Diversity for growth habit in the natural population of walnut (Juglans regia L.) in the Kashmir valley

Abstract

The present investigation entitled diversity for growth habit in the natural population of walnut ( Juglans regia L.) in the Kashmir valley was carried out in order to document the available genetic variability in walnut germplasm and to select elite walnut genotypes possessing superior attributes and quality traits. During the survey, data was recorded on one hundred fifty two (152) walnut trees growing in different areas of Kashmir valley. Remarkable variability was observed in seedling walnut trees for different morphological, nut and kernel characters. Similarly, variations were also reported for other characters viz., tree vigour, growth habit, branching habit, leaflet shape, shoot colour, nut shape, shell texture, shell colour, shell seal, shell strength, shell integrity, kernel shrivel and kernel colour. Studies on growth habit revealed substantial variability among the seedling raised walnuts genotypes in Kashmir valley fifty four genotypes (35.52%) had erect growth habit and another 54 genotypes (35.52%) had semi-erect growth habit, while remaining 44 genotypes (28.96%) had spreading growth habit.