Genetic variability in spinach genotypes for yield and yield components under north Indian conditions

The present study was conducted to assess the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for yield and yield-attributing traits in twenty diverse spinach genotypes under the environmental conditions of the north Indian plains (Jalandhar, Punjab). A randomized block design with three replications was employed. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all fifteen studied traits, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability. Phenotypic coefficient of variation was generally higher than genotypic coefficient of variation, with high estimates (>25%) observed for phosphorus and number of leaves per plant. High broadsense heritability (>50%) was recorded for most traits, including phosphorus, leaf area, first cutting yield and number of leaves per plant. Similarly, high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean (>20%) was observed for phosphorus, number of leaves per plant, petiole length and leaf area. The combination of high heritability and high genetic advance for these traits suggests the potential for substantial genetic improvement through direct selection. The findings of this study provide valuable information for spinach breeding programmes aimed at enhancing productivity and selecting desirable traits adapted to the north Indian agro-ecological zone.