Fruit evaluation studies in sapota (Achras zapota L.)

Abstract

An attempt was made to evaluate Sapota (Achras zapota L.) varieties based on their fruit characteristics. Twenty-two varieties, planted at the germplasm block of the Institute viz., Badam, Badami, Bombay, Calcutta Round, Co1, Co2, Cricket Ball, Dwarapudi, Guruvayya, Gavaraiah, Pilipatti, Gutti, Hybrid, Jhumakiya, Kirtibarti (big), Kirtibati (long), Krishan Rao, Mohangooti, Pakala Oval, Seedless and Vavilvalasa, were utilized for this study. The fruit weight was found to be maximum in the variety Krishna Rao and least in the variety Pilipatti. The length of the fruit was found to be maximum in the variety CO1. The fruit breadth was found to be maxium in the variety Cricket Ball. The TSS was found to be highest in the varieties Kirtibarti (big) and Pakala Oval. The average number of seeds per fruit was found to be less in the varieties Guruvayya, Gavaraiah and Pakala Oval. The study indicated that considerable variability exists in the cultivars and there is good scope for breeding varieties for dwarfness or reduced vigour.