For successful application of artificial seed technology to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), parental plants must possess the necessary genes for somatic embryogenesis and produce progeny having high commercial value. A backcross procedure was initiated to transfer the ability to form somatic embryos from genotype A70-34, a selection from the cultivar Rangelander, to multiple-pest-resistant alfalfa germplasm. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the growth characteristics and seed yield of the F1; BC1 and BC2 generations to determine if introgression with commercial germplasm had improved the agronomic features of the embryogenic germplasm. This study consisted of two field experiments, each conducted at two locations. One experiment evaluated herbage growth characteristics and herbage production at Elora and Woodstock, Ontario, and the other evaluated seed yield at Elora and Delhi, Ontario. Significant increases in fall regrowth height, leaflet length:width ratio, and seed yield were detected over the cycles of crossing. By the BC2, fall dormancy and leaflet length:width ratio were similar to those in commercial populations. Although improvements in seed yield were detected, the BC2 was inferior in seed yield compared with commercial germplasm, and further introgression and (or) conscious selection for improved seed yield will be required. Through a population backcross procedure, it appears possible to develop commercial alfalfa germplasm capable of in vitro manipulation. Key words: Alfalfa, Medicago sativa L., somatic embryogenesis, artificial seed, backcross
Synthetic seed technology for encapsulation and regrowth of in vitro-derived Acacia hyrid shoot and axillary buds
