^v-> 



maunds ( = 8,000 lb.) of green plant as amounting to Rs. 37. 



Fron an outurn of 32,000 lb. of green plant per acre we may 

 therefore expect, in addition to the dye, a residual manure worth Rs. 

 148. The amelioration of the soil, as a concomitant of indigo- 

 cultivation, has been recognised as one of the most important 

 elements of the industry in Indin, and should receive the same 

 recognition in Ceylon. 



I trust that the data I have given will draw the attention of 

 Ceylf)n planters to the cultivation of a product which, even grown as 

 a subsidiary crop, opens such large possibilities for the more success- 

 ful cultivation of the present stable products of the Island. — Ceyloit 

 Observer, March 7. 191 2. 



PRUNING. 



Pruning consists in removing any part of a tree, either stem., 

 branches or root with a view to repressing its growth in one direction, 

 and directing the course of sap towards other parts of the tree or 

 shrub, etc, which are better situated and constituted for performing 

 the natural functions. 



In this country, trees and shrubs generally, produce an over- 

 abundance of branches, half of which are sufficient for all purposes 

 required, decorative or otherwise. It is therefore essential that 

 pruning be resorted to. By pruning I do not mean to infer that m 

 the case of such trees as Cassia fistula, etc., wholesale, ruthless 

 cutting out of branches is required, far from it, but if a few of the 

 weaker branches were removed, the sap which would have been 

 utilised by the removed branches, is directed into the remaining 

 branches, strengthening" and enlarging them so that they are better 

 able t ) continue the satisfactory growth of the tree. 



In fruit trees generally, pruning has a most beneficial effe t on 

 th-' yield of crop, enlargement of the fruit, general productiveness of 

 branches hitherto barren, and admission of more light and air to the 

 remaining branches are some of the immediate results attained. 



