THE ORCHARD.

Cromwell Argus, Volume L, Issue 2649, 24 November 1919, Page 2

THE ORCHARD.

PRUNING L.AKGE IJMBS. The exposure of the heart of the wood of the largo limbs of a fruit tree is likely to be attended with unsatisfactory results unless the precaution is taken to lessen the danger. When orchardists are busy pruning, and very frequently no doubt, cutting out a lot of these large limbs, which have grown unsightly, or have been injured in some way or other, the matter is worthy of attention. Growers should not forget that the moisture which finds a lodgment on the exposed surface of the cut in (he winter induces the growth of fungi, causing rot, and these penetrate still further, when the heat of the summer causes the wood to shrink and crack, the consequence T>eing the gradual decay of tha part affected, unci the weakening and ultimate death of the tree. To obviate this it is the common practice to paint over the surface of the cut ; but there is a right and wrong way of doing uil.s. If a cut is painted immediately, the sap is held at the surface, and will sour, after running from the wound and killing the bark for inches 'down, and it must l>e remembered on the ba.rk we depend for the healing and final covering of the wound. On the other hand, if the cut be

left exposed until the surface sap has evaporated, say in a couple of months, the wood would be hard and dry enough to hold the paint. A paint made of white load and oil is often used, but grafting wax is more durable and satisfactory. A thick coating is not necessary.

At a great bargain, make a pause