OCR Text |
Show SELECT BEST ORCHARD SITE Nothing More Important to Well-Bo-Ing of Trees Than Deep, Friable Soil, Well Drained. It is only within recent years that the selection of the site for an orchard orch-ard on the farm has been given any serious thought. Nothing is more Im portant to the well-being of the trees than the choice of a site on deep, friable fri-able soil, naturally well drained If possible, and sheltered from the prevailing pre-vailing winds. A moderately level area is generally desirable In order to facilitate irrigation irriga-tion and cultural operations. A cer-i cer-i i t. f K I - ? if1-!; - . - . - A Well Cared for Planting. tain amount of shelter from heavy winds and the avoidance of low-lying ground subject to severe frosts in spring which would ruin the blossoms are. the chief points to be borne in mind. Having selected the site, "observa tion pits" should be dug in order to obtaiu some idea of the relationship of the top soil to the subsoil and the nature of the latter. Where any doubt exists. as to the porosity of the subsoil pits should be dug to a depth of two and a half feet and fill them with water; in a sufficiently porous soil this should drain overnight if not, the natural drainage Is at fault and should be corrected. Everything proving satisfactory, the land should be ploughed as deeply as possible, then harrowed or disked to break down and assist in leveling. The next item is to cross-plough the site and barrow again. By this time the orchard land will be shaping up and the soil will be capable of retaining moisture and absorbing warmth. A little grading may be necessary in several places, especially if it is the intention to irrigate the trees. Having Hav-ing thoroughly prepared the land in which the trees are to grow, develop and produce fruit, it is always gratifying grati-fying to know that it the trees do not thrive as well as expected, the trouble trou-ble is not due to lack of preparation. |