Genetic Evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hooker F.) under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse in Prayagraj

Abstract

An investigation was carried out in nine genotypes for eleven quantitative characters of gerbera to examine genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation, path coefficient during 2021-2022 in Randomized block design at Research field of Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P), India. The results revealed that the genotype Cut T/C Pink (5.67) was identified best for flower yield per square meter whereas Cut T/C Red and Sisal was having lowest flower yield per meter square. Analysis of variance showed significant difference among nine genotypes, indicating ample scope for selection of promising genotypes. Highest PCV and GCV were recorded for length of stalk (cm) (49.06 and 48.45 respectively) followed by plant height (cm) (47.56 and 46.95 respectively). Lowest PCV and GCV were recorded by vase life (18.67 and 16.26 respectively) followed by diameter of disc (24.185 and 23.487 respectively). High heritability (h2) coupled with high genetic advance were observed for the characters like days to first flower bud initiation (95.31 & 52.73), length of stalk (97.52 & 33.04), plant height (97.45 & 28.79) and plant spread (95.31 & 52.73). Number of leaves and flowers per plant showed significant positive correlation. Plant height, plant spread, number of leaves, days to first flower bud initiation and flower per plant had direct positive effect on flower yield per meter square.