SUMMER OBSERVATIONS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 29, 4 February 1939, Page 13

SUMMER OBSERVATIONS

It is always a sound idea to go round fruit trees in the summer making notes for autumn and winter treatment. Much can be seen at this time of the year when the trees are in full leaf which is not apparent later on. frees showing healthy, dark green full-sized leaves will not need much manuring, and if plenty of growth is being made, pruning should be light. On the other hand, trees with small yellowish-looking leaves and weak snoot growth should be marked down or harder pruning and generous manuring. Nitrogenous fertilisers are particularly desirable for trees showing these symptoms. A common fault in old orchards is overcrowding, and this can easily be seen in the summer. The fruit ’and leaves need plenty of light and air and if the trees are very dense, a I certain amount of thinning is desiraole. Overcrowded trees should have some of the branches removed, and in bad cases it may be desirable to take out some specimens altogether. Pruning notes are always valuable. Old and neglected trees can be rejuvenated by removing some of the spurs, or reducing them ir size. Another method is known as dehorning. The main branches are cut back to young shoots lower down, which are then allowed to take the lead. This has a very invigorating effect. It will, of course, be realised that it is not suggested any of this work should be done at present, but merely that note should be taken for reference when the time comes.—“ Fruit Grower," in Amateur Gardening.