Evaluation of F1 hybrids resistant to bacterial wilt and inheritance of resistance in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

Abstract

The present studies "Evaluation of F hybrids resistant to bacterial wilt and inheritance of resistance in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) were conducted during February 1990 to July 1991 in the vegetable research plots of Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara. Evaluation of F1 hybrids over 4 environments revealed that all the 3 hybrids were superior to their parents for yield during all the four seasons. It also indicated significant role of genotype x environment interaction in the yielding ability of the hybrids. Considering wilt resistance the hybrids were not superior to their parents. Varietal difference was observed for plant height, fruits/ plant, fruit weight, fruiting period and productive flowers. Estimation of heterosis of three F1s over their parents revealed significant heterosis for plant height, days to flower, days to first fruitset, days to harvest, primary branches/plant, total fruits/plant, total yield/plant, average fruit weight and fruiting period. All the three hybrids viz. Surya x Pant Rituraj, SM 6-6 x SM 132, SM 6-2 x Pusa Purple Cluster were stable. Study on the nature of inheritance showed that resistance to bacterial wilt is inherited in a recessive and monogenic manner.