Sweet potatoes

Did you know sweet potatoes are considered a “super food” because they are high in beta carotene, vitamins E and C, iron, potassium and B6?

In addition to that fact, the sweet potato is also the official vegetable of North Carolina. Some folks simply find them delicious, especially when smothered in butter, cinnamon and brown sugar.

As a way to get youngsters interested in agriculture, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Bonnie Plants have teamed up for the Sweet Potato Challenge, which kicks off May 1 and is for those aged 9-18. The cost to enter is $10. The deadline to enter is Friday.

Chris Becker, Limestone County’s Extension coordinator, said the initiative is similar to previous pumpkin-growing contests. He added the kids would plant the sweet potatoes and care for them to make sure disease and insects are kept off.

At the end of the growing season, the potatoes will be harvested and weighed.

“This will be more enjoyable and successful than the pumpkin contest because growing sweet potatoes is much easier,” Becker said. “Sweet potatoes are highly nutritious, and they grow well in Alabama’s hot growing season.”

The method of growing is up to each individual contestant. Becker explained it doesn’t matter if the plants are put in the ground or in a raised bed. Each contestant is required to watch a short video prior to receiving his or her four plants. Contestants are also required to keep a journal detailing their progress.

For more information, call the Limestone Extension office at 256-232-5510 or email Becker at cmb0034@aces.edu.