fresh, shallow, moderately porous soil, whether fertile or not, and will 

 thrive with moderate moisture. It will not endure drought or a 

 naturally dry soil. In common with our native spruces, this species 

 is very shade enduring, forming dense stands which protect the soil 

 and maintain forest conditions perfectly. The root system is shallow 

 and not extensive. 



The growth during the first decade is rather slow, but after this 

 period there is a rapid increase in both height and diameter growth, 

 followed by a gradual lessening. It is much more rapid in growth 

 than our native spruce. 



The Norway spruce is not subject to serious damage by insects or 

 fungous diseases, but is seriously injured by drought, hot winds, and 

 late frosts, while its shallow root system renders it liable to be thrown 

 by the wind if exposed. 



ECONOMIC USES. 



In the United States little use has been made of the Norway spruce. 

 The timber is light, soft, non-resinous, and fairly durable. It works 

 well, splits easily, and seasons without serious warping. 



Abroad, its largest uses are for construction timber, fuel, and paper 

 pulp. Its utility for the last purpose should lead to extensive com- 

 mercial planting in this country. The timber is excellent for general 

 construction purposes as well, and may be used as a substitute for 

 white pine. 



Although the species is useful in protection forests, such as shelter- 

 belts and windbreaks, it is not hardy enough for planting in the 

 Middle West, where such forests are most necessary. In the East, 

 however, it may be planted as a protection belt about exposed hard- 

 wood groves. 



The rapid growth and graceful form of the Norway spruce in open 

 situations has led to its wide use for shade and ornament. 



METHOD OF PROPAGATION. 



The Norway spruce is a heavy seeder, bearing a full crop every two 

 or three years. The cones mature in September or October. They 

 should be picked from the trees in the fall, and the seed extracted and 

 stored in a cool, dry place during the winter. If carefully stored the 

 seed can be kept from three to five years without serious loss of 

 vitality. 



If there are no cone-bearing trees in the vicinity, seed may be pur- 

 chased. Samples sent to the Seed Laboratory of the Department of 

 Agriculture will be identified and their germination per cent deter- 

 mined. Of fresh seed, fully 60 to 75 per cent should be fertile. 



Home-grown seedlings should be used in the plantation when possi- 



[Cir. 65] 



