Morphological characterization of turmeric (Curcuma spp.) genotypes

Thirteen genotypes of turmeric were morphologically characterized, based on twenty-four characters of DUS guidelines, during 2021-22 at Jawahar Model, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.). Turmeric crop was planted in polypropylene bags, the used fertilizer bags available with the farmers. The experiment was performed in a randomized block design and replicated thrice. The study revealed that the genotypes Roma, Selam, Cuddapah and Waigaon were the better genotypes. Some distinctive features were observed among the genotypes viz., reddish pseudostem colouration on leaf in Black turmeric, pinkish colouration on the periphery of rhizome in Amada turmeric and presence of nodulose roots in Amada and Black turmeric at the time of harvest. Variation was prominent in inner core colour of rhizomes, an indication of quality and chemical constituents. Variability observed with the help of DUS descriptor is an effective tool for trait specific selection, germplasm conservation and maintenance.