Crop physiology is one of the foundationds of the improvement of crops and cropping systems, whether the aim is to increase yield or improve the efficiency of use of resources. Great strides forward have been made in the understanding of the functioning of crop plants in the field over the last decade, and this book is unique in reviewing and analysing these advances at a level which can be assimilated by degree students. The emphasis is on north-temperate cropping, although examples are drawn from elsewhere, and the authors have used a combination of findings from the laboratory and the field. Other features include an introduction to crop simulation and consideration of the interactions between plant disease and crop physiology. Overall the book provides a clear explanation of difficult concepts, bearing in mind the complexity of crop/environment/management relationships.