Don R. Labonte

Don R. Labonte is a Professor and Director of the School of Plant, Environmental and Soil Sciences at Louisiana State University (LSU AgCenter). He holds a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. from Eastern Illinois University and the University of Illinois, respectively. His research focuses on sweet potato breeding and genetics, addressing industry challenges such as flooding and production costs. He has developed high-yield cultivars like ‘Avoyelles’ and ‘Orleans’, and pioneered specialty types like ‘Murasaki’ and ‘Bonita’. Labonte teaches HORT 2860 (Crop Growth/Development) and HORT 7071 (Advanced Plant Genetics), and coordinates the horticulture internship program (HORT 3000). He holds numerous U.S. Plant Patents and Community Plant Breeding Rights grants for sweetpotato cultivars.

• Education: B.S./M.S. Eastern Illinois University; Ph.D. University of Illinois
• Administration: Director, School of Plant, Environmental and Soil Sciences
• Grants/Patents: 19+ patents for sweetpotato cultivars, including ‘LA17-31’, ‘LA17-120’, and ‘LA 07-146’

Research emphasizes molecular genetics for disease resistance and agronomic traits. His team uses 3D scanning for root shape analysis and evaluates phosphorus availability impacts. Collaborative efforts with LSU AgCenter scientists ensure cultivars meet industry needs for yield, shape, and processing adaptability.