Back to Blog In-Vivo Propagation and Performance Evaluation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Cultivars
Admin Dec 31, 2025

In-Vivo Propagation and Performance Evaluation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Cultivars

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most important food crops worldwide and a major contributor to food security and agro-industry development in Pakistan. Improving potato yield and quality requires a clear understanding of how different cultivars perform under field conditions. This study focused on the in-vivo propagation and evaluation of potato cultivars to identify high-performing genotypes suitable for cultivation and processing industries.

Purpose of the Study

The main objective of this research was to evaluate morphological, yield, and quality traits of potato tubers under field conditions. A total of 35 potato genotypes, including local and CIP (International Potato Center) germplasm, were assessed to identify cultivars with superior yield potential, better tuber quality, and desirable processing characteristics.

Experimental Approach

The experiment was conducted at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad, using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Potato tubers of different sizes (small, medium, and large) were planted and evaluated for multiple agronomic traits, including:

  • Germination percentage

  • Plant height

  • Number of tubers per plant

  • Tuber size and weight

  • Number of eyes per tuber

  • Tuber shape and skin type

Standard agronomic practices were followed to ensure uniform crop growth and reliable data collection.

Key Findings

The study revealed significant variation among potato genotypes, highlighting the importance of cultivar selection:

  • Zina Red, CIP 07, CIP 12, and CIP 22 showed superior performance in terms of yield and tuber quality.

  • CIP 03 exhibited poor germination and lower yield, despite showing some quality traits.

  • High germination rates (up to 100%) were observed in several CIP lines, indicating strong field adaptability.

  • Tuber characteristics such as shape, skin texture, eye number, and size varied considerably among genotypes, influencing their suitability for fresh consumption and processing.

Cluster analysis (UPGMA dendrogram) further demonstrated the genetic and qualitative diversity among potato cultivars, confirming that performance traits were not strictly linked to geographic origin.

Importance for Potato Production and Industry

The findings provide valuable guidance for:

  • Farmers, in selecting high-yielding and adaptable potato cultivars

  • Food processors, seeking tubers with desirable quality and reduced browning potential

  • Breeders and researchers, working on potato improvement programs

By identifying elite genotypes, this research supports the development of Pakistan’s potato processing industry and contributes to improved agricultural productivity.

Conclusion

This study confirms that in-vivo propagation and field evaluation are essential tools for identifying high-performing potato cultivars. Selecting suitable genotypes based on yield, quality, and adaptability can significantly enhance potato production, benefit growers, and meet the demands of consumers and processors alike.

? Read the Full Research Article

The complete research paper, including detailed methodology, statistical analysis, and results, is available on ResearchGate:

In-Vivo Propagation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Cultivars
? https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321673740_In_vivo_propagation_of_potato_Solanum_tuberosum_l_cultivars

✍️ Author Note

Dr. Shabana Irum is a Plant Biotechnologist with research expertise in crop propagation, plant biotechnology, germplasm evaluation, and sustainable agriculture, with multiple peer-reviewed publications in international journals.