The ‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Sidekick Black’) is an ornamental plant known for its distinctive dark foliage. This vigorous, trailing annual offers visual appeal. Its ease of care and versatility make it a favored choice for adding dramatic color and texture.
Characteristics and Garden Uses
‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine is characterized by its deep purple to black, lobed, or heart-shaped leaves. This plant exhibits a trailing and mounding growth habit, typically reaching a height of 12-14 inches with a spread of 30-36 inches.
Its versatility makes it suitable for various garden applications. It performs well as a “spiller” in containers and hanging baskets, cascading over the edges. It also serves as a ground cover or border plant. This variety is noted for its heat and drought tolerance, maintaining its vibrant color throughout the season.
Planting and Care Guide
Light Requirements
‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine thrives in locations that receive full sun to partial shade. For the deepest, richest foliage color, aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. While adaptable to varying light conditions, foliage can appear greener in shadier spots.
Soil Preferences
This plant prefers moderately rich, well-draining soil. It is tolerant of different soil types and pH levels, as long as drainage is adequate. For containers, a high-quality potting soil with drainage is suitable.
Watering Needs
Maintaining consistent soil moisture is beneficial for ‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil surface dry out completely; watering may be needed once or twice per week, especially for container plants in hot weather. Wilting leaves often indicate the plant needs water.
Fertilization
‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine is a vigorous grower and benefits from fertilization, though not strictly required. At planting, incorporate a granular slow-release fertilizer. For container plants or faster growth, a water-soluble fertilizer can be applied every two weeks.
Spacing and Planting
Plant ‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine in late spring to early summer after frost danger has passed and temperatures are above 50°F. Space plants approximately 10-12 inches apart for optimal growth. When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and place it at the same depth as its original container.
Common Problems and Solutions
Sweet potato vines are resilient, but some issues can arise. Yellowing leaves are often a sign of improper watering, either too much or too little, leading to root rot or dehydration. Ensure adequate drainage and consistent moisture to prevent these issues.
Pests like aphids and spider mites can affect the foliage. A strong spray of water can dislodge many pests, or insecticidal soap can be used for more persistent infestations. Fungal diseases are less common but can occur, particularly with overwatering or poor air circulation; proper cultural practices help deter them.
Overwintering Your Vine
As a tender perennial, ‘Sidekick Black’ sweet potato vine is grown as an annual in most regions, hardy in USDA Zones 9-11. For gardeners in colder climates, several methods allow for overwintering the plant. One approach is to bring the entire plant indoors before the first frost, treating it as a houseplant. Pruning the plant to a manageable size before moving it indoors can be helpful.
Another method involves taking cuttings from the vine in late summer or early fall. Cuttings, 10-12 inches long, can be rooted in water, with roots appearing within a few days. Once rooted, these can be potted and grown indoors in a sunny location until spring. Alternatively, tuberous roots can be dug up before frost, cured overnight, and stored in a cool, dark, dry place, such as peat moss or vermiculite, until the next growing season.