The Biology of Citrus

This book provides a concise and comprehensive discussion of all major developmental, genetic and horticultural aspects of citriculture in an easily readable text. It covers the history, distribution and climatic adaptation of the crop, followed by taxonomy and systematics, including a horticultural classification of edible citrus species. Subsequent chapters cover tree structure and function, reproductive physiology, including flowering, fruiting, productivity, ripening, postharvest and fruit constituents. This valuable reference for professionals and advanced students also covers the main aspects of cultivated citrus, such as rootstocks, irrigation, pests, viruses and diseases, as well as genetic improvement, including the use of tissue culture and plant biotechnology. Contains many original illustrations specially produced for the book.