Evaluate cactus accessions across different agro-ecological to enhance establishment of cactus orchards

Abstract

The demand for cactus pear cultivation is increasing worldwide; thus, it is necessary to respect the requirements and level of adaptability of the available genetic resources to different growing regions. In this study we evaluated the performance of 68 accessions that were planted in Al-Karama Agricultural station (National Center for Agricultural Research (NARC) Station) located in south of the Jordan Valley (31° 55' 50.05" N 35° 34' 11.89" E). Significant differences we found between cactus pear accessions under Jordan valley environmental conditions. These differences are a good basis for providing resources that can be grown well under different environmental conditions. Further trials are needed to evaluate existing cactus germplasm across the kingdom of Jordan. In particular where drought and salinity conditions are prevalent. The ultimate objective would be to generate a land suitability map for cactus cultivation across Jordan based on spatial distribution of climatic and edaphic factors.