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.
Zhenglin Zhang, a Ph.D. student who studied with the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences, has received the Kinsella Memorial Prize for writing a dissertation that is original, of high quality and multidisciplinary.
Walnut trees don't need water early in the season. Supported by a $1.3-million USDA grant, UC Davis scientists are field-testing a new method that lets the trees tell farmers when to start irrigation, saving time, money and a precious resource.
Central Valley pistachio farmer and industry leader Rod Stiefvater is donating more than $335,000 to develop new rootstocks that will thrive under changing climate conditions.
Department researchers are revealing important ways that universities, government agencies and other support organizations can help our food producers develop resilience to environmental challenges and remain profitable.
The people who produce our food need support -- especially in the areas of mental and physical well-being -- to recover from increasingly widespread wildfire, scientists have found. Postdoctoral researcher Natalia Pinzon Jimenez suggests the federal Farm Bill could help by funding programs for producers.
The inaugural Global Food Systems Research Day, held Oct. 24 at UC Davis, underscored the role of scientists in the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences in the effort to build sustainable agricultural and distribution systems providing nutritious and affordable food to people all over the world.
A new facility to be built east of the UC Davis campus highlights the partnership between the university – including the Department of Plant Sciences – and national agencies to confront challenges faced by consumers and the agriculture industry.
At a Kenya event, the African Orphan Crops Consortium planted a jackfruit tree to symbolize food security and peace. UC Davis' Allen Van Deynze and partners are breeding resilient orphan crops to help small farmers combat climate change and hunger.
UC experts have published “Olive: Production Manual for Oil,” the first U.S. guide for oil olive growers. Covering pruning, irrigation, and harvest timing, the book helps California producers enhance quality and compete in the global market.
