Variability and correlation studies among horticultural traits in heading broccoli (Brassica Oleracea var. Italica Plenck)

Eighteen diverse genotypes of heading broccoli were evaluated for various horticultural traits. The best genotype for marketable yield (593.08g) as well as gross weight (1263.42g) was EC376139–6 whereas EC376139–2 was earliest to attain marketable maturity. The genotype C376123 for leaf size, CB-4 for number of leaves/plant and head compactness, EC376113 for head size index, Janavon for stalk diameter and EC376128 for harvest index were the other superior genotypes. Marketable yield/plant was found to be associated with gross weight/plant, head size index leaf size and stalk diameter. Correlation study revealed that gross weight/plant, leaf size, head size index, harvest index, days to maturity and head compactness could be effectively used as selection indices for the improvement of heading broccoli.