Sweet potato slips do need to be hardened off before they are exposed to the full sun, especially in very hot climates. Hardening off is an important step in the planting process that allows the plants to acclimate to the outdoor conditions gradually.
When sweet potato slips are first grown indoors or in a controlled environment, they are accustomed to stable temperatures, protection from wind, and consistent levels of light. If they are immediately planted in the garden without any acclimation, the sudden change in conditions can cause stress and shock to the plants, resulting in stunted growth or even death.
To harden off sweet potato slips, it is best to start the process about a week or two before the intended planting date. Begin by placing the slips outside in a sheltered location, such as a porch or under a shade tree, for a few hours each day. This allows them to gradually adjust to the fluctuating temperatures and exposure to the elements.
During this hardening off period, it is important to monitor the weather conditions. If there are extreme temperature fluctuations or strong winds, it may be necessary to bring the slips indoors or provide additional protection. Gradually increase the amount of time the slips spend outside each day, until they are spending the majority of the day outdoors.
In hot climates, it is beneficial to harden off sweet potato slips in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. This helps to prevent heat stress and allows the plants to slowly adapt to the intense sunlight. By doing this, it gives the roots a little more time to enjoy cool soil before the sun and heat begin to stress the plant.
Personal experience: I live in a hot and arid region where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (37.8°C) during the summer months. When I first started growing sweet potatoes, I made the mistake of planting the slips directly in the garden without hardening them off. Unfortunately, most of the plants didn’t survive the sudden exposure to the scorching sun and high temperatures. Since then, I have learned the importance of hardening off sweet potato slips and now take the necessary steps to ensure their successful acclimation.
Sweet potato slips benefit from being hardened off before being planted in the garden, particularly in hot climates. This gradual acclimation process allows the plants to adjust to the outdoor conditions, reducing the risk of shock and promoting healthy growth. By gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight and fluctuating temperatures, the slips have a better chance of thriving in the garden and producing a bountiful harvest.
