PLANTING. 91 



grown that a compact root-system may be produced which, 

 does not require pruning. 



Where large plants are used, pruning may be neces- 

 sary ; its execution depends on a variety of circum- 

 stances, of which the following may be mentioned : 



a. Shape and Condition of Plants. 



In the case of plants of a normal shape, especially if 

 the root-system and crown are in proper proportion, 

 pruning is not necessary. In the reverse case, either 

 the root-system or the crown and even the stem may be 

 reduced in extent ; of two leaders one may be removed, 

 abnormally strong side branches shortened, incon- 

 veniently long tap or side roots reduced. The pruning 

 of one part may necessitate the pruning of the other, so 

 as to establish a due proportion between them ; if, for 

 instance, the root-system has been pruned but not the 

 crown, portions of the latter may not receive sufficient 

 nourishment and dry up. Originally normal plants 

 frequently require pruning, because the root-system has 

 been injured in lifting them. 



b. Species. 



There is a great difference in the treatment of plants 

 of different species. Some stand pruning better than 

 others, both as regards the replacement of the pruned 

 parts and the extent to which they are exposed to dis- 

 ease. 



On the whole, conifers stand pruning badly. Larch is 

 perhaps an exception, also Deodar and Pinus longi- 



dj though they cannot be pruned to the same extent 



