David S Bedford

Title: Innovations in Horticulture: The Contributions of David S. Bedford

Introduction

David S. Bedford is a notable inventor based in New Germany, MN (US), recognized for his significant contributions to horticulture. He holds a total of 9 patents, showcasing his dedication to developing new cultivars of fruit trees that enhance agricultural diversity and consumer choice.

Latest Patents

Among his latest innovations are two remarkable cultivars: the apple tree named 'MN33' and the pear tree named 'MN121'. The 'MN33' apple tree is distinguished by its crisp and juicy fruit, which has a sweet/tart flavor profile reminiscent of tropical fruits. This cultivar boasts a storage life of 132 to 154 days without the use of controlled atmosphere (CA) or 1-MCP, and its fruit skin is characterized by a vibrant red color, covering 85% to 95% of the surface. The apples produced are medium to large in size and exhibit moderate resistance to apple scab.

The 'MN121' pear tree, on the other hand, is noted for its good cold hardiness in U.S.D.A. Zone 4, having been observed for 30 years without fire blight infection in field tests. Its fruit has a storage life of approximately three months in refrigerated conditions and ripens in mid-August in central Minnesota. The pears are oval to elliptic in shape, with a crisp texture and a sweet flavor similar to that of an Asian pear, allowing them to be picked ripe for immediate consumption without the need for after-ripening.

Career Highlights

David S. Bedford is affiliated with the University of Minnesota, where he continues to advance his research and innovations in fruit cultivation. His work has significantly impacted the field of horticulture, providing new options for growers and consumers alike.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Bedford has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as James J. Luby and Jim Luby, contributing to the advancement of horticultural science and the development of new fruit varieties.

Conclusion

David S. Bedford's contributions to horticulture through his innovative apple and pear cultivars exemplify the importance of research and development in agriculture. His work not only enhances the diversity of fruit available to consumers but also supports sustainable agricultural practices.