Pre extension demonstration of improved potato at midland districts of Guji Zone, Southern Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

Highland and midland districts of Guji are well potential for potato production. However, there is shortage of extension service in providing improved potato varieties and lack of farmers’ knowledge and skill on potato production. So that this pre extension demonstration of improved potato was initiated to evaluate yield and profitability of improved potato varieties, to enhance the knowledge and skills of farmers’ on production of potato and to identify farmers preference of varietal traits for potato production. The study was conducted during 2020 year at Adola Rede and Wadera districts. Two kebeles per district were selected based on their potato production potential. Gudane and Bubu varieties were demonstrated on 5mx5m area with seed rate of 18 quintals/ha, 75cm between rows and 30cm between tubers. 200kg/ha NPS and 100kg/ha of UREA fertilizers were applied. Data was collected by measurement, observation and interview and analyzed by descriptive statistics, net benefit analysis, matrix ranking and t test. Training, exchange visit and mini field day were used to increase knowledge and skills of farmers’ on potato production. The result of this demonstration indicated that high yield (209.17 qt/ha) was obtained from Gudane variety than Bubu variety (158.33 qt/ha). In addition, Gudane variety had more number of tubers than Bubu. Both varieties generated more yield at Adola Rede than Wadera district. The result of t-test (p =.042 < .05) showed that there was significant difference (at 5%) in yield between Gudane and Bubu variety. Gudane variety generated a net benefit of 13313.33 ETB/ha than Bubu variety (88813.13 ETB/ha). Gudane variety was selected by experimental farmers based on its high yield, more disease tolerant, more number of tubers per plant and non-lodging status than Bubu variety. Thus, pre scaling up of Gudane variety was recommended for potato production in the study area.