Break-Thru
1. Break-Thru is a synthetic variety composed of 174 parent plants selected for resistance to Phytophthora root rot. The base population was composed of two experimental lines selected for resistance to Verticillium wilt. Approximately 50% of one component traces to advanced Phytophthora root rot and bacterial wilt resistant synthetics derived from Vertus. The remaining contributing germplasm was developed through several cycles of selection and recombination of plants selected for multiple-pest resistance and for agronomically desirable traits from WL 202, WL 219, WL 220, WL 303, WL 307, Vernal, Saranac, Ladak, Travois, Atlantic, Kanza and PI258758. Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata - 10%, Ladak - 13%, M. varia - 32%, Turkistan - 6%, Flemish - 30% and Chilean - 9%.
2. Break-Thru is adapted to the upper Midwestern states of the U.S. for production of dehydrated forage, hay and haylage. It has been tested for forage yield in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin and is intended for use throughout its area of adaptation.
3. Break-Thru is a fall-dormant variety similar to Ranger in fall growth. Flower color is approximately 85% purple, l4% variegated and 1% white.
4. Break-Thru has high resistance to bacterial wilt, Phytophthora root rot, Fusarium wilt and pea aphid; resistance to Verticillium wilt and spotted alfalfa aphid; and moderate resistance to anthracnose (Race 1) and stem nematode. Reaction of Break-Thru to blue alfalfa aphid has not been tested.
5. Breeder seed (Syn 1) was produced on 174 parent plants under cage isolation at Warden, WA. Foundation seed (Syn 2) is being produced near Nampa, ID in sufficient quantity for the expected life of the variety. One generation of breeder (Syn 1), two each of foundation (Syn 2 or 3) and certified (Syn 3 or 4) seed is recognized. A maximum of three harvest years are permitted for stands producing foundation seed and 5 years for certified seed fields. Foundation seed must be produced above 40 degrees N latitude.
6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1988.
7. No decision has been made regarding Plant Variety Protection.
8. The information in this application is made available to the PVP Office.