Genetic Divergence Studies in Guava ( Psidium guajava L.)

Abstract

Thirty-two guava cultivars were studied for genetic divergence (Ward’s minimum variance method) on the basis of growth and yield. Thirty two germplasm were distributed into six clusters. Cluster II was largest having eleven genotypes and was nearest to cluster III (28.200) and farthest to cluster VI (82.786). The maximum inter cluster distance was between cluster IV and cluster VI (222.411). Cluster VI had high mean cluster value for fruit set per cent in rainy and winter seasons and chlorophyll content. Chlorophyll content of leaves which had direct correlation with yield could play an important indication in parental selection. Cluster V and Cluster II had medium mean cluster value for the same characters. For the characters like length and breadth of bearing shoot and number of leaves on bearing shoot, Cluster I accounted for low mean cluster value but in case of fruit set per cent this cluster recorded medium mean cluster value. This cluster may contribute dwarfing characters in hybrids of a breeding program. In the present study, although the cluster distance between cluster IV and cluster VI was highest, keeping in view the lower yield of parent from cluster IV i.e., Barbadose Superior, cross combination between the genotypes of next most divergent clusters viz., Cluster I and Cluster VI can be considered for obtaining segregates of higher merit in future breeding program.