at every point
where a tree is to be placed. In these cases a simple device locates
the original stakes after the hole has been dug. A light board about
six feet long with a notch in the center and holes with pegs in them
at each end is placed with the notch at the stake. One end is then
swung round and the hole dug. When the end is replaced on its peg the
tree set in the hole should rest in the notch where the original stake
did.

The following table shows the number of trees required per acre at
different distances for the square or rectangular method and for the
hexagonal method.

Sq. Hex. Sq. Hex.

12 x 12 302 344 24 x 24 75 80
12 x 15 242 ... 24 x 30 60 ..
15 x 15 193 224 30 x 30 48 56
15 x 18 161 ... 30 x 36 40 ..
15 x 20 145 ... 33 x 33 40 46
15 x 30 96 ... 30 x 48 30 ..
18 x 18 134 156 30 x 60 24 ..
18 x 20 121 ... 36 x 36 33 39
20 x 20 108 124 40 x 40 27 31
20 x 30 72 ... 40 x 50 21 ..

It will be noted that the hexagonal plan allows the setting of from
four to forty trees more per acre than the square plan, even when the
trees are set the same distance apart. This is the great advantage of
this plan over the square. Filling an orchard one way, i.e., between
the permanent row, in one direction only, practically doubles the
trees which can be set on an acre; filling both ways quadruples the
number.

PREPARATION OF SOIL.--The previous condition and treatment of a soil
for an orchard are important. If the soil has been in a good rotation
of field crops, including some cultivated crops, it should be in prime
condition for the trees. Old pastures and meadows should be plowed up,
cropped, and cultivated for a year or two before setting to obtain the
best and quickest results. If one is in a hurry, however, this may be
done after setting the trees. Good results are sometimes obtained by
setting trees right among the stumps on recently cleared timberland.
Where no stiff sod has formed the trees start quickly in the rich
soil.

The best immediate treatment of land preparatory to setting the trees
should be such as to place the soil in good tilth. Deep plowing,
thorough cultivation, and the application of liberal amounts of
manure--twelve to fifte