TREES THEIR PLANTING AND CARE. 65 



But in this grouping the effect both of shelter or screens 

 and of beauty may be obtained by careful study of materials 

 and their skilful arrangement. 



NATURE AS A GUIDE. 



In nature we sometimes find most beautiful illustrations 

 of the grouping of trees, on knolls, in the shady dell or 

 open field, and much may be learned by following this most 

 versatile teacher. In many cases, however, art can improve 

 upon nature. We can improve upon most of the effects we 

 find about us by providing the best possible conditions of 

 soil and surroundings for the development of each specimen. 

 We can collect from all quarters of the globe the most 

 beautiful of her treasures, and make each specimen of a 

 group grow to its greatest perfection, which seldom occurs 

 in nature's grouping. We can create nothing, but we can 

 use all of nature's blessings so that beauty and good may 

 be the result. 



TOO CLOSE PLANTING. 



One of the greatest mistakes made in grouping ornamen- 

 tal trees is too close planting, as has been suggested on 

 a previous page, and unless immediate results are desired 

 each specimen should be given space sufficient for its full 

 development. In this, work as much variety is desirable 

 as it is possible to obtain and at the same time secure 

 harmony of 'forms and colors. (Fig. 55.) 



RULES FOR GROUPING. 



1. Groups of trees of similar characteristics should gen- 

 erally be avoided unless the place is of large extent. If 



