Varietal cross diallel analysis for seed yield and its components in fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare mill)

Abstract

A half diallel of nine genetically diverse varieties was made and the resulting 36 F 1 populations were evaluated along with the parents. The analysis of variance indicated that heterosis was significant for all the characters, except test weight. The heterosis components were also significant for most of the traits studied. The specific heterosis component accounted for more than 80% of the overall heterosis, indicating a complex type of inheritance for seed yield and its component traits. The crosses JF 29 × Local, RF 125 × JF 29 and UF (M)-1 × RF 101 exhibited significant positive heterobeltiosis for seed yield per plant. The parents RF125 and JF 29 merit attention as parents in the development of hybrids. The use of recurrent selection and the development of composites are suggested as ways to improve yielding ability in fennel.