PRUNING YOl'XG TREES 235 



numerous at the G to 12-inch space, followed in order by the 12 to 

 18 and the :24 to 30-inch spaces. 



Peach trees at the time of planting should be pruned somewhat 

 according to grade and the character of the stock, and not accord- 

 ing to some definite height regardless of all other factors. 



187. Citrus trees. Few fruits demand as little pruning 

 as do the citrus trees^oranges, lemons, grapefruits, etc. 

 after once having been "educated" by training through 

 their youthful days. Much of the pruning is done when 

 the trees are set and during the first season or two. The 

 lemon (190), however, is more pruned than any other 

 member of the citrus group, its handling by many grow- 

 ers thus approaching that of the peach. High heads are 

 rapidly giving place in popularity to low ones, so low 

 that often the branches rest on the ground. So satis- 

 factory have low heads proved that many high-headed 

 trees are being lowered by the encouragement and de- 

 velopment of water sprouts on the lower parts of the 

 trunks and the gradual cutting of branches high in the 

 upper parts of the tops. In due time the suckers properly 

 handled will bear fruit. 



In Florida "die-back" of the tops commonly follows a 

 freeze or severe pruning. The roots are usually unhurt. 

 Root pruning therefore aids in re-establishing a balance 

 between top and root. A sharp spade thrust deep in the 

 soil in a circle at nearly the limit of the branch spread will 

 usually produce good results. The cause of the malady 

 should, however, be discovered and the proper remedy 

 applied. 



Frozen trees may be left alone, cut back somewhat or 

 actually at the ground surface. The first is objectionable 

 because the dead top must be removed some time ; why 

 not at once? If left, a large part of the new growth must 

 be injured in taking it out. In cases of slight injury the 

 pruning may be postponed until the dead twigs become 

 dry enough to break out. Cutting is, however, better 

 than breaking. In cases of severe injury the whole of 

 the injured part should go at once, preferably at the 



