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ABSTRACT
Sweet potato, scientifically known as Ipomoea batatas (L) Lam., is a tuberous root crop belonging to the family Convolvulaceae (the morning glory family). Tropical tuber crops like sweet potatoes are considered major sources and suppliers of carbohydrates. This research aims to morphologically characterize sweet potatoes sold in markets of Benin City, Edo state using a standard descriptor. Two varieties of sweet potato were obtained from three different markets; New-Benin market at New Benin road, Edo state, Oregbeni market at Ramat round about, Edo State and Aduwawa market at Aduwawa road, Edo State. These tubers purchased from the market were sown inside a nursery bag in order to produce their slip which is the major propagating organ of sweet potato. The slip was then transplanted into a bigger nursery bag containing sandy loamy soil. Standard agronomic practice was carried out. After a period of 13weeks, the result showed VAR2 with taller plants, diversity in the tubers produced, denser foliage density and an appearance of higher level of beta-carotene.It also showed VAR1 having a lesser surface area than VAR2 giving VAR1 a growth advantage over VAR2 in temperate regions of Nigeria. The detailed analysis will contribute to a deeper insight and knowledge on the variations within the sweet potato cultivars and how it can be further used before optimizing cultivation strategizes like breeding and crop management.
