40 



trunk or branch and thus affixing the support- 

 ing rod is simpler and cheaper than when an 

 iron band is used, yet, whether from a physio- 

 logical point of view or on the score of utility, 

 the encircling band and loose connecting rod 

 have many advantages. 



Some writers who recommend fastening 

 unsafe limbs by passing the connecting rod 

 through the living wood, or by chains, object 

 to the iron band around the stem as likely to 

 cut into and injure the bark and cambium. 

 But such an objection is hardly tenable when 

 the work of bracing has been carried out as 

 directed in the present chapter, nor is it 

 supported by actual results that have been 

 obtained from trees so treated. The band 

 must be made in such a way, and of such a 

 size, that there will be no possibility of the 

 iron wearing its way into the wood and thus 

 weakening the branch and defeating the end 

 in view. By making the band, as directed, in 

 two parts with a loosening attachment, it can 

 be adjusted at will tightened or slackened as 

 required while the leather or rubber band 

 quite does away with chafing or injury to the 



