VS754
1. VS754 is a synthetic variety which was developed by strain crossing followed by phenotypic recurrent selection for Verticillium wilt resistance. Parentage traces to V5-448, 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. VS754 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. VS754 has been tested in California.
3. VS75 is a nondormant variety with fall dormancy similar to Moapa 69. Flower color is approximately 98% purple and 2% variegated, with a trace of cream and yellow.
4. VS754 has high resistance to anthracnose, Fusarium wilt,and spotted alfalfa aphid; resistance to Phytophthora root rot and pea aphid; and moderate resistance to Verticillium wilt. Reaction to bacterial wilt, stem nematode, and blue alfalfa aphid have not been adequately tested.
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation each breeder, and up to two generations of foundation and certified seed classes. Breeder (Syn 1), foundation (Syn 2 or Syn 3), and certified (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 will be available in 1990.
7. No decision has been made regarding Plant Variety Protection.
8. This information can be forwarded to the PYP office.