1. VS--904 is a synthetic
variety with 297 parent plants. Parent plants were selected for multifoliolate
expression and resistance to one or more of the following pests: bacterial
wilt, Verticillium wilt, Phytophthora root rot, anthracnose, Aphanomyces
root rot,
Leptosphaerulina leafspot,
and spotted alfalfa aphid. VS--904 traces to a cross between a population
derived from Jewel and 4 year old Wisconsin yield trial selections from
the varieties 2833, Crown II. and Legend. Approximate germplasm source
contributions are: M. falcata -- 5%, Ladak -- 6%, M.
varia --
30%, Turkistan -- 3%, Flemish -- 50%, and Chilean - 6%.
2. VS--904 is adapted to and intended for use in the northern and central U.S. for hay, haylage, greenchop, or dehy production. It has been tested in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Idaho, Missouri, New York, and Pennsylvania.
3. VS--904 is a moderately dormant variety. Fall dormancy is similar to Saranac. Flower color is 90% purple, 10% variegated, and a trace of white, yellow and cream. At first flower in autumn approximately 80% of the plants show some multifoliolate expression.
4. VS--904 has high resistance to anthracnose (race 1), bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt, and Phytophthora root rot with resistance to Verticillium wilt, and Aphanomyces root rot (race 1). It has moderate resistance to stem nematode. Reaction to blue alfalfa aphid, spotted alfalfa aphid, pea aphid have not been tested.
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation of breeder and two generations of the 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. Production of Syn.3 foundation seed requires the consent of the breeder. Breeder seed was produced under cage isolation at Woodland, CA. Sufficient foundation seed for the projected life of the variety will be maintained by VISTA. Stands of foundation and certified seed fields are limited to 3 and 6 years, respectively.
6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1992.
7. No decision has been made concerning Plant Variety Protection.
8. This information can be
forwarded to the PVP office.