GENERAL PRACTICE. MANURES. ss 



" The only ingredients contained in the ash which there is any need of noting, are 

 the phosphoric acid, potash, and lime, for these are the only ones in which the soil is 

 likely to become deficient, and therefore that must be returned to the land to keep up 

 its fertility. 



" From the above analysis we find there would be taken from an acre of land set 

 with apple trees, 30 feet apart, and yielding 10 bushels of fruit to the tree, by sample 

 No. 1, 6 Ibs. of phosphoric acid, 37^ Ibs. of potash, and 4f Ibs. of lime ; by sample No. 

 2, 7 Ibs. of phosphoric acid, 37 Ibs. of potash, and 3 Ibs. of lime : by sample No. 3, 

 7| Ibs. of phosphoric acid, 43 Ibs. of potash, and 7| Ibs. of lime." 



These facts show (1) that an equal weight of small, inferior fruit extracts more 

 fertility from the soil than does the large and superior, while the former is com- 

 paratively worthless, the latter distinctly valuable ; and (2) the importance of chemical 

 manures, and their early application in order to derive the greatest benefit from them. 

 From 3 to 5 cwts. of steamed bone-meal or superphosphate, and 1| to 2 cwts. of kainit, 

 or for stone fruit, muriate of potash, is a full dressing per acre. Where small 

 quantities only are required, pounds weight in due proportions of each may be 

 taken instead of hundredweights. Mix and apply from the stems of the trees as far 

 outwards as the roots extend. Three to four ounces of the mixture is a liberal 

 quantity for each square yard. In treating large areas, the mixture can be distri- 

 buted broadcast at the rate indicated, taking in the whole extent of soil within reach 

 of the roots. Pointing in is not necessary; the rains will wash it in fast enough. 

 After a first dressing of the nature indicated, a lessened application will be sufficient in 

 subsequent years. Generally the smaller quantities named, applied to the soil annually, 

 will suffice to keep up production, but cultivators must be guided by circumstances. 



Trees which, through loss of crop by adversity of season, grow too vigorously will not 

 need any stimulation ; but those producing heavy crops annually, will need full, and 

 in some cases extra, support. This can be furnished by a second dressing as soon as 

 the year's crop of fruit can be ascertained ; indeed, in treating trees with an increased 

 quantity of the manure, it is best to apply it twice : the first half in February or March, 

 and the second, if the prospect of fruit justify the application, soon after the crop is set, 

 and then an ounce or two of nitrate of soda per square yard is often distinctly advantageous. 



A few more words are necessary on this important subject. Fruit trees are often 

 too generously treated when young, and over-exuberant growth is incited ; while, when 

 exhausted by bearing, or impoverished soil, they are left to starve, or in other words, 



