Variability for Phenological Traits and Fruit Yield Attributes in Bael (Aegle marmelos Correa) Cultivars under Semi-Arid Conditions

Abstract

The study on evaluation of bael cultivars for phenology, fruit set, fruit drop, fruit shape and fruit yield was conducted at Experimental Orchard, CCS HAU, Regional Research Station, Bawal (Rewari). Among phenological parameters, leaf bud burst was recorded earliest (30 April) in NB 16, while it was late (12 May) in NB 5. The initiation of flowering was recorded earliest (19 June) in NB 5, while it was late (12 July) in NB 17. Time taken for expansion of leaf in different genotypes ranged from 67 days (NB 5) to 85 days (NB 16). Flowering to fruit setting took less time (45 days) in CISHB 2, however, it took more time (63 days) in NB 9. Time taken from fruit setting to fruit maturity was observed least (224 days) in NB 16. It was at par with NB 17 (229 days) and Pant Aparna (229 days), while maximum time taken from fruit setting to fruit maturity (242 days) was recorded in NB 5. Time taken to complete leaf fall was recorded minimum (336 days) in CISHB 1. However, maximum time taken to complete leaf fall (345 days) was recorded in NB 5. The range of fruit set per cent varied from 11.48 % (Pant Sujata) to 18.35 % (NB 17). Fruit drop among different cultivars ranged from 88.33 to 92.67 %. It was lowest in NB 5 and highest in Pant Aparna. Fruit apex and base of cultivars varied as shallow, flattened and depressed, whereas shape varied as round, ovate, globose and elliptical.