Potential and Actual Yields of Potato at Different Elevations and in Different Seasons in Subtropical Southwest China

Abstract

AbstractPotential potato yields of nine spring and five autumn seasons at elevations ranging from 150 to 2650 m asl in subtropical China were assessed by a simple growth model and compared with attainable and experimental (actual) yields. Generally, both potential and actual yields were higher at higher elevation because of cooler temperatures and longer growing periods. The spring crops showed higher potential and actual yields but had lower light use efficiencies than the autumn crops, especially at higher altitudes. Specific relationships were given for relevant potential and attainable yields over altitudes and seasons. Light use efficiency declined with ascending elevation during the autumn season. The ratio actual: potential yields (range0.25–0.56) and the ratio actual: potential light use efficiency (range 0.34–0.70) were low because of drought stress, hot temperatures in the low elevations, presence of diseases and pests, low quality seed, and lack of adequate fertilization.