WL 318
1. WL 318 was developed for Phytophthora resistance by screening over 100 WL varieties and experimentals that possessed good levels of resistance to pea and spotted aphids. Approximately 3000 seedlings of each entry were exposed to Phytophthora infection and survivors re-exposed in lined tanks in the greenhouse. Selections from 10 different experimental synthetics totaled 89. These are the parents of WL 318.
2. WL 318 is a hay and haylage variety adapted to Phytophthora infested soils in the central region of alfalfa adaptation.
3. The flower color is predominantly purple, blue and blue variegated with about 1% yellow, green and white. In addition to good levels of resistance to bacterial wilt and Phytophthora, WL 318 is resistant to both the pea and spotted aphids.
4. Breeder seed is the initial increase from the 89 parent plants interpollinated with honeybees. Foundation seed may be produced only from breeder seed in eligible fields between the 37 and 44 parallels. Certified seed will be produced only from breeder or foundation seed. No other class or generation of seed will be recognized.
5. Certified seed will be available in 1975.
6. PVP not contemplated.