International Journal of Horticulture, 2025, Vol.15, No.1, 41-50 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 41 Case Study Open Access Case Study on High-Yield Fresh-Eating Sweet Potato Varieties: Cultivation Practices in Subtropical Regions XihuLi 1,2, Chai Lin3 1 Yuhuan Huijin crop planting professional cooperative, Yuhuan, 317604, Zhejiang, China 2 Zhejiang Agronomist College, Hangzhou, 310021, Zhejiang, China 3 Zhejiang Rural Revitalization promotion center, Hangzhou, 310020, Zhejiang, China Corresponding author: 59885041@qq.com International Journal of Horticulture, 2025, Vol.15, No.1 doi: 10.5376/ijh.2025.15.0005 Received: 08 Jan., 2025 Accepted: 09 Feb., 2025 Published: 27 Feb., 2025 Copyright © 2025 Li and Lin, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Li X.H., and Lin C., 2025, Case study on high-yield fresh-eating sweet potato varieties: cultivation practices in subtropical regions, International Journal of Horticulture, 15(1): 41-50 (doi: 10.5376/ijh.2025.15.0005) Abstract This study explores the cultivation and optimization of high-yield fresh-eating sweet potatoes in subtropical regions, highlighting their key role in agriculture, markets, and nutrition. It covers the agronomic and environmental conditions required for growth, such as soil, temperature, and rainfall, and proposes strategies to address cultivation challenges. The study analyzes the characteristics of major fresh-eating sweet potato varieties, including taste, yield, and disease resistance, and summarizes key practices for yield optimization, such as soil preparation, irrigation management, and integrated pest control. A case study from a specific region demonstrates the performance of different varieties and the practical experiences of farmers. The research also examines the interaction between environmental factors and management practices and their impact on yield, suggesting future trends in economic benefits and technological applications while emphasizing the importance of policy support. This study provides valuable guidance and reference for enhancing productivity and sustainable development of high-yield fresh-eating sweet potatoes in subtropical regions. Keywords Sweet potato cultivation; Subtropical agriculture; Orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP); Integrated pest management (IPM); Sustainable farming practices 1 Introduction Fresh-eating sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are crucial crops in subtropical areas, offering both nutritional and economic benefits. They thrive under various environmental conditions, making them a resilient choice for smallholder farmers in regions with marginal soils and variable rainfall patterns (Motsa et al., 2015; Zhapar et al., 2023). Sweet potatoes serve as staple food sources in developing regions, while their high antioxidant content, vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber make them increasingly popular in health-conscious markets worldwide. Additionally, the crop plays a role in sustainable agriculture by contributing to crop rotation systems, reducing pest incidence, and improving soil fertility (Motsa et al., 2015). High-yield fresh-eating sweet potato varieties benefit farmers and consumers alike. For farmers, they ensure stable yields and incomes, even in environments with limited inputs, while promoting resilience against climate stressors (Zhapar et al., 2023). In the consumer market, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP) are in demand for their health benefits and are being used in nutritional programs aimed at combating vitamin A deficiency, particularly in Africa and Asia (Motsa et al., 2015). These varieties also have market appeal due to their sweet flavor, attractive texture, and potential to meet rising consumer demands for functional foods. This study explores effective cultivation practices to optimize yield and quality of high-yield fresh sweet potato varieties in subtropical regions, focusing on best practices such as soil preparation, irrigation management, pest and disease control, and nutrient application to enhance productivity under changing environmental conditions. It aligns with global food security efforts by providing insights that support sustainable agriculture, helping small-scale farmers meet market and nutritional demands, identifying resilient sweet potato varieties and effective cultivation practices to address climate change challenges and promote rural development.
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