Gently pull each sprout along with its developed root system away from the seed root. Although not recommended, slips can also be produced by partially covering seed roots with water in a jar or other container. If you do not have your own seed roots, store-bought sweet potatoes can be substituted. However, since store-bought sweet potatoes are not likely to be locally grown, the cultivar may not be adapted to Iowa growing conditions. Although yields will vary with cultivar, gardeners can expect 50 plants to produce about a bushel of roots for storage.
Sweet potatoes prefer an acidic, well-drained, sandy soil.
Heavy, clay soils should be avoided. Before planting, prepare the soil by tilling and ridging the planting area. These ridges or raised areas will allow the soil to warm and dry faster. If your soil is heavy, ridges should be 12 to 15 inches high. On light soils, ridges 8 to 10 inches high are adequate.