Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious addition to any garden, and they’re relatively easy to grow with the right care. However, even seasoned gardeners can make mistakes that affect the growth and yield of their sweet potatoes. To ensure a successful harvest, it’s essential to know what pitfalls to avoid when planting these tasty tubers. In this guide, we’ll explore the common mistakes made when planting sweet potatoes and provide tips to help you grow a bountiful crop.
7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting Sweet Potatoes
1. Planting Too Early or Too Late
Mistake: Sweet potatoes are sensitive to temperature and should not be planted when the soil is too cold or too hot. Planting at the wrong time can stunt growth or lead to poor yields.
Solution: Wait until the soil temperature is consistently above 65°F (18°C) before planting. This usually occurs a few weeks after the last frost in your area. In warmer climates, sweet potatoes can be planted in late spring or early summer.
2. Choosing the Wrong Location
Mistake: Planting sweet potatoes in a location that doesn’t receive enough sunlight or has poor drainage can lead to weak plants and reduced yields.
Solution: Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
3. Using Poor-Quality Slips
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