9 



hard and lumpy, and therefore unfit for satisfactory or even 

 distribution. One of the important features of manufacturing 

 is to combine and treat these materials in such a way that 

 they will remain in good mechanical condition even if stored 

 for many weeks. 



In regard to the fertilization of the orchard, I should empha- 

 size the fact that every orchardist ought to watch the growth 

 and fruiting of his trees as carefully as the breeder of cattle 

 watches the growth and feeding of the individual animals. 



Fertilizing Fruit Trees. 



Apple Trees. — If apple trees are not properly fertilized they 

 seldom bear every year, fruit spurs and buds do not develop 

 as they should, the trees tend to deteriorate, and the orchard is 

 not likely to yield its maximum profit. On the other hand, 

 it is important to avoid overfertilizing an orchard, particularly 

 with nitrogen. If too much nitrogen is used, it will lead to the 

 abnormal growth of leaves and branches, so that the fruit will 

 be overshaded, poorly colored, and of inferior keeping quality. 

 Where a soil is naturally, deficient in phosphoric acid and 

 potash, these fertilizer ingredients are needed in addition to 

 nitrogen. 



No man can tell another just how much fertilizer or what 

 grade of fertilizer he should use; but by bearing the preceding 

 suggestions in mind, the intelligent grower should be able to 

 gauge the amount and select the kind of fertilizer suited to the 

 requirements of his whole orchard or individual trees. For 

 very young apple trees, from 1 to 2 pounds of fertilizer to a 

 tree should be sufficient. The quantity should be increased 

 each year, and when the bearing stage is reached 5 to 10 

 pounds or more may be needed. Large, old trees may require 

 from 25 to 50 pounds. 



Peach Trees. — Peach trees in bearing require heavier fer- 

 tilization per acre than apple trees. As soon as they begin to 

 bear they may need from 10 to 30 pounds or more of fertilizer 

 per tree, depending upon the natural fertility of the soil. 



Apricots and Quinces. — Apricots and quinces are probably 

 not grown extensively enough in Massachusetts to require par- 

 ticular mention. They should be properly fertilized, and 

 quinces, at least, require much lime. 



