Key technologies for improving yield and quality of hybrid sugar beet seed production 2
**Technical Methods to Increase Seed Production in Hybrid Sugar Beet**
The production of hybrid sugar beet seeds is unique compared to other crops. It involves a long wintering period followed by transplantation, and every step before and after this process plays a critical role in increasing seed yield.
**2.1 Female Root Breeding**
**2.1.1 Selection of Mother Root Breeding Fields**
Choosing the right field for mother root breeding is essential. The site should be flat, well-irrigated, with fertile soil free from salinity or alkalinity. It should also avoid areas where tall crops are grown, as they may interfere with the uniform growth of the roots. This ensures that the mother roots are consistent in size, making them easier to store and multiply effectively during the winter.
**2.1.2 Fertilization and Sowing**
After harvesting winter wheat in early July, the soil must be prepared promptly and fertilized thoroughly. The fertilization strategy should focus on high levels of phosphorus and potassium, while minimizing nitrogen use. The field should be finely tilled, level, and free of crop residue. Since sugar beet parent seeds are expensive, precise sowing methods and irrigation (such as drip or sprinkler systems) are crucial. Flooding is strictly prohibited. Plant density should be around 11,000 to 13,000 plants per hectare.
**2.1.3 Management of the Mother Root Field**
In addition to regular weeding and watering, it's important to control water usage later in the season. As temperatures drop and natural precipitation increases, irrigation should stop to prevent excess moisture in the roots, which can lead to rot during storage. Maintaining clean, weed-free fields with strong, uniform seedlings is key to successful wintering.
**2.1.4 Timely Harvesting and Storage**
Harvesting should occur before the soil freezes. When trimming the roots, care must be taken not to damage the apical or lateral buds. Petioles should be short (no more than 0.5 cm) to prevent rot during storage. Mother roots should be stored in dry, elevated pits with good air circulation. The pit should be covered gradually as temperatures drop, ensuring the roots remain dry and healthy. Proper storage prevents wilting, freezing, and rot.
**2.2 Mother Root Planting**
**2.2.1 Planting Time and Methods**
After a long winter, the mother roots must be planted at the right time. Early planting risks frost damage, while late planting can cause wilting and excessive sprout growth. In Ili Prefecture, planting is best done between late March and early April.
**2.2.2 Parental Planting Ratio and Management**
The ratio of female to male parents should be 1:4. Female rows should be spaced 60 cm x 60 cm, and male rows 60 cm x 80 cm. The roots must be clearly distinguished to avoid mixing. When the female plant reaches 30–35 cm in height, the main stem should be topped to encourage branching. Once the inflorescence grows, the top should be removed to promote lower flower development and better grain filling.
**2.2.3 Flowering Regulation and Pollination**
Flowering timing is adjusted through topping and pruning. If the male plants flower too early, their flowering can be delayed. If they bloom late, the female plants need to be managed accordingly. Insect pollinators or manual assistance can be used to ensure effective cross-pollination.
**2.2.4 Fertilization and Top-Dressing**
After planting, the mother roots grow rapidly, requiring both vegetative and reproductive support. Organic fertilizers, along with balanced phosphorus and potassium, should be used, while nitrogen should be controlled. A portion of the fertilizer is applied deep into the soil before winter, and the rest is added during spring cultivation. Top-dressing helps supply nutrients during the later growth stages, especially for pollen development. Fertilizers rich in potassium and boron are recommended to enhance seed quality and setting rate.
**2.2.5 Timely Watering**
Watering is critical after transplanting and during the flowering stage. Three to four irrigations are typically needed. However, watering should be stopped about half a month before harvest. Stopping water too early can cause premature maturity, leading to lower yields and poor seed quality.
**2.3 Timely Harvesting**
Harvesting occurs when the lower seeds turn grayish-yellow and the kernels darken. The seeds should be spread out in thin layers (no more than 40 cm thick) to allow proper drying. Moisture should be reduced to around 9% before storage. After further processing and packaging, the seeds are ready for sale.
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