New linseed accessions in the VIR collection, suitable for dual utilization (seed and fiber) in the North-Western Region of the Russian Federation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Market demand for flax fiber continues to grow. Partially, it can be replaced with linseed fiber. In 2015–2017, 40 linseed accessions were evaluated in North-West of Russia. Warm-water retted fiber was tested with the technique used for fiber flax. Contrasting weather conditions in 2015–2017 made it possible to compare accessions characters. Since plant height and yield of long fibers are determined mainly by genotype, it is possible to select promising genotypes directly during the breeding process under unusual conditions. A significant contribution of genotypes to the formation of fiber quality characters and duration of the growing season facilitates the breeding process. A stable close relationship between plant height with straw yield and a weaker one with long fiber content can simplify the selection of productive plants according to their height in the initial stages of breeding. The absence of close links between fiber quality and other characteristics makes feasible independent selection to improve product quality. A three-year-long evaluation of linseed accessions has shown the possibility of such cultivar cultivation in the North arias in order to produce both fiber and seeds. On the basis of these results, promising accessions suitable for dual utilization have been identified.