EDITOR'S PREFACE vii 



of one of the most "mysterious causes of death in the Coni- 

 ferae," the bhght, was this sentence: "The most rational cause 

 that we can assign for the appearance of bhght in the family 

 of Conifers, is that due to a too luxuriant growth." If we 

 complain of the difficulties in these days, we are also to remem- 

 ber that our resources are great and our hope should be con- 

 trolling. We should like to know what particular shortcoming 

 is ours, as it will be adjudged in the years to come. 



We need a book on the horticultural evergreens, with results 

 of careful experience. The Editor hopes that this volume will 

 be useful. 



The interest in evergreens, particularly in the more durable 

 conifers, is a subject particularly suited to the substantial 

 amateur. The slowness and regularity of growth, the abiding 

 quality in the round of the twelve months, the element of 

 stability in these plants, appeal strongly to the person who has 

 arrived at a settled purpose in life, who has an estate to develop, 

 and whose sentiments are established. We easily reflect our 

 human qualities into them. There is no haste in their nature, 

 no radical change of purpose in their character. They have a 

 strong juvenile habit and quality, and then they age gradually 

 into a picturesque maturity, each one with outstanding individu- 

 ality. They are not unduly elated over the advent of spring; 

 they are patient in the adversity of midsummer; they with- 

 stand the buffet of winter. They cover the margins of the 

 landscapes and inclose the property securely, giving it a serene 

 atmosphere. They typify the strength of strong men and 

 women as they grow old with the advancing years. 



The love of the conifers is no passing fancy. It is not subject 

 to change in fashions. What a man plants today will give him 

 joy as long as he lives, and the trees will carry his memory to 

 his children's children; "he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon," 



