Planting methods and depths for yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) crops

Crop management is vital to sprouting, cycle and productivity in most plants of commercial interest. However, recommendations and information are scarce for yacon cultivation, especially for possible interferences form planting method and depth in crop development and production. Therefore, the objective was to study the influence of the planting methods and depths on yacon tuberous root development and production under high altitude conditions. This experiment used a randomized complete block design, with four replications, in a subdivided plot scheme. The plots consisted of three planting methods (groove, pit and ridge), and the subplots had four planting depths (5, 10, 15, and 20 cm). Evaluations were carried out starting with the sprouting process of the rhizophores to the yield of tuberous roots. The planting methods pit and ridge had lower seedling mortality rates (27.5 and 20.2% lower than groove) and higher yields of tuberous roots (31.2 and 21.4% higher than groove). The planting depths 5 and 10 cm for the rhizophores were more suitable for yacon cultivation with the three planting methods.