es will bear
for two and even three years, but each year after the third they begin
to show a decided decline--the fruit becomes smaller and less valuable.
In order to keep the production up to the standard, the bush should be
placed on the rotation basis, that is, each year a few new, strong
shoots should be permitted to grow. All the rest should be cut out, and
also each spring a like number of the oldest canes should be removed. In
other words, we should grow the same number of new canes that we take
out in old canes. In this way, we eliminate the old and exhausted canes
and keep the bushes in strong, vigorous growth. Further, as the season
progresses, all shoots beyond those that we wish to use for fruiting
later on should be removed and not permitted to utilize the food supply
that should go to the fruiting canes.--E.P. Sandsten, Col. Agri.
College.

Support for an Overloaded Fruit Tree.

MISS NELLIE B. PENDERGAST, DULUTH.

Some years ago the writer wearied of the many objectionable features
connected with propping overloaded apple trees, and found relief in a
new application of the maxim of modern charity--"help people to help
themselves."

The average apple tree is quite capable of supporting its load of fruit,
with a little assistance in applying its strength. This is
satisfactorily given by overhead supports. My method is as follows:

Take a piece of gas pipe, the diameter depending on the size of the tree
and consequent weight of the load, and long enough to extend some two or
three feet above the tree. The required height would be governed by the
spread of the branches and the distance between the trunk of the tree
and the proper point for support of the limbs.

The pipe is placed against the trunk of the tree, pushed a few inches
into the ground, and tied in several places tightly to the tree. On the
top (which must be screw-threaded) is screwed an ordinary gas pipe end.
Heavy cords are then run through holes in the top piece and tied to the
branches wherever needed--the same cord often being made to tie several
branches which are in line perpendicularly.

[Illustration: View of apple tree with fruit laden branches supported by
pipe or wire.]

The branches should be wrapped with a bit of burlap or other suitable
padding under the cord, as otherwise the friction resulting from the
inevitable swaying of the heavy limbs on windy days would result in
rubbing the bark off and possibly entirely g