Bioscience Methods 2025, Vol.16, No.5, 262-269 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 266 harvesting, and storage, leading to significant economic benefits. By adopting similar cooperative models, farmers in the hilly regions of southern Zhejiang can achieve higher yields and better economic returns. The integration of mechanized planting with innovative cropping patterns, such as the novel triple cropping system, has also been shown to improve economic efficiency and sustainability in hilly areas (Li et al., 2023b). Figure 4 Three designed treatments in this experiment: (a) RB1, finger-clip compound transplanter working under mulched raised beds system; (b) RB2, finger-clip compound transplanter working under bare raised beds system; (c) RB3, clamping-plate compound transplanter working under bare raised beds system (Adopted from Li et al., 2023a) 5.3 The role of government policies and technology promotion Government policies and technology promotion play a pivotal role in advancing sweet potato cultivation in hilly regions. Policies that support research and development, as well as the dissemination of mechanization technologies, are essential. For instance, the promotion of plastic film mulching has been effective in improving yield and water use efficiency in potato cultivation in Northwest China, and similar techniques could be adapted for sweet potatoes in southern Zhejiang (Xu et al., 2023). Additionally, government subsidies and incentives for adopting innovative cropping systems, such as the novel triple cropping system, can enhance the economic viability and sustainability of sweet potato farming. The role of government in facilitating access to advanced machinery and providing training for farmers is also critical in overcoming the mechanization challenges in hilly terrains. 6 Comprehensive Discussion: Prospects and Strategies for the Integration of Agronomy and Mechanization in Sweet Potato Planting 6.1 The necessity of synergy between agronomy and mechanization The integration of agronomy and mechanization is crucial for enhancing the efficiency and productivity of sweet potato cultivation, particularly in hilly regions. Mechanization addresses labor shortages and reduces the physical burden on farmers, while agronomic practices ensure optimal growth conditions and yield. For instance, the development of machinery such as the 3-in-1 disc ridger, which combines bed making, fertilizing, and mechanical
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