Chris Thorogood - When Plants Took Over the Planet

Chris Thorogood is Deputy Director & Head of Science, University of Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum, His recently published book When Plants Took Over the Planet has plenty to  interest children from around 9 all the way to adult

In this episode he talks to Nikki Gamble about  the evolution of plants and igniting children's interest in plant life.

When Plants Took Over the Planet
Discover the incredible story of how plant life grew to cover the surface of planet Earth, from long before human life existed up to the present day. This large-format, highly illustrated book will guide readers through the key aspects of the life of plants, from early ferns which were most certainly munched on by dinosaurs, to carnivorous plants that snap and 'attack' their prey, or powerful medicinal plants that can heal ailments and boost health. Mysterious and wonderful plants and trees are explored through the diverse habitats they're found in, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Sahara Desert, and through the animals found living on them or amongst them.

This book also explores how humans use - and abuse - our precious plants, and how reliant we all are on the survival of our planet's network of botanical life. 

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