Genotype selection of sweet potato with potential for ornamental use

Abstract

Compatibility and harmonization using natural elements are essential to build multifunctional landscapes. And the selection of species to compose this type of landscaping ideally takes into account the multifunctionality of the selected plant. In this sense, the morphological, agricultural and functional characteristics of sweetpotato allow it to be a promising alternative for landscaping usage. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the potential of sweetpotato as an ornamental plant and its applicability in multifunctional landscaping. For this, 108 sweetpotato genotypes were selected from a germplasm bank, from the second cycle of recurrent selection and characterized according to qualitative and quantitative criteria of leaves, branches, size and landscaping attributes. Then, a subjective selection was performed and seven of these genotypes were conducted in suspended pots and at 15-day intervals, these were evaluated according to: leaf and branch color, branch length and diameter, number of secondary branches, number of green leaves and senescents, number of plants, weight and vegetative area of the pot. Both experiments were carried out in CRD (Completely Randomized Desig) under a greenhouse, following the necessary management of irrigation and crop nutrition. Descriptive analysis, clustering and mixed models’ approach were efficient to obtain good results in the characterization of the 108 genotypes. A total of 11 distinct groups were formed, joining genotypes that presented similar characteristics, facilitating the landscaper in distributing the skills of each one. Genotypes 484, 1003, 1448, 1525, and Beauregard are among those that stood out for suspended cultivation. Genotypes 467, 743, 986, 1043, and 1057 were once more suitable for cultivation in ground pots and arrangements. And the 74, 201, 648, 734, and Princesa genotypes are indicated for bedding cultivation in garden and large containers. In the experiment considering the genotypes conducted in suspended pots, the genotype 1184 stood out the most for the characteristics of branch length and number of leaves, which are essential for vertical ornamentation. Genotypes 490, 1057, 1544, 1071 also had presented good performance and aesthetics, therefore, they are indicated for the composition of structures and suspended vessels. Thus, the sweetpotato showed high morphological diversity of outstanding landscape, validating its market introduction, mainly in multifunctional landscaping, as in addition to the vegetative part, there was also the development of tuberization. The research reveals significant information for genetic breeding programs, which may help to obtain sweet potato cultivars for the ornamental market.