The USDA Pear Breeding Program II. Seedling Evaluation

Abstract

A detailed description is presented of the collection and handling of pear seed from controlled pollinations, and the planting, inoculation, evaluation and culture of seedlings in the greenhouse and in the field. During the past decade, data on fire blight resistance, fruit quality, juvenility, and male sterility have been collected on approximately 30,000 seedlings planted at Beltsville, Maryland, and Wooster, Ohio. Observations were also made on overall resistance to Fabraea leaf spot, pear psylla and leaf scorch. Numerous selections are presently under observation. All data are computerized and utilized in the genetic interpretation of specific characters as well as for the decision making for selections and choosing parents in the breeding program.