The aim of this study was to evaluate the combining ability of popcorn lines and hybrids with favorable traits for baby corn production, using lines extracted from the major genotypes of the Brazilian germplasm. From nine popcorn lines, derived from the genotypes Zélia, CMS 42, CMS 43, UEM M2, Zaeli and IAC 112, 36 single-cross hybrids were obtained without reciprocals. In partial diallel crosses, 25 single-cross hybrids were obtained, derived from crosses of five lines of the Zaeli (group I) with five lines from IAC 112 (group II). We recommend using lines derived from Zaeli and CMS 42 in hybrid breeding programs for higher ear yields. The lines P9.5.1 and P9.5.5 (group I) and P8.3 and P8.5 (group II) can be recommended for recombination within each group and for the formation of two synthetic populations for recurrent selection, in order to increase ear yield.
Zea mays L. ; breeding; combining ability
