GARDENING AFTER THE WAR 65 



Various state departments have indorsed the plan for setting out 

 memorial trees along the highways, to lend not only shelter and 

 shade to the traA'eler, but at the same time, to add largely to the 

 timber resources of the country. 



In one Ohio county an oak tree is being planted for each soldier 

 who gave his life on the battlefields of Europe. Is this a symbol 

 of a renaissance? Such movements are worthy of the- support of 

 all horticultural organizations because each one is a step in the 

 right direction. 



What would be the effect if over the whole land each family 

 planted its own honor tree in recognition of the service given by 

 its members in arms? It would grow in dignity and in association; 

 and as a living thing needing and receiving the loving care and 

 attention of those who planted it, would increase in sentiment 

 and affection as it grew in stature. The tree as a soldier's memorial 

 is sanctified to us too, by the words of one of our own younger 

 poets, Joyce Kilmer, sacrificed in the European holocaust, who 

 leaves us these delightful lines: 



I think that I shall never see 



A poem lovely as a tree — 



A tree whose hungry mouth is prest 



Against the earth's sweet flowing breast. 



A tree that looks at God all day 

 And lifts her leaf}' arms to pray; 

 A tree that may in summer wear 

 A nest of robins in her hair. 



Upon whose bosom snow has lain; 

 Who intimately lives with rain. 

 Poems are made by fools like me, 

 But only God can make a tree. 



The nurseryman, it would seem, has but to stretch out his hand 

 to grasp the opportunities that in manifold ways are unfolding at 

 his doors. He should cultiA'ate a renewed interest in fruit tree 

 planting to meet the demands of the new gardeners, the legacy of 

 the war gardens. 



Certainly nurserymen should lead in the increased trade move- 

 ment because the goods they have to offer to the people in some 



