Summary
Yields of F1 hybrids averaged 22% more than the mean of their heavier-yielding inbred parents, and the advantage of hybrids over composite populations varied from 3 to 18%, more in winter than spring beans.
From estimates of cost/benefit ratios that included the possibility of poor seedset on male steriles, on average 1 year in 10, it was concluded that hybrid seed might cost more than twice that of conventional varieties, but a 10% increase in yield on a 4t/ha crop would cover this extra cost of seed.
Thus, hybrids could still be the more profitable type of variety provided seed rates are low and yield levels high. It is therefore still worthwhile to pursue the goal of stable cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and/or a control of the rate of increase in revertants. Some methods are suggested whereby it might be possible to reduce revertants, improve pollination or exploit heterosis other than with CMS.
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Bond, D.A. Prospects for commercialisation of F1 hybrid field beans Vicia faba L.. Euphytica 41, 81–86 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00022415
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00022415