Abstract

The ultimate aim of all work on crop improvement is the production of the best crops, the chief test of superiority, implying, besides, the greatest return to the grower. This, in turn, is dependent upon the increased yields realised and the economics of production. Although a good many of the crops now made use of for food and clothing for man and fodder for cattle have been in existence from very remote times, recent studies have shown that there is still a great scope for improving them by producing varieties that are more efficient in their use of plant nutrients, give the greatest return of high quality produce per unit area in relation to costs of production, besides a greater immunity against diseases, insects pests and adaptability to the needs of the grower and consumer. In achieving these ends the plant breeder has played a very large role.

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