Evaluation of Promising Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrical) Accessions in Summer-Autumn Season 2014 in Thua Thien Hue

Sponge gourd varieties having aroma after cooking have been degenerated because of cross pollination. Collection and evaluation of sponge gourd germplasm are needed for conservation and breeding of high quality varieties. The objective of the study was to identify varieties having high yield, good quality and aroma under local conditions. Ten promising sponge gourd accessions, including A2, A6, A7, A13, A16, A17, B29, B30, HN and QN were evaluated for growth, morphological traits, fruit quality and yield. The experiment was carried out in Hue University of Agricultural and Forestry from June to October in 2014. The results showed that all promising accessions grew well. Different morphological traits were observed among promising lines. Yield of accessions A7, A13 and A17 were higher than the others. Only fruits of accession B29 had aroma after cooking. These lines can be used in sponge gourd breeding programs.