Breeding all-male hybrids of asparagus: a review of the DSIR, New Zealand programme

Abstract

Methods and progress in breeding all-male hybrids of asparagus at Lincoln, Canterbury, New Zealand are reviewed. The effect of andromonoecism (hermaphroditism) is considered and yield data presented from breeders' trials. The disadvantages and advantages of all-male hybrids are discussed, and modifications to the current approach are suggested.

Keywords:

• asparagus
• breeding
• all-male hybrids
• andromonoecy