Breeding of New Pistachio Cultivars by Hybridization in Turkey

Abstract

This study was carried out at the Pistachio Research Institute to obtain new male and female pistachio cultivars by hybridization of domestic and foreign cultivars since 1996. Siirt, Ohadi, Haciserifi, Kalehghouchi and Sel 14 cultivars have been used as female, and Uygur, Atli and Kaska used as male parent in this research. The seeds of Kalehghouchi and Akbari cultivars were sown in the pots in order to obtain chance seedlings. To get new pistachio genotypes, 3500 F1 hybrid plants and chance seedlings were obtained and planted in Pistachio Research Institute’s area by 90 x 40 cm in space in 1997 and 1998. Five male types have been selected among the plants with respect to phenological characteristics, pollen production, pollen germination and flowering period. Four female types selected for more yield, high splitting ratio, largeness, kernel ratio, kernel colour, suture opening and dehulling easiness as to Weighted-Rankit.