THE PRINCIPLES OF PRUNING. 239 



shorten the strong roots about half way, but not the fine 

 fibrous ones, and then replant. Treat cordons similarly. 

 Fan-trained and espalier trees that are making a too free 



Fig. 110. RIGHT POSITION TO OPEN TRENCH. 



First digr out a trench as at C, then gradually fork away the soil toward* 

 the trunk B until the position be reached. 



growth treat as follows : Open a trench 4ft. from the stem, 

 gradually work away the soil, shorten any vigorous shoots 

 3ft. from the stem, then tunnel under the main stem and 



Fig. 111. SECTION OF TRENCH PROPERIA OPENED. 



A A are the fibrous roots which it is essential to preserve intact. 



sever any vertical or tap roots. This advice applies to 

 old trees. Trees up to five or six years old should be 

 lifted, root pruned, and replanted, as advised for pyramids. 



