| Abstract: | Summary Two separate experiments were conducted in which sunflower lines were tested for their pollen production and hybridization performance.In the first experiment, lines derived from a common source were tested for their pollen production. In the second experiment, two standard varieties were tested for their combining ability.The tested lines differed significantly in their pollen production. It was further shown by correlation analysis that these differences were maintained over two seasons. It is concluded that the technique developed in the investigations can be used to advantage in selecting male and female parents in the breeding program.Experiments on mixed seed rates of two standard varieties failed to give yield data, and consequently, no definite conclusions may be drawn.Agriculture and industry are just beginning to recognize the sunflower as an important source of oil and other substances. Since this crop has not been intensively studied, future investigators should be quite effective in advancing its relative importance, both as to production and utilization. |
