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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 6

Burma.—

Burma.—

Lt.-Col. H. P. Hawkes, Honorary Superintendent of the Government Gardens at Rangoon, reports:—" The mahogany experiment has been an unqualified success. The seeds were sown on the 7th September 1878. When the plants were exactly a year old three of them were measured, and found to be 8 feet 3 inches, 7 feet 5 inches, and 6 feet 1 inch in height respectively, with a girth of from 3? to 3? inches, a rate of growth which, as far as my experience goes, is altogether unprecedented, even in the case of indigenous trees. In addition to this rapid growth, the maliogany tree appears to be very hardy, and promises to bear with impunity the extremes of heat and moisture characteristic of the Burmese climate. Of the hast 112 plants raised from seed! not one has failed. We have a large number planted out, and they seem to thrive in the poorest soil where it is difficult to keep other plantsalive. "

"I believe that this tree has a great future before it. The Forest Department now plant teak almost exclusively, and there is no other tree which can altogether take its place, especially in those situations where structures made of it are liable to the attacks of white ants. But there are many purposes for which a light handsome wood is required; this want would be met by the mahogany, and there would doubtless be a considerable demand for export"

Major Seaton reports:—" In the Tenasserim Circle, the four mahogany trees planned out in 1875, near a monastery at the foot of the Toungwine range, near Moulmein, continue to thrive, the maximum and minimum heights of the trees being 17 fee; and 7 feet respectively."