Traditional Taro Cultivation in the Solomon Islands

Abstract

Taro (Colocasia esculenta), yams (Dioscorea spp.), sweet potato (Ipomea babatas), and Cassava (Manihot esculenta) are the four major root crops grown throughout the islands and are components of the daily diet. Taro and yam used to be the major root crops grown throughout the islands and are very much a part of the people's customs. This paper discusses origins and uses of taro, irrigation systems, local varieties, and diseases and pests impacting production in the Solomon Islands.