Varietal Evaluation of the Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch) based on the Yield and Physico-chemical Parameters

Abstract

The present experiment was carried out to study the physico-chemical characters of eleven strawberry genotypes to identify genotypes with higher yield and better quality fruits for Western Uttar Pradesh condition. Among all genotypes, maximum fruit length (37.9 mm), fruit breadth (33.4 mm) and fruit weight (13.3 g) were recorded in genotype Chandler. The early fruit setting was recorded in genotypes Gorella, Belrubi and Brighton whereas early fruit maturity was observed in genotypes Selva (98 days after transplanting) and Seascape (100 days after transplanting). The maximum fruit set (81.4 %), number of fruits per plant (22.3) and fruit yield per plant (311.1 g) were observed in genotype Chandler followed by Seascape and Confutura. The genotype, Chandler registered maximum values for total soluble solids (12°B), TSS/acid ratio (21.8), reducing sugar (7.9 %) and total sugar (9.4 %) alongwith minimum acidity (0.6 %). Chandler was comparatively superior for most of the yield and quality characters Therefore, it could be recommended for commercial cultivation in the north Indian plains.