A new method of producing 4x hybrid true potato seed

Abstract

New haploid-wild species hybrids (H-S) with desirable tuber type and 2n gamete production have been identified. They provide the opportunity for the production of inexpensive, 4x hybrid TPS from 2x×2x crosses. A proposed system to utilize plants producing either 2n eggs or 2n pollen is described. One H-S hybrid (female parent) would be selected for male fertility, self-incompatibility, high frequency of 2n eggs and no 2n pollen; an unrelated H-S (male parent) for male fertility and high 2n pollen production. In addition both parents would be selected for profuse flowering, attractiveness to bumblebees and other desirable characteristics. The male and female parents would be planted in alternate hills with bumblebees doing the pollinations. The elimination of emasculation, pollen collection, and hand pollination could reduce 4x hybrid TPS costs by more than 50 percent.