Vegetables are essential components of a balanced diet and offer significant economic benefits to farmers. Enhancing crop productivity through crop improvement is a highly effective approach. The production and consumption of vegetables have witnessed considerable growth. Improved varieties have made a significant contribution to the increase in yield and quality of vegetable crops. The diversity of vegetable species is remarkable and has played a vital role in boosting production and consumption worldwide. For crop improvement, understanding the origin, distribution, and evolution of the crop and its related species is crucial. Genetic information is a prerequisite for selecting appropriate breeding strategies to achieve specific objectives. The objectives of breeding vary depending on the region and the intended use of the product, such as fresh market, processing, or dual-purpose crops, as well as the cultivation method, such as protection, open field, or kitchen garden. Based on the objectives and genetic resources, various breeding methods and procedures can be adopted, leading to the development of useful varieties or hybrids. This book provides an abridged overview of breeding in vegetable crops. It covers a wide range of crops by appending and updating information on genetics, genetic resources, breeding methods and procedures, and varieties/hybrids developed in each of the 26 vegetable crops wherever available. The presentation of information on each crop follows a logical sequence, beginning with the origin and evolution, genetic resources, genetics of fruits, breeding methods, and varieties/hybrids developed.
