Implications for Agriculture

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 111 views

Growth and Production of Three Varieties of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas L.) to the Time of the Paclobutrazol Application

Introduction

The growth and production of sweet potatoes (Ipomoea Batatas L.) are influenced by various factors, including the selection of varieties and the application of plant growth regulators. In this study, we investigated the effect of Paclobutrazol application on the growth and production of three sweet potato varieties, namely Binjai, Dairi, and Beta 1. The study was conducted in the community of Medan Tuntung District from November 2018 to March 2019.

Methodology

The study used a randomized factorial group design with two treatment variables. The first variable was the three sweet potato varieties, while the second variable was the time of Paclobutrazol application. The Paclobutrazol application was done at different times, namely control (without Paclobutrazol), 3 weeks after planting (MST), 5 MST, and 7 MST. The study observed several variables, including plant length, the number of tubers per sample, tubers per sample length, tuber weight per sample, and tuber weight per plot.

Results

The results showed that Binjai varieties had the highest plant length compared to Dairi and Beta 1 varieties. Giving Paclobutrazol at 5 MST caused a decrease in MST. However, the Paclobutrazol application in 3 MST showed a significant increase in all measured parameters, including a 60% increase in the amount of tubers, 20% increase in the length of the tubers, 30% increase in the weight of the tuber per sample, and 27% increase in the weight of the tubers per plot compared to the control.

Discussion

The results of this study indicate that the selection of sweet potato varieties is a crucial factor in determining crop yields. Binjai varieties seem to be superior in growth compared to Dairi and Beta 1 varieties. The use of Paclobutrazol has been proven to have useful effects in regulating plant growth, which has the potential to increase production results.

The time of Paclobutrazol application is also an important factor that affects the results. Applications at 3 MST show a significant increase in all measured parameters. This confirms the importance of timing in the use of growth regulators, which can be the key to optimizing agricultural products.

Implications for Agriculture

From the results of this study, farmers can take strategic steps in utilizing appropriate varieties and the time of the Paclobutrazol application to increase sweet potato productivity. This does not only have an impact on increasing crop yields, but also on the sustainability of farm businesses in the area. This study emphasizes the importance of science-based approaches in agricultural practices, which in turn can help increase farmers' income and food security in the community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study provides valuable data on the influence of Paclobutrazol on the growth and production of sweet potatoes. The results of this study can be applied directly by farmers in the field to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the practical cultivation of sweet potatoes in the future.

Additional Analysis and Explanation

Sweet Potato Varieties

The selection of sweet potato varieties is a crucial factor in determining crop yields. Binjai varieties seem to be superior in growth compared to Dairi and Beta 1 varieties. This shows that the selection of varieties is very influential on crop yields. Varieties with adaptability and positive responses to growth treatment such as Paclobutrazol will be more beneficial for farmers.

Paclobutrazol Application Time

Time Paclobutrazol application is also an important factor that affects the results. Applications at 3 MST show a significant increase in all measured parameters. This confirms the importance of timing in the use of growth regulators, which can be the key to optimizing agricultural products. Farmers are advised to pay attention to the time of the Paclobutrazol application in order to get maximum results.

Implications for Agriculture

Future Research Directions

This study provides valuable insights into the influence of Paclobutrazol on the growth and production of sweet potatoes. However, further research is needed to explore the effects of Paclobutrazol on other sweet potato varieties and to investigate the long-term effects of Paclobutrazol application on sweet potato productivity.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations. The study was conducted in a single location, and the results may not be generalizable to other locations. Additionally, the study only investigated the effects of Paclobutrazol on three sweet potato varieties, and further research is needed to explore the effects of Paclobutrazol on other varieties.

Conclusion

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed the growth and production of three sweet potato varieties (Ipomoea Batatas L.) in relation to the time of the Paclobutrazol application. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the study.

Q&A

Q: What is Paclobutrazol and how does it affect sweet potato growth?

A: Paclobutrazol is a plant growth regulator that can affect the growth and development of plants. In the context of sweet potatoes, Paclobutrazol can increase the number of tubers, tuber length, and tuber weight. However, the timing of Paclobutrazol application is crucial, as excessive application can lead to negative effects on plant growth.

Q: Which sweet potato variety is the most suitable for cultivation?

A: The Binjai variety is the most suitable for cultivation, as it has the highest plant length and tuber weight compared to the Dairi and Beta 1 varieties. However, the selection of sweet potato varieties depends on various factors, including climate, soil type, and market demand.

Q: How does the time of Paclobutrazol application affect sweet potato growth?

A: The time of Paclobutrazol application is crucial, as excessive application can lead to negative effects on plant growth. In this study, the Paclobutrazol application at 3 weeks after planting (MST) showed a significant increase in all measured parameters, including a 60% increase in the amount of tubers, 20% increase in the length of the tubers, 30% increase in the weight of the tuber per sample, and 27% increase in the weight of the tubers per plot compared to the control.

Q: Can Paclobutrazol be used as a growth regulator for other crops?

A: Yes, Paclobutrazol can be used as a growth regulator for other crops, including vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. However, the optimal concentration and timing of Paclobutrazol application may vary depending on the crop species and growth stage.

Q: What are the potential risks associated with the use of Paclobutrazol?

A: The potential risks associated with the use of Paclobutrazol include excessive application, which can lead to negative effects on plant growth, and environmental contamination. Therefore, it is essential to follow the recommended application rates and timing to minimize the risks associated with Paclobutrazol use.

Q: How can farmers optimize the use of Paclobutrazol for sweet potato cultivation?

A: Farmers can optimize the use of Paclobutrazol by selecting the most suitable sweet potato variety, applying Paclobutrazol at the optimal time, and following the recommended application rates. Additionally, farmers can monitor the growth and development of their sweet potato plants to adjust the Paclobutrazol application as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the growth and production of sweet potatoes are influenced by various factors, including the selection of varieties and the application of plant growth regulators. By understanding the effects of Paclobutrazol on sweet potato growth, farmers can optimize the use of this growth regulator to increase sweet potato productivity and sustainability.

Additional Tips for Farmers

Select the most suitable sweet potato variety for your climate and soil type.
Apply Paclobutrazol at the optimal time, which is 3 weeks after planting (MST).
Follow the recommended application rates to minimize the risks associated with Paclobutrazol use.
Monitor the growth and development of your sweet potato plants to adjust the Paclobutrazol application as needed.
Consider using other growth regulators or integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to optimize sweet potato productivity and sustainability.