56 THE APPLE 



practically the same work. Many prefer it because of its low cost 

 as well as its greater grinding qualities. Both are good tools if 

 properly used, the planker being more highly recommended for 

 the average operator, because the injuries to the soil, if not judi- 

 ciously used, are not so great as in the case of the roller. 



Harrowing. After spring plowing is well along or finished, har- 

 rowing may begin. If fall plowing has been practiced, harrowing 

 should begin as early in the spring as the condition of the soil will 

 permit. Early harrowing results in earlier conservation of moisture. 



FlG. 14. A modern implement 

 Up-to-date soil-working both before and after the orchard is planted 



Where the soil is plowed sod, clayey, lumpy, or hard, the disk 

 harrow will give the greatest satisfaction. On soil which has little 

 or none of these qualities the spring-tooth harrow is recommended. 

 This harrow is particularly valuable on land that is stony, especially 

 when the stones are large. As a still finer working tool the spike- 

 tooth harrow, the old A-harrow, or the old square harrow may be 

 used. In some cases, on soil fairly free from stones, the Acme 

 harrow is useful, particularly when a level, very fine surface is 

 desired. Other tools more common in certain sections of the 

 country may be used with good results. 



