At the Automated Technology Field Day in Salinas, cutting-edge machines tackled weed control with lasers, AI, and robotics. As labor shortages and regulations reshape farming, growers are embracing innovative solutions like canola oil sprayers and smart cultivators to boost efficiency.
UC Davis’ SCOPE program develops new tomato, zinnia, wheat, and spinach varieties for small-scale organic farmers. Student breeders focus on traits like disease resistance, climate adaptation, and market appeal, collaborating with local growers.
UC Davis received a $500K grant to breed drought-tolerant and disease-resistant carrots using wild genetics. Researchers aim to reduce fungicide use and secure crop yields, ensuring a stable carrot supply for growers and consumers.
UC Davis' C.M. Rick Tomato Genetics Resource Center supports global tomato breeding. Picnic Day visitors can get tomato starts and learn about tomato history. The event highlights the crop’s economic impact, genetics, and growing tips.
New tomato lines bred with Solanum sitiens—a wild plant from Chile’s Atacama Desert—may boost heat, drought, and salt tolerance in future crops. UC Davis is sharing 56 new lines for global research and breeding efforts.
UC Davis researchers are tackling Orobanche ramosa, a species of broomrape and parasitic weed threatening California’s tomato industry. They aim to detect, manage, and stop its spread through field trials, drone imaging, lab studies, and industry collaboration.
Maeli Melotto and her UC Davis team are studying lettuce genetics to develop strains more resistant to E. coli. They work to reduce foodborne illness, lower farming costs, and save public health expenses.
UC Davis researchers, led by Gail Taylor, are studying lettuce genetics to improve shelf life and bacterial resistance. Their findings could help breed longer-lasting, more nutritious lettuce for the $3.7-billion industry.
UC Davis researchers are leading a $3.3 million project to improve lima bean breeding. The initiative focuses on traits like heat tolerance and disease resistance and aims to develop climate-resilient varieties and create a public genetic database for breeders.
UC Davis researchers showcased new rice varieties offering better weed control with less herbicide at the Rice Field Day. They discussed drought impacts, fallow land benefits, and new herbicide trials to combat resistant weeds.
