Genetic divergence (D2) and relative contribution analysis in coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) genotypes under different seasons

An investigation was carried out at Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during three seasons viz., season I (June 2008-August 2008), season II (October 2008-December 2008) and season III (June 2009-August 2009). From the results of the genetic divergence analysis, during first season, cluster I comprising 61 genotypes had the highest intra-cluster distance followed by cluster III with five genotypes. In the second season, cluster I comprising 68 genotypes had the highest intra-cluster distance followed by cluster II with three genotypes. During the third season also, cluster I comprising 64 genotypes had the highest intra-cluster distance followed by clusters II and IV with three genotypes. During the first season, maximum contribution to genetic divergence was made by fresh weight of root (36.47%). In the second season, maximum contribution to genetic divergence was made by dry weight of stem (23.35%). During the third season, maximum contribution to genetic divergence was made by fresh weight of leaves (47.75%).