370 PROPAGATING FRUIT PLANTS 



the central or major shoot to induce a lateral growth as near 

 the ground as possible. 



If it is desirable to get some fruit quickly to test the variety, 

 or for other reasons, prune as little as possible until fruit is 



(Md. Exp. Sta.) 



Fig. 143. This grafted top has been growing 

 three years and is making a good head. The 

 upright shoot at the left should be topped 

 lightly to encourage branching. 



borne. Grafts frequently bear some fruit the third season and 

 occasionally the second season. 



Young grafts are particularly attractive to plant lice by 

 reason of their quick, succulent growth. Special care should 

 be exercised to keep them free in the early stages of their de- 

 velopment. Thin out the suckers that develop around them 

 during the season. 



