Genetic Innovation – Bolting Resistance
Sugar beet plants that divert their energies into flowering (bolters) reduce sugar yields, shade neighbouring plants and, when they set seed, cause weed beet in future crops. However, growers want to sow earlier to lengthen the growing season and increase yields so plant breeders are seeking to develop varieties that are resistant to vernalisation-induced bolting. The development of bolting resistance may also lead to a winter sugar beet crop sown in early autumn that could have a 25% yield increase over current spring-sownvarieties.
Research is funded by: British Beet Research Organisation, Felix Thornley Cobbold Trust, Chadacre Trust, National Farmers’ Union Sugar Division.
Variety: Annual C600 EB1 -22-57 and Biennia; C600 MB1 SibA18
Partner: Rothamsted Research
Genetic Innovation – Disease Resistance
Rhizomania is a soil borne disease that cannot be eradicated and can cut yields up to 50%. Varietal resistance to the main A and B strains of rhizomania was introduced in the late 1980s, enabling beet production to continue unhindered in infested areas for over 20 years.
In recent seasons, one of the two dominant rhizomania strains – the A-type – has mutated. Beet with the resistant gene no longer offers the resistance required and can result in varying degrees of yield loss. Researchers have now identified a new major gene source for resistance, the C48 gene, from the sea beet Beta maritima. New beet varities have been developed with both genetic sources of resistance, offering the best possible protection in areas of high rhizomania pressure and against the evolving rhizomania virus.
Variety: Isabella KWS
Breeder: KWS
