Every current field guide depends on the user having some knowledge of the subject. Collins How to Identify guides are designed to help even those with the most rudimentary knowledge identify different species with confidence.
Divided by leaf type, How to Identify Trees features Gill Tomblin’s beautiful full-colour, original illustrations of trees commonly found in parks, gardens and woodland, together with the ‘lookalike’ species with which they are often confused. Also shown are detailed illustrations of flowers, bark and the different uses of each type of tree, and
histograms giving the months in which the trees can be expected to be in leaf, flower and fruit.
A comprehensive introduction features a wealth of information including how trees are classified, the anatomy of trees, reproduction and hybridization,
the use of different timbers, trees in folklore, literature and medicine and woodland ecology.
Packed with information that is both fascinating and practical, and highly-detailed colour illustrations, How to Identify Trees is the essential identification handbook for all those who are just starting out.
After gaining his doctorate by growing grass on coal tips, Patrick Harding enjoyed over 25 years as a university lecturer. He now runs numerous courses and works with the BBC on programmes about herbal medicine, wild flowers, mushrooms, and trees. Patrick is the author of ‘Gem Mushrooms’ and ‘How to ID Edible Mushrooms’, and has had years of experience, lecturing and leading groups on fungal forays. He was recently filmed with Richard and Judy for a BBC 2 series.