VARIETAL PERFORMANCE OF BROAD LEAF MUSTARD (BRASSICA CAMPESTRIS VAR. RUGOSA) IN PLASTIC HOUSE CONDITION IN KASKI, NEPAL.
ABSTRACT
Broad leaf mustard (Brassica juncea var. rugose) is a highly nutritious and diverse vegetable crop, particularly popular in Nepal and Northern India. The major challenges are lack of suitable varieties, disease, pests, and limited research on the varietal performance of broad leaf mustard. This research aims to assess the vegetative growth, leaf yield, and nutritional status of different varieties under plastic house condition, as well as the palatability of those varieties. The experiment was carried out in a Randomized complete block design (RCBD) treatment with three replications. The treatments comprised seven varieties of broad leaf mustard, namely, Khumal Chaudapat, Tangkhuwa, Red Giant, Marpha Chao, Manakamana, Sahili, and ZY 430. Vegetative parameters and yield varied significantly among the tested varieties. Sahili variety performed better in all the vegetative parameters, including plant height, leaf length, leaf width, and number of leaves per plant. The highest yield of 126.15 tons/ha was observed for the Sahili variety, while the lowest yield of 18.51 tons/ha was recorded for the Marpha Chaudapat variety. Other varieties yielded between 36.48 and 22.59 tons/ha. Organoleptic tests were carried out to evaluate the parameters, such as appearance, taste, aroma, and texture. In terms of taste, aroma, and texture, evaluators rated the Sahili variety the highest, while the Manakamana variety stood out for its better appearance. Regarding nutritional content, ZY 430 showed the highest moisture content and crude fiber content. Sahili variety had the highest ash content, and Marpha Chaudapat variety had the highest protein content.