A pilot study of sweet potato varieties began in 2009 and continued in 2010. The study received an SBARE grant in 2011, in which 6 varieties were evaluated. The purpose of the trial was to see if sweet potatoes had any merit for the fry market in North Dakota. Since the study began, the variety that seems to show the most potential to produce a useable crop is Georgia Jet. The second variety that has done well is Beauregard.

If you are looking to order sweet potatoes to try in your home garden, make sure to find a reputable wholesaler. The chances are high that they will be from the southern United States. The ship date must be specified, so take into consideration the last frost date for your area when ordering. The "plants" come as what is know as a slip. The slips consist of a sprouted stem with leaves and roots. Once planted, water immediately. They will look rough for a few days, but once the weather heats up, along with keeping them properly watered, they will recover in no time.

For 2015 info, click here.

For 2016 results, click here.