Rapid Multiplication Techniques (RMTs): A Tool for the Production of Quality Seed Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in Ethiopia

Productivity of potato is constrained primarily by use of low quality seeds in Ethiopia. Many field multiplication generations of vegetatively propagated basic seed result in build-up of seed-borne diseases and subsequent dissemination to new fields. The main bottleneck in potato seed tubers is slow multiplication rate on the field and contamination of the seed with viral and bacterial diseases. This has therefore, called for use of Rapid Multiplication Techniques (RMT) such as in vitro propagation of potato to eliminate viral and bacterial infections. The production of potato seed under conventional system has not been effective in avoiding or reducing the build-up of pathogens and has consequently led to reduced quality seed and low crop yields. Holetta Agricultural Research Center aims to improve production and productivity of potato in Ethiopia through promotion of the use of quality seed tuber. RMTs have been used at the research center to improve the multiplication ratio of disease free potato seed in short period of time.