3 I2 



STONE FRUITS 



Fig. 166. A fine example of a low-headed peach tree. 



stub systems are the two principal methods of pruning 

 peach trees. If the lateral branches are well distributed 

 along the trunk at the desired height, the spur system is 

 used. Otherwise the tree is pruned to a stub and a new 

 top formed. 



Pruning is practiced annually thereafter by removing all 

 the weaker shoots, pruning out the central branches to 

 maintain an open center, and frequently cutting back 

 from a third to a half of the growth of the remaining 

 branches. The degree of heading back depends largely 

 upon the variety, vigor, and productiveness of the tree. 



Cultivation. Peaches need even more thorough and 

 regular cultivation than apples. After the trees come 

 into bearing, they require abundant fertilizers. Cover 

 cropping with leguminous plants is advantageous, as it 

 causes the tree to mature its wood for the winter and 

 supplies organic matter to the soil. 



Peaches have a tendency to produce excessive crops. 

 These crops, if allowed to mature on the tree, frequently 

 break the branches and seldom produce individual fruits of 

 sufficient size to satisfy a first-class market. Pruning is 



