80 



THE OLIVE 



In the bottom of the hole put a layer of stones and branches mix- 

 ed, in order that the drainage and ventilation may be perfect. In 

 many dry soils, of course this would be entirely unnecessary, and in 

 setting out an orchard on a large scale, would add very greatly to 

 the expense, and is only indicated here in order to show to what 

 perfection the transplantation may be carried. 



At the same time, we do not think that any money expended on 

 these preparatory labors will be thrown away, but believe that the 

 future will largely recompense them. Let then the layer of stones 

 and branches fill the bottom of the hole to a depth of six inches, and 

 on top of this, a layer of well aired good soil. If the soil is sticky? 

 it is well to mix it with such mineral ingredients as ashes, sand, or 

 lime. In loose soil clayey material should be used instead. In 

 both cases it is advantageous to place under each plant a few shov- 

 elfulls of old, well fermented manure, then the plant itself, and if 

 water is to be conveniently had, five or six gallons can be used to 

 advantage in settling the roots. The ground immediately below the 

 roots should be composed of soft, loose earth mixed with manure, 

 for this is the part first to embrace the young and tender fibers, and 

 from which, they will radiate into the more compact earth, as they 

 gather strength. When the planting of the tree is complete, a stake 

 is driven by its side and secured to it by a cord, but to guard against 

 injury to the delicate bark, a wisp of straw should be placed under 

 the cord. 



Except where the soil is sandy and loose, or subject to persistent 

 dryness, the plants should not.be set deeper than sixteen inches. 



It is shown by observation that the volume of a piece of ground 

 worked over decreases one twelfth in a year, by the progressive di- 

 minution of the porosity. Thus a hole dug to a depth of one yard 

 with sewerage of eight inches, and covered evenly, would at the end 

 of a year have sunk three inches, and the plant placed in the hole 

 would have sunk proportionately. 



It follows then, that a plant placed in its accompanying sod, in 



