Composite variety

A composite variety is a plant population in which at least 70% of its progeny result from the crossing of the parent lines.

Composite variety is a variety developed by mixing the seeds of various phenotypically outstanding lines possessing similarities for various characteristics like height, seed size, seed color, maturity etc. Crossing among the selected is encouraged. Features of Composite Variety Heterogeneous Relevant to cross pollinated species only Can be developed from open pollinated variety any other heterozygous variety Farmer can use his own saved seed for 3 to 4 years, after that seed should be replaced There can be two or more constituent genotypes Evaluation for general combining ability (gca) as in synthetic variety production, is not carried out, therefore the yield of composite variety cannot be predicted in advance. Exact reconstitution of composite variety is not possible Examples and development of composite variety are given on the page Composite Variety Production. Visit to know more on the topics.