252 TRANSACTIONS OF ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



have used the wood rather extensively for fencing purposes, for 

 dooi-s, in boat-building (principally as masts), and for various 

 other purposes, and with excellent results ; although it would be 

 premature to speak with perfect certainty, for sufficient time for 

 a fair trial has not elapsed since the experiments were instituted. 



As an ornamental tree for the park or lawn the Douglas fir is 

 of great value, its graceful outline and wealth of foliage being 

 special attractions. When planted in clumps or masses it is 

 effective, the beautiful rich green foliage being pleasing in the 

 extreme, pai'ticularly in early spi'ing, when the young leaves are 

 becoming fully developed, for then the contrast between these and 

 the dark green — almost yew green — of the older foliage is strik- 

 ingly distinct. 



In jilanting the Douglas fir for ornament, ample space should 

 be allowed for the development of all the branches, as, if the trees 

 are crowded together, the lower branches die off, and thus greatly 

 mar the effect. It is difficult to say as to the distance apart 

 at which these trees should be planted, much depending on the 

 soil, position, and altitude at which they are grown. A safe 

 average, under ordinary conditions as to soil and situation, would 

 be 20 feet, the standards ultimately left being 40 feet apart, 

 thus giving, in the majority of instances, ample room for the 

 spread of branches. 



The Douglas fir is a tree eminently adapted for cultivation 

 in this country, but to grow it satisfactorily it must be planted 

 in sheltered hollows, for experience has proved that it is ill- 

 adapted for bearing storms, even at a few feet above the sea- 

 level. It is well to bear this fact in mind, and to plant it 

 only where it will be screened from the prevailing winds. Such 

 situations are plentiful on almost every estate ; and if it is 

 intended to grow this handsome and valuable fir in a satis- 

 factory way, its peculiarities must be attended to, for experience 

 has proved it does not thrive on exposed ground. A native of 

 North-West America. Introduced in 1827. 



11. A. Engelmanni (Engelmann's Spruce), with its deep green 

 foliage, rather short, stiff, and horizontal branches, and spire-like 

 contour, is destined to rank high amongst ornamental conifers in 

 this country. It is hardy, of rather slow growth, and, so far as 

 we know, proof against insect pests. Owing to its recent intro- 

 duction nothing is known as to the value of timber produced 

 in the British Isles. In its native country the timber is said to 



