File
Mini-Sett yamsA RECENT examination of Mini-Sett yam plots in Wakefield, Trelawny revealed a common problem improper land preparation resulting in ill-shaped tubers.
The Mini-Sett technology requires that dissected bits of yam be allowed to sprout in beds, and vine on a trellis to produce a consumer-friendly size and weight tuber, without toes, in 8-9 months.
However, according to RADA marketing manager, Janette Lawrence, the high incidence of fingerlike tuber, as with the traditional method of growth, is due to improper land preparation. With land preparation being a critical element in the production of consumer friendly yams, Mrs. Lawrence has offered the following guideline on the correct land preparation for successful Mini-Sett yam production:
Land preparation must be done in time for the rainy season or prior to application of irrigation water. The fork or plough is used to rip the land in advance of planting and left to weather and for further breaking up on clumps of soil.
Before planting, the soil must be pulverised to a fine till by using a hoe or harrowing tractor. This soil refinement is important for the tubers to develop a uniform shape as they grow down into the soil. The farmers should build continuous mounds on the contour.
Shape the mounds so that they are at least three feet or one meter apart and one foot high. This is to ensure that the tubers grow straight and uniform in shape with a maximum of two toes. If not, the tuber will grow ill shaped and with many toes or palmate in shape.
The final product should be a whole yam with head and end intact weighing 2-5 lbs. and requires no cutting before it reaches the consumer. Yam that is not cut requires no chemical treatment and are more acceptable in the USA and European markets.
