Varietal Performance of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas l.) Planted in Between Mulberry (Morus alba l.) Trees

This study, conducted at the Sericulture Research Area of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, evaluated the performance of ten sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) varieties intercropped with mulberry (Morus alba) trees. The tested varieties- SP 36, SP 35, Swerte, Kalbooy, SP 25, Bokod, Bengueta, Honey Perpetua, Rovisa, and Tinapay were sourced from the Philippine Root Crops Training Center. The research aimed to assess varietal adaptability, growth, and yield potential under the partial shade of mulberry plantations. Significant differences were observed in vine length, number of tubers per plant, and secondary vine development, indicating varied growth responses. However, computed yield per plot showed no significant differences, suggesting comparable productivity across varieties. The minimal number of non-marketable tubers further confirmed produce quality. These findings demonstrate that sweet potato can be successfully integrated into mulberry-based agroforestry systems without compromising yield, offering a sustainable and diversified land-use strategy for farmers.

Keywords: Agroforestry system; Bengueta; Mulberry trees; Sweet potato.