Variability studies in some nectarine, Prunus persica (L) Batsch var nucipersica cultivars for different horticultural traits

The present investigations were carried out at the model farm of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh during 2014–16 with the objective of studying the variability in five nectarine cultivars. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among all the genotypes for the studied characteristics. The genotype Snow Queen recorded highest yield and performed better for various important horticultural traits among different genotypes. Spring Bright was found to be the most dwarf among the genotypes. The two genotypes may be suggested for cultivation in mid-hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh. High heritability coupled with high genetic gain was obtained for tree volume. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic gain was obtained for yield per tree, fruit volume, trunk girth, stone length, total soluble solids, total sugars, fruit firmness, tree spread, yield efficiency, sugar-acid ratio and reducing sugars.