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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Madison, Wisconsin » Vegetable Crops Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #232696
Title: Genetic Influences on the Seed Yielding Ability of Carrot Hybrids

Author
item Simon, Philipp
item Kane, Robert

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/2/2008
Publication Date: 1/17/2009
Citation: Simon, P.W., Kane, R.T. 2009. Genetic Influences on the Seed Yielding Ability of Carrot Hybrids [abstract]. 33rd International Carrot Conference. Paper No. BG-102.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Carrot seed production characteristics of four different threeway carrot hybrids were evaluated over three years during seed production from transplanted roots in Madison, Wisconsin. Components of seed yielding ability and plant architecture were measured. Both the male sterile seed parent and inbred pollen parent significantly influenced variables that are considered major factors for yield. Significant differences were detected between male sterile hybrid seed parents and between inbred pollen parents for their influence on seed yield. Significant differences in some aspects of yield were influenced by the male sterile hybrid seed parent. Basic plant stature, as measured by plant height and post harvest dry weight, has a positive effect on yield of carrot seed. Phenotypic variation in the umbel characteristics also contributed to differences in yield. More specifically, the superior male sterile hybrid seed producer had a greater number of umbels that measure from 4-7 cm in diameter. Pre-transplant weight of the root grown in El Centro, California did not appear to play a major role in the quantity of seed produced. Expected seed size, and the number of seeds per umbel can be estimated by the position of the source umbel on the plant. Inbreds used as pollenizers are more successful if there is pollen available in the cage during fertilization of the smaller sized umbel classes. It may be possible for plant breeders to design hybrid combinations possessing the desired horticultural characteristics to take advantage of this model of superior seed yielding phenotypes.