FRUIT GROWING 39 
easily as anywhere else, and other varieties can be produced 
if extra care is bestowed upon them. The suggestions given 
in the following pages are applicable even in the northern- 
most latitude of North Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, and 
Wisconsin. 
Location, Shelter, and Soil. — In a level country we merely 
make sure to select a location that is well drained; but if 
the ground is hilly, then a south slope should be avoided, 
as it is apt to be too dry and the sun too hot. In the more 
arid sections of the West, we find the native trees growing 
‘best on the northern slopes and from this we may learn a 
lesson. . 
A shelter-belt is quite essential, being especially needed 
on the south side to give protection against hot winds. It 
is well to extend it also on the west and north side. As the 
snow drifts are apt to pile up among the fruit trees and break 
them down, this should be prevented by having the shelter- 
belt of considerable width, or else by providing a snow trap 
around the outside as described elsewhere in this book (see 
Ppp. 107-109). The space inclosed by the wind-break should 
be of ample size, and nothing should be planted close to the 
trees. 
The soil for all fruits should of course be the best that 
the region affords. When the ground is about to freeze 
at the approach of winter, it is well to mulch it with straw 
to keep it from drying out to such a degree as to injure the 
roots. 
Planting. — To make sure that all stock is adapted to the 
climate and soil, it is advisable to secure it from nurseries 
that are located as near by as possible. In planting fruit 
trees follow carefully the best practice of setting other trees. 
The ground should previously be well plowed, the holes 
