CHAPTER IX 

 The Apple 



THE Apple is perhaps the most useful, and certainly one of the 

 most profitable, hardy fruits. It is by no means difficult to grow 

 successfully ; if the trees are given proper care and attention, 

 fine crops of handsome fruits will be obtained. It is advisable 

 to select for the trees a position that is sheltered from cold winds, 

 yet exposed to full sunshine ; a low-lying situation should be 

 avoided if possible, as there the blossoms are more liable to be 

 damaged by late spring frosts than on higher ground. 



The best soil is deep loam, resting on a well-drained subsoil ; 

 but Apples can often be grown successfully in various kinds of 

 soil with ordinary care. Before planting, it is important to 

 cultivate the whole ground thoroughly to a depth of fully 2 feet. 

 This is far better than preparing separate holes for the trees, 

 as it ensures much better drainage and a free percolation of water. 

 If the ground is in good condition, having been manured regularly 

 for previous crops, no manure should be added at the time of 

 planting ; but if the land is poor and in a somewhat exhausted 

 condition, a dressing of decayed farmyard manure may be dug 

 in with advantage. 



The best form of tree for the amateur to plant i& the bush 

 tree on the Paradise stock ; they should be planted 12 feet apart 

 each way. Standard apples are budded on the Crab stock, and 

 should be planted 30 feet apart for a permanent orchard. When 

 this is done the space between may be filled with dwarf trees or 

 bush fruits until the standards attain a large size. Bush Apples 

 will be found more satisfactory for small gardens, for they 

 commence to bear fruit when young. 



Apples also succeed as espaliers, which may be planted along 

 the side of walks, and as cordons. In cold districts choice dessert 

 varieties succeed admirably as cordons when planted against a 

 south or west wall ; they then produce fine fruit of good colour 

 and flavour. 



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