STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 61 



the top is left of onl}' sufficient length to handle conveniently. Of 

 those that are grafted, tiiree to five inchf s of root is all tliat is used. 



On this shortening the tap-root, we hear much said, manj' ex- 

 pressing doubts as to the effects of such practice. I will say to all 

 doubters, bj' shortening this tap-root we get several roots to take its 

 place, which will go as deep, and three times as man}' small roots 

 or feeders. These last would not have appeared to an}- extent until 

 the growth of that original tap-root (if left its whole length) had 

 been checked in the hard soil or pan. The roots of these small 

 trees resemble the tops. They are full of buds and vigor. It is 

 youthful vigor, so much so that three-fourths of an inch of root from 

 one of them will furnish all the roots required for the largest tree. 

 The question is sometimes asked if the trees are as good where three 

 or four trees are made from one root, as they sometimes are in the 

 .large nurseries. My experience is, that with those sorts that do 

 well root-grafted, it makes no perceptible difference. On some sorts 

 the top has a marked effect on the roots. But this effect is the same 

 whether the roots used are long or short. The best guaranty that 

 purchasers of trees can have, is that every nurseryman endeavors to 

 grow the largest, healthiest and best tree he can, and uses onh' the 

 best roots and scions for that purpose. We come now to the plant- 

 ing of our root-grafts and seedlings. A line is laid on the ground 

 previously prepared for them. 



The setting is almost always done with a dibble. This is an 

 important part, and none but trusty help should be emploj'ed. 

 Alter the tree is inserted in the hole made by the dibble, the dirt 

 should be pressed firmly around the root, its whole length and es- 

 pecially at the bottom, as on this success or failure depends. 

 These instructions complied with we are sure of a supply of roots 

 for the vigorous, healtliy growth of the tree. Set the trees ten 

 inches apart, space between the rows four feet, which gives about 

 12,000 to the acre. About ninety per cent, of the grafts grow. 

 Ordinaril}- the growth is from one to two feet the first year. 



The soil and cultivation must not be overlooked. For a nursery, 

 a good elevation, and a fine rich soil uuderdraincd, or with such 

 natural drainage as would amount to the same thing are required. 

 It is necessary to get the largest possible growth on the trees in the 

 first part of the season. This is done b}' constant and clean culti- 

 vation from early spring until the first of August. To promote the 

 ripening of the wood the weeds are allowed to grow the last part of 



