Sweet Potato Plants and Other Varieties of Potato Need Constant Care

A handy guide to growing sweet potatoes and other varieties

In America, in terms of volume potatoes are exceeded only by corn, rice, and wheat. This is because Americans eat more potatoes than any other vegetable. Sweet potato plants and other potato varieties are annuals and must have a frost free environment for 90-120 days. Sweet potatoes and other varieties of potatoes should be planted just before the last frost or when the average ground temperature is 50 degrees or higher. Potatoes need loose, fertile soil that is slightly acidic.

Most gardeners grow sweet potatoes or other varieties from seed potatoes although seeds are available from local nurseries and garden centers. Seed potatoes should be cut into 1 1/2 inch squares with at least one eye on each piece. Plant the pieces you’ve cut about 4” deep and 12” apart. When the plants are 5-6 inches high, add mulch, organic fertilizers and soil around the growing stem to keep the soil moist and full of nutrients.

Sweet potatoes need consistent watering. If the soil dries out when the growing potatoes are just beginning, the growth will probably stop. Growth only begins again when water is added. Keep the soil moist to about a foot deep which usually means a heavy watering once a week or possibly more in warmer areas.

If you intend to store your sweet potatoes, or any other variety, they should be allowed to mature in the ground until the end of the growing season.

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