Vegetative and Floral Characteristics of Different Strawberry Cultivars Growing in Low Polytunnels under Shivalik Foothills
Tanuj Bhardwaj *
Department of Fruit Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni- Solan (Himachal Pradesh)-173230, India.
Vishal S. Rana
Department of Fruit Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni- Solan (Himachal Pradesh)-173230, India.
Chanderkant
Department of Fruit Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni- Solan (Himachal Pradesh)-173230, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study was conducted on fifteen genotypes of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) to evaluate the extent of morphological variability and to examine the associations among various traits. The results revealed notable differences among the genotypes. ‘Sweet Sensation’ exhibited the greatest plant height (48.57 cm), plant spread (20.66 cm), and flower size (2.86 cm). ‘Shimla Delicious’ recorded the largest leaf area (177.72 cm²), and so on. The study identifies significant genetic variability among strawberry genotypes, providing essential data for breeding programs aimed at improving plant traits, and by analyzing associations among traits, the research supports more informed selection strategies, ultimately contributing to higher productivity and better adaptation in strawberry cultivation.
Keywords: Strawberry, morphological variability, floral characteristics, strawberry cultivation