Patent Law

The Garden of Invention

By Gary Odom and Jordan Kuhn

The Garden of Invention by Jane S. Smith is a captivating biography of Luther Burbank, esteemed botanist. But more than a biography, as it chronicles the science and business of plants during Burbank's lifetime. Admittedly, the book's appeal relies upon one's interest in the topic. For me, the most fascinating chapter was the last, that plants were not patentable in Burbank's time. That last chapter, "The Garden as Intellectual Property," narrates the bramble that led to the patenting of plants, beginning with the Plant Patent Act of 1930. Well informed, expertly written and illustrated, for one looking to flower with knowledge about horticulture, The Garden of Invention is a lovely bloom.

Full post as published by The Patent Prospector on April 12, 2009 (boomark / email).