Traditional yam cultivation on Pohnpei, Eastern Caroline Islands, Micronesia

Abstract

A project was undertaken during 1988 to investigate traditional yam (Dioscorea spp.) production on Pohnpei Island in the Eastern Carolines. Yam is the most important crop on the island and figures prominently in the traditional prestige system. One hundred seventy-seven locally-recognized cultivars of yam representing 5 species were reported by informants. Yam production is seasonal, complementing the breadfruit season. The yam season is delineated by a series of feasts and ceremonies. In order to insure a steady supply of yams during this time, farmers plant several cultivars, use different trellising methods, and employ other techniques. Cultivation of yams is done mainly under live breadfruit trees, although several other species of trees are used, and are often ring-barked to improve yam growth. Taboos and magic are still employed by many farmers. Although production per unit land area is low under the traditional system, yams of large size are produced which are highly suitable for prestige purposes.