Investigating the possibility of hybridizing greenhouse cucumber with relative advantage to produce a breeding base population

Document Type : Research

Authors

1 Yazd areeo

2 YAZD, AREEO

3 Ardakan Pistachio Research Station

10.22092/rhsj.2025.370200.1126

Abstract

Given the cultivation of over 2,000 hectares of greenhouse crops in Yazd Province (predominantly cucumber) and the fact that this region produces about 22% of the country’s greenhouse cucumber yield, the increasing demand for cucumber seed underscores the importance of exploring hybridization. Developing new cucumber rootstocks that can exhibit relative tolerance to both biotic and abiotic stresses under changing climatic conditions is of particular significance. Moreover, identifying major nutrient deficiencies in the province’s greenhouses, along with breeding cultivars that possess higher added value and ensuring greater seed accessibility, can substantially contribute to solving the challenges faced by local greenhouse growers.In this context, a hybridization program between common greenhouse cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and field cucumber (the predominant varieties cultivated in the region) was initiated during the summer of 2022 in a research greenhouse located in one of Yazd’s primary greenhouse-growing areas. Preparatory operations included fertilization, plowing, soil fallowing, and solarization. Approximately one month after transplanting seedlings—planted at standard spacing under the supervision of an experienced agronomist—silver nitrate was applied at a concentration of 0.5 g per liter to healthy plants in the paternal lines in order to induce male flowers.For the maternal lines, which comprised locally adapted commercial cultivars such as Negin, Monza, Talasya, Shahab, and Strong Sun, plant positioning and spatial arrangements were determined for the hybridization process. Cross-pollination was carried out through 16 specific crosses between four paternal and four maternal cultivars, strictly adhering to established hybridization standards. All pollinated flowers were carefully labeled and monitored for seed development. Fruits resulting from successful pollinations were retained on the plants until they reached full maturity, indicated by skin yellowing. Subsequently, fruits were harvested, and seeds were extracted following rigorous hygienic and technical protocols. The obtained seeds were dried and packaged over a one-week period, ensuring quality and viability for use.

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Research in Horticultural Sciences
Volume 3, Issue 2
February 2025
Pages 89-103

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