Effects of cassava stem storage methods and duration on their field establishment and productivity

The quality of used planting materials and the pre-planting exposure of the cuttings significantly influence cassava productivity and yield qualities. In practice, cassava cuttings succumb to bruises and excessive dehydration during preparation, transportation, unconducive storage conditions, and lengthy duration of storage before actual planting. This study evaluated the impacts of cassava stem storage methods and duration on establishment, yield, and yield components in Tanzania. A split-split-plot experiment of six varieties, five storage methods, and five storage durations was replicated three times. Data were collected before and after stem storage, at establishment, and harvesting time, and then analyzed using the R program. The fresh weight, dry matter, and moisture content of stems showed significant differences (p<0.05) among varieties before storage. Storage durations greatly influenced the loss of stem moisture and dry matter, and the effect was significant (P<0.05) among the test varieties. Chereko stems manifested the highest moisture loss, with subsequent poor sprouting, limited field establishment, and low yield. Covering stems with mulch lowers moisture losses and improves sprouting, field establishment, and yield compared to other storage methods. Based on these results, we recommend covering cassava stems in open spaces with mulch for up to 8 weeks.