A comparative analysis of genetic variability in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) under normal and late sown conditions

Abstract

Analysis of genetic variability for yield and yield related traits was carried out using 14 characters in 34 diverse linseed genotypes. Under two environmental conditions i.e. normal and late sown conditions. High variability was observed for majority of the traits in both the conditions. High PCV and GCV was observed for fibre yield and seed yield per plant and straw yield under normal sown conditions; under late sown conditions straw yield, seed yield per plant and aerial biomass showed highest PCV and GCV. The mean values of primary branches per plant, secondary branches per plant, capsules per plant, aerial biomass were higher but mean values of 1000 seed weight and harvest index was reduced in late sown condition indicating sink number is affected by delayed sowing. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for fibre yield, seed yield per plant, straw yield and aerial biomass under normal and late sown conditions. These traits can be used as selection indices to improve yield in late sown condition as well as timely sown condition.