Seedless and long duration fruiting pointed gourd (Trichosanthes dioica Roxb.)IIVRPG-105 (INGR No. 03035; IC296492)

Abstract

Pointed gourd line IIVRPG-105 is an obligate parthenocarpic long duration fruiting genetic stock with seedless fruits. It was selected through screening of a total of 220 diverse genotypes/local landraces for parthenocarpy at ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi (U.P.). in each line fully mature female buds (mature but not open) were covered by butter paper envelops and tightened with thin wire to prevent cross pollination through insects, for identification of lines setting parthenocarpic fruits. Fruit setting was critically observed and the lines setting fruits despite bagging were isolated. Fully mature fruits of edible stage were bisectedand fruits of selected lines were found free from seeds not only at edible stage but also at mature stage. Morphologically, this line has medium sized (10-15 cm.) orbicular and unlobed leaves with rough surface and light green colour. Plants attain a height of more than 3.0 meters. Fruiting starts at 7th node and continues to full plant growth stage. Fruits are medium in size, light green, striped, elliptical in shape and pointed. The flesh of the fruit is light whitish. Length of fruit ranges between 4.81-5.21 cm. Shelf-life of fruits is up to 10 days. Six day more than the other seeded varieties. Close planting is recommended on bower system for growth and better management.