Combining Ability for Resistance to Common Rust (Puccinia Sorghi) in Maize (Zea Mays L.)

Genetics of common rust was studied in 144 progenies raised through diallel cross among twelve inbreds out of which six lines were resistant and six susceptible to common rust. These progenies were evaluated at two locations, Ludhiana (E₁) and Gurdaspur (E₂) in rabi 2004-05. The data obtained on disease reaction was used for combining ability analysis. Additive gene action played greater role in the inheritance of resistance to this disease. Reciprocal effects did not play any role indicating absence of maternal effects for disease resistance. Inbreds P₆ and P₇ were rated as good general combiners for disease resistance and some other agronomic traits. The crosses P₃ x P₁₂, P₄ x P₇ and P₅ x P₁₂ showed significant sca effects for disease score.