large limbs.+ This
occurred in the VPI Horticultural Department planting in 1945, when a
temperature of about 17 deg.F. occurred after the trees had started growth
in the spring. This injury appeared as a darkening of the outer bark and
cambium. Trees that were severely damaged became weakened and tended to
sprout vigorously from the bases of their trunks. Other trees overcame a
slight injury with little apparent ill-effect.

+5. Seedlings or Varieties.+ The question is whether to grow seedlings or
grafted varieties. Seedlings are more easily propagated, the nursery
plants less expensive, and the trees longer lived on the average; but
seedling trees and nuts are quite variable. Named varieties are
difficult to propagate, the nursery plants expensive, and stock-scion
incompatability may occur; but the trees and nuts are uniform. Seedlings
serve a useful purpose in developing new varieties; but with more
planting of superior varieties and a fuller understanding of propagation
methods, and of cultural care, chestnut growing on a commercial scale
may be more likely to become a reality.

+Future Prospects+

For the present, at least, it appears that growing Chinese chestnuts may
be limited to small specialty plantings rather than any large commercial
enterprise. The trees seem well adapted to yard and back lot planting
as ornamentals and to furnish the family with nuts. Also hobbyists and
specialists find them to be interesting plants with which to work.

The industry is new and involves uncertainties and risks, which a
commercial grower should not be expected to assume. Further study is
needed to clear up the uncertainties, especially as to production costs,
markets, and profits to be expected. As additional trees come into
bearing over a wider area, a better understanding may be had of the
economic value of these chestnuts in the various sections of the state.
There is a market for high quality chestnuts, but it remains to be seen
whether there will be sufficient profit with the risks involved to
attract commercial growers.

+Summary+

In conclusion, the following points are to be stressed in regard to
growing chestnuts in Virginia:

(1) Chinese chestnuts are adapted for home planting or for planting by
hobbyists and specialists; but their commercial prospects as yet are
uncertain.

(2) The trees require fertile soil with ample moisture but should not be
planted in frost pockets.

(3) Weevils and blight ha