Another method of storing scions, after they have been dipped in beeswax, is to place them on the earth of a cellar floor and cover them with a few burlap sacks.  They should never be allowed to become wet or they will start to mold.  If they are to be stored in this way, a watch must be kept for mice which will molest them and destroy them if they have an opportunity.

Although bud wood may be stored in any of the three ways mentioned, it should not be waxed.  Because of this, it is more likely to deteriorate.  It must be examined frequently and if mold is found, the wood should be dipped in a Bordeaux solution.  After drying, it may be placed in storage again.  It is a good plan to wrap bud wood in tar or asphalt paper when storing it.  However, I have found that the best storage conditions for all scionwood that I have yet discovered is in the use of peat moss.  Peat moss must be on the distinctly acid side in order to perform the function of storing scionwood.  Most peat moss is generally acid; however the simple litmus paper test with which every high school pupil is familiar, can be made.  Having acquired good acid peat moss, dampen a sufficient quantity to pack the scions in to give them liberal protection.  Do not make the bundles of scionwood too large, from 10 to 20 scions in a bundle is better than a large number and much easier to handle.  The moss should be prepared exactly the same as advised in storing chestnuts (see chapter for storing seeds).  In this case it is not necessary to wax the scions at all.  The moss should be applied by sifting it into the open spaces between the scions and a larger wad at the base of the cuttings, not at the terminal or bud ends as these would be better left unpacked.  The package is now rolled into a cylinder, using tar paper or asphalt treated paper, and both ends left open.  Do not use ordinary paper or wax paper as it will turn moldy.  Cylinders of tar paper containing the packed scions should be placed in a damp room like a cellar with a dirt floor which is cold enough to keep potatoes and other roots in good condition throughout the winter.  If the cellar is not a good storage cellar for roots and herbs it will not be good enough for the scionwood as it will be too warm generally.  Neither should they be frozen solid, therefore if a good root cellar is not obtainable then these should be put in the Harrington graft box already described or placed under the sawdust in an icehouse and close to the ice.  An old-fashioned ice refrigerator will also make a good storage bin, placing them close to the ice at all times.

[Illustration:  Drwg by Wm. Kuehn. Making a scarf with a plane preparatory to grafting.]