Evaluation of Irish Potato Genotypes (<i>Solanum tuberosum</i> L.) Against Diseases for Adaptability in Sierra Leone

Abstract

Irish Potato is an emerging crop of high economic value in Sierra Leone. Cultivation of the crop is limited, and farmers are faced with numerous problems in the production of the crop. This research was done to identify diseases resistant adaptable sweet potato genotypes under Sierra Leone condition. Six Irish potato genotypes collected from the Futa Jalon highlands in Guinea were evaluated in Kabala and Njala during 2013 and 2014 cropping season. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data was collected on agronomic parameters as wells as pest and disease. Data was analyzed using analysis of variance. Mean comparison was done using least significant difference (LSD) at 5% probability. Findings revealed that Kabala exhibited higher field establishment rates compared to Moyamba, with Spunta, Arnova, Nicola, and Mandola displaying significantly higher establishment percentages. Similarly, Spunta consistently exhibited the largest leaf area, vine length and highest plant vigor scores across locations. While all genotypes were susceptible to Potato Virus Disease (PVD), bacterial blight, and late blight, Spunta displayed the highest resistance to these diseases. Variations in tuber number and weight per plant were observed, with Spunta (4.4 and 3.6 t/ha) and Mandola (3.5 t/ha) showing the highest yields at both locations respectively. Notably, Spunta consistently outperformed other genotypes in terms of yield across both locations. These findings underscore the importance of genotype selection tailored to local conditions and the need for disease management strategies to enhance potato production and food security in Sierra Leone. Further research focusing on breeding programs targeting disease resistance and yield optimization is warranted to address the productivity challenges faced by Irish potato cultivation in Sierra Leone.