In the arts of Horticulture, I have never taken as a positive guide the rules of any other country—convinced, as I am, that the exercise of common sense reasoning, will bring one to the best conclusions as to the course to be pursued. Thus, with regard to grapes, as the small lateral branches are for the most part unproductive, and as their absorption of a vast portion of sap, which ought to pass into the main and fruit bearing branches, renders them worse than useless, they should be in no way encouraged farther thin is absolutely necessary to the safety of the vine.

The first year, therefore, I would only allow one, or at most two, shoots to grow; and an examination for this purpose should commence as soon as the scions begin to shoot, tearing only one of the most promising, and rubbing or pruning off the rest; and this should be carefully pursued every two weeks throughout the season, during which period, every lateral branch should be quickly taken off, as they not only impoverish the main shoots, but greatly prevent the wood front ripening. In October, or November, this shoot should be shortened to about three or four eyes, according to the strength of the plant, and where very weak, it would be best to leave but two eyes. Your pruning should invariably be done in the fall, or very early in the winter.

After having completed your fall pruning, if your vines are of the more delicate kinds, you can proceed to cover them as hereafter directed; but if they are of the hardy description, they will need no farther attention till the spring.