-=> Quoting Sandra Peake to Marilyn Boissoneault <=-
SP> They are hybrids, Marilyn. By years of genetic manipulation,
SP> scientists have (usually) doubled the number of chromosomes for
SP> certain traits, and found that crossing them with certain other
SP> strains produced seedless fruits. Most seeds are the product of the
SP> mother fruit, and if the mother remains seedless, that is what you
SP> buy. But isolation is a must, or cross-pollination with wild
SP> (unapproved) strains will result in seed coat formation, with loss
SP> of seedlessness.
Thanks for the info, I knew they were hybrids, but didn't know
about the doubling of chromosomes, vey interesting.
SP> I like them because they set fruit at every node, and none of the
SP> plant's energy is wasted on unproductive male flowers. Of course,
SP> that also means I distrust the food values and mineral levels of
SP> their fruit! :-(
I know they are certainly very productive. I guess I never
thought about the food value or minerals.  But if I remember
cucumbers aren't really packed with vitamins etc.
Marilyn
... Locked coathanger in car. Good thing I had a key.
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