Planting and Growing Guide for Yam (Oxalis tuberosa)
Description
Yams also known as Oka, also Oca, need a long growing time to produce the tubers. Plant early, but protect the young from early Autumn (Fall) frosts to give time for tubers to fully develop. Yams be started in deep seed trays or peat pots. The planting and soil preparations needs are similar to Yams. Growing in mounds will help increase production. Dig up after the plant dies down and leave the tubers outside for a few days to dry.
Yams are heavy feeders that require rich soils. Prepare the soil beforehand by digging large amounts of aged compost or well-rotted animal manure into the soil when you dig to loosen the upper layers. Leave the soil for a couple of weeks to allow the organic matter to be incorporated. When ready to plant the Yams dig a trench for the seed Yam tubers about 30-40 cm (12 -15 inches) wide and about 25 cm (1 inch) deep. Add a more compost and manure to the bottom of the trench and cover over with some soil. Place the seed Yams along the trench about 20-30 cm 9-12 inches apart with the shoot facing up. Back-fill the trench to just cover the top of the Yams. As the shoots start to appear add more soil around them. Do this several times to develop a loose mound of soil in which the Yams can grow. The shoots will then develop leaves. Cover the plants with a thick layer of mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Keep the Yams well-watered, especially in warm weather.
Scrub, peel and boil the Yams. They can be roasted, grilled and baked and served with other vegetables.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Plant seeds yams directly into the garden about 3-5 cm (1-2 inches) deep. Pile up soil around the shoots as the shoots grow to form a mound over several weeks
Space between plants: Space plants about 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) apart. Space rows about 60 cm (24 inches) apart
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 15-20 weeks. Leave the Yams in the ground until the tops have completely died down so tubers reach maximum size.
Hints:
- Prepare the planting area well in advance by digging in aged compost or well-rotted animal manure to the soil .
- Yams prefer a well-drained soil, rich in organic matter with a neutral to slightly acid pH (5.8 to 7.0)
- Yam plants grow best in full sun in warm and humid conditions with a heavy covering of mulch
- Yams are frost tender. So plant seed Yams in the garden after the last frost is expected.
- Regular and deep watering is required, especially in hot weather. Water the base of the leaves rather than the tops to discourage powdery mildew
- Water plants more frequently in summer and add a thick layer of mulch to help retain moisture and control weeds
- Yams are more productive when they are grown quickly an steadily. So avoid drying them out to prevent growth checks.
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!