Elmer Swenson
Elmer Swenson | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Osceola, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Died | December 24, 2004 (aged 91) |
| Occupation(s) | Grape breeder, horticulturist, viticulturist |
| Years active | 1943–2004 |
| Known for | Development of cold-hardy grape varieties adapted to Upper Midwest climates |
Elmer Swenson (December 12, 1913 – December 24, 2004) was a pioneering American grape breeder who significantly transformed viticulture in the Upper Midwest and other regions characterized by cold climates and brief growing seasons through the development of numerous innovative grape varieties.
Biography
Swenson operated a farm near Osceola, Wisconsin, a property passed down from his grandfather who emigrated from Sweden. Starting in 1943, he embarked on breeding grapes by hybridizing French grape varieties with native wild species such as Vitis riparia, drawing inspiration from Texas-based breeder Thomas Volney Munson. His primary objective was to create grape seedlings capable of producing premium-quality fruit adapted to severe environmental conditions.
Between 1969 and 1979, Swenson was affiliated with the University of Minnesota, where he managed fruit crops and conducted part of his breeding experiments; however, the majority of his work continued at his own farm. His initial two hybrids, 'Edelweiss' and 'Swenson Red', were jointly introduced with the university, while later cultivars were released solely under his name.
Swenson embraced a collaborative philosophy by widely distributing cuttings of his breeding selections. Although five of his hybrids received patents, many others were shared openly or named by third parties, which sometimes led to confusion regarding their nomenclature.
Cultivars Developed By Elmer Swenson
Patented varieties:
Joint releases with University of Minnesota:
Additional cultivars:
- Kandiyohi
- Sabrevois
- Norway Red
- Alpenglow
- Petit Jewel
- Prairie Star
- Louise Swenson
- Lorelei
- Trollhaugen
- Swenson White
- Summersweet
- Brianna
- Delisle
- Montreal Blue (also known as 'St. Theresa' and 'Flambeau')
- Aldemina
- Somerset Seedless
- Laura's Laughter
- Osceola Muskat aka Muscat de Swenson