Genetic variability and character association in dahlia

Abstract

Fifteen genotypes of dahlia (Dahlia variabilis Desf.) were used to study the genetic variability and character association among total flower production per plant and its nine attributing traits. Genotypic differences were significant for total flower production and its components, thereby indicating the possibility of improving flower production through varietal selection in the existing collection. High GCV and heritability associated with high GA were observed for branches/plant, leaf area and total flowers/plant. Total flowers/plant showed significant positive association with span of flowering and intemode length, and significant negative association with days to first flowering. For achieving maximum flower production, besides total flowers/plant, branches/plant followed by span of flowering and days to first flowering were the most important components which can be utilized in effective selection.