There is growing interest in the viability of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) as a direct market crop in the maritime climate of western Washington. In 2023 and 2024, we partnered with researchers at the Washington State University Northwest Washington Research and Extension Center (WSU NWREC) to coordinate on-farm sweetpotato trials across northwest Washington with on-station trials. In 2023, 20 farmers participated in the on-farm trials and in 2024, 33 farmers participated. Many of the participants were small-scale ( 0.0001). This mirrored findings from the on-station trial, indicating plastic mulch or other soil warming strategies are needed to ensure good yield in the region. Qualitative data from farmers based on their experience proved to be highly valuable and informed research directions for the 2025 growing season. For example, slip production and curing can be challenging for many small-scale growers who do not have appropriate facilities, so we initiated trials at the research station on both topics. The on-farm trials provided opportunities to build relationships with farmers through frequent farm visits and surveys responses. Extension- and research-led trials together resulted in a better understanding of crop performance in this geographically diverse region and among growers who each have a different set of management practices and priorities. This information has been added to the growing guide and WSU resources have been tailored to better fit and address the needs of niche-market farmers learning to grow this new specialty crop.
