24 Oil Hedges. 



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description must be carefully kept from them until 

 they are out of danger." 



"A better way than either of these can be executed, 

 when the field enclosed, is incommoded with stones." 



" Having the hedge- course ploughed and harrowed 

 level in the spring of the fourth or fifth year, the stones 

 are to be gathered from the land, and the largest ones 

 first laid along side of the hedge; having marked a 

 space in width, proportioned to the quantity that can be 

 had, or is capable of containing as many of them as are 

 deemed sufficient ; they are to be laid somewhat regu- 

 lar, so as to form a sort of loose pavement or diagonal 

 wall with its upright face about fourteen inches high, 

 bearing against the stems of the plants. The interstices 

 among the large stones may be filled up with the small- 

 er, so as to close every opening against the growth of 

 weeds or other perennial plants." 



"This will not only be an excellent barricade against 

 swine, but will also tend to enrich the soil and promote 

 the growth of the hedge ; but it must not be attempted 

 before the stems of the plants at the surface of the 

 ground, have acquired the size of a stout walking cane, 

 as the stones will harbour field mice, and other animals 

 that would gnaw the roots of small plants, but will not 

 trouble such as are of the size mentioned." 



" Where stones cannot be obtained, another method 

 may be taken to close the bottom of a hedge. After a 

 course of flat rails, similar to those that are used in post 

 and railing, are fixed along the inside, with their faces 

 bearing against the hedge and raised a few inches from 

 the surface — ^held in their places by small stakes or 

 other simple contrivances — a mound of earth is to be 



