Alexandra Crook: Avocado, Banana, Coffee: How to Grow Exotic Plants for Fun

Avocado, Banana, Coffee: How to Grow Exotic Plants for Fun

Exotic plants such as the cyclamen and rubber plant have been popular as house plants in this country for many years. But now, as the variety of exotic fruits for sale increases, interest has extended to the cultivation of rather more unusual tropical and subtropical plants with perhaps the bonus of a harvest of rare fruit.

Although the opportunity to grow such plants has become much more widely available, the literature until now has provided instructions which mainly refer to cultivation in the plants' original habitats.

The author of this book, however, has spent many years growing the plants discussed in a temperate region, and the guidelines here are all based on his long experience of the best conditions for successful growth in this type of climate.

The book, complete with full colour illustrations, describes how to cultivate 70 different species of useful exotic plants, with detailed information on soil, water and feeding requirements as well as instructions for propagation and, where relevant, harvesting.

It will prove an invaluable guide to those interested in growing anything from a coconut palm to a kiwi plant.

Consumer review about Avocado, Banana, Coffee: How to Grow Exotic Plants for Fun :
This is a charming book by a definite enthusiast and I have learned a lot that is applicable beyond the scope of the species mentioned, such as the importance of treating plants according to present contexts (coffee requires shade ..... unless it finds itself in a northern climate!). I wish more books on plants (and on hobbies in general) were as nice.(Read more)