Date – 14 October 2020
Time – 3:00 pm
Plants are biological machines. We use them as sources of food and fun. They are also our greatest asset for improving our environment and mitigating against global warming. My talk will explore aspects of biology which underpin the mechanisms of plant life cycles through: germination, growth, flowering, fruiting and senescence. Applying this knowledge allows horticulturists concerned professionally with food production, environmental conservation, social care and hobby gardeners increased scope and enjoyment when producing floriferous, fruitful plants. Apparently simple husbandry practices are more effective, sustainable and enjoyable when integrated with an understanding of plant biology and environmental interactions. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding factors which drive soil health. Examples in this talk will be drawn from my recently published book: ‘Garden Practices and their Science’ (isbn: 978-1-138-20906-0) published by Routledge/Taylor & Francis.
About Professor Geoff Dixon
Geoff’s research and teaching career has taken him to several parts of England and Scotland. In each he and his wife, Kathy, have grown gardens and allotments and been involved with local, national and international gardens and gardening, horticultural events and societies. Gardening and travelling provided experience of growing on varying soils both acidic and alkaline formed from sands, clays and silts.
The garden climates have stretched from the mild conditions of England’s South West to the rigours of Scotland’s North East. Geoff’s plant science research has focused particularly on relationships between soil borne microbes and plant nutrition especially as this affects vegetable crops. He is an acknowledged international leader in studies of the cause of Clubroot Disease (Plasmodiophora brassicae) in brassicas. Additionally, he has a wide and comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the discipline of horticulture embracing commercial production, environmental conservation and diversity and social well-being and welfare. Education, teaching and communication have formed integral parts in each of his career posts. Geoff believes that imparting and delivering understanding and appreciation of gardening and horticulture as essential contributions towards people’s health, wealth, welfare and well-being.
Wednesday 14th October 2020 3pm (Zoom webinar)
Open to all, to join the webinar please register below by Monday 12th October. Access details will be emailed to registered participants before the event.
Registration for this event has now closed.