This book focuses on sustainable tropical/subtropical vegetable production by subsistence farmers in developing countries. For one author to do full justice to so many crops and their cultivation in a relatively short publication (193 pages of text plus two short appendices, references, general index and an index of species) is a daunting task. Nevertheless, the book is informative and at the end of each chapter there is a short list of appropriate further reading. The first six chapters discuss the principles and practices of tropical vegetable production from site selection, security and management to seeds, crop preparation and pesticides. The author rightly emphasizes the key role of high quality seed/propagules and the important need for more effective training and support for subsistence farmers, both men and women. Integrated pest management (IPM) is also covered.

In chapters 7–15, details are provided of vegetable crops (and their cultivation) that are important in tropical developing countries, extending into Andean roots and tubers (now showing promise in other temperate regions).

In view of the role of vegetables in providing food and a balanced, healthy diet for the day to day sustenance of subsistence farmers and their families, as well as providing surpluses for their livestock and local marketing, this important book deserves a wide readership that includes students and research and extension personnel who deal with vegetables, as well as those who train such personnel. Those who determine the funding of research on tropical vegetable production would also benefit.