CHOICE OF METHOD OF FORMATION OF WOODS. 169 



case the system is frequently called topping. The 

 branches may be cut off close to the main stem, or 

 at a short distance from it, the latter method being pre- 

 ferable. New shoots spring from the cuts, and these are 

 again cut after one, two, or more years, according to the 

 desired size of the produce. 



What has been said above regarding species, health of 

 the mother trees, and manner and season of cutting, 

 holds mostly good also as regards pollarding. The 

 system is chiefly employed for Willows and Poplars ; 

 the former yield materials for basket work, fascines, 

 hurdles, etc., and the latter firewood and small sticks for 

 domestic use. 



SECTION III. CHOICE OF METHOD OF FORMATION. 



The choice of method depends on numerous con- 

 siderations, such as the sylvicultural system, species, 

 soil, climate, external dangers, labour, cost, etc. To 

 attempt a detailed exposition of these matters in 

 'reference to the several methods would , not lead to any 

 practical result, since, after all, the choice depends on 

 the local circumstances of each case. A few remarks 

 regarding the main groups of methods may, however, not 

 be out of place. These main groups are : 



(1.) Direct sowing. 



(2.) Planting. 



(3.) Natural regeneration by seed. 



(4.) Natural regeneration by shoots and suckers. 



Of these the last-mentioned method refers almost 

 entirely to coppice woods worked under a short rotation ; 

 it is not employed where woods are treated under a 



