Details

Technology package YAM AND TARO MINI-SETT RAPID MULTIPLICATION TECHNIQUES
Summary In Papua New Guinea, past research has identified shortage of planting material as a problem affecting yam species that produce one to a few tubers per plant. With taro, the third most important staple food crop in PNG, it is even more difficult to obtain enough planting material at any one time using traditional techniques. In order to overcome these problems, PNG researchers have experimented with cutting minisetts from the mature taro corms or yam tubers. The technique has been readily adopted and is used widely and successfully in PNG.
Technology item
Item detail
Images
Mini setts This is a proven technique for both crops that enables the farmer to make efficient use of the production Using about 50 g minisett pieces, farmers can get up to 20 setts from 1 kg of seed yam or 6-8 mini- setts from a medium sized taro corm It increases the planting material available for rapid multiplication in one cropping season It allows for a greater proportion of the produce for consumption and marketing The length of time the crop is in the field is reduced and the crop is more uniform The technique does not require expensive equipment or specialist skills The technique enhances productivity and can contribute to food security, income generation and the fulfilment of cultural obligations.