Character Association and Path Analysis in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Correlation coefficients among fifteen yield and yield attributing characters with their path effects towards grain yield were investigated during kharif, 2009. Characters like ear girth, ear length, 100 grain weight, number of grains per row and plant height showed positive significant correlation with yield. The path analysis indicated that ear girth exerted maximum positive direct effect on grain yield per plant. When both direct and indirect positive contributions were considered, ear girth and 100 seed weight influenced grain yield per plant. Thus, on the basis of character associations and direct and indirect effects, characters viz; ear girth, ear length, number of grains per row, 100 grain weight, shelling percentage, number of grain rows per ear and number of cobs per plant were proved to be the outstanding in influencing grain yield and need to be considered as target traits in selection to achieve higher grain yield.