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Genetics: Tiny keys to important traits Studying small RNAs in horticultural plants may reveal the genetic mechanisms underlying many unique and valuable traits, and help improve plant breeding programs. Small RNAs, short RNA molecules only 20–24 bases long, switch genes on or off to control many aspects of plant growth, development, and reproduction. They are well-studied in model plants, but are only just being investigated in horticultural species. In a review of small RNA research in horticultural plants, Rui Xia at South China Agricultural University and co-workers report that horticultural plants contain many novel sRNAs that hold the keys to important traits such as juvenile-to-adult transition in fruit trees, fruit size, fruit quality, and disease resistance. Better understanding of these miRNAs may help in engineering varieties with earlier production of tastier fruit, as well as enhanced resistance to disease.