Sep. 2, 1920.] 



Agricultural Gazette of N.S.W, 



659 



cause a weakening of the individual canes in the next season, for the reasoo 

 that there are too many buds to nourish. A further defect frequently 

 results, in that the buds near the base of the arms may fail to burst and 

 those at the extremities become over-strong. 



The result to be desired is a strong cane from every bud left upon the arms. 

 In all cases the terminal bud should be left underneath and a full internode- 

 should be left for tying to the wire. In general 2 feet to 2 feet 6 inches- 

 should be long enough. (See Fig. 17.) 



The vine now consists of a T-head forming two arms, and upon each arm 

 several strong canes, with a vigorous one from the terminal bud which is to 

 be used in the extension of the main arm. The vine will now be producing 

 fruit, though it is not wise to allow over-production at this stage with 

 consequent weakening of growth. 



Fig. 17. — Three stages in formation of Thomery Spalier. 



The next step is to establish spurs for secondary arms at regular intervals, 

 and the distance of spacing will depend on whether the vine is to be spur or 

 rod pruned in the future. If only spurs are to be established they may be 

 placed approximately 6 inches apart, but if rods are to be employed double 

 that distance will be needed. 



Accordingly the lateral canes are utilised to the best advantage, while 

 the terminal ones will be shortened back according to vigour for the 

 extension of the arms, say, to a further 2 feet in strong vines, again 

 leaving the terminal bud underneath. 



When establishing the spurs which are to form the secondary arms, 

 it is not advisable to place them too close to the base of the main arm. 

 The general rule is to have the first ones about 9 to 12 inches from 

 the centre of the vine, thereby insuring a more even distribution of the 



