Impact of Shade and Water Stress on Chinese Potato (Colocasia esculenta L.) Growth and Yield

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of shade levels and deficit irrigation on the growth and physiological responses of Chinese potato (Colocasia esculenta), providing insights into optimal agronomic practices for improving crop performance under abiotic stress. Study Design:  A factorial experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with two factors: shade levels (35%, 65%, and 100% daylight) and irrigation regimes (100% and 50% of field capacity). Eight replicates were used for each treatment for a total of 48 plants. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Experimental Plot of the University of the Pacific, located in Buenaventura D.E., Valle del Cauca, Colombia, between July 2023 and September 2023. Methodology: Morphological and physiological parameters, including plant height, leaf area (LA), specific leaf area (SLA), dry mass accumulation, and relative water content (RWC), were measured. Data were analyzed using ANOVA to assess the main and interaction effects of shade and irrigation. Results: Plants grown under 35% daylight exhibited greater height, LA, and SLA compared to those under higher light intensities, reflecting adaptive responses to low-light conditions. Fully irrigated plants accumulated higher dry mass and LA than deficit-irrigated plants, highlighting the importance of water availability for maintaining productivity. However, no significant interaction effects were observed between shading and irrigation, suggesting that these factors independently influence growth. Conclusion: These findings underscore the adaptability of Chinese potato to varying environmental conditions and provide insights for optimizing its cultivation under abiotic stress, particularly in resource-limited settings. The findings of this study have practical relevance for agroforestry systems where shade management can improve crop performance.