Innovations in Horticultural Sciences - K.V. Peter - Bog

The book is a compilation of 19 chapters authored by eminent scientists in the area. There is need to break yield barriers by GM Technology, keeping biosafety intact and as per standards. Use of biotechnology to enhance productivity is elaborated in two chapters. Water being a limiting factor is being studied wholistically. Soil fertility and its management are critical to crop productivity. Soil as a living entity needs to be viewed as the basics of horticulture. Root stocks play a vital role in rejuvenation, anchoring and better nutrient absorption. Biotic stresses like nematode pests and an array of viruses make crop growing highly challenging. Breeding methods are now available to develop varieties and hybrids which withstand stresses-biotic and abiotic- An exposure to basic sciences like plant physiology is needed to understand the source-sink ratios in crops. Marketing and trade are areas less taught but assuming top importance now. Horticulture is incomplete without study on pollinators like bees.