Abstract

Optimization of tuber size is crucial for enhancing potato cultivation and production, worldwide. A field research was carried out to evaluate the effects of different tuber size and varieties on growth and yield traits of potato crop during summer irrigation season 2023 under the environmental conditions of Battakundi Northern Pakistan. Experimental materials were consisted of five potato varieties namely Sarpomira, Burna, Coroda, Rocco and Cardinal with different tuber sizes including small (31.5 + 2.5 g), medium (57 + 2.5 g) and large (77.5 + 2.5 g), respectively. Randomized complete block design was employed with three replications. Results exhibited that potato varieties and tuber size had significantly (P < 0.01, 0.05) influenced the studied traits except number of stems plant-1 and unmarketable tuber yield. The variety Sarpomira produced highest marketable (34.58, 33.55 and 31.45 t ha-1) tuber yield for small, medium and large tubers, respectively. Lowest gross income (436140.00 PKR ha-1) and net benefit (366475.60 PKR ha-1) were exhibited from the variety Burna coupled with medium tuber size. The highest gross income (622440.00 PKR ha-1), net benefit (562039.60 PKR ha-1) and acceptable (952.43%) marginal rate of return was produced from the variety Sarpomira in combination with small tuber size. Therefore, it is concluded that this treatment combination has potential to improve farmers' income by increasing productivity and reducing input costs, which makes potato production economically more viable. Further, it can empower smallholder farmers to enhance their production systems, improve livelihoods, and play a key role in contributing to regional food security.