In the early days emphasis was placed on crops with high yields, short growing seasons, and resistance to diseases and pests. In recent years, in addition to the original functions, special emphasis has been placed on environmental protection, sustainable management, and improving the quality of life.
早年研究的重點在於提高生產量、產期和病蟲害的防治，近年來則除了原來的功能外，特別著重環境保護、永續經營以及生活品質的提升。