"The Tree Book: Superior Selections for Landscapes, Streetscapes, and Gardens" a Review
The release of "The Tree Book" by Michael Dirr and Keith Warren immediately caught my attention. Having relied on Dirr's "Manual of Woody Landscape Plants" throughout college and appreciating Warren's practical approach to tree cultivation through personal interactions and purchases over the years, I was eager to see what this collaboration would yield. Since its release in 2019, "The Tree Book" has become an invaluable resource for me, and I wholeheartedly hope others find it equally valuable.
"The Tree Book: Superior Selections for Landscapes, Streetscapes, and Gardens" by Michael A. Dirr and Keith S. Warren is a helpful resource, often aiding in elucidating the inquiries of others. This monumental work is more than a book; it's a journey through the leaves, barks, and blossoms of over 2,400 species and cultivars of trees, each page a testament to the authors' profound understanding and appreciation of trees.
The imagery is excellent, bringing a vibrant spectrum of foliage, form, and flowers to the fingertips. Each photograph adds exceptional value to this work, making the book a visual excursion. The meticulous descriptions are thoughtful and imbued with detail.
The specifics regarding the native range and adaptability of the trees are particularly enlightening. These details enrich the understanding of the trees' ecology. The narrative often traverses from the general to the specific, delineating the trees' roles and potentials in varying landscape scenarios. Whether it's the serene elegance of a solitary tree or the combined use in a streetscape, the book captures how trees embellish our landscapes.
The discourse on using trees in different landscape situations is incredibly insightful. The authors navigate through the myriad ways trees can be integrated into urban and rural landscapes, offering a wellspring of ideas for both the seasoned horticulturist and the green-thumbed enthusiast.
An aspect that resonates with practical utility is the information regarding the general availability of the plants in the trade. It's heartening to see the spotlight on the nurseries or individuals who introduced certain trees to the trade, linking the reader to the roots of horticultural innovation. This feature imbues a sense of connection and appreciation towards the stalwarts of horticulture and the vibrant trade community.
"The Tree Book" is more than a reference; it bridges the horticulturist and the diverse, beautiful, and complex world of trees. It's a book I find myself returning to; each visit, a foray into the depths of the horticultural wisdom of these very accomplished authors. Through its pages, the book fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the trees, those silent companions of ours in the journey of life, nurturing the seeds of inspiration for creating green, serene, and sustainable landscapes.
About the Authors
Michael A. Dirr
Michael A. Dirr is a seasoned horticulturist and revered professor from the University of Georgia, known for his extensive expertise in woody plants. With a rich academic background, holding degrees from Ohio State University and the University of Massachusetts, Dirr has made significant contributions to the landscape industry, sharing his knowledge through numerous lectures and publications. His passion for horticulture and dedication to education have cemented his status as a leading authority on trees and shrubs for landscapes and gardens.
Keith S. Warren
With over four decades of experience at J. Frank Schmidt & Son Nursery in Oregon, Keith S. Warren has carved a niche for himself in tree cultivation and breeding. His journey began as a farm manager, transitioning into research, development, and eventually, product development, where he made impactful tree selections. He is recognized for his innovative approach to solving horticultural challenges; Warren's notable contributions include the development of the Redpoint Maple, among many other successful tree cultivars. His work reflects a unique blend of artistic vision and scientific pragmatism, aiming to introduce robust, adaptable, and aesthetically pleasing trees to the market.