Ill 



CHAPTER VI. 



PLA^TDs^G. 



Preparation of tlieGroTind; Trenching: Draining. — Eoads tlirongh 

 Plantations. — Planting of Forest Trees. — Pitting. — Pruning. — 

 Thinning. — Transplanting Forest Trees. — Planting and Trans- 

 planting of Evergreens. 



We have already adverted to the importance of planting 

 in the formation and improvement of parks and pleasure- 

 grounds. In these interesting appendages of a country 

 residence, the woods present a main element of beauty; 

 and the degree of that beauty is greatly dependent on 

 the healthy and luxuriant groT^th of the trees. With 

 these facts in view, we shall offer some brief remarks on 

 the planting, fencing, and after-management of planta- 

 tions, confining ourselves, at the same time, to those 

 subjects which have a close relation to the park and 

 dressed grounds. 



Preparation of the Ground. — This is a matter which 

 has been much discussed, and has led to the expres- 

 sion of a variety of opinions. Some have thought that 

 a very careful preparation of the land is indispens- 

 able ; others would content themselves with draining, 

 and the removal of furze and other impediments to 

 the growth of the trees. Both these opinions will hold 



