The U.S. Plant Introduction System1

Abstract

Plant introduction as a service to mankind is as old as mankind itself. It began when the most primitive form of agriculture took place - when man first learned that he could collect seed of his food plants from the wild and grow them near his home. Thus, he could be assured of a food supply, could grow it more abundantly, and above all, reduce his exposure to danger which was always present when he had to search for food in the wild.