Re: HYB.Breeding for Older Form and the Market

Theresa wrote:

>When I was talking about differnt forms I didn't mean to go completly
back
>to the species look

I would think Theresa is correct here.  It has occurred to me more than
once that the different look of a species is what first attracts one. 
However,
what seems to follow is the prompt attempt to then make it conform to the
TB look - give it wider falls and curving closed standards, ruffles etc. 
I'm not
as critical of this as it may sound.  There are obvious reasons for doing
those things.  More color surface to display and thus better carrying
qualities
in a planting and hopefully to also obtain a sturdier, longer lasting
bloom.
What it seems to me is sacrificed is the gracefulness inherent in the
species
look.  Personally, I wouldn't mind a species copy if the copy had superior 
adaptability to varied growing conditions and superior vigor.  I also would
not 
object to form in a different range of colors while maintaining the
integrity of the
form.  All the foregoing does not mean I am suggesting the form should not
be
tampered with, I'm not a purist.

As for markets, Anner hasn't convinced me.  What constitutes a market?  Is
it really the plants or is it marketing ploys.  Ultimately, it is probably
folks such
as are currently on this list which determine the directions irises take,
but what
is marketed to the masses at any given time will probably only represent a
small
portion of the ideas contained here.  I think there are a great many
gardeners who
grow irises, but are not much more interested in them than as a plant in
their yard,
used to fill a space and provide a bit of color in the spring.  If they
didn't get it from
their neighbor or a relative, they probably ordered it from a general
garden catalog
along with the rose bushes and other assorted plants or they picked it up
at the 
local garden center (there were 6 cultivars to choose from at one in Fort
Worth
this year ((and yes I bought 4))).  The people from this list have a bit
more interest
and investment and therefore are likely to be ordering from enterprises
that 
specialize in irises, even particular kinds of irises.  If variety and
differences and
heritage are sustained, it comes from groups such as this.  If a plant has
durable
qualities and uses, I think some on this group will give it a try.

Donald
donald@eastland.net
Zone 7 where its as windy outside as I am tonight.  The little 2 incher
possible AR
is showing purple color in the bud today.  If this is normal growth, reckon
the roots 
are as shallow as the foliage is high?  D'ya reckon it'd grow on a
limestone shelf
with only about 4 inches of soil?  It can't stay where it is with all the
taller ones
totally obscuring it.
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index