364 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF 



favorite as a road tree in some parts of Europe, especially in France, where it may be 

 seen in unbroken rows stretching away for many miles. 



The reason for including certain trees in the foregoing list, and also the omission 

 of others, may be questioned by some whose experience in arboriculture makes them 

 competent authorities in everything relating to tree planting; but the list is not 

 offered as furnishing anything like a definite, absolute rule. As already stated, the 

 proper selection of trees for streets and roads is largely a matter of opinion and taste, 

 replete with pros and cons. It would be presumption for anyone to attempt to offer 

 a list that would meet all requirements with absolute certainty. The names submitted 

 here are offered in the way of suggestion rather than authoritative information, and 

 are intended for the benefit of those who may not have the opportunity or inclination 

 to study the question exhaustively. 



Destructive insects. — -Objection will probably be made to some of the species named 

 because of their liability to injury from destructive insects. But if all such trees are 

 to be thrown out, the choice will be narrowed down to a very few kinds, the excluded 

 ones embracing many of our finest and most popular shade trees. Even then, there 

 is no assurance that the remaining species, although free from insects hitherto, will 

 continue in their immunity. The freedom of certain trees from insect blight is due 

 largely to the fact that few have been planted, and that the pests find plenty of food in 

 the other species. While it may not be possible to exterminate these borers and 

 insects, or prevent entirely the injuries from this source, the evil can be so controlled 

 that their destructive work can be greatly minimized ; and, as regards some species 

 and insects, entirely obviated. It would seem that the better plan is to continue 

 planting whatever species may be desirable, and, then, through intelligent methods 

 and faithful work control the evil so far as possible. The potato bug was a formidable 

 enemy at one time; but the farmers kept on planting and fighting until they succeeded 

 in overcoming the trouble. It has been demonstrated that by spraying trees, by using 

 suitable emulsions and insecticides, and by gathering the cocoons, the destructive 

 work of insects can, for the most part, be prevented or, at least, controlled. But the 

 work must be done in time each season, and prosecuted vigorously. The State 

 Entomologist is ready at all times to furnish information and advice to all who need 

 his assistance. With proper care and attention the trees can be protected ; but, if this 

 care and attention will not be given, the selection of the tree is of little importance. 



Undesirable species. — Some trees were omitted, not so much on account of doubtful 

 qualities as because the list already offers ample opportunity for selection from the 

 large number named. There are, doubtless, several other species, which might be 

 planted with satisfactory results ; but many of them have defects which should be 

 considered carefully before making a selection. 



