Scientists are also working on the plants themselves. They are trying to breed plants to grow more efficiently and to grow with less water and light. They are also looking for ways to make plants more resistant to disease. Moreover, such innovations in plant breeding could result in improvements back here on Earth. Imagine growing plants in places where light, water, and weather are less than ideal. Deserts may one day provide lots of fresh food for local people, saving transportation costs. Similarly, many diseases now harm or kill plants. Plants that are resistant to disease could provide an important new food source. With the world’s population now at seven billion people, our astronaut gardeners may help discover ways to feed those billions