As seed catalogs arrive and garden planning season begins, tomato enthusiasts face an exciting, and potentially overwhelming array of choices. In this episode of 'Extension Out Loud,' Greg Vogel, Assistant Professor at Cornell's School of Integrative Plant Science, guides listeners through the complex world of tomato variety selection, drawing from his cutting-edge research and extensive field experience.

During this episode Vogel discusses:

• · the differences between determinate and indeterminate tomato varieties,
• · how local climate affects variety performance, and proper pruning techniques for maximum yield,
• · breeding methods comparing traditional backyard techniques with modern laboratory approaches.

Whether you're a novice gardener overwhelmed by catalog choices or an experienced grower seeking to optimize your tomato selection, this episode provides the scientific foundation and practical wisdom needed to make informed decisions for a successful growing season.

Listen now to transform your tomato growing experience with insights from one of Cornell's leading vegetable breeding researchers.

For more resources to help you select varieties for your garden visit the Cornell Garden Based Learning web site. For questions related to planning, and growing your garden, contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension office.

In this episode of Extension Out Loud, Cornell Cooperative Extension specialist Crystal Stewart Courtens shares her journey from Extension newcomer to regional garlic specialist. Crystal discusses her farmer-centered approach to agricultural science, the challenges of researching a crop that rarely produces viable seeds, and how mentors taught her that excellent Extension work requires both scientific rigor and authentic human connection.

In this episode of Extension Out Loud, Mario Miranda Sazo, fruit extension specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension's (CCE) Lake Ontario Fruit Program, shares how advanced technology and agricultural techniques are revolutionizing apple orchards.

The digitalization of orchard management is transforming farming practices. Advanced drone technology now enables farmers to create precise blossom density maps. These maps provide crucial data on bloom levels, helping growers identify which trees are flourishing and which need additional care.

By leveraging drones, precision crop management, and advanced grafting techniques, CCE specialists and Cornell researchers are helping New York's apple industry improve yields, enhance fruit quality, and promote orchard sustainability.