On the Roots of Trees. ' 149 



The forests of Michigan, Northern Wisconsin, and Minnesota, are similar 

 to those of New England; though the roots are generally less exposed on 

 the surface. 



Out of this difference of the forest-growth of the two sections, we have 

 a lesson of practical utility ; and inattention to these apparently accidental 

 phenomena has caused us much disappointment, and loss of labor. 



While our remarks are general, and will apply equally to agriculture as 

 to horticulture, yet, to the horticulturist of the West, it is a matter of para- 

 mount importance. As yet, little advantage has been taken of the lesson 

 taught by Nature ; but, in the onward progress of new ideas, it will be put 

 to general use. 



Were we to plant a new forest in New England, to crown its hills with 

 arborescent growth, to belt its fields with stately trees, the roots would 

 take on the same habits as they did when the Indian had right of eminent 

 domain. The roots would again thrust themselves above the surface, and 

 the same labor would be required to subdue it to culture. 



If we plant a forest on the prairie, the roots will have the same down- 

 ward tendency of those of the native forest, and may be treated in the 

 same manner. 



If we look at the general form of the forest-trees of both sections, we 

 find them alike. They have the same general appearance individually ; 

 though, from difference in varieties, the aspect of the woodland is changed. 

 There the pine, beech, hemlock, maple, elm, oak, basswood, and birch are 

 mingled ; while here the oak predominates, with maple, basswood, elm, and 

 black walnut in the bottom-lands, and hickory, poplar, and beech (in some 

 locations) on the upland : along the streams, red cedar and stunted pines ; 

 and, in the swamps or biyous of the south part of the State, groves of tow- 

 ering cypress. 



In New England, if we plant an orchard, we find the roots following the 

 habit of the forest-tree, and pushing themselves along the surface. If we 

 run the plough close to the tree, we damage the roots : nor can we trench, 

 plough, or subsoil the ground after the tree has sent its roots through the 

 soil ; for they are so near the surface, that they would be ruptured in the 

 process. 



The snow-covering protects the roots in winter ; and the moist, maritime- 



