Root & Crops & Tubers· Pachyrhizus erosus

Jicama Growing Guide

A leguminous root crop producing crisp, sweet, edible tubers eaten raw or cooked. Native to Central America, now cultivated across Southeast Asia. The vine and seeds are toxic -- only the tuber is consumed.

How Long Does Jicama Take to Grow?

Jicama is typically ready to harvest about 150 days after planting.

150
Days to Harvest
moderate
Water Needs
full sun
Sun Needs

Growing Conditions

Temperature
22-30°C optimal
Rainfall
800-1500 mm/year
Frost Tolerance
none
Drought Tolerance
moderate
Humidity
moderate tolerance
Heat Tolerance
high

Soil Requirements

Soil Type & pH

Best soil types: sandy loam, loam

pH range: 6.5 - 8 (optimal: 7.3)

Drainage: good

Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)

Nitrogen (N)low
Phosphorus (P)moderate
Potassium (K)high

Planting Guide

Planting Methods
direct seeding, transplanting
Planting Depth
5 cm
Plant Spacing
30 cm apart, 75 cm rows
Planting Season
spring, early_summer

Yield & Economics

Common Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

  • pod borers
  • whiteflies
  • root-knot nematodes

Common Diseases

  • rhizoctonia root rot
  • powdery mildew
  • leaf spot

Use AI crop disease detection to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.

Growing Tips

Remove flowers and developing seed pods to redirect energy into tuber growth -- increases yield by up to 50%.

As a legume, jicama fixes nitrogen and improves soil for subsequent crops in rotation.

Harvest before first frost; tubers damaged by freezing temperatures become watery and discolored.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Jicama take to grow?

Jicama typically takes 150 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 10 days. The best planting season is spring, early_summer.

What soil does Jicama need?

Jicama grows best in sandy loam, loam soil with a pH of 6.5-8. Good drainage is required.

What temperature does Jicama need?

Jicama grows best at 22-30°C. Frost tolerance: none. Heat tolerance: high.

How much sun and water does Jicama need?

Jicama thrives with full sun light and moderate watering.

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