anybody in the North grow Jicama? this is my favorite new vegetable and I am wondering how hard it is to grow? I know its a long crop, but its it difficult?

I don't know how far north you are, but I tried it once, and I had to start it in early February, and finally harvested some mediocre sized jicama in late September. It wasn't worth the trouble and space, to me.

clear up by Lake Erie I am. thats what I was wondering... I read it was about 9 months for a crop but that does that really mean? 9 months of active growing or 9 months from seed to harvest? how much space does it take up? is it like sweet potatoes?

Native of Mexico common in Texas stores for many years.
Cant remember the last time I had one (over 20 years) and dont know why.

I found it all over down in the Valley when we went to McAllen. we went to a flea market and there were many a table with jicama on it. I bought a few to bring home but I have never seen it up here.

In your travels did you run across something called Jamaica, you must surely did.
What it was is hibiscus flowers to make tea.
Cheaper than dirt in a Mexican market higher than a cats back elsewhere.
Gotta big bag at home always.

probably, but if its the same thing as I have had from the mexican section at the save, a lot I don't like it too much. its too floral-ly for me.

I mix it with strong sweet iced tea.