Wild and Sown Grasses: Profiles of A Temperate Species Selection: Ecology, Biodiversity and Use

With the intensification of agriculture during the last century, the number of grass species was reduced. A small number of species were selected and have come to dominate the grasslands and the seed market. A documented plea for a re-evaluation of spontaneous grasses, this book contains profiles of 43 temperate species, many of which are regaining importance in the context of agricultural intensification. Amply illustrated, each profile includes a description of the plant, its ecological requirements, its agronomic characteristics and its uses, including innovative and unusual. Wild and sown grasses is an invaluable work of reference for students of agriculture, lecturers, researchers, consultants, ecologists, nature conservationists and other involved in the diverse uses of grass communities. [Co-published with Blackwell Publishing, UK.]