Evaluation of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L) Genotypes for High Yield and Earliness under Northeast Indian Conditions

Abstract

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), belonging to Malvaceae family, is an erect, bushy, herbaceous sub-shrub where tender leaves and fruits known as calyces are used as vegetable and also converted into value added products. Eight roselle selections including two commonly grown checks i.e. one improved variety, JorRS 09-01 (SC) and one local cultivar (LC) used as checks were evaluated for their performance and variability at the Horticulture Experimental Farm of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat consecutively for three years. All recommended practices were followed to raise the crop. The best performing selection and two checks were tested in multilocation trials at different Research Stations and KVKs representing three zones of Assam viz. NBPZ, LBVZ and HZ. The investigation revealed that the genotype, JorRS10-02 exhibited the significantly highest average leaf yield of 168 q/ha and fruit yield of 200 q/ha. There was an increase in yield of leaf and fruit by 8.2% and 19.6% respectively over the best check variety (SC). The leaves became ready for picking at 45 - 50 days and fruits at 100-110 days after planting. The consumer preference for JorRS 10-02 was more than the check varieties and was suitable for processing purpose. The leaves of this variety were green and fruits were red in colour. The variety was around 25 – 30 days earlier in picking of leaves and fruits for culinary purpose. The variety was suitable as leafy vegetable and for processing purpose. Similar performance had been recorded in MLTs, which was later confirmed in the OFTs conducted in farmers’ fields of 4 different districts. Based on the performance in yield and consumer preference JorRS 10-02 might be recommended for release in the state of Assam and North Eastern Region. However, there is a vast scope for quality improvement of these genotypes through an appropriate breeding program.