How are potatoes and sweet grow in the field?

Potatoes

1. Planting:

- Potatoes are planted from "seed potatoes," which are actually small, whole potatoes with buds called "eyes."

- These seed potatoes are planted in rows, usually about 12 inches apart.

- They are placed about 4-6 inches deep in the soil.

2. Growth:

- The potato plant emerges from the seed potato, growing leaves and stems.

- The plant's roots extend into the soil, and "tubers" (the potatoes we eat) develop on the underground stems called stolons.

3. Harvest:

- When the potato plants start to die back and the leaves turn yellow, it's time to harvest.

- Potatoes are dug up from the soil, usually with a fork or a special potato digger.

Sweet Potatoes

1. Planting:

- Sweet potatoes are planted from "slips" which are cuttings taken from the parent plant.

- These slips are planted in rows about 12-18 inches apart, with each slip planted about 4-6 inches deep.

- Sweet potatoes are warm-season crops and need warm soil (at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Growth:

- The slips grow into vines with heart-shaped leaves.

- The roots develop sweet potato tubers, which are the part we eat.

3. Harvest:

- Sweet potatoes are typically harvested in the fall, about 4-5 months after planting.

- They are dug up from the soil with a fork or a shovel.

Key Differences

* Planting Material: Potatoes use seed potatoes, while sweet potatoes use slips.

* Growth Habits: Potatoes grow tubers on underground stems called stolons, while sweet potatoes develop tubers directly from their roots.

* Harvest Time: Potatoes are generally harvested in the summer, while sweet potatoes are harvested in the fall.

Additional Notes:

* Both potatoes and sweet potatoes benefit from well-drained soil and regular watering.

* It's important to fertilize them appropriately to ensure healthy growth.

* Both crops are susceptible to various pests and diseases, so it's essential to take preventive measures.