Development and genetic evaluation of single cross super sweet (shrunken 2) sweet corn hybrids (Zea mays var. saccharata L.): A novel choice for commercial market

The present investigation was carried for developing sweet corn (shrunken 2) hybrids coupled with high yield and extended shelf life. The selected inbreds with sh2 gene viz., six lines and five testers were crossed in Line × Tester mating design and the hybrids were evaluated for important yield contributing traits. Relative proportion of GCA variance to SCA variance was less than unity, specifying the preponderance of non-additive gene action for all the traits studied. The lines SC 11-07, SC 11-2 and testers, MRCSC 11, WNDMRSCY 19R763 were identified as ideal parents for synthesizing high yielding hybrids with high mean and gca effects for green cob yield in addition to some of the yield contributing traits. The line SC 11-07 was identified as a potential parent with high total sugar content. Among the hybrids, SC 11-07 × MRCSC 11 followed by SC 11-07 × WNDMRSCY 19R763 and SC 11-2 × WNDMRSCY 19R763 were found to be the best performers with significant per se performance and sca effects and standard heterosis for green cob yield and contributing traits. Remarkably, SC 11-07 × MRCSC 11 also recorded superiority for quality traits. Hence, these hybrids could be subjected to further multi-location evaluation to assess the yield stability across varying environments and exploited for commercial cultivation.