ADAPTABILITY TRIALS OF SWEET POTATO CULTIVARS UNDER SOUTHERN LEYTE, PHILIPPINES CONDITION

Abstract

Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) is considered a small farmers’ crop, which grows well in diverse farming conditions. Compared with other crops, sweet potato is easier to manage under marginal growing conditions, which makes it a natural subsistence crop fitted for countering climate change. Using sweet potato varieties from Vietnam and the Philippines, cuttings were planted following recommended cultural management practices. The study was carried out in a randomized complete block design in three replications. Growth and yield performance, insect infestation, and sensory qualities were assessed. Results showed that the Vietnam 1 variety exceeded all the other varieties in terms of yield. Results also showed the Philippine variety to have very high leaf pest incidence. However, for sensory qualities, respondents favored the Philippine variety.