ARBOR DAY. 81 



DIGGING AND PLANTING EVERGREENS. Mr. Smith 

 also sends the following directions on this subject : Have 

 a sharp spade. Prepare a puddle of mortar made with 

 clay and water about the consistency of thick whitewash. 

 In digging save all the roots you can. Dig a tree and 

 then puddle the roots in the mortar and put the tree out 

 of reach of wind or sun. The sap in the root of all ever- 

 greens is easily coagulated by either sun or wind; once 

 coagulated it can never be restored. Never dig an ever- 

 green and leave it for one minute exposed. In trans- 

 planting keep cool and moist. In setting, straighten the 

 roots smoothly, and carefully work the fine soil firmly 

 about the roots. Be very particular to pack it firmly 

 against the under side, close up to the center; this should 

 be done with the fingers. When the roots are all covered, 

 the balance of the soil necessary to fill the hole may be 

 firmed down with the foot. Mulch freely with hay or 

 straw for about three feet around the tree. The mulching 

 should always be deep enough to keep down weeds and 

 grass and keep the ground moist. This mulching should 

 be renewed from year to year, and then the trees will 

 always look green and healthy, grow rapidly, and abun- 

 dantly repay care and attention. Neglect of one single 

 item of care may ruin all. 



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