252 NATTRAI, HKGKNKHATION OF WOODS. 



ton liiif^e, ill the second place it should he smooth, and linally 

 it slionld he slanting, so that water may not rest on it 

 (Fig. 79). In the case of large slioots, the cut may he given 

 a slope from the centre to two sides, or it may receive the 

 sliape of a cone (Fig. 80). The cut should on no account slope 

 inwards (Fig, 81) ; it should be made with a sharp billhook or 

 axe, and not with a saw. If the latter is unavoidable, the cut 

 should be given a smooth surface with a billhook, axe, or 

 knife. Another important point is that the bark should not 

 be severed from the wood around the edge of the cut. 



The height from the ground at which the tree is cut over 

 also influences the success. Except where inundations are 

 feared, it is preferable to cut close to the ground, and there is 

 less corky bark on the root neclc : besides, if the shoots appear 



G(H>,f. 



Fig. -i). 



low down, at or a little below the surface, they are more likely 

 to develop independent roots, and thus ensure greater 

 longevity of the stool. 



In southern countries, where the sun may diy up llie stools. 

 it may be necessary to cut below the ground, or to cover up 

 the stools with earth. 



c. Season ,if CiiUiiiij. 



The best seasmi of the year for cutting is a few weeks before 

 tlu! buds be^^iii to swell. Various circumstances may, how- 

 ever, prevent this being done, such as an insuihciency of 

 labour, the necessity for peeling the wood, etc. ^Vhere labour 

 is not available to do the whole cutting at the most favourable 

 period, a part must be done (in Europe) hi the autumn ; tliis 

 has the drawback that frost during winter frequently separates 



