Reproductive phenology of some local almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] genotypes from northern Morocco

Almond [ Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] is the most important nut crop among the rosaceous family in terms of both cultivated acreage and production in Morocco. Along with the modern production system (commercial cultivars), the traditional one accounts for about 6 million seedling trees. This genetic diversity represents a potential source of germplasm, both for selecting new cultivars and for use as parents in breeding programs. Unfortunately, this important genetic pool is not well characterized. In this work, we investigated some key phenological events of almond from twelve local genotypes. These genotypes were first visited during 2014 season in their native population. Then, they were selected because of its appreciated kernel by the local population as well as its regularity of production. Selected Genotypes were marked in triplicate in their native population. During 2015 season, these genotypes were visited periodically and their reproductive phenology was assessed according to the general BBCH scale and reported as Julian days. Phenological observations are the following: Initial blooming date (BBCH61), full blooming date (BBCH65), final blooming date (BBCH69), blooming duration, and ripening date (BBCH89). LSD’s test demonstrated a wide genetic diversity between genotypes as regards to their reproductive phenology. Blooming date and Ripening date in our genotypes were earlier as compared to commercial cultivars.  From these results, it could be concluded that these local genotypes might be considered as potential candidates to be used in breeding programs in order to improve some phenological traits for future releases.