Science and the Garden

"A thorough update and the introduction of new topics such asbiodiversity and conservation has greatly enhanced this newedition: it is a 'must read' for all interested in horticulture andgardening."
--John MacLeod, RHS Professor of Horticulture
Most conventional gardening books concentrate on how and when tocarry out horticultural tasks such as pruning, seed sowing andtaking cuttings. This book is unique in explaining instraightforward terms some of the science that underlies thesepractices. It is principally a book of 'Why' - Why are plantsgreen? Why should one cut beneath a leaf node when taking cuttings?Why do plants need so much water? But it also goes on to deal withthe 'How', providing rationale behind the practical advice.
The coverage is wide-ranging and comprehensive and includes thebasic structure and functioning of garden plants, nomenclature,genetics and plant breeding, soil management, environmental factorsaffecting growth, methods of propagation and production, pest anddisease control, post harvest management and storage, andconservation and sustainable horticulture.
Now with full colour throughout, the second edition provides thereader with:
* Completely revised and updated chapters from the first edition,with new information and clearer focus on the topics
* Four new chapters, dealing with matters that have become ofincreasing concern since the first edition, namely: Diversity inthe Plant World; Conservation and Sustainable Gardening;Gardens and the Natural World; and Gardens forScience
Published on behalf of the Royal Horticultural Society, thisbook remains a key text for those sitting RHS examinations,particularly at levels 2 and 3; it will also appeal to gardeners,growers and scientists.
Key Features
* Bestselling essential text for all horticulture students
* Edited and written by a group of highly regardedscientists
* Covers the scientific information of greatest importance togardeners and horticulturists
* Jargon-free scientific explanations, a comprehensive glossary,and copious colour illustrations
Royalties from the sale of this book go towards the charitablework of the RHS, promoting horticulture and helping gardeners.www.rhs.org.uk