Effect of replications on estimation of the tuber yield and plant height in potatoes

Tuber yield is an important selection criterion in breeding programs conducted in diverse environments. It is important to precisely measure tuber yield within a location in order to make recommendations to farmers. The number of replications that should be measured to accurately determine tuber yield and plant height, and to detect the desired difference between potato genotypes, were determined using statistical formulas and data from a total of six yield trials in three diverse environments. Despite the environment diversity, measuring tuber yield and plant height on only two replications provided a very accurate estimate of the mean for each trial and of the detectable difference between two potato genotypes.