Performance of four winter wheat cultivars in blended populations

Abstract

Abstract A field experiment was grown for 4 years at two locations in Maryland to evaluate the performance of 11 blended populations of winter wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) relative to their four component cultivars (‘Blueboy’, ‘Centurk’, ‘Holley’, ‘Potomac’) in pure stands. All possible equal proportional 2-, 3-, and 4-way mechanical blends were prepared for evaluation. Blends and component cultivars were grown in replicated small plots (1.22 m × 3.05 m) under conventional management for wheat in Maryland. Plots were scored for lodging, winter survival, and incidence of powdery mildew ( Erysiphe graminis f. sp. tritici ). At maturity, a yield estimate was obtained, and grain samples were analyzed for milling and baking quality. Advantages for several blend populations relative to some of the component lines in pure stand were observed for yield, standability, and winter survival. Data for mildew incidence in the blends was inconclusive, and no advantages were observed for milling and baking quality relative to the component lines. It was concluded that (1) it should be possible to construct agronomically suitable blends; (2) their relative performance can be predicted based on the known performance of component cultivars grown in pure stands; and (3) that their use in world agriculture can make an important contribution towards a reduction in the risks inherent in genetic uniformity.