KVEIUJHEKN TIIKF.S. 37 



far as is in our power. Because a tree succumbs in a given case, 

 it will not do to pronounce its varietj^ unsuited to our climate. 

 Forests of timber trees of the Hemlock flourish far to the north of 

 us and yet the Hemlock is undoubtedly too tender for exposed 

 positions in this vicinity. We should provide sheltering wind- 

 breaks for plants of doubtful hardiness. On the other hand we 

 would not naturally select a too warm and sunny position for such 

 dubious Firs of the Rocky Mountains as amabilis, nobilis, and 

 grandis. We should infer that they would receive too nuich 

 winter excitement and that a protected, but cooler and perhaps 

 northern slope would secure more nearly favoring conditions. It 

 is obvious that the Pines will take the lighter soils ; the Spruces, 

 Firs, and Junipers choosing the intermediate, while the Retiuos- 

 poras and Thujas will thrive in even a wet soil, though by no 

 means preferring this condition. Though there are increasing, 

 evidences of the hardiness of the Sciadopitys, yet I have observed 

 that in full exposure to the winter sun its foliage is liable to lose 

 its fresh, green color and to become brown. Specimens looking 

 north and shaded from the sun do not have this appearance. 

 There can be no question that the rich and varied colors of some 

 of the newer varieties depend in a considerable degree upon the 

 nourishment received from the soil. You have observed the deep, 

 luxuriant color of the Purple Beech under high culture, in contrast 

 with the dull brown of the same tree, in a poor soil. Similar 

 results may be expected with conifers. It is an exploded idea 

 that they will not endure enrichment. Fresh horse manure is 

 undoubtedly too hot for the surface roots, if applied in (juantityy 

 but cooler composts will heighten colors to a surprising degree. 

 Youthful vigor may also be thus restored to older trees. I have 

 found that the silvery sheen of the Picea puvgevs may be greatly 

 increased if removed from a lieavy soil to a floury, well-enriched 

 loam. 



We are but beginning to appreciate how well-deserving of the 

 highest cultivation are these enduring products of Nature. They 

 are not limited to a brief glory of inflorescence ; they are not con- 

 fined even to an entire season. They are ever-verdant, furnishing 

 a cool and varying shade in the heat of summer, and a sheltering 

 warmth and cheerfulness, which can brighten and glorify even a 

 winter landscape. 



AVhat a curious, strange, wise device, that these trees should 

 have been so constructed that their leaves can endure the freezing; 



