Clonal Selection in the Local 'Trabzon Sivrisi' Hazelnut Population Grown in Some Districts of Trabzon

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the clones with superior characteristics in the 'Trabzon Sivrisi' hazelnut population. Materials and Method: The study was carried out in hazelnut orchards in the Araklı, Arsin and Yomra districts of Trabzon (Türkiye) in 2016 and 2017. The study was planned as selecting 3 different ocaks from each hazelnut orchard followed by the selection of a plant (branch) with the highest yield among these ocaks. Nut per cluster, yield (g), kernel weight (g), kernel ratio (%), shell thickness (mm), kernel cavity (mm), good kernel (%) and defective kernel belonging to the selected hazelnut clones in the study were examined and recorded. In addition, the protein (%), and fat ratio (%) were determined. Results: Out of 207 clones observed and examined in the research area, 8 are promising and recommended for further research. Clones numbered TY42-3 and TA42-2 with a total score above 400 were selected according to the modified weighted grading method carried out at the end of the study. In the examination made according to nut characteristics the following clones were evaluated as promising: TAK20-2 in terms of nut per cluster, TA39-1 in yield, TY35-3 in kernel weight, TY15-1 in shell thickness, TY1-3 in kernel percentage, good kernel, and defective kernel rate and TY28-1 in terms of kernel cavity. Conclusion: In this study, 8 clones were evaluated as hopeful. The fact that cultural practices such as irrigation, pruning and fertilization were not carried out in the orchards where the study was carried out both increases the value of the data obtained and reveals the importance of our country regarding the gene center. It is important for our country to continue the study and put the clones determined as promising under trial in controlled conditions, to follow the process and to take them to the registration process.