Evaluation of onion (Allium cepa L.) genotypes for growth and yield traits

Onion is an economically important vegetable crop, widely cultivated for its culinary, nutritional and processing value. India ranks second globally in onion production; however productivity remains lower compared to several other countries, highlighting the need for genotype evaluation and improvement. The present investigation was carried out during the 2022–23 rabi season at the Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Science (UAS), GKVK, Bengaluru, to assess 18 onion genotypes collected from different districts of Karnataka, along with a check variety, Bhima Super. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under red sandy loam soil conditions. Data were recorded on 23 growth, yield and quality parameters. Significant variability was observed among genotypes for most of the traits studied. Seed germination ranged from 35.31 % (Nagpur Local) to 98.08 % (Bidar Local-2). At 90 Days after transplanting (DAT), plant height varied between 54.39 cm (Nagpur Local) to 66.54 cm (Bidar Local-1). Yield attributes revealed that Bidar Local-2 exhibited the highest bulb weight (107.30 g), ten-bulb weight (1270 g) and yield per ha (46.23 t/ha), exceeding the check variety (42.19 t/ha). Quality parameters also showed distinct differences, with Bidar Local-4 recording the highest total soluble solids (TSS) content (16.40 °Brix) and Gadag Local-4 showing the minimum neck thickness (0.57 cm), a desirable trait for improved storability. Based on overall growth, yield and quality performance, Bidar Local-2, Bidar Local-1, Chitradurga Local-1 and Bellary Local were identified as promising genotypes. These superior genotypes may serve both for direct cultivation and as valuable genetic resources in onion crop improvement programs.