Such an odd article.  If you generate unique germplasm that is vegetatively propagated it can be protected under US Patent Law. Same with hybrids.  It has nothing to do with DNA sequencing.  Most major varieties of tree crops, blueberries, strawberries, etc are protected by patents to ensure breeders' rights.  Pot growers will be doing the same thing soon too.  If big companies generate new varieites, they can do the same thing.  Breeding new plant varieties is very expensive.  It is good to see breeders, especially small ones, be able to protect their inventions.