SHORT PEACH SHOOTS. 



5? 



value than the left-hand one. At b b we notice 

 feeble blossom-buds, with a terminal bud, c. These 

 laterals vary considerably in size, of course. In 

 mid France they become independent shoots, and 

 able to bear, owing to the growth made under 

 those favourable conditions. No. 4 should be 

 checked whenever not needed. It is known by 

 its erect character, darker colour, and well- 

 developed leaves, and should be stopped to about 

 two inches when it has made about six inches of 

 growth. It will then divide into two weaker shoots 

 of some class or other, generally of No. 1, and 

 become manageable. The anticipes, or premature 

 shoots, require a chapter to themselves, and will be 

 further discussed when we come to close pruning. 



These four classes have much in common, as 

 No. 1 easily passes into No. 4, according to 

 circumstances. No. 2 is the highest organisation, 

 of course, and No. 3 a class only of a mixed 

 character. More need not be said at present on 

 this head, as these shoots will have to be referred 

 to continually. 



No. 9. — Short Peach Shoots. 



We now come to the consideration of the shorter 

 shoots of the Peach. These valuable classes have 

 hardly met with the notice they deserve at the 



