Correlation and path-coefficient analysis for grain yield and agronomic traits of maize (Zea mays L.)

Studies were conducted to estimate the direct and indirect effects of four agronomic traits on maize (Zea mays L.) grain yield by the application of simple coefficient correlation and path coefficient analysis in two experimental fields (Kafanchan and Kadawa). Generally, correlation coefficients among the yield component characters were similar in both locations; however path coefficients showed variation in Kafanchan and Kadawa. In the two research sites, plant height, cob length, cob diameter and 1000-grain weight had high positive correlation with maize grain yield and with each other. The path coefficient analysis revealed that plant height made the highest direct contribution (0.653 in Kadawa) to grain yield followed by 1000-grain weight with a direct contribution of 0.4290 in Kafanchan. The path analysis further disclosed these characters to be the most important components of grain yield. Both correlation and path coefficient analyses have established cob diameter as a less reliable agronomic trait than the other three variables included in the maize yield component analysis. Keywords: Agronomic traits, Correlation coefficients, Path coefficients, Grain yield, Maiz