Evaluation of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) hybrids under salinity

Eight genetically diverse parents of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) along with fifty six F₁ hybrids obtained through full diallel mating of the parents were evaluated under saline soil for yield and yield contributing characters. Statistical analysis of the data revealed the presence of wide variation among the hybrids. Among the eight parents, BGS 1 was found to be the best as it had recorded significant performance for five of the eight characters studied and could better be utilised in further breeding programme for improvement of yield under saline conditions. The hybrid combinations IC 85643 x BGS 1 and Bikaneer 3 x IC 85643 were found superior for seven of the eight characters studied and could be exploited for farming under salinity conditions.