THE BULLACE AND DAMSON. 53 



Soil and Situation. A somewhat moist loam or medium 

 clay will suit the Damson. As a rule, however, it will 

 succeed on most soils that are not too dry and light. The 

 Bullace, like the Plum, does best in a good loam which is 

 well drained. Calcareous or chalky soils also suit the 

 growth of the Bullace. Damsons are hardier than the 

 Bullaces, and may be grown in hedgerows or exposed 

 positions. The Bullace requires a more sheltered situation. 



Forms of Trees. Both may be grown as standards, 

 half-standards, and pyramids. The two former are suit- 

 able for orchard culture or large gardens, and the pyra- 

 mids for small gardens. The former should be planted 

 18 to 2oft., and the latter loft, apart. 



Planting. Do this in autumn, as soon as the leaves 

 fall. Keep the upper roots fairly close to the surface, 

 as they do not descend very deeply into the soil. After 

 planting mulch liberally with manure. Standard trees 

 should be firmly staked at planting time, as, owing to 

 shallow planting, they would be liable to injury by strong 

 winds. Pyramid trees should be lifted and replanted 

 every three or four years to check exuberant growth and 

 cause them to be fruitful. 



Pruning. Standard trees require no pruning beyond 

 an occasional thinning out of overcrowded branches. 

 Pyramids should be summer and winter pruned, in the 

 manner advised for Plums, which see. 



Pests and Diseases. --See chapter on the " Plum." 



Varieties of Bullaces. 



The following are good sorts: 



Black. A late variety. Fruit small. Shape, round. 

 Colour, black, covered with a white bloom. Flavour, 

 somewhat austere. Should not be gathered till subject 

 to early frosts. A favourite Essex variety. 



