Sweet Potato
Ipomoea batatas
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Quick Info
water
Moderate watering, reduce before harvest
spacing
30 cm between plants
depth
10-15 cm deep (vine cuttings)
sun
Full sun
season
Year-round in tropics, wet season planting preferred
frost
Frost sensitive
height
30-40 cm (vine spreads 1-3 m)
gemination
N/A (grown from vine cuttings)
sprout to harvest
3-5 months
soil ph
5.5-6.5
soil type
Well-drained sandy loam, loose soil
fertilizer needs
Low nitrogen, moderate potassium
About
Sweet potato (kaukau) is the most important staple food crop in Papua New Guinea, grown from sea level to over 2,700 metres in the highlands. It is a versatile root crop that thrives in tropical climates and provides essential carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Health Benefits
Excellent source of beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fibre. Orange-fleshed varieties are especially rich in vitamin A, helping prevent deficiency. Also provides potassium and B vitamins.
Market Requirements
Tubers should be firm, smooth-skinned, and free from insect damage or rot. Uniform size preferred (200-500g). Clean and dry before selling. Store in cool, shaded area.