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Hybridizing Daffodils - Page 2

© Clay Higgins

The cross is labeled indicating seed parent x pollen parent. The pollen parent is always labled second. It is generally assumed that the majority of the inherited traits come from the seed parent, however, the color and size often come from the pollen parent. Some of my N. jonquilla x Divison I and II daffodils have produced much larger plants then N. jonquilla at about 24 inches tall. However, I have not seen any flowers from the cross yet, as this is only my fourth year into hybridizing.

Definitions:

• Antler: The terminal pollen-bearing part of the stamen.
• Carpel: The ovule bearing organ of the flower; a simple pistil or member of a compound pistil. The daffodil has a compound pistil.
• Ovary: The swollen basal portion of the pistil: the part containing the ovules which after fertilization becomes the fruit containing the seeds; the ovary of the daffodil is divided into three sections.
• Pistil: Located inside the cup. It is the central and female portion of a flower, consisting of three major parts: stigma, style and ovary. The pistil of the daffodil is composed of three united carpels.
• Stamen: One of the six pollen-bearing organs composed of an anther and filament.

The method I was taught is to take an antler from the daffodil chosen to be the pollen parent, and place the pollen on the stigma of the seed parent. Essentially the process is to break off the pollen laden antler. Secondly, I tear off the cup of the seed parent and break off its antlers to avoid self pollination. After placing the pollen on the seed parent, I mark the flower crossed with a colored tab, and a number. I also don't have to worry about trying to pick that flower for some show, as it is no longer in any condition that can be described as show worthy. The cross goes into my book, with date and seed parent x pollen parent.

In addition, I take my pen and label the stem of the seed parent with the cross, but that is just so I will know when I'm out in the garden "playing with my flowers". It is also advisable to cover the ripening seed with a nylon stocking or some other method to collect the seed. Once the seed pod ruptures, the seeds are lost.

We will continue hybridizing next week with harvesting, and planting of seed.

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