38 . CULTIVATION 0*' 



ous rows. Some cultivators pay particular attention to 

 continue in the orchard the aspect the tree main- 

 tained in the nursery : I have sometimes adopted the 

 practice, without much confidence in its efficacy; nor 

 can I think it probable, that trees growing in close 

 rows, not much exposed, in the nursery, can by any 

 habit so limited in its duration, be affected by any 

 permanent contraction or rigidity of the bark, or 

 sap vessels, which are the only effects I have ever 

 heard ascribed to the influence of aspect, on the stems 

 of young trees. 



The prevalent winds of our climate, are from the 

 north-west : in light soils, their violence will sometimes 

 give an inclination to newly planted trees to the south 

 east: this may easily be remedied by setting up the 

 trees while young; and when they have attained a 

 large growth, it may be overcome in a great degree, by 

 cutting off the leaning branches, and by freely pru- 

 ning the leeward side of the tree. 



Moss is a plant produced by poverty and neglect; 

 it is very prejudicial to trees, and should be care- 

 fully removed : this can be readily done, by rubbing 

 the trees in damp weather with a bone, or the back 

 of a knife ; good cultivation will generally prevent the 

 growth of moss white- washing the stem, not only 

 cleanses the tree of moss, but destroys many kinds of 



