CHARACTERIZATION OF SOME SELF-COMPATIBLE ALMONDS .1. POLLEN-TUBE GROWTH

Pollen tube growth was studied in 10 almond [Prunus amygdalus Batsch, syn. P. dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] selections of the Zaragoza breeding program, whose main objective is the development of self-compatible cultivars. Self-compatibility was evident in eight of the selections, as indicated by the fact that pollen tube growth was similar following self- and cross-pollination. In the other two selections, pollen tube growth differed following self- and cross-pollination, one showing self-incompatibility and the other an irregular progression of crossed pollen tubes. The importance of the style in sustaining pollen tube growth was evident, and pollen tube growth was influenced by style type.