PRUNING 



263 



before it grows very long, otherwise the cut ends of the branches are 

 large and over conspicuous. 



Fruit Trees 



In pruning fruit trees for home grounds there should be an effort 

 to keep them always low headed and open. This means that from the 

 start the branches should be encouraged to grow out from the main 

 trunk. Avoid allowing the branches to start so that a crotch is formed 

 and have them distributed around the tree so that when they bear fruit 

 there will be a natural balance. As the years pass, less pruning is 

 necessary on fruit trees, except to keep the center open so that some 

 light can get in to color the fruit. Dead or crowded branches must J3e 

 removed. Any appearance of disease is better cut out than any treat- 

 ment that can be given it. A tree once in good bearing condition 

 seldom needs extensive pruning. 



Pruning a Limb 



a, Branch cut off too long. b.^The branch (a) after several years, has died back but 

 cannot heal, c, A branch cut properly, d, A branch which is cut so that a little pocket 

 is left in which water can settle and cause decay, e, A wound healing properly, f, A 

 I branch being strangled by a wire-tie 



