SELF AND CROSS FERTILITY IN CRANBERRY

Eight varieties of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) were crossed in a complete diallel experimental design to examine self and cross fertility. Significant differences were detected for total, developed, and percent developed seed set among the varieties as females. Female fertility of 'Howes' and 'Wilcox' was reduced between 30 and 50% as compared to other varieties. Developed and percent developed seed set were significantly reduced for all varieties upon self-pollination. Reduction in developed seed set appeared to be the result of an increased level of abortion in self-pollinated flowers. Significant differences were found among varieties for ovule number. A positive correlation between berry weight and developed seed/berry was observed for most varieties. Genotypic variability in fertility and self-fertility could be exploited in developing varieties with increased productivity.