Another lucerne for N.Z.

Press, 20 July 1979, Page 6

Another lucerne for N.Z.

A new lucerne variety resistant to the pea aphid has been added to the list of acceptable crop cultivars or varieties, according to the grain and seed division of Wrightson NMA, Ltd. ■ Designated WL3IB. the new variety also displays excellent resistance to bacteria! wilt, Phytophthora root rot and foliar diseases. “In addition, it also has marked resistance to spotted alfalfa aphid should this pest ever appear in New Zealand,” says the firm’s marketing manager, Mr Bob Mather. “in trials conducted by the Crop Research Division of the D.S.I.R:, WL3lB’s growth pattern and leafiness resembled Saranac, giving dry matter yields equal to Saranac and superior to Wairau,” said Mr Mather. “However,” he pointed out, “owing to the small 1978 United States harvest and the shortfall in the current Australian harvest, only a limited tonnage will

be available for sowings in the spring this year.” Mr Mather went on to say that WL3IB displays wide adaptability performing well on irrigated or dry land areas. Overseas assessments in climatic regions similar to New Zealand describe WL3IB as having a fast recovery after cutting, good longevity, and quality forage for grazing and hay production, with autumn production a feature.' WL3IB was bred by Waterman Loomis, of Bakersfield, California, United States. Wrightson NMA are agents for all Waterman Loomis lucerne varieties with the exception of WL3II. “Application of plant variety protection for WL3IB is currently being sought,” said Mr Mather. Other Waterman Loomis varieties are now under evaluation at Wrightson NMA’s research centres, and at both the D.S.I.R. and M.A.F. testing stations, .