THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST HI 



well and did not shrivel during the winter. A good length is 

 8 to 12 inches, with the upper cut just above a bud. They 

 may be made when wanted and planted with a spade, or if 

 the ground is mellow they can be merely shoved into the soil 

 until only one bud is above the surface and then tramped. 



The spacing of the trees is a question largely of utility, 

 with some variation for different species. In general, how- 

 ever, close planting is advisable in treeless regions, since an 

 artificial forest must stand in a dense mass if it is to succeed 

 in the struggle against native vegetation, wind, sunshine, 

 frost and dry weather. A single tree or row unprotected by 

 associates has a poorer chance. Cultivation is the best method 

 of conserving soil moisture. To obtain the best results planta- 

 tions should be cultivated, if possible, at least during the first 

 few years. The less care the trees are to have, the thicker 

 they should be set in order that they will be close enough to 

 establish forest conditions of shade, litter and underbrush. 

 Thinnings can then be made as they grow and need more 

 room. The material thus obtained will provide an early sup- 

 ply of fuel, stakes and posts. A spacing of 4x4 feet is com- 

 mon, but this does not allow for cultivation. For this reason 

 2x8 feet is preferable. Shelter belts should be planted closely 

 in order to give protection quickly. 



Cost 



The cost of planting is not great. Broadleaf seedlings will 

 cost from $1 to $6 per thousand at the nursery, coniferous 

 plants $2.50 to $10. If grown at home the cost will be greatly 

 reduced. The preparation of the soil by plowing and harrow- 

 ing should not exceed $2 per acre, and planting from $2.50 

 to $5 per thousand, according to the species, the method used 

 and the condition of the soil. 



