In many
instances buds will form and start along the stem of the tree, or
near the roots. These should be rubbed off the moment they are
detected.
One of our chief aims is to form an evenly balanced, open,
symmetrical head; and this can often be accomplished better by a
little watchfulness during the season of growth than at any other
time. If, for instance, two branches start so closely together
that one or the other must be removed in the spring pruning, why
let the superfluous one grow at all? It is just so much wasted
effort. By rubbing off the pushing bud or tender shoot the
strength of the tree is thrown into the branches that we wish to
remain. Thus the eye and hand of the master become to the young
tree what instruction, counsel, and admonition are to a growing
boy, with the difference that the tree is easily and certainly
managed when taken in time.
The study of the principles of growth in the young trees can be
made as pleasing as it is profitable, for the readiness with which
they respond to a guiding hand will soon invest them with almost a
human interest. A child will not show neglect more certainly than
they; and if humored and allowed to grow after their own fashion,
they will soon prove how essential are restraint and training. A
fruit tree is not like one in a forest--a simple, unperverted
product of Nature.
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