Pollen was collected from adapted descendants of Zea diploperennis x Maize plants (MNL #63, Pages 106 and 107) and backcrossed to Zea diploperennis P.I. No. 441931. About 100 plants from the above cross were grown in the greenhouse during the winter of 1995-1996. Two fans were directed on these plants and the few Maize plants for crossing purposes were detassled. About 2000 seeds were harvested from these plants. One isolation plot and one breeding plot were planted in the spring of 1996. The isolation plot plants that produced seed were transplanted to the greenhouse in the fall with the seed from each plant identified. Only seed that came from plants that survived the transplantation and grew was planted in 1997.

Another isolation plot was planted in 1998. Seed from these plants was identified and saved and the plants were transplanted into the greenhouse. Again in 1999 an isolation plot was planted U.of M. Experiment Station at Rosemount with seed that came from the perennial plants. The perennial plants from the greenhouse were planted in a separate isolation plot and any that didn't grow in 1999 were identified. Rows of seedlings that descended from plants that didn't grow when replanted in the spring were chopped off when they were about three feet high.

Most of this population bears seed partially extruded from the cupule but some seed is completely enclosed in the fruit case. All plants bear many ears and have numerous tillers. Seed can be obtained from Mark Millard at the Plant Introduction Station at Ames, Iowa or from the Author.
 
 

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