Luther Burbank was born on March 7, 1849 in Lancaster, Massachusetts. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in plants and nature, spending hours in his family's garden experimenting with cross-breeding and hybridization.
At a young age, Burbank developed one of the most successful potato breeds on his family's farm. This early success fueled his passion for plant breeding, leading him to experiment with various crops and creating new varieties.
Throughout his 55-year career, Luther Burbank developed over 800 strains and varieties of plants. Some of his most notable creations include the Shasta daisy, fire poppy, plumcot, and the russet potatoes that are still widely used today.
In 1890, Burbank married Helen Coleman, but the marriage ended in divorce six years later. In 1916, he married Elizabeth Waters. Despite his personal challenges, Burbank continued to focus on his botanical work and legacy.
Luther Burbank's contributions to agricultural science and horticulture are unparalleled. His innovative methods of plant breeding and development paved the way for future generations of botanists and scientists.