214 AMERICAN" GRAPE GROWING 



Many implements have been invented to facilitate op- 

 erations, especially in large vineyards on level landi, 

 such as gang plows with two, and even four, shares to 

 stir t'-ie middle of the row. The shares are fastened to 

 an iron frame with iron clamps and bolts, so that they 

 can be removed at will, and throw the earth either 

 toward or from the vines. These need more power, 

 especially in heavy soils. They are so constructed that 

 by operating a lever, they can be made to run deep or 

 shallow, as preferred. Mr. H. Hortop of Rutherford, 

 Napa county, has invented several useful implements 

 for this work. Among them is a plow with two shares, 

 running on one side of the row first and returning on 

 the other, with a wheel to regulate the depth ; also a one- 

 horse plow with movable beam which can be so set as to 

 run very close to the vines. He has also excellent plows 

 for preparing the ground, as well as cultivators specially 

 adapted to the work. 



PRUNING, STAKING AND TRAINING. 



If resistant vines have been planted, but little pruning 

 will be needed for the first two or three years — they 

 flourish best when left undisturbed. Should they grow 

 very strong the second year, the growth may be cut 

 back so as to reduce the number of buds, make cultiva- 

 tion easier and make stronger cuttings, if any are needed, 

 but no particular system need be followed. The third 

 spring, if the vines are strong enough, they may be 

 grafted, following which they should be staked to sup- 

 port the growth from the graft. The size of the stakes 

 needed will depend on the varieties grafted. For those 

 adapted to stool or spur pruning, four-foot stakes will 

 answer; for half-long or short cane pruning, five-foot 

 stakes, and for a few varieties requiring long pruning, 

 six-foot stakes will be required. The following prices 

 are paid for stakes at Napa, one and a half inches in 



