278 IRRIGATION FARMING. 



run along several rows at the same time. Now and 

 then soil is found that will admit of rapid irrigation, 

 or, as it is sometimes called, vSending the water along 

 with a rush. But this is the exception. Of course, 

 where water is scarce and one is limited to a certain 

 time in its use, the best that can be done is to use it as 

 circumstances will permit. When the water has run 

 its course turn it off. Do not let it soak and flood the 

 ground. 



In orchard irrigation it is a good rule never to apply 

 water so long as the subsurface soil — say at a depth of 

 six or eight inches — will ball in the hand ; and this is 

 a test that should often be resorted to during the 

 growing season. The yield may be largely increased 

 by the judicious application of water. That the fruit 

 may also be increased in size and made more attractive 

 is equally certain. At the same time judgment is re- 

 quired for the best results. Indeed, positive harm may 

 be done by untimely irrigation, not only to tree and 

 plant, but to the land as well. Incessant watering 

 without regard to the condition of the soil or the needs 

 of the plant will often force a growth of wood at the 

 expense of the fruit produdl and the fruit flavor. It 

 may likewise cause a growth to be made which the 

 succeeding winter finds immature and unable to with- 

 stand its tests. This will almost certainly be the result 

 with any tree or plant that has a tendency to make a 

 strong or succulent growth. Whenever late frosts are 

 feared turn on the irrigation water in the orchard, and 

 unless the frost is very heavy no damage will be done 

 to the fruit. Irrigate not later than the latter part of 

 August or the first days of September, so as to give the 



