Chlorophyll In His Veins; J. C. Raulston, Horticultural Ambassador

J. C. Raulston's untimely death at 56, in an automobile accident in 1996, brought to an end an exceptional life. His obituary in the New York Times described him as "a generous-spirited giant among horticulturists." At his memorial service, he was called "the linchpin of the American horticultural community." Part one of this book chronicles the life of this complex man, from his Oklahoma boyhood, through his horticultural education and later teaching, and on to his greatest achievements: the establishment of the well-respected arboretum at N. C. State University (which now bears his name), the free plant distribution system for the nursery industry, and the mentoring of some of today's most prominent plantsmen. Raulston's outgoing public persona is contrasted with his shy private self, with background revealing the influences and pressures that produced his triumphs and his troubles.Part two covers some of Raulston's legacy, including transcripts of several of his popular lectures, annotated listings of his plant introductions and distributions, and his personal lists of life goals and philosophies.Tony Avent, owner of Plant Delights Nursery and a Timber Press author, says "Finally, the inspirational story of this centuries most important horticulturist can be told. Even those who knew J. C. for decades will be surprised to learn the 'rest of the story' of the man who shaped so many gardening lives."