Re: EDITH WOLFORD
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: EDITH WOLFORD
- From: S* M* <7*@CompuServe.COM>
- Date: Mon, 3 Mar 1997 08:33:11 -0700 (MST)
Of using this for hybridizing, Graham Spencer wrote:
: Would that really be wise? Seriously, given its indifferent performance for
: many on this list, do you want to promote indifferent growth habits? Although
: it may carry the distinctive bloom colouring and form to a more vigorous
: plant - that would be worth aiming for.
It's a calculated risk. The wisdom is required for seedling selection.
Breakthrough flowers rarely oblige us by appearing on ideal plants, but the
plants that "grow like weeds" often have flowers that look like weeds.
I've found this type of cross to be quite productive:
stong-plant-with-blah-flower X weak-plant-with-spectacular-flower
Then, when the time comes to selecting seedlings for further breeding -- the key
is to be ruthless and use only those that have good flowers on strong plants.
It IS possible to breed better growth habits into a line. What counts is the
few seedlings you keep, not the thousands you through away.
Sharon McAllister
73372.1745@compuserve.com
counting down to bloom season
