1. WL 610 is a 222 clone synthetic variety derived from the strain cross of two W-L experimental germplasm sources which had been screened for resistance to blue alfalfa aphid and anthracnose and which exhibited outstanding yield and persistence in yield trials at Bakersfield, CA. The combined germplasm were further screened for resistance to Phytophthora root rot, stem nematode, and anthracnose. Germplasm traces to University of California A77-10B, CUF 101, and UC 123. Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. varia -- 1%, Turkistan -- 22%, Flemish -- 1%, Chilean -- 5%, Indian -- 12%, and African -- 59%.
2. WL 610 is intended for use in the southwestern U.S. for hay, haylage, greenchop, or dehydration production. It has been tested for forage yield in California and Arizona.
3. WL 610 is a very non--dormant variety with fall dormancy similar to CUF 101. Flower color is 99% purple and 1% variegated. Midsummer and fall growth is erect.
4. WL 610 has high resistance to spotted alfalfa aphid, blue alfalfa aphid, pea aphid, Fusarium wilt, and stem nematode; resistance to Phytophthora root rot; and low resistance to bacterial wilt and anthracnose. Reaction to Verticillium wilt has not been adequately tested.
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation of breeder and two generations each of foundation and certified seed classes. Breeder (Syn.1), foundation (Syn.2 or Syn.3) and certified (Syn.3 or 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 Bakersfield, CA. Sufficient foundation seed for the projected life of the variety will be maintained by W-L Research.
6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1991.
7. No decision has been made concerning Plant Variety Protection.
8. This information can be forwarded to the PVP office.