Tea

Varieties

Clones

So far the Upasi Tea Research Foundation has released 29 clones (vegetatively propagated cultivars). Among these, clones such as UPASI-3, UPASI-8, UPASI-17, UPASI-25, UPASI-27, UPASI-28 and TRF-1 are high yielders. Clones such as UPASI-2, UPASI-6, UPASI-9, UPASI-20 and UPASI-26 are moderate yielders but are tolerant to drought. Certain SriLankan clones such as TRI-2024, TRI-2025 and TRI 2026 and a few estate clones such as CR-6017, C-1, ATK-1 and SA-6 are also widely used for planting in southern India. Current clonal selection work in the Anamallais, Nelliampathy and Nilgiris resulted in the selection of 140 bushes based on visual examination. Studies are in progress to monitor their nursery and field performance.

Biclonal seed stocks

Besides the clones, five biclonal seed stocks have also been released for commercial planting. The biclonal seed stocks are UPASI: BSS-1 to BSS-5. These seed stocks germinate early in the nursery and establish well in the field. They are excellent for infilling, replanting and extension planting. The stocks are moderate yielders but are tolerant to drought.

Last updated: 19-06-2008