IN THE BEGINNING 



sible root. Before re-planting, trim back the 

 young branches freely, remembering that a 

 branch should be cut back for every broken root. 

 In setting the tree out, let the hole dug for it 

 be of ample size, so that the roots may be spread 

 out to their full extent. See to this carefully, 

 and don't permit the roots to be doubled back in 

 a bunch. Make the earth snug and firm about 

 the roots, and then if you will keep the soil well 

 moistened for a few days, you will find that your 

 tree will take kindly to its new home. It will be 

 necessary to exercise greater care than ordinary 

 in getting all the roots of Pines, Firs, or Spruces, 

 if you would not lose a large portion of your 

 trees. All these trees may be transplanted in the 

 fall ; but the spring is the proper time, just as the 

 buds begin to swell. With ordinary care I find 

 I lose scarcely any trees transplanted in May, 

 while, of those moved in September, fully one 

 half died, not getting well rooted before the ad- 

 vent of cold weather. 



31 



