PRINCIPLES OF VEGETATION, ETC. 



131 



'doubtful if the tree has strength to develop upon the old bark the new buds 

 necessary to fulfil the functions of the roots ; for if the buds perish, and there 

 is no outlet for the rising sap, the tree dies. By preserving these branches, 

 their leaves and shoots provide against such accidents. To facilitate the 

 issue of buds on the tree, the hard dry bark should be removed by a plane, 

 and its place covered by a coating of chalk and water, a covering which will 

 stimulate the vital energy of the living bark, and protect the tree from the 

 sun's rays. 



292. Following this operation, we find that the sap concentrated on only a 

 lew branches acts with great energy upon the cellular tissues of the bark 

 nearest to the summit of the cut branches. It determines towards these 

 points the formation of buds, which soon develop vigorous branches. Towards 

 the middle of June, choose such shoots as are best suited to form the prin- 

 cipal branches for horizontal training ; such would he c d e f g h in the 



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KEGENEEATED PEAE-TEEE. 



accompanying engraving. The others are cut towards the middle of their 

 length. 



293. The year following, in the spring, train the principal branches according 

 to the plan laid down ; ior example, in the fan shape, as in the engraving, 

 break the tender branches close to their junction with the stem or main branch, 

 and, during the summer, pinch the leading shoots off, so as to convert into 

 fruit-spurs the shoots not intended to form main branches. 



294. In the following spring the tree will be as represented above. At 

 this time, the branches 6, left for precaution, may be entirely suppressed, tha 



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