Pantnagar Journal of Research

Abstract

The present investigation was undertaken to study Genetic Divergence and Yield Trait Impact in French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). The experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research and Demonstration Block, Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, VCSG Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Bharsar, Pauri Garhwal (Uttarakhand). A total of 24 genotypes were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications. Genotypic correlation coefficients were estimated to determine associations among yield and its component traits, while path coefficient analysis was employed to partition correlations into direct and indirect effects on seed yield per plant. Genetic divergence among genotypes was grouped the genotypes into four distinct clusters, indicating substantial genetic variability. The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed between Cluster I (D^² = 2.920) and Cluster III (D^² = 5.571), reflecting the highest level of genetic divergence. Seed weight, number of primary branches per plant, and seed yield per plot exhibited strong positive direct effects on seed yield per plant and this shows their importance as selection criteria. The identified genetically divergent clusters and key yield-influencing traits can be effectively utilized in future French bean breeding programmes for yield improvement.