Sweet potatoes are not only a healthy, tasty food, they are also extremely easy to grow – even in a container or your backyard! Whether you are an experienced gardener or you are picking up the shovel for the first time, this guide will help you grow sweet potatoes from start to finish.

We’ll also answer some of the most asked questions about sweet potatoes – from when to plant and boil, to their benefits for you and your pets.

How are Sweet Potatoes Grown?

Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes are not grown from seeds, or seed potatoes. Instead, sweet potatoes are grown from “slips,” which are sprouts that come from a mature sweet potato.

Sweet potatoes grow best in warm climates with a long growing season (90-120 days), and prefer loose, well-draining soil. They like full sun and they are fairly low-maintenance after they’re established.

How to Plant Sweet Potato Slips

Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Create Slips

• Take a sweet potato (or a piece of one) and put it in water or soil.
• In just a few weeks, you will see sprouts (aka slips) starting to grow from your potato!
• When these slips are 6–8 inches long, gently twist them off.

Step 2: Take the Roots – in a glass of water.

• We want to put the slips into a glass of water.
• In 5 – 10 days, you will have small roots growing at the bottom.

Step 3: Planting outdoors

• You’ll want wait until you are certain there is no more danger of frost.
• When planting slips outdoors, you’ll want a sunny spot with loose, fertile soil.
• When you plant the slips, space them 12-18 inches apart and bury them up to the top leaves.
• Water regularly, especially in dry spells.

Pro tip: Use mulch to keep down weeds and hold moisture.

How Long Does it Take to Grow Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes usually take about 90 to 120 days from planting to harvest depending on the variety and climate.

You’ll know they are ready to be harvested when the leaves start yellowing – usually late summer or early fall.

How Long to Boil Sweet Potatoes?

• Peel and chop into 1-inch chunks.
• Place in a pot and cover with water.
• Bring to a boil.
• Cook for 15 to 20 minutes (or until fork-tender).

Drain and enjoy! You can mash, roast, or add to soups and stews.

Are Sweet Potatoes Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are absolutely gluten-free! They are also a wonderful source of carbohydrates for patients with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The foods can be baked, boiled, mashed, and even made into gluten-free flour or fries.

Harvesting and Storing Sweet Potatoes

• After 3–4 months, you can gently dig up your sweet potatoes.
• Cure them in a warm, humid place (80–85° F) for 7 to 10 days.
• Store in a cool, dry space for several months.

When you cure your sweet potato, it will increase sweetness and storage life.

Are Yams Sweet Potatoes?

No, yams and sweet potatoes are different plants. While the terms are often used interchangeably in the U.S., they’re not the same thing.

Feature	Sweet Potato	Yam
Flesh	Orange or white	White, purple, or reddish
Skin	Thin and smooth	Rough, bark-like
Taste	Sweet	Starchy, dry
Common in	U.S. and worldwide	Africa, Asia

So next time you’re at the store, that “yam” is probably just a sweet potato!

Are Sweet Potatoes Good for Dogs?

Yes, sweet potatoes are good for dogs in moderation. They are high in fiber, low in fat, and contain vitamins A, B6, and C.

How to serve:

• Boiled or baked plain (no salt, no sugar, no spice)
• Mash or cube to help your dog chew.
• Start with small quantities

Avoid: Raw sweet potatoes because they are hard to digest. Always speak with your vet if your dog has diet issues.

Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes?

Cats can eat sweet potatoes in very small amounts, but they are not vital to a feline diet.

• Cooked sweet potato is safe.
• Avoid seasoning or butter.
• Only offer occasionally as a treat.

Keep in mind that cats are obligate carnivores meaning they should primarily consume animal protein.

Conclusion

Growing sweet potatoes is fun and rewarding and perfect for the casual and seasoned gardener. After some love, sunshine, and time, you’ll be harvesting a pile of healthy food in no time.

Best of all, you’ve learned all of the other sweet potato information — from being gluten-free to pet-friendly!

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