Yucca root is used throughout much of the world, most often in tropical and subtropical climates. Like many other root vegetables, yucca is known for being difficult to extract from the ground. Even worse, if the root isn't properly harvested it can multiply in the ground and quickly overtake a garden. With the proper technique, you can efficiently harvest yucca root without the risk of the plants turning into a pest.
Remove the green leaves from the top of the yucca roots. They can be disposed of in a garbage bin or used for compost.
Water the soil until it is thoroughly wet to a depth of at least 4 inches. The wetter the soil is, the easier it will be to remove the roots.
Drive a shovel straight into the ground in between each yucca plant to break up the small pieces of the root system. Be careful not to cut any pieces off the large chunks of root as they will likely grow into new plants.
Dig around a yucca with your hands until you are approximately 4 inches deep.
Wiggle the root back and forth while you simultaneously pull on it. If the root doesn't budge, dig around it until it comes loose.
Repeat the process for all other yucca roots. If you accidentally cut a chunk out of one of the roots, be sure to shovel it out of the ground as it will likely sprout into a new plant.