Genetic variability and correlation studies in cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) genotypes

The study was carried out using a randomized complete block design with 3 replications for each genotype at the Research Farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (YSP UHF), Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh during the rabi seasons over 2 consecutive years. The evaluation focused on various morphological and quality traits to assess genetic variability and potential for improvement in cabbage. Among the traits studied, stalk length exhibited high phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variability, while both stalk length and core length displayed high heritability along with substantial genetic gain. Correlation studies revealed that net head weight showed significant positive associations with plant height, gross head weight, equatorial diameter, polar diameter, head shape index, total soluble solids and ascorbic acid content. Further, path coefficient analysis indicated that gross head weight, plant height and polar diameter had the most direct effects on net head weight at the genotypic level, suggesting that selection for these traits would be effective in improving cabbage yield. Genetic divergence analysis grouped 23 diverse cabbage genotypes into 6 clusters, with the majority of genotypes concentrated in clusters II, V and VI, reflecting substantial variability among the germplasms. The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters II and III, highlighting that hybridisation between genotypes from these clusters could produce promising recombinants or superior hybrids. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the inheritance of key traits and identifies potential parents for breeding programs aimed at enhancing yield, quality and overall performance in cabbage.