Tree Study 



747 



species. The elms are long-lived, some living for centuries. The Wash- 

 ington elm in Cambridge, and the William Penn elm in Philadelphia, 

 which now has a monument to mark its place, were famous trees. 



Elm seed. 



rhoto 'ciy Morgan. 



LESSON CXCI 

 The Elm 



Leading thought — The elin has a peculiarly graceful form, which inakes it 

 of value as a shade tree. It grows best in moist locations. Its wood is 

 very tough. 



Method — This work should be begun in the fall with the study of the 

 shape of the tree and its foliage. Sketches should be made when the tree is 

 clothed in autumn tints, and later it should be sketched again when its 

 branches are naked. Its blossoms should be studied in March and April 

 and its seeds in May. 



Observations — i . Where does the elm grow ? Does it thrive where there 

 is little water? What is the usual shape of the elm ? How does the trunk 

 divide into branches to make this shape possible ? What is the shape of the 

 larger elms? Describe the spray. Describe the elm bark. How can you 

 tell the elm from other trees in winter ? 



2. Study the elm leaf. What is its form ? What kind of edges has it ? 

 How large is it ? What is the difference in appearance and feeling between 

 the upper and lower sides ? Are the leaves rough above whichever way you 

 stroke them ? If a leaf is folded lengthwise are the two halves exactly alike ? 

 How are the leaves arranged on the twig ? What is their color above and 

 below ? Describe the leafy growth along the trunk. 



3. What is the color of the elm tree in autumn ? Make a sketch of the 

 elm tree you are studying. 



4. What sort of roots has the elm ? Do they grow deep into the earth ? 

 What is the character of its wood? Is it easy to split ? Why? What are 

 the chief uses of the elm? 



