Propagation of Horticultural Plants : Arid and Semi-Arid Regions

In the semi-arid and arid regions of the country, a substantial quantity of unutilized land (39.54 million hectares) is present, which has the potential for expanding the production of various horticultural, medicinal, spices, ornamental, and economically important crops. Horticulture can play a crucial role in diversifying these untapped natural resources. Although the development of arid horticulture is not particularly ancient, and there is limited published literature on many crops of economic significance and their propagation methods, the prospects of such underutilized crops warrant standardized propagation methodologies for large-scale plantations. The work done so far on the production technology of underutilized arid horticultural crops is limited and scattered. To address this, an effort was made to compile the existing knowledge in the field of multiplication of semi-arid and arid horticultural plants, with a particular focus on the Indian context, into a book. This publication aims to enhance the knowledge base of all those involved in research and development of cold and hot arid lands. It will be useful for scientists, teachers, researchers, students, growers, policymakers, and personnel involved in nursery management. The book features contributions from well-known experts in their respective fields.