THE PLANTING OF STREET-TREES 89 



PRECAUTIONS IN PLANTING 



Heeling-In. So far in the history of the tree it has been 

 out of the hands of the planter ; but after its arrival success 

 depends upon the protection of the roots, the preparation of 

 the soil, and the careful planting. If the stock cannot be 

 planted immediately on arrival it should be "heeled-in. " 

 This is done by digging a trench about a foot and a half 

 deep, and of sufficient width to accommodate the roots of 

 the trees without bending. In this trench the trees are set 

 close together and the roots covered with soil, care being 

 taken that it is well worked in about them so as not to leave 

 vacant spaces. Trees so protected can be kept for some 

 weeks, and a few planted at a time as the holes are ready. 



Top and Root Pruning. Before setting the tree, a few 

 points are to be observed. Since even with the greatest care 

 it is impossible to take up all the roots when transplanting a 

 tree, it is necessary to cut back the top to maintain the bal- 

 ance with the roots. The amount of cutting depends on the 

 condition of the roots ; the more fibrous they are the less the 

 necessity of reducing the top. It is a good rule to remove 

 about four-fifths of last year's growth from all the branches, 

 making a clean cut just above some strong bud. This can 

 be done more easily and rapidly before the trees are planted. 

 All broken roots should be carefully trimmed to enable them 

 to heal. 



The amount of top-pruning also depends upon the spe- 

 cies, as not all trees transplant with the same ease. The 

 soft maples, planes, elms, and poplars, for example, do not 

 require as severe pruning as the oaks, the magnolias, or the 

 sweet gum. It must be borne in mind, however, that it is 

 better to prune more than not enough. In a year or two the 



