Horticultural Plant Breeding

Horticultural Plant Breeding is a complete and comprehensive resource for the development of new cultivars or clones of horticultural crops. It covers the basic theories that underpin plant breeding and applies Mendelian, quantitative and population inheritance practices in smaller populations where the individual plant has high value. Specific traditional breeding methods are also covered, with an emphasis on how these methods are adapted for horticultural species. In addition, the integration of biotechnologies with traditional breeding methodologies is explored, with an emphasis on specific applications for fruits, vegetables and ornamental crop species. Presented in focused sections, Horticultural Plant Breeding addresses historical perspectives and context, and genetics as a critical foundation of plant breeding. It highlights treatments of the various components of breeding programs, such as breeding objectives, germplasm, population engineering, mating systems, enhanced selection methods, established breeding methods applicable to inbreeding and outcrossing situations, and post-breeding activities.

• Provides a complete and comprehensive resource for those involved in the development of new cultivars or clones of horticultural crops
• Guides readers to the most appropriate breeding strategy including potential integration of traditional and biotechnology strategies that will best achieve a cost-effective outcome
• Will include access to 20 narrated slide sets to facilitate additional understanding

Upper level undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students, professional practitioners

Section 1. Elements and Underpinnings of Plant Breeding
Introduction to Section 1
1. Introduction
2. The Context of Plant Breeding
3. Review of Genetics (From the Perspective of a Plant Breeder)
4. Engineered Population Structures
5. Mass Selection and the Basic Plant Breeding Algorithm
6. Breeding Objectives
7. Germplasm and Genetic Variability
8. Enhancement of Germplasm
9. Improvement of Selection Effectiveness
10. Natural Mating Systems and Controlled Mating
11. Cultivar Testing and Seed Production
12. Protection of Proprietary Plant Germplasm

Section 2. Breeding Methods
Introduction to Section 2
13. The Pedigree Method
14. Other Breeding Methods for Self Pollinated Plant Species
15. Breeding Methods for Outcrossing Plant Species: I. History of Corn Breeding and Open Pollinated Populations
16. Breeding Methods for Outcrossing Plant Species: II. Hybrid Cultivars
17. Breeding Methods for Outcrossing Plant Species: III. Asexual Propagation
18. The Backcross Method
19. Breeding for Disease and Insect Resistance