How To Plant Sweet Potato In Pot [ Full Guide ]

September 1, 2024
/ Planting Tips

Sweet potatoes are delicious, nutritious, and versatile root vegetables that can be easily grown in a pot, making them an excellent option for home gardeners with limited space. With the right materials and a little bit of knowledge, you can successfully plant and grow sweet potatoes in a pot, right on your patio or balcony. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of planting sweet potatoes in a pot, from choosing the right container to harvesting your homegrown sweet potatoes.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Sweet Potato In Pot

To quickly summarize the process of planting sweet potatoes in a pot:

Choose a large pot with drainage holes to accommodate the sprawling nature of sweet potato vines.
Select a warm and sunny location for your pot, as sweet potatoes require plenty of sunlight to grow.
Use well-draining, loamy soil with added compost to plant your sweet potato tubers.
Cut sweet potato tubers into pieces and allow them to cure before planting to promote the growth of healthy slips.
Plant the sweet potato tubers in the prepared potting soil and water thoroughly.
Maintain consistent moisture and provide adequate support as the vines grow.
Harvest your sweet potatoes once the vines have withered and the leaves have turned yellow.

Now, let’s delve into the detailed steps and considerations for each stage of growing sweet potatoes in a pot.

Choosing The Right Potting Container

When it comes to planting sweet potatoes in a pot, selecting the right container is crucial for the success of your crop. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the potting container:

Container Size

Since sweet potatoes are sprawling plants that produce vines, it’s essential to select a sufficiently large pot to accommodate their growth. A 20- to 24-inch diameter pot with a depth of at least 12 inches is recommended to provide ample space for the sweet potato vines to spread out and develop tubers.

Drainage Holes

Proper drainage is essential for preventing waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot in sweet potatoes. Therefore, choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom to ensure excess water can escape, maintaining optimal soil moisture levels.

Material

Select a durable, lightweight container made of materials such as plastic, resin, or terracotta. These materials offer good insulation for the roots, are easy to move as needed, and are less prone to drying out compared to clay pots.

Vertical Space

Consider the vertical space available for the sweet potato vines to grow. While sweet potatoes primarily develop underground, they also produce sprawling vines that require vertical support. You may need to provide a trellis or stakes for the vines to climb as they grow.

Selecting The Ideal Location

Choosing the right location for your potted sweet potatoes is crucial for their growth and productivity. Consider the following factors when selecting the ideal spot:

Sunlight

Sweet potatoes thrive in full sunlight, so choose a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place the pot in a sunny spot on your patio, balcony, or in your garden to ensure optimal light exposure for the plants.

Temperature

Sweet potatoes require warm growing conditions to flourish. Ensure that the selected location offers a consistently warm temperature, ideally between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Avoid exposing the plants to cold drafts, as they are sensitive to low temperatures and frost.

Protection From Wind

While sweet potato vines require good air circulation, strong winds can damage the delicate foliage. Choose a location that provides some protection from strong winds or use a windbreak if necessary.

Space

Ensure there is ample space around the pot for the vines to spread out. Keep in mind that the sprawling nature of sweet potato vines may require some extra space on your patio or balcony.

Preparing The Potting Soil

Properly preparing the potting soil is essential for providing sweet potato plants with the necessary nutrients and a well-draining environment for healthy growth. Follow these steps to prepare the potting soil for your sweet potatoes:

Soil Mixture

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a combination of peat moss, perlite, and compost. A loamy soil mixture with good aeration will promote healthy root development and allow excess water to drain away from the roots.

Soil Ph

Sweet potatoes prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5. Test the soil pH using a simple soil testing kit and adjust it as needed by adding lime to increase the pH or sulfur to lower it.

Fertilization

Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the potting mix to provide essential nutrients for the sweet potato plants. Avoid using excessive amounts of nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as this can promote excessive vine growth at the expense of tuber development.

Preparing The Sweet Potato Tubers

Before planting sweet potato tubers in the potting soil, it’s essential to properly prepare them to encourage the growth of healthy slips, which are the shoots that will develop into new sweet potato plants. Here’s how to prepare the sweet potato tubers:

Selection Of Tubers

Choose well-shaped, disease-free sweet potato tubers for planting. Look for tubers with multiple eyes or buds, as these are where the slips will emerge.

Curing

Approximately 4-6 weeks before you plan to plant the sweet potatoes, initiate the curing process by placing the tubers in a warm, humid location. A temperature of 80°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C) with high humidity is ideal for curing. This process encourages the formation of healthy slips and allows any cuts or wounds on the tubers to heal, reducing the risk of rot after planting.

Slips Formation

As the tubers cure, they will begin to produce small, green shoots known as slips. These slips are the young plants that will be used for planting. Once the slips are 6 to 8 inches long, carefully remove them from the sweet potato tuber, ensuring that each slip has several leaves and a small section of the tuber from which it emerged.

Planting sweet potatoes in a pot is a rewarding and achievable endeavor for home gardeners. By carefully selecting the right potting container, choosing an ideal location, preparing the potting soil, and properly treating the sweet potato tubers, you can create a conducive environment for healthy sweet potato growth. With proper care, consistent moisture, and adequate support for the vines, you can look forward to harvesting your homegrown sweet potatoes, rich in flavor and nutrients, from the convenience of your own patio or balcony. Happy planting!

Planting The Tubers In The Pot

Sweet potatoes are a delicious and versatile root vegetable that can be grown in a variety of climates. While they are typically grown in the ground, they can also be successfully grown in pots or containers, making them ideal for those with limited gardening space.

Before you start planting sweet potatoes in a pot, you will need to gather the necessary materials. You will need a large pot or container, preferably one with a diameter of at least 12 inches to provide ample space for the sweet potato vines to spread. The pot should also have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, you will need good quality potting soil, which should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.

To start, fill the pot about halfway with the potting soil. Next, select sweet potato tubers that are free from diseases and blemishes. Look for tubers that are firm and have "eyes" or small sprouts beginning to form. These tubers can either be purchased from a garden center or saved from a previous harvest.

Place the tubers gently on top of the soil, spacing them about 12 inches apart. Make sure the sprouts are facing up. Cover the tubers with another layer of potting soil, leaving about an inch of space between the soil surface and the rim of the pot. Lightly press the soil down to ensure good contact with the tubers.

Proper Spacing And Depth For Planting

Proper spacing and depth are crucial when planting sweet potatoes in a pot. Since sweet potato vines can spread out quite extensively, it is important to allow enough space between the plants to avoid overcrowding. This will ensure that each plant has enough room to develop a healthy root system and produce a good harvest.

Spacing the sweet potato tubers about 12 inches apart in the pot is recommended. This distance provides enough space for the vines to grow without tangling or competing for resources. Crowded plants can result in reduced yields and increased pest and disease problems.

The depth at which you plant the tubers is also important. Sweet potatoes should be planted at a depth of about 3-4 inches. This allows for optimal growth and development of the tubers and helps to prevent them from being exposed to the surface, which can cause them to dry out or become damaged.

Watering And Drainage Needs

Proper watering is crucial for the successful growth of sweet potatoes in a pot. While sweet potatoes need regular watering, they also require good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other diseases.

Water the sweet potato plants deeply and thoroughly, making sure that the water reaches the bottom of the pot. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to soggy soil and root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

To ensure adequate drainage, it is important to use a pot with drainage holes. These holes allow excess water to escape from the pot, preventing water from pooling at the bottom. If you notice that the soil is not draining well, you can add a layer of gravel or small rocks at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.

Caring For Young Sweet Potato Plants

Once the sweet potato plants have sprouted and are starting to grow, there are several care practices that you need to follow to ensure their healthy development.

Provide ample sunlight: Sweet potatoes thrive in full sun, so choose a spot for your pot where the plants can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you don’t have access to a sunny location, you can also use grow lights to supplement the natural light.
Monitor temperature: Sweet potatoes prefer warm temperatures, with the optimum range being between 75-85°F (24-29°C). If temperatures drop below 55°F (13°C), the growth of the plants may slow down or even stop. If you are growing sweet potatoes in a region with cooler temperatures, consider using a pot with insulation or moving the pot indoors during cold nights.
Support the vines: As the sweet potato vines grow, they can become quite long and vine-like. Providing support for the vines will help prevent them from trailing on the ground and reduce the risk of damage or disease. You can use trellises, stakes, or cages to support the vines as they grow.
Prune if necessary: If the sweet potato plants become too bushy and crowded, you can prune them to encourage better airflow and reduce the risk of diseases. Trim back any excess foliage or vines, making sure to leave a few leaves on each plant for photosynthesis.
Monitor pests and diseases: Sweet potatoes can be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, sweet potato weevils, and fungal infections. Regularly inspect the plants for any signs of pest infestation or disease, such as holes in leaves or discoloration. If necessary, treat the plants with organic or chemical remedies to control the problem.

Fertilizing Requirements

Proper fertilization is essential for the healthy growth and development of sweet potato plants. While potting soil usually contains some nutrients, it is important to provide additional fertilization to ensure that the plants have all the necessary nutrients they need.

At the time of planting, incorporate a slow-release organic fertilizer into the potting soil. This will provide a steady supply of nutrients to the plants throughout the growing season. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the best results.

Additionally, it is beneficial to apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This will help replenish any nutrients that may have been used up by the plants and promote vigorous growth. Make sure to dilute the liquid fertilizer according to the instructions provided on the packaging to avoid overfertilization, which can damage the plants.

Growing sweet potatoes in a pot is a viable option for those with limited space or who prefer container gardening. By selecting the right pot, properly spacing and planting the tubers, providing adequate drainage and water, and following proper care practices, you can successfully grow sweet potatoes in a pot. Remember to provide ample sunlight, support the vines, prune if necessary, monitor pests and diseases, and fertilize regularly to ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest. Enjoy the process of watching the sweet potato plants flourish and look forward to enjoying the delicious and nutritious sweet potatoes they produce.

Choosing The Right Container

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and tasty addition to any garden. If you don’t have a large outdoor space, don’t worry – you can still enjoy the beauty and benefits of growing sweet potatoes by planting them in pots. Growing sweet potatoes in pots is a fantastic option for urban gardeners, apartment dwellers, or anyone with limited garden space.

When planting sweet potatoes in pots, it is crucial to choose the right container to ensure their healthy growth. Sweet potatoes have extensive root systems, so you need a pot that provides enough space for these roots to spread out.

Select a container that is at least 10 inches deep. For a single sweet potato plant, a 15-gallon container will be sufficient. However, if you plan to grow more than one plant, opt for a larger pot or multiple pots. Ensure that the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, as excess water can rot the roots.

Terracotta or ceramic pots are excellent choices, as they allow for better airflow and evaporation than plastic containers. Additionally, these materials help regulate the temperature of the soil, keeping it cooler in hot weather.

Preparing The Potting Mix

Sweet potatoes thrive in loose, well-draining soil. The potting mix you use should be light, airy, and rich in organic matter. You can create your own potting mix by combining equal parts of compost, vermiculite or perlite, and peat moss. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-mixed potting soil suitable for vegetable plants from a garden center.

Mix the components thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This will provide the sweet potato plants with a balanced combination of nutrients and good drainage.

Starting The Slips

Planting sweet potatoes in pots starts with growing slips, which are essentially young vines that will eventually become your plants. Slips are easy to start, and you can do so by following these steps:

Obtain a healthy sweet potato from a local nursery or grocery store. Look for organic sweet potatoes, if possible, as they are less likely to have been treated with growth inhibitors.
Fill a jar or glass with water, leaving about 1 inch of the sweet potato exposed.
Place toothpicks around the potato’s circumference and suspend it in the jar, making sure the toothpicks rest on the rim, holding the potato in place. The water level should be sufficient to submerge about half an inch of the potato’s bottom.
Find a warm location with plenty of natural light for the sweet potato to grow slips. A windowsill or countertop near a south-facing window is ideal.
Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and discourage the growth of mold or bacteria.
Within two to four weeks, the sweet potato will sprout multiple slips from its top end.
Once the slips reach about 6 inches in length, gently twist them off the sweet potato.
Place the slips in a small container filled with water and allow them to develop roots for a week or two.

Planting The Sweet Potato Plants

After the slips have developed roots, it is time to plant them in the pots. Follow these steps to ensure successful growth:

Fill the pot with the prepared potting mix, leaving a 2-inch gap from the top to allow for watering.
Dig a hole in the center of the pot that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots of the slip.
Gently place the slip in the hole, making sure the roots are spread out and covered with soil. The top leaves should be above the soil line.
Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact.
Place the pot in a sunny location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water the sweet potato plant regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Sweet potatoes prefer slightly drier conditions, so it is important not to overwater them.

Caring For Sweet Potato Plants In Pots

To ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest, it is essential to provide proper care for your sweet potato plants. Here are some important tips:

Watering

Sweet potato plants need regular watering to thrive, especially during the hot summer months. While you don’t want to overwater them, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist. Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. Water the plants deeply, allowing the water to reach the root zone. Avoid wetting the foliage as this can promote disease.

Fertilizing

Sweet potatoes are heavy feeders, so it is important to provide them with adequate nutrients. Before planting the slips, mix some slow-release organic fertilizer into the potting mix. This will provide a steady supply of nutrients to the plants throughout the growing season. Additionally, you can apply a liquid organic fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to boost growth and productivity.

Supporting The Vines

As sweet potato vines grow, they can become quite sprawling and may need support to prevent them from spilling out of the pot. You can insert bamboo stakes or a trellis into the pot early in the growing season to provide support for the vines as they develop. This will help keep the plants neat and organized while allowing more space for other plants if you are growing multiple sweet potatoes in one pot.

Dealing With Pests And Diseases

Like any other plants, sweet potatoes are susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems and how to manage them:

Pests

Sweet potato weevils: These pests can cause significant damage to sweet potato plants. To prevent infestations, inspect your slips before planting and remove any infested ones. Additionally, you can use row covers to protect young plants from adult weevils. If you notice any signs of infestation, such as tunneling or wilting vines, remove and destroy affected plants immediately.
Slugs and snails: These common garden pests can damage the foliage and tubers of sweet potatoes. Place slug and snail traps or set up barriers around your pots, such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth, to deter them. Handpicking can also be an effective approach for controlling these pests.

Diseases

Fungal diseases: Sweet potatoes are susceptible to various fungal diseases, including black rot, fusarium wilt, and stem rot. To minimize the risk, practice crop rotation and avoid planting sweet potatoes in soil where other crops from the same family (such as tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants) have recently grown. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants by not overcrowding them is another preventative measure. If you notice signs of fungal disease, such as brown spots on the leaves or wilting vines, remove and destroy the affected foliage and treat the plants with an organic fungicide.
Viral diseases: Sweet potatoes can also be affected by viral diseases, such as sweet potato feathery mottle virus or sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus. These diseases are generally transmitted through infected plant material. To reduce the risk of virus transmission, purchase certified disease-free slips from reputable sources. If you notice any symptoms or stunted growth, remove and destroy affected plants immediately to prevent the spread of the virus.

Pruning And Harvesting Tips

Pruning sweet potato plants in pots can help regulate their growth and maximize tuber development. Here’s how to prune them effectively:

Removing excessive foliage: As sweet potato vines grow, they can become dense and overcrowded. Regularly remove excess foliage, especially near the center of the pot, to promote better airflow and light penetration. This will help reduce the risk of fungal diseases and improve tuber development.
Pinching off flowers: Sweet potato plants produce small, inconspicuous flowers that develop into seeds. These seeds divert the plant’s energy away from tuber production. Pinch off any flowers as soon as you notice them to encourage the plants to focus their energy on developing larger sweet potatoes.

Harvesting sweet potatoes is an exciting and rewarding process. As the plants mature, their foliage will start to yellow and die back. This is an indication that the tubers are ready for harvesting. Wait until the foliage has completely withered before harvesting to allow the potatoes to reach their maximum size.

To harvest the sweet potatoes, carefully dig up the soil around the plant using a garden fork or spade. Be cautious not to damage or bruise the tubers during the process. Gently remove the tubers from the soil and brush off any excess dirt. Allow the harvested sweet potatoes to cure for a week or two in a dry, well-ventilated area to enhance their flavor and sweetness before enjoying them.

Transferring Sweet Potato Plants To Larger Pots

As sweet potato plants grow, they may outgrow their initial pots and require larger containers to accommodate their expanding root systems. Here’s how to transfer sweet potato plants to larger pots:

Select a container that is at least 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. Make sure the container has adequate drainage holes.
Prepare a new batch of potting mix similar to the one used initially, ensuring it is loose and well-draining.
Water the sweet potato plant thoroughly a day or two before transplanting. This will help minimize stress on the plant during the transfer.
Gently remove the plant from its current pot, taking care not to damage the roots. If the plant is firmly rooted in the pot, you can gently tap the sides and bottom of the pot or use a garden trowel to loosen it before sliding it out.
Place a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom of the new pot and position the sweet potato plant in the center.
Fill the remaining space around the plant with the potting mix, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly below the rim of the pot.
Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets. Avoid pressing the soil down too firmly, as this can hinder drainage.

Remember to continue providing proper care for the plants in their new pots, including regular watering and appropriate fertilization, as outlined earlier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite your best efforts, you may encounter some common issues when growing sweet potatoes in pots. Here are a few potential problems and their solutions:

Yellowing leaves: If the leaves of your sweet potato plants turn yellow, it may be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Adjust your watering routine by allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. If the issue persists, consider applying a liquid organic fertilizer to provide the plants with essential nutrients.
Stunted growth: If the sweet potato plants are not growing as expected, it could indicate poor soil quality or insufficient sunlight. Ensure that the plants are receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, consider using a liquid fertilizer to provide an extra nutrient boost.
Cracked or misshapen tubers: Environmental factors, such as uneven watering or overly compacted soil, can lead to cracked or misshapen sweet potatoes. Ensure the plants receive consistent moisture and that the soil is loose and well-draining.
Small tubers: If the sweet potato tubers are smaller than desired, it could be due to inadequate sunlight, overcrowding, or nutrient deficiencies. Address the issue by providing more sunlight, thinning out the plants if too crowded, and ensuring proper fertilization.

Conclusion

Growing sweet potatoes in pots is not only a viable option for those with limited garden space, but it also allows you to enjoy a bountiful harvest of this delicious and nutritious tuber. By choosing the right containers, preparing the appropriate potting mix, starting the slips correctly, and providing proper care, you can successfully grow sweet potatoes in pots. Remember to monitor for pests and diseases, prune the plants when necessary, and harvest the tubers when they are fully mature. With a little patience and attention, you can savor the rewards of your own homegrown sweet potatoes, even without a traditional garden.

FAQS

What Type Of Pot Should I Use For Planting Sweet Potato?

It is best to use a large pot that is at least 12-16 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the sweet potato plant’s sprawling vine. Terra cotta or clay pots are ideal as they promote good drainage, which is necessary for sweet potato plants’ healthy growth.

What Kind Of Soil Is Best For Sweet Potato Planting?

Sweet potatoes prefer well-drained soil, so use a soil mix that is light and airy, such as sandy or loamy soil. You may add compost and perlite to ensure good drainage and soil fertility. Moreover, sweet potatoes grow well in soil with a pH range of 5.0-6.0.

How Deep Should I Plant The Sweet Potato Slips Or Tubers In The Pot?

You need to plant sweet potato slips or tubers 4-6 inches deep in the potting soil to have a strong foundation for the plant. Place the sweet potato vertically in the soil with the sprouts pointing upwards to encourage growth.

How Much Water Do Sweet Potato Plants Need, And How Often Should I Water Them?

Sweet potato plants need watering once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment. Water the plant deeply, so that the soil is moist up to a depth of at least 6 inches. You can also use a spray bottle to mist the foliage to increase humidity.

Should I Fertilize My Sweet Potato Plant, And If So, What Kind Of Fertilizer Should I Use?

Yes, sweet potato plants require fertilization to produce a healthy harvest. You can use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer when planting and then switch to a low-nitrogen/high-potassium fertilizer when the plant begins producing tubers. Additionally, you can add organic matter such as compost for nutrient-rich soil.