No abstract

The present research study was aimed for estimation of genetic diversity and characterization of various morphological and biochemical traits of kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with the objectives of identifying superior genotypes at the Research Farm, The University of Haripur during zaid-rabi season 2018.Twelve different kidney bean genotypes were evaluated by using Randomize Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Data was recorded for various morphological and biochemical traits. Analysis of variancerevealed highly significant genetic diversity.Minimum days to emergence were recorded for Line-12 (22.66 days), having moderate plant height of (89.44 cm), longer pods (13.003 cm) containing maximum number of seeds (6.55). Minimum days to flowering were observed for Line-1 (59 days). Maximum plant height was recorded for Line-5 (99.11 cm). Maximum numbers of pods were produced by Line-9 having (16.28). Maximum pod length (13.55 cm) was observed for Line-2. Seeds per plant were maximum in Line-9 (72.97). Line 4 produced larger size bean seeds having maximum 100 seed weight (55.74 g). Total phenolic compounds were observed to be maximum in Line-10 (88.24 mg/100g) while total antioxidants were maximum in Line-7 (136.88). Based on the characterization of kidney bean genotypes at Haripur, the genotypes viz. Line-9 and Line-12 were observed superior having minimum days to emergence, moderate plant height, early maturity, high yield. Therefore, these genotypes are recommended for further characterization in the kidney bean breeding programfor further evaluation.