How Long Does Oca Take to Grow?

Oca typically takes at least five months to grow until it's ready for harvest. This unique tuber crop, known for its vibrant colours and tangy flavour, requires a good growing season to develop its edible tubers.

Understanding Oca's Growth Cycle

Oca (Oxalis tuberosa), a member of the Oxalis family, is cultivated primarily for its underground tubers. Its growth period is crucial for tuber formation, which occurs later in the growing cycle, often triggered by shortening day lengths in autumn.

Here's a quick overview of Oca's growth characteristics:

Cultivation Insights for Optimal Growth

To achieve a successful harvest, especially in regions with shorter growing seasons, understanding Oca's specific needs is beneficial:

• Starting Early: Given its long growth period, Oca benefits from an early start. This often involves planting tubers indoors in pots with frost-free protection before the last frost date. This gives the plants a head start and ensures they have ample time to mature once transplanted outdoors.
• Transplanting: Once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed, the young Oca plants can be transplanted into their final growing location. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer a sunny to a partially shaded spot.
• Tuber Development: The most critical phase for Oca is the late summer and autumn when the tubers begin to swell. It's essential that the plants are protected from early frosts during this period, as frost can halt tuber development and reduce yield. Providing a long, warm, and frost-free autumn is ideal for maximizing the harvest.
• Harvesting: Tubers are typically ready for harvest after the foliage has started to yellow and die back, usually after the first light frosts, around five months or more after planting.

By providing the necessary protection and allowing for a full growing season, gardeners can enjoy a rewarding harvest of Oca tubers.