Some consequences of pollen storage in the raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.)

Summary Raspberry pollen was stored at 5°C and –13°C for six months and then tested for its ability to induce pyrene set and the production of viable seedlings, and for its effect upon the segregation of a major gene s. Only pollen stored at –13°C gave a pyrene set and germination percentage adequate to produce sufficient seedlings for a breeding programme. It is suggested that tests of pollen viability in the raspberry should include studies of pollen germination, and the effect of this pollen on pyrene set and seed germination. Possible causes of the loss of viability in the pollen stored at 5°C are discussed.