Genetic variability and character association for quantitative and quality traits in early maturing Indian cauliflowers

Abstract

Significant differences were observed among genotypes in a genetic variability study in early Indian cauliflower suggesting sufficient variability for yield and quality characters. Mean sum of squares due to genotype were highly significant for all characters indicating high genetic variation among the genotypes. The genotypes DC-98-4, DC-98-10 and DC-124 were found superior over other genotypes with respect to yield and quality characters. The overall values of PCV were higher than those of GCV. The highest estimates of GCV were observed for duration of curd availability where as highest heritability was recorded for days to 50% curd formation. High heritability along with high genetic advance as per cent mean was estimated for curd compactness, net curd weight and vitamin C content. Total yield had significant positive correlation with net curd weight and harvest index. However, yield was negatively correlated with duration of curd availability and days to 50% curd formation. Path coefficient analysis revealed that net curd weight and curd compactness had the highest positive contribution towards the total yield respectively.