How should I water sweet potato plants?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Water sweet potato plants deeply once a week during the active growing season. At the close of this period, they should receive approximately an inch of water in open furrows, allowing the roots to extend down into the soil in search of moisture. For some reason, I have found that closely repeated watering tends to produce larger tubers. Avoid light sprinklings that conserve the habit of its roots to lie near the surface. I have discovered drip to be the best general irrigation method.
Establishment Phase
- Water daily for first 7 days after transplanting
- Maintain consistently moist top 3 inches of soil
- Use gentle spray to avoid disturbing roots
- Transition to deep weekly watering after week 1
Growth Period
- Provide 1 inch water weekly during vine development
- Increase to 1.5 inches during heat waves above 85°F
- Check soil moisture at 4-inch depth before watering
- Mulch with straw to reduce evaporation
Tuber Formation
- Maintain consistent moisture during bulking phase
- Reduce frequency but increase depth after 60 days
- Water only when top 2 inches become dry
- Avoid water stress that causes cracked tubers
Cut down watering 50% during the last three weeks before digging.In my experience, this has improved the quality and storage life of the tubers themselves. They have almost always been of a thicker skin and sweeter flesh. More frequent tests for moisture should be conducted, and watering should cease altogether three days before digging begins.
Watch for signs of water stress, especially curled leaves in the heat of the afternoon. If your plants are wilting by dawn, they need water. I use a moisture meter to eliminate the guesswork. Also, if it's rained half an inch or more, skip your artificial watering. Over-watering can kill your plants due to root rot, and losses of up to 30% of the yield may result.
Install a rain barrel. I get water stored from my roof, over 200 gallons every month. I use this water, which is free of chlorine. Be sure to filter out leaves, dirt, and other debris before pouring it into your drip systems. Monitor the plants as droughts persist, and continue watering them regularly. You will achieve more substantial yields.
Read the full article: How to Grow Sweet Potatoes Successfully
