Adapting regulatory seed frameworks to RTB crops: unlocking a major bottleneck to broader impactSeed systems for vegetatively propagated crops (VPCs) are often governed by laws designed with cereal crops in mind. As a result, rules and guidelines may be less suited for VPC seed, which is bulky, perishable, and prone to spreading diseases. VPCs need seed regulations designed specifically for … Read More

Getting more for less with seed yamAt harvest, West African yam farmers keep up to 30% of their tubers to plant the next season, so many yams that could be sold or eaten must be saved as seed. A seed tuber can weigh over a kilogram, but it can be cut into minisetts: 30 to 90 gram pieces. If planted … Read More

Innovations in early generation seed show promise to get new varieties into farmers’ hands fasterEarly generation seed (EGS) is the starter material for producing commercial seed of new varieties. EGS is the key to a healthy, economically viable seed system. RTB has supported the development of new technologies that make it possible to produce EGS faster, making improved varieties available … Read More

Breaking the adoption ceiling of modern varietiesIn Africa, the adoption of modern varieties of roots, tubers and bananas rarely surpasses 40% of their potential, a major reason is insufficient attention paid to the crop traits that farmers and other consumers want. Understanding these preferences, and addressing them through breeding programs, can help break through the 40% ceiling and contribute to … Read More