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In 2008–2012 four groups of winter triticale hybrids were obtained and evaluated for male fertility: 16 F1 hybrids obtained from crossing 8 male sterile lines having T. timopheevi cytoplasm with 2 cultivars, 36 F1 hybrids from crossing 4 lines, each with a different cytoplasm (T. timopheevi, Pampa, Ae. sharonensis, and Ae. ventricosa) with 9 cultivars, 21 hybrids (F1 to BC4 generations) of 7 lines with three cytoplasms (T. timopheevi. Pampa, Ae. sharonensis) and 55 hybrids F1–BC3 with Ae. ovata cytoplasm. The hybrids displayed various male fertility level. The restoration index was from zero to 100% depending on the maternal line, the cytoplasm and the male parent genotype. In each group of hybrids with T. timopheevi, Pampa, Ae. sharonensis and Ae. ventricosa cytoplasm an interaction of female  male parent was found. All the hybrids with Ae. ovata cytoplasm were male sterile. The plant material obtained in these studies makes it possible to develop male sterility systems with Ae. sharonensis and Pampa cytoplasms, different from that with T. timopheevi cytoplasm.

Yellow rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis, is becoming more and more threatening to triticale cultivation in Poland. Pathogenicity of the pathogen to wheat strains with Yr genes, triticale cultivars and rye cultivar Dańkowskie Złote was investigated in 2009–2011. Variation in virulence was estimated for 45 isolates of P. striiformis collected mainly in north – western regions of the country. No virulence was found to resistance genes Yr3+, Yr4+, Yr15, Yr5+Yr15, Yr7+Yr9. Virulence to the Yr1, Yr3, Yr5, Yr6, Yr9, Yr10, Yr17, Yr18, Yr24, Yr26, Yr27, Yr28, Yr32, YrSp, YrPr1+YrPr2, Yr2+Yr6+Yr25, Yr9+Yr27 was generally low. High virulence level was observed in case of triticale cultivars: Dinaro, Grenado, Lamberto, Pizarro, Woltario and Marko. No virulence was found to cultivars: Borwo, Pigmej and Zorro. Isolates of P. striiformis were virulent to rye cultivar – Dańkowskie Złote.

The aim of experiments was to define the fertilization requirements for three potato cultivars (Ametyst, Jutrzenka and Tetyda) and to assess the influence of different nitrogen fertilization levels on the yield as well as on starch, nitrates and dry matter contents in tubers. The experiment was carried out on light soil, on which straw and aftercrop of white mustard were applied. In these experiments 5 levels of mineral nitrogen fertilization were applied: 0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg N•ha-1, at the constant levels of phosphorus — 17.5 kg P•ha-1 and potassium — 108 kg K•ha-1 that were based on measured soil contents. Maximum nitrogen doses and their efficiency were established for tested cultivars. It was found that cultivars Ametyst and Jutrzenka required medium nitrogen dosage but cultivar Tetyda had low requirement for nitrogen. The agronomical efficiency of nitrogen dose for cultivars Ametyst and Jutrzenka was similar (138 and 139 kg of tubers per 1 kg of N) and for cultivar Tetyda it was higher (156 kg of tubers per 1 kg of N). The analysed factors: weather conditions (rainfall, air temperature) in vegetation period; level of mineral nitrogen fertilization and genetic properties of cultivar significantly affected the contents of selected chemical elements in tubers

The study was conducted on microplots and in potato storage at the Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute – National Research Institute, Division Jadwisin in 2007–2009. The aim of this study was to assess the development of latent form of ring rot in progeny tubers of Drop cultivar during storage period (6 months). Before planting, seed tubers were inoculated with bacterial suspension of two concentrations of Cms cells: 106 cfu/ml and 108 cfu/ml. The share of progeny tubers with visible symptoms was found in a 1.9% of the assessed tubers. The share of samples with Cms cells detected using IF test increased after storage by 9%. Latent tuber infection rate increased after storage in comparison to results obtained directly after harvest. The highest percentage of latently infected progeny tubers was determined for samples in which potato seed tubers were inoculated with bacterial suspension of 108 cfu/ml Cms concentration.

The work presents results of studies conducted in 2006–2009. Our goal was to determine the effect of undersown catch crops, which were either autumn-incorporated or left as mulch on the soil surface till spring, on the yields of table potato cultivated under either an integrated or organic farming system in the reorganization period. Two factors were examined in the experiment: I — undersown catch crops applied as fertilizer (not fertilized control, farmyard manure, white sweet clover (Melilotus albus), Westerwold ryegrass, white sweet clover — mulch, Westerwold ryegrass — mulch); II — an integrated and organic farming system in the reorganization period. The undersown catch crops were incorporated prior to table potato planting. The total fresh mass yield of potato tubers was determined during potato harvest and marketable yield after the harvest. Also, tuber samples were taken to determine dry matter, starch and total protein contents which were then expressed in terms of yields of these components. In both farming system the highest yields of potato tubers were harvested from white sweet clover mulch-fertilized plots. Higher yields were recorded under the integrated rather than organic farming system in the reorganization period. White sweet clover was found to have the same manuring value as farmyard manure irrespective of the timing of its application and farming system of potato.

The work presents results of studies carried out in 2006–2009 to evaluate the fertilizing value of undersown catch crops in the integrated system of potato cultivation., Undersown catch crops were either ploughed in autumn or remained as mulch in place till spring. The following treatments were examined in the experiment: control (no undersown catch crop), farmyard manure, Persian clover, Westerwold ryegrass, Persian clover — mulch, Westerwold ryegrass — mulch. Dry matter content and macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) contents were determined in the biomass of the undersown catch crops. Table potatoes were cultivated following fertilization with the undersown catch crops. The total fresh mass of yield of potato tubers was determined and marketable yield as well as tuber yield structure. Dry matter was introduced into the soil when Westerwold ryegrass was incorporated. In turn, Persian clover supplied most of macronutrients. The highest total yield of potato tubers was determined for the Persian clover mulch treatment. Moreover, Persian clover, either autumn — or spring-incorporated, can fully replace farmyard manure under the integrated system of potato cultivation.

The results of a field experiment conducted in the years 2007–2010 at the Zawady Experimental Station are presented in this paper. The experiment was a split-plot arrangement with three replicates. The following two factors were examined: three potato cultivars (Satina, Tajfun, Cekin) and five weed control methods (1. mechanical cultivation – a control, 2. Command 480 EC 0.2 dm3•ha-1, 3. Command 480 EC 0.2 dm3•ha-1 + Afalon 450 SC 1.0 dm3•ha-1, 4. Stomp 3.5 dm3•ha-1, 5. Stomp 3.5 dm3•ha-1 + Afalon 450 SC 1.0 dm3•ha-1). The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of herbicides on the productivity of one potato plant and selected attributes of tuber cooking quality of three edible potato cultivars. The greatest weight of tubers produced by one plant and the greatest average weight of one tuber were determined for cultivar Tajfun, 1351.9 and 123.1 g respectively, whereas the lowest values were recorded for cultivar Satina, 985.7 g and 93.1 g, respectively. The weed control methods significantly influenced the weight of tubers formed by one plant and the average weight of one tuber. The greatest values of both the traits were recorded in plots treated with a mixture of Command 480 EC applied at the rate of 0.2 dm3•ha-1 and Afalon 450 SC at the rate of 1.0 dm3•ha-1. The average weight of one tuber was 126.8 g whereas the weight of tubers produced by one plant was 1336.7 g. The study demonstrated that the darkening of raw tuber flesh determined after 10 min. and 4 hours was cultivar-related and also influenced by the weed control methods and weather conditions in individual study years. Both, after 10 min. and 4 hours, tubers of cultivar Cekin darkened most and ones of the cultivar Tajfun - least. Weed control methods significantly affected the darkening of raw tuber flesh. The weather conditions during the growing seasons significantly affected the average weight of one tuber, the weight and number of tubers formed by one plant and darkening of raw tuber flesh.

The results reported in this work come from a field experiment carried out at the University of Natural Sciences and Humanities in Siedlce in the years 2008–2010. The experiment was set in the split-plot design as a two-factorial, three-replication trial. The factors examined were as follows: factor I — potato cultivars: Cekin, Satina, Tajfun, factor II — weed control methods for application herbicides and their mixtures: Command 480 EC, Command 480 EC and Afalon Dyspersyjny 450 SC, Stomp 400 SC, Stomp 400 SC and Afalon Dyspersyjny 450 SC and control object — mechanical weeding. Symptoms produced by the common scab were evaluated using a nine-grade scale on 100 tubers chosen at random from the experimental objects. The results demonstrated that weed control methods with herbicides significantly reduced the infection of tubers with common scab, mean degree of sample infestation and mean degree of tubers infestation.

There are currently 40 insecticides (19 active substances), 71 fungicides (25 active substances) and 80 herbicides (18 active substances) registered on the Polish market for the protection of potato. Active substances represent many various modes of action. The knowledge of modes of action is very useful because it is possible, that active substances from different chemical groups represent the same mode of action. That is why alternate application of plant protection products containing active substances from different chemical groups is not always an effective tool in resistance prevention. Diversity of plant protection products in respect of mode of action particularly against pests prone to resistance occurrence, like Colorado potato beetle and pathogen causing late blight, allows to rotate the preparations and prevent resistance. Herbicides rotation possibilities are satisfying except for graminicides, which have the same mode of action. Additional possibilities of plant protection products rotation are visible in insecticide group, due to the fact that in recent years plant protection products containing new active substances, with different modes of action were registered in Poland. The presence of two active substances with various modes of action in a large number of fungicides and in some insecticides and herbicides is an additional, important element of resistance prevention strategy.

The aim of this study was to compare the registered cultivars of potato with the breeding lines in relation to storage stability. The study was conducted in 2008–2011. In total, 46 registered cultivars and 106 breeding lines were assessed. After storage at 5 and 8°C natural losses, storage diseases and mass of sprouts were determined. The earliest sprouting (1st decade of March) was observed for a group of very early and early genotypes. Genotypes from the late group of maturity started sprouting one decade later (2nd decade of March). During storage at 5°C natural losses of the breeding lines were lower than the losses of registered cultivars (respectively 7.3% and 8.0%). In the higher storage temperature (8°C) the natural losses were the same and amounted to 10.0% for the breeding lines and cultivars. There was a significant difference in the level of disease infection between breeding lines and registered cultivars stored at 5°C. The losses caused by the storage diseases were 1.10% for breading lines and 2.36% for the varieties. In the group of early maturity the breeding lines had larger level of diseases than registered cultivars (respectively 1.72 and 1.46%). The correlation coefficient between sum of precipitation during vegetation period and the level of the storage diseases for all genotypes stored at 5°C was 0.52. Total losses, which consisted of the natural losses, tuber diseases and sprouts for all genotypes stored at 5°C were about 10% and at temperature of 8°C - about 13%. Larger total losses were reported for varieties than for breeding lines, although significant differences were confirmed only for lower storage temperature (5°C). The level of overall losses depended also on the group of earliness.

The aim of this investigation was to determine balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in organic crop rotation system on light soil. The crop rotation comprised following agricultural plant species: potato, buckwheat, yellow lupine + oat, rye, oat. Apart from these main species 2 plants were cultivated as an intercrop that was ploughed in: field pea and serradella. Before potato cultivation the manure in dose of 25 t•ha-1 was applied and before the cultivation of oat 0.5 dose of manure, that is 12.5 t•ha-1 was applied. The calculations were based on real data of obtained yields and nutrients content in the yields. The ,,on surface of field” method was used in this investigation. In the crop rotation positive balances of nitrogen (+39.5 kg N•ha-1 per year-1) and potassium (+19.6 kg K•ha-1 per year-1) and slightly negative one for phosphorus (-1.5 kg P•ha-1 per year-1) were noted.

Ear rots caused by Fusarium graminearum and F. verticillioides are some of the most economically significant diseases of maize occurring widely throughout maize growing regions of the world. Another very destructive disease in Central Europe is the stalk rot caused by F. graminearum. The major objective of this study was to determine effectiveness of the pedigree selection to develop improved maize flint and dent genotypes with increased resistance to the ear and stalk rots caused by F. graminearum. Sixty three maize populations were evaluated under field conditions. In each population group at least 170 the earliest flowering So plants were self-pollinated and inoculated with F. gramninearum into the developing kernels. Ear rot resistance was scored using 1–7 scale. Stalk rot resistance was evaluated under natural infection, where F. graminearum prevails, using 1–9 scale. All genotypes rated lower than 3 for ear rot and lower than 5 for stalk rot were selected to continue the selfing procedure. Phenotypic variation for ear rot, stalk rot resistance and flowering time were significant. Genetic gain obtained for ear rot and stalk rot was higher in the flint group than in the dent forms. For flint forms it was determined that frequency of genotypes belong to the S3 generation and scored as a moderate resistant was about 30% higher than within S1 generation. In the group of dent forms frequency of genotypes belong to the S3 generation and scored as a moderate resistant was 15 - 20% higher than within S1 generation. Materials of the S3 generations were on average more than 10 days earlier than the So. Positive correlation between ear rot resistance and flowering time was observed.

Field experiments were carried out in 2007−2011 in Bydgoszcz. The aim was to check effect of 10 white mustard varieties sown as stubble catch crop on nematode population decrease in the soil. Split-plot method was used in four replications. The result of presented study showed that chosen white mustard cultivars can reduce Globodera rostochiensis population by about 30%–50% when sown as stubble catch crop.

From 2002 to 2008, a study was undertaken to test six cultivars from six turf grass species: prostrate meadow-grass cv. Supranova, perennial ryegrass cv. Stadion, chewings fescue cv. Nimba, smooth-stalked meadow-grass cv. Conni, tall fescue cv. Asterix and tufted hair grass cv. Brok. The experiment was located in a natural tree shade where turf quality parameters were evaluated. Results indicated the ability of prostrate meadow-grass to grow and perform well under a natural park shade. Supranova, compared to other cultivars tested, exhibited good quality in winter periods and slow re-growth. Unfavorable traits of this variety are susceptibility to drought and bright green color of the leaves.

Usefulness of selected willow species and hybrids for biological reclamation of Sulfur Mine “Jeziórko” after-exploitation area, covered by post-flotation lime and enriched with sewage sediments was investigated. It was found that amongst planted species, the greatest number of Salix viminalis L., Salix x sp. (IBL-3) and Salix daphnoides Vill. plants, smaller numbers of Salix amygdalina L., Salix × erdingerii J.Kern. (IBL-8) and Salix × smithiana Willd. plants and the least number of Salix × sp. (IBL-7), Salix × smythiana var. kübleri, Salix x erdingerii J. Kern. and Salix acutifolia Willd. species survived. The most exuberant growth was shown by: Salix daphnoides Vill., Salix × erdingerii J.Kern., Salix × erdingerii J. Kern. (IBL-8) and Salix amygdalina L. Taking into account the ability to survive and the growth exuberance as the features determining the usefulness for the reclamation of soilless limestone subsoil, Salix viminalis L., followed by Salix daphnoides Vill., Salix amygdalina L. and Salix × erdingerii J. Kern. (IBL-8) seem to be the most preferable for this area. Implementation of willow species as reclamation plants advantageously affected the formation of post- flotation lime chemical properties.

The resistance to leaf rust (Puccinia triticina) of winter wheat breeding lines in the years 2008–2012 was evaluated. Studies were carried out using the method of artificial inoculation and under conditions of natural infection at the adult plant stage at Grodkowice and Krzeczowice. A total 2080 breeding lines of wheat: 655 from preliminary trials and 1425 forms from breeding stations were tested. A scale of 9 — high resistance to 1— high susceptibility was used for resistance assessment. Considerable differences of tested materials with respect to reaction to leaf rust were found in both localities and years. In the group of resistant forms (scored with 9–7 degrees) 22–40% of tested lines were found. The most of genotypes (35–48%) were scored within the range 6–5. In the group of lines from preliminary trials 78 (12.8%) showed a high resistance in both localities. The obtained results allowed to select 29 genotypes with high resistance to leaf rust lasting for 2–3 years at Grodkowice and Krzeczowice and thus they can be used as resistance sources.

The purpose of the study was to compare the results of the evaluation of frost resistance and winter hardiness of 426 winter wheat varieties tested in the years 2010–2012. A highly significant correlation was found between the results of both methods of evaluations in 2010, r = 0,683, in 2011, r = 0,561, and in 2012 r = 0,614. Important factors in the evaluation of frost resistance and winter hardiness have proven to be environmental conditions, which should be taken into account in the preparation, and conducting the evaluations as well as during analysis of the obtained results.

The aim of these studies was to find out whether polymorphic wheat storage proteins (gliadins and HMW glutenins) and winter hardiness are interrelated. Two sets of winter wheats were analyzed. In the first set 19 groups of hybrid genotypes (90 lines in total) of F5 generation from cross combinations between common wheat (Triticum aestivum ssp. vulgare) cultivars and strains were analyzed. The second set comprised four pairs of hybrid genotypes originating from crossing between spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta, cv. Obercummer Rotkorn) and common wheat breeding strain LAD 480. Gliadins and HMW glutenins extracted from individual kernels of analyzed hybrid genotypes were separated using electrophoretic techniques: A-PAGE and SDS-PAGE. The obtained results suggested close relationships between HMW glutenin subunits: Glu A1-1, Glu B1-7+9/6+8, Glu D1-5+10 and gliadin null alleles localized on the chromosome 6B (locus Gli B2) and winter hardiness of winter wheat.

Genetic resistance to powdery mildew (Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei) in collection of 17 winter barley cultivars and 22 spring barley cultivars included in the registration trials in Poland in the year 2012 was investigated. To postulate a specific resistance gene a set of differentiating isolates of known virulence genes was used. Two winter barley cultivars were susceptible to all isolates of B. graminis f. sp. hordei used. Resistance of five cultivars was determined by genes Mla7 + MlLG2, Mla7 + ? and Mla7 + Mla7 + Ml(Ab) + ?. In four cultivars the presence of Mla6 +Mla14 genes was postulated. Resistance of two cultivars was conferred by gene Mlh or Mlh + ?. Three cultivars possessed resistance provided by unknown genes. One cultivar showed heterogenic resistance reaction to infection by B. graminis f. sp. hordei. Cultivar BKH 5735 had mlo gene and unidentified genes. In the group of spring cultivars the resistance to powdery mildew was conferred mainly by mlo gene in different combinations with unknown genes. In one cultivar the presence of gene Mla12 + ? was postulated.

Material for the study comprised of 25 lines of spring malt barley and three standard varieties, Blask, Conchita and Suweren tested in pre-registration field trials conducted in 2012. The grain of each line or variety was harvested at three different locations, Bąków, Radzików and Strzelce. The malting value was estimated on the basis of 12 parameters: 1000 grain weight, grain plumpness, total and soluble malt protein, Kolbach index, malt friability, extractability, wort viscosity, diastatic power, content of β-glucan, final fermentation degree and quality index Q. For these parameters coefficients of variation (CV%) and correlation coefficients were calculated as well as two-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s test were performed. Results of the study revealed significant variability of all parameters of technological quality for tested material and allowed to rank the candidate lines of barley for registration according to their usefullnes for malting.

The susceptibility to Puccinia triticina and Blumeria graminis of winter triticale breeding lines was evaluated in the years 2008–2012. Studies were carried out in greenhouse at the seedling stage and at the adult plant stage in Grodkowice using the method of artificial inoculation by uredionispores of P. triticina and in Krzeczowice under conditions of natural inoculation in field. However, in the case of B. graminis in both location studies were carried out under conditions of natural inoculation. A total of 250 breeding lines of triticale from breeding stations were tested. A scale 0, 1, 2 — resistance, 3, 4 — susceptibility was used at seedling stage. While a scale from 9 — high resistance to 1- high susceptibility was used at adult plant stage. Considerable differences of tested materials with respect to reaction to leaf rust and powdery mildew were found in both locations and years. The study allowed to select 66 genotypes with high resistance to leaf rust and powdery mildew, including 5 resistant in both stages. Furthermore, the obtained results allowed to select 11 genotypes with high resistance to leaf rust and powdery mildew for 2–3 years at Grodkowice and Krzeczowice and thus they can be used as resistance sources.

General combining ability (GCA) of several female and five male components for rye hybrids and specific combining ability (SCA) of parental pairs were determined. Parental components were created in three plant breeding companies: Danko Plant Breeders Ltd., Poznan Plant Breeders Ltd. and Smolice Plant Breeding Ltd. Two sets of hybrids (D01_12 and D02_12) were produced by crossing eight female components (single male sterile hybrids) with the same five male components in spatially isolated fields. In the season 2011/2012 rye hybrids were evaluated in field trials (3 locations, 3 replicates, plot size - 5m2, sowing density — 250 viable kernels/m2). The following traits were assessed: grain yield, 1000 grain weight, plant height, heading date, pollen shedding, resistance to powdery mildew, brown rust and lodging. Statistical analyses were made with the Eksplan computer package. Significant variation was found among experimental hybrids for almost all the studied traits. General combining ability of both females and males differed significantly for majority of the traits in the experiments. Significant variation in the specific combining ability was detected only for the heading date and pollen shedding. The tests allowed to select female and male components with significant favourable GCA effects for utilization in rye hybrid breeding.

The purpose of the study was to recognize the epistatic actions of genes controlling 12 of quantitative traits (winter hardiness, heading time, grain number per plot, plant height, grain yield per plot, length of ear, grain number per ear, grain mass per ear, 1000 grain weight, test weight, protein content in grain and falling number) in 5 cultivars of winter rye (Dańkowskie Złote, Dańkowskie Diament, Słowianskie, Skat and Bosmo) in years 2010–2011. We confirmed that epistatic gene actions play a significant role in inheritance of important agricultural traits of winter rye. If epistasis was discovered, it was more often of type „j,l”, resulting mainly from interactions of homozygous loci with heterozygous ones and interactions between heterozygous loci for most of the investigated traits. Only for a small number of traits in 2010 and 2011, we confirmed epistasis of type “i” resulting from interactions of homozygous loci with homozygous loci. The estimated significant positive epistatic effects for some investigated varieties in year 2010, in year 2011 were negative. The epistasis increased values of some investigated traits in 2010 while next year epistasis reduced values of these traits. On the basis of field and laboratory experiments as well as executed genetic analyses we confirmed that epistatic gene action for winter rye depended on environmental factors different in subsequent years of study.

The source material were the results of surveys carried out in 2008–2011. Every year about 500 farms were surveyed. Data were collected from 4760 fields with a total area 25.4 thousands hectares. The differences in yield depending on used seeds were compared. The significance of differences between yields, depending on used seeds, (certified or uncertified) was assessed using Fisher’s test. A significant increase of yield in fields where certified seed were used has been proven. The increase in yields, depending on the species, ranged from 12% for triticale to 23% for rye and in absolute units ranged from 4.89 dt.ha-1 for triticale to 7.59 dt•ha-1 for wheat.

The aim of the study was to select genotypes with improved content of nutrients and of high bioactive properties from the most advanced breeding materials of oat in Poland. Material for the study comprised dehulled grain of 11 new hulled breeding lines of oats and a naked one and also two standard varieties, Arden and Bingo, together with a naked one, Nagus. The following components were analyzed: protein, minerals, lipids, digestible starch, dietary fibre and its constituents, Klason lignin, nonstarch polysaccharides with soluble and insoluble polymers including β-glucan. The viscosity of grain water extract was also determined as the main indicator of functional properties of oat and also as a simple indirect assay for measuring the level of soluble β-glucan. Husk constituted on average 25.4% of the kernel weight, its largest share (29.8%) was found in the breeding line POB 2085/09, while the smallest (21.6%) in variety Bingo. The highest content of nutrients (SSO), estimated as the sum of protein, minerals, lipids and starches was scored in two genotypes, STH 8307 and POB 2149/09 and also in variety Arden (80.2; 80.1 and 82%, respectively). With regard to the bioactive properties, the highest values were found in the grain of two naked genotypes, variety Nagus (26.7) and strain STH 8307 (24.2) and also in a dehulled grain of hulled genotype STH 8030 (23.1). The STH 8307 was a genotype combining the high nutritional value with high health-promoting properties of the grain.

In 2006–2012 in IHAR — PIB Radzików, in Laboratory of Quarantine Organisms, diploid potato clones were tested for resistance to Synchytrium endobioticum (Schilb.) Perc. The diploid clones selected in IHAR — PIB Młochów, in Laboratory of Genetics, were interspecific hybrids of Solanum tuberosum possessing in their pedigree wild and primitively cultivated Solanum species. Clones were tested for resistance to following pathotypes of S. endobioticum: 1(D1), 2(G1), 2(Ch1), 3(M1), 6(O1), 8(F1), 18(T1), and 39(P1), from the collection of Laboratory of Quarantine Organisms. Modified method of Glynne-Lemmerzahl was used for evaluation of their resistance. From 288 tested clones 101 were found resistant to pathotype 1(D1). The group of 70 clones was tested for resistance to 5 pathotypes of S. endobioticum: 2(G1), 2(Ch1), 6(O1), 8(F1), and 18(T1); 44 clones from that group were evaluated additionally for the pathotype 3(M1) and 22 clones were assessed for 2 additional pathotypes 3(M1) and 39(P1). Selection resulted with 7 diploid clones simultaneously resistant to 7 virulent pathotypes of S. endobioticum: 2(G1), 2(Ch1), 3(M1), 6(O1), 8(F1), 18(T1), and 39(P1). They are complex recombinants combining resistance to wart disease agent pathotypes that have not been described in other studies, so far. Selected resistant hybrids are excellent material for identification and localization on potato genetic map of genetic markers linked to the resistance to particular pathotypes of S. endobioticum. These diploid clones exhibit a good level of quality and resistance traits. Five of them produce male 2n gametes which can be used in 4x × 2x crosses for transfer of alleles of resistance to wart disease agent pathotypes to tetraploid level.

Aim of this study was to evaluate the selectivity and herbicidal effectiveness of herbicide Reactor 360 CS in potato variety Jelly. The field study was carried out in 2010–2012 in Bonin. The herbicide Reactor 360 CS (active ingredient — chlomazone 360 g) caused a slight symptoms of phytotoxic reaction, which disappeared with the time and did not affect the yield. The highest herbicidal efficacy was observed in 2010. High humidity after application of herbicides was characteristic for this year. Chemical control resulted in a higher tuber yield when compared to the mechanical control. A significant influence of the protection of herbicides on yield and structure of tubers was demonstrated.

In Poland, the changing natural, varietal and market conditions affect the production of seed potatoes. Decreasing potato acreage causes increasing spatial isolation between the plantations of this plant, and in a consequence decreases the number of sources of virus in the environment. The size of seed plantations is growing (concentration of production) and the pressure of certain species of aphid vectors of virus diseases of potato decreases. These changes are favourable for seed production. At the same time the share seed varieties susceptible to viruses increases. They are mostly varieties from foreign breeding companies. This factor makes it difficult to produce seed. An important task is to rebuild the seed potato production in Poland. Among the market factors, to increase the demand for certified seed material is the most important one.

20 fodder beet accessions from the Gene Bank of the National Centre for Plant Genetic Resources in Radzików was characterized in regard to morphological and agronomic traits. Field experiments were conducted in the years 2010–2012 as a randomized split-block design with two replications with standard cultivars (Mars Poly, Tytan Poly). Traits such as mass of leaves, mass, size, shape and skin colour of root, depth in soil, root and dry matter yield and chemical composition of roots (sugar content, potassium, sodium and α-amino nitrogen) were analyzed in this study. The results confirmed great variability of morphological and agronomic traits in fodder beet accessions. The characterization and evaluation of cultivated beet accession enriched the existing database and made the collected materials useful for beet breeding and other biological research studies.

The article presents changes in yielding, in phosphorus and sulphur contents and uptake in eastern galega biomass and soil. Field test was carried out in the experimental field belonging to the University of Natural Sciences and Humanities in Siedlce. The tests included three objects with different nitrogen fertilization. During each year of the tests three cuts of the test plant in budding stage were harvested. The total P and S contents in the plant and soil was determined using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP — AES). The uptake of the elements with the crop of dry mass of the test plant was calculated. Nitrogen had significant influence on the decrease on the yield, phosphorus content and uptake in eastern galega biomass. The nitrogen fertilization significantly differentiated the content of sulphur in the dry matter of the eastern galega. The biggest amount of sulphur was detected in a test plant fertilized with dose N102. The highest uptake with crop was observed for eastern galega fertilized with N34. The highest content of phosphorus and sulphur was found in soil taken from the N34 object.

Development of the International Flax Database (International Flax Database — IFDB), based on the descriptors adopted by the European Cooperation Programme (European Cooperative Programme for Crop Genetic Resources Networks — ECP / GR) for Plant Genetic Resources for Textile Crops Working Group, allows easier and faster analysis of morphological, biological and agricultural genotypes of the genus Linum (flax). Breeders will be able to choose the most suitable hybrid components as the biological characteristics such as resistance to lodging and resistance to Fusarium (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini) or morphological, for example: 1000 seed weight, stem length become available. Data on genotypes of flax is to be encrypted with a single digit on a scale of 0 to 9. As a part of the project, the passport part of the International Flax Database for collection of flax gathered in Poland was prepared. The present collection includes 827 genotypes of the Linum L. genus, including 815 accessions of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) and 12 species of flax growing in a natural state. Execution of passport IFDB allows the elimination of unnecessary duplicates simultaneously by several countries, which will reduce costs. The aim of this study was to present descriptors for characterization and evaluation of Linum and comparing previously used methods of valuation with the descriptors that are scheduled for the development of the International Flax Database, within the European Cooperation in the field plant Genetic Resources for Textile Crops Working Group. The paper shows the 27 descriptors including 17 morphological (Table 1), four biological (Table 2) and six agronomic (Table 3). We presented also the encrypted data with the biological characteristics of nine genotypes of Linum usitatissimum L., which were tested in a field experiment in 2012 at the Experimental INF&MP in Pętkowo (Table 4) and prepared for the International Flax Database.

Evaluation of variability and genetic analysis of six quantitative traits of fiber flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) was conducted. Analyses included: seed yield, 1000 seeds weight, seed capsules number, straw yield, technical length and total fiber content. Plant materials were: four parental flax varieties and six hybrids (F1 and F2) obtained by diallelic crossing of parental forms (second model of Griffing). Variability analysis was performed by one-dimensional statistical methods (mean, variability coefficient). Genetic analysis consisted of selected Mather’s genetic parameters (additive and non-additive gene action assessment, the average dominance degree) as well as heritability evaluation in narrow and broad sense. Low diversity of all tested traits (in F1 and F2 generation) was observed, but differences in heritability (in narrow and broad sense) were large. For the vast majority of traits an additive inheritance has been reported. The domination of non-additive gene action was observed only for seed yield. This shows the ability to conduct an effective selection for most of functional traits of the fiber flax in segregating generation of hybrids (F2).

Sida (Sida hermaphrodita R.) can be propagated by both generative and vegetative methods by seedlings obtained from root sections, from above ground shoots and from underground part of the plant fragmented into smaller pieces. The problem in generative propagation is low germination rate of seeds caused by hard shell. This causes germination rate in favourable condition to reach only 30– 40%. Imperfection of traditional propagation methods of sida, high price of good quality seeds and growing interest in cultivation of the crop for energy and industrial raw materials caused numerous attempts to propagate the plant by in vitro regeneration cultures. The studies on initiation of micro propagation showed that multiplication factor on MS medium, containing 30 g/l sucrose and 0.01 mg/l BAP was 6.05 for apical explants and for lateral explants 5.25 on the same medium. The MS medium provided a high ratio (97%) of rooted explants ready for acclimatization.

The attempt was made at estimation of intra-species variation of cultivars of legumes for resistance of seeds to mechanical damage taking into account their chemical composition. The research material comprised Polish cultivars and lines representing four lupine species as well as pea and grasspea. The air-dry seeds of cultivars and breeding lines were harvested from the experimental field in breeding station Przebędowo in the same year. Growing of plants in the same locality and similar soil-conditions allowed comparison of the results obtained from cultivars and breeding lines. The collected seeds were analyzed for their physical properties. The first stage included determination of seed thickness and the next resistance of individual seeds to static loading expressed as the value of maximum force (N), maximum deformation (mm), the modulus of elasticity (MPa) and energy (J). Additionally, protein and fat contents as well as the composition of fatty acids were estimated in the harvested seeds. Obtained results were analyzed with use of multivariate statistic method. Knowledge of physical parameter of seeds is particularly important for optimization of technologies of harvesting, drying and storage, which is related to minimization of quantitative and qualitative losses and mechanical damage. Obtained results showed, that analyzed seeds of cultivars and lines differed greatly in spectrum of seed thickness and reaction to the mechanical loads. It allowed to distinguish cultivars and lines with increased resistance of seeds to mechanical loads expressed among others by maximum force that caused seed structure destruction. Additionally, analyzed seeds of cultivars and lines showed a broad range of variation in chemical composition. The highest protein content was established in seeds representing traditional and epigonal forms of Andean lupine (44.2 and 41.3% respectively). The protein level above 40% were also established in seeds of yellow lupine represented by cv. Lord and two lines: R 1017/03 and R 851/03. The seeds of all forms of Andean lupine were the richest in fat content with highest value in seeds of determinate form (15.5%). Lowest content was established in seeds of pea and grasspea. Specific fatty acids composition in seeds of cultivars depended on the species.

Powdery mildew caused by fungus Blumeria graminis is one of the most important leaf diseases of triticale in Poland. For many years triticale was considered as less susceptible to fungal diseases in comparison to its parental species. Nowadays, a radical breaking down of triticale resistance to diseases of wheat and rye commonly occurring in Poland is observed. The aim of this study was to determine the resistance of 59 cultivars of winter triticale, 13 of spring triticale and 14 of rye to inoculation with 45 isolates of Blumeria graminis ff. ssp., with different virulence. Powdery mildew isolates originating from wheat and rye showed lower pathogenicity on triticale cultivars than isolates originating from triticale. Among 72 tested triticale cultivars, 53 showed resistance to inoculation with B. graminis f.sp. secalis and 62 showed resistance to inoculation with B. graminis f.sp.tritici. Triticale cultivars grown in Poland are very susceptible to powdery mildew population and in presented study only cultivar Grenado showed resistance reaction...

Grain hardness of hexaploid wheat T. aestivum is controlled by puroindoline genes Pina and Pinb. They encode puroindoline proteins PINA and PINB which are accumulated on starch granule surface in the endosperm. Genes Pina and Pinb are located in genome D of hexaploid wheat and in other genomes of diploid wheat species. Both genes are absent in tetraploid wheat with genome AABB. Orthologs  of puroindoline genes were detected in other cereal species and showed above 90% similarity of coding sequences with Pin genes. Secaloindoline genes are orthologs of puroindolines in rye and hexaploid triticale and are located in genome R. In regard of its importance, wheat grain hardness has been studied from the second half of the last century. However, significant progress in this area started at the end of the last century when the advanced genetic engineering techniques were applied. As a result of this research the coding sequences of puroindoline genes and their promoters were determined as well as the allelic variation and the structure of puroindoline proteins...

Maize becomes more and more important crop during the last decades, mainly due to high yield and economic versatility, and its crop acreage is growing continuously, expanding more to the north and south from its centre of domestication in the tropics. This results in the need for the cultivars adapted to several abiotic factors, such as different photoperiod, periodic droughts and low temperature. Molecular mechanisms of maize adaptation to those factors remain unknown. Filling this gap is essential for future breeding advance, which becomes important especially in the context of predicted climate change...

Artificial selection during maize domestication was based mostly on selection of certain phenotypes. That resulted in creating populations differing in many aspects from teosinte — the wild progenitor of modern maize. Similar changes took place during breeding phase, when exploitation of natural variation of local landraces gave rise to several inbred lines bearing the desired features. The questions of maize origin and the sources of its variability were addressed by several authors. In accordance with the current paradigm, maize was domesticated only once, in southwestern Mexico, in the valley of Balsas river, about 9000 BP. During the last decade several genes associated with domestication were identified (tb1, Barren stalk1, tga1, ramosa2). It was shown that all four genes encode transcription factors. This article shows current understanding of unique features of maize genome. This uniqueness is discussed in the context of domestication and breeding processes of Zea mays...

The life cycle of many plants is connected with seasons and their change is perceived by a day-length change. Plant photoreceptors responding to the presence of photomorphogenetically active light, mainly phytochromes, let plants perceive changing conditions. The length of photoperiod is also an essential factor in case of potato. In this review the knowledge obtained from previous studies on the influence of photoperiod on Solanum species was summarized. Beginning with domestication of a potato in latitudes different than the place of origin, an influence of a day-length on flowering, tuberization and resistance to Phytophthora infestans was described. The life processes chosen in this review are among the most important ones, because they allow surviving and further reproducing of potato in diverse environments...

The paper presents results of studies carried out from 2005 to 2008 which aimed to determine the influence of undersown crops plowed down in autumn or left till spring in the form of mulch on yield of table potato cultivated in the integrated and organic production system. Two factors were examined. I. Undersown crop fertilization: control object (without undersown crop fertilization), farmyard manure, Persian clover, westerwold ryegrass, Persian clover — mulch, westerwold ryegrass — mulch. II. Production system: integrated and organic. Potato cultivar Zeus was grown directly after undersown crops fertilization. During potato harvest the yield of fresh tuber mass was determined and after that the marketable yield was determined. The contents of dry mass, starch and total protein were determined in tuber samples and related to yield. The obtained results allow to conclude that higher yields of potato tubers were noted in integrated than in organic production system. Persian clover independently on the form of fertilization completely substitutes farmyard manure in integrated production system of potato. Persian clover used with farmyard manure in organic production system also gives good results...