Perception paysanne des principales contraintes et pratiques culturales en production de patate douce au Burkina Faso

Abstract

Objective: The production of the sweet potato crop, Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam. is expanding rapidly but still faces many biotic constraints. To better cope with these constraints, it is critical to precisely know and prioritize these constrains Methodology and results: a survey was carried out between July 2012 and October 2016, with 200 producers in the five main provinces producing sweet potato in Burkina Faso (Gourma, Kénédougou, Kouritenga, Nahouri, Sissili). The results indicate that for producers, insects are the major biotic constraint with varying perceptions from one province to another. Thus, the weevil Cylas puncticollis is seen as the first leaves pest in Nahouri (52. 94%), Kouritenga and Gourma (75.51%) while in Sissili and Kénédougou, white flies Bemisia tabaci occupies this position. However, the weevil is seen as the most important pest of tubers in all the provinces. It is also considered by at least 50% of respondents as the main pest of stems. Cultural practices vary are characterized by a strong application of organic manure, NPK and urea depending on the areas. Crop rotation and the use of synthetic pesticides are cited as methods of controlling the main enemies of sweet potato. Conclusion and application of findings: This study shows that the producers have the good knowledge of the biotic constraints related to the sweet potato production. This is likely to facilitate the development of participatory and effective strategies of sustainable management of the weevil in Burkina Faso. The results will feed the producer support networks and serve to better define the national strategy for developing the sector.