The relationship between the architectonic elements of potato bushes and their productivity in breeding samples at the SNAU

Abstract

Purpose. The relationship between the morphobiological characteristics of potato hybrids and their productivity was investigated. To develop methods for improving approaches to the selection of promising samples with increased adaptive qualities and yield based on external characteristics. Methods. The experiments were conducted in 2022–2023 on the experimental field of Sumy National Agrarian University, in the north-eastern forest-steppe zone.Research object: 48 hybrid combinations. The research was conducted sequentially in nurseries of first- and second-year clones. The method of work was individual clone selection from hybrid combinations with subsequent evaluation and testing of clones in breeding nurseries. The data obtained were processed using the grouping method.Correlation analysis was used to assess the nature of the interaction. Results. Three groups of plants were identified.Hybrids formed the highest early yield of tubers when their tops reached their maximum weight 60 days after planting (group 3). The correlation between tuber productivity and morphological characteristics of the tops was studied for the selection of hybrids based on external characteristics. A number of characteristics are genetically fixed. They cannot serve as markers of yield. A number of traits had little effect on tuber yield formation. Several traits were identified that have a moderate effect on the final and early yield of potato bushes. They can be considered indicators of productivity. These primarily include the height and habit of the bush. Findings. The morphobiotype of potato samples, which was distinguished by tall growth and an upright bush habit, is characterised by high yield in the conditions of the north-eastern forest-steppe. Intensive formation of vegetative mass and prolonged functioning of the assimilation apparatus are characteristic of highly productive forms. These patterns will allow optimising the methods of evaluation and testing of potato breeding samples. In the future, they will ensure more effective selection of promising samples with increased adaptive qualities and productivity. They will contribute to increasing the effectiveness of breeding in the creation of new varieties.