The book Plant Breeding” provides theoretical concepts and practical procedures for appreciation and practice of plant breeding. It is, in particular, directed to the use of students and practicing plant breeders in countries of the Southern hemisphere because it provides examples relevant to their own agriculture. The topics covered include: genetic principles; plant breeding concepts and methods for self- and cross-pollinated crops; crops propagated by vegetative means; vegetable crops, forage crops, fruit and forest trees; breeding for disease resistance; breeding for quality traits; mutation breeding; examples of some innovative approaches to crop improvement and plant genetic resources. Each topic has been written by acclaimed scientists specialising in the particular area and the treatment, therefore, bears a mark of authenticity.