How long is the growth cycle of sweet potatoes?

Introduction to Sweet Potato Growth

Sweet potatoes are suitable for growing in soil with deep and loose soil and a pH value between 4.2-8.3. They are currently grown in both the north and south of my country, mainly concentrated in Anhui, the three northeastern provinces, Henan, Hebei, Hunan, Hubei and other regions.

Sweet potato growth cycle

Sweet potatoes like warmth and are afraid of cold, and have strong transpiration, so they require a lot of water. They like light and warmth, are not shade-tolerant, have strong adaptability to soil, and are resistant to acid and alkali.

The growth cycle of sweet potatoes planted in different periods is also different. The growth cycle of sweet potatoes planted in spring is about 160-200 days, while the growth cycle of sweet potatoes planted in summer is usually 110-120 days.

Sweet potato growth rate

The growth process of sweet potato is divided into four growth and development stages, namely, the rooting and seedling stage, the branching and tuber formation stage, the stem and leaf prosperity stage, and the stem and leaf decline and tuber rapid expansion stage. The growth rate of sweet potato is relatively fast and can generally be harvested 160-200 days after sowing.

Sweet potato growth cycle management

Generally speaking, the yield of sweet potatoes is around 6,000 jin. If the planting is good, 8,000-10,000 jin is also possible. Usually its yield per mu will vary due to factors such as planting price adjustment, variety, management technology and region.

Temperature Management

When the temperature is between 25-28℃, the stems and leaves of sweet potatoes grow fast. If the temperature is above 30℃, the stems and leaves grow even faster, but the tubers expand slowly. Normally, the tubers expand faster when the ground temperature is between 20-25℃, and expand more slowly when it is below 20℃ or above 30℃.

Fertilization management

After sweet potatoes enter the late growth stage, the absorption capacity of the root system weakens, and they can be classified for foliar fertilizer spraying. Generally, a mixture of urea and potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be sprayed. It should be sprayed once every 7-10 days, for a total of 2-3 times. The best time for spraying is in the evening on a sunny day.