Selection of Superior Genotypes of Almond (Prunus dulcis Miller)

Cultivated almond (Prunus dulcis) is a heterozygous and allogamous species characterized by gametophytic self-incompatibility. Propagation by seeds has caused a high heterozygosity in almond gene pool of Broujerd region. Spring frosts and non-uniformity of kernels are the main limiting factors of almond production in this region. Therefore, the almond germplam of the region was evaluated during 2006 and 2007 to select superior genotypes with desirable pomological and vegetative and suitable fruit and kernel characteristics. In order to achieve these goals some morphological traits such as yield, bearing habit, nut and kernel weight and size, kernel ratio, kernel twin and hollow (%) and flowering date were recorded according to IPGRI descriptor for almond. In the evaluation and comparison of traits for two years, 10 superior genotypes number 57 (for yield, kernel ratio, weight and size), 112 (for yield), 166 (for kernel shape and color), 91 (for kernel size and weight), 177 (for kernel ratio), 103, 43, 59, 157 and 135 were introduced. In addition, some late-bloom genotypes were recognized in this study which can be used in the future breeding programs. Cluster analysis with SPSS software produced seven groups with similar characteristics. Significant and positive correlations between kernel and nut weight were found. Negative correlation between kernel percent and nut dimensions, especially nut width, were also obtained. Furthermore 22 days of difference in full bloom stage was observed in orchards located in low and high altitude locations in 2006 season.