The Fundamentals of Horticulture
Theory and Practice

Essential reading for all those interested in horticulture, from students to keen gardeners. Focuses on practical applications, and supports RHS specifications.

Chris Bird (Edited by)

9780521707398, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 24 April 2014

473 pages, 304 colour illus. 65 tables
27.6 x 22 x 2.3 cm, 1.35 kg

'… this is a useful and most welcome addition to a horticulturalist's library.' Leighton Dann, The Biologist

Essential reading for all studying horticulture and keen gardeners. This clear introduction to the principles underlying the practical applications of horticulture opens up the excitement of growing plants and garden development without readers wading through complex information. Written by a team of highly motivated and experienced horticultural tutors, the text supports the newly restructured RHS Level 2 qualifications with related Level 3 topics in boxes and signposting to Level 4 topics, together with other horticultural qualifications at these levels. Full colour images tied closely to the text and practical case study boxes inspire readers by making topics relevant to their own horticultural experiences. A comprehensive glossary helps build confidence in the use of classical horticulture language as well as new developing terms, and end-of-chapter questions encourage readers to apply what they have learnt. Extensive online supporting material includes mind maps showing the relationship of topics and aiding students in revision.

Preface
Acknowledgements
List of contributors
Part I. The Foundations: 1. Plant diversity Mike Thomas-Buffin and Tim Upson
2. Plant structure Kelvin Mason
3. Light Daphne Vince-Prue
4. Water and its importance for plants Daphne Vince-Prue
5. Climate, weather and seasonal effects Daphne Vince-Prue
6. Soils and plant nutrients Chris Bird
7. Flowers, fruits, and seeds Kelvin Mason
Part II. The Adjustments: 8. Propagating plants vegetatively Daphne Vince-Prue and Rosie Yeomans
9. Gardening for science Aaron Mills
10. Shaping plants Daphne Vince-Prue and Chris Bird
11. Protected cultivation Chris Allen
Part III. The Applications: 12. Gardening for food Chris Bird
13. Designing gardens and landscapes Jenny Shukman
14. Using plants in the garden Jenny Shukman and Rosie Yeomans
15. Gardening for science Aaron Mills
16. Commercial horticulture Chris Allen
17. Integrated pest management Neil Helyer
18. Conservation and sustainability Jenny Shukman
Appendixes
Glossary
Figure credits
Index.

Subject Areas: Gardening: plants [WMP], Horticulture [TVS], Agriculture & farming [TV], Technology, engineering, agriculture [T], Plant ecology [PSTS], Plant pathology & diseases [PSTP], Plant reproduction & propagation [PSTL], Plant physiology [PSTD], Botany & plant sciences [PST], Agriculture & related industries [KNAC]