Research programs in the Horticultural Sciences Department at the University of Florida cover a broad range of topics from space biology to improving field production techniques.
We offer a unique experience where undergraduate students work side by side with graduate students, faculty, and postdoctoral scientists to enhance the research and education process.
Our breeding programs are globally recognized for developing subtropical and tropical fruit and vegetable varieties. By integrating modern genomics with traditional breeding, our scientists accelerate new releases through close collaboration across the UF Plant Breeding Working Group.
Florida leads the nation in winter fruit and vegetable production, supplying fresh produce when much of the country is out of season. Research in crop production and management improves water and fertilizer efficiency, advances sustainable practices, and develops cost-effective strategies to support growers—ensuring Florida’s fields produce high-quality crops year-round while protecting natural resources.
Research in organic farming unites science and sustainability to advance environmentally sound and economically viable production systems. By developing innovative fruit and vegetable cropping methods that align with USDA National Organic Program standards, researchers aim to protect soil health, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen the long-term success of Florida growers and communities.
Plant physiology and biochemistry form the foundation of successful horticultural production. Our research spans topics from whole plant physiology to metabolism and enzymology, advancing understanding of how plants grow and function. Collaborative efforts across multiple UF departments unite diverse expertise to address key challenges in understanding how plants function at every level.
Research in this area uncovers how plants grow, develop, and produce traits like flavor, color, and nutrition. By studying plant genes and cellular processes, our team uses molecular genetics and metabolic engineering to enhance crop quality and resilience. Collaboration with UF’s Plant Innovation Program and breeding teams connects fundamental discoveries to real-world advances in horticulture.
Research in postharvest biology explores the physiological, biochemical, and molecular processes that influence fruit and vegetable quality after harvest. By optimizing storage, shipping, and marketing practices, this work helps ensure Florida-grown produce reaches consumers worldwide at peak freshness and flavor.
Our team of researchers focus on improving crop performance by reducing weed impact through biological, mechanical, and cultural control methods. Herbicide resistance, herbicide selectivity and interactions with weeds and crops are part of UF and the National IR-4 program to support sustainable crop production.
Research in plant biology, propagation, and ecological interactions supports restoration of natural areas and conservation in managed landscapes with enhanced native species establishment, ornamental appeal, and control of invasive plants. Seed biology, germination, adventitious rooting, container production, and other advanced propagation approaches—such as tissue culture and cryopreservation—all improve conservation outcomes, long term ecosystem resilience, and year-round nursery production efficiency. By conducting research across natural, urban, and agricultural systems, researchers translate fundamental plant science into practices that enhance sustainability, biodiversity, and landscape performance.
