TRANSPLANTING. 



39 



their reciprocal functions. Supposing the tree not 

 to have been reared under such favourable condi- 

 tions, but still not to have been more than a few 

 hours out of the ground before replanting, it may 

 then also be depended upon (care being taken not 

 to mutilate the roots, which is the main point) to 

 continue its growth without much check. 



In both these cases early planting is recom- 

 mended. The leaves being still on the branches, 

 though they droop when the tree is lifted, they will 

 soon recover their state of tension, and be ready to 

 receive their daily supply of sap from the roots, 

 which, being unmutilated, will also shortly recom- 

 mence their proper functions. 



We may even expect that some new cellular 

 tissue will be added to the spongioles, by reason of 

 this early change of place before winter comes on ; 

 for if transplanting be done in October, there is at 

 that period much latent and unexpended earth 

 heat, which heat is absolutely necessary to enable 

 the roots to extract from the soil the food proper 

 for the tree. Besides, the leaves being also unin- 

 jured, begin to elaborate the fresh sap, and so 

 increase that reserve of cambium, which some 

 think is dispersed in the interior tissues of the tree, 

 for the purpose of preserving its vitality during 

 the trials of the winter season. This seems a 

 reasonable supposition, and an explanation of the 



