78 ORANGE CULTURE IN CALIFORNIA. 



There are involved in pruning several principles, among 

 which are the following : 



First The removal of the branches from the trunk of the 

 tree, to admit of cultivation close to the tree with a horse and 

 cultivator. 



Second The removal of part or all of the limbs that cross or 

 rub one another, or that grow too close together, diverging from 

 one point. 



Third Thinning out the center of the top of the tree, cutting 

 out all non-producing branches, to admit an ample supply of 

 air and light. 



A wide diversity of opinion exists on the first proposition. 

 There are strenuous and enthusiastic advocates of low pruning, 

 allowing the branches to grow within two or three feet of the 

 ground. The usual arguments in favor of this method are, that 

 it shades the trunk of the tree from the direct rays of the sun, 

 and that it also shades the ground, thereby preventing evapo- 

 ration, as it is claimed, to a great degree; hence, a moist con- 

 dition of the soil. 



The advocates of what is termed "high pruning" are no less 

 enthusiastic in defense of their theory. They argue that it 

 admits of better and more thorough cultivation, even close to 

 the tree, and at less expense than if the top be allowed to form 

 near the ground. They say the entire surface of the ground, 

 and especially the soil near the trunk of the tree, should be well 

 cultivated, not only for the purpose of destroying the weeds, but 

 to pulverize the soil for the retention of moisture; and that 

 the direct rays of the sun should, as far as possible, fall upon 

 the whole area of ground in the orchard. Our most experienced 

 orange-growers think the soil needs the warmth of the sun, as 

 well as cultivation, that the trees may receive the full benefit of 

 the moisture in the ground, and that the fruit may be fully de- 

 veloped. 



In low pruning, as the trees increase in age, the area densely 

 covered with shade by the limbs and leaves increases till event- 

 ually only a small part of the soil receives the benefit of the 

 sun's rays. The soil must consequently be comparatively cold 

 continually, and not so conducive to the health and growth of 



