Matching inbred lines of Brussels sprouts for flowering characteristics, as an aid to improving F1 hybrid seed production

Previous work at the National Vegetable Research Station indicated that cross-pollination of Brussels sprouts by honeybees could be improved when parent lines with similar flowering characteristics were used. During 1973-5 inbred lines were tested at three sites for matching ability based on flowering times, plant height and flower colour. One pair of inbreds satisfied all criteria at all sites, and a further twelve gave satisfactory results. Two pairs visually matched in 1973 were grown in larger plots in 1973-4 to assess the effect of matching on honeybee behaviour. Results showed that matching improved cross-pollination by honeybees between the parent lines.