The Manual of Plant Grafting - by Peter T MacDonald (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

Practical techniques for improved plant performance!

Grafting is a long-established skill that is used to improve the performance of ornamental and productive plants. Fruit trees are grafted to control their size, willows to produce attractive weeping forms, and tomatoes and melons to enhance their disease resistance. Peter MacDonald describes the latest grafting techniques for students, professionals and enthusiastic amateurs, including information on the reasons for grafting, clear instructions on the formation of the graft union, bench grafting techniques, field grafting, vegetable grafting, and cactus grafting. An A-to-Z appendix of plants features detailed information on what type of graft should be used, when it should be done, what type of root stock needs to be used, and what environment it needs to be kept in.

From the Back Cover

This authoritative guide offers clear, step-by-step instruction on the latest grafting techniques. Propagation expert Peter MacDonald highlights the importance of choosing appropriate plant materials, making good graft cutes, and caring for the plant after the graft. He also puts current techniques in historical context, explains the science behind grafting, and includes a list of recommended techniques for over 200 plants.

Review Quotes

"It should be on every serious gardener's bookshelf." --New York Times Book Review

"Gives invaluable insights for the fledgling propagator to choose the best methods to suit their facilities and climate." --The Plantsman

"There has been no comprehensive book on plant grafting since Garner's historic tome of more than 60 years ago; This new work is comprehensive and detailed. It covers every aspect of grafting from the origins of the stock and the scion to the stage of establishment as an integrated plant." --The Garden

"Spans the history of this important growing technique from the earliest days of our agrarian society to the latest discoveries in the field of DNA." --Scottish Gardener

"How wonderful it is to find a book written by a true horticulturist based on real experience...this brings the skills right up-to-date and keeps them alive for future generations. When many of us are concerned about the loss of the skill set in our industry Peter is to be congratulated at producing a classic that will sell steadily and be referred to for years to come." --The Horticulturist