Trying to get a grounding in the theory side of things, whats the best book to get?

[YoGi_93]

As the title says ive got a tree identification book but im looking at getting one to do with growth, disease stuff like that. Ive had a look at a few but alot of them seem too specific I want something general. I have had a look at 'tree basics' by Alex Shigo but it looks fairly out dated? Im not sure really. Any opinions?

[Steve Bullman]

body language of trees is a great book

[YoGi_93]

Is that quite specific steve? It seems to be by looking on amazon.

What do you think of this one?

[ame=http://www.amazon.co.uk/Trees-Management-Cultivation-Biology-Comprehensive/dp/1861268858]Trees: Their Use, Management, Cultivation and Biology, A Comprehensive Guide: Amazon.co.uk: Bob Watson: Books[/ame]

[Steve Bullman]

its a great book for learning to asses trees in the field.

 

[ame=http://www.amazon.co.uk/Body-Language-Trees-Handbook-Analysis/dp/0117530670/ref=pd_sim_b_10]The Body Language of Trees: A Handbook for Failure Analysis Research for Amenity Trees: Amazon.co.uk: Dept.of Environment: Books[/ame]

 

not read the other book you linked to

[sloth]

Depends a bit on what you know already. Shigos modern Arboriculture is good, old but not outdated. Also, do a search on here for hamadryads book club for a chance to try before you buy

[ScottF]

A book called "Up by Roots". sold by the ISA is very current and talks very broadly about the cultivation, care and management of urban trees.

 

Best book I've bought for years.

[andrew t]

The book you talked about in your post by bob watson is a great book recomended for the rfs level 2 buy it i have had mine 2 years now and still refer to it i brought it from amazon:thumbup:

[YoGi_93]

I looked at modern arboriculture, it may not be out dated but it certainly seems over priced! Bob watsons book seems like a good all rounder for less money

[andrew t]

Yes and if you do your rfs level 2 you will be well on the way to a pass

[Mr Fir]

I'll second 'Body language of trees'. Matthecks series (with Stupsi the bear) of simple diagrams and theories are good too - pricey so get down the library!

 

[ame]http://www.amazon.co.uk/Principles-Assessment-Management-Research-Amenity/dp/0117533556/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321907094&sr=1-3[/ame] is good too. Review of many theories, essential for reference