Volume 53 Number 2 Article 13
Year 1999 Month 4
Title: Blueberry Hybrids with Complex Genetic Backgrounds Evaluated on Mineral Soils: Stature, Growth Rate, Yield Potential and Adaptability to Mineral Soil Conditions as Influenced by Parental Species
Authors: J.C. Scheerens, W.A. Erb, B.L. Goulart and J.F. Hancock
Abstract:
A population of 54 blueberry (Vaccinium subsection Cyanococcus) cultivars or interspecific hybrid
selections derived from combinations of nine Vaccinium species were evaluated in replicated trial for
their mineral soil adaptation response.
Individuals within the population varied significantly for the following objectively-measured traits: plant form (height and volume), growth pattern and rate (canopy
volume increase over time) and fruit yield/volume.
Subjective evaluations also uncovered a high level
of variability among genotypes for vegetative vigor (the ability to produce new shoots in proportion to
existing plant mass), fruit/foliage ratio (the ability to balance fruit production and vegetative/floral
growth/induction) and freedom from foliar nutrient deficiency symptoms.
Indices based on subjective
evaluations and compared to objective measurements indicated the following genotypes to exhibit a
moderate degree of mineral soil adaptation: 'Jersey,' 'Sunrise,' US 612, 645, 665, 673, 676, 693, 702,
714, 723, 730, 845 and 848. When genotypes were grouped according to their genetic constitutions,
significant heritage effects were found for plant height, fruit yield/volume, 1995 and 1996 vegetative
vigor scores and 1995 fruit/foliage ratios.
However substantial within group variability for all traits was
evident, suggesting that mineral soil adaptation can be derived from a number of species combinations.
Although some deleterious patterns in growth and yield potential can be anticipated when interspecific hybridization is used within a blueberry breeding program, unique individuals do appear which have
captured beneficial traits (such as mineral soil adaptation) from feral species.
Full text download: APS subscribers
ISHS members & pay-per-view
(PDF 2318822 bytes)
Translate:
APS membership administration
ISHS membership administration
