Stability analysis for marketable head yield and its component horticultural traits in cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) under dry temperate conditions of north-western Himalayas

Abstract

In tribal belt of Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) is grown as an important off-season vegetable crop during summer from April to early October. The climatic conditions of high hills dry temperate zone are quite conducive for growth and development of the crop. Though, occasionally sharp fluctuation in temperature results in loose heads, thereby lowering the marketable quality and yield. Therefore, it is very essential to know the effect of fluctuating environment on the performance of genotypes with least genotype x environment interaction. Phenotypically stable genotypes are of great importanc'e because environmental conditions vary from season to season and over the years. Hence, wide adaptability in the particular environment alongwith consistent performance of the genotypes is very important for successful cultivation of cabbage. Therefore, the present investigation was aimed to evaluate the hybrids of cabbage over the years and to select the superior hybrids on the basis of stability parameters for marketable head yield and related horticultural traits.