Location: Crop Genetics Research
Project Number: 6066-21220-016-003-R
Project Type: Reimbursable Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Oct 1, 2021
End Date: Feb 28, 2023
Objective:
To improve seed quality, yield, and composition in the early-planted soybean production system (ESPS).
Approach:
Growing early-maturing varieties from the traditional gene pool in the mid-southern US often produces damaged seeds with poor seed composition that are prone to be discounted by buyers and useless for seed beans. In this project, improved experimental lines derived from exotic accessions with high germinability traits (high seed germination, high seed vigor, smooth non-damaged yellow seed, and permeable seed coats) and high protein will be crossed with each other and with high-yielding cultivars and breeding lines with enhanced protein concentration. Heterogeneous lines with improved agronomic traits, high protein, and high germinability from previous approved projects will be selected and advanced to be homogeneous in appearance. Selected homogeneous lines from previous projects will be tested in irrigated and non-irrigated replicated plots. Lines at this stage of development will be evaluated for protein content, yield, and tolerance to damage. Selected lines will be evaluated in regional testing and the best lines provide by MTA or release to commercial and public soybean breeding programs.
