CULTUEE OF THE VINE. 11 



not more tlian twelve or tliirteen shoots, as shown in the following 

 illustration ; — 



When the proper selection is made, cut away all the other 

 shoots close to the rod with a sharp knife, in order to enable the 

 wounds to heal over quickly, which will then present a neat ap- 

 pearance, as well as allow an unchecked and free circulation of 

 the sap, and also prevent any future outbreak of shoots. It may 

 not be amiss here to remark, that I consider what we call the 

 " Spur" system of pruning decidedly the best, and for this reason, 

 that, by following that method, no more wood is grown than is 

 absolutely necessary for the well-doing of the present crop of fruit, 

 and at the same time for ensuring the desired quantity for the 

 following year, and that of the best description; whereas, by 

 growing a fresh supply of rods annually, the quality of the present 

 crop is not only materially deteriorated, but, by the growth of the 

 new rods, the house becomes crowded, and in consequence that 

 free circulation of air, so essential to the grape in all stages, is 

 considerably lessened from the superabundance of foHage, inter- 

 cepting to a great extent both light and air. Another advantage 

 also arises from the spur system. The double demand made upon 

 the vine, by bearing its fruit for the present season and feeding 

 young rods for the following, at one and the same time, greatly 

 accelerates its exhaustion and decay, both of which are obviated 

 by the plan I venture to recommend. 



Having thus digressed, I will now proceed with directions for 

 carrying out the present crop to perfection. When the young 

 shoots are sufficiently advanced, stop each, leaving one joint, or 

 eye, above the fruit, and one bunch to each branch. When the 

 bunches are in flower, keep the house somewhat closer, with 

 a humid atmosphere, giving air, of course, if the temperature 



