Abstract
An extensive root system is associated with drought resistance in wheat and selection for high yield under moisture stress conditions does select for larger root system. While breeders have occasionally selected consciously, or unconsciously, for extensive rooting, a systematic breeding program for a desirable root system will contribute to higher yields under moisture stress. Early rapid growth builds up a reserve that will carry the plant through severe drought and contribute to yield even when that plant is not particularly resistant to desiccation. During high stress days Pitic 62 continues to photosynthesize and produce more root. It maintains a higher assimilation rate and utilizes the available soil moisture more efficiently than other varieties tested. The genetics of characters associated with drought are complex. To breed for a combination of attributes requires the use of: (a) a few carefully studied parents; (b) large population to permit the combination of many favorable genes; and (c) yield testing from early generation (F 3 if practical) onward to homogeneity.
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