Implementation of a Tunnel System for Scaling-Out High-Quality Cassava Planting Material

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Biotechnology
• Agronomy

Background:

• High-quality cassava planting material is crucial for pest and disease mitigation.
• Innovative technologies like tunnels for rapid propagation (TxRPs) can strengthen local capacities for cassava cultivation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of four industrial cassava varieties under tunnel conditions in Colombia.
• To assess the potential of TxRPs for accelerating the production of quality cassava planting material.

Main Methods:

• Four cassava varieties (Corpoica Tai, Belloti, Ropain, Sinuana) were grown in tunnels using mini-cuttings.
• Growth parameters (height, leaf number, SPAD index, leaf area, biomass) were measured over five cycles.
• Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) were regulated; substrate properties were analyzed.

Main Results:

• All varieties yielded high-quality cuttings suitable for propagation.
• Cutting productivity increased significantly across cycles, from over 60 to more than 180 cuttings/m².
• Substrate mixtures improved soil properties, with coco peat or sand minimizing compaction.

Conclusions:

• Tunnel-based systems effectively accelerate the production of high-quality cassava planting material.
• This technology supports enhanced productivity and sustainability in cassava cultivation.
• Variety performance varied, indicating selection potential for optimal tunnel propagation.