ASSESSMENT OF SIX STORAGE METHODS FOR SEED POTATO STORAGE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Studies were carried out in 1997 and 1998 at Kuru, Jos Plateau, Nigeria to assess six storage methods for the storage of seed potato. The methods were: Storage in jute bags, perforated polythene bags, baskets, racks, crates and floor. Potato varieties used were Nicola (medium to long dormancy) and B7716-2 (short dormancy). The seed tubers were stored for six months during which daily maximum and minimum temperatures of the storage environment, and the relative humidity were recorded. Tuber weight loss, loss due to rots, sprout number and length per tuber at the end of the storage were also recorded. Results showed that only polythene bag reduced tuber weight loss, but resulted in highest tuber rots due to soft rot disease of potato. Poor light condition in jute bags encouraged the development of long and etiolated sprouts of seed potato. Sprout number per tuber was not affected by the storage methods. Varietal differences in tuber weight loss, sprout number and tuber rots were significant (P≤ 0.05). Due to dehydration, tuber weight loss increased by 37 percent during the six months storage. Based on the results obtained, storage is recommended in crates, racks and on floor of well-ventilated stores for short-term (4 months) storage, since these methods provided good ventilation of stored seed and tuber rots are low.



[Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 91-96]