Abstract
Several methods of storing cotton pollen (Gossypium hirsutum L.) were evaluated. A successful pollen storage method that maintains fertility would enhance the crossing of breeding materials. Storing pollen at ultra-low temperatures in liquid nitrogen or at 5°C was not successful. No storage method maintained pollen fertility for more than 72 h. Cotton pollen did maintain adequate fertility up to 24 h at 10 and 15°C, at both low and high humidity when the pollen was stored in the detached flowers. Minimally acceptable pollen fertility was maintained in flowers stored at 15°C at 100% R.H. for 72 h. Use of these methods will allow for better utilization of parental plants when both parents do not flower on the same days.
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Communicated by G.C. Phillips
USDA-ARS, in cooperation with the New Mexico Agricultural Experimental Station, Journal Article No. 1161, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
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Rodriguez-Garay, B., Barrow, J.R. Short-term storage of cotton pollen. Plant Cell Reports 5, 332–333 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00268594
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00268594