Pomology is the study of fruit cultivation, production, harvesting, and preservation. It includes various fruit trees and nuts, and focuses on developing new cultivars, growing trees, addressing pests and regional concerns, and improving harvesting, storage, and shipping methods. Pomologists generally have a degree in horticulture and may work in industry or research facilities.
Pomology is a branch of horticulture that focuses on the cultivation, production, harvesting and preservation of fruits, especially the fruits of trees. Orchards are found all over the world, and fruiting trees are a major industry in many countries, making pomology especially vital. Pomologists may work in industry or for research facilities at universities and other organizations.
The word “pomology” comes from the Latin word for “apple,” but pomology 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 may cross various fruit cultivars for specifically desired traits, such as flavor, hardiness, or disease resistance. Pomology has contributed a number of interesting and exotic fruit cultivars to the world, such as the pluot, a cross between a plum and an apricot. If a pomologist can breed an entirely new, distinctive cultivar, he will make a significant profit from the resulting patents.
Pomologists also look at how best to grow trees, determining which regions trees grow in and the amounts of water and fertilizers preferred by different cultivars. They also study the pests that attack fruit trees and address issues of regional concern, such as drought or seasonal flooding.
Once a tree bears fruit, a pomologist’s job isn’t done. Pomology is also being used to develop new ways to harvest, store and ship fruit, with the goal of keeping the fruit healthy and tasty until it reaches the consumer. Many cultivars have been specially bred for easier harvesting and storage, but pomologists also work on things like farm equipment and special shipping containers for delicate fruits like peaches.
Those who want to work in the field of pomology generally start studying horticulture, with a focus on pomology in the 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 as comfortable in the field as in the laboratory (or greenhouse).
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