Principles of Plant Breeding (2+1)

Introduction to Plant Breeding

• Human being is almost dependent on plants for his food and all other needs. Plants are major source directly or indirectly of most food, fodder clothing, fuel, drugs etc. Considering the prime importance of plants, human being have long been concerned with developing plant types better suited to satisfying their needs.
• Art: Before the rediscovery of Mendelism plant breeding was the result of visual selection of material practiced on a trial and error basis by untrained people. Skill and proper judgment coupled with common sense formed the basis of success. Selection was the only practice of plant breeding which resulted in development of many varieties developed before 20thcentury. This art depends on breeder to assess the difference of economic values between the plants.
• Now with the growth of genetics, these practices are systematic to the point, where they can be called as a science.