How to easily grow sweet potatoes at home and get an abundant harvest!
Sweet potatoes are delicious and nutritious tubers that can be easily grown at home for an abundant harvest. Follow these simple steps to grow your own sweet potatoes:
1. Choose the right varieties of sweet potatoes:
There are many varieties of sweet potatoes, but some are better suited to home growing. Popular varieties such as Beauregard and Covington are easy to grow and offer good yields.
2. Prepare sweet potato cuttings:
Sweet potatoes usually multiply from cuttings. To prepare your cuttings, cut pieces of stem about 15 cm long with at least one knot. Let the cuttings dry for a few hours before planting.
3. Plant sweet potato cuttings:
Plant sweet potato cuttings in well drained, nutrient-rich soil. The cuttings must be planted about 30 cm deep and spaced about 30 cm apart.
4. Provide the right conditions for growth:
- Sweet potatoes like heat, so choose a sunny place to grow them.
- Water sweet potato plants regularly, ensuring that they are not flooded.
- Add organic fertilizer once a month to promote healthy growth.
5. Control pests and diseases:
Carefully monitor your sweet potato plants to detect any signs of pests or diseases. In case of infestation, use biological control methods or natural products to protect your plants.
6. Harvest sweet potatoes:
Sweet potatoes are usually ready to be harvested about four to five months after planting. Dig gently around the plants to harvest the tubers without damaging them. Let the sweet potatoes dry in the open air for a few hours before storing them.
7. Store sweet potatoes:
Sweet potatoes keep well in a cool, dark and well ventilated place. Avoid storing them in a damp place, as this can result in rotting. Use them quickly to enjoy their optimal flavour and texture.
By following these simple tips, you can easily grow sweet potatoes at home and enjoy an abundant harvest of these delicious tubers throughout the growing season.