How to Plant Aerial Yam in Nigeria

how to plant aerial yam

Aerial yam (Dioscorea bulbifera) is a unique yam species widely grown for its edible tubers and bulbils. 

It is native to tropical and subtropical regions and thrives in Nigeria due to its favourable climate and fertile soils. 

Planting aerial yam in Nigeria can be an excellent addition to subsistence farming or even a commercial venture. 

This article provides a detailed guide on how to cultivate aerial yams successfully, from planting to harvesting, including pest and disease management.

Description of the Air Potato Plant

The aerial yam is a climbing vine from the yam family (Dioscoreaceae), known for its fast growth and high yield. 

Aerial bulbils (small potato-like structures) form along the vines, which resemble small potatoes. 

These bulbils serve as both a food source and a means of propagation.

The plant has heart-shaped leaves and can grow up to 20 meters in length. 

The underground tubers and aerial bulbils are rich in starch and used in various dishes after proper processing. 

However, it’s essential to note that not all air potato varieties are edible; some contain toxic compounds, so farmers should cultivate edible varieties only.

Planting Season for Aerial Yam 

Aerial yam thrives in tropical climates with abundant rainfall and warm temperatures, making Nigeria an ideal location for cultivation. 

The best time to plant aerial yam is during the early rainy season, typically between March and May. 

This ensures the plant receives adequate water for growth.

However, regions with irrigation systems can plant aerial yam year-round, provided there is sufficient moisture and care to prevent drought stress during the dry season.

Planting Aerial Yam

Planting air potatoes involves several critical steps to ensure healthy growth and high yields. Below are the key steps to follow:

Step 1: Choose a Location

Aerial yam requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Select a location with the following characteristics:

  • Sunlight: Ensure the planting area receives full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily.
  • Soil Type: Sandy loam or loamy soil is ideal as it provides good drainage and root penetration.
  • Accessibility: Choose a location close to a water source for easier irrigation.

Step 2: Land Clearing and Preparation

Prepare the land by clearing weeds, shrubs, and any debris to allow for healthy vine growth. Follow these steps:

  • Remove obstacles: Cut down trees and remove large stones that may obstruct the planting process.
  • Till the soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 30 cm to improve aeration and root development.
  • Form mounds or ridges: Create mounds or ridges, spaced about 1 meter apart, to enhance drainage and facilitate easy planting.

Step 3: Means of Propagation

Aerial yam is propagated using bulbils (aerial tubers), underground tubers, or seeds. 

Bulbils are the most common and effective propagation method due to their high viability and ease of handling. 

Choose healthy bulbils, free from blemishes or signs of pest damage, to ensure successful germination.

Step 4: How to Plant Aerial Yam from Seed

  1. Prepare the bulbils or seeds: If using bulbils, soak them in water for 12-24 hours to improve germination.
  2. Planting depth: Plant the bulbils or seeds about 5-10 cm deep in the soil. Place one bulbil per planting hole.
  3. Spacing: Space the plants 50-70 cm apart along the ridges to allow adequate room for vine growth.
  4. Support structure: Provide trellises, stakes, or fences for the vines to climb as they grow. This improves air circulation and prevents rot.

Step 5: Watering

Aerial yam requires consistent moisture, especially during the early growth stages. Water the plants as follows:

  • Frequency: Water 2-3 times a week during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
  • Drip irrigation: For commercial planting, consider using drip irrigation systems to conserve water and improve efficiency.

Step 6: Apply Manure

Aerial yams benefit from organic fertilizers and compost to boost soil fertility.

  • Apply organic manure: Mix well-decomposed cow dung, poultry manure, or compost into the soil before planting.
  • Top-dress with NPK fertilizer: Apply NPK 15-15-15 or similar fertilizers 6-8 weeks after planting to encourage vine and bulbil development.

Maturity and Harvest

Aerial yam plants take approximately 6-8 months to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Signs of maturity include:

  • Yellowing leaves: The leaves start to wither and turn yellow.
  • Bulbil size: The aerial bulbils reach their full size and detach easily from the vine.

To harvest:

  1. Collect the bulbils by gently pulling them off the vines.
  2. Dig up the underground tubers using a hoe or spade, being careful not to damage them.
  3. Cure the harvested tubers and bulbils by drying them in a cool, shaded area for a few days to extend their shelf life.

Pests and Diseases

Common pests and diseases affecting aerial yam plants include:

Pests

  • Leaf beetles: These chew on the leaves, reducing photosynthesis.
  • Stem borers: They burrow into the stems, causing wilting and stunted growth.
  • Nematodes: Soil-borne nematodes attack the roots and tubers, leading to poor yields.

Diseases

  • Fungal infections: Diseases like anthracnose and leaf spots can damage leaves and reduce plant vigour.
  • Viral infections: Viruses may cause leaf curling, yellowing, and poor tuber formation.

Pest and Disease Control

To control pests and diseases, adopt the following measures:

Preventive Measures

  • Use resistant varieties: Plant aerial yam varieties that are resistant to common pests and diseases.
  • Crop rotation: Avoid planting aerial yam in the same location for consecutive seasons to reduce soil-borne pests and diseases.
  • Weed control: Keep the field weed-free to eliminate habitats for pests.

Organic Control

  • Neem oil: Spray neem oil on the leaves to repel leaf beetles and other pests.
  • Garlic solution: Use a garlic-based spray as a natural fungicide for fungal infections.

Chemical Control

  • Pesticides: Apply recommended insecticides like carbaryl or malathion to control severe pest infestations.
  • Fungicides: Use copper-based fungicides to manage fungal diseases.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully cultivate aerial yams in Nigeria, ensuring a bountiful harvest while minimizing losses from pests and diseases. 

With proper care and management, aerial yam farming can be a profitable and sustainable agricultural practice.

I hope this article was helpful.

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