Let the sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) go as long as possible - harvest when the vines are killed by frost. They need a long growing season, so hope for a late first frost. To decide on harvest date, a sample of roots should be dug (usually by hand).
Ideally, the roots should be allowed to dry on the ground for 2 to 3 hours, then placed in a warm room for curing (85°F and 85 percent humidity (if possible) for 10 to 14 days and then stored in a cool (55°F) location. Sweet potatoes should be handled as little as possible to avoid scuffing and bruising.
