THE ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF GROWING SWEET POTATO (IPOMOEA BATATAS L. [LAM.]) IN POLISH SOIL AND CLIMATE CONDITIONS

Abstract

The aim of this research was to determine the economic efficiency of sweet potato production in Polish conditions (49°49′ N, 21°50′ E). The study was based on the results of a 3-year (2017–2019) field experiment conducted in slightly acidic brown earth. The experiment used the random subblocks method, in which the main experimental factors were cultivation technologies: A) traditional, with no cover, B) with the use of PP spunbond nonwoven. Secondary factors included 5 cultivars of sweet potato of all earliness classes (Goldstar, Carmen Rubin, Satsumo Imo, Beauregard, White Triumph). Constant organic and mineral fertilization was used, and cultivation was carried out in accordance with normal agricultural practice. The propagating material included rooted cuttings of sweet potato from in vitro propagation, planted with 50 x 75 cm spacing. The economic effect of production was determined by all experimental factors. The profitability of production was increased by the use of PP spunbond nonwoven. The most beneficial economic factors were achieved when growing the Beauregard cultivar, and the least – when growing White Triumph. The largest cost of sweet potato commercial production were sweet potato cuttings, which amounted to 56%, and the smallest – plant protection products – 1% of direct costs per 1 ha of crops. Sweet potato production in Polish soil and climate conditions between 2017–2019 turned out to be cost-effective.