Evaluation of Pomological Traits and Classification of some Olive Cultivars in Zanjan Province

This research was conducted to evaluate and classify twenty olive (Olea europaea L.) cultivars based on pomological traits in Olive Research Station of Gilvan، Zanjan، Iran during 2010-2011. A split plot experiment in a completely randomized design with three replications was used. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis were used to classify cultivars based on fruit traits (fresh and dry weight، pulb/pit ratio and oil content). Analysis of variance for the characteristics showed significant differences among cultivars، years and their interaction effects. Based on the results، cultivars Caridolia، Picual، Voliotici and Kaissy were classified as table olive and Cailletier، Koroneiki، Arbequine، Leccino، Baladi and Nabali as oil olives. A high genetic diversity of fruit traits was observed in current study. These diversity can be used in parental choice for breeding aims and programs. However، it is necessary to determine the heritability of these traits before accomplishment of any breeding program.