372 A YEAR IN AGRICULTURE 



good, healthy branch from three-fourths inch to two inches 

 in diameter in the top of the tree upon which the graft is 

 to be made. Make a smooth, square cut for a stock upon 

 which the scion is to be inserted. Select two scions for each 

 graft. These scions should be from bearing trees of the vari- 

 ety desired and from last year's growth. Cut each scion to 

 three buds. Make a cleft in the stock, and insert the scion 

 according to directions given in the chapter on orcharding. 

 The teacher should demonstrate this work. Grafting wax 

 should be placed over all exposed cut surfaces. 



Setting out a young orchard. The student may choose 

 this phase of the orchard project instead of one of the 

 preceding if he wishes. 



1. Select at least one acre, preferably on rolling land, to 

 use in this project. The soil should be fertile and well 

 drained. Plow the ground deep and prepare it for planting 

 in the fall. The trees may be planted either in October and 

 November or in April. 



2. Send to a reliable nursery for the stock. Use apple 

 trees in this project. To plant the acre will require about 

 thirty-six trees. Select varieties to produce apples for sum- 

 mer and winter use according to the tastes of the family. 



3. Lay out the acre orchard plot in rows so that the trees 

 will be either in squares or in triangles, 36 feet apart. The 

 triangular arrangement is preferable, since more trees may 

 be planted to the acre. 



4. Prepare ample space in the ground for the roots of the 

 young trees, and firm the soil well around the roots. Prune 

 the roots to eight or ten inches in length before planting. 



