CULTIVATION OF FRUIT 431 



top, and if this were not restricted in some way the base of the tree 

 would be left uncared for, and probably die away. The tree also would 

 be unfruitful; at the upper part, because of an excess of vigour, re- 

 sulting in gross shoots, and lower down because of weakness and want 

 of nourishment. The equalisation of the flow of sap to all parts is an 

 important consideration in the training of fruit trees, and should con- 

 stantly be kept in mind as an aid to fruitfulness. If Pyramid Pear 

 trees are grafted on the Quince stock, they may be planted about 6 

 feet apart, but if on the Pear stock, they should not be closer together 

 than 9 feet or 10 feet. 



Bush. The Bush form, a somewhat similar kind of tree, has no 

 strictly upright central stem ; its primary branches originate within a 

 few inches of the ground to where the central stem was cut back during 

 the formation of the young tree. These branches, from which others 

 are also developed, after spreading horizontally so as to form, as it were, 

 a cup-shaped base, grow perpendicularly. A large number of Bush trees 

 may be cultivated in a small space, as they need not be planted more 

 than 5 feet or 6 feet apart. 



Standards. Standard Pear trees are almost invariably grafted upon 

 the Pear stock, and, as has been mentioned, are usually planted on 

 grass land. As in the case of Standard Apple trees, bush fruits, such 

 as Gooseberries and Currants, may be grown underneath. The clear 

 stem of Standard trees, before branches are formed, is, as a rule, about 

 6 feet from the ground. The primary branches originate in the same 

 way as with the Bush tree, but they are allowed to grow more freely, no 

 particular shape or form being aimed at. The branches, of course, are 

 not permitted to grow in all directions, or to crowd each other, but the 

 head of a Standard tree has no distinct design as in the case of Bush 

 and Pyramid. 



Espalier. This is a desirable method of training the Pear, for 

 it possesses several good points. Trees so trained do not take up so 

 much space in the garden ; they are easily accessible, not difficult to 

 manage, are partially protected, and also succeed well. The espalier, or 

 trellis-work, upon which to train them can be quickly constructed. It 

 is necessary to obtain several stout poles or iron rods, 6 feet above 

 ground, and some stout wire. The poles or rods are erected at 

 intervals, and wires, placed about 12 inches apart, are connected 

 with each one. Several forms of Pear trees, horizontal, fan- shaped, 

 and cordons, are grown against such espaliers, to which reference will 

 be made when treating of wall-trees. 



Summer Treatment The chief points to bear in mind in the 

 management of Pear trees, after they have been properly planted in 

 suitable ground, are as follows : Each branch and shoot must have 

 ample room to develop and ripen, and sun and air should penetrate 

 freely to all parts of them. All exceptionally vigorous shoots must be 

 checked, and it will be found that those towards the top of the tree are 

 liable to grow most strongly. If allowed to go on unchecked the lower 

 branches would correspondingly become weak. Never allow a branch 



