Never before has there been a period when so much real interest in tree planting has been supported by such a wealth of planting material being available, as well as good advice about the best use to make of it. This chapter is concerned with tree selection (see pp. 45 to 52) for gardens of up to about I acre (.205 hectare) in size, tree planting and tree care. Generally, a knowledge of your soil and climate is essential. Is the soil acid or alkaline, heavy or light in texture? These are questions to which answers must be provided. The average rainfall will have a bearing on the choice of the trees to be planted, for there will be differences in growth on the East Coast with its low rainfall to that on the western seaboard. Trees which make luxurious growth given a high rainfall will make more restricted growth in harsher, dry conditions. Always it is a question of "The right tree in the right place". In addition to such cultural matters there is the need to appreciate other factors which influence tree planting, such as being conversant with local bye-laws-tree preservation orders, for instance, the proximity of overhead wires and the location of underground cables and drains. Also, there is the need to consider the effect of planting trees too close to buildings, especially on certain soils and the nuisance that can result from branches intruding into (or coming from) a neighbouring property. In its widest aspects, tree planting can involve seeking advice from lawyers, surveyors and arboriculturists. TREES IN EXISTING GARDENS If you have moved house recently make a survey of the trees growing in your new garden. If you have had your present garden for a long time, still, occasionally, look at your trees with a fresh eye. All trees should be correctly identified, for this influences the treatment they are given. In extreme cases, when trees are overgrown and may even be dangerous, their complete removal may be the only solution. In other cases skilful pruning may suffice and this may justify engaging the services of a specialist tree surgeon. In any case, trees should not be removed in a restricted space by the inexperienced, nor should sizeable branches be severed using unsuitable equipment, even by those with specialist knowledge. Any suspicion of serious damage being caused by pests or diseases should be referred to a qualified entomologist or plant pathologist for diagnosis and remedial advice. There is no such thing as a cure-all spray. TREES FOR NEW GARDENS When creating a new garden the aim should be to achieve a balanced effect. Foliage, tree trunks and branches have to be looked at over much longer periods than flowers. Imagine the joy of looking out of a window on a winter's day and seeing the low sun lighting up a shining tree trunk, and the cheerfulness provided by evergreens which have been especially selected for their effect. To get a complete picture of the planting material available, you should read this chapter in conjunction with Chapter 5 on conifers (pp.