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Outdoor Problems of the Householder: Pruning

After Pruning.-At the close of the first season treat each of the principal branches as if it were a new tree. Select three of its branches for future growth. Cut these back to 8 inches in length from the main branch and remove all other branches.

Repeat the operation at the end of the third year. But observe that the number of branches suffered to remain should now be reduced to two. Take equal care throughout not to allow branches to spring side-by-side or opposite from one another upon any part of the branch system.

Observe that some trees have an erect and others a lateral system of branch development. The former may be improved by pruning the branches just above an outside bud so that the new growth will tend to shoot in an outward direction and vice versa. A careful study of the accompanying illustrations will fix clearly in mind the principal types of tree development sought by expert men. - Re- Pruning Large Branches. move large branches with a clean sharp cut by means of a saw. Cut off as nearly flush with the trunk of the tree as possible. Avoid leaving any stub, breaking any part of the branch, or stripping the bark so as to leave a rough, uneven surface.

Such wounds accumulate dirt and moisture, and invite the entrance of the fungous diseases which cause decay and the attentions of squirrels and woodpeckers. All stubs tend to decay back to the heart wood of the trunk. They thus become the most fruitful cause of hollow trees and branches. A wound flush with the main stem is quickly covered with new growth. It is thus not only protected from injury but actually hidden from view. To remove large branches without injury make two cuts, one about 18 inches or 2 feet from the trunk of the tree to get rid of the weight of the limb, the other flush with the stump. The stub remaining after the a b C. a 6. (a) Method of cutting a large limb which should be avoided; (b) proper method of cutting off a large limb. (L. C. Corbett.) first cut can be supported until completely severed, with one hand, while the saw is being used with the other.