PROPAGATION. 



39 



Fisr. 3. 



it to be slightly oblique, as shown in Figure 3. Some 

 Conifers have long decurrent leaves, adnate to the 

 branches ; or, in other words, the base of the leaf is 

 prolonged, and adheres tightly to the shoot for 

 some distance from the point of insertion. When 

 instances of this kind occur, we make the lower 

 incisions directly beneath two opposite leaves, as 

 in Figure 4. This method is especially applicable 

 to the Cryptomeria, etc. Figure 5, A, represents 

 a cutting of Juniper ready for placing in the sand 

 of the cutting bench. 



d7 



Different species of evergreens often require en- 

 tirely opposite systems of management during the rooting 

 stage, particularly in the degree of heat necessary to cause 

 the formation of roots without injury to the cutting. The 

 Golden Arbor Vita? Avill perhaps endure a higher 

 temperature than any other ; also, Cupressus 

 Laicsoniana, C. JVbotkaensis, and some few 

 others, like a warm place. Junipers do not relish 

 so strong a heat, but will passively endure it, 

 whilst the different American Arbor Vitres always 

 succeed best in a temperate atmosphere. How- 

 ever, all evergreen cuttings should be brought 

 forward by degrees, and the heat raised very 

 gradually in all instances. A sudden change 

 from cold to heat often proves disastrous. 



The process of rooting commences first by gran- 

 ulation, or calltising, which is followed by the roots and 

 leaves almost simultaneously developing themselves. It is 

 therefore of primary importance that the cutting should 

 form its granulation before the process of vegetation be- 

 comes active; and this is only accomplished by allowing 

 it to be in a cool temperature, for a short time previous 

 to being forced. The callus at the base of the cutting is 

 shown in Figure 5, J?, and in (7, of the same figure, the 

 roots have commenced to form. 



