Etobobentsron ^ocietp 
caterpillars and other pests, which would very possibly attack the young 
growth of the Rhododendrons beneath. 
Several correspondents include the Laburnum, but without giving any 
special reason for the recommendation. It certainly possesses one disadvantage 
in that it constitutes a favourite food of the rabbit. 
Populus alba var. pyramidalis (P. BoUeana, Carrtere.) and Populus nigra, 
var. italica (Lombardy Poplar) can be in some places used with advantage 
to shut off the slanting rays of the rising or setting sun. Their close rooting 
habit make these two the less liable to rob the soil than the other common 
varieties. 
Of conifers, Picea Omorika and Tsuga Albertiana are not easy to beat, the 
former especially, on account of its fastigiate habit making it economical in the 
matter of room. 
The writer is sadly aware of the negative character of most of the foregoing 
Note, but trusts that it is at least provocative ! 
It is hoped that it may lead to an investigation of the whole subject in the 
near future. It is not too much to predict that the incoming flood of 
Rhododendrons from China will ultimately cause a revolution in English gardens, 
fully as great as did the arrival of new conifers in the middle of last century ; 
and the War may hasten rather than retard this change. 
In this event, the provision of suitable shade trees will become more and 
more important as the new species get into cultivation. 
CHARLES ELEY. 
December, 1917. 
167 
