If a plant fails to develop viable seeds, it could best be grown by

Options

A. Cutting
B. Grafting
C. Layering
D. Micropropagation

Answer

To solve the question "If a plant fails to develop viable seeds, it could best be grown by," we will analyze each option provided and determine the best method for growing the plant.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Concept of Viable Seeds**:
- Viable seeds are seeds that have the potential to germinate and develop into a mature plant. If a plant fails to produce viable seeds, it means that the seeds are not capable of growing into new plants.

2. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Option 1: Cutting**:
- Cutting involves taking a part of a plant (like a stem or leaf) and encouraging it to grow roots. While this method can propagate a plant, it does not involve seed development. Thus, it is not suitable for growing a plant that fails to produce viable seeds.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect.

- **Option 2: Grafting**:
- Grafting is a technique where tissues from one plant are inserted into those of another so that they may grow together. This method is used for combining desirable traits from two plants but does not address the issue of seed viability.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect.

- **Option 3: Layering**:
- Layering is a method where a stem is encouraged to root while still attached to the parent plant. This technique can propagate plants but does not resolve the issue of seed viability.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect.

- **Option 4: Micropropagation**:
- Micropropagation is an advanced technique that involves growing plants from cells or tissues in a controlled environment. This method can produce many plants from a small amount of plant material and can be used to create viable plants even when seeds are not available.
- **Conclusion**: Correct.

3. **Final Answer**:
- The best method to grow a plant that fails to develop viable seeds is **Micropropagation**.