How to Grow Sweet Potatoes from Slips

Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Growing sweet potatoes from slips is a valuable skill in survival scenarios because these root vegetables are highly nutritious, store well for long periods, and can thrive in a variety of climates and soil types. They are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them essential for maintaining health during times of scarcity. Additionally, their ability to grow in poor soil conditions and their resistance to pests and diseases make them a reliable food source.

What You Need

Materials

Sweet potato slips (young shoots from mature sweet potatoes)
Potting soil or a mix of garden soil and compost
Containers or garden beds
Mulch (optional)
Fertilizer (optional)

Tools

A sharp knife or scissors
A bucket or container with water
A planting pot or a garden plot
A trowel or spade
A watering can or hose

Knowledge

Understanding the growth cycle of sweet potatoes, the ideal conditions for planting and growing them, and how to care for them throughout the season.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Slips: Purchase or grow your own sweet potato slips. If growing your own, place a sweet potato in a jar of water with half of it submerged. Place the jar in a warm area with indirect sunlight. After a few weeks, sprouts will emerge. Once the sprouts are about 6 inches long, gently twist them off the potato and place them in water to root.
Choose the Planting Location: Sweet potatoes prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can grow in a variety of soil types but prefer sandy or loamy soil. Ensure the soil temperature is at least 60°F (15.5°C) before planting.
Prepare the Soil: Mix compost into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. If using containers, fill them with a mix of potting soil and compost.
Plant the Slips: Plant the rooted slips in the soil, burying them up to the first set of leaves. Space them about 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart.
Water and Care: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, more often if the weather is hot and dry. Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize: Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of tuber development.
Harvest: Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest when the vines start to yellow and die back, usually 90-120 days after planting. Carefully dig up the tubers, being careful not to damage them.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Planting in Cold Soil: Ensure the soil temperature is warm enough before planting. Use a soil thermometer to check.
Overwatering: Sweet potatoes need consistent moisture but can suffer from root rot if overwatered. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Planting Too Close Together: Proper spacing is crucial for healthy growth and tuber development. Follow the recommended spacing guidelines.
Not Providing Enough Sunlight: Sweet potatoes require full sun for optimal growth. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Variations, Tips, and Related Techniques

Container Gardening: Sweet potatoes can be grown in containers, making them accessible to those with limited space. Use a large container, at least 12 inches deep and wide, to accommodate the roots.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like straw or grass clippings work well.
Pest Management: Monitor for pests like sweet potato weevils and control them with natural predators or organic pesticides.
Storage: After harvesting, cure the sweet potatoes in a warm, humid environment for 10-14 days to heal the skin and increase their storage life. Store them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.

TLDR: Growing sweet potatoes from slips ensures a reliable food source with high nutritional value, suitable for survival situations. Follow the steps carefully, and avoid common mistakes for a successful harvest.