The Art of Plant Breeding with Dr. Keith Hammett: Season 2 Episode 8

In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson interviews Dr. Keith Hammett, a renowned plant breeder known for his work with dahlias. The conversation explores Keith's journey into breeding plants, his inspirations, and the intricate processes involved in creating new varieties. Dr Keith shares insights into the challenges of breeding, the importance of genetic variability, and the aesthetic considerations that influence his work. The discussion also touches on the significance of protecting breeder rights, the role of marketers and retailers, and the joy that comes from connecting with flower farmers and enthusiasts. Dr Keith's passion for horticulture and dedication to his craft shine through as he reflects on his experiences and the impact of his work on the flower industry.Bullet Points:• Breeding requires a long-term vision, often spanning decades.• Dahlias are unique due to their genetic variability and breeding challenges.• The breeding process involves defining clear goals and selecting appropriate parent plants.• Aesthetics play a crucial role in the breeding of dahlias.• Maintaining breeding stock is essential for successful plant breeding.• The distillation process helps refine breeding selections over time.• Breeders need to protect their rights to recoup their investments.• Marketers and retailers are vital for bringing new varieties to market.• The joy of breeding comes from seeing the happiness it brings to others.• Naming new breeds can be both fun and challenging.The Important Bits!!• "You have to think in decades."• "The magic has never left me."• "I have a little white book."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Keith Hammett02:48 The Journey into Dahlia Breeding07:29 Breeding Goals and Inspirations09:32 Understanding the Breeding Process12:20 The Role of Exhibitors in Breeding16:27 Genetic Variability in Dahlias19:02 The Aesthetic of Dahlia Breeding20:12 Favorite Dahlias and Surprises in Breeding22:40 Challenges in Maintaining Breeding Lines23:32 The Art of Plant Breeding25:58 Navigating Plant Patents and Breeder Rights29:37 The Role of Marketers in Plant Breeding31:58 Understanding Plant Health and Breeding Stock35:22 Seed Storage and Maintenance36:50 The Impact of DNA Sampling in Breeding40:31 The Importance of Collaboration in Plant Breeding40:52 The Joy of Connecting Through Flowers42:40 Naming New Breeds: A Creative ChallengeInfo for all show notes: Connect with Our Sponsors:(UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz Support Our Work!Don’t forget, ifyou like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you cansupport our work by:·        Advertising in an episode·        Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can ·        Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠Music Credit:Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele  Key words:#flowerfarminginNZ#nzflowergrowers#nzflorists#sustainablefloristry#sustainableflowerfarming#Dahlia breeding#plant breeding#horticulture#flower farming#genetic variability#breeding goals#plant variety rights#flower aesthetics#flower farmers#plant health