Hybrid seed production tests at Stuttgart, AR

Authors: DEREN, CHRISTOPHER - University Of Arkansas; YAN, ZOHGBU - University Of Arkansas; Yan, Wengui

Submitted to: Rice Technical Working Group Meeting Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/27/2012
Publication Date: 2/1/2013
Citation: Deren, C., Yan, Z., Yan, W. 2013. Hybrid seed production tests at Stuttgart, AR. Rice Technical Working Group Meeting Proceedings. Feb.27-Mar.1,2012. Hot Springs, AR. pg. 57.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Hybrid seed production is complicated and difficult compared to seed increase of conventional inbred rice varieties. Some factors to be considered in hybrid seed production include whether it is a two or three-line hybrid, geographic location, field isolation, planting sequence for prental lines, field spacing, panicle exertion, stigma exertion, and method used to help distribute the pollen. A preliminary seed production test of some two- and three- line hybrids was done at Stuttgart, AR in 2011 to assess some of these factors, particularly the timing of parent-line planting. Four restorer lines were planted in single rows, 3m apart, and 15 m long. Thirty to fifty days later the 5 male-sterile lines were planted in the space between the restorer rows. Some male sterile seed were soaked in water for 2 d and then broadcast into a shallow flood. Other male sterile plants were transplanted at 4 different growth stages, 10 days apart. At heading, pollen distribution was aided by use of a patent-pending new technology, pushing against the restorer rows with bamboo poles at about 11am -1 pm. Seed production in some combinations was less than expected because heading was not synchronized and birds damaged some male-sterile stands. However, some combinations were timed well and produced as much as 2932 kg ha-1 of seed.