Back in July the project team purchased 32 bags of sweet potato vines, using two varieties to assess which is most suitable to our land and climate. These were Numbuke, a yellow skin/white flesh variety and Nus, a yellow skin and flesh variety. Both of these are popular at local markets.
The land selected hadn't been farmed for many years so it took quite a lot of effort to get it ready. After ploughing and harrowing, ridges were prepared for planting the vines.
We are pleased to report very strong plant growth so far, and haven't needed to apply either fertiliser or fungicide to the plants. The rains have been consistent this season and daytime temperatures warm, so we are anticipating a good harvest in October.