Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction to herb cultivation. 2. Cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. 3. Trends in cut flower production. 4. Methods of growing annual flowers. 5. Home gardening. 6. Cultivation of site-specific herbs. 7. Production of forest-based medicinal plants. 8. Industrial utilization of medicinal plants. 9. Conservation of medicinal plants. 10. Marketing of medicinal herbs. Bibliography. Index.

"For thousands of years herbs and flowers have been used for many purposes. Although interest in particular herbs and flowers has tremendously increased over time and across cultures, still we have witnessed a decline in herbal popularity in industrial era. This trend has been somewhat reversed in the late 20 century, however, as shown by expanding herbal interest this renewed focus consists rediscovery and re-evaluation of our pre-industrial herbal and floral heritage, along with new interest in beneficial plants as renewable, biodegradable resources.

The herb and flower gardeners generally have a problem deciding which herbs to plant. There are numerous herbs and flowering plants from which selection is to be made. A quick check of any supermarket shelf will give an idea of the types of herbs and flowers planted to earn great commercial success. The gardeners should have in-depth knowledge of the cultivation and processing techniques of various herbs and flowers. This book covers comprehensive information on the cultivation and utilization of herbs and flowers. This hook will be very helpful for new entrepreneurs, herb and flower growers, professionals and research institutions." (jacket)