Vegetable Seeds: Production and Technology

The world's food supply depends on annual seed production, and this book explains the biology and technology behind producing, maintaining, and enhancing the quality of vegetable seeds. It covers seed-related topics, seed production in eleven important vegetable families, and post-harvest handling.

Format: Hardback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2024
Publisher: CABI Publishing

Vegetable seed production is a complex and challenging process that requires a deep understanding of biology and technology. It is essential for the world's population, as most food and fiber crops are produced from seed. This book aims to educate readers on the biology and technology behind producing, maintaining, and enhancing the quality of vegetable seeds from breeding through to the marketed product.

The importance of seeds is emphasized in the first chapter, as they are the foundation of plant reproduction. The reproductive biology of plants is then explored, including the mechanisms of pollination, fertilization, and seed development. Genetic improvement strategies are discussed in detail, including methods such as hybridization, selection, and gene editing. Quality assurance of seed production is crucial to ensure that the seeds produced meet the desired standards for quality and purity. Post-harvest seed enhancement is also covered, including techniques such as drying, grading, and storage.

Eleven important vegetable families are covered in the remaining chapters, providing a comprehensive description of the botany, types, and cultivars of each family. Genetic improvement, pollination, soil fertility management, pest management, crop production, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and seed yields are all discussed in detail. The book incorporates both current methodologies and recent research results to provide readers with the most up-to-date information on vegetable seed production.

This book is suitable for students, researchers, and professionals in the seed industry, as it provides a comprehensive and practical guide to vegetable seed production. It will help readers develop the skills and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality vegetable seeds that meet the growing demand for sustainable and healthy food.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789243246