62 Characteristics of Common Forest Trees 



earlier, so that, if the autumn is open, it may be sown at once, when 

 stronger plants will be obtained. A very slight covering of soil, or 

 nonefat all, should be given. 



5. English Elm (Ulmus campestris). 



Fig. 14. 



ENGLISH ELM 

 (Ulmus campestris) 



Fig. 15- 

 CORNISH ELM 



(Ulmus glabra), 



General. This species is commonly seen forming avenues and 

 park " clumps," but rarely forming pure woods. It requires a 

 moderately mild climate, but is hardy against late spring frosts. 



When old, it should be carefully watched, and all heavy limbs 

 removed, as these are a constant danger to passers-by. 



Distribution. This species is not indigenous, but now forms our 

 commonest park or hedge-row timber throughout the greater part of 

 England. At the Border, the two species occur in about equal 

 numbers, while further north U. montana is the commoner species. 



Soil. The soil must be deep and fertile, and the best developed 

 specimens occur on alluvial soil. Such soil is, of course, in the 

 generality of cases, far more valuable for agricultural purposes ; 

 hence the uses of this species are chiefly ornamental. 



Nursery treatment. The seed rarely ripens in this country, 

 although, in the south of Europe, a fair germinating percentage is 

 obtained by sowing the seed as soon as it is ripe, i.e., in June ; 

 even thus, 35 to 45 per cent, germination is considered good. 



The usual methods of propagation are by root suckers and 

 layers. 



