sandy or clay, you'll need to amend it with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. You should also test the soil's pH level to ensure it's between 5.8 and 6.2, which is optimal for growing sweet potatoes.

Choosing the Right Variety

Next, you'll need to choose a sweet potato variety that is adapted to Florida's unique growing conditions. Some of the best varieties for Florida include Beauregard, Covington, and Jewell. These varieties have been bred to resist diseases and pests that are common in the region and can produce high yields in the sandy soil.

Planting the Cuttings

Sweet potatoes are usually grown from cuttings, also known as slips. You can either purchase slips from a local nursery or grow them yourself. To grow your own slips, leave some sweet potatoes near a sunny window for a few weeks until small sprouts start to grow. Cut the sprouts from the sweet potatoes and plant them in moist soil. Once the slips have grown to about 6 inches, they are ready to transplant.

To plant the cuttings, create rows in the soil that are about 3 feet apart. Dig holes about 6 inches deep and place the slips in the holes, leaving a few leaves above the soil surface. Cover the slips with soil and water thoroughly. Be sure to plant the slips during the warm season when the soil temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Caring for the Sweet Potatoes

After planting, you'll need to care for the sweet potatoes by providing them with regular water and fertilizer. Sweet potatoes require about an inch of water per week, and it's important to water the plants deeply to encourage deep root growth. Fertilize the plants once a month with a balanced organic fertilizer.

Harvesting the Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves start turning yellow or brown. Carefully dig up the sweet potatoes with a garden fork and let them dry in the sun for a few days. Once the sweet potatoes are dry, store them in a dark, cool place with good ventilation.

In conclusion, growing sweet potatoes in Florida requires some careful preparation and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, nutritious sweet potatoes.