Vol. 11, Special Issue 4 (2022)

Author(s):
Mohsin Ahmad Hajam, GI Hassan, Shamim A Simnani, Javid A Sofi, Imtiyaz Murtaza and SA Mir

Abstract:
Almond (Prunus dulcis) is among the most popular nut trees. The present study was carried out on 214 almond trees of seedling origin to check the variation in tree characteristics by UPOV (International union for protection of new varieties of plants) and PPV & FRA (Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmer’s Rights Authority) guidelines. Significant variability was observed in different genotypes with respect to tree characteristics. The most of the genotypes were strong (92) or intermediate (91) with respect to tree vigor, the higher percentage being that of strong (42.99%) followed by intermediate (42.52%). Out of 214 studied genotypes 87 genotypes were “upright to spreading” in their growth habit behavior this number was followed by the genotypes having spreading (62) type of growth habit. The branching behavior was mostly intermediate (41.12%) or dense (40.65%). This variation suggests the presence of great genetic pool of almond in Kashmir and suggesting the use of this pool for future breeding programme.