Growing jicama from a grocery store is not the most reliable method, as the jicama you find in stores is often waxed or treated to extend its shelf life. These treatments can inhibit the germination of the seeds and make it difficult for them to sprout. However, it is not impossible to grow jicama from store-bought produce, and I have personally had success with it.
Firstly, it’s important to select a healthy jicama from the store. Look for one that is firm and free from any visible blemishes or signs of decay. Avoid jicamas that have been waxed or treated, as these can be more challenging to germinate.
Once you have your jicama, it’s time to prepare it for planting. Start by removing any wax or treatment coatings. You can do this by scrubbing the jicama gently with a brush under running water. Be careful not to damage the skin or remove too much of it, as this can affect the viability of the seeds inside.
After cleaning the jicama, you can cut it into smaller sections, about 1-2 inches in size. Each section should ideally have at least one sprouting eye, similar to a potato. These sprouting eyes are where the seeds will develop from.
Next, you will need to dry the jicama sections before planting. Place them in a warm and well-ventilated area for about a week or until the cut surfaces have formed a dry layer or callus. This step helps to prevent rotting and fungal growth during germination.
Once the jicama sections have dried, you can plant them in a well-prepared garden bed or container. Make sure the soil is loose, well-draining, and enriched with organic matter. Plant the jicama sections with the sprouting eyes facing up, about 1-2 inches deep in the soil. Space them at least 12-18 inches apart to allow for their vines to spread.
Water the planted jicama sections thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Jicama plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Ensure they receive full sun exposure for optimal growth.
Within a couple of weeks, you should start to see the jicama seeds sprouting and sending up shoots. As the plants grow, you can provide support for their vines by providing trellises or stakes. This will help to keep the vines off the ground and promote better airflow, reducing the risk of diseases.
Throughout the growing season, it’s important to provide regular care to your jicama plants. This includes watering, fertilizing with a balanced organic fertilizer, and monitoring for pests or diseases. Jicama plants are generally low maintenance, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on them to ensure their health and productivity.
Harvesting jicama typically occurs around 4-6 months after planting, depending on the growing conditions and variety. The vines will start to die back, indicating that the tubers are mature. Carefully dig around the base of the plants and unearth the jicama tubers. They should be white, crispy, and ready to enjoy!
While it may be possible to grow jicama from grocery store produce, it’s important to be aware of the challenges associated with it. The treatments and coatings on store-bought jicama can hinder germination, so it’s best to source jicama seeds from a reputable seed supplier. However, if you’re up for the challenge and willing to experiment, you can try growing jicama from store-bought produce following the steps outlined above. Happy gardening!
