In early February, the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) conducted a Bioslurry Living Lab Farmer Field Day in Ficksburg in the Free State, showcasing the potential of biogas liquid byproducts as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilisers.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
In this practical demonstration, Musa Mtileni, chief research technician in the Farmer Support, Commercialisation and Enterprise Development division at the ARC, provides step-by-step guidance on proper sweet potato planting techniques.
Also read: How to produce, harvest and store sweet potatoes
Key techniques demonstrated include:
Ridge preparation: Creating proper planting beds with optimal spacing;
Precise spacing: Maintaining 1m between ridges and 83cm between plants (approximately one spade length);
Cutting placement: Proper positioning of vine cuttings to ensure nodes are correctly planted for maximum storage root formation; and
Planting technique: Opening holes in ridges and inserting whole cuttings, with practical tips for working with hard soil conditions.
Mtileni’s hands-on approach shows how farmers can optimise their sweet potato cultivation through proper spacing and planting methods, ensuring better yields and healthier crops. This practical field demonstration forms part of the ARC’s ongoing efforts to support farmers with sustainable agricultural practices and improved farming techniques.
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