Effect of Defoliation on Yield of Potatoes1

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Abstract
Foliage was hand removed from potato plants to simulate insect defoliation injury. The injury inflicted seldom resulted in statistically significant yield differences, but consistent trends were noted. Plants generally recovered completely from lower rates of injury (10 or 33% defoliation) inflicted early in the season while severe defoliation (67%) resulted in only slight yield reductions. Recovery from early season injury was more complete with later maturing cultivars than earlier maturing cultivars. Injury to plants at mid-season resulted in greatest yield reductions. Defoliations after mid-season had less effect. Removal of the top leaves was most detrimental to yields, and removal of middle leaves was least detrimental. Removal of lower leaves reduced yields only during mid-season. Nonuniform defoliation resulted in greater yield reduction than uniform defoliation.

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