BioSciAdmin BioSci

Author    Correspondence author
Genomics and Applied Biology, 2026, Vol. 17, No.   
Received: 01 Jan., 1970    Accepted: 01 Jan., 1970    Published: 27 Mar., 2026

In sweet potato ridge cultivation, the height of the ridges is often regarded as a crucial factor. However, its effect varies in different regions and soil conditions. The height of the ridge alters the tightness of the soil, the conditions of air permeability and drainage, as well as the gas exchange at the rhizosphere and the fluctuations of water and temperature. These changes subsequently manifest in the growth of the above-ground part, nutrient accumulation, and the distribution to the tubers. The speed of tuber enlargement, the quality of the tubers, and the rate of commercial tubers also vary. Based on the publicly available literature, local technical regulations, and mechanization standards over the past decade, combined with the test results from typical ecological regions, a relatively consistent trend can be observed: appropriately raising the ridge height is beneficial for drainage and ventilation, reducing CO₂ accumulation at the rhizosphere, and promoting the transport of assimilates to the tubers. However, if the ridge height is too high, especially in dry years, water is prone to loss, often resulting in "strong vines but weak tubers", with inconsistent water supply during the tuber enlargement period, and an increased risk of cracking and deformed tubers. Therefore, in production, it is not advisable to simply pursue high ridges. A comprehensive consideration should be given based on soil texture, rainfall or irrigation conditions, the tuber formation habits of the variety, and the harvesting method. In most regions, a height of 25-35 cm is appropriate, and it should be combined with mulching or drip irrigation and stable water supply in the middle and later stages to more securely increase the rate and efficiency of commercial tubers.