How to Grow Jicama

Updated June 2026

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

What it looks like as it grows

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 8 in between plants.
Sowing: sow about 1.25 in deep.
Water: roughly 1.8 gal 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 what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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