Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of mating designs in plant breeding.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Hierarchical mating design (also called nested design) involves groups of parents of one sex being mated to members of the other sex.
Full diallel design (A): All possible crosses.
Single pair mating design (B): One male to one female.
Partial diallel design (C): Some crosses are made.
Thus, the correct answer is hierarchical mating design.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, hierarchical mating design involves groups of one sex mated to the other, which corresponds to option (D).
[0.5cm]