Matador
1. Matador is a non-dormant alfalfa cultivar. It was developed by selecting 105 plants resistant to Phytophthora root rot from approximately 5,000 seedlings inoculated with pure cultures of Phytophthora megasperma in the greenhouse. The 5,000 seedlings represented first generation offspring of a variety cross made in the field of a non-dormant x a semi-dormant cultivar.
2. Matador is adapted to the non-dormant alfalfa growing areas of California and Arizona where it has been tested for forage production. It will be used for hay, dehydration and grazing.
3. Matador has resistance to the spotted alfalfa aphid and has moderate resistance to Phytophthora root rot and bacterial wilt. It is susceptible to anthracnose and has not been adequately tested to determine its reaction to pea aphid and stem nematode.
4. Seed will be produced on a three generation basis with breeders, foundation and certified classes. Certified seed may be produced from breeders or foundation seed. Breeders seed (Syn 2) was produced near Woodland, California in 1975 and will be maintained by Northrup, King and Co. Sufficient breeders seed was produced in 1975 to last the life of the variety.
5. Certified seed will be available in 1975-76.
6. Plant Variety Protection is not planned.