Thorobred
1. Thorobred was developed by hand crossing 150 selected plants from each of two improved, moderately dormant germplasm sources in the greenhouse. Germplasm sources had been screened for Phytophthora root rot resistance prior to crossing. Source materials trace primarily to: Kanza, Pacer, Titan, Vernal, Washoe, Weevilchek, Anchor, Dawson and some dormant by flemish crosses. A complementary strain cross method of breeding was employed.
2. It is intended that Thorobred be used for forage production in the central and northern areas of the midwest as well as portions of Nevada and northern California. The variety has been tested in: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Nevada and California.
3. Thorobred is similar to Ranger in dormancy. Flower color is approximately 38% purple and 62% variegated. No yellow flowers were observed, but could be present.
4. Thorobred is highly resistant to bacterial wilt. It is resistant to Fusarium wilt, moderately resistant to Phytophthora root rot and susceptible to anthracnose. Thorobred has not been tested for Verticillium wilt, stem nematodes, pea aphid or spotted alfalfa aphid.
5. Seed increases of Thorobred shall be on a limited generation basis, with one generation each of breeder, foundation, and certified seed classes. Foundation fields shall be limited to a maximum of three consecutive harvest years. Certified seed shall be the first generation from either breeder or foundation and will be limited to four harvest years.
6. Certified seed will first be offered for sale in 1986.
7. Plans are to not apply for Plant Variety Protection.