This book traces the growth of gardens, their history and development and provides information on the various principal horticultural practices, taxonomy and its significance, floriculture, bonsai, bottle or dish gardens, floral decorations like lkebana, and soil-less cultivation. Commercialization of the floriculture sector, a fast-growing industry, has been discussed critically. The special feature of this book is a concise treatment of pests and diseases of a large number of ornamental plants, fruit trees and vegetables and the remedial measures for their control including bio-control agents. Also, elaborate details are provided on prized possessions such as roses and orchids.The author has described several horticultural species as well as important vegetables and fruit trees in a systematic manner throughout the text. Information on certain horticultural and high-yielding popular varieties including hybrids is also provided. The book is illustrated with the help of diagrams and photographs. There are several tables which are self-explanatory. Two new chapters on 'Indoor Perennials' and 'Terrace Gardens' have been added in this second edition of the book and a few new species of horticultural importance have also been included.This updated book has been planned as a textbook for graduate and undergraduate students of horticulture and agriculture, as well as for garden enthusiasts. Written in a lucid style, this book will prove useful as a text to students of botany and forestry. Students as well as practitioners of horticulture will find this book both informative and enjoyable.