Cultivar-specific responses to late blight in highland potato production

Late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, is a major constraint to potato production in Nepal’s high-altitude regions, often reducing yields by more than 75% and threatening household food security. To identify cultivars that combine high yield potential with resilience to late blight, a 2-year field study (2022–2023) evaluated the phenology, disease response, and productivity of three commercial (Axona, Cardinal, Desiree) and two local landraces (Kuru and Migu Local) potato cultivars. Results showed that Axona had the slowest disease progression (AUDPC: 288-177) and consistently produced the highest yields (15.82–20.97 t/ha). Cardinal, while more susceptible, maintained high yields, while Migu Local showed notable disease tolerance with moderate yields. Correlation analysis revealed that crop performance was positively correlated with growth traits and negatively related to disease severity and incidence. These findings highlight Axona and Migu Local as promising options for integrated late blight management in Nepal’s highlands, offering practical choices for farmers and breeding programs.