The ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Kelly Ray’) is a popular ornamental plant known for its distinctive, vibrant foliage. Its heart-shaped leaves initially emerge with a chartreuse hue, then mature to display a striking variegation of deep purple and lime green, often with hints of burgundy. This particular cultivar is valued for its vigorous, trailing growth habit, making it an appealing and versatile choice for various garden applications. Its aesthetic appeal and relatively low-maintenance nature contribute to its widespread use in landscape designs.
Ideal Growing Conditions
‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine thrives in environments that provide ample sunlight. While it can tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates where it benefits from protection from intense afternoon sun, full sun exposure is generally preferred in northern regions. This plant demonstrates good heat tolerance, making it suitable for warmer growing seasons. It is sensitive to frost and will not survive freezing temperatures.
The plant adapts well to a variety of soil types, but performs best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Although it is not particular about soil pH, a fertile growing medium promotes more robust growth. Consistent soil moisture is beneficial for healthy development, but standing water can be detrimental, potentially leading to root issues.
Planting and Ongoing Care
When planting ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine, ensure the danger of frost has passed, as these plants are cold-sensitive. For optimal growth and spread, individual plants should be spaced approximately 24 inches apart when used as a groundcover or in mass plantings. Whether planted in containers or directly in the ground, providing adequate space allows the vine to trail and spread effectively.
Regular watering is important for ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine, especially in hot weather or when grown in containers, as potted plants tend to dry out more quickly. The soil should remain consistently moist, but never soggy; allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. While sweet potato vines are vigorous growers and do not typically require heavy fertilization, a slow-release granular fertilizer applied at planting or early in the growing season can provide an initial boost. Pruning can encourage bushier growth and help manage the plant’s size, preventing it from becoming leggy. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to shape the vine as desired.
Propagating Kelly Ray Sweet Potato Vine
Propagating ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine is a straightforward process, primarily achieved through stem cuttings. This method allows gardeners to easily create new plants from existing ones. The best time to take cuttings is typically during the active growing season, from spring through summer.
To propagate, select healthy, non-flowering stems about 4 to 6 inches long, making a cut just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, ensuring at least one node is exposed. These prepared cuttings can then be rooted in water or a well-draining potting mix. If rooting in water, place the cuttings in a jar with water, ensuring the nodes are submerged, and place in a bright location out of direct sunlight until roots form. For soil rooting, insert the cuttings into moist potting mix, keeping the soil consistently damp until new growth indicates successful rooting.
Common Issues and Solutions
While ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine is generally a resilient plant, some common issues can arise. Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to root rot due to consistently soggy soil. Ensuring proper drainage and allowing the top layer of soil to dry between waterings helps prevent this condition.
Pests such as spider mites and aphids can occasionally affect sweet potato vines. These can often be managed with insecticidal soap or by rinsing the foliage with a strong stream of water. If leaves show signs of curling or wilting, it could indicate insufficient moisture, and adjusting the watering schedule may be beneficial.
Creative Landscape Uses
The trailing and spreading habit of ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine makes it a versatile plant for various landscape applications. Its dense foliage and vibrant coloration provide excellent visual interest. It serves as an effective groundcover, creating a lush carpet of color in garden beds.
In container plantings, ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine excels as a “spiller” component, gracefully cascading over the edges of pots and hanging baskets. The plant’s unique marbled foliage also offers a striking contrast in mixed borders, adding texture and a pop of chartreuse and purple.
Overwintering Kelly Ray Sweet Potato Vine
In regions where ‘Kelly Ray’ sweet potato vine is not hardy (typically USDA Zones 10-11), gardeners often treat it as an annual. However, it is possible to overwinter the plant to enjoy it for multiple seasons. One common method involves taking stem cuttings before the first frost.
These cuttings can be rooted in water or soil indoors, where they will continue to grow as houseplants throughout the cooler months. Another approach is to dig up the tubers that may form on the roots, especially if the plant has had a long growing season. These tubers can be stored in a cool, dry, dark, and frost-free location, such as a basement or garage, until they can be replanted the following spring.