Growing Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) in Georgia: Marginal at Best

Yacon, an Andean root crop, is only reliably hardy in extreme south Georgia. Frost kills top growth; roots may survive with heavy mulch but yields will be low. Seed sources are scarce in the U.S.

If You Try

• Plant in spring after frost in full sun, loose soil.
• Mulch heavily for winter.
• Harvest roots after first frost sweetens them.
• Expect trial-and-error; not a dependable crop north of Florida.

Consider more adapted root crops like sweet potatoes or Jerusalem artichokes.

Yacon roots—crisp, sweet, but climate-challenged in Georgia.