Gardeners Can Help UF Tomato Breeding Program With Growth, Flavor Data

Normally, University of Florida scientists such as Harry Klee gauge the taste and aroma of their new tomatoes by letting volunteers test them at the UF Sensory Lab in Gainesville. But now, people from across the globe who grow tomatoes in their gardens can serve as citizen scientists and send flavor and growing data to Klee. 

In this case, for a nominal donation to support the lab’s program, participants can receive packets of seeds to grow tomatoes in their home gardens. Then, they can share information with Klee, a UF/IFAS horticultural sciences professor.

Klee and his lab colleagues have distributed varieties — including Garden Gem and Garden Treasure, approved for release by UF/IFAS — since 2015. More than 13,000 people in all 50 states and roughly 40 countries have taken advantage of this offer.

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