This exciting handbook is devoted solely to the effects of environmental variables on the physiology of the world's major fruit and nut crops. Its cosmopolitan scope includes chapters on tropical and sub-tropical species written by scientists from several continents. The influence of environmental factors, such as irradiance, temperature, water and salinity on plant physiology and on vegetative and reproductive growth, is comprehensively discussed for each crop. In addition to being a thorough textbook, the organization of this volume makes it an excellent reference tool. Each chapter focuses on a single crop, or a group of genetically or horticulturally related crop, and is appropriately divided into subsections that address individual environmental factors. Some chapters emphasize whole-plant physiology and plant growth and development, while other chapters feature theoretical aspects of plant physiology. Several chapters provide botanical background discussions to enhance understanding of the crop's response to its environment.
"These two extremely valuable contributions to our understanding of the effect of environmental factors on plant growth and development comprise a most thorough understanding of a highly complex aspect of plant physiology and horticulture."
--Richard Evans Schultes, Botanical Museum of Harvard University for the Journal of Environmental Conservation
"There is much to like about these two volumes. As a reference handbook it should be widely used throughout the fruit industry."
--Ed Proebsting, Washington State University, Prosser
"Collectively, these two volumes provide an invaluable data base on the most important deciduous and evergreen fruit crops of the world."
--B.N. Wolstenholme, University of Natal, South Africa for Scientia Horticulturae