Herbert John Webber

Herbert John Webber (1865–1946) was an eminent American horticulturist and plant breeder who made significant contributions to the field of agriculture. He is best known for his pioneering work in the development of new citrus varieties and his leadership in establishing the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Citrus Experiment Station in Riverside, which later became the University of California, Riverside.

Early life and education

Webber was born on April 17, 1865, in Auburn, Illinois. He attended the University of Illinois where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Botany in 1885. He later pursued his Ph.D. at the University of Bonn in Germany, where he specialized in Plant Physiology.

Career

In 1891, Webber joined the USDA as a physiologist in the newly formed Division of Vegetable Physiology and Pathology. He was appointed as the division's chief in 1894. During his tenure, he conducted extensive research on plant diseases and their control.

In 1905, Webber was appointed as the first director of the Citrus Experiment Station in Riverside. Under his leadership, the station developed several new citrus varieties, including the Valencia orange, which became a major crop in California.

Webber also made significant contributions to the understanding of hybridization and plant genetics. His work laid the foundation for modern plant breeding techniques.

Legacy

Webber's work has had a lasting impact on the field of horticulture. His research and breeding programs have led to the development of numerous new plant varieties, many of which are still in commercial production today. The Citrus Experiment Station, which he helped establish, continues to be a leading center for citrus research.

See also

• Citrus production
• Plant breeding
• University of California, Riverside