CHAPTEK XVIII. 



SELECTION OF SITES AND SOIL. 



As a rule, the highest rented land will be the best value 

 for fruit-growing, but the "aspect" or site, is as im- 

 portant as the quality. All stone fruits do well on a 

 chalky sub-soil. Uplands are better than valleys. 



The fruit must be adjusted to the situation, therefore, 

 and it will be safest to grow apples, pears, and cherries, 

 only where there is some prospect of the fruit blossom 

 being protected, both from easterly winds or the early 

 scorching sun. For this reason westerly and north- 

 westerly well-protected aspects, will often give the best 

 crops, when fruit is scarce in other districts. If a small 

 freehold can be got, or say ninety-nine years' lease, 

 with a good water supply, within easy distance of rail, 

 this would include the three most essential points for 

 security and ultimate success. It is as well to select a 

 district fairly honest, or your crops may disappear before 

 you can gather them. 



