The sweet rise of the sweet potato in Spain

Sweet potato production has experienced exponential growth in the last decade due to strong market demand, especially for export. If in 2014 in Spain less than 19,000 tons of sweet potatoes were produced with an occupation of less than 900 hectares, these figures have skyrocketed in 2022 with more than 78,000 tons and more than 2,600 hectares of plantation. In Andalusia, it is considered one of the 'star tubers', with an occupation of approximately more than 1,700 hectares and a production of more than 52,000 tons. The ideal conditions for its cultivation include a mild temperature, but one that does not drop below 15 degrees even at night, during the growth period, a humid environment and good light, with planting generally carried out between the months of April and May, although in warmer climates it can be extended to any time of the year, as long as it is carried out during the dry season with abundant irrigation. It is crucial to keep the soil moist during planting and the ...