Winter Nursery and Seed Production for Rapid Germplasm Enhancement

Using a combination of short (1 m) and long (5 m) nursery plots, the cooperator will sow CMS conversion plots, mapping population single seed descents, and inbred line advancement, increase, and purification rows to support rapid advancement of sunflower inbred lines to release.

The cooperators will maintain plots using supplemental irrigation and hand weeding, and provide regular progress reports and questions concerning unusual findings. A mid-season report will contain bloom dates (days after planting) and plant height for specific plots. Pollination will be according to written instructions and/or guidance from ARS staff during a site visit.

Harvest will be according to written and pre-discussed guidance and the relevant plants threshed and seed sent back to ARS for the next field season.