Line × tester analysis for agro-morphological traits in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Fifteen linseed genotypes (Linum usitatissimum L.) were evaluated for combining ability through line × tester analysis using three diverse testers. A total of 63 entries (45 F₁’s + 18 parents) raised in randomized block design with three replications were evaluated for seed yield and related component traits. Parents and hybrids included in the investigation exhibited significant differences between treatments for all traits, indicating a considerable amount of variability. Both additive and non-additive gene actions exhibited significant roles in inheritance of seed yield and related traits with the preponderance of non-additive gene action due to higher magnitude of SCA variance over GCA variance. Based on combining ability studies, the lines viz., KL-310, KL-316 and K1 Raja were identified as best general combiners, whereas the cross combinations KL-312 × K 1 Raja, KL-313 × JRF-4 and KL-308 × K 1 Raja were found promising for seed yield and contributing traits. The highest value for heterobeltiosis and heterosis over standard check (Him Palam Alsi-2) was exhibited by KL-308 × JRF-4, KL-315 × Nagarkot, respectively.