somatic mutation
What is the reasoning behind 8 filial lines for stabilization if you are working with a somatic mutation found in open pollenated heirloom? The desired trait is present in the mutant, the mutant made viable seeds and the desired trait is in it's progeny. Other than selecting for more productive plants, what are some of the seed companies reasonings for requesting this from breeders? I know it can't be looked at like a cultivar because of reproduction, but it is a mutant. Do I need to do eight generations to stabilize a somatic mutation? If it depends, why?
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