A pomologist investigates almonds.
Pomology is a branch of horticulture that focuses on growing, producing, harvesting, and storing fruits, especially fruits from trees. Fruit orchards can be found all over the world and fruit trees are a huge industry in many countries, making pomology especially vital. Pomologists may work in industry or in research centers at universities and other organizations.
Some pomologists study the breeding and cultivation of apples.
The word “pomologia” comes from the Latin word for “apple,” but pomologia is much more than just apples. Any number of fruit trees can be included in a pomology survey, such as apricots, pears, plums, peaches, cherries, nectarines, and avocados. Pomologists also research nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans, among others.
One of the most critical aspects of pomology is the development of new fruit cultivars. A pomologist can cross multiple fruit cultivars for specifically desired traits, such as flavor, hardiness, or disease resistance. Pomologia has brought a number of exotic and interesting fruit varieties to the world, such as the pluota, a cross between a plum and an apricot. If a pomologist succeeds in creating a completely new and distinct cultivar, they stand to benefit significantly from the resulting patents.
Pomologists study fruits like peaches.
Pomologists also look at the best way to grow trees, determining which regions trees grow in and the amounts of water and fertilizer preferred by different cultivars. In addition, they study the pests that attack fruit trees and address issues of regional interest, such as seasonal droughts or floods.
Once a tree bears fruit, a pomologist’s job is not over. Pomology is also being used to develop new ways of harvesting, storing, and shipping fruit, with the goal of keeping it healthy and flavorful until it reaches the consumer. Many cultivars were created specifically for easy harvesting and storage, but pomologists also work on farm equipment and special containers for delicate fruits like peaches.
Some pomologists study nuts, such as walnuts.
Someone who wants to work in the field of pomology usually begins by studying horticulture, with a focus on pomology in later years of study. Many professional pomologists have a master’s or doctoral degree, which includes a thesis on a specific topic of interest, and are just as comfortable in the field as they are in the lab (or greenhouse).