Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a root vegetable from the Convolvulaceae family, valued for its nutritious tubers and ornamental foliage. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions and is a versatile food crop with many culinary and decorative uses.

Key Characteristics of Sweet Potato

1. Plant Description:

   • Roots: The tubers are large, starchy, and sweet, varying in color from orange, purple, yellow, white, to red.
   • Leaves: The heart-shaped or lobed leaves are usually green but may have purple or variegated tones in ornamental varieties.
   • Flowers: Sweet potatoes produce small, funnel-shaped flowers resembling morning glory blooms, often in pale purple or lavender.

2. Growth Habit:

   • A trailing or creeping vine that spreads rapidly and covers the ground.
   • It can grow up to 9-13 feet (3-4 meters) in length.

Growing Conditions

1. Soil:

   • Thrives in well-draining, sandy loam soil rich in organic matter.
   • Prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0).

2. Light:

   • Requires full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day to grow optimally.

3. Watering:

   • Sweet potatoes need consistent moisture but do not tolerate waterlogged soil. Water deeply and evenly during the growing season.
   • Reduce watering as harvest time approaches to avoid tuber rotting.

4. Temperature:

   • Requires warm temperatures of 75-85°F (24-29°C) for growth.
   • Sensitive to frost and cold weather.

Planting and Propagation

1. Propagation:

   • Sweet potatoes are propagated from slips (sprouted vines from mature tubers) rather than seeds.
   • Slips are planted directly into the soil or started indoors and transplanted when warm weather arrives.

2. Planting:

   • Space slips 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart.
   • Ensure the soil is loose and well-prepared for tuber expansion.

3. Growth Period:

   • Sweet potatoes take about 90-150 days to mature, depending on the variety and climate.