196 Principles of Plant Culture. 
The cut forming the distal end of the cutting is preferably 
made considerably above a node, in order that the bud 
may not lose an undue amount of moisture by evap- 
oration from the adjacent cut surface. 
Cuttings of certain plants that do not readily 
form roots when made in the ordinary way, may be 
induced to do so by “ringing” (428d) the branch 
from which the cutting is to be made, just below a 
node, at about midsummer. Callus will then form 
at the upper edge of the ring (80), and 
above it. In autumn the branch may be 
severed just below the ring, and a cutting 
made, of which the base shall include the 
callused part, and which may be treated in 
the usual manner. 
374. The Proper Length 
for Stem Cuttings=depends 
ys il 
upon the conditions under 
which they are to be grown. 
i 
purl > 
Cuttings containing but a 
single bud often root freely 
and form vigorous plants, in 
the propagating bed, where 
heat and moisture may be 
readily controlled. Such 
me 
ve 
wiry 
short cuttings, however, are 
ie: 96. Fie. 97. Fie. 98. seldom used except when 
Fig. 96. Stem cutting of the currant. ; 4 
(After Bailey). cutting-wood is scarce. Cut- 
Fig. 97. Stem cutting of the grape. (After tings intended for planting 
Bailey). 
Fig. 98. Currant cutting rooted. in the open ground are pre- 
ferably made at least six inches long. 
food will be stored in the stem immediately . 
