How to Grow Jicama

A warm-season root for the home garden across the warmer US.

Jicama is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Jicama in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the jicama page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Jicama, Crisp, sweet Mexican turnip (specialty seed)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 20 cm (8 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 3 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 7 L per plant every 5 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids. In humid regions, Root rot in wet soil can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Jicama is usually ready to harvest in about 5 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant jicama where you garden.

See also: Jicama in the plant library →

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