106 FORESTRY 



tion for reproduction by seed, or from roads and ditches 

 where it has accumulated. In such cases its removal is 

 quite justifiable ; but the frequent systematic abstraction of 

 this natural fertiliser should not be permitted. Much of the 

 mineral matter which a tree takes from the soil it stores in its 

 leaves, which in turn are shed, and in course of time form 

 first a mulch upon the surface, and later rich, black earth. 

 Should the leaves or the leaf mould be removed, there is a 

 distinct loss, and the soil suffers both in its chemical and 

 physical qualities. No tree suffers so much by the removal 

 of forest litter as the Beech the very tree whose leaves are 

 most attractive to cottars and small holders. 



The gathering of dead wood and pruned branches is quite 

 a different matter, and does no harm ; while clearing away 

 heather, grass, and similar growth from open places, rides, 

 and fire lines, may even be of service, especially in reducing 

 the risk of fire. 



Naturally enough, the extent of the damage wrought by 

 the removal of leaf litter depends very much on the length 

 of time allowed the forest to recuperate. Should the ex- 

 traction be made annually or biennially, a marked decrease in 

 timber production quickly results. To revisit a forest for 

 this purpose once in six years is as often as is permissible. 

 When the litter is allowed to collect for ten years, woods in 

 middle age and those approaching maturity are not injured 

 appreciably except on the poorest situations. In any case, 

 only the mere surface material should be taken, and the work 

 ought to be under the immediate control of the proprietor. 

 Under adverse conditions of growth the removal of forest 

 litter should be most strictly forbidden. 



Another source of revenue secured in many forests lies in 

 the collection of seeds and fruits, more especially seeds to 

 supply trade nurseries. The crop of seed obtainable varies 

 in amount in different years, being full, moderate, or even 

 wholly wanting, as the case may be. An abundant " seed- 

 year " occurs only at long intervals with Oak and Beech, 

 Spruce frequently proves unsatisfactory, whereas Hornbeam, 



