Selection of water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.) -: Genotypes for protected cultivation in temperate regions

Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.), family Convolvulaceae, is one of the most important vegetables in the tropics of South-East-Asia as well as in Japan, Australia and some regions of Africa. This leafy vegetable has high nutritional value and is well adapted to the ecological conditions in tropical countries and in the market especially during the summer time when other vegetables are limited. About breeding and cultivation there are very few reports. This study aimed at evaluation and use of the genetic variability of land races propagated in home gardens. Clones could be developed and characterized regarding their botanical and agronomical parameters. The production in different hydroponical systems greenhouse in Middle Europe was investigated. This paper shows results of evaluation of 13 clones of water spinach in substrate culture in recirculating nutrient solution.