An Experimental Tall Fescue Population

Authors: Kindiger, Bryan; Russo, Vincent

Submitted to: USDA Miscellaneous Publication 1343
Publication Type: Experiment Station
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/10/2009
Publication Date: 6/13/2009
Citation: Kindiger, B.K., Russo, V.M. 2009. An experimental tall fescue population. USDA Miscellaneous Publication 1343. P13.

Interpretive Summary: The objective of this research is to determine the level of stress tolerance, seed productivity and forage productivity of an experimental tall fescue population generated by a novel selection approach. This method, utilizing single pollen grains as the selection vehicle, has been applied toward the improvement of other crop species; but has not been attempted in tall fescue. Selection for both tolerance to stress, low N and drought were applied during the approach. Seed harvested from the population will undergo a second cycle of selection for similar stress conditions. The end result of this research is the expected development of a productive; highly stress tolerant tall fescue cultivar.

Technical Abstract: Tall fescue is one of the worlds most productive and highly utilized grass forages. A novel, experimental breeding approach utilizing a gamete selection method has been applied to selected breeding stocks to determine if the development of a productive, highly stress tolerant population can be achieved. The population derived from this selection approach has undergone one generation of selection and will begin a second cycle of selection beginning in 2010.