Taste of the Season Sweet Potato Cream Candy
Sweet Potato Cream Candy serves a dual purpose as both an ornamental and edible plant. Known for its vibrant chartreuse leaves, the plant produces edible sweet potatoes with pale skin and creamy white flesh. This vigorous vining plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade. Sweet potato plants are versatile enough to be grown in containers, window boxes, or traditional gardens. It is resistant to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
It’s not only decorative but also offers culinary benefits. Both the plant and its heart-shaped leaves are edible, providing a fresh, spinach-like flavour to dishes. Perfect for salads, it pairs beautifully with Asian and Caribbean cuisines.
Harvesting is a simple process, usually taking place from late summer to early fall when the tubers have fully matured. After harvesting, the skins can be cured by laying them in the sun for a few hours and then moving them to a warm, humid place for 10 days before storing in cooler, dry conditions.
| Maturity | Midsummer to early fall |
|---|---|
| Height | 48 inches (120 cm) |
| Spacing | 10 - 12 inches (25 - 30 cm) |
| Light | Full sun |
| pH Range | 5.3–5.6 |
| Watering | Water regularly - even moisture; not overly wet. Thrives in well-drained soil. |
| Fertilizing | Feed at time of planting with all purpose fertilizer; avoid high nitrogen fertilizers. |
| Nutrients Required | Nitrogen=low; Phosphorus=high; Potassium=high |
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