In a method and apparatus for developing a latent electrostatic image formed on the surface of an image-bearing material by applying a powdery developer thereto, which includes magnetically retaining a layer of a relatively conductive one-component developer having a resistivity of not more than 10.sup.13 ohms-cm on the surface of a developer-retaining member, and bringing the developer on the surface of the developer-retaining member into contact with the surface of the image bearing material, the improvement wherein the developer-retaining member has a resistance, measured by a point-plane resistance measuring method in an environment kept at a temperature of 20.degree. C. and a humidity of 50%, of from 3.times.10.sup.7 ohms to 1.times.10.sup.10 ohms. The improved method makes possible good development without causing a background fog or a tail effect.