Creation of variability for rhizome characters through physical and chemical mutagens in turmeric cv. prathibha

Abstract

The present experiment was carried out during kharif, 2016-2017 at College of Horticulture, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem to assess the impact of mutagens on rhizome characters like number of mother, primary, secondary and tertiary rhizomes, weight of mother, primary, secondary and tertiary rhizomes in turmeric. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design and replicated thrice under open field conditions. Rhizomes are treated with gamma rays (25 Gy and 50 Gy) and EMS (250 ppm, 500 ppm and 1000 ppm) along with control. Maximum number and weight of mother, primary, secondary rhizomes was recorded in 25 Gy, 250 ppm EMS and combination of 25 Gy + 250 ppm EMS. Higher doses of gamma rays and EMS concentration decrease the production of tertiary rhizomes. If increases the dose and concentration in gradually decreases the rhizome production.