Self-pollination in swedes (Brassica napus ssp Rapifera) and its implications for cultivar production

Summary The degree of selfing on open pollination was examined in four swede cultivars. Three cultivars had over 80 per cent selfing, whilst the fourth had less than 55 per cent. The inbreeding coefficient with these levels of selfing, assuming the cultivars were at equilibrium, would be 0.69 and 0.37 respectively. The cultivar with the high level of outcrossing was found to possess a degree of self-incompatibility. The structure of such populations is demonstrated, and the implications for cultivar production are discussed.