Re: CULT:HYB:More on those 450 rotters

Again I would emphasize what Neil has said.  I see no need to panic 
here or to declare a crisis (let's leave that to the Vice 
President!).  To say, on the basis of a few discussions, that "iris 
are in decline" certainly goes against my 40+ years of experience 
with them.  In pretty much all respects, iris have steadily gotten 
better and better, in beauty AND vigor.  Yes, there are some 
varieties that are dogs on appearance and some that are gorgeous but 
finicky, but the Big Picture is one of steady improvement.

Not to say that some research into the factors of resistance (if such 
exists) to Erwinia would not be useful and welcome.  This would not 
be re-inventing the wheel if it were to begin with what is known 
about Erwinia disease processes in other plants, especially 
commercial root crops.

Neil also mentioned the Dykes Medal.  In an ideal world, the best 
variety for looks and performance would always get the Dykes.  But 
never think that politics does not play a role.  Some varieties get 
high awards at least partly on the reputation of their originator, 
and maybe some get them because it is so-and-so's "turn" to get a 
medal.  Or maybe somebody is a sentimental favorite.  An awful iris 
won't get it, but a lesser iris might because of these factors.

So, like rot and the wide range of garden conditions, there are many, 
many factors that go into awards.  As long as judges are human, it 
will be thus.
-- 

Bill Shear
Department of Biology
Hampden-Sydney College
Hampden-Sydney VA 23943
(804)223-6172
FAX (804)223-6374
email<wshear@email.hsc.edu>
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