Estimation of genetic parameters and selection for rooting capacity in peach

Abstract One of the most important criteria in the improvement of rootstocks is easiness of propagation. The objective of the present study was to verify the existence of genetic variability and the possibility of gains with selection in the rooting capacity among peach genotypes. Seventy-seven genotypes of peach belonging to five F3 families were evaluated. Rooting percentage (RP), number of roots per cutting (NR) and mean root length (RL) were evaluated. Genetic values were estimated. The nineteen genotypes with the lowest rank summation index were selected to estimate the genetic gains. The variables RP, NR and RL had progeny mean heritabilities of 0.53, 0.60 and 0.83, respectively. Of the individuals selected, 89.5% belonged to the 713 (Talismã x Adafuel) family. The estimation of the genetic and phenotypic parameters show the possibility of success by selecting superior genotypes, with gains of 9.09, 17.47 and 24% for RP, NR and RL, respectively.