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Dreaming of sweet potatoes?
You can grow them from regular potatoes!
It’s easier than you think. Here are 7 simple tactics to get you started.
Ready to grow your own?
Let’s dig in!
Pick the Right Sweet Potatoes
It all starts with choosing the perfect sweet potatoes. You want to pick some healthy ones from your local market or grocery store.
Organic ones are the best since they haven’t been treated with chemicals that could prevent sprouting. Look for firm, unblemished potatoes.
Avoid those with soft spots or mold. This initial step sets the tone for a successful growing experience.
Prepare Your Potatoes
First things first, give your new sweet potatoes a good wash to get rid of any dirt. Then, let them dry completely.
After drying, slice each potato in half lengthwise. Make sure each piece has at least one “eye” or sprout location.
This allows you to get a good start on multiple slips, which are the root of your future sweet potatoes.
Sprout the Slips
Now it’s time to get those slips growing. Fill a container with water and place your potato halves in it, cut side down.
Make sure half the potato is submerged. Place the container somewhere warm and sunny.
In a couple of weeks, you’ll see sprouts shooting up from the top. Root growth will appear at the bottom.
Be patient; this part takes a bit of time.
Separate and Plant the Slips
Once your sprouts are about 4-6 inches tall, it’s separating time! Gently twist each sprout away from the potato.
Each sprout should have its own roots. Place these sprouts in a jar of water.
After a few days, they’ll develop even more roots, making them ready for planting. Choose a spot with well-drained soil and full sunlight for the best results.
Care for Your Sweet Potatoes
Caring for your sweet potatoes involves regular watering, weeding, and occasionally adding some fertilizer. Sweet potatoes love warm weather, so if it’s still cool out, consider using a row cover.
Make sure they get enough sun, about 6-8 hours a day. Consistent care will keep your plants healthy and ready for harvest in a few months.
Harvest Time!
After about 90-120 days, your sweet potatoes will be ready for harvest. The leaves will start to yellow, indicating they’re ready to be dug up.
Carefully unearth the sweet potatoes using a garden fork. Let them cure in a warm, airy spot for a couple of weeks.
This helps toughen their skin and improve their sweetness.
Enjoy Your Bounty
Boom! You’ve successfully grown sweet potatoes from potatoes.
Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Bake them, mash them, or make some yummy sweet potato fries.
However, you decide to eat them, you’ll relish the satisfaction of having grown them yourself. Happy gardening!