Variability, correlation and association studies for seed yield and component traits in common bean genotypes under North Western Himalayas

One sixty nine land races of common bean were used in variability, correlation and path analysis studies. Significant variation was observed for all traits under study with higher magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation as compared to genotypic coefficient of variation. High variability for all the traits indicates the scope of selection and improvement of these traits. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for traits like 100-seed weight, seed yield per plant and biological yield per plant. Significant positive correlation of seed yield with all the traits studied except days to flowering clearly indicated that selection for higher seed yield per plant through these traits would be effective. Path analysis revealed positive and high direct effects on seed yield per plant by biological yield per plant followed by harvest index. Highest indirect effects were observed on seed yield per plant through biological yield per plant followed by plant height and harvest index. Significant influence of biological yield per plant directly and indirectly on seed yield per plant suggested the role of high biomass in enhancing the grain production in common bean, hence preference should be given for selecting plants with higher biomass to develop high yielding genotypes.