'Hannah's Choice F1' : A new muskmelon hybrid with resistance to powdery mildew, fusarium race 2, and potyviruses

Abstract

'Hannah's Choice F1' is a new, high quality eastern type muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) with multiple disease resistance. It was developed in the Department of Plant Breeding at the Cornel University Agricultural Experiment Station in Ithaca, N. Y. It is well adapted for northeastern U.S. conditions and shows potential for good adaptation in the northwest. With multiple disease resistance it is well suited for home gardeners, market gardeners, and commercial growers. 'Hannah's Choice F1' has excellent resistance to powdery mildew races 1 and 2 (Podosphaera xanthi) and some tolerance to Fusarium root rot (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melonis) race 2. In addition, it has resistance to watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), papaya ringspot virus (PRSV), and zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV). This is the first commercial melon to have combined resistance to these three potyviruses. Also, it has shown some field tolerance to spider mites (Tetranychus urticae). Lastly, it has shown some field tolerance to downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis), angular leaf spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. lachrymans), and gummy stem blight (Didymella bryoniae). In 2001, 2002, and 2003 it was grown in replicated trials in New York and in 2002 and 2003 in Oregon.