Heterosis and character association in maize (Zea mays L.)

Heterosis and character associations were estimated in 21 single cross hybrids, obtained by crossing 7 inbred lines of maize. Maximum number of crosses showed significant positive heterosis for grain yield, followed by kernel weight and number of kernels per row. Only one hybrid exhibited significant positive useful heterosis over Barnali for grain yield. The hybrid also showed significantly high percentage of positive heterosis over mid-parent and better parent for grain yield. However, six hybrids possessed significant positive heterobeltiosis for grain yield. Four single cross hybrids were selected for their high heterotic performances. Grain yield per plant was highly correlated with car length and kernel weight.