Selection criteria
The practice of genetic selection of any crop is
related to the needs of the farmers in a particular
area, the environmental pressures of the
production region, cultural practices, and market
demands. While breeders normally concentrate on
traits for the farmers who will grow the crop as a
vegetable, it is also important to remember that it
is possible to select for traits important in seed
production. Therefore, when developing varieties
for organic systems selection criteria should
include traits that are necessary for both the
organic vegetable farmer and the organic seed
producer. Selection should be done at several
points in the life cycle, including at the seedling
stage, the market or eating stage, and during
flowering so as to maximize seed yield.