Heterosis studies for yield-related traits in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

Using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications, 30 F1’s and their 13 parents were evaluated at the Main Experimental Station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, during the zaid seasons of 2023 and 2024. The optimum genotypes were recommended based on the findings of studies on heterosis and combining ability. To determine the best parental combination and the best-performing hybrid, the hybrids were assessed for seven distinct qualities. The best hybrid combination, both in terms of overall heterosis effects and per se performance, was NDCU-23-11 x Punjab Naveen. The cross combinations NDCU-23-11 x Punjab Naveen, VRCU-2203 x Pusa Uday and NDCU-23-11 x Pusa Uday outperformed the midparent in terms of fruit yield, while the combinations NDCU-23-11 x Pusa Uday, VRCU-2203 x Pusa Uday and VRCU-2203 x Arka Veera outperformed the standard variety in terms of heterosis. Heterosis over normal variety ranged from 15.05 to 112.31 %, whereas over better parent it ranged from 0.00 to 106.49 %. The predominance of dominant gene activation suggests the possibility of hybrid breeding for genetic enhancement in cucumbers.