Space-Bred Huang Shan Chrysanthemum Seeds Begin Breeding Trial in China
A breeding trial for Huang Shan Chrysanthemum seeds, which traveled to space, has begun in Anhui Province, China. Researchers are conducting the trial under controlled conditions to compare space-bred and traditional seeds. The experiment aims to improve quality and resistance of this ancient variety as cultivation continues until November.
A new breeding trial has commenced in Shexian County, Anhui Province, China, focusing on a batch of Huang Shan Chrysanthemum seeds that have traveled to space. The trial began on March 18, 2025, at a research institute’s test field, aiming to evaluate the effects of space exposure on these seeds.
To ensure accuracy in the experiment, researchers adhered to stringent protocols, planting both space-bred and traditional seeds in separate plots under identical conditions for comparative analysis. Selected high-quality space-bred seeds will serve as rootstocks for grafting with traditional varieties, improving their quality and disease resistance.
Cheng Fuqiang, a key researcher, noted that the breeding experiment will extend until the harvest season in November. The Huang Shan Chrysanthemum, which boasts an 800-year cultivation history, is an ancient variety known for its susceptibility to genetic degradation. These seeds were launched aboard the Shijian-19 satellite in September 2024 and successfully recovered in October 2024, marking Anhui Province’s first experiment with space-bred seeds.
The introduction of space-bred Huang Shan Chrysanthemum seeds into a breeding trial demonstrates a significant advancement in agricultural research. By comparing the effects of space exposure with traditional cultivation methods, the trial seeks to enhance the genetic resilience and quality of this ancient flower variety. The promising approach reflects the ongoing exploration of space’s impact on agriculture, potentially offering new methods for crop improvement.
Original Source: www.ecns.cn
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