Agronomic characteristics and physiological disturbances in potato cultivars

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to evaluate agronomical characteristics of potato cultivars and identify the most productive ones, with smallest physiological disturbance, tuber cracking and secondary growth. The experiment was set according to a randomized complete block design with 8 treatments, consisting of the potato cultivars Agata, Apuã (IAC-5977), Aracy (IAC-2), IAC Aracy Ruiva, Asterix, Bintje, Dali, Clone IAC-6090, Itararé (IAC-5986), Laguna, Remarka, Liseta, Mondial, Novita, Oscar, Picasso, Santana and Solide, with four replications. The highest stem number per plant provided high stem density increasing the tuber yield. Cultivars Mondial, Liseta, Itararé, Dali and Novita had the highest total yield, and 'Mondial', 'Liseta', 'IAC Aracy Ruiva', 'Agata' and 'Itararé', the highest commercial yield. Total yield of Laguna was limited by low emergence and stem density, while high stem density of 'Mondial' was responsible for its great total yield. Therefore 'Mondial' and 'Liseta' showed the highest yield. 'Agata' and 'Aracy' were the most resistant to tuber crack. 'Aracy' and 'IAC Aracy Ruiva' were tolerant to secondary growth, while 'Bintje' and 'Oscar' were susceptible.Additional keywords: Solanum tuberosum; stem density; tuber yield; tuber crack; second growth.