Have you ever eaten a pluot, aprium, or nectaplum and wondered where it came from, or whether such a genetic concoction is possible in the first place? Come explore the diverse world of stone fruit and learn about the many exciting varieties of hybrids among them! This session will cover the history of inter-specific hybridization within the Prunus genus, from Burbank to Zaiger, and even delve into the genetic and technical aspects of how these amazing and delicious fruit are created through traditional plant breeding techniques. The session will conclude with an overview of the many hybrid varieties available, as well as where they can be found and grown!

Originally from Blanco, Texas, Tim Hartmann received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Horticulture and Plant Breeding (peaches) in 2009 and 2023, respectively, from Texas A&M University (TAMU). He received his Ph.D. in Horticulture from TAMU in May 2020 after completing a study on the adaptation and feasibility of golden kiwifruit production in Texas. Tim is an assistant professor and Extension fruit specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Department of Horticultural Sciences at TAMU, where he teaches the Temperate Fruit and Nut Production course and advises several graduate students. He is responsible for supporting growers, developing of educational material on fruit, and assisting County Extension Agents. Tim’s research focuses on both established commodities such as peach, fig, apple, pear, and plum, as well as exploration of alternative crops including apricot, Asian persimmon, pineapple guava, and kiwifruit.