Q ORNAMENTAL VALUE OF SALTBUSHES. 



It appears that Atriplex lentiformis (PI. I, fig. 1) is especially prom- 

 ising. It is a very rapid grower, is well adapted to pruning, and 

 thrives on very strongly alkaline soil. Upon partially subdued lands 

 in the Salt River and Gila River valleys it is not uncommon for this 

 species to make a growth of 5 to 6 feet during late summer and autumn 

 after the removal of the grain crop in early summer. Occasional 

 plantings of it prove beyond a doubt that it has a wide application 

 as an ornamental in the general region in which it is found native. 

 The same is true of A. torreyi. 



ADVANTAGES OF THE SALTBUSHES AS ORNAMENTALS. 



Some species of the saltbushes are evergreen in the warmer 

 situations. 



They will thrive on either alkaline or nonalkaline soil. 



Some species grow in cold climates; others in hot climates. 



The gray color of the foliage is often a decided advantage. 



Many species are rapid growers. 



They shape up well and make a thick, impenetrable growth. 



Certain species are adapted to the variety of conditions prevailing 

 from the seacoast to the arid interior. 



They thrive on a minimum of moisture, but respond. readily to a 

 more favorable supply. 



A fair hedge can be made of some of the species in one year from 

 cuttings, and one of usual dimensions will grow in a single season, 

 when properly cared for, from the roots of an old hedge which has 

 been cut down. 



The main disadvantage of saltbushes is the brittleness of the wood. 



Approved : 



James Wilson, 



Secretary of Agriculture. 



Washington, D. C, September 27, 1910. 



[Cir. G9] 



o 



