"STRIP" SYSTEM 187 



trees, like Oak, should only be planted in groups or patches ; for 

 otherwise they would be outgrown before they were fit to fell. 



The system of natural regeneration under mother trees, 

 with the gradual clearness of those trees, is only suitable for 

 trees which are storm proof, and generally speaking, for those 

 whose seedlings can endure shade. 



However, Oak may be thus regenerated, but the mother 

 trees must be very thin on the ground, and must be very 

 quickly removed. Scots Pine is sometimes treated in this 

 way, but the method cannot be recommended. 



Occasionally, the system of high forest with standards is 

 brought about by leaving some of the mother trees for a 

 second rotation, but the method can never be recommended. 



There is a modification of the compartment system just 

 described, which is sometimes referred to as the "strip" 

 system of natural regeneration. By this method, a strip of 

 a compartment is taken in hand, and regenerated under 

 mother trees just as the whole compartment might have been. 



It is usual, however, to treat three adjoining strips at the 

 same time. One strip being in the preparatory stage, 

 another in the regeneration felling stage, and another in the 

 stage at which the trees are being gradually cleared. By 

 this method the possibility of an incomplete seeding is some- 

 what lessened, and operations are more concentrated ; but in 

 the case of certain conifers, the danger from injurious insects, 

 especially the Pine weevil, are much increased. 



THE NATURAL REGENERATION OP BEECH. 



There is no doubt that it is far preferable to regenerate 

 an area of Beech naturally along with the shelter of the 

 mother trees, than to clear cut and resort to artificial 

 planting. 



For, during the first few years of their existence, young 

 Beech are very susceptible to late spring and early autumn 

 frosts, and also to hot sun in the summer ; hence it is always 

 most beneficial to have a shelter wood over the young crop. 



The same may be said of Silver Fir. And other trees 



