STUDY ON SPONGE GOURD (Luffa cylindrica) GERMPLASM IN SPRING-SUMMER 2014 AT GIA LAM, HA NOI

In this study, fourty-nine sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) varieties were evaluated for agronomy characteristics and yield component in Spring-Summer 2014 at Gia Lam, Ha Noi. The purpose of this study was to identify varieties having high yielding, good quality and resistant to insects and diseases for breeding programs. The experiment was laid out in a CRD without replication. The plot size was 8.6m2 with 6 plants. The results showed that A16, A17, B1, B2, B3, B4, B10, B16, B18, B19, B27, B29 and B30 grown well under Ha Noi condition. Fruits of A16, B3, B10 and B22 have good quality (aroma and sticky after cooked). Fruits of A12, A13, B1, B3, B24, and B29 had brix greater than five. Yield of three varieties such as B16, B27 and B30 was higher than control check. These varieties can be used in sponge gourd breeding program. Keywords: Sponge gourd, Loofah, Luffa cylindrica, Cucurbitaceae, fragrant, fibers