3. Seed production of agricultural crops.

Longman House, Burnt Mill, Harlow, Essex CM20 2JE, UK, ISBN 0582-40410, £27.42

It is now recognized that crop production is limited by genetic potential and that improved varieties must be the foundation of any attempts to improve yield. However, not only must seed be of high genetic potential, it must also be harvested, cleaned and stored correctly if it is to retain good germination ability and vigour for seedling growth. Seed testing may also be necessary to determine germination, vigour and presence of disease and seed treatments may be considered to protect seeds from seed - and/or soil-borne diseases.

In 'Seed Production of Agricultural Crops' A. Fenwick Kelly has written a practical guide to the basic requirements for the correct production of seed for agricultural crops and the book contains enough fundamental information to enable readers to understand the reasoning behind the management practices discussed.

The author was Deputy Director of the National Institute for Agricultural Botany in England from 1970-83, since when he has been active in international organizations dealing with seed matters and has worked as a consultant with the FAO. Although he assumes knowledge of the basic principles of crop production, his book is largely self-explanatory on all major points and will be useful to all those responsible for developing seed production in the Third World.

1190 92 - 9/37

Seed production

Asia, Philippines, case study, seed potato, physiology, pathology, production systems, CIP, GTZ

CRISSMAN, C.C.