Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus), also known as Mexican yam bean, is a nutritious root vegetable prized for its crisp, sweet tubers. Growing jicama successfully requires attention to many factors, with proper plant spacing being crucial for healthy vines, good air circulation, sufficient root expansion, and high yields. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of jicama seed planting and spacing, supported by expert recommendations and practical tables to make your growing journey easier.
Jicama Seed Spacing Calculator
1. Introduction: Why Proper Spacing Matters for Jicama
Jicama produces vigorous climbing vines that spread extensively above ground, supported by a robust underground root system developing edible tubers. Spacing plants correctly ensures:
Adequate room for tuber growth underground — roots need space to expand.
Optimal sunlight exposure and airflow between vines to prevent diseases.
Easier maintenance, watering, and harvesting without plant overcrowding.
Reduced competition for nutrients and water promoting uniform growth.
2. Overview of Jicama Growth and Plant Habits
Growth Aspect
Details
Vine length
Up to 15 feet (4.5 meters)
Mature plant width
Approx. 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) spread per plant above ground
Days to maturity
About 150 days from planting
Soil preference
Well-drained, loose, fertile soil
Climate needs
Warm frost-free growing season, 18-21°C soil temperature minimum
Plant type
Climbing perennial vine grown as annual root crop
3. Jicama Seed Spacing: Expert Recommendations
3.1 In-Row Spacing (Between Individual Plants)
Commonly recommended spacing: 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) apart.
Some sources suggest spacing as tight as 6-8 inches for seedlings, but this requires thinning to final spacing before vines develop fully.
Spacing within this range provides balance between plant density and sufficient room for tuber enlargement underground.
3.2 Row Spacing (Between Rows)
Typical row spacing ranges from 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) to allow adequate airflow and accessibility.
Wider spacing favors larger tuber development and healthier vine growth but reduces the number of plants per area.
Table 1: Common Jicama Plant Spacing Recommendations
Spacing Type
Suggested Range (Inches)
Range (Centimeters)
Purpose/Notes
Between seeds/plants
8 – 12
20 – 30
Allows room for root and vine growth
Between rows
24 – 36
60 – 90
Provides airflow and access
Closer spacing (for early thinning)
6 – 8
15 – 20
Requires thinning to final spacing
4. How to Plant Jicama Seeds for Best Spacing and Growth
Step 1: Seed Starting and Soil Preparation
Sow jicama seeds directly after all frost danger is past and soil temperature is warm (at least 65°F/18°C).
Prepare soil by loosening deeply and amending with organic compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Ensure planting bed or containers receive full sun and support for vines (like trellises).
Step 2: Planting Depth and Initial Spacing
Plant seeds about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep to prevent drying out or birds eating them.
Space seeds 8-12 inches apart in rows with rows 30-36 inches apart.
Water gently but thoroughly after sowing.
Step 3: Thinning
Once seedlings reach 3-4 inches height and develop true leaves, thin to final spacing of 8-12 inches apart by snipping weaker seedlings at soil line to avoid root damage.
5. Detailed Planting Layout and Density Examples
Table 2: Plant Numbers and Density Per 100 Square Feet Based on Different Spacings
In-Row Spacing (Inches)
Row Spacing (Inches)
Plants per 100 sq ft
Notes
8
24
65
Denser planting, requires careful thinning
8
36
44
Balanced airflow and density
12
24
44
More room for larger roots
12
36
30
Best for max root development
Table 3: Planting Configurations for Different Garden Sizes
Garden Size (sq ft)
Recommended Spacing (inches)
Estimated Plants Needed
Recommended Uses
50
8 x 24
32
Small home garden or container
100
12 x 30
33
Home raised beds or small plots
500
12 x 36
150
Larger hobby orchard or farm
1000
12 x 36
300
Commercial scale
6. Growing Jicama in Containers – Spacing Tips
Container Size
Seed/Plant Spacing
Notes
5-gallon (18.9 liters)
One plant/container
Ideal for good root space and tuber growth
10-gallon+
One plant/container
Larger container can produce bigger tubers
Allow at least 12 inches between containers arranged outdoors for airflow and sun access.
Provide trellis or upright support adjacent to the containers for vine support.
7. Trellis and Support Spacing Considerations
Jicama vines can grow vigorously 10-15 feet long and require sturdy supports.
Space trellises or support systems at least 3 feet apart in rows to avoid overcrowding.
Position plants near supports to facilitate climbing and reduce sprawling.
8. Fertilizer and Water Guidance Relative to Spacing
Growth Stage
Fertilizer Type
Frequency
Spacing Considerations
Early growth
Balanced NPK (10-10-10)
Every 3 weeks
Closer spacing plants require balanced feeding to avoid competition
Vining and tuber formation
High potassium (K) fertilizer
Every 2 weeks
Wider spacing supports larger tuber growth with nutrient access
Maturation
Organic compost or mulch
Monthly
Mulching benefits all planting densities
Water consistently to maintain moist soil but avoid waterlogging which can cause tuber rot.
9. Potential Problems from Improper Spacing
Problem
Cause
Effect
Suggested Remedy
Overcrowding
Planting too close
Vines entangled, poor airflow, fungal issues
Thin plants, increase row spacing next season
Root competition
Inadequate spacing underground
Small, misshapen tubers
Space plants at least 8 inches apart
Pest/Disease buildup
Poor airflow
Powdery mildew, aphids
Improve row spacing and prune vines
Harvest difficulty
Crowded rows
Difficult to access tubers
Maintain 30+ inches between rows
10. Harvest Timeline and Spacing Effects
Jicama tubers are typically harvested 150-180 days after planting.
Plants spaced well enough allow tubers to reach full size (3-6 inches diameter).
Closely spaced plants produce more but smaller tubers, while wider spacing favors fewer but larger tubers.
11. Summary Table: Jicama Spacing at a Glance
Category
Recommended Spacing (Inches)
Recommended Spacing (Centimeters)
Notes
Seed spacing (initial)
6-8 (for thinning)
15-20
Pre-thinning distance
Final plant spacing
8-12
20-30
After thinning
Row spacing
24-36
60-90
For airflow and maintenance
Container spacing
One plant/5 gal (18.9L)
N/A
Wider spacing for root health
Trellis spacing
~36
90
To avoid vine overcrowding
12. Additional Tips for Growing Jicama
Always plant jicama in warm soil after frost risk has passed and soil temps are above 65°F.
Use trellises to maximize space vertically and reduce ground area needed.
Mulch plants to maintain soil moisture, limit weeds, and regulate temperature.
Beware that seeds, leaves, and pods are toxic, so handle carefully and only eat tubers.
If space is limited, consider container growing with vertical supports.
Conclusion
Jicama seed spacing is a critical component for a successful harvest. The combination of 8-12 inches between plants and 24-36 inches between rows is ideal for balancing plant health, maximizing tuber size, and maintaining easy garden management. Adjust spacing slightly based on your garden size, soil quality, and available trellising structures.
Careful planning of plant spacing along with optimal soil preparation, watering, and feeding routines will help you grow healthy, vigorous jicama plants with bulky, delicious tubers.