ISHS Acta Horticulturae 355: Plant Breeding for Mankind - Symposium Agribex 94
ADAPTING CROP PROPERTIES FOR EFFICIENT MECHANISATION |
| Author: | P. D. ir. Josse De Baerdemaeker |
| Abstract:
The mechanisation of agriculture production increased productivity and relieved manual labour from conditions that are now considered uncomfortable and inhumane. This improvement in productivity and work efficiency has created an overabundant supply of food and raw materials. This technical evolution was accompanied by and sometimes enabled by new cultural practices. At the same time, new high yielding varieties of crops were introduced. The breeding programs were directed to increasing plant resistance to disease and stress and on product quality. Plant breeding programs and mechanisation development advanced side by side. In only a limited number of cases did interaction between these disciplines occur. In what follows are some examples of where such interactions contributed to efficient mechanisation development. Next, a few areas are identified where focused plant breeding could be a real contribution to a more reliable and effective mechanisation. It will become clear that crop properties play an important role as a link between breeding and equipment development. | |
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