Researchers at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) have introduced "BAU Sweet Potato-5," a high-yielding and disease-resistant sweet potato variety. This development, led by Dr. ABM Arif Hasan Khan Robin and his team, claims productivity levels three times higher than ordinary potatoes. Professor Hasan noted the variety yields between one and one and a half kilograms per plant within 90 days.
Professor Hasan stated, "BAU Sweet Potato-5 is a high-yielding variety that provides significant benefits. The highest yield occurs after more than 100 days, and the variety yields more than 30 tons per hectare, while traditional sweet potatoes yield around 10.25 tons per hectare." This variety offers potential advantages for growers, thriving year-round with reduced disease susceptibility.
Despite sweet potatoes being a nutrient-rich alternative to rice, local farmers face challenges such as high production costs and inadequate market prices. However, "BAU Sweet Potato-5" has been distributed in regions like Mymensingh, Sherpur, and Khulna, where farmers report increased yields and profitability. A Mymensingh Sadar farmer noted yields of 30 kg per 10 square meters compared to 700-750 grams per plant from local varieties.
Farmer Manu Mia from Phulpur shared, "For the first time in Phulpur, we successfully cultivated 'BAU Mishti Alu-5,' with plants yielding 6-7 potatoes, each weighing 200-300 grams." Moon Modak, a postgraduate research team member, highlighted sweet potatoes' growing popularity in cream, purple, and orange varieties, each offering unique culinary applications.
Source: Daily Sun