Cultivar vs Variety: Which Should You Use In Writing?

When it comes to gardening and agriculture, the terms “cultivar” and “variety” are often used interchangeably. However, there are subtle differences between the two that are worth exploring.

It’s important to note that both cultivar and variety refer to specific types of plants that have been bred or selected for certain characteristics. However, cultivar is the more precise term, referring to a plant that has been intentionally bred or selected for specific traits, such as disease resistance or color.

On the other hand, variety is a broader term that can refer to plants that have been naturally selected or have developed unique characteristics over time, without any intentional breeding or selection.

So, while both cultivar and variety refer to specific types of plants, cultivar is the more specific term that refers to intentional breeding or selection, while variety is a broader term that can encompass naturally occurring variations.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between cultivar and variety in more detail, and delve into the nuances of each term.

Define Cultivar

A cultivar is a plant variety that has been intentionally selected and bred by humans for desirable traits such as size, color, taste, disease resistance, and yield. Cultivars are often created through selective breeding or genetic engineering and are maintained through cloning or grafting.

Cultivars are given a unique name, which is usually capitalized and placed in single quotes, such as ‘Honeycrisp’ apple or ‘Roma’ tomato. This distinguishes them from other varieties of the same plant species.

Cultivars are important in agriculture and horticulture because they allow farmers and gardeners to produce consistent, high-quality crops that meet consumer demands. They also help to preserve genetic diversity by allowing the propagation of unique traits that might be lost in the wild.

Define Variety

A variety, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring variation within a plant species that can be propagated through seeds. Varieties can arise through mutation, hybridization, or selection in the wild or in cultivation.

Unlike cultivars, varieties do not have unique names and are not intentionally bred for specific traits. Instead, they are identified by their physical characteristics, such as size, shape, color, and flavor.

Varieties are important in agriculture and horticulture because they provide a source of genetic diversity that can be used to improve cultivars and develop new ones. They also allow farmers and gardeners to adapt to changing environmental conditions and pest pressures.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Understanding the difference between cultivar and variety is important in the field of agriculture. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they actually have distinct meanings. Knowing how to properly use these words in a sentence can help you communicate more effectively with others in the industry.

How To Use Cultivar In A Sentence

A cultivar is a plant that has been selectively bred for specific characteristics, such as color, size, or disease resistance. When using the word cultivar in a sentence, it is important to remember that it should always be capitalized and italicized. For example:

• The ‘Honeycrisp’ cultivar of apple is known for its crisp texture and sweet flavor.
• The farmer decided to switch to a new cultivar of wheat that was more resistant to drought.

In both of these examples, the word cultivar refers to a specific type of plant that has been bred for certain traits. By capitalizing and italicizing the word, you are indicating that you are referring to a specific cultivar, rather than just any type of plant.

How To Use Variety In A Sentence

A variety, on the other hand, refers to a naturally occurring variation within a species. When using the word variety in a sentence, it should not be capitalized or italicized. For example:

• The tomato plant produces a variety of fruit sizes, from cherry tomatoes to beefsteak tomatoes.
• There are many different varieties of corn, including sweet corn, popcorn, and field corn.

In these examples, the word variety refers to the natural variation that exists within a species. Unlike cultivars, which are created through selective breeding, varieties are simply the result of natural genetic variation.

By understanding the difference between cultivar and variety, you can communicate more effectively with others in the agricultural industry. Whether you are discussing plant breeding, crop yields, or disease resistance, using these terms correctly can help ensure that everyone is on the same page.

More Examples Of Cultivar & Variety Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the differences between cultivar and variety, it’s important to see how they are used in context. Here are some examples:

Examples Of Using Cultivar In A Sentence:

• The ‘Honeycrisp’ cultivar of apple is known for its sweetness and crispness.
• The ‘Big Boy’ cultivar of tomato is a popular choice for home gardeners.
• The ‘Noble’ cultivar of fir tree is often used for Christmas trees.
• The ‘Crimson Sweet’ cultivar of watermelon is a favorite among farmers.
• The ‘Bing’ cultivar of cherry is prized for its large size and deep red color.
• The ‘Red Delicious’ cultivar of apple is one of the most widely recognized apple varieties.
• The ‘Kentucky Blue’ cultivar of bluegrass is commonly used for lawns and golf courses.
• The ‘Silver Queen’ cultivar of corn is known for its sweet, tender kernels.
• The ‘Early Girl’ cultivar of tomato produces fruit earlier in the season than many other varieties.
• The ‘Meyer’ cultivar of lemon is a popular choice for home gardeners due to its sweeter flavor.

Examples Of Using Variety In A Sentence:

• There are many different varieties of roses, each with its own unique characteristics.
• Heirloom tomatoes come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes.
• There is a variety of lettuce called ‘Butterhead’ that has a soft, buttery texture.
• The grocery store carries a variety of apples, including Granny Smith, Fuji, and Gala.
• There are a variety of peppers, from sweet bell peppers to spicy jalapenos.
• The farmer’s market had a variety of squash, including zucchini, acorn, and butternut.
• There is a variety of wheat called ‘Durum’ that is commonly used to make pasta.
• There are a variety of herbs that can be used to flavor food, including basil, thyme, and rosemary.
• The pet store carries a variety of fish, from colorful bettas to exotic angelfish.
• There are a variety of beans, including black beans, kidney beans, and navy beans.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to gardening and horticulture, there are many terms that are often used interchangeably, even though they have distinct meanings. One of the most common examples of this is the confusion between the terms “cultivar” and “variety”. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these terms:

Mistake #1: Using “Cultivar” And “Variety” Interchangeably

One of the most common mistakes people make is using the terms “cultivar” and “variety” interchangeably. While they are both used to describe different types of plants, they have different meanings.

A cultivar is a plant that has been intentionally bred or selected for specific characteristics, such as color, size, or disease resistance. Cultivars are created through selective breeding or genetic modification, and are often trademarked or patented.

A variety, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring variation of a plant species. Varieties can arise through mutation, hybridization, or other natural processes, and are not typically trademarked or patented.

Using “cultivar” and “variety” interchangeably can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, especially when it comes to plant identification and classification.

Mistake #2: Confusing “Cultivar” With “Species”

Another common mistake is confusing the term “cultivar” with “species”. While both terms are used to describe types of plants, they have different meanings.

A species is a group of plants that share similar characteristics and can interbreed to produce fertile offspring. Cultivars, on the other hand, are created through selective breeding or genetic modification, and are not considered to be part of a species.

Confusing these terms can lead to miscommunication and inaccuracies in plant identification and classification.

Tips For Avoiding Mistakes

To avoid making these mistakes, it’s important to understand the differences between “cultivar” and “variety”, as well as their meanings and uses in horticulture and gardening. Here are some tips:

• Use “cultivar” to describe plants that have been intentionally bred or selected for specific characteristics.
• Use “variety” to describe naturally occurring variations of a plant species.
• Avoid using “cultivar” and “variety” interchangeably.
• When in doubt, consult a reputable gardening or horticulture resource for guidance on plant identification and classification.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between cultivars and varieties, context plays a crucial role. The decision can depend on various factors, such as the purpose of the crop, the environment, and the target market.

Environmental Factors

The choice between cultivars and varieties can be influenced by the environment in which they are grown. For example, if the crop is grown in an area with high humidity and disease pressure, a cultivar that is resistant to those conditions may be the better choice. On the other hand, if the crop is grown in an area with low water availability, a variety that is drought-tolerant may be the better choice.

Purpose Of The Crop

The purpose of the crop can also influence the choice between cultivars and varieties. For instance, if the crop is grown for fresh consumption, a variety that has desirable taste, appearance, and texture may be the better choice. However, if the crop is grown for processing, a cultivar that has high yield and disease resistance may be the better choice.

Target Market

The target market can also affect the choice between cultivars and varieties. For example, if the crop is grown for export, a variety that meets the standards and preferences of the target market may be the better choice. Likewise, if the crop is grown for a niche market, such as organic or non-GMO, a cultivar that meets the certification requirements may be the better choice.

In summary, the choice between cultivars and varieties is not a straightforward decision. It requires careful consideration of the context in which they are used. By understanding the environmental factors, purpose of the crop, and target market, growers can make informed decisions that maximize the potential of their crops.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the terms cultivar and variety are generally used according to specific rules, there are some exceptions where these rules might not apply. Here are some explanations and examples for each case:

1. Botanical Classification

In some cases, plants may be classified differently depending on the botanical classification system being used. For example, in the Linnaean system, the term “variety” is used to refer to a subdivision of a species, while the term “cultivar” is not used at all. However, in the International Code of Nomenclature for Cultivated Plants, cultivars are recognized as a distinct category of plants that are artificially selected and maintained by cultivation.

2. Regional Differences

There may be regional differences in the usage of the terms cultivar and variety. For example, in the United Kingdom, the term “cultivar” is generally used instead of “variety” to refer to cultivated plants that have been developed through selective breeding or hybridization. However, in the United States, the term “variety” is more commonly used.

3. Hybridization

Hybridization can also lead to some confusion in the usage of the terms cultivar and variety. In general, a cultivar is a plant that has been selected and maintained through cultivation, while a variety is a naturally occurring plant that has distinct characteristics. However, in some cases, a hybrid plant may be classified as a cultivar if it has been artificially selected and maintained through cultivation.

4. Legal Definitions

Finally, there may be legal definitions that affect the usage of the terms cultivar and variety. For example, in the United States, the Plant Variety Protection Act defines a “variety” as a plant that is distinct, uniform, and stable, while a “cultivar” is not specifically defined. However, in the European Union, the term “variety” is used to refer to both naturally occurring and cultivated plants, while the term “cultivar” is used to refer specifically to plants that have been developed through selective breeding.

Practice Exercises

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between cultivars and varieties, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Here are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these terms in sentences:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Fill in the blank with either cultivar or variety:

1. The __________ of apples grown in this region are known for their sweetness.
2. My neighbor grows a __________ of roses that bloom all year round.
3. The local nursery specializes in __________ of tomatoes that are resistant to blight.
4. I prefer the __________ of coffee beans that are grown in South America.

Answer Key:

1. The variety of apples grown in this region are known for their sweetness.
2. My neighbor grows a cultivar of roses that bloom all year round.
3. The local nursery specializes in cultivars of tomatoes that are resistant to blight.
4. I prefer the variety of coffee beans that are grown in South America.

Exercise 2: Identify The Correct Term

Read each sentence and identify whether the correct term to use is cultivar or variety:

1. The __________ of wheat grown in this area is known for its high protein content.
2. This __________ of grapes is resistant to disease and produces a high yield.
3. My favorite __________ of apples is the Honeycrisp.
4. The local nursery has a wide selection of __________ of succulents.

Answer Key:

1. The variety of wheat grown in this area is known for its high protein content.
2. This cultivar of grapes is resistant to disease and produces a high yield.
3. My favorite variety of apples is the Honeycrisp.
4. The local nursery has a wide selection of cultivars of succulents.

By practicing these exercises, you can improve your understanding and use of cultivar and variety in your writing and conversations. Remember to pay attention to the specific characteristics and traits of each term, and use them appropriately in context.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between cultivar and variety, it is clear that these terms are not interchangeable and have specific meanings in the field of botany. Cultivars are cultivated varieties that have been intentionally bred for specific traits, while varieties can occur naturally or through human intervention.

It is important to use the correct terminology when discussing plants to avoid confusion and ensure accurate communication. Furthermore, understanding the differences between cultivars and varieties can help gardeners and farmers make informed decisions about which plants to grow and how to care for them.

As with any aspect of language use, it is always beneficial to continue learning and expanding one’s knowledge. By staying up-to-date on grammar and terminology, we can communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.