Infodoc : Sciences, Techniques et Culture

Research and development in plant propagation proceeds with ever increasing speed and we must thank both authors and publisher for keeping us so nearly up-to-date. The first author, as editor of the Combined Proceedings of the International Plant Propagators' Society, has the earliest possible contact with new material and is treading on the heels of those engaged in the extension of knowledge. The second edition appeared nine years after the first [HcA 29, 3074 and 39, 4016]. The shortening of the interval to seven years reflects both an improvement in the recovery of information and a buoyant market for its palatable presentation. The praise we gave to the earlier editions can also be applied to the third. This is truly a fine textbook covering the art and science of plant propagat[...]

Research and development in plant propagation proceeds with ever increasing speed and we must thank both authors and publisher for keeping us so nearly up-to-date. The first author, as editor of the Combined Proceedings of the International Plant Propagators' Society, has the earliest possible contact with new material and is treading on the heels of those engaged in the extension of knowledge. The second edition appeared nine years after the first [HcA 29, 3074 and 39, 4016]. The shortening of the interval to seven years reflects both an improvement in the recovery of information and a buoyant market for its palatable presentation. The praise we gave to the earlier editions can also be applied to the third. This is truly a fine textbook covering the art and science of plant propagation, stressing the need to understand the basic principles and to practise proven techniques. A knowledge of the general principles of botany and horticulture is assumed and thereafter we are given comprehensive but concise based on world-wide research and its exploitation of the many processes leading to success.In addition to a thrifty but adequate index each section ends with a comprehensive list of selected references and a guide to relevant supplementary reading. The nineteen chapters are placed in five divisions: general aspects; sexual propagation; asexual propagation; aseptic methods of micro-propagation; and the propagation of selected plants. Principles and practices are considered in alternate chapters. Each section has been worked through and brought into line with current ideas. The constructive criticisms of authorities in the various fields of propagation have been sought, particularly in regard to field technique. Detailed attention has been given to layering processes and the value of etiolation, as distinct from blanching, is clearly explained. So is the recently developed treatment of hardwood cuttings involving shallow hormonal dipping and warm storage prior to planting. In future editions we hope to find a re-valuation of chip-budding which is now proving such a success in both temperate and tropical zones. The chapter on structures and containers has been considerably extended to include soil recipes, fertilizers and slow-release additives. The use of hot-beds and cold frames is explained. Details of the economical double-glass cold frame used with success in Europe should be included in the next edition. The last three chapters deal with the propagation of selected plants: rootstocks for fruit and nut species; trees, shrubs and woody vines; annuals and herbaceous perennials used as ornamentals. Though in no way encyclopaedic the list includes a very full range of techniques from which one may select an efficient way of propagating any amenable plant.In stressing the value of this book for practical propagators we must ensure that the student is also encouraged to make full use of it. Indeed, its value to practical workers indicates its extra value to the student involved in the specialized and wider aspects of the subject. In allotting a major share of the book to vegetative propagation, namely cuttings, on which horticulture chiefly relies, and on grafting for higher production, the authors reveal how closely they understand the needs and trends of modern plant production.The first edition was translated into Spanish, Italian and Russian. We trust that this revised and extended work is receiving the close attention of translators throughout the world.R.J. Garner.