The purpose of this book is to bring together the most recent knowledge concerning the genetic improvement of ornamental plant species. Active researchers of many aspects of the genetics and breeding of these species have written chapters organized into three sections: Cytogenetics, Quantitative Genetics and Molecular Genetics. These titles identify the basic tools used in a variety of breeding situations. Some are traditional and well established; others offer new and exciting challenges for the future. vii Introduction The purpose of this book is to bring together recent knowledge concerning the genetic improvement of ornamental plant species. In the 20th century flower breeding has become widespread leading to many improvements in phenotypic and production characteristics of ornamental species. These methods depends on the creation and subsequent selection of genetic vari ability. Lack of variability in gene pools has been a chief limitation to the success of flower breeding. Recent progress in molecular biology makes it possible to add genetically well-defined characteristics to gene pools, thus increasing the potential for genetic improvement. These methods also enable the specific silencing of genetic information to accomplish an intentional loss of function. This book compiles current knowledge of the cytogenetics, quantitative genetics, and molecular genetics of ornamental plant species. The three sections identify the basic tools used in a variety of breeding situations.

This book presents a selection of innovative postharvest management practices for vegetables. It covers technologies in harvesting, handling, and storage of vegetables, including strategies for low-temperature storage of vegetables, active and smart packaging of vegetables, edible coatings, application of nanotechnology in postharvest technology of vegetable crops, and more. It considers most of the important areas of vegetable processing while maintaining nutritional quality and addressing safety issues. Fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, which provide many health benefits. However, due to poor postharvest management—such as non-availability of cold chain management and low-cost processing facilities, large quantities of vegetables perish before they reach the consumer. Furthermore, higher temperatures in some regions also contribute to an increased level of postharvest losses. With chapters written by experts in the postharvest handling of vegetable, this volume addresses these challenges. It is devoted to presenting both new and innovative technologies as well as advancements in traditional technologies.