Variability in nuts of twelve walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes in Markazi province

Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is one of the most important horticultural crops in Iran. Walnut fruits are rich source of essential compounds for human health. In the present research twelve walnut genotypes were selected in Markazi province in fourdifferent geographical locations، based on their regular bearing and high productivity. Selected genotypes were evaluataed for several pomological properties during 2007 growing-season. Results showed that، nut and kernel weights varied from 7. 46 through to 15. 25 g and 3. 77 through to 8. 1 g، respectively and kernel nut percentage was 45. 97 to60. 51%. Oil and protein contents also varied from 51. 0 to 73. 0 % and 10. 15 to 14. 55%، respectively. The results showed that genotype of MS15 had the highest nut and kernel weights (15. 25 and 8. 1 g، respectively). MS43 showed highest kernel and oil percentage (60. 51 and 73. 06%، respectively) and MS12 highest protein ratio (14. 55%). The fruits of superior selected genotypes can be used in food industry.