mTEODrCTION. IX 



more refined and artificial forms, and the sources from wbich to 

 obtain it. But a very small proportion of those engaged or en- 

 gaging in tree culture have studied the physiology of trees in any 

 degree. Very few have the slightest knowledge of the modes of 

 growth and bearing of the diS"erent species of fruits, or even of the 

 difi'erence between wood or leaf buds, and fruit buds. Very few 

 understand the functions of the difi'srent parts of trees, and the 

 relation in which they stand one to another ; the principles that 

 govern and regulate the growth and maturity, the formation of 

 wood and the production of fruit. Practice is no better under- 

 stood than principle. Persons engaged largely in tree growing 

 will frequently ask the most absurd questions on the subject of 

 propagation, of stocks, of pruning, &c., matters that should be 

 understood by every man who has a single tree to manage, but 

 especially indispensable to those who wish to succeed in conduct- 

 ing garden trees under certain modified forms, more or less 

 opposed to the natural. The preparation of ground, laying out 

 small gardens, the selection of suitable trees, and a multitude of 

 minor but nevertheless important matters, are very imperfectly 

 understood. Neither our state nor national governments have 

 ever manifested a disposition to favor the rural arts with any- 

 thing like a liberal patronizing policy. Advanced, wealthy and 

 powerful as we are, not a single step has been taken, in earnest, 

 to establish model farms or model gardens, in which experiments 

 might be made and examples given that would enlighten cultiva- 

 tors, and elevate and honor their profession. Whatever advance 

 has been made is due wholly to individual taste, energy, and enter- 

 prise ; and to these alone are we permitted to look for future 

 progress. 



Having for many years devoted much attention to this particu- 

 lar branch of culture, and feeling deeply interested in its success, 

 1* 



