Papaya is one of the most nutritionally and economically important fruits grown in Haiti. A field experiment was conducted at Ducis, South Haiti, to evaluate six introduced papaya cultivars (Red Lady# 786, Gold Maradol, Red Maradol, Hawaiian Solo Sunrise, Tainung#1, and Known You #1) and two local varieties (CA 1208-1, CA 1310-1,) for tolerance to PRSV, plant vigor, and fruit yield. The experimental design was a randomized complete block of eight papaya cultivars in three replications. The experimental unit consisted of 5 papaya plants with a spacing of 2.5 m within and between the rows.
The variables measured were stem diameter, plat height, disease index, and fruit yield. There was no significant difference for stem diameter, but there were significant differences for plant height, disease index, and fruit yield. The papaya cultivars Tainung #1, Known You # 1, and Red Lady#786 are recommended for their high yield potentials. The cultivar Gold Maradol and the local selection CA1208-1 could also be recommended for their tolerance to PRSV.
Ludger Jean Simon
Dir. Departement of Research
