FERTILIZER FORMULAS 105 



There is no very definite experimental data to show that lime 

 is beneficial to orchard trees, but there is a very general impres- 

 sion among orchard men that it is an excellent plan to apply lime 

 to orchards. So far as this idea has any real backing, it prob- 

 ably rests on the fact that limestone districts in fruit regions 

 are usually noted for their fine fruit. But quite aside from its 

 effect on the trees, the use of lime in orchards is probably war- 

 ranted on account of its effect as the cover crop which is grown. 

 Most of these crops are benefited by lime, and for some of them, 

 notably the beginners, on some soils lime is absolutely essential 

 for a good growth. On the lighter types of soils the ground 

 limestone is to be preferred, while for the heavier soils the burned 

 lime is better. On many soils an application of a half ton to a 

 ton per acre will be found to give excellent returns in improved 

 growth of cover crops. On one orchard block, the soil of which 

 the writer has tested, it was shown that it would require five 

 tons per acre to neutralize the upper foot of soil. Of course this 

 amount was not put on in any one season but a yearly application 

 of a ton was used with markedly beneficial results. 



In ordering lime of either type it will be found best to pay 

 the extra cost of having it come in bags rather than in bulk, as it 

 is impossible to handle the latter type with any degree of com- 

 fort wlien tliere is any wind. 



Fertilizer Formulas. — It may perhaps be helpful to include 

 in this chapter a few fertilizer formulas, though it ought to be 

 understood that they are only suggestive. The formulas will 

 vary, as to amounts and frequently as to materials used, with the 

 following factors : First, the soil treatment in the orchard. If 

 it is in sod it will need more fertilizers than if the soil is cultiva- 

 ted. Second, with the age of the trees. Young trees require 

 less fertilizer to secure the requisite amount of growth and size 

 of fruit than do old trees. Third, the crop on the trees. If 

 the trees are loaded with fruit they can utilize a much heavier 

 application of fertilizer than if there is little or no fniit on them. 

 Fourth, with the type of soil. A light sandy soil will require 

 more fertilizer, other things being equal, than a heavier soil. 



