Explore the robust flora that thrives in walls, sidewalks, and barren lands in this captivating new book
In the heart of Britain's bustling urban landscapes, a world teeming with life and unexpected flora thrives. Botanist Trevor Dines, the initiator of No Mow May, has delved into this world with his latest publication, "Urban Plants."
The book is not a traditional plant identification guide but rather a comprehensive guide to understanding the unique habitats that urban environments provide. It offers a practical, habitat-by-habitat guide, covering pavements, walls, urban fallow (wasteland), waysides (grassy bits), and urban trees.
The book sheds light on the urban heat effect, a phenomenon that contributes to the growth of certain plants in urban environments. This is evident in the book's discussion of loquats and avocados, plants that thrive due to this effect, forming part of a London jungle.
"Urban Plants" is relevant to both academics and amateurs alike, providing a deeply researched work on the ecology underpinning urban flora. The book is part of a collection of British wildlife guides.
The first section of the book offers a brief history of urban plants, tracing their origins back to various means such as encapsulated countryside, novel habitats created by urbanization, and the spread of incomers. The second section delves deeper, exploring the roots of urban botany.
The book also discusses the influence of the physical environment on the survival of urban plants, including materials, water sources, nutrients, pollution, and the urban heat effect. It also touches upon the dynamic pattern of growth, innovation, declines, redevelopment, and renewal that urban habitats in the UK experience.
The final section of the book explores the future of urban botany, delving into topics such as the politics of urban wildflower meadows versus grassland meadows, dog-pee zones, and pavement heave from tree roots.
"Urban Plants" is published by Bloomsbury and retails at £40. With an ISBN of 978-1399407496, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of urban flora.
Meanwhile, Alys Fowler, a reviewer, has written a book titled "Peatlands" (Hodder Press, £20). This book offers a fresh perspective on another aspect of Britain's natural world, providing a compelling read for nature enthusiasts.
Remains of olives, celery, dill, fennel, and coriander have been found at the bottom of wells dating back to between 10 BCE and 80 CE in Calleva (now Silchester), indicating that the Romans and other inhabitants ate well, hinting at the long history of urban botany.
In conclusion, "Urban Plants" offers a fascinating exploration of the world of urban flora, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding the unique habitats that urban environments provide. With its practical approach and deep research, this book is a valuable addition to any nature enthusiast's library.
Read also:
- Pharmaceutical corporation to invest $30 billion in U.S. for increased natural gas production
- Journey Across America: Travels from the Eastern to Western Coast
- Demonstrating Carbon Capture in Agroforestry Through Digital Measurement Verification (MRV)
- Homeowners in Britain swiftly adopting eco-friendly home improvements
