Bodenko N. Selection and estimation of source material for drought- and heat resistance for breeding middle maturity corn hybrids

Object - selection and estimation of corn lines and hybrids for drought- and heat resistance relatively the indexes which determine their adaptive potential. Aim - theoretical grounds and practical realization of the program of increasing corn yield and yield stability in the Steppe zone by obtaining middle maturity hybrids of high performance. Methods - self-pollination of the source material; study of the combining ability of the lines by topcross method; physiological methods of the lines evaluation for drought- and heat resistance; analyses of economically useful indexes. Novelty - Criteria of breeding material evaluation for drought and heat resistance on the basis of different morphological and biological indexes were recommended. Perspective of middle maturity forms (lines of different genetic plasmas) usage in heterosis selection was proved. Results: New source material with high drought and heat resistance and other economically useful indexes was obtained. Sphere of use - agricultural