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The productivity of many crops is proportional to the number
of days that the crop is actively growing. Thus, in general,
it is advantageous to be able to plant early in the season.
However, cold wet weather can inhibit germination leading to
poor stand development and reduced productivity.
Mendel has identified a number of genes that enhance the
germination of seeds in cold conditions. The use of these
genes increases crop yield in regions with short growing
seasons by allowing early planting. Predictability in
germination and seedling establishment also reduces seed
costs by obviating the need for planting at high rates.
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