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Three sets of preliminary trials of winter wheat strains were analyzed for yielding performance and genotype-environment interactions. The magnitude of particular interactions was measured by means of index of variability. This index consists of the phenotypic coefficient of variability and the portion of respective variance component (GL) or (GS). The index of interaction and genetic effects of yield were changed into 5-degree scale (5 is the highest yield or the lowest interaction). In particular groups of trials above half of phenotypic variance could be attributed to the genotype-environment interactions. One-year analysis of particular trials was shown to be unsatisfactory for selection of new cultivars of winter wheat. Also, two-years and three-years analyses were compared. It has been shown, that two-year analysis was sufficient for assessing new strains of winter wheat. However, this conclusion requires confirmation with similar elaborates.

The effect of the genomes A and B of Triticum durum Desf. on bread-making quality was investigated in 64 winter forms of hybrids (Triticum aestivum L. × Triticum durum Desf.) × Triticum aestivum L. developed from the interspecific crosses of Triticum aestivum L. v. mono-5B Chinese Spring, mono-5B Favorit, and winter tetraploid wheat Triticum durum Desf. v. Mirable, Khapli, Fuensemiduro. The hybrids F1 — bridge were pollinated with 13 varieties and breeding strains of T. aestivum L. The grain quality was evaluated during the period of 3 years on the basis of protein content (%), Zeleny-sedimentation (ml), falling number (s) and baking value (the classes: E — exclusive, A — qualitative, B — bread, and C — remained), in the relation to the check variety Begra of T. aesivum L. The high quality parameters were identified (the class E) which exceeded the quality check of Triticum aestivum L. (Table 2, 4). It indicated the effects of introgression of alien A and B genome genes from the tetraploid wheat. The forms selected could be used in the future for development of new germplasm for quality breeding of winter wheat T. aestivum L.

Intra-varietal polymorphism of storage proteins among four winter wheat strains: CHD 225, SCHW 124-84-46, GK 5695 oraz SMH 4716 was studied. Multiline strains were divided into subgroups (biotypes) with respect to their gliadin protein composition. Based on the results of three-years investigation, average values of grain protein content and sedimentation value were calculated for each biotype. Gliadins encoded by the chromosome 1B (strain CHD 225) and 1A (strain GK 5695) as well as some β-gliadin components (strain SCHW 124-84-46) were related to variability of the both quality characteristics. Biotypes of different gliadins encoded by the chromosome 6A (strain SMH 4716) did not differ significantly neither with respect to grain protein content or sedimentation value. Selection based on gliadin composition made possible to obtain uniform lines of improved technological properties.

Quality of strains of winter wheat was investigated and correlation between the characteristics of grain, flour, dough and bread was examined. The studied material-grain of two varieties and 24 strains of winter wheat originated from the Plant Breeding Strzelce Co. The properties of grain: weight of 1000 grains, test weight, glassiness, hardness, falling number and protein content were determined. After milling in the Quadrumat Senior mill the baking properties of flour (Zeleny’s test) and rheological properties of dough were evaluated. The single-phase method was applied in the baking process. The correlation coefficients were calculated for all the characteristics of grain, flour, dough and bread. Generally, glassiness of grain and yield of flour had no significant influence on the remaining characteristics. The highest correlation coefficients were found between the Zeleny’s test results and protein content (0.64) or some rheological properties of dough: the time of stability (0.83) and softening (-0.61). The tested strains of wheat did not show any significant correlation of bread volume and the most of the grain, flour and dough characteristics.

Grain dormancy was determined in 20 winter wheat cultivars, basing on evaluation of germination at the constant temperatures of 15, 20 and 25°C, starting from the 10th day after harvest. The examined cultivars were significantly differentiated for all examined indices. The largest differences were found at 25°C for the germination rate assessed according to Maguire (10.6–22.3), mean germination time (2.2–3.3 days) and germination ability (70–97%). Falling number was determined for the samples exposed to sprouting induction in ears, samples subjected to incipient germination in Petri dishes as well as for the control samples. On the basis of these data differences in falling number were calculated together with falling number indices, according to Weilenmann (1979). In the control samples the falling number ranged from 233 to 432 sec. The sprouting induction in ears and in the germination dishes caused a decrease of falling number by 100 and 82 sec., respectively. The relationship between germination speed and the falling number index was highly significant (r = 0.584** to 0.748**), which proves usefulness of this index in breeding cultivars resistant to preharvest sprouting. Two of the tested cultivars: Symfonia and Mikon had low falling number index, which shows their good sprouting tolerance. On the other hand, the Wanda and Rysa cultivars, with high Weilenmann indices, were susceptible to sprouting.

The genotype variation was assessed for advancement of main stem spike development at the shooting phase in three cultivars and 43 strains of spring wheat bred in Poland. The plants were grown in hydroponic culture under controlled conditions of phytotron. Significant differences have been stated in development stage, earliness, and morphological structure of main spike, number of spikelets per spike and in the spike dimensions (length and width). The analysis of main spike development offers a tool for earliness evaluation and selection at the shooting phase. Preliminary evaluation of morphogenetic potential is possible at the shooting phase only for the most developmentally advanced strains.

The influence was studied of NaCl salt, at concentrations: 0 (control), 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 mM, on seed germination and seedling growth of nine hybrid strains obtained by crossing Aegilops juvenalis and Aegilops ventricosa with Triticum durum Desf. cv. Grandur and Triticum aestivum L. cvs. Arda, Begra, Panda, CZR 1406 line (1BL/1RS) translocated. Responses of the selected hybrid strains to NaCl were compared with reactions of their parental forms. Seeds were germinated on filter paper in Petri dishes, and moistened in Hoagland medium containing different concentrations of NaCl. Percentage of germinated seeds and maximal root and coleoptile length were assessed after five days of growth. Index of tolerance to salt treatments was calculated on the basis of coleoptile length. High salt concentration did not have negative influence on the seed germination but led to inhibition of root and coleoptile elongation. Among nine hybrids two were characterized with higher tolerance index to NaCl salt than their wheat parental cultivars, and six had lower tolerance index only in relation to the CZR 1406 line. The seedlings of (Ae. juvenalis × CZR 1406) × Begra and {[(Ae. juvenalis × CZR 1406) × CZR 1406] × Panda} × CZR 1406 hybrids and the CZR 1406 line showed the highest tolerance of the salt stress. Most strongly NaCl inhibited coleoptile elongation in the [(Ae. ventricosa × Grandur) × Panda] × Panda hybrids and the Grandur and Panda cultivars’ seedlings. Probably, high tolerance of hybrid forms with Ae. juvenalis germplasm was caused by the rye genes of parental form CZR 1406. Lower tolerance of the Ae. ventricosa hybrids was conditioned by the Grandur and Panda genes.

Aluminium toxicity is an important factor limiting wheat production on acid soils. The purpose of this research was to find mode of inheritance of tolerance to aluminium toxicity and to find new sources of tolerance different from that represented by the Brazilian cultivar BH-1146. Inheritance of tolerance to aluminium toxicity was investigated in the spring wheat cultivars Quality (AUS), and Dong Nong 120 (CHN). The nutrient solution-screening test with 148 μM Al concentration was used. A single gene pair controls tolerance to aluminium toxicity in these cultivars. It represents the same source of tolerance as that found in the spring wheat BH-1146.

A total of 1096 isolates of Puccinia recondita f. sp. tritici was collected in Poland from 1998 to 2001. Those isolates were tested for virulence on seedlings of a set of 40 near isogenic Thatcher lines (NIL) with the resistance genes Lr. High virulence frequency (67 to 100%) to majority of the Lr genes was found. In the years of study the frequencies of virulence to the lines with Lr1, Lr2a, and Lr2b were lower than in preceding years. Also the virulence to Lr38 and LrW was rare. No virulence was found to the resistance genes Lr9, Lr19, Lr23, Lr24 and Lr25. Twenty-three different pathotypes of Puccinia recondita f. sp. tritici were identified using 15 near isogenic lines with the resistance genes: Lr1, Lr2a, Lr2b, Lr2c, Lr3, Lr9, Lr11, Lr15, Lr17, Lr19, Lr21, Lr23, Lr24, Lr26, Lr28. The most widespread pathotypes were: 02722, 02726, 03726, and 53726. The effectiveness of the Lr-genes against leaf rust was evaluated at the adult stage in the field. The Lr9, Lr13, Lr19, Lr22, Lr24, Lr25, Lr29, Lr34, Lr35 and Lr37 resistance genes were effective.

Yellow rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is becoming more and more a serious threat to wheat cultivation in Poland. Pathogenicity of the pathogen population was investigated in 1999–2001. Variation in virulence was estimated for 225 isolates of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici collected mainly in north-western regions of the country. These isolates were tested for virulence on seedlings of the World / European differential set with Yr the resistance genes. Virulence frequency for the resistance genes Yr1, Yr2, Yr3, Yr4, YrSD, YrCV, Yr2+Yr6, Yr3a+Yr4a was very high (90–100%). Virulence to the Yr10, YrSu, YrA+Yr6 was generally low. Frequency of virulence for the Yr9 slowly increased from year to year. No virulence was found to resistance genes Yr7, Yr17, YrA, Yr6+Yr7. Seven pathotypes were identified in the yellow rust population. The differential cultivars were tested also in the field under artificial inoculation with mixture of isolates of the pathogen. In adult stage the genes Yr7, Yr17, YrA, Yr6+Yr7, YrA+Yr6 provided full protection against population of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici.

In this paper some achievements and problems of Polish triticale breeding were described, as well as its major breeding directions. Thanks to a great breeding progress, triticale has become in Poland the fifth cereal species which is grown mainly on poor soils. Up to now 47 triticale varieties have been registered (40 winter and 7 spring type). Most of them were introduced into many countries. Seven varieties were recorded exclusively for export. The Polish cultivars Ugo (Modus) and Presto (Almo) accomplished in the nineties the major importance in many European countries. At present, other good yielding Polish varieties are cultivated abroad. To enhance the competitively of triticale in relation to other cereals and to increase its profitability some important traits ought to be improved. Betterment of baking quality, especially the falling number, should be recognized as the major breeding purpose. There are also other goals as: high level and stability of yield, acid-soil and drought tolerance, enhancing of tillering and acceleration of growth phases (especially for spring type). Of course winter hardiness, lodging resistance and immunity (especially to rust and septoria diseases) are also very important breeders’ tasks. New breeding methods as chromosome engineering, double-haploids technique and molecular markers have to be used regardless of traditional breeding approach.

At Resource Seeds, Inc. the triticale breeding program’s basic objective is improving the forage and grain yield in both the winter and spring varieties. New crosses are made and genetic stocks are built up at two primary research sites in California. The initial screening for winter types is done mainly in Texas, Washington, Ohio, and North Carolina. The spring varieties are evaluated mainly in California, Washington and the northeast. Fifteen varieties have been placed into productions from 1996 to 2003. It is estimated that only 400.000 ha of triticale are grown in the USA. Along in varieties, the continuing plant breeding program is aimed at developing commercially acceptable hybrid triticale. Since 1983, five cytoplasms have been transferred to triticale. The best male sterile system is in two cytoplasms; T. timopheevi and Ae. sharonensis. Since 1988, three restorers were identified for the Ae. sharonensis cytoplasm, and one for the Ae. juvenalis cytoplasm.

The aim of the paper was to present results of comparative studies on evaluation of grain yield determination of winter triticale by its multiplicative components (numberof ears per unit area, average number of grains per ear and average grain weight) when using sequential yield components analysis (SYCA) and single path analysis. In the studies, data were used from a 28 factorial experiment. The results of the investigation confirm and illustrate a better agreement between estimates of path coefficients, as measures of influence of the yield-related traits on yield, for the components forming in more advanced stages of ontogenesis. Such an empirically confirmed, close agreement of effects of yield components on yield, found when using the both methods, may not repeat in cases when the yield-related traits are stronger correlated. In the presented example the yield components were weakly correlated.

The polymorphism of storage proteins was analyzed in some strains of winter triticale resistant to preharvest sprouting, in comparison with susceptible to sprouting variety Bogo. Based on the electrophoretic analysis differences in subunits composition of storage proteins were observed between the resistant to sprouting strains and the Bogo variety with regard to both gliadins and glutenins. These differences may be genetically associated with variability of the studied trait. It suggests a possibility of using them as biochemical markers of preharvest sprouting.

The long-term storage of winter triticale seeds in the National Centre for Plant Genetic Resources of the Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute at RadzikĂłw started in 1983. Currently, 1130 accessions of this plant are stored. The reaction to long-term storage conditions was determined for a control set of 20 cultivars in the years 1997, 1999 and 2002. The average germination capacity changed from 87.6% in 1987, through 80.4% in 1999, to 85.0% in 2002. After 15 years of storage the following cultivars maintained seed germination capacity over 90%: 6A-964; Bf-64R; Bòkolò, C — 97.7.

With a view to determine whether the resistance to leaf rust (Puccinia recondita f. sp. tritici) of the winter triticale varieties Presto, Vero and Ugo is controlled by the same genes, crossing of these varieties was performed. The parental forms, F1 and F2 generations were tested at the seedling stage in a greenhouse and at the adult plant stage under field conditions using the isolate 65a/95 of Puccinia recondita f. sp. tritici. The infection in a greenhouse was scored after 14 days and under field conditions it was estimated 2 and 4 weeks following inoculation. The results of testing parental forms and F1 and F2 generations, both at the stage of seedling in a greenhouse and in adult plant in the field, indicated that the F1 and F2 generations showed resistance similar to that of resistant parents. It can be inferred that resistance of Presto, Vero and Ugo varieties to leaf rust isolate 65a/95 is controlled by the genes of the same action.

The aim of the study was examination of bread-making quality of varieties and strains of spring triticale from the Plant Breeding Strzelce Ltd., Division Małyszyn. Grain of 5 varieties and 22 strains of spring triticale were assessed, together with spring wheat and spring rye standards. The following grain parameters were evaluated: total protein content, falling number and value of the SDS test. The grain was milled in the experimental Quadrumat Senior mill. Total protein content, falling number and brightness were assessed for flours. The rheological properties of dough were evaluated with the use of a farinograph. The wheat single phase method and rye three phases method were used for bread baking. Grain of the examined triticales showed significant differences in total protein content and alpha-amylase activity. The following varieties and strains were worth of attention: Kargo, MAH 19138-11, MAH 19138-13, MAH 23032-9, MAH 25371-4, MAH 25373-1, MAH 25386-11. Majority of triticales had good milling properties, yields of flour exceeded 70% and its brightness was high. Some strains of triticale (e.g. MAH 23032-9) were equal to wheat in respect of the rheological properties of dough. The rye method of baking produced bread of better appearance. It was not necessarily accompanied by high bread volume, but structure of crumb was always better. The obtained results have shown that spring triticale can be a precious raw material for baking and the quality of bread depends on a proper selection of baking method.

The aim of the study was evaluation of strains of spring triticale and spring rye, considering their interaction with environment. A field experiment was carried out in four locations (Smolice, Przebędów, Grodkowice, Kondratowice) using rectangular lattice with three replications of 10 m2 plots. The material consisted of 42 new strains and two standards (Kargo, Wanad). An experiment with the SMH 301 spring rye was carried out in the same locations, using the complete randomized blocks design with three replications. Alpha-amylase activity was investigated with the use of Hagberg-Perten method. The spring rye cultivar SMH 301 was seven days earlier than the Abago spring rye standard, gave higher yield and had high falling number in all locations. High yielding ability of the spring triticale strain SMH 334, together with high falling number, makes the form much prospective. Another strain, SMH 385 showed relatively high and stable level of falling number (200 s).

The aim of this study was introgression of wheat chromosomes into diploid rye. For this purpose the F4 and F1 generations of the hybrids between 2x rye and substitution-translocation 4x rye were analyzed with the C-banding method. Elimination of wheat chromosomes was observed in 23.4% of substitution-translocation diploid rye progeny analyzed. The remaining plants carried monosomic and disomic substitutions, some additions and also translocations of wheat genetic material. Wheat chromosome number ranged from one to three per plant. The frequency of chromosome 5A was the highest, followed by 7A, 2A, 1A and 4A. Chromosome 6A occurred only in addition plants. Substitution wheat chromosome of the genome B — 7B was noted only in one plant. Translocations occurred most frequently in the short arm of 7A wheat chromosome followed in the diminishing number by 2AS, 2AL, 1AS, 1AL, 4AL, 6AL, 3AL. The wheat chromosomes in diploid rye were transmitted through the female gametes, rarely through the pollen. Self-fertility analysis in the diploid rye with the participation of different wheat chromosomes occurring in various numbers showed, that the wheat genetic material did not cause inactivation of rye self–incompatibility genes. The self-fertility of diploid rye with wheat chromosomes was conditioned exclusively by the self-fertile genes introduced by male sterile diploid rye forms used in the crosses.

The epistatic, dominance and additive action modes of the genes controlling inheritance of 12 traits: plant height, grain weight per ear, number of grains per ear, number of ears per plot, length of ear, length of internode, weight of 1000 grains, test weight, brown rust infectibility, grain yield per plot, protein content and falling number in 11 varieties of winter rye: Dańkowskie Złote, Dańkowskie Nowe, Motto, Warko, Wibro, Zduno, Adar, Arant, Amilo, Kier and Walet were evaluated. Significant epistasis for all the traits has been confirmed. The epistasis of “i” type, resulting from interaction of homozygous loci with homozygous loci, was detected for the length of internode. The epistasis of “i,l” type, being the effect of interaction between homozygous loci and heterozygous loci as well as between heterozygous loci and heterozygous loci, was characteristic of all the others traits. The analysis of variance for an additive-dominance model showed the advantage of dominant genes over additive ones for most of the analysed traits. Strong overdominance for plant height, number of grains per ear, length of internode, brown rust infectibility and weight of 1000 grains was observed. The heritability h2 (in narrow sense) was high for a number of grains per ear, length of internode and weight of 1000 grains. The heritability h2 (in broad sense) was high for all the traits, excluding a number of ears per plot.

The paper presents an experimental program of creating xenic and double hybrids of rye, realized in the years 1985–2000. The occurrence of double xenia in rye: qualitative (kernel color) and quantitative (thousand kernels weight) has been affirmed. Variability of the degree of intercrossing of initial materials has been characterized, depending on a degree of narrowing of the genetic variation basis. The selection of yellow kernel forms showing high combining ability and large effect of thousand kernel weight xenia proved to be useful in hybrid breeding. The formula is given for creation of double hybrids and some agricultural properties of the obtained F1 forms are described.

Fifty-six rye hybrids obtained by crossing 11 cytoplasmic male sterile lines (CMS) and 3 single crosses with 4 male paternal forms (testers: Lo 201-R, Lo 202-R, Lo 203-R and 204-R) were evaluated in two series of experiments. In the first series the testers were Lo 201-R and Lo 202-R, and the experiments with 28 hybrids were conducted at 8 locations. The second series included 28 hybrids obtained with testers Lo 203-R and 204-R and was carried out at 5 locations. Analyses of variance were performed and the effects of general and specific combining ability (GCA, SCA) were estimated. Two female parents (SC-CMS) Lo-106-P × Lo 104-N and Lo 102-P × Lo 105-N and line Lo 110-P were the best combiners of grain yield. Also promising were single hybrid Lo103-P × Lo 104-N and line Lo 104-P, which in the second series of experiments gave significant GCA effects. Among the testers, Lo 202-R and Lo 204-R exhibited positive GCA estimates. Lines Lo-102-P, Lo 104-P, Lo 105-P and Lo 106-P did not show significant positive GCA effects, whereas their hybrids (SC-CMS) had significant estimates of GCA effects.

Seventeen cultivars of winter rye from the Silesia recommended list were evaluated in post-registration trials. The trials were conducted at eight localities: Wrocikowo, Marianowo, SulejĂłw, TomaszĂłw Bolesławiecki, PokĂłj, Głodowo, Wyczechy and Lubliniec in the years 2000–2001. The recently registered population cultivars: Wibro, Warko, Motto, Bosmo, Kier, Adar, Walet, Hegro, Zduno, Amilo and Dańkowskie Złote, and hybrid cultivars: Ursus, Nawid, Fernando, Esprit, Luco and Klawo were grown at two variants of cultivation: standard and intensive. The intensive variant, as compared with the standard one, included a higher level of nitrogen fertilization (by 40 kg/ha), application of anti-lodging chemicals, foliar feeding of plants with microelements and complete control of fungal diseases. Statistical analysis for a series of experiments was done based on the computer program Sergen 3. The three-year investigations have shown significant differentiation of yields and genotype-environment interactions at both variants of cultivation. The hybrid cultivars: Ursus, Fernando and Esprit produced the highest yields at both variants. The hybrid cv. Klawo proved to give satisfactorily high yield under standard cultivation conditions. The population cultivars of rye were found to be more stable in yielding than the hybrid ones, but produced lower yields.

The genetic diversity among 26 maternal single crosses, 8 restorers, 17 male sterile inbred lines and 13 nonrestorer inbred lines was evaluated using PCR marker analysis. These materials were the components of rye hybrids investigated in the preofficial trials at the Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute (IHAR), Danko Breeding Co. Ltd (Danko) and Poznań Breeding Co. Ltd (PHR) during the growing seasons 2001–2002. For the evaluation of genetic diversity of rye breeding materials the semi-specific PCR system using primers targeting intron-exon sequences of plant genes was applied. The evaluation of genetic diversity among maternal hybrids and restorers was based on analysis of 317 DNA fragments, and the genetic distances among inbred lines were calculated from analysis of 370 DNA fragments. Both the estimated data of genetic distances of materials and the cluster analysis based on PCR data, indicated that hybrid components from different breeding centres exhibited somewhat different genetic characters.

The hybridization to DNA of the set of wheat-rye addition lines is the technique commonly used for chromosomal location of DNA based markers in rye. The other approach is the hybridization to the DNA of available set of substitution lines of triticale. Because of the tendency to spontaneous loss of alien chromosomes in wheat-rye addition lines, their presence was verified by Southern dot-blot hybridization using two DNA probes characteristic of rye specific dispersed repetitive sequence. Both probes revealed identical or similar hybridization signals during the analysis of DNA obtained from 103 single seedlings of wheat-rye addition lines. These results confirmed the total or partial loss of rye DNA in some seedlings. The DNA of single seedlings which showed strong and uniform hybridization signal was selected for chromosomal location of rye fragments. The DNA of the set of D/R substitution lines of triticale was also included in these experiments. Four of 18 fragments used as the probes showed increase of hybridization signal to DNA of 4R addition line of wheat with simultaneous decrease of the signal to DNA of 4R/4D substitution line of triticale. The hybridization pattern of the remaining fragments was not informative because of similar intensity of signals to all additions and substitutions or of not consistent differences in intensity of signals to some additions and substitutions.

A path coefficient analysis based on the genotypic correlation between fine grain extract and 6 traits: grain filling, protein content of malt, malt frafility, wort viscosity, diastatic power and fermentability in spring brewery barley was done. The investigated material was the grain from 3 series of experiments: barley collection, first preliminary trials and second preliminary trials, performed in the years 1996–1998. Highly significant positive coefficients of genotypic correlation as well as highly significant direct effects between fine grain extract and malt frafility were found. Malt frafility in the examined samples, excepting those from the collection, had indirect effects on protein content of malt. The path analysis showed that malt frafility may be considered as a usefull trait in selecting valuable lines of spring brewery barley.

The work presents a significant influence of nitrogen fertilization on grain yield and quality of spring barley. Under soil conditions in the fields of the Experimental Station GrabĂłw fertilization with 60 kg N/ha resulted in increasing the yield of barley grain by 1.4 t∙ha-1 (37%), compared to the treatment with no nitrogen fertilization. This effect was mainly due to the greater number of spikes per area unit and the marked increase in a number of grains per spike. At the same time, the protein content of grain increased, whereas the grain filling and extractivity declined. The plants treated with high nitrogen doses were characterized by better nourishment with nitrogen, as shown by laboratory estimates for percentage of N in dry matter, NNI (Nitrogen Nutrition Index) and SPAD readings. For malting barley cv. Rudzik, a critical value for chlorophyll content estimated with N-tester HYDRO (scale 0–800) in the period between full tillering stage EC 25 and elongation of leaf sheath EC 41 was determined at the level of about 465 SPAD units. According to the brewery norms, barley with such a value of SPAD is considered to be optimally nourished. The critical SPAD value to obtain the maximum grain yield is slightly higher (474 units).

A significant relationship between a sowing rate of spring barley and grain yield and protein content was found. The increase of grain yield with increasing a sowing rate up to 4.1 and 4 million seeds per 1 ha in barley line BKH 2794 and cv. Rudzik, respectively, was mainly due to the greater number of spikes. However, when a sowing rate for cv. Rudzik was increased to 5 million seeds per ha, grain yield declined. This effect was because of a comparatively smaller number of grains per spike as well as a lower weight of 1000 grains. The increase of canopy density resulted in the diminished plant productive tillering, followed by changes in canopy architecture, shown in the reduced number of short tillers, producing small grains of high protein content. The malting quality parameters depended on the weather conditions in the years of investigations, but the essential effects of sowing density were similar. High density resulted in the declined weight of 1000 grains and protein content of grain. In contrast, it caused the enhancement of wort viscosity and fermentability.

The aim of these investigations was to determine the influence of nitrogen fertilization and sowing density on the β-glucan content of winter brewery barley cv. Rudzik. The experiment was carried out in 2000 in the field of agrotechnical station GrabĂłw. The experimental factors were differentiated nitrogen fertilization doses: 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 kg N/ha and sowing densities: 200, 300, 400 and 500 grains per 1m2. After harvest and malting of the grain, the content of β-glucans was estimated. High nitrogen doses resulted in undesirable increasing of the β-glucan content of wort, whereas a high sowing density had a positive effect on the content of this component.

The aim of this research was to determine the influence of chemical protection of brewery barley on β-glucan content of wart. The influence of fungicide application time and effectiveness of chemical plant protection methods were evaluated. The study was carried out in 2000 on barley cv. Rudzik at the agrotechnical station in GrabĂłw. After harvest the grain was multed, and the content of β-glucan was estimated. It was found that the herbicides Chwastox 300 SL and Granstar 75 WG with adjuvant Trend 90 EC had no significant effects upon β-glucan content of wort. In contrast, the negative influence of some fungicides on this trait was observed if they were applied in later terms during the vegetation period of barley.

The investigations on spring barley were carried out at the Experimental Station (ES) of IUNG in Kępa in the years 1996–1998 and at the ES of IUNG in Osiny in the years 1997–1998 and 1998–2000. Positive effects of plant spraying with fungicides on grain yield and its quality were observed. They were shown in the diminished infestation of plants with fungal diseases, significant increase of grain yield and improved malting quality of the grain. The effectiveness of chemical protection depended on the weather conditions during the vegetation periods. The best effects were obtained with Charisma 207 EC, containing two complementary active substances: famoxate and fluzilazole. The former inhibits the production of energy in pathogen cells, whereas the latter reduces the production of ergosterol, the component being necessary for building pathogen cell walls. A delay in plant spraying with fungicides caused the diminished effectiveness of treatment in controlling net blotch infestation, as the disease appeared at the early stages of barley plants development. This, in turn, resulted in the declined grain yield and decreasing of its malting quality.

Genetic resistance to powdery mildew (Blumeria graminis f. sp hordei) of 28 Polish cultivars from Polish Official List is presented. All the cultivars have one or more genes for resistance in loci Mlg, Mla, M1La and mlo. Only the cultivars with mlo gene are resistant to powdery mildew population occurring in Poland.

Significance of the Mlo resistance in protection of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) against powdery mildew (Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei) has been successively growing up. This type of resistance is very effective, and is commonly used in breeding programmes in Europe. In this paper, the current knowledge of the genetics, phenotype and mechanism of the Mlo resistance, including the results of recent molecular studies, is reviewed.

Since the years 1990–2000 Mlo resistance of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) has become commonly used in European barley breeding programmes for resistance to powdery mildew. This type of resistance has been proved to be very effective in protection of barley from against, fungus Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei. This paper presents the updated information about sources of the Mlo resistance. The work also describes the use of Mlo resistance in breeding of new barley cultivars.

Powdery mildew (caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei) is one of the most important diseases affecting the barley. The growing of resistant cultivars is the effective method to control of this disease. Until now no virulent isolates of B. graminis f. sp. hordei to mlo gene have been found. The Mlo resistance is considered to be durable because it has remained effective for a long time while being used widely. In this paper were discuss the main aspects of durability of the Mlo resistance.

The aim of the presented paper were genetic and breeding studies of F2 interspecific hybrids Avena sativa L. cv. Borys × Avena fatua L. and the parental forms. Hybrid character of this cross combination was confirmed using the RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) method. Configurations of chromosomes in pollen mother cells (PMCs) at methaphase I and anaphase I, frequency of micronuclei in tetrads, viability and size of pollen grains were analysed in order to estimate the cytogenetic stability of hybrids. At metaphase I mainly bivalents were observed and at anaphase I rarely lagging chromosomes and chromatid bridges were noted. In the hybrids, as well as in the initial forms, tetrads were properly formed and pollen was highly viable. The obtained results testify to good stability of the analysed genotypes. The hybrids were compared to their parental forms regarding some quantitative traits. In majority of cases significant differences were stated. In comparison with the Borys variety, hybrids were higher and had longer panicles. Number of spikelets per panicle, as well as number and weight of kernels, were lower than in the parental forms. Higher fertility and total protein content in kernels, but at the same time lower weight of 1000 kernels were stated.

Variability and relationships between nine traits: grain yield per plot, plant height, earliness (days from 1V to heading), resistance to crown rust, resistance to lodging, weight of 1000 grains, hull content (%), protein content (%) and fat content (%) in the following oats: common, naked grain and early maturing (mountain oats) were evaluated in 3 series of field and laboratory experiments. The grain yields of common strains of oats were higher than those of early maturing and naked grain oats. The protein and fat contents were high in the kernel of naked grain oats. The resistance to crown rust of oat strains evaluated in 3 series as well as the content of hull in naked grain forms was found to be greatly variable. Negative correlation was observed between grain yield and the following traits: resistance to crown rust, content of protein (in all oats) and plant height in common forms of oats.

The susceptibility of seeds of hull-less oat cultivars (Akt, Cacko, Polar and STH 4659 line) and husked cultivars (Bajka and Skrzat) to mechanical damage caused by mechanical threshing at two rates: 780 and 1760 rpm was investigated. Control seeds were threshed manually at the same time. Macrodamage caused to the hull-less oat seeds was determined taking into consideration the embryo damage, the endosperm damage, and pieces of the seeds. The seeds with the embryo macrodamage and those with the endosperm macrodamage, accounting at high rotary rate for 9.1% and 8.9%, respectively, made the most numerous group. Microdamage done to the hull-less and husked oat seeds was determined using Lugol’s solution. The embryo microdamage, the endosperm microdamage, and the embryo and endosperm microdamage were distinguished. The percentage of damaged seeds in husked cultivars was 2–3 times lower than that in hull-less cultivars. In the latter, the endosperm damage acquired high values, ranging from 29.1% to 31.0%. These cultivars were found to be affected by rotary rate, a rise in which resulted in increasing the percentage of seeds with damaged embryos from 13.7% at 780 rpm to 31.3% at 1760 rpm.

The progenies from a half diallel (second Griffing’s model) cross involving 8 inbred lines were grown with their parents in 2002 in the experimental field at Kobierzyce. Six lines: S160, S245, S41606A, S41324A-2, S48556-3 and S43523 were bred in “Plant Breeding Smolice”, Ltd., and lines K1653 and K2577A in SWS (Germany). The experiment was carried out using randomized complete block design with three replications. Each experimental unit consisted of two rows spaced 75 cm apart. Data were recorded for plant height, ear height, dry matter content and grain yield. GCA and SCA effects were significant for all traits. The GCA/SCA variance ratio suggests an additive gene action for plant height, ear height and dry matter content, and nonadditive one for grain yield. Lines S160 and S48466-3 were found to be good general combiners for plant height and dry matter content. Significant effects for grain yield were shown by lines S160 and S245. The hybrids with lines S160, S245 and K1653 showed desirable significant effects of SCA for grain yield.

Breeding of maize hybrids in Poland has got only a 50-year history, but the basis for its present achievements was founded as early as in the interwar period and just after the Second World War. In this paper, the people who put the “corner stones” of domestic maize hybrid breeding are mentioned. The importance of such events as: developing of the first Polish varietal hybrid Wiel-Wi in 1957, developing of the first DC (1967), TC (1977) and SC (1994) hybrids has been emphasized. The creating of early and high yielding hybrids made possible to cultivate of maize in the northern part of Poland not only for silage usage but also for grain. It may be concluded based on the results of the postregistered trials done in the years 1999–2001 that new Polish hybrids are competitive to the foreign ones. Polish hybrids share about 40 per cent of the domestic maize market. The importance of cooperation both with foreign and Polish commercial and scientific institutions for further development of Polish maize breeding has also been stressed in the paper. The main problems of practical breeding to be solved in the nearest future are outlined.