YAM

Dioscorea is a large genus of over 600 species with subterranean tubers or rhizomes.Some of its species are known as Yam. It is a rich source of carbohydrates and has significantly high source of iron and vitamin ‘A’. Dioscorea is having medicinal property. 

In Andhra Pradesh, it is cultivated on commercial scale. Shrikakulamand costal districts are major Yam cultivating areas of AP.

Well drained, deep sandy loam soils are required for its cultivation. Avoid water logged soils as it will leads to root rot. 

Kovvur: High yielding variety gives average yield of 12-14tons/acre. This variety having self life of two to three month. 

For good yield, plough land thoroughly at depth of 12-20cm. 

Seed Rate

 Fertilizer Requirement (Kg/acre)

Nutrient Requirement (Kg/acre)

Apply well decomposed cowdung@100-120qtl/acre, along with 24kg of phosphorus as basal dose. Apply, 40kg of Nitrogen and 32kg Potash in two equals spilt on 30th and 60th days after planting.

Irrigate the field immediately after planting and frequent irrigations are given during dry weather. In dry spell irrigation at least once in 10-12 days is to be given.

Weeding is done 3-6 times to check the weeds. Earthing up of tuber is done. The tubers sprout within 20-25 days after planting. 

•  Pest and their control:

Aphid and Red spider: Take spray of Rogor@2ml/litre or Keithane@3gm/litre of water to control it. 

•  Disease and their control:

Tuber rot: Avoid water logged condition in soil. If infestation is observed, take spray of Mancozeb@0.25%, four times with interval of 10-15days. 

Crop is ready for harvest within 8-9 months, when the leaves turn yellow. The tubers are dug without injuring. Dried root hairs are removed before storing and marketing.

The corms can be retained in the soil for 1-2 months even after maturity. It should be lightly irrigated to avoid drying of corms. The cured tubers can be stored in shade for 2-3 months.