Evaluation of Growth Traits Performance and Genetic Parameters for Various Genotypes of Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Under the Effect of Potassium Foliar

This study evaluated the performance and genetic parameters of faba bean genotypes under potassium foliar application. We used a split-plot design within an R.C.B.D., incorporating three potassium levels (0, 100, and 150 kg.ha) and six genotypes. PO6-O13FB/FL outperformed others in key traits, including plant height (137.62 cm) and dry weight (44.38 g/plant). Potassium at 150 kg/ha⁻¹ significantly enhanced all traits, with the highest interaction values for branches per plant (19.33) and plant height (143.36 cm). High heritability and genetic gains suggest potential for improving faba bean productivity. The genotype PO6-O13FB/FL outperformed others in most traits, including plant height (137.62 cm), leaf area (1659.21 cm²/plant), and dry weight (44.38 g/plant). Potassium foliar application at 150 kg ha⁻¹ significantly improved all studied traits, with the highest values for branches per plant (19.33) and plant height (143.36 cm). The study found that phenotypic variances were more significant than genetic and environmental variances, with leaf area showing the highest increase. All traits exhibited broad-sense heritability, with leaf area having the highest genetic gains. Moderate genetic gains were noted for other traits at various potassium concentrations.