Ask Dr. Universe podcast explores apple breeding and the science behind new varieties

The latest episode of the Ask Dr. Universe podcast takes listeners inside the world of apple breeding with Washington State University horticulturist Kate Evans. In the episode, Evans explains how scientists create new apple varieties, why bees play a critical role in the process, and what it takes to develop apples such as Cosmic Crisp® and Sunflare™.

Listeners learn how apple breeders carefully transfer pollen between selected trees to create new combinations of genes, then evaluate thousands of seedlings over many years to identify varieties with desirable traits. Evans also explains why planting seeds from a favorite apple will not produce the same fruit and how breeders work to improve flavor, storage life, and growing characteristics.

The episode also explores Evans' career as a scientist, including her current research on helping apples withstand heat and sunburn. She shares advice for young people interested in science and describes the excitement of seeing thousands of new apple seedlings emerge each spring.

Ask Dr. Universe is a science education project from WSU that answers real questions from curious kids around the world. Readers and listeners can submit their own questions and explore more columns, videos, and the Ask Dr. Universe podcast online.