Choose a warm, sunny location with loose, well-drained soil
Prepare raised beds or mounded rows if soil is heavy
Work in compost before planting
Start with disease-free sweet potato slips
Plant slips after all danger of frost has passed
Space slips about 12 to 18 inches apart
Bury stems with only the top leaves above soil
Water deeply after planting
Keep soil evenly moist during establishment
Avoid overwatering once plants are established
Mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds
Weed regularly, especially early in the season
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer
Side-dress lightly if soil is poor
Allow vines to spread without frequent disturbance
Check for pests and diseases regularly
Harvest before the first hard frost
Dig carefully to avoid damaging tubers
Cure harvested sweet potatoes in a warm, humid place
Store cured sweet potatoes in a cool, dry, dark location