48 
can be readily obtained, where birch is a scarce article. This 
method is effected by simply tying together small handfuls of 
straw, perhaps forty straws in each, and suspending them on lines 
before the trees, letting one line 
of them overwrap another, as re- 
presented. Some persons apply 
small branches of birch, or beech, 
or fir, by suspending it on cords 
according to this method.* 
A neater practice than either of the above, where expense does 
not deter its application, is found in the use of woollen net. 
This article is wove for the purpose, of a mesh from half an 
inch to an inch square. If a board, of two feet w ide, be affixed 
to the top of the wall, in a roof-like direction, and the net be 
fastened to its edge, and extended thence to the foot of the wall, 
a neat and efficient protection will be afforded — one that will 
be no deformity in the most ornamental garden. Some horti- 
culturists consider that the sloping boards alone form sufficient 
protection, as the action of cold 
is in the greatest degree directly 
downwards, from the active princi- 
ple ofheat being directed upwards; 
the projecting roof has, therefore, 
a double purpose, by its prevent- 
ing the escape of the heat emitted 
from the earth in cold weather, and also the consequent descent 
of cold from above. Again, hurdles with their bars wrapped 
with straw bands have been placed before the trees; also can- 
vass curtains, oiled paper frames, and various other contri- 
vances which common sense will suggest to every cultivator. 
Where the daily attention of opening and closing which these 
require, can be bestowed, no difficulty need occur; but the more 
essential enquiry is, how sufficient protection can be aflbrded 
with the least trouble and expense. The methods we have 
chiefly dwelt u])on are such as are intended to be adopted be- 
fore the blossom opens, and to remain without further attention 
till the fruit is beginning to swell. Aspect, exposure, and other 
local circumstances will always vary the success of different 
modes of protection. These can only be met by the reflecting 
and experienced cultivator. 
* Gard. Mag. vol 7. 
