Ornamental Geophytes From Basic Science to Sustainable Production

Although a great deal of research on ornamental geophytes has been conducted since the beginning of the 1990s, current information has not been comprehensively presented to researchers and horticulturalists. Covering the latest advances in geophytes science, Ornamental Geophytes: From Basic Science to Sustainable Production provides up-to-date reviews on geophyte taxonomy, physiology, genetics, production, plant protection, and postharvest biology.

Novel approaches to environmentally-friendly, sustainable production and integrated management have stimulated new research directions, and innovative biochemical and molecular methods have opened new avenues in taxonomy and breeding. In addition to the issues historically associated with traditionally growing countries, the book reviews the development of new production centers in Africa, Asia, and South America. In 20 chapters, this book reflects three main trends in plant science and horticulture:

1. A demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly production
2. Widespread employment of new molecular technologies
3. The globalization of the production and marketing chains

Thoroughly modern and in tune with the needs and methods of the geophytes industry, Ornamental Geophytes: From Basic Science to Sustainable Production will benefit not only researchers who have been engaged for years but also new researchers and students who must meet and challenge the existing dogmas. In addition, the information contained in this book is vital to bringing the value of flower bulbs to the worldwide consumers who are the most important and last links in the chain of utilization and profitability of all ornamental products.

Globalization of the Flower Bulb Industry. Taxonomy and Phylogeny. Biodiversity of Geophytes: Phytogeography, Morphology, and Survival Strategies. Botanical and Horticultural Aspects of Major Ornamental Geophytes. Introduction and Development of New Ornamental Geophytes. Breeding and Genetics of Ornamental Geophytes. Biotechnology for the Modification of Horticultural Traits in Geophytes. Florogenesis. Dormancy. Propagation of Ornamental Geophytes: Physiology and Management Systems. Production Chain, Forcing Physiology, and Flower Production Systems. Postharvest: Cut Flowers and Potted Plants. Sustainable Production and Integrated Management: Environmental Issues. Geophyte Research and Production in Asia. Geophyte Research and Production in Brazil. Geophyte Research and Production in Chile. Geophyte Research and Production in New Zealand. Geophyte Research and Production in South Africa. Geophyte Research and Production in Turkey. Conclusions and Future Research. Appendix: Botanical Names Mentioned in This Book.

Rina Kamenetsky, Ph.D. is Senior Scientist in the Department of Ornamental Horticulture and the Agricultural Research Organization at the Volcani Center in Bet Dagan, Israel.

Hiroshi Okubo, Ph.D. is Professor of Agricultural Botany in the Department of Plant Resources at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan.