Can You Plant Sweet Potatoes in Pots?

If you're looking to grow sweet potatoes in a small space or don't have a traditional garden, planting them in pots is a great option. Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes can be planted in containers and will still produce a healthy harvest with proper care. In this article, we'll go over the steps you need to take to successfully grow sweet potatoes in pots.

Choosing the Right Pot

The first step in growing sweet potatoes in pots is choosing the right container. Sweet potatoes need a lot of space for their roots to grow, so a deep pot that's at least 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep is recommended. Make sure the pot has good drainage holes to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your sweet potatoes in pots, you need to prepare the soil. A mixture of potting soil, compost, and sand works well for growing sweet potatoes. Fill the pot with the soil mixture, leaving about 1-2 inches of space at the top for watering. Make sure the soil is moist, but not soaking wet.

Planting Sweet Potatoes

When planting sweet potatoes in pots, you have two options. You can either start with slips or with a sweet potato. If you want to start with slips, you can purchase them from a nursery or start them yourself by placing a sweet potato in a jar of water until the slips have formed. If you're starting with a sweet potato, cut it into sections, making sure each piece has at least one eye. Let the cut pieces dry out for a day or two before planting.

Once you have your slips or sweet potato sections, plant them in the center of the pot, burying them about 4 inches deep. Water the soil until it's moist but not soggy.

Caring for Sweet Potatoes

Now that you've planted your sweet potatoes in pots, it's important to care for them properly. Sweet potatoes need full sun, so place the pot in a sunny spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Water the sweet potatoes when the soil is dry to the touch, but don't overwater them as this can cause the roots to rot. Fertilize the sweet potatoes every 2-3 weeks using a balanced fertilizer.

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves have yellowed and died back, usually around 100-110 days after planting. Carefully dig up the sweet potatoes and allow them to dry in the sun for a few days. Store the sweet potatoes in a cool, dry place until you're ready to eat them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting sweet potatoes in pots is a great option for those who want to grow their own food but don't have a lot of space or a traditional garden. With the right pot, soil, and care, you can successfully grow sweet potatoes in pots and enjoy a delicious harvest. Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you'll be on your way to growing your own sweet potatoes in no time.