PROPAGATION OF APPLE TREES. 115 



Barnard — Sun-scald is the worst enemy we have to contend with 

 it ruins the tree. It always comes worst in summers following severe 

 winters and is worst the first vear. Have resorted to leaning; trees, 

 but this is against nature's plans, and I don't like to disagree with 

 nature. I use four cornstalks to each tree, and bind them on not too 

 tight; these will last four years, and are a protection against rabbits as 

 well as sun-scald. I use willow for tying, as it does not rot like twine. 

 The trouble with leaning trees is that our hard winds do them mis- 

 chief by twisting them and making a hole in the ground down along 

 the stem, thus allowing the sun to dry out the roots. After rains 

 look at your orchards and firm the soil around any trees that are loos- 

 ened. 



A Member — How would screen wire do for protection ? 



Barnard — It is not good against the sun, but would prevent dam- 

 age by rabbits. 



Carpenter — I like bass wood protectors best. 



Beltzer — I would like to know which cause the most trouble, 

 root or top? 



Marshall — I believe sun-scald has killed more apple trees in 

 Washington and Burt counties than all other diseases combined. 



Beltzer — I move we resolve that the top causes more trouble than 

 the root. 



Youngers — I second the motion. 



Day — I think trees want care just as well as live stock. Supreme 

 negligence is the chief troubte. Overkindness or neglect will kill a 

 tree; cultivate till after July and after that let it rip. (Laughter.) 



President — You have all heard the question. As many as are in 

 favor or think the tops bother most will raise the right hand. As 

 many as are opposed or think roots are worst, do likewise. 



Result: affirmative, 17; negative, 1. The question prevails. 



Laing — I move we adjourn to 7:30 P. M. 



Carried. C 



