How to Grow Yams Indoors

Although sweet potatoes and yams are not the same vegetable, sweet potatoes are often labeled and sold as yams in the United States. Due to the interchangeable nature of name, the U.S. Department of Agriculture requires that yams be labeled with the term sweet potatoes for clarification. Generally, those you purchase in the produce aisle are really sweet potatoes. Starting a houseplant from yams provides an entertaining project for kids and creates an attractive houseplant.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yam/sweet potato
• Four toothpicks
• Wide mouth jar
• All-purpose potting soil
• Plant pot
• Water soluble fertilizer

1. Select a firm healthy yam that is free from blemishes. Check for any soft spots or signs of rot.

2. Insert three or four toothpicks into the center of the yam so that they are evenly spaced around the outside of the yam. Insert to a depth of ¼ to ½ inch. The toothpick should be lodged securely into the yam, as they will bear the weight of the potato as it roots.

3. Fill a mason jar or other wide mouthed jar with water. Suspend the sweet potato over the top of the jar so that the bottom pointed end rests in water. Water should cover half of the potato. Place on a sunny windowsill.

4. Change the water every two to three days or anytime it becomes stagnant. Watch for roots to form and leaves to sprout.

5. Re-pot to a plant pot filled with all-purpose potting soil once the shoots are 6 inches high. Keep the soil evenly moist.

6. Fertilize with water-soluble fertilizer once a month to promote healthy growth.