How to Plant Sweet Potatoes in Pots

Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, but they can be difficult to grow in areas with limited space or poor soil. Fortunately, sweet potatoes can be grown in pots, making it easier for anyone to enjoy the joys of home-grown sweet potatoes. In this article, we will go over how to plant sweet potatoes in pots, from selecting the right soil to planting and harvesting your sweet potatoes.

Choosing the Right Pot

The first step in growing sweet potatoes in pots is choosing the right pot. You will need a large pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep to accommodate the roots of the sweet potato plant. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating in the soil.

Selecting Soil and Fertilizer

Sweet potatoes require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix specifically formulated for vegetables or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and compost. Fertilizer is essential for growing sweet potatoes in pots. Use a slow-release fertilizer or organic fertilizer to provide the right nutrients to the plant. Follow the manufacturer鈥檚 instructions for application rates and frequency.

Preparing the Sweet Potato Slips

Sweet potato slips are the shoots that emerge from a sweet potato. To create slips, use a healthy, organic sweet potato from your local farmer鈥檚 market or grocery store. Cut the sweet potato in half lengthwise and place each half in a jar or glass of water, submerging about half of the potato. Place the jar in a sunny spot and change the water every other day. In about 4-6 weeks, the slips will sprout from the sweet potato. Transplant the slips into the pot.

Planting the Sweet Potato Slips

Plant the sweet potato slips in the pot when they are about 6 to 12 inches long, leaving about 6 inches between each slip. Make sure the slips are planted at a depth of 2 to 3 inches below the soil surface. Water the soil until it is moist but not saturated, ensuring the water reaches the roots of the slips.

Caring for the Sweet Potato Plant

Sweet potatoes require consistent moisture to grow, so make sure to water the plant regularly. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a slow-release or organic fertilizer, following the manufacturer鈥檚 instructions. Sweet potato vines are prolific growers, so they will need something to climb on. You can use a trellis, stakes, or a tomato cage to support the plant as it grows.

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

It takes about 100 to 140 days for sweet potatoes to mature, depending on the variety. To harvest the sweet potatoes, wait until the leaves and vines have turned yellow and withered. Carefully dig up the sweet potatoes with a fork, being careful not to damage them. Brush off any excess soil and allow the sweet potatoes to dry in a warm, well-ventilated area for about two weeks before storing them.

In conclusion, growing sweet potatoes in pots is a great way to enjoy home-grown sweet potatoes even if you have limited space or poor soil. By following these steps, you can grow your own sweet potatoes in pots and enjoy the delicious and nutritious benefits of this versatile vegetable.