Varietal Evaluation and Clustering of Early Maize Genotypes in Mid-Western Hilly Region of Nepal

Eleven early maize (Zea mays) genotypes were evaluated for their yield and yield component traits at the research block of Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS) Lumle, Kaski, Nepal during Kharif season of 2016. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Results showed that all the studied genotypes differed significantly for grain yield as well as other yield component traits except number of kernel per row. Out of tested genotypes COMPOZ-NIPB, EEYC1, POP-445/POP-446 were three top performer genotypes yielding 6.89, 5.38 and 5.19 t ha-1. Early mid Katamari, Rajahar local, Manakamana-5, EEYC1 were statistically at par with Arun-4(standard check) and will be needed further evaluation and improvement by a selection of desirable traits. Eleven genotypes occupied three different clusters and showed that early maize genotypes suggest considerable genetic diversity among themselves. Genotypes belong to cluster one having the highest yield potentials so need to be further evaluation in different location of mid hill and recommended best variety for that domain.