lo Nov., 1911.] Victorian Tree Planting Comfetition. 



729 



PROPAGATION METHODS. 



Every settler should have a small plot for the raising of his own trees. 

 The following are some general methods which may be adopted for the 

 •sowing of tree seeds, viz. : — 



1 . I ndiscriminate or Broadcast Sowing. — 



{a) The area where the seed is to be sown should be in such a con- 

 dition that the seed, when scattered, will find a ready lodgment either in 

 the soil or in decaying vegetable matter suitable for inducing germination, 

 and providing the necessary light, moisture, and nourishment for the future; 

 plants to establish themselves. 



{h) The area may be scarified or ploughed and harrowed, being worked 

 to a fine tilth, before sowing, if its natural condition is not suited for the 

 reception of the seed. 



2. Solving Seeds in Drills. — 



If necessary, the plough or a drilling machine may be run lightly 

 along the lines where the seed is desired to be sown. This will allow 

 light and moisture to penetrate the drills and stimulate the germination 

 ■of the seeds. 



SUGAR GUM PLANTATION, 2] YEARS ' 



After sowing the seeds, they may be lightly covered with some friable 

 soil, or the rake may be very lightly drawn along the drills, with the 

 object of covering the seeds, which may then be gently pressed down with 

 the foot. 

 3. Seed So7t'ing in Prepared O pen Beds or Shaded Frames — - 



The beds should be formed in some slightly sheltered position. The 

 soil should be of two-thirds peaty or sandy nature and one-third of gooii 

 loamy character. After thorough preparation and levelling of the beds, 

 the seeds may be sown and lightly covered with fine soil and carefully 

 hand-watered with can. When the seedling plants have developed, care 

 must be taken not to allow them to become either too dry or over 

 moistriicd. 



It is sf)m('tini<'s an advantage to ha\f the beds formed in frames or 

 framed around thus : - 



Q 



i:np view 



ERONT VIEW. 



so as to allow of cnlico-shailiiig liciug rolled up or down, in order t<> pro- 

 vide lor the protection <>! beds ihuiiiL: unl a\(Hn.il)le wcatlnr. 



