cultivatecul·ti·vate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ verb [transitiveT]1FARMINGto prepare and use land for growing crops and plantsSome of the land would be impossible to cultivate.
2to develop a particular skill or quality in yourselfThe company has been successful in cultivating a very professional image.
3to make an effort to develop a friendly relationship with someone who could be useful to youProfessor Gladwyn would be an acquaintance worth cultivating.