Nut and kernel variability studies of selected walnut genotypes from Kashmir region of India

Nut samples were collected from fifty two walnut selections of seedling origin selected from different parts of Kashmir valley, grafted on seedling rootstocks and planted at DARS, Budgam. All the metric and non-metric parameters of both nut and kernel were studied. Results reveals that nut weight, kernel weight and kernel percentage ranged between 9.43 g (GW-22) to 22.37 g (GW-44), 5.07 g (GW-07) to 13.17 (GW-44) and 42.83 per cent (GW-27) to 68.58 per cent (GW-06) having mean value of 14.62 g, 8.59 g and 58.66 per cent, respectively. Co-efficient of variability were reported to be maximum for kernel weight (22.19) followed by nut weight (19.35 %) and nut length (10.43 %). The nut shape varied as ovate, circular, broad elliptic, broad ovate, cordate and elliptic whereas kernel colour classified as extra-light and light colour. Shell texture classified as rough, medium and smooth however shell colour classified as light and medium. Nut and kernel variability in present study could help for further improvement through hybridization as few genotypes are superior in quality and can be utilized as for future cultivar to boost walnut cultivation across the Kashmir region.