Assessment of Seed Source Variability in Fruit Characteristics, Seed Traits, and Germination of Diospyros lotus Linn. in Jammu Sub-tropics

Abstract

Diospyros lotus Linn. is a multipurpose tree species widely used as a rootstock for Japanese persimmon, but its propagation is constrained by poor and erratic seed germination. The present study assessed variability among three seed sources—Kishtwar (T₁), Bhaderwah (T₂), and Poonch (T₃)—in fruit characteristics, seed traits, and germination performance under controlled laboratory conditions. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomised design with three replications. The evaluated parameters were number of seeds per fruit, average fruit size, 100-seed weight, germination percentage, fresh fruit weight, and dry fruit weight. Seed source significantly influenced average fruit size, 100-seed weight, germination percentage, fresh fruit weight, and dry fruit weight, whereas the number of seeds per fruit did not differ significantly among sources. Poonch recorded the highest average fruit size (1.62 cm), 100-seed weight (13.83 g), germination percentage (74.33%), fresh fruit weight (2.47 g), and dry fruit weight (1.73 g). Kishtwar recorded the lowest values for these traits. Under the conditions of this study, the Poonch seed source showed the most favourable overall combination of fruit, seed, and germination characteristics. These findings support its selection as a candidate source for subsequent nursery-based propagation evaluation of D. lotus while indicating the value of seed-source screening for obtaining more consistent planting material.