WHY PRUNE ? 215 



splitting off in future when the tree attains age and 

 size. 



6. When branches, from whatever cause, become 

 dead upon the stem or trunk of the tree, and unless 

 pruned off, they remain till a rotten hole is formed in 

 the trunk, which ultimately proves very injurious to 

 the timber. 



7. When from certain causes one or more branches 

 grow faster than others, and therefore the stem or 

 trunk above where this occurs suddenly falls off in 

 thickness, to the detriment of the trunk, and in order 

 to induce the part of the stem thus injuriously 

 affected to recover its proper dimensions. 



8. Because clean cylindrical stems, with smooth 

 surfaces, are often desired, therefore the trunk of the 

 tree should at all times be kept entirely clear of 

 branches and lateral shoots of every description. 



9. Because all trees on the margin of plantations, 

 and on roadsides, extend their branches in the direc- 

 tion they have most room, sunshine, and nourishment ; 

 therefore such branches require constantly to be kept 

 within due limits. 



10. Because trees do not always grow upright, but, 

 on the contrary, from various causes as lodgment of 

 snow, winds, &c. they incline to one side, and there- 

 by occupy more ground than if growing perpendicular. 



11. Because, from lodgment of snows, wind, or 

 other causes, certain branches are broken or so bent 

 down as to rub upon others beneath them, thereby 

 galling the bark, sometimes even to the extent of 

 wearing the limb quite through. 



12. Because pine and fir trees, as well as others, 

 often lose their top leaders a circumstance very com- 

 mon in the silver fir and larch. 



