1874 . ] 
CULTURE OF THE GOOSEBERRY.—II. 
247 
The foundation being thus laid, the manipulation of the surplus branches 
becomes the most important part of the treatment. For a few years there will 
be no occasion to remove any shoots entirely, but all except the leaders must be 
pinched back at about 1 in. from the stem, taking care not to damage the leaves 
on the part retained. Any future growth must also, in like manner, be pinched 
back, as in this constant pinching-back lies the secret of success. As years 
advance it will be found that these side-shoots, which will then form what are 
called spurs, become too numerous, and for the good of the fruit they must be 
carefully thinned out during the dormant season, when the most fruitful spurs 
can be retained. If at any time one of the leading shoots should become naked 
or damaged, cut it back to the main stem, and train in a new one in its place. 
In this manner the whole of the bearing-shoots may be renovated with young 
wood. 
The trellis may either be formed of strained wire, set up in the usual way, 
and 4 ft. 6 in. high, or it may be formed of upright posts G ft. apart, with 
horizontal bars nailed on ; but whether wires or bars are used, they should not 
be more than G in. apart. That part of the post which is inserted into the 
ground should bo previously well covered with boiling gas-tar, and all the wood¬ 
work should be painted a neutral colour. 
The following are good sorts for general useful purposes, for the kitchen 
