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Sowing Time of Sweet Potato: All You Need to Know
Sweet potato is one of the most popular root vegetables, known for its sweet taste and abundance in nutrients. It’s a versatile crop that can be grown in different soil types and climates, making it a good option for farmers and gardeners alike. But when is the best time to sow sweet potatoes?
Generally, sweet potatoes are sown during the warm months of the year, usually when the soil temperature is at least 18°C (64°F) and there is no risk of frost. In most parts of the United States, sweet potatoes are usually planted in late spring or early summer, around the same time as other warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers.
However, the exact sowing time may vary depending on the specific climatic conditions in your area and the variety of sweet potato. Here are a few factors to consider:
1. Soil Temperature
Sweet potatoes require warm soil to germinate and grow. The ideal soil temperature for planting sweet potatoes is between 21°C-29°C (70°F-85°F). The warmer the soil, the faster the sweet potato slips (the sprouts that grow from the tubers) will develop.
If your soil temperature is below 18°C (64°F), you can use black plastic mulch to warm up the soil before planting. The plastic mulch will absorb heat from the sun and transfer it to the soil, creating a warm environment for the sweet potatoes.
2. Day Length
Sweet potatoes are a type of tropical plant, and their growth is influenced by day length. During the shorter days of winter, sweet potatoes will experience dormancy and slow down their growth. Once the days start to lengthen again in spring, the sweet potatoes will become more active and start to grow.
Therefore, it’s best to sow sweet potatoes during the longer days of spring and summer when the plant is more active and can photosynthesize more efficiently.
3. Variety of Sweet Potato
Different varieties of sweet potato have different sowing requirements. Some varieties, such as Beauregard, are early maturing and can be sown earlier in the season. Other varieties, like O’Henry, may take longer to mature and require a longer growing season.
Check the seed packet or with your local nursery to find out the specific sowing time and requirements for the sweet potato variety you plan to grow.
In conclusion, the best time to sow sweet potatoes is during the warmer months of the year when the soil temperature is at least 18°C (64°F) and there is no risk of frost. It’s also important to consider the day length and variety of sweet potato to determine the ideal sowing time. With proper planning and care, you can grow a healthy and productive crop of sweet potatoes in your garden.