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Explore crop performance in 3D virtual reality

How can we really know what’s going on with the plants in fields, orchards and pastures? Using massive amounts of information gathered from agricultural lands, scientists have developed models that simulate how plants absorb light, take in and release gases, use water, grow and produce food.

From “meh” to “mmmm!!”: More pleasing plums are a few steps away

Plums on the tree can be difficult to judge for ripeness: Many of the varieties grown commercially attain their beautiful color before the fruit is mature. If harvested too soon, plums may not be sweet and flavorful, and they can develop problems in storage. But growers are wary of harvesting late: Fruit can get bruised or punctured, or even drop before harvest. All that impacts how consumers view this nutrition-packed fruit, potentially shifting the combined appearance, aroma and flavor from delight to disappointment.