ORCHARD-HOUSES. 19 



roots inevitable from transplantation, they think 

 the same treatment necessary for a tree established 

 in a pot, whose short, well-ripened shoots are full 

 of blossom-buds. The pruning of Peaches, in par- 

 ticular, had better be deferred till the plants are 

 almost in bloom, as it is very difficult to distin- 

 guish between wood and flower-buds earlier in the 

 season. It is generally supposed safe to cut to 

 triple buds; but some kinds have the habit of 

 producing triple flower-buds, so it is safer to 

 wait till they are easily recognised by their colour. 

 The later your plants bloom the better ; the 

 house should, therefore, be well ventilated, and 

 kept cool till the plants are in bloom. From the 

 period the flowers are fairly out till the fruit is set 

 is the critical time of orchard-house management. 

 Let us suppose the house all in order, and the 

 plants coming into bloom, cultivate them as if they 

 were a number of Geraniums. If it is warm out of 

 doors that is, if the wind is soft and mild venti- 

 late freely; but do not, because the sun shines, 

 subject your trees to a cold east wind. It is often 

 safe to open the west side of the house when it is 

 advisable to keep the ventilators on the east side 

 closed. If there be any sign of smother- fly not a 



