Storability evaluation of short day onion populations and cultivars in non-controlled storage

In order to compare the storability of short day onion populations and cultivarsin non-controlled storage, this research was conducted at Behbahan Agriculture Research Station from 2013 to 2014 for two years. Seeds were sown in nursery in late September. Seedlings were transplanted at 2-3 leaf stages. Evaluation of bulb storability was performed by using split plot experiment based on RCBD with four replications. Main plot consisted of eight populations and cultivars (Behbahan, Padook, Ramhormoz, Iranshahr and Brazjan landraces, Primavera and Texas Early Grano cultivars and improved population of Behbahan onion) and six storage times (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 months) considered as sub plots. The monthly bulb loss weight percentage decreased with passing time. Improved population of Behbahan onion had the most sever weigh losses (20.26%). Damage of black mold increased until the third month of storage and then decreased. Ramhormoz landrace was the most sensitive genotype damaging from black mold (39.47%). The highest percentage of bulb rotting (29.65%) was recorded for Primavera cultivar and storability of this cultivar was significantly lower than other genotypes. Bulb sprouting was observed from the third month of storage. Iranshahr landrace had the highest bulb sprouting (31.57%). Results showed that according to storability, improved population of Behbahan onion and Texas Early Grano were better than other genotypes.