Technical Abstract: Plant breeding involves selection of plants with combinations of improved traits that are inherited in a predictable manner. Collecting, understanding, and incorporating genetic variation into a horticultural breeding program are critical to success. Clearly defined goals help plant breeders choose an appropriate plant breeding strategy to avoid problems such as inbreeding depression. Forced hybridization between species or genera often requires laboratory methods such as embryo rescue to assist the growth of hybrid progeny. Manipulating chromosome numbers is an effective strategy to change plant morphology and/or overcome fertility barriers. Mutation breeding and biotechnology can be used to breed new cultivars from clonal material without sexual reproduction.