International Journal of Horticulture, 2025, Vol.15, No.1, 41-50 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 46 the sandy soils' tendency to leach nutrients (Nairn and Forster, 2019). Additionally, farmers adopted ridge planting and mulching techniques to improve soil aeration and prevent moisture loss (Wikifarmer, 2023). They also reported the use of pest monitoring and early harvesting strategies to avoid losses from sweet potato weevils, which are common in dry conditions (Longdom, 2021b). Furthermore, many farmers have integrated OFSP varieties into their crop rotations due to their higher market value and demand for nutritionally enhanced foods. However, challenges such as limited access to quality planting materials and fluctuating market prices remain concerns for growers (Vannini et al., 2023; Cheboi et al., 2024). 7 Optimizing Agricultural Yield and Quality 7.1 Effects of cultivation practices on yield and quality The study confirmed that implementing optimized cultivation practices significantly improved both the yield and quality of fresh-eating sweet potatoes (Wang et al., 2016). Fields using ridge planting and mulching techniques produced tubers with smoother textures and fewer deformities due to enhanced soil aeration and moisture retention (Zhapar et al., 2023). The average yield for Beauregard and Jewel varieties ranged between 23 and 27 tons per hectare under these practices, with the orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) variety producing slightly lower yields but with higher beta-carotene content, aligning with the nutritional goals of food security programs (Low et al., 2020; Cheboi et al., 2024). Effective irrigation management, particularly drip irrigation, minimized water stress and improved tuber size consistency, while avoiding excessive watering prevented cracking and rot (Zhou et al., 2023). Fertilizer application practices that balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) further supported optimal root development and increased disease resistance (Laurie et al., 2017). 7.2 Interaction between environmental factors and management practices The interaction between environmental conditions and cultivation techniques proved crucial in maximizing yield and quality. Subtropical climates with bimodal rainfall patterns posed challenges for consistent production, but timely planting during the onset of rains ensured better crop establishment (Cheboi et al., 2024). In years with erratic rainfall, supplementary irrigation improved outcomes, confirming the need for adaptive management. Variations in soil fertility across different regions also impacted tuber quality, highlighting the importance of site-specific nutrient management strategies (Shock et al., 2021; Poulianiti et al., 2022). For example, regions with sandy soils required more frequent organic matter inputs to maintain fertility and prevent nutrient leaching (Zhapar et al., 2023). Furthermore, integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, such as the use of resistant varieties and pest monitoring, proved essential in reducing the impact of diseases like sweet potato weevils under different environmental conditions (Longdom, 2021a; Wikifarmer, 2023). 7.3 Challenges encountered and strategies to overcome them Farmers faced several challenges during cultivation, including limited access to quality planting materials and fluctuations in market prices, which impacted profitability (Cheboi et al., 2024). Environmental challenges, such as unpredictable rainfall, increased the need for flexible irrigation solutions and water management practices. Weevil infestations posed another significant threat, particularly during dry seasons when soil cracking exposed tubers to pest attacks (Longdom, 2021a). To mitigate these challenges, farmers adopted a combination of early planting schedules, ridge planting to improve drainage, and the use of OFSP varieties with enhanced resistance to common pests (Rajasekhara and Mohan, 2022). Additionally, collaborative extension programs provided training in IPM strategies, helping farmers adopt more sustainable practices and reduce their reliance on chemical inputs (Wikifarmer, 2023). Strengthening local seed systems to ensure consistent availability of high-quality planting materials also emerged as a priority for long-term agricultural resilience (Low et al., 2020). 8 Implications for Farmers and Regional Agriculture 8.1 Economic benefits of high-yield fresh-eating sweet potato cultivation High-yield fresh-eating sweet potato cultivation offers numerous economic benefits for farmers and contributes to regional agricultural sustainability. These varieties provide farmers with reliable income due to higher market demand, especially for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP), which are promoted for their health benefits (Low
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