Reciprocal differences for berry and seed characters in combinations of Vinifera and Labrusca grapes

Interspecific combinations involving vinifera and labrusca revealed reciprocal differences for berry set, seeds per berry, floater seed and seed germination. Marked differences were noted for berry set in Bhokari with Bangalore purple and Concord; Cheema Sahebi with Concord; Gulabi with Atens, Catawba and Concord and Kalisahebi with Concord and Catawba. Seeds per berry were relatively more in combinations with labrusca cultivars used as female parent. On the contrary in combinations with vinifera as maternal parent, the floater seed percentages were low than in reciprocal combinations except for those involving Kalisahebi. Seed germination was more wherever labrusca was the female parent. The variations thus noted have been confirmed by heterogeneity test. Thus, by using suitable parents in inter-specific hybridizations, the hybrids with desirable character combinations can be selected.