Reviews

The Biology and Management of Palms is a compendium of articles first presented in the Western Arborist, the highly regarded educational quarterly published by the Western Chapter ISA. The author is Donald R. Hodel, considered one of the most knowledgeable specialists in palm taxonomy today. The publication offers comprehensive treatments of virtually every aspect of palm management including biology, species selection, planting, and fertilization. Detailed information on abiotic and biotic disorders provides invaluable insight on a wide variety of potential problems one might encounter in the field. Prior to the release of this publication there was a vacuum on scientifically verified cultural practices pertaining to palms and most professionals faced an uphill battle attempting to wade through the unconventional techniques currently employed in the trade. Don Hodel presents even the most technical information in a clear and easily understood manner utilizing a vast collection of incredibly well-documented photos to support his concepts, all of which are based on 40 years of palm study. The Biology and Management of Palms is a must-have for anyone who works with palm trees including landscape architects, arborists, landscape contractors and managers.  -Dennis Swartzell, Board Certified Master Arborist

I am writing to endorse the Britton Fund’s newest publication, Biology and Management of Palms, by Dr. Don Hodel.  The book is a compendium of articles that Don wrote for the Western Arborist covering palm diseases, pruning, nutrition and disorders, failures, and commonly cultivated species.  There are over 250 color photographs that beautifully illustrate this comprehensive text.  It is a unique and must-have reference for any arborist working with palms.  -Nelda Matheny, Board Certified Master Arborist