Productivity of shallot onion (Allium ascalonicum L.) Accessions in the agroclimatic conditions of Southeastern Kazakhstan

Abstract

Abstract
Background and Aim. Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) is an economically important vegetable crop valued by high nutritional value and distinctive flavor characteristics. In the south-eastern region of Kazakhstan, the identification and selection of adapted high-yielding accessions capable of producing stable yields are of particular importance. This study aimed to identify promising shallot accessions
based on a complex of economically valuable traits for further use in breeding programs and commercial
production.
Materials and Methods. The research was conducted at the Kainar Regional Branch of the Kazakh Research Institute of Fruit and Vegetable Growing under the agro-climatic conditions of south-eastern Kazakhstan. Ten shallot accessions were evaluated. The assessment was based on morphological, biometric, and agronomic characteristics, including yield, average bulb weight, number of bulbs per
nest, and marketable yield.
Results. Significant differences were observed among the studied accessions in the main economically valuable traits. The highest yield was recorded for accession K-157, reaching 31.1 t/ha.
This accession was also characterized by high nesting ability, producing 8–9 bulbs per nest. Accession P-40 demonstrated a valuable combination of traits, with a yield of 29.3 t/ha, an average bulb weight of 45.4 g, and marketability of 92.8%. The studied accessions differed in bulb size, productivity, and adaptability to local environmental conditions.
Conclusion. The study identified promising shallot accessions adapted to the agro-climatic conditions of south-eastern Kazakhstan. Accessions K-157 and P-40 are recommended for further use in breeding programs and in the development of high-yielding shallot cultivars.