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PONTEY's

PROFITABLE PLANTER.

Harding and Wright, PrinJers,
St. John's Sqaare.

Digitized by tine Internet Arciiive

in 2010 witii funding from

Researcii Library, Tine Getty Researcii Institute

http://www.archive.org/details/plantertreatiseoOOpont

///.

THE

A TREATISE

. ,- ^f^nil and Situation;
Everu Descripiwn of SoiJ

More particularly on

^..BVATED SITES B«RE^ HEATH,,
ROCKV SOILS, «fc.

Induding Directions for ^ p ^t.-|>

THE PLANTING A^DmNAGEMENl

■ PERM-4NENT SCREENS;

„„„ ISETOI- HINTS ON

SHELTER AND ORNAMENI.

THIRD

EDITION, ENLARGED.

LONDON :

PKINTEO FOU JOH. HaHDINO,

36, ST. JAMES^ STREET.

1809.

The following are selected fioin many other

Testimonies in Favour of this Work.

" We recommend the Observations of Mr. Pontey to the No-
tice of all Persons, who may be in Situations wheie they can apply
them." British Critic, July, 1801.

" The Directions for the Management of Plantations display
great Judgment, and are apparently the Production of extensive
Experience; while the Arrangement of these ornamental Additions
to a House, in a picturesque View, merit the Attention of the
Builder." Critical Reviezc, June, 1800.

" Pontey, a professional, and apparently a competent Judge,
stserts that our own is equal, or rather of the same Quality as Fo-
reign Deal." Modern Lund Steward, p. 345.

" The Author seems a Patriot not solicitous about his indivi-
dual Profit, as a contract Planter, but this Treatise will recommend
hirn to all who meditate extensive Plantations."

Agricultural Magazine, August, 1800.

" A Pamphlet has lately been published, intitled, a Treatise
bn the Cultivation of the Larch and Scotch Fir Timber, &c. by Mr.
Pontey, octavo; which places the advantages attending the culture
of this tree (the Larch) in a strong point of View. And which I
recommend to the Perusal of those who wish for further Information
on this subject." Lambert's Description of the Genus Pinus, 1803

Advertisement to the first Edition.

THOUGH the writer of the following pages has, for several
vears, had considerable practice, as a contract planter, he means
not to attach more importance to it than that of being enabled,
by industry and observation, to ascertain principles, which he was
pre'/iously persuaded were founded in reason and nature; nor
dees he pretend to any superior share of abilities ; but, attached
to the interests of planting, (much more from choice than neces-
sity) he has, from early life, when viewing the works of others,
not contented himself with seeing that they were successful or
fitherwise, but has reasoned and inquired, m order to discover
why they were so; — and he now presents a part of the result, for
the decision (and, he hopes, the benefit) of an impartial public.

Advertisement to the second Edition.

AS this second edition of a work, originally very small, hat
been long promised, but much longer called for, it may be neces-
sary to state some reasons for delay: — The very favourable recep-
tion of the first edition, naturally put the author upon endeavour-
ing to make a second more worthy of such notice, by extending
the design to the planting and management of Forest Trees in
general. In pursuance of which it occurred, that the latter sub-
ject was much more imperfectly understood than the former; and
hence the propriety of a work devoted entirely to that object.
Under this impression, the whole of his leisure was, for a con-
siderable period, devoted to the composition of the " Forest
Pruner," which was published in December, 1805; a second
edition of which has just made its appearance. Since the above
cause of delay, many others have occurred, chiefly of a profes»
sional nature; for he could not consider the waut of time, a
sufficient apology for sending that into the world, of which he
might afterwards be ashamed.

It will be observed, that though the present is called a second
edition, it may be considered as nearly a new work; the former
being chiefly devote. 1 to the cultivation of Larch, and Scotch Fir;
and hence, though most of the sentiments are retained, a regard
to method has rendered it necessary to write most of the work
anew.

By adopting the method of treating the different parts of the
subjects separately, much of the confusion and repetition, com-
mon in books on planting, and gardening, are avoided, and the

( vin )

T^ork, of course, much shortened ; — a matter calculated, at least,
to accommodate the reader. One of the easiest tasks, that falls
to the lot of an author, is that of enlarging on subjects generally
known J but this very convenient circumstance the author has
declined, from a full conviction, that, on a subject which aflFords so
little entertainment, the book whicli contains the most information,
in the least compass, will be the most read, and, of course, be
found most generally useful.

As the method of moving plants somewhat large, or of planting
single trees, belongs exclusively to the business of ornamental
gardening; and as the author has some intention of making that
delightful science the subject of a future effort, it is here omitted-
If he should be found qualified to trace its principles to their true
source, so far as to furnish rules for its practice, he will have pro-
duced what may be called a chart, equally calculated to direct the
employer and the employed. The truth is, that so long as pleasur-
able and disgusting scenes remain different, both in their nature
and effects, so long will the principles of this art remain stationary
and capable of demonstration. That others should hold a different
doctrine, he does not wonder; change of taste is a convenient
apology for perpetual alterations and absurdities. But if taste is
really founded in reason and nature, it will, in a great measure, be
found permanent, and must necessarily command general assent.
It is, in short, a taste so founded, with a corresponding practice,
that the author means to explain and defend, should he undertake
such a work.

To persons, who only write to serve the little interests of self,
the day of publication is naturally a day of anxiety ; — the author,
however, has no such fears; for since the same means which, in
former instances, procured him public approbation, have been
used in the present, he has no df)ubt of experiencing similar
support.

Iluddersfield, Jan. 1808.

Advertisement to the third Edition,

IF the rapid sale of a work could be properly
adduced in proof of its utility, the author of the
Planter would have every reason to be satisfied. His
avowed object, in the second edition, was to attempt
at least, " to illustrate the principles, improve the
practice, reduce the expence, and increase the value,
of general Planting." And he has now reason to
know that these objects have been so far attained, as
to enable numbers to proceed with confidence in the
matter, who were previously unacquamted with the
subject ; while it has served to improve the practice
of others ; and hence that the business has, on the
whole, been considerably extended.

As the probable value of produce furnishes the
strongest inducement to plant, it may be mentioned as
a very extraordinary circumstance, that the current
price of Foreign Fir Timber, at Hull, is, during the

( X )

present month, December 1808, from 14/. to 15/. lOs.
per load of 50 feet. In the early part of the month
1 had an opportunity of inspecting, in company with
one of the owners, a cargo of timber in the New Man-
chester, just arrived from Calmar in Sweden. As the
whole had been recently cut, so the bark was perfectly
fresh, and left no doubt of its being the Spruce Fir ;
a fact put beyond all doubt, by a branch found on one
of the younger trees, as fresh as if still growing on the
ground. The trees were, in general, young, small,
and free grown ; and had they not obviously arrived
from a foreign port, I should have supposed the whole
of British produce. This circumstance, which clearly
demonstrates the species of the Foreign White Deal^
will, I presume, evince the propriety, and importance
of my observations on the properties of the Spruce
Fir. As the book was then too far advanced in print-
ing to insert it in its proper place, it is inserted here.
To numerous individuals it will be of much impor-
tance, not only as it regards the choice of species to
plant, but as it puts an extraordinary value upon such
as are growing, and, most of all, what are now of
scantlings sufficient for the common purposes of build-
ings.

( xi )

As the importations of timber into the port of
Hull are very frequent, and much of it arrives very
clean, it affords a good opportunity of examining the
bark. In doing so, I find no reason to doubt that the
Red Deal is, in fact, the Scotch Fir. Nor does it
seem diflacult to account for the reason why it almost,
uniformly, appears very different from British pro-
duce. On a careful inspection, the former appears to
have grown somewhat close, while young ; which cir-
cumstance, in addition to a cold climate, could only
produce a slow growth. Firs, so situated, may rise
from one to tvvo feet annually, (as is frequently seen by
the distance between the sets of knots) and yet increase
very little in thickness. As growing close never fails
to destroy the lower branches, and consequently to
introduce the cold among the stems, that circumstance
is abundantly sufficient to account for a slow growth,
or, what is the same thmg, the fine grain, which
usually distinguishes it from home produce. In addi-
tion to this, I have the authority of Lord Dillon to
say, that he has travelled through all the countries
from which we import the article, and that it is no
other than the Scotch Fir. In consequence his
Loribhip, uniformly, applies the Firs produced on

( xii )
his o\Wi estates to any purpose for whjkch they are
found of sufficient scantlings. I have seen much of
what he has done with them, and certainly have no
reason to suspect, that either himself or posterity will
have reason to regret the experiment.

January^ 1809.

THE

PROFITABLE PLANTER.

Among the different objects of im-
provement, which present themselves to
the attention of persons of landed pro-
perty, that of Planting will always hold a
distinguished rank : — probably, if it were
inquired, on which of them a person?
so situated, could expend a portion of
his disposable income to the greatest ad-
vantage, the decision, in at least eight
cases in ten, would be in favour of Plant-
ing.— Indeed, the matter comes recom-
mended by so many considerations, that
It is somewhat difficult to conceive how

B

( 10 )

any one, in all^uent circumstances, can
excuse hiniselt'in the total neglect of it.

In addressing these, I may, for the pre-
sent, omit the arguments usually adduced
upon such occasions, as motives for Plant-
ing, (as part of them will be attended to in
the sequel,) and content myself with men-
tioning, how well this pursuit is calcula-
ted to gratify one of the most predominant
and useful passions implanted in the hu-
man breast, namely, a love of posthumous
fame :

" For who, to dumb Forgetfulness a prey,
" This pleasing anxious being e'er resign'd,
" Left the warm precincts of the cheerful day,
" Nor cast one longing, ling'ring look behind?"

Most certainly there are few who do
not feel an innate desire, and even an anx-
iety to be remembered, by posterity, with
gratitude : — but, to be so remembered as
a public character, can fall to the lot of
only a few ; — nor, in many instances, will

( 11 )

the niemorj of the virtue and usefuhiess
which adorn a private station, even a-
mong the higher ranks of society, long
survive, except some honourable and visi-
ble memorial be left behind ; — and what is
there that can so cheaply, suddenly, and
certainly effect the purpose, as Planting ?
This, at least, is obvious, — whoever plants
to a considerable extent, becomes a be-
nefactor to his own posterit}^ and the
public ; and, therefore, Avhile his work re*
mains, the man will not be forgotten.

The park at Castle-Howard furnishes
a very striking proof of the influence of
the passion alluded to. — On one side of a
lofty and noble pillar, erected to the me-
mory of the Duke of Marlborough's vic-
tories, is the following :

" Charles 3rd Earl of Carlisle, of the
" family of the Howards, erected a Castle
" where the old Castle of Hinderskelf
B2

{ 12 )

" Stood, and called it Castle Howard. — He
" likewise made the Plantations in this
" Park, and all the Outworks, Monu*
" ments, and other Plantations belonging

" to the said Seat. He began these

" Works in the Year 1702, and set up
" this Inscription Anno Domini 1731.

" If to Perfeetion these Plantations rise,

'* If i he J/ agreeably my Heirs surprise^

" This faithful Pillar will their Age declare,

*' As long as Time these Characters shall spare.

" Here then, with kind Remembrance, read his Name,

" Who, for Posterity, perform'd the same."

It is impossible to read the above, and
contemplate the objects around it, with-
out rendering to the memory of that tru-
ly great man abundantly more than he
has claimed. — It is, indeed, worthy of no-
tice, that after building what, in compli-
ment to antiquity, he called a castle, (but
which may more properly be denomina-
ted a palacCj) with numerous appendages,
in a style of grandeur which has seldom

( 13 )

been equalled, (never, perhaps, surpassed
in this island,) he seems to have expected
more credit from his exertions as a Plan-
ter than a Builder; — though no one can
suppose the expence upon the former to
have amounted to one twentieth part of
that upon the latter.

There is, undoubtedly, a great deal
more in this inscription than barely meets
the eye ; — for does it not operate as a
standing reproach, to every son and daugh-
ter of affluence, who, regardless of poste-
rity, " like some poor player, fret and strut
" their hour upon the stage, and then are
" seen no more ;" — while, to those of an
opposite description, it whispers this salu-
tary lesson, " Go thou, and do likewise."

It is among the advantages which the
modern has over ancient practice, that
what was once considered as a great un-
dertaking, becomes now a mere trifle. —
1

( 14 )

From the best observations I have been
enabled to make, there seems no doubt
but the expence which would have plant-
ed five acres sixty years back, would now
plant twenty, provided the business be
managed upon a frugal system ; — and,
therefore, if we state the matter as it af-
fects a person of landed property, we shall
find one great reason why so little of it
was done.

If the rental of land have been dou-
bled within the time mentioned, and an
acre would then cost, in planting, four
times as much as now, a gentleman must
then have devoted the rents of eig:ht
times as much land to plant an acre, as at
present ; and, where the rent of land is
trebled, the difference would be as twelve
f o one ; — of course, we see such proportion
holds out every facility to Planting, while
the value of its produce is every where
astonishingly increased.

( 15 )

It may here be objected, that the in-
crease in the value of land furnishes an
argument against planting ; which is rea-
dily admitted, so far as lands of a middle
value are concerned, and where shelter and
ornament add nothing to value. — But are
there not numerous situations, on almost
every estate, which in themselves pro-
duce but little, and mock the darings
of the cautious cultivator, — which only
require to be planted with judgment,
to become abundantly productive in tim-
ber?— And are not the situations likewise
numerous, where planting becomes ab-
solutely necessary on account of its shel-
ter ? — Nor are instances wanted where
a bare, flat surface of country may be
so diversified and ornamented, by patches
of planting, as to add to the real or
saleable value of the property, abun-
dantly more than the expence, besides

the marketable value of the wood.-

The necessity for planting in the vicinity

( 16 )

of a family mansion will be noticed sepa-
rately.

Having mentioned some of the induce-
ments to plant, I may next advert to the
advantages of skilful management; — for
certainly it may be laid down as a rule,
which admits of few exceptions, that the
most skilful is the cheapest planter; for
the following reasons :

First, Such a one will seldom err ma-
terially, in regard to the proper species to
be planted on any given soil or situation.

Secondly, He cannot err in regard to
the proper size of plants.

Thirdly, He will devote so much la-
bour to the preparation of the soil, as
the particular circumstances of the case
render necessary, and no more.

( 17 )

In regard to the first, every one must
have observed what disappointment and
loss is frequently occasioned by unskilful
management in that respect ; and no won-
der, if persons will proceed in the business
without rule, (that is, by resolving to
plant certain species on particular spots,
without regarding whether the situation
be in all respects proper or not,) or by
the advice of persons possessed of neither
experience nor observation in the busi-
ness.— In fact, while men of no experi-
ence consider this part of the profession
as sufficiently easy, those of a different
description always consider it as less or
more difficult, in proportion as the soils
and situations differ from such as they have
been used to work upon. — If it were not a
grating truth, I could produce numerous
instances, where large sums have been
wasted in this way, while the proprietors
were unconscious that they were not pro-

( 18 )

ceeding bj the most prudent and skilful
methods.

Secondly, — in regard to the sizes of
plants: — Here again the losses of planters
have been great indeed. Leave an un-
skilful planter to himself, and he gene-
rally errs, in using plants which are too
large ; and, consequently, enhances the
risk and expences, without at all forward-
ing the business ; while if he proceed by
imitating persons of better skill, and plants
small ones, but neglects to attend to such
circumstances as the probability of a rank
herbage, &c. he may, by that means, have
them smothered. Indeed, it very fre-
quently happens, that plants which prove
of a proper size in one part of a field,
are much too large or too small for ano-
ther ; and, therefore, it is evident, con-
siderable discrimination is necessary in
this respect.

( 19 )

Thirdly, as to the preparation of the
soil ; — most certainly it requires a degree
of skill which few ever have, or ever can,
attain ; — as it includes a knowledge and
due consideration of very numerous cir-
cumstances, such as, all the various quali-
ties and depths of soils, with the ditferent
degrees of humidity and exposure, — the
proper species and sizes of plants, &c. — all
of which should, in a greater or less de-
gree, influence the matter of preparation.
Undoubtedly, there are cases where ten
pounds would be well expended in pre-
paring an acre of ground for planting ;
but certainly the cases are abundantly
more common, where one eighth part of
the mone}'' may well do the business. —
The difficulty rests in distinguishing, not
only the difference between these ex-
tremes, but of their intermediate parts;
and, therefore, on all these grounds, we
may safely conclude, the most skilful will
generally prove the cheapest planter.

( 20 )

Consistent with what has been advan-
ced, it is evident, that the most profitable
planter is he who can manage so as to
cause the land to be most productive,
at the least expence. Being well con-
vinced that, in a great majority of cases,
the liberal use of the Fir tribe is essential
to the purpose, I shall now proceed to
examine the opinions and prej udices which
have been every where prevalent concern-
ing them, and have hitherto, very unfor-
tunately for the country, prevented their
being so cultivated as to become generally
useful, as large, substantial, and valuable
timber.

The man of science, in common with
the carpenter, knows the use of an oak
or an ash, but, with respect to English-
grown Firs, generally contents himself
with the received idea, that they are of
little 'Value; and hence it is only of late
that they have been extensively cultivated

( 21 )

for profit; — previous to which, though
much had been written, on the planting of
oak^ ash, &c. for timber, we were com-
monly taught to consider the planting of
firs as principally for shelter or ornament*

Since the time that the foreign fir tim-
ber was first introduced into this country,
its usefulness and consequent reputation
have been constantly increasing ; and
hence we import, annually, immense quan-
tities, at an enormous expence : — the facts
are indisputable, though it does not admit
of a doubt that the species, so highly
valued, will grow extremely well here. A
circumstance sufficient to induce the re-
flecting mind to inquire, whether it be not
possible to avoid the greater part^ if not the
whole, of that expence, by extending and
improving their Culture ; and to feel
astonished, that a subject of such immense
importance should have hitherto met with
so little attention.

( 22 )

The motive for such inquiry will be
greater, when we seriously reflect on the
present scarcity, and consequent advance
of price ; and our ideas will probably
turn to the day, not long elapsed, when
Fir Timber was sold at little more than one
third of what it now is. Indeed, so long
as we depend upon foreign markets for a
supply, it is impossible to foresee what
means may be used, and what circum-
stances w?a?/ arise, to increase such scarcity;
consequently, impracticable to form any
opinion of the price that may he exacted^
or the inconvemences and injuries which
the want of such Timber may produce.

Whoever has attentively examined the
subject ; and has the interest of the nation
at hearty must certainly see the necessity of
thoroughly investigating, whether there be
any thing, in the air or 50// of our coun-
try, to prevent the growing of good fir
timber.

I
s

( 23 )

That we have few English-grown firs
of sufficient scantlings for the larger pur-
poses of building, will readily be admit-
ted ; — but whence proceeds the deficien-
cy?— Prejudice says, "we cannot grow
" them good ;" and ignorance and indo-
lence have hitherto very generally as-
sented to the assertion. But should it
be found that such conclusions are con-
trary to truth, and that the scarcity in
question is the consequence only of erro-
neous notions, it will certainly be useful
to expose them, to trace their causes and
effects, and to furnish those observations
which experience has suggested ; for the-
ories, however plausible, are by no means
the guide^ a prudent man ought to follow,
in the science of planting and growing
timber; because, while satisfied with com-
monly received opinions, though it is pro-
bable we may be right, there is a chance
of our being wrong ; and he is a very in-
attentive observer, who, acting as a plan-

( 24 )

ter of firs, does not discover, that, if men
had not usually taken their ideas upon
trust, the business must, long ago, have
been reduced to somewhat of certainty.

They would have found out, not only
what firs grow best in particular soils and
situations, but the specific sorts which
thrive in most of them ; and, moreover,
would clearly have ascertained the pro-
perties of the timber of all, or at least of
so many of them as would thrive on bleak
and barren ones, and, therefore, likely
to be most profitable. But, unfortunate-
ly, instead of having got thus far on the
road of knowledge, very few have yet
made any progress; and, what is worse,
many see not yet the necessity of such
a journey. — In short, they have no idea
of reaping any advantage from it* ; why.

* The author has very groat pleasure in observing,
that such inattention, >Yhicli might be considered as

( 25 )

therefore, should they labour for that
which cannot profit ?

Of the truth of these remarks we have
ample proof; for the planters of the last
age generally used Scotch firs only, in a
manner that leaves us at a loss to discover
what end they had in view, unless it was
the rehearsal of their own funerals ; cer-
tainly, if their object was use, shelter, or
ornament, they in a great measure mis-
took the means.

That the planters of the present age
greatly surpass those of the last, is ac-
knowledged ; as they generally use so
much of variety on every soil, that, e-
nough of the proper sorts may ultimateh'

highly disgraceful, is now, in some measure, done away ;
as planting of Firs, with the direct idea of profit, is
practised to an extent hitherto unprecedented ; of course
every species of information, tending either to facilitate
or elucidate the business, must be highly acceptable.

c

( 26 )

be selected for Timber :— -still such va-
riety affords no proof of skill, but the
contrary ; as is abundantly shown by the
methods most frequently adopted in thin-
ning; the most valuable being usually
cut down, to make room for the most
xvorthless.

The reader will observe, that, by the
most 'Valuable, I mean such as would be
worth the most money in a given time,
(suppose thirty years ;) and by the most
worthless, such as would produce the least
in the same period : — quantity and quali-
ty being out of the question, except as
they affect the value.

I would premise further, that, con-
sistent with the preceding, I pay no re-
gard to established opinions ; for, should
I find even the oak and ash -mixed with
larch, Scotch and spruce fir, and the
former making but little progress, whil«

( 27 )

the latter were flourishing, I should not
hesitate to call them inferior ; — nay, were
both in a thriving state, yet, if it seemed
next to certainty that the former would
jiot fetch ten pounds, when the latter
would be worth twenty, I should treat
them only as objects of secondary im-
portance.

If the foregoing be the only true
method of estimating the value of trees
planted for profit, it is evident that the
modern planters, with very few excep-
tions, have acted upon mistaken princi-
ples, and must continue to do so, till
better acquainted with the qualities of
larch, Scotch, and spruce fir timber.

Undoubtedly, till a very late period,
English firs have been considered as of
httle value, except for shelter and orna-
ment ; and hence the undistinguishing ha-
vock to which they have been subjected:
C2

( 28 )

indeed, it is not at all to be wondered at,
when we consider that not a few writers,
who have undertaken to direct the current
of public opinion, represent them (in ad-
dition to the above purposes) as best of all
calculated for the honourable and perma-
Jient situation of Nurses.

Seeing then the consequences to which
such opinions directly lead, and being per-
fectly convinced they are equally unfound-
ed and detrimental, it may be useful to
advert, shortly, to the leading causes from
which they seem to have obtained curren-
cy ; — and especially so, as most workmen
are so completely prejudiced as to be un-
willing to give the article a fair trial.

To meet such ideas, however, we may
consider that, for many years, the Scotch
firs were the only species commonly plant-
ed ; and these at very considerable distan-
ces ; in consequence of which, they would

( 29 )

retain their lower branches till they got
very large; and hence the timber, upon
being cut up, is uniformly found so full
of Knots, as to be disqualified for most
purposes to which foreign fir has been
usually applied, and therefore the article
deservedly fell into disrepute.

When the above truly barbarous taste
subsided, we find the Scotch firs ao-ain
exhibited alone, either in masses or small
clumps ; where each plant, having loss
space, would grow much less knotty
than before ; and hence a temptation to
use such as were thinned out while young,
for numerous purposes. — But here un-
fortunately it seems to have been over-
looked, that this fir, in a sheltered situa-
tion, grows very quickly for many years ;
and never acquires much of density in
an early stage of growth. — Most certain-
ly neither of the descriptions adduced
were fit to be put in competition with

( 30 )

Foreign Deal ; and yet it may safely be
asserted, that a large proportion of the
latter description, with a very small one of
the former, composed at least nine-tenths
of the documents upon which public opi-
nion was formed, previous to the last six
or seven years.

Good sometimes arises out of evil, and
so it has happened here ; for the extrava-
gant price of foreign fir has of late indu-
ced many people to make trial of some of
the best trees in their possession, of diffe-
rent sorts ; and the result has been so far
favourable as to occasion much of the
extraordinary increase in planting which
has been noticed.

In the business of investigating the na-
tural properties of Firs, (to which a con-
siderable degree of my attention has been
devoted for several years,) it has afford-
ed sinstilar satisfaction to find them uni-

( 31 )

tbrmly superior to what previous preju-
dices had taught me to expect. In truth,
after a careful examination of every spe-
cimen that has fallen in my way, up to
the present period, (January, 1807,) lean
safely affirm, that I have discovered no
natural defect, which will, ultimately, dis-
qualify any of the species, commonly cul-
tivated, from being used, either generally
or partially as a substitute for the foreign.

It is true that, with respect to the
Scotch and Silver Firs and the Weymouth
Pine, the young quick-grown wood is
somewhat soft or spongy ; but does not
something like this prevail in several parts
of both the vegetable and animal creation,
Avithout at all impeaching the strength or
value of the matured subjects of either .^
Certainly, in regard to the firs in question,
every observation has shown that the
Timber improves with age, probably in

( 32 )

the same proportion as the growth de-
creases after a certain period.

Observe, it is not said that even such
young timber would not be durable if
properly seasoned, and used where con-
stantly dry ; as I conceive these points
are by no means ascertained : — but were
such the case, we have others, namely, the
Larch and Spruce Fir, which, if proper-
ly managed, may safely be depended up-
on, as durable, in every period of their
growth ; whether exposed or otherwise ;
and, therefore, no question or doubt needs
be entertained, as to their liberal use
for every purpose, where they can be
procured large enough.

It has fortunately happened that, in
the course of the last five or six years, the
Larch has got into considerable repute ;
as wherever a quantity of it is to be sold,
from the size of a common rail upwards,

( 33 )

it never fails to command pm'cliasers, at
a good price. This may be considered
as one of the cases where general opinion
can scarcely be supposed to err ; because
it has been corrected by experience.

Formerly, no distinctions used to be
made; — English Fir, was the general
name for the whole species ; and the idea
it conveyed was that collected from the
use of Scotch Firs only. Now, almost
every purchaser has some idea of distinc-
tions ; which could only arise from some
evidence of difference in value: — In short,
almost every one o;ives the Larch a deci-
ded preference over them all, though,
perhaps, few persons have more than very
confused ideas of its specific properties.

We need not here adopt the stale me-
thod of extolling the Larch upon the cre-
dit of antient authors, who seem to have
imitated each other, in detailing circum-

( 34 )

Stances too surprising for readers of com-
mon understandings to believe; especially
as some of their statements have been
found completely erroneous * ; but we
may say, that experience has warranted an
opinion, that the Larch is equal to the
Foreign, for all the general purposes to
which that article is usually applied, and
superior to it for many others, among
which are the following :

a>

First, It may be grown abundantly
clearer of knots, provided some little at-
tention be paid to pruning it. Every one
knows that the Knots in Foreign Timber
affect its value, exactly in proportion as
they prevail in number and size ; as both

* Many old books tell us, that the Larch will not
bum, which is false : for though it does not burn so
freely as other Firs, it burns quick enough to be rank-
ed among the best sorts of wood fuel ; and hence, wher<*
such is used, the faggots are much esteemed, a? being
a good and durable article.

2

( 35 )

have a tendency to affect its strength and
appearance.

Secondly, It is much tougher ;■— a cir-
cumstance which, connected with its du-
rabiUty, will fit it for numerous purposes,
in boards of the least possible thickness.
Three eighths of Larch must, in almost
any case, be superior to half an inch of
Foreign Deal.

Thirdly, Supposing it once well sea-
soned, it is afterwards much less liable to
shrink.

Fourthly, It may be speedily seasoned,
at any time of the year, as it admits of
a very considerable degree of heat, with-
out endangering its cracking.

Fifthly, It is much superior in co-
lour; as the application of raw linseed
oil only, turns it to a beautiful nut-brown.

( 36 )

It likewise admits of being stained to re-
semble maiiogany ; and takes a polish
equal to box, holly, or even satin wood ; so
that it is proper for numerous articles of
useful and ornamental furniture, to which
the foreign deal is perfectly inapplicable.

Sixthly, It is again superior, as it is
proper for posts to pat into the ground.
In Uiis case, however, it is to be noted,
that only young trees, of a proper size,
should be used : and the part intended to
stand in the earth should have the whole
of the bark left upon it.

Seventhl}^ It is clearly superior in the
important point of durabilit}', when ex-
posed to the weather.

Probably the shortest and clearest way
of proving the point is, by referring the
reader to the consideration of the rotten
Knots so frequently found in Red Deal;

( 37 )

an article which is universally airowed to
be superior to the White, when exposed
in boards to the influence of the atmo-
sphere. These knots are certainly the
remains of branches, which rotted while
they still hung upon the trees : — but no-
thing: like this is ever found in a Larch
board, or on a tree ; though we are sure
the latter has been subjected to exposure
as well as the former. — To this fact (in its
own nature more convincing than asser-
tion from any quarter,) I will only add,
that every observation I have made has
tended to impress the same idea as is usu-
ally entertained of the heart of oak. We
know that it must decay at some period,
though we have no certain method by
which to guess — when*' .

* Such persons as feel particularly interested in
understanding the properties of Larch, may find the
subject discussed, considerably more at large, (with an
account of some experiments,) in The Forest Primer,
p. 79—107.

( 38 )

The Spruce Fir being considered as
next in value to the Larch, naturally calls
for the next attention. Perhaps we may
lay it down as a maxim, in regard to trees
generally, that the utmost attention should
be paid to ascertaining the properties of
such as are found to grow freely in a great
variety of soils and situations ; because
these circumstances hold out an almost ir-
resistible inducement for persons to plant
them freely; and hence, though in gene-
ral good is done, in some cases considera-
ble damase may ensue.

The case of the Spruce Fir particular-
ly calls for such attention, as it grows ra-
pidly on almost every description of soil,
from a very stiff loam, and such as possess
a considerable degree of humidity, to a
very dry sand ; provided the situation be
not very much exposed. — It will readily
be admitted, that the tree is exceedingly
omamen-al ; but, with regard to the pro-

( 39 )

perties of its timber, very little appears to
be known with certainty.

As to myself, I readily confess that,
till a late period, I did not discover in it
any striking proofs of superiority; and
hence, upon fonner occasions, I passed it
over somewhat slightl}^ ; — now, however,
the case is dififerent, and, therefore, I take
the earliest opportunity of giving my rea-
sons for such change in opinion.

In observing the state of this iir, in
plantations where the trees formerly grew
thickly, and never were pruned, it ap-
peared a very striking circumstance, that
branches which had evidently been dead
many years, (some of them probably more
than twenty,) were found, uniformly, not
only sound but tough ; — a convincing
proof of DURABILITY. Still I bclievc
this circumstance, which, properly im-
proved, ought and would have established

( 40 )

its reputation and use, has operated di-
rectly to the contrarij ; because wherever
the trees stand so thin as that their lower
branches can grow to a considerable size,
these continuing attached to the stems for
many years, (whether living or dead,)
must inevitably cause them to grow ex-
tremely knotty, and hence to be rejected
for general purposes. Indeed, we can-
not wonder if workmen use their utmost
influence in depreciating an article so ex-
tremelj^ difficult to work, in comparison
with foreign timber, and which, in addi-
tion to being tedious, not unfrequently
damac^es their tools ; all which would be
completely avoided by means of pruning.

It is now more than twenty months
since my attention was particularly at-
tracted to the subject, as above ; during
which time many observations have been
made; all of which tended, directly or
indirectly, to confirm my opinion of its

( 41 )

durability, whether used in exposures or
otherwise ; with the exception of the case
of trees used whole, as rails, &c. — as in
drying they never fail to crack ; and hence
the part is exposed to alternate drought
and moisture ; against which not even the

heart of oak is completely proof. As

far as my observations have extended, the
same remark will apply in regard to rails
made of Green Whole Wood, of every de-
scription.

The specimen of Spruce Fir which ac-
companies this treatise, is part of a beam,
that had been in a building about twenty-
four years ; which, on being taken out,
proved as sound (the bark included) as
when first made use of; — nor did its ap-
pearance leave any reason to suspect it to
be less strong or durable, or at all inferior
to any foreign beam whatever. Yet a
point still more important remains to be
noticed: — It was not old Wood. Its
D

( 42 )

diameter being eighteen inches, under the
bark, where its age was fifty years.

Here then let us pause a moment, to
consider what use prudent planters ought
to make of the important fact just stated :
in doing which, it will readily occur, that
the matter is of too much consequence to
be fully credited and acted upon, without
further investigation ; and, therefore, it is
incumbent upon them to use every means
within their power, to collect such facts
and documents as may tend to establish or
discredit it : — This is all I desire or want ;
for if men will only be earnest in this sort
of investigation, no further arguments will
be necessary from me, to induce them
either to plant, prune, or preserve the
Spruce Fir.

But there is another point of view, in
which the article is extremely valuable ;
namely, as being (all circumstances consi-

( 43 )

dered) the best plant we have for the gene-
ral purposes of shelter ; as it grows close,
and, in proper situations, very quickly.
Where it has free space, it retains its low-
er branches alire to the ground, to the ut-
most period of its existence ; so that we
can easil}'' avail ourselves of its shelter to
any moderate extent. This tree natural-
ly forms itself into a narrow cone; its
breadth, however, may be easily increased,
by cutting off its head ; or readily re-
duced, by pruning, without materially in-
juring its foliage : — Indeed, its form is so
much subject to management, that I have
seen it shorn, so as to form an excellent
sheltering hedge.

Of the innumerable cases in which this
tree may be useful, as a shelter, it is nei-
ther possible nor necessary to speak here;
but I should consider myself inexcusable
in omitting to notice one, in which it is
qualified to be most essentially service-
D2

( 44 )

able ; as it materially concerns a descrip-
tion of persons who are particulary en-
titled to attention and respect, — I mean
the planters of oaks.

Planting of firs among oaks, as well aa
other deciduous trees, in order to shelter
and draw, or perhaps, more properly, to
force them up, has long been practised ;
yet, I conceive, it has been little consider-
ed how far the Spruce is superior to the
Scotch Fir for general purposes. The
point, however, appears self-evident, from
what has been advanced, with the addi-
tional circumstance, that the former will
retain its lower foliage, in less than half
the space which the latter would require;
and, therefore, that part of its shelter can-
not be lasting, except we are willing to
sacrifice much space, and content to grow
it as faggot wood only ;— while, as to the
other, the space required would be very
moderate, the shelter complete and dura-

( 45 )

ble, and the wood, ultimately, of consi-
derable value.

Where the air has somewhat free scope
round an oak, it produces numerous side-
branches ; some of which swell, so as to
rival the principal leader, — which a com-
plete shelter is directly calculated to pre-
vent ; as a branch never either swells or
shoots freely if it do not point into an
open space. In the growing season, every
tree becomes a traveller, in search of air
and light; and, therefore, they never
tower so rapidly as when they have the
most of both above them.

But there is another consideration,
which of itself ought completely to influ-
ence the choice of trees planted for Nur-
ses. The very name conveys the idea that
they are to be displaced, at no distant pe-
riod; and, therefore, common sense seems
to dictate that, in every possible case, they

( 46 )

should be of such sorts as are most of all
valuable at an early stage of growth; pro-
perties which are common to the Larch
and Spruce Fir; and, therefore, they
should be preferred in that department,
wherever the soil and situation proves
suitable.

Certainly when an oak planter (consis-
tently with the last hint) makes use of
such Nurses, he goes far to obviate any
possible risk; for should the oaks not
grow to expectation, it is highly probable
one or both of the others might answer,
or even exceed it ; and thus a crop of ex-
cellent timber would be secured.

I know only one objection that can be
fairly urged against the general and libe-
ral use of Spruce Firs, as Nurses and
Principals, which is — their price. Hi-
therto they have been usually considered
as more ornamental than useful ; and

( 47 )

hence, while the consumption has been
small, the price in nurseries has been kept
rather high.— ^ — ^It may seem a paradox,
but still it is a fact, that, as the demand
for any species of forest trees increases,
the price decreases, till it becomes very
moderate : — nor is the trade any loser by
it; as an increased demand, frequently
aided by an improved mode of culture,
seldom fails to more than cover the dif-
ference.

Considering what has been advanced,
in regard to the properties of the Spruce
Fir, it is presumed, that little doubt can be
entertained of the propriety of preferring
it to the Scotch, on every soil and situa-
tion equally proper for both: a case very
common, though by no means universal.
The leading exceptions, which I have ob-
served, are a black sandy and moorish soil,
that naturally produces nothing but heath,
and very bleak exposures. On the for-

( 48 )

mer they seldom vegetate more than just
to keep them alive; in the latter they
grow better, but too slowly to render it
desirable to plant them. As the first sort
of exception is, in a considerable degree,
applicable to the Larch, and the latter to
trees in general, it has long been an ob-
ject of much solicitude with myself, to
find means to reduce them within the least
possible limits; the result of which will be
seen when we come to treat distinctly of
the Methods of Planting and obtaining
Shelter.

But presuming that, after all which has
or can be done, in regard to the circum-
stances just mentioned, numerous and ex-
tensive tracts will remain, upon which the
Scotch Firs ought to predominate, I shall
next proceed to notice its properties.

Writers in general seem agreed, that
this tree is of the same species as that from

( 49 )

which we have the foreign Red Deal ; — -
and, if such be the fact, Uttle doubt need
be entertained of its latent good qualities;
notwithstanding the disgrace under which
it labours ; — and as to the matter of affi-
nity, I seen no reason to doubt it ; the
order in which the knots are placed, their
liability to rot, and the testimony of indi-
viduals who have visited the countries
from which we import that article, all
seem to tend to establish the point. Still
the one is usually found of a much finer
grain, and much heavier and stronger than
the other ; — which is clearly imputable to
its being grown in a colder atmosphere,
and, consequently, much slower than ours.
The real difference, however, is only in
appearance, when two old subjects hap-
pen to be contrasted ; as then the ques-
tion of weight and strength depends more
upon the part of the trees from which the
specimens are taken, than the country
from which they come.

( 50 )

If it be true, that we can raise abun-
dance of the article, upon almost every
description of soils, which are nearly or
altogether unproductive ; and if it be
clearly ascertained, that knottiness and
want of density are the only defects of the
article ; it must likewise be true, that, dis-
covering the means of preventing them,
becomes not only an individual but a 7ia-

tionat concern. It may be easy, in some

cases, for an author to detect error, but it
is indeed herculean labour to induce the
bulk of mankind to adopt its opposite.

It has already been intimated, that the
knottiness of fir timber, generally, would
easily be prevented by a good method of
pruning; — (for proof of which, the rea-
der is referred to The Forest Primer ; J —
and, therefore, it remains only to be con-
sidered, how far the want of density is
curable by au}^ means short of age ; for
that is evidently its most natural one.

( 51 )

Probably we may here gather a useful
hint, from what is said to be the practice
in Russia and Sweden, namely, the dis-
barking of the stems of the firs, to the
length of two or three feet, at least a year
before they are intended to be taken
down ; which disbarking and falling is
done only in winter ; a practice which
could not have generally prevailed, on
any grounds short of admitted utility.

If we could show clegirly in which way
such method operated, a very important
point would be gained ; but as that seems
impossible, I shall dismiss it with just ob-
serving, that if it could be found that,
under such operation, the last efforts of
lingering life would be spent in expelling
the watery matter, or in expending it to
support the foliage, and substituting rosin
in its place, we should then have sufficient
data on which to found a system for the

2

( 52 )

improvement of evefy species of young
fir timber*

We certainly shall soon have a large
supply of this description ; and, therefore,
the study of its improvement and proper-
ties becomes matter of more than common
interest. Experiments, to elucidate this
important point, should be made, again
and again, by persons who have means and
leisure, on free-growing trees of different
ages. — From what I have observed, of the
superior quality of the wood of young ones,
which have been, for some time, stinted
in growth, (in consequence of sudden ex-
posure, or being overhung by others,) I
have great reason to suspect, that cutting
off nearly the whole of the branches, two
years before the period of taking down,
would go far to effect the needed improve-
ment ; as, after the operation, they would
grow very slowly. Observe, this being an

( 53 )

extreme case, the branches should be taken
off not less than six inches from the stem,
to prerent bleeding.

It may here be observed, as a general
remark, that though building timber is
usually cut from large fir wood, (such be-
ing nearly as cheap as the small,) still but
little of it is used in large scantlings; and,
therefore, it is evident, that by much the
greater part of a modern building may be
done with small ones ; and hence native
produce might be liberally made use of in
them, at a much earlier period than is ge-
nerally imagined. Great strength can
be required only in a few cases, easily pro-
vided for; Durability becomes essential
in all : and, therefore, we may state it as
a question, well worthy of general discus-
sion ; — Under what circumstances may the
durability of British-grown Fir Timber
be safely depended upon ?

( 54 )

I need not dwell long on the facility
with which the Scotch Fir accommodates
itself to almost every description of soil
and situation. — It ma}^ indeed, be called
*' The Planter's Forlorn Hope ;" as where
it fails, the case is truly desperate. For
instance :-— -it is planted with success, on
the most barren commons, where no other
tree or plant (the Heath excepted) will
grow. On scites which are elevated, and
exposed to particular currents of wind, it
often proves the only tree that can be got
up, except so far as others may rise under
its shelter. In the sea breeze too, it is
frequently observed that, while every plant
around it bends from the blast, as if seek-
ing protection, this holds its head erect,
and bids defiance to the noxious c^ale.

It is not said, however, that, in any of
these cases, the trees grow uniformly as
quick as under more favourable circum-
stances: still it is truly wonderful to ob-

( 55 )

serve the quickness of their progress, after
they have got sufficiently established in
the ground, and are large enough to shel-
ter each other. — Why they do so on a
barren heathy soil, it is not easy to con-
ceive ; all we know with certainty is, that
this tree will not only live but thrive, where
most others would do neither.

. In the case of exposures, where the
soil is tolerable, the reasons for such thri-
ving are somewhat obvious. The plant is
not only extremely hardy, by nature, but
its shoot and leaf(spine) are stiff; and hence
neither can be much subject to damage
from violent winds ; — still, in such cases,
it never grows rapidly till each plant, by
contributing a part to the general stock of
shelter, resists the winds and improves the
atmosphere ; and hence their accelerated
growth.— -It is admitted, that such shel-
ter could not be lasting ; but it v,ould af-
ford the means of rearing a durable one,

( 56 )

consisting of every thing proper for the
purpose. And thus, by the use of this
degraded plant, we see the easy means of
doing what would be otherwise impossi-
ble, namely, rearing a Crop of Timber,
of any description proper for the soil, in
elevations which, naturally, would grow
such trees no better than bushes. The
value of such shelters, as they affect the
surrounding lands, will be attended to
under a separate head.

Clear ideas of what will grow and
thrive upon the situations just mentioned,
are essentially necessary to almost every
one who plants upon a large scale ; and,
therefore, an author, who can distinguish
between truth and error, would ill dis-
charge his duty if he did not, to tliC ut-
most of his power, enforce the one and

oppose the other. In a modern book

on planting, now in many hands, we have
the following, " The native Pine (Scotch

( o7 )

" Fir) has long been planted as a nurse,
" but the practice is now much relinquish-
*' ed. Nor is it founded ir^ reason ; since
*' there is no soil or situation in which
*' the Larch and Mountain Ash will not
" far surpass it in growth, while young."

Observe the latitude of the passage,—
" No soil or situation" Sac. — Still I will
venture to affirm, that whoever should
plant any of the heathy parts of the chain
of hills which separates Yorkshire from
Lancashire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire, in
the manner implied as above, would find,
to his cost, that this " Practical Planter*
had reckoned without his ho5t ; as neither
his nurses nor his nurselings would grow,
except so far as the Larch might happen
to penetrate into the under stratum (a sort
of reddish sand, full of loose stones;)
where, if the situation were not much ex--
posed, it might make tolerable progress ;
but certainly not otherwise.

E

( 58 )

What I have just advanced, stands upon
very different grounds from either mere
theory, or slight or recent practice ; for
I have been annually employed in plant-
ing upon the said hills for, at least, sixteen
years ; during which, no instance has oc-
curred of the Larch doing more upon the
heatl y soil than just growing enough to
keep alive, till it penetrated the under
stratum. And though experiments have
been repeatedly made, by planting the
oak, ash, s3xamore, and birch, (most of
which produced a few leaves the first sea-
son,) the plants have all died ; except a
few (probably not more than one in a hun-
dred) of the latter; and their progress ha3^
been very slow.

But, again : — It will scarcely be doubt-
ed, but a great proportion of the heathy
soils in the country are similar, both in
appearance and composition, to the fore-
going ; and, therefore, we may conclude,
4

( 59 )

that, so long as like causes produce the
same effects, they alone will not produce
deciduous trees : — indeed, the heathy soils
about Woburn strongly confirm the fact;
for there great quantities of such trees, of
almost every description, had been plant-
ed (the Mountain Ash included,) previous
to my engagement ; of which, none have
grown except so far as they have pene-
trated into the under stratum, Avhere the
heathy soil happened to be thin ; and, a-
mong them, the Larch has succeeded best.
Many of these, however, have remained
completely covered with moss, and nearly
stationary, for many years ; yet most of
them have, at length, recovered gradually;
which could only happen in consequence
of their roots getting into the under stra-
tum : — for such as were planted in pits, or
broken ground, grew well from the first.

But enough of heathy soils ; — let us
see if, haply, our author has been more
V o

( 60 )

correct in regard to exposed and elevated
scites ; where, of course, the most perfect
shelter is absolutely necessary.

Here we may ask any one accustomed
to observations on such subjects, if he
ever remarked the Larch to be as little
affected by the winds as the Scotch Fir,
on such situations ? — And again, Do not
deciduous trees constantly extend their
branches horizontally, so as readily to in-
termix with each other ? — but they can-
not do so with the Firs ; as there is little
of either light or air in their interior ; and,
therefore, when mixed with them, such
can only shoot freely upwards. Besides,
the Larch, for several feet from its top
downwards, has a very light spiral head ;
of course, there its shelter bears no com-
parison to the Scotch Fir, at any season.

The absurdity of planting the Moun-
tain Ash, as a shelter, will be evident, by
3

( 61 )

considering, that if it grow fast, it produ-
ces but very few branches; and if it grow
slowly, so as to produce more, it will be
too low to afford protection. At best four
of this plant would not shelter near so
much as one Scotch Fir ; and, what is
worse, four of the fornier would cost more
than eight of the latter; and, after all this
extra expence, we should neither have a
tolerable shelter, nor (if our author is to
be credited,) a timber tree of value. He
says, in describing its properties, " As a
*' timber tree, however, it is of little use ;
" being only valued by the wheel-wrights,
" to which they prefer Birch and Beech."

Presumins; that the useful inferences
from the foregoing cannot escape the at^
tentive reader, I shall close my observa-
tions on the properties of the Scotch Fir
with remarking, that heathy soils and ele-
vated situations compose, jointly, at least
half the land likely to be planted for pro-

( 62 )

fit in this country ; and, therefore, consi-
dering that, in addition to its other proper-
ties, it is the only plant which will thrive
on the one, and the best primary shelter
on the other, it must alvvays be regarded
as one of most extensive usefulness *.

* The following is a striking, though by no means
a solitary, instance of prejudice, in regard to Scotch Fir
yimber.

A gentleman, who had a quantity of large trees
on fale, brought me a sample ; observing, that '' it
'* fetched only a very low price." As the timber seemed
in every respect good, except being somewhat knotty,
in consequence of having been grown in the manner
noticed at p. 28, it seemed evident to me, that nei-
ther the sellers nor buyers had more than very inade-
quate ideas of its value.— ——lu order to try this point,
in regard to the former, I had a conversation with the
person employed to sell it, in company with the owner,
on the properties of the Fir wood produced on that
estate ; when he expressed his decided opinion, that
'^ the Scotch Fir wood was very indifferent in quality.'*
However, on producing the above-mentioned sample,
he (not knowing where it had been grown) declared it
to possess " all the natural properties of Capital Tini,

( 63 )

It would be thought somewhat foreign
to the present subject to enlarge on the
properties of the other firs, commonly
cultivated as plants which are more orna-
mental than useful ; such as the American
Spruce, Silver Fir, Weymouth Pine,
Pineaster, &c. as all of them are dear,
some tender, and others apt to fail ou be-
ing removed; — still, as they are highly
ornamental in proper situations, and as
every plant which is so, adds something to
the real or marketable value of a place,
they clearly belong to the subject, and
will continue to do so, as long as taste
and nature shall equally contribute to the

*' ber ; and that he had great doubts if any soil in thii

*' country would produce its equal." This was the

more remarkable, as he was then in the daily habit of
superintending the sawyers, who were cutting up trees
«f the same age, and grown on the same spot of ground ;
many of which, being smaller in scantling, were, of
course, finer in grain, and more dense than the sample
produced.

( 64 )

formation of ornamental gardens. Of the
properties of their timber, however, I
have little to remark, except that, in eve-,
ry case, its density seems to increase with
age ; and if, as we have abundant reason
to believe, the durability of fir wood de-
pends principally upon the resinous mat-
ter found in it, there is no doubt but all
of them might be used for numerous build-
ing purposes, after having attained a rea-
sonable age.

In a book professing to develope the
principles of profitable planting, there
seems much propriety in particularly no-
ticing such trees as are in themselv^es high-
ly valuable, but which, from different
causes, are either not generally known, or
not in merited reputation. The species
now alluded to are — the Witch Elm, the
Huntingdon Willow, the Upland Willow,
the Black Italian Poplar, and the Hoary-
leaved Poplar or Abele.

( 65 )

First, The Witch or Scotch £/m.~This
tree is well known in some parts of the
country, where it grows spontaneously;
though but little in others, where it does
not ; — as planters hav^ generally consider-
ed it either as an inferior article, or as one
likely to do mischief in plantations, from
its quick and straggling manner of growth ;
nor do they seem to have at all consider-
ed, that if not the first in point of hardi-
hood, it certainly is one of the second ;
and the same may be said in regard to the
variety of the soils in which it grows
freely.

The western part of the West-Riding of
Yorkshire is rather proverbial, for the
coldness of its atmosphere, while much
of its soil is retentive and thin, upon a
clay bottom. On these, where the ap-
pearance of most other trees proclaims
the want of proper accommodation, the
lengthened shoots and increasing trunks

(66 )

of this evidently evince the contrary.—
Certainly on every situation and soil, not
peculiarly bleak or sterile, it is a quick
grower; while it would appear, that its
timber is quite as good, if not better^ than
the other species of Elms ; and, there-
fore, one would suppose it merited gene-
ral attention.

It has happened, however, that, in ad-
dition to the awkward mode of growth
already noticed, there is a very prevalent
mistake concerning it, which requires to be
obviated. — In the quarters where it is best
known, the carpenters esteem it highly,
but generally call it, the English Elm ;
while, in the nurseries, a very different
article goes by that name ; and hence,
where the former is intended, the latter is
commonly procured at a much superior
price ; and no wonder, as they are either
raised from layers, (a very tedious pro-
cess,) or are grafted on the Witch Elm ;

( 67 )

which method is certainly preferable, as
far as regards the purchaser ; for such
not only grow abundantly faster tha^^i the
others, in equal soils, but never throw
out suckers ; as the Witch Elm produces
none.

The objection already stated, to plant-
ing this tree in mixed plantations, de-
serves attention, as there are few situa-
tions where it would not overtop, and
consequently damage many other sorts ;
of course, as a principal, it had best be
planted alone. Yet such plantations would
be much improved, by introducing a
quantity of Spruce and Scotch Firs, with
the Birch, by way of nurses ; as all the
four sorts would do well together on a
stiff and somewhat thin soil, where many
others would not.— The shelter would ve-
ry much correct the propensity of the
Elms to produce straggling branches, as
well as promote their towering ; besides

( 68 )

taking off the appearances of naked stems,
and a square heavy surface ; while the
pruning necessary wo-uld be very trifling
indeed.

In recommending this plant for an in-
different soil, it is not to be inferred that
it is improper for almost every descrip-
tion of good ones ; as perhaps few trees
would so well deserve such situations, in
the vicinity of places where it may be
wanted for the purposes of the boat buil-
der, cartwright, &c.

The Huntingdon or Swallow-Tail JVil"
low. — ^T'his plant, though well known as a
pollard, has been very little cultivated as a
timber tree; and hence furnishes a striking
instance of the supineness of mankind, in
regard to the properties of many sorts of
wood. Every one knows the willows are
quick growers ; and yet it is considered
as a sort of heresy to suspect that the wood

( 69 )

of any of them can be at all durable. —
Tliere is beside an objection to this wil-
low, inasmuch as it usually divides itself
into a number of large arms, before it ac-
quires any tolerable length of stem; — this
defect, however, is to be imputed entirely
to ignorance or inattention ; as few trees
require so little management to be made
grow with a long, clean, and straight
trunk.

As a pollard, this willow is, in many
places, found considerably profitable; still
I do not recollect to have seen a rood of
it growing as timber any where, though
no doubt can be entertained of its obtain-
ing purchasers ; as, with extensive useful-
ness, it is also considerably durable; a
property which it appears may be much
augmented, by steeping some months in
water, as is frequently done with oak sap-
lings ; an excellent practice, and worthy
of imitation every where.

( 70 >

If the question were asked, in which
way I thought a quantity of good, deep^
and somewhat-^moist land, in a situation
not exposed, nor possessing any local ad-
vantages, could be turned to the greatest
profit? I should say, — by planting it with
some or all of the following articles, name-
ly, the Huntingdon Willow, the Abele,
and the Black Italian Poplar ; as all of
them succeed best in that sort of Soil, are
remarkably quick growers, and would
(except in the first instance) require only
the same sort of management.

The advantage of a deep soil over such
as are shallow, so far as regards the pro-
duction of timber, are considerable, and
well worth the planter's attention; though
it may fairly be questioned, if more than
a foot in depth essentially benefits the ge-
neral purposes of agriculture ; — For, first,
trees generally penetrate into or make use
of the whole depth; and, therefore, though

( 71 )

the soil nearest the surface is commonl j
found most fertile in timber produce, and
it is admitted that the same sort of fertility
which influences the growth of grain and
grass materially affects the growth of trees,
—yet it is obvious the latter will thrive in
soils where the former would not ; — and,
therefore, the quantity or depth of soils is
always an important consideration ; and
more especially so where proper species
of trees are selected to suit them ; as it i?
difficult to describe any that are so com-
pletely sterile as to be incapable of produ-
cing one or more sorts of useful timber.

Another consideration is, — on deep
soils the trees cannot fail to vegetate some-
what regularly, through the whole of their
proper growing season ; being but little
affected by the droughts, which often very
materially retard the growth of such as
are planted on thin ones. — The reasons
are obvious: — ^Roots that are near the sur-

( ys )

face, in a parched soil, cannot extend them-
selves in search of the necessary food of the
plant, otherwise than very slowly; and
hence its increase is retarded in propor-
tion.— But how different is the case of such
as have part of their roots lower than any
considerable degree of drought can pene-
trate ; as, at such seasons, the lower soil,
being acted upon by the warmth and
drought so detrimental in the other case,
are best qualified to assist in the business
of vegetation; and, therefore, the roots in
them not only materially contribute to
support the head of the plant, but to en-
able the others to perform their proper
functions. A healthy tree has a general
circulation through every part of it ; so
that if one has what may be called ne-
cessaries, the others are never found in
want. Besides all which, the surface of
deep soils cannot be affected by ordinary
droughts, to any considerable depth ; — as
the heat and drought acting upon them

( 73 )

occasion their imbibing a considerable
quantity of moisture from below. In short,
it is amono; the advantasces attached to
planting trees, that, in numerous instances,
they convert the useless into useful:
They are, in fact, a sort of miners, who
can find gold, where every other descrip-
tion of miners would seek for it in vain.

Two circumstances jointly hold out
peculiar inducements to plant these trees
in such places, as they not only soon grow
strong enousfh to be in no danger of da-
mage from cattle ; but they grow so ex-
ceedingly tall, that the land may soon be
returned into pasturage, and become no
less productive in grass than before, while
there is an astonishing annual increase in
the produce of timber. — Most people must
have observed, how freely the grass grows
under the willow pollards, which have
short stems and spreading heads, though
not more than ten or twelve feet asunder;

F

( 74 )

an(i, therefore, no doubt need be enter-
tained in regard to the herbage, if tlie trees
had stems of four or five times that lenirth.
and stood fifteen orciirhteenfeet from each
other. — Indeed, taking into account the
manure, (or, at least, the rich vegetable
matter, furnished by the decomposition of
fallen leaves,) it seems highly probable
that land, so cropped, would produce
more pasturage than another part of the
same field, employed for that purpose
only.

Here two mclhods, of preparing the
soil for such a purpose, present themselves:
The first is trenching the ground about
eighteen inches, or, what is called, two
spits deep ; laying the sward reversed in
the bottom of the trenches. — This method
would certainly very much accelerate the
growth of the trees, but then the expence
of it would be from seven to nine pounds
per acre ; and that is not the only objec-
3

( 75 )

tion; for, as the ground would be turned
up lower than the common fertile depth,
it would be found only in few cases in a
condition to bring a crop of grain the
first year, with the plants ; a matter well
calculated to reduce the expence of plant-
ing, &c.

For this reason, I should recommend
that land, previously in grass and intended
for such purposes, should be sown with
oats the year preceding; and, in order to
the swards being as much rotted as possi-
ble, the ploughing for that crop should
be done early in winter. In the autumn
following, on the ground being cleared
and sufficiently moist, it should be plough*
ed at least twice ; as deep as the plough
€ould possibly reach, and harrowed after
each operation ; so that it would be suffi-
ciently broken to receive the plants, with
a crop of oats, the following spring,. The
latter, however, should, in the first place,

F2

( 76 )

be sown and harrowed in ; after which,
the planting should immediately follow ;
as it might be done on soils so prepared,
without materially injuring the grain ;
for, with respect to the -willows, a niche,
made with the spade, w^ould be sufficient
to let in the set ; — and, as to the Abeles
and Poplars, they should be of only
one year's growth ; and, therefore, might
be planted, without moving much of
the soil.

The best willow sets, for such purpo-
ses, are made from shoots of two years'
growth, of not less than about three quar-
ters, nor more than one and a half inch
diameter. The length may be from ten
to twelve inches ; of which, not more than
two are to be left out of the ground. —
These sets should have their tops a little
sloping, but the bottoms are better cut
somewhat square. The distance be-
tween each plant should be four feet.

> ( 77 )

The only further attention necessary,
during the summer, would be to go over
the willows, as soon as they had formed
shoots from three to six inches long, and
to slip off all, except the strongest, from
each set ; after which, neither they nor
the poplars would require further dres-
sing, till both had grown two summers,
from being planted ; and then they would
properly come under the general system
recommended for the management of
plantations in The Forest Pruner,

The fence for such a purpose, being
only a temporary matter, might be cheap-
ly made by sinking a ditch about half a
yard, and raising a bank, about fifteen
inches more. A hedge, or bearding, on
the top of it, about a foot high, and
placed rather projecting outwards, would
complete the business. This should stand

( 78 )

six or eight years, and be then displaced,
so as to leave the field level as bel'ore*.

* Fully aware that the success of planting specula,
tions must be influenced by many yarying circumstances,
I seldom venture upon calculations; still, by reasoning
from the rapid growth of the sorts of trees under no-
tice, upon every soil that is proper, we find a sort of
criterion by v»hich to form an average estimate of what
may be the profit of them; before and after the first
seven years from planting. — It would seem a moderate
estimate to suppose that two crops of grain, from good
land, previously old sward, would defray the rent and
taxes for the two first years, and, also, the expence of
planting and fencing ; but were it to prove a few
Pounds short, that would not materially affect the ulti-
mate result. Suppose then the rent and taxes to be
Three Pounds Ten Shillings annually, that, with cora-
ppund interest, would in seven ye9.rs amount to about
Twenty-eight Pounds Ten Shillings. — To this we op-
pose the supposition that the plantation increases in
•yialHc, Five Pounds the first year ; and to increase mere
by Thirty Shillings the next, and so on for siX years ;
at the end of seven the acre would be worth Sixty-seven
Pounds Ten Shillings, a profit of about Thirty-nine
Pounds.

( 79 )

The Upland or Red-twigged Willoxi\ —
Why this tree has obtained the appellation
of Upland is by no means cleai*, but pro-
bably it has been supposed to grow better
than the other Willows in such situations;
which seems not to be the fact, as the
Huntingdon Willow grows very rapidly on

Observe, it is not said the trees would then be worth
so much to sell, as that is by no means the proper mode
of valuing a thriving plantation ; the right method is to
have a regard to what may be their probable future in-
creased value ; and by that means to estimate their present
one ; as, for instance, a quick growing tree, now only
worth Six-pence to sell, may easily be worth Eighteen-
pence in four years more ; and hence there could be ho
impropriety in valuing it now at Nine-pence, or one third
more than its present saleable worth.

About the age of seven ye5,rs tlje thinning should
commence ; and, therefore, an annual produce might
be had from that time forward ; but as no data exist,
by which to estimate its value, the safer method is to
calculate upon an increasing annual produce for at least
ton years longer ; during all Avhich time, as well as
afterwards, no doubt need be entertained of an annual

( so )

a dry soil, of moderate depth. — However
as neither of them flourish so abundantly,
there, as on moist ones, they are never like-
ly to be cultivated extensively, except up-
on the latter. Probably, in different parts
of the country, the two species may be
known by names very different from the
above, but still it is evident they are every
where esteemed in preference to the others,
as we very rarely find a Willow Pollard of
any other sort. — In summer they may ea-

produce of Twenty Pounds per acre, besides the valae
of the herbage, from the time of the fence being dis-
placed.

Evelyn, speaking of the Abele, says, ** the Dutch
** look upon a plantation of these trees as an ample
*' portion for a daughter, and none of the least effects
** of their good husbandry." — We know that this ex.
cellent hint was addressed more than one hundred and
forty years ago to thousands who had the means of be-
nefiting by it, and yet, how lamentable! — we are yet
to learn where is the single acre that was planted in
consequence ! ! !

( 81 )

sily be distinguished at a very considerable
distance, as the Huntingdon appears of
a light green, while those of the other,
though darker in fact, appear of a hoary
or silver-like hue ; in consequence of be-
ino* covered with a sort of down. — In

o

winter we distinguish them by the shoots
of the former being brown, and some-
what brittle, especially those from two to
four years' growth ; while those of the
other are of a dark red, and very tough.
Their manner of growth and shape of the
leaves are much the same ; nor does there
appear any material difference in the tim-
ber or quality of their wood ; — still, in
almost every instance, the Huntingdon
appears to be the quickest grower; and,
therefore, where it can be procured, most
worthy of attention*. — The plate of the

* It would have been particularly gratifying io have
been able to produce some decisive proof of the durabi-
lit}' of these sorts of Willows ; but as I can state nothing
positive from my own knowledge, it must suffice to

( 82 }

Willow in Hunter's Evelyn's Silva, gives
a very correct idea of this species.

Undoubtedly these Willows are both
calculated for extensive usefulness, as
Timber, but unfortunately, for want of a
good method of training them as trees, in
the first instance, and, in consequence of
very limited and vague ideas of their pro-
perties, they remain, as from time imme-
morial, classed ^mong the woods of lowest
value.

The Black Italian Foplar. — As this
species is not mentioned in either Evelyn
or Millar, it seems to have been introdu-
ced into the country since the latter work.
An opinion which, I think, is confirmed
by the circumstance, that no old trees of

remark that every t!hing I have gathered from either
the observations of myself or others, goes to establish the
(act ; while not one circumstance has appeared (prejudiae
t'xcpp'ted) to discredit it.

( 83 )

it are to be found any where; and, though
it is now common in the northern part of
England, we very rarely find it in the
south ; while the Lombardy rears its un-
graceful form every where.

Unfortunately, most persons take their
ideas of the Poplar tribe from the appear^
ance of this plant only ; — an impression
so far unfavourable, that, with many, the
whole species are in disgrace. — But though
expectations (which were much too san-
guine) have been, in a measure, disap-
pointed, in regard to the liOmbardy Pop-
lar, it by no means follows that such will
be the case with the Black Italian : — in-
deed, matter of fact proves, that, as the
one sinks, the other rises in the scale of
estimation, so far as they are known : —
and hence, with myself, it is matter of
doubt, whether the very extraordinary en-
comiums which used to be lavished on the
former, at its introduction, were not,, in

( 84 )

fact, founded upon the merits of the lat-r
ter.

It is quite as likely that the Poplars
of Italy, in general, should have been ob^
served, as those of Lombardy in particu-
lar; and it is far from clear that both are
not grown in every part of the country ;
and, therefore, a very trifling mistake
might lead to the consequence now allu-
ded to. We know that the merits of

the one are abundantly superior to that of
the other; but why the latter should have
been introduced by so many encomiums,
and the other none, is difficult to conceive,
except by supposing, that, somehow or
other, they have exchanged both names
and reputations.

The Black Italian is ver^^ different from
the Lombardy in form, as it almost uni-
formly rises with a light but regular conic
head; being so hardy as generally to pre^

( 85 )

serve the same leader, from the ground to
an immense height; in consequence, its
stem is remarkably straight ; and hence,
in plantations, very trifling attention will
form it clean, to any reasonably required
height.

This tree is an astonishingly quick
grower, on every sort of soil that may be
called tolerable, though it certainly luxu-
riates most of all in deep fertile ones; while
its timber is applicable to purposes suffi-
ciently numerous; among which is that of
making very good floors ; and, therefore,
no doubt need be entertained of its al-
ways commanding purchasers.

In that sort of planting which perhaps
may be considered as most of all profitable,
namely, that which adds to the comfort
and consequence, and, of course, the value
of a place, previously scantily furnished
with that important appendage — Wood,
2

( 86 )

this tree is excellent ; as, in j udicious hands,
it may be made to produce very consider-
able effects, while many others (highly
esteemed) would produce them in prospect

only. In short, for distant scenery,

where Wood, not species, is the immediate
object, this plant, hitherto in many places
a stranger, is clearly superior to all the
family of the forest*.

* As the Lombardy Poplar is well known from its
peculiar erect manner .of growth, it allords the easy
means of describing the Black Italian by comparison. —
The leaves of both are very much alike ia colour,
shape, and turn, the only difference being in the latter
producing them somewhat larger than the former,
though not near so large as the other Poplars, whose
leaves are at all similar. The branches of the latter
grow much less erect, and, likewise, much thinner up-
on the stem. — The only other distinction necessary is
the bark, which on a stem or branch, of from two to
four or five years' growth, is always found smoother, and
pf a much darker colour than any of the poplars that are
1.t all like It in other respects.

( 87 )

The Abele or Hoary-leaved Toplar.-^
In bringing this article under notice, I can-
not help remarking on the utility of an
author introducing samples, in preference
to mere descriptions of valuable woods,
hitherto but little known and less under-
stood, as is the case with the present sub-
ject ; certainly it was something like this
that first convinced me of its extraordinary
worth; as, though in common with other
people, I have been in the habit of read-
ing descriptions of the Abele, it was not
till a late visit to my honoured patron
Lord Sheffield, at Sheffield-Place, Sussex,
that I had any clear idea^ of its being
iWiy other tlian a white, and, also, a light

As, in my professional excursions, southwards, I have
been generally disappointed of meeting with the article at
the nurseries, and have frequently had other sorts substi-
tuted in its place, there can be no impropriety in saying
here, that, ■whoever finds a difRcuIty in procuring it, may
be furnished with the troe sort, of any useful size, by ad-
■dre^ssing a line to the authoi'.

( 88 )

^vood, of extremely quick growth, and ra-^
ther inferior than superior to the general
sample of poplars*

That Nobleman, who upon every pro-
per occasion manifests a decided parti-
ality for national produce, has lately made
some Floors of this Wood, which, in
appearance, are superior to any floor I
have seen, whether of Deal or Oak;
and, as to durability, I see no reason to
doubt of that, if the density and weight
of the article be considered, in connec-
tion with such testimonies as books af-
ford relative to the point. — Floors, how-
ever, are only one of the many inferior
purposes for which it is applicable; as it is
certainly proper for almost every article
of furniture usually made of mahogany.
For the lighter descriptions of it, now so
fashionable, it may be made a ver}^ good
substitute, without any other addition to
the natural colour of its heart than ih^

( 89 )

means cabinet-makers generally resort to,
in order to heigliten the colour of such
wood ; and with respect to the sap, and
where more of colour is required, the aqua-
fortis stain will instantaneously produce it,
so far as that it would be difficult to dis-
tinguish it from real Mahogany. — Indeed,
it is equal to the best, in colour and smooth-
ness of surface; and much superior to the
plain or inferior sorts in those respects, as
well as transparency and variety ; and it
has the further advantage over Mahogany,
and most other woods, that it takes but
little of either oil or rubbing, to produce
upon it the sort of mellow shining surface,
so much admired in furniture that has been
some years subjected to proper attention*.

* It is evident, that notwithstanding all which has
been said by authors, (and certainly they have been
by no means sparing of their encomiums on the timber
of the Abele,) something more is necessary to induce
men to either plant it liberally, or take proper care of
what they have growing. If the improved samples,

G

( 90 )

Planting on Steeps. — As these are situ-
ations confessedly unpropitious to the
cullivators of the soil, they naturally fall
under the cognizance of planters. — But,
though most of these can easily see the
propriety of planting them, few are ap-

produced with this treatise, added to the circumstanc*
of the plainer sorts of mahogany being now worth Sixteen
Shillings the solid foot, produce no beneficial effects, I
shall say that prejudice has indeed usurped the place of
common sense.

Lord Sheffield, who kindly furnished me with the wood
for samples, has several extremely large and tall trees of
this species, most of which have been planted rather for
ornament than use, being in the avenues. — They are some-
what brittle, and, therefore, liable to be broken by th«
winds on exposures ; some of his Lordship's have suffered
in this way ; after which they very much resemble th«
trees so much admired in the pictures of Salvator Rosa;
who most probably took a hint from their picturesque

appearance. Nor has Homer done them less honour,

as the following description evidently alludes to thif
tpecies only, the appearance of all the other sorts being
very different :

( 91 )

prized how peculiarly they are adapted
to the purpose ; or that there are five
respects in which they are clearly superior
to levels.

So falls a Poplar, that, in watery ground,

Rais'd high its head, with stately branches crowri'd^

(Fell'd by some artist with his shining steel,

To shape the circle of the bending wheel,)

Cut down it lies, tall^ smooth^ and largely spread^

With all its beauteous honours on its head.

Pope.

From this we gather, that the wood was then in use for
making wheels, (perhaps, water wheels ; and, if so, it
furnishes a proof of its durability in moisture : — but if not,
it shows the high opinion then entertained, of the strength
and toughness of its timber.)

There is a yariety of this poplar, which the planter,
who wishes for quick growth, will do well to keep clear
of. Its leaves are rather less, with a surface somewhat
more shining, and of a darker green. The underside of
the leaves is whiter as the down is finer, and lies much
closer than that on the others. This does not grow near
so quick as the other, and usually goes by the name of the
Shining.leaved Poplar.

G2

( 92 )

First. — ^They admit of a greater quantU
ty of trees being planted upon an acre, or
otherwise they allow to every one an
increased quantity of surface.— To de-
monstrate this fact, which has been long
and freq'ieiitly the subject of dispute, we
have only to observe, that, in measuring
a steep, the dimensions of its base, and
not the surface, is or ought to be taken :
of course, on steeps similar to the annex-
ed figure, the base and the surface differ

( 93 )

as five to four; and, therefore, in soils of
equal depth, a saving of one in five is
clearly gained, by planting upon such a
steep. Where the ascent is less, the sa-
ving will be less in proportion.

Secondly. — Trees planted on steeps
have likewise an increased quantity of air.
To prove this, we have to consider that
as, upon the average, each tree must rise
above its fellow, equal to the proportion
of the ascent, so each will have so much
the greater quantity of surface exposed
to the influence of the atmosphere : —
where a moderate portion of that is want-
ing, we may have trees tall, but they will
be proportionably weak ; where too much
is admitted, they will be stiff, but short; a
steep serves, in some degree, to moderate
the two extremes ; and, therefore, as well
as on account of the increased surface, it
is evident, that more timber may be rear-
ed upon them than upon levels.

( 94 )

If the face of a steep be concave or
convex, or partially so, the trees will be
more sheltered than if it present a more
even surface ; as, in either case, the cur-
rent of the wind, instead of sweeping in a
straight direction among the stems, or
upon the summit, will be broken in par-
ticular places ; and hence much of its
force will be lost.

Thirdly. — On steeps, trees are more
sheltered than on levels of equal eleva-
tion. In considering this matter, two
points of the compass are out of the ques-
tion ; as when the wind blows along the
steep, its effects must be much the same
as from blowing along levels. When it
blows from behind, or down such steep,
there will be a calm among the trees,
except such as are near the summit. But,
to counterbalance this advantage, it may
be supposed, that, when the wind blows
up the steep, its force will be consider-

( 95 )

ably augmented, by what is added in
the ascent ; which certainly must be the
case, so long as the surface is somewhat
bare. The matter, however, becomes
materially different, so soon as the trees get
a few feet high ; as, from that time, the
wind has to travel over a sort of hollow
surface, and, in doing so, great part of it
sinks in, and dies away among the branches.

Fourthly. — It appears that, by plant-
ing on steeps, more of the adjoining lands
will be sheltered, than by planting the
same quantity of ground on a plain. —
Here, for the same reason as in the last
case, two points of the compass must be
left out of the question.— As to the plain
beneath, it will be completely sheltered
to a considerable distance, provided the
planting extend to the summit of the hill;
as the trees will have a tendency to throw
the current of the wind considerably above
the level of the plain at its feet.

( 96 )

The effects of the winds blowing up
a steep have been mentioned : — on this
head it is to be noted, that tlie effect on the
grounds beyond the steep will be obser-
vable at distances, in proportion to the
strength of the blast ; certainly the most
violent will operate at the greatest : — for
as the wind, in driving up a steep, gets
augmented by the level current, it, by
that means, becomes so powerful as to
drive the current, which otherwise would
sweep along the summit, to some height
above it ; when the strength of both
being reduced, by resisting each other,
they descend to the ground together,
at a distance from the top of the hill ;
greater or less in proportion to the level
of the surface ;■— where the ground falls,
the shelter operates to an extent almost
beyond credibility.

On levels, the current of wind sweeps
immediately along the heads of the trees,

{.97 )

from one end of the plantation to the
other ; while very little of its force is lost
by sinking in among the branches*. — Cer-
tainly such situations present nothing con-

* At Stanmer, near Brighton, the seat of Earl
Chichester, several of the tops of the hills, which are
directly opposed to the sea-breeze, hare been planted:
in these cases, many of the verges of the plantations
exhibit a close front, quite from the ground ; some-
thing similar to that of a clipped hedge, but, sloping
much the same as the ground below them. The height
of the front ranks of the trees differing, in proportion,
as they approach to or recede from the brinks of the
steeps while almost every branch and twig bends from
the blast. This circumstance, added to that of the trees
having been planted very thick, and each producing a
flat head, serves to conduct the whole current of the wind
to every part of the plantations within its reach ; in con-
sequence, no tree can tower there, (the Scotch fir ex-
cepted,) otherwise than as they rise en masse. To re-
medy the evil in some degree, I have advised to thin ssch
fronts considerably; as, by that means, much of the
current will sink in, and be lulled among the front trees ;
which, in themselves, can only be valuable as shelters
to the others.

( 98 )

siderable, either to break, elevate, or dissi-
pate it ; and, therefore, it must fall to the
ground, not only much nearer, but with
much greater force than in the other case ;
and hence the effect of the shelter will be
proportionably less.

In many situations, advantages may be
gained, by planting the higher parts of
steeps with the tallest and quickest grow-
ers; as such means produce a sort of
concave summit, which absorbs more of
the wind than an inclined plane; and
likewise throws the remainder higher ; of
course, its descent would be at a greater
distance, and the shelter increased accord-
ingly.

Fifthly. — As whatever is ornamental,
adds not only to the ideal but the mm^-
ketable, and, of course, the real value of
an estate, we may observe, that planting
on steeps has an extraordinary claim to

( 99 )

attention, as producing one of the noblest
species of scenery, at an expence which,
compared with that of most other im-
provements, must be considered as tri-
fling in the extreme.— I need not dwell
on a feature which may be called equally
bold and beautiful, A Hanging Wood;
as that is universally acknowledged ; — but
may just touch on some matters not so
generally known : — for instance, contrast-
ed with planting on a plane, that on a
steep gives the idea of abundantly more
in quantity ; as, on a plane, most of the
ground seems to be lost, except from some
particular point where a bird's-eye view
can be had of the trees. — The whole sur-
face of a steep, on the contrary, may ge-
nerally be seen from many points ; and,
when covered with wood, always appears
larger than its real dimensions.

It should be observed here, that, to
give the greatest possible idea of size,

( 100 )

the higher termination of such planting
should, by extending beyond the summit,
be hid from the principal points of view,
and more especially so when it serves to
bound a lawn or park ground. When such
is the case, and the plantation is of consi-
derable length, it should have one or more
large breaks through it; as these, with the
concealed termination of the planting,
would give the idea of continuation to such
ground, and the woods would appear to be
Jarge and within them, instead of proclaim-
ing, as it were, their termination, and ex-
hibiting, at the same time, a stripe of plant-
ing perfectly inconsiderable*.

* The delightful residence of Blythe, near Bawtry,
inll soon present a striking practical instance, of the
effects which may be produced by the sort of planting
just mentioned. The park grounds, in front of the
mansion, are chiefly flat ; but, to the left, are termina-
ted by rising grounds, planted : — the two ends with
Oak, the centre with Firs : the whole showing clear-
ly that the Park ends there. At the same time, the

( 101 )

When the surface of a steep to be
planted happens to be somewhat regular,
or an inclined plane, and the higher part
of such planting will be seen from be-
low, the object then is to improve and
not conceal it : as in the latter case. — For

faeavy appearance of the firs point out from tire house,
ikitiT own termination, as well as that of the oaks,
which otherwise would not be discovered, as they ex-
tend somewhat beyond the summit of the hill. It hap-
pens, that the winds have torn up many of the firs,
and the rest are by no means in a thriving state; I
have, therefore, suggested the propriety of taking them
down, and converting that space into grass ; which will
present the idea of the park ground being continued
between two considerable oak woods; as the view will
only be terminated either by the horizon, or trees, at not
less than three miles distance. I may observe too^ that
at present, there is no approach to the place from which
it can be seen otherwise than partially, and to great
disadvantage; a defect which the proposed means will
completely remove ; as from a road, situated just be-
yond the highest point of the intended break, all the
fine features of the place will instOTitaneously burst upoa
the traveller J. !

( 102 )

this purpose, some of the tallest and quick-
est growing trees may be introduced into
the highest side of it, as mentioned under
the last head ; — as such means would, at
once, increase the apparent size of the
planting, and the height of the hill ; and,
at the same time, present a sort of con-
cave surface, which w^ould be consider-
ed as abundantly more bold and beau-
tiful, than one either convex or an incli-
ned plane.

Adopting of Species, best of all suited
to the soils, is a matter well worthy of the
planter's most deliberate consideration :
certainly they who neglect it, have no
well founded claim to the appellation of
Profitable Planters. — Nothing can be more
absurd than the planting of extensive
tracts with many sorts, confessedly with
an eye to profit, without due regard to
selection; for though, in most soils, any of
the common sorts of forest trees will grow,

( 303 )

yet, in almost every instance, some one or
more will be found luxuriating abundant-
ly more than the others ; and, hence, it
is the planter's business to use his utmost
sagacity to ascertain the species, either be-
fore he begins, or, at least, before he has
made much progress in the business.

In doing this, I would seriously caution
him against trusting to Theory, provided
more satisfactory means prove within his
reach; a circumstance very seldom want-
ing.— ^The method I have generally adopt-
ed, when consulted upon such subjects, is
to make an excursion among the trees
in the neighbourhood, and to examine
the soil where any sort or sorts are
found most thriving, in order to determine
how far it corresponds with that intended
to be planted.— In fact, I never give a de-
cided opinion till repeated ohservatiom
have satisfied myself as to the most proper
species.

( 104 )

It will readily be supposed, that, in do-
ing so, an old planter cannot easily divest
himself of what he has previously learned;
and hence should it prove, that the spe-
cies, supposed to be most proper, was not
found growing in the neighbourhood, in-
quiry should be made for the nearest place
where it might be met with on a similar
soil, or as nearly so as circumstances would
admit ; by which means, it could rarely
happen but the selection would prove
very good, if not the best which the soil
admitted of.

Perhaps the necessity for such observa-
tions will be evident, upon considering,
that every soil, exhibiting the same sort of
appearance, does not possess exactly the
same sort of properties. — For instance, on
stiff soils, the Larch has, of late years, failed
very much ; which, however, does not
prove that some of them are not well calcu-
lated for the article ; as, at Woburn, the/
4

( 105 )

grow as well upon soils moderately stiff, as
upon the sand ; which circumstance, I pre-
sume, may be impvited to the former being
considerably calcareous, or what may be
called a species of Marl. — On chalk lands,
we observe the soils on the surfaces to dif-
fer materially ; some are very stiff, and
others very light, and yet the Larch is
found to grow freely on both descriptions ;
which may probably be imputed to the
cause just noticed, namely, the calcareous
matter found in them.

Again, the Oak is generally observed
to flourish most on a loamy or somewhat
stiff soil, often where it is very much so ;
but yet I do not recollect to have seen it
flourish abundantly on stiff calcareous soils
any where; though it will be readily ad-
mitted, that on some of them it grows
much better than on others.

H

( W6 )

The soil about Sheffield-place, before
mentioned, produces timber in general,
quicker than any other which has fallen
under my particular observation ; and,
what is most remarkable, the Oak and the
Larch flourish equally upon it; though it
would seem loo light for the former, and
too stiff for the latter*.

Again: — It appears, that the growth
of several sorts of trees is materially affect-

* In order to ascertain the constituent parts of this soil,
ao remarkable for the production of timber, Professor
Davy submitted one hundred parts of the entire soil to
%p^ysi$i, which produced th? following result :

Water 3

Silex 54

Alumlne ...» ^

Carbonate of Lime 3

Oxide of Iron $

Decomposing Vegetable Matter . « 4

Loss . « 3

100

C 107 )

ed by the degree of mineral taint found
in the soil ; — a circumstance which never
directly meets the eye. — Above Mines,
and in theirneighbourhood, we seldom find
the timber growing freely. The Larch
seems particularly averse to such situations,
while the Oak and Witch Elm appear less
affected by them than timber trees in ge-
neral. In short, it may be safely as-
serted, that, though experience will gene-
rally enable us to form a pretty accurate
judgment of the species most proper for
any given soil, yet observation added to it,
will furnish a much safer guide ; and, there-
fore, no one is excusable in neglecting it.

When the planter has fully availed
himself of the foregoing general observa-
tions, he may probably find an advantage
in attending to the following descrip-
tions of the soils, upon which the more
useful species of Forest Trees will grow
and thrive,

H2

( 108 )

First, The Oak. — This generally seems
to grow quickest on a deep and somewhat
stiiFsoil, but yet any person of observation
must have seen that it grows well on every
species that can be called good. On sand
and very stiff clays it will grow too, but
very slowly ; and therefore, an attempt
to raise it on such cannot be considered
as profitable planting.

The Ash — Grows most freely on a
deep loamy soil, more particularly if it be
in a considerable degree calcareous. — It
likewise grows well on the more tenacious
sorts of Bog Earth, after they have been,
drained. Generally^ we may remark, that
its quickness of growth depends upon a
tolerable quantity of moisture, and not a
small one of what may be called natural
fertility, of which it is a prodigious con*
sumer. — However the toughest, and, of
course, the best Ash, in quality, is usually

( 109 )

found to be produced on a soil lights but
neither very moist nor fertile.

The Elm. — Under another head (see
p. 65,) the properties of the Broad-leaved
Witch or Scotch Elm have been noticed.
The Narrow-leaved, or what is usually
called, in the Nurseries,The English Elm*,
is rarely found in plenty, except where
the soil is dri/, light, and moderately rich.
— It is true, we often find it thrivins:
tolerably, in plantations, avenues, &c.
where the soil is stiff, moist, and poor ; but,
in such cases, it will generally be found,
upon examination, that it has been grafted,
as is usual, upon the Witch Elm ; and
hence on these, as on every other soil, its
growth is considerably accelerated.

* It is probably called English Elm, from the cir-
cumstances of its abounding in the hedges, in many-
parts of the country ; but, since I have never known it
to produce seed, and know that in such places it pio»
pagates itself by suckers, I think it improperly so called.

( 110 )

Among both men and books, it re*
mains matter of dispute, whether the tim-
ber of the English or Witch Ehn is best.
Undoubtedly each may be preferable for
particular purposes ; and certainly they
must differ in quality, in some degree, from
the circumstances of age, soil, &;c. Such
a dispute, however, seems proof sufficient
that both are very good; and therefore,
choice, and the situations may determine
the sort to be planted, provided it be du-
ly noted, that the latter grows most freely
oil every soil, and that the former grows but
very slowly on indifferent ones ; except it
has been grafted upon the latter *.

* I have lately procured a new sort, apparently a
variety of the Witch Elm, which grows quite as erect as
the English, and abundantly quicker than either that or
the former. If the timber do not prove of inferior quality,
it will be a valuable acquisition, in both useful and orna-
mental planting ; as, in a few years, it may be sold at the
iame price as the grafted English Elms.

( 111 )

The Beech. — This tree may be said to
be peculiarly the inhabitant of dry soils,
including sand, gravel, and chalk ; on all of
which it grows very freely. On stiff ones
too it will grow, but not near so well ; and
hence it deserves no place on them, other-
wise than for shelter, or to produce variety.

The Spanish Chesnut — ^This tree, like
the last, is found to thrive best in a dry soil;
and like it too, will make prodigious pro-
gress where it is far from rich. — On sandy
Ones, where the oak would make but
slow progress, I have seen this grow ex-
tremely quick; and, therefore, in such cases,
the latter should be substituted in the place
of the former. — Its wood and bark are
known to possess the same valuable pro-
perties as the Oak, in an eminent degree ;
while it is, in a measure, exempt from what
may be called its principal defect, namely,
the perishable nature of its sap or younger
wood.— Hop-poles and stakes of thiswoo4

( 112 )

are esteemed every where, for their great
durability, which, of course, have but little
of heart in them. On wet or stiff soils, in
the northern part of the island, the shoots
of this plant seldom get sufficiently ripen-
ed; and hence their extreme ends are often
killed by the winter's frosts ; and, there-
fore, attempts to raise it on them, for
timber, usually prove fruitless*.

* I have really been astonished to observe the rapid
progress of this plant on sandy soils ; more particularly
at Berry Hill, near Mansfield. If the proprietors of
lands in that quarter, who are anxious to raise oaks
upon them, would, instead of planting thousands of that
article upon an acre at a great expence, content them,
selves with planting two or three hundred small Ches-
nuts among Larch, Firs, &c. and take care to prune
them, either annually, or every second year, as they are
apt to form double heads and large branches ; and like-
wise take care the other trees did not over-top them, I am
persuaded they woald, at a very trifling expence, pro-
vide a snpply of the best species of timber, to succeed
the firs, &c. Perhaps, on the sandy soils in that quarter,
more planting is done and doing than oh five times thp

( 113 )

The Sycamore. — Perhaps few trees will
grow and even thrive (the Scotch Fir ex-
cepted) on a greater variety of soils than
the present subject ; for it seems to reject
none but Boss, and the most barren
heaths : still it evidently luxuriates most
of all on a deep and fertile loamy soil,
where, of course, it is not stinted in regard
to moisture. I have observed a large tree
of it growing freely on the side of a brook,
where a constant stream washed more than
half of its base; its other roots beins: in a
dry soil. This proves it thrives in a con-
siderable degree of wet; still it may have
too much ; for I have seen fine thriving:
trees, of twenty years* growth, killed by the
water soakins; from a stream on a hi^lier
level, and keeping the soil (naturally a dry
one) in which they grew, constantly wet.

same space in any other part of South Britain. — Should
the above hint be generally adopted, posterity will have
reason to say, It was well that ever the author traversed
SherxBood's barren Sands,

( lu )

Poplars and Willows. — Having already
introduced the Black Italian Poplar, with
the above, and the two best species of Wil-
lows for Timber, and shown what are their
most favourite soils, it needs only to be
added here, that, though they are all re-
garded as aquatic plants, all of them
which we consider as valuable for timber,
will thrive better in a very moderate than
a great degree of moisture ; and they will
also grow freely on a dry soil of tolerable
depth ; — nor do they refuse either a stiff
soil or a sand, provided they are not very
barren. — In truth, were we but half as
well apprised of the various purposes to
which their timber might be properly ap-
plied, as we are of the quickness of their
growth, I am persuaded they would then
be considered as subjects worthy of gene-
ral attention.

The Larch. — As the extraordinary va-
lue of this article gets, annually, better un-

( 115 )

derstood, there is so much the greater need
of clear ideas of the nature of the soil,
upon which it will ultimately succeed ;
for as, hitherto, it has been planted in-
discriminately on most sorts, and failed
generally on some, and partially on others,
there is some danger of its cultivation
being discouraged.

Why this plant should be attacked by
insects, on lands deep, rich, and good,
where it had previously grown well, while
it has continued to flourish in spite of be-
ing so attacked, on soils every way in-
ferior, seems extremely difficult to account
for; the fact, however, is obvious; and,
therefore, without indulging in objection-
able theories, we may certainly pronounce
it an unsafe speculation, to plant the ar-
ticle liberally on stiff, humid, or deep rich
soils, except they should likewise be con-
siderably calcareous.

( 116 )

Perhaps no part of South Britain has
suffered so much, from the ravages of the
insect, as the South-west part of York-
shire ; as there the best and richest lands
have suffered very generally. On the
moors, also, there are many instances of
considerable damage. O f the latter, how-
ever, it must be observed, that the crust or
surface, (a black moorish or heath soil,)
which is certainly unfavourable to the ar-
ticle, differs as much in depth as from five
to fifteen inches, and we frequently have
both extremes in the distance of three or
four yards. The second stratum is gene-
rally such as the plant will thrive in ; and
it is, likewise, in most places, of consider-
able depth; and hence it is that the trees,
planted in it, usually grow well from the
first ; while such as are planted in the sur-
face soil only, never make much progress,
till their roots have penetrated through it;
mean time, (of late years at least,) such

( 117 )

have been found almost uniformly infest-
ed with insects.

It should, also, be observed, that
though such under stratum is all of the
same colour (a reddish sort of sand), and
generally full of loose stones, it differs
materially in quality : — where the least
quantity of stones appears, the soil has
the least of grittiness, and there the Larch
succeeds the best ; — where the stones are
most plentiful, the soil proves proportion-
ably sharp, and there the plant thrives so
much the worse. Still, though the above
may be considered as a general result,
cases have occurred where the plants have
failed partially, where they had previous-
ly grown well, and where their roots were
(apparently at least) in the better sort of
soil only ; a circumstance which seems al-
most to puzzle conjecture. But still, if
two trees have grown nearly alike, and al-
most close to each other, for several years,

( lis )

and the one gets afterwards much infested
with insects, and the other very httle, we
may be sure there is a cause for the differ-
ence, and that it must be with the roots.
If the whole of one set continues to work
their way through a deep and favourable
soil, while a part of the others meets with
obstructions, from loose stones, with but
little of earth among them, or solid rock,
as must often be the case in these moors^
we shall then have accounted for the
cause, — a deficiency of earth and moisture.
One tree must, in consequence, be much
weaker than the other; and it is well
known, in. regard to fruit-trees, that such
are always most subject to be infested by
insects. Certainly nothing has yet ap-
peared to show, that a very large propor-
tion of these extensive heaths is not well
calculated for the production of this very
valuable tree, but past events have shown
the necessity for just and careful discri-
mination.

2

( 119 )

It is, indeed, highly consolatory to find,
by collecting facts from many distant
parts of the country, that though, on
most of the sandy and calcareous soils, the
insect has been very numerous, yet,
hitherto, its effects have been but little
prejudicial ; and, therefore, we may rea-
sonably conclude, that they are peculiarly
favourable to the plant ; and hence, on
them, its cultivation 7nay he most safely e.r-
tended. — Indeed, when we consider of
how little value many extensive tracts of
both descriptions are, for the general pur-
poses of agriculture, and how much the
reverse for the production of this article,
as well as many other species of timber,
we can assign no reason why more of them
are not planted, but that their value, in
that respect, has hitherto been but im-
perfectly understood.

As to the insect, there is reason to
hopQ that we have seen the most destruc-

( 120 )

tive of its efforts ; for, in the quarter that
has been mentioned as the scene of itg
former triumphs, as well as every other
which has come under my notice, its ra-
vages seem to have been upon the de-
crease for the four last seasons ; and,
during the present (1808), it has done so
little harm that, were it never again to
become more numerous, it might be con-
sidered as no longer formidable.

The Scotch Fir. — ^The astonishing man-
ner in which this plant accommodates it-
self to every description of soil, has been
mentioned, (see p. 54;) in addition to
which, it ma}^ be observed, that the only
cases in which it will not thrive is a bog,
too wet for any plant (aquatic excepted),
and a clay, too stiff for any part of the ve-
getable creation to thrive in. In the latter
case, the reason of the failure is obvious ;
and, as to the former, it can only be im-
puted to the moisture ; as, in a drained

( 121 )

bog, the plant luxuriates prodigiously. It
need not here be said, on what species of
soil this tree will thrive best, as it is rarely
planted with an eye to quick growth only;
nor do I think the matter clearly ascer-
tained ; and, therefore, it may be enough
to observe, that wherever any tree will
grow freely, (the aquatics excepted) the
Scotch fir will do the same. Its peculiar-
ly valueable properties, such as growing
on heath soils, and on exposures where no
other tree will thrive, have been particu-
larly attended to, p. 54 — 62.*

* It has often been observed, in the nurseries, that
this plant exhausts the soil less than any other ; as, after
ft crop of it, the ground is always found in a conditiou
to bear other articles. Whether this arises from the
circumstance of smothering it only, or from the plant
subsisting" on less quantity, or a difiFerent species of
nutriment, is not clear ; but, perhaps, all of them
may, in -some degree, contribute to produce the effect
4poken of. — We know, that it can subsist, and even
thrive,' on a nutriment which' would starve most other
trees ; and w« know too, that its roots being but little

( 132 )

The SpriLce Fir. — The proper soil for,
and the extraordinary value of this article,
have been noticed at length, p. 38 — 48,
and, therefore, here it seems necessary
only to press upon planters the advantages
of using the plant liberally, in order to
promote the towering of such deciduous
trees as are intended, ultimately, to form
the bulk of plantations.

Here I may particular!}^ remark, that
both authors and planters are in the
habit of erring egregiously, in regard to

fibrous, arc hence so mucli the less calculated to ex-
haust the soil. The Ash has already been noted as a
prodigious exhauster, but it only is so in proportion to
the extraordinary quantity of its fibres. Perhaps it
may be found, that plantations, mixed ^rilh Scotch Firs,
osually produce a greater weight of wood upon a given
»pace, than where it is excluded ; and, if so, it can only
be accounted for by supposing, that some or all of the
causes above cicntioned contribute to produce such aA
£fiVct.

( 123 )

the proportion of principals and nurses ;
as they generally use as many, or more, of
the former than the latter ; though it is very
easy to show, that they ought to use three
times as many of the latter as the former.
For instance, when trees are planted at
four feet apart, each occupies a surface of
sixteen feet ; of course four of them will
occupy sixty-four, or a square of eight
feet; and, therefore, if we plant three nur-
ses to one principal tree, all the former
might be displaced, gradually, and the lat-
ter would still stand only eight feet apart.

It has already been remarked, that
nurse-plants should, in every possible case,
be such as are most valuable at an early
period of growth. It is repeated here, be-
cause the idea is of much the same impor-
tance to the Profitable Planter, that a
good foundation is to a builder; — the point
is indeed of the first importance; and,
therefore, any prudent planter should

12

( 124 )

have it engraved, as it were, upon his me-
mory;— the consequence of which would
be, a liberal use of the Larch and Spruce
Fir, for the above purpose, in every case
where they would grow freely: — Still it is
not intended they should exclude all
others, more particularly the Birch,
which, with most of the properties of a
good nurse, such as numerous branches
and quick growth, on any tolerable soil
or situation, is, likewise, highly ornamen-
tal. It is not, however, like the others, a
wood of general application ; and, there-
fore, much of its value depends upon local
circumstances ; and hence, before planting
much of it, it should be considered for
what purposes it would be wanted in that
quarter; and, likewise, the probable quan-
tity : as a very moderate one will over-
stock the market, with an article of tim-
ber not useful for general purposes*

( 125 )

It must be acknowledged, that the
errors of extensive planters are neither
few nor small ; — but yet I do not hesitate
to assert, that all the rest are trifles, in com-
parison of the mistakes in regard to proper
species for this purpose. If we cast our
eyes over the list of the more common
sorts of deciduous trees, we shall find that,
with the exception of the Larch, the uses
of their poles, up to three or four inches
diameter, are far from numerous ; and
hence it is easy to overstock any neigh-
bourhood with them, for they will seldom
bear the expence of long carriage.

I could point out an estate, situated
where firing is very scarce, that would
produce more poles and faggots, the com-
ing winter, than the proprietor can dis-
pose of for a dozen years to come ; nor
would lowering the price very materially
increase the demand : — The consequence
of which is easy to foresee; the plantations

( 126 )

will be very much damaged for want of
timely thinning; meantime the propri-
etor's return, from them, but trilling.
If the value of the larch and spruce fir
had been known previous to planting,
and also that the soil is much more pro-
per for them than any other article of
nearly the same value, they would natu-
rally have obtained a preference, and the
plantations would iiow have been highly
productive, as tbe immediate neighbour-
hood would have taken off a large quantity
of both, at a good price ; but, unfortu-
nately, there we find almost none of the
former, and but few of the latter. — In
short, the estate exhibits some hundreds
of acres of thriving plantations, upon
which no expence (supposed to be need-
ful) has been spared ; and yet I see no
reason to think, they are now of more
than half the value they might have been
made, at a much less expence, by attend-
ing to a proper selection.

( 127 )

I eould point out many other exten-
sive plantations, which consist ahiiost ex-
chisivelj of Scotch firs, though the soil is
equally proper for the spruce and larch.
In these cases we usually find the market
overstocked ; and, hence, either the price
of produce is kept low, or the thinning is
neglected, but more commonly both.

Perhaps we shall be somewhat near the
truth, in observing, that where Scotch
firs are in tolerable plenty, a moderate-
sized tree of it will fetch about half, and a
pole one third as much, per foot, as the
foreign fir timber; which disparity could
not happen, if there were not a doubt of
durability in the one case, and a certainty
of the want of it in the other; neitlier of
Avhich would now be the case, in regard to
the larch ; and as to the spruce, the spirit of
investicration now abroad insures its worth
being duly appreciated very soon. — The
present high price of foreign wood lead^
3

( 128 )

to two desirable consequences : — It not
only stimulates to plant, but to look into
the properties of native produce. — In
some cases, it creates a necessity for doing
that which may ultimately prove highly
"useful, in the way of experiment.

Perhaps it is a new idea, that a much
greater weight of wood may be produced,
on any given quantity of land, by plant-
ing in mixture, than by using any one
species only ; and if so, ornament and
utility may be said to go hand in hand.
The fact, however, is of a nature not to
be either easily or suddenly demonstrated
by experiment; and, therefore, we must
appeal to observation, in the first place.
For myself, I have long been satisfied that
such was the case ; having never yet seen
a quantity of any one species growing to-
gether, which left the idea of an abundant
produce upon my mind ; though th«

( 129 )

reverse has oflen been produced, in the
case of mixtures.

The agriculturist uniformly counts
upon producing die greatest quantity, by
repeatedly changing the species; and the
instances alread}^ produced are sufficient
to show, that trees have what may be cal-
led a choice in their food, so far that they
do not thrive equally on the same soil.
We know, that some trees penetrate deep,
while others have most of their roots at
and near the surface ; of course, by using
both descriptions, the soil is more com-
pletely occupied. It may, likewise, be
reasonably supposed, that the decomposi-
tion of a mixture of leaves produces a
matter more favourable to the production
of trees, than the produce of any one
species applied to itself. — On the whole it
appears, both reason and experience will
fully warrant the conclusion, that the

( 130 )

greatest possjible quantity of Timber is to
be obtained by planting mixtures*.

Treparation of the Soil for Planting,

If we were to take our ideas of this sub-
ject from what might be found in books,
we should be led to think, that any thing
short of a very expensive preparation
would be the height of folly ; or rather,
that it amounted to a species of insanity ;
as it would be equally a waste of Land,

* It has frequently been remarked, that deciduous
trees thrive much better among firs than when planted
alone, and the difference has been usually imputed en-
tirely to the shelter afforded by the latter: undoubtedly
such shelter is, in most situations, highly benelicial ; but
it should be noted, at the same time, that all the resinous
tribe are different in nature, as well as appearance, from
deciduous trees ; — the former (it appears) cannot so far
fxhaust the soil as to render it unfit for the production
of the latter. If tliis idea be correct, it is evident
that, in order to raise plantations of any sort of deciduous
frees, quicklyj w(- slnnild plant much less in (luantity

(131 )

Money, and Trees. — If, however, we look
somewhat attentively into the matter, we
shall find such as are most loud in praise
of preparation, are men who have learned
little, or perhaps nothing from experi-
ence;— for true it is that, exactly in pro-
portion as they have been taught in that
school, will be their means of distinguish^
ing between what sort of preparation is
necessary, practicable, and politic, ancj
the reverse.

Most certainly the public have no rea-
son to thank writers, who talk about pre-
paration, without making the necessary

of zV than of firs. If five hundred and fifty of such species
were allowed to an acre, they would stand about nine
feet apart, which is quite near enough to produce a tree
of any tolerable size and figure: — We are sure, that
the same species consumes exactly the same sort of nutri-
ment ; and, therefore, every extra plant of it reduces
what ought to support such as are intended to remain as
tenants of the spot.

( 152 )

distinctions ; as it serves to throw difficul-
ties in the way of what is in itself equally
beneficial to society and individuals ; by
representing it as abundantly more tedious
and expensive than it is in fact. — How-
ever a little consideration may show
any one, how little such are acquainted
with the business; for, were it otherwise,
they must reason very differently ; — from
a knowledge, that at least nine tenths
of the lands, allotted to useful planting,
are either too steep, stony, husky, or liea-
ihy, to admit of the sort of preparation
alluded to; — or otherwise too sandy to
need it.

Undoubtedly, sands and heathy soils
comprise jointly, more than two thirds of
the land likely to be planted for any pur-
pose in the country ; and, as to the former,
a little reflection will show, that an expen-
sive preparation is perfectly unnecessary,
as nature has, in a great measure, fitted

( 133 )

them for the purpose it is intended to
serve, namely, to provide a loose soil, in
which the roots of the plants may meet
with but little obstruction.^ — Sands are
generally found light enough; and, there-
fore, the difficulty chiefly rests in the/owZ
condition in which they are often found ;
but, even in such cases, a fallow may and
generally ought to be avoided ; as most
sands are, to a considerable depth, as fa-
vourable to the production of trees as the
surface ; and, therefore, we have only to
discard the turf, &;c. — and then to loosen
the sand below, and ultimately to plant
in a hole some inches deep *.

* The advantages of this method seem evinced, hj
what has happened, in the last seasons to the planters oa
the sands in the neighbourhood of Sherwood Forest.
There, I am told, many have lost more than half their
plants, in consequence of the long continued and excessive
drought. In the planting done there, under my direc-
tion, the above method was followed, in consequence
of the land being extremely foul, upon which^ the ios?

( 1^4. )

UiicioLibledly, a fallowed surface would
occasion the trees to grow quicker in the
first place, but there are several drawbacks
upon that advantage; as first, the loss of
plants would be much greater in the first
instance, as they would have neither shel-
ter nor shade, as in the other case ; — se-
condly, the vegetable matter, previously
upon the surface, would be lost to the
trees : which, otherwise, would be found
highly beneficial, after they get so close
as to smother and rot it. — The greatest
drawback, how>ever, remains ; — the ex-

has proved k-ifling, except, in one instance, being part
of a plantation of about twenty years' growth, where
the plants failed generally in the first instance, while they
did well on three sides of it ; as was the cage with a quick
hedge on the fourth : — there we lost about half the quan-
tity planted, being larch and spruce firs only. — As there*
seems no Avay of accounting for the failures on this spot,
but by supposing some latent defect in the soil, I purpose
to try to remedy it by exposing a quantity, from each
failing hole, to the influence of the atmospherPj during the
toming winter.

( 13o )

ptnicc of the fallow, which, in itself, would
be more than ought to finish half the
planting ; and, therefore, though it may
often be practicable, it can but seldom
be proper.

As to heathy soils, we find many of
them to differ but little from the last, so
far as the production of trees is concern-
ed ; because a thin crust of such soil, up-
on a sand}^ bottom, is extremel}^ common;
which is fortunate to the planter; as he
needs but to discard the black surface
Earth, and to plant, in the sand below, as
directed for the last case.

In regard to deep heathy soils, they
are only qualified for the production of
the Scotch Fir ; and that article is well
known to possess the property of pene-
trating into soils the most tenacious ; and,
hence, it may be said, to require but little
assistance from either the plough or the

( 130- )

spade ; and yet, with a sort of hardihood
almost proverbial, it is one that suffers ma-
terially from exposure in the first instance;
a fact which many planters have experi-
enced much to their cost. — It happens,
that most heathy soils are, likewise, expo-
sed, and, therefore, a preparation, which
would extirpate the heath, its natural
shelter, would endanger the success of a
great proportion of the plants; and there-
fore, though very expensive, it is far from
a safe method. In some cases, where the
heath is very long, it may occasion great
difficulty in the holing, and, likewise, the
smothering of many of the plants. In this
case, the best method is to burn it down,
at least one season (but better if two sea-
sons ) before planting ; as, otherwise, the
exposure would occasion the sort of loss
just mentioned.

Perhaps our knowledge of the internal
structure of plants is too limited, to en-

( 137 )

able us to define clearly the state of lan-
guor or disease, into which they are
thrown by removal, or the separating of
that intimate connexion which subsisted
between their roots and the soil. Still, ex-
perience teaches us, that certain causes
will produce certain effects; and it is from
careful observations on these, jointly, that
we come to a tolerable knowledge of
what is necessary to the safe removal of
trees. We know, for instance, that, on
elevated ground, much exposed to the
weather, the frosts and winds of a very
moderate winter will kill a tolerably large
fir, though it should be removed with
the whole of its roots, and planted with
ever}^ possible degree of care ; and, like-
wise, staked, so that the wind could scarce-
ly move it at all.

As, in this case, the plant might be ob-
served to be in a dead or dying state, be-
fore the want of moisture could have con-
K

( 138 )

tributed to produce such effect, we can
impute it to nothing but the cold ; because
had the same tree been planted in a shel-
ter, and similarly treated^ it would cer-
tainly have survived its removal*

We know, also, that the more we re-
duce the roots of plants in general, (par-
ticularly firs) so much the more are they
subject to suffer in removal.

A plant, which retains only its largest
roots, requires a greater degree of heat
and moisture, to set its vegetative powers
in motion, than one which likewise re-
tains its small ones. We can seldom re-
move a tree without the loss of a part,
(generally a large proportion of the latter;)
and hence we infer the necessity of shelter-
ing firs, in the first instance, as far as the
circumstances of the case will admit; and,
also, the propriety of managing, so that
•they may recjuire as little of.it as possible.

( 139 )

We ca», for instance, remove a Scotch
fir, of one foot high, without losing many
of its small roots j while one of two feet
would, in that operation, lose most of
them. Almost any situation naturally pro-
duces what will, in a greater or less de-
gree, shelter the former, while very few
will atford it to the latter. This fir is, at
best, a bad rooted plants or one which
makes but few roots, and these long ones,
in proportion to its height ; therefore, by
considering all these circumstances, it is
presumed, the causes of the heavy losses
that so frequently follow the planting of
large ones, on bleak situations, may be
naturally accounted for.

Consistent with the above ideas, inde«
pendent of avoiding a heavy expence, I
never advise the breaking up, and, of
course, leaving bare, an exposed and hea-
thy soil, but, instead of it, make holes
among the heath, (in the manner that will
K2

( 140 )

be directed :) constantly making use of
plants small enough to be sheltered, and
yet not so small as to be smothered by it;
of course, they are planted both in shel-^
ter and shade. The former prevents their
being starved, in the way that has been
mentioned, and also prevents wlnd^wav^
ing, which would otherwise form a cavity
round their stems, so as to admit of
drought, and occasion considerable loss.
The latter, by partially excluding both
the sun and wind, prevents them from
much exhaustino- either the moisture of
the soil or the juices of the plants;
and hence the business of vegetation must
be earlier set in motion, and more reo;u-
larly carried on, than where the case is
otherwise.

Having now attempted, at least, to
develope the principles which ought to
influence the practice of planting sandy,
light, and heathy soils, wherever economy

( 141 )

is a leading object, ^ye may next advert to
the case of stiff ones, which are confessed-
ly the most difficult; because, though it
may be easy to cause the plants to gTow
on them, it is quite another thing to cause
them to thrive; and, therefore, except
where particular circumstances call for it,
I am no advocate for planting such as
are more than moderately tenacious, e-
specially if they, likewise, prove shallow.
It is admitted, that a tolerably strong soil
may be highly productive, in some species
of timber ; more especially, if deep : — a
thin, stiff one, however, cannot be so pro-
ductive, as both its quantity and quality
have a direct tendency to stint the growth
of the plants, in all seasons, but more
particularly so in dry ones.

When the planting of such soils be-
comes necessary, it is a fortunate circum-
stance if they happen to prove in grass,
and capable of being ploughed; as, in

( 142 )

that case, the easy means are afforded of
bringing the roots of the plants and the
rotted sward in contact; — the latter of
which will not only produce nutriment
for the former, but a more easy means of
extending themselves, in every direction,
in search of it. A soil naturally stiff be-
comes abundantly more so, by being long
\mder tillage : by fallowing we can clear
such of noxious weeds, but cannot prevent
them from running together again in con-
sequence of the next steeping shower.

The best method I know, of preparing
such for planting, is to plough them, and
take a crop of any sort of grain they will
produce, the season before they are in-
tended to be planted ; wherever a choice
is presented, that which will be most smo-
thering should be preferred, as having the
greatest tendency to rot the sward. — In
autumn, after the crop had been reaped,
and the grpund nioist, but not wet, it

( 145 )

should be well harrowed, and tliat imme-
diately followed by holing with the spade;
which work should be done by chopping
the soil to the width of about a foot, but
not deeper than the furrow, and then pla-
cing: it round the sides of the hole, rather
flat, so that the frosts may easily penetrate
it during the winter.

As the difficulty of working such soils
is obvious, so there is a necessity for at-
tending to them just at the critical season,
such as we usually experience, repeatedly,
in autumn; it can be of little consequence
whether it prove in September or October,
so that the ground be in proper order.

And observe, it is more safe to plant
such soils rather late in spring, than early;
as, in the latter case, the soil would sel-
dom be found dry enough; and hence
the plants would be crammed into a
clod of clay; and would, likewise, be in

( 144 )

clanger of being thrown out of it, by such
frosts as might happen afterwards, without
being at all benefited by such as had hap-
pened before. On the contrary, by late
planting, we secure all the benefit of the
winter's frosts, without the danger from
them just mentioned ; and, likewise, can
plant when the soil is sufficiently tender,
but not so wet as to stick together; with
little danper of success. Under this ma-
nagement, it is meant to make use of part
of the harrowed soil, on the surface, by
drawing it round the trees, so as to raise
the former surface about two inches, to the
breadth of about eighteen. The reason
for this is, to afford the opportunity of
placing the trees sufficiently deep, with-
out putting their roots lower than the
track of the plough, and the direction
of the discomposed turf; a matter highly
important to the growth of the trees.
Such soils certainly afford but few ad-
vantasjes, and, therefore, there is so much

( 143 )

the more reason to avail ourselves to the
utmost of such as we find. Consistent
with what has been advanced, the best
plants for such soik will be the Scotch and
spruce firs, with the witch elm and the
birch ; the firs not more than nine, the
others about twelve inches high. — The
variety may be increased by other spe-
cies; but it is presumed, in such cases, the
above will generally be found the quickest
growers.

In soils of the above description, which
are incapable of being ploughed, the re-
versingof the turf is indispensable ; because
the surface soil will be abundantly more
light and fertile than lands of the same
sort, which have been often turned and
mixed by the plough. Indeed without
turning in the surface, in order to put
the best soil in the direction of the roots
of the plants, I kaov/ of no method

( 146 )

of planting, in such a case, Avitli any rea-
sonable chance of success.

The method will be to turn the turf
completely, with all the soil adhering to
it, with the spade, in as large portions
^s may be found convenient ; as such me-
thod would not only be the most expedi-
tious, but under it, less of herbage would
vegetate, than if turned in smaller por-
tions ; it would, likewise, afford the means
of planting in the centre of the flags,
which of course, would be for some time,
tolerably, clear from weeds ; hence much
of the danger of smothering the small
plants would be avoided.

On such lands, w^e usually find a very
tough sward, which should be in a measure
reduced, either by a crop of grain, or
being fallow through the following sumr-
mer. Certainly nothing would, ultimate^
ly, be lost by the delay ; for as, after it, the

( 147 )

ground would be found mellowed, and the
herbage rotten, so the risk from drought,
which otherwise would be considerable,
would be nearly done away, and the plants
for two or three years, be found to grow
much quicker than jf planted a year sooner.

As such turning the soil is to be con-
sidered as tantamount to the ploughing
directed in the last case, the season for
the operation, and method of making the
holes, should be the same ; and the same
will apply to the manner of planting, size,
and species of trees, &c. only as here there
is no harrowed surface ; therefore the soil
to deepen that immediately round the
trees, may be collected from any other
part of the surface, where it is found in
the best condition.

A soil similar to the foregoing, previ-
ously under tillage, is among the cases by
no means favourable to the hopes of the

( 148 )

planter; if, however, he has particular
reason for planting them, he must likewise
resort to particular means of preparation;
the most effectual of which would be found
to be a fallow, so f^r complete as to era-
dicate not only the perennial, but the
greater part of the annual weeds; for,
otherwise, they would inevitably smother
a great proportion of the very small plants,
which alone are proper for such situa-
tions, except the additional expence, of
hoing among them for two summers, was
submitted to. It is not here supposed,
that the most complete fallow would enr
tirely preclude tlie necessity for hoing,
^r, at least, cutting down part of the weeds,
but it certainly might very materially re-
duce the business. An autumn fallow is as
peculiarly fitted for the eradication of an-
nual,or weeds produced immediately from
the seeds previously lodged in the soil,
as a summer one is for the destruction of
swch as are produced from roots. It i*

( 149 )

among the disadvantages of fallows, made
preparatory to the sowing of wheat, that
the grain is usually sown about the time
when the seeds of weeds are most of all
disposed to vegetate, on the soils undef
notice; a very unfortunate circumstance,
but not at all applicable to the case in
hand ; as here the stirring of the soil, which
occasions the destruction of such weeds,
may be protracted to a much later season*
In mild autumns, we often find seeds
to vegetate freely to the latter end of
December ; it is not then too late to stir
the soil, if it do not prove too wet.

The necessity for forming such lands
into somewhat narrow ridges is evident,
for otherwise the water would lodo-e in
and upoji them, in winter ; which would
not only damage the plants, in the first
instance, but cause the soil to bake so hard,
in summer, that the trees would make
but little progress in it. The soil from

3

( 130 ;

the furrows would likewise be beneficial,
by conlributing to the general depth. If
it be objected that such ridges would con-
fine the spreading of the roots, it may be
answered, that, before the plants could re-
quire much space, a soil would be accumu-
lated in the furrows, (except on considera-
ble declivities,) sufficient to cover the
small fibres, so that they would cross them;
after which, the plants would derive sup-
port from the adjoining ridges, in addition
to their own.

In lands somewhat steep, the ridges
had best be formed with a moderate fall
across the declivity, and these again cross-
ed by ditches, at from forty to sixty yards
distance, to take ofi'the water, and prevent
it from washing the soil down the furrows.

The species of plants for this purpose
should, of course, be the same as in the
foregoing instances ; but the size should be

( 151 )

less, as such are best qualified to accom-
modate tliemselves to these unfavourable
soils. The best sizes, I conceive, to be
Scotch firs of two years old, spruce three
ditto, birch two ditto, and witch elms the
same; all of which should have been one
year transplanted, in order to improve
their roots. Where variety is an object, a
few of other species may be put in the
margins ; such as the oak, sycamore, horn-
beam, mountain-ash, laburnum, &c. as all
of them will grow, though not so well as
the foregoing; the sizes should, of course,
correspond Avith the others.

Before I dismiss the subject of thin
stiff soils, it may be well to impress upon
the mind of the reader the peculiar use-
fulness of the Scotch fir in such situations ;
as, by its shade and shelter, it tends at once
to meliorate the atmosphere, and the soil.
The former is obvious ; and, as to the lat-
ter, no plant is so well qualified to thrive

( 1^2 )

iipon theiti, and of course, so speedily to
smother and decompose the vegetable
matter they produce; indeed, from the
time it gets to six or eight feet high, the
rotting of its spine furnishes not only a
nutriment, but a conductor for the roots
of the other trees ; as its soil, shelter, and
shade all contribute to promote their
spreading; and, of course, their success in
the search of that essential article/bo J. A
root, protected by the shade of a Scotch
fir, will travel, as it were rapidly and in
safety, not upon but so near the surface that,
by the time it gets half an inch in diameter,
it frequently bursts its scanty covering,
after which, we may perceive to a demon-
stration, that every part of the soil is com-
j)letely employed in support of the trees.

'J'he management of a stiff and some-
what deep soil, capable of being plough-
ed, will differ in three respects, from tlic
first case ; as first, the furrow should be as

( lo3 )

deep ploughed as could be laid tolerably
flat ; secondly, the harrowing may be
omitted, as the trees may be planted level
with the surface ; thirdly, firs, of a foot,
and deciduous trees, of eighteen inches,
may be used. Where such lands have
been previously in tillage, a fallow will be
necessary, if the ground prove foul, but
if not, it may be dispensed with; as where
plants of sizes as above are used, trilling
attention will prevent them from being
smothered.

Where such soils are incapable of
being ploughed, holing with the spade
should be resorted to in autumn. The
size of the holes about fourteen inches
wide, and ten deep, if the soil will permit.
When one hole is made, the sward from
the next is to be taken off, and placed with
the grass side downwards, in the first.
About one third of the remainino; soil ma v
then be thrown upon the sward to press

L

( 154 )

It, down, and promote its rotting; and
the other two laid close round the hole,
not in large lumps, but broken a little,
so as to benefit the more by the winter's
frosts. This case would require plants of
the same sizes as the last.

Tlie previous preparation, of once
ploughing and a crop of grain, is certain-
ly applicable to every soil, that has been
some years in grass, and is capable of being
ploughed ; it being not only a good but a
very cheap method; the difference in value
between a crop of grain and one of grass
being generally in favour of the former,
considerably more than the expence of the
ploughing. — Undoubtedly this method
leaves the ground in a situation peculiarly
calculated to forward the spreading of the
roots, and to promote the general growth
of the trees; and, besides, the holing after
such crop, would only cost about half a»
much as after grass. The general differ-

( 155 >

ence of management for a thin and a deep
soil has been just adverted to.

While recommending the use of the
plough, the case of a thin chalk soil natural-
ly presents itself; as these have been found
abundantly productive in many valuable
species of timber ; meantime, the elevations
in which they are very commonly found,
stand in the utmost need of shelter; while
the losses which have followed planting
such of them as have been long under
grass, shows clearly the difficulty of the
business. Generally these losses have hap-
pened from the circu mstances of drought
and exposure ; and, therefore, means
should be used to guard against both. To
effect the former, in an easy and cheap
manner, I know of no means so proper as
the sort of ploughing and cropping just
adverted to ; — still it will sometimes hap-
pen, that the soil will not be productive in
grain ; but, even in that case, the ploughing
L2

{ 15(3 )

will apply; if the soil is loo poor to make^
it desirable to sow grain, the loss in letting
it lie fallow for one season cannot be
much ; it must, at least, be abundantly
compensated in the success of the plants.

As thin chalk soils are generally rather
light, they do not require to be long ex-
posed to the frosts ; and hence so much
the more time may be allowed for the
sward to rot, before part of it be turned
up by holing. It may lie reversed from
October in one year to December in the
next, or fourteen months, and still leave
time enough for the frosts to operate, so
far that the soil may easily be separated
from the grass roots.

The difficulty in planting such soils is
threefold ; — for, if planted early, the frosts
often throw the trees out of the ground.
If planted late, the drought frequently
kills them; and generally the exposure is

< 157 )

such that many of ihem fail by that means.
There is, however, a method of protecting
the plants against all these evils, which,
in common cases, cannot cost more than
8s. or 105. extra expence, per acre : it
arises out of, and forms a necessary appen-
dage to the method already pointed out;
it is this : — After the trees have been plant-
ed in the usual manner, part of the furrows,
most distant from the trees, is cut into
lengths of about twelve inches each ; and
one of them laid on each side of every
plant, not close, but so as to form a cavity,
just wide enough for the lower branches
not to be pressed together by the soil : the
direction of the cavities must cross the
principal current of the wind.

The way in which this simple process
effects the specified purpose, is almost top
obvious to need explanation ; but, as it
applies to a branch of the art which can-
not be too much extended, I may observe,

( 158 )

that the pieces of the furrows so applied,
prevent either the sun or wind from dry-
ing the soil, otherwise extremely thin.
They, likewise, prevent the frosts of spring
from penetrating so low as the roots of
the plants; which, by congealing the mois-
ture, raise the surface ; and hence either
loosens, or throws them out of the ground;
of course, by this method, planting may
be done early; a matter highly important
on thin light soils : on these it is also very
desirable to plant as shallow as possible ;
by this means, the higher parts of the
roots may be placed not only level with
the surface of the ground, but something
above it, by drawing together a little soil
to cover them.

As this case admits of only very small
plants, so the shelter from wind-waving,
afforded by the flags, would be consider-
able; for as the firs, which are most of all
subject to suffer by it, should not be more

2

( 159 )

than five to seven inches high, the broad
or branched part of them would be screen-
ed, so far that the plants could be littlf
damaged by it.

As, in this case, there is no danger from
weeds, very small plants only should be
made use of; say larch and Scotch firs of
two years, spruce ditto, three ditto, ash,
beech, birch, sycamore, &c. two ditto, all
of which should have been transplanted.

The quantity of each species should be
varied, in proportion to the exposure:
where most bleak, there a considerable
proportion of the Scotch firs, with a tole-
rable quantity of the birch, should be used;
where least so, the other articles will be
more proper; more particularly, the larch;
it being, all circumstances. considered, by
far the most beneficial article that can be
planted on such soils ; and hence, in plant-
ing of them^ the sheltering of it should al-

( 160 )

ways be matter of the first consideration ;
and, for that purpose, the Scotch fir and
birch will always deserve a preference.

The general usefulness of both, for such
purposes, is well known ; still it may be
useful to remark here, in regard to the
birch, that, on such soils, it usually rises
faster, and hence overtops and crouds the
other trees. When, as this happens fre-
quently, in four or five years after plants
ing, it will be proper to cut it down
close by the ground, early in spring, which
will occasion it to form several shoots
instead of one stem ; each of which, produ^-
cing numerous branches, placed low, Avill
form a very close shelter; — generally in
the course of the first summer, they will
rise to be as high as the trees they are in-
tended to protect ; so that, early in the
second, such plantations will appear to be
rising much more regularly, and better
sheltered than before.

( 161 )

Perhaps no better proof can be advaa-
ced, of the want of a good method of
planting thin chalk soils, than the conside-
rable losses in plants so frequently found
upofo them; and this fact again points out
the use of some directions, in regard to re-
placing such failing plants. As ploughing
is, in this case, out of the question, so the
method that nearest approaches to it should
be adopted; which is, to cut out the whole
soil, (sward included) where the trees are
intended to stand, in circles of about eigh-
teen inches diameter; and to turn these,
with the grass downwards, into the same
holes they were cut from, the time for
rotting the sward, and the other circum-
stances of this case, should be the same
which has just been detailed, with this dif-
ference, that, upon account of the shelter
from herbage, &c. the plants may be lar-
ger, and they may usually be conveniently
protected from drought and spring frosts

( 163 )

by making use of part of the grass, to
cover the raw surface round them.

The method of preparing any soil that
is deep and light, need not be long dwelt
upon: — If the principles already advanced
be duly attended to, it will not be difficult
to discover, in regard to them, what may
be proper ; and the reverse for different
situations. Generally, it may be observed,
that the more of vegetable matter there is
found upon the surface, the greater will
be the advanta»2:es to be obtained from
turning it in ; — and certainly no means is
so practicable, in large designs, as the use
of the plough, followed by a crop of grain.
In good soils, producing rank herbage,
there is always great danger of smothering
the trees, except they are planted so large
as to greatly enhance the expence, and be
in other respects improper. By using
means to rot the herbage, we change what
would otherwise destroy the plants, into

( 163 )

a nutriment highly beneficial to them ; in-
deed, by so doing, they are soon enabled
to rise above danger from such circum-
stances. It is true, that, under this pro-
cess, we may still expect some quantity of
weeds, but they would be such as would
be much easier kept down, than a general
crop of grass, Sec,

On lands light but poor, the quantity
of vegetable matter upon the surface is
seldom great, nor is there much danger of
the herbage smothering the plants ; and,
therefore, the simple method of holing, by
turning the produce of the hole jnakmg,
into that last made, will frequently prove
the most proper as well as convenient.
Undoubtedly there are persons who wish
to resort to the best methods only, without
regarding the expence ; particular situa-
tions warrant an extra expenditure. In
the bulk of cases, however, the fact is
different; and, therefore, we best promote

( 164 )

the business by duly attending to cheap-
ness of method.

As light soils do not require the opera-
tion of frosts to reduce them, so where
there is no sward, or not many large or
root weeds, it may be sufficient to only
turn over (and break the soil where need-
ful) in the places where the trees are to
stand.

The method of preparing small patches
of ground for planting, by digging or
trenching, is well known to every prac-
titioner; and, therefore, is only introdu-
ced here for the purpose of observing, that
wherever such expence is thought necessa-
ry, the keeping the ground clean, for tvvo
or three years, or till the plants will, in a
great measure, smother the herbage, will
generally prove the same: for where quick
growth is essential, cleanliness of appear-
ance is usually of consequence. Slight

( 165 )

crops of potatoes, with short tops ; or tur-
nips, may be admitted into such planta-
tions with advantage, for two or three
years, as they create a necessity for an-
nually digging or stirring the surface, and
tend very materially to accelerate the
growth of the plants. It may be objected,
that such crops must impoverish the soil,
and no doubt but such is the fact, so far
as common vegetables are concerned, but
as to the production of wood, it has already
been shown that its support depends, in a
great measure, on a different species of nu-
triment ; and hence I could never observe
that such cropping damaged it materially.

The preparation of rocky soils proves
sometimes rather difficult, yet certainly
most of them, which are of little value for
the general purposes of agriculture, are
qualified to be highly productive in timber;
and hence such little difficulties should

( 166 )

never be permitted to stand in the way of
planting them.

It is of much less consequence than
most people imagine, whether trees are
planted regularly, so as to cover the whole
of the surface, or irregularly, (clouded) as
^rill often be the case on rocky ground ;
for, in either case, the whole of the soil
will be completely occupied to a conside-
rable depth. Where we cannot plant re-
gularly, upon account of the rocks, the
trees should stand something closer than
ordinary distances round them ; because
there all of them have an extra supply
9f air, and most of them sufficient of soil.
At planting, however unfavourable ap-
pearances may be, it is not possible to
know what particular plant or plants will
not ultimately thrive, providing soil enough
can be found to cause them to grow in
the first instance.

( 167 )

The holes in such ground have gene-
rally been made by the alternate use of
the spade and mattock, a very tedious
process; in lieu of which, I have, for many
years, made use of the latter only, the
tool being peculiarly adapted to the pur-
pose, (see the frontispiece;) — the sward
being taken off as thin as possible, with
the broad end, and the soil loosened in the
hole with the other, instead of taking it
out and laying it on the sides, in the cus-
tomary manner. In this operation, the
larger stones are taken out, so as to leave
broken soil in the holes, sufficient in
quantity to plant trees, of the intended
size ; generally a small one. ,

Where few stones are found, the soil
left will usually fill the hole ; where there
are more, it is frequently left hollow, as
on light open soils ; — it is of little conse-
quence whether the trees be placed level
with the surface or not, so as they have

( 168 )

but a sufficiency of soil to grow in. It
must also be observed, in regard to this
process, that no regard is paid to bury-
ing the herbage, as it usually proves of a
nature that would not speedily rot; hence
after much trouble in regard to it, it
would be found to considerably incom-
mode the business of planting.

It may be observed besides, that where
light soils are so fertile as to produce her-
bage that will readily rot, that soil alone
will be sufficiently fertile for trees to thrive
in. In short, by keeping the mattock to-
lerably thin, the herbage is taken off with
very little soil adhering to it.

Frequently, in making these holes, the
scarcity of soil renders it necessary to
break down more of some side or sides of
the hole than was first bared, in order to
increase the quantity of earth ; in this case,
little regard is paid to the surface herbage

( 169 )

as the tool to be employed in planting
will readily separate it from the soil, after
the latter has been exposed to the winter's
frosts. If, in making a hole, a stone be
found too large to be readily taken out, it
may beleft in, and the hole made toone side
of it; regular distance being, as before inti-
mated, found to be of little coasequence.

In preparing the sides of steeps, the
herbage is found particularly useful in
forming a sort of buttress to support the
soil ; as here it is of importance to plant
trees on a level, in order to hold the water
in its descent. In this case, it is not so
necessary to pare the herbage thin, as on
levels ; for the greater part of it gets cover-
ed so as to rot, and soon becomes beneficial
to the plants. Perhaps no situations, in-
accessible by the plough, can be so eifec-
tually and cheaply prepared for planting
as precipices ; seehig a quantity of soil is
very readily moved, by working it down
M

( 170 )

the hill with the mattock, to form the levels
for the trees, large enough for the roots to
spread in freely, and likewise to retain the
moisture ; lience the only disadvantage of
such steeps^ so far as planting is concern-
ed, may be easily obviated.

On soils at once stony and heathy, (a
case very common) the mattock proves
peculiarly serviceable, in moving the one
and cutting the other; matters extreme-
ly difficult to be performed with the spade;
certainly, without the use of some such
tool, the expence of planting, upon many
situations, would be greatly enhanced.
It will be observed, that, in preparing
heathy soils, the method is just the same
as on rocky ones ; the heath being struck
off as thin as possible, and the soil stirred
and left in the hole.

In closing the subject of preparation,
I would observe generally, that every soil,

( m )

intended to be planted, will be benefited
by being broken up, some months previ-
ous to planting ; on stiff ones, the reason
of this operation is obvious, frost is neces-
sary to reduce them. It is not so easy to
say why a light one, which has been long
broken up, retains moisture better than
one newly done, but the fact is well known;
and, therefore, though no advocate for
early planting, I am decidedly so for au-
tumnal preparation, in every case where
it is convenient.

The distances proper for forest trees to
be planted, have been much the subject
of discussion ; on this head I have had but
one opinion, for many years. In general
cases, a distance of four feet is certainly
close enough ; as, at that space the trees
may all remain till they become saleable;
as timber, rails, spars, &c. are of consider-
able value every where ; fire-wood only
in some places. Where the produce, ne-
M 2

( 173 )

cessary to be thinned out of a plantation,
is of considerable value, there is little
danger of this business being neglected.
Where it is of little, the reverse proves al-
most constantly the ca«e ; few men can set
about thinning a plantation, which is not
likely to pay well for the trouble, without
considerable reluctance.

Another strong objection to thick plant-
ing is the extra expence thereof; — at three
feet apart, an acre requires 4840 plants ;
at four, only 2722 ; a difference of more
than two fifths ; or thus in the latter case,
three pounds will plant more land than
five in the former; the difference is indeed
so striking, that, unless better arguments
be advanced in support of the former dis-
tance than I have yet heard, I shall con-
tinue to be an advocate for the latter.

It is admitted, that elevated exposures
should be an exception to the rule, but

4

( 173 )

even here I consider three feet distances
as too little, because, by standing so close,
the plants soon destroy each other's
branches ; hence, when we begin to thin,
we find the removal of every tree makes
an aperture which there is no means of
repairing.

At three feet and a half distance, the
plants will stand about one fourth closer
than at four ; and, from repeated obser-
vations, it appears clear, that few forest
trees grown closer, will be strong enough
to stand erect in exposures. I, therefore,
see no reason to recommend planting at
less than the former distance.

In regard to the sizes of trees for plant-
ing, the particular cases have been men-
tioned where very small ones would be
proper : the best general rule is, to pro-
portion the size of the plants to the good-
ness of the soil ; the best of the latter

( 174 )

requiring the largest of the former. Still
on bleak exposures this rule will not hold
good, as there the plants should never be
large, for otherwise the greater part would
fail from the circumstance of wind-waving,
and of those that succeeded, few, if any,
would make much progress for several
years: firs of a foot, and deciduous trees of
eighteen inches, are large enough for such
places, if the ground prove but indifferent,
and have no shelter upon it ; but if it be
good, so as to produce strong and tall
herbage, plants of somewhat larger sizes
should be admitted, as those of the smaller
size would be in danger of being smothered.

However, as in planting large designs,
soils which are good and well sheltered
but seldom occur, the most useful sizes
ofplants, for general purposes, will be the
same just noted : viz. firs of a foot, and
deciduous trees of eighteen inches. When
mentioning the sizes of trees, it should

( 175 )

always be understood of transplanted ones;
because, in at least nine instances in ten,
such are stifFer and better rooted than seed-
lings : still it sometimes happens that, in
consequence of a thin crop, seedlings may
have every requisite good property, and
so far there is no objection to their use.

It may be observed too, that none but
good rooted plants will succeed on a bad
soil, while, on a good one sheltered, none
but very bad rooted plants will fail ; a
large plant never has so good a root, in
proportion to its size, as a small one ; and
hence we see the propriety of using such
on good soils only. For instance, we can-
not use large plants on stiff soils with any
reasonable hopes of success; and the
chance is still worse if they prove likewise
exposed ; as neither case affords the means
of speedily furnishing the plants with roots
that will have a regular proportion to
the size of their heads ; — hence the cir-

( 176 )

culation of the sap is impeded, and the
plants become stinted in growth ; under
which circumstance, it not unfrequently
happens, that the small quantity of sap
furnished by the roots, instead of ascend-
ing to the tops, to furnish leaves and shoots,
breaks out into sprigs, by the surface of
the ground ; a clear proof of the impeded
circulation just noticed. — Small plants, on
the contrary, lose but few of their roots
in removal ; therefore, though planted in
very moderate-sized holes of pulverised
earth, soon find the means of making
roots, in proportion to their heads. Be-
sides, such are in some degree sheltered.
In short, it should never he forgotten, that
as, in being removed, a plant of two feet
loses a greater proportion of its roots than
a tree of one, and one of three feet a grea-
ter proportion than one of two, and so
on, in proportion to its former strength
and height, so the larger the plants, so
much greater is the state of languor or

( 177 )

weakness into which they are thrown, by
that circumstance ; and hence, in propor-
tion to that state of weakness, should be
our efforts to restore them to their usual
health, by such means as choice of soils,
preparation, shelter, &c. If we can, in-
deed, manage at the outset, so as to re-
store to them what may be called a good
constitution, they will generally, after-
wards, be found able to contend, not only
with the boisterous elements, but an un-
favourable soil.

In regard to the sizes of holes for trees,
it is to be observed, that, on light soils,
completely broken up, the hole is large
enough that will hold the roots of the
plant, when extended ; on stiffer soils, a
few inches more room is necessary. In
both cases it is to be observed, that some
benefit would arise from having the holes
made early in winter; still that benefit will
be in proportion to the tenacity of the

( m )

soil; on stiff ones, for instance, it will be of
much advantage, on sands of very little.

On lands not broken up, it is obvious
a large hole must be, in every case, an ad-
vantage; but much greater on stiff than
light ones. A large plant requires abun-
dantly more space, beyond its roots, than
a small one, the difference may be as much
as from two to eight inches. Depth also
is of much consequence, where the gene-
ral depth of soil admits of it. Still we have
no business to penetrate lower than the
strata in which the trees will grow : On
stiff ones, abundance of mischief is often
done by this means; as it includes the
double disadvantage of putting the roots
of the trees, and the best of the soil, into
a hole capable of holding water, both of
which lead to consequences so obviously
at variance with the success of the plants,
that, I trust, it need only be mentioned
to be avoided.

( 179 )

On the whole it is evident, that holes
retain moisture, in proportion to their
size and depth ; and, tlierefore, except
under particular circumstances of difficul-
ty, small ones are never to be recommend-
ed. As to the form of holes, it is to be
noted, that they should always be round,
and widest at the bottom.

It will be observed that, in the general,
I am an advocate for early or autumn
preparation of the soil, with spring plant-=
ing; from a full conviction that, provided
the former is dul}^ attended to, but little
of loss would happen under the latter. It
is true, that where the former is neglected
the case proves exactly the reverse, and
most generally from the circumstance of
drought, in consequence of tie soil not be-
ing duly mellowed by the winter's frosts.

Sometimes, however, losses happen
from the plants being dried, by being long

( 180 )

out of the ground ; a matter always to be
avoided as much as possible. That, how-
ever, cannot be done completely when
they are procured at a distance; and, there-
fore, when such arrive and appear rather
dried, the best method is to puddle their
roots, previous to planting : if they seem
very much dried, it would still be better
to lay them in the ground, for eight or ten
days, giving them a good soaking of water
every second or third day, in order to re-
store their vegetative powers ; for it well
deserves notice, that a degree of moisture
in soil, sufficient to support a plant re-
cently, or immediately, taken from the
nursery, would, in the case of dried ones,
prove so far insufficient, that most of them
would die in it. — The puddling here re-
commended may also be of great service in
all cases oflate planting, where small plants
are used : my method is (after puddling)
to tie them in bundles, of two or three
hundreds each; and thus send them, by a

( 181 )

cart-load at once, to where wanted] where
such bundles being set upright, close to
each other, and a little straw carefully ap-
plied to the outsides of them, may remain
without damage in a sheltered situation,
any reasonable time necessary to plant
them. Where loose soil happens to be
convenient, that should be substituted in
the place of straw.

A puddle for trees is made by mixing
water with any soil, rather tenacious, so
intimately as to form a complete puddle,
so thick, that, when the plants are dipped
into it, enough may remain upon the roots
to cover them.

The process of puddling is certainly'
simple, and its expence tot^ trifling to de-
serve notice: its effects, however, in retain-
ing, if not attracting moisture, are such
that, by means of it, late planting is render-
ed abundantly more safe than it otherwise

( 182 )

would be. It is an old invention, and
hence it is truly astonishing that it is not
more frequently practised. If we could
but persuade people to adopt it generally,
in spring planting, I believe the prejudice
in favour of autumn practice would soon
be done away. It is truly astonishing how
generally and strongly that prejudice pre-
vails ; I, therefore, beg leave to observe
here, that it is advisable only in few cases,
while spring planting may properly ap-
ply to all. In short, the nature of the bu-
siness is such, that a great proportion of
it can only be well and safely done at that
season.

The common method of planting is so
far known to every gardener, that little
need be said upon it here. It may, how-
ever, be necessary to explain wdiat may be
called a good one. — The Toot of the plant
is to be dressed, by shortening the strag-
gling, and taking off the broken roots; —

( 183 )

The hole is then to be made ready, by
either taking out earth, or putting it in,
and breaking it where necessary ; the plant
is then to be placed in it, with two or three
inches of the stem beneath the level of the
surface ; the best or finest of the soil is then
to be put to the roots, and distributed
amongst them, by shaking the plant; in
which operation, it should be drawn up so
as to stand very little, if at all, deeper than
it did in the nursery ; the rest of the soil is
then to be put in, and the plant fixed firm
and set straight with the foot; after which
levelUngthesurface completes the business.

Two things, in regard to the above
practice, I have frequently observed to be
mismanaged, viz. the custom of planting
too deep, and a bad mode of fastening the
plants. When I observe a quantity of
plants thriving ill, where the appearance
of the soil is favourable, I generally sus-
pect the former, and have frequently found

r\

( 184 ;

several inches of stem within the surface
of the ground, and the roots of the plants
beneath the best part of the soil ; a matter
no otherwise completely curable than by
replanting. The other circumstance arises
chiefly from gardeners being little habitu-
ated to any but garden practice, and hence
on something like garden soils they per-
form pretty well ; on sands, however, they
generally leave the plants too loose, and
on stiff soils usually fix them too fast ; — the
truth is, we can scarcely tread the former
too much and the latter too little, so that
the plants, if small, will resist the wind ;
and as to large ones, they should be staked
in preference to hard treading.

Having, for nearly twenty years, adopt-
ed, what I may be permitted to call, An
ipiproved method of Forest Flanting , by
means of tools invented for the purpose,
(see the plate;) it will be necessary here
to explain, in some degree, their forms

{ 185 )

and uses : — ^I'lie first is a mattock, made
particularly light, with one end about
four inches broad and thirteen long, from
the centre ; the other a pike, its length
about seventeen inches. The use of this
tool on heathy, tough, stony soils and
steeps, has been already described, (see
p. 167—170.)

The other tools are called planters, the
forms of which may best be seen by the
plate. No. 2, is a sort of hack or hoe, of
the length of eight inches from the eye ;
the face or edge four and a half broad,
and the handle twelve long ; the heel or
part behind the eye is made stronger than
the other parts of it, in order to act as a
maul, in breaking such clods as may be
necessary.

No. 3 and 4, have been introduced of
late years, as improvements upon the
fpregoing ; being better adapted to soils
N

( 186 )

full of fools, stones, &c. they are, like*
wise, easier to work, as they penetrate
to an equal depth, with a stroke less vio-
lent than the former : they are also less
subject to be clogged up, by a wet or te-
nacious soil. The length of the prongs
of both should be about eight inches, and
the distances between them, in No. 3,
one and a half: in No. 4, two inches: this
should be made somewhat stronger than
the former ; it being intended chiefly for
very stony lands, or where the soil wants
breaking, in order to separate it from the
herbage, &,c.

No. 5, is a section, to show the form
and strength of the prongs applicable to
No. 3 ; oi\e of the sides being to be in-
w*ards, or towards the planter.

It will be observed, that these tools are
chiefly applicable to plants of any size up
to about two feet, or such as are generally

( 187 )

used for great designs, where they are used
as a substitute for the spade, in the follow-
ing manner. The planter, being provided
with a basket holding the plants required,
(the holes being supposed prepared, and
the earth left in them,) he takes a tree
in one hand, and the tool in the other,
which he strikes into the hole, and then
pulls the earth towards him, so as to make
a hole large enough to hold all its roots ;
he then puts in the plant with the other,
and pushes the earth to its roots with the
back of the planter ; after which, he fixes
the plant, and levels the soil at the same
instant, with his foot; so that the operation
is performed by one person with a degree
of neatness and expedition which no one
can attain to, who uses the spade. It
is known to all planters, that but few la-
bourers ever learn to plant well and ex-
peditiously, in the common method, with-
out an assistant : — This method, however,
requires neither help nor dexterity ; as
N2

( 188 )

any labourer of common sagacity, or boy
of fifteen, or even a woman, may learn to
perform it well in less than half an hour.
The facility with which these tools will
break clods, clear the holes of stones, or
separate the soil from herbage, the roots
of heath, &c. (the former being previous-
ly mellowed by the frost,) may be easily
imagined.

In the foregoing pages, many observa-
tions have been made on the different spe-
cies of trees, best calculated for the pur-
pose of sheltering or nursing each other,
so far as the general prosperity and value
of plantations are concerned. AYe proceed
next to treat of shelter, not only as it re-
lates to the above objects, but as it may
be made subservient to the improvement
of property generally, as well as the im«
mediate vicinity of a family mansion^
Here, however, I find two circumstances
completely different in their nature, so

( 189 )

intimately connected, that it seems the
most convenient method to speak of them
together.

Every one, who has any distinct ideas
of the nature of trees, will readily agree
that they are capable of producing what
all the intelligent part of mankind allow
to be of the utmost value, viz. ornament
and shelter ; — they are indeed so insepara-
ble, from their nature, that it is almost im-
possible to plant a large number without,
ultimately, producing a considerable de-
gree of both : — The fact is, that a thri-
ving plantation, however misplaced, be-
comes, with the bulk of mankind, an ob-
ject of regard, approaching almost to
veneration; perhaps the idea of utility,
inseparably connected with such objects,
goes far in stamping the impression.

If such then be the effects of trees, as
operating upon the human mind, without
2

( 190 )

regard to arrangement or propriety of
situation, we are not to wonder at the asto-
nishing effects they are capable of produ-
cing, when every mass, group, clump, or
individual tree, has its proper place and
station, and when their species, and even
forms, are made subservient to these pur-
poses : for then it is, and not before, that
we see what a great professional man
would have properly called their natural
" capabilities/' — The modest mansion and
the splendid palace are equally indebt-
ed to their aid ; for when the architect,
the mason, sculptor, painter, and the
numerous professional train, usually em-
ployed in decorating mansions of afflu-
ence, have exerted their utmost efforts,
the whole, without trees, may be compared
to a beacon upon a hill ; an object to be
looked at, but not enjoyed, except by
persons who do not share in the common
feelings of mankind.

( 191 )

To say, in how many ways trees con-
tribute to benefit a country residence,
would lead me far beyond my present ob-
ject; I shall, therefore, only just briefly
notice a few of them ; as, first, they add
greatly to the ideal size and consequence
of the mansion itself; suppose, for instance,
a house to stand so as to be seen in com-
mon with other buildings, distant hills, the
sky, or any object larger than itself, its
height and dimensions will be apparently
reduced by being so contrasted. On the
contrary, should trees be introduced be-
tween the building and such objects, so
that the eye is in a measure confined to
the contemplation of the former only, it
immediately appears increased in beauty,
size, and comfort.

Secondly, the shade and shelter afford-
ed by trees may, if rightly managed, be
made to give, what may be called, a new
atmosphere : They will, as far as necessary.

(192 )

equally exclude the impetuous blast and
the scorching ray; and thus it is that they
contribute to health, by inviting to the en-
joyment of an invigorating excursion, in
every season, not unusually intemperate.

Thirdly, trees may be generally made
the means of shutting in such objects as
appear desirable, and o^ shutting out the
reverse. For instance, if the view from
the mansion commands some beautiful
grounds, trees properly arranged will ge-
nerally lead the eye so far to these objects,
as to give them a force or expression before
unobserved ;— and the same observation
will apply to water:- a small piece, by art-
ful management, in concealing the termi-
nations with trees, may often be made to
appear as a continued river.

Fourthly, by means of trees, the ap-
parent size of a lawn may generally be
considerably increased : not certainly by

( 193 )

planting a continued belt round it, as is
very commonly practised, but by bold
projections and breaks, so managed that
the ground may appear to continue
through the latter. Frequently, by the
skilful use of such means, lands not the
property of the same proprietor may be
made to appear part of the demense.

Such then being a part (certainly but a
small one) of the ways in which trees may
be made to benefit a country residence,
it clearly behoves the proprietors of them
to consider how such objects may be ob-
tained with certainty, for they are not the
fruits of chance, but means ; and such
means must be proportioned to the end.
It is not the study of painting, the art of
drawing, or a facility of writing large trea-
tises, that will qualify a man for the crea-
tion of the sort of rural scenery just advert-
ed toi; nor can the professional gardener,
whose life has been principally devoted to

( 194 )

far different objects, be supposed at all
equal to the task; it is only to be expected
from the man of genius, taste, observation,
and experience ; one, in short, who has a
head to plot and a hand to execute, not
only the great and essential, but even the
most minute parts of the business.

The works of an ornamental gardener,
who rests in theory only, may aptly enough
be compared to base coin, it may look well
and even pass for a time; by-and-by, how-
ever, it wears worse, the copper is seen
through the silver, and that again assumes
the place of the gold ; the proprietor la-
ments his loss, and so may, with good
reason, the owner of an ill planted shrub-
bery, while the designer adopts the poet's
piteous lamentation. " Vegetation spoils
" every thing ;" which, by the way, only
proves that he could abuse what he
did not properly understand. The truth
is, that, as such designers do not know the

( 195 )

proper situations for the different species
of plants, that business is left to accident,
and hence most of them prove misplaced ;
of course, the planting gets gradually into
disorder, in much the same proportion as
it would have improved, had it been pro-
perly executed.

To instance one of the many respects,
in which the works of such designers get
annually w^orse, I may notice the case of
screens. In the immediate vicinity of a
house,such things are peculiarly desirable;
and yet very generally mismanaged. In
the course of a few years, we usually find
what should continue a close one, possess-
ing the properties of shade, shelter, and
retirement, degenerate into an open grove;
and hence, both its character and use are
in a great measure lost. Nor can this be
wondered at, if men continue to plant and
treat both in the same manner only.

( 196 )

A little observation may serve to con-
vince us, that every screen must degene-
rate, in the way just noticed, if part of the
plants composing it have not the proper-
ties of growing bushy, of retaining tlieir
branches very low, of producing closer
heads on being pruned, of shooting afresh
from the ground on beino; cut down, and
of growing under other trees. Nor can
any screen long retain these properties,
except they are carefully promoted and
encouraged, by frequent attention. Of
course, a screen should consist of three
descriptions of plants : viz. trees proper
for principals, for underwood, and for the
fronts.

As all the grounds, to be planted in
the immediate neighbourhood of the man-,
sion, should be prepared by trenching, or
digging at least, so the principal trees for
them should be somewhat large ; if they
ditFer as much in height as from three to

( 197 )

eight feet, so much the better, as these
with the underwood, which should differ
in height from three feet to one, would
collectively soon exhibit a closeness of
bottom and a lightness of summit ; cir-
cumstances without which such screens
can never be more than in a limited degree
either usepul, beautiful, thriving,

or LASTING.

It should be remarked, that, in planta-
tions of this description, trees which form
very close heads should be sparingly used
as principals : the fir tribe for instance,
should chiefly be used near the verges
least seen, and more especially where the
screens are narrow ; as there they should
be rather dark ; for otherwise we lose
much oi apparent breadth. But it is to be
noted, that though such verges should be
darkened, this method would have an ex-
tremely bad effect, were the close heads
of such trees to rise so high as to exhibit a

( 198 )

close summit to the distant beholder j as
that would reduce the apparent breadth
at any season, by bringing forward the dis-
tant outline ; the effect, however, would
be much the worst in winter. Still per-
sons need not be afraid of using a moderate
quantit}^ of firs, as principals, in such
places ; because, where they are allowed
tolerable space, they seldom rise so quick
as the bulk of deciduous trees ; and should
too many appear, some of them may be
taken down in preference to other species,
when thinning becomes necessary; so that
the effect alluded to might be completely
avoided.

Presuming that an equal quantity of
principals and underwood make an excel-
lent proportion of plants for a screen, the
method of planting them will be found
very easy; as the size will sufficiently mark
the distinctions. If the whole ground is
holed, so as to plant at three feet distances,

( 199 )

and half of these are planted with each
description, the plants would ultimately
stand at regular distances. It is not in-
tended here to dictate what proportion of
each individual species should be made
use of, or how mixed, but certainly a re-
gular mixture of either principals, under-
wood, or front trees, would be one of the
worst that could be adopted.

The list for underwood may comprise
all or part of the following ; First, — beech,
hornbeam, lime, oak, and common thorns,
of about two feet high ; as these will bear
to have their heads reduced occasionally,
and will spring afresh from the ground
upon being cut down.

Second, — Birch, horse chesnuts, moun-
tain ash, and laburnums of two feet : —
these shoot freely on being cut down, but
become unsightly on having their heads
reduced;

( ^00 )

Third, — Spruce and silver firs of one
foot ; — these will grow under other trees
where the cover is not very close, and
may be made to form broad bushes, by
frequently shortening their leading shoots.

I^ourth, — Common hollies, laurels, box,
and privets, of a foot high : — the general
properties of these are w'ell known ; all of
them grow very well under trees, more
particularly the three former.

In planting of screens it will be neces-
sary to leave two ranks of holes, in the
principal fronts, open ; in the first place,
in order to be filled with front plants on-
Iv. — For which purpose, the foregoing
list of underwood will all be proper, with
the addition of areatheaphrasti, ornamen-
tal thorns, golden willows, &c. — as these,
collectively, could not fail to form that
closeness and variety of front, which is
always desirable, but very rarely seen.

( 201 )

Possibly some persons may supposes
that such methods would be particularly
expensive : — the fact, however, is other*
wise ; for it is to be recollected, the nura*
ber of plants would be the same as is com-
monly used ; three feet being the usual
distance for such purposes : mean time,
only half the plants need be largCj or of
the common sizes.

If the plants for any given design,
planted in the usual method, be supposed
to cost twenty pounds, we may, by that
rule, estimate the expence of the impro-
ved one, as under t

£. 9. d.
Half of the plants being of tbe usu^ ).„

size and value \

Ofle eighth of them double do. * • 5 0 0
Three eighths of them beinff of half^

th« common value . . . , i

j^.l8 15 0

o

( 202 )

Here we see that, after making ample
allowance for such plants as are of more
than common, value, a perfect ornamen-
tal and lasting screen, possessing every de-
sirable property, may be planted for less
than what is usually devoted to one which
proves completely the reverse; and the
circumstance is the more provoking, as
mismanagement of this sort is rarely dis-
covered till it is almost impossible to re-
trieve it : prevention is said to be better
than cure ; in this case, it certainly is
abundantly less difficult. The former re-
quires nothing but what is easy, it is only
substituting a good method in the place
of a bad one. The cure can only be ef-
fected by much time, considerable labour,
some skill, and Jiot a little expence : still the
worst of it remains to be told ; it requires
a sacrifice of trees, too considerable for
most persons to submit to, without the
utmost reluctancei

( 203 )

When we consider, how much the ar-
rangement of the grounds and trees about
a place contribute to its embelUshment
and c©mfort, and, of consequence, its in-
trinsic worth ; one cannot help wondering
that a science which embraces such impor-
tant objects, should be still so much enve-
loped in mystery. A bad design is often
quite as expensive as a good one ; and
hence gentlemen could have no induce-
ment to adopt the former in preference
to the latter, if they had any criterion or
rule, by which to judge of the merits of
the one, and the defects of the other.

That this art may be traced to certain
and fixed principles, there can be no
doubt. If the same means never fail to
excite pleasurable sensations in the mind
of intelligence, it appears that such prin-
ciples rest upon a basis much deeper
founded than the fashion of the moment.
02

( 204 )

The truth seems to be, that, for near a
century, taste in ornamental gardening has
been constantly verging towards nature
and simplicity. The best scenes in uncul-
tivated nature are clearly our best models
when working upon a large scale : and,
even upon a small one, we have no busi-
ness to completely overlook them. These
scenes may be simple ; as where the grati-
fication arises from the contemplation of
one sort of object only, as the ground,
water, trees, or prospect : or they may be
compound, or such as arise from the com-
bination of two or more of them; — ge-
nerally artificial scenery proves of the lat-
ter description.

As it will not be disputed, but that the
scenery alluded to is calculated to capti-
vate alike the untutored and the cultivated
mind, it follows, I think, of course, that
we have here, what may be called, the
basis of a taste founded on nature. It

( 205 )

will not, however, be sufficient to disco-
ver, that such scenery pleases in the gross ;
as in that state it can rarely be the sub-
ject of close imitation ; and, therefore, it
will be necessary to distinguish correctly,
how far each distinct cause contributes to
the general effect.

It cannot be disputed, but that an in-
timate knowledge of the means, by which
the best effects are produced in natural
scenery, is necessary to combine them in
what is purely artificial. In fact, where
the most of art is exerted, there nature
will ultimately appear most of all pre-
dominant.

I do not here mean those combined
exertions of art and labour, which fre-
quently go the Ie'?gtb of altering, what
may be called, the gejiius of the spot, at a
prodigious cxpcnce ; but that art which
can as it were seize upon existing circum-

( 206 )

stances, and, by slight additions, or cur-
tailments, made at a small expence, con-
vert them into what will, at once, har-
monize with, and improve, the natural
features of the place. Certainly a pro-
pensity to more of alteration than is ab-
solutely necessary, is no proof of either
taste or skill, but the reverse. A taste for
expence is one that ought to be sincere-
ly deprecated ; whether it exists in the
proprietor or the designer; as it serves to
deter persons, of moderate fortunes, from
enoaging in improvements that may be
absolutely necessary.

Still the greatest of all discouragements
to improvements is, the ignorance of the
bulk of those who undertake to conduct
them. — Undoubtedly, there are many ex-
ceptions to this remark : we see the men
in their works ; but, by that rule, which
all must allow to be an unerring one, we
may safely pronounce it to be applicable

( 207 )

to a great majority of the profession. —
The truth is, they grope their way in the
dark; and hence, if they miss it, it is what
might reasonably be expected; all we can
look for from them as original, is a some-
thing, which nature and propriety must
equally disown ; or a clumsy imitation of
some place they have seen. — Perhaps, as
matters are circumstanced, it may be ren-
dering an essential service to gentlemen,
to furnish them with a rule, bv which thcv
may, in some degree, measure the " capa-
bilities" of such persons as may be intro-
duced to them in the above capacity. —
The method mioht be somethino like the
following :

After ample time has been allowed for
observation, the person should be request-
ed to explain the reasons for every distinct
projected alteration, and how for each was
to contribute to the general effect. He
should, likewise, be desired to state the

( 208 )

means to be made use of in producing
cifects speedily, by planting, and how they
might be made lasting wherever desirable;
as there is nothing in the above but what
every practitioner either has, or, at least,
ought to have, clear ideas of.

I am confident, that there is not a man
in the profession, who deserves employ-
ment, that would not go through the or-
deal with ease to himself, and in a manner
that would convince every one, that he
had, at least, studied cause and effect, so
far as applicable to his profession. He
would easily be able to make the distinct
tion, between what might be called the
great and what the inferior natural features
of the place ; and also show, in some con-
siderable degree, how far each might and
ought to be worked upon with advantage;
and, in doing so, he would constantly keep
in mind what was practicable in itself, and
consistent with the general circumstances

( 209 )

of the place. — But easy as all this would
be to the man of science, to the mere co-
piest and dashing adventurer it would, in-
deed, be a task, in the performance of
which, their deficiencies would be plainly
manifest. The difference between the re-
ports of such persons, and that before
mentioned would sufficiently mark their
different attainments ; the former would
dwell principally upon matters peculiarly
applicable to the place, the other on what
would be as applicable to any other : the
former would tell us, how the work was
to be done, and what species of trees to
be planted, and where; the latter would
content themselves with talking about
such matters generally.

Having said thus much, on the uses of
trees, as applicable to the immediate
neighbourhood of a mansion; and, like-
wise, hinted at some common circumstan-
ces of mismanagement, I may now advert

( 210 )

to their value, as shelters and ornaments
generally ; more especially lo lands at once
bleak and bare, of which the country ex-*
hibits many very extensive tracts.

Some people seem greatly alarmed,
least the business of planting should be so
far extended as to intrench upon agricul-
ture ; the danger however, I conceive, lies
entirely on the other side ; for, though an
old planter, I have never known much
land devoted to planting that was of con-
siderable value for corn or grass, except
so far as taking a part to improve the rest,
by shelter ; a species of planting which,
very unfortunately for the countrj^ in
general, and its agricultural interests in
particular, has been but little practised ;
perhaps scarcely thought of till within the
last forty years; and which, to the present
moment, is not practised to one hundred
part the extent it ought to be.

(211 )

If any one, inclined to doubt of the
truth of the above strong assertion, has
an opportunity of visiting Stanmer, near
Brighton, in Sussex, the seat of Earl
Chichester; or Sledmere, in the east-riding
of Yorkshire, the seat of Sir ^l. M. Sikes,
I am persuaded he will find reason to
think with me, that instead of detrinien ting,
planting may be made to materially pro-
mote the interests of agriculture. Every
situation that is elevated and bare is, in
consequence, less or more barren ; the
Woulds and Downs, which certainly in-
clude no inconsiderable proportion of the
culturable lands of the country, come very
generally under this description. It is ad-
mitted, that they are productive in their
present state ; but certainly that produce
would be abundantly increased, were they
properly sheltered by planting.

At the two places just mentioned, the
business of shelter has been worked upon

4

( 212 )

by planting to an extent, and with a de-
gree of judgment, of which I have seen no
parallel elsewhere : — indeed, with me, it is
a question, whether the immediate descen-
dants, or the country in general, are most
obliged to these truly noble minded per-
sons, the late Earl Chichester and Sir
Christopher Sikes, who projected and ex-
ecuted these equally splendid and invalu-
able improvements ? The former will,
I understand, in consequence, have a pillar
erected to his memory by his noble succes-
sor. I have not heard that any thing of
the sort is intended in regard to the latter;
but 80 much is certain, he has well de-
served such a tribute of respect.

Of the value of these plantations, as
shelters, as ornaments, and as producing
timber, I do not pretend to speak; further
than that it must be prodigiously great ;
nor is it possible to estimate their worth,
in the way of example ; he must indeed be
1

( 213 )

a cold-blooded mortal, who can contem-
plate such united utility and magnificence^
without feeling " how low, how little*'
are most of the earthly pursuits, which so
generally engross men of rank, in compa--
rison of the elevated, I had almost said,
the sublime science of planting.

The manner of planting general screens
may be much the same as in the neigh-
bourhood of the mansion, only rejecting
the dearer species of plants. As here re-
gard must be had as well to the future as
the present, a moderate quantity of the
following articles should be introduced as
principals, wherever the soil proves suita-
ble, viz. oak, beech, sycamore, and the
English elm, the last being grafted. The
ash should never be admitted into any
other than broad screens, it being a bad
shelter, and a worse neighbour.

( 214 )

As enough has been advanced, to ex-
plain what is necessary to the formation of
the most perfect screens, I need here only
refer the reader back to the subject, re-
commending him, at the same time, to at-
tend particularly to what has been advan-
ced, in the former part of the work, on
the properties of the larch, spruce, and
Scotch firs; as, by the proper use of these,
most situations may not only be complete-
ly sheltered, but the screens rendered high-
ly productive in timber produce.

It may be of importance to observe
here, that screens, planted for the purpose
of sheltering lands of inferior value, should
by no means be narrow ones ; for though
it may be possible to preserve them com-
plete shelters, it can only be done by such
continued attention as can scarcely be ex-
pected in large concerns : nor is it possible
that either the principal trees or under-
wood should thrive so well as in broad

( 215 )

ones. But the best reason for breadth re-
mains to be noticed : — Such lands may ge-
nerally be as profitably employed this way
as in any other, frequently more so : be-
sides the fencing of the two sides of a
screen, Avhether it be twenty or a hundred
yards broad, will be precisely the same.
Of course, narrow breadths must be the
worst kind of policy.

The value of broad ones, as covers for
game, is too obvious to need comment. —
With most gentlemen, the protection of
game is a matter of much importance. —
Broad belts, partially cut down, from time
to time, so as to produce a constant supply
of underwood, are peculiarly calculated to
encourage the breed. In short, the same
means that will shelter the land, will also
shelter the trees and game : and, with all
these pecuniary advantages, they are be-
yond comparison the most ornamental. A
Harrow belt, on the summit of a hill, com*

( 216 )

posed of trees with naked stems onlj, has
none of the properties of a shelter, but the
reverse: it is indeed but little ornamental,
and less useful. — ^The proper situation for
such screens will be, in some degree, obvi-
ous. Generally they will be most effective
on the summits of hills. In most places,
it is known from what quarter the wind
blows most violently , generally from the
west : — the rule, however, admits of many
exceptions ; and, therefore, this point
should be clearly ascertained, in the first
instance ; when the direction of the plant-
ing will follow of course.

Consistent with what has been advan-
ced on planting steeps, it will be found
desirable, that the line of the screen to
windward* should be as near the summit
of the steep as may be found convenient;
as, by that means, much of the current of
the wind will be thrown rather over, than
in among the trees i and hence they will

( 217 )

thrive better than if the line was lower in
the ascent.

When, as sometimes happens, the cur-
rent of the wind takes the direction of a
valley, it is peculiarly prejudicial. In such
a case, the line of the screen must be
across the valley, from the summit of one
hill to that of the other: and, if such val-
ley continues to ascend for a considerable
length, a second screen may be necessary.
It is not said that such things rank high
as ornaments ; but they may frequently
prove extremely useful.

Where it is necessar}^ for a road to
cross the screen, it should either be turned
about half a point from the direction of
the current, or be made to bend so far
that the wind, drivino; in a straight direc-
lion, Avill lose its force among the trees.
It is almost unnecessary to add, that suck
roads should be no wider than what is ab-

P

( -']8 )

solutoly necessary ; for, otherwise, they
would not only hurt the general effect,
hut also occasion a degree of exposure.
In narrow ones, by a little attention, the
trees may be made to areh over at any
given height; so that a matter of conve*
nience may be made productiye of variety.

In closing this subject, I may observe,
that not only elevated situations require
iyhelter, but any bare one may be greatly
benefited by it. Any one, who has clear
ideas of a2:ricultural affairs, must know
that it is highly valuable ; but none who
have not experienced it, can justly esti-
mate its extent. The best proof, that I
can advance, of its worth, is the opinion
of the noble possessor of Stanmer, before
mentioned. This attentive observer has
himself assured me, that, in; consequence
of the shelters, he considers many of his-
fields of tln-ee times the value they other-
wise would be : while others, not so fa-

( 219 )

vourabl}' situated, appear evidently to be
benefited in proportion to tlie shelter.
Neither is there much danger of mistake
in this respect ; as the estate is large, and
affords numerous situations still exposed,
the natural circumstances of which cor-
respond exactly with such as are shel-
tered; and, therefore, the rent each would
let for, clearly ascertains the value of the
shelters.

I have been the more particular on
this head, because it appears this part of
the subject is more imperfectly understood
than most others. Indeed, from a pretty
extensive knowled2;e of what is doing in
the country, in the business of planting,
there seems to be abundantly more need
of directions than incitements : and the
better a person understands the subject
generally, and that of screens in particu-
lar, so much clearer will be his view? of
the general utility of the pursuit.

( 220 ) -

e It is certalnlv a matter liiohlv consola-
foiy, to find so considerable a number of
opulent persons, in different parts of the
united kingdom, exerting themselves to
provide a supply of timber for our in-
creasing wants; and more particularly so,
to lind the prejudices, in regard to fir tim-
ber of home produce, very much upon
the decline. If it is true, that we can
grow such timber, proper for every pur-
pose to which the foreign has usually been
applied, it is surely matter of national dis-
grace not to knoxo it; at least, the cir-
cumstances of the present moment impe-
riously demand, that the question should
be determined, ^f a 0/' nay. — In the present
publication, as well as in the " Forest
" Pruner," it has been a leading object
with the author, to assist the reader in
forming just ideas on this subject; and
perhaps the samples, presented with this
treatise, may, in some degree, tend to the
same good purpose. Indeed I suspect,

( 221 )

that if many of those who are most active
in depreciating British produce, were
called upon to examine these samples,
without knowing them to be such ; they
would find themselves in the situation of
the woodman, mentioned in page 62. But
thus it must always happen, so long as
men are content to take their opinions
upon trust.

The practice of confiding in common-
ly received opinions, without examining
cither their truth or tendency, is what the
author has never adopted ; because he is
fully aware, it tends to the exclusion of
every idea of improvement ; he believes
it is to a conduct directl}^ the reverse, that
he is indebted for whatever success has
attended him, either as a professional man
or as an author; and hence, upon the
present occasion, hehas strictly persevered
in it. He can, at least, say with confi-
dence, that he has done his duty, in using

( 222 )

his best endeavours to elucidate the prin*
ciples, improve the practice, reduce the
expence, and increase the value of gene-?
ral planting.

I have just been favoured with the
Queries of the Commissioners of Woods
and Forests, (dated the 21st of Dec. inst.)
*' relative to the Cultivation, Ma)iagemejit,
" ^c. of Navi/ Timber," inclosed in the
following Note.

She ffield'P lace,
Dec. 24, 1807.

Lord Sheffield is requested, by Lord
Glenbcrvie, to forward the inclosed to
the persons best acquainted with the
management and growth of timber trees^
and therefore sends it to Mr. Fonteij.

As his Lordship has adopted the Au-
thor's System, of managing his Oak Tim^
Ipier, probably the finest in the Kingdom, the

( 22:5 )

above Note will be sufficient to cxliibk
his opinion of the Fo ii e s t Pr l n e r ; and ,
therefore, the Author has only to express
his sincere satisfaction, that Government
now sees the necessity of some measures
to encourage the Growth and Improve-
ment of Oak Timber. It is, indeed, the
more pleasing, because the necessity for
such measures has not only been pointed
out by himself, but enforced by arguments,
that he presumes to be unanswerable, in
the above work, (published in 1805,) p.
062—270.- The book is of itself a sa-
tisfactory ANSWER to many of the Queries
alluded to.

POPLARS.

Mr. Liddell, Agent to Sir Thomas Pilkiiigton, of Cfcivett,
pear Wakctield, hai» just favoured me with the following' particulars,
which 1 consider of much importance; as, while they demonstrate
the quickness of growth, they also prove tlie peculiar |>ropriety of
using means, to ascertain the useful application of »ucli articles.

A Black Italian Poplar, planted in Mr. Liddell's Garden, at
New-Miller-Dam, near Wakefield, in tlie spring of 179P, and then
only six feet high, is now thirty-eight; the Trunk being twenty, and

( 224 )

the Top eighteen feef. The average Girt of the farmer beiug
twenty-tour Inches. This tree lost about seven feet, from its top,
in the bummer of ISO'S.

Another Poplar, of the same species, planted in the same
Garden in March, 1801, had about ten feet cut off its head, after
two years' growth, at eight feet and a quarter high, to prevent its
damaging some shrubs ; after which, it produced three branches,
■which now form as many distinct heads, at the above height; the
least of which is twenty feet long. The Girt of the Trunk is twen-
ty-four inches. The situation of this Garden is rather elevated,

the soil LIGHT and dry.

Another Poplar (of the common white species, or what is call-
ed in some places, the White Willow) growing on the banks of
the river Calder, near Wakefield Mills, planted fourteen years
ago, being then about the size of a common walking-cane, is now
of the following dimensions.

The Height fifty-seven feet.

Average Circumference, to eight feet high, sixty-four inches.

Ditto ditto from eight to twenty ditto, forty-eight ditto.

From the trunk, at eight tcet high, it has sent out an arm or
branch, which is twenty-four inches in circumference and about
thirty-five feet long; the whole containing not less than xuiRiy

CUBIC FEET OF TIMBEE.

Though all the above may be considered as astonishing instan-
ces of quick growth, the last gives the clearest result; as having
come to an age and size in which~trees, of this description, may be
said to feed in trunk, rather than expend their strength in top. — A
scale of progressive increase would certainly state the produce of
the last year at not less than six or seven feet of timber. — The
history of this tree is as singular as its increase is astonishing : — It
was found floating in the river !

January 1, 1803.

INDEX.

ABELE, the Properties of, 87.

Floors of, at Sheffield-Place, 88.

a good Substitute for Mahogany, 88.

Autumn, the best general Season for making

Holes, 170.
Authors, erroneous Opinions of, 28.
■ consider Firs as only fit to nurse other

Trees, 28.
Author^ erroneous Opinion of one, 56.
■ himself, formerly prejudiced against

Firs, 31.
offers to furnish Plants of the Black

Italian Poplar, 87. — Note.
Ash, the proper Soils for, 108.
Ash, the Mountain, a bad Nurse, 60.
Beech, the proper Soils for. 111.
Birch, method of treatment, 160.
Breaks, in Plantations, effects of, 100 — 193.
Chesnut, the Spanish, the proper Soils for. 111.
^— = — =- grows well on poor Sands, 112. — J^ote.

( 226 )

Chalk Soils, method of filling up Plantations,

on, 161.
Drouglitj method of preventing the effects of,

180.
Designers, what their proper Qualifications, 191.
Exposure, its Consequences to Plants, 136.
Elm, the Witch, or Scotch, its properties, 65.

the proper Soils for, 109.

a new and supposed valuable variety, 1 10.

■ English, the proper Soils for, 109.
the best raised by Grafting, 66.

Firs, of British Produce, vague Opinions con-
cerning them, 20.

now planted for profit to a large extent,

2^. — Xote.

Reasons why we have few large ones, 23,

general Observations on, 30 — 32.

r Reasons for ascertaining their uses, 53.

American Spruce, Silver, Weymouth

Pine, and Pineaster, 63.

■ Spruce, general Observations on, S3 — 48
■ Proofs of its durability, 41.

— — the best general Shelter, 43, 124.

the Plants of it dear, and why, 46.

• Scotch, why its Timber often proves of

inferior Value, 49.

( 227 )

Firs, Scotch, the same species as Red Deal, 49.

its general properties, 48 — b6.

' ' / ■ Soils proper for, 120.

. remarkable for not exhausting the Soil,

121.- JVbff.

■ . ■ as a Shelter on Exposures, 55.

Fir Timber, the Russian and Swedish method

of preparing for falling, 51.
Heath, Reasons for planting among it, 139.
Heathy Soils, how far improper for deciduous

Trees in general, 56.

■ ■ ■ general Observations on, 135.

■ method of making Holes on, 170.
Holes, the proper sizes of, for Trees, 177.
Lands, useless for other purposes, proper for

planting, 15.
Larch, never fails to command purchasers, 32,
« its general properties, 33 — 37.

' inferior to the Scotch Fir as a shelter, 60.

'. thrives on calcarious Soil;?, whether light

or stiff, 104.

■ its properties as a Nurse, 124.

■ the proper Soils for, 114.

' Observations on its Insect, 115.

Mattock, for making Holes, description of, 185.
: its uses, 167—170.

( ««8 )

Mineral Taint prejudicial to Trees, 107.
Nurse Plants, important Observations on, 56.

' general errors in regard to, 122

—128.
Oak, the proper Soils for, 108.

an excellent Soil for, analized, 106.

m Government's Queries, in regard to, 222.
Ornamental Gardeners, theoretical, their works

like base Coin, 194.
Poplars, the proper Soils for, 1 14.

— instances of their quick growth, 224.

■ Black Italian, its properties, 82.

- in what respect superior to other
Trees, 86.

Puddling, the method of, 181.

Prejudice, a curious instance of, 62. — Ao^e.

Planting, in mixture, its advantages, 128.

- thick, Objections to, 171.

■ deep, bad consequences of, 178 — 18.5.
<• the best general Season for, 182.

— • new and expeditious method of, 187.

.^ the common method of, 182.

Planters, the Tools, description of, 185.

uses of, 187.

Plants, large ones, why objectional, 175.
Soils, deep ones, advantages of, 70.

( 229 )

Steeps, the advantages of planting them, 91.

method of Holing them, 169.

Sands, Reasons for and against breaking them
up for planting, 132.

fertile in Wood-Produce to a great

depth, 133.

SoilS;, preparation of, for planting, general Ob-
servations on, 130.

Sandy, 133.

Heathv, 135—140.

thin and stiff, 140—152.

deep and stiff, 152-

- chalky and thin, 155.
— —- light and deep, 162.

■ light and poor, 164.

small Patches, generally, 164.

rocky, 165 — 169.

Sea Breeze, curious Effects of, 97. — J^ote.
Sycamore, Soils proper for, 113.
Screens, generally mismanaged, 195.

" improved method of planting, 196.
' ■ their cheapness demonstrated, 201.

» proof of their value, 210.
Trees, adopting proper species, 102 — 125.
cautions in regard to, 103.

( 230 )

Trees, deciduous, thrive best among Evergreens,

130. --Note.
' • • distances proper for, 171.

size of, what a good one for general pur-
poses, 173.

bad rooted, require a good Soil, 173.

— large ones ditto, 175.

■ transplanted, why the best, 175.

■ free growers, the necessity for ascertain-
ing their properties, 38.

— naturally produce both Shelter and Orna-
ment, 189.

extraordinary Effects of, 190—193.

' for principals, what a proper Proportion,

123.
Tools for planting, description of, 185.

uses of, 186.

Willow, Huntingdon, its properties, 68.

. Upland or Red Twigged, 73.-

. improved by steeping in Water, 69.

. ■ ' proper Soils for, 114.
Wood young, most species of inferior value, 125.
■■ of the Larch, and Spruce Fir

highly valuable, 126.
Wood, reason for presenting samples, 220.

F J N J S.

ADVERTISEMENT.

THE Autlwr gives Directions and Designs
in every Department of Ornamental Garden-
ing; and, likewise. Instructions for the Ma-
nagement of Timier Trees generally, as icell
as the Objects of the present Treatise, in everi/
Fart of Great^ Britain.

■As his present Engagements occasion his
tfisiting the Neighbourhood of London ticice,
annually, Gentlemen in that Quarter, and the
Vicinity of the Road, may avail themselves of
lus Assistance, 'Without being charged with the
Expence of the Journey^

(J:3- Letters addressed to Huddersfeld, or
to No. 36, St. James's Street, London, ^s^ill
be duly ciitended to.

Of the Publishers of this Volume may be had,

Writtm by the same Author,

A new Edition^ xciih Additions,

OF

THE FOREST PRUNER;

Or, Timber Otcnn-'s Assistant :

A Treatise on the Training and ^ianagement of BRI-
TISH TIMBER TR1:ES ; wlicther intended for USE, ORNA-
MENT, or SHELTIiR : including an J'xplanation of the Cau^^es
of tl.cir GENERAL DISEASES and DEFECTS, with the means
of PREVENTION, and REMEDIES, where practicable :

Also, an Examination of

The Properties of English Fir Timber ;

\Mili Rciaaiks on the Old and Outlines of a Nevv System for the

MANAGEMENT of OAK WOODS.

fi Uh Eight Explanatory Plates.

The Aiithn;- thinks himself honour''id in being enabled to publish
the annexed Documents.

Society of Arts, SfC. Adehhi,
Sir, London, Oct. 20th, IbOG.

TFie Society for the r.ncouraseip.ent of Arts. Manufactures, and
Comincfct^, have directed ir,e to return you their thank's, for the present oi
•our valuable and useful publicatiou, calleii tlie Forest Prvneh;

J hive rend it witli great pleasure, ami think it will be productive of very
considerable advantages to all persons, who follow your instructions.

Your treatise is carefully deposited in the Society's Library, and has met
vLth much, attention. lam, Sis.^

Your obedient servant.
Mt. TVtUinm Poniey, Charles Taylor, Sec.

HmlLlersJield, Yorhhire.

Extract from the Preface to the 2ith Vol. of the Transactions of the So-
ciety of Arts, ^c, page 8, published in Feb. 1807.

•* The mischief »nd dania:;c arising to plantation* in general, from a bad
•j-steni of pruning, or iitgloct, induced the late public-spirited Duke of Bedford
to direct a scries of experiments to be made, at his expcnce, by W. Pontey,
•f Huddersticld, »>n his extensive plantations in the neighbourhopd of
Woburn, Mr. Fnntey has sheu-n great industry and judgment in his selection
of sp'^cinicn'i, anil in the clear detail relative to pruning Forest Trees, which
Te has communici^tcd in a. publication, intitled the Forest Pruner, presented
by him to the Society.'*

" This sj-strni ha-; been pursued by Mr. Salmon, agent to the present
Duke of Bedford, under his Grace's auspices, and confirmed by his certificate,
as noticed in the present volume. Wc are happy to add, it is continuing witii
spirit under his Grace's particular protection and attention,"

Harding and Wright, Printers,
St. John'i Square,