PJB-2011-448
NARC-Kalonji: An early maturing and high yielding Variety OF NIGELLA SATIVA released for Cultivation in Pakistan
MALIK ASHIQ RABBANI*, ABDUL GHAFOOR AND MUHAMMAD SHAHID MASOOD
Abstract
Kalonji (Nigella sativa) is an annual flowering plant investigated recently for its potential as a crop in Pakistan. NARC-Kalonji has been developed by the Institute of Agri-Biotechnology & Genetic Resources, National Agricultural Research Center (IABGR, NARC), Islamabad. A promising line was selected from indigenous germplasm collected from the Lahore area during 2002-2003 and was given the number MP120. After preliminary screening of 32 accessions, four elite lines were selected as promising genotypes on the basis of per row seed yield. These four accessions were grown over an area of 60 m2 in plots during 2003-2004 using standard cultural practices. Significant differences in per acre yield were observed among the four accessions. Based upon two years of field evaluation at NARC, Islamabad, accession MP120 was selected for further testing for its seed yield and oil contents. Seed yield of NARC-Kalonji ranged between 290 and 333 kg/acre under field conditions at NARC, Islamabad. Seed of this accession was multiplied and trialed in diverse areas of Punjab before it was recommended as a new variety. The performance of the variety was assessed in the irrigated areas of Bahawalpur, Bhakkar, Faisalabad, Hasilpur, Lahore, Multan, and Vehari under adaptability trials conducted between 2005 and 2007. Seed yield at farmers’ fields varied from 235 to 370 kg/acre during the last three years of testing at various sites. Although fertilizer application had a positive effect on biological yield, there was no significant effect on the economic yield. It was observed that Kalonji could be successfully cultivated in most parts of the country during the months of October and November.
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