Performance of Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas [L] Lam.) Varieties Grown at Different Tillage Systems
Fidel B. Calanza1, Berta C. Ratilla1, and Bryan S. Palcon2*
1Department of Agronomy, Visayas State University,
Visca Baybay City, Leyte 6521-A the Philippines
2Caraga State University, College of Agriculture and Agri-industries,
Butuan City, Agusan del Norte 8600 the Philippines
ABSTRACT
Tillage systems play a vital role in increasing the yield of sweetpotato. The study was conducted to determine the growth and yield response of sweetpotato as influenced by different tillage systems and variety; assess the extent of weed population; determine their interaction effects; and evaluate the marginal cost and return of growing sweetpotato varieties in different tillage systems. The experiment was laid out in a split plot arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The different tillage systems [zero tillage (M1), reduced tillage (M2), and conventional tillage (M3)] served as the main plots, and the different sweetpotato varieties [Minani (T1), Minamon (T2), NSIC Sp 25 (T3), and NSIC Sp 30 (T4)] were the subplots. Tillage systems did not significantly influence all of the gathered agronomic characteristics of sweetpotato. In terms of yield characteristics, the number of marketable roots and total root yield were significantly higher under conventional tillage. Minani sweetpotato variety produced the most numerous and heaviest marketable and non-marketable roots, whereas NSIC Sp 25 had the least. The prevalent weed species found in the area were grasses and broadleaves, particularly in zero tillage. Minani obtained the highest gross margin, followed by Minamon, whereas the least was achieved in NSIC Sp 30 and NSIC Sp 25.
INTRODUCTION
Sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L) Lam.] is a starchy, sweet-tasting root crop. Depending on the variety, it has a thin, varying skin color on the surface and inside flesh. Some are orange, but others have white, purple, and yellow flesh. It is high in fiber and a rich source of most B and C vitamins and minerals, like iron, calcium, and selenium (Shubrook 2021). It contains carbohydrate-rich storage roots which contain β-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, and protein-rich leaves (Lebot 2010). It is rich in antioxidants and aids in the battle against free radical damage and chronic disease in the body (Julson 2019). . . . . read more
