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Page 6
What I have said about forming the acquaintance of deciduous trees
and shrubs before planting to any great extent, applies with even
greater force to the evergreen, family. There is a large and
beautiful variety from which to choose, and I would suggest that
the choice be made chiefly from the dwarf-growing kinds, since the
space of one acre is too limited for much indulgence in. Norway
spruces, the firs, or pines. An hour with a note-book spent in
grounds like those of Mr. Fuller would do more in aiding a
satisfactory selection than years of reading. Moreover, it should
be remembered that many beautiful evergreens, especially those of
foreign origin, are but half hardy. The amateur may find that
after an exceptionally severe winter some lovely specimen, which
has grown to fill a large space in his heart, as well as on his
acre, has been killed. There is an ample choice from entirely
hardy varieties for every locality, and these, by careful inquiry
of trustworthy nurserymen, should be obtained.
Moreover, it should be remembered that few evergreens will thrive
in a wet, heavy soil. If Nature has not provided thorough drainage
by means of a porous subsoil, the work must be done artificially.
As a rule, light but not poor soils, and warm exposures, are best
adapted to this genus of trees.
I think that all authorities agree substantially that spring in
our climate is the best time for the transplanting of evergreens;
but they differ between early and advanced spring. The late Mr. A.
J. Downing preferred early spring; that is, as soon as the frost
is out, and the ground dry enough to crumble freely. Mr. A. S.
Fuller indorses this opinion. Mr. Josiah Hoopes, author of a
valuable work entitled "The Book of Evergreens," advises that
transplanting be deferred to later spring, when the young trees
are just beginning their season's growth; and this view has the
approval of the Hon. Marshall P. Wilder and Mr. S. B. Parsons,
Jr., Superintendent of City Parks. Abundant success is undoubtedly
achieved at both seasons; but should a hot, dry period ensue after
the later planting--early May, for instance--only abundant
watering and diligent mulching will save the trees.
It should be carefully remembered that the evergreen families do
not possess the vitality of deciduous trees, and are more easily
injured or killed by removal. The roots of the former are more
sensitive to exposure to dry air and to sunlight; and much more
certainty of life and growth is secured if the transfer can be
accomplished in cloudy or rainy weather. The roots should never be
permitted to become dry, and it is well also to sprinkle the
foliage at the time of planting. Moreover, do not permit careless
workmen to save a few minutes in the digging of the trees. Every
fibrous root that can be preserved intact is a promise of life and
vigor. If a nurseryman should send me an assortment of evergreens
with only the large woody roots left, I should refuse to receive
the trees.
What I have said in opposition to the transplanting of large trees
applies with greater force to evergreens. Mr. Hoopes writes: "An
error into which many unpracticed planters frequently fall is that
of planting large trees; and it is one which we consider opposed
to sound common-sense. We are aware that the owner of every new
place is anxious to produce what is usually known as an immediate
effect, and therefore he proceeds to plant large evergreens,
covering his grounds with great unsightly trees. In almost every
case of this kind the lower limbs are apt to die, and thus greatly
disfigure the symmetry of the trees. Young, healthy plants, when
carefully taken up and as properly replanted, are never subject to
this disfigurement, and are almost certain to form handsome
specimens."
Any one who has seen the beautiful pyramids, cones, and mounds of
green into which so many varieties develop, if permitted to grow
according to the laws of their being, should not be induced to
purchase old and large trees which nurserymen are often anxious to
part with before they become utterly unsalable.
When the evergreens reach the acre, plant them with the same care
and on the same general principles indicated for other trees. Let
the soil be mellow and good. Mulch at once, and water abundantly
the first summer during dry periods. Be sure that the trees are
not set any deeper in the ground than they stood before removal.
If the soil of the acre is heavy or poor, go to the roadside or
some old pasture and find rich light soil with which to fill in
around the roots. If no soil can be found without a large
proportion of clay, the addition of a little sand, thoroughly
mixed through it, is beneficial. The hole should be ample in size,
so that the roots can be spread out according to their natural
bent. If the ground after planting needs enriching, spread the
fertilizer around the trees, not against them, and on the surface
only. Never put manure on or very near the roots.
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