DISTANCES BETWEEN TREES 243 



not permit the planting of as many trees per acre as other 

 systems. 



Alternate System. In this system, the first row of 

 trees is planted as in the square system, but the trees 

 of the adjacent row alternate with those of the first 

 row. By this system, although the trees are not equal 

 distances apart, the space is more evenly divided, but the 

 trees do not line up both ways as in the square system. 



The Hexagonal or Triangular System permits the plant- 

 ing of more trees per acre than the other systems and 



Fig. 131. Square, alternate, and hexagonal planting plans for orchards. 



equalizes the space to the best advantage. In this system 

 each tree occupies a corner of an equilateral triangle. 



Distances between Trees. The distances apart that 

 fruits should be planted depend upon the kind, variety, 

 soil, locality, and system of culture to be followed. Apple 

 trees grow larger than peach . trees and hence must be 

 given more space, if large, spreading, well-formed trees 

 are desired. There is also often a great difference in the 

 growing habits of different varieties of the same kind of 

 fruit, as may be seen in comparing the Baldwin apple tree 

 with the Wagener. The former develops to a large size, 

 while the latter is a small-growing variety. Upon light 



