1. VS--943 is a synthetic
variety with 328 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. The following germplasm sources were used in
the development of VS-943: Jewel and Encore. Approximate germplasm source
contributions are: M.falcata -- 5%, Ladak - 6%, M. varia
-- 27%. Turkistan --
3%, Flemish - 53%, and Chilean -- 6%.
2. VS-943 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, New York, and Pennsylvania.
3. VS--943 is a dormant variety. Fall dormancy is similar to Ranger. Flower color is 85% purple, 15% variegated, and a trace of white, yellow and cream. At first flower in autumn approximately 93% of the plants show some multifoliolate expression.
4. VS--943 has high resistance to bacterial wilt, Phytophthora root rot, and Fusarium wilt with resistance to anthracnose (race 1), 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.