German Plant Breeders Association: Genetic Diversity as the Basis for Future Innovation

13 July 2026

Progress in plant breeding is only possible because it builds on the genetic diversity of earlier generations. Historical varieties are by no means relics of the past; they are valuable genetic resources. Traits such as unique root architectures, adaptability and quality characteristics continue to be incorporated into modern breeding programmes.

How closely the past and the future are connected became evident during a visit by a delegation from the Crop Trust to this year's wheat demonstration at Klein-Altendorf. The discussions focused on the importance of plant genetic resources for future food security. The pedigree of the wheat varieties displayed in the field clearly illustrated the complex genetic relationships among modern wheat varieties and how extensively plant breeders rely on existing genetic diversity. The breeders' exemption, enshrined in plant variety protection legislation, provides an essential foundation for this work. It allows breeders to make unrestricted use of existing varieties in developing new, high-performing varieties adapted to future challenges.

This is an excerpt of an article published in the BDP magazine of the German Plant Breeders Association. The full article is available in German.

^{Photo: Jennifer Nicke/Getreidefonds Z-Saatgut e. V.}