Nova

1.  The selection criteria used in the development of this variety include persistence in cold climates, less fall dormancy and winter hardiness.

2.  This variety is adapted to the North Central and East Central regions.

3.  Test variety is moderately fall dormant, similar to FD4 checks. Flower color (Syn. 2) is 13% variegated and 87% purple.

4.  This variety has high resistance to bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt, Phytophthora root rot and pea aphid; with resistance to Anthracnose (race 1), Verticillium wilt, stem nematode and spotted alfalfa aphid; and moderate resistance to Aphanomyces root rot (race 1). Blue alfalfa aphid and root knot nematode resistance not tested.

5.  Seed increase is on a limited generation basis: breeder (Syn. 1), foundation (Syn. 2), and certified (Syn 3). Breeder seed was produced in 2000. Breeder and foundation seed will be maintained by Great Plains Research Company, Inc. Sufficient breeder and foundation seed are available for foreseeable needs

6.  Certified seed will be marketed in 2004.

7.  No decision bas been made concerning Plant Variety Protection Act.

8.  Information in this application may not be forwarded to the PVP office.

9.  Variety Name:  Nova.

     Date Submitted:  November 20, 2003.

     Experimental Designation: CK2000.