'Sweet potato, batata or camote' (Ipomoea batatas): Agronomic aspects

Abstract

Sweet potato cultivation is one of the most important root crops in many tropical and subtropical countries. The high energy and nutritional content of sweet potato roots and leaves, their adaptive developmental properties, and low input requirements have facilitated their extensive production in Asia, Africa, and America. This productive development of the crop has allowed the identification of relevant agronomic aspects for obtaining high yields and an optimal sweet potato crop. Thus, in this review, it was sought to expose the most important agronomic aspects associated with Ipomoea batatas cultivation. Initially, the morphological and growth characteristics of sweet potatoes were discussed, including the different commercially available varieties. Subsequently, the methodology for selecting planting material, soil preparation, and seeding process was discussed. It included an exposition of the fertilizers and nutritional supplements used in the crop, and the management of pests or diseases that cause losses and decrease root yield. Finally, agronomic aspects associated with sweet potato harvesting were discussed, including types and storage processes.