Location History:
- Warner Robins, GA (US) (2010 - 2019)
- Augusta, GA (US) (2023)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2010-2023
Title: The Innovations of William R. Okie
Introduction
William R. Okie is a notable inventor based in Warner Robins, Georgia. He has made significant contributions to the field of horticulture, particularly in the development of new peach tree cultivars. With a total of seven patents to his name, Okie's work has had a lasting impact on the agricultural industry.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations are two distinct cultivars of peach trees. The first is the 'Cardinal Joy', which features firm, melting, semi-freestone fruit with a high coverage of red blush and yellow flesh. This cultivar is known for its rich flavor and pleasant eating quality, ripening about a week after 'Flavorich' and a few days before 'Carored' in mid to late May. The tree is characterized by self-fertile showy pink flowers and a moderately vigorous, semi-spreading growth habit. It requires approximately 850 chill hours and is well-suited for high chill areas.
The second cultivar, 'May Joy', produces clingstone, melting, yellow-flesh fruit with normal acidity and a pleasant eating quality. The fruit ripens approximately 1-2 weeks before 'Flavorich' and 2-3 weeks before 'Carored' in early to mid-May. This tree also has self-fertile showy pink flowers and a moderately vigorous, semi-spreading growth habit. It has an estimated winter chilling requirement of about 650 chill hours and thrives in medium to high chill areas.
Career Highlights
William R. Okie works for the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture. His career has been marked by a commitment to improving fruit quality and expanding the options available to growers.
Collaborations
Okie has collaborated with notable colleagues in his field, including Chunxian Chen and Ralph Scorza. Their combined expertise has contributed to the successful development of new cultivars.
Conclusion
William R. Okie's contributions to horticulture through his innovative peach tree cultivars demonstrate his dedication to advancing agricultural practices. His work continues to influence the industry and improve fruit production for growers.