Re: HYB: backcrosses, etc...

Hi Steve, 

I'm not a pro at this, but here is what I've learned so far:

I (myself) use some of the older(70-90's)tall bearded iris to cross 
with some of the newer varieties.  My reasons are as such: 

1.) Many of the newer iris (as gorgeous and lavish as they are) lack 
vigor and health, and out-crossing it with a vigourous healthy 
variety can bring healthier seedlings.
2.) The gene pool is so vast now - - that when you cross the older 
iris with the newer ones - - you can easily come up with some mighty 
nice varieties/patterns.  And if you crossback a child to one of it's 
parents, or self cross, or cross siblings - - you can bring out 
recesive genes.   Then work to improve those newly found traits by 
crossing out to other healthy/vigourous iris and then back. 
3.) I for one, am a true believer that there are some 
hidden/undiscovered traits/genes in the older varieties - just 
waiting for someone to find them. 

You are wise to find out all you can, but also.......... don't be 
afraid to jump in and have some fun. You'll love the excitement with 
each and every seedling that blooms.  

Margie V.
Oro Valley, AZ.
zone 8/9
Irislady@comcast.net


------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor ---------------------~-->
Sell a Home with Ease!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/SrPZMC/kTmEAA/jd3IAA/2gGylB/TM
---------------------------------------------------------------------~->

 

Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index