what is the F1,F2,F3 part of breeding?

**Nirvana42o0** · 10-04-16, 06:02 AM

I've been looking into some breeding and learned a lot! I just would like a kind constructive answer on what exacly the F's stand for?
Thanks guys
Cheers!

**Blue** · 10-04-16, 10:56 AM

I've also been reading up on breeding, really interesting stuff it's something il definitely be giving a try in the near future. Not so much true breeding just a few strain crosses Id like to have a go at. The F stands for filial .. The original mother and father are P1 so for example P1 x P1 will give you an F1 (or first filial) the first generation of both parents. Then an F1 x F1 will give you an F2 (second filial).Then selecting the best two with matching traits from the F2s and crossing will give you an F3 (third filial). Good luck with the breeding nirvana

**Murdock** · 10-04-16, 11:06 AM

Outbreeding or producing hybrid seed is the practice of crossing two plants from different genetic backgrounds. An F1 (make the 1 in F1 superscript) hybrid is a first generation cross of two true breeding plants. F1 varieties are the most sought after plants available because they grow approximately 25 percent faster and larger than other crosses. This phenomena is known as hybrid vigor.

The offspring of F1 plants are called F2 and the offspring of F2 plants are called F3 etc. The subsequent generations after F1 do not experience hybrid vigor. F1 hybrids from seed companies must be brought back to true bred plants before they serve as consistent breeding stock.

NOTE: Most often grower’s do not breed, they cross plants without stabilizing any particular plant, or developing true breeding strains. Once they find a plant they like, they take clones of it and grow it out under lights. Often this is process is confused with breeding. It is much more difficult to select plants, stabilize them into true breeding plants and produce F1 (make the 1 in F1 superscript) hybrids. Often when 10 seeds purchased from a disreputable seed company are planted, the result is 10 plants that all look different, so beware!