Gabi is one of the major rootcrops grown throughout the country. It can be grown almost anywhere, upland or lowland.
Land preparation and planting:
1. Plow the field twice to loosen the soil.
2. Harrow the field in a criss-cross manner to break the soil clods.
3. Make furrows at a distance of 75 cm. Plant in the furrows. For irregular and hilly areas, plant in holes.
4. For upland culture, plant the seedpieces 7 to 10 cm. deep in the furrows, at a 50 cm. distance between plants. When holes are prepared instead of furrows, slip the seed pieces into the holes and cover partially leaving the hollow around the plant.
5. For best results, select a field with alluvial loam
Fertilization: The amount and kind of fertilizer to use vary from place to place.
1. Apply 60-60-60 kg. of NPK/ha. to yield 30 tons/ha.
2. Use manure and compost when inorganic fertilizer is not available.
3. Mix organic fertilizer with the soil during land preparation and allow to decompost for 1 to 2 weeks before planting.
Harvesting: Gabi plants should be harvested only when fully mature, that is when the leaves start yellowing and drying up. The mother plant is carefully lifted cut of the ground, clinging soil is removed from the soil, and the vegetative portion cut off.
Source: Infoscience, Vol II, No. 1, 1982
