Missouri Native Grapes

from Wikimedia

Many of our Master Naturalists will recall the program that Patrick Byers presented in February of last year on how the Missouri native grapes saved the European wine industry.  Now there is an opportunity to learn about the man who made it happen.

This is a historical and scientific exhibit about Hermann Jaeger, the naturalist, grape breeder, and viticulturist of Neosho, Missouri, whose wild and hybrid grapes helped Europe recover from an economic disaster during the 19th century.

Overcoming the phylloxera invasion was one of the greatest triumphs of natural sciences of the times, and Hermann Jaeger was a key part of that victory. Through his work, plant biodiversity from the Ozarks helps make grape cultivation cleaner, and more environment friendly all around the world.

The exhibit opens with a public and free, catered reception on Friday, April 8 at 6:00 p.m., with a program of speakers at 7:00 p.m., at The Discovery Center of Springfield, 438 E. Saint Louis Street in downtown Springfield, Missouri. For more information on the display visit this link.

To read an excellent article written by Kay Hively on Hermann Jeager's Horticultural Work visit this link to the Neosho Daily News: http://www.neoshodailynews.com/features/x188778897/Exhibit-to-focus-on-Hermann-Jaegers-horticultural-work

Thanks for the story written by Dr. Chris Barnhart of MSU and forwarded by Friends of the Garden.