Scions are selected from bearing trees of the desired variety. They may be cut at any time before the buds swell in the spring, although the best time is late fall or early winter. Only wood from bearing branches of the past season's growth is selected, and after cutting this into lengths of from 8 to 12 inches, it is plainly labeled and tied into bunches of convenient size. These should then be packed in sand or sawdust, and stored in a cool cellar or some other suitable place to prevent them from starting into growth before grafting.