1. Prism is a synthetic variety
with 194 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 wer-e--used
in the development of Prism: Zenith, Crown II, OK-122, Legend, and VS--775.
Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata
-- 8%, Ladak - 7%, M. varia -
28%, Turkistan -- 4%, Flemish -- 4%, and Chilean -- 5%.
2. Prism 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. Prism is a moderately dormant variety. Fall dormancy is similar to Saranac. Flower color is 80% purple, 20% variegated, and a trace of white, yellow and cream. At first flower in autumn approximately 66% of the plants show some multifoliolate expression.
4. Prism has high resistance to bacterial wilt, anthracnose (race 1), and Phytophthora root rot with resistance to Fusarium wilt, and Verticillium wilt. It has moderate resistance to Aphanomyces root rot (race 1). Reaction to stem nematode, spotted alfalfa aphid, pea aphid, and blue alfalfa 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.