THE FORESTATION PROBLEM 



79 



that where cork oak is sown or planted on brush-covered ground, 

 this must be completely cleared; if only spots or lanes are 

 cleared the results have been unsatisfactory. These losses are 

 probably due to radiation by the sun and the consequent in- 

 tense heat, because the air cannot circulate freely. It is also 

 true that where brush is only partially cleared the loss from 

 rodents is far greater than on wholly cleared areas. 



The ash is usually planted; the carob tree sown directly; 

 the tamerisk planted by cuttings; the cypress and thuya by 

 ball (motte) plants; the acacia either by planting or direct 

 seeding, but before the seed of this tree is sown boiling water 

 is poured over it and allowed to stand for 24 hours. 



Forestation Routine. — In Algeria, when considering the 

 general problem of reforestation with a view to establishing a 

 new project, the reasons for the undertaking must first be ex- 

 plained, it must be shown then how the openings originated, 

 their extent described, and the opportunity for natural restock- 

 ing estimated. Besides a regular description of the altitude, 

 slope, soil, and soil cover, a critical review must be given justi- 



^< Manuel du Planteur d'arbres en Algerie, 1910. 

 I'Algerie, pp. 42-43. 



Ligue du Reboisement de 



