The ornamental varieties of Ipomoea batatas produce perennial tubers and although often smaller than the tubers produced by the 'non'-ornamental varieties,the tubers can most certainly be overwintered in a dormant state by keeping them slightly moist by intermittent waterings...the plants may be overwintered with foliage intact,if you have enough sunlight to keep the leaves healthy and the indoor heated air does not overly dry out the leaves...

The ornamental Ipomoea batatas have tubers which are also fully edible as well as fully edible leaves,stems and flowers which can be eaten raw or covered in a batter and fried into fritters...the seeds are the only part which is not eaten...

Hope that helps...

Ron

wow, thanks very much! I had some good luck storing some questionable Dahlia tubers this year, and my cannas are looking great still in storage, so I definately will add my sweet potatoes to the list for next year!!

Although the idea of overwintering them as a house plant is definately appealing too.. hmmm....

Even if you don't have a sunny spot where you can keep them actively growing, just leave them in the basket. Keep the basket in a place that won't get below 32 degrees, and water about once a month. Come spring, bring them out into more light and warmth, give more water, and you'll have pre-planted baskets all ready and rarin' to go!