CHAPTER VIII. 
oe 
PRUNING AND THINNING. 
Tree pruning is a subject that has been much dis- 
cussed, and in regard to which there are various opin- 
ions; some even contending that trees should never 
be pruned at all. In the present case it will be con- 
sidered only in relation to forest culture, without 
reference to amateur or ornamental cultivation. And 
here it may be premised, that in this as in other mat- 
ters relating to tree growing, whatever rules may be 
given, the exercise of judgment and common sense is 
absolutely necessary, and must be employed in vary- 
ing the practice to meet the circumstances of the 
case. : 
In pruning young trees, designed for timber, the 
symmetry of their form is the first consideration. 
When taken from the seed-bed all side branches 
should be cut off. Subsequently, an annual examina- 
tion will be required to sce that they grow in proper 
shape. Only one leading shoot should be allowed, 
which must not be permitted to fork. All side 
branches which approach in size and vigor to the 
