Esthetic Forestry 191 



In a formal park, the dense parts are best disposed on the 

 outskirts, which aids in increasing the feeling of distance 

 and in excluding the outer world; but in larger parks an occa- 

 sional belt of natural woodland within its borders adds to 

 the "woodsiness" of the whole. 



Where natural woodland is skirted by lawns or grassy 

 glades, particular attention is to be paid to the character of 

 the outlines. While there is not necessarily an objection 

 to a straight division line between the two types, an uneven 

 line is, as a rule, more pleasing. A change from the open 

 glade into an open stand on a more or less straight line is 

 indicated with a coniferous forest, which, if }'oung, will 

 have its boles beset with branches to the base, or, if older, 

 with its straight, uniform trunks standing separate, will 

 bring out the contrast between its dark recesses and the 

 sunny outside. With the deciduous and mixed woods, 

 undulating lines will usually be found more pleasing and, 

 if possible, the undulations should generally be deep, jut- 

 ting out with sharper angles into the open, with gentler 

 roundings on the sinuate portions, the juttings out being of 

 varying lengths. 



These outlines should be kept as dense as possible with 

 undergrowth in the projections; only in the sinuous parts 

 should they be more or less open, inviting to their cool shade. 

 The form of the outline should to some extent follow the 

 contour of the land (unless it be flat), rounding hillocks, 

 following up ravines, and encircling depressions. There is 

 need of constant attention and use of the axe, to keep the 

 outlines dense and in good form. 



If any planting is to be done on the woodland border to 

 effect the gradual change from the formal park or garden 

 to the natural wood, great care should be used in the choice 

 of material, especially avoiding violent contrasts and select- 



