44 ORCHARD FRUIT TREE CULTURE 



down. Almost invariably a mark on the stem denotes the depth to 

 which the tree had been formerly planted let that be your guide, 

 planting about an inch deeper. The roots, spread out horizontally, 

 will be probably about 6 inches below the surface, and this is deep 

 enough if a stake is driven in to support the tree. To plant too deep 

 is to induce canker. 



DISTANCES 



The distances apart at which to plant must be decided by the 

 character of the trees and the stocks upon which they are worked. 

 Orchard trees, that is, standards and half-standards on the " free " 

 stock, should be given ample space, for it is not economical to cut 

 down every alternate tree after it has got to full bearing. Full 

 standard apples, pears, and plums ought to be 30 feet apart, and 

 the intervals may be rilled with bushes on dwarfing stocks if 

 thought advisable. Bush trees, on either the " dwarfing " or the 

 " free " stocks, when planted permanently should be about 15 feet 

 and 1 8 feet apart respectively, and will last for many years if well 

 attended to. Standard cherries and the looser growing varieties of 

 pears need more space, and 36 feet to 40 feet will not be more 

 than sufficient. We are aware that these distances somewhat 

 exceed those generally adopted years ago, but it has been forced in 

 upon us that more open planting is really hygienic and provides 

 the most favourable conditions for successfully combating insect 

 pests. It also gives a freer admission to the light and air, and, as we 

 know, these are the great ripening agencies, both for fruit and the 

 wood of the trees. Well- ripened wood is the first essential to fertility. 

 It will be found that at these distances the heads of the trees in a 

 few years will occupy a great deal of the space, and it is only then 

 that the advantages of a few extra feet for each tree will fully com- 

 pensate for the slightly reduced number per acre. We are asking 

 you to give your trees every possible chance, knowing that in the 

 long run you will be repaid. 



