Variability, character association and path analysis in garden pea (Pisum sativum L.)

The experimental material comprising of 41 genotypes was evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications. Genotype DPPM-74 was the most promising with significantly highest number of pods per plant, total biomass, seed yield and protein content. The differences in performance of genotypes for seed yield per plant might be attributed to pods per plant, seeds per pod and 100-seed weight. Significant genetic variations were observed for seed yield and related traits. High PCV and moderate GCV were recorded for seed yield per plant. Moderate estimates of PCV and GCV were recorded for number of branches, internodal length, plant height, pod length, seeds per pod, harvest index, 100-seed weight, protein content, starch, pods per plant, total biomass and ascorbic acid. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for pods per plant, total biomass, seed yield per plant and harvest index. Seed yield per plant had positive association with internodal length, plant height, pod length, seeds per pod, pods per plant, total biomass, harvest index and 100-seed weight at phenotypic and genotypic levels. Total biomass and harvest index had maximum positive direct effects on seed yield/plant. Based on variability studies, it can be concluded that pods per plant, pod length, seeds/pod, total biomass and harvest index should be given due focus for the improvement of garden pea.