Performance of different genotypes and hybrids of sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica L.) in relation with growth, yield and quality parameters

The present investigation entitled “Performance of different genotypes and hybrids of sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica L.) in relation with growth, yield and quality” was undertaken during 2022-23 at Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Prayagraj (UP) with randomized block design comprising of 10 hybrids viz., IET-2021/SPGHYB-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, F1 hybrid-Sarika, Atika, Prateek and Janak with three replications. Results revealed that hybrid (F1-Janak) recorded significantly highest vine length, while highest number of primary branches per plant and number of nodes per plant were highest in hybrid H5 (IET-2021/SPGHYB-5). Earliness parameter viz. days to first flowering and number of nodes at the first appearance male and female flower was recorded minimum in F1 hybrid-Janak. Days to first fruit setting after anthesis was recorded lowest in F1 hybrid-Prateek. While yield parameter i.e. number of fruits per plant, average weight for 10 fruits (g) and fruit girth were recorded highest in hybrid IET-2021/SPGHYB-2, IET-2021/SPGHYB-1 and F1 hybrid-Atika. Fruit length and fruit yield /ha (q) was recorded highest in hybrid (IET-2021/SPGHYB-5).