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Got a yam?
You can grow more from it!
It’s easier than you think. Learn 7 simple tactics to turn one yam into a bunch.
Ready to start your yam garden?
Let’s dig in!
Pick the Right Yam
First off, you need a good yam. Check out your local grocery store or farmers market for a healthy, organic yam.
Make sure there are no signs of mold or soft spots. You want it nice and firm.
And don’t worry if it’s a bit gnarly-looking; as long as it isn’t damaged, you’re good to go.
Cut the Yam into Pieces
Grab a knife and slice the yam into chunks. Each piece should be about 2 to 3 inches long.
The idea is to give each chunk a good surface area and a couple of “eyes” (those little nubs on the skin) which will sprout later. No need to get too precise; yams are pretty forgiving!
Let the Pieces Dry
Before planting, let the yam pieces dry out for a couple of days. Put them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
This process helps to form a callous over the cut surfaces, which protects them from rotting once they’re in the soil.
Plant the Pieces
Now it’s planting time! Dig holes about 4 inches deep in your garden bed or large pots.
Place each yam chunk in a hole, eyes facing upward, and cover with soil. Space them about 12 inches apart to give them room to grow.
Remember these babies need a lot of space!
Water Wisely
Yams love water but hate being waterlogged. Give them a good soak after planting and then water regularly, but let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
Overwatering can lead to rot, so just keep it moist, not soggy.
Mulch and Fertilize
Throw some mulch around your yam plants to help retain moisture and keep the weeds at bay. You can also add some compost or liquid fertilizer every few weeks to give them a nutrient boost.
Happy yams mean happy harvest!
Harvest Time
Yams take their sweet time to grow—about 8 to 10 months. Once the leaves start to yellow and die back, you know it’s harvest time.
Carefully dig around the plant and pull out your yams. Let them dry out a bit before storing in a cool, dry place.
Enjoy your homegrown yams!