These resources are brought to you by the Cooperative Extension System and your Local Institution

Gardens, Lawns & Landscapes Home

Have a question? Try asking one of our Experts

When I harvested my sweet potatoes, they were rough and the surface was cracked.

Last Updated: January 24, 2008

View as web page


This can be caused by two things. One is fluctuating moisture levels within the soil, and the other is root knot nematodes. If nematodes are suspected, check the part of the root closest to the plant for small necrotic lesions in the sweet potato. If nematodes are found, use a resistant variety in future plantings.

Contact your local Extension office to inquire about their diagnostic services. They should be able to determine the presence or absence of nematodes.

Browse related Faqs by tag: horticulture, nematodes, vegetable gardens, sweet potato


Have a specific question? Try asking one of our Experts

Unlike most other resources on the web, we have experts from Universities around the country ready to answer your questions.