S-59
1. S-59 is a 275 clone synthetic variety. Clones were selected for resistance to Verticillium wilt from within 13 experimental cage combinations previously selected for high yield. All experimentals trace to populations that were subjected to selection for resistance to anthracnose, bacterial wilt, and Phytophthora root rot. Source material traces primarily to Vernal, Saranac, and Atlantic, with lesser contributions from WL 305, WL 309, Team, and Ranger.
2. S-59 is a moderately winter-hardy variety adapted for use in the northeastern, north-central, and northwestern U.S. for hay, haylage, and dehydration purposes. S-59 has been tested in MD, NY, lL, WI, and WA and will be marketed throughout the northern U.S.
3. Approximately 81% of the flowers are purple to dark purple, with 7% blue variegated, 11% yellow-green variegated and less than 1% each yellow and cream. Mid-summer growth is erect with fall dormancy similar to Saranac.
4. S-59 has high resistance to Phytophthora root rot and Fusarium wilt; resistance to bacterial wilt, Verticillium wilt, pea aphid and spotted alfalfa aphid; and moderate resistance to anthracnose and stem nematode.
5. Breeder seed (Syn 1) was produced on 275 clones grown under cage isolation at Warden, WA. Sufficient foundation (Syn 2) seed was produced near Moses Lake, WA for the expected life of the variety. One generation each of breeder, foundation, and certified (Syn 2 or Syn 3) seed is recognized. A maximum of 3 consecutive harvest years are permitted for stands producing foundation seed and 5 consecutive harvest years for stands producing certified seed.
6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1986.
7. Application will not be made for Plant Variety Protection.