[ 79 ] 



XIV. On a new Method of training Fruit Trees. By Thomas 

 Andrew Knight. .Es^. F. R. S.$c. 



Read April 5, 1808. 

 From the result of experiments I have made to ascertain 

 the influence of gravitation on the descending sap of trees, 

 and the cause of the descent of the radicle, and ascent of the 

 expanding plumule of germinating seeds,* I have been in- 

 duced to believe that none of the forms, in which Fruit Trees 

 are generally trained, are those best calculated to promote an 

 equal distribution of the circulating fluids ; by which alone 

 permanent health and vigour, and power to afford a succes- 

 sion of abundant crops, can be given. I have therefore been 

 led to try a method of training which is, I believe, different 

 from any that has been practised ; and as the success of this 

 method has fully answered every expectation I had formed, 

 I have thought a concise account of it might not be unac- 

 ceptable to the Horticultural Society. I confine my account 

 to the Peach Tree ; though, with a little variation, the method 

 of training and pruning, which I recommend, is applicable, 

 even with superior advantages, to Cherry, Plum, and Pear 

 Trees ; and I must observe, that when trees are by any means 

 deprived of the motion, which their branches naturally re- 

 ceive from winds, the forms in which they are trained, operate 

 more powerfully on their permanent health and vigour, than 

 is generally imagined. 



* See Philosophical Transactions for 1806 and ISO?. 



VOL. I. 



M 



