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Thai Jicama, Mexican Yam Bean Root , Man Kaeo Seeds
Thai Jicama, Mexican Yam Bean Root , Man Kaeo Seeds
Thai jicama Seeds | Mexican Yam Bean Root | Man Kaeo | Hột củ sắn | 15 Seeds
150 Days to maturity. Pachyrhizus erosus . Thai Jicama Seeds. Annual, Open Pollinated. This Asian variety of jicama yields larger tubers than Mexican Jicama. It has sweet and crisp light-colored flesh, and tan to light brown skin. This larger variety can reach up to 5 or 6 inches in width, and 5 pounds in weight in warmer climates, smaller in cooler areas. The roots develop fully after flowering. Roots are edible.
PLEASE NOTE: Leaves and seed pods are poisonous! Other names for this variety include True Jicama and Yam Bean, and in the original Thai, Man Kaeo.
How to Grow Thai Jicama
Sandy loamy well-drained soil. This is a long growing plant. Start in containers indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost in temparate climates. Plant in the garden after the last possible frost. Keep soil moist. Fertilize as needed. Optimum growing temperatures are in the 70s or warmer, this plant is not frost tolerant. Trim the flowers off as they appear, this will keep the vines shorter, and the roots bigger.
Thai jicama is a warm-season crop that needs a long growing season, so it is important to start it early in the spring. In most climates, you can start Thai jicama seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant the seedlings into the garden 2-3 weeks after the last frost date.
Thai jicama needs full sun and well-drained soil. Choose a spot in your garden that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be loose and friable, with plenty of organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you can improve drainage by adding sand or compost.
To plant Thai jicama seeds, sow them 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. If you are planting seedlings, space them 3-4 feet apart. Thai jicama vines can spread up to 10 feet wide, so it is important to give the plants plenty of room to grow.
Water Thai jicama plants regularly, especially during hot weather. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Fertilize Thai jicama plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Thai jicama is ready to harvest when the tubers are firm and have reached their full size. This can take up to 9 months, so be patient. To harvest, simply dig up the tubers with a shovel.
Here are some additional tips for growing Thai jicama:
- Provide Thai jicama plants with support. You can use a trellis, fence, or other structure to support the vines. This will help to keep the plants healthy and productive.
- Pinch back the tips of the vines to encourage branching and fruit production.
- Mulch around Thai jicama plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Protect Thai jicama plants from frost. If you live in a climate with cold winters, you may need to cover the plants with frost blankets or move them indoors.