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 girdling the branch.  Pads should also be placed between the gas pipe and the tree trunk wherever there is contact, and under the rope where tied.

What Frisky is Telling the Veteran Horticulturist.

CHAS. F. GARDNER, OSAGE, IOWA.

I am your cunning little squirrel, and as you have named me Frisky and have adopted me as a regular member of your family, I will tell you some little things I know about horticulture, or more properly, forest tree planting.

[Illustration:  Our squirrel.]