Pruning of Trees, Shrubs and Conifers, The

The Pruning of Trees, Shrubs and Conifers By George E. Brown. Second edition revised and enlarged by Tony Kirkham. Timber Press, Portland, OR, 2004, 338 pages, clothbound, $29.95.

Like any good textbook, Kirkham's revision of Brown's 1972 text on pruning is one the student will keep and refer to repeatedly as an easy to use reference. This well organized volume includes a glossary, a comprehensive index, an appendix of common plant names and their botanical equivalents, and a review of essential pruning equipment and safe practices. The book is lavishly illustrated with line drawings and color photos, which add to its value as a teaching tool. Those familiar with the original edition will recognize the line drawings; Kirkham has updated the photos, increased their number, and placed them within the text for easy reference.

The first five chapters cover the basic principles of pruning, and provide a solid basis in the physiology of plant response to pruning. The text includes specific pruning methods for trees, conifers, shrubs and climbing plants. Also of interest is material covering pruning strategies to promote desirable development of young trees, to reduce insect and disease problems, and to repair damage to mature specimen. Brown and Kirkham, both veterans of London's Kew gardens, have included advice for planning and maintaining long-lived landscape designs, with tips to avoid maintenance burdens.

The second portion of the text, and by far the longer, is an encyclopedic listing of the common plants used in ornamental settings, by genera. The principle difference between the first and second editions is the number of genera included, and the level of detail included in their descriptions. Kirkham has expanded the lists of useful species within the genera, where appropriate.

Of less interest to US users will be the review of standards and statutes applicable within the UK regulating arborists and the removal of trees, but this information is not extensive.

Students suffering from bookstore sticker-shock will welcome this affordable volume with its durable binding.

Linda J. Brewer

College of Agricultural Science

Oregon State University

Corvallis, Oregon

Copyright North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Mar 2005
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