The two illustrations (Figs. 282, 283) show the right and the wrong way to remove a limb. When the branch is cut close, new growth takes place all around the cut surface and in a few years the wound is healed. [Illustration: _Fig. 283. The long stub does not heal._] Bad pruning is worse than no pruning. Do you not think that nature students should use their influence to protect the trees in the school grounds, in the door yards, and along the streets? Trees have insect and fungous enemies enough without having to contend against carelessness and neglect. QUESTIONS ON PRUNING. 1. Describe the results of some of the natural forces you have seen pruning trees. Observe willows after a storm. 2. Are all sorts of trees affected alike by wind, ice, and snow? 3. From your observations which kinds suffer most? Give your opinion as to why. 4. Nature does not always prune in this boisterous fashion. Silent forces are at work pruning out the weak buds and shoots, giving the strong ones a better chance. Select a very young tree, or a shrub like the lilac. Examine the tips of the branches. You will find healthy buds on last season's growth. See if you can find any dormant buds. Are there any weak-looking or dead twigs? 5. Compare the number of strong healthy shoots with the number which the plant started to make. How many of each? 6. Mention several good effects which may result from pruning. 7. What are some of the bad results of over-pruning? Of insufficient pruning? 8. Consult some orchard-owner concerning this subject. When does he prune to increase the production of fruit? When to increase the growth of the woody part of the tree? 9. If the lower branches of a tree are not removed, what is the effect on the shape of the tree? 10. For what kinds of trees is this form desirable? 11. What is your opinion as to the shearing of evergreens into fantastic shapes? 12. If a tree has a tendency to grow crooked, how should one prune to correct the habit? 13. Would you prune an elm tree just as you would an apple tree? Why? 14. Why does pinching off the terminal bud of a geranium produce a more bushy plant? 15. Discuss in full the reasons for cutting a limb off smoothly and close to the main trunk or larger branch. Look at every tree you pass to see whether it has been pruned well. Has it been able to cover its wounds by the healing process? 16. Is it correct to suppose that "anybody" can prune a tree? 17. The cut surfaces made by pruning large limbs from trees are often covered with thick paint, tar, or Bordeaux mixture. What is the purpose of this? 18. Why is it better to prune a little every year than a great deal once in five years? 19. When is the best time to prune shade trees? Why? 20. Does a tree carry the bases of its branches upward as it grows higher, or does the base of every branch remain at the level from which it started originally? Observe many trees in different situations before making up your mind on this point.