Exploitation of Heterosis in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L)

Forty eight hybrids were tested using line × tester design involving four cytoplasmic male sterile and 12 fertility restorer lines study the magnitude and direction of heterosis over better parent and stand check at main agriculture research station, dharwad during kharif 2011–12. The study revealed that different hybrids exhibited varied magnitude and direction of heterosis for different characters. Majority of hybrids involving CMS 17A and CMS-1030A as the female parent recorded highest heterotic effects for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, head diameter, test weight and seed yield. The crosses CMS 1030A×PS 1070, CMS 1030A×ID 25 and CMS 17A×ID 25 were identified as potential hybrids with respect to all traits based on their performance and heterosis estimates.