The Canadian Horticulturist. 21 



CULTIVATION OF EVERGREEN TREES. 



is wise to consider the habitat of each specimen and endeavor to 

 supply similar conditions of soil and exposure, so far as is in out- 

 power. Because a tree succumbs in a given case, it will not do to 

 pronounce its variety 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 

 We should provide sheltering windbreaks for plants of doubtful hardi- 

 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, hobilis, and 

 grandis. We should infer that the} would receive too much 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 

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

 preferring this condition. Though there are increasing evidences of the hardi- 

 ness of the Sciadopitys, yet 1 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 quantity, 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 pungens may be greatly 

 increased if removed from a heavy soil to a floury, well enriched loam. 



We air but beginning to appreciate how welbdeserving of the highest cult.. 

 vation are these enduring products of Nature. They are not limited to a brief 

 glorj of inflorescence; they are not confined even to an entire season. They 

 are e\er-\ erdant, furnishing a cool and varying shade in the heat of summer, and 

 a sheltering warmth and cheerfulness, which can brighten and glorify even a 

 wmter landscape. W. ( '. Strong, before Mass. Hort'l. Soc'v. 



PRUNING. -The general rule to be followed in pruning most shrubs is. to 

 remove old wood rather than new. as the latter is most productive of bloom. In 

 pruning hardy roses, which may be done after November 15, thin the heads out 

 well, leaving no weak or unhealthy growth. Moderate growers should be pruned 

 closely, 



