Highway shade tree planting

GEORGIA STATE FORESTRY DEPARTMENT
B. M. LUFBURROW, State Forester
BULLETIN NO. 3
HIGHWAY SHADE TREE PLANTING
By
EITEL BAUER
Atlanta, Georgia May, 1928

STATE BOARD OF FORESTRY
ORGANIZATION
GovERNOR LAl\IARTINE G. HARDMAX
President GEORGE H. CARSWELL, Secretary of State. SAMUEL \VASHINGTON .:\IcCALLIE, State Geologist. jAMES PHILANDER CA:\IPBELL, Director of E);tension, State Col-
lege of Agriculture. lHRS. l\1. E. juDD, Representing IFomen's Civic Organizations. j. LEONARD RouNTREE, Representing Farming Inte-est.
CHARLES B. HAR:\1AN, Representing Lumber 111 anufacturing
Interest. ALExANDER K. SESSOMS, Representi!1g Naval Stores Interest. BoNNELL HAROLD STONE, Representing Timber Land Owning
Interest.
B. ]\L LUFBURROW, Secretary
TECHNICAL STAFF
ALFRED AKERMAN, B.A., .:\1.F., Director of Forest Jl1anagement and Research.
BoNNELL HAROLD STONE, j R., :\1. F., Director of Education (without compensation).
FREDERIC B. lVlERRILL, B.S., l\J.F., Assistant State Forester 111
Charge of South Georgia Division.
EvETETT BASCOl\1 STONE, jR., :\I. F., Assistant State Forester m
Charge o/ North Georgia Di,vision.
CHARLES WAYNE NurTE, B.S.F., Field Assistant, South Georgia Division
EITEL BAUER, R.S.F., Field Assistant, A1anagement and Researrh

A beautiful shaded highway near Atlanta, Georgia.
Highway Shade Tree Planting
Introduction
Georgia's highways are being paYe<l at an eyer incnasing rate. As much ns one hundred miles of continuous pming luwe heen constructed and numerous shorter stretches of highways in the state m:~o now pa ,ed. It will not be long before Georgia wi1l hnYe a s~stem of state higll\nl~s that will nmk with
the hest. Hut pnying a road does not make it ideal
or mean the C'l1<1 ol' its cle,elopmenL .Another step <'<Ill he taken which will enhance the qualities of a pa,ecl ron<l nll<l endow it with lift, chnrncter, and beaut~-. 'l"his stPp is the planti11g of shade trees along the highwa~s-trees chosl'n fM their natural heant~- and !'or their influC'nce on tlw road, and tlw
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climate in the vicinity of the road. There is a great opportunity for highwa~ planting in this state as very little has been clone. And now is the time to start a program of planting that will keep pace with the completion of the highways.
Public sentiment in favor of highway planting is rapidly gaining headway in Georgia. Various "'Women's Clubs and other civic organizations throughout the state are interesting themselves in this commendable movement. A few miles of highways have alread) been bordered with shade trees but unfortunately there is no concerted action, nor any organization or individual that has the responsibility for more extensive planting.
This department has received nw11y inquiries fur information on this subject and it is the purpose of these pages to answer the questions that are asked, in so far as our information goes. Requests for information not covered in this bulletin should be directed to the State Forester, State Capitol, Atlanta.
Highway planting has been carried on for many years in northern and eastern states and a large store of information regarding their methods and results is available. But for our conditions and kinds of trees there is a woeful lack of data. European countries have had their highways bordered with shade trees for centuries but dissimilarities in the methods and species, or kinds of trees, used prevent us from having the benefit of their experienc8. But in spite of our inexperience we can not go far wrong if we adhere to the safe principles of using trees that are known to grow well in the locality to be planted; using care in planting; and giving the trees proper and intelligent care.
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General Considerations
Planting had best be clone along paved highways for several reasons. Along dirt roads every tree for a certain distance from the center of the road is cut down so that the road will dry out quickly after a rain and mud-holes will not develop. Until a highway is paved its location may be chr111ged; but after being paved its location is permanent. If shade trees were planted along a dirt road they would have to be abandoned if the location were changed at the time of paving the road. 'There would be a waste of time, money, and planting stock, and the purpose of the planting would be defeated.
Shade trees can be planted beside gravel and o~rstcr-shell roads if the ronds are properly drained. Roads of these types drain comparatively fast and shade trees do a great good b~T preventing the roads from drying out too much and by keeping the roadbed in a better mechanical condition.
If planting is to be clone on the edges of cultivated fields, although within the right-of-way, the consent of the owner of the field should be obtained. The trees will shade a portion of his growing crops, doing some damage, and the owner should certainly be consulted. From past experience it is not anticipated that permission to plant will be withhe~tl in such cases.
Reasons For Planting
Trees are planted beside highways as much for their aesthetic effect as for their shade. Their natmal beauty is a thing which is immediately apparent. The kind of tree and its physical condition iatlucnce its appreciation by travelers. Not so apparent, hut more important, arc the indirect effects of
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their shading the road, which result in cheaper maintenanpe and lightening of the tax-payers' burden. Shad'e trees also exert an influence upon the atmosphere in the vicinity of the road. There is another reason gaining in popularity, for planting trees along a highway. Memorial plantings have increased steadily since the World \Var. Several stretches of highway in Georgia have been planted with shade trees as a memorial to war heroes. In some instances the entire planting commemorates some certain group-in others, a tree is planted for each soldier or sailor who gave his life.
Arrangement of Shade Trees
Because of Georgia's varied topography and consequent different types of roads no flat rule can be laid down for the arrangement of plantings. Along straight roads the trees c.an be planted in a row on either side of the highway-each tree the same distance from the next and the rows the same distance from the center of the road. Where there is a curve in the road the inside of the curve must be left clear or else the trees must be set back such a distance from the road that drivers may have a view of the curve. The State Highway Department of Georgia has now extended its right-of-way from eighty to one hundred feet. This additional footage is sufficient to allow shade trees to be planted on the inside of most curves found on a paved road. Very sharp curves on these roads are the exception.
On steep cuts and fills planting would probably have to be discontinued but this would be determined by the depth or height of the cut or fill. If planting should be done where cuts and fills occur the trees must not be planted on the slopes of tbe cuts or fills, but at least five feet back from the edge, regardless of the previous spacmg.
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An illustraton of bad planHng. The trees were planted ba:ely one foot from the edge of th~ pavement, placing it in danger of being cracked. by the roots~ In another year the branches of the trees wiJJ grow into the wires making it necessary to cut the trees off squarely.
If the highway is very winding a better arrangement than planting in rows is planting in groups. 'Vith a little care given to the placing of the groups vistas can be opened. Planting in groups will better suit the conditions and also have a more natural appearance.
A large proportion of state highways are through wooded areas. In these places very little, if any,
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planting will be uecessary. Trees of good kinds aucl spaced about right can be developed to make ,er~ satisfactory shade trees.
One objection to planting in rows is that the effect is artificial, and another is that sc-veral miles of such planting would become very mouotonous to travelers. But these objections are met, for the most part, by the trees themselves. >Jo two of them will grow at the same rate or in tlw same manner and the difference between individuals will furnish more than a little variety. Some trees will die and gaps will appear at irregular intervals making the planting still less artificiaL Using a mixture of species will also help to dispel these objections.
Kinds of Trees for Highway Planting
The choice of the species or kinds to be used is determined by many factors among which are altitude, moisture, and soils. In general, it is best to use the species that grow natura1ly in the localit~ to be planted. One would not plant a hemlock or other mountain tree near Savannah. It is often possible to use trees that are growing naturally by the highway, approximately properly spaced and of a good kind. It is hoped that trees native to Georgia will be most widely used. Georgia has a very wide variety of shade trees and it should not be necessary to introduce strange species. In the following list a few outstanding species not found growing naturally in Georgia are mentioned. These are reconm1ended because of their very desirable qualities. rrhere are many other species which can be used but the list is composed of those trees e:,;pecially suited for shade, longevity, freedom from disease, and because of their aesthetic qualities.
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Lower State-Coastal Plain Region

I)Ecrouoes*

Low, damp, - \rater Ash

s,~ampy

\rater oak

Places

Willow oak

~l agnolia
White Ce<1ar Palmetto Spruce (swamp)
Pine [jye oak
Laurel oak

l'pper I )rier Places

- \\'hite oak \Vater oak Cr epe m~rile f)ogwood Sycamore Hackberry Scaly-bark Hickon Pecan "Willow oak

Longleaf pine Red cedar
~lagnolia
LiYe oak Laurel oak

Low, :2\Ioist Places

Middle State-Piedmont Region

-Black \Yaln.ut '1\tlip tree \Yater ash Basswood (Linden) Dog,\ood Siherhell
Scal~-bark Hicko 1~
Willow oak

Red cedar ~\f agnolia Lo hloll~ pine

*Deciduous trees are those which drop their ]eaves every year. Evergreen trees retain their leaves for several years.

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llloi~t
Slopes
Dry
Ridge~
Moist Coves
Lower Slopes

- Black \\'aluut \Yater oak Sycamore white oak Yfillow oak white elm Pin oak Pecan Dogwood Crepe myrtle
--Willow oak Southem red oak Pin oak Pecan Dogwood Crepe myrtle

Red cedar .Jla2;nolia Lohloll:> pine
Red cedar Loblolly pine Shortleaf pine

Upper State-Mountain Region

-Black walnut Tulip tree Beech Basswood (Linden) \Vhite ash Silverbell willow oak

Hemlock \Vbite pine

-"White elm Northern red oak vVater oak Pin oak Sugar maple Beech Dogwood \Yhite oak

vVhite pme R.cd cedar Norway Spruce

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Upper Slopes

- 1\orthern r ed oak
Chestnut oak 'White oak Dogwood

\Yhite piue Red cedar

NOTES ON KINDS OF TREES RECOMMENDED FOR HIGHWAY PLANTING

Ash-Water (Fraxinus caroliniana and F. floridana)-Native to the swamps and ponds of the Coastal Plain. Att'ains a height of 40' and a diameter of 1'-2'. Its small flowers appear in February and March. Forms a narrow, round-topped head.
White (F. americana)-Native to the coves and river bottoms of the northern half of the state. A tree sometimes SO' high and 2' in diameter. Forms, in the open, a round or pyramidal crown. Very good for shade tree planting.

Basswood-American Linden (Tilia americana)-Found in the rich, alluvial bottom-lands ;n the northern part of the state. Is often 100' high and 3' in diameter. Forms a large crown, giving a deep slrade.

Beech-(Fagus grandifolia)-Found in the northern part of Georgia along the lower slopes. when grown in the open is short-stemmed-usually about 50' highwith a large, spreading, round crown, the branches slightly drooping. An excellent shade tree.

Cedar-Red (Juniperus virginiana)-A well-known tree found throughout the state 'and thriving on a variety of soils. Is much in use for ornamental planting. Living specimens are often used for community Christmas trees. A good tree for memorial planting. Cannot be planted in the vicinity of an apple orchard.
White (Chamaecyparis thyoides)-Found only in deep swamps and ponds in the Coastal Pbin Region. This t~ee has a long, narrow, conical shape even when grown in the open. In groups or rows they are very picturesque.

Cr epe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia ind ica) - An introduced plant very much in demand for drives, avenues, etc. The

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flowers are red,. white, or pink, according to the stock. A very pretty tree wherever planted. C:m be used in combin'ation with other planting.
Dogwood-Flowering (Cornus florida)-Found t hroughout the state. Grows best in the shade of other trees. Its profusion of white flowers are a beautiful sight in the spring. The drooping, spreading crown gives a delightful shade.
Elm-White (Ulmus americana)-Distributed infrequently in Georgia but planted extensively for park and street shade trees. A longlived majestic tree with lofty arching branches, forming '..ln enormous crown. Justly famed for its shade.
Hackberry- (Celtis occidentalis)-Reaches its best development in the southeastern part of the state but is found on all varieties of soils. Planted for street shade trees in many towns. When grown in the open the crown is very symmetrical.
Hemlock-Eastern (Tsuga canadensis)-A be~:mtiful conifer found in the coves and cool slopes of the mountains where it often reaches a height of over 100' and a diameter of 3' or more. Its pyramidal form makes it a very desirable tree for shade and ornamental purposes.
Hickory-Sc'aly-bark (Carya ovata)-Native to rich, damp soils throughout the state. Besides its worth as a shade tree, it is also valuable for its sweet, wellflavored nuts. This tree would serve a dual purpose when used in highway planting.
Magnolia-(Magnolia grandiflora)-One of Georgia's best known and loved trees. Is indigenous to low-lying d'amp places in the Coastal Plain but is planted through most of the state for shade and ornament. Its evergreen foliage and white J:.looms form a beautiful combination.
Maple-Sugar (Acer saccharum)-Not a native of Georgia but is extensively planted as a shade tree. It is better suited for this purpose th'..ln the other maples because it is longlived and not so liable to damage from insects, disease, or breakage. The rich tints of its autumnal foliage are very pleasing.
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Oak-Chestnut (Quercus montana)-Found in the mountainous part of the state as far down as the higher foothills. It attains a height of about 60' and forms a spreading crown, making an excellent shade tree.
Laurel (Q. laurifolia)-A tree native to rich hummocks and the sandy banks of stre:ams in the lower Coastal Plain Region. Occasionally 100' high with a diameter of 3'-4'. Has a shapely broad, dense, roundtopped crown. The persistent lustrous green leaves help to make this a very handsome shade tree.
Live (Q. virginiana)-Indigenous to the lower Coastal Pl'ain Region. This tree is well-known for its shade and ornamental properties. It forms a wide-spreading crown often over 100' across and a massive, buttressed trunk. As the leaves do not fall until new ones appear it is evergr;en in appearance.
Pine (Q. palustris)-An introduced tree rapidly gaining favor for shade pl~anting. It is rather slowgrowing after transplanting but soon starts its more rapid growth. It attains a height of 40'-50' and a diameter of about 2'. Forms a large round-topped crown.
Red-northern (Q. borealis)-Native to the northern part of the state. A ~aluable forest tree and equaliy desirable for its shade. Often reaches a height of 80' and when open-grown forms a wide-spreading rounded crown.
Red-southern (Q. rubra)-A common oak in the Piedmont Region. It grows to a height of 70'-80' and a diameter of 2'-3'. Is well-suited for a shade tree because of its handsome appearance, freedom from disease, and long life.
Water-(Q. nigra)-A well-known Georgia tree found throughout the state on all except the driest soils. Very much in demand for city street planting and as a lawn tree. Is easy to transplant and grows thriftily. An excellent sh'ade tree.
White (Q. alba)-Another well-known tree found throughout the state. Individual trees attain an immense growth in girth and crown and there are many magnificent specimens of this tree in the state. Although of relatively slow growth it is very valuable for highway and street planting.
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Willow (Q. phellos)-A tree found in all but the northern p'.lrt of the state. Often grows to a height of 70'-80'. Has light-green, slender, willow-like leaves. Forms a spreading, round-topped head and is admirably suited for shade purposes for which it has been widely used in yards and along streets.
Palmetto-Cabbage (Saba! palmetto) -An inhabit.1nt of the lower Coastal Region. Reaches a height of about 30' and a diameter of 1'-2'. Its outward curving and drooping fan-shaped leaves ttre very picturesque. An excellent tree for memorial planting.
Pecan-(Carya pecan)-Native to the southern half of the state. It is best known for its fruit, of which there are several very good varieties but also makes a desirable shade tree. It would s'erve ~.l dual purpose in highway planting.
Pine-Loblolly (Pinus taeda)-This tree, also known as Oldfield Pine, is found in the Piedmont and upper Coastal Plain Regions of Georgia. Will grow to a height of about 100' and a diameter of 2'-3'. Has rather long state-green needles. When open-grown forms an oval crown with limbs reaching almost to the ground. A fast-growing pine.
Longleaf (P. palustris)-A well-known pine in the Coastal Plain Region where it is valuable for timber and naval stores. Reaches a height of over 100' and when grown in the open has 'a rather open crown extending over half the length of the tree. Its long needles and purple flowers on new spring shoots make this a handsome specimen tree.
Shortleaf (P. echinata)-Found throughout the Piedmont Region of the state. A valuable timber tree but of relatively slow growth. Often grows to a height of over 100' The needles are short and dark blue-green. Forms a pyramidal crown.
Spruce (P. gl'abra)-Found widely scattered among the hardwoods in swamps and ponds in the lower Coastai Plain Region. It resembles the white pine of the mountains. Would make a good tree for highway planting along marshy stretches.
White (P. strobus)-lndigenous to the Mountain Region of the state where it is found on a variety of site conditions from cool moist coves to dry rocky ridges.
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Extensively h':l.ndled by ornamental nurseries a, shade trees and specimen plants. Is very desirable for highway planting. Suggested for memorial plantings.
Silverbell (Halesia carolina)-A not-very-well-known tree of the northern and especially the mountainous part of the state. Grows to a height of 50'-60' and a dinmeter of 1'-3'. It gets its name from the pendent rows of white flowers appearing in the spring before the leaves are fully developed. This tree should be better known for shade planting.
Spruce-Norway (Picea excelsa)-An introduced species in the Mountain Region where it thrives in cool, moist situations. It reaches a height of 60'-80'. The crown is pyramidal in sh'ape, the lower branches almost sweeping the ground.
Sycamore-(Platanus occidentalis)-Occurs throughout the state. It often grows to a height of over 100' and a diameter of 4'-6'. Its branched trunk and spreading crown make this a desirable shade tree. The European syo'amore is also planted for shade and is a better tree for this purpose because of its resistance to disease.
Tulip Tree-Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)-A valuable timber tree found throughout the state. Reaches a height of over 100' and a diameter of 3'-5'. When grown in the open it forms a large, rounded, spreading crown. Its odd-shaped le<tves and b~autiful tulip-like flowers make this a very attractive tree. It is being more widely planted for shade and ornament.
Walnut-Black (Juglans nigra)-Found in the middle and northern parts of the state in rich, moist bottoms particularly. Well known for its use in the m~anu facture of furniture. The nuts are extensively used in confections. When open-grown this tree has a short, thick stem and a wide-spreading crown. A good tree for memorial planting.
Size of Trees to Plant For best rc~mlt~ from the plantiug the trees used should be Yery small. It is better to use small plallt-
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ing- stoek and have a :mceessful planting tl1an to try for an immediate effect with large trees and liOSsihl; lose as many as half of them.
The si11e of the trees to use is dependent upon the
kind. A few characteristic trees are mentioned tu show lww this works out, and to give an idea of thL si7:e trees to use, taking the trees mentioned as indicati,e of all trees coming in their classification. l<'or instance, white pine and Norway spruce are representative of ornamental conifers; pines, of coniferous forest trees; and oaks, of trees with long taproots.
Oaks, walnuts and other trees having a long taproot should not be over a year old when transplanted. Because of the difficulty in lifting them, even when only a year old and the trouhle of handliug trees of this kind it may be a better idea to plant seed in the desired places.
.:\fagnolias and live oaks, both broadleaved evergreens, should be very small when transplanted. Results will be better if they are only a foot high. The roots must be disturbed as little as possible and preferably balled.
ThG water oak and practically all the fibrous rooted deciduous trees such as the dogwood can be moved in any size up to about ten f<~et in height.
Of the conifers mentioned, longleaf pine shoul(l not be planted when oYer one year old. This tree develops an enormous taproot during the first few years of its life. It may be b2st to p!ant seed in tht> desired places, putting from three to ten seed in each spot. The other pines can be planted up to three years of age. These forest pines do not require a ball of earth around their roots but the roots must be kept moist and protected from sun and wind.
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\Yhi 1e pine o\er t hne ~- (an; old, hemlock, and .'\onYay spruce, should not be O\'cr three feet high whlH transphmted. They mnst haYe a hall of earth around their roots.
Red cedar and white cedar can be transplanted in m~y size up to about five feet in height. It is hotter to have the roots balled but not absolutel~ ncccssary if the roots are kept moist and the trees are transplanted immecliatcl~.
Small planting stock should be used in all cases, if possible. Smaller trees can be bought for considcrabl~ less tlla11 larger trees. ..A.ncl whether tile trees are from a nursery or from the woods, the smaller ones stand a better chance of being successfully t ranspl:mtecl. There is danger, also, in using stock that is too small. The trees should b<' about one foot high at least.
Where to Obtain Trees
~ome of the trees in the list arc handled by omamental and forest nurseries. :::-.JurBery-grown tree.:> should be used ,,hcreYcr possible. Kurserics can furnish better looking and healthier stock than is generall~ found growing wild. The trees will be pi"llned at the nmser~ before being cleli,ercd ancl this operation will he spared the planter. Nursery stock can he lifted from the ground with less injury to the plants than can wild stock ,The charge madt> for trees by the nmscrr is ,ery often cheaper thm1 the time spent in locating wild stock.
F'or some of the kinds of trees there is 110 choice hccause thlr are not enough in demand to be grown in nurseries and wild stock must be used. \Vild stock must he pnmcd hcforc being rc-plcmtcd. The following directions for pruning apply to wilrl stock ('specially.
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Pruning
Pruning is very necessary at the time of tram;planting. The root system of the plant is generally unavoidably injured and reduced. r_ro induce rapid healing, the bruised and injured roots should be cleanly cut just aboYe the injury. The crown, or branches of the tree, must be cut back to preserYe its balance with the decreased root system. The crown can be shaped by proper pruning.

(J.

b.

}i'ig. 1. Diagram showing pruper pruning of the crown and roots. The heavy marks in "a" show where pruning should be done. Note the r&unded shape of the pruned crown in '"b".
By shaping the crown at this time and starting il right, the tree is given a better appearance and less trouble will be had with its form later.
All cuts should be made close above a bud, and it
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is preferable to make the cut at a bud which will start a shoot in the desired direction.
Thi.rso"t"111
Fig. 2. Diagram showing how cut should be made in pruning branches. By making the cut close above a bud no stub is left to rot and endanger the tree.
Fig. 3. Diagram showing how the choice of the bud left determines the direction of future shoots. Hea\'Y marks show where cut is made. Dotted Jines indicate future shoots.
Branches which arc rcmoYcd should be cut ns close as possible to the stem. No stubs should be left. The decay of stubs left from pruning offers an entrance to insects and diseases and is often thP
l!l

ca u:-; e of em' it il'S. ;\ o cu1:-; :-:hould h e marlL lwri I':Olllall~', lrnt ahnt~s on a slant so that water will not <'Olll'ct ou the exposed surface.
\n~' lPans r emaining on broadlea\'ed trees, either deciduous or eYergreen, when they Bre transplant0d should he renro\'ed.
Spacing
The trees should be set at least ten feet from the edge of the road. This does not mean from the edge of the pavement but from the edge of the shoulder, or dirt strip, that is left on either side of the p~wed area. At this distance the large. spreading roots of some trees will not be able to damage the paving The distance between the trees varies with thl' kinds. Some trees spread their branches more than others and require more Rpace in which to deYelop The live oak often spreads its branches over an area 100 feet or more in diameter while the silverhell may neYer have a diameter over forty feet. As a general rule, the distance between trees should neyer he less than twe11t~r-five feet. I'or some of the larger-growing kinds of trees forty or fifty fe,;t would he a better spacing.
Planting
The success of the undertaking is largely assured by the care used in planting the trees. Planting can he done from the first of ~ovember until the last of March, depending upon the locality. Iu the extreme southern part of the state planting should he done only in January and February.
Good, health~', well-shaped stock :::hould be used. 'l'here should be a minimum of ti1~1C between obtaining the stock and planting it m the desired places. The roots should he kept sl1aded and moist
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aud protected from the sun and t.hc "iud while t he plants ate out of the ground. \Yet burlap or crocus sacks are excellent for protecting tl1e roots.
'J'he hole dug for each trre should be a little larger than necessary to a.ccommodal e all the rools without the least crowding. 'l'lte Pxtra cxpeuse of large holes is more than compensated for h~ tile results. It is better polic} to plant a fc\\ trees correctly than to plant a large number in a haphazard hmricd \\'a.\. \\'hen the holes arc dug the topsoil should be set aside and mixc(l with \\ell-composted stable manure. This mixture is put in the bottom of the hole and conrecl with a ligltt la,'cr of fresh earth to pre,ent the roots coming in contact witl1 the Hwnurc. The hole is uow ready for planti11g.
If possible, two men s!Joul<l plant each tree, oue to hold it in the proper position all(] the other to tamp tlte earth around the roots. Tt is assumed that the tree, if a conifer, has a ball of earth arouud the roots. The best side of the plant is turned towan1 the higlnn1~ aud the plant lined in with the otlJOn; nnd spaced conectl~. The pla11t is set in the hole_ so that the entire hall will be conrccl with earth but the plant must not be set over one inch deeper in tho ground than it was before transplanting. For best results plants shoult1 lw set at lr.,ast as deep as the~ were lwfore being mo\'e(l. This dc'pth can
l''ig. 4. Diagram ~huwinl! the prepa...aticn of the l~ole and the method of planting conifers.
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casil.\ he scen from the discoloru tion 011 the ste111 of the t re s. Earth must be p<wked around the bali and under it so that no large air spaces are left. The handle of a D-hamlled spade is well suited for tamping. \Vhen the hole is about three-fourths fHll
of packed dirt enough i\ater to fill th e hole should
be pou reel around the plant. \Vhen this has soaked down, the hole is filled with earth. The surface should be left cup-like with the stem of the tre ~ as the center of the depression. This is clone so that rain water will he guided against the plant where it is ne ecled.
ln the case of deciduous trees tt1e crowns and roots must be pruned (see Pruning). The hole is prcpan:cl in the same manner as for conifers. rrlw tree is set in the hole not over one inch deeper than it was before being moved. Care must be taken to see that the roots are kept in their natural position and not hent, curled, or twisted to ii.t the hole. The
Fig. 5. Diagram showing the preparation of the ho~e and th'! I:.:ctho d of planting rlecid.uous trees.
hol e should he made to suit the trel'. Earth nw.st he paekecl around each root. \Vater is added in th~ same wa~ as for conifers and the rest of the treatment is the same.
After a ch1~ or two every tree should be visited and the earth around them firmed h: stepping 011
22

it, nt the >iHllle time keepi11g the tree in an upright position. They should not lenn in any direction.
Care After Planting
Probabl.'' of more im]>odrmce than planting is the care of the trees after planting. Y Prr often people think that when the~ ha\e planted r, tree their responsibilit~ end:,;. In spite of the most careful planting some trees will die and it will Le necessary to fill in the gaps that form fronr time to time to keeJ! the planting complete.
lns ects antl diseases are alwa~s waiting to attaek trees that are bruised or injured in any way thai \Yill gi \e them an opening. For this reason the possibilities of injury to the trees by stoek must be co11sidPI'l'Cl before a planting is made. Space is lacking in this pamphlet for descriptio11s of and rem-
edies for the insect s and diseases that are liable to
attack the shade trees mentioned. (This information ma~ be h<Hl by a request to this departme11t m to the State Entomologist).
Or ad woo<l and branches must be cut out of the shacle trees to imr>roYe their appearance and to renJo\e a source of danger to traffic.
Pruning of deformed branches and lower hranehes will he necessary. Lo\\cr hranchL'S obstruct the \iew, are dangerous to traffic and their remoYal w.ill stimulate height growth. Tho~" also often iuterfen' with cotton aml hay traffic, the twigs becoming tlecorate<l with these products, giYing the tree a shabb! appearance. Branches which interfl're with wires must be trimmed.
Li \ing bnmehes should oul~ lw cut when it is absolutelr Iweessar) to do ::-;o and the wound rwinH'd with creosote or some oth er IIJHtt>rial imperYious to watLr.
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As the trees grow older some emiti es will forlll awl1 ree su1 g e r,\ wi:l lw IHe e s s <u~ .
It ha s been statl_il that thete are f ew organizations whi(lt lw,e 1 csponsihi:ity fot pl<m ti ttg anJ th ere ate notte wl1ich han the r e sponsibilit~ of upkeep. It ha s been suggested that th e upkeep and care of the shade ttees be handled by the State Highway Department. Eeing planted on the right-ofway of the higihway d epartment the trees automatically come under the control of that department in so far as the~ affect the higi1way. At present the Highway Commission does Hot take care of shade trees along the high wa~s, nor does its organ ization include an~ means for doimr so. 'l'he fo llowing organization has been proposed.
The state would he divided into seYeral districts and a man who understands the can~ of trees would be stationed in each district. He would have the power of a foreman and would command road cre\Ys not engaged in highwa~ mainteuance to do improvement work on the shade trees, under his direct supervision. He would be furnished with a light truck equipped with tools for trimming, pruning, spra:ing, etc., for a four or five man crew and would trav el in his district as the work (lemamlecl. He could time his movements to coi_JJCicle with section c1ews that would otherwise be idle. The men chosen for the districts should be men who have a practical knowledge of the care of trees. The trees can easil) become eye-sores and be terribl.Y injured b~- ignorant and careles s handling.
Tn some of the )Je,,- England states the care, o! highway shade trees has been undertaken by the state highway departments for man:T~-ears and the wor k has been handled Yery satisfactorily.
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Results of Planting
The chief result of planting- shade trees is the beautification of our hig-hways. ~h<1.de trees are a source of constant enjoyment to residents and an inducement to Yisitors to remain in the state. Tourists will wish to stay longer in such surrounding-s and will haYe a differrnt story to tell of Georg-ia's highway system.
The presence of the trees and their shade tend to create a more eYen moisture condition along the road. Because of the ramifications of the root ystems the soil adjacent to the road is better drained.
\Yater will not collect to form m:udholes. Dust will
be held down because the earth will never bake and fully clr) out aud the force of the wind will be broken to some extent.
Better moisture conditions mean a better condition of the roadbed, entailing- less maintenance, This means a direct benefit to tax-payers.
A cleaner, purer atmosphere along the highwa~-s will be a result of shade trees. The exact relatiou of trees to atmospheric conditions has never been fully determined but it is known that the presence
of trees tends to prevent sudden and extreme at-
mospheric changes. The trees seem to exert an equalizing influence on temperature and humidity. \Yhile onl~- a double row of trees will not have a mnrked effect in this way, their influence will sure!; be felt.
Shade trees furnish a beautiful permanent nrl'morial to our soldiers and sailors who gnve their lives for their country. ':J.1h0 deep shncle and rugged beauty are peculiarly snit('cl for such n purpose.
::\fany natin nnclmigra tory birds \\'ill be ntt mctl'd to the highways and roadRidcs wheic they will he
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an added pleasure to traye lcrs. Under present conditions, except in wooded stretches, birds are seldom seen or heard near the highways.
~Where trees such as pecans, hickories, and walnuts are planted the nuts would be ayailable for the public, or at lea_st it is hoped so.
Costs of Planting
There are no available data on the cost of planting shade trees along highways but a rough estimate can be made, assuming a price for the transplants. Figuring on the cost of the stock, hanclli9g it, preparing the hole, and planting, the cost would vary from about one dollar to four dollars or more per tree. The kind of tree, its size, and the distance it has to be taken to be planted all directly affect the cost. If the planting is for memorial purposes the cost of placing suitable markers must be added.
Planting in Other States
In Massachusetts the State Highway Commission has authority over all planting, trimming, cutting, and removal of shade trees on it:; right-of-way. Since before 1899 laws relating to shade trees have been enforced. Tree wardens have been appointed to take care of shade trees not under the jurisdiction of the highway department. A great deal has been accomplished toward planting shade trees and caring for them.
Since 1922 New Hampshire has had laws protecting highway trees and serving as inducements fot such planting. Many miles of memorial highways have been dedicated since the Great \Var. Trees planted along the highways are deeded to the highway department and the wood is reserved for the
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use of the owner of the abutting pro~1erty if the trL <' is removed at any time.
The moYement toward shading the highways has progressed along lines similar to these m many other states throughout the country.
Recommendation
Planting shade trees along Georgia highways is highly to be recommended because of both the direcL and indirect results of such planting. It is hoped that one or more public-spirited organizations in each community will sponsor this movement and help beautify the highways of the state. Before a planting is done provision should be made for the care of the trees after planting, as it becomes necessary. This department is willing to help the movement toward highway shade tree planting in any way possible for it to do so.
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Summary
I. Public sentiment in fayor of higlmay shade trel planting is growing in Georgia.
2. Planting should be confined to pm'ed highways.
:1. Owners of abutting property should be consulted before a planting is made.
-1:. Trees are planted for their shade, beauty, effect on climatic aud road conditions, and as memorials to our >var dead.
5. Trees may be planted in rows or groups nt least ten feet from the edge of the heaten road and at least twenty-five feet apart.
G. Planting on the inside of cmTes must he set back to giYe motorists an unobscured view of the curve.
7. Native Georgia species should be used if R_OSsible, especially trees already on the ground, of good kinds, and approximately properl~' spaced.
~- Large trees shoulrl not be used for best results. Trees one foot in height or less do best. Deciduous trees should be pruned, roots and branches. Conifer::; should ha\'e a ball of earth around their roots.
9. Care must be taken in the preparation of the holes and the actual planting of the trees.
10. Care after planting is as important as planting, or more so.
l 1. It is suggested that the care of the trees be the responsibility of the highway department.
12. Costs are affected by the kind of tree, its size, aml the distance it must be taken to be planted.
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Bibliography
Shade 'l'rees-G. E. Stone; E. ~\. Start; H. T. Fernalcl-:\Iassachusetts.
Tree Planting- Book-American 'l'ree Association. Protection of Shade Trees in Towns and. CitiesBulletin 131, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. Shade Trees in .New Hampshire-~. H. College Extension Senice. Forest Trees of Georg-ia-Ga. State College of .\ griculture, 1926. :\[annal of the Trees of North America-Charles Sprngue Sarg-ent.
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PUBLICATIOi'\S 0]~ THE DEPARri'~[El\'l' OF FORESTRY
Leaflet 1. The Loblolly Pine.
Leaflet 2. Forest Fire Prevention.
Leaflet 3. Report of the Forest F'ire Line Demonstration at 'Waycross, 1927.
Bulletin 1. Forest Fire Control Polic:- for Georgia.
Bulletin 2. Forest ':Phinning.
Reprint of Georgia ]'orest Laws.
Biennial Report, 1925-1926.
These reports may be had free of charge so long as the editions last, by applying to the State Forester, State Capitol, Atlanta, Georgia.