Researchers across California are developing new varieties of dry beans and testing them in a hunt for larger seed size, higher yield, tolerance to drought and heat, and resistance to disease and pests.
Scientists discussed their progress during the recent University of California Dry Bean Field Day, held at test fields on campus.
Scientists statewide are testing varieties of large-seeded and baby limas, both bush and vine types, for qualities that are great for consumers and for growers facing a range of conditions. Research updates were presented at the 2025 UC Dry Bean Field Day.
Scientist Zane Moore, of the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences, discusses his passion for coast redwoods in the documentary film, "Giants Rising," by Lisa Landers/Tangent Productions. Streaming and broadcasting on PBS nationwide.
Most schools in California have lost tree cover, while temperatures are rising -- exposing nearly 6 million students to glaring sun and depriving them of contact with nature. Researchers from the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences ask: How can we use trees to help? This research was funded, in part, by the United States Forest Service.
The prize-winning science of Venkatesan Sundaresan is an example of how federally funded research leads to real-world benefits for ordinary people. His work is featured in the UC Davis "From Labs to Lives" initiative.
A celebration of life for Kenneth W. Tate will be held from 4:30-6:45 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Walter A. Buehler Alumni Center on the UC Davis campus. Please RSVP if you plan to attend.
Researchers in the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences lay the foundation for future breeding of plums and related tree fruits by cataloguing the genes, and their many variations, that control the ripening process.
The SCOPE student-led organic breeding program is aiming for the release of new flower and crop varieties in the next year or two. Farmers interested in collaborating with field trials now are encouraged to contact the program.
Early career scientists are wrapping up a summer of research in the PEAS program -- the Plant, Environmental and Agroecology Sciences Fellowship. Their work links their undergraduate academic studies with real-world problems in service to California farmers.
Ardeshir Damania has won the Frank N. Meyer Medal for Plant Genetic Resources. A longtime scientist collecting and evaluating wheat genetic resources, he became a research associate in the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences -- but not before saving the world's wheat genebank.
