Episode 8: The Surprising Science Behind Sweet Potato Production
Season 4
Episode 8
April 22, 2025
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Eligible for a CEU Credit
View LessonShow Notes
How many crops can actually benefit from stress? Sweet potatoes are in a league of their own. In fact, they’ve recently become Mississippi’s official state vegetable.
Join Mike Howell and Crop Consultant, Phil McKibben, as they explore the surprising science behind sweet potato production. Explore what makes this crop different, from their resilience under stress to the important role of the mother plant. Dive into everything from soil fertility considerations to harvest management tips on this episode of The Dirt.
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"Management wise, it's different than any other crop we produce."
About the Guest
Phil McKibben
Independent Crop Consultant, Mississippi
Phil McKibben is an independent crop consultant based in northern central Mississippi. Owner of McKibben Ag Services LLC, McKibben provides consulting services for all local row crops including cotton, corn and soybeans. His specialty lies in sweet potato production. His deep knowledge in sweet potato production—from soil fertility needs and ideal soil conditions to weed control and storage considerations—supports sweet potato producers throughout Mississippi.
About Mike Howell
Senior Agronomist
Growing up on a university research farm, Mike Howell developed an interest in agriculture at a young age. While active in 4-H as a child, Howell learned to appreciate agriculture and the programs that would shape his career. Howell holds a Bachelor of Science degree in soil science and a Master of Science degree in entomology from Mississippi State University. He has more than 20 years of experience conducting applied research and delivering educational programs to help make producers more profitable.
He takes pride in promoting agriculture in all levels of industry, especially with the younger generation. Mike is the host of The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast.
