Abstract
Participatory variety selection (PVS) is a process that tests promising genotypes in farmers’ fields through a close farmer–researcher collaboration approach, which enhances the acceptance of new varieties by farmers. However, limited studies have been conducted to select Amaranthus genotypes that have potential for future breeding programmes in South Africa. Therefore, this study was aimed at selecting Amaranthus genotype(s) that is/are preferred by farmers in northern KwaZulu-Natal, using the PVS approach. Seedlings of fifteen Amaranthus genotypes were each planted in separate 10 × 10 m plots. Fourteen local farmers managed these genotypes and also determined the preferred traits to be used to evaluate them. These traits were: mild taste; profuse stem branching; big and numerous leaves; soft texture; and longer shelf life. Plants at four months after transplant were then evaluated and ranked according to farmers’ preferred traits using score sheets designed on a four-point Likert scale or five-point hedonic scale. However, genotype ACAT seed fair had the best scoring for appealing taste and aroma, and profuse branching. The TOT 8789 genotype had the largest and softest leaves. Again, A. thunbergii had the most numerous leaves of them all. These genotypes are thus recommended for multi-environment testing, seed multiplication, genetic improvement, and promotion for cultivation in South Africa.
Highlights
The current study showed that A. thunbergii ranked last for leaf size but first for number of leaves (Table 2)
African indigenous leafy vegetables with high moisture content exhibit high metabolism after harvest and are highly perishable, with a shelf life of less than a day under tropical temperatures [32]. These results show a need for improved post-harvesting handling methods and possible genetic improvements for prolonged shelf life in the tested Amaranthus genotypes
The participatory approach emphasised that farmers in the KwaMbonambi area preferred Amaranthus genotypes with an appealing taste and aroma; many branches; large, numerous and soft leaves; and longer shelf life
Summary
Researcher collaboration in testing released or promising genotypes in the farmer’s field [1] This approach helps determine varieties that farmers want to grow; identify traits that farmers value; determine the gender differences in varietal selection criteria; and enhance speedy acceptance and cultivation of new varieties by farmers [2]. It overcomes the disadvantage imposed by modern plant breeding where improved varieties are selected in favourable environments that do not represent the actual conditions to which a particular plant will later be subjected [3]
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