Introduction
Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) is in the morning glory or Convolvulaceae family is one of the most nutritious root crops as it contains significant amounts of fiber, beta carotene, anthocyanins, phenolics, vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds, depending on the flesh color. Sweetpotato ranks seventh in the world food production after wheat, rice, maize, potato, barley, and cassava. In cool and short growing seasons, research studies show sweetpotato production is promising when grown with plastic mulches.
Research Highlights
Our research project is focused on assessing if marketable sweetpotatoes can be grown in northwest Washington. We are testing wireworm-resistant varieties and advanced breeding lines that are productive and address the issues of wireworm infestation observed at this site in previous years.
Growing Guides
- Growing Sweetpotatoes in Western Washington: Varieties
- Growing Sweetpotatoes in Western Washington: Slip Production
- Growing Sweetpotatoes in Western Washington: Production Practices
- Growing Sweetpotatoes in Western Washington: Pests and Diseases
- Growing Sweetpotatoes in Western Washington: Sweetpotato Greens
- Growing Sweetpotatoes in Western Washington: Curing and Storage
Publication
- Shrestha S, Miles C. 2022. Plastic mulch and in-row spacing effects on sweetpotato yield in northwest Washington. HortTechnology. 32(2) 241-251. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04992-21.
- Wadl PA, Rutter WB, Jackson DM, Schulz L, Shrestha S, Miles C. 2025. USDA ‘Cascade’: a multiple pest-resistant, rose-skinned, creamy yellow-fleshed sweetpotato. HortScience. 60(10): 1772-1774. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18853-25.
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