Manner of Operation 89 



taken not to loosen or separate the bark from the wood at 

 the margin of the wound, or to crush the cambium in this 

 region. 



All wounds must be smoothed and then heavily dressed 

 with an antiseptic, impenetrable cover, in order to keep out 

 water, and with it, bacteria 

 and fungi. Common lead 

 paint answers this purpose 

 best, being antiseptic as well 

 as lastingly impenetrable to p-j^. ,g, _ Topping shears. 

 water. By making it as nearly 



as possible the same color as the bark the unsightliness is 

 reduced. Coal tar is also recommended, but aside from 

 its unsightly color it sometimes damages the cambium at >^ 

 the edges, and is not as easily handled as lead paint. 



Be sure to make the coating thorough, possibly applying 

 two or three coats. This coating or dressing does not 

 influence the healing process in any wa}', but is merely 

 a mechanical device to keep out water and fungus spores. 

 Therefore, every crann}' should be filled, especially the 

 lower edge, which collects water more easily. If cracks 

 appear, the coating must.be renewed so as to fill them and 

 keep out the surface waters. 



With the observation of these few simple rules, any intel- 

 ligent man can do the ordinary pruning without doing dam- 

 age. 



As to the lime of pruning, there are advantages and dis- 

 advantages in every season, although the operation may be 

 performed at any time with safety, provided it is properly 

 executed. During the early growing season, when the bark 

 peels easily, there is greater danger of injuring the tree 

 mechanically by bruising the bark; so it is better to defer 

 the pruning until fall, winter, or \'ery early spring. In 



