Enhancing sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) production in Europe: a case study of home gardening in Hungary

Home gardening plays a crucial role in developing a robust agri-food system. Although it is performed as a leisure activity, it tends to yield significant benefits that transcend the nutritional, health, socioeconomic, and ecological aspects of life. Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a versatile root tuber crop rich in dietary fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, and anthocyanins. In several European countries, including Hungary, the demand for this crop among consumers is growing. However, production has been significantly limited in these countries, resulting in imports from other continents to satisfy consumer demand. Incorporating sweet potatoes into home gardening has significant benefits, including increased crop production and yield. Through a thorough synthesis and analysis of information from relevant literature, the Scopus database, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) database, this review promotes the adoption of sweet potato as a garden crop in Hungary. It begins with global trends in research on home gardens and sweet potato production. This is followed by comprehensive information on crop description, uses, benefits, and propagation methods. It also presents information on the benefits of adopting sweet potato as a garden crop and simplified cultivation techniques for home gardeners. The strategic framework for achieving this goal is also highlighted for responsible stakeholders. The findings of this study could serve as a blueprint for advancing sweet potato production in other European countries.