Character Association in Okra Hybrids Established at Different Planting Dates

ABSTRACT

The most effective means of combating reduced productivity in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] is development of genotypes with potential for high yield. Selection for crop yield improvement can only be effective when information is available on yield association with component characters. A study was conducted to identify indirect selection criteria for yield in okra. Sixteen hybrid genotypes obtained through North Carolina Design II mating between four genotypes as males and four as females were established in single-row plots in Oct. and May of 2013 and 2014, respectively. Beginning at flowering, data were recorded on number of days to 50% flowering, stem diameter, plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, pod width, number of ridges per pod, number of seed per ridge, number of seed per pod, 100-seed weight, and seed yield·per hectare. Analysis of variance was performed on separate and combined data and analysis of covariance was performed on data from individual planting dates. Genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficients were estimated from variance and covariance analyses. Genotypic correlation coefficients of characters were partitioned into direct and indirect effects for early planting. Correlation and path coefficient analyses identified characters having useful association with seed yield/plant. Sufficient strength of the relationship existed for indirect selection of characters with seed yield. Number of pods/plant appears to be the most reliable indicator of yield in okra.

KEYWORDS:

• Abelmoschus esculentus
• correlation
• direct effect
• genotypic improvement
• indirect phenotypic selection

Acknowledgment

The authors are grateful to Dr. O.A. Oduwaye and the Laboratory Staff of the Department of Plant Breeding and Seed Technology, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, for their support while this study was conducted.