METHODS OF BUDDING 



257 



for spring planting as "one-year" trees, though the south- 

 ern stock is usually not ready soon enough for fall plant- 

 ing in the North. 



Apple, pear and other transplanted stocks are 

 "dressed" or trimmed prior to setting in the nursery; 

 that is, both root and top are shortened a quarter or a 

 third. This prevents the re-formation of tap roots and 



FIG. 202 THE PROCESS OF SHIELD BUDDING 



1, Making vertical cut; 2, making cross or T cut; 3, cutting the bud; 4, bud 

 inserted in stock; 5, tying; 6, finished work with bud tied in place. 



makes the roots branch. It also favors the development 

 of a sturdy top, because the number of shoots is reduced. 

 The effect of the former development is to make a more 

 easily dug and transplanted tree; that of the latter, one 

 more readily handled. 



342. Preparing the stocks. To be budded without dif- 

 ficulty stocks should be one-half inch in diameter or 

 larger, though in nursery practice those three-eighths 



