Description
Book SynopsisUnderstanding the physiology of plants is fundamental to horticultural studies and practice. Aimed at undergraduates, this major textbook covers applied aspects of physiology related to horticultural crops. The author discusses specific physiological processes in relation to horticultural management, maintaining a focus throughout on how horticultural practices influence plant productivity and quality. Principles of Horticultural Physiology begins by guiding students through the basics of plant physiology; plant anatomy and plant classification, before covering plant hormones, growth and development, and factors related to the external environment including water, light, temperature and soil. Greenhouse culture is also discussed, as well as practical management techniques including seeding, pruning and grafting. The book concludes with real-world horticultural considerations of harvesting crops, packaging and transportation, postharvest physiology and marketing plant products, as well as a fascinating chapter on plants and human nutrition. One of the text's chief virtues is the accessible way the author conveys sometimes complex information in an easy to follow style. An ideal resource for undergraduate students of horticulture, this book will act as a guide throughout the entire course.
Table of Contents1: Horticulture – Whole Plant Integration of Many Disciplines 2: The Plant Hormones 3: Growth, Development, and Plant Movement 4: Physiology of Growth in Specific Organs: Roots, Stems, and Leaves 5: Physiology of Growth in Specific Organs: Flowers, Fruit, and Seeds 6: Some Abiotic Plant Stressors – Oxygen, Minerals, and Salt 7: Water and Plants 8: Light Energy and Plant Function 9: Temperature Effects on Growth and Development of Plants 10: The Soil and its Environment 11: The Greenhouse Environment 12: Seeding and Seedling Establishment 13: Pruning, Training, Growth, and Plant Size 14: Grafting and Rootstocks 15: From Harvest to Market 16: Postharvest Physiology 17: Human Nutrition, Phytonutrients, Nutraceuticals, and Horticulture
