Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis of Grain Yield and Yield Components in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Interrelationships between grain yield and its components were determined by genotypic correlation and path co-efficient analysis in eighteen maize lines/hybrids. The results indicated that grain yield was positively and significantly associated with all parameters studied. The results also showed that number of kernels row‾1 has maximum positive direct effect on grain yield. It was followed by 1000-kernel weight, ear length and number of rows ear‾1. Ear height had negative direct effect on grain yield. It was concluded that number of kernels row‾1, 1000-kernel weight, ear length and number of rows ear‾1 were the main yield components.