1. Key is a synthetic alfalfa variety selected from the Shenandoah alfalfa variety by phenotypic recurrent selection for resistance to verticillium wilt. the pea aphid, and the spotted alfalfa aphid. The germplasm of Key consists of 1000/o of the variety Shenandoah. The gerinpiasm sources of Key are considered to be largely Flemish and Chilean with estimates as follows: M.Falcata = 3%. Ladak = 1%, M.varla = 15%. Turklstan = 5%. Flemish = 40%. Chilean = 25%, unknown = 11%.
2. Key is adapted to and intended for use In the Northeastern and Northcentral USA. It has been tested In Pennsylvania. Wisconsin, Colorado, Illinois, and Iowa. Proposed area of Intended use is the northern and central USA.
3. Fall dormancy is similar to Saranac. Flower color, measured In the Syn 2 generation. is 90% purple and 10% variegated.
4. Key has high resistance to Anthracnose (Race 1). Bacterial Wilt. Fusarlum Wilt, Verticillium Wilt, Phytophthora Root Rot, Pea Aphid. and Spotted Alfalfa Aphid: and moderate resistance to Blue Alfalfa Aphid, Aphanomyces Root Rot (Race 1), Stem nematode, and southern root-knot nematode (M.Incognita).
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation each of breeder, foundation, and certified seed classes: ie, breeder (Syn 1), foundation (Syn 2), certified (Syn 3). Breeder seed was produced under isolation in Apex, NC. Foundation and certified classes are produced by Great Plains Research Company, Inc. under contract with seed growers. Age of stand for seed production for breeder, foundation, and certified seed Is 1. 2, and 6 years, respectively. Breeder and foundation seed stocks are maintained by Great Plains Research Company, Inc.
6. Certified seed will be marketed In 1993.
7. Application will be made for Plant Variety Protection under the Act. The certification option will not be requested.
8. This Information may be forwarded to the PVP office.