Methods to be adopted to Maximise the Production and Development of Improved Strains and Plant Material, in Relation to Horticulture

Fruits, vegetables, flowers and other horticultural crops have always had a perennial interest for man. Horticulture received considerable attention from the Hindu and Moghul Emperors who beautified their capitals and pleasure resorts with fruit and ornamental trees; some of the former, like the Jehangir and the Himayuddin varieties of mangoes are even now reputed for their luscious qualities. But then, horticulture had been a hobby of the well-to do or the aristocracy and was not taken up as a serious avocation by the ordinary grower. There has therefore been a gradual and great decadence. However, the few gardens that have survived to the present day, still bear witness to the excellence reached by Ancient and Medieval India.