Evaluation of clones originating from true potato seeds (TPS) at Maseru in Lesotho

Abstract

Nine clones originating from TPS, a local check variety and a commercial check variety were compared in a randomised complete block design with three replications at Maseru during the 2003-growing season. The objective of the study was to compare the performance of clones originating from TPS with one local and one commercial check variety with respect to total tuber yield, number of stems per plot, number of tubers per plot and relative tuber size and identify the best clone for possible use by farmers. Results revealed a highly significant difference in total yield, number of stems per plot, number of tubers per plot and its separation into small and large tubers per plot. Clones A133, A136 and the local check variety, Basotho 1, were the preferable clones. Basotho 1 was one of the better adaptable and stable but not preferred for commercial production because of its shape and many deep eyes. On the other hand the commercial check variety, BP 1, was one of the low yielding candidates. On the basis of data collected and analysed, A133 and A136 were as good as Basotho 1 in tuber yield with more desirable tuber shape and size for commercial use. The same clones were significantly higher in tuber yield than the commercial check variety, BP 1. These results further suggest that better clones could be developed by starting from TPS and selecting specific clones with desirable traits.