Evaluation of improved orange fleshed sweet potato varieties at Gamo Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Six orange fleshed sweet potato varieties were tested in Gamo zone of southern region, Ethiopia in 2019 and 2020 to evaluate their total root yield potential and demonstrate best performing varieties. The experiment was laid out as a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications. The combined analysis of variance showed highly significant differences among genotypes on growth, root yield and its components. The maximum number of marketable roots per plot was recorded on variety RW11-4743 (59.13) followed by Kyoyab werere and Kulufo (57.00 and 53.63 ton ha-1), respectively. While, minimum number of roots per plot was recorded on variety Mayai. The highest root yield per hectare was obtained from varieties Kyoyab werere (53.23 ton ha-1) and RW11-4743 (52.64 ton ha-1) followed by Kulufo (48.42 ton ha-1) whereas the minimum root yield per hectare was obtained from variety Carrot-C (37.84 ton ha-1). Based on the result of this study from evaluated orange fleshed sweet potato varieties Kyoyab werere, RW11-4743 and Kulufo gave the highest yield but, except Kulufo, these varieties were not registered in the country (Ethiopia). Therefore, it needs further evaluation of Kyoyab werere and RW11-4743 including other genotypes at different locations for verification and registration and Kulufo was recommended for pre extension demonstration at the study area and similar agro ecological locations.