Page:The Olive Its Culture in Theory and Practice.djvu/98

80 In the bottom of the hole put a layer of stones and branches mixed, in order that the drainage and ventilation may be perfect. In many dry soils, of course this would be entirely unnecessary, and in setting out an orchard on a large scale, would add very greatly to the expense, and is only indicated here in order to show to what perfection the transplantation may be carried.

At the same time, we do not think that any money expended on these preparatory labors will be thrown away, but believe that the future will largely recompense them. Let then the layer of stones and branches fill the bottom of the hole to a depth of six inches, and on top of this, a layer of well aired good soil. If the soil is sticky, it is well to mix it with such mineral ingredients as ashes, sand, or lime. In loose soil clayey material should be used instead. In both cases it is advantageous to place under each plant a few shovelfulls of old, well fermented manure, then the plant itself, and if water is to be conveniently had, five or six gallons can be used to advantage in settling the roots. The ground immediately below the roots should be composed of soft, loose earth mixed with manure, for this is the part first to embrace the young and tender fibers, and from which, they will radiate into the more compact earth, as they gather strength. When the planting of the tree is complete, a stake is driven by its side and secured to it by a cord, but to guard against injury to the delicate bark, a wisp of straw should be placed under the cord.

Except where the soil is sandy and loose, or subject to persistent dryness, the plants should not be set deeper than sixteen inches.

It is shown by observation that the volume of a piece of ground worked over decreases one twelfth in a year, by the progressive diminution of the porosity. Thus a hole dug to a depth of one yard with sewerage of eight inches, and covered evenly, would at the end of a year have sunk three inches, and the plant placed in the hole would have sunk proportionately.

It follows then, that a plant placed in its accompanying sod, in