Evaluation of Exotic Chrysanthemum Genotypes for Leaf Micronutrient Concentrations under Protected Conditions

Under protected conditions, twenty four exotic genotypes growing on soil medium were evaluated for genotypic variability in respect of micronutrients (iron, manganese, zinc and copper) concentration in the leaves. Among the genotypes, the cultivars Sunny Reagon (272 ppm), Lupo (264 ppm) and Harry (255 ppm) accumulated more iron in their leaves compared to other 21 genotypes. It has been reported that efficient varieties translocated more iron to tops than inefficient ones (Rengel, 2001). Similarly these three genotypes have recorded higher manganese content. The genotypes Imperial Mermer (96 ppm), Sunny Reagon (94 ppm) and Harry (91 ppm), however, accumulated more zinc in their leaves over other genotypes. In respect of copper also, the same genotypes performed well. The genotypes Rafael, Belmont and UFD recorded the lowest accumulation of these micronturients in their leaves indicating that these genotypes are inefficient in the absorption and translocation of Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu. Thus, the genotypes Sunny Reagon, Lupo and Harry, which are efficient in the absorption and translocation of iron can be used under the conditions where free CaCO₃ and low iron content is present in the soil. Further, the breeder can use these varieties in their breeding programme for breeding efficient genotypes suitable for particular situation.