Comparative studies of v1 and g4 high yielding mulberry varieties at nursery level

Propagation of a plant in efficient way is the prime act of any farming and plays vital role in its existence, survival and continuity in future course of action. Mulberry (Morus alba L.) being perennial in nature cultivated as seasonal crop for its foliage to feed silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) is mainly propagated through vegetatively and plays major role on the upliftment and socio economic conditions of the sericulturists. Therefore, proficient method of propagation not only saves farmers economy but also plays pivotal role on the future of sericulture. Keeping the above aspects two popular mulberry varieties such as V1 and G4 mulberry varieties were planted in winter i.e. during December, 2018 considering as one of the favourable season to raise mulberry nurseries at Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, Ananthapuram, Andhra Pradesh. Each variety was planted @ 2500 cuttings and maintained properly for their survival. It was noticed that after 30 to 45 days of plantation G4 mulberry variety has recorded increased levels of sprouting (6.36%), survival (10.90%) compared to V1 mulberry var. Similarly 60 and 90 day after plantation the saplings growth of G4 was luxuriant and healthy recording an increased plant height (66.67%), sapling biomass (66.67%), sapling shoot weight (46.51%) and root biomass (128.57%) compared to V1. Further, G4 saplings have also exhibited their superiority in resisting various pest incidences such as millibug, thrips and leaf hoffers compared to V1 mulberry saplings indicating its susceptibility in resisting the seasonal pests incidents by recording 64.50%. The above results not only encourages the farming community for opting G4 mulberry variety as the best plantation of choice to raise nurseries but also opens avenues to adopt as standing crop as alternate to V1 mulberry as because G4 is not only a high yielding variety but also suitable for late age rearing as because the farmers are rearing chawki worm only. Hence, G4 can be considered as strong in nurseries, healthy against pests and most suitable for bivoltine silkworm rearing thereby encouraging the farming community for adoption and silkworm rearing for enhanced quality cocoon production.