Pruning Peach Trees 177 



becomes familiar with the characteristics of growth, habit, 

 and behavior of the different varieties. At the same time a 

 well-formulated plan, based on a knowledge of the under- 

 lying principles of pruning, is essential if the operation is to be 

 anything more than a haphazard removal of branches that 

 appear to be in the way. No two trees are alike, however, 

 hence each one presents its own individual problems in prun- 

 ing, even though the grower may have a good knowledge of 

 the principles involved. 



In discussing the pruning of peach trees, it will assist the 

 reader materially to have in mind rather clearly the various 

 objects that may be accomplished by this operation. Un- 

 less one knows why he prunes and what is to be gained 

 thereby, he is not likely to do it very intelligently. The 

 principal objects may be enumerated, without reference to 

 relative importance, as follows : 



1. To modify the vigor of the tree. 



2. To keep the tree shapely and within bounds. 



3. To make the tree more stocky, thereby increasing its 

 mechanical strength. 



4. To open the tree top to admit air and sunshine. 



5. To reduce the struggle for existence in the tree top. 



6. To remove dead or interfering branches. 



7. To aid in stimulating the development of fruit-buds. 



8. To secure a uniform distribution of fruit-bearing wood. 



9. To thin the fruit. 



10. To enable the fruit to ripen more uniformly. 



11. To make thorough spraying possible. 



12. To facilitate the harvesting of the fruit. 



13. To regulate wood growth, in some cases, with reference 

 to winter injury. 



14. To aid the tree, in some cases, in overcoming winter 

 injury. 



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