Correlation, regression and path analysis for grain yield and yield components on early maturing hybrids of grain corn

In order to investigate genetic correlation and path analysis between grain yield and yield components, fifteen early maturing hybrids of grain corn (Zea. mays) using a randomized complete block design with 4 replications were evaluated in Khoramabad agricultural research center, Iran. The data were collected and analyzed for ear emergence date, anthesis date, maturity date, plant height, ear height, plant stand, ear cover, grain number per row, row number per ear, grain depth, 1000- grain weight, plant value, cob percent, grain yield, stay green, stem and leaf resistante to disease. The results showed grain yield was positively correlated with plant height, ear height, grain depth, row number per ear, grain number per row, but negatively with 1000-grain weight, ear cover, cob percent and stay green. Between emergence date and maturity date and It was observed significant negative correlation stay green and leaf disease and  positive significant correlation with ear height, grain depth and ear cover, suggested that late maturing hybrids with higher productivity were more resistante to diseases. The results of regression and path analysis showed that 1000-grain weigh and cob percent were correlated with yield negatively, and grain depth, plant height and plant stand were positively (R²=0.52) and had higher effects on grain yield.