Sweet Potatoes Cracking: Uneven Water Late in the Season
Sweet potatoes cracking usually traces back to uneven water while the roots are growing. Utah State University Extension notes late watering can cause root cracking as plants mature, while UF/IFAS notes very dry spells can split the roots.
The short answer
UF/IFAS notes sweet potato roots can split or crack during excessively dry conditions, about 100 to 120 days from planting. Utah State advises watering with moderation as plants mature, since late watering can cause root cracking. Aim for even moisture through the season plus ease off near harvest.
What causes growth cracks in sweet potatoes?
UF/IFAS ties splitting to excessively dry conditions during root growth. Utah State links cracking to late watering as plants mature. Together they point to late season swings in soil moisture.
| Factor | Guide | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Season water | 18 to 26 inches total | WSU |
| Per watering | About 0.5 inch, adjusted to wet the root zone | WSU |
| Crack risk window | 100 to 120 days from planting | UF/IFAS |
| Late season | Water with moderation | Utah State |
| Days to harvest | At least 120 days after planting | UF/IFAS |
Source: WSU, Utah State plus UF/IFAS Extension.
Can cracked sweet potatoes be stored?
The sources do not say how cracked roots store. Sort them at digging time plus use cracked roots first. UF/IFAS advises storing sweet potatoes in a cool, dry pantry rather than the refrigerator.
How do you prevent cracking?
Water evenly. WSU notes 18 to 26 inches of water spread through the season grows a good crop. Utah State notes mulch holds moisture plus advises moderation with water as plants mature.
How to: step by step
- Check soil moisture a few inches down each week.
- Water evenly during root growth.
- Mulch to steady soil moisture.
- Watch for long dry spells late in the season.
- Ease off water as plants mature.
- Dig carefully plus sort cracked roots.
Troubleshooting
Long splits along roots: uneven late season water. Water more evenly next year.
Cracks after a dry spell: UF/IFAS notes excessive dryness can split roots. Water during long dry periods.
Cracks after heavy late watering: Utah State notes late watering can cause cracking. Water with moderation as plants mature.
Misshapen roots: WSU notes rootbound slips produce misshapen sweet potatoes. Plant slips before they outgrow their pots.
For more on water stress see the effects of environmental stresses on weed plants, underwatering cannabis plus the guide to overwatering and cannabis growth. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Growing sweetpotatoes in western Washington: production practices, WSU Extension
- How to grow sweet potatoes in your garden, Utah State University Extension
- Sweetpotato, Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC
- Sweet potatoes, UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
FAQ
How much water do sweet potatoes need?
WSU Extension notes 18 to 26 inches of water spread through the growing season are needed for a good sweet potato crop. It suggests about 0.5 inch per watering, adjusted so the root zone gets wet. Utah State advises moderation as plants mature, since late watering can cause cracking.
Do some varieties crack less?
The sources do not rank sweet potato varieties by growth cracking. Clemson Extension lists Covington as resistant to russet crack, which is a different problem. Utah State suggests matching days to maturity to your local season, plus UF/IFAS names Centennial plus Beauregard for Florida gardens.
Does heavy rain always cause cracks?
No. The sources do not say rain always causes cracks. UF/IFAS notes cracking can follow excessively dry conditions while roots grow, plus Utah State notes late watering can cause cracking. Uneven moisture late in the season is the common thread, so steady watering lowers the risk.
When should sweet potatoes be harvested?
UF/IFAS notes sweet potatoes need a long season of at least 120 days after planting, plus growth up to 150 days can extend harvest if weather allows. Clemson lists varieties such as Beauregard at 90 to 100 days. Check the days to maturity for your variety.
Can you dig a few sweet potatoes early?
Yes. Utah State University Extension notes some roots may be dug starting in late summer by digging into the side of the bed plus removing developing roots while leaving the plant in place. The rest of the crop can then grow on until full harvest.
