Quantitative-Genetic Basis of Sprouting Resistance in Rye

The quantitative-genetic basis of sprouting resistance in winter rye (Secale cereale L.) was investigated in order to facilitate breeding for improved baking quality. Crosses within and between the Petkus and Carsten gene pools were tested along with the parental lines over two locations, two years, and two harvest dates. Heritabilities of approximately 0.6 were found for falling number (FN), a-amylase activity, dormancy, and amylograph curve characters. FN showed moderate heterosis that reached 35%. High genetic variation for FN was observed in most genetic materials, and error variances were generally small. Considerable genotype × year interactions occurred. Genotypes with high FN showed more instability for FN over environments. General combining ability was the main source of genetic variation for FN (80%) and was correlated with line per se performance in the Carsten gene pool (r = 0.66). FN showed moderate to strong correlations with slowness of development, but only loose ones or none with other agronomic traits. We conclude that improving sprouting resistance by selecting for FN should be highly effective and would not cause unfavourable side effects with regard to yielding performance.