19 



after, they must be in a slanting position. In either case 

 the tree must be fastened to the stake by mean « of a withe 

 or soft cord, that will not injure the bark. A cn.oked tree 

 should be held straight by means of a stake until it main- 

 tains that position of its own accord. 



In nearly all soils the use of water in settling the earth 

 around the roots will be fouml serviceable. Dashing in a 

 few quarta before the hole is quite filled is the more com- 

 mon way, but an admirable iiioile is to settle the fine earth 

 as it is sifted in, by a regulai shower at the same time from 

 the watering pot ; one man holding the tree, a second tilling 

 in the earth, and the third applying the water. By this 

 process the roots are not disturbed in their positions, and 

 every cavity about them is filled in the most perfect man- 

 ner. The trees will be found to maintain their position 

 better than when pulverized earth alone is used ; for 

 although they at first uiay be easily moved, while 

 surioundod by the half liquid mass, in a few hours the 

 eai'th will absorb the superabundant moisture, and they 

 will become as firm as if they had stood for weeks in their 

 new positions. 



Before a tree is set in the earth all the bruisod and 

 wounded parts, when broken or cut with the spade, should 

 be pared oft smoothly to prevent decay, and to enable them 

 to heal over during the growth of the tree. 



Whole rows should be planted with the same variety. 

 This will save much trouble in picking, and dispense with 

 the use of labels. 



CULTIVATION. 



Many seem to think that when the tree is planted the 

 work is done, and the trees are left to take care of them- 

 selves, During the whole growing period nothing is more 

 important than good cultivation. This is a point upon 

 which all orehardists agree. It is allowed by every 

 scientific and practical fruit-grower that thorough cultiva- 

 tion of the soil is necessary for the healthy growth of trees, 

 and for the production of the best quality of fruit. 



Downing says: — '" It is an indispensable requisite in all 

 young orchards to keep the ground mellow and loose by 

 cultivation, at least until the trees become established." 



Beadle says : — • Doubtless the very best thing for the 

 trees is to keep the ground thoroughly cultivated, tlie surface 

 loose and pliable, free from weeds, and in good heart" 



