Evaluation and comparative performance of six loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) varieties under Punjab conditions

Abstract

Evaluation and comparative performance of six loquat Eriobotrya japonica Lindl. cultivars viz. selections, pathankot, tanaka, golden yellow, pale yellow and improved golden yellow was studied under Punjab conditions in 2012-13 and 2013-14. The main objective of the study was to evaluate and recommend the loquat variety with higher yield potential and better fruit quality for the growers of Punjab. Among the six varieties of loquat, cv. Tanaka was found most promising on the basis of the maximum fruit weight (23.5g), fruits per cluster (12), fruit length (4.5cm) fruit breadth (3.64 cm) Pulp weight (29.52g) fruit yield (34.0g),TSS (11.03%.) with minimum acidity (1.12%), seed weight and seed number. Moreover ‘Tanaka’ fruits had higher consumer acceptance (7.83 out of 9) as compared to other loquat varieties under comparison. These varieties were compared with recommended varieties as standard check. The study indicate that cv Tanaka has the potential to excel under Punjab conditions as compared with the prior existing cultivation.