98 EVERGREEN HEDGES. 



above observations on walks in general, will apply through 

 the season; therefore, we will not repeat this subject until 

 October. 



EVERGREEN HEDGES. 



We have previously observed, under the head Ever- 

 greens, that this is the best season for their replanting. We 

 cannot pass over the observations of this month, without 

 having reference to evergreen hedges, so much neglected 

 among us, and yet so important to the diversity of aspect, 

 and especially to soften a little the gloomy appearance of 

 our winters. There are three indigenous shrubs, and at 

 least one exotic, that are well adapted for the purpose, viz., 

 Pinus canadensis, Hemlock-spruce ; Thuja occidentalis, 

 American arborvitse ; Thuja orientalis, Chinese arborvitse ; 

 and Juniperis virginiana, Red-cedar. Where there is to 

 be a hedge of any of these planted, select plants about two 

 feet high ; lift them carefully, preserving the roots as much 

 as possible. Dig a trench from one and a half to two feet 

 wide, and from one to one foot and a half deep. This will 

 admit the soil to be well broken about the roots, which 

 must be done in planting. Keep the plants in the centre 

 of the trench, mixing the shortest and the tallest, that it 

 may be of one height, putting the earth close about their 

 roots as you proceed, and make it firm with the foot ; fill 

 up, and water as directed for evergreens in this month. If 

 the season is very dry, give it frequent copious waterings. 



None of them should be topped for a few seasons, except 

 such as are much above the others in height, keeping the 

 sides regular and even by clipping or shearing once a year, 

 either in this month or at the end of August. It is better 

 to keep the top (when they have got to the desired height) 

 pointed, than broad. The latter method retains a heavy 

 weight of snow, which frequently breaks down, or other- 

 wise deforms, that which has cost much labour to put into 

 -shape. 



