Sweet Potato Shenanigans: When to Plant in Houston
So, you wanna grow sweet potatoes in Houston, huh? Good choice! Nothing beats the satisfaction of digging up your own homegrown sweet potato pie filling. But before you start dreaming of gooey goodness, let's talk timing.
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| When To Plant Sweet Potatoes In Houston |
Timing is Everything (Just Ask Cinderella)
Houston, with its sweltering summers and occasional flirtations with frost, can be a bit of a diva when it comes to gardening. So, when exactly should you plant those sweet potato slips? Well, let's break it down.
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- The Golden Rule: No frost, please! Sweet potatoes are tropical babies and can't handle the cold. So, wait until the last frost has definitely danced its final tango before you put those slips in the ground. We're talking late April or early May, typically.
- Soil Temperature Matters: Your sweet potato slips are like Goldilocks - they need the soil to be just right. Aim for a soil temperature of around 65°F. Use a soil thermometer if you're a control freak (we don't judge).
- Don't Be Hasty: Planting too early can lead to a sad, frost-bitten sweet potato patch. Trust us, it's not a pretty sight. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to gardening.
Other Factors to Consider
While timing is crucial, there are a few other things to keep in mind:
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- Sunlight: Sweet potatoes are sun-worshippers. Give them at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil Drainage: These sweet tubers hate soggy feet. Make sure your soil drains well to prevent rot.
- Variety Selection: Some sweet potato varieties are better suited for Houston's climate than others. Do your research and choose wisely.
Sweet Potato Shenanigans: FAQ
How to know if the soil is warm enough? Use a soil thermometer to check the temperature at planting depth. It should be around 65°F.
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
How to protect sweet potato plants from frost? Cover young plants with frost cloth or plastic containers on cold nights.
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
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How to space sweet potato plants? Space plants about 12 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart.
How to fertilize sweet potatoes? Use a balanced fertilizer when planting and avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce yield.
How to harvest sweet potatoes? Sweet potatoes are typically ready to harvest 90-120 days after planting. Look for yellowing leaves as a sign of maturity.
So there you have it! With a little planning and patience, you can be enjoying your own homegrown sweet potatoes in no time. Happy planting!
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