Description: Sweet potatoes, which are not potatoes but rather related to morning glory, originated in Central America. They are a very nutritious staple food in many regions of the world, especially Central America, Africa and the American South. They are a long growing, warm weather plant, easy to grow where the climate allows for a 120 day growing season. Sweet potatoes store well for much of the winter in cool, even temperatured and dry conditions. Their abundant heart shaped leaves are commonly used as an ornamental in hanging pots and terraced gardens where they fall gracefully over rocks walls. Nutrients: beta carotene (very high), vitamins A, C, E, K, folate, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, manganese (very high), potassium, magnesium, phosphorous.

Guidelines: Sweet Potatoes are planted from bare root slips (also called starts) as soon as the ground is well warmed and all danger of frost has passed. They are extremely heat tolerant and will continue to mature after a light frost as long as the soil stays warm. Space plants 12-18" apart with 3-4' between rows. The vines will spread and fill in, so give them plenty of room. Plant in a soil rich in organic matter. Sweet potatoes can be slow starters and they don’t like to compete with weeds. Keep the area clear until the top growth fills in and acts as a natural mulch. Tip: Don't water your sweet potatoes during the final 3-4 weeks prior to harvest, to keep the mature tubers from splitting. Days to Harvest: 90-120.