HRI fuels the future for growers
Explore how HRI advances grower-focused research, education and innovation. Learn how its work strengthens the industry and take action to support its impact.
Meeting those challenges requires solutions rooted in science and research. That’s where the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) comes in.
WHAT IS HRI?
HRI is the research and scholarship foundation of AmericanHort, created more than 60 years ago to support the long-term success of the green industry. Its mission is straightforward but powerful: to direct funding toward research and share actionable advice that helps businesses like yours thrive.FOUR AREAS OF IMPACT
HRI’s influence extends across four vital areas:- Research: solving critical production, plant health and consumer behavior challenges
- Education: delivering webinars, roundtables and resources to keep businesses informed about applied insights
- Scholarship: supporting students pursuing horticultural careers, building the industry’s talent pipeline
- Leadership development: equipping industry leaders through the HRI Leadership Academy and other initiatives
RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT: GROWER-FOCUSED INNOVATION
Recent HRI-funded projects illustrate how research delivers practical outcomes for growers.At Ohio State University, Yu Ma, Ph.D., is leading an effort to develop cold-tolerant begonias. Ma is uncovering the genetic mechanisms in Begonia grandis that respond to cold stress. The ultimate goal is to breed new varieties capable of withstanding unexpected frosts and cooler climates.
For greenhouse growers, this research could mean fewer crop losses, an extended production season and new opportunities to meet market demand with resilient, high-value varieties.
Another promising project is underway at the University of Vermont, where Margaret Skinner, Ph.D., is exploring the use of ultraviolet (UV-C) light to manage Western flower thrips in greenhouse ornamentals. Thrips are notorious for their resistance to pesticides, creating one of the most persistent challenges in greenhouse pest management. Skinner’s research focuses on tailoring UV-C applications to larger plants while balancing efficacy with plant safety.
This innovative approach could significantly reduce reliance on chemical controls, providing growers with a sustainable, environmentally responsible alternative to conventional pest management.
Jennifer Gray leads all organizational activities of the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), AmericanHort’s research and scholarship foundation, as research programs administrator. Learn more at hriresearch.org.