Participatory tree domestication

Abstract

The participatory domestication of high-value indigenous fruit, nut and medicinal trees is an ICRAF program implemented in various countries. Villagers are helped to develop local nurseries, taught skills of vegetative propagation, and assisted with the technical implementation of selecting superior trees for cultivar development that meet specific market-oriented  ‘ideotypes.’ This is building on the many products of indigenous trees that have existing local and regional markets, with additional potential niches in international commerce.