The Fundamentals of Horticulture

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. 'It is fantastic to have one ultimate reference text that students can refer to at all levels and that covers both the science behind growing plants and the application of science in plant management, propagation and production. This is an up to date look at developments in the horticultural industry and growing techniques in harmony with traditional approaches to horticultural techniques and practices. Extremely thorough but easy to read, superbly illustrated and the revision questions at the end of each chapter are invaluable for those students who want to check their own learning and go further with their studies. The case studies are extremely useful and relevant to modern teaching and learning methods. I will definitely be recommending this as the new bible for my students at all levels.' Caroline Wright, Nottingham Trent University 'An exceptionally useful informative and most importantly up to date text for students of horticulture at all levels. Well written with clear illustrations allowing clear understanding of topics. Formatted in the way a good text book should with clear structure and logical progression through subjects. A good range of case studies, revision questions and the glossaries allows for structured independent and student centred learning. The linkage to course syllabus allows both student and tutor alike to use this work as a key reference text for all learning from experiential through to revision.' John Guy, Northumberland CollegePreface; 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.