134 COME INTO THE GARDEN 



at the point where it rises. On the other hand, 

 where heavier growth is desired, tips only should 

 be cut away, thus inducing many branches. 

 Cut down to the point whence you wish the 

 thicker growth to spring, for it is always from 

 near the ends of the stubs that the branches 

 will put forth; and prune always just above 

 outstanding buds, to insure open growth and 

 free center. 



The best time for pruning generally is when 

 activity is at the highest point, but before 

 growth has advanced sufficiently to cause waste 

 through sacrificing it — hence in the spring, just 

 as buds are bursting or about to burst. Wounds 

 made at this time quickly heal, and the full 

 effect of pruning for thicker growth is immedi- 

 ately gained. Spring flowering shrubs should 

 not be pruned, however, until after they have 

 finished blooming, otherwise their bloom will 

 be lost. 



This matter of the healing of wounds is a most 

 important one — as important to a tree as to a 

 man. For an unhealed wound is an invitation 

 to disease which may ultimately destroy the 

 plant, more especially if it happens to be a tree. 

 But in spite of all that has been said and written 

 with regard to the amputation of branches from 

 trees, practically every community shows scores 



