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Irving, Texas – Kentucky State University (KSU) graduate students and faculty showcased pawpaw research at the 2025 Southern Region American Society for Horticultural Science (SRASHS) annual meeting that took place January 31 to February 3, 2025, in Irving, Texas. Among them, graduate student, Mr. Subas Thapa Magar, earned second place in a thesis competition for his research titled, “Inventory of Pawpaw (Asmina triloba) Pollinators.”

The “3 Minute Thesis” competition took place during the SRASHS Southern Fruit Workers Group Meeting and challenged graduate students to deliver a concise three-minute presentation summarizing their thesis or dissertation research using only one PowerPoint slide or visual aid. The competition aims to promote graduate student research, enhance effective communication skills, and inspire attendees by showcasing the extensive horticultural research conducted throughout the southern region.

"Participating in the SRASHS conference and presenting my research on pawpaw pollinators was a great learning experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the broader understanding of pawpaw,” said Magar.

Magar’s work through KSU’s pawpaw research program adds to the growing body of knowledge about the vital role of pollinators in pawpaw production and their ecological significance.

In addition to the thesis competition, KSU was further represented at the SRASHS meeting by graduate student, Mr. Kshitij Shahi, who presented a research poster titled, “Enhancing the Shelf-life of Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) Fruits Using Plastic Packaging Techniques.” His research focuses on improving the post-harvest longevity of pawpaw fruit, a crucial aspect of expanding the commercial viability of this native fruit.

Dr. Kirk Pomper, professor of horticulture, also delivered a presentation titled, “An Update on Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) Production in the Southeastern Region of the United States,” which provided insights into the latest advancements in pawpaw cultivation, industry developments, and emerging opportunities for growers and researchers. Dr. Srijana Thapa Magar, state specialist of horticulture and local foods, also presented a talk titled, “Ethnic Vegetables in Kentucky: Opportunities for Diverse and Sustainable Agriculture,” which gave information on new economic opportunities for farmers interested in growing a range of ethnic vegetables.

"SRASHS provides an excellent platform for our students to share their research and connect with experts. The recognition of our students, including Mr. Thapa Magar’s achievement, highlights the impact of KSU’s research programs on advancing knowledge in pawpaw production and sustainable agriculture,” said Dr. Pomper.

The 2025 SRASHS annual meeting is a remarkable opportunity for students and faculty from KSU to share their innovative research, engage with leading experts in the field, and contribute to the advancement of horticultural science. KSU’s continued participation in SRASHS underscores its commitment to research excellence and the promotion of sustainable horticultural practices in the southern region.

For more information about the Kentucky State University Pawpaw Program and its ongoing research, please contact kirk.pomper@kysu.edu