Morphological and reproductive trait analysis for assessment of genetic diversity in Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.

The present investigation was conducted at the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, during 2022-23 to evaluate twenty genetically diverse chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.) genotypes demonstrating cut, loose, and pot culture categories that were grouped further into early, mid, and late maturity groups. The study aimed to assess morphological and reproductive attributes. Significant variations were observed in vegetative parameters, including plant height, spread, branching and stem girth. From the given results, it was noticed that the Ratlam Selection and Solan Shringar recorded maximum plant height, while Punjab Mohini exhibited the highest branching. Flowering traits also varied markedly; early-flowering genotypes consistently showed earliest flower bud initiation, whereas late-flowering types required longer durations for bud initiation. Punjab Mohini was found to be excelled in flower yield, producing the highest number of flowers per plant. Ray floret characteristics also varied, with Jaya showing highest number of florets. Considerable diversity was also observed in flower forms, colours, and RHS colour chart values. Reproductive biology studies indicated that highest pollen viability and pistil receptivity were achieved predominantly on the third day after anthesis, with Bidhan Purna and Haldi Ghati recording the highest values. Overall, genotypes such as Ratlam Selection, Punjab Mohini, Jaya, and Winter Queen emerged as promising for commercial exploitation and breeding.