Growth and yields parameters of cassava crop (Manihot esculenta Crantz) as affected by plant density, genotype and planting system

ABSTRACT In Argentina, cassava (Manihot esculenta) production does not meet the national demand. The aim of this work was to analyze the effects of two planting systems of the stem cuttings (horizontal and vertical), two plant densities (10,000 and 20,000 plant ha-1) and two cassava genotypes (cv. Palomita and Blanca de Santa Catarina) on biometric variables and on root and starch yields by means of a field experiment carried out in Corrientes, Argentina. Eight treatments were distributed following a randomized complete block design. The following variables were evaluated: cutting sprouting percentage, plant height, percentage of intercepted photosynthetically active radiation (PARi); total, shoot and root fresh weight per hectare and/or per plant; starch production per hectare and weed dry biomass. Blanca de Santa Catarina (BSC) demonstrated the best yield potential. Vertical planting determined higher sprouting percentages, plant length and PARi, consequently greater conversion into biomass and starch. Higher plant density was associated with lower weed dry biomass and with lower root yield per plant. In conclusion, in cassava producing areas, such as Corrientes, which has sandy soils, the vertical planting system at a density of 10,000 plant ha-1 with the cv. BSC could be recommended to increase cassava yield without additional costs.