UNPROFITABLE TREES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21325, 28 October 1932, Page 3

UNPROFITABLE TREES

" REFURNISHING " SYSTEM 'A good example of converting unprofitable trees to another variety by the "refurnishing" system is reported by Mr. G. Stratford, orchard instructor, Motueka, in the Journal of Agriculture. An orchardist on the Moutere Hills, concluding that his Ribston Pippin trees were not profitable, to grow, decided to work them over with Cox's Orange Pippin. He decided to adopt the refurnishing system instead of the orthodox method of grafting. The leaders were stripped bare during v the pruning season, allowing new shoots to push out all along the leaders during the following growing season. These new shoots were then budded during February, at the rate of from 150 to 200 buds per tree. The leaders were also cut back the required length, and Cox's Orange Pippin scions grafted on the ends. Convenient subleaders were similarly grafted. The result was a splendid take, with practically all buds and grafts, and it is anticipated that in two years' time the grower will have large Cox's Orange Pippin trees in good bearing. Probably some trouble will be experienced for a lime with growths from Ribston buds, but these can be suppressed during the season. It is understood that a similar system has been practised in Tasmania and other Australian States.