(21) 

 fcrf fVuning ediduou^ 



On this question there is much difference of opinion 

 among tree-growers. Some contend that late autumn is 

 the best time; others, that it should be done while the 

 tree is in its most vigorous growth, say in May or June; 

 others again, in the early part of the growing season, when 

 the young leaf stems first show themselves. I think the 

 last is the most favorable time, for then we have almost the 

 entire summer's growth to heal over the wound. All 

 agree that the worst possible time is in early spring, just 

 when people usually prune. If pruning is done at this 

 time, as soon as the sap begins to flow, it exudes from the 

 wounds, weakens the tree, and is apt to cause the wood to 

 decay. Trees recently transplanted are an exception, they 

 do not suffer in this way, and for special reasons, usually 

 require more or less pruning when set out. The wound 

 left after removing a large limb is best treated by a mud 

 plaster, bound on with a cloth. Wax which is often recom- 

 mended becomes heated by the sun, and is liable to irritate 

 and blister the parts around the wound. The wounds that 

 are made in cutting off small limbs need no application. 



There is usually a ridge, called the collar, around the 

 base of each limb. It has been a subject of dispute whether 

 this collar should be removed with the limb or left on and 

 the limb cut outside of it. I prefer removing it. If it is 

 not removed it is apt to die down to the body of the tree. 

 There are often latent buds in this collar which develop 

 when the limb is taken off. Though in removing it the 

 cut surface is a little larger, yet it heals over quicker and 

 smoother, and there is no sprouting around it. 



Deciduous shade trees require little pruning, and ever- 

 greens, still less. The beauty of an evergreen is spoiled 

 when the lower limbs are removed. If anv ot the side 



