Progeny variation in candidate plus trees of Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. for seed germination and associated parameters

Twenty-one progenies of Pterocarpus marsupium were evaluated for seed germination, seedling height, collar diameter, number of leaves, root length; shoot and root vigour indices. The genetic parameters for seed germination and other associated parameters showed a wide range of variations in progenies of different candidate plus trees (CPTs) at nursery stage except collar diameter. The CPTs, BHB-1 and BHB-2 invariably exhibited high germination and other parameters, whereas GK-1 recorded with the least performer with respect to germination, shoot and root vigour index. Analysis of variance indicated significant variation existed among the CPTs of different localities for all the traits under study. Considering genetic advance and heritability, the highest genetic gain obtained for germination, seedling height, shoot vigour index, root vigour index suggested these traits effective means for selection of CPTs. Highest 100 seed weight was recorded with CPT BHB-3 which was on par with other CPTs (BHB-1, BHB-2 and BHB-4) of the same locality. Initial growth at the age of 2 year old progeny trial confirms the superiority of these CPTs of Bilaspur along with by BL of Balod.