THE ORCHARD. 



35 



After this is done, to preserve the necessary balance between the branch 

 and the roots, authorities agree that the branches should be cut out and 

 shortened so as to correspond with^the condition of the roots. In other 

 words, leave enough branches only to form a compact (not crowded) head, 

 and cut these back, say one-third, or to within a half-dozen buds of the 

 base of each of the branches. By this treatment your tree ought to have 

 a good start. But trees differ'so much in make-up and habits of growth 

 that it is almost impossible to give specific directions about pruning, and 

 this is especially true when we consider the different aims sought by the 

 practice. 



All things considered, the low-headed, stocky trees are safest for the 

 plains, and those portions of the West exposed to sudden and violent 



Well Formed Lowheaded Apple Tree. 



extremes of temperature. They are self-protecting, and in a measure 

 prevent sun scald, and the trunk and earth immediately around from 

 becoming overheated in the spring, and inducing an early rise of sap. 



If trees are to be headed high in large orchards, except in favored 

 situations, the trunks should be protected from the action of the sun. 



If the tree is taken up with roots well preserved, there will be little 

 necessity of severe pruning or cutting back. The use of knife or saw on 

 any tree should be avoided as much as possible. If taken in hand when 



