Performance of new clones of willow (Salix species) developed through inter and intraspecific hybridization and open pollinated progenies

The hybrids from introduced Salix species clones developed by controlled pollination (2010 and 2011) along with seeds collected from open pollinated female clones in the year 2011 were evaluated in the nursery in the year 2013. The best 303 clones were selected and evaluated with 8 check clones in the nursery to screen the best clones from different families in augmented completely randomized block design (Augmented Design II) for plant height character. Out of total clones 109 (35.97%) recorded at par plant height with check clone J799 and 21 (6.93%) clones recorded more than check clone J799. Among check clones maximum plant height was recorded by check clone J799. Clones in families PN227 x NZ1179 and PN227 x AUSTREE contained maximum number of clones (5, 23.81%) and recorded more than check clone (J799) followed by families PN227 x SI-63-007 (4, 19.05%), PN227 x S tetrasperma and PN227 x 131/25 (1, 4.76%). The selected clones are recommended for evaluation in the field conditions.