Io8 TRANSACTIONS OF ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



circumstances, beech being the better should the locaUty 

 suit it. 



The above conditions have, probably, all been fulfilled on 

 some estates. Communications on the subject from the owners 

 or foresters of such estates would be very interesting. 



F. B. 



The Appin Woods. 



In a booklet of i8 pages, with an excellent Map, is found 

 a general description of the woods on the Appin Estate, in 

 Argyllshire, the property of Mr J. R. Macalpine-Downie. It is 

 the work of Mr John Sutherland, factor, Oban, who writes as 

 follows : — 



" In consequence of the proximity of the lands to the sea, it is 

 seldom that heavy or permanent falls of snow are experienced, 

 and the winter frosts are not of long duration or at any time 

 very severe. The adaptability of the soil for timber has been 

 well proved, and it is intended to grow trees in a systematic 

 manner and in accordance with the methods which appear to be 

 best suited to the estate, but always with a view to raising wood 

 of marketable value. While taking every means of testing the 

 timber and money-producing qualities of the various conifers 

 from time to time recommended by the authorities, it is at 

 present felt that of all the trees best suited for profitable result, 

 larch is the one to be most extensively used where the soil is 

 adapted to it. The intention is to plant yearly an area extending 

 to from 20 to 30 acres, until the Policy Hill and Dallens Hill are 

 completely cropped. While doing this the old belts of larch will 

 be gradually cleared, and these will be replanted after a period 

 of rest varying from 8 to 12 years. So far, general immunity 

 from disease in old and young trees encourages the belief that by 

 careful selection of seed and plants there is reason to hope for 

 healthy crops, but a careful watch will be kept upon the woods, 

 and every precaution will be used to prevent destruction of the 

 young plantations. The woods will be from time to time 

 inspected by the forestry staff" of the West of Scotland Agri- 

 cultural College, and, under the direction of the College, such 

 experiments will be conducted as may have the sanction of the 

 proprietor. The general information given in these pages of the 



