78 
TREES AS GOOD CITIZENS 
tion. This requires root systems that are compact and 
vigorous, and as large as can be accommodated by the 
particular site. The greater and more vigorous the 
root system, within small area, the more rapid will be the 
growth and development of the tree in its new home. 
A well developed top is also desirable in the tree to be 
transplanted, but it should not be too large for the roots, 
as this inequality will result in weak growth, and may 
even cause the tree to die soon after removal. 
The stem should be straight and the branches should 
be from 7 to 9 feet from the ground. In size the stem 
should be from 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Trees of 
this size bear transplanting better than those which are 
larger. Successful removal may be given trees even 
12 inches in diameter, but the expense increases very 
materially with the greater size. This increased cost is 
primarily due to the long period of nursery care required 
in bringing it to the larger development, and even more to 
the expense of removal and subsequent care. For general 
street purposes a maximum of 3 inches has been found by 
far the most satisfactory. 
Whenever possible, tree purchases should be made at 
a nursery near the place at which the tree is to be planted, 
as this involves no change of climate, and further, a short 
shipping distance is desirable. The more brief the time in 
transit, the less danger there is of injury to the tree by 
exposure of the roots. It is important to replant a tree 
as promptly as possible after it has been removed from its 
original location. If necessary, however, to make long 
shipment the tree may be fully protected against damage 
by careful handling at the source. This is another 
argument in support of dealing with nurserymen of the 
highest standing, for this type of dealer will be unwilling 
to risk his reputation by careless and inefficient packing 
and shipping. 
