STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 53 



In too many instances, it is neglect that is. causing our old 

 orchards to decay so rapidly, and in their renovation and im- 

 provement there are three general methods to be adopted. 

 The first is, by the application of manure, lime or ashes to 

 the surface as a top-dressing ; the second, by plowing and 

 Avorking manure into the soil ; and the third by grazing, 

 either with sheep, swine or cattle. 



Let us consider the first method. It is unquestionably the 

 most natural one ; a method in perfect harmony with the laws 

 and provisions of nature. Our forests are annually mulched 

 and top-dressed with decayed wood, leaves and plants, which 

 decomposing and uniting with the soil, furnish a constant 

 supply of nourishment. From an experience of several years 

 in practical experiments in this direction, I am thoroughly con- 

 vinced that if rightly applied it is beneficial. From actual 

 tests, also, that it is better to apply our fertilizers, of what- 

 ever character, in a fine state, and annually or bi-annually, 

 rather than at long intervals. That it is detrimental to our 

 orchards to neglect them for several years, and then to apply 

 a heavy coat of manure as a top-dressing. The reaction which 

 is almost sure to follow any good effects, is quite serious. 

 Moreover, top-dressing must not be relied on solely. In time 

 the land will become hide-bound, so to speak, and then a 

 change must follow ; but a change of treatment should be 

 made before such a necessity arises. Just as our bodies need 

 a change of diet, so does an orchard, and the land must be in 

 condition to receive proper nourishment or much of it will be 

 lost ; just as our bodies must be in a normal or healthy condi- 

 tion in order to appropriate and assimilate the food designed 

 for them. 



Grazing old Orchards to Improve them. 

 Let us look at it candidly for a moment, without partiality, 

 without prejudice, and without bitterness. Every farmer will 

 acknowledge, I think, that one of the easiest and cheapest, 

 and laziest, of methods of renovation, is by sheep grazing ; 

 and at the same time he will own that it is one of the most 



