APPLE GROWING 



least important In the first few feet of space 

 around a mature tree. By the use of set-over 

 tools, all that Is necessary can be well cultivated 

 without crowding the team under or against the 

 branches. 



4. As has been pointed out in the discussion 

 of the pruning of young trees, In humid regions 

 where the sunlight Is none too abundant 

 through the growing season, the open head Is 

 most desirable. Sunlight on the leaves as well 

 as on the fruit Is essential to good color of 

 the fruit, and good color Is a very Important 

 factor In the flavor and attractive appearance of 

 the fruit. An open center with upright grow- 

 ing leaders removed gives the greatest oppor- 

 tunity for sunlight to penetrate through the 

 tree. 



5. As we have seen, pruning In the dormant 

 season tends to increase the vigor of the tree. 

 Thus winter pruning serves to secure a normal 

 and vigorous wood growth, which is most es- 

 sential to a healthy fruit-bearing tree. On the 

 other hand, such pruning may be excessive and 

 produce wood growth at the expense of fruit 

 buds, throwing the tree out of bearing. 



6. The sixth and last reason for pruning Is 

 to regulate the number and distribution of the 



