Comparative evaluation of root and shoot development in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) hybrids propagated via single-node cuttings

Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), one of the world’s most traded spices, requires improved and climate-resilient varieties to meet rising demand. The present study evaluated 37 hybrids for vegetative propagation using single-node cuttings in a randomized design at HREC, Sirsi (2022-2023). Substantial genetic variability was detected for early growth, shoot and root parameters among the raised plants. Hybrids SPH-84 and SPH-2 exhibited superior plant height, development of nodes and root attributes. Root diameter was positively correlated with root length (r = 0.514, P<0.001), whereas root number per cutting was negatively associated with root diameter. Heterosis analysis identified SPH-84 with the highest positive heterosis for plant height (117.54%). These findings highlighted SPH-84 and SPH-2 as promising candidates for future breeding programmes aimed at enhancing black pepper productivity and resilience.