Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden. Harvesting and curing them properly ensures you enjoy their full flavor and health benefits. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.
When are Sweet Potatoes Ready to Harvest?
Sweet potatoes are typically ready for harvest 90 to 120 days after planting, depending on the variety. Look for signs such as:
- Yellowing leaves
- Wilting of the vine
- Fewer new leaves emerging
What to Do About the Sweet Potato Leaves?
Before harvesting, consider the health of the leaves. Healthy leaves indicate a robust plant, but as they begin to yellow and die off, it’s a sign that the sweet potatoes are maturing. You can remove some leaves to allow more sunlight to reach the tubers, but be careful not to damage the plant.
Conditions for Harvest:
Sweet potatoes thrive in warm weather. Harvest them on a dry day when the soil is not too wet, as this helps prevent rot. Ideal conditions are:
- After a light rain or in dry weather
- When daytime temperatures are between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C)
Some General Advice Before Getting Started:
- Use gloves when handling sweet potatoes, as the skin can be rough.
- Work gently to avoid bruising the tubers.
- Plan your harvest on a calm day to prevent soil from blowing around.
Tools:
Gather the following tools to make your harvest easier:
- Garden fork or spade
- Hand trowel
- Gloves
- Basket or crate for collecting sweet potatoes
Find the Crown (the Central Plant):
Start by locating the crown of the plant, which is where the vines and leaves emerge. This is generally the point from which you will begin digging. Make a note of where the main stems are, as sweet potatoes grow outwards from the crown.
Inspect the Vines:
Check the vines for any signs of damage or disease. Healthy vines should be firm and green. If you notice any issues, it may be best to harvest early to salvage the tubers.
Get Digging!
- Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork to gently loosen the soil around the crown, starting about 12 inches away to avoid damaging the tubers.
- Lift the Tubers: Carefully lift the sweet potatoes from the soil, taking care not to puncture them.
- Collect and Clean: Place them in a basket or crate, and gently brush off excess soil. Avoid washing them until you’re ready to cure or use them.
How to Cure Sweet Potatoes?
Curing sweet potatoes enhances their sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Temperature: Place the harvested sweet potatoes in a warm, humid environment (around 85°F or 29°C).
- Duration: Cure them for 10 to 14 days. This allows the starches to convert to sugars.
- Humidity: Aim for a humidity level of around 85% to prevent shriveling.
How to Store Sweet Potatoes?
Once cured, store your sweet potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place. Ideal storage conditions are:
- Temperature: 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)
- Humidity: Low humidity to prevent rot
Use breathable containers like burlap sacks or cardboard boxes to allow air circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I harvest sweet potatoes early?
A: Yes, but they may be smaller and less sweet.
Q: How can I tell if sweet potatoes are spoiled?
A: Look for soft spots, mold, or a strong odor.
Q: How long can I store sweet potatoes?
A: Properly cured and stored sweet potatoes can last for several months.
Conclusion:
Harvesting and curing sweet potatoes may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be a rewarding experience. Follow these guidelines to ensure you enjoy your sweet potato crop’s best flavor and nutrition. Happy harvesting!
