Characteristics of Common Forest Trees 57 



not mixed with other species. Pure woods are permissible, 

 however, when the soil conditions are favourable; though the timber 

 may not attain the same size in the pure wood as when mixed 

 with a shade-bearing tree such as the beech. 



Thinning. The larch develops lateral branches of small size 

 which are quickly killed by shade ; hence thinning should be begun 

 early and continued at regular intervals. A free circulation of air 

 around the stems is imperative, and the crowns also must have 

 air. On the first signs of disease, it is advisable to make an 

 additional thinning. 



7. Japanese Larch {Larix kptokpis). 



Distribution. This species is not indigenous to this country, 

 being an inhabitant of Japan, as its name implies. It was 

 first introduced in 1861. 



Soil. In many places, where the European larch will not 

 thrive, this species will grow well. The author recently 

 experimented with it on black fen-land; the three years' growth 

 which has taken place since planting, leaves nothing to be 

 desired in any respect. 



Details of cultivation are similar to those of the common larch. 



8. Silver Fir {Abies pcctinata). 



Distribution. This species is not indigenous, but it has been 

 growing in this country for the last three hundred years, its natural 

 home being Central Europe and Northern Asia. 



Soil. This should be of medium quality and of fair depth ; 

 but this species is not very particular as to its soil requirements. 

 When the soil is deep, it is very storm-firm, in the opinion of 

 the writer, although the fact is disputed. 



Nursery treatment. The seedlings are of slow growth and, 

 when young, are liable to damage by frost. They require 

 shade in their early stages. 



Small patches of seed may be sown directly in the woods. 



