METHODS AND PRACTICE 157 



thrown by most species, and is sufficiently Avind-firm to 

 repel either persistent wind, or gales of average force. 

 In addition to these qualities, it produces timber which 

 can always be disposed of readily for some purpose or 

 another, while it seldom requires replanting if ground 

 game is kept under. The good qualities of beech in 

 these respects is best seen when in company with oak 

 or larch, and to a less extent with Scots pine. On dry 

 soils or in dry climates it is doubtful if larch ever attains 

 large dimensions except when the soil is kept moist 

 and cool by beech humus and shade. Oak is drawn up 

 straighter and cleaner, and its stem kept free of water 

 branches when growing amongst beech. Scots pine is 

 prevented from forming deep crowns, and the surface 

 kept free of dr}^ musty humus and heathy ground 

 vegetation by this tree better than any, and there are 

 few dry - soil species which are not the better for a 

 sprinkling of beech amongst them. 



Continental foresters have recognised the value of 

 beech for centuries, and have favoured it with the title 

 of Wald-miltter, in virtue of its nursing qualities. In 

 British forestry it has not been sufficiently appreciated so 

 far, but the influence exercised by considerations of game 

 cover has probably kept the beech from being more 

 extensively used and systematically planted, even when 

 its value has been clearly demonstrated and appreciated. 

 Not merely can it assist the development of most species 

 in the manner indicated, but the great advantage of 

 an admixture of beech is seen when a wood is cleared 

 and replanted. In place of a dense growth of grass, 

 bracken, brambles, and other rubbish characteristic of 

 open Avoods, beech gives a clean surface, and a valuable 

 mulch of humus, beneath which the roots of young 

 trees quickly establish themselves. In small woods this 

 feature is of the greatest importance, and the cost of 



