Assessment of growth and yield parameters in arecanut (Areca catechu L.) through correlation and path analysis under hilly zone of Karnataka

Arecanut (Areca catechu L.) commonly called as betel nut is a high value commercial crop of coastal and Malnad region of Kerala and Karnataka. The present study was carried out at Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Sringeri, UAHS Shivamogga in 2018. The study attempts the correlation studies in the germplasm will help to understand the mutual relationship among various traits and thereby assist in selecting the character contributing to the yield. In addition to this the selection for yield directly is ineffective as yield is affected by many other traits. The highest positive significant for the association of fruit yield per palm was with the fresh kernel weight per palm (0.96g) followed by dry weight of husk per palm (0.89g) and fresh weight of husk per palm (0.89g). Path analysis revealed that nineteen out of thirty-four characters recorded that fruit volume (2.40cc) had highest positive direct effect on fruit yield per palm followed by fresh fruit weight (2.17g) and breadth of leaf sheath (2.11m). It can be concluded that growth and yield characters may be considered in selection criteria for the improvement of yield in arecanut.