166 



PARKS AND PLEASURE-GROUNDS. 



CHAPTER VI. 



PLANTING. 



Preparation of the Ground — Trenching — Draining — Roads through 

 Plantations — Planting of Forest Trees — Pitting — Pruning — Thin- 

 ning — Transplanting Forest Trees — Planting and Transplanting of 

 Evergreens. 



We have already adverted to the importance of 

 planting in the formation and improvement of parks 

 and pleasure-grounds. In these interesting appen- 

 dages of a country residence, the woods present a 

 main element of beauty; and the degree of that 

 beauty is mainly dependent on the healthy and luxu- 

 riant growth of the trees. "With these facts in view, 

 we shall offer some brief remarks on the planting, 

 fencing, and after-management of plantations, confin- 

 ing ourselves, at the same time, to those subjects 

 which have a close relation to the park and dressed 

 grounds. 



Preparation of the Ground. — This is a matter 

 which has been much discussed, and has led to the 

 expression of a variety of opinions. Some have 

 thought that a very careful preparation of the land 

 is indispensable ; others would content themselves with 

 draining, and the removal of furze and other impedi- 

 ments to the growth of the trees. Both these opinions 

 will hold good in their proper places, or in relation to 



