Tetraploid MTBs
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Tetraploid MTBs
- From: m*@bcgrizzly.com (Monashee Perennials)
- Date: Thu, 6 Mar 1997 11:41:52 -0700 (MST)
A while back there was a reference to the breeding of tet. MTB iris. I can't
locate the specific item right now. I see this topic popping up with more
frequency of late and notice that some tet MTBs are being registered.
My question is this: what is the aim of this breeding? I am aprehensive
because when I first became acquainted with the MTBs I became a champion of
them. Their appeal to me I think results directly from their diploid makeup.
The graceful flower parts which flutter in a breeze and which are placed on
thin sinuous stalks are a wonderful picture in the garden or in a vase.
I would anticipate that the answer may be that the breeders are seeking
color breakthroughs and that would not be a bad thing, but if it carries
with it, the rigid flower parts and thicker stalks, not to mention increased
flower size, I would prefer to live with the color palette which we have and
keep the form.
In a world in which bigger is almost always considered to be better, I fear
for the future of one of my favorite irises.
John Montgomery who thinks grace is beauty.
monashee@bcgrizzly.com
Vernon, BC
Snowing again.
