Heterosis studies on earliness, growth and quality parameters in single cross hybrids of maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

The study was undertaken to estimate the extent of heterosis for earliness, growth parameters and protein content of grain in seventy two Maize single crosses developed by crossing 12 lines and 6 testers using line × tester design. Seventy two hybrids, parents along with three checks were evaluated during during kharif 2012. The investigation on heterosis for earliness, growth parameters and protein content resulted in the identification of single crosses that exhibited significant heterosis. BM24×RNBL4611 and BM423×BM59 were considered as early for tasseling which showed significant highest negative heterosis. The hybrids BM423×RNBL4711 and BM136×RNBL4611 recorded significant highest negative heterosis for days to 50% silking. BM254×BM59 showed significant highest positive heterosis for plant height. Combinations BM136×BM1 and BM254×RNBL4711 witnessed highest heterosis for plant girth. BM24×BM59 evidenced highest fodder yield among the cross combinations. With respect to protein content the cross BM60×RNBL4711 recorded highest per cent of protein among hybrids.