Selection of European cranberry in Lithuania

Abstract

In order to optimize collection strategy and improve economically important peculiarities of Vaccinium oxycoccos comprehensive morphological and genetic investigations are necessary. For this reason collection and preservation of European cranberry genetic resources is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate morphological peculiarities, productivity, and seasonal development of European cranberry clones collected in Lithuanian strict protected reserves. Collecting of cranberry clones during expeditions in situ was based upon distinguishing of samples conspicuous in high yield, berry shape, colouration and size. It was found that detected in situ properties of V. oxycoccos were retained under the ex situ conditions. Investigations revealed statistically reliable differences among cranberry clones in respect of berry and leaf size, productivity, and seasonal development. Integrated evaluation of morphological and economical peculiarities determined the selection of the most productive clones which were characteristic of large berries as well. The results of morphological and genetic diversity determine selection of clones with valuable properties and preservation of European cranberry germplasm ex situ at Kaunas Botanical Garden collection. The conspicuous by good productivity and large berries clones 99-Ž-11, 96-Ž-10, and 99-Ž-10 were selected and proposed for cultivar approval.