Advertise on podcast: Plants, People, Science

A sunrise ride to an apple orchard changed everything for Dr. Gina Fernandez—and it might change how you think about berries. We sit down with the NC State distinguished professor and berry breeder to trace the path from cold-hardy apple rootstocks in Minnesota, to thornless blackberries in Arkansas, to a career defining strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries across the Southeast. Along the way, Gina reveals what makes a cultivar truly stand out: not just yields or firmness, but flavor that keeps people coming back. Gina explains how she first joined NC State to tackle cultural management and methyl bromide alternatives, then stepped into breeding as the program shifted. We dig into the trials that helped launch a North Carolina blackberry industry, why thornlessness and resistance to double blossom were pivotal, and how later threats like orange rust and fusarium reshaped goals. On strawberries, she unpacks the split between shipping acreage and local pick-your-own farms, and more. We also talk about berry varieties Gina and her team have released over the years, specifically the blackberry 'Von' and the raspberry 'Nantahala', as well as the upcoming release of her new blackberry, NC740, to be called 'Ervin'. Beyond genetics, Gina shares how science moved from solo wins to team science, and how she mentors through “Team Rubus” with weekly cadence, trust, and room for students to grow. Expect practical wisdom for early‑career researchers: travel to see different systems, build writing muscle, and collaborate across pathology, entomology, breeding, and economics to solve real grower problems. If you care about berry breeding, flavor, disease resistance, and how ideas become fruit on the table, this conversation delivers a full plate. Additional information is available in these articles:  HortScience "'Von" Thornless Blackberry": https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/48/5/article-p654.xml  HortScience article, "'Nantahala' Red Raspberry" is available at https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/44/1/article-p25.xml There are also many other relevant ASHS Journal articles available here. Enjoy the episode? Follow, share with a friend Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Think a great wine grape can’t survive where winters drop to minus forty? We sit down with breeder Dr. Harlene Hatterman-Valenti from North Dakota State University to unpack how a young industry, a focused research program, and some stubborn optimism produced two new cultivars built for the northern plains. From the early days of variety trials and policy hurdles to the release of Dakota Primus and Radiant, Harlene shares how hybrid genetics, gritty selection, and clever management turned a hostile climate into an advantage. We dig into the science of cold hardiness: why photoperiod sensitivity matters more than you think, how vines must read shortening days to lay down periderm before sudden freezes, and the three critical windows where cold injury strikes—fall acclimation, deep midwinter lows, and late-winter temperature whiplash. Harlene explains the growth calendar for a North Dakota vineyard with just 130 frost-free days, from delayed pruning and cautious budbreak to early-August veraison and mid-September harvests.  Beyond the vineyard, we explore how the state’s wine scene found its footing, why regulations evolved to support consistent supply, and how tourism now fuels growth. The conversation closes with what’s next: chasing an ultra-cold-hardy red, expanding into table grapes for farmers markets, and celebrating the team effort—students, specialists, and collaborators—that made progress possible. If you’re curious about cold-climate viticulture, breeding under polar vortex pressure, or how science builds regional wine identities, this one’s for you. Additional information in available in these articles: Complex Plant Process Trait Evaluation Through Decomposition of Higher-order Interaction: A Case Study in Acclimation Responses of Cold-climate Hybrid Grapevine Through Bilinear and Multiway Methods Cold Climate Winegrape Cultivar Sensitivity to Sulfur in the Northern Great Plains Region of the United States ‘NDMutant1’: A Novel Determinate Interspecific Grapevine for Genetic and Physiological Study and Breeding Applications Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more growers and wine lovers find us. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

We sit down with our podcast teammate Lena Wilson—fresh off a first-place PhD Graduate Student Poster Competition win—to unpack what it takes to thrive at a major scientific conference, from crafting a clear two-minute story to turning a poster row into a collaboration engine.  Lena takes us inside a week in New Orleans at her first ASHS Annual Conference. We trade practical tactics for session planning, using the conference app without becoming a prisoner to it, and scheduling specific meetups before everyone’s calendar fills up. You’ll also hear quick voice clips from students, postdocs, faculty, and industry partners sharing what they do while listening to podcasts—tissue grinding, figure polishing, micropropagation - plus why they keep returning to ASHS: community, mentorship, and science that feeds people. We also look ahead to ASHS 2026 in Dallas, August 3-7, 2026. If you’re a graduate student aiming for your first big presentation, an early-career scientist ready to widen your circle, or a faculty member scouting new collaborations, you’ll leave with a clearer plan and renewed energy. Subscribe for more conversations with researchers, educators, and industry leaders across horticultural science. Share this episode with a colleague who needs a nudge to submit that abstract, and leave a review to help others discover the show. Find more information about the ASHS Annual Conference at https://ashs.org/page/ASHSAnnualConference. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Dr. Chad Miller from Colorado State University shares his innovative approach to teaching horticulture through a classroom trade show format that transforms traditional plant identification courses into engaging, multidimensional learning experiences. As the 2024 ASHS Outstanding Undergraduate Educator award winner, he discusses how he combines plant knowledge with professional skill development to prepare students for success beyond the classroom. • Creating a trade show environment where students showcase plant knowledge creatively • Moving beyond memorization to develop professional communication skills • Using peer evaluation to help students learn to give and receive constructive feedback • Approaching teaching as scholarship worthy of research and publication • Balancing high expectations with understanding of students' complex lives • Finding joy in seeing students succeed professionally • Establishing a classroom culture where it's safe to not know and to learn from mistakes To read more about Dr. Miller's teaching approach, check out his award-winning paper "Classroom Trade Show: An Alternative to Traditional Classroom Presentations in an Undergraduate Plant Identification Course" in HortTechnology. If you're interested in teaching innovations in horticulture, consider joining the ASHS Teaching Methods Interest Group. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

The science behind your garden hydrangeas involves far more than just planting and watering. Dr. Lisa Alexander, a research geneticist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service, takes us on a fascinating journey from her first days pollinating chestnut trees in a 70-foot bucket truck to her current work revolutionizing hydrangea breeding at the National Arboretum. Working from the heart of Tennessee's nursery country, Dr. Alexander explains how she's mapping the genetic diversity of oakleaf hydrangea across its six-state native range. Her team has identified six distinct genetic populations, some containing rare genes that might help plants survive drought or cold temperatures. This groundbreaking research comes at a critical time – they've discovered that urbanization has already caused these beautiful native plants to disappear from many previously recorded locations. The economic stakes are significant. Hydrangeas represent a $155 million industry, ranking as the second best-selling woody shrub behind roses. By understanding the genetic blueprint controlling traits like plant size, flower structure, and environmental adaptations, breeders can develop improved varieties that combine beauty with resilience. Dr. Alexander also discusses the exciting launch of "Hort Genomes" – a new initiative creating a dedicated home for specialty crop genomic data within the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science. This resource will accelerate research across horticultural fields by centralizing crucial genetic information previously scattered across publications or unavailable to the scientific community. Whether you're a backyard gardener admiring your hydrangeas or a scientist breeding the next generation of ornamental plants, this episode reveals the remarkable intersection of traditional horticulture with cutting-edge genomics that's shaping the future of our gardens. Read the JASHS article “Precipitation, Temperature, and Population Structure Influence Genetic Diversity of Oakleaf Hydrangea Throughout Its Native Range” at https://www.doi.org/10.21273/JASHS05255-22. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Unlock the secrets to making the most of the American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference with insider tips from seasoned attendees. As the 2025 New Orleans conference approaches (July 28-August 1), discover strategies that transform overwhelming events into career-defining opportunities. Veteran conference-goer Curt Rom (46 conferences and counting!) and graduate student Samson Humphrey share perspectives on navigating everything from travel logistics to networking techniques. They reveal how to leverage the conference app to build a personalized schedule, position yourself for meaningful connections at poster sessions, and deliver polished presentations that showcase your research. The conversation goes beyond academic presentations to highlight often-overlooked opportunities like resume reviews that provide one-on-one career guidance, competitions that can earn recognition and rewards, and the critical importance of informal gatherings where "the real science often happens." Whether you are presenting research, seeking career opportunities, or simply looking to expand your professional network, this episode provides actionable strategies for every conference situation. The hosts emphasize that while the science is central, it's the relationships formed over beignets at Café Du Monde or during the annual 5K Fun Run that often prove most valuable to your career. Download the ASHS conference app today, build your profile, and start planning your personalized conference experience. https://ashs.org/page/ASHSAnnualConference Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

A simple microscope gift during a childhood illness sparked a lifelong passion for horticulture that would take Dr. Daniel Leskovar from Argentina to leadership in American plant science. As the current President of the American Society for Horticultural Science, Dr. Leskovar shares the remarkable journey that began with his father's work in hop production and led him through prestigious institutions across three continents. The conversation reveals how formative experiences—observing agricultural practices in Patagonia, studying plant cells during recovery from a kidney infection, and adapting to a fruit and vegetable-rich diet—shaped his scientific curiosity. Dr. Leskovar pursued advanced degrees at Wageningen University, UC Davis, and the University of Florida before establishing himself as a respected researcher and center director at Texas A&M University. From his base in the "Winter Garden of Texas," Dr. Leskovar conducts innovative research on artichokes, tomatoes, spinach, and hydroponics. His current projects showcase a commitment to practical solutions, including grafting techniques for improved tomato production, assessing cadmium levels in spinach to ensure food safety, and developing hydroponic systems that can engage students with horticultural science. What truly distinguishes this conversation is Dr. Leskovar's vision for horticultural science globally. He articulates ambitious goals for ASHS, emphasizing the need to elevate publications, strengthen the society's brand recognition, and forge international partnerships that highlight how "what we do matters to people, matters to the environment, matters to quality of life." Ready to discover how horticultural science shapes our world? To learn more about Dr. Leskovar's research, visit Vegetable physiology, production, quality - Texas A&M AgriLife Center at Uvalde or contact him directly at [email protected]. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Dr. Kirk Pomper, a Professor of Horticulture at Kentucky State University, is an expert on the pawpaw. He takes us on a journey through the lush history and remarkable qualities of this native North American fruit. With its unique tropical notes the pawpaw stands out as both a horticultural gem and a culinary curiosity. Together, we unravel the complexities of cultivating pawpaws, exploring everything from grafting techniques to the challenges of pollination. Learn how these trees rely on less-than-common pollinators like flies and beetles, and the surprising tricks enthusiasts use to attract them. Dr. Pomper shares insights into breeding strategies aimed at overcoming obstacles like disease and perishability, all while striving to enhance yield and fruit quality. It's a fascinating look at how innovation and passion intersect in the world of plant science. Finally, we glimpse into the future of pawpaw commercialization, as breeders work tirelessly to refine this fruit for broader appeal and distribution. From improving storage methods to refining sweetness and flavor, the path to making pawpaws a household name is filled with excitement and opportunity. As consumer interest in local and exotic foods grows, the pawpaw might just find its place in gardens and kitchens across America. Join us for a lively conversation bridging the past, present, and potential future of this captivating fruit! To learn more, read the article "Comparison of Grafting and Budding Propagation Techniques for Cultivars of the North American Pawpaw" published in HortTechnology https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05463-24. Visit the Kentucky State University Pawpaw Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ksu.pawpaw. View "All ABout Pawpaws" at https://youtu.be/VCU4yktHvik?si=RFXMaS6e8DeQa2tV. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Unlock the secrets of sustainable agriculture with us as we welcome Dr. Carl Motsenbocker from Louisiana State University. Discover how his work in local foods and sustainable farming is reshaping horticultural education and community connections. We'll guide you through the discussions at the 2024 American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, where we gained insights into the shift from large-scale farming to small-scale  environmentally conscious agricultural practices. As we explore the world of sustainable small-scale farming in Louisiana, Carl shares stories from his experiences teaching vegetable crops and organic gardening. These real-world classes aren't just about growing food; they’re a platform for engaging young people in practical, hands-on learning and community projects. The landscape is changing, and new farmers are stepping up with a fresh, environmentally conscious approach, bridging the gap in the local food supply and revitalizing local agriculture. Learn about farm-to-school programs, which are transforming how food is grown, taught, and consumed in schools across Louisiana. From the initial USDA Farm to School Conference grant in 2013 to the comprehensive program we see today, these initiatives are growing food at schools, integrating curricula, and sourcing local produce. By adapting educational resources for dynamic learning methods, we're reaching younger audiences and supporting farm-to-school efforts with the Seeds to Success program, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. More about Dr. Motsenbocker and Seeds to Success: https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/cmotsenbocker https://seedstosuccess.com/ Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

In a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Mengmeng Gu from Colorado State’s Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, we explore the broader implications of resilience and the belief that failure is not the end. This engaging dialogue delves into how these concepts are not only vital in horticultural science but also in personal growth and development. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration and actionable insights. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Join us for a rich discussion with our distinguished guest, Ryan Contreras, a leading expert in ornamental horticulture from Oregon State University. Ryan shares his incredible journey from the fields of eastern North Carolina to becoming a renowned professor, revealing pivotal moments and key mentorships that shaped his career. Step into the world of invasive plant species and biotechnology with Ryan as he unpacks the significant ecological threats posed by plants like Scotch broom and English ivy. Learn about the origins and impacts of these species and how new biotechnological tools like CRISPR are revolutionizing plant breeding. Ryan's insights shed light on the potential of precision tools in maintaining desired plant traits while eliminating undesirable ones, making this a must-listen episode for anyone passionate about plant science and environmental conservation. Explore groundbreaking developments in drought-resistant plant varieties and the collaborative efforts in bioinformatics and genomics aimed at tackling climate change. Ryan discusses his innovative work on Hibiscus syriacus and other ornamental plants, sharing the excitement around new technologies like the Plant Array system for drought stress evaluation. This episode promises to inspire and educate, offering a glimpse into the dynamic and ever-evolving field of plant science through the eyes of one of its most dedicated experts. See below for more information about Ryan Contreras and his work: https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/47/9/article-p1210.xml https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/57/4/article-p558.xml https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxRnV4cDhT8&ab_channel=OregonAgricultureintheClassroom Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

What if the key to unlocking your garden's full potential lies in a light spectrum most people overlook? Discover the untapped power of far-red radiation in horticulture as we bring you a vibrant discussion straight from the ASHS 2022 Workshop, "What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science?" Join co-host Sam Humphrey in a fantastic conversation with Dr. John Ertle, who shares his firsthand experience being surrounded by the leading minds in plant science. Feel the buzz and excitement of a packed room where every corner was brimming with curiosity and groundbreaking insights. In this episode, John Ertle recounts his journey from a master's project on vegetable grafting to engaging with top scientists about the nuances of far-red light. From the thrill of securing a seat behind the renowned Bruce Bugbee to the dynamic, open discussions among students and professors alike, John paints a vivid picture of the workshop's atmosphere. Listen as we uncover how this relatively obscure topic is making waves in controlled environment agriculture. This episode promises a front-row seat to the complexities and possibilities that far-red radiation holds for the future of horticulture. ASHS 2022 Workshop What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science? https://ashs.confex.com/ashs/2022/meetingapp.cgi/Session/11349 Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

How much do you really know about the light that nurtures your plants? In this enlightening episode of Plants, People, Science, hosts Curt Rom and Samson Humphrey take you on a journey through the multifaceted world of light's influence on horticulture. They start with their own personal experiences with sunlight and artificial light, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion with Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University. Dr. Runkle shares his fascinating journey into the study of light and its effects on plant growth, detailing how light intensity, quality, and duration play critical roles in flowering and biomass production. We also tackle the technological advancements that have revolutionized lighting, particularly the shift from traditional bulbs to cutting-edge LED technology. For more information on the ASHS 2022 Workshop "What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science?" go to https://ashs.confex.com/ashs/2022/meetingapp.cgi/Session/11349. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Spring has sprung in the world of horticulture, and as Mother's Day nears, we welcome Dr. John Dole, a Professor of Horticultural Science from North Carolina State University. His current research activities focus on cut flowers, including new cultivar evaluations, production, postharvest, and marketing analysis.  Dr. Dole opens our eyes to the science of cut flower production, the crucial post-harvest practices, and the flower's voyage from farm to tabletop. With his expertise, you'll harvest a bouquet of knowledge on how to keep those purchased petals perky for longer, and you'll catch a glimpse into the science that ensures these flowers keep their sparkle from field to vase. You're sure to leave this episode with a fresh perspective on the cut flowers that brighten your life, and perhaps even a green thumb's itch for the season ahead. To read more about this topic, check out Dr. Dole’s paper, “South and Central America Cut Flower Production and Postharvest Survey” published in HortTechnology at  https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04484-19. Additional papers of interest by Dr. Dole in the ASHS journals can be found by going to https://journals.ashs.org/search?f_0=author&pageSize=10&q_0=John+M.+Dole&sort=datedescending. More information about Dr. John Dole is available at https://cals.ncsu.edu/horticultural-science/people/jmdole/. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...

Embark on an intoxicating voyage through the storied groves of apple history and the intricate science of cider with Dr. Greg Peck from Cornell's School of Integrative Plant Science. Prepare your palate for a revelation as we uncover why cider apples bear little resemblance to their grocery store relatives, and how a symphony of tannins, sugars, and acidity beautifully ferment into the cider that elevates our dining experiences. Greg's expertise illuminates the journey from orchard to glass, revealing the transformative art that turns simple apples into complex beverages with every press and ferment. Our conversation is a rich blend of natural chemistry and meticulous craft, sure to deepen your appreciation for cider's robust charm. This episode also delves into the practical research that guides orchard optimization—think sunlight exposure, phenolic development, and the pivotal role of nitrogen in fermentation. It's a masterclass in managing apple varieties and maximizing yields to shape the future of fine cider. Read the HortTechnology article "Growing Apples for Hard Cider Production in the United States—Trends and Research Opportunities" at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04488-19. The HortScience article "Fruitlet Thinning Improves Juice Quality in Seven High-tannin Cider Cultivars" is available at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17096-23 and "Fruitlet Thinning Reduces Biennial Bearing in Seven High-tannin Cider Apple Cultivars" is at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17455-23. Additional information about Dr. Greg Peck is available at https://cals.cornell.edu/gregory-michael-peck. Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at https://ashs.org/. HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org. Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember! You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion. Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com. On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/. Thank you for listening! ...