114 SYLVICULTURE IN THE TROPICS pt.h 



slips or rhizomes direct on this area, or by layering on 

 the spot from trees standing on the area ; or the seeds, 

 etc., may be raised first in a nursery, whence they are 

 transplanted into the field. 



But before these operations can be carried into effect 

 it is necessary to collect the seed, test it, and prepare it 

 so as to be ready for sowing. Even where direct sow- 

 ings are effected it is necessary to establish nurseries in 

 order to fill in vacancies where the seed has not come 

 up. Also, before either seed or transplants can be put 

 into the field, it is necessary to carry out some pre- 

 liminary operations in order to secure the success of the 

 young crop. These operations will vary according to 

 the nature of the soil and locality and the species to be 

 raised. 



