Why don't seeds saved from hybrid crops grow identical offspring?
Save seeds from a hybrid tomato and the next generation may surprise you. Inherited combinations can separate and recombine, producing more varied offspring. Explore why repeating the original cross differs from planting its descendants, and how a grower could separate genetic variation from growing conditions.
Questions you could explore
- How is the next generation different from repeating the original cross?
- How could a grower distinguish inherited variation from differences in growing conditions?
Start reading
- University of Minnesota ExtensionSaving vegetable seeds
University of Minnesota guidance distinguishes open-pollinated and hybrid plants when discussing saved seed.
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