VS-626
(Experimental Desig.)
1. VS-626 was developed by mass selection for persistence of phenotypic recurrent selection for resistance to Verticillium wilt, anthracnose, or the blue alfalfa aphid. Parentage traces predominately to VS-550, Baron, Valley +, Diamond, Emerald, DK-135, and Sapphire. Estimates of the major germplasm sources that constitute this variety are: M. falcata (2%), Ladak (3%), M. varia (9%), Turkistan (16%), Flemish (31%), Chilean (15%), Peruvian (1%), Indian (4%), African (5%), and unknown (14%).
2. VS-626 is intended for use in the high desert valleys or the intermountain west, across the lower Midwest, and Midsouth for hay, haylage, or dehy production. VS-626 has been tested in California, New Mexico, Idaho, and Alabama.
3. VS-626 is a moderately dormant variety with fall dormancy similar to DuPuits. Flower color is approximately 94% purple, 5% variegated, and 1% cream.
4. VS-626 has high resistance to the blue alfalfa aphid, anthracnose, and Fusarium wilt; resistance to pea aphid, spotted alfalfa aphid, and Phytophthora rot; and moderate resistance to Verticillium wilt. Reactions to bacterial wilt and stem nematode are unknown.
5. Seed increase of VS-626 is on a limited-generation basis with one generation each of breeder and certified seed classes, and up to two generations of foundation seed. 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 in an isolated field near Woodland, CA in 1986. 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 VS-626 will be available in 1989.
7. No decision has been made regarding Plant Variety Protection (PVP).
8. This information can be forwarded to the PVP office.