238 GARDENING FOR PLEASURE. 



if all be cut to an outside bud, B, the result will be to 

 spread the growth, as in figure 71. 



As to the time of pruning, about which there has 

 been much discussion, it may be done on small stems at 

 any time after the fall of the leaf, before the growth starts 

 in the spring ; but for the removal of large branches, 

 late in winter is regarded as the best time. It is a popu- 

 lar idea that trees should not be pruned in excessively 

 cold weather. A very sensible belief, as affecting the 

 comfort of the primer ; but rest assured, it in no way 

 adds to the discomfort of the tree, either present or 

 prospective. Pinching is, of course, done whenever it 

 is needed during the summer months. 



CHAPTER XLI. 

 HARDY GRAPES. 



GRAPES can be grown in almost any soil, provided it is 

 not a wet one. Although the Grape will take abundance 

 of water when in a growing state, it must pass off quickly, 

 or the growth will be impeded. If the ground is not 

 naturally suitable (i. e., at least a foot in depth of good 

 soil), a border prepared in the manner recommended in 

 the chapter on '' Cold Grapery " will well repay the 

 trouble. It is imperative that the position where the 

 vine is planted be such as will enable it to get sunlight 

 for the greater portion of the day. Twenty years ago I 

 planted an arbor (with an arched top) one hundred feet 

 long by sixteen feet wide and ten feet high, covering 

 a walk running east and west. ' This gave a south and a 

 north exposure. The crop has always been excellent and 

 abundant (and is to-day) on the south side and top of 

 the arbor, but on the north side (unless for the first and 



