Space plants: 40 - 60 cm apart Compatible with (can grow beside): Best in Separate bed Sweet Potatoes require a long warm growing season. Plant in free draining loose soil . Fertilise before planting but no more when the plants are growing as it will encourage vine growth. They will go for miles and you will get no tubers. If they do start spreading, lift the vines off the ground to prevent them rooting. Mound up the soil about 20cm (8 in) before planting Let the plants die down, (leaves die or turn yellow) before harvesting the tubers. Dry them in the sun for a few days, then store in a cool dry place for up to five months. Harder soil with a mulch layer will promote fatter tubers, whereas friable soil can promote longer and skinnier tubers. Culinary hints - cooking and eating Sweet Potato Use mashed, boiled, roasted, baked or fried. Or use in soups, pies, casseroles, curries and salads. Leaves are edible and are cooked like spinach.
