Growing Sweet Potato, also Kumara

Ipomoea batatas : Convolvulaceae / the morning glory family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec

Not recommended for growing in USA - Zone 5a regions

  • Plant shoots or cuttings (Slips). Best planted at soil temperatures between 63°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 16 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 15-17 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Best in Separate bed

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21 Mar 19, Damien Cooke (Australia - temperate climate)
Bunnings are still selling them here in Adelaide
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leave Kumara in the ground at least until mid April. Leaves start to die off or in Auckland slow down in growth. Make sure the edges of the bed are well mulched, this will keep the moisture in the ground and the top soil cool (cooler). I harvest the orange (Beaumont) ones first, followed by the red, then purple and gold as last. there is about a week between harvests. Allow the kumara to dry before storage other wise they will rot. Keep them well protected from rats, my first red kumara harvest was approx 20kg until the rats consumed them in 4 nights to 2 kg.

- Marc

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