Growing yam in sacks can be a practical and space-efficient way to cultivate these nutritious tubers.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you grow yams successfully in sacks:
1. Choose a suitable yam variety: Select a variety of yam that is well-suited for container gardening. Look for compact and bushy varieties that thrive in limited space and have good tuber production.
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2. Source quality yam seed or mini-tubers: It is important to start with healthy yam seed or mini-tubers from a reputable source. Ensure they are free from diseases and pests.
3. Prepare the sacks: Use sturdy sacks or grow bags with good drainage holes at the bottom. Each sack should ideally have a capacity of at least 20-30 liters to allow proper root development.
4. Prepare the growing medium: Create a well-draining and nutrient-rich growing medium by using a mix of equal parts of quality garden soil, compost, and sand, or a good potting mix.
5. Cut and cure the yam seed: Cut the yam seed into several sections, ensuring that each piece has at least two “eyes” or bud sprouts. Allow the cut sections to air dry for a couple of days to reduce the risk of rot when planting.
6. Planting the yam sections: Place a layer of the prepared growing medium at the bottom of the sack. Plant the yam sections, placing them horizontally with the bud sprouts facing upward. Cover them with another layer of the growing medium, leaving the sprouts exposed.
7. Watering and care: Water the yam thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Maintain consistent moisture levels throughout the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged, as yams are susceptible to waterlogging. Regularly monitor the moisture level and adjust watering accordingly.
8. Provide support: As the yam plants grow, they will need support to prevent them from sprawling. Install stakes or trellises around the sacks and gently tie the vines to encourage upward growth.
9. Sunlight and temperature: Place the yam sacks in a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ensure the temperature remains between 75-85°F (24-29°C) throughout the growing season, as yams thrive in warm conditions.
10. Fertilization: Incorporate organic fertilizer or compost into the top few inches of soil every 4-6 weeks to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for proper application.
11. Pest and disease management: Regularly inspect the plants for any signs of pests or diseases. Common pests that affect yams include nematodes and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly with organic pest control methods or consult a professional if needed.
12. Harvesting: Yams generally take around 6-8 months to mature. Harvest your yams once the leaves start to turn yellow and wither. Gently dig around the base of the sack to unearth the yam tubers. Carefully remove them, preserving the smaller ones for replanting next season.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a successful yam harvest using the sack gardening method. Remember to adapt the specific growing requirements based on the yam variety you choose, as they may vary slightly.
Curled from Hybrid Organic Farms
