Effects of plot management and planting methods on growth and yield of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)

Abstract

The investigation on the effects of plot management and planting practices on the development and yield of cassava was conducted under field conditions. The project was carried out at the Ban Khao Kloi Community Enterprise Group in Thakham Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. A 3x3 factorial combination in randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used. Three managements consisting of 1) no planting material, 2) 500 kg/rai chicken manure, and 3) 500 kg/rai chicken manure and 200 g/hole of organic fertilizer were assigned as factor A. Three cultivar planting methods: 1) placing the logs horizontally and covering them with soil 2-5 cm; 2) placing the logs by tilting them about 60 degrees to emerge from the soil 1/3 of the length of the logs; and 3) planting the logs by pinning them straight to emerge from the soil 1/3 of the length of the logs were factor B., planted for 10 months. The results revealed that plot management by depositing mixed chicken manure in the plot at a rate of 500 kg/rai, planting by laying straight-seeded logs, and treating the bottom of the hole with lime is the best way of plot management and planting. It is capable of producing 9.40 tubers/plant, a fresh weight of 4.24 kg/plant, and a yield of 6,996 kg/rai. The resulting tubers are huge and plump, making them ideal for community-based entrepreneurship products.