This comprehensive book provides a thorough scientific foundation on the growth and care of plants common to all horticultural commodities. Continuing in the tradition of the first edition, it incorporates the principles behind the techniques described in other "how-to" horticulture texts. By providing readers with a thorough grounding in the science of horticulture, it successfully prepares them for more specialized studies in nursery management, floriculture, landscaping, vegetable and fruit science.
PART I: HORTICULTURAL BIOLOGY
1. Introduction
2. Plant Classification
3. Plant Structure
4. Plant Genotype
PART II: THE AMBIENT ENVIRONMENT
5. Light
6. Temperature
PART III: THE RHIZOSPHERE (ROOT ZONE)
7. Water
8. Soils and Soil Management
9. Mineral Nutrition
10. Mulches
PART IV: PLANT GROWTH SUBSTANCES
11. Plant Hormones
12. Chemical Control of Plant Growth
PART V: HORTICULTURAL PRACTICES
13. Pruning
14. Plant Propagation
15. Postharvest Handling
16. Plant Pests and Other Problems
Appendix
Glossary
Index