Dr. Thomas Molnar – Dogwoods and Hazelnuts: Going Nuts Breeding Trees at Rutgers University VIRTUAL - Thursday, April 20

(adult program)

As we launch our Notable Garden Speaker series for 2023, the Arboretum is pleased to welcome Dr. Thomas Molnar, Associate Professor in the Rutgers University Department of Plant Biology.

Dr. Molnar will talk about the more than 50-year history of the woody ornamental breeding program at Rutgers, with a special focus on dogwoods.

A recent color break in the kousa and hybrid dogwood breeding lines will also be discussed, which has led to some exciting recent developments, including the release of Scarlet Fire® dogwood.  Tom will also discuss the hazelnut breeding program started in 1996 where its first cultivar releases, including ‘Raritan’ and ‘Somerset’, came to fruition in 2020, marking more than two decades of concerted effort.  Hazelnuts are now being planted on local farms and a program in support of developing a hazelnut industry in New Jersey and the surrounding region is underway. 

Join us for an enlightening evening with Dr. Thomas Molnar as he reveals the research which is creating exciting new cultivars. We’re certain that his presentation will inspire you to plant more of these beloved trees in your own garden.

Light refreshments will be served.