128 CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 



observations, so many disturbing causes enter into our 

 calculations, and it is so easy to misinterpret, that it is 

 not strange there are very conflicting opinions. Yet 

 to how much more certainty might we attain by a care- 

 ful study and comparison of Nature's laws ! At present, 

 we can only give qualified opinions in regard to the 

 Thomery system. Its arms are near the ground, which 

 we judge to be favorable : they are in a horizontal posi- 

 tion, which, we know, checks the strong flow of sap, and 

 induces fruitfulness. Its fruit-branches are tied in an 

 upright position, and evenly spread, so as to receive a full 

 supply of light and air in all their parts. The practical 

 cultivator will complain of the amount of labor involved 

 in the repeated tying of every shoot. In large vineyards, 

 and with the present high cost of labor, this is, indeed, a 

 serious item. The theorist will also question whether 

 this bolt-upright position of the branches is favorable. 

 Nature indicates that they should arch over, or even be 

 pendent, with the weight of fruit. While the position 

 of the arms tends to an equal distribution of sap, yet it 

 will be found that the upright shoots nearest the trunk 

 are generally the strongest; and, if one is left directly 

 over the trunk, it will be like a perpendicular cane, and 

 will require frequent checking. This upright position of 



