When is the best time to plant sweet potatoes?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.- Plant sweet potato slips 2-4 weeks after last frost, when soil temperatures have warmed up to 65-70°F (18-21°C). I have discovered that if you do not plant, you will almost certainly get cold-damaged slips or at least fail to grow and develop well. Nighttime temperatures must remain over 50°F (10°C). For accurate results, you will need to use a soil thermometer. Timing is essential for good vigorous growth of vines and tubers.
Northern Zones
- Plant late May to early June
- Warm soil with black plastic mulch 2 weeks early
- Choose short-season varieties like Georgia Jet
- Use row covers for unexpected cold snaps
Southern Zones
- Plant April to May after soil warms
- Avoid late plantings that face summer drought
- Select heat-tolerant types like Beauregard
- Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat
Coastal Areas
- Plant when ocean fog diminishes
- Maximize sun exposure in microclimates
- Use raised beds for better drainage
- Monitor salt spray damage on leaves
Prepare soil 2 weeks before planting. I till the beds and cover them with clear plastic to solarize. This will kill the weeds and warm the soil. Sweet potatoes form tubers underground, and they prefer to grow in loose, sandy soil. No clay shingle tiles; they'll compact and restrict the potato's growth. You want to make raised rows at least 8 inches high to aid with drainage.
Keep a close eye on nighttime Temps. I monitor temperature with remote monitors that send me alerts. I use fabric row cover to protect plants at temperatures below 50°F. Uncover plants each day to allow for ventilation. Plants that have been cold-stunted will take longer to recover. You should delay planting until the cold front passes.
Microclimates: There are always 'microclimates' in the garden, including south-facing slopes that warm up first. I planted these areas 1 or 2 weeks earlier. Plant dark stones around your plants to absorb heat. Container gardens will warm faster than beds in the ground. Pay attention to your specific zones and plant accordingly.
Read the full article: How to Grow Sweet Potatoes Successfully
