Vol. 9, Issue 11 (2020)

Author(s):
Jauhar Rafeeq, AH Mughal and Sadaf Fayaz

Abstract:
A study was conducted to identify different varieties of Morus alba in Kashmir and there uses among people in the year 2018-2019. A detailed survey at village level was conducted in three districts of North Kashmir (Bandipora, Baramulla and Kupwara. Identification was done on the basis of different phenological characteristics of the species e.g shape and size of leaves and colour of fruits. Different varieties of Morus alba were identified with the help of local farmers and Taxonomist. Studies conducted revealed that 13 varieties of Morus alba are grown in North Kashmir i.e., Shahtul, Chatatul, Zagtul, Robesh sernal, Botatul, Brentul Kashmir, Chinese white, Gosherami, Ichinose, Kokuso, Kanva and Rokokuyaso. Of these 13 varieties, six are reportedly exotic and restare indigenous. Morus species has multiple uses in North Kashmir. Species is used for fodder (41.46%), fruits (34.72%), fuel (12.52%) and silkworm rearing (11.30%). Trees were found on private lands and they were planted by farmers for commercial (16.31%) and household (83.69%) purposes.