1. VS-937 is a synthetic variety with 85 parent plants. Parent plants were selected for vigor, 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. The following germplasm sources were used in the development of VS-937: Jewel, Prism, Pacesetter, VS-904, WL-320, and Magnum +. Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata -- 5%, Ladak -- 6%, M. varia -- 27%, Turkistan -- 3%, Flemish - 53%, and Chilean -- 6%.
2. VS-937 is adapted to and intended for use in the northern U.S. for hay, haylage, greenchop, or dehy production. It has been tested in Idaho, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and New York.
3. VS--937 is a dormant variety. Fall dormancy is similar to Ranger. Flower color is 90% purple, 10% variegated, and a trace of white, yellow and cream. At first flower in autumn approximately 97% of the plants show some multifoliolate expression.
4. VS-937 has high resistance to anthracnose (race 1), bacterial wilt, and Phytophthora root rot with resistance to Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt, and Aphanomyces root rot (race 1). It has moderate resistance to stem nematode. Reaction to blue alfalfa aphid, spotted alfalfa aphid, and 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.