Historic, archived document Do not assume content reflects current scientific knowledge, policies, or practices. Issued March 2, 1909. US. IDRIBAUR EEN IE Ole 73. GINIKEUN ES MOARGD,. FOREST SERVICE—Circular 161. GIFFORD PINCHOT, Forester. FOREST PLANTING IN WESTERN KANSAS. By Res. KELLOGG. ASSISTANT FORESTER. WASHINGTON : GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1909 lS fr) CSO SBN ES CHIMES «oS ae eS es ag RO gp Ik esc eed eee ieee oimoKnescsrone Climate: ae 6 Ok a Ne ee BAN CNEN GUL eens ae ee nes rete nar ANG eae ee a Seo, DVS ENUIS) Out OME UTM SE a eee os eee agen Oe ere Comics negr es ee eee or rk os Le nd esa Pe ee ibreadileaisspecies 222s. S2-s k. . EA I ee ns CUIERIINES wc See Bese ere Mee i Nae ie a ere pe ar ae ene ee Be ela SPERM ene ee ee ee oo Se EEE) eee i Pruning Pe Re een et eR es ee ae eee en rs SOUL VOPERTING os Se ee a es Seeker eae ee ee gate ln ee SOG OSS, TONER TII CC a i os Ses Sate ko ar oe gr 2 ec eset a Wicecroiaminmeneminspecleses s2. te sete re ee eee (OG pIeiG! St ONCHGS 5 wet Se Fae lar ect einer gee ann Mgt tS ea en ee VANS? SIOSCISE Sc Re ce tees Be eR cae Ue ine re a eet ee Pee eed Poe HCHO CRS Me CleS me an ee ae ye eG i YBa Be eee ao eae RL ates Wounmercralesne cles: sees Meet eee ge Se PE SU SE SERGE CISC CIC hires a a oe ee ie Nea Se So eee Pt SS PGMS VOUT Sw ES ees 50 ee NR ee eee oe ee gee pe ABO GMOS CGEM Cleese Sane etd SA aloe ee na eee sce neal eS SMMC ECOnNeG Seas A ee Matta a ee et ec eas ek ee ee ee EA ie licen MOPS MEVIEH DE (SE a rm ae eRe Geel Joes oe sects le JE UlgTey Sage Val eS AOS CN NON RS gs a Soc me ne ee ae gn Eisaniona cuslaaniiite wees th ee oe eek SSP tse = QURBS: BUNGE Tag SPS WHOS 0S gg ee |EUEUGN LOE NUSN Scr ea er ea ee PES OD MERES ok ee Se 5 a ee eg ea Eas simapentn eterno ie eee ok ok oo SSS oso oo tee Green ash 25-522 ne ee et ete Nee Or Seo. aoe iy Mee oes TRS) CGO S = 5 Sac a gee Sa A ng EEG aT tee mre es eR eS ee eee oe Se i noitiacnmenerarens Ge tere 6 Soc ee I Sa a ee a eee CAC CHES STG OG ss rere rae in Nat iN pp ae Be a iar Repeller eet tan ere eG Pe ec te Se ee Ep oop ae we ee eee Sa [Cir. 161.] (5) (Se) INS DOP ROS Dhoni bonito DOORS TOoOank sk EE KS ee) EE WE Sy (WS) (SS) Tes) [Sy [Noo TRO) TOU Cone acon co) Co vO Oo Oo Notes and measnrements—Continued. Page. Silver maple 2.2. = - <<< ce 2 oe ee 46 Black walnut . 22... 22.2212 sss 55-2 Soe ee ee 47 Hardy catalpa---.<.- 2.2 222552 ee 48 Ailanthus..... 22. 2s. 35 | ssn Son ae te ee 48 Bur oak 2... 225. 235.222 see Se 5 oo ee ee eee 48 Poplars 2222s 5ce ee ne ee oe ie nes oe 2 sas 49 Wild China. .. 2.22. s¢2hec cases = he ee 49 Russian wild olive. 222. [2522525252 ee ee ee ee 49 Other speCleS 2222. 2222522 Ae S502 es ae 49 Summary .- <2... 22s sess Ste 22 se ee 50 Botanical names of trees mentioned .22 522 ee 51 List of Forest Service circulars: e225 - see ae ee ee Sic See 51 LEE US TRANS ! Page. Fig.l. "Western. Kansas.and adjacent recions 52 == s5= oe ee eee ih 2. Planting plan for a farmstead on northeast corner of a section......-- 25 3. Planting plan for a farmstead on southwest corner of a section.--.---- 27 4. Row of Russian mulberry at Ashland, Kans., 10 years of age...-..-- b+ 5. Pruning an Osage orange hedge to produce fence posts._.. .......---- 36 Cin Gt] FOREST PLANTING IN WESTERN KANSAS. INTRODUCTION. The investigations upon which this report is based were made for the purpose of determining the kinds of forest trees best adapted to western [Kansas and the methods of treatment which have proved most successful. Since there is little hkelihood that more than small local areas of the region can ever be irrigated, only the species which can be grown without irrigation are described. With an artificial supply of water better results can be obtained with these species, and others that could not be grown without it can be introduced. Whatever may be the reasons for the absence of natural forests on the Great Plains, a-close study of established plantations proves that, with an intelligent selection of species and proper care, planted trees can, to some extent, be made to supply the deficiency. It is generally accepted that for the most successful agricultural conditions from 10 to 25 per cent of the land should be forested. There is little likelihood that this proportion will ever be attained in western Kansas. Yet the planting that will come as the State in- creases in age and wealth will be sufficient to exercise a marked effect on the landscape, and to supply wood for many domestic purposes. In favored localities commercial returns may be expected; elsewhere the recompense to the planter will take the form of increased comfort and convenience. The American has in many regions ruthlessly destroyed his natural forests, but with characteristic energy he is creating woodland where none existed before. On the Plains the most extensive early plantings were made to secure title under the timber-culture law. They generally resulted in failure because of poorly chosen species and neglect. The man who made a timber-culture filing did so to get 160 acres of land, not be- cause he cared for trees, or had sufficient experience to grow them. If he could evade the law and “ prove up” without any trees what- ever, he was altogether too likely to consider himself that much ahead. There were some well-planted and conscientiously cared-for claims, which now speak for themselves. The majority, however, amounted to little or nothing. After various modifications, the law was repealed in 1891. [Cir. 161.] (5) 6 The landowner now plants because he wants trees. Consequently he is careful in his choice, and gives more after attention than did his predecessors. TERRITORY COVERED. The region most closely examined for this report was that part of the State westward of the ninety-ninth meridian, which passes near Kearney, Nebr., along the western edge of Smith, Osborne, Russell, Barton, Stafford, Pratt, and Barber counties, in Kansas, and a few miles west of Alva, Okla. But since the State boundary is wholly artificial, the conclusions reached apply equally weli to neighboring portions of other States. The study may therefore be said properly to cover the territory lying between the Platte and the Cimarron rivers, and between the ninety-ninth and one hundred and third meridians. It thus includes a little of northern Oklahoma, a con- siderable strip of eastern Colorado, and a portion of southwestern Nebraska. PHYSICAL FEATURES. This region is a part of the long eastward slope from the Rocky Mountains called the * Great Plains,” and on the west includes much of the subdivision which geologists have named the “ High Plains.” The altitude runs from between 1,500 and 2,000 feet on the eastern border to 4,000 and over on the western. Although the rise is so uniform as to be scarcely perceptible, with the increasing elevation and diminishing precipitation fewer forest species can be grown suc- cessfully. The principal rivers are the Republican, Solomon, Saline, Smoky Hall, and Arkansas. Smaller tributary streams and creeks are quite numerous. The soil on the uplands is generally of the type named by Professor Hay “ plains marl,” and has great depth and fertility. Much of the soil in southern Nebraska is loess, the good qualities of which are well known. In Oklahoma and southern Kansas occur the strikingly red sands and clays of the Red Bed formation. Valley soils are fre- quently loamy sand or sandy loam along the main streams, and of heavier character in the minor creek bottoms. Correlated with this difference in soil between the main and tributary streams is the noticeable preponderance of natural timber along the latter. Along the south side of the Arkansas is a belt of sand hills, narrow in the upper part, but widening to some 30 miles south of Great Bend. Since soil conditions are very uniform, only the types of location based on relative situation, viz, valley and upland, are used in this report. Valley or lowland areas are those along streams, where per- manent water exists at not more than 25 feet, a depth beneath the sur- [Cir. 161.] we ii face not too great for trees to be benefited by it. The upland areas comprise the main part of the region. On them the tree roots never reach water, which is often 100 to 200 feet below the surface. A sandhill region has more in common with the valleys than the uplands, even when its situation is relatively high. Few people lElwood| Pla eee A Me Cook is eee | SmithCenter ial ~ NGramfield| ——~ = i ° 7 oy ——— Senin cfu ae O GAN GOV | ShoronSprs| Russel Sprs | - =< os | QD SY N Pe eWARDS | L Ddage Flere sl F SantaFe\ fontezuma: o’\ ) Fig. 1.—Western Kansas and adjacent regions. realize how much moisture a sandhill soil contains. There is prac- tically no surface run-off; all the water which falls sinks into the ground. ‘The soil never bakes, but is always in a receptive condition. The evaporation is less than from a clay soil, and a larger percentage of the moisture is available for plant use. The cottonwood and the [Cir. 161.] 8 sandbar willow are found growing naturally in the sandhills of Kansas and Nebraska, which is evidence that good conditions of soil moisture exist. The sandhills, therefore, are favorable localities for tree planting. eS CLIM : The climate of western Kansas 1s ordinarily classified as subhumid or semiarid. Its chief characteristics are those common throughout the Great Plains. The average annual precipitation is sufficient for paying crops. The distribution, however, is subject to great fluctua- tions. The summer rainfall comes mostly from local thunderstorms, whose erratic courses may or may not overlap. Consequently one locality often receives enough rain during the season, while another a few miles away suffers From drought. There is also a marked tendency to a succession of wet and dry sea- sons over the entire region. This is well illustrated by comparing the records at Dodge City for 1883 and 1884 with those for 1893 and 1894. It happens that there is a ten-year period in this case, but observations do not prove any regular periodicity. Annual precipitation at Dodge, Kans. | | Departure Year. | Inches. | from | | normal. | i elon eres aac eee se | 28250 ie ens S84 asa oee nee eee | 30.386 | + 8.98 |} io aan eerasa SACS Oane LO 5| 0526 O94 ee he Aree eee 12.60 | — 7.78 The wet years of 1883 and 1884 were largely responsible for the “boom,” which resulted in the rapid settling up of the country be- tween the years 1885 and 1887, while the dry seasons of ten years later caused wholesale depopulation. The average precipitation at the principal Weather Bureau sta- tions, with die number of years that the record has been kept, is given in the following table: Average annual precipitation. | | | Station. | Years. | Inches. || Station. | Years. | Inches. Wiel aCe. hace Se ee eee ae | 22 17. 42 | 13 Ch AU ee eemetas Soni eee | 10 20. 88 ey Kale pe eee Be ee eo a Se 12 1435+ || Achilles 222cc sc aseare se ese al 10 20. 94 Colby 2. Bh detect oe 11 172494 SPhillipsburce. sea | 11 21. 89 Vir O Gas ea eee ea ae 10 18°83 || Medicine Lodge222-> >= 2:25----- | 10 23. 57 1D ORG IRWIN -s-caagococuses = | 12 18592: Wl Pretty see a: Se epee eles ere ere ee 7 23.78 GandemC@ityeee-2 see eee | 8 1959231 /8O Der lintee ace eee 10 23. 80 DOGS COIL seen eee seen | 28 19. 84 || — Govetstea: cos ter Nea ie SB oa a7 Asveragen. 1s iat i alee eee 19. 78 Mele woods sae | 10 20. 71 | | While the record at Dodge City is the only one covering a sufficient period to be considered approximately correct, the others are good [Cir. 161.] 9 indications, and it may be assumed that the average for the entire region is not far from 20 inches. With this may be compared 26.32 inches, the average annual precipitation for the middle of the State, and 34.33 inches for the eastern part. It is noteworthy that most of the precipitation on the plains is dur- ing the growing season. Dodge City, for instance, with only 19.84 inches annually, has 15.5 inches in the six months from April 1 to October 1. Rochester, N. Y., with 35 inches annually, has but 17.5 during the same period. In other words, 78 per cent of the precipita- tion at Dodge City comes at the time when it is most needed, while Rochester receives but 50 per cent of its total in the same time. One of the most disagreeable characteristics of the climate of the Plains is the high winds, which sweep across them unhindered by either natural or artificial barriers. The prevailing direction is north- west in winter and southerly in summer, and soil moisture is absorbed with extraordinary rapidity, especially in the warm season. The dreaded “ hot wind,” which strikes growing crops with such deadly effect, is a hot, dry blast of air that takes water from the leaf sur- faces of vegetation faster than it can be supplied by the roots; con- sequently plants wilt, and even die, if the wind is long continued. The northerly winter winds, while causing much less evaporation, are hard upon stock and trying for men. The average wind velocity at Dodge City, Kans., is 12 miles per hour. In spring, however, it 1s considerably higher, especially in the afternoon hours, when an average speed of 20 miles an hour may be maintained for a month at a time. High winds are also quite fre- quent. In the ten years ending with 1903 there were eighty-one occasions on which the wind blew at the rate of 40 miles and upward an hour. Asa result of these constant drying winds, taken in connection with other meteorological conditions which prevail in western Kansas, the annual evaporation from a water surface is about 54 inches. This means that if it were possible to have a lake in western Kansas whose level depended wholly upon direct precipitation and evaporation, its annual decrease in depth would be 34 inches. The relative humidity, according to the Dodge City record, averages 60 to 65 per cent. The following table is especially instructive: Annual precipitation and evaporation. | eee Excess of ree h Preeipi- | 2 vepO= 5 |x oe Station. | tation. | ration. | ore Inches. Inches. | Inches. eh SSD, ROS SEB ec OS Oy rea a oe 21. 94 55. 40 33. 46 Pie Se (CHET - TGR ORG 2 See ae ee re Oe ne lee en eee cee 19. 84 | 54. 60 | 34. 76 ENGIN bEMEaE RRO MING [) Dis 0s ek 2 2 ee Pe ee Su eb lucse dee 1 eee 18. 27 41.30 | 23. 038 Si, WHRGSIN,, Mita: Bes 53 eo Se ee ge Sa ee ae ee aan epee eee 19. 50 22.10 2.60 69616—Cir, 161—09 2 10 Thus it will be seen that the great wheat-growing district of the valley of the Red River of the North has a precipitation practically identical with that of western Kansas, and shghtly less than the Staked Plains of Texas. The southern region, however, has more wind, higher temperature, greatly increased evaporation, and a more uneven distribution of rainfall. These are adverse conditions for planting and growing trees, and to overcome them requires an intel- ligent selection of species and a system of cultivation which reduces the evaporation of soil moisture to a minimum.? EFFECT OF FORESTS ON CLIMATE. Many of the residents of the Plains region believe that increased cultivation of the soil, forest planting, and the building of reservoirs to catch storm waters will cause a permanent increase in the precipi- tation. But this theory is unsupported by proof. The records that have been kept long enough to warrant any general conclusions indi- cate simply wet and dry periods of variable length, which result in a fixed average precipitation. Much has been said concerning the effect of forests on climate, but little is known exactly, and most of what is known contradicts the popular beliefs. The most that can be said from the facts at hand is that an increase of precipitation by forests is not demonstrated. Even were it otherwise, planting suf- ficient to affect general climatic conditions would need to be on so large a scale as to be wholly impracticable. On the other hand, observations show that within the forest ex- tremes of both heat and cold are modified and that the evaporation from a water surface is less than one-half that in the open, while the evaporation from soil covered with forest litter 1s about one- eighth that from bare fields. Forests check the run-off to a great extent. The amount of water transpired by a forest is considerably less than that given off by a similar area of ordinary agricultural crops. These facts point to conclusions about which there is no doubt. Forests are conservers of moisture. They are the best natural means of saving the water that falls, and are of great utility for this rea- son, regardless of their problematical effect upon the amount of precipitation. The principal effect of tree planting on the climate of western KKansas will be to check the winds and lessen evaporation in the 1m- mediate vicinity of the plantation. “For a detailed discussion of the climate and geology, the reader is referred to publications of the U. S. Weather Bureau, and the paper, ‘“‘ The High Plains and Their Utilization,’ in Vol. IV of the Twenty-first Annual Report of the U. S. Geological Survey. [Cir. 161.] i SHELTERBELTS AND WINDBREAKS. The terms “ shelterbelt ” and “ windbreak” are often used inter- changeably. When distinguished, shelterbelt is applied to trees planted in groups of considerable size, while one or two rows to check the wind is called a windbreak. Since this discussion applies equally well to both shelterbelts and windbreaks, the latter term is chosen for the sake of simplicity. In an open country of high winds, nothing adds more to the com- fort of existence than a protecting belt of trees about the home. Whether the wind be the hot one of summer or the snow-laden blast of winter, its force is spent on the trees, and the house within is not swept by every passing gust. Orchards need windbreaks to save them from injury in the gales that accompany summer storms as well as to protect them from ordinary winds throughout the year. Gardens are more successful when surrounded by trees. Wind- breaks benefit animals as much as their owners. Any species that is adapted to the region and suits the taste of the planter may be used for a windbreak. Where they will succeed, evergreens are desirable, since they afford better winter protection than the deciduous species. The man who wants a windbreak, how- ever, does not care to wait for slow-growing trees. The Austrian and Scotch pines grow quite rapidly and serve the purpose well. A windbreak consisting of a single row, to be effective, should be of a densely growing type that branches close to the ground. For low breaks of this character the Russian mulberry and Osage orange are excellent. The tamarix, while more like a large shrub than a tree, does well for low windbreaks around garden patches and similar areas. It is easily propagated by cuttings, grows rapidly, and is quite hardy. The cottonwood is the common tree used for wind- breaks in the valleys. One of the most important functions of the windbreak is the saving of soil moisture within the protected area. In the Monthly Weather Review for September, 1888, were published the results of experiments made by the United States Signal. Service to determine the effect of the rate of wind on evaporation from a water surface. The experi- ments were made with a Piche evaporometer, under constant condi- tions of humidity and temperature. The figures obtained are given in the following table, in which wind velocity is expressed in miles per hour and the unit of evaporation is that in a calm: 7s Evyapo- ATi | Evapo- | Wind’ eration! ! Wind: _ tation. Ril accaes 20 5.7 10 aF8 25 6.1 15 4.9 || 30 6.3 (Cir. 161.] 12 A 25-mile wind is not uncommon on the Plains, and since it causes six times the evaporation that would occur in a calm at the same humidity and temperature, one can easily understand the rapidity with which the moisture from a summer shower disappears. Taken the year through, the wind averages more than 10 miles an hour, which is sufficient to cause four times the evaporation there would be in a calm. An experiment made by King? furnishes some interesting infor- mation in regard to the checking of evaporation by a windbreak. He used a modified form of the Piche instrument, placed so as to give the evaporation from a water surface 1 foot above the ground at varying distances from an cak grove. Taking the evaporation at 20 feet from the grove as unity, the following results were obtained: [Pesca | Evapo- ||,.. | Evapo- Distance. ration, || Distance-| 7 tion. | ~ 20 | 1.00 | 200 LAL | 100 1.29 300 1.66 | Neither the height of the grove nor the rate of wind is given, though the statement is made that a light wind was blowing. The table shows that the evaporation at 200 feet from the windbreak was 41 per cent more than at its base, and at 300 feet 66 per cent more. The. evaporation from 300 feet onward was practically constant, showing that to be the limit of the influence of the windbreak in this experiment. While a few accurate experiments have been made to determine how far a windbreak is effective, it is a safe practical assumption that it protects the ground for a distance equal to ten or fifteen times its height—some observers say a rod for every foot. Ifa large field were crossed by a series of windbreaks 30 feet high and 20 rods apart, there is no doubt that they would be very effective, since the wind would reach each succeeding break with diminished force. WOODLOTS. In many situations it will be a paying investment for the farmer to put out a small plantation, simply to produce his own wood for fuel and other purposes. It is true that some time must elapse be- fore the plantation begins to be productive, but by choosing rapid- growing species and planting closely the thinnings which will ‘be necessary in a few years, even though the trees be small, will do for the wood pile and help make the owner independent of coal famines. 7. H. King, Bulletin No. 42, Agric. Exp. Sta., University of Wisconsin, October, 1894. [Cir. 161.] Ht; One may well be thankful if, when the supply of fuel gets low, he can go into his woodlot and cut a load without expense instead of hauling high-priced coal from the distant town. The choice of species for a woodlot depends somewhat upon the location. Trees that grow rapidly, and at the same time produce good wood, are, of course, preferable. If they also sprout from the stumps, a little care will maintain the supply indefinitely. Where it succeeds, the black locust combines these desirable qualities in the highest degree, and, as mentioned further on, a proper method of handling will generally enable good results to be obtained despite the troublesome borer. The Osage orange also is an excellent tree for the woodlot. Its wood is exceedingly durable, and the sprout growth abundant. While it grows more slowly than the locust, it is hardier, and is free from borers, so that it can be given more time in which to develop. Green ash, Russian mulberry, and hardy catalpa are also good trees for the woodlot, though the range of the last 1s more restricted than that of the other species. A mixture of species is often advantageous. By its use differences in habits of growth and ability to withstand shade can be made to assist the development of trees of good form, and at the same time the owner can have both fast and slow growing trees and a wider choice of timber for varying needs. A mixed plantation of hardy catalpa and Osage orange or Russian mulberry has been found to be valuable, since the catalpa forces the Osage orange and mulberry to grow rapidly upward in order to obtain light, while itself shedding its lower branches in the denser shade of its neighbor sooner than it would if it grew by itself. DETAILS OF PLANTING. CONIFERS. The best time for the planting of forest trees is in the spring, just before growth starts. This is also the best time for pruning, which usually accompanies transplanting. Many people hold to the idea that evergreens should be set out in June or August. Evergreens can be successfully transplanted at any season of the year, provided sufficient ‘care is taken. Coniferous trees transpire only one-tenth to one-sixth as much water as the broadleaf species; consequently their roots are not called upon to furnish such great quantities of water to the thirsty leaves before getting established in the new abode. For this reason pines and cedars do not require trimming back when set, and the time of the year is less important than with other species. Nevertheless, the best time for transplanting any tree is the dormant period. [Cir. 161.] 14 Great care must be taken, however, to keep the roots of conifers moist in transplanting. If the resinous liquids in them once dry out, the tree will not live, no matter how abundant the subsequent supply of water. A young cottonwood may be dug up, shaken free from dirt, and thrown down in the sunshine for several hours without killing it, if the roots are given a good soaking when it is set. The same treatment of cedar or pine would insure death. Nursery stock often dies, either because it dried out on the road or because it was not properly cared for on arrival. Trees that have been shipped should have their roots dipped in a puddle of water and earth, about the consistency of cream, and should be planted as soon as possible. If the conditions are not favorable for planting immediately, they should first be puddled and then heeled in. To heel in trees, a trench running east and west, and deep enough to hold the roots and about half the tops, should be dug, with its south bank making an angle of about 30 degrees with the surface of the ground. In this is put a layer of trees with the tops leaning to the south. The roots and lower part of the trunks are then covered with fine, firmly packed soil, and water is liberally poured on. In the same way successive layers may be put in until the trench is full. A temporary shade of some sort will lessen the danger of drying out. In the case of evergreens this is very important. It is often asserted that the native red cedar is sure to die when transplanted, but such is not the case. The experience of a resident of McCracken, Kans., is instructive. He went to the bluffs of the Smoky Hill River, dug up a number of red cedars about a foot in height, immediately rolled the roots in a near-by mud puddle, and kept them moist until set. As a result every tree lived, and growth was scarcely checked. At the same time he received a shipment of cedar from a nursery, used equal care, and lost every tree. The nursery stock had dried out either before or during shipment, while the native trees had been properly handled. BROADLEAF SPECIES. For plantations of broadleaf species 1-year-old seedlings are best, because they are easier to handle and also much cheaper than older trees. They ordinarily run from 1 to 2 feet high, and have prac- tically no branches, so that little or no pruning is required. If the ground has been well prepared and is moist, the setting can be done very rapidly. A man and a boy can work together. The boy carries the trees and hands them to the man as wanted. The latter sets his spade full length in the ground, throws the handle forward, sticks a seedling in behind the blade, removes the spade, steps firmly with [Cir. 161.] 15 both feet on the ground around the tree, and the operation is com- plete, taking not more than half a minute in all. A number of seed- lings can be carried in a bucket partially filled with water, or in a basket with a wet cloth covering the roots. The remainder of the stock should be left heeled in until needed. By this method a thou- sand trees can be set much more quickly than by the orthodox method of digging a hole, spreading the roots out, filling in with fine dirt by hand, and finally mulching; and with good soil and moisture con- ditions it is very successful. The writer set out over 500 yearling honey locusts in this manner on March 31, 1903. They were nicely started when frozen back by the snowstorm of April 29, in spite of which all but three lived, and made an average height growth of 3 feet during the season. Similar results have been obtained with black locust, cottonwood, ash, elm, and mulberry. Another rapid method is to plow a furrow where the row of trees is wanted, lay them against the side of it, cover with a hoe, and tramp firmly. The remaining dirt may be thrown into the furrow with a cultivator. Of course it should be distinctly understood that these methods are only for common broadleaf seedlings when the right con- ditions exist, and are likely to fail elsewhere. | For large trees much more care is necessary. Little top should be left—a heavy mass of foliage will transpire more water than the roots can supply at the start. Bruised or broken roots should be cut off clean. The roots should be well arranged in the hole and the dirt sol- idly tramped about them. Unless the earth comes into close contact with the roots the air will get in and dry out both soil and roots and the trees will die. Ifthe setting is done in a dry time, water and pud- dling are necessary. A good way to water is to have the hole nearly filled with fine, firm dirt, then pour on the water and cover with dry soil. This prevents baking and evaporation. Trees should be set so that when the ground settles into permanent shape the roots will be covered to the same depth as before transplant- ing. This means setting 2 or 3 inches below the “* collar.” It is a good practice to set deep enough so that when the operation is completed the trees will stand in a shallow depression. This will eatch the rain and materially increase the chances of success in a dry season. An essential requisite in planting is suitable weather. Occasionally there are springs in western Kansas when it is altogether useless to set trees unless water can be supplied whenever needed. ‘The planter who raises his own seedlings can take advantage of favorable condi- tions, have his trees perfectly fresh, and set when he pleases, or even let them wait until another season. [Cir. 161.] 16 ; CUTTINGS. Willows and cottonwoods and other poplars are very easily propa- gated from cuttings. Cuttings should be of strong, healthy wood of the previous season’s growth, which ripened well and did not shrivel during the winter. A good length is 8 to 12 inches, with the upper cut just above a bud. They may be made when wanted for planting and set with a spade or in a furrow, as described for seedlings. If the ground is mellow, they can be merely shoved into the soil until only one bud is above the surface, and then tramped. Better soil con- tact is secured if they are put in slanting; the growth will be upright in any case. In favorable seasons cottonwood cuttings often make a height growth of 5 or 6 feet. RAISING FROM SEED. Such common species as ash, mulberry, Osage orange, black and honey locust, catalpa, and black walnut are easily raised from seed, and the person who intends planting a large area will find it both cheaper and more convenient to buy seed of some reliable house and raise his own trees. To insure prompt germination the seeds of the two locusts are treated with hot water before sowing. A leading Nebraska nursery- man who is ver y successful with i seedlings pours water, at a tem- perature of 175° F. for honey locust or 120° F. for black locust, on the seed, and allows it to stand for several hours. Boiling water should not be used, since it is likely to destroy the vitality of the seed. There is no doubt that a safe and reliable method for the honey locust is to use water at an initial temperature of 25° to 50° under the boiling point, and then let the seeds soak in lukewarm water until they swell. Seeds which have become very dry must soak longer - than those which are fresh. Black locust seeds grow very well with- out any treatment, but the use of hot water causes more uniform germination. Heavy-coated seeds, like nuts and acorns, are best sown in the fall, so that they will be opened by the frost. Ordinary seeds may be sown in corn-planting time. The soil should be moist and well prepared. Only a shallow covering of earth is necessary. If the ground is dry, the sowing should be delved until moisture comes. With a 00d season the little trees will be of suitable size to trans- plant the following spring, and will not require much pruning. The great advantage in having home-grown seedlings is, that they are at hand and ready to take up and set where wanted any favorable day with little danger of drying out. Handled properly they will begin [Cir. 161.] Aly, the second season’s growth promptly, and with scarcely any check from transplanting. Pine seeds germinate readily, but to avoid losing the young seed- lings requires so much care for light and moisture conditions that the ordinary planter will do well not to experiment with them. The ger- mination of the red cedar is one of the troublesome problems of nur- serymen; so much so that many prefer to buy 1-year-old seedlings, which they transplant and prepare for their own trade. SPACING. Spacing is largely a question of utility and taste, with some varia- tion for different species. In general, however, closer planting is advisable on the Plains than most people imagine or are willing to concede. A single tree or row of trees in the sod has little show for hfe. If an artificial forest is to succeed in the struggle against native vegetation, wind, sunshine, and dry weather, it must stand in a dense mass and present a solid front to its foes. Cultivation is the best method of conserving soil moisture, and if cultivation can be continued indefinitely and the abundant pruning required to produce the proper form where the trees are not crowded can be given, rather wide spac- ing is beneficial; but the average planter will prefer a method which does not require so much time and work. The less care the trees are to have, the thicker they should be set. They must be close enough to establish forest conditions of shade, litter, and undergrowth when evaporation and weeds are no longer checked by cultivation. Shelterbelts should be close planted in order to give protection quickly. It is well to plant thickly enough to be able to thin as the growing trees need more room. In this way one can be certain of having good trees. If the ultimate object is to have spaces 4 by 8, or 8 by 8, and the trees are set 4 by 4, the poorer trees can be cut out and a final stand left of better individuals than if the wider spacing had been used at first. The crowding also prevents the trees from heading too low. The thinning will give fuel, posts, and stakes, always useful on a farm or ranch. The practical consideration is the spacing of the rows in a manner that will admit ready cultivation with the harrow, disk, or other tool for surface cultivation which the farmer possesses. The method of wide spaces between the rows with trees set closely in them is an excellent one, since it permits of cultivation for a much longer time than the 4 by 4 spacing, gives room for a team and wagon when thin- nings are made, and still allows a large number of trees to the acre. A 2 by 8 spacing gives the same number of trees per acre as a 4 by 4 spacing, and 3 by 8 the same as 4 by 6. : 69616—Cir. 161—09——3 18 The following table shows the number of trees per acre with various spacings: [ | | | j j | Number | Number | Number Spacing.| of trees | Spacing.| of trees | Spacing.| of trees | per acre. per acre. | per acre. | | | | Feet. | Feet | Feet 3 by 3.- 4,840 || 3by6..| 2,420) 4by6 1,815 | 3 by 4-. 3, 630 3 by 8-- 1,815 D by 5-- 2,742 | 3 by 5.- 2,904 || 2 by 8.- 2,722 || 4by8-..| 1,361 4by 4.. 2,722 || 4by Dae 2.178 || 8Sby 8 680 | The number required for any system 1s found by dividing the num- ber of square feet in an acre (43,560) by the product of the two dimen- sions. For example, the last number in the table, 680, is the quotient obtained by dividing 43,560 by 64. COST. The cost of planting 1s not great. At ordinary prices $1.50 per acre will cover the expense of plowing and harrowing. After the ground is prepared the planting of small broadleaf trees will cost about $2.50 to $4 a thousand, according to the method used and the soil conditions. The planting of ground occupied by virgin sod is not only laborious and expensive, but is generally unwise. The treatment of such land requires the breaking of the sod, followed by a second plowing and the cultivation incident to the growing of cereal crops for two or three seasons, before the ground is in suitable condition for the plant- ing of trees. Soils containing a large amount of sand can frequently be put into condition for planting the year following the breaking of the sod. The price of broadleaf seedlings at the nurseries in Kansas and Nebraska runs from $1 to $6 per thousand. Some nurseries pack free and pay freight on orders amounting to $10 or more. The planter will do well to consult several catalogues before placing his order. Evergreens are more costly, since they are transplanted in the nursery to give better root development, and may be several years old when finally disposed of. It is possible to obtain red cedar seedlings as low as $4 per thousand, but transplanted nursery-grown cedar and pine of suitable size will cost 10 to 20 cents each and more. WHERE TO PLANT. In a naturally treeless region there is occasion for planting almost everywhere. Houses, sheds, corrals, and garden patches need pro- tection and ornament; planted groves will yield timber for posts, fuel, [Cir. 161.] 19 and the numberless uses which a stick of timber supplies; in parks and along streets trees make a town “a good place to live in; ” school- house, church, and court-house yards require embellishment. A good plantation for commercial purposes will afford a steady income, aside from much pleasure and convenience, while it is surprising how greatly a few trees improve the farmstead. Although general soil conditions vary little throughout western Kansas, there is abundant room for selection. Trees, like other forms of vegetation, respond quickly to good soil and moisture. The species which will grow on the uplands may be depended upon to do as well or better in the bottoms, because of the better conditions. Some trees which grow naturally along water courses do well under cultivation on the upland, while others found in company with the hardy species fail entirely when the change is attempted. Hundreds of failures in upland planting in Kansas and Nebraska have resulted because cot- tonwood, willow, silver (soft) maple, and boxelder were expected to thrive in dry situations. Experiment has proved, however, that there are species adapted to almost every locality. On the upland there are local depressions which catch considerable run-off, and so are suited to trees which need more than the normal precipitation of the region. In such a situation on the high upland in the extreme western part of Kansas the writer once found, to his surprise, a row of black walnut growing in the sod, yet looking well and bearing nuts, though the settler who planted the trees had long since moved away and of his sod house only a heap of dirt remained. A cattle trail and wheel tracks served to conduct the rainfall down the gentle grade to the trees, permitting water to collect occasionally at this point. That the original plantation had covered a_ larger area was shown by a few small stumps farther on, which were all that was left to show the effect of drought and neglect. Nearly every quarter section has an acre or more of depressed land which can be well utilized for tree planting. By putting the moisture- requiring species in the favored situations, and the hardy, drought- resisting ones elsewhere, the planter’s range of choice is extended, greatly to his advantage. CULTIVATION. The object of cultivation is, first, to prevent the growth of weeds and grass, and, second, to conserve soil moisture. Cultivation is essential for the first few years after planting, and in many cases necessary for a long period. Before trees are set or seed is sown the ground should be put in good condition. Deep plowing, followed immediately by the harrow, saves moisture and prepares the soil for penetration by the roots. After the trees are set, cultivation should be shallow and frequent: An ideal method is surface cultivation as [Cir. 161.] 20 soon as possible after every rain. The nearer this ideal is approached the better the results will be. A dust mulch is the best of all mulches for saving the water already in the ground and keeping the soil receptive for more. The pulverizing harrow is an excellent tool for shallow cultivation, and, used frequently enough, it is all that is necessary most of the time. Where weeds have made,a good start, an ordinary cultivator may be put in, or a shallow disking given, but the disk should be followed by a harrow to produce proper surface conditions. After the trees are planted a plow should never be used. Too often the plantation is neglected until weeds have formed a dense mass 3 or 4 feet high, and then, in desperation, a plow is resorted to, with- out subsequent harrowing. This leaves the ground rough, increas- ing greatly the loss of soil moisture through evaporation, and forms a dead furrow between the rows, or throws the earth away from the base of the trees, and cuts many roots, both injuring the root system and causing the growth of sprouts. The man who is not willing to take proper care of his trees deserves to lose them, and probably will. The Rainbelt Experiment Station, at Cheyenne Wells, Colo., fur- nishes an excellent example of the extent to which cultivation can replace irrigation. This station was established in 1894 in a typical high plains region. The elevation is 4,200 feet, with water 260 feet below the surface. The annual precipitation is about 13 inches. An apple orchard was planted in 1895 with.trees of the varieties common farther east, such as Ben Davis, Janet, Winesap, ete., which are in ex- cellent condition, and produce good fruit. The intention is to give two shallow cultivations monthly if possible. The tools used are a 5-tooth cultivator and a dagger-tooth harrow with the teeth set slanting. There are some green ash trees around the orchard a year older than the apple trees, which are thriving finely. Young honey locusts are also in promising condition. There is no doubt that under the same method of cultivation several forest species could be successfully grown. The Pomeroy Model Farm, at Hill City, Kans., which has been practicing the “ Campbell system ” of cultivation since 1900, is a valuable experiment. While the main object is the production of wheat and other crops, fruit trees, Russian mulberry, silver maple, ‘ and white elm have been set out. They are doing finely so far, although it is a very unfavorable situation for the maple, and only fair for the elm. Cultivation is given after every rain as soon as the ground can be worked. 55 ee eee | *Yearsy «| DWEACUSG Ka NStapiceas soso eeeccsse GTrOVESesecos- 6 | 12 | Bi Oe 10 WREAG CM Kian Strate Sea Seen cece ses IROWeee eee sie 8 | 14 | 4.0 | 2.0 | 19 GardemiG@ity.-Kanss-cesn =o 52 oso... Be Omemacnaas 8 | 27 | 6.3 1.3 | 16 Kinsley Kan Sse eensass ss ese eoe Grovier-ssaceee o | 27 | 5.9 | 1.5 20 Greensburg, Kans. ----------....--- ING Wi cosseences 10 | | 6.1 | 1.6 20 Sharon Springs, Kans...-...-...--- ees Omrsss S228 13 | 14 | 4.9 | 24 23 SiG Sa Geer ieee ae Grove cia: 15 | 20 | 5:2 2.9 3 SGC ia nae Sa ee eee eed OMwactescenies 15 18 | 6.5 | 2.3 19 [Cir. 161.] tt HACKBERRY. The hackberry is one of the hardiest native trees, and deserves more extensive planting than has yet been given. Naturally it is often stunted and slow growing, but it does well under cultivation, grows with fair rapidity, and develops into good form. It resembles the elm in general habits, but is smaller and hardier. It is not very particular as to soil, and is not seriously injured by insects. Hackberry is best adapted to street and yard planting by its ap- pearance, good shade, and medium size. The merits of hackberry are known by many who have not the patience to wait for its slow growth, but the time has come for permanent planting, and it should have attention. Since few trees were found, no tabulated measure- ments are given. A fair average diameter increase is about one-third inch yearly for the valleys and one-fourth inch for the uplands. Columbus, Nebr., is one of the few towns that has given much atten- tion to hackberry. There it is the principal street tree, with excellent effect. COTTON WOOD. Cottonwood is the most extensively planted tree in the Middle West. It attains its best development in the wide, sandy valleys of the Platte and the Arkansas, where never-failing water is within 5 to 20 feet of the surface, and the soil is easily penetrated by the thirsty roots. The cottonwood is closely related to the willows, and, like them, does not succeed well without abundant moisture. Had the early tree planters better realized its habits, they would not have planted the thousands they did upon the high uplands. The trees frequently grew well for a few years, and then succumbed to a sum- mer drought, leaving unsightly dead branches and crowns in testi- mony of the unequal struggle. Cottonwood can not be recommended for the uplands of western Kansas and Nebraska, except in favored localities that catch some run-off, but it will thrive to the extreme hmits of both States in sandhills or valleys which contain living streams during at least a portion of the year. It is often the only tree found growing naturally along sandy streams. Cottonwood is to be regarded generally as a temporary tree. It is not long-lived, and attains large size in a short time. It grows the most rapidly of any tree adapted to this region, and is therefore often selected for planting by those who do not have the patience to wait for the slower development of more valuable species. An inch in diameter and 5 feet in height is not an uncommon average for the first ten or more years after setting, in favorable situations, and this suggests its best use. Cottonwood furnishes fuel and shelter quickly, [Cir. 161.] 45 and for these purposes it has been almost indispensable to number- less settlers. A man does not have to reach a very old age to have trees of his own planting make respectable sawlogs. The writer recalls distinctly the pride with which an early settler built a barn of cottonwood lumber cut from trees raised by himself. Originally, countless cottonwoods were planted in the towns. A reaction took place when the trees reached the age of seeding and the abundant cotton in the spring filled the air and formed miniature snowdrifts on the sidewalks and in dooryards, while the tall crowns continued to shoot upward quickly after each pollarding. For town planting it should be used sparingly, and is best in parks. oe eae ee one doles Aeeet | 15 18 5.1 | 9.9 26 GreensburcKansra: soe eee | (ROWenee Sees hee lO 18 oul DOB! 20 Gaylord Shans ac pone ee eer MiG@rOVieeer acess ee AT] 25 6.3 al 20 ~ SILVER MAPLE. In congenial situations the silver maple is one of the most rapid- growing trees, but it is not so hardy as either cottonwood or boxelder, and so has a more restricted range. The wood has no especial value, and the chief use of the tree is for ornamental and shelterbelt plant- ing. It is decidedly brittle, and large branches are often broken off in heavy windstorms. Silver maple can be recommended only for valley planting, where the roots will eventually go down to water. In such places it will quickly produce shade and shelter; the average growth is nearly one-half inch in diameter yearly. The measurements which follow were made in lowland or watered situations. [Cir. 161.] ete 47 Growth of valley or watered silver maple. Time Average waste | Number = F quired to) ~~; Place. How planted.|} Age. aS Cra C: diameter grow 1linch 8 pean eight. | breast- § ain meas- high. Be ee ured. |breasthigh. Years. Feet. Inches. Years. Greensburngss Kans. o222scsen Jee IROWros.ss-5<2 11 13 4.8 ano 15 Sie On MES Kans eae oe teen as GrOVets see see 12 25 9.0 158) 20 Rameleyn) Manso.) es. < oo. eos ecto cs donee 14 27 (aie 2.0 | 15 PST iG Gene eas Reyes ge eos 2 ee GOS one 15 20 Syeele 2.9 | 23 ManGroasse pans” oe na ooo oe a dor ees 15 16 5.2 | 2.9 | 10 IBeGAVCL Ciby,e Nebr as. eee a one RO Wreesae a2 oe. 16 22 Uo 20 | 7 SCOCKLOM PAK Se ee ee oe ee Giese SeSe25: 19 25 ine 2.6 4 GreareBenGMWans as ss2s- ce osc ees |e GOW esa ean: DOE Resta ee 13.0 LB) 10 14.9 aaa 6 | | IDOE Mera ae Oe Sere ee Seren ere dO see eee 32 45 BLACK WALNUT. Black walnut has been extensively tried, but has succeeded only in favored localities, and can not be recommended for general planting. The rate of growth is very good, and excellent results are sometimes obtained in the valleys. It is a desirable tree, and should be raised wherever possible. It is easily grown by planting the nuts where the trees are wanted. Owing to the long taproot, transplanting is some- what difficult. While in a number of cases a more rapid rate of growth was found on the uplands than in the valleys, they should be regarded as anomalous, and not a true index of the habits of the species. After a few years of rapid progress the upland tree is likely to die. For instance, a row of black walnut at Smith Center at 16 years of age averaged 5.9 inches in diameter, thus giving an inch of increase for every 2.7 years—an excellent rate of growth; but when measured these trees had reached their limit, in spite of good care, and were either dead or dying. Contrasted with this is a row of blaek walnut along the road 5 miles south of Great Bend, where the soil is sandy and water not over 25 feet below the surface. At 20 years of age these trees were 25 feet high, ran from 6 to 12 inches in diameter, with an average of 9 inches, and were in excellent con- dition, while seedlings were appearing in numbers beneath them. Growth of valley or watered black walnut. ] 1 | : Time Number | Average requi eee = quired tO} “(e+ aac Place. | How standing.| Age. a SEE diameter grow 1 inch oe WEES eight. | breast- |§ AG eas— we in diameter! aq. | o"* |breasthigh. | Years. Feet. Inches. Years. Bvrons Oklansecee ss 282 isis. ee InGOVGr sass 8 16 Soak 2.6 Dy, DMD Uy Ne bie es ne QOisae eee: 12 | 16 3.4 3.5 38 Greensburomkange= = 2... et ROWineee ees 14 16 6.2 Dae 7 St OD DRM A see en se oc] a Oe aa 16 13 BY 5.0 | 20 UAT Gtk a fe) 6) le Grover 2.22 17 28 8.2 2.1 | 14 BGA Ver GluyeNebre=2 i228... 2.2.2... Peedo tons sece >. | 20 22 4.1 4.9 | 8 Great Bend. Kans...: <..5 i222... lpRowses- eee 20 25 9.0 OF 30 [Cir. 161.] 48 HARDY CATALPA. Catalpa may be expected to thrive in western Kansas in localities where permanent water occurs at a depth of 10 to 20 feet under a sandy loam soil. Since its chief value is for posts, there is little use in planting it outside the territory where it grows rapidly and makes profitable returns. Growth of valley or watered hardy catalpa. joe ibrng —|l | Average | eae | Number pase | ae, | required to) . Place. _Howstanding.| Age. | PETES | ane grow 1linch or ners S| high, |iadiameter| “iroq oo breasthigh. ; Years. | HCCia a PLOUGH CS COS Ns hilamd eka sees ae ere Parkes = eee 10 | 20 | a 1.8 10 Oberlin ykiamn Geena sea ee eee lh WROWsoee eee 12 | 18 6.1 | 2.0 | 6 Sts VOM, INNES odookaasosdsaGoacac (GBKOVAE Saccooee 12 | 24 Uc 24 | Io 20 SUOOIUOM, MTC secoddooéenosoceses EVO Wee maser 15 | 20 5.8 | 2. 6 | 9 lsyeeine Onin ING Mee oooesoessoneScora|lsoc Oe ouasouct 16 | 22 5.2 Sala 5 Kinsley #KANS)s.,% 3s atone eae: RGROVG#=secemre 17 22 5. 2 | 3.3 | 10 Beaver Chiy. NCD b= me eeee ee eas [ee COs scree ite 15 5.8 | 2.9 10 Meade, Kans.2 ieee s tesserae eae ce CONEER cae oe 18 | 25 3. 6 | 5.0 | 10 | AILANTHUS. The ailanthus is of Chinese origin. The wonderful claims made for it when first introduced have scarcely been justified so far as western Kansas is concerned. Thousands of trees were set in timber claims and elsewhere, but those which succeeded are few. The ailanthus grows rapidly, is not very particular as to soil, and is capable of withstanding considerable drought and neglect, but it winterkills badly while young. Trees which manage to get past this stage seem to have no further trouble. Were it not for this tender- ness, alianthus would do very well, but even then it would hardly deserve preference over several species whose especial fitness has been proved. BUR OAK. Natural bur oak extends well westward, so it must be counted as one of the more hardy species, though little used for planting. Oc- casional thrifty specimens are found in the valleys, and there is no doubt that success would result from more extensive trials. Several species of more value are doing so well on the upland, however, that there is no chance for the bur oak to equal them, and only variety is to be gained by experimenting with it. [ Cir. 161.] 49 POPLARS. The white and Lombardy poplars are closely related to the cotton- wood, but are less hardy. They will succeed in many valley situa- tions, but their value is slight. White poplar, sometimes erroneously called “silver maple,” is a nuisance, because of the numerous sprouts from the roots, and unless protected from the wind generally stands slanting instead of straight. Lombardy poplar has admirers on account of its tall, slender form; but it, too, suckers from the roots, and is short-lived as well.. When the numerous lateral branches begin to die, all the beauty the tree once had quickly disappears. WILD CHINA. The wild China, or chinaberry, 1s a native of southern Kansas and the Southwest, so it has become inured to aridity. It is a small tree with grayish bark, rather delicate compound leaves, and characteristic clusters of translucent, golden berries containing black seeds. It is hardy, and an excellent tree for occasional use in ornamental planting. Wild China is also called “ soapberry,” since the berries of a closely allied species are used in the place of soap. RUSSIAN WILD OLIVE. Russian wild olive, or oleaster, is a hardy tree of small size that will evidently succeed over most of the State, though it has been little planted as yet. More extensive trials in Nebraska and South Dakota show it to be an excellent species for hedges and windbreaks in dry regions. The growth is rapid and the grayish foliage pleasing in appearance. OTHER SPECIES. Sycamore and coffeetree have been planted very httle, but are excel- lent for ornamental purposes. The former makes a particularly good street tree. Both can be grown to a considerable extent in the Arkansas Valley and similar situations. Blue spruce is considered to be hardy, but has not vet been planted sufficiently to warrant conclusions. A few planters who are familiar with it think that Chinese arbor- vite will give excellent results when more extensively tried. There is no doubt that as time goes on valuable new species will be introduced and forest trees will be planted in increasing numbers. The field for experiment is large, and many problems are yet to be solved. LeirrTGk] o0 SUMMARY. Some of the leading conclusions of this bulletin are briefly recapit- ulated. They are points which should be borne in mind by the tree planter in western JXansas. The effect of forest planting on climate is problematical as to increased precipitation, but definitely determined as to its favorable results in the conservation of moisture and the checking of wind. The results to be obtained are sufficient to justify the expenditure of time and labor, and it is useless to expect success without such efforts. An intelligent selection of species, followed by good care, is essential. Not every man can set trees and make them prosper. Consequently it often happens that one thriving plantation tells more of the inherent possibilities of a given region than do a dozen failures. The planting should be carefully done in all cases, but conifers require unusual care. For ordinary plantations the best practice is to use small trees and home-grown seedlings so far as possible. Cultivation is essential to success, and should be such as to conserve the largest possible amount of soil moisture. Whether to prune or not depends entirely upon the kind of tree and the purpose of the plantation. The best time to prune is in early spring, just before growth begins. The cuts should be clean and close to the trunk. : To a hitherto unappreciated extent cuitivation can be made to replace irrigation or natural supplies of moisture; but, nevertheless, upland and lowland planting should be treated as distinct problems, as regards both the choice of species and the period for which cultiva- tion should be given. It is likewise true that every species presents problems of its own, which must be worked out if the highest effi- clency 1s to be obtained. All planting, whether shelterbelt, ornamental, or commercial, should be for a definite purpose and the most suitable trees chosen accord- ingly. The time for the temporary planting of rapid growing, short- lived species is passing, except in special cases. That of the future should be of a permanent character and such as will give lasting benefit, even though not so quickly. [Cir. 161.] ol BOTANICAL NAMES OF TREES MENTIONED. ATISErian: PImMe= 2 se —-—-____+. Pinus laricio austriaca Endl. Scotch pine= 222 Ae nae _ Pinus sylvestris Linn. Blue spruce_____ Z as Picea parryana (André) Parry. Chinese arborvitze___ _ Thuya orientalis Linn. Red cedar== == Pits aM us _ Juniperus virginiana Linn. Black walnut_ zl _______ Juglans nigra Linn. Willows_____ A L _ Salix sp. Wottonwoods.- =.= ss _. Populus deltoides Marsh. White poplar___ ee Populis aloe Linn. Lombardy poplar____ _ Populus nigra italica Du Roi. US On Kee 52 eas ext . Quercus macrocarpa Michx, NVNIte elm ===. = = = . Ulmus americana Linn. Hackberry ___-_ . Celtis occidentalis Linn. Russian mulberry___ Kae _ Morus alba tatarica (Winn.) Loud. Osage orange = Toxrylon pomiferum Raf. Sycamore____ ______. Platanus occidentalis V.inn. Honey locust_ ea eat Gleditsia triacanthos V.inn. Coffeetree ae ie Gymnocladus dioicus (Linn.) Koch. Black locust 2 es _ Robinia pseudacacia Linn. Ailanthus a anaes Ailanthus glandulosa Desf. Silver maple z - Acer saccharinum Linn. Boxelder____ sk _____ Acer negundo Linn. Wild China_ a a = _ Sapindus marginatus Willd. (Greene ashen ws a _______ Fraxinus lanceolata Borkh. Russian wild olive_ is ie Hleagnus angustifolia Linn. Mea TeOh andorra oar se ee es og Catalpa speciosa Warder. A LIST OF FOREST SERVICE CIRCULARS OF INTEREST TO TREE PLANTERS IN WESTERN KANSAS. (May be obtained free upon application to the Forester, Forest Service, Washington, D. C.) 29. Tree Planting on a Model Prairie | 73. Red Cedar. Farm. 74. Honey Locust. 54. How to Cultivate and Care for | 75. Hackberry. Forest Plantations on the Semi- | 76. Silver Maple. Arid Plains. 77. Cottonwood. 56. Bur Oak. 82. Hardy Catalpa. 57. Jack Pine. 83. Russian Mulberry. 64. Black Locust. S84. White Ash. 66. White Elm. 86. Boxelder. 68. Scotch Pine. 90. Osage Orange. 69. Fence Post Trees. 92. Green Ash. 72. Western Yellow Pine. 96. Arbor Day. [Cir. 161.]