Research in Horticultural Science
Texas A&M’s horticultural sciences research is at the forefront of advancing horticultural practices and plant science. Our research efforts aim to improve horticultural crop yields, develop disease-resistant plants, and explore sustainable and innovative farming techniques. Texas A&M’s horticultural scientists collaborate with industry partners and farmers to address real-world challenges, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the horticultural sector in Texas and beyond.
Areas of Research Expertise
Our faculty represent a community of scholars who conduct research programs in a variety of horticultural program areas and collaborate with colleagues from different disciplines at various land-grant and private universities. For a full listing of faculty, please see our Department Directory.
Controlled Environment Horticulture
Our researchers develop the best practices for growers to create controlled environments conducive to their crops, allowing for year-round production.
Faculty
Floral Design and Event Planning
In the fast-paced and ever-changing world of floral design and event planning, it is important to stay ahead of the curve. Our research delivers the latest trends and technological advances being made to strengthen the industry.
Faculty
Food Science & Technology / Bioactive Compounds / Post-Harvest Physiology
Our researchers are working to isolate naturally occurring compounds in fruits and vegetable to determine their role in the improvement of human health.
Faculty
Greenhouse / Floriculture Production & Marketing
Our researchers are constantly striving to provide growers with improved production methods to cultivate plants of the highest quality to be competitive in the multi-billion dollar floriculture industry.
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Horticultural Genomics and Biotechnology
Researchers produce genetically modified crops and plants with new and desirable traits helping to meet the ever-growing and ever-changing needs of the world’s population.
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International Horticulture
Horticulture is large in scope with a broad and far-reaching impact. Our researchers provide a global perspective for students, enriching their education and showing the importance of the field.
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Nursery / Floriculture Economics
Our researchers work to enhance the nursery and floral industry, identifying key dynamics that impact the industry to aid individuals with their decision-making process that plays a key role in their businesses.
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Ornamental Horticulture / Landscape Plant Development
From exploring methods for designing plant and flower displays, to focusing on artistic landscape designs, researchers are working to improve stress tolerance and develop plants to better fit smaller properties.
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Plant Breeding & Genetics
Researchers seek to alter genetic composition of plants to improve crop characteristics such as yield potential, crop quality, biotic and abiotic stress resistance and reduced crop production costs.
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Plant Physiology
Our researchers study how plants function in their environment and then use that knowledge to establish crop management alternatives for increased economic yield and environmental friendliness.
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Plant-Associated Microorganisms / Plant Health
Plant-associated microorganisms can both cause and prevent diseases. Our research aims to enhance the understanding of the role microorganisms play in the health of plants.
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Sociohorticulture
Our researchers look for innovative ways to use integrated pest management to preserve our environment.
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Sustainable Horticulture Production
Our researchers are constantly seeking ways to grow plants while being conscious of the need for conservation of our natural resources.
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Vegetable / Fruit Production
Our researchers are continually developing new techniques for implementation by producers and growers that will lead to more sustainable and profitable crop production.
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Viticulture / Enology
Through applied research our department educates growers and wine producers of this vital industry on cutting-edge techniques for insect and disease management, selection of adapted grape varieties, wine processing, and wine quality.
Faculty
- Thayne Montague
- Patrick O’Brien
- Justin Scheiner
Horticultural Science Research Labs and Programs
The Department of Horticultural Sciecnes houses a dynamic array of research labs dedicated to advancing horticultural science across diverse disciplines. Led by accomplished faculty and supported by dedicated teams, these labs explore plant breeding, crop physiology, sustainable agriculture, and post-harvest technologies, contributing significantly to both academia and the agricultural industry.
Plant Bioactives and Bioprocessing Research Lab
The mission of our research program at the Plant Bioactives & Bioprocessing Research Laboratory of Texas A&M Univeristy is to generate information that can benefit the agriculture and processing industry by adding value to crops through bioactive compound discovery and the design of appropriate methods to enhance their content in plants as well as extend their post-harvest shelf-life.
Potato Breeding and Variety Development
The mission of the Texas Potato Variety Development Program of Texas AgriLife Research, Texas A&M University System is to identify and/or develop improved varieties, adapted to the diverse environmental conditions of Texas, that will result in increased profits for the industry and provide superior products for consumers.
Rose Breeding and Genetics Program
Presently we are meeting the challenges of our environment by mining the vast genetic diversity that exists in the genus Rosa. Our goal is to breed beautiful, carefree roses that gardeners in all climates can enjoy.
Stone Fruit Breeding and Cultivar Development
The Texas A&M Stone Fruit Breeding Program works to develop superior early-ripening, low, and medium-chill stone fruit cultivars to replace marginal commercial cultivars, expand the products from yellow-fleshed traditional flavored peaches to subacid flavors, white flesh, nectarines, and flat or doughnut-shaped fruit, and to extend the harvest seasons forward in mild winter regions throughout the world.
Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center
The Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center (VFIC) was established in 1992 under the direction of Dr. Leonard M. Pike to develop new technologies for producing quality vegetable products in an efficient, economic and environmentally-sound system, with a focus on achieving health and nutrition benefits. In March 1999, fruit was officially added to the name and research scope of the Center.
The Center is directed by Dr. Bhimu Patil.
Endowed Chairs
The Department of Horticulture awards three Endowed Chairs, the highest academic award that can be conferred upon a faculty member. Appointment to an Endowed Chair denotes distinguished scholarship and is reserved for the top professors in the department.
Basye Chair in Rose Breeding and Genetics
Robert Basye was a mathematics professor by vocation, but a world-class rose breeder by avocation. Breeding roses to increase resistance to diseases was his passion and conquering the blackspot disease of roses was his lifetime goal. His generous donation established an endowed professorship to support rose breeding and genetics. The current holder of that distinguished professorship is Dr. David Byrne.
Benz Chair in Floral Design
Established at the bequest of floral design innovator M. “Buddy” Benz, the Benz Endowed Chair and School of Floral Design is a multifaceted program which includes the Benz Gallery of Floral Art, located in the expansive atrium of the Horticulture/Forest Sciences building, and the Benz School of Floral Design, which offers four advanced training courses for floral designers annually. The bequest also supports the teaching activities of the Chair holder, Mr. Bill McKinley, renowned designer and floral educator.
Ellison Chair in International Floriculture
The Ellison Chair in International Floriculture is named after Jim and Ellen Ellison, who spearheaded the campaign to generate industry funding for the Chair. The mission of this Chair is to advance the health and vitality of the floriculture industry on a national and international scope through exemplary academic leadership, cutting-edge applied research, innovative extension outreach programs and by mentoring well-educated, impassioned leaders to support the future of floriculture. The current holder of the Ellison Chair is Dr. Charlie Hall.