WINTER PREPARATIONS. "3 
this. It is not a subject which will bear much malice 
or personal rebuke. It must be discussed in a mild and 
thoughtful manner. 
VHAPTER XVIII. 
WINTER PREPARATIONS. 
The orchard should not be neglected as soon as the 
fruit is harvested. During winter, trees are exposed to 
wind, ice, water, rabbits and mice. Weak or cracked 
branches are apt to be broken down by wind and ice. 
All crotches which show a disposition to split should be 
tied or bolted together. Weak and injured limbs should 
be tied up or cut off. Small and weak trees should be 
staked. 
During thaws, water will settle in the hollows. See to 
it that there are no such hollows about the trees. Level 
culture is the best safeguard against winter and spring 
injury from water. Where hollows occur, either fill 
them up, or provide a way for the water to escape. 
If the orchard and surrounding fields are kept clear of 
brush heaps and other rubbish, rabbits will not make 
much trouble. Slovenly fence rows afford good winter- 
ing places for rabbits. Unless the snow drifts into the 
branches, these pests will not injure large trees. A good 
dog is a good remedy for rabbits, but I should prefer to 
employ other means of getting rid of them, and dispense 
with the dog altogether. I have melted sulphur and 
poured it over small pieces of cloth, which were fastened. 
