I always find it interesting when a conversation comes up about the fact that new plants can be considered inventions, and hybridizers can get royalties just like any other patent owner. The reaction is usually either of surprise, lack of belief, “you’re pulling my leg”, or a combination of the aforementioned.
As of today more than 25,000 plant patents have been issued by the US Patent and Trademark Office. In some cases, these patents have made the breeder famous (at least in Horticulture and gardening circles) and in very selected cases, fairly wealthy.
Since Benjamin Franklin, the United States has rewarded innovation by granting inventors patents, which help them monetize their inventions. The system was successful beyond old Ben’s wildest dreams, and is the main reason why the US is still the world leader in innovation on pretty much any major front.
To read the rest of the story, please go to: Star® Roses and Plants/Conard-Pyle
