Studies on genetics and combining ability in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea. L. var. Botrytis)

Abstract

A 5 x 5 complete diallel analysis was carried out to study the genetics and combining ability in cauliflower. Both additive and non-additive genetic variances were involved in all the characters. Preponderance of additive genetic variances was recorded for all except vitamin C content. The parent lines ‘Early Dawn’ and ‘Early Cauliflower’ was found to be the best general combiners for days to curd initiation, days to curd maturity, plant weight and curd weight. Maximum heterotic and best specific combinations involved at least one good general combiner. High heritability was observed for days to curd initiation and maturity, plant height and plant weight and curd size index, whereas remaining characters had medium to low heritability. The ratio of degree of dominance revealed partial dominance for days to curd initiation and maturity, plant height and plant weight and curd size index, and curd to plant ratio. Positive and significant genotypic and phenotypic characters, association of curd weight was recorded with number of leaves, plant weight and curd size index and vitamin C content. Selection of parents for hybrids and population improvement programme was advised on the basis of per se performance and combining ability.