|
page 78
unaided by the productions of other climates, or by
elaborate decorations which might be becoming elsewhere.
Having adverted to the feelings that justify the
introduction of a few exotic plants, provided they be
confined almost to the doors of the house, we may add, that
a transition should be contrived, without abruptness, from
these foreigners to the rest of the shrubs, which ought to
be of the kinds scattered by Nature, through the woods -
holly, broom, wild-rose, elder, dogberry, white and black
thorn, &c. - either these only, or such are carefully
selected in consequence of their being united in form, and
harmonising in colour, with them, especially with respect to
colour, when the tints are most diversified, as in autumn
and spring. The various sorts of fruit-and-blossom-bearing
trees usually found in orchards, to which may be added those
of the woods, - namely, the wilding, black cherry tree, and
wild cluster-cherry (here called heck-berry) - may be
happily admitted as an intermediate link between the shrubs
and forest trees; which last ought almost entirely to be
such as are natives of the country. Of the birch, one of the
most beautiful of native trees, it may be noticed, that, in
dry and rocky situations, it outstrips even the larch, which
many people are tempted to plant merely on account of the
speed of its growth. The Scotch fir is less attractive
during its youth than any other plant; but, when full-grown,
if it has had room to spread out is
|