Encapsulated calcium carbide enhances production and postharvest performance of potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers

The effect of encapsulated calcium carbide (CaC2; ECC at 30, 60, 90, and 120 kg ha(-1)) on pre-harvest production and postharvest performance of potato (Solanum tuberosum) hybrid variety 'Sante' was studied. The ECC was applied twice in the root zone at the time of sowing and 2 weeks after sowing. The data on the parameters-number of days required for sprouting; sprouting percentage; plant height; number of leaves per plant; leaf area; photosynthesis rate; number of stems per plant; number, size, and weight of tubers; yield; weight loss; shriveling percentage; and sprout percentage were recorded. The results indicated that the number of days required for sprouting of tubers and plant height was reduced significantly by the application of ECC compared with the control. Furthermore, ECC at 60 kg ha(-1) significantly reduced the number of days required for sprouting and plant height compared with other treatments. Sprouting percentage, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, photosynthesis rate, and number of stems per plant significantly increased by the application of ECC at 60 and 90 kg ha(-1). Weight, size of tubers, and overall yield of tubers was also increased significantly with the application of ECC at 60 kg ha(-1). In conclusion, the application of CaC2 at 60 kg ha(-1) in the root zone increased vegetative growth, total weight, number of large tubers, and increased total yield (40-50%).