Some data on the polygenic control of two quantitative traits in a vegetatively propagated flower plant, the carnation.
In two populations of selfed commercial varieties 4800 and 5774 ofDianthus cariophyllus as well as in the parents of 5774 two quantitative traits were examined: petal number and durability of blossoms after cutting. Both populations showed an increase in the number of petals, No. 4800 also in its durability. The estimated hereditary component was high for petals (0.47 and 0.35), lower but significant for lasting quality. The importance of an investigation on the selection for quantitative traits in cut flowers is discussed.
Department of Horticulture and Department of Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Alpi
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Buiatti
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Baroncelli