Growing sweet potatoes in soil bags is a smart and space-saving way to enjoy a bountiful harvest, even if you don’t have a large garden.
These nutrient-packed tubers are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your meals.
By using soil bags, you can control drainage and soil quality easily, reducing the risk of disease and pests. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Choosing the Right Variety
I love planting Beauregard and Georgia Jet because they grow so well in different climates.
Make sure to pick a variety that fits your local weather and the flavors you love.
Step 2: Preparing the Soil Bags
I’ve found that using large 20-30 gallon bags is perfect. The size gives the roots plenty of space to grow.
In addition, you fill the bags with a well-draining potting mix, combining compost and sand to help the tubers thrive.
Step 3: Starting Sweet Potato Slips
You just place the sweet potatoes in water until they shoot then plant them in the bag with roots down and leaves above.
Step 4: Watering the Plants
Sweet potatoes need consistent moisture, so you need to check the soil regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
However, note that overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can stunt growth.
Step 5: Fertilizing for Optimal Growth
Sweet potatoes are hungry plants so I always start with a balanced fertilizer at planting and then switch to a high-potassium one during the season.
You also need to avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers, as they’ll encourage too much leaf growth.
Step 6: Providing Adequate Sunlight
Place your soil bags in a sunny spot where they can get 6-8 hours of sun. These plants love warmth, so aim for a soil temperature between 70-85°F.
Step 7: Managing Plant Growth
Sweet potato vines love to spread, and you can let them sprawl around or trellis them upwards.
It’s also good to prune extra foliage to help the tubers grow bigger.
Step 8: Dealing with Pests and Diseases
You should watch out for aphids and fungal infections, but good garden hygiene usually keeps them at bay.
Step 9: Harvesting the Sweet Potatoes
After about 3-4 months, the vines will yellow and die back.
You gently dig up the sweet potatoes and cure them in a warm, humid place for 1-2 weeks to boost their flavor.
Step 10: Storing Your Harvest
Now you can store your sweet potatoes in a cool, dry place around 55-60°F. They’ll last for months if stored properly.
