The sweet potato originally comes from the tropics, which is why it is very sensitive to the European climate. It is therefore not possible to overwinter such an ornamental plant in the garden. Nevertheless, there are alternative methods to ensure you have a sweet potato plant next spring. Read this article to find out which measures can be taken for winter storage.
How to overwinter the sweet potato plant?
Sweet potatoes cannot be overwintered outdoors because they are sensitive to frost. To still have sweet potato plants in spring, grow cuttings from the mother plant in a pot or a glass of water and plant them outdoors after the last frosts.
Good to know
Sweet potatoes die at temperatures below 10°C. They tolerate frost even less. The plant also needs sufficient light. A winter deficiency makes them vulnerable to diseases and pests. Their growth is severely inhibited.
Exception for the Indica variety
Sweet potatoes are actually annuals. However, with a bit of luck, you can overwinter the Indica variety indoors. Temperatures of 10-24°C and sufficient light are required, which is best provided via a plant lamp (€89.00 on Amazon).
Overwintering with cuttings
Due to its annual nature, it is not possible to overwinter the sweet potato plant. However, it is worth cutting cuttings from the mother plant in autumn and allowing them to germinate over the winter. There are two options for propagation:
In the pot
- fill your pot with loose potting soil
- put the cuttings in the pot
- place the bucket in a warm, bright location
- water the soil regularly
In a glass of water
- place the shoots in a glass with fresh, warm water
- only the strand, but not the leaves, may be in the water
- change the water every two days
- avoid direct sunlight
- choose a location that is as warm as possible
If you can be sure that the outside temperatures no longer fall below 0°C (usually after the Ice Saints), the cuttings are ready to be planted outdoors.
