Most people are familiar with the root of the Jicama vine, which is native to Mexico.Jicama, also known as yam bean, can be found on tables in Mexican restaurants and is often used in recipes like fresh salads, salsas, and soups.Jicama requires a long growing season in order to produce the roots and meat.Jicama grows best in warm climates throughout Central America and USDA zones 7 through 10.To grow jicama, plant the seeds, care for the plant, and harvest it.
Step 1: The danger of frost has passed.
Jicama doesn't do well during a frost, so wait to plant until the weather warms up.You can plant your jicama one to two weeks after the last frost in your area.If you live in a cold environment, the jicama plant may not grow well.
Step 2: The jicama seeds can be obtained.
You will need to get seeds if you don't already have them.Jicama seeds can be purchased in a variety of places.Before planting, make sure you check the packet for the right seeds.
Step 3: Put the seeds in a container.
The jicama seeds should be put in water.The seeds should be placed in a pan of warm water.Allow them to rest for 24 hours.The seeds need to be removed from the water.
Step 4: There is a good location.
A place in your garden that gets at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day is a good place to look for.The location where you grow the jicama will affect the harvest.The location should be exposed to full sun for six to eight hours.
Step 5: The location should have good soil.
The location should have moist but well-drained soil.Make sure the soil has a pH over 7.A commercial pH tester can be used to test this.If you want to grow the seeds before the last frost, you can plant them in a pot indoors.In a medium-sized pot you should use planting soil, perlite, or vermiculite.The pot should be placed under a grow light.Before planting the seeds in the garden, you should wait for them to grow to 3 in (8.6 cm) tall.
Step 6: The seeds need water.
You will need to take care of the seeds if you plant them in a pot.Water the seeds until the last frost if you planted them in a medium-sized pot.If the soil feels dry, water the seeds.
Step 7: Small holes can be dug.
The holes should be about 1/2 inch in depth.The number of seeds you need to plant affects the amount of holes you dig.The holes should be about 12 inches apart.If you plant more than one row, the rows should be 2 to 3 feet apart.
Step 8: The jicama seeds should be placed in the soil.
You can either dig the holes or plant the seeds.The soil should be moist and warm.Place the seeds lightly.
Step 9: The jicama seeds can be watered lightly.
When the soil becomes dry, sprinkle water over it.If the soil is dry, don't saturate the seeds with water.Once you sprinkle the water, the soil will feel moist.It is possible to regulate how much water you pour onto the soil with a watering can.
Step 10: It's a good idea toFertilize jicama once a month.
It's possible to use an all-purposefertilizer.The instructions for fertilization can be found on the package of yourfertilizer.The base of the plant is usually the place where you apply thefertilizer.Fertilizer can be purchased at a nursery or a home improvement store.If you don't know which brand to buy, ask an employee at your nursery for recommendations.
Step 11: The jicama plant needs to be staked.
Jicama vines need support as they grow.When the vines are about 24 inches long, Stake them.The jicama vine can be found next to the wooden tomato stakes.Tie each plant with twine.
Step 12: The jicama plants need to be checked daily for dry soil.
As the jicama grows, keep the soil moist.If you feel the soil with your hand or fingers, it's time to dig.When the soil is dry, jicama doesn't do well with over- watering.
Step 13: Deadhead the blooms.
There are tiny flowers on the jicama.Stronger root growth can be achieved by removing flowers.You can remove them with tools.
Step 14: Don't worry about pests at all.
Jicama isn't likely to have pest problems.The flowers, seeds, and leaves are poisonous.You can either use an organic pest spray or remove the pests yourself.When buying pest spray, make sure you know what type of pests you are targeting.
Step 15: The tubers can be dug from the underground.
The tubers can be unearthed using a trowel.It's best to dig your tubers before the first frost.150 days is how long it will take from the time of planting.If the vine shows signs of dying, dig the tubers earlier.The removal of the tuber should be done with care.Take it easy.The diameter of the tubers should be 3-6 inches.
Step 16: The tubers should be collected.
The tubers should be round.Tubers that are soft and bruised should be thrown out.Remove the soil from the tuber.Remove clumps of mud or soil by soaking or washing them.They should be allowed to dry.
Step 17: The tubers should be kept in a container.
Jicama plants will degrade if they are stored in a location with a low temperature.It's best to store them in a location with a temperature of 53 to 60 degrees.It could be in a garage or basement.The location should be dry.It should not be wet.If the jicama is properly stored, it can be eaten for up to two months.The jicama can be kept in bowls, racks, or pans.