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Horticultural Science
Sweetpotato Breeding and Genetics Programs

Sweetpotato Breeding and Genetics Program

Welcome to the NC State Sweetpotato Breeding and Genetics Program website.

We’re really happy to share our work with you. Our program goals are to: 1) develop sweetpotato varieties adapted to the growing conditions of North Carolina and the southeastern US; 2) broaden the germplasm base of sweetpotatoes and potatoes through the incorporation of land races and related species; and 3) provide advanced training in plant breeding and genetics for national and international students and scientists interested in sweetpotato and potato improvement. We use a combination of conventional, biochemical, and genomic-assisted breeding as necessary and feasible to facilitate our breeding efforts. Please don’t hesitate to “dig deeper” into our website to learn more; like our two favorite crops, you are sure to find some great nuggets of information. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I hope you enjoy your visit!

Best regards, 
Craig Yencho,
Program Lead

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Sweetpotato Research

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Dr. Craig Yencho receives 2024 O. Max Gardner Award

Dr. Craig Yencho, an NC State University professor whose research has influenced sweetpotato cultivation across the world, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Oliver Max Gardner Award.

The Hidden Giant: Roots, Tubers, and Bananas in Africa

Roots, Tubers and Bananas (RTB) are the most important crops in Africa; they are versatile, resilient, cheap, and easy to grow with little need for irrigation and fertilizer.

A Patented Winner

The National Academy of Inventors named NC State University’s Craig Yencho a 2023 fellow for his contributions to improved sweetpotato and potato breeding and genetics, with an impact reaching from North Carolina to Sub-Saharan Africa.