CULTIVATION OF FRUIT 329 



FRUIT TREE CULTURE IN POTS 



General. It cannot be said that fruit tree culture in pots 

 is a new system by any means, nevertheless it has not become 

 general. It has oftentimes been demonstrated in a most 

 practical manner by the Messrs. Rivers & Son, and may at 

 any time be seen in full operation at their nurseries. Other 

 trade growers have also taken up this mode of culture, so 

 that now plenty of pot-grown trees may be had. Continental 

 growers also adopt this system, and that with equally marked 

 success. Possibly this departure from the usual methods was 

 not so well understood a few years back as it is at the present 

 time ; hence failures were more common no doubt. Failures 

 will occur if ordinary precautions be not taken ; thus, for in- 

 stance, it is unreasonable to suppose that trees in pots can be 

 successfully grown under the shade of other trees, i.e. trained 

 ones, or in houses that are not supplied with a reasonable 

 amount of ventilation. The system is applicable either for 

 forcing or for cultivation in absolutely cold houses. The idea 

 has existed that the trees in pots are not long lived ; this is quite 

 a mistake, and in proof of which one has but to inspect the 

 large specimens at Sawbridgeworth, some of which are a 

 quarter of a century or more in point of age. Canker, which 

 in some instances is so destructive, does not disturb pot trees. 

 As regards insect pests, the balance again is in favour of 

 this system. Where early forcing is practised, it is possible 

 to take two crops at least from the same houses, with, in some 

 cases, a partial crop of something else in addition. Thus, 

 after early forced Peaches and Nectarines, Melons can follow, 

 and pot Figs after the Melons. After pot Cherries Plums 

 and other fruits not forced make a succession, these being 

 cleared off in time to house Chrysanthemums. These are 

 only a few instances ; other crops will suggest themselves, 

 such, for instance, as pot Strawberries upon shelves. 



Houses. The best plan of house for pot fruits is the span 

 roof beyond any doubt, abundant means of ventilation being 

 provided. Houses of elaborate or expensive construction 

 are totally unnecessary, in fact, they are a waste of money. 

 The heating should be sufficiently provided for where forc- 

 ing is carried out, so that no undue degree of heat has to be 

 maintained in the pipes. Rather than have houses of large 

 dimensions, give preference to those of moderate size. All 

 the light possible should be secured by using large panes 

 of glass say, twenty inches by fifteen inches, which is an 



