Seed length and Spikelet imaging
Seed length was measured using a Leica MZFLIII fluorescence stereomicroscope. About 12 seeds were measured for each plot, and the mean value was recorded. Spikelet images for each line were recorded using Leica MZFLIII stereomicroscope as well.
Height dynamics Average plant height in each plot was measured from 53 DAS up to 77 DAS (eight times). Height (H) was measured at three different locations along the plot, from the ground up to maximal plant height (which could not be absolutely defined as the panicle tips). As panicles emerged (and during grain filling) the fraction of the plot which exhibited lodging was scored (F), as well as the height of the lodged fraction (LH). p Plant heights were averaged as follows:
Avg plot plant height = (Erect fraction * H) + (Lodged fraction * LH)
Maximal plot height (MPH) was the maximal height the plot had reached, regardless of the lodging fractions.