Accumulation and distribution of dry matter of cassava on the highlands of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Abstract

This experiment was conducted in Correia Pinto, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, with the purpose of evaluating the production and distribution of dry matter of two cassava cultivars in a region with a short growing season for summer crops. The cultivars used were Mico and Aipim-gigante, planted on October 7, 1989. Samples of leaves, stems, hardwood stem cutting and storage roots were collected monthly from the planting date until the complete senescence of leaves. Mathematical functions were adjusted to the data obtained. The cultivars showed different behaviors in terms of growing and dry matter accumulation. Plants of 'Aipim-gigante' had higher growing and accumulated more dry matter at stems than 'Mico'. On the other hand, Mico transported greater amount of carbohydrates to storage roots.