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What is Pomology?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Pomology is a branch of horticulture which focuses on the cultivation, production, harvest, and storage of fruit, especially tree fruits. Fruit orchards can be found all over the world, and tree fruits are a major industry in many countries, making pomology especially vital. Pomologists can work in the industry, or for research facilities at universities and other organizations.

The word “pomology” comes from the Latin word for “apple,” but pomology is about a lot more than just apples. Any number of fruit trees can be included in a survey of pomology, like apricots, pears, plums, peaches, cherries, nectarines, and avocados. Pomologists also research tree nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans, among others.

A pomologist researches almonds.
A pomologist researches almonds.

One of the most critical aspects of pomology is the development of new fruit cultivars. A pomologist can cross-breed various fruit cultivars for specifically desired traits, such as flavor, hardiness, or disease-resistance. Pomology has contributed a number of exotic and interesting fruit cultivars to the world, such as the pluot, a cross between a plum and an apricot. If a pomologist can breed a distinctive and entirely new cultivar, he or she stands to profit significantly from the resulting patents.

Some pomologists study the breeding and cultivation of apples.
Some pomologists study the breeding and cultivation of apples.

Pomologists also look at the best way to grow trees, determining which regions trees grow in, and the amounts of water and fertilizer preferred by different cultivars. In addition, they study pests which attack fruit trees, and address issues of regional concern, like droughts or seasonal flooding.

Once a tree fruits, the work of a pomologist isn't over. Pomology is also used to develop new ways to harvest, store, and ship fruit, with a focus on keeping fruit healthy and flavorful until it reaches the consumer. Many cultivars have been specifically bred for easier harvesting and storage, but pomologists also work on things like agricultural equipment and special shipping containers for delicate fruits such as peaches.

Fruit, like peaches, are studied by pomologists.
Fruit, like peaches, are studied by pomologists.

Someone who wants to work in the field of pomology generally starts out studying horticulture, with a focus on pomology in the later years of study. Many professional pomologists have a masters or doctoral degree, which includes a thesis in a topic of specific interest, and they are just as comfortable in the field as in the lab (or greenhouse).

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllTheScience researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllTheScience researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

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    • A pomologist researches almonds.
      By: 1999istek
      A pomologist researches almonds.
    • Some pomologists study the breeding and cultivation of apples.
      By: tesgro
      Some pomologists study the breeding and cultivation of apples.
    • Fruit, like peaches, are studied by pomologists.
      By: Anna Kucherova
      Fruit, like peaches, are studied by pomologists.
    • Some pomologists study tree nuts, like walnuts.
      By: dinostock
      Some pomologists study tree nuts, like walnuts.
    • A pomology study may focus on pears.
      By: Lana Langlois
      A pomology study may focus on pears.
    • Apricots can be included in pomology.
      By: Malyshchyts Viktar
      Apricots can be included in pomology.
    • Pomologists may study avocados and other fruits.
      By: oriori
      Pomologists may study avocados and other fruits.