10 
THE FLORAL WORLD AND GARDEK GUIDE, 
and wliere it is intended to plant t\ro or three dozen trees, it will he 
preferable to select a considerable number of varieties, instead of 
several trees of one or two sorts. 
For gardens of all sizes, either pyramidal or bush trees should 
have the preference, unless space can be spared for them against a 
wall, and in that case trees trained fan-shape are decidedly the best. 
Trees of either of the shapes here recommended are more under the 
command of the cultivator, aud the fruit can also be more readily 
protected from the blackbirds and thrushes, which are generally very 
troublesome just as it is attaining maturity. The blossoms can also 
be protected by means of netting, or branches of fir or evergreens 
hung loosely over the trees. Although trees of moderate size are 
recommended, no attempt should be made to keep them within very 
circumscribed bounds by excessive pinching. A moderate develop- 
ment of growth must be encouraged, for unless the trees are allowed 
to attain a fair size, it is very certain that the crops will be hardly 
worth the trouble of protecting from birds, or of gathering. On the 
other hand, excessive luxuriance must be guarded against. As a 
rule, the pyramids should not be allowed to exceed eight feet in 
height, and be of a proportionate width at the bottom, and the 
bushes should be about five feet in height, and as much in diameter 
at the widest part. Strong healthy trees, properly furnished with 
