Qualitative characterization of walnut genotypes selected from district Chamba using DUS test guidelines

Based on non-metric characters, 98 seedling walnut trees tested in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh were categorized and the results showed significant variation that allowed for the addition of better types to the existing walnut diversity. As per the DUS test guidelines, all types of classes were found for the tree growth habit character viz. erect (42 genotypes), spreading (31 genotypes) and semi-erect (25 genotypes). Shape of leaflet varied from elliptic (41) to broad elliptic (35) to narrow elliptic (22). Bearing was observed to be terminal in all the genotypes with irregular in 15 genotypes and regular in rest of the genotypes. Variation in nut shape in ventral view i.e. circular (25), broad ovate (15), oblong (31), broad elliptic (16), ovate (7) and elliptic (4); nut shape in lateral view i.e. oblate (21), circular (65), ovate (10) and broad elliptic (2); nut shape in cross section i.e. oblate (64), circular (33) and reniform (1); shape of base in lateral view i.e. rounded (74), truncate (9), cuneate (6) and emarginate (9); shape of apex in lateral view i.e. rounded (38), truncate (18), obtuse (35) and emarginate (7) were also observed. Nut weight was found to be light in 32 genotypes, heavy in 4 genotypes and medium in remaining genotypes. Commercially important characters- kernel percentage was low (51) and medium (47); kernel colour was dark amber (13), amber (46), light (33) and extra light (6). Kernel removal was easy (34), moderate (32) and difficult (32), whereas shell thickness was thick (14), medium (81) and thin (3). These characters were highly significant to select desirable types.