290 Orchard- Sites in the North-West. 



no one need do without fruit, even on the lowest prairie. If no other 

 alternative is presented but to plant on low prairie, or not at all, prepare 

 the ground by throwing up into ridges for the tree-rows; then, with proper 

 selection of sorts, and wisdom to know when to cultivate and when not to 

 cultivate, you need not despair of raising fruit, particularly if you protect 

 your orchard with belts of evergreen or other trees. This protection by 

 surrounding timber is one reason of success in the timbered portions, as 

 the forest-trees left standing serve to protect the orchard from the force of 

 the winds. 



The exposure of the land is of importance in selecting a site. That 

 which lies to the north is regarded as most favorable. Southern exposures 

 are objectionable, as they are more readily affected by the rays of the sun, 

 causing the blossoms to open earlier in spring, and thus to suffer more 

 . from spring frosts. When the blossom-buds are frozen, those which lie 

 directly to the sun, as in a southern or eastern exposure, are suddenly 

 thawed and killed; whilst those on the north side of a hill thaw gradually, 

 and remain uninjured. 



The frequent thawing of the bark of the bodies and limbs of trees 

 during winter and early spring is a prolific source of injury; and, in this 

 respect, ground which lies to the south, or a little west of south, is the 

 worst, and north best. 



To any who purpose settling in the North-west, or, having done so 

 already, are postponing indefinitely the planting of an orchard, we would 

 say. Plant at once; plant for the health and enjoyment of your family; 

 plant for market. Do not plant Eastern favorites; but inquire of your 

 neighbors what kinds have succeeded well in your locality; post yourself 

 up as to planting and cultivation; and you will find your money and labor 

 very soon making handsome returns. If you want to raise fruit as a busi- 

 ness, there are, in this region, hundreds of acres — which can be bought at 

 a nominal price — of good orchard-lands. A very small capital, with a 

 moderate allowance of labor and brains, will make a pleasant and comfort- 

 able living. - C. C. Miller. 



Marengo, III. 



