The Best 20 Varieties of Sweet Potato to Grow: Tips, Facts, and Information

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable known for their sweet flavor and creamy texture. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are versatile in the kitchen, making them a favorite in a variety of dishes, from casseroles to desserts. They thrive in warm climates and are relatively easy to grow, making them an excellent choice for home gardeners. Here’s a look at the best 20 varieties of sweet potatoes to grow, along with helpful tips and interesting facts about each.

1. Beauregard

Facts: A popular variety with smooth, orange skin and sweet, orange flesh. Known for its high yield and disease resistance.
Tips: Harvest in 90-120 days; ideal for baking and frying.

2. Covington

Facts: This variety has a deep orange color and is known for its sweet flavor and moist texture.
Tips: Great for baking; thrives in well-drained, fertile soil.

3. Japanese Sweet Potato (Murasaki)

Facts: This variety has purple skin and white flesh, offering a unique flavor profile.
Tips: Excellent for roasting and desserts; requires full sun and consistent moisture.

4. Hannah

Facts: Known for its light tan skin and pale yellow flesh; has a sweet and nutty flavor.
Tips: Ideal for mashing and baking; best harvested when mature.

5. Purple Sweet Potato (Okinawan)

Facts: This variety features deep purple skin and vibrant purple flesh, packed with antioxidants.
Tips: Great for salads and desserts; prefers well-drained soil.

6. Bonita

Facts: A variety with light-colored skin and creamy flesh; known for its sweet, mild flavor.
Tips: Best for soups and casseroles; thrives in warm climates.

7. Sweetheart

Facts: This variety has smooth, rose-colored skin and a sweet flavor; ideal for fresh eating.
Tips: Harvest young for the best taste; great for salads and side dishes.

8. Georgia Jet

Facts: Known for its early harvest and sweet, dark orange flesh; popular in southern cooking.
Tips: Great for baking and frying; thrives in well-drained soil.

9. Sapporo Purple

Facts: A Japanese variety with purple skin and sweet, creamy flesh; excellent for desserts.
Tips: Requires full sun; best harvested when mature.

10. Centennial

Facts: This variety produces sweet, yellow flesh with a slightly nutty flavor.
Tips: Ideal for baking and casseroles; best grown in warm, fertile soil.

11. Bunch Sweet Potato

Facts: A compact variety that produces multiple small tubers; great for small gardens.
Tips: Harvest when the skin is firm; excellent for baking and roasting.

12. Diane

Facts: Known for its uniform shape and sweet flavor, this variety has orange skin and flesh.
Tips: Great for mashing; requires consistent watering.

13. Reddish Sweet Potato (Garnet)

Facts: This variety has reddish skin and deep orange flesh; known for its sweet flavor.
Tips: Excellent for pies and baking; thrives in well-drained soil.

14. White Sweet Potato

Facts: A variety with white skin and light yellow flesh; milder in flavor compared to orange varieties.
Tips: Ideal for mashing and frying; best harvested young.

15. New Jersey Purple

Facts: This variety has a striking purple skin with creamy yellow flesh; offers a sweet flavor.
Tips: Excellent for salads and fresh dishes; prefers warm climates.

16. Murasaki

Facts: A Japanese variety with purple skin and sweet, moist flesh; known for its unique flavor.
Tips: Great for grilling and roasting; requires full sun and consistent moisture.

17. T65

Facts: Known for its high yield and good disease resistance; produces large, sweet tubers.
Tips: Best harvested in the fall; ideal for a variety of cooking methods.

18. Vardaman

Facts: A variety with tan skin and sweet, orange flesh; known for its high quality.
Tips: Best for baking and frying; grows well in rich soil.

19. Okinawa Sweet Potato

Facts: Known for its purple flesh and high antioxidant content; offers a unique flavor.
Tips: Great for desserts and smoothies; prefers warm weather.

20. Lofthouse

Facts: A unique variety developed for its sweetness and flavor; has smooth skin and creamy flesh.
Tips: Ideal for fresh eating and baking; requires consistent moisture.

Common Questions About Growing Sweet Potatoes

Q: When is the best time to plant sweet potatoes?
A: Sweet potatoes should be planted in late spring to early summer, after the last frost when the soil temperature reaches 65°F (18°C).

Q: How much sunlight do sweet potatoes need?
A: Sweet potatoes thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Q: How do I care for sweet potato plants?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regularly check for pests and provide support for sprawling vines.

Q: Can I grow sweet potatoes in containers?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes can be grown in large containers (at least 15 gallons) with good drainage for adequate root development.

Q: What pests should I watch for when growing sweet potatoes?
A: Common pests include sweet potato weevils and aphids. Regular monitoring and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.