Plants, People, Science – Details, episodes & analysis

Think a great wine grape can’t survive where winters drop to minus forty? We sit down with breeder Dr. Harlene Hatterman-Valenti from North Dakota State University to unpack how a young industry, a focused research program, and some stubborn optimism produced two new cultivars built for the northern plains. From the early days of variety trials and policy hurdles to the release of Dakota Primus and Radiant, Harlene shares how hybrid genetics, gritty selection, and clever management turned a hostile climate into an advantage.

We dig into the science of cold hardiness: why photoperiod sensitivity matters more than you think, how vines must read shortening days to lay down periderm before sudden freezes, and the three critical windows where cold injury strikes—fall acclimation, deep midwinter lows, and late-winter temperature whiplash. Harlene explains the growth calendar for a North Dakota vineyard with just 130 frost-free days, from delayed pruning and cautious budbreak to early-August veraison and mid-September harvests. 

Beyond the vineyard, we explore how the state’s wine scene found its footing, why regulations evolved to support consistent supply, and how tourism now fuels growth. The conversation closes with what’s next: chasing an ultra-cold-hardy red, expanding into table grapes for farmers markets, and celebrating the team effort—students, specialists, and collaborators—that made progress possible. If you’re curious about cold-climate viticulture, breeding under polar vortex pressure, or how science builds regional wine identities, this one’s for you.

Additional information in available in these articles:

Complex Plant Process Trait Evaluation Through Decomposition of Higher-order Interaction: A Case Study in Acclimation Responses of Cold-climate Hybrid Grapevine Through Bilinear and Multiway Methods

Cold Climate Winegrape Cultivar Sensitivity to Sulfur in the Northern Great Plains Region of the United States

‘NDMutant1’: A Novel Determinate Interspecific Grapevine for Genetic and Physiological Study and Breeding Applications

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Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

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We sit down with our podcast teammate Lena Wilson—fresh off a first-place PhD Graduate Student Poster Competition win—to unpack what it takes to thrive at a major scientific conference, from crafting a clear two-minute story to turning a poster row into a collaboration engine. 

Lena takes us inside a week in New Orleans at her first ASHS Annual Conference. We trade practical tactics for session planning, using the conference app without becoming a prisoner to it, and scheduling specific meetups before everyone’s calendar fills up. You’ll also hear quick voice clips from students, postdocs, faculty, and industry partners sharing what they do while listening to podcasts—tissue grinding, figure polishing, micropropagation - plus why they keep returning to ASHS: community, mentorship, and science that feeds people.

We also look ahead to ASHS 2026 in Dallas, August 3-7, 2026. If you’re a graduate student aiming for your first big presentation, an early-career scientist ready to widen your circle, or a faculty member scouting new collaborations, you’ll leave with a clearer plan and renewed energy.

Subscribe for more conversations with researchers, educators, and industry leaders across horticultural science. Share this episode with a colleague who needs a nudge to submit that abstract, and leave a review to help others discover the show.

Find more information about the ASHS Annual Conference at https://ashs.org/page/ASHSAnnualConference.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

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What if the key to unlocking your garden's full potential lies in a light spectrum most people overlook? Discover the untapped power of far-red radiation in horticulture as we bring you a vibrant discussion straight from the ASHS 2022 Workshop, "What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science?" Join co-host Sam Humphrey in a fantastic conversation with Dr. John Ertle, who shares his firsthand experience being surrounded by the leading minds in plant science. Feel the buzz and excitement of a packed room where every corner was brimming with curiosity and groundbreaking insights.

In this episode, John Ertle recounts his journey from a master's project on vegetable grafting to engaging with top scientists about the nuances of far-red light. From the thrill of securing a seat behind the renowned Bruce Bugbee to the dynamic, open discussions among students and professors alike, John paints a vivid picture of the workshop's atmosphere. Listen as we uncover how this relatively obscure topic is making waves in controlled environment agriculture. This episode promises a front-row seat to the complexities and possibilities that far-red radiation holds for the future of horticulture.

ASHS 2022 Workshop What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science? https://ashs.confex.com/ashs/2022/meetingapp.cgi/Session/11349

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

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How much do you really know about the light that nurtures your plants? In this enlightening episode of Plants, People, Science, hosts Curt Rom and Samson Humphrey take you on a journey through the multifaceted world of light's influence on horticulture. They start with their own personal experiences with sunlight and artificial light, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion with Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University. Dr. Runkle shares his fascinating journey into the study of light and its effects on plant growth, detailing how light intensity, quality, and duration play critical roles in flowering and biomass production. We also tackle the technological advancements that have revolutionized lighting, particularly the shift from traditional bulbs to cutting-edge LED technology.

For more information on the ASHS 2022 Workshop "What Is Far-Red Light's Role in Plant Science?" go to https://ashs.confex.com/ashs/2022/meetingapp.cgi/Session/11349.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

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Spring has sprung in the world of horticulture, and as Mother's Day nears, we welcome Dr. John Dole, a Professor of Horticultural Science from North Carolina State University. His current research activities focus on cut flowers, including new cultivar evaluations, production, postharvest, and marketing analysis.  Dr. Dole opens our eyes to the science of cut flower production, the crucial post-harvest practices, and the flower's voyage from farm to tabletop. With his expertise, you'll harvest a bouquet of knowledge on how to keep those purchased petals perky for longer, and you'll catch a glimpse into the science that ensures these flowers keep their sparkle from field to vase. You're sure to leave this episode with a fresh perspective on the cut flowers that brighten your life, and perhaps even a green thumb's itch for the season ahead.

To read more about this topic, check out Dr. Dole’s paper, “South and Central America Cut Flower Production and Postharvest Survey” published in HortTechnology at  https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04484-19.

Additional papers of interest by Dr. Dole in the ASHS journals can be found by going to https://journals.ashs.org/search?f_0=author&pageSize=10&q_0=John+M.+Dole&sort=datedescending.

More information about Dr. John Dole is available at https://cals.ncsu.edu/horticultural-science/people/jmdole/.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

...

Embark on an intoxicating voyage through the storied groves of apple history and the intricate science of cider with Dr. Greg Peck from Cornell's School of Integrative Plant Science. Prepare your palate for a revelation as we uncover why cider apples bear little resemblance to their grocery store relatives, and how a symphony of tannins, sugars, and acidity beautifully ferment into the cider that elevates our dining experiences. Greg's expertise illuminates the journey from orchard to glass, revealing the transformative art that turns simple apples into complex beverages with every press and ferment. Our conversation is a rich blend of natural chemistry and meticulous craft, sure to deepen your appreciation for cider's robust charm.

This episode also delves into the practical research that guides orchard optimization—think sunlight exposure, phenolic development, and the pivotal role of nitrogen in fermentation. It's a masterclass in managing apple varieties and maximizing yields to shape the future of fine cider.

Read the HortTechnology article "Growing Apples for Hard Cider Production in the United States—Trends and Research Opportunities" at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04488-19.

The HortScience article "Fruitlet Thinning Improves Juice Quality in Seven High-tannin Cider Cultivars" is available at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17096-23 and "Fruitlet Thinning Reduces Biennial Bearing in Seven High-tannin Cider Apple Cultivars" is at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17455-23.

Additional information about Dr. Greg Peck is available at https://cals.cornell.edu/gregory-michael-peck.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

...

We usher in a new era of the Plants People Science podcast with Curt Rom of the University of Arkansas joining Sam Humphrey as a Co-Host for Season 2. Rom's wealth of knowledge, from his roots as an undergraduate research assistant to his career in teaching and research, is set to invigorate our discussions with fresh insights. This episode introduces Curt with a discussion of his academic journey and explores his work and his contributions to the American Society for Horticultural Science.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

...

In the second part of our two-part series on strawberries, and the final episode of Season 1, Sam talks with Dr. Jayesh Samtani, an Associate Professor and Small Fruit Extension Specialist at Virginia Tech. As an extension specialist, he does a lot of work connecting with growers and other extension agents, in Virginia and numerous other states. He also runs a research program, which has covered a variety of strawberry projects, including cultivar evaluations, soil disinfestation, strawberry plant nutrition, and season extension with high tunnels.

To learn more about Dr. Samtani go to https://www.arec.vaes.vt.edu/arec/hampton-roads/people/samtani-bio.html.

To read the HortTechnology article "The Status and Future of the Strawberry Industry in the United States" go to https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04135-18.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

...

In the first part of this two-part series on strawberries, Sam and Lara interview Dr. Gerald Holmes, director of the Strawberry Center at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. He discusses the challenges that growers face, the costs of producing and harvesting strawberries, the factors that influence the flavor of the berries, and the future of the industry.

To learn more about the Strawberry Center at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo go to https://strawberry.calpoly.edu/.

For the HortTechnology article "The Status and Future of the Strawberry Industry in the United States" go to https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04135-18.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

...

In this episode of Plants, People, Science, Sam and Lara talk with Dr. Teresita D. Amore, Associate Researcher in the Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She discusses her orchid and anthurium breeding program, the traits that growers and designers are looking for, the rewarding aspects of her job, and what led to her career.

To see Dr. Amore's work on the cover of HortScience go to https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/56/8/hortsci.56.issue-8.xml.

Read the HortScience article "Anthurium 'Kopho Welo' and 'Honi-honi'" at https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI15901-21.

Send us Fan Mail

Learn more about the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) at  https://ashs.org/.
HortTechnology, HortScience and the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science are all open-access and peer-reviewed journals, published by the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS). Find them at journals.ashs.org.

Consider becoming an ASHS member at https://ashs.org/page/Becomeamember!

You can also find the official webpage for Plants, People, Science at ashs.org/plantspeoplesciencepodcast, and we encourage you to send us feedback or suggestions at https://ashs.org/webinarpodcastsuggestion.

Podcast transcripts are available at https://plantspeoplescience.buzzsprout.com.

On LinkedIn find Sam Humphrey at linkedin.com/in/samson-humphrey. Curt Rom is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-rom-611085134/. Lena Wilson is at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-wilson-2531a5141/.

Thank you for listening!

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