Progeny evaluation of Azadirachta indica (Neem) for morphometric and quality traits under nursery conditions

The present study aimed to assess genetic variations for morphometric traits in Azadirachta indica progenies under subtropical climatic conditions of Punjab conditions. The seed sources collected across the Punjab were evaluated for seed traits, germination behaviour, growth and biomass traits. Seeds collected from the IGMRI and Parker House mother trees planted at PAU Ludhiana had the maximum seed weight (14.40 g/100 seeds ) and seed kernel oil content (44.84 %), respectively. However, azadirachtin content was maximum in the seeds collected from mother trees planted in south-western districts of Punjab lies in semi-arid region i.e. Bathinda (1.26 %), Fazilka (1.25 %) and Mansa (1.21%).Seed germination ranged from 6 to 32 days with 17.98 mean germination days and ~72.00% germination success. The maximum germination percent was of IGMRI, PAU Ludhiana (96.66 %) followed by Mansa (90.00 %) sources. The maximum seedling height (69.11 cm) and collar diameter (1.28 mm) was observed S10 (Barnala progeny) and S7 (BISA, PAU Ludhiana progeny). The maximum root length, number of roots, fresh and dry weight was noticed in seedlings of Raikot progeny; (49.83 cm). The average sturdiness quotient was 36.99 for neem seedlings. Hence the integration of these progenies in the neem improvement programme would result in better field performance for high growth and azadirachtin content.