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CHAPTER IX. 



The advantages and method of watering the roots of fruit trees. 



It has long been a practice with me to 

 water the roots of the fruit trees under my 

 care, at those seasons of the year I deem 

 necessary. The great advantages resulting 

 from a proper attention to this treatment, 

 will soon be apparent in the health and 

 fruitfulnes of the trees. The quantity of 

 water to be applied at one time, is not only 

 as much as will moisten the surface of the 

 border, but as much as will sink down to 

 at least eighteen inches, which will be found 

 to be a real benefit to the tree. It must be 

 observed that the frequency of watering and 

 the quantity to be applied at one time, as 

 recommended in this Chapter, is suitable 

 for trees when planted in such a soil and 

 border as directed. ( See formation of fruit tree 

 borders.) But when the trees are planted in 

 a soil and border materially different, the 

 watering must be regulated accordingly. If 

 the soil be stiff and wet, or upon a wet bot- 

 tom, do not give more than one half of what 

 I advise for proper borders; but if the soil be 

 lighter, water more accordingly. Also when 

 the seasons are wet, this watering must be 



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