ENGLAND. 



The open weather of the past month has afforded excellent oppor- 

 tunities for falling underwood, and even for the continuance of planting- 

 operations, which should now be in a very forward state ; and though 

 we have had but little frosty weather to facilitate the removal of 

 heavy timber, yet the general soundness of the land contrasts 

 favourably with the corresponding period of last year. 



Nursery work, also, is well in hand, and such seeds as will not 

 keep may now be committed to the ground. The seeds of the oak 

 horse-chestnut, Spanish chestnut, and walnut may be planted early in 

 the month, in rows about 16 inches apart, with about 3 inches 

 between the seeds, and 3 inches deep. At such distances they may 

 remain till finally planted out, though, as many of the plants require 

 imdercutting to promote fibre growth, it is better in most cases to 

 transplant seedlings. Where the seeds are in danger from mice and 

 rats some sprigs of furze may be worked into the rows and laid upon 

 the beds. 



The crowding of the ordinary nurseryman should be avoided, and 

 ample space afforded to young stock, if sturdy plants are to be produced. 

 Transplanted seedling hard woods may be placed in rows from 20 to 

 24 inches apart, at intervals of 4 or 5 inches ; birch somewhat closer ; 

 larch, 15 inches by 3 ; and Scotch pine, 18 inches by 3. It is pro- 

 bably better to begin with the transplanting of two years' seedlings, 

 and afterwards follow up with those of one year. 



AVhere the land has been previously under nursery stock, a green 

 crop may be taken, and a compost of chalk rubbish, fresh earth and 

 lime, road scrapings, or decayed leaves, worked in according to the 

 requirements of the soil. 



Considering the great advantages of burnt soil, it does not gene- 

 rally occupy that position in nursery work to which its valuable 

 properties entitle it. Clays which contain a large proportion of the 

 alkalies and calcareous matter are especially adapted for burning, as 

 by this process their mineral substances become more soluble, and are 



