Preliminary evaluation of bael varieties under rainfed conditions of hot semi-arid ecosystem of western India

Abstract

Evaluation of bael varieties under rain-fed, hot semi-arid ecosystem of western India was conducted. Nine bael varieties, viz., NB-5, NB-7, NB-9, CISH-B-1, CISH-B-2, Pant Shivani, Pant Urvashi, Pant Aparna and Pant Sujata (10-year-old) were evaluated for growth, yield and qualaity parameters. Maximum yield per tree was recorded in NB-9 (25.00 kg) followed by CISHB-2 (22.74 kg), NB-5 (20.00 kg). Fruit weight was recorded maximum in NB-7 (3.15 kg) followed by Pant Shivani (2.20 kg) and Pant Urvashi (2.00 kg). Pulp TSS was found highest in NB-9 (38°B) followed by Pant Aparna (37°B) and Pant Shivani (36°B). The other parameters varied considerably. NB-9 and CISHB-2, NB-5 and CISHB-1 could be recommended for commercial cultivation.