Heterosis Exploration in Single-Cross Inbred Line Combinations of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

This study evaluates 56 crosses generated through the Line × Tester mating pattern using seeds collected during the kharif season of 2022 from the Post Graduation research Farm at Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab's Post Graduate Research Farm during the 2022 kharif season. In addition to the hybrids, fifteen parent lines and one check were grown. The experiment was conducted using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications in the 2023 kharif season. Significant disparities between the entries were found by analyzing the mean squares for 11 attributes. Out of all the crosses, the hybrid BPPT1 x BML20 showed the greatest standard heterosis; BML6 x BML3 ranked second in terms of grain yield per plant. Crucially, these hybrids showed noteworthy and desired standard heterosis for other characteristics as well as grain production, suggesting that they might lead to improved overall performance. Using heterosis in maize might result in better cross combinations, meeting the increasing demand for the grain due to its bioactive qualities. The results of this study can help breeders create robust and high yielding varieties of maize, promoting sustainable agriculture and guaranteeing food security in the face of changing environmental issues. The findings of this research can guide breeders in developing high yielding and resilient maize varieties, contributing to sustainable agriculture, and ensuring food security in the face of evolving environmental challenges.