THE USE OF TREES
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Mangrove approach in some measure the requirements, but it is hardly to be expected that any of these would acclimatize on our coasts; moreover, they are normally denizens of muddy water rather than shingly shores. Perhaps some day when the production of plants to fulfil definite requirements has become a regular craft, some plant breeder may take up the task.
   By dint of persevering and intelligent experiment we have little doubt that the future holds in store further possibilities in the treatment of shingle beaches. Significant in this connection is Calshot Point, opposite Spithead. This shingle spit bears a thicket of Gorse, Broom, Hawthorn, Holly, Dog Rose, and Blackthorn, and among this scrub are solitary well-grown specimens of Corsican Pine and of Holm Oak (Quercus Ilex). It is true the spit is washed by relatively tranquil, land-locked waters, so that the exposure is moderated in comparison with the open sea. Still, boldness and skill in combination generally triumph, and we should expect a well-considered attempt at afforesting maritime shingle to succeed.
   As regards the treatment of apposition beaches (cf. p. 89), which form great stony wastes at Dungeness, Rye, and Orford-ness, we have little doubt they could be converted into forest areas without great difficulty. Being unaware of any experiments on this class of ground, it may be suggested tentatively that Alnus incana might be planted as the pioneer, to be followed by such species of Pine as Pinus Laricio, P. nigra, P. insignis, P. sylvestris, and by Sycamore, Walnut, Wych Elm, and Holm Oak. Other species should also be tried.