I think this edition would be improved by two things: first, skip the "lit review" style of the text and return to a simple narrative emphasizing the basic points of plant propagation. Second, move the details to a separate area of the book, either at the end of each chapter or as Part 2 of the book. For example, a short narrative section explaining each of the growth regulators might be followed by an "in depth" section which cites research relevant to growth regulators in plant propagation. Instructors who teach undergrads could assign reading based on the narrative sections, while instructors with more advanced classes (or students who are interested in learning more) could assign the more detailed sections as well. It's either that or create two books.

My students are simply not reading this book, which is a shame. My older edition is one of the most tattered books on my bookshelf because I reach for it so often.