Vertical growing of potatoes in pits, by the gradual addition of further layers of soil.

Type: Technologies

Creation: 2011-05-04 12:42   Updated: 2021-11-02 15:15

Compilers: Rustam Kalandarov

Reviewers: Alexandra Gavilano, David Streiff, Joana Eichenberger

Country/ region/ locations where the Technology has been applied and which are covered by this assessment
  • Country: Tajikistan
  • Region/ State/ Province: Tajikistan
  • Further specification of location (e.g. municipality, town, etc.), if relevant: Khatlon District, Nosiri Husrav region
  • Map: View Map

Description of the SLM Technology

Short description of the Technology

Vertical growing of potatoes in pits, by the gradual addition of further layers of soil.

Detailed description of the Technology

The technology is used in areas that have extreme climatic conditions and a high water deficit. The technology is quite simple; compost or enriched soil is placed into the bottom of a 50x50x50cm pit. Then, one or two potatoes are planted into the base of the pit, and covered with soil. As the potato grows, the pit is gradually filled up with soil to keep it covered. It is also watered regulary.

Purpose of the Technology: The purpose of this technology is to improve the potato yield, and therefore to increase farm income under these climatic conditions. The technology is well adapted to this arid area with only a little irrigation water available, because the method improves access to water.

Establishment / maintenance activities and inputs: The technology is quite simple and not cost intensive. Costs are mainly connected to the purchase of high-quality seeds and compost production. Labour is needed to dig the pits, and fill and maintain them.

Natural / human environment: The technology can be used under any agricultural conditions, such as on Dehkan farms as well as in kitchen gardens

Photos of the Technology

Image Showing the pits where the potatoes are planted.
Showing the pits where the potatoes are planted.
  • 📍 South of Tajikistan, Khatlon District, N.Husrav region
  • 🗓 2011-04-05
  • 📷 Kalandarov R. (Dushanbe, 3 Herzin street)
Image Showing the pits where the potatoes are planted.
Showing the pits where the potatoes are planted.
  • 📍 South of Tajikistan, Khatlon District, N.Husrav region
  • 🗓 2011-04-05
  • 📷 Kalandarov R. (Dushanbe, 3 Herzin street)