The 2012 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
This workshop will review historical contributions of horticultural crops with Asiatic origin to the advancement of the horticulture commodities in the U.S., and discuss future opportunities in germplasm exchange between U.S. and Asia. Commodities will include ornamentals, floriculture, vegetable, berries, and other fruit crops.

Many horticultural crops, including ornamentals, fruits, and vegetables in North America are of Asiatic origin. Asian germplasm resources are important to be considered for the future development of these crops. In addition, despite the long history of germplasm exchanges of many Asian and non-Asian crops over the past centuries, many crops have not been included.  The globalization of economy and the increase in immigrants has opened up a market for many Asian crops that are not currently cultivated in the United States. The increased interest in Asian cuisine such as Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Japanese, has increased demand for new foods and new crops. New Asian crops also represent a possible export market for American agriculture.  This workshop will review history, current status, and future development of crops with Asiatic origin, and provide an opportunity for researchers to exchange, communicate and discuss germplasm resources and regulatory issues for new crop development.