CLOSE ROOT-PRUNING. 15 



I will now enumerate the four probable causes which, from 

 a series of observations and experiments for many years, I am 

 sure are at the bottom of the trouble, and in so doing, will 

 confine myself strictly to facts, which anyone can verify for 

 himself. 



1. I claim that the best form of tree for planting is 

 exactly the opposite of that recommended by all authorities 

 from time immemorial, inasmuch as the latter departs far- 

 thest from nature's method of seed, which experience of the 

 past proves to be the best, and to which I claim my method 

 is superior. The close root-pruned tree, as shown in the 

 accompanying cut (page 21), struck several strong penetra- 

 ting tap-roots, instead of one, like a seedling, and sent them 

 much deeper, fully ten feet in a single season. 



2. I claim that deep preparation of the ground, as now 

 recommended, is equally far from the truth and nature's 

 method of a firm, unbroken soil, inasmuch as such deeply 

 pulverized ground, after excessive rains, even though well 

 drained, will for several days become a bog, to drown and 

 scald the young rootlets in summer and freeze them to death 

 in winter at the North. 



3. That all cultivation of trees after several years, 

 when the feeding roots hunt the surface, is wrong per se, inas- 

 much as all trees depend upon these surface roots for the 

 proper development of the fruit, both as to size and quality, 

 and any cultivation must necessarily be destructive to them. 

 Of course, when first planted, the middles can be utilized for 

 several years without serious injury, for growing crops be- 

 tween if desired ; but from the very start, except a space 

 around each tree large enough to prevent damage from the 

 mowing blade, frequent and close mowing through the grow- 

 ing season, leaving the clippings on the ground, is the best 

 plan for all close root-pruned trees, with annual fertilizing to 

 perfect the crop. But please take notice that I do not rec- 

 ommend this treatment for poor, handicapped, three and 

 four-year-old, long, fibrous-rooted trees, if planted as they 

 come from the nursery. 



4. That all fall, winter and spring pruning, until after 



