NATURAL REGENERATION. 163 



introduces a great element of uncertainty, as it can only 

 in rare cases be relied on. 



A further complication may arise if the seed should 

 fall during the prevalence of a dry east wind, while, for 

 other reasons, regeneration should commence in the east 

 and gradually proceed towards the west. 



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I). Suitable Condition of the Germinating Bed. 



This has often to be provided by working, or 

 wounding the soil. Where the roots of the trees are 

 grubbed out the soil is sufficiently stirred, but where the 

 stools remain in the ground extra working may be 

 necessary. 



c. Security against external Dangers. 



These are chiefly frost, drought, and a growth of 

 weeds. Some protection will be given by the adjoining 

 wood, but the amount depends on the breadth of the 

 area under regeneration at one time, and the relative 

 position of the mother trees. 



d. Extent of the Clearing. 



The smaller the regeneration area is, the more satis- 

 factory will be the results. On large areas a period of 

 10, 20, or more years may be required to complete the 

 new crop, which will be very uneven, and in the 

 majority of cases artificial sowing and planting has to 

 step in. 



The chances of success are much greater if the 

 regeneration area has the shape of a narrow strip 

 running along the edge of the mother trees. The 



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