1. GH--777 is a synthetic variety with 285 parent plants. Parent plants were selected for multifoliolate expression and resistance to one or more of the following pests: bacterial wilt, Verticillium wilt, Phytophthora root rot, anthracnose, Aphanomyces root rot, Leptosphaerulina leafspot, and spotted alfalfa aphid. The following germplasm sources were used in the development of GH-777: Pacesetter, Blazer XL, Precedent, and Legend. Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata - 6%, Ladak - 6%, M. varia - 25%, Turkistan - 5%, Flemish - 53%, and Chilean - 5%.
2. GH-777 is adapted to and intended for use in the northcentral U.S. for hay, haylage, greenchop, or dehy production. It has been tested in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Missouri.
3. GH-777 is a dormant variety. Fall dormancy is similar to Ranger. Flower color is 80% purple, 20% variegated, and a trace of white, yellow and cream. At first flower in autumn approximately 71% of the plants show some multifoliolate expression.
4. GH-777 has high resistance to bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt, and Phytophthora root rot with resistance to anthracnose, Aphanomyces root rot (race 1), and Verticillium wilt. It has moderate resistance to stem nematode. Reaction to blue alfalfa aphid, spotted alfalfa aphid, and pea aphid have not been tested.
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation of breeder and two generations of the foundation and certified seed classes. Breeder (Syn.1), foundation (Syn.2 or Syn.3), and certified (Syn.3 or Syn.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 Woodland, CA. Sufficient foundation seed for the projected life of the variety will be maintained by VISTA. Stands of foundation and certified seed fields are limited to 3 and 6 years, respectively.
6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1992.
7. No decision has been made concerning Plant Variety Protection.
8. This information can be
forwarded to the PVP office.