Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
(eISSN: 2229-4473)
Genetic variability and character association studies in okra
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Research Articles | Published: 09 June, 2026
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Keywords: Correlation, Genetic variability, Okra, Path analysis, Yield
Abstract
The study identifies key yield-contributing traits in okra through significant genetic variability and path analysis, enabling efficient selection for genetic improvement. The study was conducted during kharif seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24 at the Experimental Farm, Department of Vegetable Science, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur (H.P.) to assess genetic variability, correlation and path coefficient effects among 25 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) genotypes. A significant and wide range of variation was accessed across all examined traits. The genotypes Parbhani Kranti, Gujarat Okra 3 and Punjab 8 showed excellent performance in yield and major horticultural characteristics. Number of primary branches and mucilage content showed high phenotypic and genotypic variability, while traits like total soluble solids, first flowering node, pod yield and pod-related characteristics exhibited moderate variability. Traits such as number of primary branches, mucilage content, total soluble solids, first flowering node, number and weight of pods, pod diameter, plant height, ascorbic acid, number of seeds per pod and pod yield exhibited high heritability coupled with moderate to high genetic gain. These findings suggest that selection could effectively enhance these traits. Pod yield per plant exhibited strong positive associations with primary branches, number of pods per plant, pod weight, pod diameter, plant height, mucilage content, and 100 seed weight. Path analysis further confirmed that first flowering node, pod weight and ascorbic acid had direct and positive effects on pod yield. The study highlights key heritable traits for improving okra yield through targeted selection.
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Author Information
Department of Vegetable Science, Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, India