Characterization and evaluation of conventional seeded Kinnow (Citrus reticulata Blanco) versus a novel less seeded Kinnow strain under Sahiwal climatic zone

Abstract

Kinnow is the sole exportable entity among citrus fruits of Pakistan, but occurrence of large seed number is a big hindrance towards consumer acceptability and processing industry. Production of a less seeded/seedless Kinnow could boost the market value globally. The study described here was conducted at Horticultural research Station Sahiwal, Punjab Pakistan during 2018-2020. Specific morphological traits (linked to tree, leaf, and fruit) and physical and biochemical traits (linked to fruits) were evaluated to make a comparison between conventionally growing Kinnow and a novel less seeded Kinnow strain. Most of the estimated characters varied in their performance and were comparatively better in seeded Kinnow but performance of less seeded Kinnow strain was also quite good and promising. It was concluded from the study that less seeded Kinnow strain is almost equally good in performance regarding physical and nutritional features and can prove to be a great contribution towards expanding the citrus industry to fetch higher market value both in domestic and international markets.