APPLES 15 



above with the feet. When the hole is full, firm the 

 soil around the trunk to prevent whipping by the 

 wind, leaving the surface level. If the trees are set in the 

 fall a slight earthing up to the trunk may be beneficial 

 in certain soils, and if set in a dry 

 spring a mulch of straw or grass 

 will benefit them. Two- or 3-year- 

 old trees (usually the latter) are 

 the most desirable for planting 

 in home grounds. Commercial 

 orchards are often planted exclu- 

 sively with 2-year-olds. 



In orchard cultivation, Apple trees are usually planted 

 35 to 40 ft. apart each way. In home grounds they may be 

 placed somewhat closer than this, especially if they are 

 planted upon the boundaries, so that the limbs may project 

 freely in one direction. 



It is ordinarily advisable, especially in the humid climates 

 east of the Great Lakes, to have the body of the tree 3% to 

 4% ft. long. The limbs should be trimmed up to this point 

 when the tree is set. From three to five main branches 

 maybe left to form the framework of the top. These should 

 be shortened back one-fourth or one-half when the tree is set. 

 Subsequent pruning should keep the top of the tree open 

 and maintain it in more or less symmetrical form. See 

 Pruning. 



In orchard conditions, the trees should be kept in clean 

 culture, especially for the first few years ; but this is not 

 always possible in home yards. In lieu of tillage, the sward 

 may be mulched each fall with stable manure, and commer- 

 cial fertilizer may be applied each fall or spring. If fruit is 

 wanted rather than foliage and shade, care should be taken 

 not to make ground too rich but to keep it in such condition that 

 the tree is making a fairly vigorous growth, with good strong 

 foliage, but is not overgrowing. An Apple tree in full bear- 

 ing is usually in good condition if the twigs grow from 10 to 



