246 



ECONOMIC PLANTS 



the roots and left loose on the surface so that moisture 

 may readily penetrate to the roots. Trees should be 

 set far enough apart so that each tree may receive the 

 necessary soil space for the moisture needed, and space 



FIG. 127. Planting Fruit Trees. 



The notched board placed over the hole dug to receive the tree enables the planter to keep 

 the trees exactly in line when set. 



for the branches so that it may not be deprived of suffi- 

 cient sunshine. 



Note. A method of planting advocated by H. M. Stringfellovv 

 of Texas is at variance with the accepted practice, but under many 

 conditions good results are secured. The method consists of the 

 following points : 



1. Prune both top and root very closely so that the tree looks 

 much like a walking stick. 



2. Plant in small holes with the soil packed and jammed hard about 

 the roots. 



3. Prune little, if any, till the tree comes into bearing. 



4. After the tree comes into bearing, do not cultivate, but mulch by 

 cutting such grass and weeds as grow about the trees and piling it over 

 the roots thickly. Manure and straw may also be hauled on for mulching. 



