Genetic variability and character association analysis in french bean (phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Forty two divergent genotypes of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) were evaluated for yield and yield attributes during spring season of 2009–10. Genotypes differed significantly for all the characters. High genetic advance coupled with high heritability was observed for 100-seed weight, seed yield/plant, pod yield/plant and pod yield qt/ha, indicating there by the preponderance of additive gene action for these characters. Correlation analysis indicated that pod yield/plant was significant and positively associated with days taken to Ist flowering and Ist picking, pod length and seed yield/plant. Path co-efficient analysis revealed that days taken to Ist flowering, days to Ist picking, pod length, 100-seed weight and seed yield/plant had positive direct effect on pod yield/ha. Hence, selection on these traits could be improving seed yield in French bean.