CHOICE OP SPECIES. 



considerations must decide which shall be grown, or 

 whether a mixed wood is preferable. 



Owing to the great variety of the factors of the 

 locality, the task of selection is frequently rendered 

 difficult. On fertile deep fresh soil almost any species 

 will thrive. Again, where the locality has such a 

 decided character that only one or two species are 

 admissible, the choice is easy enough j for instance deep 

 dry sand points to the cultivation of the Scotch or 

 Austrian Pine, wet soil to that of the Alder. 

 Where, however, the fertility of soil has deteriorated, for 

 instance by the continued removal of litter, or where 

 damage by fire, frost, drought, snow, storms and insects 

 may be apprehended, it is often difficult to hit on the 

 most suitable species. 



Frequently the factors of the locality do not exactly 

 correspond with the requirements of any species, so that 

 the power of accommodation becomes an important 

 element. This power in the case of some species is con- 

 fined within narrow limits, while others can adapt them- 

 selves to all sorts of conditions. For instance, Scotch Pine 

 and Birch are very accommodating as regards soil and 

 climate ; Spruce, Beech, and Silver Fir are less accom- 

 modating, and still less so are the Maples, Alder and 

 Ash. Sometimes the power of accommodation depends 

 chiefly on one factor ; if that is not present the species 

 will not thrive. Taking for instance the temperature, 

 Sweet Chestnut and Elm are exacting, while Scotch 

 Pine is the reverse. Oak and Alder require par- 

 ticular degrees of moisture in the soil, while Birch 

 and Scotch Pine are not particular. Spruce prefers 

 moist air, &c. 



