116 THE AMERICAN BOTANIST. 



almost any part of the plant. Their structure varies con- 

 siderably but they may be classified as simple (un- 

 branched) or compound (branched) each of which groups 

 may again be divided according to whether the hairs be 

 composed of one or more cells (unicellular or multicellu- 

 lar). A good example of a simple unicellular hair may be 

 seen on the leaf of the geranium and a curious branched 

 multicellular one is found on the deadh^ nightshade, 

 Sometimes the branching forms quite a miniature tree as 

 in the great mullein. — From an article in Nature Study, 

 (England). 



CHRISTMAS TREES AND PLANT PROTECTION, 



We commend the following from an editoral in Forest- 

 ry and Irrigation, to all who are concerned for the safety 

 of our forests on account of the cutting of Christmas trees. 

 The publication mentioned is the official organ of the 

 American Forestry Association, and certainly would not 

 countenance anything likely to injure the forests. 



"This 3'-ear complaint was heard, especially from the 

 northern cities, that Christmas trees are too expensive to 

 be used as generally as in 3^ears gone b^-. The supply is 

 decreasing. This is a matter for regret. The Christmas 

 tree is a strong accessory to a good home. It is a part of 

 the birthright of childhood and its enjo3^ment should not 

 be limited to the homes of the wealthy. 



Undoubtedh' there are enough young evergreen trees 

 in the north to furnish us indefinitely with Christmas trees 

 if we use them wiseh' and eke out the supph'. The rise in 

 prices means only that the w^ell shaped trees \vhich grew 

 conveniently near shipping points have been exhausted, 

 and that the dealers now have to bear the expense of 

 longer hauls. 



Here is an opening for thrifty northern farmers. A 

 few pounds of spruce and balsam seed each spring 

 scratched into the ground on the shady side of the fences, 

 or in the open places in the farm woodlot v/ould yield 

 enough Christmas trees after a few years to buy a hand- 



