The compleat gard'ner, or, Directions for cultivating and right ordering of fruit-gardens and kitchen-gardens with divers reflections on several parts of husbandry, in six books : to which is added, his treatise of orange-trees, with the raising of melons, omitted in the French editions / by the famous Monsr De La Quintinye ... ; made English by John Evelyn ... ; illustrated with copper plates.

CHAP. XXIX.

Common Remarks for certain singular Cases relating to the Pruning of all manner of Trees.

I Shall set down the whole Matter of this Chapter without Order or Connection, by rea∣son that it would almost be impossible to do it otherwise, every Case being Singular, and without the least relation to the other; as well as that, in my Opinion, it would be of no use, tho' it might be done; Besides, I did set down things carefully in my Journal, according to the Singularities I observ'd by degrees in my Studies upon Vegetation, and

therefore I think it will not be improper to Communicate them in the same Method I Collected them, which is as followeth.

1 Observation.

WHen from any part of a Branch that has been couch'd and constrain'd against a Wall, or from some part of the Branch of a Dwarf which Naturally stands Horizontally; that is, which instead of mounting upwards, like most of the others, has inclin'd sidewise (I have a great value for such which grow soon Branches for Fruit) I say, when such Branches have shot some of false Wood, which can neither serve towards the Figure, nor for Fruit, I Cut them within the thickness of a Crown Piece, or slopingly, according to my occasion, otherwise that false Wood would ruine that which is good, or at least it would ruine it from the part it came from, to the Extremity of the Branch; and if in the Sum∣mer I perceive the Beginning or Birth of such Branches, I break them off immediately, which is done with ease, pressing them downward with the Thumb, where they begin to appear, or in drawing them towards one.

2 Observation.

I Likewise remove all pretty strong Branches, shooting from a kind of hard knob upon which the stalks of Pears did grow, and upon which there may perhaps still be new ones; there is seldom any Foundation to be laid upon such Branches; therefore when I observe any such in the Summer, I tear them off immediately.

3 Observation:

I Do the same with those Branches which proceed from those which Originally were short and streight, looking upon the Horizon, and plac'd in the form of a Spur upon certain Trees where these Spurs are common, and extraordinary good to be preserv'd; such as Ambret, Virgoule, Burgamots, &c. either in Dwarf, or Wall-Tree; those sort of Branches grown from those kind of Spurs will never be good for any thing, they will ruine both the Beauty of the Figure, and the disposition to Fruit, which commonly at∣tends those kind of Spurs; and if, as it happens often, Nature seems obstinate, in produ∣cing upon those Spurs these kind of Branches which I am an Enemy to; it will be ne∣cessary, finally, to cut those Spurs within the thickness of a Crown Piece, in order wholly to remove the great Course of Sap which throws it self on that side, and does it a prejudice; we have already sufficiently spoken as to the effect of such an extraordinary Pruning.

4 Observation.

THe Pruning of weak long Branches may as well be perform'd by breaking them only on the Extremity, as in cutting them with the Pruning-Knife, and perhaps better, as well as faster; In my Opinion, in breaking of them we waste more Sap, which may be of use to form Fruit-Buds the sooner, since, as we have already said, they only grow on those places that receive little Sap.

5 Observation.

A Skilful Curious Gard'ner ought never to suffer any dry or dead Argot, or Cock-spur upon any Trees, but cut them off close when ever he perceives them, unless it be upon cer∣tain Peach-Trees that appear somewhat inclin'd to Gum, upon which it is dangerous to do it, by reason that the wound cannot soon be clos'd, and that the Gum Supurates through it; but it is certain that it is both a Beauty and Advantage, especially in Kernel-Fruit, to cut off wholly all those kind of Argots, by reason that the part infallibly closes again, provided the Tree be sound.

By this word Argot, I mean in this place, the Old Extremity of a Branch which has been formerly shorten'd at some distance from the Eye, so that this Eye has afterwards shot another Branch, and this same Extremity is grown dry, and half dead without having profited since the Pruning, which has given it Birth.

6. Observation.

WHen from some good part of a Tree, which in the first Years had only produc'd Branches of a moderate Vigour, and thereby gave but little hopes of a long Con∣tinuance, we afterwards come to get one or two fine Branches, or more, though all of false Wood; if I find that I may lay the Foundation of a fine new Figure upon it for such a Tree, I always do it conformably to the Rules heretofore establish'd, and in the mean time I still preserve all the ancient weak ones, as long as they are capable of yield∣ing Fruit, with a Resolve to cut them as soon as they cease to bear; and by that time, others shall have form'd themselves in the new Figure, and those shall insensibly supply the room of the old Branches.

But in case such Branches shou'd grow in a place whence I can draw no advantage to form a fine Tree, I take them off quite, in hopes that another Year may produce more favourable ones; supposing that such a Tree having been capable to shoot some, though ill-plac'd, the Vigour of it not only subsists, but even increases still, and will certainly produce new ones, and probably better plac'd; such kind of Branches will owe their Birth to some new Roots, which shall have been form'd in an extraordinary manner.

7. Observation.

IF likewise I find that an old Tree, and a little elevated, shoots finer Branches towards the bottom than on the top, and find the top in an ill Case, and almost forsaken by Nature, I abandon it likewise, and follow the Alteration which is happen'd, in order to begin a new Figure, and consequently make a new Tree again. Those Alterations hap∣pen pretty often, especially in Peach-Trees that begin to grow old: 'Tis fit, in such a Case, to improve the Advertisement Nature gives us.

But if the top appears pretty good and vigorous, so that it may yet last long in the Condition it is in, I then cut off entirely the new Branches that shoot below, to preserve the old ones, unless I find room in the Neighbourhood of the Foot to place these new Branches.

8. Observation.

I Never value certain small Branches, little and weak, which shoot from other small, weak Branches; from which, if thick ones chance to shoot, I only consider them as Branches of false Wood, and use them accordingly.

9. Observation.

IN the Order Nature commonly observes for the Production of Branches and Roots, what is produc'd a-new is less thick than the place from whence it is produc'd: And if, con∣trary to that Order, the Branches or Roots that are shot prove thicker than those whence they are produc'd, the new ones are commonly of false Wood, and must be us'd according∣ly; still supposing, in respect to the Branches, that those which are of false Wood may be prejudicial to the Figure, or Fruit, as we have heretofore explain'd: For if, instead of being prejudicial, their Situation shou'd favour the Figure, or even be capable of waste∣ing for a time part of the Sap, which is too abounding here; in such a Case, they must be preserv'd according to our foregoing Rules; but in the Case of Roots, as the thickest are always the best, the distinction of false Wood not being essential here, we must always preserve them, let them be grown how they will, and destroy the old ones, which seem to be abandon'd.

10. Observation:

A Branch must never be Prun'd without considering first the place whence it proceeds, to judge whether it be good, and capable of answering our End: For some Branches might be look'd upon as thick ones, if they proceeded originally from a weak place; which, notwithstanding, ought to be look'd upon as weak ones, because they proceed from a place being originally strong and vigorous; and so of the rest.

11. Observation.

LIkewise, a Tree must never be Prun'd without having first examin'd the Effect of the preceding Pruning, in order to correct the Defects of it, if any; or else of preserving its Beauty with Care.

12. Observation.

IN point of Dwarfs, where we have not the convenience of Tying the Branches, as in Wall-Fruit-Trees; in order to judge of the quantity of Buds that must be left upon each Fruit-Branch, we must consider what the strength of such a Branch is capable of bearing of it self, without being expos'd to the hazard of breaking; and therefore it will be proper to lean upon the Extremity of such a Branch, to the end that, by the great or small Re∣sistance we find in leaning upon it, compar'd to the known Weight of such a kind of Fruit, the Burthen may be proportion'd to the strength or weakness of the Branch.

13. Observation.

COmmonly in Peach and Plum-Trees, if a pretty old thick Branch be shorten'd, there are seldom any new ones to be expected, either on the Extremity, or in the whole Compass of it; the Sap of such a Tree can hardly penetrate so hard a Bark: But yet sometimes, the Tree having some Vigour left, the Sap produces its Effect upon the youngest Branches, near to that old one in question.

But the contrary as to Apricock-Trees, either old, or young; or young Peach-Trees, and all other kind of Trees; we may regularly expect new Branches from the old ones which have been cut shorter, seldom meeting with any disappointment.

14. Observation.

WHereas in vigorous Trees, either young or old, as we have so often declar'd, we only look for Fruit upon the weak Branches; on the contrary, in weak Trees, that have but little Vigour, we must look for Fruit upon the strong ones, and never upon the weak; those having too much weakness to be able produce sine Fruit, and the others, which appear thick, and indeed are only so compar'd to the small Vigour of the whole Tree, have no more Sap in them than is requir'd for the forming of fine Fruit: So that in such weak Trees, all the small Branches must be taken away; they always appear worn out, whether they have given Fruit, or not; and they often perish without having fructify'd.

15. Observation.

IN all sorts of Fruit-Trees, being sound, a single Eye sometimes produces to the number of two, three, or four Branches, and for the most part pretty fine ones: It is necessary to judge prudently which are the fittest to be preserv'd, either for Wood, or Fruit, and which are to be cut off quite: It seldom happens that above two are preserv'd, and even those must look upon two empty Sides, distant from each other; to that End the middlemost of the three is often taken away, and so the two remaining receive the better nourishment. This Operation ought to be perform'd in Trimming the Buds, and useless Branches, which is in May, or June.

16. Observation.

IN Espaliers, or Wall-Fruit-Trees, all the Branches may easily be dispos'd on one side or other, provided they be tack'd while they are young, for then they are easily bent; but if they be not order'd at that time, and shou'd make an ill Figure, they must be cut within the thickness of a Crown-piece, at the Season of the first Pruning, which shall be in February or March of the following Year; or, at least, upon the first Eye, in hopes that the sides of that thickness may produce some Branches which may prove more useful than the Mother.

17. Observation.

THough it be in some manner disagreeable, as well in a Wall-Fruit-Tree, as (especial∣ly) in a Dwarf, to see a thick Branch crossing the middle of the Tree, yet it is fit to preserve it when it contributes to the filling up of one of the Sides, which, without it, wou'd remain empty, and is necessary for the Beauty of the Figure. Such Niceties need not be observ'd for Fruit-Branches; they are good in any part.

18. Observation.

OF all that depends upon Art, nothing seems securely capable of strength'ning a weak Branch, being within the extent of a thick one, but the taking away of all the other Branches which are superior to it, and even that part from whence it shoots; so that this may arrive to be the highest of those that proceed from the same Mother, and con∣sequently forms an Extremity to it. All the first, second and third Prunings, as well as the Trimming of the Buds and useless Branches in the Month of May, are very proper for it; but when naturally a Branch is weak on the Extremity of a thick one, there is no cer∣tainty of strengthning it, unless it be by removing an old Branch, originally superior to that whence that weak one sprung.

Not but Nature sometimes effects such things of her self, without removing any supe∣rior thing; as we have observ'd, speaking of some Fruit-Branches, which, by an over∣flowing of Sap, thicken more than naturally they shou'd do; but we being ignorant how this is done, cannot possibly imitate it.

19. Observation.

IN order to Prune very vigorous Peach-Trees towards the end of the Winter, for the first time, it is necessary to tarry till they are ready to Blossom, in order to know with more certainty the Buds that will Blossom, for there are a great many Blossom-Buds which never Blossom, the coldness of the Winter, or the abundance of new Sap, and sometimes the Gum, destroying a great quantity. Those Buds being known, we must regulate our selves accordingly, both for the choice of those Branches that are to be preserv'd, and for the length that is to be allow'd to them.

20. Observation.

WE observe, that the Fruit-Buds that are on the Extremities of the Branches are com∣monly thicker, and better fed than the others; which confirms what the Order of the Production of new Branches had taught us; which is, that the Sap always goes more abundantly to the Extremities, than elsewhere; which has given a Rise to the Maxim I have establish'd in my Reflections for the Effect of the Strong and Weak, in relation to Fruit-Buds, which form themselves upon all kind of Branches, strong or weak. From thence I concluded, that, especially for weak Trees, it is good to Prune them betimes, not to let the Sap waste it self in vain on Extremities that must be retrench'd. This teaches us besides, that in the Winter both the Branches and Buds thicken: We know it suffi∣ciently, by the Example of Almond-Trees Graffed at the end of Autumn, which, before the Return of the Spring, appear extreamly press'd by the Flax that had been apply'd to them in Graffing.

21. Observation.

WE must never begin to Prune an Espalier, or Wall-Fruit-Tree, until it be quite untack'd; for, besides that the Pruning is perform'd with more ease, and quicker, it happens, besides, that in Tacking for the first time after the Pruning, the preserv'd Branches are the better order'd; and that often, out of Laziness, instead of undoing a Tack, to make a new one, a Branch is left as it was found, though ill-plac'd.

22. Observation.

IT is often necessary to Untack; for the first Tacking of the Month of May, first, in order to equal the Figure; in the second place, to remove from behind the Props or Stays such Branches as were already flip'd behind them; which must never be suffer'd there: Therefore it behoves one to be careful in the Month of May, often to visit Wall-Fruit-Trees, as well to prevent such Disorders, as to remove the languishing, wretched Shoots that wou'd only cause a Confusion.

23. Observation.

THE multitude of Branches in the first Year, is not always a sign of Vigour; on the contrary, when they prove all weak ones, it is an ill Omen, which shews an Infirmity in the Roots. And thus, for Example, Redness in the Cheeks is not always a sign of Health.

24. Observation.

WHen a Tree, either Dwarf, or Espalier, is great and old, it seldom shoots any green Branches; and consequently, it is not likely that any Faults can be com∣mitted in Pruning of it; always supposing, if a Dwarf, that it is open; if an Espalier, that the Figure of it be passably well establish'd: Faults are only greatly to be fear'd upon very vigorous Trees, which perform more than the Gard'ner wou'd have them; that is, produce more Branches than he expected.

25. Observation.

WE can only judge of the Thickness and Weakness of Branches, comparatively to those that are adjoining to them in one and the same Tree. For Example, Some are deem'd weak in one part of a Tree, or in certain Trees, which in another might pass for thick ones: The Neighbourhood of a very thick one renders another, that is not so thick, weak, as well as many weak ones render another, that is not so weak, thick.

26. Observation.

THis Rule is very considerable, in order not to fail, affording sometimes an extraordinary length to certain Branches; which, though pretty thick, ought notwithstanding to be look'd upon here as weak and small, the length being necessitated by the Consideration of other neighbouring Branches, and thicker; which in the Neighbourhood, are look'd upon, and us'd like Branches for Wood.

27. Observation.

WHen weak Branches are very slender on their Extremities, it is a certain sign of an extream Weaknes; wherefore they must be much shorten'd: And when they are pretty thick there, they must be left somewhat longer, because they really are not so weak.

28. Observation.

THE farther a weak Branch is distant from the Heart of the Tree, the less Nourish∣ment it receives; therefore, in such Occasions, we must draw nearer upon the lowest; whereas, on the contrary, the farther a thick Branch is distant from the Heart, the more Nourishment it receives; for which reason it must be remov'd, in order to keep the Vi∣gour in the middle, or in the lower part of the Tree.

29. Observation.

FRom some Trees, either old or new-planted, especially Pear-Trees, either Dwarfs, or Wall-Trees, sometimes proceed Horizontal Branches, of an ordinary thickness, which are admirable to be preserv'd for Fruit, either shooting outwards or inwards: But regularly most Branches streighten again, and threaten a great deal of Confusion, if Care be not taken to take away those that are worst plac'd; or else are apt to disgarnish, unless one be severe in cutting some of them short.

30. Observation.

SOmetimes some Branches are Prun'd like Branches for Wood, though in reallity they have no more thickness than a Fruit-Branch shou'd have; and therefore must not be look'd upon as being real Branches for Wood, proper to establish and preserve long part of the Figure of a Tree, but rather as half Wood-Branches: They really are of some use for the Figure, and to fill up some Vacuity for two or three Years; after which, they must perish, which must be expected; and, without relying upon them, endeavour to get others near them, to supply their Room; otherwise a Tree will soon grow defective.

31. Observation.

WHen a Tree, either Dwarf, or, particularly, a Wall-Fruit-Tree, especially Peach, or Plumb-Tree, no longer shoots new Branches, it must be look'd upon as a de∣cay'd Tree, and therefore another must be prepar'd against the next Year; and without

Pruning any of its Branches for Wood, all those that are likely to produce fine Fruit, must be preserv'd to that end, retrenching all the Sapless ones exactly, as being incapable of doing any good.

32. Observation.

YOU must never Prune a Branch for Wood, when you have no such occasion for it; and therefore, for Example, when a high Standard begins to be press'd by the Neighbourhood of a lower Tree, so as to be partly necessitated to cut off some of the lowest Branches of that high Standard, to make room for the highest of its Neighbour; in such a Case, those Branches of the high Standard must be left long for Fruit, especially if it be vigo∣rous, and can nourish these without prejudicing the principal Branches: And thereby Endea∣vours are us'd to get some Fruit, by the extraordinary length of such Branches, before one be necessitated to cut them off quite.

33. Observation.

WE must cut Stump-wise, that is, entirely, all the thick Branches that are shot from the Extremity of another passably thick and long, which, if Prun'd according to the com∣mon Method of Pruning, wou'd grow too naked, and too long; and consequently, wou'd look disagreeable. By this manner of Pruning Stump-wise, we may commonly hope for some new Branches from the Body of the old one, proper to maintain the Beauty of the Figure, in filling up every part.

34. Observation.

WE likewise cut Stump-wise when, upon a very vigorous Tree, of two strong Branches, grown on the Extremity of a vigorous one, we think fit to use the Second prefera∣bly to the First, and yet do not think it proper to strengthen that Second any more; and so we leave, for the space of a Year or two, or more, a small passage for the Sap to the highest cut Stumpwise, in order to take it quite away, as well as the new Branch that shall be shot from it, as soon as the Tree shall begin to bear Fruit.

However, I must confess, that the most common Use that is made of that way of Pruning Stump-wise, is seldom for any Branches, but such that, from weak, and passably long as they were, are grown extraordinary thick and vigorous; insomuch that they have shot from their Extremity one, or two, or many thick Branches. The original Weak∣ness of such Branches only proceeded from their length, which shou'd not have been al∣low'd them, had they been as thick as they are grown since; and therefore, being grown thick, they must begin to be us'd like Branches for Wood; that is, they must be shorten'd.

35. Observation.

AND in case that Branch cut Stump-wise has produc'd no Branches for Wood in its Extent, especially drawing near to the place whence it proceeded, and on the con∣trary, has shot a thick Branch at the place of the Stump, or close by it, this last thick one must again be cut Stump-wise, especially the old one not being too long; for if it be too long, and has not been shorten'd at a proper time, the Pruning must be perform'd upon the Body of that old one, and consequently shorten'd, according to the Rules heretofore establish'd.

36. Observation.

IF on an old, but pretty vigorous Tree, altogether disorder'd with false Wood, barely by the defects of an ill-perform'd Pruning, Care be not taken for three or four Years, one after another, to take it lower, by a Branch or two yearly, until it be quite shorten'd, it will never yield any satisfaction; but by that means it may very well be brought to be a fine and good Tree. This is fit to be done, when a Tree is of a very good kind: If not, it were better to take it quite down, and to Graff a better kind upon it Slit-wise, either of such as we have not already, or have not a sufficient number of.

37. Observation.

SOmetimes certain Trees are so vigorous, that they cannot, especially the first Years, be reduc'd to a small compass; therefore they must be allow'd to extend either upwards, or on the sides; otherwise they will only produce false Wood: Afterwards you may by degrees reduce them to the Standard of others, when they begin to bear Fruit. Such are com∣monly, Virgoulé, Lady-Thighs, Saint-Lezin, Robine, Rousselets, or Russettings, &c.

38. Observation.

A Very vigorous Tree can never have too many Branches, provided they be well order'd, and cause no Confusion; whereas, on the contrary, a weak Tree can never have too few, that the Burthen may be proportion'd to the Vigour of it; and therefore you must seldom leave any upon it, but such thick Branches as it may have.

39. Observation.

THE Branches of false Wood, or Suckers, as to Peach-Trees, and other Stone-Fruit, are not commonly so defective as to the Eyes, or Buds, as those that grow upon Kernel-Fruit-Trees; but are more subject to perish, and to have their Eyes extinguish'd with Gum, which is a peculiar Distemper to them. As for the Pruning, they must partly be manag'd like the Branches of false Wood of Pear-Trees, when they are but in a small number upon a Tree; but when there are a great many on the lower part of a Tree, they must be look'd upon as pro∣per to renew that Tree; and therefore, a considerable length must be allow'd to some, in order to take them away when the fury shall be over; and in the mean time, those that shall be pitch'd upon for the Foundation of the Re-establishment of a fine Figure, must be Prun'd according to the common Method. We seldom meet with this abundance of thick Branches upon any but Peach-Trees, especially Stone-Peaches, which begin to grow ancient, and worn out about the head.

40. Observation.

ALL manner of Trees have a Branch or two predominant over the others, and some∣times more; happy are those in which the Vigour is divided, unhappy those where the Torrent lies all on one side.

41. Observation.

A Wood-Branch, growing on the in-side of a Dwarf which you intend to close, is ever welcome, and the same, if favourably plac'd to supply a thin side.

42. Observation.

FRuit-Buds of Pear and Apple-Trees sometimes form themselves the very same Years in which the Branch they are adherent to has been form'd, as generally all the Buds of Stone-Fruit do; but sometimes there are some that are two or three Years, and even longer, before they come to perfection: Some arrive to it at the Entrance of the Spring, so that it happens that some may be seen at the time of the Blossom, which did no wise appear during the Winter.

43. Observation.

THE Extremities of the Shoots that come out when Autumn is almost spent, espe∣cially after a great Cessation of Sap, which happens sometimes, are always bad; their Colour, which differs from the rest of the Branch, shews it sufficiently; and so, be∣ing good for nothing, they must be taken off, being likewise subject to perish: Gard'ners call them Branches of August.

44. Observation.

WE say, and with reason, that it is commonly in our power to make Fruit-Buds grow where we please; but it is not always so soon as we could wish.

45. Observation.

WHen it comes to pass that a thick Branch being prun'd, shoots three, of which, the highest proves of a good thickness, the second weak for Fruit, and the third thicker than the highest, two Considerations must be had to Prune them skilfully; that is, if the highest be fit enough for the Figure, it must be made use of, and the third, which is thicker, cut slantingly, or within the thickness of a Crown-piece.

But if this third Branch be better plac'd for the Figure, it may be Prun'd, as being a Branch for Wood, and the highest left for a Fruit-Branch, or rather for one of those that must be remov'd within a certain space of time, supposing it causes no Confusion, and

that the Tree is very vigorous; for if it causes a Confusion, or the Tree be but of an or∣dinary Vigour, it must only be cut Stump-wise, for fear of losing the disposition which the weak one had for Fruit, if we should wholly take away the highest over the weak one.

46. Observation.

IT is always a happiness, especially in Stone-Wall-Fruit-Trees, when from the lower part of the thick Branch there shoots, that very Year, another thick one. Our Trees are commonly but too much inclin'd to shoot upwards.

47. Observation.

YOU must never, upon any Consideration whatever, preserve your sapless Branches; not even if they were on the top of the Pruning of a vigorous Branch.

48. Observation.

WHen Dwarf-Pear-Trees of Beurré bear Fruit, they must commonly be Prun'd shorter than other Trees, by reason that as they produce a great deal of Fruit, and that that Fruit is large and heavy, they are apt to open, and spread too much; which Figure is not pleasing.

49. Observation.

DUring the Month of May one cannot be too careful in looking after Espaliers, espe∣cially Pear-Trees, to hinder good Branches from slipping behind the Stakes or Props, from which they cannot be remov'd afterwards, without either breaking them or the Lattice-frame.

50. Observation.

A Young Pear-Tree languishing or decaying in one part, may sometimes be re-esta∣blish'd, if, after having taken it out of the Ground, and Prun'd it every where, it be put into better Ground: But there is no help for a decaying Peach-Tree, especially Gum having appear'd upon it; those kind of Trees seldom are reviv'd.

51. Observation.

IF it happens that any Dwarf, planted within the space of three, four, or five Years, or of a longer standing, not having been well order'd in the Pruning, in order to form a lovely Figure; or perhaps having been spoil'd by some unexpected Accident, so as to be grown lower and thinner on one side than the other; if, I say, it happens fortu∣nately that such a Dwarf-Standard does shoot out of that defective side a Branch, which being thick, though of false Wood, may seem proper to correct the defect aforesaid, as it hap∣pens sometimes; in such a Case it is fit to allow such a Branch a greater length than my Maxims have for the general regulated for Branches of false Wood, to the end that this Branch being equal in heighth to those of the other side, the Figure of the Tree may ac∣quire the Perfection it wanted. The defect of extraordinary length in a Branch is not certainly so great as that of being crooked, flat, or slender, which it has now corrected in a Dwarf-Standard.

52. Observation.

ALL the Sap of a Tree being employ'd in forming many Branches, some strong, others weak, it will probably soon produce Fruit upon the weak ones: But when it abounds, and is confin'd within a very small number of Branches, for the most part thick, it will produce no Fruit any where, until the great Vigour of it be in some manner wasted by the great number of Branches it will produce in Succession of Time, which Branches must be preserv'd.

53. Observation.

WHen Trees are hard to produce Fruit, by reason of their being too Vigorous, as those are we have so often mention'd; especially certain Plumb-Trees that grow a∣gainst a Wall, one of the things I commonly do affect, is to leave a great deal of old Wood upon them, particularly for Fruit-Branches, avoiding, however, Confusion and Thinness, or Vacuity; but still, upon Condition, that when a Branch left long for Fruit the first

year, shall afterwards shoot another on the Extremity of it, which I likewise think sit to preserve; upon Condition, I say, that in case that Second should shoot a Third, the last must never be preserv'd, which would cause a disagreeable length, and yet would not answer our aim, which is to get Fruit.

In such Occasions I do one of these things, viz. I perform my Pruning upon the Se∣cond, the two having a sufficient length; or else I Prune the Third, which is shot from the end of the Second, Stump-wise, the two first not being excessive in length.

54. Observation.

THere are some moments in which a Skilful Man's Thoughts may be roving while he is Pruning, and so may chance to commit some Faults, which commonly are not very material, and are easily Corrected; as for Example, having left some Branches too long, or having preserv'd some that should have been taken away; therefore in my Opinion, a Revise is very necessary to be done the next day, if not that very day; without which, it is impossible to be fully cerain of what has been done; it is with this, as with all other Works in the World.

55. Observation.

WHen one side of an Old Tree, either Dwarf, or Wall-Tree, is extraordinarily Strong and Vigorous, and the other weak and slender; that is, properly speaking, when a Tree is Crooked, and disagreeable to sight, it is hard to reduce it to a fine Fi∣gure; then a great deal of care must be taken about that Vigorous side, in taking away the greatest part of the strong Branches close to the Stem, whence they shoot, or cut part of them Stump-wise, in expectation that at last the Sap which inclin'd altogether on that side, may turn it self towards that weak side, at which time we shall be enabled to begin the Repairs which were wanting.

56. Observation.

IN all sort of Trees care must be taken to allow less length to a Wood-Branch, that is somewhat weak, than to that Wood Branch which is thick and strong.

57. Observation.

IT is pretty common in all manner of Trees, especially when they are pretty Ancient, to find certain weak Branches, which, without having ever born any Fruit, are, as it were, threatned to perish for want; therefore it is requisite every year, at the time of the grand Pruning, and even at the time of the second, which is perform'd on Stone-Fruits, especially Wall-Fruit; I say it is requisite to take a special Care that such Branches may not be without Nourishment; to which end, they must be kept shorter, and the number of them diminish'd, and sometimes it will be fit to take away some of the thick ones that are Superior to them; or, if after such Branches have Blossom'd, that is, have perform'd the main part of their duty, their Blossom happens to perish, they must be wholly taken away, especially when there appears no disposition in them to shoot some good Branches for the following year.

58. Observation.

WHen a High Branch is taken away over a Lower, that is, as we have already said, what we call Lowering, or Shortning of a Tree, it must be cut so close, that no part of it may remain; to the end that the place may soon be cover'd again, and neatly; but when the lower is taken away to preserve the higher, we must keep of that low one, at least the thickness of a Crown Piece, or cut it slantingly, as we have said elsewhere, in hopes of a good new Branch.

59. Observation.

WHen a Branch of a good thickness being Prun'd pretty close, produces nothing but what is weak on its Extremity, it is a Sign that it is upon perishing, and that Na∣ture has withdrawn, in favour of another, the yearly substance she us'd to afford it; so that you must no longer rely upon it for the Beauty of the Tree.

60. Observation.

IF a Tree being crooked at the time of Planting, produces the first year a fine streight Branch, as it sometimes happens, you must shorten the whole Stem to that Branch, there only to fix the Foundation of the Beauty of that Tree.

61. Observation.

WE may better resolve to preserve upon a Wall-Fruit-Tree, a thick Branch, not being altogether well plac'd, than upon a Dwarf-Standard; where such a Branch might chance to be ill scituated, by reason of the facility we meet with in Wall-Trees, of turning and winding such a Branch at pleasure, or those that shall shoot from it, which cannot be effected in Dwarf-Standards, in which we want the Conveniency of tacking to the Right and Left; and such a Branch would make a Dwarf-Standard show awry: Therefore in a Dwarf-Standard such a Branch must be remov'd, whereas with the assistance of Ligatures it might serve to form a fine Wall-Tree, and therefore should be preserv'd.

62. Observation.

THE common length of Branches for Wood, which I willingly six to five, six, or seven inches, tho it is to be regulated and proportion'd upon many things, in order to be either more or less extended; for Example, upon the Vigour or Weakness of the whole Tree; upon the Thickness or Mediocrity of the Branch, to be longer where it meets with Vigour and Thickness, and shorter where it does not meet with it: This length is likewise to be re∣gulated upon the Vacuity that is to be fill'd, to be either more or less long, according as the Vacuity is either great or small: It must particularly be regulated upon the heighth of the other Branches for Wood of the same Tree, to the end, that those that are newly Prun'd, may be proportion'd to the Old ones.

63. Observation.

THere are some People who fancy that the Pruning of a Tree does not require much Art; to justifie which, they cite Great Trees that are never Prun'd, as also the Trees of certain Gard'ners, who, without ever having known how to Cut, Prune so happily, that they do not fail of having abundance of Fruit.

I have no answer to make to those People, or rather I have so many things to say, that I do not think it worth my while to answer them. Physicians, Lawyers, and most of the Learned in most Arts, sometimes in their turns, meet with such pretended Objections.

64. Observation.

WHen a Fine Fruit-Branch shoots many others, which likewise seem fit for Fruit, I am for preserving of them, when they cause no Confusion, and the Tree is Vi∣gorous, particularly in Pear-Trees.

65. Observation.

IT happens sometimes, especially in Wall-Fruit-Trees, that within the Compass of a Branch, which grows Thick and Vigorous the very Summer in which it is produc'd; I say, it happens sometimes, that one or two Thick ones form themselves, which are as it were after Shoots; so that whatever is beyond those New-comers, drawing towards the Extremity, appears incomparably smaller than what is on the other side, drawing to∣wards the Birth of that Mother-Branch; in such a Case, those last Comers must be look'd upon as Branches that commonly will always augment in Thickness, and consequently will become real Branches for wood, in the place where they are; for which reason, they must be Prun'd short; and as for those that draw towards the Extremity, they must be look'd upon as Fruit-Branches, which will thicken no more, Nature having directed her Course upon these last made.

66. Observation.

YOU must not in the least scruple the taking lower, even in old Trees, especially Pear, Apple and Apricock-Trees, certain Sides which, having been ill order'd, prove too long and thin: But I wou'd not, without an absolute necessity, have many thick Branches cut over a very weak one, shot from the same part, though never so well plac'd for the Figure; too many Inconveniences arising from it, by reason of the false Wood that commonly grows about that weak Branch; which not being capable of receiving all the Sap that flows towards it, and was destin'd for the Nourishment and Maintenance of those

superior Branches that shall have been cut, that Sap, being necessitated to come out, and consequently to force its way in an extraordinary manner, not finding any Issue ready made; that Sap, I say, being very abounding, flows out of it disorderly and furiously, like Water having overthrown a Dam that stop'd its Course. Now all those forc'd and violent Issuings produce those kind of Branches we have heretofore explain'd, giving them the name of False Wood, or Suckers, and are such as do not grow in the most common and ordinary Order Nature follows in the Production of new Branches; and therefore it is fit, as much as possible can be, to avoid falling into such Inconveniencies.

But if you chance sometimes to be necessitated to cut such thick Branches, the small Branch not performing here the Operation of a cleft Graff, which sometimes it does, but often fails, in such a Case you must resolve to make use of one of the Branches of False. Wood shot from it, and chuse that which is best plac'd, Pruning it according to the com∣mon Method, and by that means establish upon it the Figure of the Tree.

67. Observation.

ALLthough the Branches that, according to the Order of Nature, shoot from the Ex∣tremities of other Branches are commonly of good Wood, yet some of them happen sometimes not to be so, especially growing from the lower part of Branches, which, being originally of False Wood, have been cut very short, or shooting from a Stump; or else, when in the very Year they only begin to shoot a long while after the others of the same Tree, (this happens but seldom, unless in Virgoulé-Pears,) which you must not wonder at, and only Prune those kind of Branches that appear ill-condition'd, leaving them of a moderate length; for you must seldom allow much length to such Branches of False Wood.