An analysis of the association factors influencing seed yield and oil percentage in sunflower (Heliatnthus annuus L.)

An attempt was made to analyse the association between seed yield and related components in sunflower by the method of correlation and path coefficient s over phenotypic correlation coefficient was noticed for all the character combinations, all the examined characteristics except days to 50% flowering, percent filled seeds, 100 seed weight and oil content were significantly and positively associated with seed yield. Since plant height, head diameter, head weight and number of seeds per head are Interco related among them, selection for these traits will result in increased seed yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that among all the traits studied stem diameter at mid height and head weight contributed the most directly to seed yield. All other yield contribution traits had sizeable influence on seed yield indirectly only through stem diameter at mid height and total head weight.