How to Grow Sweet Potato Plant in Water

Sweet potato plants are not only delicious but also very easy to grow. You can propagate sweet potato vines by starting them in water. It’s a simple and satisfying way to grow your own sweet potatoes without soil, and it's a great way to involve kids in gardening. Below are a few simple steps to get your sweet potato vines started and watch them flourish.

Step One: Prepare Your Sweet Potato

Start by selecting a healthy sweet potato. Look for a sweet potato that is firm and doesn't have any mold, soft spots, or bruises. Rinse it gently under cool running water to clean off any dirt, but don't scrub it too hard. Place the sweet potato in a jar or container of water, making sure to submerge the bottom half of the sweet potato. Use toothpicks to hold the sweet potato in place over the rim of the jar or container. You should see roots sprout soon, and you can expect to see the sweet potato plant shoots emerge within a couple of weeks.

Step Two: Choose The Right Container

The ideal container for growing sweet potato plants in water is a glass jar or vase. You can also use a plastic container if you prefer. Make sure the container is big enough to fit the sweet potato and can hold enough water to cover the bottom half of the sweet potato. It's important to keep the container near a window or in a spot with indirect sunlight. Sweet potato plants require plenty of light to grow, so make sure they get enough without being exposed to direct sunlight.

Step Three: Change the Water Regularly

Water is a crucial component in growing sweet potato plants. You must change the water regularly to keep the plant healthy. Changing the water ensures that the plant has enough oxygen to root and grow. The frequency of water changes will depend on the size of your container and the plant. However, it's a good idea to change the water every few days to keep it fresh.

Step Four: Move Your Plant to Soil

Once your sweet potato vine has produced roots and has started to grow shoots, it's time to move the plant to soil. You want to plant the sweet potato in a pot with soil and transfer it to a sunny location. Make sure the pot is big enough to accommodate the roots and the shoots. Gently remove the sweet potato plant from the jar or container, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the plant into the pot and cover the roots with soil. Water the plant and place it in a sunny location where it can get at least six hours of sunlight daily.

Conclusion

Growing sweet potato plants in water is a fun and rewarding activity. It’s easy to do, and you can involve your kids in the process. By following the steps above, you can grow your own sweet potato vine and watch it thrive. With a bit of patience and care, you can have delicious sweet potatoes ready to harvest in a few months.