CHAPTER XXIV 



TREES FOR THE LAWN 



The trees should be planted in groups of several together, and 

 arranged towards the margin of the lawn. 



I AM not at all sure that a stretch of lawn can be improved 

 by any planting, but, if planting is thought to be necessary, 

 there is undoubtedly nothing so suitable as a careful 

 selection of trees and shrubs. Trees of comparatively 

 small stature are, I think, best of all, for they have 

 natural grace and afford welcome shade. Preference 

 should be given chiefly to trees that yield beautiful 

 blossom, although a few others are invaluable. It is better 

 also to choose trees that lose their leaves in the winter 

 rathei than to plant evergreens, for their changing aspects 

 are full of delight. In spring, in summer, and in autumn 

 their varying beauty is such as to appeal to the most 

 casual of gardeners. The trees should be planted in 

 groups of several together, and arranged towards the 

 margin of the lawn. Among trees suitable for lawn 

 planting there is perhaps none to surpass the incom- 

 parable Lily Tree or Magnolia. The loveliest of all is 

 the Yulan (Magnolia conspicua). In April its dark stems 

 scarcely show among the large, white cup-shaped blooms 



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