ORANGE CULTURE IN CALIFORNIA. 35 



be moved only a short distance, so it will not be necessary to 

 keep them out of the ground more than forty-eight hours, I 

 would puddle them. When this method is pursued all the 

 fibrous roots can be saved and as much of the tap-root as the 

 desire or caprice of the owner may wish. When dug in this 

 manner, prepare for the roots an ample supply of grout, which 

 should be as near the trees as circumstances will admit of. A 

 large deep box, or a large barrel, or a hole dug in the ground, 

 will answer as a receptacle for the grout. The grout should 

 consist principally of sandy soil containing enough clay to make 

 it adhesive ; or, if it be too sandy, clay can be added ; but it 

 must be added cautiously, for too much clay is detrimental to 

 the roots. Mix with water to a consistency that will admit of 

 plunging the roots into it without breaking those that are small 

 and tender. As fast as the trees are dug they must be coated 

 with this garment of protection and packed away immediately 

 in a shady place protected from winds, to remain till wanted 

 for transportation. The roots must not, at any time from dig- 

 ging to planting, be allowed to get dry. The orange tree being 

 an evergreen, the fibrous or feeding roots dry up surprisingly 

 quick, and when once dry nothing can resuscitate them to their 

 normal condition. The sun must not shine directly on the ex- 

 posed roots. 



Trees improperly handled while being dug and planted will 

 not grow for a long time, if at all. If they grow, they will make 

 a stunted, aggravating growth that will ever reproach those who 

 are to blame for their crippled condition. 



When packing them in the wagons of purchasers, or in 

 boxes on railroad cars, a limited quantity of damp, partially 

 rotted straw should be well packed around and among the roots. 

 If it be necessary to water them, do it by sprinkling, and not by 

 pouring water on them, as the latter will wash the grout from 

 the roots. If a car-load of trees be shipped at one time, they 

 may be packed in the car without boxes. 



When they arrive at their destination be careful not to expose 

 the roots unnecessarily to wind or sun. Remove from the dis- 

 tributing wagon no faster than wanted. Do not drop them 

 ahead of the workmen, but hand them out only as fast as they 

 are prepared to receive and plant them immediately. 



