Using hybrid-true-seeds to improve potato crop production

Problem: Breeding and seed-multiplication can be slow processes in conventional potato breeding. Due to complex genetics, difficulties in targeting specific sites and unpredictable breeding, there is a lack of genetic gain in potato yield. As conventional potato breeding relies on bulky seed tubers, which makes obtaining clean starting material difficult and practically inefficient, this adds another limitation.

Solution: Hybrid breeding of diploid potato is a solution to breed faster and provide clean starting material. Simpler genetics allow for faster combination of beneficial traits through breeding. Specific desired traits, such as late blight resistance, can be introduced relatively quickly through natural crossing. Multiplication through true seeds allows for the bulk up of millions of disease-free seeds within two years.