DECIDUOUS TKEES FROM CUTTINGS. 



57 



without cutting of the branch, and exposing the albur- 

 num — in fact, all will, in time, but the surest way is to 

 cut the branch as described. With some kinds, roots 

 will be emitted so slowly that the layer must remain at 

 least two seasons before it will be safe to sever it from the 

 parent stock. Evergreens may be layered in the same 

 way as deciduous trees, but the operation should always 

 be performed during the period of active growth, else the 

 wound made on the layer is likely to be covered with 

 rosin, which may prevent the emission of roots. 



Sometimes a part of a tree or a small branch will vary 

 from the original; when this occurs on a large tree and 

 where the branch cannot be made 

 to reach the ground, we are com- 

 pelled to elevate the soil, or some 

 similar material to the part we wish 

 to propagate, unless it is some spe- 

 cies which can be readily propagated 

 from cuttings, buds, or grafting. 

 If we desire to obtain a layer, we 

 have only to place a pot or box of 

 soil near the branch, so that it can 

 be covered with earth, the same as 

 if" near the ground. After the 

 branch is layered, the soil surround- 

 ing it must be kept moist until ^'s- ^^-"^ ^"^"^ '^ '^°'^- 

 roots are produced. Fig. 21 shows a branch layered in 

 a pot from which a piece has been taken from one side 

 to admit the branch; this crevasse is closed with a piece 

 of board or shingle placed on the inside of the pot, 

 after which the pot is filled with soil. If the pot is sur- 

 rounded with cloth or moss, it will in a measure prevent 

 drying, and less frequent waterings will be required. 



