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Poverty Bay Standard, Volume IX, Issue 964, 27 July 1881, Page 2

Tree planting, we observe, is going on pretty vigorously in the town ; but it is a matter for regret that there is but one idea connected w’ith it. There is no attempt to combine ornamentation with utility. Rows after rows are seen of nothing but the everlasting poplar, which, in either winter or summer will present a monotonous and doleful appearance. And the question of public health should be considered. Tn the autumn time of year, when the leaves are falling, and become decomposed heaps of diseaseinducing exhalations, by the rains, and steamed by the sun, we shall find them to be a great nuisance, unless the residents see to their prompt and periodical removal ; and this, we fear there is little, hope of them doing, unless under compulsion. In such case the Borough Council may find it necessary to pass a Bye-law to that effect. But it may be expected that the Council should set an example in this matter. We see that they have decided to plant 500 poplars and blue gums, and it is to be hoped that the latter will so closely alternate that the uniformity is preserved, while the danger to public health is lessened. The Eucalypti are known to be very healthy, a fact which, together with their being in leaf all the year round, will make their presence all the more acceptable. But why confine the selection to poplars and blue gums ? Th ere are m an y n on -d e«i duo u s forest and garden trees which are to be had, in large numbers, quite as cheaply’ such as pines, macrocarpa, arbor vita?’ Ac. True, they are slower of growth’ but they would add relief to what is already becoming a painful sameness. And whilst on this topic, why do not our fellow townsmen employ some one to plant their trees, who has a knowledge of, and taste for, what he does ? Tn many instances, they are planted so irregularly, as to height, and are so straggling in their appear-

ance, as to make them an eye sore. And it should be remembered that anything but an advantage is gained in planting cuttings of the enormous length of from 20 to 24 feet out of the ground. Time, is also in fact lost by so many small branches being left on them. A rootless tree, and, indeed many with roots, should be encouraged to make wood, and spread leaves as quickly and plentifully as possible after transplanting ; therefore, it is plain that if the sap has to rise such a distance, and then is disseminated through so many existing the result must be a weakening of the timber, and a lessening of the shade they are required to give. A poplar, or willow cutting is all the better for being planted without any lateral branches whatever. They can then be trimmed to any shape, and will come all the sooner to maturity.