624

1.   624 is a 45-clone synthetic variety developed by Dairyland Research Intl., Clinton, WI. Parental clones traced to MND1 (2), PI206452 (2), PI253951 (3), MSB-C4 (3), Flandria (2), Vernal (5), Iroquois (9), Saranac (8), Cherokee (2), Scout (1), Socheville (1), Vertus (2), BIC-5WH-RH (3), Glory (1), and MNB1 (1). Parental clones were selected based on progeny test on one or more of the following traits: stand persistence; winter hardiness; seed and forage yield; bacterial wilt resistance; anthracnose resistance; and Phytophthora root rot resistance. Parental clones were planted in a cage and interpollinated by bees to produce Syn. 1 as Breeder seed.

2.   624 has been tested in Wisconsin. It will be marketed in Midwest states (WI, MI, MN, IA, IL, IN, etc.). The primary purpose will be for hay, green chop, and dehydration.

3.   Flower color is approximately 64% light purple to dark purple, 30% variegated purple, and 6% light yellow and cream. Midsummer growth is erect, and fall growth is semi-erect.

4.   This variety has resistance to bacterial wilt, moderate resistance to anthracnose, Phytophthora root rot, and spotted alfalfa aphid. No information is available for Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt, stem nematode, and pea aphid.

5.   Breeder seed will be produced from cuttings of parental clones in a cage as Syn. 1 and used to produce Foundation seed. Certified seed will be produced either from Breeder or Foundation seed. One generation each of Breeder, Foundation, and Certified seed classes will be recognized. A maximum of three years is permitted on stands producing Breeder and Foundation seed, and five years for Certified seed.

6.   Certified seed will be produced in 1985.

7.   Application will be made for Plant Variety Protection.