THE PEACH. 239 



the same time of larger size. Where rocks can be conve- 

 nientl}^ obtained, it is well to place two or three flat ones about 

 the roots. With such protection the trees will stand a hur- 

 ricane. 



If the kernels are planted where thej are intended to re- 

 main, which is always best, the soil should be in fine condition, 

 and they will grow large enough to bud by the next season ; 

 and that portion which are fixed varieties, and do not require 

 budding, will remain and grow off w^ithout any disturbance. 

 Transplanting, as has already been recommended, should be 

 done in the Fall, as soon as the leaves are off; or, very early 

 in the Spring. In close, clayey soils. Spring planting is con- 

 sidered best; but it should be done early, before the buds 

 start, unless unavoidable circumstances prevent. The later it 

 is done, the more careful should be the preparation of the soil. 



Some Winters give favorable opportunities for planting 

 during that season, and it is all the better if a little trash or 

 mulching be throw^n around the stem, at the roots, to prevent 

 freezing out and injury from frost. In budding, sefect buds 

 having three leaves or buds, and next to these two, preferring 

 the buds at or near the middle of the scion. 



Those who wish to plant a nursery of peach stones (which 

 should be selected from the largest and most perfect fruits), 

 should have their ground light and mellow. Plant in drills 

 about four feet apart and one foot apart in the rows. When 

 from three to five inches high, they can be removed with the 

 transplanting trowel or mattock, with as much soil adhering 

 as may be convenient. Some let them remain two years; but 

 with a suitcable soil and good culture, the peach is large enough 

 for budding the first year, and for transplanting the second; 

 it is not desirable to have larger trees, and the younger they 

 are placed where they are to remain the better, as such trees 

 will grow off more freely and become more healthy and vigor- 

 ous than trees transplanted at the same time of much larger 

 size. 



Mr. Westbrook directs peach trees to be planted in the fol- 

 lowing manner: "In small orchards, I use stakes, set, one for 

 every tree to be planted, and in perfectly straight lines either 



