352 The MagnoliacecE. 



By Graft-Budding. — This is similar in all respects to budding ; only a 

 scion is employed in lieu of a bud. One side of its base is sloped for two 

 inches, so as to leave its end, drawn to a narrow edge or point. When it is 

 inserted in the T incision in the back of the stock, it must be confined 

 there by means of the wax-cloth ligatures ; and it is important to close the 

 incisions carefully with melted wax, as previously directed. 



The loth of May, in this latitude, is the suitable time for operating. 

 After a few days, the larger and expanded buds of the scion may perish ; but 

 soon those at the base, and sometimes small ones at the side of those which 

 have perished, will be forced into a growth. To these insignificant buds we 

 often look for success, and should choose scions on which they abound. 



After buds or grafts have taken, skill is required to divert into them the 

 main flow of sap without impairing the health of the stock. The top, 

 hitherto left, must be gradually shortened, at intervals of a week or two, 

 during the season ; and, in some instances, the process must be carried into 

 the second season. If attempted too abruptly, both stock and bud or 

 scion may be destroyed. 



Soil and Management. — The health, vigor, and durability of the mem- 

 bers of this order of plants depend in a great measure upon their roots 

 being continuously in a condition similar to that which existed in their 

 native localities. The soil must be deep and rich in the requisite elements. 

 An excavation at least two feet deep, and four in diameter, should be 

 formed for the reception of each tree, however small. This should be filled 

 with a soil similar to that recommended for the cold-frame, omitting the 

 labor of riddling ; and time should be allowed for it to settle before the 

 tree is planted. If it be of any considerable size, it should be removed 

 with a ball of earth investing the roots. If a selection can be obtained in 

 a nursery, secure such as have been repeatedly removed. 



When the transplanting has been completed, the next step is to preserve 

 a uniform moisture about the roots, akin to that which is uniformly sus- 

 tained about the roots of trees in a thick and shaded forest. There the 

 surface of the earth is constantly strewed with a covering of decaying 

 leaves, which preserve a constant moisture. Applied artificially about the 

 roots of a magnolia in a lawn, the same effects follow. To preserve this 

 mulching in place, and aid in forming a shade, a well-adjusted circle of 

 boards should be placed upon the leaves. 



