Stability for yield in seed stocks and clones of tea (Camellia sinensis L.)

Stability for yield of made tea was studied in 13 F1 hybrid genotypes (seed stocks) in five environments. Genotype, year (linear and non-linear) and genotype x year (non-linear) interaction effects were highly significant. But genotype x year (linear) interaction was not significant. The genotype St. 462 was most stable for yield amongst all genotypes. It can be used in breeding as stable and heterotic hybrid. In another trial, stability for yield of made tea was examined in 11 diverse tea genotypes (dones) in five environments. Genotypes, yearsand genotype xyear(G x E) interaction effects were highly significant. G X E (linear) effect was highly significant indicating thereby possibilities of prediction of yield performance over years. Significant pooled deviations showed that variation in yield of genotypes was influenced by unpredictable factors as well. Three genotypes namely, Nil PF 3/14, 480/13 and Tinga GH 3/18 were most stable coupled with medium yield performance. These genotypes could be used in future tea breeding programmes for yield improvement.