Plant breeding for diversified cropping systems: two inspiring cases from Nepal and France - Euphytica

This paper reviews recent research articles published in Euphytica on breeding for intraspecific diversification (genotype mixtures) and mixed cropping of different species. We highlight several aspects that these papers have in common, including the use of novel approaches to overcome resource constraints, such as low mechanization, external input availability, or farm labor scarcity. We also discuss how these research articles demonstrate a conceptual overlap with Frugal Innovation, which involves finding elegant solutions despite financial or technological constraints. Our analysis suggests that breeding for diversified cropping systems is a key strategy to improve livelihoods and to intensify agricultural production in resource-limited contexts. Finally, we recommend best practices for successful approaches to breed for low-input and diversified cropping systems, including improving nutrient use efficiency, plant community improvement, research using improved phenotyping techniques, and policy frameworks for farmers and breeders. The approaches presented in this article have implications for promoting agricultural intensification and reducing poverty in rural areas.