Evaluation on Morphological and Quality Attributes of Mango Cultivars in Western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the morpho-economic and biochemical attributes of twelve mango cultivars grown in western Uttar Pradesh, using pooled data from the years 2021-22 and 2022-23 and conducted at Horticulture Research Center of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut, the experiment utilized a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications per treatment. The cultivars are regular bearers included Ambika, Pusa Arunima, Dashehari-51, Kesar, Pusa Surya, Amrapali, Mallika, Burma Surakha, Neelum Chausa, Mithua Malda, Rataul and Saurav, all planted in 10-year-old orchards with a spacing of 6x6 meters. The study aimed to evaluate the morpho-economic and biochemical attributes of twelve mango cultivars in western Uttar Pradesh, identify the most suitable cultivars for the region and determine the cultivars with the most marketable fruit traits. Additionally, it sought to assess the genetic diversity among the cultivars for future breeding programs. The results demonstrated significant differences in morpho-economic and quality attributes among the cultivars. Mallika, Pusa Arunima and Amrapali emerged as superior varieties, excelling in tree morpho-economic and quality attributes, while others were classified as moderate. Mallika and Pusa Arunima were identified as the highest-yielding varieties, based on the mean number of fruits per plant and fruit weight over the two-year period. Furthermore, the fruits of Mallika, Pusa Arunima, Amrapali, Rataul and Kesar exhibited the most marketable attributes. The findings underscore the significant genetic and environmental influences on mango attributes. Mallika and Pusa Arunima consistently demonstrated superior performance in yield, fruit quality and biochemical attributes, positioning it as a promising cultivar for the region. The diversity observed among the cultivars highlights the need for targeted selection and management practices to optimize mango production and quality. The study also emphasizes the importance of preserving and conserving these unique genetic resources for future breeding programs aimed at developing new, commercially viable cultivars.