R. M. Teague Nurseries, San Dimas, Cal. 
51 
the lighter soils a little fertilizer applied intelligently 
after the first year will no doubt be of much benefit 
to the tree, while on the heavier soils it might pro- 
duce too vigorous a growth and, as maintained by 
PRUNING 
Very little attention has been given to this phase 
of Avocado culture, and to date there has not been 
Avocado tree fruiting in nursery roiv 
some, cause the tree to be later in coming into bear- 
ing. The experiments made to date with the differ- 
ent fertilizers seem to indicate that well rotted barn- 
yard manure gives better results than the commercial 
fertilizers. If the latter is used, it should be as far 
as possible of animal rather than mineral origin. 
Bearing branch of Dicky A. avocado tree. 
Lyon avocado tree; an early and prolific bearer 

sufficient experiments made to determine just the 
proper methods to pursue with the different varie- 
ties. It is safe to say, however, that enough pruning 
should be done to cause the young tree to form a 
well-balanced head and frame work so that in after 
years it will be capable of holding its maximum 
capacity of fruit. Most varieties of Avocados form 
a very symmetrical head and little pruning is 
required. However, a little pruning when young in 
the way of making a proper distribution of the main 
branches will be of immense benefit to the tree in 
later years. All cuts, whether large or small, should 
be made smooth and carefully painted or waxed over 
immediately to prevent fungus or decay. 
TOP WORKING AVOCADO TREES. 
Most of the earlier plantings of Avocados were 
from seedling trees and many of these have proven 
unprofitable, either on account of the poor quality 
of the fruit or the failure of the trees to bear fruit. 
