Trees Their Planting and Care 67 



edge of the various forms, colorings, and distinctively 

 characteristic feature of trees is needed. The more one 

 studies trees and shrubs and their artistic grouping the 

 greater will be his success. 



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 and every 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 shown in Fig. 59, and unless imme- 

 diate 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. 



