Breeding and Evaluation of a New-Bred Semi-Leafless Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Cultivar Longwan No. 6

Abstract

The pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an excellent protein source for livestock and human nutrition. However, its growth is hampered by several factors including powdery mildew (Erysiphe pisi DC) and lodging in irrigation areas. These limitations may be solved through combining a Canada powdery mildew-resistant pea (Mp1807) with green cotyledon cultivar (Graf) by means of sexual hybridization. A bred semi-leafless pea, cultivar Longwan No. 6, was selected and evaluated in multiple ecological zones to investigate and evaluate high-yield, adaptability, and resistance to root rot (Aphanomyces euteiches Drechs. f. sp. pisi) and powdery mildew from 2012 to 2014. The results revealed that Longwan No. 6 was characterized by lodging resistance and moderate powdery mildew resistance. The average grain yield of Longwan No. 6 is 2855.3 kg/hm2 in spring sowing and is increased by 18.4% compared to the control cultivar (Longwan No. 1). The average grain yield of Longwan No. 6 is 2349.9 kg/hm2 in winter sowing and is increased by 12.8% when compared to the control cultivar. The results indicated that Longwan No. 6 has a greater potential to increase yield and wide adaptability. Adopting the Longwan No. 6 pea cultivar contributes to improvements in pea production in irrigation areas.