Correlation and path analysis of yield and related traits in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Under normal and drought stress conditions

In order to investigate the correlation and path analysis of yield and related traits in sunflower under normal and drought stress conditions, twelve sunflower genotypes were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Fifteen different agronomic traits were measured for analyses. The results showed in the normal irrigation condition, seed number per head and head diameter were significantly correlated with seed yield, respectively, while the strongest significant correlation of oil yield were observed with seed yield, seed number per head and head diameter. In the drought stress condition, as same as normal-irrigated, seed number per head and head diameter were significantly correlated with seed and oil yield, respectively. Path coefficient analysis revealed that seed number per head and 1000-seed weight have shown considerable positive direct effects on seed yield, while seed number per head and 1000-seed weight and oil content had positive direct effects on oil yield. In the drought stress condition, as same as normal-irrigated, seed number per head and 1000-seed weight had significantly positive direct effect on seed yield. It is concluded that these seed number per head and 1000-seed weight characters may be good selection criteria to improve the seed and oil yield of sunflower in both normal and drought stress conditions.