Research investigates genotypes of sweet potatoes for northern climates

Above, left: Marcus Nagle, Ph.D., (right) is the principal investigator for research on sweet potatoes at Central State University. Above, right: Rajveer Dhillon, Ph.D., (right) assistant research professor, is pictured with undergraduate student researcher, Isaiah Walkine. Dhillon worked on this project to collect aerial images using a drone mounted with a camera. Several data collection events were organized during the growing season to capture images of the different growth stages of sweet potatoes.

Central State University is currently working with scientists from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and partners from other 1890 Land-Grant institutions on a USDA community-building grant to investigate naturally occurring genotypes of sweet potatoes as candidates better suited for northern climates.

The research includes field tests at Central State and partner sites and experiments to develop AI for automatic recognition. Trials will give results for the selection of varieties that perform better in Ohio's climate and reduce production risks.