ABSTRACT
A seed program is undergirded by crop breeding research and thrives when new and improved varieties are regularly introduced for multiplication. An examination of crop breeding research and its relationship to the seed program is the first step toward a strong seed program. The success of crop breeding is measured by the end product—the variety. The features of a variety should make it recognizably different from other varieties. These features may be size, height, or color or a characteristic such as disease resistance. A country's human, financial, and physical resources must be considered in deciding whether to start a breeding program or to concentrate on testing varieties introduced from outside the country. A well-trained, competent staff operating with determination and continuity is required for a successful crop breeding program. Crop breeding research can be supported by a government, by a regional organization, through international efforts, and by seed enterprises, farmers' associations, or cooperatives.
