Diversity in fruit characteristics of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)

Pomegranate, a favourite fruit of tropical and subtropical regions is popular in the world for its therapeutic and dietary values. In India there is tremendous potential for production, area expansion under pomegranate cultivation and export of good quality pomegranates which needs to be exploited. In the present study 26 pomegranate genotypes were assessed to record fruit attributes such as fruit weight (g), aril colour, percent fruit juice, percent total soluble solids, percent acidity and yield per hectare for six consecutive years. Pomegranate cultivars G-137, Ganesh and Jyoti showed superior performance over other cultivars in fruit yield and fruit quality parameters under Delhi conditions. Pomegranate cultivars G-137, Ganesh and Jyoti are recommended for commercial cultivation to fetch premium price in the world trade markets.