Character association and path coefficient analysis in rose (Rosa × hybrida)

The present investigations on association of various morphological traits through correlation and path coefficient analysis were carried out among 32 rose Rosa × hybrida cultivars. The path coefficient analysis provided information about direct and indirect effect of examined characteristics on number of flowers per plant. The statistically significant and positive correlation (genotypic and phenotypic) was observed for primary branches with number of flowers per plant, whereas it was non significant and positive for secondary branches (genotypic and phenotypic), bud length (phenotypic) and internodal length (genotypic). The statistically significant and negative correlation (genotypic and phenotypic) was observed for neck length, flower diameter and flower weight with number of flowers per plant. Path coefficient (genotypic) analysis revealed maximum positive direct effect on number of flowers per plant by stem girth, followed by flower diameter, primary branches, days to flowering, bud length and number of petals per flower whereas phenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed highest and significantly positive direct effect on number of flowers per plant by secondary branches followed by flower diameter, bud length, stalk length, primary branches, number of petals per flower, plant height, stem girth and days to flowering.