A Fondness for Fruit: The USDA Pomological Watercolour Collection

Monday, October 3rd
by Editor, Soiled and Seeded

In the late 19th century as U.S. orchards grew and horticulturists arrived from far-flung expeditions with new varieties of fruit, the USDA created the Division of Pomology - the science of fruit cultivation and production. Research publications were accompanied by illustrations created by artists commissioned by the USDA. These reports and scientific findings served as essential reference tools for breeders, scientists and horticulturists. The nearly 8000 illustrated watercolours of fruit and nut varieties currently reside in the National Agricultural Library Special Collections. You can view selections from their online exhibit here.