Multiplication of seed potatoes by tuber formation in leaf axils of stems derived from single-bud stem cuttings.

Abstract

Single-node cuttings of 3 cultivars were planted in such a way that the buds were some centimetres above the soil surface. Some of the plants were grown under long-day conditions, the others under short days during stem growth, this being favourable to tuber formation in normal plants. Stems growing from the buds showed abundant tuber formation in the leaf axils of Jaerla (early) and Bintje (mid early), especially under short-day conditions, but fewer tubers were formed in Alpha (late). This cultivar formed many thickened branches instead of tubers under short-day conditions. Under long days Jaerla and Bintje formed many above-ground tubers, whereas half of the cuttings of Alpha did not form tubers. When planted, above-ground tubers produced good yields. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)