-8- 



and branch growth: that is that the size of the root sys- 

 tem is about equal to that of the tree top, Xow it would- 

 be impcssi^'.e in most cases to take up as large a growtli 

 of roots as the top. so the right thing to do is to prune 

 the young tree carefully until it is of a size easilv 

 manageable and then dig far enough away from the base 

 of the trunk to insure saving an equal amount of root 

 growth, In this way the roots will not be overworked in 

 an attempt to nourish too largt- an upper gfrowth. The 

 same is true of shrubs and vines. Be careful while tak- 

 ing up the plants that the roots are not allowed to dry- 

 out or be much exposed to sun and wind. 



Dig a hole deep enough to allow the plant to stand 

 as deep as it formerly grew and broad enough so that the 

 roots may be spread out naturally just as they w^-re when 

 taken up. If any roots have been badly broken during- 

 the process of digging they should be cut back to a smooth 

 surface with a sharp knife, Once in its place, each root 

 should be carefully surrounded by earth so that no hol- 

 low spaces are left, Scatter the hne soil over the roots 

 and press it down little by little until you are perfectly 

 sure that every root has its own covering of earth and is 

 firmly in place. After the roots are covered, tramp the 

 soil down firmly with the feet and continue this until the 

 hole is filled up, In nature you will notice that even 

 very young trees are held with such firmness by the soil 

 that it is almost impossible to pull them up. Do not al- 

 low weeds to spring up about the newly set trees. These 

 trees should have no rivals to deprive them of any por- 

 tion of their food and water supply. It is well. too. to 

 rake the soil frequently in order to keep in the moisture 

 with a dust mulch. This principle was explained in an 

 early lesson. 



