50 ON THE PRESENT STATE AND PROSPECTS OF 



and succeeded by stockskoots, which have been reserved in the 

 same way as the previous crop. 



Another system is to treat the whole as a plantation from the 

 beginning, when the trees are thinned early and frequently, and 

 the undergrowth is a secondary consideration. All the cut stems 

 where the trees have been thinned are allowed to shoot, and the 

 spray is invariably converted into brooms previous to each 

 periodical thinning. Of the two systems I prefer the first, but 

 both are open to objection, and not so profitable for gravelly, 

 moorland soils, as a crop of Scotch firs. To mix birch with 

 Scotch fir I consider to be a mistake. 



Having referred to the beech and lime trees, little more requires 

 to be said. Both occupy prominent positions in our parks and 

 pleasure grounds, but not in our mixed plantations. Some sixty 

 or eighty years ago, beech was extensively planted in North Hants 

 for ornament, and probably also for profit. At that time large 

 beech timber was valuable, but its value has depreciated, and is 

 held in little repute. The beech is now only planted in excep- 

 tional cases, causing a scarcity in the countxy ; and as the demand 

 exceeds the supply, prices are again rapidly advancing. Within 

 six years the price of beech has advanced from lOd. to Is. 6d. per 

 cubic foot ; but in its young state it is still difficult to dispose of. 

 At present rates, I consider it the most profitable tree for the 

 chalk formations, in situations too exposed for the lime-tree. The 

 reaction in regard to planting beech has not yet begun, but in a 

 few years we may see it more extensively planted in North Hants 

 than hitherto. 



In sheltered positions, the lime-tree excels the beech for rapidity 

 of growth, is more valuable when young, and when mature, sells 

 readily for 2s. 3d. per cubic foot. Even the limbs and large 

 branches are valuable ; and if over six inches in diameter, can be 

 disposed of at prices varying from Is. 3d. to Is. 9d. per cubic foot. 

 It is not adapted for elevated positions ; and if exposed to prevail- 

 ing winds, assumes a stunted and unhealthy appearance. For 

 avenues, and planting by the sides of roads, it is a general 

 favourite. When planted in double rows, as is frequently done, it 

 forms a spacious canopy, whose shade is an agreeable resort in the 

 sultry summer months. In July and August it is pleasant and 

 refreshing to walk under its umbrageous head, listening to the 

 busy hum of myriads of bees, and enjoying the sweet perfume of 

 its fragrant flowers. Like the beech, it has hitherto been culti- 



