PRACTICAL ARBORICULTURE 211 
That Florida sands have produced magnificent pine trees is well attested, and 
that other deep rooted trees will thrive is also as evident, 
Water, artificially applied, has enabled the Catalpa to become large and 
valuable trees in Utah, Colorado and other sand plain regions, arid in character, 
Lut the abundant natural rainfall of Florida has produced the same results in vari- 
ous localities, and will continue to do so. 
In the dryest months of summer one has only to remove a few inches of 
surface sand to find abundant moisture in the underlying strata. Trees do not 
require wet soil, with standing water, although some trees will survive, even under 
these conditions, but soil that is moist is necessary. Too much water is worse 
than an insufficiency. 
The frequent loosening of the surface with harrow or light cultivation, breaks 
up the capillary attraction which brings the moisture to the surface, where it is 
evaporated into the atmosphere. The frequent stirring retains this moisture in 
the soil for plants. 
Excellent wood growth in fruit trees has been secured during many vears 
past. upon the high, rolling sand hills near Denver, Colorado, the clevation being 
5.500 feet above sea, and where rain seldom falls nor is irrigation practiced, but 
a constant harrowing of the surface enables the trees to find ample moisture. 
During the first three years after planting Catalpa, or other forest trees, 
this surface cultivation should be frequent, but after that the shade of the foliage 
and accumulation of leaves upon the surface, will keep down objectionable plant 
growths, while the roots will have become strong enough to maintain a vigorous 
growth. 
A MANZINETE IN FLOWER, CALIFORNIA 
