40 PLANTING IN UGANDA 



it results in the more perfect growth of the 

 remainder. The growths retained should always 

 be those originating nearest the stem of the tree, 

 as this brings the bearing wood back again near 

 the stem. By such a systematic method of prun- 

 ing with manuring of the soil when it becomes 

 exhausted, there is no doubt that the life of the 

 Coffee tree could be extended indefinitely. The 

 planter has, however, to consider whether it is 

 possible or remunerative to give all this attention 

 to the trees. 



Here we ought to remark that there is a decided 

 difference in growth between the two varieties 

 " Nyassa " and " Bourbon." The latter branches 

 much more profusely than the former, and a cer- 

 tain amount of pruning is imperative. With 

 " Nyassa," on the other hand, our experience has 

 been that the vigour of growth is maintained, and 

 the maximum crops are secured, without any 

 pruning, up to the eighth year of the tree. After 

 this age, however, growth becomes weaker, and the 

 trees show every sign of old age. 



We have also found pruning a very expensive 

 operation. Once started, it must be continued, as 

 the removal of a few superfluous branches seems 



