150 days. Pacchyrhizus erosus. Open Pollinated. Jicama. The plant produces tall climbing vines and a white turnip-shaped root that tastes like water chestnuts. The large tuberous roots can be eaten raw or cooked and are used as a source of starch. The Jicama plant is a vine that grows to a length of 20 feet or more. The roots are light brown in color and may weigh up to 50 pounds. Most of those on the market will weigh between 3 to 5 pounds. Only one root forms per plant. Store in a cool dry place after harvest. Also known as the Mexican potato and Yam Bean. An excellent choice for home gardens, farmer’s markets, and market growers. A variety from Dzan, Yucatan, Mexico. United States Department of Agriculture, PI 438902.
Note: The seeds, pods, stems, flowers, and leaves are poisonous! Only use the tasty roots.
Seeds Per Pound: 2,000
Plant Height: Up to 20 ft vine
Planting Season: Spring
Sunlight Requirement: Full Sun
Planting Method: Direct Sow
Planting Instructions: Soak seeds overnight in warm water (8 to 15 hours). Plant seeds 1" deep every 2 ½ feet one to two weeks after the last frost in your area. Wait to plant the seeds until the soil has warmed up in your garden. Jicama requires at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day so select a sunny area in the garden and allow room for vines to spread.
Soil Facts: Seeds require well-prepared soil. Use general-purpose fertilizer when preparing the soil. Choose a location in the garden that has well-drained soil. Make sure the soil is alkaline with a pH over 7. You can test this easily with a commercial pH tester. Remember seeds require warmth to germinate, so plant in a sunny location and after the soil has warmed.
Germination: 12 - 18 days at 70°F