BROAD-LEAF TREES 



Broad-leaf trees are best adapted for street and highway planting due 

 to the shade afforded by their broad crowns during the heat of summer. As 

 a rule deciduous broad-leafs are more desirable than those which keep their 

 leaves the year round since they do not prevent the drying of roads and 

 streets after the winter storms. 



There are comparatively few broad-leafs in the number considered that 

 are suitable for street and highway planting. The foliage is a minor con- 

 sideration in comparison with other factors such as the adaptability of the 

 tree to local climatic and soil conditions, and its response to care. For this 

 reason much consideration must be given to selecting suitable species for road- 

 side and street planting. The tree chosen should have a desirable habit of 

 growth, capable of adapting itself to soil conditions and be a long-lived variety 

 that improves rather than deteriorates with age. 



The ornamental value of broad-leaf trees lies in their variety of foliage 

 and form. The changeableness of color in the foliage of the deciduous broad- 

 leafs, the variety of branch systems in their naked winter condition and the 

 awakening of Nature in the early spring are sources of perpetual interest. 

 The evergreen broad-leafs, which have the great attraction of remaining green 

 throughout the year, have their place in the consideration of any landscaping 

 plan. Many of the broad-leafs have flowers which add to their ornamental 

 value. 



There is a large variety of broad-leaf ornamental trees, both native and 

 exotic, found in California. Some flourish in temperate climates, and some 

 require subtropical conditions. Some stand drought and alkali, others require 

 good soil and moisture conditions. A good guide for the selection of trees for 

 planting is the class of material found growing in nurseries under local condi- 

 tions. Trees that might flourish in the coast region may prove entirely un- 

 suited to the hot interior valleys. It is very important to study local condi- 

 tions before selecting any tree, whether it be broad-leaf or conifer, for planting. 



(44) 



