Explore the resilient vegetation thriving in walls, pavements, and barren lands in this captivating new publication
In the heart of Britain lies a world of unexpected green, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature in urban environments. This fascinating exploration is the focus of Trevor Dines' book, "URBAN PLANTS."
Published by Bloomsbury, this comprehensive guide retails for £40 and carries the ISBN 978-1399407496. The book is the 15th in a series of British wildlife guides, offering a unique perspective on urban flora.
The book is divided into four parts, each delving deeper into the world of urban plants. The first part provides a brief history, tracing the roots of urban botany back to as early as William Turner's The Names of Herbes in 1548. However, urban botany is far older than that, with evidence of plants in towns dating back to the Romans and other ancient inhabitants. Remains of olives, celery, dill, fennel, and coriander have been found at the bottom of wells in Calleva (now Silchester), indicating a rich culinary history.
The second section of the book delves into the roots of urban botany, discussing how plants ended up in towns. The influence of the physical environment, including the urban heat effect, is a significant focus, shedding light on the factors that contribute to the survival of certain plants in urban areas.
The third section of the book presents a practical, habitat-by-habitat guide, covering pavements, walls, urban fallow (wasteland), waysides (grassy bits), and urban trees. This section offers valuable insights into understanding and appreciating the diverse urban habitats that exist in Britain today.
The final section of the book delves into the future of urban botany, discussing topics such as urban wildflower meadows, grassland meadows, dog-pee zones, and pavement heave from tree roots. The politics of urban wildflower meadows versus grassland meadows is also explored, offering a thought-provoking conclusion to the book.
"URBAN PLANTS" is not a traditional plant identification guide; instead, it aims to help readers understand urban, often recombinant, habitats. The book is a deeply researched work that is relevant to academics and amateurs alike.
Trevor Dines, a renowned botanist, is the author of this engaging and informative book. He is also the initiator of the "No Mow May" campaign, a national effort by Plantlife to encourage gardeners to mow less and let wildflowers thrive.
In conclusion, "URBAN PLANTS" offers a fascinating exploration of the world of urban botany, providing valuable insights into the diverse habitats that exist in our towns and cities. Whether you are a botanist, a gardener, or simply someone with a curiosity for nature, this book is a must-read.
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