Preeti Basser, Hemlata Sharma, Amit Dadheech, Deepak Meena, Ruchi Bishnoi, Ruchika Choudhary, Puneet Basser and Sheetal Gupta
Abstract
This study investigates the genetic diversity and stability of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) crosses through field trials conducted across three diverse environments. A comprehensive evaluation of four traits was performed where 60 crosses were studied, certain combinations exhibited exceptional stability and performance, particularly in dry root yield and total alkaloid content. Crosses such as UWS-92 x UWS-10, UWS-100 x UWS-10, UWS-104 x UWS-10 and GP-51 x UWS-10 consistently demonstrated regression coefficients below unity (bI<1) for dry root yield, indicating superior stability and productivity under adverse conditions. Similarly, crosses like UWS-131 x UWS-60 and UWS-92 x UWS-10 exhibited outstanding stability with total alkaloid content, surpassing the average mean of all crosses. These findings highlight the potential of specific cross combinations to enhance ashwagandha cultivation resilience and optimize key economic traits. The study underscores the significance of stable crosses for improving dry root yield and alkaloid content, contributing to the sustainability and profitability of ashwagandha cultivation.