Yam's Need for High-yield Production of Ten Points
Yam, also known as yams or Chinese yams, is a herbaceous perennial plant cultivated for its underground tubers. It is highly nutritious and offers several health benefits, such as strengthening the spleen, invigorating the lungs, supporting kidney function, and enhancing vitality. These properties make it particularly beneficial for elderly individuals suffering from certain ailments. Due to its high nutritional value and medicinal properties, the demand for yam has been steadily increasing over the years.
In Shanting District of Zaozhuang City, Shandong Province, farmers have successfully implemented high-yield cultivation techniques since 2003. This approach has led to consistently high and stable yields, with an average of over 6,000 kilograms per 667 square meters. Some fields have even achieved yields of up to 6,500 kilograms, while individual plants have reached a maximum yield of 13.6 kilograms. Below are the key strategies used in the district to achieve these impressive results.
First, selecting the right variety is crucial. Farmers prefer disease-resistant and high-yielding varieties such as Zhenping Yam, Crude Beef Yam, Nongdachang Yam No. 1, Nongdabian Yam No. 1, and Nongda University Yam. These varieties offer strong stress resistance, good quality, and excellent storage stability. On the other hand, some traditional or less productive types like Japanese White Yam, Idyllic Yam, and Flower Seed Yam are not recommended for large-scale cultivation.
Second, choosing the right field is essential. The land should be elevated, well-drained, and protected from direct sunlight. The groundwater level should be no deeper than 4 meters, and the soil should have a plow layer of at least 20 centimeters, with 2% organic matter and 0.15% nitrogen content. Sandy loam soil is ideal for high yields. Continuous cropping should be avoided, especially in heavy clay soils, as it can lead to serious diseases and reduced productivity. Studies show that continuous planting for two years can reduce yields by over 30%, and after four years, the reduction can reach 40–50%.
Third, trenching and fertilization play a vital role in maximizing yield. Deep plowing to a depth of 30 cm before winter helps improve soil structure. In mid-February, trenches are dug at intervals of 0.9 to 1 meter, with a depth of 1.4 meters and a width of 0.25 meters. After filling the trenches, the soil is compacted in layers to prevent collapse during the rainy season. A mixture of decomposed manure and chemical fertilizers is applied in a 2:1 ratio. Farmers typically use about 100,000 kg of organic compost and chicken manure, 150 kg of cake fertilizer, 50 kg of superphosphate, and 200 kg of wood ash per 667 square meters. Proper irrigation and drainage systems are also set up to ensure optimal growing conditions.
Fourth, seed selection and preparation are critical. The best seeds come from healthy, bright-colored tubers with a diameter of at least 3 cm. The upper portion of the tuber is cut into 15–20 cm segments, treated with lime powder, and dried for 3–5 days. Then, the cuttings are exposed to sunlight for 5–7 days to increase moisture content and promote callus formation. Finally, the stems are soaked in a 40% carbendazim suspension diluted 300 times for 15 minutes before planting.
Fifth, planting under mulch film helps accelerate growth. In the Lunan region of Shandong, planting usually occurs at the end of March or early April. Stems are spaced 0.23–0.25 meters apart, with a density of 2,600–2,900 plants per 667 square meters. The stems are placed flat in 10 cm deep trenches and covered with 5 cm of soil. Mulch film is then applied, which can speed up germination by up to 15 days and result in more uniform growth.
Sixth, proper vine management ensures better yield. Only one strong vine is allowed to grow, while weaker ones are removed. When vines reach 7–8 cm, they are broken and released to promote growth. A herringbone support system is installed when the vines reach 30 cm, with a height of 1.5–1.6 meters to allow proper light and air circulation. Removing unnecessary yam beans increases leaf area and improves yield.
Seventh, covering the rows with wheat straw in mid-June helps suppress weeds and retain moisture. A layer of 20 cm thick straw is applied between the rows, using about 400 kg per 667 square meters. This method significantly reduces weed growth and maintains soil moisture levels.
Eighth, effective fertilization is essential throughout the growing season. After emergence, seedlings are given a small amount of ammonium bicarbonate and superphosphate. During the rapid growth phase, additional nutrients such as ammonium bicarbonate, superphosphate, and plant ash are applied. Foliar sprays of urea and potassium dihydrogen phosphate help prevent premature aging.
Ninth, disease and pest control are crucial. Before the vines grow, a solution of zinc-based fungicide is sprayed around the base of the stems to prevent anthracnose. Insect pests like earthworms and leafhoppers are controlled using baits and targeted sprays.
Finally, timely harvesting is important. Yams should be harvested in late October when the above-ground parts stop growing, and the leaves begin to die back. Prompt excavation prevents spoilage and ensures the best quality harvest.
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