How to Plant Sweet Potato Slips

Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious crop that can be grown in your own backyard. One way to grow sweet potatoes is by planting slips. Slips are young shoots that grow from the sweet potato itself, allowing you to propagate the plant. In this article, we will discuss how to plant sweet potato slips and ensure a bountiful harvest.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting sweet potato slips, it is essential to prepare the soil. Sweet potatoes prefer soil that is light and loose in texture, with plenty of organic matter. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the area where you plan to plant. Then, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches. This will allow the plants to develop strong roots and access the nutrients they need.

Planting the Sweet Potato Slips

Once the soil is prepared, it's time to plant the sweet potato slips. Begin by placing the slips into a container of water. Allow them to sit in the water for several days, changing the water daily. This will encourage the slips to develop roots. When the roots are around 1 inch long, it's time to plant them.

Dig a small hole, approximately 4 inches deep, and place the slip into the hole, ensuring that the roots are facing downwards. Cover the hole with soil, leaving the top of the slip exposed. Continue planting the slips, leaving at least 12 inches between each plant to allow for adequate growth.

Caring for Sweet Potato Plants

Sweet potato plants require consistent care to grow properly. Keep the soil moist, but not overly wet, by watering the plants regularly. As the plants grow taller, you may need to hill them. This involves pulling soil up around the base of the plant, which encourages the sweet potatoes to grow deeper into the ground.

Fertilizing Sweet Potato Plants

Sweet potato plants require plenty of nutrients to thrive. To ensure the plants get the nutrients they need, fertilize them regularly. One option is to use a slow-release organic fertilizer. This type of fertilizer provides a steady source of nutrients over an extended period, reducing the need for frequent applications. Another option is to use compost. Spread a layer of compost around the base of each plant, allowing it to decompose and enrich the soil.

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves begin to yellow and die back. Carefully dig the sweet potatoes out of the soil, taking care not to damage them. Store them in a cool, dry place for several weeks to cure. This process allows the sweet potatoes to develop a sweeter taste and a firmer texture.

Conclusion

Growing sweet potatoes from slips is a rewarding and delicious experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your sweet potato plants grow strong and healthy. Remember to prepare the soil, plant the slips correctly, care for the plants properly, and harvest at the right time. With a little effort and patience, you'll be enjoying your own homegrown sweet potatoes in no time.