1. DK189 is a synthetic variety which was developed by strain crossing followed by phenotypic recurrent selection for resistance to Verticillium wilt. Parentage traces to VS-448, Pierce, AS-13R, and VS-446. Estimates of the major germplasm sources that constitute this variety are: M. falcata (1%), Ladak (1%), M. varia (3%), Turkistan (17%), Flemish (1%), Chilean (7%), Peruvian (12%), Indian (20%), African (35%), and unknown (3%).
2. DK189 is intended for use in the Sacramento Valley and San Joaquin Valleys of California and similar production areas of Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico for hay, haylage, or dehy production. DK189 has been tested in California.
3. DK189 is a nondormant variety with fall dormancy similar to Moapa 69. Flower color is approximately 98% purple, 2% variegated, and a trace of cream and yellow.
4. DK189 has high resistance to anthracnose, spotted alfalfa aphid, and Fusarium wilt; resistance to Phytophthora root rot, pea aphid, blue alfalfa aphid, and southern root knot nematode; and moderate resistance to Verticillium wilt, bacterial wilt and stem nematode. Reaction to northern root knot nematode has not been adequately tested.
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation each of breeder, and up to two generations of foundation and certified seed classes. Breeder seed (Syn 1), foundation seed (Syn 2 or Syn 3), and certified seed (Syn 3 or Syn 4) classes will be recognized. Breeder seed (Syn 1) was produced under cage isolation near Woodland, CA. in 1987. Sufficient foundation seed for the projected life of this variety will be maintained by VISTA. Production of Syn 3 foundation seed requires consent of the breeder. Stands of foundation and certified seed fields are limited to 3 and 6 years, respectively.
6. Certified seed of DK189 will be available in 1990.
7. No decision has been made regarding Plant Variety Protection (PVP)
8. This information can be forwarded
to the PVP office.