44 FORESTRY 



and for distributing the larger sized seeds, but smaller seeds 

 can be sown more quickly and regularly 

 with a "seed-horn" (Fig. 4) specially 

 constructed for the purpose. 







Protection of Seeds and 

 Seedling's 



The seeds of conifers should be pro- 

 tected from birds by a coating of red 

 lead. One pound of red lead is suffi- 

 cient for ten pounds of seed. In the 

 mixing as little water as possible 

 should be used one pint to fifteen FIG. 4. SEED-HORN 

 pounds of seed. Most seeds require 



at least a slight covering of fine earth after having been 

 sown, and the bed should be made moderately firm by light 

 rolling. 



The season in which the seed ought to be sown depends 

 on when the seed ripens, but ordinarily it is in spring, at the 

 same time as agricultural crops are sown. 



The young seedlings must be kept free from weeds, and 

 certain of them protected from frost and drought. Speci- 

 ally sensitive are the seedlings of Beech, Silver Fir, Birch, 

 Sycamore, Ash, and Alder. Suitable shelter is easily erected. 

 One form effective in keeping off birds, and reducing or 

 preventing damage from frost and excess of sunshine, is 

 shown in Fig. 5. Temporary screens made from Spruce 

 or other branches usually fulfil their purpose satisfactorily. 

 Such cover should be gradually reduced, until during dull 

 weather in July it is completely removed. 



As protection against frost-lifting during the small plants' 

 first winter, particularly with slow-growing species, a sprink- 

 ling of pine leaves over the bed, or the laying of moss 

 between the rows, helps greatly. 



