International News - All About Sweet Potatoes

Due to the high concentration of asphalt and concrete, it can be very hot in Japan's inner cities. So, usually people grow grass and small trees on their roof tops to fight the heat. Two companies, NTT Urban Development Co. and NTT Facilities Inc., are conducting tests and have positive results that show growing sweet potatoes on roofs can help lower urban temperatures. Sweet potatoes grow fast, and have many large leaves that can provide good roof-surface shade.

Source: The Japan Times - online http://search.japantimes.co.jp