THE PROFITABLE PLANTER: A TREATISE ON THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF PLANTING FOREST TREES

London: James Ridgway, 1828. Designated on the title page as "Fourth Edition, Enlarged" (but presumably a reprint of the fourth edition of 1814). 229 x 152 mm. (9 x 6"). viii pp, [2] leaves (ads), 267, [1] pp, [4] leaves (index and ads).
Recent very pleasing retrospective half calf over marbled paper boards, raised bands, maroon label, top edge rough trimmed, other edges untrimmed. Two geometric illustrations in text and one engraved plate of tools. Massachusetts Horticultural Society, p. 252; Oak Spring Sylva 42 (citing earlier editions). ◆Title page with small paper flaw in upper corner expertly reinforced on verso, one leaf with two-inch diagonal tear in the upper margin (well away from the text), faint offsetting throughout, otherwise quite a fine copy, the leaves clean and fresh, and the sympathetic binding without fault.

This is a practical manual covering the planting of forest trees "in every description of soil and situation; more particularly on elevated sites, barren heaths, rocky soils, etc., including directions for the planting and management of permanent screens; with useful hints on shelter and ornament," according to the extended title. The work is designed in particular for those who intend to plant and cultivate trees such as Scotch firs, larches, and others suitable to the soil and terrain of Yorkshire and Scotland. The author has in mind both those in the lumber business and those who wish to ornament their estates with a noble plantation. All aspects of the subject are discussed, from preparing the soil and digging holes to enjoying shady groves and making a profit in fir flooring. The work first appeared in 1800, and this reprint of the fourth edition contains some material, such as a discussion of Italian black poplars, not included in the original publication. Born into a Yorkshire family of tree farmers, William Pontey (d. 1831) operated a tree nursery in the north of England. He describes himself on the title page as forest pruner to the duke of Bedford; earlier he had served as head gardener to the Grimstons on their estate near Beverley. The book is uncommon on the market..