Can I grow sweet potatoes from store-bought ones?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.A great way to start sweet potatoes is by using store-bought tubers. Many of them, such as organic sweet potatoes, are easily sprouted when properly cared for. This is what I've done for years to minimize risk and cost when purchasing nursery slips. With a little good management and restraint, you will be rewarded with vigorous starts.
Preparation
- Choose plump organic tubers without damage
- Sanitize jars with bleach solution before use
- Insert toothpicks at three points around the middle
- Use room temperature filtered water for best results
Rooting Process
- Suspend tuber halfway in water with roots submerged
- Place in warm spot with indirect sunlight
- Change water weekly to prevent bacterial growth
- Expect roots in 2 weeks and slips in 4-6 weeks
Transplanting
- Harvest slips when stems reach 6 inches tall
- Gently twist shoots off the mother tuber
- Place slips in water until roots grow 3 inches
- Plant in soil after hardening off for 3 days
Monitor your climate daily after the roots begin to appear; healthy slips throw out their bright green leaves five weeks after the roots germinate. Turn your jars once a week; I put them in new windows after the roots emerge. It stiffens them after they put forth roots and before they are taken out and planted. One jar, one tuber, and a few that have just graduated into a higher class are required; no overcrowding.
Transplant slips after the last frost date, when the weather begins to warm up. Space at least 12 inches apart in raised rows. Water well each day for 5 or 6 days after transplanting. I water in compost tea, which gives the roots a boost. I protect baby plants on cool nights with row cover. They'll establish themselves quickly.
Harvest the tubers approximately 100 days after planting, when the leaves have begun to turn yellow. Curing is essential for long storage. Your home-grown sweet potatoes will taste better than store-bought varieties. This method will work in all climates with a warm Summer. Start your project today, and you will be pleased with your harvest.
Read the full article: How to Grow Sweet Potatoes Successfully
