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University of Wisconsin

LIBRARY

Class

Book

3899
 PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

NEW JERSEY

STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

AT ITS

ANNUAL MEETING IN NEW BRUNSWICK,

JANUARY 20TH AND 21ST,

1876 .

NEWARK , N. J .:
JENNINGS & HARDHAM, STEAM PRINTERS AND BOOKBINDERS,
153 and 155 Market Street.
1876 .

1
 OFFICERS .

PRESIDENT.
PROF. GEO. THURBER, Lodi, Bergen Co., N. J.
P. O. Address, 245 Broadway, N. Y.
VICE-PRESIDENTS.
A. S. FULLER, Ridgewood , Bergen County.
C. W. BADGER, Newark, - Essex County.
JNO. VAN DOREN, Manalapan, Monmouth County.
JNO. S. COLLINS, Moorestown, Burlington County.
EDWIN ALLEN, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
GEO. M. COLE, Deerfield, Cumberland County.
N. W. PARCELL, Elizabeth, Union County.
EZRA DAYTON , Bernardsville , - Somerset County.
C. W. IDELL , Hoboken, Hudson County.
J. VAN DEVENTER, Princeton, - - Mercer County.
H. E. CHITTY, Paterson, Passaic County.
RECORDING SECRETARY.
E. WILLIAMS, Montclair, - Essex County.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.
B. B. HANCE, Red Bank, Monmouth County.
TREASURER.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark, - Essex County .
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
P. T. QUINN, Newark, Essex County.
J. W. HAYES, Newark, · Essex County.
S. C. DE COU, Moorestown, - Burlington County.
THOS. COLE , Deerfield, · Cumberland County.
D. McLAURY, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
President, Secretaries and Treasurer.
COMMITTEE ON FRUITS.
B. B. HANCE, Red Bank, Monmouth County.
WM. PARRY, Cinnaminson, - Burlington County.
D. MCLAURY, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
C. W. BADGER, Newark , · Essex County.
P. T. QUINN, Newark, Essex County.
COMMITTEE ON FLOWERS.
H. E. CHITTY, Paterson, - · Passaic County.
GEO. SUCH, South Amboy, Middlesex County.
E. S. CARMAN, River Edge, · Bergen County.

COMMITTEE ON VEGETABLES.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark, Essex County.
HENRY CAMPBELL, Freehold, - Monmouth County.
PETER HENDERSON , Jersey City, Hudson County.
 38997
4 S'96
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2
1876-8

MINUTES .

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J., Jan. 20th, 1876.

The Society convened in Geological Hall at 11 o'clock A.
M., and was called to order by the President .
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved .
The executive committee reported a list of persons for mem-
bership, who were duly elected.
Messrs . Quinn, Thurber and Williams were appointed a
committee to report needed amendments to our by-laws .
The subject of Fertilizers being introduced by Mr. Hayes ,
it was resolved to invite Prof. Cook to address the Society on
the subject. Messrs . Badger of Essex, Parry of Burlington,
Fuller of Bergen, Allen of Middlesex, Van Deventer of
Mercer, Baird of Monmouth, Chitty of Passaic, Voorhees
of Somerset, Idell of Hudson , and Parcell of Union , were
appointed a committee to nominate a standing committee of
five on Fruits, and one of three each on Flowers and Vege-
tables.
Messrs . Lovett, Hance, Parry and Baird were appointed a
special committee to examine and report on the Fruits , & c. ,
on exhibition. Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

On re-assembling, the President gave an address , which ,

together with the papers read during the session, will be
found in this report.
Prof. Cook's address was made the special order at 4
o'clock. Mr. Parry then read a paper on Raspberries, which
gave rise to a question as to the species to which the
Ganargua belonged . Mr. Lovett thought it a true Rubus
occidentalis. Mr. Beebe thought it a true Hybrid. He had
visited the original plantation , and was favorably impressed
with it. His plants fruited the first season , which he thought
evidence of its hybrid character. Mr. Fuller did not consider
this fact evidence of its being a hybrid . He classified the
Ganargua, Philadelphia, Purple Cane , &c. , by themselves ,
under the name of Rubus purpurea.
 4 .

J. W. Hayes named Brinckle's Orange as giving him the

best satisfaction . C. W. Idell's paper on the Huckleberry
elicited much inquiry and discussion . Messrs . Fuller and
Williams had each tried a single experiment in endeavoring
to cultivate this fruit , the plants being taken from their wild
state, but in neither case did the effort prove satisfactory
Mr. Fuller thought the seed should be the starting point .
Prof. Cook inquired if it was known whether they grew
well , if at all , on limestone soil . Mr. Fuller did not recol-
lect ever seeing them on such soil, and some old residents
present confirmed by their observation the view that such
soil was not adapted to their growth.
Prof. Cook was glad to elicit this information , and thought
perhaps lime was detrimental to them. He had evidence
that flax would not grow satisfactory on well limed soil , and
had recently learned that lime was detrimental to the corn
crop of Sussex ; and on consulting with old farmers as to the
cause, it appeared that while lime was considered unfavorable to
the growth and development of the Flint varieties, it was
highly beneficial to the Dent varieties . Mr. Hance stated that
lime was injurious to the Sweet Potato , while on unlimed soil
the quality was unexceptionable.
Prof. Cook, in talking of Fertilizers , detailed a series of
experiments with the corn crop, on the College Farm the
past season, the results being obtained by carefully weighing
the crops.
These results showed a yield of 85 bu . of corn and 2 tons
of stalks to the acre, without any fertilizer, valued at
$76.47.
An application of 100 lbs . Muriate of Potash, costing $2.75
per acre, gave an increased value of $13.55 .
An additional application of 300 lbs . Sulphate of Ammo-
nia , and 300 lbs. Super-Phosphate of Lime, costing $16.65
per acre, gave an increased value of $12.68.
An application of 400 lbs. Sulphate of Ammonia, and 300
lbs. Super-Phosphate of Lime with the Potash, costing $26.65 ,
gave an increased value of $13.67.
An application of 200 lbs. Sulphate of Ammonia and 500
lbs. Super-Phosphate of Lime with the Potash , costing $19.25 ,
gave an increased value of $17.31 ; while an application of 16
tons Barn Yard Manure alone, costing $40, only gave an in-
creased value of $7.38.
The Society declining to hold an evening session , adjourned
to 10 o'clock to-morrow.
 5

SECOND DAY- MORNING SESSION.

The Society convened at 10 o'clock A. M. , Vice- President

Fuller in the chair. After the reading of yesterday's min-
utes and the election of new members, the special committee
on the Fruits and Flowers exhibited , reported as follows :
Mr. President :-This being the first Annual Meeting of
the Society, we have framed our report in proportion to the
extent of the exhibition . Although it is not large, yet we
think it well selected , and in consideration of there being no
premiums offered , and the season of the year, we think it as
large as could be expected at our first regular meeting, hop-
ing and trusting it will be still more extensive at our next
meeting. Your committee report as follows :-E . Williams of
Montclair, N. J. , thirteen varieties of apples, including fine
specimens of Jersey Hawthorne, Baldwin , Northern Spy,
Ortley, Roxbury Russett, Peck's Pleasant, and St. Lawrence,
and remarkably well-preserved specimens of Maiden's Blush,
Gravenstein and Fall Pippin . We call attention to the
Jersey Hawthorne of this collection as deserving of more notice
than it receives. Also three varieties of pears, viz : Doyenne
d' Alencon , Prince's St. Germain and Easter Beurre , and
specimens of Early Ohio Potato, a decidedly handsome sort
of recent introduction , a seedling of the Early Rose , and said
to be two weeks earlier than the Early Vermont.
W. H. Goldsmith , of Newark, three varieties of pears, viz :
Duchess d' Angouleme, Glout Morceau and Beurre d' Anjou ,
all of which were remarkably well preserved . We call special
attention to the fine size and quality of the Duchess d' Angou-
leme and Glout Morceau .
P. T. Quinn , of Newark, exhibits a new variety called the
Quinn Pear, of surpassing flavor and remarkable keeping
quality, rich russet skin, good form, very handsome , though
rather small, exquisite flavor, in which it strongly resembles
the Seckel.
Edwin Allen, of New Brunswick, specimens of the Nero
apple, a large and fine variety.
A. Hance & Son , of Red Bank, specimens of the Gilpin or
Carthouse apple, valuable for its keeping qualities , equal
in this respect to the Newtown Pippin , and very produc-
tive.
John Rassbach, of Bloomfield, exhibits a new seedling
apple of large size, red , spicy flavor, and a good keeper. This
we esteem worthy of further trial.
 6

Geo. Such, of South Amboy, a gorgeous and very fine

spike of Bloom of Lælia superbiens, one of the handsomest
Orchidaceous plants .
H. E. Chitty, of Paterson , a number of novelties in green-
house plants, viz : Geranium " Happy Thought," a variety of
most distinct and handsome foliage, Pelargonium " Dis-
tinction " and Solanum hybridum argenteum, said to have
variegated fruit, but in foliage much resembling Solanum
jasminoides ; also bloom of Carnation " La Belle " and Violet
" Victoria Regina . "
The Fruit Growers ' Trade Co. , a jar of cooked Cranberries
prepared for exportation . They were found to be in perfect
condition and of excellent quality.
David C. Voorhees , of Blawenburgh, specimens of " Tri-
umph " Sweet Corn, a new variety of great promise , kernel
and ear large and handsome.
From the above it will be seen that Mr. Williams excels
in the exhibition of apples, Mr. Goldsmith in pears , while we
are indebted to Mr. Chitty for the " Happy Thought," that
prompted him to show us his novelties in the Floral Line .
WM. PARRY ,
B. B. HANCE ,
Committee.
DAVID BAIRD,
J. S. LOVETT.
Report received , adopted , and committee discharged .

Mr. Henderson being absent, his paper was read by Mr.

Hance.
A desultory discussion then took place, as to the future
action and organization of the Society, the ultimate aim and
object being to secure a fund with which to publish our pro-
ceedings , and establish our Society on a sound basis. It
was finally resolved, on motion of Mr. Badger, that the Vice-
Presidents of the Society be requested to use their utmost
endeavors to promote the organization of local societies, aux-
iliary to this, in their respective counties.
The following resolution by Mr. Crane was adopted :
Resolved, That this Society heartily endorses the movement for securing by
law, a uniform system of weights and measures for the products of the
State, and unite in requesting the State Board of Agriculture to take
action in the matter.
Also that the Hon. F. T. Frelinghuysen, chairman of the Senate Committee
on Agriculture, be requested to use his influence in Congress, to secure a
National System of Weights and Measures, and that the chair appoint a
committee to carry these resolutions into effect.
 7

Messrs. Quinn and Fuller were appointed as such committee.

The papers of Durand , Fuller, Such and Allen were read
and briefly discussed . Mr. Miner detailed briefly his experi-
ence in raising seedling Grapes . The Martha and Rogers
No. 1, failed with Mr. Thompson , while a neighbor succeeded
with the latter admirably. Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

Mr. Quinn, from the By-Law Committee , reported the fol-

lowing amendments , which were adopted :
Persons who desire to become members of this Society,
may send their names, accompanied by the initiation fee, to
the Recording Secretary, who will enroll such names among
the list of members.
Corresponding and Honorary Members may be added to
the list by a two-third vote of the members present at any
regular meeting.
At each Annual Meeting there shall be elected for one
year, a Standing Committee on Fruits, Flowers and Vegeta-
bles ; that on Fruits to consist of five members , the others of
three each .
The duties of these committees shall be to report from
time to time the condition of their different products and the
state of their culture .
Also the words " or the privileges of the Society, " to be
added to the article on admission.
The Nominating Committee reported the following Stand-
ing Committees :
On Fruits. - D. McLaury, of New Brunswick ; Wm . Parry,
of Cinnaminson ; B. B. Hance, of Red Bank ; C. W. Badger,
of Newark ; and P. T. Quinn , of Newark.
On Flowers. -H . E. Chitty, of Paterson ; Geo . Such, of
South Amboy ; E. S. Carman , of River Edge.
On Vegetables. -W. H. Goldsmith, of Newark ; Henry
Campbell, of Freehold ; Peter Henderson , of Jersey City.
Which were duly elected .
On motion of Mr. Quinn , the first annual dues were de-
clared to be due at the next Annual Meeting .
Bills for printing, stationery, & c . , amounting to $36.53 ,
were reported and ordered paid.
Mr. Collins moved the papers read be referred to a com-
mittee for publication . Objections were made on account of
 8

the inability of the Society to incur the expense, and the

matter was left to the Executive Committee. The Executive
Committee was also empowered to make such arrangements
as they deem proper for the Centennial Exhibition.
A resolution to admit ladies to membership in the Society,
was unanimously adopted .
Messrs . Goldsmith and Thompson read their papers , which
will be found elsewhere .

The following petition was also adopted :

To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives in Congress Assembled :
Your petitioners respectfully represent, that there is great need of a con-
venient, reliable, rapid, regular and cheap mode of sending seeds, cuttings,
bulbs, grafts and small plants, samples of merchandise, books and many
other small articles ; and that the Post Office Department alone can supply
this need. We therefore respectfully petition your honorable bodies to
reduce the present rate of charge on such matter one-half, and to authorize
the affixing of names, numbers or letters to all such articles, so sent, as
will enable the sender to designate them to the receiver. And we also ask
an enactment that will forbid the opening of any such package until it
reaches its destination, when , if it prove to contain unlawful matter, it shall
be subjected to letter postage.

A vote of thanks was tendered the Trustees of the College for

the use of the room and other courtesies extended us during
the session . Mr. Collins moved our next Annual Meeting be
held in Camden ; he would guarantee a room to meet in, and
a larger attendance than we have had here, and believed the
change would be beneficial to the Society in adding largely
to its membership .
Prof. Cook hoped the Society would come to New Bruns-
wick once more, and felt confident he could promise us a
better attendance next time.
Mr. McLaury also favored New Brunswick, and some pre-
ferred Newark. A vote being taken , New Brunswick was
selected as the place for our next Annual Meeting , the day to
be fixed hereafter. Adjourned sine die.
E. WILLIAMS , Rec. Secretary.
 PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS .

GENTLEMEN OF THE SOCIETY :

The programme for this meeting, as arranged by the Executive
Committee, provides a place for an address from the presiding
officer. In societies like this , which have long been organized and in
full operation, the annual address of the President becomes a very
simple matter ; he has merely to review the work of the past year,
pay a fitting tribute to the deceased members, congratulate the So-
ciety upon its generally prosperous condition, " as will be seen by
the report of the Treasurer" -and his work is done. How differently
am I placed ! I have to address experienced horticulturists united
into a society which has no past, and I am without even a brilliant
treasury report to fall back upon !
As soon as it was organized, our Society received words of wel-
come from the venerable Massachusetts Society, and then from Penn-
sylvania and elesewhere. Young though we are, we are still old
enough to welcome a more recent comer to work in the same field
with us. " The New York Horticultural Association" came into
existence only in December last. Though younger than ourselves it
excels us in length of title-which was rendered necessary by the
fact that there was in existence the unexpired or unrepealed charter
of a New York Horticultural Society. We are glad that this Asso-
ciation has been formed, as it was almost a national disgrace that the
Metropolitan centre of art and science, the city which is the great
trade centre of horticultural products, should be without a horticul-
tural body of any kind , and this new association has our best wishes
for its success .
On the 17th of August last, in accordance with a call signed by
well-known horticulturists, there gathered at this place an unexpect-
edly large mumber of cultivators, and our society was organized by
the adoption of a constitution and by-laws, and officers were elected,
the proceedings being marked by unanimity and enthusiasm. The
President was empowered to appoint those members intending to be
present at the meeting of the American Pomological Society, as del-
egates to represent our organization at that gathering. The meeting
of the Pomological Society was the great horticultural event of the
past year. It was held by invitation of the Illinois Horticultural So-
ciety at Chicago, beginning September 8th, and continued three days.
This bringing together at these biennial meetings of those who are
engaged in the same pursuits, but in widely separated localities and
under very different conditions, is productive of great good . In my
opinion it is in their social aspects -the personal intercourse which
 10

they allow between men who have long known one another by name
or by correspondence-that these meetings have their greatest value.
It is true that the society represents but one department of horticul-
ture, but it is in some respects the most important one, and we must
recollect that progress in one branch, affects all the other branches.
The meetings of the society are held at widely distant points every
two years, and their influence for good is almost incalculable. Ima-
gine some young fruit-grower who is wide awake to everything
that relates to his pursuit ; or an older one, who has quietly in his
own locality caught at every word written by those of more expe-
rience. It is the great event of his life for either of these to attend
one of these gatherings, where he can not only see, but actually meet
face to face and talk with those whom he has long regarded as author-
ities in his special department. For such a one to meet a Wilder, a
Downing or a Thomas ; a Warder a Flagg, or a Berckmans, a Barry,
or a Meehan, and I might name a host of others, is to give him new
life ; he goes back to his orchard, or his fruit patch, with new zeal ;
he has heard words of encouragement ; he has met the great lights-
they are after all, only like himself-men-but most genial men—
even fallible men ; for he asked one of them a question and got for an
answer : " I do not know ”—and he has actually a higher respect for
himself, when he has asked the highest living authority as to a point
upon which he himself was in doubt- and this authority did not
know. It is in these and many other ways, that these gatherings are
of great use. We do not find their best work in the published pro-
ceedings, but it is in the mutual help, the encouragement that one
draws from the fact that he is not alone in his difficulties, the enthu-
siasm that always comes of the gathering of many persons with a
common object, the hints that one picks up in intercourse with these
men, that make this society of great value to all our fruit-growers.
Some place a high estimate on the fruit lists, the revision of which
is the chief work of the society while in session, and regard their
preparation as the great work of the society. These fruit lists have
a certain value, but they cover so wide a territory that they can only
be approximately correct. In many cases a single individual will
answer for the success or failure of a fruit in a whole state, which
comprises as large a territory as Great Britain, and nearly as varied
a climate.
At the Chicago meeting there was a large exhibition of fruit,
which contained many fine displays, but it was made an appendage
to an Industrial Exposition, scattered in different parts of a most
unsuitable building, and much of it so arranged that had the object
been to keep the people from seeing the fruit, it could not have been
more effectually accomplished . Among the attractive collections of
novelties was a fine display of seedling grapes by Mr. J. H. Ricketts
of Newburgh, N. Y. , which were fortunately in a position where
they could be seen. The seedling pears of Clapp Brothers, of Dor-
chester, Mass., were exhibited, and, including the now well-known
 11

Clapp's Favorite, were as beautiful as ever. Perhaps the most

interesting collection was that of B. S. Fox, of California, of
some 80 seedling pears. It was stated that these were all from
the seeds of one variety, but this must be a mistake, for it was easy
to select from them a dozen different types, in which such well-known
varieties as Belle Lucrative, Vicar of Winkfield, and many others
were almost exactly reproduced. An opportunity to test such of
these as were in eating condition , showed them to be often merely
sweet, and without character, while some few combined marked
excellence with good size and attractive appearance, and will, no
doubt, ultimately find a place in the list of choice varieties.
There was one melancholy event connected with the Chicago meet-
ing. Those present at the meeting saw how faithfully the president
of the Illinois Horticultural Society (whose guests we were,) Dr. E.
S. Hull, worked in our behalf-in fact, so far as we could observe,
he was the society. Shortly after our return home, the news came of
the death of this eminent horticulturist, from a disease attributed to
his great exertions and excessive labors at the Chicago meeting ; he
died at his residence near Alton , Ill., and so great was the shock to
his wife, who was also his co-worker in horticultural and scientific
pursuits, that she survived him but four days. Doctor Hull was most
widely known for his advocacy of root pruning as a general remedy
for all the ills to which fruit trees are subject. This was his hobby,
but he was earnestly devoted to horticulture in all its branches, and
his death is a loss to the whole country.
To return to the consideration of our own affairs. One of the first
things for us to consider is, what shall be done to ensure the perma-
nence of the society and to extend its usefulness, and what course
shall we take to commend it to the citizens of every part of the
State ? If we appear to the people at large as a body of commercial
fruit-growers and florists, of market gardeners and nurserymen, who
have formed a society solely for the promotion of our own interests,
the people at large will have but little sympathy with us . A society
like ours must be largely composed of those who make horticulture
a business, and it must be the case that those who, in the orchard,
the fruit farm , the nursery, the market garden or the green-house,
raise horticultural products for sale, will form the solid portion, the
working element, in a society like ours. But we also wish to enlist
the large class known as amateurs, those whose operations are upon
square rods rather than acres, and who look for no other returns for
their labors than the pleasures they bring. Our State abounds in
enthusiastic cultivators of this kind , to whom whatever is raised by
their own hands is above all price- men to whom one pear from
their own one tree is worth vastly more than the choicest half-barrel
sent to market by one who follows " Pear culture for Profit ; " to whom
a scant quart of strawberries-the first he ever raised - are of more con-
sequence than the product of all Burlington County, and to whom the
few flowers, common though they be, are sweeter and more precious
 12

than all that grow on the glass-covered acres of South Amboy and Jer-
sey City Heights. We wish the co-operation of these amateurs, that our
society may be popular in its best sense. It will be found that the
number of these is surprisingly large, and if we can place ourselves
in proper relations with them, we shall have done much towards se-
curing the co-operation of the whole people of the State.
One working upon a small scale, and concentrating his attention
upon but a few objects, observes many points and learns many facts
that escape the notice of those whose grounds are large and whose
minds must be occupied by countless details. We wish to gather up
the scattered bits of experience of these amateurs, and in return
would help and encourage them. It is among this large class of am-
ateurs that those who are in commercial horticulture find their con-
sumers ; it is in the back yards that must have a few fruit trees and
bushes, and a strawberry patch, and in the front yards that must be
" fixed up," or embellished with flowers- no matter how crude the
first attempts, that are the ultimate destination of the productions of
the nurseryman, the florist and the seedsman, and each one of these
has a direct interest in encouraging these humble workers.
When one has once tasted of the pleasures of horticulture , he
rarely abandons it, but on the contrary he is apt to extend his opera-
tions, and humble beginnings often grow to a surprising extent.
One of the most eminent of the horticulturists of our State, and of
the country, began his career with bulb culture on a small scale- in
fact an onion patch. I have thus alluded to the importance of inter-
esting the large class of amateurs, as I believe it to be essential to the
future success of the society. And "" the question will naturally be
asked-" How are we to do this ? Two principal ways occur to
me. By exhibitions, and by publications. If both these subjects are
not discussed at the present meeting, they will soon demand our at-
tention. In no manner can we so immediately bring our society to
the notice of the people as by attractive exhibitions. But in regard
to these we are peculiarly situated. The society, though it has a
name, is yet without a " local habitation ; " the political capital of
the State is by no means its horticultural centre. There are all the
way from Vineland and Camden, to Jersey City and Paterson, im-
portant centres of population. It is necessary for us to consider, if
we shall fix upon a permanent locality for our own meetings and
exhibitions, a question surrounded by difficulties . With us the
situation is very different from that of the Massachusetts Horti-
cultural Society. Paris is not more truly France, than is Boston,
Massachusetts, and when that society rears her grand granite
temple to Flora and Pomona, all Massachusetts looks on approvingly ;
and when Boston holds an exhibition, the contributions pour in from
all parts of the State-and not only contributions, but visitors also.
It has seemed to me as if it were almost a part of the religion of the
people, within easy railroad journey, to come up once a year to their
great horticultural exhibition . We have none of that feeling that
 13

any one city is the centre, and we have yet to ascertain if we can by
means of exhibitions attract people from a distance. An exhibition
to be successful must be held where it will be accessible to the great-
er number of producers ; we have to consider the small fruit growers
of the southern counties, the orchards and vineyards of the central
counties, and the immense floral establishments and market gardens
that cluster further north ; and, on the other hand , to be useful as
well as pecuniarily successful, an exhibition must be held at a point
where it will be visited by the greatest number of people. These are
points which are commended to your consideration. But underneath
there lies the question whether we shall have an exhibition at all this
year. It is very important that our first attempt be a successful one,
and it is to be taken into account that the exhibition of exhibitions,
the Centennial, will draw largely upon both exhibitors and visitors :
as a State, we cannot compete with the whole world , and had we not
better wait until this overshadowing event has passed by ?
The second method by which we may make ourselves useful, is
that of publications ; to put forth in some form which will reach the
people at large -at least those I have referred to as amateurs-articles
containing information of general application and usefulness. The
publication which seems to me the most needed , and that which will
most commend itself to the people of the State as of real value, is a
fruit catalogue. I place this first, not because lists of vegetables ,
ornamental trees and flowers would not be useful and valuable, but
because mistakes in fruit-tree planting endure for years. Sometimes
we waste a good part of a lifetime in discovering that we have plant-
ed the wrong trees, and in remedying the blunder. It is a matter of
real pecuniary importance to our people that they should have a
proper guide in this matter. As an editor, an immense number of
letters of inquiry fall into my hands, and in fall and in spring their
very general query is : " What shall I plant ? " A fruit list embody-
ing the experience of only our present members, would be of great
value. That this society should prepare and present such a list, is a
point upon which all will agree. Are we prepared to do it at once ?
is a question upon which we shall find a difference of opinion. Some
will claim that an incomplete list will be better than none, while
others will regard it safer to proceed more deliberately. Our Geol-
ogist, in whose hall we have assembled, will tell you that few areas
of its size present a greater diversity of soil than does the State of
New Jersey. The tertiary formation, the cretaceous, including the
wonderful marls, the sandstone, the trap, and others follow one
another in succession, and the south-eastern and northwestern por-
tions of the State are as unlike in their geological formation, and
consequently in their soils, as they well can be.
So too, the botanist will tell you that in no equal area in the coun-
try is there found such an abundant variety of plant life. The vege-
tation of parts of Ocean and adjoining counties is almost as unlike
that of other parts of the State, as that of North Carolina is unlike
 14

that of Massachusetts . All these facts, of the natural features of the

State, have a direct bearing upon the adaptability of its various
portions to the growth of the different kinds of fruit. It is for
you to consider if we are prepared to make a fruit list which will
fairly meet the needs of all parts of the State. Of the twenty-one
counties only eight are now represented in our society, and these are
mostly neighboring counties. We are as yet but partially organized,
we have no committees on fruits, flowers and vegetables, and it
might be well to first constitute these committees, and refer the con-
sideration of catalogues to them. While I feel that the publication
of a fruit catalogue will be of the greatest utility to the public- and
also to the society, as an agency through which it may become favor-
ably known to the public-I trust that we may do nothing hastily.
In speaking of the question of holding exhibitions, I have referred
to the fact that we are confronted by the Centennial Exhibition, and
that this is likely to absorb the energies of exhibitors and engross
the attention of the public. I am not sufficiently advised of the plans
of those who have the charge of horticultural matters at the Centen-
nial to know if exhibitions are to be made by societies or by individ-
uals. If societies are to be represented at all, it would be proper for
us to consider if we should not be among them. Enjoying the ad-
vantage of proximity to the Exhibition-grounds, a large number of
our members will no doubt be among the principal exhibitors, es-
pecially of those articles which are readily perishable. It does not
appear that it would detract at all from the credit of these as indi-
viduals, were their exhibits grouped as the collection of the N. J.
State Horticultural Society, while such an arrangement would be of
the greatest advantage to our young society. This seems to me one
of the most important matters to be considered at the present time ;
the exhibitors from this State have it in their power to at once place
this society prominently before the public, and give it a prestige that
it could not otherwise acquire in years. There may be some ob-
stacles to this course-but I commend the matter to your thoughtful
consideration.
At our meeting for organization, after the business had been
disposed of, and a short time remained for conference and discussion ,
the very first subject presented was that of Pear Blight, showing
that this scourge is uppermost in the mind of almost every fruit
grower. It is almost everywhere the present or threatened evil,
destroying one's hopes, and cutting off his income. But few who
have themselves suffered from this blight, or who have visited large
orchards where it was working its deeds of blackness, can have any
proper idea of the extent of the evil, or of the actual loss it entails.
Could we command the statistics, we should find that the annual loss
to the country from this scourge alone, reached an aggregate of
many hundreds of thousands of dollars. It is not surprising that
one who has suffered should be constantly on the look out for relief,
and that this should be a prominent question, not only in our Society
 15

but in others, for there is hardly an important gathering of fruit-

growers in any part of the country, but we find that pear blight is
discussed . It has called forth abundant conjectures, and numerous
hypotheses, mistakenly called theories, have been offered . Insects,
frozen sap, sun-scald , over-nutrition, fungi, and that last resource of
those who have not the courage to say " I do not know, " put the
confession of ignorance in another form, and say " electricity."
This important matter has been talked over, and guessed at for
years, and yet the blight goes on, and it will not be stopped until
some one goes to work, or several combine their labors, and ascertain
precisely what the blight is, or rather what is the cause of that
effect, that last stage, the result of a precedent cause, that we know
as blight. Some very intelligent men, finding minute fungi in the
dead and blighted tree, claim that these are the cause of the blight,
but as the fungus is not detected before death, we are not a step
nearer a remedy. The whole subject needs a thorough and careful
investigation by competent men, who shall be adequately paid for
their labors. We can hope for nothing from our Department of
Agriculture, and unless some State or wealthy society undertake the
task, it is hardly probable that our fruit-growers will find speedy
relief. Every physician knows, that his greatest difficulty is in
diagnosis, finding out what is the matter. When he fully under-
stands the seat of the disease which confronts him, and its nature,
the treatment presents comparatively little difficulty. So in this case,
we have first to find out what is the matter ; we know the result
only too well. Do not understand me to say that I think the pear
blight is not due to fungi, for there is much evidence that points in
that direction. Very few have any idea of the difficulties which
attend upon the study of those fungi most injurious to vegetation ;
they are so small that they develope in and riot among the ultimate
cells of the plant, which are themselves of microscopic size ; but this is
not the chief difficulty, many of them have different stages of exist-
ence, an alternation of generations ; in one of these the same plant
is almost as unlike in appearance to that of another stage, as a
caterpillar is unlike a butterfly. Should the blight be found to be
caused by a fungus, then the whole life history of that fungus must
be learned before a remedy can be applied ; its manner of propagation
must be known, its different forms, if it has such, must be discovered,
and what is quite as important as anything, we must find out where
it is, and what it is doing when it is not working death in our pear
trees. The difficulty in arriving at a complete knowledge of these
minute plants is shown in the history of the fungus that causes the
potato rot. The Rev. M. J. Berkeley, in 1846, showed conclusively
that the potato rot or murrain, was due to a certain fungus, and
described its habits to such an extent that potato-growers, having a
pretty clear idea of the habits of the enemy, could combat it intelli-
gently, and the rot soon ceased to be formidable. For this, by the
way, Berkeley was properly pensioned by the British Government.
 16

Still there was one point in the history of the potato rot that
Berkeley failed to make out, which was, in what form, and where
did this fungus pass the winter ? All of the plant so far discovered
was immediately perishable, and while it was certain that there
must be a winter state, or resting state, in which it could lay by for
the winter, to begin anew the work of destruction , this escaped
detection by the most acute observers in England and on the
continent of Europe, though it was thoroughly searched for. It
was only the past summer that Mr. Worthington G. Smith, an
acute fungologist, had the good fortune to discover the resting
state of the potato fungus, and it is only now, at the end of twenty
years, that we can say that we really know all about the " ins and
outs "" of this minute but troublesome plant. I do not cite these
facts to discourage attempts at solving the blight question, but to
show that it can only be solved by the most thorough work, by men
who have been in training through many years for such investiga-
tion, and that we may only find relief when we are in full possesion
of a knowledge of the enemy's country, his forces and his mode of
warfare.
It is too much the practice of those who call themselves " prac-
tical men," to sneer at those engaged in scientific pursuits, a habit,
more common formerly than at present. But we now hear quite too
frequently the remark, " oh he is a man of science, but he is not a
practical man." So far as I know scientific men, I find them eminent-
ly practical, accepting nothing upon trust, but always insisting
upon the very bottom facts. The truth is, that all who are engaged
in working with nature, or to take our own pursuits, all who are
engaged with plant life in any manner, are working together for
the general good. We may not see at once the bearing of the one
upon the other, but after awhile it crops out. Probably no two
men were further apart than Berkeley, while studying minute
fungi, and Pat, cultivating his potato patch, yet the result showed
that the one stood in an important relation to the other. As
horticulturists, we are largely indebted to those working with
nature in other forms ; the geologist and chemist have done much
for us, and we have very close relations with the ornithologist and the
entomologist, and we find that every department of natural science,
somewhere touches, and benefits every other. Just now naturalists are
much occupied in studying the relations between insects and plants.
No doubt that some of us think that we understand some of these
relations quite thoroughly ; from the " flea " upon the springing
cabbage and all through the procession of white grubs, curculios ,
rose-bugs and all the rest, in doors and out, we know their relations,
and wish that they were more distant ones. But all the work of
insects upon plants is not detrimental to them. It is now a well
established fact, that many plants, if not the majority of them,
would never be fertilized and bear fruit at all, were it not that
insects aid in the matter. Even the least observing are aware that
 17

in the case of squashes, cucumbers and all of that family, in which

stamens and pistils are in separate flowers, were it not for the aid of
bees and other insects the pollen would never get " where it would
do the most good." But it is not in these flowers alone that
insects are useful, but their help is often needed in those where the
stamens and pistils are placed close together. It is a singular
fact, that many flowers which at first sight appear to be constructed
especially for self- fertilization , the pistil being quite surrounded by
the stamens, are found, upon a more careful examination, to be
really so arranged that the pollen can not of itself reach the pistil.
There are many illustrations of this among our common flowers.
Those who force fruit under glass are often obliged to fertilize , or
" set," the fruit of plants with perfect flowers .
The family of Orchids includes some of the most beautiful of our
wild flowers, and the exotic species, marked by often grotesque
forms, and charming coloring, are among the choicest of stove
plants ; in a large share of the flowers of this family, the pollen is
made up in two little pellets, shaped much like the Indian Club of
the gymnast, with the part corresponding to the knob of the
handle, furnished with a very viscid substance. These pollen masses
are so held in pouches and so placed with reference to the stigma,
or receptive portion of the pistil, that it is absolutely impossible
that the two should ever come in contact if left to themselves.
These flowers have bright colors , and pleasant odors to attract
insects, and they have a long tube or sac of some kind , containing
nectar, which can be reached by certain insects. The insect in exploring
for honey, buts his head against the sticky end of the Indian club of
pollen, and that adhering fast, is pulled out of its place and carried
off on the insect's head. In a few seconds the handle of the club
curves by drying, so that when the insect tries the next flower for
honey, the pollen mass is in exactly the right position to hit the
stigma, and thus fertilize, not the flower which bore the pollen, but
another. Indeed it may be remarked here that all through flowering
plants there are so frequently to be met with arrangements for prevent-
ing flowers from being fertilized by their own pollen , and to secure
their impregnation by another flower, of the same kind that we can
only infer that too close in-and-in breeding would be injurious , and
that this is prevented by design. In no family of plants are the
arrangements for insect fertilization more curious and varied than
than in the orchis family, and in many of them the flowers are so con-
structed that the office can only be performed by some particular insect,
with a length of proboscis and form of head exactly adapted to
the particular flower. These facts are set forth in great detail and
illustrated in one of the most remarkable works of the most
original investigator of our day, Charles Darwin. It was the
publication of his researches on the fertilization of Orchids, that led
the way, and now there are scores of naturalists who are occupying
themselves with observations upon all plants, and while the results
2
 18

may not be so striking as with Orchids, they are quite as interesting,

and show heretofore unsuspected relations between plants and
insects. But it will be asked , what has this, curious as it may be,
to do with horticulture ? It was cited as an illustration of the view
that every accurate scientific observation or well-established fact is of
value,-valuable in itself as a contribution to knowledge, and may be
of great money value in its application to the affairs of life. The
telegraph resulted from the application of interesting scientific dis-
coveries of no apparent value, and photography was rendered possible
by two separate discoveries, that were the results of accidents ; and
these observations of Darwin have found more than one application
of importance.
Some ten or more years ago, a young man called on me, whose
yellow skin indicated that he was truthful in his statement, that he had
just arrived from the East Indies. His relative, father or uncle, had
at a great expense imported the plants and established a plantation
of Vanilla. The climate of the East Indies was as congenial as
that of its native Central America, and the plants made a most
rampant growth, flowered in profusion, and everything was perfectly
satisfactory and prosperous, save that they had no fruit. Not a
pod had been formed. He told his story fluently and with much
wordy detail. When he had finished I simply answered, “ bugs."
The look of mingled astonishment and doubt that this brief remark
brought to his face, I shall not soon forget, but when I explained to
him that in importing the plants, the insects that in Central America
enabled them to bear fruit, had been left behind , his dilemina seemed
worse than ever. I then told him that in the Orchids, to which
family Vanilla belongs, the operation of applying the pollen could be
as well done artificially by the aid of a pointed stick, as the insect
could do it naturally, much to his relief. I advised him to get
Darwin's work, where he could study the principle, and apply it
with needed modifications to the Vanilla. Expecting to see him
again, I did not ask, what I have no doubt was the fact, if he were
not on his way to the Vanilla districts of Mexico and Central
America, to learn what was in fault in his own cultivation.
Recently the English papers have frequently made mention of the
fact that Vanilla is now being produced abundantly and profitably
in the East Indies, the flowers being fertilized by hand. I hardly
suppose that the success of Vanilla in all the East Indies is the
direct result of the visit of this young man, but have no doubt it
was the means of removing the difficulty in his locality ; still it
illustrates the point that investigations, which when made, seemed
to establish only interesting scientific facts, may be found to have an
important practial application. Among the flowers, though perfect,
which do not fertilize themselves, are those of the red clover ; the pro-
boscis, or rather lip , of the honey-bee is not long enough to reach down
the long tube of the flower and get the nectar, but the humble or
"bumble " bee, having a longer lip, can do this, and in getting at the
 19

honey, brings the pollen in contact with the pistil, thus impregnating
it, and the seed follows. The crop of clover seed is really dependent
upon the good offices of the bumble bees, though farmers at mowing
time if they come across one of their nests, I have noticed, do not
in the hurry of the moment acknowledge their services. Darwin,
who is very quick at observing the relation of things, stated in sober
earnestness that the crop of clover seed in any district in England
bore a direct ratio to the number of cats in the district. He reasoned
in this way ; the clover seed crop depends upon the agency of bumble
bees ; field mice destroy the nests of the bees ; but on the other
hand cats keep the mice in check ; and there was in Darwin's mind
a direct relation between the cat census and the clover seed crop.
Probably no utterance of a man of science was ever more thorough-
ly turned into ridicule than this, and cats and clover seed were for a
while a great blessing to a certain class, who are so very funny that
they must have some target for their shafts of ridicule, and Darwin
and his cats and clover served an admirable purpose. Now for the
practical side of the question. When agriculture in Australia passed
from the mere herding of animals upon the natural pasturage, and
a system of cultivation was adopted, clover with the settlers, came
in, as at home, as a part of proper rotation. Clover could be raised
with success, but all the seed had to be brought from England or
America; not a seed would perfect itself in Australia. A few weeks
ago we read in the English agricultural papers, that a certain Austra-
lian steamer took out as a part of her cargo several nests of humble
bees, in the hope that they may multiply in that country, and help
the Australian farmers to raise their own clover seed. It is fairly
Mr. Darwin's turn to laugh now.
If I have detained you by going somewhat out of the usual course
in such an address, in showing these relations between insects and
plants, it is to impress the fact, which we all sometimes forget, that
no one works to himself alone. Whoever is seeking diligently
the truths of nature, is working for the good of mankind. A truth,
a fact, once fairly established , is of the greatest value. Every depart-
ment in nature has a relation somewhere to every other. And the
humblest amateur in horticulture, the careful observer of facts, not
only works for himself alone, but to the benefit of his fellow men.
Before leaving this subject of the relation of plants to insects,
there is one matter of practical importance to which I would calĺ
your attention . We know that insects are often destructive to
stems, foliage, flowers and fruit. We must also admit that they, or
some of them, are of immediate benefit to our fruit. When we are
fully organized and equipped, we shall, no doubt, have a committee
on entomology ; but there is one point, much discussed of late,
which may, in the absence of this, be referred to the " committee of
the whole." Do bees injure fruit ? that is, ripe fruit. This question
has been more talked about in the conventions of bee-keepers than in
horticultural meetings, but it is a matter of great interest to both
 20

fruit-growers and bee-keepers. On the one hand it is claimed that

bees actually pierce the skin of ripe fruits, especially grapes ,
and extracting their saccharine juices, render them worthless. The
bee-keepers assert that the bees never begin this work, but when
they find the fruit cracked, as it will often be if long rains come
when it is quite ripe, they avail themselves of the sweets thus
exposed. They say that wasps will cut the skin, which the bees are
unable to rupture, and that the bees only follow the bad example set
by their relatives, the wasps. This is an important matter, especi-
ally for the bee-keepers, for they are aware that if a law prevents
their horses, cattle and other animals from being found in damage.
foisant upon their neighbors' premises, one may be made which will
protect the injured parties, if bees cause them loss by depredation
upon their fruits. The one point to be settled, and one on which
most of us can make observations, is-are bees ever the aggressors ?
I have thus in a hasty manner outlined some topics which seem to
me to demand consideration and action by the Society, and others to
furnish material for thought, and suggestions for observation for us
as individuals. I give way to others, who, confining themselves to
special topics, can impart to them a closer interest than one who
attempts mere sketches or suggestions.
In conclusion, I would say that no Society ever had a fairer start
than ours. We are in such relations with the older and pioneer
bodies that we can profit by their successes, and what is of still more
importance, be warned by their blunders. We have not only the
material for a successful, which is but another name for a useful
Society, and our surroundings are most favorable. The only wonder
is, that New Jersey, so thoroughly identified as she is with horti-
culture, from end to end, and through and through, has not had such
a Society before, and it is safe to predict that in five years the won-
der will be, how the State ever managed to get along without us.
I admit that I feel this year the over-shadowing influence of the
Centennial ; when a large steamer comes along, small boats must
hug the shore. It may be that we must just now go slow, but I feel
that we shall soon be able to stand by the side of those older
societies, which have been not only useful to their members, but have
carried benefits and pleasures to the communities in which they exist.
 THE RASPBERRY AND ITS CULTURE.

BY WM. PARRY, CINNAMINSON, N. J.

Raspberries are among the best and most valuable of the small
fruits. They usually sell higher than strawberries, and are worth
more to the consumers. They are richer and will go further as a
dessert. There is no waste of time and labor in preparing them for
use, as the hulls are left on the bushes when picking the fruit. They
are not so generally adapted to all soils and climates as strawberries.
Some varieties do well in certain sections, but not in others. Most
raspberries do best in a cool climate, and many that succeed well at
the North, will not further South.
The Hudson River Antwerp is probably the finest and best
raspberry sent to the New York market, yet it can only be grown
profitably in a small district along the North River. I have repeat-
edly tried it in New Jersey, but did not succeed ; the foliage
would fail early in summer, the canes become parched with the sun,
and nearly dead before winter ; and whether protected or not,
would yield but little fruit the next summer.
In selecting hardy raspberries, it is not only necessary that they
should stand the cold of winter, but the heat of summer.
Many fine varieties have been imported from Europe, producing
large and luscious fruit, but the canes were not hardy enough to
stand our changing climate. There are two distinct species of the
raspberry ; the Rubus occidentalis, which is propagated by the tip
end of the canes bending over and striking root in the ground,
forming a new plant, which in turn sends out shoots, reaching still
further from the original stock, and thus in a migratory way will
soon spread over a considerable space of land , as if in search of
new food in the virgin soil, to sustain the young plants, which do
not spread or increase by sending up suckers from the roots. The
purple raspberries are of this order ; such as the old Purple Cane,
Ellisdale, Catawissa ; the White, Yellow and Golden Caps, and
Cream Raspberries ; the Red Caps, Ganargua, Norwood and
Rochelle also the different varieties of black caps, such as Doolit-
tle's Improved, the Early Cluster, Ontario, Little Miama, Big
Miama or McCormick, Davison's Thornless, Hamilton, Nebraska,
Naglee's Everbearing, Seneca, Gordon's Great Western, the Yosem-
ite of California, Mammoth Cluster, Ohio Everbearing, Canada
and Lum's Everbearing. All native varieties.
The other species is called Rubus strigosus, an upright grower
is increased by suckers from the root, or by planting root cuttings,
 22

and some of them throw up suckers so abundantly as to become

troublesome, filling the ground with young canes, which crowd the
bearing plants, and injure the crop of fruit.
Among those which I have grown, may be mentioned the follow-
ing, viz:
Alpine Red, Allen's Antwerp and Allen's Straight Cane, Belle
d'Fontenay (recently called Amazon) , Belle of Jersey, Brandywine,
or Susqueco, Bristol, Bagley's Perpetual, Baker, Brinckle's Seedlings ,
viz : The Orange, Cushing, Col. Wilder, Woodward, Walker and
Vice-President French, Clarke, Creton Red, Delaware, Duhring,
Downing's Seedlings, Dr. Linton, Elm City, Early Antwerp, Early
Andrews and Elizabeth, Fastolff, Franconia, Grant, Hornet, Herstine,
Hudson River Antwerp, Highland Hardy, Kirtland and Knevett's
Giant, Lindley's Fastolff Seedling, Imperial Red, Marvel of Four
Seasons, Northumberland Fillbasket, Naomi, Northern Wonder,
Ohio Red, Arnold's Orange, Parnell , Pearl, Prosser, Philadelphia,
Red Prolific, Rivers' Large Fruited Monthly, Red Antwerp, Red
Queen and Ruby, R. M. Conklin's French, Stoever, Southern Thorn-
less, Saunders, Turner, Thunderer, True Everbearing Red, Waure-
gon and Yellow Antwerp.
Also a large number of seedlings, which, after careful testing a
few years, were not found to possess any particular merit over
others, and were therefore discarded so as to avoid increasing the
number of varieties, without gaining any superior qualities.
Now all these varieties, when first introduced , were recommended
as having some good qualities to give them preference over others
that had preceded them.
For instance, the Ellisdale and Yosemite brought one dollar a plant
when first introduced under the high western breeze which wafted
them over the Eastern States, but after being tested here and found
to be inferior to others in cultivation, were discarded.
Another source of confusion arises from the circumstance that
old varieties once discarded , sometimes fall into the hands of persons
not acquainted with many of the raspberries that have already been
tested, and under a favorable opportunity may do pretty well, and
surprise their new owner, who calls them chance seedlings, and him-
self the lucky finder, and pronounces them the best of all raspberries,
combining more good qualities than any other.
Thus the old French Belle d'Fontenay, imported many years
ago, long enough to be spread over this Continent and generally
discarded, is now looming up from the eastern shore of Maryland ,
under the name of the Amazon, called a new variety, which
possesses all that could be desired in a raspberry-for productiveness
and hardiness unsurpassed ; the earliest, latest and largest red
raspberry, producing 300 per cent. more fruit than any other variety.
It is not to be wondered at, that many people will buy plants,
when they are so highly praised, but it would be well to touch them
lightly until they have been tried in your own or similar soil, when a
 23

better opportunity may be had to learn their true character and

value.
I will name a dozen varieties which do well in our section of
Burlington County, New Jersey, and are worthy of trial elsewhere.
Herstine.-One of the largest, hardy red raspberries ; a good
grower ; abundant and early bearer ; suckers moderately ; canes
strong, covered with a white bloom ; foliage healthy, of medium
size ; fruit oblong, with small grains, and bright crimson color ;
flavor sub-acid and very good .
Commands the highest price in market, selling from 60 to 80 cents
per quart the past two seasons.
Brandywine.-A very large, bright scarlet berry ; firm and beau-
tiful ; bears carriage well, and commands a ready sale in market ;
brought from 50 to 60 cents per quart, wholesale, the past summer.
The foliage and general appearance much resembles the Pearl, from
which it is probably a seedling, though the leaves are of a lighter
green color ; put out a week earlier in spring, and makes a better
growth ; are broad and crimped, and when they first appear at the
top of the canes, are shaded with red, which disappears as the
leaves attain more size and age. The young stems are generally
green while growing, though occasionally a shade of reddish brown
next to the sun, but none of the white bloom so abundant on other
kinds.
Origin unknown, though it found a congenial soil in Brandywine
Hundred, and along the Brandywine Creek, near Wilmington,
Delaware, where it succeeded so well as to attract much attention
by the high price and ready sale of the fruit in market.
It was formerly called Susqueco, which is the Indian name for
Brandywine.
It is a valuable raspberry for transporting a long distance to
market, though its reputation has suffered improperly by reason of
Bristols and other inferior raspberry plants, being sold for Brandy-
wines.
Bristol.-A native variety found growing near Bristol, in Pennsyl-
vania, from which its name is taken. The plants have narrow
pointed leaves and a whitish bloom on the stems . A strong, hardy,
vigorous grower ; produces a super-abundance of young canes or
suckers, which must be ploughed under or disposed of in some
way, if fruit is the object, as the young suckers come up so thickly, if
permitted to grow unchecked, that they injure the crop of fruit.
The berry is medium size ; not so large and firm as the Brandywine,
although large quantities of Bristols have been sold as Brandy-
wines.
Delaware. A new seedling recently raised from the Hornet,
combining the large size, firm flesh and luscious qualities of its
parent, with canes perfectly hardy without protection.
Fruit very large and pointed ; color and shape similar to the
Hudson River Antwerp ; the cross diameter is same as the Herstine,
 24

of an inch, the length is greater, being 27-32 of an inch. It com-

mands the highest price in market.
Pearl.- Is a bright red ; medium size ; handsome, firm berry ;
bush dwarfish ; a slow grower, with thick, tough foliage ; needs good
strong land, and high cultivation .
Philadelphia.-Hardy and productive ; dull red color ; soft berry.

RED CAP VARIETIES.

Ganargua.-A fine red raspberry that grows like the black cap,
from tips ; equally as hardy ; strong and vigorous as the Mammoth
Cluster; fruit as large and productive ; commences earlier than
Doolittle, and continues to yield abundantly through the season .
Norwood.-A fine red raspberry ; very strong grower, with
numerous branches ; very hardy ; does not spread from roots ; is
propagated from tips, like the black caps ; very productive ; fruit
large ; of a purplish red ; rich, brisk flavor.

BLACK CAP VARIETIES.

Davison's Thornless.- As its name implies , has no thorns on the

canes, which is the principal merit over other black caps.
Doolittle.-Large ; black ; sweet ; juicy ; early ; productive and
hardy .
Mammoth Cluster.- The largest black raspberry in cultivation ;
dark brownish black, covered with bloom : juicy and sprightly in
flavor ; canes very strong and vigorous ; leaves large and deep green ;
late and very productive.
Ontario.- Fruit large ; sweet ; juicy ; flesh thick and solid ; very
early.
I have grown many light colored raspberries, such as Orange,
Cream, Golden, & c. , all novelties in their way, but possessing no
superior qualities to give them preference over others.
The most important considerations in selecting raspberries for
market purposes, are size, color and firmness of fruit ; and the canes
should be hardy and productive.
Raspberries that are of large size, a bright red color, and firm
enough to carry well, will command the highest price in market,
and if they are hardy and productive, will be very profitable to the
grower.
In order to compare the size of different varieties of raspberries, I
carefully measured the fruit while in bearing.
 25

COMPARATIVE SIZES OF RASPBERRIES.

The cross diameter is here given in thirty-second parts of an inch

as follows, viz:

Herstine, inch .... 24-32 Pearl, § inch 20-32

Delaware 66 24-32 Philadelphia 20-32
66 24-32 Northern Wonder . 20-32
Ganargua 66
Winant 24-32 Highland Hardy . 20-32
Brandywine. 23-32 Doolittle... 20-32
Saunders .. 23-32 Ontario. 20-32
Elizabeth 23-32 Bristol . 191-32
Ruby. 22-32 Norwood. 19-32
Clarke .. 22-32 Arnold's Orange 19-32
Mam. Cluster . 22-32 Davison's Thornless.. 181-32
Early Cluster . 21-32 Southern .. 18-32
Turner. 18-32

By squaring the diameters we get a comparison of the size of the

fruit. Thus the Turner, compared with the Herstine, is as 324 to 576.

MARKET PRICES.

The price of raspberries varies in market, same as the other fruits,

with the supply and demand. Large sized bright red raspberries
always command the highest price.
The quality is not of the first importance. Fruit that carries well
and looks best in market, will sell best.
The past year we grew and sold 600 bushels of raspberries ; the
price averaged about 13 cents per quart, which was lower than for
many years previous. By taking the average price for 13 years past
for all the raspberries we have sold, red, black, and other colors, it
gives 20 cents per quart.

YIELD AND PROFIT.

Although in some cases, 200 bushels per acre have been grown,
yet as a general rule about one-third of that amount, or 2,000 quarts ,
would be a safer estimate ; and by taking the average price, 20
cents per quart, for 13 years past, it gives the following result per
acre :

Commissions at 10 per cent ... $40 00

Picking at 3 cents per quart ... 60 00
Interest on Land .... 10 00
Manure and Boxes .. 30 00
Cultivation, Incidentals, &c ... 30 00
Net Profit per acre. 230 00

Gross sales 2,000 qts. at 20c ..... $400 00

 26

SOIL AND TREATMENT.

Where the climate it suitable, raspberries will succeed well on

almost any loam land that will produce good crops of corn and
wheat. As a general rule the Rubus occidentalis will do better on
light sandy soil than the strigosus, hence the great popularity of
the cap varieties in some sections where red raspberries do not
succeed. A cool moist situation, inclining to the north is preferable ;
it should be thoroughly drained ; raspberries will not thrive with
wet feet. The soil should be well supplied with manure and fertil-
izers ; ground bone, phosphates and hair manure are excellent.
Plough and prepare the ground in the fall ; open deep furrows
six feet apart ; during winter, haul muck and spread along the
furrows freely. As early in the spring as practicable, take small
young plants and set them along the rows on the muck, to average
about two feet apart, requiring 3,630 plants per acre.
Cover the roots with a small plow, going once around each row.
Then follow after, treading the ground firm around each plant,
while holding the top straight, which should be cut off near the
ground so as not to exhaust the roots in supporting leaves and fruit
the first summer.
Potatoes or other vegetables may, with advantage, be grown
between the rows the first year, after which the raspberries will
require the whole space. The old wood which has borne fruit, should
be removed before the following spring, and the young canes short-
ened in about one-third their length, so they will stand firm and
erect, bearing heavy crops of fruit without stakes, trellises, or sup-
port of any kind .
 THE HUCKLEBERRY.

BY C. W. IDELL .

While Horticulturists are busy propagating and introducing new

varieties of fruits, I leave it to them to sound their praises, while I
call your attention to one of our own natives that has been
neglected, yet in quality is far superior to many species they have
enthusiastically extolled as being the perfection of rich and desirable
culture. I have never known this fruit to be cultivated or the least
attempt made to bring it under the bonds of civilization, although
many writers have concluded it could be done. The fact is, God
has distributed this little berry too freely over our State for us to
appreciate its excellence and possibility of improvement.
Strawberries once grew wild only, but in such limited quantities
that in order to supply the demand they had to be cultivated ; the
same with the blackberry ; only a few years since a cultivated black-
berry was unknown, all were found wild in the woods or fields, yet
as the demand increased , the supply decreased, and only through a
course of experimental cultivation the Lawton, Wilson, Kittatinny
and Dorchester were discovered , and sent forth to gratify the palates
of all lovers of these fine varieties ; but the huckleberry has been
neglected to such an extent that it is known only by the botanical
names of its genus and several species, and the rude, common names
given by the inhabitants of the country in which it grows.
On looking into the history of this fruit, we find that it grows
wild in many countries beside our own. It is found in the moun-
tains of Scotland at an elevation of 4,000 feet above the level of the
sea, and is a native of Northern Europe, but these are of kinds spar-
ingly found in this country, if at all, none of our market species
being known in Europe.
In this country they are widely diffused from Canada to the
mountains of Georgia. The common name among the country
people, and in the market, is huckleberry ; but some fastidious
persons think this is vulgar, and a corruption of whortleberry, which
they regard as the polite name- not being aware that this is itself a
corruption of " Myrtleberry," the name by which the fruit was
known in Europe in early times, so we have myrtleberry, whortle-
berry, hurtleberry and huckleberry, one being quite as correct as the
other, but general usage has hit upon the most easily spoken-
huckleberry. The Saxons call it the hartberry, the Germans heidle,
or heathberry.
The twigs and bark are astringent, and have been used for tan-
ning. The bark is slightly stimulating. Spirits of a highly intoxicat-
 28

ing nature have been made from the fruit. A very pleasant drink
can also be made from it ; and I once gave some of the juice to a
manufacturer of medicated wines, to test and compare with the
blackberry, and he informed me "that he considered it far superior
in its medicinal qualities." Leaving aside the general and specific
peculiarities of this good and useful berry, I will confine this article
to our own State, in order to condense and make it more instructive
and interesting.
I am aware that persons who live in densely populated and highly
cultivated portions of the State, cannot realize that in our counties
bordering on the coast, we have thousands of acres of land that have
never been tilled , whose surface is covered with forests of trees, and
bushes that produce annually millions of bushels of these berries.
The surface of the land on which this fruit grows, is mostly level,
and sandy, with the exception of the lower portion , which contains
large swamps, where until quite recently this berry grew undisturbed
in all its native wildness and beauty.
Large fires often break out in the districts and devastate hundreds
of acres, burning every tree and bush, but owing to the rapidity
with which they travel, the heat does not always penetrate the soil
sufficiently deep to destroy the roots of the bushes, consequently
they soon spring up again with renewed vigor. Should these fires
take place in the spring or early summer, the roots start readily, and
by fall often obtain a good growth, so that by the next season many
of them begin to bear fruit, and from the second to the fifth year,
produce the finest berries and yield the largest crops of fruit.
Botanists place the plants producing our market huckleberries in
two genera of the Heath family. One has its leaves quite sticky
when warmed by holding in the hand , due to minute specks of resin.
The fruit of these has very hard seeds, or little nuts in place of seeds.
The others are Vacciniums, from the ancient Latin name.
The first to ripen are those borne by bushes about two feet high.
These grow on the higher and dryer portions of the land, and some
say that when the surface is rolling the fruit attains a larger size.
These are a small, sweet blue berry, and are covered with a fine
bloom, and being hard carry well.
The " swamps," so called from their growing in the swamp lands
referred to, ripen next in order , and are the largest and richest of all
varieties . Some of them grow as large as the common black-heart
cherry, are sweet , and very juicy , and are also covered with a bloom
equal to that which covers the Concord grape . They are very tender
in their richness , which causes them to carry badly.
This variety does not yield so quickly after burning as the others, as
it generally requires from two and a-half to three years to produce
its first crop, yet in time it frequently grows to the height of ten to
twelve feet. The next in order of ripening is the common variety,
with which you are mostly acquainted ; it is medium in size ; color,
light blue ; sweet ; without bloom, and is a good marketing berry.
 29

Another variety is medium in size ; very hard ; black and glossy

and is known by the name of " Cracker." It has a tart flavor, and
full of seeds, which crack as you eat them, hence their name. They
are not popular with the native consumers, but owing to their solidity
they are sought for by the shippers of this fruit to send to distant
cities, where they do not have the privilege of selecting other and
better kinds.
There is another variety that grows very abundantly in Ocean
county, which, I believe, is mostly confined to that section, and is
known as the " Hog-berry." When ripe it is of a grayish brown,
quite large, dry, hard , consequently bears transportation well, but
does not possess much flavor.
A later variety is called the " Bill," or " Dangle-berry ; " they are
large ; of a bright blue color, slightly acid, and quite juicy ; they
grow on long stems, hence their name, " Dangle."
The peculiar feature of this fruit is, that when picked with the
stems on, they keep dry ; but when separated, the juice oozes from
the berries, and in warm weather soon sours them .
The latest variety is called " Shiny Blacks," on account of their
being so glossy. They are a trifle tart, but large, and possess a good
flavor, and last until the frost destroys them.
This fruit grows in other sections of the State, but in such limited
quantities that I need not dwell upon it.
While I have called your attention to the leading varieties, and
the names by which they are known, I believe that many others
might be found by a close observer.
This fruit begins to ripen by the first of July, then a succession of
ripenings take place the entire season until killed by the frost.
The first arrival of huckleberries in the New York market is
eagerly sought for, and is frequently sold at from $ 10 to $12 per
bushel ; but as the quantity increases the price gradually declines
until it reaches $4 per bushel, when large quantities are received and
sold at this price, and were it not for the interference of other fruits,
I question if the price would fall below that figure ; but a large
crop of peaches seriously interferes with them, as well as all other
kinds of fruit.
Permit me to call your attention to other items of interest con-
nected with the gathering and shipping of this fruit before it enters
the market for consumption. As this fruit grows wild , all are free to
go when and where they choose to gather it ; consequently, thousands
of persons, mostly women and children, find it a source of much
pecuniary profit.
Mr. David Rogers, of Cedar Creek, Ocean county, New Jersey, a
veteran carter, to whom I am indebted for much valuable informa-
tion, informs me that he knew of a family of seven persons, mostly
children, who made $25.00 per day for two weeks in succession by
picking berries, and quite a number of girls to make $5.00 per day ;
and it is a very common occurrence for a mother with her family
 30

of from five to six children, to gather from three to five bushels per
day. Of course, the receipt of each was in proportion to their mar-
ket value, yet in the early part of the season they frequently sold
their berries at from $5.00 to $6.00 per bushel. Now, what these
persons did, others could do also ; and it shows conclusively that a
large amount of money is yearly earned by these people by picking
this fruit.
In an interesting letter from Mr. Rogers, he says : " If you wish
to see a happy set of laborers, take a ride with a carter through his
district when he goes to gather berries, and see the group of smiling,
happy faces, that crowd around the wagon to exchange their berries
for the money, for you must understand this point-they don't
trust. True, they look happy, and are, but many of them dress in
unique if not beautiful style, but their dress is adapted to their work,
and when you see these young women with torn dresses, or perhaps
with a pair of pants on, made of strong drilling, you would not
realize that they were the same beautiful girls that you saw on
Sunday at church, dressed in the richest of silks, as closely pinned
back as any Broadway belle ; yet they are the same, and they are the
women whose price is above rubies, many of whom now adorn the
homes of many men of wealth and refinement."
As this fruit is scattered over such a large surface of country, the
mode of gathering and marketing it is peculiar. It is done by a class
of persons called " Carters." Previous to the ripening of the fruit,
these men provide themselves with a number of boxes, which contain
either eight or sixteen quarts each. The sixteen- quart boxes are
made without lids, but have a narrow strip across the top, in order to
prevent one box from dropping into the others and damaging the
fruit ; at the same time it answers as a handle to the box. The
eight- quart boxes are generally packed in skeleton cases, with lids,
each case containing either four or six boxes. When the fruit is
sold these boxes are returned to the shipper, to be refilled.
In the beginning of this shipping business they made use of any
ordinary box containing from 16 quarts to one and a-half bushel, and
occasionally three bushels would be sent in one package ; but this
system necessitated the measuring of the fruit, which in time created
dissatisfaction among the shippers, owing to the shrinkage in the
measure reported as sold, from the quantity sent ; gradually the
present system was introduced, and these two kinds of boxes are
now used by all the large shippers in the State.
These carters select a portion of the " Pines " which they call their
route ; they drive through this route and meet the pickers at a named
point, and at stated hours, and buy their fruit. This plan is adopted
for the convenience of both parties, and it saves time and fatigue to
each ; yet these pickers are not so isolated that they cannot or do
not learn the price paid by other carters.
When the carter has gone his round and gathered his load of fruit,
he proceeds with it to the nearest depot, and ships it to market,
 31

where it is generally sold by the box, not measured, as that would

injure it.
Years ago, before the railroad penetrated every county of the
State, these men had to cart the fruit many miles before they could
reach a shipping point, and in most cases it took them two days and
nights to make a trip, as they followed the fruit and received money
for it before they returned ; but now they can make from one to three
trips daily.
As the telegraph, also, now connects with the leading stations on
the line of their railroads, these carters are enabled to learn daily,
the prices for which their berries sell, consequently they know what
they can afford to pay, and if their statement is questioned by the
pickers, they have but to produce the telegram to confirm their asser-
tions.
In some instances one or more persons locate themselves at a
prominent depot, to buy such fruit as may be brought in from sec-
tions where there are no Carters, or perhaps a picker having several
bushels to dispose of, concludes not to sell to the Carters, thinking
he may get more money for his fruit at the station, which is
generally the case, as there is more competition among the buyers.
Persons accustomed to go into the woods and pick these berries
for home consumption, can not bear to eat them after they reach the
cities, on account of their being " mussed." I know no more appro-
priate word for the condition they are in, for they are not mashed .
I do not wonder at them ; but when we consider the jolting and
handlings they receive, you will not be surprised. Let me, at the
close of this article, call your attention to these changes, not merely
out of curiosity, but to show you why fruit should be handled more
carefully by transportation companies than it is. First, the pickers
place them in their baskets ; then they are measured , turned out in
the boxes of the purchasers, then carted around over roots and
stumps, until all are loaded, then to the depot, where they are
placed in the cars , then on the boat, then on the dock, then on the
carts, taken to the store, where they are again placed in wagons, to
be carted over the stones of the city. These are the least of the
handlings they receive, for in many instances they are re-shipped to
other cities, to undergo another series of changes of like character.
In conclusion, permit me to say to you, gentlemen, fruit growers of
New Jersey, that I think it will add largely to your credit, and to
the honor of the State, to take a greater interest in this fruit, which
adds so largely to the wealth of the sections in which it grows ; and
if this paper will be the means of calling your attention to it, I shall
feel myself amply repaid for my efforts in their behalf.
 THE GERANIUM AS A BEDDING PLANT.

BY PETER HENDERSON, JERSEY CITY, N. J.

The taste for summer decoration of the flower garden is now

becoming so general that any information on the subject is of univer-
sal interest.
My experience in such matters has extended over a period of
nearly a quarter of a century, having been nearly all that time an
extensive grower of plants used for that purpose, and were I to-day
to be confined to any one family of plants for the summer decoration
of the flower garden, the " Geranium " would be my selection.
I use the term " Geranium " in its popular sense ; botanically speak-
ing, the correct name is Pelargonium ; the true Geranium being a
genus of plants of little beauty, interesting only to the botanist. So
I will continue to use the term Geranium for the class of plants
alluded to, as it is now known by thousands of amateur cultivators,
who, probably, never heard of the more correct name-Pelargonium .
The " Geranium ‫ وو‬embraces a number of classes , among which
are the Single Zonale, Double Zonale, Scented and Variegated.
The first of these, the single zonale, is the best for summer
decoration ; the colors run through all the shades of scarlet, crimson ,
carmine, rose, white, &c., blended , shaded, blotched and striped in
numberless variety. The following may be given as excellent types
of their several colors, although there are hundreds of others of,
perhaps, equal merit :
Of Scarlets we name Jean Sisley, Sir John Moore, Sir Harry,
Gen'l Grant, Union and Fire King ; of Crimson, Peabody, Dr.
Koch, Echo, Rival and Wonder ; of Carmine, Madam Bertrand,
Helen Lindsay, and Blue Bells ; of Rose, Master Christine, Mrs.
Whitty and Romeo ; of Blotched, Bicolor, Beauty and Marie
L'Abbe ; of Striped, Aurora and Incomparable ; of White, Snow-
flake, Bride and Emily Vaucher.
The Double Zonale Geraniums are of more recent introduction, and
were at first supposed to be of little use for summer blooming, as
the varieties first originated, were of the coarse growing kinds ; but
we have now quite a number of sorts that bid fair to rival the single
varieties, besides the double flowers can be used for making boquets,
or other uses in cut flowers, while those of the single can not, as the
petals quickly drop off when cut from the plant. We have not yet
the variety of color among the doubles as among the singles, but new
improved sorts are yearly introduced, so that before long it is fair to
 33

expect that we will yet have all the shades and styles in double that
are now known among the single. Of these we have now in
Scarlets -La Vesure, Princess Teck and Victor. Crimson- Le
Negre, Jewell and Refulgent. Carmine- Marie Crouse, Emilio and
Francois Defour. Rose-Admiration, Emily Lemoine and Delight.
Salmon.- Asa Gray and Chas. Lyell. White-Aline Sisley and
George Sand.
Scented Geraniums are grown more for the perfume of the foliage
than for the beauty of the flower. The leaves are much valued for
mixing in with boquets. The sorts most used are the Rose, Lemon,
Nutmeg, Apple, Citron and Pennyroyal-scented, though there are
probably twenty other sorts that are desirable besides these.
Of the Variegated-leaved Geranium there is now a large variety,
classed as " Gold," " Silver," and " Bronze,” —of the Gold or Golden
tricolor sorts, may be named the following : Emperor, Ebor, Sunset,
Mrs. Pollock, Lady Cullum, Sir Chas. Napier and Sophia.
Of the Silver or Silver-tricolor leaved, among the best are Eugenia,
Mrs. Dick, Princess, Alexandria , Glowworm, United Italy and Snow-
storm .
Among the Bronzed-leaved are Gen'l MacMahon, Douglas, Beauty
of Caulderdale, Queen, Model and Serilla.
The golden-tricolor varieties are many of them marked in the
most wonderful manner, rivaling the tints of the rainbow. One of
the best known sorts is " Sunset," the ground color of the leaf of
which is green, on which is a zone of orange crimson, tinted with
scarlet, the outer band or margin of the leaf being golden yellow.
Of the silver tricolor geraniums, one of the finest is " Eugenia ;" the
centre of the leaf is green, then comes a ring of crimson, blended
with rose, margined with white.
Another well- known type of the silver geranium is " Snowstorm ;"
in this the centre of the leaf, or about one third of it, is green, the
outer margin being white, and as the flowers are dazzling scarlet,
the effect of a bed of this variety is very fine. The bronze-leaved
geraniums grow freer than either the gold or silver-leaved, and nothing
can exceed the rich tints of coloring during the early summer or fall
months ; there is less variety, however, in this class than the other
two, the leading shades being a ground color of yellow, banded with
deep chocolate or bronze color, and having an entire absence of
green at all times in most of the varieties ; one of the best of this
class is " General MacMahon."
The variegated-leaved geraniums do not do well, with one or two
exceptions, in our hot summers. We find that whenever the tem-
perature, for any length of time, keeps at 85 to 90 in the shade, that
they lose the brilliant leaf-tinting, no matter how carefully they
may be cultivated by shading or watering. They are the most
popular class of plants used in England for bedding, and wonderful
effects are produced by them there, when planted in ribbon lines or
masses ; but in England the average temperature during the summer
8
 34

months, is, probably, 15 degrees lower than our summer average,

which accounts for their success and our failure in growing this
class of geraniums.
However, they do well as house plants, for fall, winter or spring,
whether grown as window plants, or in the green-house.
The cultivation of the single and double geraniums first men-
tioned, as bedding plants, is of the simplest kind ; they grow in
almost any soil, provided it is rich enough. In our flower grounds
we grow nearly an acre annually. The ground is prepared by us
just as we would do for a cabbage crop. Three or four inches
of well rotted manure is ploughed in and the ground is then
deeply and thoroughly harrowed so as to mix the manure
with the soil. Of course, in small gardens the spade and rake
take the place of the plow and harrow, but the result to be pro-
duced must be the same-deep cultivation, and thorough mixing of
manure with the soil. To have the best results , plants should be
made from cuttings or slips in October, grown on during the winter
in the greenhouse, so that the plant when set out in May, will be
nearly a foot in diameter. This is the way in which our " stock
plants " are treated, and it well repays the trouble, as from June to
October our geranium beds, double and single, are a perfect blaze of
flowers. We plant them out at a distance of 18 inches apart each
way in beds feet wide, and by September the beds are a dense
mass of rich green foliage and dazzling flowers.
Five years ago our leading bedding plant was the verbena, but
now it is rapidly being superseded in popular estimation by the gera-
nium. In 1870 my sales of all classes of geraniums were less than
20,000, and in 1875 they numbered upwards of 100,000, while the
number of verbenas sold have been lessened in that time.
The geranium has in its various members all the qualifications
desirable in flowering plants -beauty of foliage, beauty of flowers,
and exquisite fragrance. Its adaptability to all conditions of culture
in or out of doors ; its comparative freedom from insects and disease ;
the ease with which it can be propagated, by seeds or cuttings are
all elements of popularity ; besides these its vigor of growth enables
it to endure greater ill-usage than almost any other cultivated plant.
It is not to be wondered at, that it is seen brightening the windows
of the humblest cottage as well as the most luxurious conservatory.
 THE HYBRIDIZATION OF THE STRAWBERRY.

BY E. W. DURAND, IRVINGTON, N. J.

Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the Horticultural Society ofthe

State of New Jersey :

In accordance with a request made by your Executive Committee,

to write an article upon the hybridization of the strawberry, I have
prepared these lines as a guide to those who may wish to avail them-
selves of dearly bought experience.
It is not without sincere regret that I commence this article, know-
ing I shall carry disappointment to those spending time and labor,
hoping to obtain by a lucky hit or chance something valuable, that
may take precedence of prominent varieties now in cultivation. To
all pursuing this course I can give but one word of advice, and that
emphatically is, stop your efforts in this direction will surely end
in disappointment and vexation . You will find no royal road to ex-
cellence ; it can only be obtained by gradual progression.
THE FIRST STEP
is experiment ; combinations must be made to ascertain the qualities
that will harmonize. You must find out the nature of the material
with which you have to deal. You will perceive this first step re-
quires years of trial and trouble, yet with a knowledge of the general
results of combination, you are masters of the situation ; every step
is a step in advance. Of course your experiments must be sufficiently
extensive to cover any chance of a backward step. With a knowl-
edge of the qualities of various plants, and the effect of their com-
binations, you may proceed with the plants in pairs : a staminate or
perfect flower with a true pistillate, at sufficient distance from other
plants to insure isolation. With a number of couples judiciously
selected, you will be able to procure reliable plants for next year's
combinations. Pursue this course persistently, and although you will
meet with sufficient vexation and trouble, you will be rewarded in
the end.
Do not employ the same plants or the same parentage too long.
Introduce new blood as often as possible, but not without sufficient
knowledge of their qualities (by previous acquaintance) to make your
combinations somewhat certain. Your greatest dependence must be
upon your pistillates ; and while you are breeding from those you
know to be reliable, it is well to try the prominent new varieties in
way of staminates, and be sure of their qualities before employing
 36

them as breeders. I would not advise the planting of the seed the
same year as produced , as there is not sufficient time to determine
anything ; you may get some plants sufficiently forward to bear the
next year, but it will be by a forced immature growth, that will mis-
lead rather than give an estimate of true worth. My own plan has
been to wash the seed well, dry thoroughly, place each kind in a
paper separately, number it, register the combinations, and place in
the seed chest until spring.
By this management the plants may attain sufficient size and age
to bear naturally and properly the first year of planting. Great care
must be exercised in the selections the first year, as it is almost im-
possible to determine which are valuable. The worthless ones of
course are thrown out, the rest retained for years of trial.
Your pistillates are to be selected and subjected to various tests for
future use ; their qualities noted, watched, and changes registered,
before any safe conclusion can be arrived at ; meantime the new
combinations are to be considered . Of course, when produced they
must be kept separate and distinct from the others, otherwise you
will get things muddled , and will be unable to determine the effect
of your various crossings .
Another year brings new combinations, these again are to be sepa-
rated from all others, and so on year after year, each adding new
complications and subjects, requiring intense application and study,
that each step may be progressive, each year adding a link to the
chain by which you are to arrive at the true theory of propagation .
As you proceed the matter becomes intensely complicated ; the
crossings and effects must be closely scrutinized, and continually
hammered at, until the brain becomes fairly bewildered with the
mass of accumulating material.
In looking back over the trials by which I have been surrounded
in pursuing this matter for the last seventeen years, I sometimes
wonder that I am in existence at all. I should, with the burden already
upon me and accumulating, have thrown the whole thing from me, time
and again, and consigned it to oblivion, had it not been that so many
years of labor would have been thrown away, and pass for nothing.
Yet there is a fascination that binds me still. The intense interest I
have always taken in the development of new combinations ; the
unfolding of new and peculiar beauties ; the confirmation of certain
principles, of proper conceptions producing certain results, and with-
al as I find myself able to separate the wheat from the chaff, I feel
that I can walk more surely in the onward path ; that as I look back
upon its deviating, winding way, yet tending to one course will
eventually lead me to the prize at which I have aimed . Some estimate
of the labor involved in this matter may be arrived at by a retrospec-
tive view of the ground I have been over ; commencing with a theory
of my own, and wholly at variance with that proposed by the late
lamented Seth Boyden, in the year 1859.
The first year I made but two crossings, since which time I have
 37

increased to hundreds and thousands of experiments. I generally

produce two or three thousand new varieties each year ; sometimes
more, sometimes less, and have still under trial varieties originated
in 1862 , and from that time some from nearly every year since. From
the mass of my productions, about fifty thousand varieties, I have
selections that keep my stock at between two and three thousand
varieties continually on hand . These with my seedlings, and promi-
nent leading favorites, keep me otherwise occupied than looking at
the moon.
A word of advice may be appropriate here to many engaged in
this matter, who are not fully aware as to what may be necessary in
way of production that would demand attention, and to those also
that have acquired the idea that large berries are deficient in flavor
and inferior to small ones. That there have been many large kinds
thrown upon the market, valued alone for their size, I am well aware ;
but that size has anything to do with flavor, I do not believe ; except
that a naturally small berry, may be forced by stimulants to a large
size, in which case even those of fine flavor will surely be tasteless .
But with this we have nothing to do ; it is those naturally large to
which I allude, and which under proper conditions are as rich and
fine flavored as may be desired. The Black Defiance, for instance,
originated in 1862, and exhibited at the great Waverly strawberry
exhibition againts hundreds of competitors, although the largest
berry there, was awarded the first prize as being the richest and highest
flavored ; and with my experience I have never found any difference
in flavor on account of size.
Small berries are a useless commodity in these days . While the
small ones , with which the market is glutted , are selling anywhere
from three to ten cents per quart, our large ones from Irvington and
vicinity bring from twenty-five to forty at wholesale ; and I find no
difficulty in disposing of my own large berries at from fifty cents up to
two dollars, and in exceptional cases have been offered five dollars,
per quart.
Now as to new productions. To be of value, they should measure
from four to eight inches in circumference, of good form, color and
flavor ; very large specimens are not expected to be perfect in form,
yet those of medium size should always be. The calyx should never
be imbedded in the flesh, which should be sufficiently firm to carry
well and withstand all changes of our variable climate. The texture
should be fine, flesh rich, with a moderate amount of acid, no more
than just sufficient to make it palatable with sugar as a table berry.
The plant should be hardy, vigorous, large and strong ; of great en-
durance as to climatic change, and able to stand any amount of
manure of the right kind . Should be a prolific bearer, with stalks of
sufficient length to keep the fruit out of the dirt, and bear its berries
of nearly uniform size to the end. Any serious departure from such
necessary qualities would be fatal to any new variety.
From this stand-point you may judge how slight may be the chances
of any accidental production.
 38

I have selected hundreds upon hundreds of new plants apparently

superior to anything known, and have been compelled to throw them
out in consequence of some slight deficiency, while in many desirable
qualities they were perfect. As prominent instances of this kind, I
will mention one or two. Some ten years since I selected for cultiva-
tion a plant producing immense berries, with the idea that I should
astonish the world . They were of such a size that people supposed
they were tomatoes. A profuse bearer, with very few small berries ,
and every desirable quality except that of flavor. Of course it was
worthless. Another, seemingly with every desirable quality, was
found to be gaining in fruit at expense of its foliage. I thought
nothing of this trouble at first, but years of experience has convinced
me of the folly of depending upon such plants. Time after time I
have subjected such to various tests. Stimulate the foliage, it would
be at expense of its fruit ; urge it to fruit, its foliage would fail.
They are simply deficient in vitality, and should be abandoned at
once. It is the inevitable fate of originators to meet with continual
trials and vexations of this kind. I am acquainted with those who
have been spending the greater part of their lives in this very thing,
and yet have never produced anything of real value. An instance
occurs to me of this kind, of a friend and very prominent man in fruit
culture. I questioned him as to his mode of proceeding his reply
was that he sowed the seed of the berries he exhibited , without re-
gard to sex. He never did produce anything, and never would in
that way, should he live a thousand years .
My time-honored friend and neighbor, the late Seth Boyden,
with whom I was always on the best of terms, and for whom I
have the greatest esteem-to whom the strawberry world is indebted
as much as to any man alive-was for several years inclined to question
my mode of propagation by pairs, while he pursued a different
course that of placing a row of pistillates of various kinds, and a
similar row of staminates or perfect flowers near them, as offering a
greater opportunity for variety. He afterwards acknowledged to me
he was wrong ; and in speaking of a friend who was pursuing this
course, said he might go on in this way as long as he lived , and get
nothing in the end.
I repeat, if there is so little likelihood of valuable production
under such care, what chance may remain for those who plant any-
thing and expect wonders to grow out of it ? It is simply a waste of
time and labor, ending in disappointment.
My object in this matter is to do away as much as possible with
this useless proceeding. For those who commence at all, I would
say, commence right, and you will be on the road to success ; other-
wise, never.
My course is to select my pistillates after years of trial, subject to
severe tests, place alongside such staminate as I think will harmonize
and produced a certain desired effect. Another pistillate, the same as
the last, is placed far from the last, with a different staminate, and
 39

so on until I exhaust the staminates I wish to test with that variety ;

of late years using but two or three kinds of pistillate plants. These
last are a combination of excellence ; I never show them to my most
intimate friends, the public know nothing about them. The years of
trial and experiment necessary to produce such plants, must necessa-
rily discourage a beginner ; yet it is the only course that will lead to
success. I repeat, you will find no royal road to excellence.
A slight repetition may be necessary here to enable those interest-
ed to see the way clearly, by an outline of the different courses
pursued.
The first is the general or
FALSE COURSE.

It is the one almost invariably taken, and that of the prominent

cultivator spoken of- sowing the seed of any fine berry. If a
staminate or hermaphrodite, of course it is self-impregnated, pro-
ducing an inferior berry of the same character. If pistillate, fertilized
by what ? Anything, perhaps the poorest staminate in the whole
collection ; and the chances are a thousand to one, if some of its pistils
should receive pollen from the best in the bed, that it would be in
harmony or supply the various deficiencies.
Now as to the
GENERAL COURSE ,

that pursued by Seth Boyden and many others. A row of pistillates

of various kinds, and a similar row of staminates, of course your
chances are increased . You may make successful combinations, but
how are you to determine what this combination may be, and how
are you to judge of effect in way of progression, as essential to
success ? You may guess, but there is no certainty, while the
chances are, that being improperly grouped, every one may prove
unfortunate.
Not so with the
TRUE METHOD,

that of propagating by pairs, each parent of which is possessed

of certain distinctive features. The result is apparent ; you pass
from one to another and note the result. You are enabled to draw
certain deductions. In future years exceptions are noted , and general
action corroborated, by careful and judicious selections, your pro-
gress is certain ; and although you will meet with all manner of
vexatious disappointments, it is nothing in comparison with the
muddle you are sure to get in, by an indefinite course ; and in this,
as in all things, by a well-directed perseverance you will surely attain
the desired result.
That I have drawn a not very encouraging picture for the novice,
I am well aware ; that I shall discourage numbers, I am equally as
 40

well aware. Yet I am not disposed to hold out encouragements

without a solitary chance of success.
That there are hundreds experimenting in a hap-hazard, chance
kind of a way in this matter, I believe ; yet in the present condition
of things, that they may produce anything of value, is, to say the
least, extremely problematical.
That the art is yet in its infancy, I also believe, but that it requires
something more than the slipshod , disorganized manner of general
propagation to bring it out, I am firmly of opinion. That it requires
intense study in way of experimental combination. Those having
experience, will no doubt willingly testify to this assertion. Also
that to insure success it requires an instinctive appreciation of the
principles and properties of plants and their combinations, as essen-
tials.
It would be unnecessary here for me to go into detail, of the
principles involved, of the various effects produced, of peculiar and
singular action in some cases, of the minutia attending a long series
of trials, and experiments, and the deductions to be drawn. It
would consume a great deal of time, and exhaust the patience of
those not immediately interested .
To those I would say that having been so frequently solicited for
such material, I have concluded to give the results of my experience
along with that of general management in strawberry culture, as a
guide to all interested ; if possible, to be ready for publication in
the spring of 1876.
 ENTOMOLOGY AND ITS RELATIONS TO

HORTICULTURE.

BY ANDREW 8. FULLER, RIDGEWOOD, N. J.

Every thoughtful man must regret that there should exist in this,
our Centennial year, a necessity for presenting a paper to any Horti-
cultural Society, upon the subject which I have selected . But there
are thousands of otherwise very intelligent men among us who are
not aware of the intimate relationship existing between entomology
and horticultural pursuits. All insects to them, are " bugs," and en-
emies of the human race, either directly or indirectly, and, in their
opinion, no good can come of a close study of their history or the
true economic position which they hold in the great indivisible
chain of nature.
As evils generally are only the manifest results of a disturbance of
some natural law, we may conclude that the depredations of insects,
to any considerable extent, are the legitimate fruits of our own igno-
rance of their habits, or indifference to the application of proper pre-
ventives.
Of course, insects are just as necessary to the existence of plants
as the plants are to insects, and the total annihilation of one would
result in the same fate to the other ; consequently, we do not seek
such extreme measures, but aim at establishing and retaining an
equilibrium between the two. We might perhaps, without loss, dis-
pense with the codling moth, plum curculio, and Colorado potato
beetle, and some few more of the most abundant noxious species : but
even should this ever become possible, it would not be wise to place
the execution of so great a work in the hands of ignorant laborers.
I do not mean by this term, " ignorant laborers," those we employ on
our farms or in our gardens, but men who know nothing of the
science of entomology, however well they may be informed on other
subjects.
A man may be a passably intelligent horticulturist, and at the same
time a poor entomologist ; hence, in his attempts to regulate matters
among insect depredators, he may do more harm than good . For
instance, the now common cabbage worm or caterpillar of the small
white rape butterfly, (Pieris rapa,) introduced from Europe a few
years since, has spread to every part of the country where cabbages
are cultivated . When first introduced it appears to have had no
natural enemies except the birds, and these made little impression
in checking its ravages : but after the lapse of a half-dozen years the
 42

parasite, which had for ages preyed upon it in Europe arrived , and
immediately commenced to lessen the number. So rapidly did this
little parasitic fly accomplish its mission, that the second season after
its appearance in my neighborhood, scarcely a specimen of the cab-
bage worm could be found . Previous to this time, the Agricultural
and Horticultural press had not only advised the killing of all the
worms found working upon the cabbages, but the gathering of the
chrysalids which could usually be found in great numbers attached
to fences and outbuildings during the winter. This was good advice
at first, but worse than useless after the appearance of its parasitic
enemy, because the pupa of the latter are always enclosed within
those of the former ; therefore, in attempting to destroy an enemy,
we were likely to kill many friends. Time and again I have received
specimens of the cabbage butterfly chrysalids which were literally
crowded full of the pupa of the little Pteromalus puparum (or
cabbage worn parasite) which had, in a few years, almost put an end
to this great enemy of the cabbage.
From this one instance, as well as scores of others which might be
named, it must be apparent to every one that a knowledge of insect
life is as necessary, in order to secure desirable results, as to know
something of plant life to become a successful horticulturist. In fact,
it is scarcely possible for a man to reach a very advanced position in
either entomology or horticulture, without becoming more or less
familiar with the principles and processes of both.
The first step made by the novice in collecting specimens toward
forming a cabinet, he will meet insects feeding upon plants ; and this
leads him to make investigations in regard to their name and habits.
He soon discovers that while certain species of insects confine their
ravages to certain kinds of plants, others feed indiscriminately with-
out much apparent preference .
INDIFFERENCE OF THE MASSES.
The increase of noxious insects has spread consternation among
farmers and fruit growers of the country, causing losses of untold
millions of dollars to them ; and while they mourn over their losses ,
scarcely an effort is made to prevent such disasters in the future. It
is more than fifty years since Thomas Say described and named the
Colorado beetle, and nearly twenty since its Eastern march was
begun ; and yet, while our entomologists sounded the tocsin, foretell-
ing the result which must follow the spread of this pest, as well as
how it might easily be prevented, no heed was taken of the warning,
and to-day we are only paying the penalty of indifference and
neglect. Had a tribe of Indians marched down from the Rocky Moun-
tains and destroyed five or fifty thousand dollars' worth of property,
there would have been a great hue and cry made over it ; but an
insect may come and destroy five or one hundred millions of dollars,
and not one move will be made to repair the loss or prevent a repeti-
tion of the same.
 43

I cannot attribute this general apathy of our people in such matters

to anything else but universal ignorance of the science of ento-
mology, or that our politicians cannot see any opportunity for
swindling the masses in fighting insects as they do in the case of a
war with a human foe. Only show our Congressmen and State
Legislatures how they can make a little or a good deal of money out
of a war upon insects foes , and there will be no lack of men and
means to conquer them .
The annual loss to the cotton planters of the Southern States
through insect depredations, is from ten to one hundred millions
of dollars ; still, no considerable effort has ever been made to save
this vast amount to the country. But the actual losses of crops cul-
tivated is not the full extent of injury caused by our insect enemies,
but they have prevented the introduction and dissemination of many
valuable kinds of plants, as well as compelled the abandonment of
hosts of others over extensive regions of country.
The plum, peach and apricot, which formerly flourished in all
parts of this State, are now only rarely cultivated, except in the
gardens of our cities and villages, and all in consequence of insect
enemies.
The same or similar conditions exist in many other States ; and
still, in the face of these facts, entomology is a science almost un-
known in our common schools and colleges. Two Western States
do, I believe, employ an entomologist to gather information and dis-
seminate it among their people ; but the salary obtained for this
service is less than that obtained in a second-rate clerkship in our
cities, which shows how lightly the labors of entomologists are appre-
ciated-another evidence of the universal ignorance of the masses
of subjects affecting their own immediate welfare.

NEW JERSEY A LAGGARD.

In the year 1785 a society was organized in the city of Philadel

phia, under the name of the " Philadelphia Society for Promoting
Agriculture." In the published reports of this Society during the
succeeding twenty-five years, I find numerous communications from
gentlemen residing in New Jersey- in fact, the most active members
were Jerseymen. During the period named, New Jersey was the
centre of pomological knowledge, and such men as William Coxe of
Burlington, Richard Peters of Belmont, Paul Cooper, of Woodbury,
and many others whose names are well known in the history of the
State, were hard at work, gathering and disseminating horticultural
information. But in reading their writings we learn that the plum
curculio had already begun its ravages, the peach tree borer had
very nearly discouraged these pioneers in the field , and vainly did they
seek practical or scientific information in regard to the habits and his-
tory of these insects. The question now arises, how much better off
should we be to-day in regard to the habits of these identical species ,
 44

had no one investigated this subject but Jerseymen ? We have

institutions of learning endowed munificently, one having received
over a million of dollars during the past half-dozen years ; but
should a pomologist visit one of our colleges to learn the name of the
common apple tree borer, he would probably find their entomological
knowledge or cabinet did not extend beyond a stone model of the
Scarabaeus of the ancient Egyptian. Admitting that " distance
lends enchantment," would it not be well to learn something of our
own immediate surroundings, as well as of people long since passed
from this earth ?

WHAT IS THE REMEDY ?

That we can never wage a successful war against our insect enemies
without knowing the principal features of their natural history, is
conceded by every one who has paid any attention to the subject ;
therefore, the first thing to do is to devise some means for a general
dissemination of entomological information.
Perhaps if this Society is sustained, as I hope it may deserve to
be, something of the kind may be done through its annual reports.
But I have no faith in any scheme for bringing about any great
change or revelation in regard to the interest of the masses in ento-
mology—or, in fact, any other useful branch of science- unless the
seed is planted in our common schools. These are the nurseries to
which the nation must look for its future supply of " bent " or up-
right twigs, and the longer we overlook that fact, the more remote
will be the day when every child shall know that all insects are not
bugs, or created expressly to torment the human race.
We must have elementary works upon entomology suited to the
capacity of children, in which the life history of some of our
most common insects is given in language readily understood .
The history of the mosquito would be especially interesting to the
children of New Jersey, and it might even attract the attention of
those of larger growth, for I fear there are many men and women in
the State who are not aware of the fact that this very troublesome
little fly, in one stage of its existence, performs a most meritorious
work, beneficial to beings of a higher order.
The main features in the history of all insects- such, for instance,
as their various transformations -could readily be imparted to chil-
dren in plain but attractive language, and thereby diffuse a
knowledge of these creatures which would naturally increase, and
eventually produce most beneficial results . With such a system of
education, the people who will meet at our bi-centennial celebration,
might be so well informed upon entomological subjects, as not to
look upon the common thousand-legged worm as a kind of caterpillar,
or believe that insects breathe through their nose or mouth, or
execute their songs by the aid of the same organs. Perhaps they
 45

would also know that little house flies never grow to be big ones , but
are born little and remain in that condition, and that all kinds of
flies come from pupa of full size, and as large as they ever will be.
There are thousands of such simple scraps of insect history which
it would be well for everybody to know, if for no other purpose than
to promote their own pleasure in passing through life.

IN CONCLUSION,

permit me to suggest that our future progress in horticulture largely

depends upon our success in controlling insect enemies. The labors
of a few men, scattered here and there through the State, will accom-
plish very little in this direction ; but by an organized effort, with a
proper knowledge of the work to be done and the best method of
doing it, the end sought will be reached in due course of time.
 THE GLADIOLUS AND OTHER SUMMER

FLOWERING BULBS,

THEIR USEFULNESS FOR LAWNS AND DOOR-YARDS .

BY GEO. SUCH, SOUTH AMBOY, N. J.

I have lived so long in New Jersey- now nearly twenty years-

that I have become thoroughly imbued with the feelings that are
said to exist in the breast of almost every one of the natives , and I
confess to finding my actions very much influenced by these feelings ,
both in the way of good and in the way of evil.
The bad influence-the " Jersey pirate " feeling -comes over
me strongly at times, tempting me to keep the well-made basket that
should be returned to its owner, or prompting me to lay violent
hands on the demijohns of those of my friends who are known to
have a stock of old applejack.
Luckily, I can bear up tolerably well under these temptations to
evil, but the better part of the New Jersey influences I cannot with-
stand. Among these better influences must be considered the spirit
with which the people of New Jersey take hold of matters connected
with State interests, and the clannish pride they feel in upholding the
good name of the State in all respects, whether social or otherwise.
Therefore, being imbued with this feeling, I gladly become a
member of the " New Jersey State Horticultural Society "- (long
life to it) ; and having been asked to read a paper, I readily con-
sented, and if the interests of our Society would be respectably
advanced by my dancing a hornpipe, I should probably " make an
offer " at that, for the purpose of showing my desire to contribute to
the cause.
I propose to say a few words regarding " The Gladiolus and other
summer flowering bulbs, their usefulness for lawns and door-yards,"
this being the subject suggested by our Secretary, Mr. Hance.
The Gladiolus certainly deserves to stand first among the summer
flowering bulbs, on account of its great masses of flowers and their
incomparable range of colors . Do we want scarlets so vivid that
the eye is fairly dazzled and bewildered by them ? Let us take
Fulton, Le Phare, Le Titien, Lord Byron, Meteor, Meyerbeer,
Phoebus, Van Spandonk, or Virgile. For reds clear and bright, but
more subdued , let us take Antonius, Benvenuto, James Watt, Le
Poussin, Montaigne, Mons. Legouve, Napoleon III, and others. We
have crimsons of all degrees of intensity and richness, from Jupiter
and Robert Fortune, of exceeding depth of color, to Horace Vernet
 47

and Minerve. Then these crimsons are at times overcast with purple
or with violet, as in the case of Athalia, Macauley and Phidias ; or
are varied with white, yellow, rose and other tints and shades in end-
less variety.
Rose color we find, from the faintest blush, as in Marie Stuart, to
the exceedingly rich satin rose of Octavia or Ulysses.
Yellow is well represented by Eldorado, Ophir, Pactole and the
clear canary color of Solfatarre.
White of the utmost purity and delicacy is found in Beatrix, in
La Candeur, Madame Desportes, Norman, Shakespeare and a host of
others, and this is combined with such exquisite tints of lilac, car-
mine, rose, flesh-color, violet and other colors, as can scarcely be
imagined . Indeed, much as I love the fine Orchids, the Cattleyas,
Lælias, Dendrobiums and other beauties, truth compels me to say that
many of the Gladiolus flowers are not one whit behind them, either
in brilliancy, delicacy, or in elegance.
A good idea of the variety of color to be found in the Gladiolus,
may be had by examining a bed of seedlings. It is pretty generally
known that this flower does not come true from seed- in other
words, that seed is not at all likely to produce colors similar to those
of the plant from which the seed is taken ; but it is not so generally
known that among thousands of seedlings, hardly two resemble each
other ; and yet almost all of them are very handsome. In fact, any
one raising a quantity of seedling Gladiolus bulbs, is astonished,
when they flower, to see the rich result ; there is such a perfect over-
flow of beauty ; all seem good enough to keep for future flowering,
and the raiser finds it a difficult matter to make up his mind to con-
demn even a single one. They are not, of course, likely to be, so
critically judged by the person who raised them as by some one
else, for it is said that " to think children handsome who are ugly,
and verses good that are bad, they must be our own ;" but, no mat-
ter by whom judged , these Gladioluses will be considered admirable.
In planting the Gladiolus about the lawn or in the door-yards, a
better effect is, in my opinion, produced by massing the colors har-
moniously, using for the purpose the named varieties ; for though a
bed of seedlings is a fine sight, the mixed colors have what some
one calls a 66 spotty ‫ وو‬appearance, which is wanting in character as
compared with the effect of broad masses of color well combined.
It is well, too, to hide to a certain extent, the unsightly Gladiolus
stalks, by putting some low growing plants in front of them. I have
seen a beautiful effect produced by planting Tritoma Uvaria among
variegated Arundo Donax of suitable height ; the orange and
scarlet spikes of Tritoma, showing up splendidly through the green
and white variegation of the reed . The Gladiolus might undoubted-
ly be used to fine advantage in the same manner.
If the soil be not too wet and heavy, I find it an advantage to
plant my Gladiolus bulbs, especially those of small size, quite early,
say about the 1st of April. When planted thus early, the bulb
 48

throws out more abundant roots , I think, and the growing stalk is
not compelled to make heavy drafts on the bulb, which, until the
roots are sent out, is the sole nourishment of the young growth.
In my light, sandy ground I plant the bulbs from 3 to 6 inches
deep, according to size, any as large as a hickory-nut being put not
less than 3 inches deep . Very shallow planting is a great disadvan-
tage, for the new bulb is formed on the top of the old one, and if very
near the surface, the first dry weather checks free growth and mate-
rially injures the flowering.
Not wishing to consume much of your time, I shall say no more
about the Gladiolus-whose fine hybrids have been introduced with-
in a few years only-but will pass to the Lily, which for centuries
has occupied a place in the hearts of those who love flowers .
Among those best suited to door-yard cultivation are the old-fash-
ioned Tiger Lily and its double-flowered form, lately introduced from
Japan. Lilium umbellatum, too, is easily grown and brilliant in
color, being dazzling red and orange.
The Japanese Lilium Leichtlinii is extremely fine and very distinct,
of pure canary yellow with a few purplish spots ; but this Lily is as
yet rare and high-priced . Most of the Japanese Lilies are of a high
order of excellence, and almost all of them are useful ornaments
about our homes. The noble Lilium auratum, the Golden Lily of
Japan, with its immense flowers of rich white ground and broad
golden bands, is by some, thought to be the best of all ; while those
whose taste is for more modest beauties, prefer those Japanese sorts
that are commonly known under the name of Lilium lancifolium.
Among these we have L. lanc. rubrum, with sweet flowers all flushed
with crimsons and L. lanc. roseum , its rose-colored companion. L.
lanc. album is the same lily in pure white, and in L. lanc. puncta-
tum we find the white ground delicately spotted with pink ; but this
spotted one and the pure white have feeble constitutions in our
climate, and are very liable to rot down suddenly, even under our
tenderest care.
A new Lily, in this same section, sent out in this country under
the name of L. lanc. præcox, and in England under the name of
L. lanc. candidissinum, is, I think, sure to supersede the older L.
lanc. album . It is of the clearest white, of robust constitution, and
of the sweetest odor. Indeed , all these lancifolium varieties are
exquisitely fragrant, having none of that heavy perfume that seems
to thicken the air, as in the case of L. auratum and some others.
I would gladly, if time permitted, say a word or two for L. excel-
sum, L. longiflorum- and for others not so well known. Lilium
Candidum, the old white Lily, of gardens, is with many of us,
among our earliest remembrances in the way of flowers, and needs
no word of praise at this late day.
The Lilies we have from California, such as L. Humboldtii, L.
pardalinum, L. Washingtonianum, and their companions, are de-
lightful if they can be had in good health ; but growing in cooler air,
 49

in shady woods and by the mountain streams of their native home,

they but ill endure the hot dry days of July and August. They
pass the winter outside well enough, and come up finely in the
spring, with leaves of richest green, full of promise ; but as the
warm days come on, the leaves wilt, then turn brown, and sometimes
the stalk dies down before even a single bud has burst into flower.
If grown under conditions similar to those in which we find the wild
Lilies of our swamps and woods, they would doubtless do better, and
I hope to make trial of that, this coming summer.
Among the bulbous plants on our lawns or in our dooryards, we
must keep a sunny spot for a few Tigridias, with their glorious flow-
ers of crimson and of yellow. They need but little care ; what suits
the Gladiolus will suit them, and they will abundantly repay the
trouble we may take with them .
Indeed, what flowers will not do so . They are the best and kindest
friends of those who love them, cheering us in life and growing about
us when we have gone to our long rest. Others may forget us,
but the flowers do not ; for violets bloom and spread their fragrance
over even nameless graves.
 NEW FRUITS OF PROMISE .

BY EDWIN ALLEN, NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J.

Mr. President, and gentlemen of the New Jersey State Horticultural

Society :
It has been announced, quite unexpectedly to me, that I
would prepare an essay upon new fruits of promise, to lay before
you at this meeting. I have attempted no such thing-but in view
of the announcement, and to bring the subject before the Convention,
I have made a brief list of some new fruits that seem to me of pro-
mise, at the same time feeling it would be a greater pleasure to me
to listen to some of the more distinguished cultivators who are with
us. During the early history of fruit culture the production of a
new fruit of promise seems to have been a matter of chance. The
distinguished French cultivator and writer, Duhamel, states that he
planted the seeds of the best table pears for fifty years without pro-
ducing a good variety. At such a time the appearance of a new
fruit may well have created enthusiasm in the pomological world.
Since the art of hybridizing and crossing has become better under-
stood, man has learned so to control and direct the processes of
nature in producing varieties as, in a measure, to predetermine the
result and thus originate good fruits almost at will. New varieties
are multiplying with a certainty and rapidity that astonishes the
originator himself. And I deem it prudent to speak of them with
great caution. To-day the standard of quality is high ; a new
fruit, unless it contributes to prolong the season of its kind (which I
am happy to say so many of them are doing) , or possesses qualities of
unsurpassed excellence, will soon find its place upon the rejected list.
Of recent productions, none, perhaps, are of more importance to us
of New Jersey, than the additions made to the list of peaches, and
some of these from Thomas Rivers, of England, are worthy of special
notice. The Early Rivers, I look upon as one of the best of its sea-
son ; very early, ripening before Hale's Early ; medium size, with a
delicate pink cheek upon a ground of clear pale straw ; flesh melting,
sweet and rich.
Early Louise, another from Rivers, of excellent character, about
the same size, and ripening a few days earlier. Early Beatrice, from the
same source, still earlier, ripening ten days or two weeks before
Hale's, and unlike that variety, it hangs long upon the tree, free from
rot, coloring beautifully. I think this peach worthy of all the popu-
larity it has gained as an extra early market fruit. The seeming
 51

modest trait of this distinguished cultivator, of not over-estimating

his own productions (a trait worthy of emulation) , and the fact that
a large proportion of our peaches of the best quality have originated
in England, leads me to speak of these peaches with greater confi-
dence. I name from among them Alexandra Noblesse, from the old
Noblesse, but much larger, and equally rich and excellent, which, if
it proves so with us, is good enough.
Comet ; large, orange with crimson cheek, flesh yellow, melting,
sweet and good ; ripening a week before its parent, the Salway,
which has proved a valuable addition to the list of late peaches.
While foreign cultivators have been successfully at work, American
enterprise has not been lacking. We have an American Comet,
correctly Billyeu's Comet, a very large, white-fleshed , freestone peach,
ripening half a month later than the Smock. It originated in Mary-
land, where it has obtained popularity, and is promising as a very
late peach. Steadly ; another very late and extremely large freestone
peach, white to the pit, and of very delicious flavor ; origin Missouri .
The description is that of Mr. Hussmann , of that State, than whom I
know of no better authority ; he adds, " it is ten days later than La
Grange, and by far the best very late peach I know of." The Alexan-
der and Amsden's June are American peaches, competitors for earli-
ness, ripening two weeks before Hale's ; very handsome, and much
larger than Beatrice . They are very promising, worthy at least of
general trial.
The Downing, from Pennsylvania, a good peach, ripening long
before Hale's, and quite juicy for so early a peach . The Col. Wilder,
from the same source, of excellent quality, ripening too, before Hale's.
The Honeywell, from Ohio, is another extremely early, resembling
Alexander, but earlier. There are others of promise ; several not yet
named, said to be extra early and good, but time is required to deter-
mine their true character and position. I might say the same of
some others I have named.
The additions made to the list of peaches within a very short
period have been wonderful in extending the season. We may now
have this delicious fruit from the open ground, upon our tables four
months in the year.
I will add, although this fruit admits of distant carriage, and will
I doubt not yet be placed in the markets of England by our enter-
prising fruit growers, he who would enjoy it in its highest excellence
must eat it in his own garden .
I have spoken so at length upon the peach, that in passing I will
only touch a few landmarks, and submit the subject to your consider-
ation. Of new Apricots, the Golden Drop, of Rivers, a bright
orange with crimson cheek ; very early. Of Pears, I name the Sou-
venier du Congres, of French origin, from the Bartlett ; very large ;
worthy of trial. Brockworth Park, from Louise Bonne de Jersey,
ripening about the same time, said to surpass it in size and quality.
I can say that the young trees of this behave well, holding their
 52

foliage better than does its parent. Mr. Clapp, of Mass ., has several
new pears of promise, but the Clapp's Favorite, now no longer new,
I look upon as his best and worthy of extensive culture . Mr. B. S.
Fox, of California, has introduced some handsome pears ; one named
P. Barry, is a large golden russet pear, melting and vinous. One
named Col. Wilder, large, yellow, mostly covered with russet ; melting
and sweet. Another from the same source, named B. S. Fox, large,
yellow, marbled with cinnamon russet. These three are late pears of
promise. Of Apples, the Nero is large, covered with red on a yellow
ground. It is very good in quality, keeps until March or April.
Tree good bearer. Plums-the Wild Goose and Richland, neither
new nor of the best quality ; but as iron clads in the war with the
curculio, I can name nothing better.
The Luelling Cherry comes to us from Oregon ; supposed to be a
cross between the Black Tartarian and Napoleon Bigarreau, resem-
bling the former in color and the latter in texture of flesh, said to be
larger than either. I am not aware that it has fruited east.
Of new Grapes there are some of great promise. As a white grape I
name the Lady, from Ohio. It is a seedling from the Concord ; of
good quality ; the vine is hardy, and leaf so far as I have seen and
heard, free from mildew. I will pass, hoping to hear from others of
this important fruit. Neither will I occupy your time with the small
fruits, some of which have been so ably discussed.
The Japan Persimmon is spoken of by travelers in Japan as one of
the most important and highly esteemed fruits in that Empire. It is
being propagated in this country, and I look forward to a trial of it
here with great interest. Our native Persimmon is much inclined to
produce varieties ; seedless varieties have been found . Some ripen
before the frost and are tolerable to eat. That it may be improved ,
and many other of our native wild fruits, so as to be of greater value,
I do not doubt. I have made some experiments with our native
Chestnut with some degree of success. I think we may yet have
this fruit the size of the Spanish, with the delicious sweetness of the
American.
Here is a broad and inviting field unoccupied , open to enterprise
and ambition, far more promising than searching for gold or in the
intrigues of politics.
 THE KEEPING OF PEARS .

BY W. H. GOLDSMITH, NEWARK, N. J.

I do not know that I can offer you anything new on the keeping of
pears. Certainly I have no new theory concerning the matter, and
what I propose to bring before you is simply a few facts that have
come under my observation during a few years of experimenting,
hoping it may lead to a discussion of the subject that will bring out
the experience of others.
Having seen Bartlett pears advance 200 per cent. in price, in a
fortnight, in the New York market, my object was to find some plan
whereby I might keep pears in quantity for a limited time, when
the market was glutted, without the large expense of a patent pre-
servatory, or the costly double house proposed by Elliott and other
writers, adapted more particularly for amateurs, preserving a few
specimens rather than for market purposes.
I have found ice indispensable ; and confined air, and dampness ,
with a temperature low enough to prevent mould , beneficial ; and
think the Chloride of Calcium used generally in fruit houses to absorb
moisture not needed with the pear, it having a more porous skin, or
at least wanting in that waxy or greasy feeling, so common to the
apple, thereby admitting the evaporation of its juices more readily
in a free atmosphere, and becoming wilted, tough, and insipid. A
friend of mine succeeded last season in keeping a small quantity of
Lawrence and Vicars, in good condition until April, by coating them
thinly with tallow, and placing in a cool room, but the plan would
hardly be practicable with a large quantity. I think it an injury to
keep them too long at a very low temperature, as it seems difficult to
ripen and color them afterwards.
I first tried a small room, between two bodies of ice, covered with
galvanized iron, upon which ice was kept, but could not get the tem-
perature below 40° to 45°, which proved a very good place to ripen
pears, because of the uniformity of the temperature, but not cold
enough to retard them sufficiently for the object I sought.
The past two seasons I have placed them in new boxes, containing
one bushel each, directly upon the ice, and covered them one foot
deep with sawdust, and it has proved successful. The past season
seventy-five bushels of Bartletts, put on the ice September 1st,
were sent to market October 1st, almost as fresh and green as when
put in, with a loss of less than of 1 per cent. Not having a suffi-
cient quantity to make the selection as choice as I wished, many
 54

wormy and otherwise defective specimens were put in that ought

to have been rejected. Duchess, D'Anjou, and Clairgeau, put in
October 2d, were sent to market December 22d , in fine condition.
The latter lot were taken off the ice November 10th, when the
warmer weather was past, and put in a cool room, wishing to ripen
them for market at Thanksgiving, at which time the ripest were
selected and the balance sold at the holiday season.
I have been careful to put them in sound boxes, that have not had
decayed fruit in them, that there might be no germs of decay or
mould. Many boxes would open uniform in appearance without a
single specimen unsound, showing that the fruit from some trees
kept better than that from others ; and were such fruit selected , I
think there would have been no difficulty in keeping Bartletts until
November 1st ; but for market purposes it is not profitable to keep
them so long, as I had evidence the past season, having seen Bart-
letts offered in the New York market the last week of October, 25
per cent. less than they sold for in the first week.
It required about sixty square feet surface of ice, to keep the
seventy-five bushels, although I think the same space would have
kept one hundred bushels. The Bartlett has proved the most profit-
able for handling in this manner, and the Seckel next. I have read of
large prices obtained for Vicars, and other kinds late in the season,
but my experience has been that the demand for pears falls off
rapidly on the appearance of cold weather, and is very limited during
the winter. I have known the sales of retailers to vary more than
100 per cent. from day to day during the fall, corresponding almost
exactly with the state of the weather ; and most of the pears I have
sold late in the season have been taken by the large hotels of
New York, very few going into the hands of retailers.
 HEDGES AND SCREENS .

BY G. W. THOMPSON, STELTON, N. J.

Mr. President and Gentlemen :

It is said that Solomon was the great Royal Arch of the Mystic
Fraternity, and Moses may have been a Granger ; but away back of
either of these there was a gardener, and so long as he attended to
his own business, things went on pretty smoothly ; but he went into
manufacturing a flimsy line of goods, in which he was not well pat-
ronized, and was obliged to suspend ; nevertheless, the more devoted
of the craft wear the apron to the present day.
Now, whether he built his hot-beds on the sunny side of an ever-
green screen, is not of importance ; possibly norwesters were not so
unfavorable to his horticultural operations as they are to ours here in
New Jersey.
Whether horticulture be " the most noble employment of man ," it
is certainly the most ancient, and has never been prosecuted to any
extent by barbaric tribes nor merely chivalric people. There may
have been grandeur in a hunting forest, but there is humanizing sub-
limity in a garden.
The Monks of Italy and Switzerland did more for civilization by
their gardening and viti-culture, than by their crucifixes, rosaries or
ascetic habits . Man's destiny began in a garden, and the more our
earth becomes like a garden, the more will it conduce to and indicate
primeval happiness. This much for the morality of the profession
which cultivates the beautiful as well as the useful and the sweet.
Away back in my boyhood's recollections, is a bleak and barren
section of country ; an intelligent capitalist took hold of it, laid it
off in fields, did some ditching and a good deal of planting ; all the
irregular angles were planted with such trees as were adapted there-
to, and shelter-belts added on exposed positions. With very superficial
culture, the heather bell gave place to the clover blossom ; literally,
the desert blossomed as the rose. But the most attractive feature of
the landscape was the arboreal embellishments.
It was sound wisdom (if not philosophic or scientific truth) in the
laird of Dummiedikes who advised his son, " aie plant a tree, Jock ;
it'll be growin' whan ye'r sleepin ."
I will not discuss the re-foresting question proper, or the climatic
effects of the prodigal destruction of our woods. It is said that at
our present rate of depletion , in seventy years " Uncle Sam " will
require to annex a wood-lot, in order to keep his lumber-men employ-
ed. Perhaps when we have more grangers than lawyers in our
 56

National and State Legislatures , social economy will receive more

attention than salary grabbing. For that " good time coming," we
may have to " wait a little longer ;" and as all reforms are said to origi-
nate with the people, let us begin at home and with our homes, make
them attractive, not alone with bay-windows, piazzas and French-
fronts, but snug them in with screens and wind breaks, that will
filter the cold breath of old Boreas, and let us do it now. I say now,
having in mind a gentleman who started four years ago to come to
my place for some dwarf pear trees.
When I say embellish our homes, I do not mean crowd everything
in the front door-yard, more wisely kept for ornament than use.
Who does not on a winter's day desire rather the lee than the
weather side of a sheltering wood ? A thermometer placed in a
grove of evergreens will indicate several degrees of higher tempera-
ture, influenced by the trees only. Stock are more comfortable, more
contented, and consequently more profitable, and crops seem to grow
better, and by actual figures show a better yield , induced by shelter.
In our Western States, where shelter-belts have been adopted, they
have proved entirely satisfactory ; this has been eminently so in re-
spect to fruits and fruit trees. So far as my own limited experience
with evergreen screens goes, I am entirely satisfied with the invest-
ment, and mean to extend my practice.
It may be argued that these screens or belts occupy ground to the
exclusion of cultivated crops ; but since it has been proved by actual
test that the enhanced growth of sheltered plants more than pays for
this occupancy, the practice is justifiable. The protection afforded
by sheltering trees more than pays for the ground they occupy.
Moreover, " a thing of beauty is a joy forever.
For wind-breaks or screens, the White, the Scotch and Austrian
Pines, with the Norway Spruce, are, perhaps, the best, relieved
on the lee side by the Hemlock, and should be planted closer
or more distant, in proportion to the height they are to be allowed to
grow.
For low screens or ornamental hedges for the million, the Ameri-
can Arbor Vitæ is the best ; for village plats or in proximity to
buildings, in good hands the Norway Spruce makes a most beautiful
hedge, but its rigid outline does not so well comport with rural sur-
roundings .
The hedge proper or fence is the question which the coming 19
farmer will have to solve. Fence or no fence, " that is the question,'
now in some sections of the country, at the present time. In the
near future it will be, what fence ?
I had not at hand the cultivated area of our State, or I might
have computed the value of the fencing used . Indeed, of such im-
portance is it, that if from it was all swept away at once, it would
be worse than a locust scourge. Many of us would have to betake
us to business tactics-and " suspend."
As it is, our best fencing material is fast disappearing ; it would
 57

therefore seem prudent to cast around and see whether we can find a
substitute for the chestnut post and rail, which cost now almost fifty
per cent. more than they did a quarter of a century ago.
Add to this fact that it wants renewing every twelve or fifteen
years, and you have a very important item in agricultural and horti
cultural economy. Our fencing material and its treatment are ques-
tions of no secondary importance, and I think should command the
attention of our agricultural college experimental farms, some of
which are already writing such legible characters on the finger-
boards of progress, as will be read with veneration by progressive
soil-culturists, away down the ages of the future.
To introduce a new plant, to fix the habits or establish or improve
the mode of treatment of any of the existing ones, would be of co-
relative importance to making two blades of grass grow where one
grew before.
A good hedge fence is of much importance to fruit growers ; a
good thorn hedge around a fruit garden or orchard is an un-get-over-
able fact.
Of the many plants introduced in this country, the Osage Orange
has been the most generally adopted, probably because being easy of
propagation and of rapid growth ; we are a fast people, and cannot
afford to wait, and hence have sometimes , Osage hedges in two
years, which would have been much better if they had taken four.
This rapidity of growth is in some cases an advantage, and in
others a disadvantage. It will make a good fence, but it will not
bear neglect ; all of which and a little more may be said of the Honey
Locust. Indeed, of the famous Wm. Reid hedges, I thought this
looked the worst.
Of the Privet I need hardly say anything ; it has been associated
with gardening almost as long as the blue apron .
The Silver Thorn (Eleagnus parvifolia) recently introduced, was
with me so badly killed last winter as to render it of no value as a
hedge plant ; until then I though highly of it.
The Crataegus Pyracantha alba, or white-fruited Evergreen Thorn,
has stood well with me the past three winters, and thus far this season
shows no signs of constitutional weakness. It makes a good looking
hedge, while it is very thorny, and in this respect, I think is superior
to anything yet introduced for hedge purposes. It will make a good
hedge planted in single row, and if it should get neglected, that
neglect may be atoned for by subsequent treatment, which is more
than can be said of most of the others.
1
 PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

NEW JERSEY

STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

AT ITS

SECOND ANNUAL MEETING, HELD AT NEW BRUNSWICK,

FEBRUARY 1 and 2,

1877.

NEWARK, N. J.:
PRINTED AT THE ADVERTISER PRINTING HOUSE,

1877.
 OFFICERS .

PRESIDENT.
PROF. GEO. THURBER, Lodi, Bergen Co. , N. J.
P. O. Address, 245 Broadway, N. Y.
VICE PRESIDENTS.
A. S. FULLER, Ridgewood, Bergen County.
J. C. BEARDSLEY, Newark, Essex County .
JNO. VAN DOREN , Manalapan, Monmouth County.
JNO. S. COLLINS, Moorestown , Burlington County.
EDWIN ALLEN, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
GEO. M. COLE, Deerfield, Cumberland County .
N. W. PARCELL, Elizabeth, Union County.
EZRA DAYTON, Bernardsville , Somerset County.
C. W. IDELL, Hoboken, Hudson County.
J. VAN DEVENTER, Princeton, Mercer County.
H. E. CHITTY , Paterson, Passaic County.
B. F. ERRINGTON, Whiting, Ocean County.

RECORDING SECRETARY.
E. WILLIAMS, Montclair, Essex County .

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.
B. B. HANCE, Red Bank , Monmouth County.

TREASURER.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark, Essex County.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
P. T. QUINN, Newark, Essex County.
E. ROBERTS, Fellowship, Burlington County.
S. C. DE COU, Moorestown, Burlington County.
THOS. COLE, Deerfield, Cumberland County .
D. MCLAURY, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
President, Secretaries and Treasurer.

COMMITTEE ON FRUITS.
B. B. HANCE , Red Bank, Monmouth County.
WM. PARRY, Cinnaminson, Burlington County.
D. MCLAURY, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
C. W. IDELL, Hoboken, Hudson County.
P. T. QUINN, Newark, Essex County.

COMMITTEE ON FLOWERS.
H. E. CHITTY, Paterson, Passaic County.
GEO. SUCH, South Amboy, Middlesex County.
E. S. CARMAN, River Edge, - Bergen County.
COMMITTEE ON VEGETABLES.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark, Essex County.
HENRY CAMPBELL, Freehold, Monmouth County.
W. H. DENISE, Freehold, Monmouth County.
 MINUTES .

FIRST DAY.

MORNING SESSION .

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J. , Feb. 1 , 1877.

The Society met in Geological Hall at 11 o'clock a. m., pursuant to
call. The President being absent, Vice- President Van Doren, of Mon-
mouth, presided .
The minutes of the last annual meeting were read and approved.
Mr. Hance, Chairman of the Fruit Committee, read the following
report :
Mr. President :-Your Committee would state there has been no corres-
pondence further than the inquiry made by our faithful Recording Secre-
tary, who about the time of our last annual meeting disseminated some
questions among our fruit growers as to the best varieties of fruits for
market and amateur purposes .
Perhaps our members concluded that their replies were about all that was
wanted and so rested, but we hope hereafter they will give the subject
more attention and not be backward in making inquiry on any points that
may be shrouded in mystery, for it is only by correspondence and close
observation that we can hope to attain that excellence in culture and
varieties which the advanced state of our civilization requires.
In our observations about the country we find an immense amount of
poor culture, well- to-do farmers who would not allow a weed to grow in
their ordinary crops, or plant without manuring heavily, let their orchards
go neglected without sufficient manure, with weeds and grass abounding
around the trees, exhaustive sprouts allowed to remain near the ground,
pruning almost wholly neglected and a slipshod looking arrangement all
through.
The fruit from such culture is about third quality, and the whole project
sooner or later lapses into a general decay, and the business is condemned.
 4

Now, if a ship carpenter should leave one plank from the bottom of the
vessel we well know what would be the result, but many of our fruit cul ·
turists leave one - half the planks off and then wonder why the concern
should sink.
We well know that discouraging circumstances will arise. Blights will
come ; industrious and rapidly increasing insects will claim a share ; never
theless, "the price of liberty is eternal vigilance, " but not to such an
extent as the merchant, for instance, who has to consider and be well
posted daily as to the movements of merchandise the world over.
Trusting we shall have a large amount of matter to report upon at our
next annual meeting, we respectfully subscribe,
BENJAMIN B. HANCE, Chairman.
Mr. Goldsmith, of the Vegetable Committee, reported as follows :
Mr. President : The Committee on Vegetables report that owing to the
intense drouth that prevailed the past Summer throughout the State, it
was one of the most disastrous seasons for vegetable growing that has
been known for many years. Many crops, especially the important ones
of Cabbage and Potatoes, having been almost entire failures, new and
old varieties alike having proved incapable of withstanding its severity .
There has not been much of novelty brought to the notice of your Com .
mittee, and on this point we would observe that it would add much to the
value of such reports if, when anything new pertaining to the subject
comes to the notice of members of the Society, they would communicate
the same to some member of the Committee.
A variety of Red-top Turnip, from Long Island, we believe, has been
brought to our notice the past season . We think it is an improvement ,
and it is so pronounced by the public, it having met with a quick sale in
our markets at $ 1.25 to $ 1.50 per barrel, when nice ones of the old vari-
eties were slow of sale at 50 cents . It is sweeter, more crisp and tender
than the old kind, and retains its good qualities later in the season.
The different modes of putting up Asparagus for market has been
noticed by your Committee to make a difference of one hundred per
cent., and sometimes even more, in the returns for its sale. In the
light soils in the southern part of this State and Delaware, where it is
largely grown, it admits of being cut six to eight inches below the sur-
face, and as the portion of the same stalk below the surface is much
larger than that above, there is a gain in quantity in so cutting, but
it is more than lost in quality, as the part grown beneath the surface
is inedible, and after one or two purchases customers reject it altogether
if other Asparagus is to be had.
We would suggest to the members of this Society that if any of their
number have had experience in cultivating the Christiana Melon and
would give it, it would probably be a benefit ; as, judging from what little
has come to the notice of the Committee, it ought to be more generally
known. The quality is almost invariably good if well grown, and although
not very inviting in outward appearance it is desired by all who become ac-
quainted with it. It appears to have been cultivated in the vicinity of
 5

Newark, N. J. , for a number of years, but is as yet comparatively un-

known, even there.
The growing of Lettuce, Radishes, Eggplant, etc. , under glass, is a
branch of gardening that is increasing very rapidly in the northern por-
tion of the State, and owing to the lateness of the season in the Spring.
of 1876 and the cutting off of some crops by frost in the South, it
proved quite profitable It is a business requiring a good deal of experi-
ence and careful and constant attention, as a neglect of a few hours in
the fluctuating weather that generally prevails at the time of year when
operations are most active in the business, will destroy the labor
of weeks, and sometimes the profit of the whole season. The labor of
providing and distributing water for the growing crop is a heavy portion
of the whole outlay, and we see that windmills and tanks are coming into
use for this purpose.
Mr. D. C. Voorhees of Blawenburg exhibits a very fine specimen
of Squash, named the Excelsior, a cross of the Boston Marrow and Cus-
tard, and represented as very superior for family use, fully equal to the
Marrow, and yielding abundantly, sometimes attaining the weight of one
hundred pounds.
The Treasurer reported a balance on hand at the close of the year of
$ 101.47.
On motion of Mr. Quinn, Messrs. Idell, Allen and Parry were appointed
a special committee to examine and report on the Fruits and Flowers
exhibited.
On motion of Mr. Hance a committee of five were appointed to nomi-
nate officers for the current year. Messrs. Hance and Baird of Mon-
mouth, Parry of Burlington, Crane of Essex and G. W. Thompson of
Middlesex were designated .
President Thurber, having arrived, took the Chair.
Mr. Idell moved for a committee of one from each county to collect
facts relating to and write up the early history of small fruit culture in
the State.
The President, in putting the motion , stated that he generally found
that such work was better done by one person.
G. W. Thompson took the same view and moved to amend to have a
committee of one, and thought if it was published throughout the State
he would secure all the aid and assistance necessary.
Messrs Grant and Van Doren liked the idea, but thought the labor
would be too onerous for one person.
Prof. Cook regarded the subject as one of great interest, but would like
to defer action till Mr. Idell could further explain his plan, and the matter
was postponed till afternoon.
On motion of Mr. Quinn, Messrs. Goldsmith and Williams were ap
pointed a committee to report suitable resolutions respecting the death of
Charles W. Badger of Newark.
Prof. Cook stated that he had recently learned from General Perrine of
Trenton of a State Horticultural Society which existed as far back as
 6

1838. It was very successful for a number of years both in exhibitions

and number of members, but after the formation of local societies, the
State institution collapsed for lack of interest. Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

President Thurber in the chair.

The Nominating Committee reported a list of officers for the ensuing
year, which being acceptable to the Society, were duly elected.
The President then read his annual address, which was listened to with
marked attention by a large audience.
This with other papers read during the session will be found in this
report.
Mr. Idell gave his ideas relative to the subject referred to in the morn-
ing session-the collection of facts regarding the early history of small
fruit culture in the State. He proposed that a member from each county
be designated to be the " head centre " for that county, to receive and
collect facts, and report them to the annual meeting.
He also gave some historical facts he had gathered relating to the early
culture and marketing of the strawberry.
Mr. Carman followed with a paper on Planting, Lawus and Door-yards.
The subject of Pear Blight was then discussed .
Mr. Quinn said there was no doubt that this was the most important
and interesting question that could be presented, especially to pear
growers. The Blight was insidious in its approaches, like a thief in the
night. He had noticed orchards entirely destroyed. Flemish Beauty,
Beurre Diel and Vicar of Winkfield , seemed more liable to this scourge
than any others. There are various theories as to its cause, but no suc-
cessful remedy is known.
Mr. Collins had heard that a gentleman in Gloucester County claimed
to have a remedy.
Mr. Barnett of Connecticut asked if a case had been known on poor,
sandy soil. He had some trees on such soil which were all right ; he then
manured a row of Vicars heavily and lost them all.
G. W. Thompson thought this was just the point ; that excessive feed-
ing and blight went hand in hand . He had heard of an oil remedy which
had come so well authenticated, that he was inclined to think there was
something in it. He had never seen a slow-growing pear tree blight.
Had seen a wildling grow beautiful and healthy ; it was cut down and a
strong shoot came up from the stump, and the following Summer was killed
by blight to the extremity of its roots.
Mr. Van Doren had tried the oil remedy and thinks he made a mistake.
Thought slitting the bark had helped the tree.
Mr. Roberts had used gaslime on a young orchard ; had no blight there,
but did not know as this was a preventive.
Mr. Baird asked Mr. Van Doren if he removed the dead or diseased
wood before applying the oil. He replied he did not.
 7

Mr. Voorhees thought it useless to prescribe a remedy for a disease we

did not understand. His theory was, it was due to excessive growth and
severe Winters .
Mr. Tracy of Philadelphia said this subject was little understood.
There were two distinct forms of this blight . The Philadelphia Horti-
cultural Society discussed this matter recently, and it was recommended
to whitewash the trees.
Mr. Collins had blight on whitewashed trees two years in succession.
His experience and observation had led him to believe that the disease was
more fatal on naturally wet though underdrained soil ; that raw unfer-
mented stable manure was almost fatal to the pear, and that cutting back
was only a temporary check ; a tree once affected would last but a year
or two.
Mr. DeVoe found the Lawrence the most exempt, and thought drainage
a preventive.
Mr. Goldsmith said the Lawrence was one of the worst to blight with
him. Ex-Governor Newell had one thousand four hundred trees well
cared for up to 1866, when the slug injured them very much. The fol-
lowing year they leaved out so feebly that he eradicated them and replaced
them with Lawrence, Vicar and Beurre d' Anjou, and would recommend
the latter as a good tree to set. He had allowed one orchard to stand in
grass and this so far was a success. He held the disease to be internal
and radical, and could not be eradicated by cutting off the limbs.
Mr. Durand had made up his mind that excess of sap was in all cases
detrimental to the health of the tree, and conducive to blight .
Mr. Barnett of Connecticut wished to correct the idea that sandy soil
was a preventive ; his view was that excessive late growth and unripe
wood, when frost came, left unripe roots , which Winter killed ; and a
fungus spore developing at the root, was absorbed by the sap in the hot,
muggy days of June, when the fungus began to grow between the bark
and sap-wood, producing blight.
Mr. Beekman cited an instance where the blight went through an
orchard diagonally from the southwest ; the lines were well defined . Α
locust tree standing in its track was destroyed also. Six acres of Vicars,
after being starved for twelve years on poor sandy soil, were stimulated
with fruit, and the next year were destroyed by blight, and it looked as if
it might be atmospheric.
Mr. Hance was pleased to hear so free an expression on this question,
and asked how we were to reconcile the theories of extreme cold winters
and undrained soils. He knew an orchard set on low ground so wet that
the water was bailed out of the holes before setting the trees ; yet this
orchard, now nearly twenty years old, is doing well with less blight than
contiguous ones on high naturally dry soil ; on the other hand pear trees
never did better than during the eight or ten years succeeding the severe
Winter of 1856 and 1857.
The next question, "Orcharding ; is it overdone with the apple or pear
in our State ?" was opened with the reading of a paper on the Apple by
Mr. Beekman, Discussion followed.
 8

Mr. Hance stated that an extensive apple grower in his county who
had formerly worked up his surplus apples into cider, vinegar and whisky,
now admitted that he found it more profitable to feed them to the hogs.
Mr. Parry thought apple culture was not overdone in New Jersey by
any means. She made but a poor show at the Centennial. With the
advantages we possessed we were far behind other States in apple grow-
ing.
Mr. Beekman claimed that the West and South had advantages of Tim-
ber Belts, the absence of which were the cause of our defective fruit.
Early sorts paid the best. He considered Orange Pippin one of the most
profitable.
Mr. Roberts thought late apples were as profitable as early ones. The
Orange Pippin was quite satisfactory ; but it must be disposed of at once
when ready ; it would not wait on a market ; with him Smith's Cider was
one of the best and most profitable.
Mr. Idell said that some growers would find it more profitable if they
would send less of their poor fruit to market. It was this that made
prices average low.
The Secretary stated that he had sent blanks to the members, requesting
that they be filled out with a list of the best varieties of fruits for family
and market purposes, according to their judgment and experience.
He gave the result of the vote on apples sent in by the members ,
naming the ten receiving the highest votes out of seventy -seven varieties .
He considered this a fair expression of the preferences of the members.
Mr. Goldsmith moved that these ten varieties be adopted by the Society
as the basis of an apple list for general culture.
This elicited considerable discussion and the subject was finally laid
over till to-morrow.
The Society then adjourned.

SECOND DAY .

MORNING SESSION.

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J., Feb. 2, 1877.

The Society met at 10 o'clock a. m ., Vice- President Van Doren in the
chair.
Minutes of yesterday read and approved
On motion of J. B. Thompson the subject of Apples laid over yesterday
was taken up. This list viz.:
Baldwin, Red Astrachan, Smith's Cider, R. I. Greening, Maiden's
Blush, Orange Pippin, Large Yellow Rough, Gravenstein, Fall Pippin
and Early Harvest being read, each variety was voted on separately and
adopted .
The Porter, Roxbury Russet and Canfield were added to the list, the
latter on the recommendation of members from Essex and Union counties.
 9

The
Duchesse of Oldenburg, Bailey's Sweet,
Hubbardston Nonesuch, Benoni,
Peck's Pleasant, Summer Pippin,
Fallawater, Moore's Sweet,
Tetofsky, Nero, and
Dunker,
were adopted as a trial list. The two latter are local varieties of Middlesex
and Somerset counties, and highly commenced.
Mr. Parry named the Edwards ' Early as valuable in Burlington county.
Mr. Bender enquired relative to the Baker apple .
Further action on the fruit list was suspended to hear a paper by Wm .
N. Barnett of West Haven, Connecticut, on " Viticultural Education, " at
the conclusion of which he remarked that he had brought up this subject
in view of its great importance to this State, where there are over five
millions acres within the vine-zone—a million of which should be put in
grapes. If each of the twenty-one counties in the State raised a crop of
grapes and wine amounting only to one million dollars, which could be
easily done on about three thousand acres, it would greatly exceed the
present annual crop from all other productions . He said that grapes
were a necessity, and there are a million of mouths each side of this city
-within about one hour's ride, ready to consume them. They were also
a luxury, and there was a thousand millions of wealth in each of the
cities of New York and Philadelphia, the holders of which are ready to
pay for a superior article. No other place in the world had a fruit market
like this, and no fruit equaled the grape, the richest and sweetest of all.
Besides, in a soil and climate like ours, it is the easiest fruit that can be
raised. If apples are planted, blight and insects cannot be controlled ;
and then the trees refuse to bear but one year in two, when the market
value was hardly one- fifth that of grapes. If pears were grown, fire-blight
and fungus mysteriously ruined the crop. The better the pear the more
tender and uncertain the fruit. If plums and peaches are tried, the cur-
culio and the yellows interfere and cut off the profits. But grape culture
is so systematized, and the vine so tractable, that insects and disease can
be avoided by the skillful grower, and a full crop not only annually pro-
duced, but the vines come into full bearing in less than half the time
required by the apple and pear tree.
If small fruits like raspberries are raised, the cost of picking is ten times
that of grapes, while a bushel of each brought about the same price .
Besides, berries must be sold at once, but grapes can be kept for months,
or made into wine which is always in demand at remunerative prices.
There is no place in the world where a young man with small capital
could realize more from the soil than by grape culture in this State.
Start the vineyard as is stated in the Boston Essay. Make the vine bed
thirty inches deep and ten feet wide, running north and south. Return
the surface soil with the fertilizers as directed. Then set out as stated
the vines and train to trellises away from the vine- bed so that the sun will
shine on the soil over the roots throughout the day. The soil cannot be
 10

too hot in this latitude. What we want is early and sweet fruit, and to
get it we need all the sunshine possible . Keep the roots confined to the
vine- bed by cutting off with the plow and coulter all that run out. Pinch
off all clusters, but one to each shoot, and do not let the vines overbear.
Three tons per acre is better than four. Fruit carefully grown will com-
mand a market at good prices. It is impossible in these limited remarks
to give details. Look at these in the Essay, and if you follow as directed
you will assuredly be successful. Over- cropping ruins half the vineyards .
Three pounds to the vine is better than more, and if you confine your
twenty -one hundred vines to the acre to this limit, the quality will make
up for the quantity, while your vines will keep in condition for a good
annual crop. I have sixty varieties, and yet look upon the Concord as the
most profitable for market, though a few other varieties like the Hartford
and the Ives are desirable, and so is the Clinton and a few of Rogers,
particularly the Wilder and the Agawam for late keeping. [Samples of
the Agawam picked four or five months ago, kept in a basket hung in his
cellar, were here presented to the audience with the remark that the
sweeter the grape the better it would keep. ] The Phylloxera had baffled
the skill of vine growers till recently, but with vine- beds like mine it is
effectually controlled.
Several questions were put by the audience, one as to keeping the
fruits, and another that brought out the remark that a good grape grower
could grow most anything ; and this was illustrated by the speaker in
detailing how he succeeded in growing a watermelon much larger than
his competitor.
Following this the Society resumed work on the fruit list and adopted
the
Concord, Delaware, ( for family use only),
Hartford, Martha,
Agawam, and Salem,
as the general list of grapes. And the
Wilder, Elsingburg,
Early Amber, Barry,
Lindley, Merrimack,
Massasoit , and Goethe,
as a trial list.
The following resolution by Mr. Parry was adopted :
Resolved, That an invitation be extended to all fruit growers of the
State to forward to the Corresponding Secretary of this Society, B. B.
Hance, of Red Bank, N. J. , the date of the introduction of all new as
well as old varieties of fruit known to them, and any items of interest
connected with their propagation.
A telegram from the President announced his inability to be present.
The list of Pears was then taken up, and the
Bartlett, Seckel,
Duchessed' Angouleme, Lawrence,
Beurre d'Anjou, Clapp's Favorite,
 11

Doyenne Boussock, Beurre Clairgeau,

Buffam , Beurre Bosc,
Beurre Giffard, and Manning's Elizabeth,
were adopted as a general list.
The Sheldon was on the list with a vote of six for market and fifteen
for family use, but owing to its sometimes cracking, shedding its leaves
and variableness in quality, it was placed on the trial list.
The Vicar of Winkfield was thrown out altogether.
The trial list as adopted is as follows :
Sheldon, Easter Beurre ,
Howell, Urbaniste,
Dana's Hovey, Quinn, and
Mt. Vernon.
In answer to enquiry respecting the Mt. Vernon-
Mr. Sours said : In size it was medium to large, strongly resembling the
Sheldon in color, shape and edible qualities. Does not decay prema-
turely at the core. Its season is about with the Lawrence .
Mr. Lovett said it was of fine size and kept till holidays.
Mr. Goldsmith brought pear limbs affected with blight, showing various
phases of the disease. In some instances a limb was shortened, as it was
supposed, below the diseased part ; but the disease had extended down
the limb, stopped and dried up, the limb below being to all appearance
perfectly healthy . Young shoots were shown blighted part way, while
below, the buds were as sound and plump as ever, branches that were
blighted in spots, and in one case, a limb affected three years ago was
healing, and new bark and wood wasgrowing over the diseased part. These
seemed to effectually disprove the theory advanced the day previous by
Gov. Newell and others that the disease was internal.
The Special Committee on the Exhibit reported as follows :
Specimens of seedling apples from Amos Terrill of Rahway. He has
two trees, one twenty -three years old, color, light green, skin close grained,
tough, flesh crisp, slightly acid.
Two collections of Smith's Cider Apples, large and fine.
Six specimens of Newtown Pippin of small size, and all but one
wormy.
Six specimens of Moore's Sweet of medium size, color light red, flesh
tender, sweet, judge it to be a good keeper. Mr. Baird, the exhibitor, said
it was remarkable for hanging on the tree, resisting the severest gales.
Four specimens of a medium size, light yellow apple, flesh white, tender,
slightly acid, shown by Mr. Goldsmith, who stated he receivedthe tree
from the late Mr. Reid, of Elizabeth many years ago for Northern Spy.
It was remarkable as a good keeper.
A fine specimen for name from Mr. Goldsmith, resembling the Baldwin
in color, with a longer stem, flesh yellow, firm and rich.
Three specimens of Tewksbury Winter blush, from Mr. Hance.
Also Gilpin or Carthouse Apples from the same ; great bearers, good
keepers, of medium size and quality.
Pears, Harnard, from Mr. Hance, a seedling from the farm of John
 12

Harnard, near Springfield, in this State. Had been grown in his neigh
borhood about thirty years. A cooking pear, but valued for its regular
and abundant bearing and keeping qualities.
Specimens of Duchessed' Angouleme, remarkably well kept. Vicar of
Winkfield, large, bright, well ripened specimens from Mr. Goldsmith.
Two very large fine specimens of Native Lemons, from Mr. Hance.
Two specimens of Eureka Potatoes, crop of 1875 ; the eyes having
grown four to six inches long, and covered with miniature potatoes grown
while hanging from a beam in a dark cellar, curious and instructive . From
N. W. Parcell, Elizabeth.
A fine specimen of Excelsior Squash, weighing fifty pounds, a cross
between Boston Marrow and Custard, a thick fleshed late keeping variety,
from D. C. Voorhees, Blawenburg.
Seeds of the Golden Jersey and Long Shore Canteloupe Melons, from
Thomas D. Beans, Moorestown, N. J.
Models from Life of the " Great American " Strawberry, wonders in
size, some measuring nine inches in circumference taken from berries
weighing 2 to 24 ounces each, from E. W. Durand, Irvington .
In cut flowers the display was not as large as the Committee had hoped
to see, considering the number of amateur and commercial green- houses
represented in the Society. If each one present representing this branch
of Horticulture had brought a small box which would have been attended
with no trouble except the cutting of the flowers, a much larger table
could have been filled. A fuller display at our annual meeting is particu-
larly desirable, this being the principal meeting for discussion, and noth-
ing is so suggestive of a text as to have the article we talk about on the
spot. Our Society is yet young, but if we wish to attain eminence we
must show results.
James Taplin, foreman to George Such of South Amboy, shows some
remarkably perfect specimens of Camelias, among which are " Lady
Hume's Blush, " " Old Double White, " " Fimbriata, " and other showy
sorts.
A splendid Panicle of "Rogeria Thyrsiflora," having a peculiar fragrance
resembling that of the Elder Blossom without its cloying character.
A fine specimens of "Tuculia Gratissima. "
All of the above flowers are produced on small trees or those of a
shrubby nature, and are grown in a cool or intermediate house.
And last though not least, and requiring more heat, was a large branch
of bloom of the new " Double Euphorbia ( Poinsetta ) Pulcherrima. " Those
of our members who have long known the old variety with merely few
of the terminal floral leaves of a brilliant scarlet color, will be pleased to
see the same leaves thickly protruding from the crown of the flowers of
the new sort.
Mr. Such could no doubt have filled a large table with novelties, but it
is not only in novelties that he excels but the specimens shown attest
the masterly skill employed in the development of the flowers.
A. Hance & Son of Red Bank, show some well-grown specimens of
 13

"Lilly of the Palace," "Carnations, " "Amarylis Aulica, " "Roses, " "Maria
Louise, " "Violet, " "Cyclamen, " etc., including the new Poinsetta referred
to in Mr. Such's collection , but not so fully developed, being cut from a
much younger plant.
Mrs. George H. Cook exhibits a specimen of flowering "German Ivy. "
This plant is interesting as showing well developed flowers which are
not generally seen, as the plants seldom bloom without good care .
Respectfully submitted,
C. W. IDELL, Chairman,
The Melon Seed were referred to Mr. Campbell of the Vegetable Com-
mittee for trial.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

The fruit list was taken up and the List of Peaches, as compiled by the
Secretary from the votes received, was read and adopted as follows ;
Crawford's Late, Old Mixon,
Stump of the World, Mountain Rose,
Smock, Large Early York,
Crawford's Early, and Honest John.
On motion of Mr. Idell, the Morris County Late Rareripe, and on motion
of Mr. Lovett, the Keyport White were added . No trial list adopted.
The list of Plums adopted for general culture is,
White Magnum Bonum, Richland,
Green Gage, and Damson.
Trial list is,
Wild Goose, De Caradeuc,
Miner, and Bassett's American
The general list of cherries adopted is,
Black Tartarian. Early Richmond, May Duke,
Black Eagle, Bigareau White Amber,
Coe's Transparent, Rockport Bigareau, Gov. Wood.
Trial list is,
Early Purple Guigne and Luelling.
The general list of Raspberries adopted is,
Doolittle Blackcap, Philadelphia,
Mammoth Cluster, and Brandywine.
The trial list is,
Winant (highly commended by Mr. McLanry) ,
Ganargua, Delaware, Early Prolific, Reliance.
The last three commended by Mr. Parry. He also gives the following
descriptions :
Early Prolific, seedling of Philadelphia, raised by Mr. Felton, larger
and earlier than its parent ; productive and valuable.
 14

Reliance, same origin, as hardy and productive as its parent, larger,

handsomer and more delicious, a brighter red color, bears transportation
better, and sells better in market.
He also gives the description of the New Rochelle, a seedling raised
by S. P. Carpenter of New Rochelle, N. Y. , from the Catawissa, and is
of the same habit of growth, propagates from tips, canes stout, of a light
gray color, grow three to four feet high, strong, vigorous and perfectly
hardy, berries large, quite firm, fine flavored, and keeps well in hot
weather ; sold last year at twenty cents per quart, same as Herstines
and Clarkes, when Black Caps brought but ten cents per quart. It is
remarkably productive, carries well and must prove valuable for market
or table use.
Mr. Quinn advised caution in accepting statements regarding new
fruits.
We all remember that the " Herstine " when introduced was claimed
to be perfectly hardy, and to possess all the requisite qualities of a first-
rate market berry, and we now know how sadly disappointed we have
been.
The Clarke, also, was said to be perfectly hardy, and a fine, large
market variety, but time proves it to be neither hardy in Winter or Sum-
mer, and worthless for market.
The Philadelphia, also, was highly extolled as a large, luscious and firm
berry ; it proves to be neither, its chief merits being hardiness and pro-
ductiveness.
The Secretary agreed with Mr. Quinn and hopes this Society would
discountenance any effort or tendency to commend anything beyond its
merits.
Mr. Taplin being absent, and business pressing, his paper on Palms
was referred to the Executive Committee for publication .
The Blackberries adopted for general culture are,
Kittatiny, Wilson's Early, and Dorchester.
The New Rochelle or Lawton was on the list but stricken out.
The Snyder was named for trial. Mr. Parry said hardiness was its
chief recommendation .
Hoosac Thornless was mentioned. Some one said it was without
thorns, and some one added without fruit also.
The list of Strawberries adopted for general culture is,
Wilson, Charles Downing, Seth Boyden (No. 30),
Monarch of the West, Downer's Prolific .
The trial list is,
Durand's " Great American, " Durand's Beauty, Duncan .
Cumberland Triumph. Sterling, Prouty's Seedling.
Mr. McLaury enquired of the Secretary about the Duncan. From
what he had been able to learn of it, he had strong hopes of its being a
valuable market sort.
The Secretary in reply said the originator had heretofore had the
 15

market to himself, his fruit netting him thirty cents per quart and upwards,
being all taken by shippers for the Eastern markets. It has been planted
largely, and the coming season will test it fruiting qualities in various
sections of the country . We hope that its high reputation as a market
variety will be sustained elsewhere . The plant is an unusually stocky,
upright grower, and the fruit seems to keep longer than most varieties.
Star of the West was enquired about. Mr. Parry said he had changed
his opinion regarding it, and would not now recommend it.
The Gooseberries adopted for general culture are,
Houghton, Downing, Smith's, and Mountain.
The list of Currants for general culture is,
Cherry, Red Dutch, Versailles,
White Grape, and Black Naples.
For trial,
Long Bunched Holland .
Quinces for general culture,
Apple or Orange, and Rea's Seedling.
The fruit list being completed, Mr. Quinn suggested that we now de-
cide where to meet next year.
Mr. Idell moved that our next annual meeting be held in this Hall.
There being no other place named, the motion was adopted.
Mr. Quinn offered a vote of thanks to the Trustees of the College, and
to Professor Cook and others for the free use of the Hall and other cour-
tesies that had made our meeting so pleasant. Adopted .
On motion of Mr. Idell, Messrs. McLaury, White and Cook were named
as a Special Committee to arrange for our next annual meeting, and have
it understood that we hold an evening session . Adopted .
Charles Downing, of Newburgh, N. Y ..
J. J. Thomas, of Union Springs, N. Y.,
Marshall P. Wilder, of Boston, Mass. , and
Dr. J. A. Warder, of Cincinnati, Ohio,
were unanimously elected honorary members of the Society.
Mr. Goldsmith reported the following respecting the death of Mr.
Badger :
WHEREAS, It has pleased Providence to remove from us since our last
annual meeting our late member and associate, Charles W. Badger of
Newark, one of the original founders of this Society, and Vice- Presi-
dent for Essex County; therefore, be it
Resolved, That in his death our Society loses an earnest and indefatig-
abl member, from whose efforts and experience in fruit culture, especially
that of the Pear-over seventy varities of which he had under test in
his small city garden, we looked for most valuable results . Being a
gentleman of leisure and enthusiasm in fruit culture, ever ready to impart
his knowledge thereof, he was just the kind of a man to advance the interests
of Horticulture, and consequently his loss is all the more to be deplored .
On motion of Mr. Quinn the above was unanimously adopted.
 16

Insects injurious to fruits and vegetables was the next question dis-
cussed.
Mr. Beekman said the Apple Borer was very destructive to apple trees
and the Slug to pear trees.
Mr. Goldsmith said Apple Borers were of two kinds - one commenced
its work in June, entering the tree near the ground ; the other works
under the bark of the apple, pear and quince, three to four feet from the
ground, in the sunshine ; it will not work in the shade. The best remedy
for Pear Slugs is dry lime or dust thrown on the trees.
Mr. Durand said he had been seriously troubled by a grub destroying
the roots of his strawberries . It was similar in appearance to the one
usually found in manure, rather more slender- never so stout and bulky.
The harmless one lived on dead matter, the other on living matter. He
had tried all the remedies he could devise or hear of, but without success.
Mr. Hance said he had used Paris Green in solution for the destruction
of all insects that had troubled him the past season, with entire satis-
faction.
The Secretary alluded to a scale or fungus that attacked the canes of
the black- cap raspberry, impairing their vitality and eventually resulting
in death .
The subject of Exhibitions was discussed by the members generally,
and while all regarded this feature of vital importance to the Society,
it was deemed best, owing to the few members present, to merely ex-
press their views and refer the expediency of the matter to the Execu
tive Committee.
The subject of Fertilizers was next taken up :
Mr. McLaury had used Manhattan Blood Fertilizer with satisfaction ;
Poudrette was also good. Bone and Fish Guano was enquired about.
The Secretary had used Fish Guano or Scrap with very visible effect.
Mr. Goldsmith has used Ashes on strawberries with gratifying results,
not only as a fertilizer, but it acted mechanically, making the soil light
and friable, and prevented heaving.
Mr. Durand said Muck was valuable on heavy clay soils ; he had found
uncombined Ammonia detrimental in all cases, and appealed to Professor
Cook to know if Ammonia was really as valuable a constituent in fer-
tilizers as formerly supposed.
Prof. Cook said this was the most important question that had been
started. Fish might be quite as stimulating to the crop the first year in
appearance, but not as permanent as bone.
The comparative benefits of ammonia and phosphoric acid as fertilizers
is an unsettled question . There are very wide differences of opinion in
regard to it among our highest authorities. These differences are owing
partly to the difference in soils to be enriched, and partly to the crops
upon which these fertilizers are applied . Mr. J. B. Lawes, one of the
most painstaking, persevering and successful experimenters with fertil .
izers who has written upon the subject, gives the important place to
ammonia, as the one from which his experiments prove he has derived
 17

most benefit. But his farm is upon the English chalk, and there is an
abundance of phosphates naturally in the soil, so that he really needs
ammonia only to produce good crops. Such, however, is not the case upon
soils of a different composition. In 1870 I visited Mr. Lawes and had an
opportunity to see the farm and crops upon which his experiments have
been carried on for thirty years past with such intelligence and faithful-
ness, and I cannot doubt that his conclusions are correct for his land . He
gave me a letter to Mr Alfred S. Rushton of Chatteris, in the Fens of
Cambridgeshire . Mr. Rushton is an intelligent and skillful farmer, and
like Mr. Lawes finds his profit in using commercial fertilizers liberally.
But as his soil is largely made up of muck and vegetable matter contain-
ing an abundance of the elements of ammonia, he uses only phosphoric
acid as he buys it in superphosphate of lime, and he assured me that he
received no benefit whatever from the use of ammoniacal manures. No
one who meets these skillful and successful farmers can doubt that they
both give correctly the results of their own experience. And it is equally
plain that the difference in their conclusions is due to the difference of the
soils which they cultivate.
In the vicinity of New Brunswick there appears to have been much
better and more lasting results from the use of bone- dust and super-phos-
phates, than from manures which were chiefly ammoniacal. That is for
the raising of stable crops. grain, corn and hay. In the case of green
crops and vegetables which are sold fresh in market, ammoniacal manures
are decidedly beneficial and profitable, but the permanent improvement
of the soil and its greater general productiveness is owing mostly to phos.
phatic manures.
In experiments with various fertilizers upon the growth of Indian corn
made on the farm of the Agricultural College, the results which were
carefully tested by weighing and measuring, have not shown any increased
crops either of corn or stalks from the use of ammonia in the four years
in which they have been tried. The leaves looked greener and more lux-
uriant, but the stalks seemed weaker, and there was no increase in their
weight. An increased crop has been obtained in these experiments by
the use of phosphates. The experiments upon wheat on the college farm
with different fertilizers have been carefully made for only a single year.
The best results in these, which was at the rate of forty- eight bushels per
acre, was upon the ground fertilized with super- phosphate of lime made
from bones, and the poorest, which was thirty-four bushels per acre, was
from that upon which the most sulphate of ammonia was used. The same
importance, however, is not to be attached to the latter experiments that
there is to those on corn, for the wheat crop has been an unusually good
one, and both these results are above the ordinary crops. They do, how-
ever, point to the same conclusion in regard to the superior effects of
phosphates that is drawn from the experiments upon corn.
The uncertainty in regard to the effects of different fertilizers is gradu
ally diminishing. It has been, rather unfairly, all laid to the frauds of
manufacturers of fertilizers, when in fact there is probably as much blame
2
 18

to be attached to those who use them. As fast as those who buy fertil-
izers learn what they need for their own soils and crops, so fast will
the manufacturers prepare themselves to supply their demands. This
knowledge has to be acquired by careful and judicious observations and
experiments upon the different classes of our soils.
There is better opportunity now than ever before to make such experi-
ments. All the large dealers in fertilizers deal also in agricultural chemi-
cals. Those who are disposed to do so can buy these pure chemicals and
combine such kinds, and in such proportions, as their knowledge and
judgment dictates, and make their own experiments, and record the
results, after comparison and study. There is at the present time a
particularly favorable and safe means of trying the comparative effects of
phosphates and ammonia in the different grades of Peruvian guano now in
market. This fertilizer has always given satisfaction to those who have
used it, and there is more care taken now than there was formerly to
ensure its uniformity of composition and strength. The analyses at-
tached to the packages in which it is sold are correct, I think ; some
of them contain a large percentage of ammonia and less phosphoric acid,
others contain large percentages of phosphoric acid and small percentages
of ammonia, but in all cases the packages guaranteed to be true to
analysis and uniformly fine and even in quality. Another addition has
also been made in the preparation of guano for market by the use of
sulphuric acid to neutralize and fix the volatile salt of ammonia in it and
to make the phosphates more soluble. Guano prepared in this way is
called " Rectified Guano, " and has the same range in the percentages of
its ammonia and phosphoric acid that the common kind has.
Trials with these guanos and with the bone and plain super-phosphates
are safe, and conclusions can soon be reached. They offer a fine field
for the combined efforts of intelligent and enterprising horticulturists and
farmers.
Mr. Van Doren spoke of the value of experimental stations as estab-
lished in Connecticut where by the analyzing of fertilizers alone half a
million of dollars had been saved annually to the farmers of that State.
Professor Cook said a bill to authorize a similar establishment in this
State was introduced into our Legislature last Winter and our legislators
fairly laughed at the idea.
The best fruit packages now in use was discussed briefly-the Beecher
and Cook's improved baskets being considered the best.
The Society then adjourned sine die subject to the call of the Executive
Committee.
E. WILLIAMS, Recording Secretary,
 THE PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS .

After congratulating the members upon so full an attendance, and other

introductory matters, the President said :
It was suggested last year, and the proposition was generally assented
to, that in view of the Centennial Exhibition, we should not attempt an
exhibition of our own. I am convinced that this was wise, as the majority
of fairs that came into competition with the Centennial were financial fail-
ures. The New York State Fair, usually so successful, was held at so
great a loss that the society withdrew its offer of premiums to be awarded
on cattle by the Centennial juries. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Soci-
ety, as one of its officers informed me, never before had so good an exhi-
bition nor so poor an attendance. All of the county societies in the Eastern
States that I have heard of report a deficit in the treasury, if exhibitions
were held. The fair of the New Jersey State Society presented a marked
exception to the generally disastrous reports. This fair offers such a fine
opportunity for " that noble animal, the horse, " that Elizabeth, Newark,
Jersey City and New York send abundant delegations of patrons of this
branch of agriculture, to throng the grand stand and fill its treasury. At
the tent on the hill was a really fine exhibition of the products of horticul
ture ; in the vale below was an exhibition of the products of horse culture
The race-course was thronged by thousands, while the tent was as the hymn
describes wisdom's แ narrow path, " " with here and there a traveler." The
success of the two exhibitions by the New York Horticultural Society was
undoubted, but being held conjointly with Gilmore's Band, it is impossible
to say what share belonged to each.
As our own efforts were suspended in deference to the Centennial, it
may be well to briefly consider what the great exhibition did for Horti-
culture.
Before the exhibition opened, the articles presented were classified into
groups, and a board of jurors, in part foreigners and in part Americans,
appointed to judge of and report upon each group. In this arrangement
of juries, agriculture was barely recognized, in the branch of agricultural
machinery, while in face of the fact that one of the most conspicuous build
 20

ings on the ground was devoted to it, horticulture was treated as if not of
sufficient importance to be recognized, and utterly ignored .
After the exhibition had been open for some time, and the dissatisfac-
tion of those who had made exhibits of horticultural products and appli-
ances had found expression, two juries were appointed—a sort of appendix
to the general list-one for horticulture in general, and another for pomol-
ogy only. As if to make amends for former neglect, the controlling powers
found occasion to show horticulture distinguished consideration . The
members of other juries were paid, not largely but fairly, for their services,
but so high was the esteem in which the powers held horticulture above
the other arts and sciences represented at the exhibition , that the mere
honor of serving it was considered sufficient compensation for the services
rendered, and the juries, though obliged to attend frequently throughout
the season, were paid merely their expenses.
By a most remarkable classification, pomology was regarded as more
closely allied to agriculture than to horticulture, and its exhibits were in
charge of the bureau of agriculture. I regard this arrangement as unfor-
tunate, if not unfair, for several reasons, but mainly in an educational view .
The exhibition was a grand school, where thousands from all parts of the
country were taught, chiefly by the eye, and where many, especially the
young, received impressions which will remain through life. The impres
sion here conveyed was, that pomology is a part of agriculture, and therefore
useful, while horticulture has to do with ornamental plants, in an ornamen-
tal building, surrounded by decorated grounds. It said as plainly as
possible, that horticulture meant something very pretty to look at, but
very expensive. This divorcing of fruit culture from horticulture at the
exhibition was very objectionable and unfair. Of course agriculture, in
its broadest sense, covers every form of culture of the soil, but when a
sub-division is made, and horticulture is separated from agriculture, then
fruit culture and pomology are, and have always been, until this Centennial
classification, important branches of horticulture. Giving the public this
practical illustration that horticulture includes the merely ornamental, and
that fruit and vegetable growing have no part in it, was an injustice to this
Society and every other horticultural society in the country.
Special exhibitions of orchard and garden products were announced for
stated times during the season, but these special fruit shows, when we
consider the possibilities of the case, must be regarded as lamentable fail-
ures. What these fruit exhibitions might have been, had some well- known
pomologist been in charge of them, it is not now worth while considering,
but it is hardly probable that they could have been any farther than they
were from properly representing the fruit production of the country. Be-
sides the mistake of placing the fruit shows under the bureau of agriculture,
the location of the " Pomological Annex " was most unfortunate. The
building, which might have been modeled after one of the temporary mil-
itary hospitals, of which we saw only too many a few years ago, was placed
at so remote a part of the grounds that it was visited by few beyond those
who purposely sought it. A few dozens or hundreds of dishes of fruits,
 21

with only here and there a solitary spectator, in this wide desert of white-
washed barrack, afforded melancholy testimony to the fact that some one
had blundered. The general pomological exhibition was held from Sep-
tember 11th to 16th. The capacious tables held some 15,000 dishes of
fruit, arranged according to States, and made a really grand display, one
which in magnitude was perhaps never before equaled . It afforded an
excellent opportunity to compare the fruit-growing capabilities of the dif
ferent States, and to observe the changes in a particular variety resulting
from a difference in soil and climate. The fruit from Canada was most
creditable to the individuals and societies that contributed it. This exhi-
bition was a fine success in all respects save one-that of attendance.
Where it was seen by tens, it should have been visited by thousands, but
ingng placed outside of the current of travel, the number was meager when
compared with the excellence of the exhibition.
The horticultural building, intended to be permanent, was one of the
most conspicuous, both as to location and the ornate character of its archi-
tecture. When an architect designs a church, a theater or a prison, he
takes into account the needs of its inmates, but in building a plant- house,
or conservatory attached to a dwelling, this precaution is too generally
omitted ; hence these structures, though externally pleasing, are to the
plants absolutely killing. The building at the Centennial is no exception
to this. Colonades and Moorish arches, polychromatic decorations and
gilded domes are fine, as well as costly, but they do not grow plants ! No
matter how beautiful the tints on the ceiling, if it does not let through the
light. The main hall is certainly fine, but it is too dark ; the side annexes
are light, but with imperfect ventilation . The outside of the building is
its best part.
The grounds around the building were admirably managed, and the effect
of the whole was most gratifying to the thousands to whom it was a new
revelation of the possibilities of gardening. * * * *
The exhibition in the department of ornamental horticulture, including
flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees, may be judged in two different aspects.
If we take it with no reference to the possibilities, it formed an important
feature of the whole. There were excellent samples of good cultivation,
there were rarities for those who could appreciate them, there was abund-
ant food for the study of the lover of plants, and there was brightness and
color to gratify the senses. So, as an exhibition to instruct many, and to
please still many more, it was a pronounced success. On the other hand,
if we regard it as an indication of the present state of horticulture in this
country, in either its private or its commercial aspects, it came very far
short, and was in this respect a failure. We looked in vain for contribu-
tions from the many collections of choice stove and greenhouse plants in
private hands in various parts of the country. Of the great number of
commercial florists and nurserymen in all parts of the country, save three
or four from New York, all the cther exhibitors were from Pennsylvania
and New Jersey ; such great horticultural centers as Boston, Rochester,
Geneva, Cincinnati and others, were not represented by a single plant ! In
 22

closing this glance at horticulture at the Centennial, let me add that our
Society may find some encouragement in the exhibition ; we have seen that
our own members were conspicuous contributors, and when we shall have
an exhibition of our own, we shall expect that the gentlemen from South
Amboy, from Jersey City Heights, from Red Bank and others, will not
fall short of the high standard they have themselves established. * * * *.
In view of the Centennial, we dismissed all idea of exhibitions last
year, and it is proper that we now consider this question . Shall we hold
one or more exhibitions this year ? If so, how many ? where ? and when ?
the ways and the means ? For one, I am strongly in favor of exhibitions,
They not only serve to educate the people, and, by showing fine fruit
improved vegetables and choice flowers, create a taste that will lead others
in the right direction, but we need exhibitions to improve ourselves . How
else shall we learn the horticultural resources of the State, except by
bringing together its products where they may be seen and compared.
A larger number of valuable varieties than many are aware of had their
origin in New Jersey ; some the result of skillful culture, but the majority
-as is the case everywhere-are accidental seedlings. In strawberries,
Seth Boyden contributed varieties not only of remarkable size, but of per-
manent value ; but his achievements have been far distanced by our mem-
ber from Irvington, who exhibited at the Centennial and elsewhere some
berries that may truly be called wonderful. The State has produced sev-
eral raspberries, with more yet to come. In blackberries, it has given to
cultivators in Wilson's Early, its earliest, and with many growers, most
profitable variety, while in the Kittatinny we have so near perfection in
quality that it will long be the standard of excellence. To enumerate the
apples that trace their origin to New Jersey would be tiresome. Marked
examples are the Canfield, so sound and so fair, and which keeps so
well and bears transportation without injury, that it has been sold in
London as the Newtown Pippin, and none of the purchasers knew the
difference- until they tasted it. Then there is the Maiden's Blush, the
most beautiful apple that ever grew, and which everywhere illustrates the
adage that " Beauty is but skin deep ;" the Monmouth Pippin easily
stands at the head of choice apples of its season, but we need not enumer
ate. The New Jersey peaches are many, as the names of Crawford, Reeves
and Smock will recall. In pears, the number is not so large, at least
they do not come to mind. The Japan pear, now attracting much atten-
tion abroad as an ornamental tree, is a seedling of our State. I may re
mark in passing, that this should be better known at home, for it is one of
the most ornamental trees in flower, fruit, and Summer and Autumn
foliage, while it is a pomological puzzle, having the wood and foliage of a
pear, with the fruit in shape like an apple, with the odor of a quince.
We should not forget the important addition to the short list of good Win-
ter pears in the Quinn, which proves to be of real value.
In this brief reference to New Jersey fruits, which is not intended to
present anything more than a few illustrations, we must not forget the
Elsinburg grape, nor the everywhere popular Delaware, which, when
 23

pomologists would trace its origin, leads them to New Jersey and there
stops, and it may be fairly claimed for the State.
In all of the older States there are yet varieties of real value that are
not known beyond the localites in which they originated, and it is within
the personal knowledge of many of us —at least within my own— that
New Jersey is not an exception. One of the good results of exhibitions
is to bring out these fruits, that they may be properly tested and com-
* * *
pared. But I need not further impress upon a gathering of
horticulturists the utility of exhibitions. That they should be held, and
that we should hold them, will be generally conceded. If any one doubts
that we shall have the co-operation of the cultivators of flowers, vegeta-
bles and fruit, the fine exhibition made at Waverly last Fall is a sufficient
answer.
The question of locality is the most difficult to settle, as we have to
consider that the success of an exhibition depends on having something
to show, and somebody to see it. I hope that the matter may be dis-
caused at this session, as a guide to the action of the Executive Commit-
tee, with whom the details will properly be left.
Last year I called your attention to the subject of the cross -fertilization
of flowers, especially to the part played by insects. There is no subject
related to plant-life that is receiving more attention than this at the hands
of scientific observers . Unlike many investigations made in the interest
of science, the practical value of this commends itself to the most matter-
of- fact minds. Long before the question of cross-fertilization became
prominent, the fact was recognized by cultivators, and acted upon. Every
careful seed-grower took pains to keep his varieties of the same plant so far
apart that they would not " mix, " and every one who practiced hybridizing
on flowers or fruits, after he had applied the pollen to the seed - bearing
flowers, took precautions to shut off all insects which might bring other
pollen and undo his work. Still, with all the experimenting there are
some practical points upon which the evidence is very meagre.
The programme, as arranged by the Executive Committee, suggests
sufficient for discussion to occupy all our time, and I do not propose to add
another question, but there is a point to which I would direct the attention
of cultivators the coming season. It is this : Does cross-fertilizing, or, to use
the popular term , mixing, affect the fruit of the present year ? That is, if
we have growing together two very distinct varieties-the Hubbard and
a Bush squash, for example, and the bees carry the pollen from the Bush
to the Hubbard, we know that the seeds will next year produce mongrels,
but will there be any change in form , color and quality of the squash-
the fruit itself? Is the cross shown in the fruit ? This is a matter upon
which it is very easy to get opinions, but positive testimony is very scarce.
While the evidence shows that the fruit is sometimes affected , we do not
know that it is generally so. One of the difficulties in coming at the facts
in these cases is, that the effects of the cross may be manifested in a con-
spicuous manner, as by a change in shape or color, or it only may affect
the flavor or keeping qualities, or in some other way that does not attract
 24

attention. For example : as squashes have been taken as an illustration ,

more than twenty years ago a squash was brought to me that was in
every visible character a Boston marrow- that variety as it was in those
days, and not the poor substitute now known by that name. Size, form,
shape of stem, mark at blossom end, shape of seeds, and the color of both
rind and flesh, were all true to kind- but the taste was of the most intense
bitter. Upon investigation it was found that some of the so- called fancy,
or ornamental gourds-just then becoming popular -were grown upon a
trellis at the house, and sufficiently near to the squashes for the bees to
carry pollen from one to the other. We do not know that this crossing
took place, but as some of these fancy gourds, whatever there may be
pleasing in their exterior, are concentrated bitterness within, it is a case
of strong circumstantial evidence. If a cross- fertilization can so affect
one fruit it may another, and produce changes which, though not manifest
in any external characters, are quite as important. It is probably within
the experience of many of our members that changes do occur, in the
exterior of some of our larger fruits that can hardly be mere sports, but
are with more probability to be referred to crossing. For example : we
sometimes see a smooth-skinned apple, like the Baldwin, with a portion
of its surface bounded by a well- defined line, as positively russeted as if
it were a Roxbury. A case in which a yellow apple grew in a cluster of
red ones, was a few years ago brought to my notice, and also several pos-
itively pear-shaped fruits which grew upon an apple tree, the branches of
which interlaced with a pear tree ; but as the specimens were preserved
in alcohol, it was not possible to tell whether this was confined to form
only, or if there were changes in the flesh of the fruit. These and other
recorded cases make it very probable that by cross -fertilization the fruit
of the current year is effected, as well as the seeds. It is very desirable
that all such evidence as this should be collected, as it has an important
1 practical bearing. In my opinion much of the lack of success of particu-
lar apples or pears, in a given locality, is not due so much to a peculiar
unfitness of the soil, as to the trees with which the variety is associated .
We often hear the complaint that " My Baldwin or Lawrence, or other
late-keeping apple or pear, bears well, but that the fruit on my place does
not keep." If the Baldwin flowers were fertilized by an early Harvest,
or those of the Lawrence by a Bartlett, or whatever early varieties may
be in bloom at the same time, there seems strong reason for supposing
that this crossing, while not affecting its exterior, may so change the
character of the fruit as to induce early ripening and decay. There is a
notion among fruit men that trees do much better when in an orchard of
one kind. I have heard this spoken of in the West, and the real founda-
tion for the belief may be the one that I have suggested-there being no
chance of crossing, the fruit will be more uniform in quality.
If I mistake not, Mr. Fuller once stated that the quality ofthe fruit of
a pistillate strawberry-like Hovey's seedling, for example- was deci-
dedly affected by the character of the variety employed to fertilize it. It
is not well to form a hypothesis and then search for evidence to sustain
 25

it ; but within the past ten or fifteen years I have seen so many straws
pointing in one direction, that I have been led to consider from what quar-
ter the wind comes, and I have brought the matter to your attention with
the hope that observations may be multiplied, and that when fruits are
seen to depart from their normal forms, the cause of the deviation may be
sought for. * * *
What was said last year in this place as to the methods of bringing the
Society into proper relations with the people of the State, of setting it in
active operation, all remains as applicable now as then, for neither the
Society itself, nor its surroundings, have in any respect changed during
the past year of inactivity. It was then suggested that the two most
important matters were, the holding of exhibitions and the publication of
a catalogue of fruits which should be a safe guide to the people of the
State who are asking what they shall plant.
I would call attention to one or two other matters. We have assumed
the name of State Horticultural Society, and we should be such in fact as
well as in name. It is true that those counties most engaged in horti-
cultural pursuits are well represented, but it is to those portions of the
State most backward in horticultural matters that we can be of the most
service, and it is those very portions in which a horticultural exploration,
so to speak, is most likely to discover hidden varieties of value. Of the
21 counties into which the State is divided, only 12 (twelve ) are repre-
sented in our membership. It seems very desirable that some method
should be adopted to secure the representation of every county. Perhaps
New Jersey is as widely known in the horticultural world by the Kitta-
tinny blackberry as by any other one thing, yet the county in which that
was discovered has given us no vice president.
We area State society. We have for our object the good ofthe people ;
our efforts are in one sense educational ; we desire to increase the com-
forts and pleasures of life for every man, woman and child in the State ;
we not only wish to aid those who cultivate flowers, fruits and vegetables
for a livelihood, but we wish to increase the taste for these things in the
community. We show our disinterestedness by being willing to pay for
the privilege of doing good. It would seem that with these objects we
have some claim upon the recognition and aid from the State. Knowing
nothing of the ways of politics, or how such ends are accomplished , I
merely suggest that we should take measures to have our society placed
on a similar footing with the most favored of kindred societies . In many
of the States the proceedings of the horticultural societies are printed as a
public document. We should secure this much, and whatever beyond is
granted to others.
In older and larger societies, the presiding officer devotes a share of his
annual address to the necrology of the year, and pronounces a brief
eulogy upon the departed members. Young as our society is, it has not
been exempt from the common lot, and death has not overlooked us. It
is my sad duty to announce the death of C. W. Badger, of Newark, one
of our original members, the vice president for Essex county, and a mem-
 26

ber of our Committee on Fruits. As my acquaintance with him scarcely

extended beyond our two meetings, the words fitting to the occasion will,
with more propriety, come from another. All who met him here must
have been impressed by his earnestness and his enthusiasm in horticulture,
and we shall miss his strong good sense and his readiness with practical
suggestions. It is proper that the society should express its appreciation
of his good qualities, and convey to his relatives its sympathy in their be
reavement.
 [ See Discussion and Resolution, Page 5.]

EARLY HISTORY OF FRUIT CULTURE IN NEW

JERSEY, ETC.

BY C. W. IDELL OF HOBOKEN, HUDSON COUNTY.

NEW BRUNSWICK, February 1 , 1877.

About the first knowledge I could obtain of the Strawberry in our

State is, that it first grew wild in many parts of the State, particularly in the
County of Bergen. The Negroes were the first to pick this fruit for the
New York market, and invented those quaint old fashion splint baskets
with handles, that were and are still in use in that county.
These berries were taken to New York, the baskets being strung on
poles and thus peddled through the city.
I would state for the benefit of those who have not seen those baskets,
that it was the intention of the original makers of them, to have them con-
tain a half pint each, but soon they became so reduced in size that each
buyer was compelled to guess at the contents of those he bought.
Just when cultivated berries made their appearance, I am unable to
say, but I am inclined to think that they were derived from seedlings of
the wild fruit.
From the information I have gathered, I think that the cultivation of
this fruit for the New York market originated in the vicinity of Hacken-
sack, Bergen County, and from there spread over the State.
As there were no railroads in that section at that early date all the
berries had to be carted to New York in wagons, crossing the Hudson at
Hoboken.
Quite recently I met with Mr. Andrew, M. Hopper of Pascack, who gave
me several interesting points from his early recollections. Mr. Hopper
said " I am now 65 years old, and can well remember when a boy ten
years of age of picking berries for my father. At that time we had no
crates as we have now, but packed them in large baskets that we called
hampers.
 28

"Our only shipping point to New York was Piermont, on the Hudson,
New York State, a distance of about eight miles.
" At this point there was a line of sloops that sailed semi -weekly, when
wind and tide permitted . In those days there were no Commission Mer-
chants in New York that dealt in berries, and each farmer was compelled
to go with and sell his own fruit. The fare on these vessels was one
shilling for the round trip, board not included ; and as it sometimes re-
quired two days to reach the city , each farmer provided a lunch for him-
self before starting from home, as well as provender for his team, which
was left at the landing to await his return. The usual fee for careing for
the team while they were gone was twenty- five cents."
The Haut-boy was the first named variety he could remember, which
was introduced among them in 1835. In about 1840 the Scotch Runner
was introduced at Hackensack. It was a valuable variety for the growers,
as it was hardy, a good bearer, and the fruit grew unusually large.
incident connected with the introduction of this variety is worth mention-
ing, showing the eagerness of the cultivators to procure the plants.
A gentleman living at " Old Bridge, " which is a few miles above Hack-
ensack, secured quite a number of plants, and set them out in his garden
for the purpose of propagating them so that he could in due time plant a
large " patch " of them . The vines being in great demand, his neighbors
insisted upon his selling them, but to their proposition he positively re-
fused, the consequence was, that one night some person entered his gar
den and stole every plant he had. At this period, and up to the intro-
duction of the Wilson, all strawberries in that section were picked and
marketed without the hulls .
For a long time I have been trying to find out the originator of the
quart berry box and crate, and thinking Mr. Hopper might possess some
knowledge on this point I enquired of him. He replied " I know noth-
ing about the quart box, for I never used them, but I do about the crate.
"In 1840 I made the first crate ever used in our section, if not in the
State, and I will tell you how I came to do it. In those days I raised
large quantities of apricots and marketed them in such baskets as we hap-
pened to have. In the year named, my fruit was very large and finely
colored, and knowing they would be damaged by carting in the usual way,
I had a number of small baskets made, and I then constructed a crate to
fit them . The next day after I made them, General Acker, who was an
old fruit grower, called on me, admired the arrangement, and suggested
that they would answer to pack berries in, and requested me to make two
for him, which I did. From these the use of them soon became general.
The cases referred too were skeleton cases, some with and others with-
out lids, each grower making them to suit his own convenience for hand-
ling, but they generally contained from one to two hundred baskets each .
The number of baskets in each was marked either on the lid or slat. The
berry crop of this section generally begins to ripen by the tenth of June,
and closes by the fourth of July."
VITICULTURAL EDUCATION, AND ITS PROSPECTIVE

RESULTS .

WILLIAM N. BARNETT, WEST HAVEN, CONN.

To the mind and muscle of the horticulturist-more than to any other

special human agency - are nations indebted for the development of their
resources.
Horticulture is model agriculture, and that is the great practical science
of mankind, for from the soil all wealth springs.
Mines, manufactures and commerce are but secondary sources and
would of themselves be powerless to sustain organic life. Produce alone
does this, and it is drawn by the farmer from the soil, while he patterns
from the successful horticulturist.
The art, therefore, of growing plants is of paramount importance, be-
cause that art supplies the world with food. " He that makes two blades
of grass to grow where but one grew before," is a benefactor to man
kind . He that adds to the grain and the fruits of his country adds to the
health and the wealth of its inhabitants.
While we look to the farmer for bread, we turn to the horticulturist for
fruit. Pomology is a favorite pursuit, and one branch of it, viticulture,
specially engages the attention of the amateur.
In France, one-fifth of all the cultivated land within the vine zone is
devoted to grape culture. The annual value of this crop reaches one
thousand millions. Every tide that flows and ebbs carries on its
wave ships to and from Bordeaux, laden outwardly with the rich products
of the vine, and these are to France what the cotton crop is to this coun-
try-the heaviest article of her export the grand basis of her foreign
commerce.
Now the great problem here is, can we, within our vine zone, equal
France within hers ? The reply is, Yes. And when ? Not until the
horticulturist educates the farmer, and he begins to realize that an acre of
grapes, worth three hundred dollars, is as easily grown on the same ground
as an acre of corn worth thirty dollars ; and then not till the grape grower
learns to handle his crop as skillfully as the experienced European.
Before this can be accomplished a thick cloud of ignorance must be
 30

dispelled by the bright sunshine of intelligence. Much has to be un-

learned. The vine has been weakened in the nursery, tortured in the
garden, untimely cropped and over-cropped in the field, and then left to
suffer in uncongenial soil and air. We look on and wonder why it refuses
to live and be healthy, when it is known to inherit a long-lived constitu-
tion and uncommon vitality. It tells us plainly that practice based on
error must fail ; that to succeed we must study the nature of the vine
and adapt our practice to that nature, in soil, climate, situation and ex-
posure.
In order to do this, model vineyards and public teachers are needed,
and the State should furnish these as in France. Begin at the beginning
to lay the foundation ; teach grape culture at the public schools as an
essential branch of education, for every home needs the fruit. With
grape cutting in hand, let the scholar plant it and grow the vine, and
ripen the grape and taste the clusters . Let theory and practice be taught
together, and prizes awarded to the most successful. Let each town and
county and State have its own society, and each society be sustained at
public cost.
Our government in her patronage has unwisely discriminated . The
machine inventor and the manufacturer have been subsidized and lifted to
the front. while the producer, unnoticed, has been left to grope along un-
aided in the background. Reverse this- shut down for a while the Patent
Office, and cut off the enormous assessments on the people wrought by
its action ; then let a few millions thus saved be diverted towards the
soil. Give an annual award of say one dollar to the best pupil in grape
culture in each school ; ten dollars to the best vine grower in each town ; one
hundred dollars for the best vineyard in each county ; one thousand dollars
to that in the State, and ten thousand dollars, by government, to the best in
the country. Make similar awards for the best cluster and the richest must.
The effect of such a policy would tell wonderfully. While a beneficial
check might be put to surplus manufacturing, deserted and worn - out lands
at the East would be re-fertilized and re-occupied. Western vineyards,
unskillfully handled, would be restored to health and productiveness.
New and improved vineyards would meet the eye in every direction.
The freedman, now idling from and shunning all his former avocations,
would take kindly to the vine when he saw its advantages. Thousands
of unemployed hands, now paupers, in large cities and manufacturing
towns would find abundant occupation, as producers, in this pleasant and
healthful branch of industry without any danger of overstocking the
market, for the products of the soil, unlike those of the factory , are never`
in excess. At the same time the health and the morals of the nation
would be benefitted by substituting, as a beverage, the mild and tonic
juices of the grape for the vile alcoholic poisons of the distillery. In this
respect it would do good like the missionary.
We ship bread and beef to England, though she is a skillful producer
of both. Supplement these exports with grapes and wine, which her sun
and soil exclude her from raising, and she would welcome their arrival.
 31

The Centennial has shown what we have done . French silks and
Swiss watches have by American enterprise been more than matched
here within the last few years. Why will not the same enterprise in
Viticulture lead us eventually to equal these nations in their vineyards,
the products of which are ten times more valuable than silks and watches ?
The history of cotton exemplifies what the introduction of a single plant
has done for the nations ; and there are just as good grounds for believing
that the future record of the vine will be equally astounding. Only
another Whitney is wanting to start the programme and indications point
towards the successful originator of the Newburgh Seedlings.
This, then, is an important question in political economy. Why not,
as a nation, make it the first great question of our second century ? To
it the chemist should lend his aid, the horticulturist his skill, the farmer
his energy, the capitalist his means, the statesman his influence ; and
when these are brought to bear, the State will not be backward in pro-
tecting that which is eventually destined to add so much to her welfare
and prosperity.
 THE APPLE .

BY EDWIN BEEKMAN, MIDDLETOWN, MONMOUTH CO. , N. J.

This subject has been written on until one would think whatever orig.
inality it possessed must by this time have been eliminated . Physicians
say there are no new diseases, but old ones are constantly changing their
type, and this law is as despotic in vegetable physiology as in human, and
it therefore follows that to be successful in Apple culture, as in other
fruits, we must be able to adapt ourselves to the changes of nature ; and
while I confess my inability to tell you gentlemen much that is new, and
can tell but poorly what others have told so thoroughly and well, yet they
take the whole field and I but a small portion, and the microscopic eye will
find what the giant vision fails to see. So we will hold the subject up to
a kaleidoscope and try to find some new beauties.
If, as it is said, age is honorable, then the Apple must be the most
honorable of fruits. It is used as a symbol to represent the temptations
of the first horticulturists, and in mythology we find that Venus gave
Hippomenes apples of gold from the garden of the gods.
The apple of discord I will not present to you.
It is supposed by some that the European Crab is the parent stock, but
other writers say Asia was the first producer. One thing is certain, it is
the most catholic of fruits, and grows in some form over the greater por-
tion of the globe. Way up in Siberia in what may be called the suburb
of the North Pole, where the Isotherm is 60 ° , it lives and fruits. While
on the other hand, in almost tropical Florida, side by side with the orange,
the Isotherm marking 25 ° , it has its being. Trace it to Russia or Florida
it is a welcome guest in every household, and its importance as a sanitary
agent cannot be over estimated .
Are we progressing in its cultivation ?
Speaking for Monmouth County, the answer should be in the affirmative
for the following reasons : We are situated, geographically speaking, on
the Atlantic seaboard ; the Gulf Stream sweeps along only about one
hundred miles from the coast, giving us an equable temperature - those
sudden cold changes that are known in the interior never occur here ; our
proximity to the ocean mitigates the severity of the drouths due to the
 33

loss of timber belts, as the sea breezes are more or less laden with mois-
ture ; geologically, we have a deposit of green sand, at varying depths, of
excellent quality, and for trees there is no better fertilizer.
Of all orchards where extraordinary success has been achieved , there
were invariably three factors to the sum of success, first, green sand de-
posit ; second, encircling hills ; third, cultivation.
Mr. Daniel Schenck's sales for a given year, from sixteen acres of
Orange Pippin, Nyack Pippin and Pelican ( Pennock) were $ 6,000 .
Another orchard of Orange Pippin, Nyack Pippin and Sour Bough were,
in 1875 (the off year) , $ 5,000 . But to accomplish pecuniary results like
this, early varieties only must be set. A basket of Windfalls from a Red
Astrachan will often sell for more than a bushel of Hand -picked late apples.
Our nearness to the New York market, and facilities for transportation ,
enable us to raise the perishable kinds and market them . We are in
time ahead of the North River fruit, and raise a better quality than the
more southern States.
The kinds that have done best are in order of profit as follows :
Red Astrachan, Sour Bough ( selected ) ,
Orange Pippin, Nyack Pippin,
Gravenstein, Keswick's Codlin.

There is another advantage that the grower of early fruit has, and that
is, by gathering the fruit so early in the season the tree has a chance to
make new spurs for a crop the ensuing year ; while in late Apples it takes
one year to make a crop and another to form new wood. The Baldwin
bears every other year ; the early Red Astrachan will bear some every
year, because it has a chance to form new wood . The Orange Pippin has
paid well from the fact that it bears the off year, i. e. when most the
orchards are recuperating. Why this variety should do this I cannot say .
Will any kind bear the off year if we keep the bloom off the on year ?
or is it in the variety ? These are questions that are of profit if we
have to compete with the North River apple crop.
Late varieties from this cause are no longer profitable with us . We
are too far south to grow a solid, perfectly formed Apple, and except for
domestic use and the cider mill, the late kinds will not foot very heavy
sales.
Our worst Drawback at present is the Borer. Rows of dead and dying
eight and twelve year-old trees show he has got at the root of apple cul-
ture, and the worst feature is, that until the tree is dead its presence is
not suspected.
The Blight is disappearing, and from indications will soon cease. The
Codling moth is increasing and some of the old varieties are about worth-
less from the worms. The little Lady Apple is its favorite prey, and the
Curculio has stung its very cheek until this favorite of the juveniles has
become nearly worthless.
But Apple culture has its picturesque as well as useful side. We
search the uttermost parts of the earth for rare and expensive ornamentals
3
 34

that cannot in any way compete with the familiar Apple tree. There is
no tree that shows such a succession of animated pictures as this ; the
May suns show an array of flowers of the most delicate shade and exqui-
site odor ; the June foliage of bright, waxy green, presenting a beautiful
mass of light and shade ; July, August and September show graceful
bending boughs laden with globes of green, red and gold . Well said one
of old, speaking of some beautiful object, " Like apples of gold in pictures
of silver. "
If the Apple was rare it would be more eagerly sought after than the
Morus- Multicaulis ever was. But thanks to men like those here to -day ,
there is no danger of its ever becoming extinct if energy and intelligence
can not only keep it where it is, but constantly advancing.
That point which was invisible yesterday is the goal to-day, and will
be the starting point to-morrow.
The toils of the entomologist and botanist will be the triumph of the
horticulturist.
VIEWS AS TO THE FORMATION, ARRANGEMENT

AND PLANTING OF ORNAMENTAL GROUNDS .

BY ELBERT S. CARMAN, RIVER EDGE, N. J.

Until the views set forth by different authors as . to the laying out of
grounds, as to the character and disposition of the shrubs and trees to be
selected, shall more nearly agree in essential particulars, there is no one
work that can be accepted as a standard guide. Years ago the study of
logic was held in contempt because it failed to furnish men with methods
of reasoning- with the most perfect methods of strengthening and direct-
ing the mental powers. Claims thus made for one study, which could only
justly be made for all studies, fell to the ground and carried with them
for the time the real province of the study, viz. , a method of analyzing
those principles by which all men must reason . The science and art of
beautifying grounds, or Landscape Gardening, as it is grandly termed, is
in danger of falling into contempt for similar reasons. Too much is
claimed for it. In so far as it has to do with horticulture as an art,
specific rules may be given for our guidance. But in so far as it has to
do with imagination and taste, i. e., those faculties by which conceptions
are formed, their beauty and harmony estimated, and their adaptability to
certain grounds ascertained -in just so far no rules can be framed that
shall prove to such an extent useful as to be worthy of the name.
Upon most æsthetical subjects there is such a thing as a standard of
taste, which has grown out of an agreement among intelligent people upon
the general principles which constitute them, and these are systematized
so as to form guides which may be safely followed. But how well
soever such rules may be defined for other arts, they are the least binding
and comprehensive for that portion of landscape gardening which must
look, not only to the imagination and to the taste of the designer, but to
his power of adapting his designs to his grounds so as to insure an artistic
effect.
Most books treating upon landscape gardening divide the subject into
two heads, viz ., the " picturesque " and the " beautiful." The irregular,
 36

wild, natural for the one- the geometric, regular, artificial, gardenesque for
the other-are synonymous words. These books are at great pains to de-
fine these terms so that he who is forming or executing his plans, may not
break in upon the line which seems intended sharply to divide them. The
natural objects and contour of the land must determine which shall be
adopted, and he who is capable of combining them so as to form one har-
monious whole, is deemed —as well he may be —to have attained to some-
thing like perfection in his art.
For the picturesque style, rocks, crags, ravines, mountains, overhanging
cliffs, stunted verdure. spiry tops, dead branches and the like are thought
desirable or necessary . For this kind of effect, evidently magnitude is a
first requisite and sublimity is the emotion which it is designed to awaken.
The introduction of any one, or of several, of the above objects in epitome
as features in grounds of quite limited extent, can excite only a sense of
the ridiculous. In truth, it may be questioned whether all such attempts,
even in our largest parks, are not fitting objects for ridicule ; since, assist-
ed by the most favorable natural conditions, they must fall immeasurably
short of the awe- inspiring scenes which they carricature rather than copy.
Those individual parts which make up and are in keeping with scenes
which are admired for picturesque vastness, are in keeping only there
among congenial things, and we can no more reproduce the semblance of
such sublimity in our home grounds by miniature imitations, than we can
invest a dinner table with sublimity by placing thereon a fragment from a
majestic Alpine cliff or a sprig from a "spiry-topped " spruce of the Yose-
mite valley ! Whatever in nature is not in itself beautiful, though trans-
ferred from scenes the most captivating, can add nothing to the attractive-
ness of our grounds except, indeed, by contrast-and grounds that need
ugly things to render them tolerable, had better be taken out of the hands
of the landscape gardener and placed in those of the agriculturist.
From this point of view, rockeries, rooteries and the like, except as
supports for vines or for the growth of plants that will not elsewhere
thrive so well, are not evidences of good taste.
The rhapsodies that have been written about the picturesque, natural,
beautiful, geometrical and gardenesque are well mated to effusions about
66' copying nature." But how are we to copy nature ? Is it the cultivated
field, the orchard, the quadrilateral of woodland that has yet been spared ;
is it the horse, the cow, the flocks of sheep, the hay-stacks or hovels that
we must copy ? No, these are the works of man in a measure. Must
we go into the original forests and there, among impenetrable thickets or
trees with branchless stems a hundred feet in height, take our sketches ?
Must we visit Sahara, the Equator, the North Pole-or, confining our re-
searches to our own latitude and country- the unbroken prairie and the
heights and depths of the Sierras, in order to be able to elaborate 66 an ex-
pressive, harmonious and refined imitation ? "
Follow the mazes of a lively brook through woods, through valley.
Here we are struck with the wild beauty of its source-a jumping spring
surrounded on three sides by a steep bank all covered with grass and
 37

moss and shaded by trees that bend over so as to see themselves in its
shining depths. Under their shade we sit and admire. We trace its
course as far as it can be seen skirting the woods on one side - while on
the other are banks of entangled ferns and reeds . These trees that in
that inspiriting spot seem so full of grace and luxuriance, would provoke
a smile if removed to our lawns. They are beautiful only there. The
mossy bank can never exist in our grounds without the spring to moisten
the air and the earth ; without the deep shade that hides the midday sun.
Incomparably beautiful as are the scenes of nature, they cannot be
copied because their majesty is the prime element of that beauty. The
mountains can not be copied, unless, indeed, mole-hills may be clothed
with majesty. The river and the lake require nature's grand distances for
their effect. The valley is pleasing but by contrast- and since we cannot
have the mountain, we cannot have the valley. The sooner we abandon
the idea of copying nature that cannot in any two places be found alike
or in any one place adapted to our grounds, the sooner we may learn that
nature's lessons are but our A B C's which we ourselves must combine
by the love, sympathy, power and education , of which we are possessed,
into original conceptions -original forms. Nature does but give us the
problem which we are to solve . She merely gives us the raw material
out of which we are so to speak-to manufacture our grounds, the same
as she furnishes the raw material out of which, we are to manufacture our
clothing. Let us select nature's choicest gems, just as we would select
the choicest literature with which to store our minds, and , studying those
as best we may, unite them in original designs and in accordance with the
requirements, the characteristics, the expressions of each in the grounds
of our homes.
While we cannot remove the " mountain glens and shady vales " or
any of the objects that there together so awaken our appreciation of the
charms of nature, we should never lose sight of one principle that per-
vades her every aspect. It is VARIETY ; and this we may copy to our
heart's content and yet be guilty of no " servile imitation."
Our first motive in embellishing our grounds is to render them as
attractive as possible that they may become the dearest spots on earth to
us. Would that this simple doctrine were indelibly stamped upon the
memory of all! To this end, if we are to have but fifty trees and shrubs,
let every one be different and as different as possible. Let us have no
pairs or triplets, or quadruplicates of anything -as if every tree needed a
sentinel, or as if it were afraid to stand alone, or as if two or more individ-
uals were needed for the completion of one another. Here to the right
we have a Maple. There to the left, situated relatively to other objects
precisely the same, another Maple -each the ghost of the other. Both
are thrifty, shapely, fine. They are so nearly alike we can detect no
difference. Nothing is to be learnt- no impression formed from looking
npon both that is not as well formed from looking upon one. Why then
have both ? Why not have in the place of one of them another species
or genus that creates a new impression and gives additional food for pleas
 38

urable study ? And yet these monkey grounds, as we may call them, are
the rule whithersoever we go. A mile or so from my own residence is a
lawn planted with Arbor-vita-in rows as we would plant an orchard—
and with little else but Arbor-vitæ . They are perhaps fifteen feet in
height and all are of the same stiff, conical, monumental form . I never
pass this place without being reminded of a burial ground with evergreen
tombstones !
Everywhere we see the Weeping Willow. While in health, vigor and
youth, few trees are more engaging. But let us picture a lawn upon
which Weeping Willows are the only trees and our impulse would be to
weep to! If ever a tree expressed a sentiment, the Weeping Willow
expresses sorrow, and its place to exist in numbers-is in cemeteries,
where we could fancy that it sheds tears over the graves. If ever a tree
expressed those peculiarities which colloquially made up an " old maid, "
it is the Lombardy or Fastigiate Poplar-Fastidious would, perhaps, have
been a more expressive specific name. A lawn planted with this tree
alone if it did not too much excite our pity from the above association,
would be quite likely to excite our laughter. Thus it is, while all trees
are more or less beautiful ; while many, by their foliage, spray, habit, etc.,
convey an individuality that we connect with some sentiment which adapts
them to particular situations-yet the pleasing effect of one tree of a
species in our grounds is not proportionately increased by many of the
same kind. Variety is the principle which, while it secures to each all
the beauties that belong to it- imparts to our grounds a diversity of form
and character only limited by their extent. Thus even in mid-winter we
find much to observe -much to interest ; while in spring, summer and
autumn our leisure hours are too few for the feast of delight and instruc-
tion to which we are ever allured. All trees and shrubs have their pecu-
liar characteristics- their personalities— indeed, their manners. They are
creatures that, planted perhaps by our own hands, reared under our own
eyes, we learn so to love that we seek this one or that one as our mood
may prompt. We accord to them sympathetic powers, and we fancy that
they whisper sounds that our hearts frame into words, and it is by an
easy stretch of the imagination that we may learn to fraternize with them
as we do with friends, and to deeply deplore their loss.
We are instructed by the books at first alluded to, that " there is some-
thing unpleasing " in the introduction of fruit trees among elegant orna-
mental trees on a lawn-one class of vegetation suggesting the useful
and homely alone to the mind, and the other avowedly, only the ornamen-
*
tal. " That Apple or Pear trees, so mingled, do produce an unpleasing
impression upon the mind is, in the main, true enough. But does not the
fault lie rather in the mind than in the Apple and Pear trees ? If there
is a tree that combines the beautiful of all trees-picturesqueness, flowing
lines, symmetry—it is the Apple when given the same care that our
favorite ornamental trees receive . And little less need be said of the
Pear. I once saw- twenty-five yards off in a garden— a tree so compact,
so shapely, that I hastened nearer to ascertain what it was. The impres-
 39

sion of its exceeding beauty remained unchanged until I discovered that it

was a Seckel Pear tree. Then it lost a part of its " exceeding beauty."
I would use fruit trees as sparingly as any other in ornamental grounds——
but it is a mean taste that excludes them because they are useful as well
as ornamental.
Suppose we should include in this benevolent principle our wives who,
when first we saw them, captivated us by their lissome forms and by their
winning faces ; who, a little later, enlisted our respect by the goodness of
their hearts-but who finally disgusted us as soon as we found them ex-
tremely useful as well as good and beautiful. Then, I suppose, we should
name the kitchen as their castle and abiding place, as the Apple and Pear
are restricted to the orchard.
But the Apple tree is itself beautiful- beautiful in its erect form- equally
so in its weeping form ; beautiful in flower as many smaller plants which
we prize therefor- beautiful in fruit almost beyond any other plant . While
many varieties of the Crataegus, Ash, Linden, upright Willow, Locust, etc. ,
whose habits and foliage are in no way superior to the Apple and Pear,
are liberally employed for ornamental purposes - we must suppose that if
by any means they could be induced to bear useful and splendid fruit,
from that time they would lose in beauty what they gain in utility ; an
evidence, truly, of a sublimed appreciation, taste and gratitude that re-
flects a world of credit upon the corroborative authorities who dictate the
laws in works on Landscape Gardening.
In this art as in all others, taste, imagination and executive ability can
not be cultivated too highly ; but while the taste of men is as flickering
as the stars, while the ultimate details of an art are never twice alike, the
less we attempt to write rules universally applicable—the more time we
shall have to devote to the useful problems of life.
The substantial teachings of modern books on Landscape Gardening
that are more or less applicable to all grounds, may, I think, be briefly
summed up as follows :
1st. Grounds must be sufficiently graded-or, if not, a system of un
derdraining must be resorted to.
2d. Lay out paths and drives wherever needed and only there. Let.
them curve as if of necessity, and as much as possible so that this
appearance be preserved.
3d. Then plant fruit trees- deciduous and evergreen ornamental trees
as closely as possible so that each may develop the form that belongs to
it in its finest maturity, and so that liberal areas be left for carpets of
velvety grass -the choicest gem of all. If we are willing to transplant
or to remove them, as in later years they begin to interfere with one an-
other-then we may prefer to set them so closely together that a year or
two will suffice to obliterate that new, naked look so painfully conspicu-
ous in newly-laid out grounds that, under the other plan, would require
double the time.
4th. Arrange the shrubs and trees so as to conform, in a measure, to
the paths and so as to create secluded, shady, cozy nooks and openings
 40

through which the eye may range as far as the grounds permit and yet
rest only upon verdure.
5th. Plant only low shrubs immediately about the house.
6th. Let the size of the trees in maturity be adapted, so far as may be,
to the extent of the grounds.
7th. Give to each, as far as practicable, the soil and situation best
adapted to its needs.
8th. So intermingle evergreen and deciduous trees that the evergreens
may have proper winter distribution . Do not confine them to the N. S.
E. or W. - but ever bear in mind that evergreens are " friends in deed,"
since they cheer us when all else is naked and shivering, and we have
only them to depend upon for the bright relief of our winter grounds.
Finally, select shrubs and trees the finest in cultivation and the best
suited to the grounds . If we have no knowledge in the matter, let us seek
those who have- and let us, above all, rid ourselves of that wretched
conceit which suffers us to believe that without experience, without know-
ledge, we are practically as well informed as if we had studied the sub-
ject for a life time.
Many farmers and country gentlemen are full of solicitude for their
stock- and their barns and other out buildings are models of comfort,
neatness and order. The pigs, horses and cows would doubtless thank
them heartily could they speak. Farmers and Country Gentlemen, your
wives, your sons and daughters will thank you--and you will perform a
good work in the cause of morality--if you will take the same pains to
beautify the grounds about your homes !
 SEEDING LAWNS.

BY T. B. MINER, LINDEN, N. J.

Before the grass seed is sown upon a lawn , the ground should be pre-
pared for it as follows : If in sod, the ground should be plowed in the
spring, as early as possible, to give the sod time to rot during the season ;
and as fast as weeds and grass appear run a cultivator over the plot, and
continue to do so about once a month, till August or September, when the
weeds and grass will be thoroughly subdued ; and the seed may be sown
in the fore part of September, unless it be desirable to wait till Spring ;
but grass started in September will make a better growth the next season
than it will when sowing the seed is deferred till Spring ; and the only
disadvantages in fall- sowing are, that the tender grass on some soils may
winter-kill to some extent, if the ground shall not be covered with snow
the most of the time ; and the white clover seed, necessary to be
sown with the grass seed, cannot be sown in the fall ; but if sown in
March, while the ground is freezing and thawing, upon the grass sown in
September, enough will generally take root ; and the result will be in
most cases quite satisfactory.

FERTILIZERS TO BE USED.

Before sowing the seed the ground should be highly fertilized. Fine,
well-rotted stable manure cannot be excelled ; but if that is not obtain-
able, the most of the commercial fertilizers will suffice , as guano, super-
phosphate, bone flour, and marl. The following are also good fertilizers .
The prices are per 100 lbs . in New York :

Sulphate of Ammonia, 25 per cent. am $550

Nitrate of Soda, 15 66 66 4 50
German Potash Salts , 66 1 25
16 pot
40 46 " 4 00
Sulphate of Putash,
Nitrate of 66 44 66 66 9 50
Muriate of 66 50 แ แ 3 50
 42

The last four articles also contain a certain quantity of ammonia, which
governs the prices. I consider muriate of potash the cheapest fertilizer
of this list, for grass or any other crop. All fertilizers for lawns should
be covered lightly with a harrow for stable manure, and hand rakes for
commercial fertilizers.
THE BEST LAWN GRASS SEED.
If we apply to New York seed merchants for lawn grass seed, we find
it mixed at $3 to $ 5 per bushel of 20 lbs. What is there sold at $4 per
bushel is represented to consist of Rhode Island Bent grass, Red Top,
and Kentucky Blue grass. That sold at $ 5 per bushel, under the name
of "Central Park " lawn grass seed, probably is no better than the $4
article, because none better exists. Red Top and Rhode Island Bent are
considered by many persons to be identical ; but there is a difference, the
Bent being superior for lawns. This grass makes a fine, velvety lawn of
itself, yet the addition of the other two grasses is customary with seed
dealers. A late writer says : " One bushel of Rhode Island Eent seed,.
well sown, is sufficient to plant an acre. For lawns twice that amount
should be used. The market price of Bent in Rhode Island is from $2.50
to $3 per bushel, according to weight and quality. Genuine seed can
always be obtained of Wm. E. Barrett & Co. , Providence, well known
seedsmen. In Rhode Island Bent we have a lawn grass perfectly hardy,
forming a close sod, fully occupying the ground and bolding its own
against coarser grasses, fine in texture, and beautiful in all its stages,
starting as soon as cut, and withstanding drought. "
I think in New Jersey, and in all places where the winters are mild,
with but little snow generally to protect the grass, it is as well, if not
better, to sow the seed in the spring, as early as the ground will admit,
having prepared it thoroughly the preceding season. As the seed is
obtained in New York, four bushels to the acre are not too much , with
about a pound of white clover seed added . After raking in the seed,
run a hand roller over the ground, and the work will be done. Some-
times lawn grasses die a month or two after germinating, by being ex-
posed to great solar heat in a drought ; but this will seldom occur if the
seed be sown in April ; but if left till May it will be liable to be injured
in a dry season.
 PALMS AS DECORATIVE PLANTS .

BY JAMES TAPLIN, SOUTH AMBOY, N. J.

These plants are among the most useful for general decorative pur-
poses, and although their value is well understood in Europe, they have
not been generally employed in this country for various reasons, one of
which is their supposed gigantic growth and fancied difficulty in cultiva-
tion within reasonable bounds.
I shall give a few hints for cultivation for room decoration, for hot-
house and for Summer decoration outside, for each of which they are both
useful and ornamental.
Until within a very few years, most of the species were imported from
Europe in the shape of young plants, and although these travel better
than most species of plants, yet there were usually many losses, and this,
added to the freight and duty, increased the price very considerably. Of
late years many florists have imported seeds and raised a large number of
plants themselves, so that at the present time some species are sold in this
country for less money than in Europe. The only difficulty is that a col-
lection of seeds is not sufficient to enable botanists to distinguish the spe-
cies, so that we often see a strange confusion of names in a lot of plants
obtained in this way, but when the plants have developed their perfect
leaves, it is easy for any one with a knowledge of this class of plants to
rectify this.
Many of the species are natives of the hottest parts of the world ; these,
of course, are only fit for hot- house decoration ; these, from growing un-
der the shade of more lofty trees, will not stand bright sun without the
leaves becoming discolored, and must be grown in shade. Among this
class we may name Geonoma pumila, and the Carludovicus, although these
latter are not true palms, but from their palm- like growth are usually
included among them. From the fibre of the pamata the well-known
Panama hats are said to be manufactured. Dæmonorops, Bactris, Calamus,
and several others of their section are furnished with very sharp spines, in
some instances on the leaves as well as on the stems. This makes them
rather unpleasant subjects to handle. All the spiny species which have
come under my observation require a strong, moist heat at all times, and
 44

are of no use for outside decoration, although many are among the most
graceful plants grown.
For furnishing rooms and outside decorations the same species can be
employed. These include the Livistonas, the type of which is the well-
known Latania Borbonica, which is one of the most useful, being of free
growth and cheap, and is handsome when well grown .
The Seaforthias, or, as they are now more frequently named, Ptychos-
perma, are also very handsome and hardy. The various species of date
palm, or Phoenix, are well adapted for this purpose, and the Rhapis flabel-
liformis is one of the best window palms grown ; it is of moderate and
compact growth, and will stand the dry air of a room better than most
plants.
The Arecas are some of the most handsome palms grown, and are ex-
cellent for this purpose . A lutescens, a rubra, and a Verschaffeltic are three
of the best for all purposes .
The Chamaedorea and Coryphia Australis are also very useful, and also
the Chamaerops, with the exception of Auracantha, are fine and nearly
hardy, but of slower growth than many other palms ; but it must be re-
membered that all the palms require abundance of water, both indoors and
out ; if they are allowed to become dry the foliage turns yellow, and the
ends of the leaves die.
These plants, intended for outside decoration, must not be grown too
warm during the Winter, or they will receive a check when removed to
the open air, and the plants must be also carefully lifted before frost is
expected.
• As these plants should be growing slowly during Winter, a cellar is not
a good place to keep them, and although some sorts might live under the
treatment they would be sure to suffer.
As single specimens planted in the lawn, few plants equal palms in
beauty, and if the plants are grown in a cool house the Winter will sel-
dom do them any injury. Many species may be grown as room plants
until they become too large for that purpose, after which they can be
planted outside during Summer, for many species do not develop their
beauty until of a tolerably large size. When grown in rooms the foliage
should be frequently brushed to remove dust.
 THE FRUIT LIST .

AS ADOPTED BY THE NEW JERSEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AT ITS

ANNUAL METING, FEB. 1 AND 2 , 1877 .

GENERAL LIST. APPLES. TRIAL LIST.

Baldwin, Duchess of Oldenburg,

Red Astrachan, Bailey's Sweet,
Smith's Cider , Hubbardston's Nonesuch,
Rhode Island Greening, Benoni,
Maiden's Blush , Peck's Pleasant,
Orange Pippin, Summer Pippin,
Large Yellow Bough, Fallawater,
Gravenstein, Moore's Sweet,
Fall Pippin, Tetofskoy,
Early Harvest, Nero,
Porter, Dunker.
Roxbury Russet.
 46

GENERAL LIST. PEARS. TRIAL LIST.

Bartlett, Sheldon,
Seckel, Easter Beurre,
Duchesse d'Angouleme , Howell,
Lawrence, Urbaniste.
Beurre d'Anjou, Danas Hovey,
Clapp's Favorite, Quinn,
Doyenne Boussock, Mt. Vernon.
Beurre Clairgeau,
Buffam,
Beurre Bosc,
Beurre Giffard,
Manning's Elizabeth.

PEACHES .

Crawford's Late,
Old Mixon ,
Stump of the World,
Mountain Rose,
Smock,
Large Early York,
Crawford's Early,
Honest John,
Morris Co. Late Rareripe,
Keyport White .

PLUMS .

White Magnum Bonum, Wild Goose,

Richland, De Caradeuc,
Green Gage, Miner,
Damson, Bassett's American .
 47

GENERAL LIST. CHERRIES. TRIAL LIST.

Black Tartarian, Early Purple Guigne,

Early Richmond, Luelling.
May Duke,
Black Eagle,
Bigareau,
White Amber,
Coe's Transparent,
Rockport Bigareau,
Gov. Wood.

RASPBERRIES .

Doolittle Blackcap , Winant ,

Philadelphia, Ganargua,
Mammoth Cluster, Delaware,
Brandywine. Early Prolific,
Reliance.

BLACKBERRIES .

Kittatinny, Snyder.
Wilson,
Dorchester.

STRAWBERRIES.
Wilson, Great American,
Chas. Downing, Durand's Beauty,
Boyden's 30, Duncan,
Monarch of the West, Cumberland Triumph,
Downer's Prolific. Sterling,
Prouty's Seedling.

GOOSEBERRIES .
Houghton,
Downing,
Smith's,
Mountain,
 48

GENERAL LIST. CURRANTS . TRIAL LIST.

Cherry, Long Bunched Holland.

Red Dutch,
Versailles,
White Grape,
Black Naples,

GRAPES.

Concord, Wilder,
Delaware, Elsinburg,
Hartford, Early Amber,
Martha , Barry,
Agawam , Lindley,
Salem. Merrimack,
Massasoit,
Goethe.

QUINCES.

Apple or Orange,
Rea's Seedling.

NOTE.

The foregoing list is not claimed to be perfect, but is considered a

fair index of the Society's preference, and the various fruits stand in the
order as indicated by the votes of the Members for the purposes speci-
fied ; that is, either for general culture or for trial.
 ADVERTISEMENTS. 49

THE MAPES FORMULA & PERUVIAN GUANO CO.

158 Front St. , New York.

Pamphlets and Circulars Issued , 1877. -Mailed Free.

No. 1. -Peruvian Guano ; its qualities ; brands under which it is sold, etc.
No. 2. -Ammonia, Phosphoric Acid and Potash. Their cost per pound in form of
Chemicals, etc. Quantity contained in leading crops. Composition in form of Chemi-
cals of Prof. Ville's Formulas.
No. 3.- Barn-Yard Manure, No. 1 Peruvian Guano and Chemicals, compared.
No. 4. -Analysis, prices, etc. , of Prof. Ville's Formulas, furnished in the form of
Peruvian Guano, Potash Salts, Dried Flesh or Blood, mixed, or shipped in original
and separate packages.
No. 5.- Potash ; its Absence in Commercial Fertilizers. Kinds to select. How to
apply. Exhaustion by Crops. Extracts from writings of Prof. W. O. Atwater.
No. 6.- Mapes' Nitrogenized Super- Phosphate (with Potash).
No. 7.- Descriptive Price List, giving the analysis of Formulas and the leading
Fertilizers (Peruvian Guano, Pure Bone, Super-phosphates, Chemicals, etc. ), and Fer-
tilizing materials, also, prices by the ton, single packages and small bags, 25 and 50
lbs . each, specially adapted for experiments and soil tests.
Extract from the American Agriculturalist, March 1877 :
Ville's Complete Manure consists of Ammonia, Phosphoric Acid and Potash, in the
quantities and proportions in which they exist in barn-yard manure, for which this is
proposed as a substitute. This Complete Manure is used for wheat and most other
grains and for grass, while for other crops the proportions are varied ; for example :
the formula for turnips, etc. , has much less ammonia and more potash and phosphoric
acid ; for clover and other leguminous crops, the potash is still more increased, while
potatoes require nearly twice as much potash as is contained in the Complete Manure.
Such is the demand for these formulas, ready prepared, or for the fertilizers that shall
afford these constituents in the cheapest and most available form, that a company has
been formed to meet it. This company is the MAPES FORMULA AND PERUVIAN GUANO
Co. , and Mr. Charles V. Mapes is its manager. There is no secrecy about these form-
ulas, hence the cultivator knows exactly what he is working with, and if he wishes to
experiment with formulas of his own, he can be provided with the materials. The
same company supply Peruvian Guanos, in large or small quantities, direct from the
warehouses of the agents of the Peruvian Government.
GOLD MEDAL awarded to CHARLES V. MAPES by the New Jersey State
Agricultural Society, 1876.
Extract from Report on Fertilizers, Prof. Geo. H. Cook, State Chemist, Chair'n of
Committee.
"The Judges desire to express their• hearty approval of the principle applied in the
Exhibit by Charles V. Mapes of Rectified Peruvian Guano, ' and 'Guaranteed
Peruvian Guano,' They consider that in these preparations of Guano a GREAT
ADVANCE has been made in the Guano trade in this country, contributing, as it does ,
very largely to the intelligent valuation and use of commercial fertilizers."
Grand Medal and Diploma awarded to Charles V. Mapes, by the Original Board
of Judges, at the International Exposition at Philadelphia, 1876, for Rectified Peru-
vian Guano, and Mapes' Nitrogenized Super- Phosphate of Lime.
Liberal concessions made to regular purchasers on all Grades of Peruvian Guano,
even from Official Price List issued by Government Agents.
4
50
59 ADVERTISEMENTS,

MEDAL AND DIPLOMA E

X
For Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. H
I
B
N A L I
I O T
I
NAT O
N

AWARDEDBY
NITED STATES

JA
ENTENNIAL

XX
COMMISSION L
C
C
DE C
LP D
HI M
A

The following is taken from the report of Judges :

" A unique exhibit of select Evergreen and Deciduous Trees of novel
and peculiar characteristics ; notably fine variegated forms, drooping or
pendulous varieties and other striking forms.
A very choice selection of highly Ornamental Trees and Shrubs.
GEORGE THURBER,
W. D. BRACKENRIDGE,
Judges, F. PENTLAND ,
WILLIAM SAUNDERS. "
300 ACRES, Established 1854. GREENHOUSES.

A. HANCE & SON ,

Nurserymen & Florists ,

Red Bank, Monmouth County, N. J.

Every class of TREES AND PLANTS in full Assortment,

INCLUDING THE LATEST NOVELTIES.
Choice Flowers and Floral Designs at all seasons. Rustic Work, Iron Vases, Wire Work,
Terra Cotta Ware.

Catalogues Free to all Applicants.

SPECIALTIES.
PEACHES- 104 varieties with 19 new sorts ; GRAPES--40 varieties with 25 new
vorts ; STRAWBERRIES- 79 varieties with 25 new sorts ; RASPBERRIES- 26
Tarieties with 7 new sorts ; CURRANTS and ASPARAGUS. Choice Deciduous
srees. Rare Evergreens. Select Shrubs. Osage Orange and Roses.
 Te
ADVERTISEMENTS. 51

NEW BRUNSWICK NURSERIES

[ ESTABLISHED BY THE PRESENT PROPRIETOR IN 1845].
Fruit and Shade Trees, Evergreens, Flowering
Shrubs, Vines, Small Fruits , etc.
CATALOGUES GRATIS
EDWIN ALLEN ,
NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J.

CHESTNUT HILL

NURSERY AND FRUIT FARM

.
MONTCLAIR, N. J.
First Class Plants of all the leading varieties of
STRAWBERRIES, RASPBERRIES,
BLACKBERRIES, CURRANTS ,
GRAPES, ETC. ,
At Low Rates.
Correspondence solicited. Catalogues on Application.
E. & J. C. WILLIAMS .

The New Jersey Agriculturist and Our American Farmers.

A plain, practical monthly, devoted to the Farming, Gardening and
Household Interests. Hints for each month, tells when and how to plant.
Full of interest to all lovers of Farming. Vegetable and Flower Garden-
ing, Pleasure Grounds, etc., Sketches, Ladies' Department, etc. A paper
just suited to the times, at 50c. per year, post paid. Every one at all inter-
ested , should send for a specimen copy. At 50 cents per year---less than
1 cent per week will pay for it. Address
NEW JERSEY AGRICULTURALIST AND OUR AMERICAN FARMERS, 20 Cortlandt St. , New York.

JOHN S. COLLINS ,

Small Fruit Plant Grower

MOORESTOWN ,

Burlington County, New Jersey.

SEND FOR CATALOGUE .

52 ADVERTISEMENTS .

TO ALL INTERESTED IN

Strawberry Culture .

Having devoted nearly the last twenty years to

the cultivation and development of NEW VARIETIES of

Strawberries, I shall be pleased to have all who

take an interest in the matter visit my place

AT IRVINGTON, N. J.,

about the middle of June, when the berries are

ripe, that they may judge for themselves the pro-

gress made in this direction .

Of the thousands of new varieties now on hand

I have selected two-

THE GREAT AMERICAN

AND

DURAND'S BEAUTY

for general cultivation that I feel confident will

meet the requirements of the Strawberry -loving

public.
 ADVERTISEMENTS. 53
333

The GREAT AMERICAN is probably the largest

berry in existence -specimen berries having been found

to weigh over two ounces, and measuring nine inches

in circumference, of rich, deep crimson color , ripen-

ing evenly and perfectly, and continuing its berries

large to the end, is a vigorous grower, an immence

plant and a prolific bearer, either separately or close

together, and, being late in the season, is desirable.

as a late Family or Market berry.

DURAND'S BEAUTY is somewhat similar in

growth and color, is very regular in form, not so large

as the former, yet one of the largest, is very prolific, bear-

ing many berries of the largest size upon one stem

ripening evenly, of very deep beautiful color, of great

endurance, and an excellent carrier and keeper. THESE

Two with seven others of my new varieties received

the highest premium at the Centennial as the

FINEST SEEDLINGS EXHIBITED.

To those wishing further information I shall be

glad to see them as above stated, or will send cir-

culars on application.

E. W. DURAND ,

IRVINGTON ,

Essex Co. , N. J.
54 ADVERTISEMENTS.

OUR ILLUSTRATED

CATALOGUE

OF

EVERYTHING

FOR THE

GARDEN,

Numbering 175 Pages,

MAILED FREE ON APPLICATION .

PETER HENDERSON & CO. ,

Seedsmen, Market Gardeners & Florists,

35 Cortlandt Street ,

NEW YORK.
 ADVERTISEMENTS. 55

RELIABLE SEEDS .

FLOWER SEEDS of the Finest Varieties,

VEGETABLE SEEDS from the Purest Stocks ,

FIELD SEEDS and Seeds for Root Crops.

JOHN U. KUMERLE ,

GROWER AND IMPORTER OF SEEDS

No. 530 Broad Street,

NEWARK, N. J.

Cabbage and Celery Plants I

We have a Large Stock of

PREMIUM FLAT DUTCH CABBACE PLANTS ,
Also Dwarf Imperial , White Solid and Boston Market
Celery Plants, AT LOW PRICES.
Send for a Price List to P. T. QUINN & CO. ,
NEWARK , N. J.

THE AMERICAN AGRICULTURIST, Monthly—

MOORE'S RURAL NEW YORKER, Weekly-
and COUNTRY GENTLEMAN, Weekly-

the leading journals of the class devoted to rural pursuits. A copy of

one or all should be taken and read by every country family.
Subscriptions taken at club rates by

E. WILLIAMS, Montclair, N. J.
 PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

NEW JERSEY

STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY,

AT ITS

THIRD ANNUAL MEETING,

HELD AT

NEW BRUNSWICK, FEBRUARY 6TH AND 7TH ,

1878 .

L. J. Hardham, Printer, Newark, N. J.

1878 .
 LIST OF OFFICERS FOR 1878.

PRESIDENT.
GEO. SUCH, South Amboy.
VICE- PRESIDENTS.
E. S. CARMAN, - River Edge, Bergen County.
JOHN S. COLLINS, · Moorestown, Burlington County.
GEO. M. COLE, Deerfield, Cumberland County.
ALEX. BARCLAY, · Newark , · Essex County.
C. W. IDELL, Hoboken, Hudson County.
EDWIN ALLEN, - New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
J. VAN DEVENTER, Princeton, Mercer County.
JOHN VAN DOREN, · Manalapan, · Monmouth County .
B. F. ERRINGTON, Whiting , Ocean County.
H. E. CHITTY, Paterson , · Passaic County.
DAVID C. VOORHEES, Blawenburg , Somerset County.
E. P. BEEBE , - Elizabeth, · Union County.
RECORDING SECRETARY.
E. WILLIAMS , Montclair.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.”
BENJ. B. HANCE, Red Bank.
TREASURER.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
P. T. QUINN, Newark.
E. ROBERTS , Fellowship.
JOHN S. COLLINS, Moorestown;
D. McLAURY, New Brunswick.
D. C. VOORHEES, Blawenburg.
FRUIT COMMITTEE.
B. B. HANCE, Red Bank.
WM . PARRY, Cinnaminson.
D. McLAURY , New Brunswick .
C. W. IDELL, Hoboken.
JOHN M. WHITE, New Brunswick.
FLOWER COMMITTEE.
JOHN T. LOVETT, Red Bank.
J. TAPLIN, South Amboy.
E. S. CARMAN, River Edge.
VEGETABLE COMMITTEE.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark.
G. W. THOMPSON, Stelton.
BENJ. L. TRAFFORD, Red Bank.

4
 MINUTES .

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J. , Feb. 6th , 1878.

The third annual meeting of the New Jersey State Horti-
cultural Society was opened in Geological Hall at 10 o'clock
A. M. , pursuant to call.
In the absence of the Secretary, who telegraphed from
Newark that he had unfortunately missed the train , the Society
was called to order by B. B. Hance , Corresponding Secretary,
and Vice-President Collins , of Moorestown , was called on to
preside.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES .

The reports of committees being the first thing in order,

Mr. Hance, Chairman of the Fruit Committee, reported as
follows :
The season of '77 was one of extremes , as to moisture and
dryness, yet we had a very fair crop of Fruits, except Apples ,
it being the off year with them, yet a limited number of varie-
ties of these in some sections did well .
We would further urge upon the members of the Society
the importance of more correspondence, and to write at the
time of handling the crops , when the various effects of the
season , culture or fertilizers , are fresh in the mind ; and as we
failed to hold any exhibitions, -a fruitful source of reports, ~
correspondence was the more necessary.
STRAWBERRIES were a heavy crop, although there were com-
plaints of leaf blight in some sections ; nevertheless, each
grower had all he wanted to attend to, and in the central
portion of the State a warm, muggy spell ripened all varieties
nearly at one time, there being but five or six days' difference
between the earliest and latest.
Among those of the newer sorts we note as promising well
are Forest Rose, Cumberland Triumph, Duchess , Prouty's Seedling,
and Sterling.
RASPBERRIES did as well as could be expected from the small
growth of canes produced by reason of the drought in '76.
We were more forcibly impressed by the great length of the
Raspberry season, having them in perfection for about three
weeks from the same ground , commencing with the Highland
 4

Hardy, and following in order with Doolittle's Blackcap, Miller's

Early, Mammoth Cluster, Brandywine, Winant, Philadelphia and
Cuthbert. Of
BLACKBERRIES , Wilson's Early (where it does not winter
kill), Kittatinny and New Rochelle or Lawton still being the
favorites .
We had the pleasure of examining a new variety last sum-
mer on the grounds of E. T. Field , of Monmouth county,
called the Peerless. It was brought from Rochester, N. Y.;
ripens same time as Wilson's Early-a profuse bearer, resem-
bling the Dorchester in flavor.
PEACHES. - Their great enemy, the yellows, appears more
or less periodically, but they are now enjoying a partial respite
from this disease.
There have been rapid strides in producing varieties that
ripen much earlier than the old standard sorts .
Honeywell, Amsden's June and Alexander will ripen about
four weeks ahead of Troth's Early Red, which was for many
years the earliest of any note.
GRAPES bore a bountiful crop, except in some sections ,
where there was complaint of rot. This disease appears to be
wrapt in as much mystery as the pear blight, and we should
like to hear as full an expression on this disease at this meet-
ing as we had on pear blight at our last.
This fruit has received great additions as to earliness. All
of the following ripen from one to two weeks ahead of Hartford
Prolific, viz.: Janesville, Sherman, Winslow, Talman and Tele-
graph.
PEARS are not receiving as much attention as formerly,
owing to the blight, but as this disease in many sections is
now on the decline, and as many growers have neglected their
cultivation in consequence, we would advise parties having
Pear orchards to put them in as good order as possible, and
be ready for another series of years, in which they will do well,
and in the meantime the long-looked-for remedy may be
found.
APPLES. As far as observed the following early varieties
proved profitable, many orchards ranging from fifty to one
hundred barrels per acre, viz .: Primate, Red Astrachan, Benoni
and Orange Pippin , and among the late varieties : Pennock
or Pelican, Smith's Cider and Gilpin or Cart- House .
For the committee,
B. B. HANCE , Chairman .
 5

INDIVIDUAL REPORTS .

JOHN VAN DOREN, Manalapan , Monmouth County.

* * * I think some of my pear trees are recovering in
a measure from the blight, and believe that many have been
saved by the knife, making two , three or four incisions in the
bark on the trunk and larger limbs, where the bark appeared
dark and dead or dried up .

D. McLAURY, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.

* * * PEARS a good crop ; the blight appears to be
decidedly on the decline in this neighborhood generally. I
think the impression is that the best cultivated orchards are
the freest from blight. I think that both apples and pears
thoroughly cultivated in good soil are looking much healthier
and have produced more fruit than when they have not
received much attention .

S. C. DE COU, Moorestown, Burlington County.

* * * STRAWBERRIES, with us, had immense bloom and a
very heavy set of fruit, but a leaf blight set in about the time the
fruit began to ripen, and although the crop was still large , it
was somewhat shortened by the blight, and the berries were
not as fair as they otherwise would have been. Charles
Downing, which is largely cultivated here, was especially
affected . This leaf blight seems to weaken the plant. Old
beds that had fruited twice, and were well set and clean
before picking , have generally died out, being hastened some-
what by a heavy growth of crab-grass and other weeds .
GOOSEBERRIES bore profusely and were generally free from
mildew and the unusually cool and cloudy weather saved
them from scald, but the low price ($1.00 per bushel , and often
less, ) left the crop unprofitable.
RASPBERRIES The previous dry season caused a poor growth
of canes ; the crop generally light and prices low. Philadel-
phia, however, bore a fair crop, but the color is so much
against it, that, while Brandywine and other red varieties
would bring 10 cents per pint, Philadelphia would bring but
6 or 7.
CHERRIES Early Richmond and the common Pie cherry are
about the only ones cultivated here . The crop was very light,
prices low, and since the leaves have fallen the Black Knots
have shown themselves in great profusion .
 6

BLACKBERRIES were a very good crop, and fair prices pre-

vailed throughout the fruiting season . Wilson's Early is
generally cultivated , the best cropper we have and freest from
disease. A little double blossom is about their only affliction.
APPLES -The crop was generally light, but some varieties
bore full crops , the most noticeable of which was Smith's
Cider, which bore profusely. If it will continue to bear in
the off year of other varieties , it will add another feature to its
good reputation.
PEARS-Spring brought forth a heavy bloom, but autumn
showed a light crop of fruit. Slugs prevailed greatly during
the summer . Whether the slugs stopped the growth, and
thereby checked the blight or not, I am unable to say, but I
think trees of luxuriant growth are disposed to blight. One
orchard of Clapp's Favorite, I noticed , seemed to be exempt
from slugs, but afterwards blighted badly .
PEACHES-Not much cultivated , but where grown there was
a fair crop of fruit.
GRAPES - Crop generally light.

WILLIAM PARRY, Cinnaminson .

*
* *
The Pear blight has not been so bad with us the
past year as formerly. It would seem as though the height
of its rage was over, and that it is now on the decrease.
The scald on the Cranberry is yet very destructive , and
thousands of bushels are ruined by it, though the percentage
of sound berries this last fall was greater than the year pre-
vious , but we find no remedy for it yet.

C. W. IDELL, Hoboken.

* * * Having heard so much of the skill and success of

E. W. Durand , of Irvington , N. J. , in producing such won-
derful specimens of new varieties of Strawberries , and being
a great admirer of beautiful fruit, I called on him on the 18th
of June last, and being but slightly acquainted with him , I
frankly stated my object in calling, and requested him to give
me a few moments of his time in showing his fruit, and offer-
ing me such information as I might require to get at the real
qualities of it.
In the first place , I would state that Mr. Durand is simply
an originator of new varieties. All he has are of his own
growing from the seed , the merits of some of which he has
been testing several years, and I frankly confess that I was
 7

surprised to see such a large number of the finest and best

fruit I ever saw, and in no instance did I see a single variety
that gave indications of ripening unevenly or imperfectly.
They were thorough-breds of the purest strain . The follow-
ing is a description of those varieties I examined :
Surprise-A fine , vigorous grower , and wonderfully pro-
ductive. Berries cone-shaped , regular in form , possessing a
fine flavor, ripening to a rich crimson color.
Glossy Cone-Foliage rather scant, yet dark and healthy,
and plant very hardy. Berries cone-shaped, perfectly smooth,
of a rich crimson color, and, as its name indicates, it is so glossy
that it looks like varnished fruit. It is not high-flavored , but
a good keeper, remaining long on the vines after ripening,
without decaying. Mr. D. states that the fruit I saw had been
ripe for six days, yet it was in good condition . In size it is
not so large as most of the others, yet it is of a good size for
marketing .
Durand's Favorite-Plants of a moderate growth and diffi-
cult of cultivation, yet when well managed they will give
general satisfaction to the grower. Berries of a deep , rich
crimson, cone-shaped , but sometimes inclined to the wedge
form , and of immense size.
Black Giant-One of his largest and most prolific berries .
Color a deep, rich red ; very solid ; flesh deeply stained , but
possessing a very fine flavor . Is one of his favorites .
Bachelor-A very rich, high-flavored berry, of a beautiful
red color, and, as a general thing, not so large as some of the
others . Plants strong and vigorous , producing superb clusters
of fruit.
Giant Queen-A pistillate berry, not intended for public
distribution ; of immense size, but rather irregular in shape,
yet inclined to the conical . It is very solid and possesses a
good flavor.
Pioneer—A firm, beautiful seedling, that he has tested for
seven years ; the earliest in his collection. A vigorous grower
and very prolific , yielding a large crop of extra-large sized
berries ; of a brilliant scarlet ; flesh slightly stained, with a
fine flavor. On account of its hardiness well adapted for
Northern climate.
Centennial Favorite-A large, fine-flavored berry, regular
in form , of a rich scarlet color, ripening evenly and thoroughly,
and retaining its flavor and solidity for days after ripening.
It is enough to say of it that it received the highest award for
size and flavor at the Centennial Exhibition .
 Black Defiance-One of his oldest varieties . Berries of a
deep red color ; flesh well stained and possessing a high flavor.
Plants showy and healthy , producing large crops of fine- sized
fruit.
Beauty-A seedling of great promise and beauty, as its
name indicates . He has tested it for six years . It is of a
large size ; regular shape ; deep, rich crimson color ; flesh
nearly white, and possessing a peculiar vinous flavor, not
often found in a berry. I mark this as the gem of his collec-
tion for amateurs . The fruit is solid , and retains its flavor
and solidity for days after ripening . Plants large and vigor-
ous ; fruit- stems strong, plant perfectly hardy and very
productive.
Great American- He thinks this one of his best seedlings.
Fruit large, some of them weighing over two ounces , and
measuring nine inches in circumfrence. Of course, this size
is to be met with only occasionally ; but I measured several
that were two and one-half inches in diameter, and this was
after his choice specimens had been picked for exhibitions.
The berry is of a beautiful crimson color , fine-flavored , juicy,
with a moderate amount of acid . The plants are large and
healthy, hardy and very productive ; fruit-stems strong, and
the plant is inclined to bring up its entire crop to a large size.
In addition to those named above he has about 3,000 other
seedlings that he is now testing, some of which, he thinks ,
are equal to any of his named varieties . Of course, my
description of these varieties is not so full and accurate as one
that Mr. Durand could give ; yet it will afford the reader a
fair idea of what the fruit really is . I would also state that
Mr. Durand's soil is a dark loam , slightly mixed with sand ,
and very highly manured .
VEGETABLES .

The Vegetable Committee, through its Chairman , Mr.

Goldsmith, reported another year of little profit to growers of
market truck. 1876 will be long remembered for the scarcity
of vegetables in our State, owing to the severe drought of
that season, and 1877 was as remarkable for the supera-
bundance of the same, which, in addition to the financial
depression of the times, has caused almost an entire stagna-
tion of trade in some varieties .
Cabbages , Tomatoes, Turnips and many other kinds of
truck have not paid the cost of growing them, low as that
has been for the last year. Many persons thrown out of
 9

employment at trades, &c . , have rented land and undertaken

to grow truck for sale, thinking that they would get at least
something to eat, but having no knowledge of the business ,
which knowledge is as much required for success in that em-
ployment as any other, they have generally made a miserable
failure in the undertaking, and cancelled their rent and other
debts by moving to other quarters .
Your committee would call the attention of vegetable
growers to the importance of obtaining good seed , for often .
when every other condition has been complied with , failure
has resulted from seed deficient in kind or quality. An
instance came to our knowledge of how well this fact is
known by experienced growers of vegetables, where a party
raised last season over 100 pounds of celery seed of an
improved kind and quality, and sold all he had to spare at
$10 per pound much more readily than he could have sold
one- quarter of the amount of ordinary seed at ordinary
prices .
Last year your committee requested members to report
to them anything new that came under their observa-
tion , but having received nothing, it may be because those
who have any facts to present prefer doing so at this meeting,
and we hope they will be forthcoming .
The Christiana melon , spoken of last year, has on trial
proved unsuitable for market purposes, as it softens too soon
after picking, but for family use we know of no superior.
For the committee ,
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Chairman .

REPORT OF THE CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.

Mr. President and Members of the Society . Failing to receive

any responses to the resolution passed at our last Annual
Meeting relative to the introduction of new or old varieties
of fruits, &c. , I addressed sundry letters to various parties,
with the following results :
From EDWIN ALLEN, regarding the correctness of the Apple
shown at our last Annual Meeting as Moore's Sweet ; was
inclined to think it was a variety grown in Monmouth county
for fifty years past, known as Josey Moore , and not the
Moore's Sweet grown at the North.
Mr. Baird, who exhibited it, has no doubt as to its being
the genuine Moore's Sweet described by Downing. Mr.
2
 10

Baird also states that the original tree of Monmouth Pippins

stands on the farm of John R. Perrine.

Mr. MINER sends descriptions of his new Grapes , Melon

and Strawberry. It is hoped the Fruit Committee will look
after them the coming season ; and any one having fruits ,
flowers or vegetables they wish examined are requested to
call the attention of the appropriate committees to them, and
afford them necessary facilities .

From B. F. ERRINGTON, of Whiting, Ocean county, as fol-

lows : The efforts of Horticulturists in Ocean county have
been chiefly directed toward Cranberry culture. About 1849
Mr. Webb started the present system of culture, and his
success was so great, many others adopted the same method .
Large and small bogs were set out all through the county.
For a time large profits were realized , but the rot appeared ,
and although many of the bogs still give large crops, many
others have from first to last been utter failures .
Next in importance come Peaches . In about 1850 , Benj .
Reed went into their cultivation very largely. Commencing
in the vicinity of Toms River, his orchards extended to Free-
hold-buying and leasing all the land he could get hold of
-but his orchards have died out, and, as far as I can learn ,
there are now no very large orchards in the county.
In the vicinity of Bricksburg, which seems at present to be
the principal fruit locality, several young orchards have been
started during the last few years , some of which have borne
crops , and the owners say they do well .
GRAPES have received a considerable share of attention .
They have been grown all over the county, but principally
around Bricksburg. The first grapes were planted out there
in 1869. For the first three years they did remarkably well,
but since then the rot has become so prevalent that many
growers are rooting up their vineyards, and nearly all seemed
discouraged with the prospects.
APPLES and PEARS have not been grown very extensively ,
but sufficiently to show that they do well here. The blight
has not produced such wholesale devastation among pear trees
as in some other parts of the country. The cases are few
and isolated . The enemies of the apple seem to be gaining
ground, and very few precautions taken to check them . The
Codling Moth, Curculio and Borer all ply their nefarious
trades with very little restraint.
 11

BLACKBERRIES have met with success , but do not seem to

have been cultivated very largely .
About Bricksburg they were started some ten years ago and
for the first four years they did well , but after that two enemies
-a borer in the Wilson and a louse on the Kittatinny- have
used up the profits.
STRAWBERRIES have been cultivated quite extensively at
Bricksburg for about the same length of time as blackberries ,
and have been perfectly successful in all but the price, which
the growers complain of as being low for the last two years.

EDWIN BEEKMAN, of Middletown , writes : I have located

three varieties of fruit in our district :
First-The Acker Strawberry was introduced by Mr.
John Acker, of Keyport, about sixteen years ago.
Second- The Keyport White Peach was introduced by
Mr. Beers about twenty years ago ; was found in a garden
at that place.
Third- The Morrel Grape , a seedling found by William
Morrel, on his premises, and has fruited about two years .
It is of good flavor, purple color, and ripens ten days ahead
of Hartford Prolific .
The first man who cultivated fruit to any extent in this
vicinity was Rev. Benj . Bennet, about 1810. He introduced
the Salisbury Pippin and King Apples and Seckel Pears.
They are in good bearing condition now. Richard Leonard ,
of Navesink, was among the first to grow grapes for market .

J. VAN DEVENTER , of Princeton , writes : Dear Sir-In

your favor of 26th inst. you request such facts and remin-
iscences as I may be able to communicate in regard to the
history of the State Horticultural Society, which was organized
some thirty-five or more years ago, and after a very successful
career of ten or twelve years, closed its labors in 1853. I had
no part in its organization , nor did I become connected with
it until some three years thereafter.
The late Judge Field , who was its first President, I think,
from its origin and until the last year of its existence , together
with Thomas Hancock, H. W. S. Cleveland and Ira B. Under-
hill, of Burlington ; John S. Chambers , Charles Scott, Gen.
Perrine and others , of Trenton ; Gov. Wright, J. W. Hayes
and Dr. Ward , of Newark ; Mr. Steele , of Jersey City, and
Isaac Pullen , of Hightstown , are names I now recollect as
among the active, efficient members of the Society.
 12

During its existence there were nine very successful exhi-

bitions held at various places, mainly in West Jersey, at
which liberal premiums were awarded . The exhibitions were
very creditable displays of Fruits , Flowers , Floral Designs
and Vegetables -the ladies of the several places contributing
largely to their success by their taste and efficiency in
decorating the halls .
The exhibitions held in the vicinity of Philadelphia were
attended by many of its citizens ; and the eighth, which was
held in Jersey City, was visited by many citizens of New
York.
The last, and one of the best exhibitions, was held in
Princeton , in the fall of 1852 , under the presidency of Capt.
Thomas Lavender, of Princeton , one of the most useful mem-
bers of the Society, and was pronounced by many visitors
from the neighboring cities one of the most beautiful displays
they had ever seen .
As to the causes of its dissolution , I think one of the most
prominent was several important changes made in the consti-
tution , which alienated several of its most important friends
and caused a number to withdraw.
Another was the resignation of the Presidency by Judge
Field , who had from its commencement been the life and
mainstay of the Association, which was discouraging to its
few remaining active members, upon whom had devolved the
main labor of sustaining the Society.
Another cause , I think, was the too large annual charge for
membership, which was $3.00 in later years .

REPORT OF THE TREASURER .

The Treasurer reported as follows :

Balance on hand February 1st, 1877 . $99 47
Admission fees, per 17 members . 34 00
Received in annual dues ....
.... 47 00 $180 47
Disbursements Corresponding Sec'y, postage, stationery, etc. 6 40
Recording Secretary, 66 66 6C 6 19
Treasurer, 66 66 66 5 33
Jennings & Hardham , printing 9 75 27 67

Balance on hand February 6th, 1878 .... $152 80

These several reports were received and adopted, and dis-

cussion followed .
 13

E. P. Beebe spoke of Mr. Miner's grapes ; had seen them

in bearing. Spoke favorably of the white varieties ; did not
think so well of the black.
G. W. Thompson thought Mr. Miner's favorite varieties
were very good, but not to be compared with the Croton.
They have too much pulp , and , at this advanced stage of
grape culture, we should have something better.
E. P. Beebe thought them as good as any he had met with,
and, in reply to a question , said he did not think his best
varieties were yet in market.
G. W. Thompson thought it was not our province to discuss
the merits of sorts not open to the public.
J. M. White said , as there was some misunderstanding as
to which varieties they were talking about, he moved discus-
sions cease. Adopted .
Dr. John Woodbridge inquired whether any members had
tried the system advocated by W. N. Barnett, of exposing the
roots to the action of the sun .
G. W. Thompson had found grapes do better on an open
than on a close trellis , and wherever the roots were most
exposed to the direct rays of the sun .
Emmor Roberts had seen Concord and Hartford Prolific do
best when running up a tree.
J. Van Deventer had a similar experience with Catawba
and Isabella.
D. C. Voorhees had better results with Concord when
closely pruned . He opposed the use of stakes instead of
trellises, because the grapes would get on the ground and the
roots would be more shaded . Had found summer pruning
very useful in hastening the ripening of the grapes.
W. H. Goldsmith said after a few years , vines grown on
stakes did not yield as well as on trellises . His vines suffered
so from rot for two or three years that they gave very little
fruit, but they have nearly recovered .
E. P. Beebe said the trellis should be in proportion to the
size of the vine. Stakes will do for young vines , while trees
may be needed for old ones. Would not keep a ten-year
old vine confined to a low trellis.
G. W. Thompson opposed summer pruning.
E. P. Beebe exhibited grape cuttings diseased . * They were

* [The following from Mr. Beebe explains itself, and will enable grape growers to be on the
watch for the intruder.- SECRETARY.]
ELIZABETH, N. J., Feb. 25, 1878.
E. WILLIAMS, Sect. of N. J. Hort. Society :
DEAR SIR.-Yours of the 22d is at hand. I sent the specimen of grape
 14

perforated with worms about one to the inch for ten feet ; the
worms traverse the branch longitudinally.
On motion of Mr. Goldsmith, Mr. Beebe was requested to
forward specimens to to Profs. Comstock and Riley.
C. W. Idell said most of the so-called white grapes are
really green when they come to market, and although white
is a popular color and salable, green is not. The Martha comes
up to the standard of a white color oftener than any of the
others ; but they are often green . The difference of price
between a white and a colored grape is fifty per cent.
G. W. Thompson said he had found the Croton to be a
truly white grape.
W. H. Goldsmith said this question of salableness is a
vital one . White currants are very nice, but do not sell in
large quantities . He also said he had found sulphur check
the rot in grapes, but it injured the foliage.
Inquiry was made about the Brighton grape.
J. Van Deventer had fruited it and liked it very much .
Color bright purple ; fair size, vigorous grower and ripens
well.
W. H. Goldsmith said the vine seems hardy, healthy and
vigorous. Not fruited yet.
Worden- E. P. Beebe saw it in Elizabeth ; liked it better
than Concord .
Martha- G. W. Thomson had not succeeded very well with
it ; for quality preferred the Croton .
The Chairman announced the presence of a committee
from the Burlington County Agricultural Society to confer
with this Society in regard to holding an exhibition in connec-
tion with their Society on their grounds at Mount Holly in
October. A motion was made and passed to appoint a com-
mittee of three to confer with them.
W. H. Goldsmith, C. W. Idell and Frank Pettit were
appointed such committee.

wood (shown at our meeting) to Prof. J. H. Comstock, of Cornell University, Ithica, N. Y.,
and received the following in reply, under date of February 9, 1878.
" The insect injurious to grape wood of which you send specimen, is the Grape Callidium
(Callidium Amoenum of Say.) It belongs to the family Cerambycidæ, or, in popular language,
Long Horned Beetles, a family containing many of our most pernicious wood-boring insects.
The perfect insect is a redish beetle with Prussian blue wing covers. It measures one-fourth
inch in length. The only remedy which I can now suggest, is to burn the infested wood
before the perfect insect escapes from it."
In a more recent letter from Prof. Comstock, Feb. 18th, he says that the larvæ and pupa
were not described until 1871, by Packard in his first annual report as the State Entomologist
of Massachusetts.
I have found the insect in four different localities recently, and all the grape wood that is
infested with the larvæ is dead.
Respectfully,
E. P. BEEBE.
 15

E. P. Beebe, of Elizabeth , Frank Pettit, of Salem , and

Edwin Allen, of New Brunswick, were appointed a Fruit
Committee ; and Alexander Kennedy, W. Paddock, of
New Brunswick, and G. W. Thompson , of Stelton, a flower
committee to examine and report upon the fruits and flowers
on exhibition.
D. McLaury, B. B. Hance, A. F. Boyce , J. Van Deventer
and D. C. Voorhees were appointed a committee to nominate
officers for the ensuing year.
The Society then adjourned till 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

The Society was called to order, with Vice- President

Collins in the chair.
The Secretary being present, the reading of the Minutes of
last meeting, was first in order.
On motion of A. F. Boyce , their reading was dispensed with,
as they had been published and the members were , doubtless ,
familiar with them .

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

The Secretary reported as follows :

He had , after our last meeting, notified the parties
elected to honorary membership, and had received their
several acknowledgements , thanking the Society for the
honor conferred . The next duty devolving on him was
the preparation of our proceedings for publication , which ,
with the assistance of our President in proof-reading, he
succeeded in getting issued early in May, and copies were
sent to all the members.
During the year he had exchanged publications with
The Maine Pomological Society,
The Connecticut State Board of Agriculture ,
The Ohio State Horticultural Society, and
The Indiana Horticultural Society.
He had also received during the past summer, a letter from
the Vice-President of the Queensland Acclimatisation Society,
in Australia, stating that attention had been called to an
article on the Huckleberry, in our proceedings, and request-
ing some seed of the fruit for trial there. This shows how
far the influence of this Society has gone in one direction,
while here at home we have nine counties in the State that
have up to this time failed to take sufficient interest in the
 16

Society to secure a representation . Notices of this meeting

had been sent to nearly every paper in the State, urging those
in the counties unrepresented to call the attention of their
readers to it, hoping thereby to extend the Society's field of
labor, enlarge its membership and increase its efficiency.
The results of these efforts remain to be seen.
Report received and placed on file.
The Committee on Nominations reported a list of officers
acceptable to the Society. They were duly elected and the
committee discharged .
The committee appointed to confer with the committee of
the Burlington Co. Agricultural Society upon the subject of
holding a fair jointly, reported favorably. That Society offers
to furnish a sum of money to be awarded as premiums , on a
schedule prepared by this Society, and to provide compli-
mentary tickets to members of this Society, who may desire
to attend. On motion of E. T. Field , the invitation of the
Burlington Society was accepted . The invitation contem-
plates that the State Horticultural Society's exhibit shall be
held in a separate tent. The Fair will be held Oct. 8 , 9 and
10. The Executive Committee were empowered to make all
necessary arrangements .
The subject of raspberry growing was then taking up .
John S. Collins said there were more of the Brandywine
than of any other red variety now grown near Philadelphia .
They are of moderate growth, very prolific, poor quality,
firm , and carry well . The color of the berry sells it.
Black Caps do not pay, and are being ploughed up . At
five or six cents per quart there is no money in them. They
come from the South in such quantities as to glut the market
just as ours ripen . Have a better opinion of Highland Hardy
than before, owing to their coming early-only the early ones
pay anything at all.
Red raspberries start at 40 cents a quart in Burlington
County and run down to ten cents a quart. The Reliance
promises well among new red raspberries . The Early
Prolific is a new early kind and is of the best quality.
D. McLaury spoke of the cultivation of the raspberry.
Recommended planting late in the Fall or early in the Spring
for red raspberries. Black Caps he would transplant after
they had started to grow in the Spring ; 4x8 feet apart. Had
abandoned stakes and trellises . Pinched back to about 1 to
2 feet, produced the crop low to the ground . Thought low
prices were due to people's inability to buy as freely as here-
tofore.
 17

There has been no profit in growing raspberries in this

County for several years. Red Antwerp raspberries sold in
Newark on June 29th at nine cents a quart. The Brandy-
wine ripens earlier and in a shorter time than the Winant.
B. B. Hance said that one-half the people in the State
did not have enough berries last Summer, and he thought
the lack of success of large growers should not be dwelt upon
much, lest those who wish to grow them for their own use
only, should be discouraged .
D. Baird-The discussion so far has been confined to profit.
In his experience, berries that could be got to market by the
Fourth of July were the paying crop . The low prices of last
year should not discourage us . What crops are the farmers
making money on ? Let hope for the future encourage us .
The Brandywine is too long in maturing its crop . The
Highland Hardy would be in market in the shorter time ,
while the prices are better, although they may not be as good
in color or size. Had found no Black Cap better than
Doolittle . It was the only variety that would pay in Mon-
mouth county as a market berry . The Mammoth Cluster,
though larger, was not so good in quality or color .
C. W. Idell said in old times the Red Antwerp used to
come in on the Fourth of July, but of late years they come in
even as early as the middle of June . Prices depend very
much upon the packages the fruit is in . They bring a better
price in thirds of a quart, than in pints or quarts .
Brandywine is a good shipper, and put up as well , would
probably sell as well as Antwerps. The Hudson river fruit
comes in boats , which carry fruit much better than cars .
B. B. Hance said the absence of snow here he, thought, in-
terfered with the permanent success of raspberries.
D. McLaury said in Newark and New York the Winants
sold better than the Antwerp .
Prof. Lockwood said the even temperature of the past
season was just adapted to give an early growth and full crop.
B. B. Hance said the season was as early on the North
River last year as in Monmouth County.
The Secretary said he found no difficulty in transplanting
young green red raspberry plants when a foot or more high,
the only precautions necessary being to pinch off the leaves
and not expose the roots. Was satisfied the great bulk of
the loss in transplanting small fruits of any kind, was due to
exposure . He planted out hundreds of young raspberries of
this character last summer, and did not lose one per cent.
3
 " 18

Mr. Goldsmith could endorse these remarks from his own

experience. He procured some young plants at Mr.
Williams's last May, took them home and planted the next
day, and did not lose a plant.
While on the subject of raspberries , the Secretary would
ask Prof. Lockwood to give the Society the result of his
observations respecting the disease of the rasbperry canes
sent him last season.
Prof. Lockwood said the plants sent to him by Mr. Wil-
liams were examined with the microscope, and he concluded
that no insect had anything to do with it . A cellular fungus
between the cambium and the wood was feeding there upon
the sap and exhausted the plant. The fungi exhaust a car-
bonaceous plant because their nature is nitrogenous. The
cells become filled with spores , which rupture the wood until
they reach the air and are there carried away. Cannot give
any cure or remedy except cutting the canes and burning.
Spores diffuse much more speedily and readily than insect's
eggs. Having placed a healthy plant with these diseased
canes, that also became diseased . These diseased canes should
not be buried or thrown away, but by all means burned ,
In Millstone and Upper Freehold , Monmouth County, the
apple leaves were full of acidium fungus . The trees were
on poor ground and had borne no fruit for several years .
These trees should have been burned , if it was necessary for
the State to pay for them . A slight bulging of the chloro-
phyll was the only indication at first of the presence of the
fungus. After awhile it burst through, and had the appear-
ance of a flower with square petals - every one of these petals
is covered with thousands of spores which are disseminated
by every wind and rain . These fungi probably attack weak
or diseased trees more successfully than thrifty trees.
Prof. Lockwood thought that pear blight could also be
attributed to fungi— he had seen no evidence that it was
caused by insects.
Mr. Allen exhibited some plum leaves with a white border.
Prof. Lockwood gave reasons why it was not the work of
insects. He said it was a disease of the leaf cuticle like
albinism in the animal . The chlorophyll rays penetrate the
leaves, become changed to heat and expand the vapor in the
cells, which forces itself through the stomata. Some dis-
eased condition of the cells has prevented the chlorophyll
rays penetrating these cells, and consequently the leaves in
those parts become etiolated.
 19

Mr. Budd spoke about the culture of oranges in California.

The leaves of the orange trees are being affected in the same
way as the apple trees spoken of by Prof. Lockwood . Fruit
culture in Southern California is running now to oranges and
olives . Their market is so glutted with fruits , especially
grapes , that they cannot find a sale, and are fed to the hogs.
Wine is peddled for twenty-five cents a gallon . Californians
kept imported wines for their own use and for their friends
-not deeming their own make good enough ; they say
it is too heady,—gives you the headache. The Japanese
persimmon was spoken of favorably. The muscat raisin grape
is what they are now counting on . They simply dip the
grapes in lye and spread them to dry. The almond does well
in Northern and Southern California, but in the Southern
part the trees are being rooted up because it is said to be too
expensive to pick and shell them. California oranges are not
to be compared with those from Florida ; the rind is thick , the
flesh is pulpy and very acid . Near San Francisco is the most
profitable part of the State for fruit growing, because of its
vicinity to markets . There is little or no perennial grass .
The grass is annual . Alfalfa is grown by irrigation at the
rate of ten to twelve tons per acre per annum, having several
cuttings. Good strawberries are in market nearly the whole
year, and all kinds of vegetables abound throughout the year.
The apple is a failure . The sun is too hot and burns the bark
of the trees in the interior valley. The temperature ranges
as high as 112, for days at a time. Oregon apples are more
highly esteemed than any grown in California.
The Destruction of Birds was then discussed .
Emmor Roberts said he could not understand why birds
should be destroyed , and was surprised such a question should
be asked. He thought that if we destroyed the birds we
should have no fruit.
The Secretary said the English sparrow is not an insect-
eating bird ; it is graminiverous ; eats fruits, buds and grain ,
and is such a nuisance in England that rewards are offered
for their destruction .
Some birds are the farmers's friends and some are their
enemies. The cedar birds are very destructive ; they go in
flocks, and some seasons take all his cherries . The cat bird
is very destructive to his grapes , and the oriole will also
destroy them .
Emmor Roberts said the sparrows were imported on pur-
pose to destroy the span worms, and they have disappeared .
 20

The crow is now considered one of the farmers's best friends ;

crows will keep a tomato patch clear of green worms .
G. W. Thompson said that in England sparrows are a
terrible pest ; they will ruin a field of oats in a day or two.
In this city they have entirely stripped pear trees of all their
buds . Seed growers in England have to employ boys to stay
in the fields all day to keep away the sparrow .
I. J. Blackwell had sparrows and other birds on his place ,
and had suffered from none of them , but they had cleared
away a great many worms from the apple trees .
D. C. Voorhees said the trouble with the birds is they don't
eat the insects the farmer wants eaten ; they only eat those
which do not injure the farmer particularly. The English
sparrow is going to be a nuisance. English farmers employ
boys to destroy sparrows and their eggs. Stuffed cats , bells ,
& c. , are of no value to keep away robbins ; you must stand
and shake the tree all the time . Catbirds are especially
destructive to grapes . Blackbirds destroy many grubs .
The owl will destroy many mice .
I. J. Blackwell said the crow would also destroy mice.
Mr. Boyce said no doubt this question has two sides .
know that birds do a great deal of good ; the question is
whether they do enough harm to counterbalance the good .
Had heard of a case where robins took off 500 lbs of grapes
in a single day. If this was a fact, how would any of us
like a case of that kind .
D. C. Voorhees said the speckled , slate-colored woodpecker
was useful to the apple trees, eating insects , & c.
G. W. Thompson said if that referred to the sapsucker he
was welcome to all of them.
At half-past five a recess was taken until half-past seven .

EVENING SESSION.
There was a fair attendance ; not equal to that in the morn-
ing ; but there were more ladies .
Vice-President Van Deventer, of Mercer, presiding .
The subject selected for this evening's discussion was " Old-
Fashioned Flowers ."
B. B. Hance said many valuable flowers are thrown aside
simply because they are old-fashioned , and attention is directed
mainly to the new sorts .
Prof. Lockwood said the Jonquil, the Daffodil , and other
flowers which were familiar in his childhood, are now
unknown , and in consequence the old ballads about them are
 21

now unappreciated , which is a great literary loss . The Fuch- *

sia, indeed , is becoming so widely diffused as to become a
familiar household word. As civilizers and æsthetic elements
many of the old flowers should resume their old places.
Emmor Roberts spoke of the Eve's Thread ( Yucca Filamen-
tosa), which has the odor of a bumble-bee's nest, as a most
attractive wild flower. Another wild flower, called Turkey
Beard ( Xerophyllum Asphodeloides) , producing a spike three
feet high, with a cluster of white flowers, which is most beau-
tiful and delicate. Another, the American Azalea, a natural
shrub of great beauty.
Prof. Lockwood said some of the wild flowers were well
worthy of cultivation . He spoke of an Englishman who
rushed into a swamp to secure a Lobelia Cardinalis, and mar-
velled at a country which had such flowers growing wild .
He said he was requested by the Australian Commissioners
to send them some of our native plants. They were enchanted
with the Pond Lily (Nymphaea Odorata.) These can be grown
in a tub sunk in the ground under your window. There will
soon be a demand for the roots of water lilies for this pur-
pose.
Dr. Cook said the Cardinal Flower ( Lobelia Cardinalis),
though one of the most brilliant flowers known , is apt to be
ragged, and if that could be remedied the plant would become
valuable and popular .
Prof. Lockwood said it needed alluvial soil ; cannot have
too much water ; is benefited by shade, and if the roots are
all taken up and , at least, half a dozen plants grown together,
so as to mass the bloom, it would give satisfaction . The soil
should be rich, but no fertilizers should be used.
C. W. Idell said, among old flowers still cultivated , is the
Iris (Fleur de lis), or blue flag, which is grown in no end of
varieties. The Tulip is another instance of an old-fashioned
flower still cultivated ; and so are the Chrysanthemum and
China-aster. The Jonquil is still grown , and so is the Nar-
cissus.
G. W. Thompson said if the Chrysanthemum was trans-
planted very late and the plant somewhat starved it would
be more brilliant and be able to bear the flowers upright .
Some houses in Europe are devoting much pains to the propa-
gation of old-fashioned flowers ; but while cultivating the
old , let us not neglect what is new and good.
Dr. Cook called attention to the Nelumbium Luteum , a
water lily or lotus-the largest flower we have in our country
 22

-eighteen to twenty inches over, which is confined to a

single mill-pond at Woodstown, in Salem county.
It is surprising that our florists have not transplanted it.
James Neilson said he desired to call attention to some
flowers and plants which are very commonly destroyed . By
simply keeping out the man with a scythe, there is a constant
growth of beautiful and fragant flowers , such as the Spice
bush, which is fragrant before the frost is gone in the spring,
and after the frost comes is a showy Lilac plant-the Tubea
Purpurea ; between these the Greenbrier, the Dogwood,
Nannyberry, Wild Grape, Virgina Creeper, Wild Cherry, the
Elder and Locust, which make a beautiful copse, which is
also frequented by the birds.
Prof. Lockwood objected to having the common catbrier
poetized and idealized . He had measured leaves of the Ne-
lumbium which were 36 inches in diameter and the flowers
13 inches in diameter .
Mr. Blackwell said the old flowers which were valuable are
still cultivated, but those which are neglected cannot be com-
pared to Fuchsias and Geraniums.
Mr. VanDeventer had succeeded well in growing pond
lilies.
The Secretary said that Johnny Jump-ups (pansy) and
Snow-balls ( Viburnum Opulus) were popular and well known
flowers, which were concealed under modern names, so that
the old folks do not recognize them. What is more showy
than the old Crimson Pæony ? The Blue Flag (Fleur de lis)
Double flowering Almond , Columbine, and Marigolds , these
were all favorites of his childhood and he still had an affection
for them. He had thought the Nannyberry ( Sweet Viburnum)
would make a capital hedge plant for our climate.
Mr. Thompson said it would not endure the shears , it
would throw up suckers when cut back.
Mr. Boyce said he had been agreeably surprised to see so
much sentiment and feeling exhibited in such an assembly of
practical men. He had been much gratified by it— but some
omissions had been made, among them the gorgeous Sun-
flower, the Morning-glory, the Four-o'clock and the Lady-
slipper.
C. W. Idell said he grew Golden-rod in his garden this
year at least seven feet high. The Hollyhock is also being
cultivated extensively, so is perennial Phlox, and also the
Hyacinth and Crocus.
Dr. Cook said there is an old box tree which has been
 23

standing 150 years , is 15 feet across and 12 feet high, about

two miles from here, on the farm of Abraham Voorhees .
B. B. Hance thought associations had more to do with the
esteem in which old flowers may be held than their actual
superiority.
Mr. Allen said that seed of the American Holly and Nanny-
berry must lie in the ground for two years before it will
sprout.
C. W. Idell spoke of the Nasturtium as a beautiful flower
well worth cultivating.
The question of destruction of birds being resumed , Prof.
Lockwood spoke of the English sparrows as essentially gram-
inivorous birds, eating few, if any insects. Even in the New
Testament, we are told there was a bounty of a farthing on
every couple, and there has been a bounty on them ever since.
They have had bad characters for 3000 years. They are
quarrelsome and drive away the wrens and bluebirds . The
gray shrike is now a denizen of our cities , a thing heretofore
unknown , and they come to feed upon the sparrow ; the spar-
rows have created a disturbance in our fauna. Owls now
abound in the Central Park. Their proper business is to
catch field mice- I have found the skulls of six mice in the .
stomach of one little screech-owl . We shall yet regret bit-
terly the introduction of the sparrow.
The policeman could have destroyed the span worms as
well as the sparrows . Insects imported into this country do
more injury here than they do in the old world , while in-
jurious insects from this continent do less injury across the
water. Great care should therefore be taken in disturbing
the existing fauna of any country.
Emmor Roberts said that for several years the common
brown thrush pulled up his early citron seeds before they
could sprout, but he had made a compromise with the
thrushes by giving them a peck of rye to two or three acres
when the citron seed is sowed, and now the thrushes do not
disturb the citron seeds. Perhaps we can compromise with
the sparrow .
Prof. Lockwood said our native birds should by no means
be destroyed . He had found in the stomach of a hawk, in
January, a roll of a hundred and fifty caterpillars. It had ,
doubtless, come from the South . The sparrows , in South
Jersey parlance, would proove to be " ornary cusses ; their
actions to our native birds could only be attributed to " pure
cussedness. ”
 24

Mr. Roberts spoke of a hawk in his vicinity which came

back year after year to the same tree- he could not be trap-
ped nor shot. Prof. Lockwood said this was not uncommon .
The meeting adjourned at ten o'clock.

SECOND DAY.

MORNING SESSION.

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J. , Feb. 7th, '78

The society met at 9 o'clock A. M. , Vice President Van
Deventer in the chair .
E. T. Field, of Red Bank called attention to the destruc-
tiveness of rabbits in his nursery and to a bill now before the
Legislature looking to their protection ; if said bill prohibited
their destruction on one's own premises he should have to
abandon the growing of young fruit trees entirely. He offered
the following preamble and resolution :
Whereas, it is understood by this Association that the Legislature now in
session, contemplate the passage of an act to protect the rabbit or hare, and,
Whereas, the fruit growers of this Association are agreed that the rabbit is
highly destructive to our fruit trees, and in some instances orchards have
been seriously injured by them. Therefore it is
Resolved, that this Association do herewith petition your Honorable Body
that no legislation be taken looking to the protection of the rabbit.
Resolved, that a committee of three be appointed to present in respectful
terms, these resolutions for the consideration of the Honorable Legislature
now in session.
Laid on the table .
The question of Pear culture in its present condition as a
profitable pursuit was opened by Mr. Quinn at the request of
the President, who said he had less fruit last season than for
the last ten years , while his neighbor Mr. Goldsmith had a
very fine crop of large perfect specimens ; why this difference
was a problem he was unable to solve. That there was a de-
mand for good fruit no one doubts , and prices will assuredly
advance with the improvement in the times .
The Blight was the only serious drawback , and that seemed
to be periodic, which was the only bright spot for the future
of pear culture. If this could be mastered we should be en-
couraged . He advocated clean culture, contrary to Mr.
Meehan's grass theory. His experience had not been favor-
able to this course as a preventive for Blight. With care,
few varieties, thinning the fruit , growing large fine specimens
though less in number, is the basis of success .
 25

The market for Pears this year has not been as flat and un-
profitable as it has for Cabbages , Beets and other truck. It
has always been possible to sell Pears at some price.
Mr. Goldsmith endorsed Mr. Quinn's remarks, and said ,
that thinning the fruit and not the insects led him to believe
the fruit left was attacked in larger proportion by them ,
hence it was quite as important to thin the insects as
the fruit. As to blight, some thought it was less prevalent in
cities compactly built, and that smoke and coal gas was
a preventive. He could tell at a glance whether fruit was
grown in city yards or in the open country ; the former had a
clearer, less clouded skin than the latter. As to keeping, his
custom was to put his best specimens in boxes of about a
bushel each and to set them three deep in his ice-house for
about a month until the market was bare , and he did not lose
one per cent.
In answer to a question if they were not damp when taken
out replied , yes, covered with moisture and sometimes it was
necessary to let them stand 24 hours to dry off before send-
ing to market.
In response to an inquiry Mr. Quinn said , the generally ac-
cepted theory as to the cause of Blight, was that it was a fungus
and Mr. Saunders, of Washington , thought he had discovered
a remedy by washing the trees with sulphur.
Prof. Lockwood had been told by a fruit grower of Mon-
mouth that he thought he had a remedy by close pruning,
i. e. , removing every appearance of the disease as soon as visible,
and he wished right here to enforce the idea that burning was
sure to destroy and could not be too strongly recommended .
G. W. Thompson said his theory was that a generous treat-
ment of starvation was the best preventive of the blight.
These were his views last year, had seen nothing to change
them ; exhibited specimens which he confessed confused him .
His theory was that the sap is not properly elaborated before
winter sets in and that the cold or heat, in consequence,
causes this disease .
Here is a Stevens Genesee stock with a Dearborn seedling
budded on it . The stock was blighted while the budded
shoot continued to grow on to the end of the season . How
could this be accounted for ? Why was not the blight as ap-
parent on this shoot as upon the stock ? Hoped for the views
of others, especially on the oil remedy mentioned last year.
Prof. Lockwood said we have here an apparently, perfectly
healthy scion from a diseased stock. Upon the theory of a
 26

differentiation of the sap this would be impossible , but it is

perfectly consistent with the fungus theory.
The rupture of the cells in the diseased part by fungi ,
would not prevent the ascent of the sap through this
healthy part of the wood by capillary attraction . This
fungus disease is a sort of consumption and does not neces-
sarily affect all parts fatally at once . We have 5000 species
of fungi , some of which will grow only under certain peculiar
conditions . The Acidium found upon apple tree-leaves
spoken of is of different genera from the fungi which afflict
the pear. The former feeds upon the chlorophyll while the
latter lives beneath the cambium . These fungi are full of
nitrogen and give out oxygen, and it may be possible that the
application of oil would so agglutinate the spores that they
could not be disseminated and they would be surrounded with
a new nidus which would furnish no nutriment but might be
destruction to them. Any oil sufficiently limpid and agglu-
tinate to surround them would answer a good purpose. The
larvæ of bots had been steeped by the Professor in oil of
peppermint, and they lived twenty-five minutes , one hour
and forty minutes in 95 per cent. alcohol , and fifteen minutes
in turpentine. Could enough of either of these be kept in a
horse's stomach long enough to destroy the bots ? In an-
other case five minutes in whale oil had destroyed them. He
therefore thought that there might be a value in the applica-
tion of oil to prevent the spread of the blight.
Mr. Collins did not see much indication of the disease be-
ing periodic.
A Delaware pear grower of large extent was more troubled
with slugs than blight. Lockwood stated dry dust of any
kind would kill the slug ; it was easily and cheaply applied .
The Secretary suggested probably it was the cheapness and
simplicity of the remedy that prevented its use.
Allen asked if Mr. Goldsmith's hint as to city protection
or exemption from blight had been observed by others, he
had himself seen instances of blight in cities but they were
rare.
Beebe said the saw or knife used in removing blighted limbs
may carry the spores to sound limbs , and thus spread the
disease .
Quinn instanced an orchard of seventy-five trees in his
neighborhood highly enriched , and one near by neglected and
starved, both equally affected with blight, and did not think
there was any doubt as to its fungoid origin .
 27

A. F. Boyce thought the rapidity with which death fol-

lows the attack of the blight was an objection to the fungus
theory .
Prof. Lockwood said that would rather be a confirmation of
the theory . He mentioned a fungus , which in three days
grew to a diameter of seven feet, so far as numbers of spores
were concerned , were it of the right species, this one plant
could produce enough to rend the bark on every tree in a
large orchard. Nature is wonderfully prodigal , and , contrary
to the old teleological notion, there is an immense waste in
nature . A common puff ball contains millions if not bil-
lions of spores , and yet of these, perhaps , only a dozen will
grow. The direction of the march of disease, whether veget-
able, or animal , is often due to some subtle state of the atmos-
phere, which may move in tortuous lines or streaks. Diph-
theric disease is fungus entirely. Lately the diphtheria in
Long Branch took a specific, but crooked line through the
village-attacking none on either side, so we can hardly
wonder that the course of fire blight in an orchard seems
uncertain and erratic.

STANDARDS VERSUS DWArfs .

The Chairman asked Mr. Quinn his opinion of their rel-
ative merits . He replied he had both in quantity, and twenty
years experience, and now, if planting pears, would pay $50
per 100 for Standards, for market purposes , in preference to
having Dwarfs for nothing.
Time is required for the tree to grow, to attain size and
strength, to yield a crop , and when thrown into fruiting it has
both the ability and capacity to mature a crop. Dwarfs were
more easily and cheaply raised than Standards , but they
should not be allowed to bear fruit till the tree is fully de-
veloped . Van Deventer asked the condition of his Dwarf
orchard. He replied that those planted deep enough had
struck root from the pear and were satisfactory. He had
visited Rivers ' orchard in England who was, we might say,
the father of Dwarf pear culture , and he must acknowledge
he never saw such scrawney trees anywhere.
Goldsmith corroborated Quinn . Dwarfs were compara-
tively worthless unless they become Standards by rooting
from the pear .
Van Deventer got his first lessons from Prof. Mapes and
the Dwarf pear orchard Mr. Quinn had since superintended .
He thought he could learn more from Prof. Mapes' teaching
 28

in an hour than from anyone else he ever met. Acting on this

teaching he had prepared his ground deep, well drained , and
planted Dwarf trees 25 to 26 years ago, and took good care
of them ; they had grown well, done well , and were every
way satisfactory. Used bones freely in the ground when
planting. The trees were still vigorous and bore satisfactory
crops . Some had rooted from the pear ; some had not.
Two years the trees were neglected and they failed to give
satisfactory returns. He then took them in hand , gave them
good treatment ; fed liberally, thinned the fruit and they
again declared the usual dividend , and he had no cause to
complain .
Would not advise farmers to plant Dwarfs, for not one in
500 would take proper care of them . Was frequently ap-
plied to by farmers for advice and he invariably advised them
not to plant Dwarfs, because he felt confident they would not
give them the proper culture . Would not advise their plant-
ing by anyone, unless he knew the party possessed the
energy, means and courage to do it properly. By thinning,
for which Dwarfs were very convenient, they gave larger
fruit, more in bulk, which brought more money. Saw no
difference in the kinds as to blight. Had lost a few Dwarfs
by blight, but no Standards ; though all had been affected .
D. C. Voorhees said he could not grow Duchesse and Louise
Bonne nor Standards as successfully as Dwarfs .
REPORT OF FRUIT COMMITTEE.
The Special Committee on Fruits exhibited reported as
follows :
Mr. President : your committee on fruit find a creditable
collection for so late in the season .
OF PEARS from G. W. Thompson , specimens of Belle Wil-
liams ; large, pyriform , juicy , very good .
Duchesse de Bordeaux, round or obtuse pyriform , russet,
a good cooking pear.
From J. Van Deventer, specimens of Easter Beurre, very
fine.
From E. Williams, Lawrence and Glout Morceau.
From Davis & Sutton , of N. Y. , specimens of Sheldon and
Pound from California , fine looking specimens , very large and
fair.
From Edwin Allen , specimen of Duchesse d' Hiver, new,
large, obtuse , pyriform , thin skin, very good.
OF APPLES from G. W. Thompson , one plate Smith's Cider ,
very fine.
 29

One plate R. I. Greening, which seem to have been changed

in appearance by some cause unknown to the committee, per-
haps by top grafting .
From J. M. White , one plate R. I. Greening.
From David Baird , Peck's Pleasant, very fine . Roxbury
Russet, extra fine specimens.
From Ten Eyck Sutphen , Smith's Cider extra fine . Coggs-
well, very handsome. An apple of best quality . R. I.
Greening good specimens .
From E. P. Beebe, specimens for name, resembling White
Canada Pippin .
From E. Williams , Peck's Pleasant and Baldwin , fine
specimens ; Baily Sweet, Yellow Bellflower, Northern Spy,
Rambo, Winesap and Canfield .
From Edwin Allen , two plates Smith's Cider, one from
land not well drained , showing the effect of growing upon
such soil. One plate Winesap and R. I. Greening , and fine
specimens of Coggswell.
MISCELLANEOUS.

From John S. Collins, large, fine specimens of Reliance

Raspberry in alcohol.
From C. W. Idell, a plate of fine Florida Oranges, also one
plate Native Chestnuts from Tenn .; Butternuts, Hickorynuts
and French Chestnuts, extra large and fine .
From W. H. Goldsmith, sample of Shell-bark Hickorynuts,
extra fine, and English Walnuts grown on his own place.
From B. F. Errington , plate of English Filberts , grown on
his place in Ocean county, very large and well filled . The
exhibitor states that in the English market Filberts sell better
with hulls on which makes it desirable there to plant
varieties of that character (?)
E. Williams exhibits fine specimens of Triumph Sweet
Corn, which appears to be remarkably prolific , three full-sized
ears on a stalk, also specimens of Red Mangel Wurzel Beets .
N. W. Parcell exhibits a fine large specimen of White Rose
Potato.
E. P. BEEBE,
EDWIN ALLEN,
FRANK PETTIT.
Committee.

Report accepted and committee discharged .

The Committee on Flowers reported as follows :
Mr. President and members of the society : Your com-
mittee on the Floral exhibit report from Mr. W. Paddock ,
 30

Coleus and Begonias in variety and a plant of Geranium Dis-

tinction, very unique.
A.Kennedy, rustic stand well filled with Ericas , Sempervivum
Arboreum and Heterocentrum Roseum- beautiful specimens.
Edwin Allen exhibits sprays of Arbor vitae , beautifully
blotched, which if permanent we think will prove a valuable
acquisition.
Also Plum leaves which to your committee seemed the re-
sult of insect-depredation , but a microscopical examination by
Prof. Lockwood proved it due to the presence of fungi .
A. Hance & Son exhibit a dish of beautiful Clematis also a
flower of the new Daphne Genkwa from Japan.
G. W. Thompson , Stelton , exhibits Geranium Happy
Thought, and other plants.
J. T. Hill, of New Brunswick contributes two pots of Calla
Ethiopica.
John A. Flag, a beautiful specimen of Begonia Nitida
Rosea .
Mrs. James Neilson and A. Muller several vases of cut
flowers .
Your committee would recommend that the society express
their appreciation of the kindness of those friends who con-
tributed so much to make the hall beautiful, and to Prof.
Lockwood whose versatile mind so much tended to make the
work of your committee pleasant and its department educa-
tional ; and for the elucidations of such subjects as have been
brought before the meeting by Prof. Lockwood , would
recommend to members as far as practicable to carry with
them in their daily work among trees, plants and flowers a
note book and pocket lens to record their observations.
G. W. THOMPSON,
A. KENNEDY .
Committee.
Report received and committee discharged.
PEACH CULture.
Peach culture, and best varieties for New Jersey, was the
next question considered , and was opened with a paper by Ira
J. Blackwell, of Titusville. This was followed by the Secre-
tary's reading a paper on the same subject from S. Brant, of
Madison, N. J., at the conclusion of which he remarked that
the idea set forth as to the distinctive feature of Rare-ripe
Peaches, being redness at the pit, was new to him , and he ad-
dressed a note to Mr. Downing on the subject and would read
his reply as follows :
 31

NEWBURGH, N. Y. , Jan. 28th, 1878.

Mr. E. WILLIAMS, Dear Sir : I know of no distinctive feature in the Rare-
ripe Peaches ; there was formerly thought to be such, but they are so mixed
by hybridizing that it would be difficult to distinguish a Rare-ripe from any
other class. I do not think the color around the pit has anything to do
with it. There are many new fruits annually introduced, some very good
as to quality, some not. It requires time to decide which is valuable. Some
of the Southern fruits are promising for their locality, but what they will do
here is to be tested . Respectfully yours,
CHAS. DOWNING.

These papers were referred to the Executive Committee for

publication , and brief discussion followed .
In regard to the idea advanced that Potatoes would pro-
duce yellows, Mr. Blackwell thought the culture and fer-
tilizer applied to produce a crop of Potatoes might stimulate
the trees to a large growth and induce them to set a heavier
crop of fruit than they were capable of maturing, when the
culture and fertilizers were withheld . A moderate, well
ripened growth is what is needed . The yellows if not caused
by were invariably connected with an impoverished condition.
It is a constitutional disease like the consumption in the
human family, inherited but not contagious.
Mr. Hance had seen trees among early Potatoes ripen early,
as though there was a sympathy between them.
Mr. Thompson thought early cessation of cultivation , a
necessity with early crops , might be one cause of the trouble,
and Potatoes may extract too much potash for the health of
the trees.
Mr. Idell and the Secretary both regretted the Peach grow-
ers of the State had not come out to this meeting to discuss
this Peach question . The latter had procured with difficulty
some buds of the variety alluded to last year by Mr. Idell as
the Morris County Rare-ripe and had endeavored to find out its
origin. Mr. Brant claimed there was no such Peach . It was
one of the objects of this society to establish correct nomen-
clatures . If this was an old Peach under a new name it was of
importance to find it out ; it was useless to multiply_syno-
nyms . On the statement being made it was a white Peach,
Mr. E. T. Field said it might be the " White Rare-ripe " a
variety that originated in a garden at Freehold , N. J. , obtained
by John B. Crawford of Middletown, and propagated by
Samuel Beers and taken to Morris Co. , by them. He got it
some ten years ago.from a nephew of Mr. Beers, of New
Vernon, Morris Co. , who gave him this history of it.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock .
 32

AFTERNOON SESSION.
A communication from Dr. Warder, of Ohio, on " Forestry
in New Jersey " was read by the Secretary and referred to
the Executive Committee for publication, with a vote of
thanks to the author. A paper on
" OUR NATIVE NUTS '""
was then read by Mr. Idell . A vote of thanks was tendered
and a copy requested for publication .
An animated discussion followed as to the probable success
of grafting and planting the Hickory . The impression seemed
to prevail that it was difficult to transplant, some taking the
ground that it was safer to depend on seedlings than attempt
to graft or transplant. Some thought Hickorynuts would
nearly reproduce themselves , while others doubted . Inquiry
was made as to the probable yield of a tree.
Mr. Goldsmith thought the tree from which the specimens
he exhibited where grown yielded about three bushels every
alternate year ; was asked its age, he replied , he could not say ;
had known it thirty years, and it was a full grown tree then.
Mr. Van Deventer knew a tree at Rocky Hill, the crop of
which in a single year had sold for $ 36 .
Mr. Lovett said as a rule the Spanish or French Chestnut
was not hardy, while young.
Mr. Williams had a tree of that variety, ten or twelve years
planted, trunk about eight inches in diameter, had fruited
several years , four to eight quarts in a season , not as tall a
grower as our natives, made a round symmetrical head, a fine
lawn tree. To grow Chestnuts, Black Walnuts or Butternuts
they should not be allowed to get dry, or their germinating
qualities were destroyed . It was not necessary to cover
them with earth. If thrown on the grass or left in the woods
among the leaves they obtain all the protection needed , and
would sprout readily. Had a Black Walnut and several Chest-
nut trees grown in this way that had fruited some years. Ifthe
nuts are to be eaten or marketed, the hulls should be re-
moved and the nuts dried , the quicker the better.
Mr. Neilson had trees of the Spanish Chestnut on his place ;
some where protected had survived , while others more ex-
posed were killed by the severe winters .
Mr. Errington showed specimens of Filberts grown on his
place in Ocean county. Had good crops in wet seasons ; in
dry seasons they were a failure. His great trouble was a
fungus that attacked the limbs.
 33

Mr. Allen thought they could be depended on for a crop

about once in three years . The hardiness of the English
Walnut was enquired about.
The Secretary knew of trees in his vicinity that appeared
to be perfectly hardy and fruited well.
The place of our next annual meeting was discussed , some
favored moving about, thought such a course would benefit
the Society , but did not like to go elsewhere without an in-
vitation ; and as New Brunswick was the only place that
seemed to take sufficient interest in the Society to extend that
invitation, it was unanimously accepted . On motion of Mr
Quinn two delegates were appointed to attend the meeting of
the State Board of Agriculture, at Trenton , on the 20th.
Ex-President Thurber and the Secretary were appointed.
Mr. Quinn said he was prepared on the part of the State
Agricultural Society to propose to this Society to hold an
exhibition in connection with theirs in September, at Wa-
verly ; the Agricultural Society would bear all the expense
and furnish the necessary accommodations for the exhibition ,
and pay the premiums.
The Society was pleased to hear this expression of good
will from the State Agricultural Society but, as a similar
proposition had been received from Burlington County and
accepted, it was deemed inexpedient to attempt more than
one exhibition next fall ; and it was hoped every member
would exert himself to the utmost to make it a success.
TREE PLANTING,
for shelter and the roadside was next discussed.
Mr. Boyce said Elms shaded the road too much for the
good of the Roadbed and their roots extend too far in the
fields. The Sugar Maple had received the preference among
intelligent planters .
Mr. Goldsmith said Dr. Ward who planted evergreens
for a shelter belt had cut them down because he thought the
air in the Orchard was rendered too moist and close by them.
Mr. Hall thought the Sugar Maple required a richer soil
than other varieties . The common Soft Maple from the
woods would succeed most anywhere . The Elm is one
of the best of shade trees , should be planted at least 50 feet
apart and Maples 40 feet.
Mr. Thompson said the Silver Maple would endure a
drought much better than the Sugar Maple.
Mr. Quinn said that nine times out of ten, shade trees
were planted too close ; if they were planted twice as far
5
 34

apart, especially in a clay country, the roads would dry

earlier in the season and make the road bed very much
better. In support of these views he cited Mr. Sargent as
one of extended experience , who advocated wider planting
than generally practised. He said Mr. Saunders of Wash-
ington, also , had extensive experience in Street Tree planting
and recommended the following : Silver Maple, Linden , Elm ,
Red leaved Maple, Box Elder, Sugar Maple, Ash , English
Sycamore, Buttonwood and Norway Maple.
The Secretary stated that Mr. Sargent, the authority quoted
by Mr. Quinn had within a few weeks in a letter pleading
for the retention of Mr. Olmstead as superintendent of
Central Park, New York, advocated close planting for im-
mediate effects and wide planting at the same time for the
future , and the removal of the former when their object had
been attained .
Mr. Beebe would plant close and , if necessary, cut down
every other one when they began to crowd . He preferred
the Silver Maple for general planting . The Sugar Maple
will not do in a clay soil . The European Linden is an
excellent tree, superior to the American Maple. The Norway
Maple will grow most anywhere. For a wind break or
screen, nothing excels the Norway Spruce. The Elm is
objectionable for country planting, because when large it
draws so largely on the soil of the field , but is not so inju-
rious in cities.
Mr. Vermeule thought attention should be paid to the
usefulness ofthe trees as well as their ornamental qualities .
The Red Cedar for instance was excellent for a screen or
shelter, and when no longer needed for this purpose was
useful and profitable for posts .
Mr. Goldsmith said the Silver Maple troubled him very
much by throwing up suckers at the collar.
Mr. VanDeventer said the objection to close planting was
they would not be cut down when they became crowded.
Mr. Crane thought that one reason why city trees thrive
no better is because they are given nothing to feed upon.
When planted a good supply of good earth should be placed
around the roots.
Mr. Thompson advocated close planting for screens but not
for roadsides. Until entails came in use in this country, he
thought there would be few Hickory trees planted for their
fruit ; the generation planting will not do the harvesting.
Mr. Hall planted Elms at 60 years of age was now enjoy-
ing them and hoped to do so for some time to come.
 35

Mr. Sutphen cited an instance of a farmer in Monroe

County, New York, who planted the Apple along the road-
side thus combining the useful and ornamental.
On motion of Mr Idell the following committee of arrange-
ments for our next annual meeting were appointed viz. ,
D. Mc. Laury, Jas . Neilson , J. M. White, Edwin Allen ,
Jno. T. Hill , Prof. Geo. H. Cook , Mrs. James Neilson ,
Mrs. Dr. Williamson , Mrs. Geo . Such .
P. T. Quinn offered the following resolutions :
Resolved -That the members of this Society return their sincere thanks to
the President and Trustees of Rutgers College for the free use of Geological
Hall for our annual meeting and also for many other courtesies extended to
the members during their stay at New Brunswick. To the citizens of New
Brunswick who kindly sent in Plants, Fruits and Flowers to decorate the
Hall , and for the interest manifested in the success of the Society we tender
our grateful acknowledgements.
Resolved - That this Society is especially indebted to Messrs. McLaury,
White and Prof. Cook, the Local Committee of New Brunswick, for their un-
tiring labor in administering to our comfort and welfare and we fully ap-
preciate their labors preparatory to, and during the session. They were
unanimously adopted.
The question of publishing the annual proceedings was
discussed and referred to the Executive Committee, with
power.
The hour for adjournment having arrived , the Secretary
asked the indulgence of the audience a few moments, while
he offered a few suggestions touching the unprofitableness of
the past year, with its low prices to the Farmer and IIorticul-
turist, which has been so often alluded to during our session .
Labor and fertilizers have not depreciated in the same ratio
that our produce has . Our crops have cost too much in
proportion to the receipts.
What are the remedies ? and how shall we apply them ?
One I would suggest for your consideration is an increased
product with a decreased area and cost of production .
Can this be done and how ?
Take, for instance , the great staple crop of Indian corn ; can
we increase its yield ?
As generally grown it produces but one ear to the stalk,
though the tendency is to produce an ear at several joints .
Now if we can by selection of seed or other means develop
this tendency and produce 2 or 3 ears to the stalk we increase
the crop by so much. In fact, this is claimed to have been
done with some new varieties now offered for sale .
Fertilizers of course are to aid in this work, but if increased
productiveness is to be accomplished with this crop , to
 36

become permanent, it seems to me we must look for it in the

direction indicated . It requires time, labor and patience to
conduct a series of experiments, and contingencies occurring
sometimes make progress slow. For instance, in my own
case, indifferent, heedless help destroyed one effort by husking
the seed and putting it in with the general crop . The severe
drought of '76 caused an entire failure of the crop, and conse-
quently of another experiment also , and fire was the destruc-
tive agent with my past season's effort.
These stalks of Triumph Sweet Corn you see on the table
have three good marketable ears each . Some stalks have
attempted to produce 5 and 6 ears but all beyond 3 good ears
have beeen nubbins. The seed used was from stalks yielding
2 good ears , the uppermost ear being used , and I think I speak
within bounds when I say our entire crop the past season
would average two good ears to the stalk all through. If
this habit proves permanent, even though we advance no
farther, we have made some progress, and if this can be
accomplished with sweet corn why not with our field varieties ?
Take the root crops for example : they occupy an important
position in our Agricultural and Horticultural husbandry .
Their increased use for our own stock or for sale would be
both beneficial and profitable .
A neighbor informed me the other day that he grew 700
bushels of Mangel Wurzels on an acre , the past season , had sold
500 bushels for $ 150, thus paying the entire cost of the crop,
and had 200 bushels left for his own use. I have also heard
of another who had grown 400 bushels of carrots on a quarter
of an acre, and wrote him asking him to tell us how he did it,
which I am sorry to say he has failed to do . This root
interest is a growing one, and in the future, I think will
occupy a more important position among our own crops than
it has in the past.
‫نجان‬
Our Canadian friends understand this matter better than
we do, and I have made some figures for you to think about.
Mr. Rennie, seedsman of Toronto, Canada, held a Root
show at his store last fall , in competition for a Gold Medal he
had offered for the collection containing the six heaviest roots.
The weights as reported in the Country Gentleman are as
follows :
6 Roots Rennie's Prize Medal Turnip, 121 lbs. average 20 lbs.
6 66 981 " 66 16 "
Greystone Turnip, 66
6 66 Yellow Globe Mangel, 231 66 38 66
6 (6 317 (6 66 53 66
(6 Long Red Mangel,
White Sugar Beet, 253 66 66 42 66
 37

6 Roots White Belgian Carrot, 46 lbs. Average 71 66

6 66 34 66 66 66
Long Red Carrot, 51
The heaviest Mangel weighed, 63 66
66 66 82 66
66 Sugar Beet,
Belgian Carrot, 10 "
Now if it were possible to grow them by the acre at those
rates , allowing the roots to stand 15 x 30 inches apart, we
should have the enormous product of
1391 Tons of Medal Turnips,
1111 66 " Greystone Turnips,
264 66 " Yellow Globe Mangels,
66 " Long Red Mangels,
3691
2921 66 " White Sugar Beets,
521 66 " White Belgian Carrots ,
381 66 " Long Red Carrots,
But we will not presume such results could be obtained ,
though the great yields we have reported by the acre are
generally calculated in this way. We will assume a more
reasonable proposition . The Mangels before you weigh 8 lbs.
Now, I think, we may fairly and reasonably presume that the
grower of the Mangels averaging 53 lbs . cited above could
certainly grow them by the acre, at the distance indicated , to
average the weight of these . If so , we have over 55 tons to
the acre, quite a respectable crop, to say the least. But I will
not detain you longer, I merely wished to call your attention
to the subject as one of interest, and as affording means of re-
lief for the difficulty complained of.
It was suggested this subject be discussed at our next
Annual Meeting, and that experiments be conducted the
coming season with this view.
The Society then adjourned sine die.
E. WILLIAMS , Secretary .
 38

CORRESPONDENCE.

MONTCLAIR, N. J. Feb. 8th , 1878.

MR. GEO. SUCH :

Dear Sir-It becomes my pleasant duty to inform you that
at the third annual meeting of the New Jersey State Horticultural
Society held at New Brunswick on the 6th and 7th inst. you were
unanimously elected to the office of President for the ensuing two
years. I trust you will accept the position and hope, during your
administration the Society will attain a degree of prosperity and
usefulness commensurate with its field of labor.
Respectfully and truly yours ,
E. WILLIAMS .
Recording Secretary.

SOUTH AMBOY, N. J. , Feb. 13th , 1878.

E. WILLIAMS , Secretary :
Dear Sir -In due time I received your letter informing me
that at the third annual meeting of the New Jersey State Horticul-
tural Society, I was unanimously elected to the office of President
of the Society for the term of two years.
Had I been present at the meeting, I would have taken the liberty
of mentioning the names of several persons, any one of whom would,
in my opinion, have been far better able to fill the position properly,
than I am ; but now I can only say that I thank my fellow-members
for the compliment conferred on me, assuring them that my zealous
endeavors to forward the well-being of the Society shall never be
wanting at any time.
I am very truly yours ,
GEORGE SUCH.
 39

PEACH CULTURE IN NEW JERSEY .

BY IRA J. BLACKWELL, TITUSVILLE, N. J.

Having grown Peaches in a small way for a number of years and being
acquainted with some of the best orchards, I think it is safe to say that
New Jersey is well located for the growing of the Peach , and the best
located for marketing the fruit, of any section of the United States. We
find the profit of the Peach to depend upon seasons that are favorable. It
is liable to be destroyed by frosts , by too much wet, and also by drought ;
and high winds sometimes blow off the fruit just before ripening, particular-
ly the late varieties. The soil best adapted to the growth of this finest of
all fruits is mountain land that lays rolling , free of land springs, and with a
deep soil, yet we have seen good Peaches on heavy clay, sandy loam, red
shale, blue shale, and on rather low loam. If the season is dry and winters
mild, the Peaches on the moist land will be good and those on the red shale
nearly worthless. If wet the reverse will be the case. The difference in
freight charges, and getting to market in better order is a great advantage
to New Jersey as a Peach growing State. Peaches will grow well on land
the second time, if there is time given for the old roots to decay. The cold
winter of '67 and '68 destroyed the Peach crop, and injured the trees badly,
whichwith thegreat crops of Delaware and Maryland a few years later stopped
for a time the setting out of orchards in our State. The low price of grain at
the present time, and the Peach doing well, and selling for good prices,
is again receiving more attention by the fruit growers of our State.
Whether profitable to grow for market or not, it certainly should be
grown in sufficient quantities by every farmer for home use. It is always
cheaper to raise enough for home use than buying of others.
VARIETIES SUITED TO NEW JERSEY.
For home use every orchard should have early Peaches. For market early
Peaches are not desirable, as they are small and generally not so productive
as the later. Among the early kinds is Beatrice, a good bearer, quality fair,
slightly cling, only for home use.
Alexander ; of fair quality, adheres, promising for home use. These would
not pay for market, as they cannot compete with the later varieties that
come from Delaware at the same time as these ripen here.
 40

Early Miners ; am not in favor of this variety so far.

Yellow Rare-ripe ; not profitable.
Early Louise ; is probably a good variety to grow for market in any section,
it is medium in size, and of the best quality.
Troth's Early; is superseded by Early Louise.
Honest John ; (or Large Early York) is generally a poor cropper and in-
ferior in every respect to the Mountain Rose, which is the best of the early
Peaches, fair bearer, large size, and strong grower.
Crawford's Early ; not strong enough grower.
Monmouth Melocoton ; with us a promising Peach , some growers say, it is the
best.
Crawford's Late ; blossoms kill easily, otherwise first-class.
Reeves's Favorite ; popular, with us has been a very poor bearer.
Old Mixon Free ; should prefer this to any other Peach, it ripens just in
time to escape the equinoctial gales, and with us has been one of the best.
Its universal popularity should place it as the favorite of all the States and
Canada.
Ward's Late ; equal to the Mixon, cracks when the weather is wet.
Harker's Seedling ; good , style of Old Mixon.
President ; a good white Peach.
Stump-of-the- World ; old and yet a good kind.
Beer's Smock ; so much like the Old Smock that it makes but little differ-
ence which we plant. The Smock is uncertain ; have found it the most profit-
able ; will not do on low ground as a rule.
Late Rare-ripe ; productive, quality not as good as some others.
Salway ; a few for home use will be enough, as it is not good enough to
compete with the northern Peaches.
Crockett's White ; has done well ; but is now out of favor.
I have probably left out many good Peaches. Those I have named are
such as we have grown, and the above is our experience with them.
 41

THE MOST PROFITABLE PEACHES FOR

NORTHERN NEW JERSEY.

BY S. BRANT, MADISON, N. J.

To C. W. Idell, member of Fruit Committee, New Jersey Horticultural Society:

DEAR SIR : I enclose a list of the best eight Peaches for profit in this sec-
tion.
There are only four classes or tribes of Peaches viz : 1. White ; 2. Rare-
ripe ; 3. Melocoton ; 4. Clingstones.
Peaches red at the pit are Rare-ripes or belong to that tribe.
Yellow Peaches belong to the Melocoton class ; in fact, are Melocotons.
Peaches white at the pit are White Peaches and those sticking or cling-
ing to the pit are Clingstones. Sometimes a variety may cling a little, but
would not be called a Clingstone.
The following are the best eight varieties for New Jersey, with descrip-
tion, time of ripening, &c. , the average duration of each variety seven to
eight days.
1st. Mountain Rose. This variety originated on Dr. Marvin's farm, four
miles north of Morristown, N. J., about 1851 .
Tree a good grower, a heavy, early bearer ; the largest early Peach grown .
A high colored red Peach ; juicy and fine flavored ; somewhat red at the pit ;
belongs to the Rare-ripe tribe. Sells well in market. Excels all other
Peaches ripening at same time, commences to ripen about August 25th.
2d. Old Mixon ; said to have originated on Sir John Oldmixon's farm in
Virginia about 1830.
Strong, growing tree ; good bearer ; sometimes bears very full. A fine
Peach for canning ; stands transportation well ; shape of Peach a little oblong,
pinkish color, fine flavor, freestone, a little red at the pit, belongs to the
Rare-ripe class. Excels all other Peaches ripening at the same time, about
September 4th.
3d. Stump-of- the- World. There is a variety called Stump ripening at same
time somewhat resembling it, but a shy bearer. The genuine Stump-of-the-
6
 42

World originated on Mr. Samuel Whitehead's farm, in Middlesex county,

about the year 1825.
This variety is a heavy bearer ; color, reddish crimson ; fine flavor ; large
size, good canning Peach ; perfectly freestone ; red next the pit ; belongs to
the Rare-ripes. One of the finest varieties grown ; comes in at a good time,
middle September ; sells well in market ; excels all others ripening at the
same time. Tree a good grower.
4th. Crawford's Late Melocoton ; originated on Wm. Crawford's place, at
Pleasant Valley, Monmouth county, about 1840.
Color, red and yellow ; tart flavor ; large size, freestone ; fair bearer ; some-
times a little shy ; but the Peach is very large and commands a good price in
market. Best yellow Peach to make money out of, that ripens at same time,
eighteenth to twentieth September. Mr. Crawford originated the Crawford's
Early Melocoton, a good bearer, but not as good as Old Mixon, which ripens
at the same time.
5th. Steven's Rare-ripe ; originated on Mr. B. Steven's farm, three miles
Southwest of Morristown, near Baskir gridge, about 1858 .
One of the finest grown ; a very large red Peach ; fine flavor , juicy,
clings a little to the pit ; belongs to the Rare-ripe class. Strong growing tree ;
good bearer ; brings fancy prices in market. Season about August 25th.
6th. Keyport White ; originated at Keyport, Monmouth County in Mr.
Joseph Beer's garden, about 1852.
This is the best White Peach grown ; perfectly freestone ; shape of Peach,
a little oblong ; fine rich flavor. Top side of Peach has red tinge, on old
trees. Tree good grower ; heavy bearer ; stands transportation ; brings high
prices in market. Season, September and October.
7th. Bray's Rare-ripe ; originated on the farm of David or Daniel Bray,
three and a half miles south of Keyport, Monmouth County, about 1847.
This variety resembles the Old Mixon , only redder color ; red at the pit ;
heavy bearer ; fine flavor ; freestone ; stands transportation ; good size ; season
first to eighth of October ; will keep , if put in a cool place, till first of No-
vember, by spreading out on a floor or table. Brings high prices ; ripens
with the Smock ; but excels it or any other Peach ripening at the same time.
The genuine Smock originated on Mr. Aaron Smock's farm, Marlboro, Mon-
mouth County, about 1830 ; a yellow dry Peach ; heavy bearer.
8th. Beer's Late White Cling ; originated on Samuel Beer's place, four
miles from Keyport, Monmouth County.
The best white Cling grown ; heavy bearer ; large size ; rich flavor ; fine
for brandying ; brings high prices in the New York market ; ripens about
twelfth to fifteenth of October, and excels all White, Cling, or any other
variety ripening at the same time.
 43

These eight varieties are all large Peaches and bear transportation well,
and I consider them the best known varieties for profit. We also grow a
Peach called the Jaques, originated in Lincoln Township, Mass., about 1844.
This variety is too tender to stand long shipping, and the limbs weep to the
ground, bad about cultivating. It sells well in market ; ripens between
Mountain Rose and Old Mixon , and is the richest Peach grown, but the
Mixon is the most profitable. It ripens about first of September, very large,
yellow ; little red at pit ; some Nurserymen call it a Rare-ripe, but it is a
Melocoton, and the sweetest grown except the Foster, which ripens nearly
at the same time, and is equally sweet.
The Foster Peach is comparatively a new variety, from Medford, Mass. , and
I have been told the trees have been retailed from $1 to $5 each . I have
out now with another party 1,500 of these trees four and five years old, but
they, like most other new varieties, do not amount to much. There would
be about five or six days' difference in time of ripening the same variety in
Morris and Warren counties, and the southern part of the State.
There are two diseases of Peach trees ; one called the " Yellows " the other
the " Pied Leaf. " The latter disease is produced by the soil, i . e. , some
land will produce or develop the disease. After the disease is produced it
can be budded on healthy seedlings. These budded trees, after setting in
orchards, grow slow ; usually live as long as others ; never bear many
peaches, and what they do bear are usually small and poor. The body of
the trees grow hidebound and the leaves twist up ; and in the middle of
summer or fall the trees look as if there had been a fire through them.
This disease is worse than the Yellows to avoid , but if the Nurserymen are
careful and understand their business, they can avoid the disease. Peach
orchards usually die in New Jersey and New York with the Yellows, and I
learn are also dying in Delaware and Maryland with this disease. The
Yellows can also be spread by budding. A heavy, rich wash across a
Peach orchard will sometimes start the disease. A young orchard set out
by the side of an old one affected, will take the disease, that is, the first two
or three rows will take the disease by the time they are two or three years old,
sometimes younger. The second crop of Potatoes raised or grown on the
same piece of ground in a young orchard will sometimes start the Yellows,
provided the ground is rich with manure.
Peach orchards usually live seven to ten years, sometimes longer. About
one-half of the Peach orchards set out, do not amount to much , as part of
the trees are not healthy when set. Some farmers buy good healthy trees,
but they neglect to cultivate them, and sometimes starve the trees to death,
The Peach is a native of Persia.
 44

Nurserymen planting out Peach nurseries, to start right, must have the
healthy, genuine, natural pits, grow the seedlings on the right kind of
soil ; inoculate them with healthy buds, cultivate properly, and they will
then grow good , healthy trees.
If farmers or Peach growers that have the right kind of land for growing
Teaches, will buy good , healthy trees, set them on the right kind of soil,
cultivate in a proper manner, and not starve the trees to death, they will win
99 times out of 100.
The Peach has been propagated by budding about 52 years ; previous to
this they were grown as natural seedlings.
 45

FORESTRY IN NEW JERSEY.

BY DR. JOHN A. Warder, oF OHIO.

Think it not presumptuous in a stranger, a denizen of the broad and fertile

valley of the great interior basin of our continent, that he should come before
you thus, with an offering at your annual love- feast. Take it rather as a
99
love- offering which he sends to his good friends of the " Nova Cesarea,
because he cannot be with them personally, as he so much desires, to ac-
knowledge the honors received at your hands upon a former occasion .
An apology may possibly be considered due you for the introduction of
a topic which you will think beyond the limits of horticulture-If so , you
shall have it, with the reminder however, that in our western associations
we have long considered arbori-culture a legitimate subject for discussion at
our horticultural conferences. The dependence of the one upon the other
has already been so fully discussed , and the benefits rendered to the garden
by trees are so generally admitted, that they need not now be presented to
such an intelligent auditory, but the advance will at once be made in medias
res, to the consideration of the present state of Forestry in New Jersey.
This state was originally covered with a natural Forest, rich in useful
species-having only a skirting of low, marshy, treeless area near the tide
level, along portions of the sea coast, and beside the estuaries of some of the
rivers and creeks . Your native forests were famous for their noble White-
oaks, Chesnuts, Pines, Hemlocks, and Cedars - of this wealth, little now
remains the wants of your people and the proximity to large markets,
accessible by water, have stripped the surface of this patrimony. Over large
areas, it is true, the second growth has re-forested the surface, and some of
this is of a valuable character , while a large extent is comparatively valueless.
The railroads have created an extensive demand for some of the best species ,
and this draft has greatly despoiled much of your woodland.
By furnishing increased facility for transportation, these iron-ways may
also have added to the value of the timber. Thus it is found that some
original growths in Camden county, consisting of White- oak, Black-oak and
Chestnut, are valued at $300 per acre- but it must also be stated that the
second growth in the same county, is rated at only $ 30 -which is not a
 46

very encouraging exhibit, but may be taken as evidence that the lands have
not been subjected to the treatment of an enlightened system of Forestry
which, no doubt, would give better results. The Cedar woods give a still
greater contrast, for, while the natural or first growth has sold for $600 and
even $800, the second may be purchased for $25 to $ 75 per acre.
An illustration from the other end of the state, Warren county, shows
what natural reproduction will yield in a term of seventy years from the
original clearing ; the " wood- leave " of some tracts sold for $ 180 and $ 190
per acre, the trees were Chestnut, Black- oak and Rock Chestnut-oak , which
ndicate an elevated and rocky region. A single stump or stool of Chest-
nut, in this woodland, is said to have furnished sixty cross-ties, worth fifty
cents each, or a total of $30, beside the tops . At 20 feet apart there
might be 100 trees per acre, which, at the same rate, would yield $ 3000 ;
but suppose we allow 2 rods or 33 feet spaces from tree to tree, we should
have 40 Chestnuts, which, if equally productive would yield $ 1,200 for the
seventy years' use of the land, or $ 17 per annum , a pretty good rental for
rocky Chestnut ledges, unfit for most agricultural or horticultural purposes.
Second growth of Hickory in this State is valued for spokes which sell for
$25 to $30 per thousand and might be a profitable crop in fifty years.
Notwithstanding the long period of settlement of your State, and its ac-
cessibility to markets on either hand, the stranger who traverses this penin-
sula is struck with the large proportion of woodland presented on every
great thoroughfare. You will say that railroads always traverse the poorest
portions of a country, which is accepted as true, but let us look at the
statistics collected by Mr. J. R. Dodge, of the United States Agricultural
Department. From this source it appears that a large percentage of your
area is still covered by woodlands, amounting in the whole State to .283 in
every thousand acres. But some of the largest counties have a much higher
proportion.
Four counties in East Jersey have .414
66 66 West 66 .379
One of these, Atlantic, has .653
Thus eight of the largest counties of the State have woods in the proportion
of 396 acres per 1000, your ratio of woodland then is greater than that of
Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Delaware, Ohio, or any other Western
State except Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and perhaps Oregon.
New Jersey is very happily situated in reference to the great markets ,
having a metropolitan city on either hand to consume her surplus produce
of all kinds, including the products of the forest ; and to furnish in return vast
supplies of manure to keep up the fertility of the soil devoted to agriculture
 47

and horticulture. She also has rich deposits of natural manures in the
green sand marls, and her extensive coast line furnishes quantities of fish and
some sea weeds to fertilize the soil —hence you have wisely devoted much of
your attention to truck-farming. Still there are vast tracts of land which
are unpromising for such purposes, and which might very advantageously
be devoted to sylviculture, instead of leaving them to grow up with un-
profitable bushy woods. When enjoying the liberal cheer of the intelligent
Germans settled at Egg Harbor city, in the fall of 1876, the Western guests
were much surprised at the announcements made by some enthusiastic
gentlemen of your State, (perhaps they were of the political rather than the
horticultural persuasion) as to the enormous crops that had been produced
upon your soils, which to us looked rather thin and hungry. Certain it is, how-
ever, there was no lack of bountiful provision by the managers of the feast ,
and the ride among the beautiful vineyards, to say nothing of their prepared
juices with fanciful names, had proved such appetizers that we could only
exclaim -wunder- schoen ! to all we saw and heard. So we returned to our
own rich lands, rubbing our eyes and doubting our senses, but determined
to see why we did not have richer returns from the deeper soils beneath our
own homesteads, in the fertile valleys of the West.
But to return to our topic : You need not be told of the diverse con-
ditions of the two great natural divisions of your State which must be
familiar to all, though these should be borne in mind in all cases when the
forestal adaptations are to be considered ; for what trees are suited to one
region, may be, in a measure, unfitted to the other. West Jersey is a broadly
extended plain, with gentle undulations, often alternating with depressions
that are vast-the soil sandy or a sandy loam more or less argillaceous or
gravelly ; the loamy portions are admirably adapted for cultivation- but
extensive tracts exist , that present little to attract the Western farmer, and
much of it has not seemed attractive even to yourselves, but remains almost
in a state of nature, overgrown with bushes of natural planting, with a
small growth of secondary trees.
Then comes a wide plain, resting upon the red sand-stone, fractured toward
the eastern edge by an irruption of trap rock - on this sandstone rests a fine
soil which has been very productive, and , when properly handled , is still fine
farming land - the heart of New Jersey. Beyond this plain the land rises into
a mountainous region, that extends to the boundaries of the State, inter-
spersed with beautiful vales. In these three belts are found great sylvan
variations and the forest question is quite a different problem for each.
Omitting the central plain, with its beautiful farms, the extreme regions will
now be more especially considered.
 48

In the North the natural forests consist mainly of Oaks, Chestnuts,

Hemlocks and Pines, and here especially we find the noble P. Strobus or White
Pine. In this region attention should be paid to increasing the proportion
of white Oak and Chestnut, which last has been proved to be most valuable
on account of its wonderful power of reproduction from the stump, and for
its short rotation or period of reaching a size to make profitable returns.
Here too the White Pine should be encouraged, especially among the moun-
tain vales, and, on the gravelly moraines which are interspersed among the
hill country, it would be found advisable to plant largely of the Scotch Pine
and European Larch. To same extent also , the native Robinia would be
found profitable on soils adapted to its growth. On the sharp escarpments
of the silicious rocks, the Rock Chestnut-oak thrives well , and yields its
valuable bark for tanning. On better soils the Hickories, the White-oak and
the Ash, with the Norway Spruce would promise good returns.
In West Jersey the scrubby growths of Pines and Oaks, with underbrush
of various kinds, mixed with Sweet Gum, (Liquid amber) Arbor-vitæ,
White and Red Cedars, Birches, and occasional groups of American Larch,
mightwell be replaced by White Oaks and the European Pedunculata, on
the better, loamy and dry soils ; by the Scotch Pine and European Larch on
the dryer gravelly rolls ; with Chestnut in favorable situations, and Red
Cedar, while the light, and almost blowing sands should be left to the
native Pines though portions should be appropriated to the Scotch Pine-
and perhaps, also, toward the Southern section of the coast line, to the
Pinaster if it should prove sufficiently hardy. The wet lands might con-
tinue to be occupied by the Arbor-vitae and White Cedar ( Cupressus thuyo-
ides), and it would be desirable to make trial also of the noble Cypress
(Taxodium distichum) , which does so well along the Atlantic coast a little
further South.
In all such portions of the middle agricultural region of red lands which
may be appropriated to forest growths, the native and European White Oak,
the Chestnut and Robinia, with some Hickory and Ash ; the Norway Spruce
and Scotch Pine, with Red Cedar, especially on rocky points, would also be
appropriate —and these should all be planted, at least to a limited extent,
for the sake of their æsthetic value, as well as for the benefits afforded by
their shelter to his crops, to his animals, and to the farmer himself -- to say
nothing about their own intrinsic value as a crop of timber. Some of you ,
doubtless, may think this is anticipation and so perhaps it is, but a begin-
ning must be made somewhere and at some time, to establish in our country
a system of forestry — we have tried the destructive and the let alone pro-
cesses long enough . The observations, for they cannot be called experi-
 49

ments, in the natural reproduction of our forests, while they have shown us,
in some cases what may be done by nature, and while they indicate the
adaptability of some species to certain soils, have also shown, in the results
already cited a vast inferiority in the value of most of the second growth of
your Jersey forests, to that of the original crop, and to the results that would
be sure to follow the judicious management of a systematic forestry, such as
will some day be required and pursued within your borders.
If you have had the patience to follow me thus far, allow me most earnestly
to beg of you, horticulturists and farmers, to consider the importance of the
subject which you have thus allowed to be presented to you.
Those of us who have turned our thoughts at all to the study of this branch
of Agronomics, and still more, those who have actually attempted sylvicul-
ture in this country, have already discovered innumerable difficulties arising
from our lamentable ignorance of this subject. As beginners we have every-
thing to learn, and we have looked in vain for the desired information— we
have no American Forestry, and we shall have to create one by long continued
observation of numerous experiments, all of which will require many years for
their prosecution-meanwhile we may hope to gather most valuable in-
formation respecting the principles and practice of the art, as it is success-
fully practiced on European lands from a suitable report that might be ren-
dered by a practical observer sent for that purpose by our general Govern-
ment. Will it come ?
 50

OUR NATIVE NUTS :

THEIR CULTIVATION AND COMMERCIAL VALUE .

BY C. W. IDELL, HOBOKEN, N. J.

At a former meeting of our Society, I read an article on the Huckleberry,

and I now take the liberty of calling your attention to some other native
productions of equal interest and value : I refer to the nut-bearing trees of
our country and their fruits.
There is one peculiar feature connected with our native wild fruits, which
I have studied with interest, and yet have never been able to explain, that
when nature has given us one or more varieties in abundance, those are the
ones most likely to be neglected ; and I might say in truth that nature has
forced this fact upon us, that so far as the nut-bearing trees are concerned ,
the timber is among the most valuable of all the forest trees, and we are
shown plainly how well they are adapted to the soil and climate for cultiva-
tion. Yet, so far, we have failed to recognize the truth or take advantage
of it. All of us are aware of this one fact, that our forests are being de-
stroyed rapidly, and the nut-bearing trees are the first to be cut down, and ,
in a few years, they will become scarce and valuable and the nuts disappear
from our markets, unless our citizens begin to cultivate them.
When I was a lad, there was but little demand for our native nuts outside
the family that gathered them. They could not be sold at the country stores,
but now few refuse to purchase them, and many advertise for them. In
a measure the same state of affairs existed in regard to the timber ; there
was but little demand for it.
With me, it is questionable if any material improvement can be made in
the nut of the Walnut tree by cultivation sufficient to make it popular, but
I do believe it will pay to grow the tree, for the nut will pay for all outlay
of cost, and the timber is one of the most valuable and popular woods of
the day, on account of its beauty, and being so well adapted for ornamenting
our homes.
The Hickory is increasing in value yearly, and always meets with ready
sale in the market.
The Chestnut, as a nut-bearing tree, is valuable, and the nut is susceptible
 51

of great improvement by cultivation, consequently those persons who first

begin to cultivate them will necessarily meet with success. Be that as it
may, there are but few farmers in this country who cannot well afford to
devote some portion of their cheap lands to this experiment, and should
they even fail to improve the quality of the nut, the timber will repay them
for their trouble and expense.
On looking into the history of the Walnut tree, I find that several species
different from ours are grown in other countries, and in every instance it
is considered one of the most valuable ones, for every part of it is made use
of by the inhabitants. Such was the demand for the timber in 1806, by
France to make gun stocks, that it required 12,000 trees for that purpose ;
and I find a curious fact connected with this tree in a German province,
that no young farmer was permitted to marry till he brought proof that he
was the father of a stated number of these trees.
Our native species, Juglans Nigra, is the Common Black, and in 1862 it
was shipped to Europe for propagation there, and is thoroughly appreciated
for its good qualities. The increasing demand for this wood in our country
is so great that all parts are searched for it, and even the church and door
yards of our own State are invaded , and this valuable tree cut down and
carted to the saw-mill to meet the demand of fashion or necessity.
The leaves are so strongly impregnated with alkali, that in foreign
countries they are sometimes gathered and burned for manure. The husk
of the nut yields a strong dye, that was formerly used by cabinet makers to
stain the light-colored woods a dark brown ; and any one who has at any
time hulled a quantity of the nuts, is thoroughly convinced of the lasting
quality of the dye. The sap of this tree is said to contain a large percent-
age of saccharine matter, and in the Old World is occasionally converted into
sugar or distilled into spirits, but I know of no instance of it as having been
tested in this country. The flesh or kernel is a dark color, largely impregnated
with oil, pleasant to the taste, but still they are not as popular with the con-
sumers as the Hickory or Chestnut, but generally sell for about 50 cents per
bushel, at wholesale. A bushel of these nuts is estimated to weigh fifty
pounds.
The Butternut, Juglans Cinerea, is a species of the Walnut, and is not so
extensively grown, but the wood is even more valuable on account of its
peculiar beauty, and is used chiefly by cabinet makers. The bark possesses
considerable medicinal qualities, and is used in this country as a purgative.
The sap contains a larger proportion of saccharine matter than the Walnut,
and " Nuttall " states that it contains as much as the Maple, and instances a
case where four trees yielded, in one day, nine quarts of sap, from which
 52

was made one and a quarter pounds of sugar. The fruit is oblong in shape,
containing a kernel highly charged with oil , hence its name- Butter-nut,
and like butter will soon turn rancid by being exposed to the air.
There is but a limited demand for this nut, although it never makes its
appearance in the New York market in large quantities ; however they
generally sell from $ 2 to $ 3 per barrel.
The Hickory-nut is a native of our country, being , if I mistake not , con-
fined to the section east of the Rocky Mountains. As a timber, it ranks
next to the Walnut in value, and is used largely by carriage builders, manu-
facturers of handles for edge tools, and various other purposes. The color
of the wood is quite light , except the heart, very firm in texture , susceptible
of a polish , and when painted or oiled will resist the elements for many
years, and I believe the cultivation of it would improve the quality and
increase the size of the nut fully fifty per cent. , for one can see the great
difference in size and shape of the nut, by examining those grown upon
their own lands, for while some are small, round and rough , with thick
shells, others are oblong, graceful in proportions, with a thin shell, contain-
ing a plump, rich kernel. In our own State, I know of but three varieties :
the Bull, Shag or Shell-bark, and the Pig- nut. Although the kernel of the
first named is sweet to the taste, the shell is very thick and hard to crack,
and the kernel is removed only with difficulty. The second variety is the
popular one, and the one from which I would recommend growers to obtain
their seed, as the choicest stock only is desirable for cultivation. The
last variety is so named from the fact that owing to their very thin shells,
the pigs can eat them readily, but the kernel is too bitter for table use.
A few days since, a gentleman informed me that in 1842 he was working
on a farm in New York State, and every morning for breakfast they were
served with a drink called coffee, made from Hickory-nuts, and they all liked
it very much. They would crack the nuts, roast both kernels and shells,
and pour on water the same as they would for the coffee berry, using molas-
ses to sweeten with instead of sugar.
There is one feature connected with this nut which is practical, and of the
highest importance to those who gather them to ship to the city markets. In
order to get the highest price for them, it is necessary to preserve the shells
bright and clean, for any discoloration reduces their value ; consequently,
they should be gathered as soon as they fall, placed under shelter in thin
layers to dry, then, when fit to ship, should be thoroughly cleaned, and all
imperfect ones thrown out, for they are worth nothing when you ship them,
add to the expense of transportation, and depreciates the value of the
good ones. Now some may think this is taking too much trouble for nuts ,
 53

and will say, Oh, nonsense, shovel them in, they are good enough as they
are; but just stop and think a moment. You do not notice how many bad
ones you are sending off, or perhaps don't care ; but remember that every
nut that is used must be cracked , and then is the time when each defective
one is detected and rejected , and when many are found , the next time that
person buys they will refuse those that contain many imperfect ones, and
take the best ; consequently your imperfect or damaged nuts will not meet
with ready sale.
The Chestnut tree, for graceful proportions, compares favorably with any
of our forest trees, particularly when grown singly. In the Spring, it be-
comes attractive in appearance, with its foliage tinted with a peculiar shade
of green, changing its appearance in due time by producing bright blossoms.
Then these disappear and the burr or pericarp, which contain the nut, make
their appearance. Then as these mature they open , displaying the fruit
clustered in all its beauty. Soon the frost comes, hardening it and changing
its clothing of brilliant green to a bright yellow, then brown until it falls,
leaving the limbs bare. The timber, as you all know, is valuable. To the
farmer, it is a favorite to enclose his fields and protect his crops. It is the
foundation of our railroads, and with it they are tied together. The car-
penters use it largely for trimming our finest houses, and the cabinet makers
would not know how to do without it, for it is the wood of which the so-
called oak-chamber and dining-room sets are made. This nut is the most
valuable one of those named , selling from three to four dollars per bushel,
when Walnuts are selling for fifty cents, and Hickory-nuts at one dollar ; and I
consider this fruit capable of a greater degree of improvement in size and
quality than the others, and I am pleased to be able to state that some of
our citizens have begun to cultivate them. During the past season, a lot
was received in the New York market, and owing to their large size, symmetry
of proportions and beauty, sold for $9 per bushel, when the best unculti-
vated ones were selling at $5.
I hope our farmers will investigate this subject more thoroughly, and
plant them , so that in the future, if we may not live to realize any benefit
from the experiment, our children will, for we have thousands of acres of
cheap land in this country that might be made productive and very valuable
in time, by planting these trees, for I do not doubt that some of us may live
to see the day when a grove of Hickory or Chestnuts will produce a crop of
greater value than many of our orchards now do, to say nothing of the differ-
ence in the value of the timber ; and I would suggest to those who do try
it, to procure the largest native seed they can, regardless of the cost, for it
will take no longer to grow, cost no more to produce, and the fruit will be
worth fifty per cent. more in the market than the common or wild fruit.
 54

The nuts grown in Virginia are larger in size than those grown in the
North, although a few trees in the North that grow singly produce a large
fine nut. It is stated for a fact, that the drying of the nut injures the germ
so that it will not vegetate ; however, that is a point open for experiments,
and can be tested by any one.
Our Southern shippers labor under one difficulty that the Northern ones
do not, for, as the fruit ripens early, they gather and ship them in close
barrels or bags while green, consequently they become so heated that the
germ of the insects which they contain is quickened into life, matured, and
eat their way out, so that by the time the fruit arrives at its destination
one-fourth of it is spoiled by them, and the shells of the remainder are so
blackened that they are unsalable at the market value of good fruit.
Every dealer should understand this point, and be careful not to ship them
while green, unless his packages are well ventilated ; even then it would be
prudent to spread them out thinly on a floor to cool for a few days, before
sending them off. Those grown at the North seldom become damaged
during transportation, for, as the fruit ripens it cools them, consequently
the shells retain their brightness and the kernels are free from worms or
mould. A bushel of green Chestnuts weigh 60 pounds, and dried ones 52
pounds, and are sold in the New York markets at these rates.
Years since, the retail nut trade of New York City was confined mostly
to the grocer trade. The supply came from the North in good order, and
were sold as received , but of late years a large number of Italians have
emigrated to this country and taken up this branch of business so gradually
and thoroughly that now they almost monopolize it, and owing to their
introducing minature ovens on their stands for roasting them, they sell large
quantities. These men are very particular as to the quality of the nut they
buy. They want them large, bright and perfectly free from worms or
mould , and as fresh from the trees as they can get them, and are willing to
pay a high price for those that suit them.
There is this objection to a dry nut-they will not roast,-simply burn ,
so that one can see why they all want a fresh, plump nut, for, as the heat
penetrates the nut, it engenders steam, which, in order to escape, bursts the
shell, leaving the kernel bright and soft ; but as the season advances they
all become dry : then they overcome this objection in a measure by soaking
them until they absorb moisture sufficient to roast them, but even then they
must be consumed while warm, for if permitted to get cold, become unfit
for eating. The dealers who supply these parties, often take great pains to
improve the quality and appearance of the nuts. One plan for doing this is
to place a small quantity of them in a coarse wire screen, and shake them
 55

until the furze is removed from the back of the nut, while at the same time
the friction increases the brightness of the shells. During this process, all
wormy and defective ones are picked out and saved for fuel, as they make
a quick, close heat. I once tried the experiment of soaking some Chestnuts
for one hour in warm water, and found that it increased their weight three
ounces to the pound, or nearly ten pounds to the bushel, besides improving
the appearance of their shells and softening the kernels.
In concluding this article, it may prove interesting to some to learn that
in New York City we receive these nuts from nine different States, viz :
Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Maryland , Pennsylvania, New
Jersey, New York and Connecticut.
 57

LIST OF MEMBERS
OF THE

NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY .

* Deceased.
BERGEN COUNTY.

GEO. THURBER, 245 Br'dway, N. Y.E. S. CARMAN,.......... River Edge.

GEO. C. WOOLSON, 66 66 "" A. S. FULLER..... Ridgewood .
G. A. C. BARNETT, Rooms O and P, Tribune Building, New York.
BURLINGTON COUNTY.
A. BRAKELY.. Bordentown. JNo. S. COLLINS.. .Moorestown.
WM. PARRY.. .... Cinnaminson. SAML. C. DECOU... 66

E. ROBERTS, Fellowship.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY.
GEO. M. COLE, Deerfield. THOS. COLE ... ..... Deerfield .
ESSEX COUNTY.
J. W. HAYES.... Newark. W. R. WARD.. ........ Newark.
P. T. QUINN.. 66 ALEX. BARCLAY .. 66
*CHAS. W. Badger . 66 E. WILLIAMS ..Montclair .
A. G. BALDWIN . 66 JOSEPH VAN VLECK .. 66
W. H. GOLDSMITH. 66 ALEX. MICHIE .. 66
CHAS. C. HERRICK 66 JOHN RASSBACK . .Bloomfield.
BYRON G. HAGER 66 E. W. DURAND .... Irvington.
R. B. CAMPFIELD . 66 A. F. BOYCE .. 66
CHAS. L. JONES .. 66 E. W. CRANE . • Caldwell.
J. C. BEARDSLEY 66

HUDSON COUNTY.
CHAS. W. IDELL ... .Hoboken. PETER HENDERSON.. .Jersey City.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
EDWIN ALLEN..... New Brunswick. G. W. THOMPSON ..... Stelton.
Prof. GEO. H. COOK, 66 ALFRED HALL ... Perth Amboy.
D. MCLAURY……….. (6 JNO. N. REEVES .. .... Milltown.
GEO. H. LAMBERT .. 66 GEO. SUCH ..South Amboy.
Dr. J. WOODBRIDGE. 66 JAS. TAPLIN .. 66
JNO. M. WHITE ... 66 PETER SOURS . Metuchen.
JAMES NEILSON .... 66 GEO. W. DEVOE Old Bridge.
TEN EYCK SUTPHEN 66
 58

MERCER COUNTY.
J. VAN DEVENTER .... .Princeton. CHAS. H. OLDEN .... .Princeton.
LEAVITT HOWE "" ALEX. GULICK .... 66
EDWARD HOWE.. 66 F. S. CONOVER... 66
SAML. W. STOCKTON..... 66 ANDREW L. ROLAND.......... 66
I. J. BLACKWELL Titusville.
MONMOUTH COUNTY.
B. B. HANCE .... Red Bank. WM. H. DENISE ...... Freehold.
WM. H. GRANT.. 66 D. D. DENISE.. 66
JNO. T. LOVETT . แ JOSEPH C. THOMPSON ,. 66
66 J. B. THOMPSON.... 66
W. W. CONOVER, JR ....
E. T. FIELD . 66 HENRY CAMPBELL ... 66
A. RECKLESS.. 66
J. H. ASHTON, 270 Broadway, N. Y.
BENJ. L. TRAFFORD . 66 VANDERBILT BRANTINGHAM ,
MICHAEL TAYLOR.. ... Holmdel. 210 Fulton street, 66
WALTER H. KIMBALL ...Eatontown. John Van DoreN ..... Manalapan.
66
EDWIN BEEKMAN .... Middletown. JOHN C. VAN DOREN ...
DAVID BAIRD.. 66

OCEAN COUNTY.
B. F. ERRINGTON ..... .Whiting. GEO. E. ERRINGTON . ...... Whiting.
PASSAIC COUNTY.
HENRY E. CHITTY ...... Paterson. A. B. WOODRUFF Paterson.
SALEM COUNTY.
FRANK PETTIT .... .... Salem .
SOMERSET COUNTY.
M. WHITEHEAD . Middlebush. AUG. VANSANT ........
. .Blawenburg .
EZRA DAYTON ...... Bernardsville. FRED. P. VOORHEES . ... Rocky Hill.
D. C. VOORHEES . 66
Blawenburg. S. VAN SYCKLE ....
UNION COUNTY.
N. W. PARCELL .Elizabeth. J. R. SHOTWELL . Rahway.
E. P. BEEBE ... 66 HENRY BENDER.. 66
T. B. MINER... Linden.

HONORARY MEMBERS.

CHAS. DOWNING, Newburgh, N. Y. MARSHALL P. WILDER, Boston, Mass.

J. J. THOMAS, Union Springs, N. Y. DR. JOHN A. WARDER, Cincinnati, O.
 59,

GEORGE SUCH ,

Hothouse , Greenhouse ,

AND

BEDDING PLANTS ,

Rare Palms, Orchids, Ferns, &c.

SOUTH AMBOY, N. J.

MY PLANT CATALOGUE

For the Spring of 1878 is now ready. It contains a

descriptive list of FRENCH HYBRID GLADIOLUS ,

and of various other plants suitable for the decoration of

FLOWER GARDENS and LAWNS.

It may be had, free of charge, by addressing me as

follows :

GEORGE SUCH ,

SOUTH AMBOY, N. J.
 60

NEW STRAWBERRIES !

DURAND'S BEAUTY .
The most prominent Berry for general cultivation, and best adapted for
Southern production for the Northern Market. Has great endurance, with-
standing excessive heat and rapid changes, remains firm, carries well, will
continue on the vines a long time after ripening, growing sweeter and deeper
in color, and ripening evenly. Is very early, and being a strong grower not
easily affected by climatic change, will adapt itself to various situations.
THE GREAT AMERICAN.
Specimen Berries weighing over two ounces, and measuring nine inches in
circumference, of beautiful deep crimson color, fine flavor, very juicy, with
a moderate amount of acid, carries well, bears its fruit well up from the
ground, and continuing its berries large to the end, producing fine fruit very
late in the season, and by its thick stalks and strong leaf sheltering its fruit
and defying wind and rain. It is a vigorous grower, an immense plant, and
without doubt the largest berry in existence. If set out very early, is an
immense bearer, either separately or close together.
THE PIONEER .
A firm, beautiful Seedling, having been cultivated and thoroughly tested
in my grounds for the last eight years, will be sent out in limited quantities.
It is the earliest of all I have yet found, ripening with me this year (1877)
before the first of June. A very vigorous and luxuriant grower, with a
superb run of berries of the largest size, holding its fruit well up, ripening
evenly, of brilliant scarlet color, and remaining a long time upon the vines
after becoming fully ripe, without danger of rotting.

NEW No. 14 ,
OR
CENTENNIAL FAVORITE.
A fine, high-flavored , large berry, for which the award was given, and pro-
nounced the highest and finest flavored by the judges at the Centennial. Is
very regular in form, of rich scarlet color, where grown openly, coloring
perfectly and evenly, continuing long in bearing, being one of the very latest
varieties, and retaining its fine flavor to the last ; may be considered one of
the finest amateur berries known.

DURAND'S STRAWBERRY CULTURE .

Containing instructions, and meeting the requirements and necessities in
regard to the most successful courses pursued. Giving minute directions for
raising the best crops, as well as being a guide for the novice from the begin-
ning to the end. Being the results of experiments and successful cultivation
for nearly twenty years.

E. W DURAND

Irvington, Essex County, New Jersey.

 61

For the Farm . For the Garden.

For the Suburban Country Home ,

THE RURAL NEW - YORKER

Has, in addition to what all other journals of its class contain, the following
Impressive, Original and Invaluable Features :

AN EXPERIMENTAL FARM
Of EIGHTY-TWO ACRES , worked by Practical Experimenters.
Such men as J. B. LAWES, the Professors of all the
Agricultural Colleges, and the most successful horticul-
turists and farmers write for it.

Theory and Practice Combined .

IT SEEKS TO RENDER HOME HAPPY .

ALL QUESTIONS FULLY ANSWERED.

A PAPER FOR ALL SECTIONS.
FOUR-PAGE SUPPLEMENTS ISSUED,
Full of Original Practical Matter.

Free Seed Distributions of Rare Plants made to subscribers .

EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE LADIES .

FIVE PAGES OF LITERARY MATTER.
We give Illustrated Fashion Articles, with Cut Paper Patterns of leading
styles, and articles on Househould Decoration and Fancy Work.

The Entire Paper Finely Illustrated.

SEND FOR OUR SPECIAL " CRICKET " CLOCK OFFER.

In Clubs, 6 Months , $ 1.10 ; One Year, $ 2.00 ;

Single Subscriptions , $ 1.30 or $ 2.50 .
Three Months' Trial Subscription , 65 cts .
Address- RURAL NEW- YORKER,
78 Duane Street, New York,
 62

GET THE BEST BOOKS .

Any of the valuable books in the following list will be
forwarded by mail, post-paid, on receipt of the price, by
the publishers ,

ORANGE JUDD COMPANY,

NO. 245 BROADWAY, N. Y.

Henderson's Practical Floriculture,…… $1.50.

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PETER HENDERSON, Author of " Gardening for Profit." Cloth, 12mo.
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In which are described the various Hardy Herbaceous Flowers, Annuals, Shrubby
Plants. and Evergreen Trees, with Directions for their Cultivation. New edition, re-
vised and corrected. By JOSEPH BRECK. Cloth , 12mo.
Henderson's Gardening for Pleasure, $ 1.50 .
This work is prepared to meet the wants of the amateur in in-door and out-door
gardening. It is one of the best guides to Window Gardening we know of. The
work includes fruit, vegetable, and flower-gardening, greenhouses and graperies,
window gardening, and Wardian cases. By PETER HENDERSON, author of Garden-
ing for Profit " and " Practical Floriculture." Illustrated . Cloth, 12mo.
Henderson's Gardening for Profit,.. $1.50.
A now well-known and standard work on Market and Family Gardening. It is finely
illustrated, and is the first book of the kind prepared by a Market Gardener in this
country. The author's successful experience of more than twenty-five years, enables
him to give a most valuable record. It is an original and purely American work, and
not made up, as books on gardening too often are, by quotations from foreign
authors. Everything is made perfectly plain, and the subject treated in all its details,
from the selection of the soil to preparing the products for market. By PETER HEN-
DERSON. Cloth, 12mo.
Roe's Play and Profit in my Garden,……… $1.50.
The author takes us to his garden on the rocky hillsides in the vicinity of West Point,
and shows us how, out of it, after four years' experience, he evoked a profit of $1,000 ,
and this while carrying on pastoral and literary labors. It is very rare that so much
literary taste and skill are mated to so much agricultural experience and good
sense. Cloth, 12mo .
Quinn's Money in the Garden, $1.50.
A Vegetable Manual prepared with a view to Economy and Profit. In this work, the
author aims to give, in a plain, practical style, instructions on three distinct, although
closely connected branches of gardening--the kitchen garden, market garden, and
field culture ; the only and sufficient credentials for the fitness of his undertaking
being a successful practical experience for a term ofyears. By P. T. QUINN, Practical
Horticulturist. Illustrated . Cloth, 12mo.
 63

All kinds of 300

TREES ACRES OF LAND.

FRUIT PLANTS ESTABLISHED

FOR
MARKET AND GARDEN
1854 .

SEVEN All kinds of 5

GREEN - HOUSES . FRUIT PLANTS

FOR
CENTENNIAL MARKET AND GARDEN

A.HANCE & SON,Red Bank, N.J.

Medal and Diploma Catalogues Free.

FRUIT AND ORNAMENTAL TREES .

Peach Trees and Small Fruits

SPECIALTIES,
Also, APPLE, PEAR, CHERRY , QUINCE ,
Wild Goose, De Caradeuc and Other

PLUM, SHADE AND EVERGREEN TREES,

Norway Spruce and Arbor -vitas,

For Screens and Hedging,
OSAGE ORANGE, ASPARAGUS ROOTS , CONCORD GRAPE VINES,
CHERRY CURRANTS, STRAWBERRY, RASPBERRY
AND BLACKBERRY PLANTS,
INCLUDING
Wilson's Early, From Root Cuttings .
Correspondence Solicited. For Price List, Address

DAVID BAIRD, Manalapan, Monmouth Co. , N. J.

 64

JOHN S. COLLINS ,

Small Fruit and Plant Grower,

MOORESTOWN,
BURLINGTON COUNTY, NEW JERSEY.

SEND FOR A CATALOGUE.

RELIABLE SEEDS .

FLOWER SEEDS of the Finest Varieties .

VEGETABLE SEEDS from Purest Stocks.

FIELD SEEDS and Seeds for Root Crops.

JOHN U. KUMERLE,

GROWER AND IMPORTER OF SEEDS ,

No. 530 BROAD STREET,

NEWARK, N. J.

THE AMERICAN AGRICULTURIST,

Monthly,

MOORE'S RURAL NEW-YORKER,

And COUNTRY GENTLEMAN,

Weekly,
Are the leading journals devoted to rural pursuits. Reader, if you culti-
vate a garden only, one of these papers at least should find a place on your
table. You can secure them at club rates through the subscriber,
E. WILLIAMS, Montclair, N. J.
 Schedule of Premiums

TO BE AWARDED TO EXHIBITORS

AT THE

First Annual Exhibition

OF THE

NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY,

TO BE HELD

IN CONNECTION WITH THE

BURLINGTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY,

AT

MOUNT HOLLY, OCTOBER 8th, 9th and 10th,

1878 .

8
 66

GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS .

1st. Exhibitors are particularly requested to give notice to the Secretary

at Montclair, N. J. , of their intention to exhibit and the space required ,
prior to the 5th of October.
2d. All competitors must have their exhibits arranged by 12 o'clock of
the first day.
3d . Particular attention should be given to the proper naming of all
articles exhibited.

4th. No article, unless of real merit, will be entitled to a premium.

5th. The Judges will be required to withhold awards in case they deem
the articles of insufficient merit, whether there is competition, or not.
6th. After the articles are arranged they will be under the exclusive con-
trol of the Executive Committee, and removal will not be permitted till the
close of the exhibition.

7th. The Judges are requested to examine any exhibits not entered for
competition, and recommend discretionary awards if in their judgment they
are of sufficient merit.

8th. No competitor will be allowed to be present during the examina-

tion of the Judges unless at their request for the purpose of giving inform-
ation, and any attempt to influence their decisions will debar the offender
from receiving a reward, though otherwise entitled to it.
9th. Exhibitors are requested to see that their name and correct address
is attached to their exhibits.

10th. All entries for competition, whether in collections or otherwise,

must contain the amount required by the schedule, to be entitled to a
premium.
 Schedule of Premiums
TO BE AWARDED AT THE

FIRST ANNUAL EXHIBITION

OF THE

N. J. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY,
IN CONNECTION WITH THE
BURLINGTON CO. AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY .

PLANTS.
First Second
Prem. Prem.
Agaves-For the best six distinct varieties, $5.00 $3.00
Caladiums - For the best ten named varieties, 3.00 2.00
Coleus -For the best twelve named varieties, 2.00 1.00
Dracænas -For the best six named varieties, 5.00 2.00
Ferns-For the best twelve distinct named varieties, 5.00 3.00
Geraniums —For the best twelve distinct named varieties, 3.00 2.00
Palms-For the best single specimen, 5.00 3.00
Succulents -For the best twenty-five distinct varieties ofthese,
but not including Agaves or Cacti, - 5.00 3.00
New Plant- For the best new plant, for pot culture in
Hothouse, Greenhouse, or Conservatory, · 3.00 2.00

CUT FLOWERS.
For the best general display, kept in good order during the
exhibition, - 6.00 4.00
Dahlias-For the best twelve named varieties, 3.00 2.00
Roses -For the best twelve named varieties, all quite distinct, 3.00 2.00

FLORAL DESIGNS.
For best Floral design, 5.00 3.00
66 Hand Bouquet, 3.00 2.00
66 2.00 1.00
Bouquet of dried flowers, grasses, &c,
66 Funeral design, 5.00 3.00
66 3.00 2.00
Pair of Hanging Baskets, furnished ,
66 Wardian Case, 3.00 2.00
1

66 5.00 3.00
Ornamental Evergreens-twenty varieties,
 68

APPLES.
First Second
Prem. Prem.
For best 10 varieties Apples, 5 specimens each, $5.00 $3.00
66 5 66 66 66 66 3.00 2.00
66 5 specimens Baldwin 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Canfield, · 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Duchess of Oldenburg 1.00 .50
66 66 1.00 .50
Fall Pippin,
66 66 Gravenstein, · 1.00 .50
66 "" 1.00 .50
པ

King of Tompkin's Co.,

66 Maidens' Blush, · 1.00 .50
66
39

Monmouth Pippin, 1.00 .50

66 66 Newtown Pippin, · 1.00 .50
39

Northern Spy, 1.00 .50

"" 5 66 - 1.00 .50
Orange,
66
15

66 Peck's Pleasant , 1.00 .50

66 5 Porter, · 1.00
35

.50
66 5 "" · 1.00 .50
Pompey (or Victuals and Drink,)
66 "6
10

Primate, · 1.00 .50

66 1.00 .50
3

Roxbury Russet,
66
10

• 66 - 1.00 .50
R. I. Greening,
66 66 Smith's Cider, 1.00 .50
66 66 - 1.00 .50
Washington,
66 5 66 Yellow Bellflower, 1.00 .50
66 - 1.00
Display Crab Apples, not less than 3 varieties, .50

PEARS.
For best 10 varieties, 5 specimens each, $5.00 $3.00
66 5 66 66 66 66 3.00 2.00
66 - 1.00 .50
5 specimens Bartlett,
66
136 16

5 Beurre d'Anjou, 1.00 .50

5 66. 66 Bosc · 1.00 .50
66 5 "6 66 Hardy, 1.00 .50
66 5 66 66 · 1.00 .50
Clairgeau ,
66 5 66 1.00 .50
66 Diel,
66 16
10 10 LO

5 Buffum 1.00 .50

66 5 66 - 1.00 .50
3

Clapp's Favorite,
66 5 66 Dana's Hovey, 1.00 .50
 69

First Second
Prem. Prem.
For best 5 specimens Doyenne Boussock, $1.00 $ .50
66 5 66 Duchesse d'Angouleme, 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Howell, - 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Lawrence, 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Louise Bonne de Jersey, 1.00 .50
66 66 Mt. Vernon, 1.00 .50
66 5 66 · 1.00 .50
Onondaga,
35

66
10 5

5 Seckel, 1.00 .50

66 66 Sheldon · 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Souvenier de Congress, 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Urbaniste, · 1.00 .50
66 66
5 5

Vicar of Winkfield , 1.00 .50

66 5 66 Winter Nelis, 1.00 .50

PEACHES.

For best collection, not less than 6 varieties, 5 specimens each, $ 3 00 $2.00
For best 5 specimens, Crawford's Late, · 1.00 .50
66 5 66 Old Mixon, 1.00 .50
66 .50
135

5 Mountain Rose, 1.00

66 5 66 · 1.00 .50
Stump-of-the-World,
66 5 66 1.00 .50
Keyport White,
66 5 66 Smock, · 1.00 .50
66 12 66 2.00 1.00
Any Variety,
66 Basket 66 2.00 1.00

PLUMS.

For best display, not less than 3 varieties, - $2.00 $1.00

QUINCES.
For best 5 specimens, Apple or Orange, $2.00 $1.00
66 5 66 Pear, · 2.00 1.00
66 5 แ Rea's Seedling, 2.00 1.00

CRANBERRIES.

For best peck, $2.00 1.00

 70

GRAPES.
First Second
Prem. Prem.
For the best collection Foreign Grapes, not less than 3 vari-
eties, two bunches each, $3.00 $2.00
For best specimens, Black Hamburg, 2 bunches, 2.00 1.00
66 66 White Variety, 2.00 1.00
66 66 · 2.00 1.00
Any other variety,
66 3.00 2.00
10 varieties, Hardy Native Grapes, 3 bunches each,
66 5 66 66 66 2 00 1.00
Hardy Native Grapes,
For best specimens, Agawam, 3 bunches each, - 1.00 .50
66 66 Brighton, · 1.00 . 50
66 แ
19

Catawba, 1.00 .50

66 66
3

Concord, · 1.50 .50

66 Croton , 66 1.00 .50
66 · 1.00
35

.50
15

Clinton,
66 66 Diana, 66 1.00 .50
66 66 Delaware, 666 - 1.00 .50
-66 66 Hartford Prolific, 1.00 .50
66 ·
15 35 19

Isabella, 3 bunches, each , 1.00 .50

66 66 66 1.00 .50
Lady,
66 Martha, 66 · 1.00 .50
66 66 Salem, 66 1.00 .50
66 66 66 -1.00 .50
Senasqua,
66 (6 .50
19

Worden, 1.00
66 66 66 - 1 . 0 0 .50
Wilder,

VEGETABLES.
Beans.
Best peck Limas in pod, - 1.00 .50
Beets.
Best Long Blood, 6 specimens 1.00 .50
66 - .50
" Egyptian, 1.00
66 1.00 .50
Long Red Mangel Wurzel,
66 Yellow "" 66 1.00 .50
66 66 66 1.00 .50
Sugar Beet,
Cabbage.
Best Flat Dutch, 6 heads, 1.00 .50*
" Red, 66 1.00 .50
66 66 1.00 .50
Savoy,
66 New Variety , 66 1.00 .50
 71

First Second
Prem. Prem.
Carrot.
Best Orange, 6 specimens, ·- $1.00 $ .50
66 Yellow, 66 1.00 .50
Parsnep.
Best Long Smooth, 66 1.00 .50
Celery .
Best display, not less than 3 varieties, 6 stalks each, 2.00 1.00
Corn.
Best Early Sweet Corn, 6 ears, - 1.00 .50
66 Stowell's Evergreen, 66
1.00 .50
" Triumph, 66 1.00 .50
66 New Variety, 66 .50
1.00
Water Melons.
Best Mountain Sweet, 3 specimens, 2.00 1.00
66 66
Spanish, 2.00 1 00
" Gipsy, 66
2.00 1.00
For the Heaviest Melon of any variety, 2.00 1.00
Musk Melons.
Best Green Citron Melon, 3 specimens, · 2.00 1.00
66
Of any variety, quality to rule, 3 specimens, 2.00 1.00
Onions.
Best White , bushel, 1.00 .50
" Red, 66 .50
1.00
" Yellow, แ 1.00 .50
Potatoes.
Best display, not less than 6 varieties, bushel each, 5.00 3.00
66 66
Alpha, 2.00 1 00
" Early Ohio, 2.00 1.00
" Early Rose, 66 2.00 1.00
66 New Variety, 66 2.00 1.00
Sweet Potatoes.
Best Collection, not less than 3 varieties, bushel each, 3.00 2.00
66 Basket, any variety, 1.00 .50
Squash.
Best Boston Marrow, 3 specimens, · 2.00 1.00
" Hubbard, 66 2.00 1.00
" Marblehead, 66 · 2.00 1 00
66 Heaviest Mammoth, 66
2.00 1.00
 72

First Second
Prem. Prem.
Tomatoes.
Best display new and improved varieties, not less
than 6 varieties and 12 specimens each, · $3.00 $2.00
Best Arlington, 12 specimens each, 1.00 .50
66 Canada Victor, 66 - 1.00 .50
66 Conqueror, 66 1.00 .50
66
" Trophy, 1.00 .50
Turnips.
Best display, not less than 6 varieties, 6 specimens each, 2.00 1.00
 73

SPECIAL PREMIUMS ,

Offered by Geo. Such, South Amboy, N. J.

Palms.
For the best six distinct named varieties, 10.00
Plants from Greenhouse or Hothouse -For the best
twelve of these of different varieties, but not including
Caladiums, Coleus, or Dracænas, 6.00
2d best, 4.00

Offered by E. Roberts, of Fellowship , N. J.

Flowers.
For best collection of Wild Flowers, · 3.00
2d best, 66 66 66 2.00

Offered by P. T. Quinn, of Newark, N. J.

Pears.
For best 6 varieties, 5 specimens each , exhibited by a lady, $3.00
2d best, 2.00

Offered by John S. Collins, of Moorestown, N. J.

Peaches .
For best Seedling, 12 specimens, $3.00
2d best, 2.00

Offered by E. & . J. C. Williams, of Montclair, N. J.

Grapes.
For best Native Seedling, hardiness and healthiness ofvine
and quality of fruit to be considered, $3.00
2d best, 2.00

Offered by C. W. Idell, of Hoboken, N. J.

Nuts.
For best 2 quarts Native Chestnuts, $1.00
66 66 1.00
Hickory nuts,
66 Black Walnuts, 1.00
4 quarts,

Offered by a member of the N. J. Horticultural Society.

Fruit.
For the best Dish or Basket of Fruit, to contain not less
than four kinds ; quality of fruit and tastefulness in
arrangement to be considered in awarding premium, $5 00
 74

L. J .. HARDHAM ,

153 and 155 MARKET STREET ,

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY.

MERCANTILE AND

Book Printing,

BOOKBINDING,

Blank Book Manufacturing.

PRICE - LISTS

AND

ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUES

A SPECIALTY .
 Ner24
れ
Coric. & Fifth Mosting

‫انت‬

PROCEEDINGS

pa4
OF THE 2-12

NEW JERSEY

State Horticultural Society,

AT ITS

FOURTH ANNUAL MEETING ,

HELD AT

NEW BRUNSWICK, JANUARY 15TH AND 16TH,

1879.

ADVERTISER PRINTING HOUSE, NEWARK, N. J.

1880 .
 LIST OF OFFICERS FOR 1879.

PRESIDENT.
GEORGE SUCH, South Amboy.
VICE-PRESIDENTS.
E. S. CARMAN, River Edge, Bergen County.
JOHN S. COLLINS, Moorestown, Burlington County.
GEO. M. COLE, Deerfield , Cumberland County.
ALEX. BARCLAY, Newark, Essex County.
C. W. IDELL, Hoboken, Hudson County.
EDWIN ALLEN, New Brunswick. Middlesex County.
J. VAN DEVENTER , Princeton, Mercer County.
JOHN VAN DOREN, Manalapan, Monmouth County.
B. F. ERRINGTON, Whiting, Ocean County.
H. E. CHITTY, Paterson, Passaic County.
D. C. VOORHEES , Blawenburg, Somerset County.
E. P. BEEBE , Elizabeth, Union County.
FRANK PETTIT , Salem, Salem County.
RECORDING SECRETARY.
E. WILLIAMS, Montclair, Essex County.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.
B. B. HANCE, Red Bank, Monmouth County.
TREASURER.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, Newark, · Essex County.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
P. T. QUINN, Newark, Essex County.
W. R. WARD , Newark, Essex County.
N. W. PARCELL, Elizabeth, Union County.
D. MCLAURY, · New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
D. C. VOORHEES, Blawenburg , Somerset County.
FRUIT COMMITTEE.
B. B. HANCE, Red Bank, Monmouth County.
JOHN S. COLLINS, Moorestown, Burlington County .
D. MCLAURY, New Brunswick, Middlesex County .
C. W. IDELL, Hoboken, Hudson County.
JOHN M. WHITE, New Brunswick, Middlesex County.
FLOWER COMMITTEE.
JOHN T. LOVETT, · Red Bank, Monmouth County.
JAMES TAPLIN, South Amboy, Middlesex County.
E. S. CARMAN, · River Edge, Bergen County.
VEGETABLE COMMITTEE.
W. H. GOLDSMITH, .Newark, Essex County.
G. W. THOMPSON, Stelton, Middlesex County.
JOHN C. VAN DOREN, Manalapan, : Monmouth County.
 MINUTES .

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J. , Jan. 15th, 1879 .

THE fourth annual meeting of the above Society was held in
the city of New Brunswick, in Geological Hall, January 15, 1879.
The meeting was called to order at 11 o'clock A. M. by the
Recording Secretary, with a few remarks.
Last year he had, to come before the Society with an apology in
his own behalf; this morning he expected to have to apologize
for the President's absence, for yesterday he received intelligence
of his serious injury, resulting from a fall on the ice , but he was
very glad to see that he had so far recovered as to be present this
morning.
MR. SUCH responded by saying that he had promised the Secre-
tary to be here to- day if alive. He had, therefore, redeemed that
promise, though contrary to the advice of his family and physi-
cian.
The minutes of last annual meeting having been printed sub-
stantially as recorded , their reading was dispensed with.
REPORT OF THE FRUIT COMMITTEE .

THE Chairman of the Fruit Committee, Mr. Hance, wrote that

he was unable to be present, and reported by letter as follows : He
had received three responses to his inquiries.
MR. J. M. WHITE, of New Brunswick, stated that his observa-
tions for the past season were, that there had been much less Pear
blight than usual . In his vicinity it amounted to almost nothing,
which is somewhat encouraging . Perhaps this may be the result,
in a measure, of having no excess of drought or wet, the season
being in every way favorable to the growth and health of the
trees. His own orchard was also less troubled with the slug.
MR. D. McLAURY, of New Brunswick, wrote him that Apples,
Pears and Peaches had been a partial crop in Middlesex county.
They ripened prematurely and rotted very badly, both on the
trees and after they were picked . Had seen but little of the Pear
blight the past summer. He still thinks the best cultivated
orchards, with a good season for the growth of wood , are the least
liable to blight.
 4

The early and best varieties of Cherries were almost a total

failure. In the vicinity of New Brunswick, Strawberries and
Raspberries were somewhat hurt by May frosts, yet the crop was
quite good, while in some parts of the county the crop was almost
entirely destroyed from this cause. Blackberries were a fine crop
where the frost did not injure them. It is seldom I have seen a
more favorable season for the ripening and maturing of these fruits
than the last.
C. W. IDELL, of Hoboken, wrote that beside the great loss to
berry-growers by the May frosts, he had never before known the
Whortleberry crop to meet with such wholesale destruction from
this cause . Thinks full 75 per cent, of the crop was destroyed .
This loss was felt severely by those who depended on the crop
to furnish them with funds to live on , during the winter season.
The crop of mountain berries in New York was a fair average
and of fine quality. About 2,500 boxes of them arrived in the
New York market in a single day . In Pennsylvania the early
varieties were nearly all destroyed , but the late ones were more
plenty.
The Grape crop of our own State, as well as New York, was
severely injured .
The Nut crop of this State was ruined . The same state of
affairs existed in Pennsylvania and New York, while in the
Southern States the Chestnut crop was large as usual, and New
York had to depend on those States for her supply, and on Ohio
and Indiana for her shellbarks.
Walnuts and Butternuts were also scarce.

NEW FRUITS - STRAWBERRIES .

Durand's Great American , Beauty and Pioneer Strawberries

were placed on the New York market during the past season in
sufficient quantities for dealers to judge of their respective merits.
Great American- The Great American was more abundant than
the others , hence more thoroughly tested as to its table and
market qualities. They were mostly grown in the vicinity of
Irvington, N. J., and carried to New York in wagons, a distance
of twelve miles, and stood the ride as well as any berry I every
saw. Their size and beautiful appearance created a large demand
for them, so that they sold for 40 to 75 cents per quart .
It may not be out of place just here to refer to a remark fre-
quently heard in regard to these berries : " Oh, yes ; Mr. Durand
can grow them large, but no one else can ." In reply let me say
it is not true, for some of Mr. Durand's neighbors grew them as
 5

large and fine as he did . Very true, they gave them liberal culture,
and were well pleased with the result.
Beauty-The Beauty was received in less quantities , stood the
ride as well , and were sold at satisfactory prices, and for richness
and beauty were considered a superior table berry to the Great
American.
Pioneer-The Pioneer gave good satisfaction , and some
amateur growers say they consider it the best family berry in Mr.
Durand's collection . I would also add , in justice to Mr. Durand,
that I believe there are no better varieties of strawberries in our
State than his . All they need is a liberal cultivation to give
growers satisfactory returns.
Crescent Seedling-Owing to a severe rain- storm I was prevented
from keeping an appointment to visit a patch of the Crescent
Seedling in our State, and I do not know that it was placed on
our market ; but a gentleman in New Haven, Conn. , who has sold
quantities of them, gave it as his opinion it would not stand ship-
ping.
RASPBERRIES .
Brandywine-The Brandywine cannot be called a new berry,
but is good for market. I received them in large quantities
from Delaware by railroad, and they stood the trip full as well as
the Highland Hardy did by boat from the Hudson river coun-
ties. They are a beautiful berry and consequently meet with a
good demand .
Montclair- I would call attention to a new raspberry, the
Montclair, owned by Mr. Williams, our worthy Secretary. I
visited his grounds while they were ripening, saw, tasted and
examined them carefully. It is as large as the Antwerp, rather
darker, slightly acid, with a pleasant aroma. I took some of the
fruit to the city with me and distributed them among those
dealers who were capable to judge of their merits . Mr. Frost,
one of our oldest dealers, said : " It is one of the best I ever
tasted." Mr. Archdeacon said : " I like that berry, it has a fine
flavor and is solid ." Should it prove to be a good keeper it will
be a valuable addition to our list of raspberries.
REPORT OF THE VEGETABLE COMMITTEE.

MR. GOLDSMITH, Chairman of the Vegetable Committee, reported

as follows :

Mr. President and Gentlemen of the New Jersey Horticultural

Society :
It would seem from the amount of interest taken by the mem-
bers of the Society in the subject assigned this Committee, that
its appointment is rather superfluous, and I would suggest it be
discontinued until more interest is manifested .
As Chairman of your Committee, I addressed several communi-
cations to members of the Society in different parts of the State,
soliciting information on the subjects referred to this Committee,
and have received two replies, which are good and satisfactory as
replies , so far as they go, which, I presume, you will agree with
me is not very far in making a report to cover the whole State.
Potatoes Potatoes are yet the most important crop grown in
the State as a market vegetable, and the past season's experience
with it has been immense in some respects. In the first place the
seed planted came up very badly, to a larger extent than we ever
heard of before, owing, many think, to the mild weather last
winter causing the Early Rose to sprout earlier and oftener than
usual before planting. And just here your Committee would like
to ask if any member of the Society knows of any method
whereby the Early Rose may be prevented from sprouting before
planting time, as, in our opinion , a cheap and feasible plan of
accomplishing this end would add greatly to success in obtaining
maximum crops . The advantage often derived from planting
seed obtained in the spring from more northern latitudes is from
the fact that such seed has not been sprouted . The first sprouts
sent out from a potato are always the most vigorous, and this
point is more important in regard to the Early Rose than most
other varieties, owing to its tendency to start so early in the
season.
The crop was considerably injured by the frosts of May 13th
and 14th , which, in many places, was severe enough to cut down
to the ground plants that had grown six inches high.
The Colorado Beetle does not seem to be as much dreaded as
formerly, as with the increased experience in the use of Paris
Green and the numerous contrivances invented for its application ,
economically and rapidly, its ravages can be effectually checked.
As to the disappearance of the insects, they seemed to be as
plentiful last year in many parts of the State as ever they were ,
and they will probably stay with us for many years to come, if
they ever entirely disappear.
The acreage planted was not as great as formerly in Monmouth
county and the lower part of the State, but fully as much as usual
in some of the northern counties.
The yield was very light in Monmouth, medium in lower
Jersey, and good in the North.
Prices low early in the season with a sudden rise in September ,
 7

which has been maintained , and, as the crop was pretty generally
sold off during the summer and fall, planters will have to buy
largely for seed in the spring.
The Early Rose continues to maintain its supremacy as to
quality for a market potato, although many can make more profit
at lower prices growing the Peerless, on account of its greater
yield .
The Early Vermont and Late Rose are often sold in the market
on the reputation of the Early Rose, as that variety.
Large quantities of potatoes have been brought to the Newark
market this fall from Missouri, Minnesota, Michigan and Canada,
and it would seem that if they can be grown and carried such
long distances to market at a profit, Jerseymen should not be dis-
couraged in growing them with their market so near at home.
Cabbage Cabbages have done better as to price this season
than last, but the crop was much injured by the dry weather of
September.
We have been more firmly convinced by our experience the
past season of the importance of selecting seed for growing this
crop. At our Exhibition at Mount Holly specimens of cabbage
were shown hardly two-thirds the size of others, and the
smaller were almost, if not quite, as heavy, and on opening and
comparing, the superiority of the smaller became at once apparent,
the stalk or heart not extending more than half as far into the
head, without the coarse stems and cavities surrounding it,
being more compact throughout, and far better adapted for slicing
for use raw, or for that vast consumer of cabbage, the sauer-kraut
barrel.
Tomatoes-The season has been generally a favorable one for
Tomatoes. Two instances came under our notice the past season
showing the advantages of training the vines to supports. In one
instance they were trained to three wires stretched horizontally
on stakes, making a trellis about three and a half feet high, and
the yield of good eatable tomatoes was more than double that of
an equal number of vines allowed to trail on the ground. The
other lot was one of several hundred plants trained on stakes
about five feet high, set three feet a part, by a market gardener.
In this case they were ripe ten days earlier than vines trailing on
the ground , and much finer-being perfectly ripened around the
stem, free from dirt washed on by rain when near the ground , and
also free from the Tule, or black wire worm as it is sometimes
called that they sold readily in market at a remunerative price
when ordinary tomatoes were a drug at any price. And another
advantage in the latter case, was the increased yield from the close
 8

planting, as from the way they were tied to the stakes there
appeared to be plenty of room and yet have them exposed to sun
and air sufficient to ripen perfectly .
Melons- The water and citron melon crop (an important one
in the southern part of the State) was much injured by the lice or
aphis, which in many instances entirely destroyed the vines.
Those who succeeded in saving their crops realized good prices .
The musk-melons in Bergen and Passaic counties (the melon
region of the northern part of the State) was fair, although not
so prolonged as the year previous , which was unusual , many vines
remaining green until the frost. That section of our State has
become celebrated in New York and other markets for the superb
size and quality of the melons grown there.
Celery -The crop of celery was a fair one in Hudson and
Essex counties, where it is grown , we presume, more largely than
anywhere else in the United States. The large growers say it is
not keeping as well as usual, and the price is so low as hardly to
pay for taking to market.
For the Committee,
WM. H. GOLDSMITH , Chairman.

These reports were received and ordered placed on the minutes,

Mr. G. W. Thompson not concurring in the suggestion to discon-
tinue the Committee.

INDIVIDUAL REPORTS .

UNDER the head of Individual Reports Mr. Lovett called atten-

tion to the great injury to our apples by the Codling-moth , and
said a party in Western New York manufactured a patent band
for their destruction, that was highly spoken of by the fruit-
growers of that section .
Mr. Beebe did not think it was necessary for a patent, as the
practice was an old one..
Mr. Goldsmith had bands already prepared to use this season
which he hoped would not be an infringement. A word of
caution might be appropriate just here regarding their use. He
came near losing some of his trees by leaving them on too long,
and the borers found a lodging place under them . They must be
attended to frequently, and were very effective in trapping this
great enemy to the apple.
Mr. Lovett explained that it was only this particular band he
had alluded to that was patented . The material used seems to
be stout cotton-flannel, the smooth outer surface being painted
like oil-cloth, adding greatly to its durability, while the long
cotton fibre on the inside made an admirable trap for the moth,
and , being water-proof, will last for years. It seems to be very
valuable for these reasons, and cheap, too , selling at the low price
of five cents per yard.
Mr. Such found it difficult to raise apples on his sandy soil .
They invariably fell off before they were ripe, and he had laid the
axe at the root of the trees, converting them into fire-wood , the
best use he had found for them . What seemed to him desirable
was to find out what specific treatment such soil required, or
what course to pursue to secure a crop of apples .
Mr. Collins asked Mr. Such what varieties his trees were.
Mr. Such named Northern Spy, Fallawater and others, and they
all failed.
Dr. Bowles , of Hammonton, said the soil where he lived was
as sandy as anywhere, and they raised fine apples there that kept
till June. Those who took good care of their trees grew apples.
Mr. Van Doren said a neighbor of his, on sandy soil , failed to
get a crop of apples until he used marl.
Henry Stewart said that on his sandy soil an application of
wood ashes had given him a good crop of apples where none
grew before. As an instance of successful apple culture he men-
tioned Mr. McKinstry, of Columbia county, N. Y. , who has an
orchard of 30,000 trees on 300 acres, 20 feet apart. He employs
twenty-four men to apply bands and kill the moths, andother-
wise care for the trees, and so successful was he that in a lot of
3,000 barrels not an apple was affected . The secret was care and
culture. As to bands it matters little what the kind , so that they
are put on. He used cotton-flannel ; the old straw band is good ;
the objection to paper bands was, they would not stand wet
weather. Potash was the fertilizer for sandy soil.
Mr. Thompson said we have been laboring for a quarter of a
century to find specifics for our soils, and have found none. All
plants (according to Ville) contain 40 to 50 per cent. of carbon.
This they assimilate from the atmosphere. Oxygen and hydrogen
make up about 50 per cent. of plant structure, these are given out
by water ; hence about 95 per cent. of vegetable matter is given
us by a bountiful Creator. Therefore, if I raise a crop of rye,
peas or corn, and plow it under, I add 95 per cent. to my stock in
trade.
If a room is foul from carbonic acid gas, all the better for the
plants, the leaves absorb and decompose it. An acre of beets will
fix or take up from the atmosphere 1,777 pounds of carbon ;
sweet potatoes , 7,111 pounds, while the leaf surface is fifteen times.
greater than the earth on which they grow.
 10

Silicious soils do not abound in potash ; argillaceous soils are

more calcareous, containing more calx , i.e. , lime or chalk. Hence
vegetation on these soils will be aided respectively by a prepon-
derance of the elements added , of which the soil is deficient ; but
just how much sand and how much clay is the point, and how
much has been removed by certain crops is what we have to
determine by experiment. Specifics will not do except when all
things are equal.
Mr. Grant asked the President if he fertilized his orchard .
He replied that the trees were in the richest part of his garden .
Mr. Grant said he had many varieties. Some varieties would
fail from some cause one year, and other years other varieties.
Early apples were the most profitable ; had picked as early as
July 10th. Golden Russet had kept till June.
Mr. Stewart explained the difference in soils. Clay soil, rich
in potash , is classed as potash soil . Sandy soil is generally deficient
in potash. He had grown as fine apples on his sandy soil as his
neighbor on clay soil ; was satisfied land could be too rich ; a
heavy growth of wood is contrary to a crop of fruit. If soil is
poor fertilize it. Mr. McKinstry had to quit fertilizing and culti-
vating a part of his orchard, because the trees made too much
growth, while another part had to be fertilized to secure growth
enough. The presence of woodpeckers indicated they were often
the bark-borers.

REPORT OF THE RECORDING SECRETARY.

Mr. President and Members :

AFTER our last meeting I was directed to prepare a report of our
proceedings for publication. This duty I attended to to the best
of my ability, and by the middle of April copies were mailed to
every member. During the past year I have had several applica-
tions for this report, and some for full sets from persons not
members of the Society, all expressing a willingness to pay the
charges when ascertained.
To these several applicants I have invariably replied that our
reports were published at the expense of the members for their
own use and benefit, and as an inducement to increase our member-
ship and benefit the community, and while I sent them the report
without charge, I should be pleased to have them join the Society,
or receive any contribution they might make towards defraying
the expense of publication . The result is, I am sorry to say, that
not one has yet joined the Society or contributed a cent, and but
one acknowledged the receipt of the report. Owing to the limited
 11

number of our second report on hand I have declined to issue full

sets to any but actual members. If any member has duplicates
of our second issue I should be obliged for them .
In addition to the societies named last year as in correspondence
with this Society, I name the Michigan Pomological, the Iowa
and Wisconsin Horticultural, and the Oceana and Lake Shore
Horticultural Society of Michigan . I have sent them our pro-
ceedings and received theirs.
Since our last annual meeting I have received and enrolled the
names of eight members.
The most important event to the Society since our last meeting
has been the holding of our first Exhibition, which you decided
should be held at Mount Holly, at the invitation of the Burling-
ton County Agricultural Society .
The Exhibition was held, as announced, on the 8th , 9th , 10th
and 11th of October last, and, thanks to the efforts of a few
earnest members, it was not a failure.
How far it was a success, or how much it added to the attend-
ance, or tended to create or disseminate horticultural interest to
the throngs of visitors, who daily made the circuit of the tent, it
is not my province to predict.
I may say, however, that the expressions of surprise, pleasure
and admiration uttered by many of the visitors were at least very
gratifying to the ears of one who labored earnestly to secure the
success of the first attempt of the Society in this line.
weather was all that could be desired . The lateness and unfavor-
ableness of the season was against us, yet we managed to occupy,
with the aid of our outside friends, all the space provided for us,
and I think I may add in a very creditable manner, as I consider
the quality of the exhibit was above the average.
Messrs. A. W. Harrison and Josiah Hoopes, of the Pennsyl-
vania Horticultural Society, served us very acceptably as judges
in the Plant, Flower and Fruit Departments, and Messrs. De Cou,
Pettit and Black, of this Society , in the Vegetable Department,
and deserve the thanks of the Society for their labors.
The managers of the Burlington Society were untiring in their
efforts to make us feel at home, anticipating our wants as far as
possible, and extending us every facility for the display of our
exhibit, and administering to the comfort of those having it in
charge, and for these attentions have placed us under lasting
obligations ; and I hope our Exhibition was sufficiently attractive
and satisfactory to compensate for the labor and expense they
incurred. A published list of the awards was sent to nearly all
the members the week following the exhibition.
 12

For those members who could not, or did not, attend the Exhi-
bition or contribute anything visible towards it, I have made the
following brief analysis for their benefit :
Total entries in all Departments, 330 ; from members, 118 ; from others , 212.
Total exhibitors, 88 ; 25 members ; 63 not members.
Awards in the Plant and Flower Department .. $ 93 00
Awards in the Fruit Department ... 110 50
Awards in the Vegetable Department .. 21 50

Total awards .. $225 00

Mr. Van Deventer warmly commended this report, of which

the above is the briefest possible summary, and moved its recep-
tion with the thanks of the Society, and that it be entered in full
on the minutes. Adopted.

THE TREASURER'S REPORT .

Mr. President and Gentlemen of the N. J. State Horticultural

Society:
As your Treasurer I have to report for the past year as follows :
Balance on hand September 6th, 1878 .. $152 80
Received from advertisers in Society's Report .. 38 00
Received from Burlington County Agricultural Society 225 .00
Received from George Such, plants donated .. 700
Received from J. M. White, premium donated ... 1 50
Received from fees for 19 members . 38 00
Received in annual dues . 57 00
$519 30
EXPENDITURES.
Bills of B. B. Hance, stationery, etc .. $1 34
Bills of J. M. White ... 2 50
Bills of E. Williams, stationery, etc .. 10 09
Bills of L. J. Hardham, printing report . 135 44
Premiums awarded at Mount Holly. 225 00 374 37

Leaving a balance on hand of... $144 93

W. H. GOLDSMITH, Treasurer.
Report received and placed on record.
The following letter was then read :
NEWARK, N. J., January 13th, 1879.
Mr. E. Williams, Secretary :
DEAR SIR- I this day send you by mail a sample of Bush and Pole Beans grown
last Summer at Brookdale, N. J., by a customer of mine. He informs me that his
whole crop is like the sample sent you , literally alive and creeping with the innumer-
able insects. I have sent you these Beans knowing that you took a lively interest
in all things pertaining to horticulture, and presuming you would in all probability
attend the meeting of the New Jersey Horticultural Society, where you might show
 13

the Beans, and get some idea as to the cause or prevention. believe the insect is
of European origin. A number of years ago I imported some Broad Windsor Beans
from England , and noticed some of them had a hole drilled through the centre about
the size of those in the Beans sent you, since, which time I have lost sight of the
Bean Weevil until these Beans were brought to me.
Respectfully yours, J. U. KUMERLE.

These insects were a new thing to most of the persons present .

Mr. Stewart said they were similar to the Pea Weevil , equallya s
destructive, and in some sections quite as plentiful. Destruction
was the only preventive suggested.
A communication from Mr. Whitehead , of Cincinnati , formerly
of Somerset county, was read and referred to the Executive Com-
mittee. One from the Secretary of the Hammonton Park Asso-
ciation, announcing the appointment of Dr. H. E. Bowles as a
delegate to this meeting ; also one from David Baird, of Mana-
lapan , regretting his inability to be with us, and stating that he
had sent Mr. Downing some specimens of the apple known as
Moore's Sweet, about which some discussion arose at our last meet-
ing as to whether it was Moore's Sweet or Josey Moore, and Mr.
Downing's reply was that they were identical.
The question, " What varieties of Apples can be grown with
profit in New Jersey ?" was then discussed.
Mr. Lovett named Gravenstein. It does well on light soil.
Mr. Goldsmith thought very favorable of it ; it was handsome
and of fine quality.
Mr. De Cou said it did well in Burlington county ; so did the
Orange Pippin, but not as well as the Gravenstein.
Mr. Grant had a neighbor who sold seven hundred dollars'
worth of fruit from fifteen trees of the Gravenstein . They will
bring twice as much in the New York market as the Orange
Pippin. He thought they were long at coming into bearing, but
they are a handsome fall apple.
Mr. De Cou said the growth was not tall like Norway Spruce ;
limbs not liable to break.
Mr. Lovett also named the Duchess of Oldenburg as a good
apple and an early bearer.
Mr. Beebe thought it did well in all climates and all soils, and
was one of the hardiest in existence.
Mr. Voorhees had a few trees which bore about thirty speci-
mens when three years planted.
The Secretary said the Duchess was a very early, handsome
apple, of good size, rather acid, but its appearance would sell it.
Mr. Stewart said there was an orchard in Hudson county of 300
or 400 trees which bore a full crop of fine apples at eight years old,
and some weeks earlier than Gravenstein .
 14

The Tetofsky being inquired about, Mr. Lovett replied that he

had found it a good-sized, handsome apple, nearly or quite as
handsome as Red Astrachan, not quite as early and much superior
in quality, fine grained, pleasantly sub- acid, like Gravenstein . It
is a Russian apple, and bears younger than any apple I know of.
Three-year-old trees, planted last Spring, bore as much as half-a-
dozen good specimens. The tree is of a Dwarf habit, very pro-
ductive, and promises to be of value in this State as a profitable
early apple.
Mr. Drake said the Smith's Cider had been more remunerative
in the vicinity of Hopewell, perhaps, than any other, on account
of its bearing the off year ; a good bearer and good growing tree.
The Nero is a good grower, a good and constant bearer ; an apple
of fair quality, and is grown with profit.
The English and Golden Russet are profitable on account of
their long-keeping qualities, the trees grow well, and are constant
and prolific bearers .
The Fallawater is a constant but not very prolific bearer,
good and profitable, large, and excellent for table use. The Cat
Head is excellent for family use and market. Season, August
and September.
Peck's Pleasant first quality, and promises to be profitable.
Mr. Thompson, of Penn's Grove, had considerable experience
in growing apples , and was satisfied we could not compete with
the East and West in growing winter varieties. They mature
earlier here, and , consequently, do not keep as well. Early apples
ripening sooner, and the markets of Philadelphia and New York
being easy of access their raising can be made profitable. Had
over 100 varieties, and found the following the best : Early Lip-
pincott, Early Sweet Bough , Red Astrachan, Gravenstein , Beauty
of Kent, Fallawater, Prince's Early Harvest, Summer Hagloe,
Primate, Maiden's Blush, Lowell and Fall Red Streak. Had
three trees of the last-named variety, and realized $ 90 from their
product one season .
Mr. Blackwell , of Titusville, being unable to be present, sent
the following : " With proper culture and a fair selection of soil
there is an unlimited number of varieties that can , or rather have
been , grown with profit. This is a question of dollars and cents ,
leaving out quality, productiveness , season, &c. We know that
early apples sell well when they ripen before peaches become
plenty. Appearances now are that peaches will exclude all early
apples from the market except to a very limited extent, for apples
will not sell when cheap peaches are about. The planting of
peaches in quantities in the Southern States will make the peach
 15

season extend from the first of July until the first of October.
Tomatoes have a great influence over the apple market. Apples
are usually worth more in October, according to cost, than any
other month in the year. The following I consider the best :
For earliest, the New Jersey Harvest stands well, though hardly
large enough ; light color ; Season, July.
Prince's Early Harvest-Is fine on, some soils, but would not
recommend it generally.
Summer Hagloe- A large red tart apple, the most promising of
the old kinds. Tree a slow grower. Season , August.
Williams Favorite- A large red, pleasant-flavored apple. For
all practical purposes this and Cornell's Fancy are alike. Season ,
September.
Newtown Red- A large red apple, said to be productive, and of
best quality. (Our trees are young. ) Season, August and Sep-
tember.
Primate-Large, yellow, productive ; an early bearer ; one of
the most promising ; tree a stout or hooked grower, which will
prevent its extensive planting. Season, August.
Sweet Bough- Is not profitable now ; market over- stocked .
Season, Angust.
Pearmain- American Summer Pearmain is , I believe, the most.
profitable of all the early apples . It sells the best of all , bears
young and abundantly ; tree a straight and thrifty grower. Sea-
son, August and September.
Porter-A large yellow apple, grows and bears well. If it was
red would be one of the best. Season, September.
R. I. Greening- Tree a strong spreading grower ; may well
take the place of Fall Pippin. The quality is better and the sea-
son about the same. Will rarely keep through September here.
I mean this for the regular Greening ; that grown North keeps
well.
[ The Secretary cannot agree with Mr. Blackwell on the question
of quality in respect to these varieties. ]
The above all come in with peaches, and in years when peaches
fail bring high prices. When peaches fill the market they will
pay to raise for the pigs, cows and horses, and for drying and
vinegar. Every man who has the land should plant enough for a
plentiful family supply. I often think, when I see a farmer that
has no early apples in his orchard, that he is doing without one of
the luxuries of life, and when I see his children pilfering in his
neighbor's orchard that they are not receiving the best possible
education. There has been money in apples for cider, and any
good market apples will make good cider.
 16

Twenty Ounce-Among the Fall apples the Twenty Ounce is

promising. The tree grows well and bears young, and the large
size and extra cooking qualities of this apple makes it sell well.
Season, October.
Fall Flat Top- A large striped apple ; good for table or kitchen ;
a great family apple ; does not ripen as early as desirable for
market. Season, September and October.
Fallawater -A very large green apple ; a good grower, early
and productive bearer ; sells well. Season, October.
Dominie -A promising kind . Season, October.
Smokehouse- Bears well. Season, October.
Wine Apple- A large striped apple ; bears young and
abundantly. October to December.
White Pippin- Large and productive ; an early bearer. Octo-
ber to December.
Hollow- Core Pippin - Productive and good size . October to
December.
American Golden Russet-Bears well, but is too small. Octo-
ber.
WINTER APPLES.
Baldwin- The Baldwin will hardly pass for a Winter apple
except in a few locations. Higher colored and flavored here
than when grown North. Tree a strong grower and productive .
October to December.
Nero -A rather new apple, that may pay to plant, but there
are better varieties. October to February.
Newtown. Pippin-Too well-known to need description ; has
been profitable. December to March .
Barnesley- An exceedingly pretty apple, of large size ; a pro-
ductive early bearer. October to January.
Jonathan- A fair-sized red apple . October to November.
Pomme Grise-A fair-sized russet apple, of extra quality, early
and abundant bearer. November to December.
Willow Twig - A good-sized apple, of hardly fair quality ; bears
young and abundantly ; has kept till July ; promising,
English Russet-Large greenish russet, bears and keeps well.
February to May.
Cooper's Market -Large red , slightly striped, good keeper ;
tree a somewhat straggling grower, some of the limbs almost
weeping. January to March.
Ladies Sweeting-One of the best keepers ; tree a slender
grower and productive. February to April.
Smith's Cider-If all the other apples that ripen from Septem-
ber to March in this section were destroyed it is fair to presume
 17

that the country would be benefited . This apple is of good size

and fair quality, the tree a fair grower and an early and abundant
bearer. The fruit sells well in the English market. If I was
planting an orchard of a thousand trees nine hundred should be
Smith's Cider, and the remainder early and later varieties.
The Ben Davis is said to do well in this State.
This list does not include all the good apples, yet it contains too
many . We want only the best that are productive and popular
in the market , and an extensive variety of winter apples is
expensive to store on account of requiring so much room to keep
each kind separate.
The further discussion of this question was deferred till the
afternoon, and the following special committees were appointed :
A committee to nominate officers for the ensuing year- Messrs.
Parcell, Barclay and McLaury.
A committee to examine the native fruits, etc. , exhibited-
Dr. Bowles, W. R. Ward and E. P. Beebe.
A committee to examine the flowers exhibited- Messrs. Lovett ,
Allen and Muller.
A committee to examine the tropical fruit, etc.-Mr. J. T. Hill ,
Mrs. J. C. Smock, and Miss Campbell.
A committee to consider and report what changes, if any, are,
necessary in our By-Laws- Messrs . G. W. Thompson, C. W. Idell,
and the Secretary.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

THE Society was called to order at 2 P. M. , and Vice- President

Beebe chosen to preside.
The reading of the Minutes of the morning was dispensed with.
The Committee on Nominations reported . These being accepta-
ble to the Society, Mr. Parcell was authorized by the Society to
cast the ballot , and the ticket, as reported , was declared elected .
Owing to the indisposition of Mr. Such there was no President's
Address, and the unfinished Apple question was resumed , Mr.
Voorhees reading the following :
What varieties of apples can be grown with profit in New
Jersey?
The one word profit in this question seems to be the key-note
to which we accord a large share of our enthusiasm in fruit-grow-
ing, and well it should be, for it takes money, much care,
attention and time to successfully develop an orchard. I find a
few farmers who question the opinion that any variety can be
2
 18

grown with profit in New Jersey. And their reasons are that our
apples do not grow fair and solid, and are more liable to decay
than Northern apples, and have not the popularity in the market .
In answer to the first two objections I would simply refer to the
display of apples at the exhibition of this Society at Mount Holly
in October last. In regard to the keeping quality of our apples ,
it is in a measure our own fault, for we seem determined to plant
varieties not suited to our latitude, such as Baldwin , Greening,
Northern Spy, Spitzenberg , King of Tompkins County, and
Twenty Ounce.
Several of these varieties grow well here, and why wil they
not keep ? Take the Baldwin to illustrate ; here it reaches maturity
and is thoroughly ripened and reaches the point from which fruit
commences very gradually to lose its solidity and flavor ; in fact,
the commencement of decay in the fall. But the Baldwin grown
in New York State, when picked from the trees, is not matured ,
and the process of ripening goes slowly on after it is put in
barrels, and often it is not ripened to that point from which decay
commences until January or February.
Who does not remember the time when the farmers would take
such local varieties as the Red Streak, Russet and some varieties
of Pippins, and bury them in mounds of earth in their gardens,
and they would keep about as well as potatoes. One of our mem-
bers from Mercer county told me of a farmer a few years ago who
had a large load of beautiful red apples in the market in the month
of May, and being so fair and well- preserved he asked the farmer
how he managed to keep them . He said he had given them no
more care than he would potatoes, and they were of a local
variety, a seedling . My friend took the trouble to propagate this
variety, and named it Hawke's Late Red.
A beautiful and one of the richest and best sweet winter apples ,
a seedling of Somerset county , is one named Hendrick Kay Zoota,
originated by Jacobus Quick, on the bank of the Raritan river.
Another superb local variety known in Somerset county is the
Thick Stem , so named from the peculiar formation of the stem ;
an acid , late-keeping apple, medium to large, greenish yellow ;
in quality resembling the Fall Pippin ; a wonderful bearer.
Another splendid local variety of Burlington county is called the
Pine. Its beautiful appearance would make it valuable, and it
is also one of the best in quality.
In regard to popularity in the markets, this is an educated taste
for which we must produce varieties to suit both the palate and
the eye, but bear in mind the latter is often the controlling power.
To illustrate, a barrel of Roman Stem will be left when one of
the Pennock (or Pelican) will be taken at a much higher price.
 19 .

The ten varieties I would recommend for profit in New Jersey

are : Smith's Cider, Nero, English Redling, Roman Stem, Pen-
nock (or Pelican), Canfield, Moore's Sweet, Maiden's Blush , Red
Astrachan and Early Harvest.
Some of the local varieties will, when tested , perhaps prove
better than others on this list.
And now a word as to profits on the varieties I have named . A
gentleman of Burlington county tells of a farmer near him, that
he visited in July last, who was gathering apples for the Phila-
delphia market. He had twenty- five trees of Red Astrachans,
about fifteen years old , which had yielded up to that time an
average of five baskets to the tree, and more yet to gather. The
best of them brought $ 1.25 per basket, others $ 1 . Allowing
forty trees to the acre, at $ 5 per tree, it gives $200 per acre,
and the fruit not all up then .
Another farmer adjoining him has an orchard of 180 trees ,
principally early varieties, such as Bough, Early Harvest, Hagloe ,
Maiden's Blush , &c. , fifteen years old , which yielded last year
2,250 baskets, at an average price of 75 cents, yielding $ 1,687.50
from about four acres of land in orchard .
Another gentleman of Monmouth county, who has seventeen
acres of apples forty-five years old, says the orchard averaged
clear of freight and commissions about $200 per acre. One part
of the orchard , containing six acres of Pennock ( Pelican ) , realized
him $400 per acre.
A gentleman of Hunterdon county sold the fruit in an orchard
of 200 trees of Smith's Cider apples for $2,000 , from about five
acres of land.
A gentleman of Essex county sold his Canfield apples the past
year for 44 cents a bushel in the orchard, which included the wind-
falls.
Some seasons we may have extra large crops of apples and low
prices. So it is with wheat, corn , oats and other farm products,
but the fast increasing foreign demand will help us very much
toward better prices.
Mr. Ward said the question of profit was intimately connected
with the Codling moth. It seemed as though this insect preferred
some varieties to others, as some seasons some varieties were
almost wholly destroyed by it and other varieties escaped . The
Orange apple and Gravenstein will bear full crops when the Fall
Pippin , Baldwin and others will drop from the trees, damaged
by the moth. The Orange apple was an annual bearer, and
brought good prices when it was ready to sell. Last year they
averaged $2 per barrel, the year before $2.50.
 20

Mr. Goldsmith thought well of Mr. Ward's idea respecting the

Codling-moth. The Gravenstein and Orange apple do not appear
to become so deformed by the attack of the Codling- moth as the
Northern Spy, Newtown Pippin , etc. , and that is the reason why
wormy specimens of the former are often marketable.
Mr. Collins said the Orange apple did much better with him
than the Orange Pippin ; it was three weeks later in ripening, a
much better time to meet a ready sale at remunerative prices in
the Philadelphia market. It is often confounded with the Orange
Pippin. A fine productive variety ; of same season as Graven-
stein.
Mr. De Cou asked for methods of keeping apples. If they
could be kept a few weeks after the market was bare, prices
would be much better.
Mr. Ward thought it impossible to keep summer apples with-
out the aid of ice. The only way to do is to pick and sell them .
Mr. Beebe asked if they could be kept on the ground by cover-
ing with earth or otherwise.
Mr. Ward thought not ; had observed that in heaps on the
ground those on top invariably kept the best.
Mr. Van Doren said early apples seemed to do best on light
loamy soils, and late ones on heavy soils.
The Secretary thought early picking had much to do with their
keeping qualities, but if picked too early the flavor and quality
was impaired.
Mr. Voorhees named the Nero as a good keeper, a young and
abundant bearer, of first rate ' quality . It does remarkably well
in New Jersey and Delaware, and parts of Pennsylvania.
The revision of the catalogue was then commenced , the Secre-
askedreading
tary was : แ the list varieties
What of apples as it then stood , and the question
, if any, shall be transferred from the
trial to the general list ?"
On motion of Mr. Lovett the Duchess of Oldenburg was trans-
ferred to the general list.
Mr. Allen said we needed separate lists for different parts of
the State.
The Secretary indorsed this proposition , but how are we to
obtain them with so many counties unrepresented , and several
with only from one to three members ? If the fruit-growers of
the several counties would consult with their own interests they
would take the matter in hand and organize county societies, pre-
pare their own fruit lists, and be represented in this Society by
delegates. How to bring about such a state of things is the problem
to solve, and until it is solved we must regard this list as the best
we can obtain under existing circumstances,
 21

The question, " Is the adoption of a scale of points in judging

of fruits, &c., feasible and desirable, and would they conduce to a
more just and equitable system of awards ?" was, at the suggestion
of the Secretary, referred to a special committee consisting of
Messrs. Goldsmith, Quinn and Voorhees, together with a proof-
sheet of a proposed plan emanating from the West, with instruc-
tions to thoroughly test its practicability.
The list of pears was then read , and the Sheldon was transferred
from the trial to the general list .
On motion of Mr. Goldsmith the Abbott and Souvenir de Con-
gres, and, on motion of Mr. Lovett, Petite Marguerite were added
to the trial list.
The Alexander peach was thought worthy to be placed on trial.
No changes were made in the Plum list or the general Cherry
list, but, on motion of Mr. Goldsmith, the Bigarreau d'Oulin was
added to the trial list. It is large, dark-red, firm and early ; the
most profitable of any he grew.
Mr. Goldsmith asked if the Early Richmond knotted any in
South Jersey. De Cou and Collins replied in the affirmative.
A telegram of fraternal greeting was sent to the Pennsylvania
Fruit Growers' Society, now in session at Reading.
Question-" What varieties of the Red Raspberries are abso-
lutely hardy in New Jersey ?"
Mr. Lovett- The Cuthbert is the only absolutely hardy rasp-
berry I have yet seen except the Turner, and was the only one
except the Turner that was not winter-killed last year. It is a
large, bright red, very firm berry, as much so as Brandywine,
and the best in flavor by far of any I know of except the
Antwerps. It is exceedingly productive, but is a long time in
maturing its crop ; commences with the Philadelphia, and holds
on till others are gone. It promises to supersede all the red
raspberries cultivated for market and home use.
Question by the Secretary : " Have you fruited it ?"
Answer- Yes ; for two years past quite extensively."
On motion, it was put on the trial list .
Mr. Lovett also mentioned the Caroline raspberry, which is
said to be a cross between Catawissa and Brinckle's Orange, and
claimed to be hardy. The berry is of good size, and so much like
the Orange in color and quality as hardly to be distinguished from
it. I think its chief value will be as an amateur berry only.
Mr. Goldsmith thought the Highland Hardy would come under
the class of hardy varieties, and asked the experience of others
with it as a market variety. He had found it perfectly hardy,
very early and prolific ; commenced picking last season June 20th,
 22

before strawberries were gone, and they brought 20 to 25 cents

per quart in Newark market, and found it by far the most
profitable of any he had grown.
Mr. Idell - In the New York market it was considered a sort of
second-class berry, as it was too soft to carry well, and was sold to
pedlers and cheap grocers. Its flavor was very good.
Pride of the Hudson-Mr. Voorhees said it was a very feeble
grower with him.
G. W. Thompson said Highland Hardy had proved hardy with
him, and the berries were of good quality ; but Pride of the
Hudson made a very weak growth. In fact were growing “ small
by degrees and beautifully less."
J. S. Collins' experience with it was similar to the above. The
Gregg and Queen of the Market were so far healthy and good
growers with him. Highland Hardy on sandy soil were of little
account, losing their leaves in summer like the Antwerps. On
clay soil they did better.
The inquiry was made as to the quality of the Pride of the
Hudson plants that were planted, and all testified as to their being
small and feeble, and the fact that they continued so seemed to be
evidence that it was natural.
The Secretary's experience with the Pride of the Hudson was
similar to others . It would take three or four of the plants
received to make one of respectable proportions . The New
Rochelle, a sort of a hybrid, similar to Ganargua, is a strong
grower of the tip propagating , class, and from the canes on the
table it will be seen is susceptible to the Raspberry fungus or
disease that is so destructive in some sections. He was earnestly
endeavoring to ascertain its cause and cure, and urged the assist-
ance of each individual member to this end .
Mr. Van Deventer hoped the Secretary would suppress his
modesty and tell the Society something about the Montclair
raspberry mentioned by the Fruit Committee, and a motion to
that effect was carried.
In response to this request the Secretary replied : " He thought
it the peculiar province of the Fruit Committee to examine and
report on the merits of new fruit, and he took occasion to notify
them when it was ripe and fit for examination , but a press of
business prevented any inspection from them except by Mr. Idell ,
and he here took occasion to invite any one interested to visit his
grounds the coming season, about the second or third week in
July, and see and judge for themselves. The Montclair is on
trial in Connecticut, New York, Ohio, Michigan and several places
in this State, among them the light soil of the Rural New
 23

Yorker's and American Agriculturist's experimental grounds in

Bergen county, and the coming season we expect to hear of its
behavior at all these points, so that when we offer it to the public
they need not depend solely on our " ipse dixit " as to its merits.
" Some plants sent to the editor of the Rural New Yorker last
spring fruited so much as to surprise him , and he wrote me,
requesting a brief article giving its history and our experience
with it and others. Perhaps I cannot comply with your request
better than to read a brief extract from that article published in
the Rural of October 12th :
" We suppose the Montclair to be a seedling of the Philadel-
phia, which it resembles in wood and foliage. It is fully as hardy
and productive as that variety, while the fruit is larger, firmer
and much better in quality, with no tendency to crumble. The
color is rather dark when fully ripe . It has always stood fully
exposed without injury till last winter or spring ; then but few
canes were injured, more than was necessary to remove at pruning
time. It usually commences to ripen about the 4th of July, and
is in season about three weeks. It is a strong, vigorous grower,
and multiplies rather sparingly from the roots.
'With regard to its quality people will and do differ. I do not
hesitate to say I have eaten better berries. We have never
claimed superiority in this respect for it, but if its habits can be
regarded as fixed, we do claim , in brief, that in point of hardi-
ness, productiveness , size, firmness and quality combined, it is ,
for us, on our soil-a stiff, reddish clay loam - head
999 and shoulders
above any other variety we have ever cultivated .'
There are some canes on the table of both the Montclair and
Brandywine, which those interested can examine.
Mr. Goldsmith had fruited it the past season and found it very
large in size, productive and unusually firm , though rather dark
in color ; a very vigorous grower, starting new canes sparingly.
Blackberries-Mr. Collins named the Taylor as a good grower ;
not as early as Wilson , about the season of Kittatinny, and worthy
of trial. It was placed on the trial list.
Hoosac Thornless was said to be worthless .
Strawberries- The Cumberland Triumph was placed on the
general list. Sharpless, Miner's Prolific , Crescent Seedling and
Cinderella were placed on the trial list, and the Sterling stricken
off.
Mr. Beebe, having grown Miner's Prolific largely, was called
on to give his experience with it. He thought it one of the best,
very regular in shape, a little darker than Charles Downing ;
grown in rows four feet apart, and plants twelve to fifteen inches
 24

apart in the row ; it fills the ground full of good, healthy, strong
plants. It was very productive and held its size well up to the
close of the season ; the flavor is good. Had grown Monarch,
but frost hurt them badly.
Crescent Seedling-Mr. Thompson could not tell about the
fruit, but it was the best grower he had.
Mr. Lovett said in productiveness and growth of plant it is all
that can be desired ; quality fair to good when ripe. It colors
before it is ripe, like the Wilson , and is then insipid and lacking
in flavor. Size, medium, and I fear will not stand shipping ;
about like Charles Downing in this respect when ripe, but it can
be picked and marketed before it is ripe. It is a pistillate, having
no stamens whatever as far as I have been able to find , and I
examined it closely for this purpose in the spring.
Mr. McLaury had watched this berry closely in the market the
past season. For the first few days the berries were of good size
and sold well, but they soon began to run small, and during the
last of the season the Charles Downing was decidedly the best.
It may answer for a local market, but is too soft to ship a long
distance. In this respect he was disappointed, the flavor was not
superior, and he thought it ought to be known that its flower was
not perfect. The field near New Brunswick was fertilized with
Wilson, one row in four.
The Plainfield grocer, who sold the Crescent last season, con-
curs with Mr. McLaury, and says : " A fine berry first of the
season, but poor for late market. "
Mr. Collins said Mr. Smith, the introducer, wrote him it did
not need fertilizing, as the blossom was perfect. He planted some at
least 100 yards from any others ; the crop was perfect and plentiful ,
averaging as large as the Wilson, but in planting a field of them
now would put at least seven-eighths in some other variety.
Mr. De Cou grew it in hills ; it was about the size of Charles
Downing, and of good size through the season. It was the earliest
berry he had, ripening May 8th, followed by Duchesse on the
10th, Wilson on the 11th , and Monarch on the 13th.
The Captain Jack was inquired about .
Mr. Collins said it made a good show till after it bloomed ; it is
late and blighted badly.
Mr. De Cou said it had never blighted before.
The Secretary asked for a description of this species of blight,
which, being given, he recognized it as the same thing that
ruined two-thirds of his crop the past season , and if it develops
as fast in the future as in the past few years, and we find no
remedy, strawberry growing is doomed, and a very unpleasant
 25

feature about it is that no variety seems proof against it. Samples

of blighted plants were last season submitted to an expert micro-
scopist of New York city, who, after a careful examination ,
reported them affected with a fungus, which he called brown
' rust. The cause and remedy is what we need to find out ; we
know the effect. Let everyone of us observe and experiment,
and some one may find the remedy we need.
Mr. Lovett stated that Charles Black, of Hightstown , in an
article in the January number of the Gardener's Monthly, says he
has invariably found the roots of diseased plants infected with
lice or aphis .
Mr. Van Deventer inquired about the Kentucky. It was said
to be soft, late and not very productive.
The Secretary said he had grown it. It was a large, fine-look-
ing berry, but the quality was too poor ; his customers did not
want it the second time.
Mr. Van Deventer was surprised to hear this ; with him it was
a strong grower, late, very handsome, good, fair size, and thought
the quality good. The Farmers ' Club of his county were at his
place the first season he fruited it, and they considered it of good
quality. Had grown it three years ; had seen no blight, and as
long as it continues to do as well shall continue to grow it.
Experience with Forest Rose being called for, Mr. Lovett said
it burnt badly, which was a discouraging feature.

REPORT OF THE SPECIAL FRUIT COMMITTEE.

Mr. President : The Special Fruit Committee have the pleasure

to report that they find some twenty-five varieties of apples and
one of pears on the tables. Some of these apples are very fine in
appearance, and evidently good keepers.
E. and J. C. Williams, of Montclair, have eight varieties, viz. ,
Jersey Hawthorne, Baldwin, Rhode Island Greening, Jefferson ,
Peck's Pleasant, Northern Spy, Yellow Bellflower and Canfield ,
a good collection.
W. H. Goldsmith, of Newark, exhibits Bolles' Pippin.
J. Van Deventer, of Princeton , a variety for naine, a tough
skinned apple ; evidently a good keeper, the only recommendation.
John S. Collins, of Moorestown, two varieties, Cooper's Red-
ling and Ridge Pippin .
N. W. Parcell, of Elizabeth, four varieties, viz., Red Streak,
Moore's Sweet and two varieties without names.
Moore's Sweet is an apple much sought after. One of those
wanting a name appears very much like a Pippin.
 26

D. C. Voorhees, of Blawenburg, six varieties, viz., Thick

Stem, Baldwin , Smith's Cider, Pine, Pelican and an unnamed
seedling. The Pine is a pretty apple, and highly spoken of by
the exhibitor.
A lady from Ulster county, N. Y., exhibits an enormous
specimen of King of Tompkins county, and a beautiful one of
Wagner .
J. Van Deventer, of Princeton , specimens of Easter Beurre
Pears, now in good condition .
Also Triumph Sweet Corn, very productive, with two or three
ears on a stalk, from the Secretary.
Respectfully,
H. E. BOWLES,
W. R. WARD,
E. P. BEEBE,
Committee.
Report received and Committee discharged with the thanks of
the Society .
The Society then adjourned till half-past 7 o'clock.
EVENING SESSION.

NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J. , Jan. 15th, 1879.

On convening this evening Vice President Voorhees, of Somer-
set county, was called on to preside.
" Have we a better scarlet Geranium for bedding purposes than
General Grant ? If so, its name ?" was the subject chosen for
this evening's discussion.
Mr. Lovett was called on to open the subject , and said where
the color was desired he knew of none better. It was a bright
scarlet, and unsurpassed in growth and profusion of bloom. A
French sort, called Guillion Mangilli, is superb for bedding also.
The truss and flowers are large and semi-double. It is of dwarf,
compact growth, after the style of the excellent salmon- colored
Asa Gray, and a very showy and profuse bloomer. It resembles
Asa Gray very much, except in color, and is an excellent com-
panion , although they should not be planted side by side, as the
colors do not harmonize. It is of bright scarlet, running into
rosy carmine. It so closely resembles Bishop Wood-a fine plant,
of which is on the table- in color, growth and flower that it is
difficult to tell them apart, although one originated in France and
the other in Philadelphia.
Another good bedding geranium is Giant. Like General
Grant it is a rampant grower and profuse bloomer. Color, yel-
lowish, red or brick. Where both colors are desired it is equally
 27

good as General Grant, but when one only is desired we much

prefer the latter for its superior vividness of color.
Mr. Thompson said his daughter had grown a seedling of
General Grant which bloomed freely last summer, and he thought
it quite as good as its parent.
Of the the light foliage or Dusty Miller class of plants for rib-
bon lines the Centaurea candidissima and C. gymnocarpa were
generally meant, though Artemisia stellaris was sometimes called
Dusty Miller. The above, with Glaucium Corniculatum and
Stachys lanata, are useful for ribbon lines. Artemisia Stellaris
and Stachys lanata are hardy perennials, and do not bear cutting
well. I regard Centaurea candidissima and Glaucium cornicu-
latum as the best, but both being quite difficult to propagate must
ever remain somewhat rare.
Centaurea Gymnocarpa is very graceful, and would be of great
value were it not from the fact that it has a way of dying out
badly in an unaccountable manner. For general planting I have
found nothing yet so good as the Artemisia, from the easy man-
ner in which it can be grown and propagated, and its decided
whiteness ; but, as before stated , it is impatient of the shears.
Ageratum mexicanum variegatum would be a good white-
leaved plant for ribbon gardening did it not rust badly in showery
weather, but Stevia variegata is superb, as it is always bright,
clean and vigorous , with decided clear white markings. These,
however, do not belong to the Dusty Miller class of plants.
The last-named was planted largely in the grounds of Mr. John
Hoey at Long Branch the past summer, and was superb in beauty
and freedom from bad effects of the sun.
Mr. Thompson named Enonymous variegata as suitable for a
permanent border that would bear the shears.
A lady asked how to rid her Verbenas of insects.
Dusting with snuff or tobacco, or fumigating with smoke was
recommended ; also whale-oil soap, three ounces to a gallon of
water.
A lady asked for a remedy for red spider.
Mr. Muller said fumigating with sulphur would kill them, but
care should be taken that it was not too strong or it would kill
the plants, too. Water, if applied with a syringe with sufficient
force, would wash them off. The presence of insects is an indica-
tion of ill -health. If the plants are kept healthy, in an air of
proper moisture, there would be no trouble with insects. The
fault, too often, is too much water, and they are killed with kind-
ness.
Mr. Lovett said good garden soil for plants was the safest plan.
 28

Give a moist atmosphere, smoke the aphis and drown the red
spider.
Mr. Thompson said the dry air of rooms has more to do with
unhealthy plants than foul air ; the leaves of plants cannot absorb
from a dry air. The green fly or red spider do not make much
headway when plants are well watered .
The Mealy bug was inquired about .
Mr. Muller said kerosene was the only remedy he knew of.
Mr. Lovett named carbolic acid and whale-oil soap in addition.

REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON PLANTS

AND FLOWERS EXHIBITED.
THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON PLANTS AND FLOWERS exhibited,
reported as follows :
From our worthy President four vases colored and white
Camelias, some of which are delicately tinted with pink, buff,
& c.; others curiously and prettily spotted and marked , all of
great size and perfection.
Four Orchids, viz. , Lælia anceps , Cypripedium insigne and
two species of Dendrobium.
Four stems of Eucharis amazonica, all of which are of exceed-
ingly fine growth, evincing masterly culture. A very meritorious
display.
From Mrs. James Neilson, of New Brunswick, a fine display
of Poinsetta pulcherrima, some of which measure fifteen inches
across.
From Alex. Kennedy, of New Brunswick, a table bouquet of
choice flowers, tastefully arranged.
From -, specimens of well-grown smilax.
Plants-From Alex. Kennedy, Libonia Perohiensis, Erica
persoluta alba and Yucca recurva.
From Mrs. Martin, of New Brunswick, three large, well-grown
specimens of ferns ; also one Aspidistra Elator variegata, one
unusually well -grown Ficus elastica, one Tree Aloe (a soccotrina)
in flower, one large Stralitzia regina or Queen plant in flower. A
very creditable display.
From Aloys. Muller, of New Brunswick, one large and exceed-
ingly well-grown specimen of the new double Geranium, Bishop
Wood, in full blown.
G. W. Thompson , of Stelton , one large, well-formed specimen
of Habrothamnus Elegans in full bloom.
Mr. John T. Hill , of New Brunswick, two large specimens of
Calla lillies.
Considering the severity of the weather and the consequent
 29

difficulty and danger of moving plants from the conservatory the

Exhibition is, in the opinion of this Committee, a decidedly satis-
factory one.
Respectfully submitted ,
J. T. LOVETT ,
E. ALLEN,
A. MULLER,
Committee.
Report received and Committee discharged with thanks.
The Secretary stated he had expected a paper on the " Products
of Florida, " from the exhibitor of the semi-tropical fruits , &c. ,
on our tables, but from a delay of the mails it had not arrived ,
and asked that on its arrival it be referred to the Executive Com-
mittee for publication, if deemed advisable. It was so referred .
The Secretary then alluded in a few remarks to the various
fruits and products in this exhibit, and concluded by affording
everyone present an opportunity to taste and judge for themselves
of the quality of the Indian River oranges.
The Society then adjourned to meet at 10 A. M. to-morrow.
SECOND DAY.

MORNING SESSION.
NEW BRUNSWICK, Jan. 16th, 1879.
The Society was called to order at 10 o'clock by the Secretary,
and Vice- President Beebe called to the chair.
The reading of the Minutes of previous meeting was dispensed
with. The attendance was somewhat decreased from the previous
day on account of the severe snow storm that prevailed.
The revision of catalogue was resumed, commencing with
Strawberries, as the subject was not exhausted at the adjournment
of yesterday's session.
Mr. Ward asked as to the best time for planting. He wanted
the experience of strawberry growers, those who grew them for
the fruit rather than for the plants.
The Secretary thought spring planting generally gave the best
satisfaction .
Mr. McLaury preferred very early spring planting so that the
runners may get an early start to allow the fruit buds to become
fully developed for the next year's crop. Would cultivate
throughly the first season . The second season , if the grass and
weeds were troublesome, would turn them under after gathering
the fruit, and devote the ground to some other crop, as it is easier
and cheaper to plant and cultivate a new field than to clean out a
weedy old one. The white grub is so troublesome in the section
 30

around New Brunswick that they find the best method is to

grow in beds and rows, not in hills .
Mr. White was most decidedly in favor of spring planting.
One season he commenced to plant a field , and a fall of six inches
of snow came and prevented its completion for two weeks , other-
wise the treatment was the same.
The early planted started first and kept ahead through the
season, and yielded the best crop the season following. Early set
plants produce runners that get hold and are self-supporting
before the grubs get to work, and if they attack the old plants the
injury is not so apparent.
Mr. Beebe- If planted in July would they not do as well ?
Mr. White-Not in my experience.
Mr. Beebe-If set so early did they not get too thick ?
Mr. White- Had not been troubled . He grew the Wilson ,
which might make some difference . The Charles Downing being
a free grower might be open to this objection, but for him there
was no money in it.
Mr. Thompson - The grub was more troublesome last season
than ever before, and early planting seemed desirable to head him
off. From circumstances over which he had no control he once
planted about four acres to strawberries on a field that had been
in grass for several years. Result the loss of all his labor from
the grub. His next and last failure was following a crop of
Millet, which had succeeded a crop of corn . The Crescent Seed-
ling seemed about the only plant which was too much for the
grub last season . If set in summer and fall he thought they did
not make enough roots and fruit buds for a full crop the next
season.
Mr. Goldsmith favored early fall planting. The Pioneer
planted in July were too thick ; Beauty, planted at the same time,
were thick enough. Where the grub was very troublesome spring
planting might be preferable . Among the extensive growers of
fine berries in the vicinity of Newark, fall planting is becoming
more prevalent. The season also had much to do with the success
or failure of the plants . He found a great difference in the
growth of plants set in July and August, while of September setting
but few remain on account of the dry weather that prevailed
during the fall . For plants he preferred special beds for the
purpose and spring planting, and removal of the fruit stems.
Mr. Voorhees recommended potted plants for amateurs, pro-
vided they were not allowed to remain in the pots so long as to
get pot-bound.
Mr. Van Deventer did not doubt that early spring planting
 31

was the best for large plantations, but he had found summer
planting to do well for the Amateur. He did not allow any run-
ners to grow the first season , and had gathered two-thirds of a
crop the next. The expense of keeping down the weeds is much
less than when planted in spring. He planted in beds of three
rows each , about eighteen inches to two feet apart. The second
season one runner is allowed to grow from each plant, and trained
diagonally across to the centre of the square formed by the old
plants, where it is allowed to root.. This plan affords the means
of renewing the bed on the same ground .
The question of expense in preparing the ground being men-
tioned , Mr. Goldsmith thought an expenditure of $200 per acre ,
if judiciously laid out, would prove more profitable than $50 , as
usually spent for that purpose.
Mr. Ward was very glad to hear these experiences. The ques-
tion seems to present itself in this aspect, whether spring planting
produces a crop of smaller fruit , though more in quantity, than a
less number of plants set in the fall, and a crop of larger fruit.
In other words, which is preferable, a smaller crop of large fruit ,
or a large crop of smaller fruit ? If the fall is not favorable do
we get crop enough to make it pay ? Many of the growers about
Irvington take but one crop from the plants. There fall plant-
ing seems to give larger berries though less in number. It is a
question as to which is the most profitable course.
Mr. Lovett had heard salt recommended as a remedy for the
grub. Had anybody tried it ?
Mr. Goldsmith had tried nitrate of soda and muriate of potash,
and injured his plants. Whether it injured the grubs or not he
could not say.
Mr. Beebe claimed , on the authority of the " Agriculturist, " that
the grub lived three years, others could make but two years by
the same authority, and as the writer was not present to explain
what he really did mean the subject was dropped .
Revision of catalogue was then resumed .
No changes were made in the list of gooseberries.
Currants -Lee's Prolific, a promising varietyof black currants ,
was added to the trial list.
Grapes- Worden , Brighton , Elvira, Moore's Early, Highland ,
Lady Washington and Champion were placed on the trial list.
Mr. Goldsmith was very well pleased with the Brighton ; it
ripened early and the quality was excellent.
Mr. Van Deventer had two years' experience with it ; had a
few clusters entirely free from disease and very fine quality.
Of the Worden, the Secretary said his began to color three or
 32

four weeks before the Concord , which his chickens discovered

and took them all before he was aware of it.
Mr. Beebe said it resembled the Concord very much, and some
people considered them identical, but Dr. Sylvester, of New York,
had fruited it a number of years and found them distinct, and
considered it one of the best.
Mr. Lovett claimed the true Worden to be distinct from the
Concord.
Quinces-In quinces there was no changes, but a gentleman
present asked if anyone had experience in orchard culture of
them, and what variety was the best.
Mr. Goldsmith had found the Pear Quince the most profitable.
The Apple Quince ripened too early.
The Secretary then read a paper on Roots, from H. Stewart, of
Hackensack, who was absent, and it was referred to the Executive
Committee for publication in the Society's proceedings.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock P. M.

SECOND DAY.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

The Society re-convened at 2 o'clock P. M. , Mr. Beebe presid-

ing.
Mr. C. V. Mapes addressed the Society for an hour on fertil-
izers and the importance of experiments. He was listened to
with much interest, and at the conclusion of his address was
tendered a vote of thanks.
The Chairman appointed Mr. Goldsmith the delegate from
this Society to represent it at the approaching annual meeting of
the State Board of Agriculture.
Dr. Cook called attention to a sample of Sorghum syrup sent
him by C. K. Landis, of Vineland , made from a variety of
sorghum called Early Amber. A gallon of such syrup contains
five to six pounds of crystallizable sugar, or about 750 pounds per
acre on an average yield of 150 gallons. The sugar is really
cane sugar, not grape sugar, and the prospect of making our
own sugar seems much less remote than heretofore.
The question of the durability of the catalpa wood for timber
only elicited the fact that trees were now growing near the city
at least fifty years of age, but no one present had had any personal
experience with the durability of the wood .
Which are the best varieties of evergreens for orchard wind-
breaks ?
 33

This question was introduced by the reading of the following

from Mr. Blackwell :
" For this purpose we want a tree that grows about thirty feet
high, that branches low, and holds its foliage even when some-
what shaded. The Norway Spruce comes as near the require-
ments as any tree in the whole list of evergreens, and has no
competitor except the American Arbor Vitæ. These trees are
good growers, and can be bought at low rates, and will grow on
any land that will grow fruit trees.
" This subject of wind- breaks might, with propriety, be extended
to shelter for the farm buildings.
" If any farmer was to plant a row or two of evergreens around
the exposed side of his buildings, say from east to west, he would
escape some of the rigors of winter ; it would take less fuel in
the house, and save the horses, cows, sheep and pigs many a
shiver. The stock would come out in the spring in better condi-
tion, with the same amount of food, if the cold winds were
broken off by a belt of evergreens . The chickens also love some
thicket of shade in the hot summer days . I know all good stock
men stable their cattle in inclement weather. With a good belt
of timber the nice days would be brighter and the rough ones
more mild.

" The subject of timber is of importance. I cannot bring figures

to show directly that timber-planting will pay, for the figures foot
up on the wrong side of the ledger. Yet there is another side to
the question, and if this side be correct it will pay indirectly to
plant timber. My first position is that the farmer who plants one
acre of each ten with evergreens will raise more wheat and grass
on the remaining nine than he would on the ten unsheltered. To
make this practical it should be a general custom , although there
are situations where it might pay individually, and this will apply
to the orchard. How shall we save the orchards if there is noth-
ing done to break the sweeping winds ? Beside this, timber holds
the water in this way : when the ground is covered with leaves
they hold the moisture, and they also keep the water from run-
ning off so quickly, and the shade prevents the ground from dry.
ing out so fast. The winters are warmer and summers cooler in
timber districts , with less change of temperature. I favor plant-
ing the orchard near the buildings, in which case a belt of timber
around the orchard will serve the purpose I have named. "
Mr. Ward suggested that the trees for a screen or shelter be
planted far enough off from the fruit trees to allow for ample
circulation, otherwise the fruit, pears especially, would be rusty.
3
 34

Mr. Van Deventer named White Pine as a good tree for this
purpose .
Mr. Thompson suggested alternating the Pine and Spruce, and
cutting back the former.
The Secretary read the following telegram :

READING, Pa., Jan. 16, 1879 .

New Jersey Horticultural Society :
Your older sister of kindred spirits accepted thankfully your
greeting, and returns her compliments.
PENN. FRUIT GROWERS' SOCIETY.

The Grape Phylloxera was inquired about, and Mr. Beebe, who
had been studying the subject, read the following:
66
Phylloxera Vastatrix- The grape-vine root gall louse is said by
Prof. Riley, the entomologist, to be identical with the grape-vine
leaf gall louse. The former lives under ground on the roots, upon
which it forms knotty swellings or galls, the latter upon the leaves
of the vine. The female, after fixing herself upon the upper side
of the leaf, by continued punctures causes a gall to swell on the
under side of the leaf, while the upper side gradually becomes
downy or hairy, and partially closed, forming a little bag or sack
on the under side. In this gall or sack the female lives and
deposits fifty to some hundreds of small yellow eggs ; some
writers say five hundred, but Prof. Walsh thinks two hundred to
be the average.
" Some of these insects acquire wings, while others remain with-
out them , and are found living on the roots of the vine in all
stages of growth. These young lice live by constantly sucking
the sap, and form the swellings produced on the roots. The
winged lice begin to emerge from the ground as early as July.
The female of the winged louse has, according to Prof. Riley,
only two or three large eggs in her body, and her whole duty is
to fly off to some grape-vine leaf or bud and deposit them to pro-
duce other leaf gall mothers, and lay numberless eggs. These
insects attack both leaves and roots in the summer at the same
time, but the roots appear the least infested when the leaf galls
are abundant, and may be abundant on the roots while none are
seen on the leaf. These insects, so destructive in Europe, are
making themselves known in this country. In 1873 M. Planchon ,
a French scientist, was sent to this country to study the history
and habits of this insect, and , in his report to the Minister of
Agriculture of France, declared the insects in both countries
identical, but that the native American vines are found to resist to
 35

a greater degree the attacks of this destructive enemy, while

some vines entirely escaped its ravages ; and recommended his
countrymen to graft their vines upon native American stocks. He
also found here another insect, a natural enemy to the Phylloxera,
which he believed might be employed to arrest its ruinous march.
I am satisfied that this enemy is very little known by our grape-
growers, and while there is no cause for immediate alarm the
facts are that a few cases exist in our midst, and as wise men we
should be on the lookout and squelch the enemy on its first
""
appearance.
Some discussion followed , during which Prof. Cook alluded to
his attendance at the International Agricultural Congress in Paris
last year, at which he heard the French say they had lost millions
of dollars in their vineyards by the Phylloxera, which they
accused America of sending there ; but it is generally conceded
now that America is indebted to France for it and France is
indebted to us for discovering it, and affording their commission a
field for the observation and study of its habits.
Salt, lime, potash, wood- ashes and carbolic acid was suggested
as possible remedies.
The Secretary reminded them that Mr. Barnett, of Connecticut,
claimed that water would drown them, but it must be understood
that the vines should not be suffered to stand with wet feet for
any length of time or the remedy may be as bad as the disease.
The question , " What can be done to stop the wholesale
destruction of the Locust tree by the borer ?" elicited only the
following from Prof. Smock :
The Locust tree is one of our most valuable trees for planting,
either singly or in groves. It has the following advantages :
1st. It is a graceful and picturesque tree ; its foliage is a pleas-
ing shade of green , and open to the sunlight. Hence its adapta-
tion to lawns and roadsides as ornamental and yet not too dense a
shade.
2d. It admits of pasturage when planted in groves. The cal-
careous nature of the ashes of its leaves is favorable to the sward.
Its leaf-mould is superior to that of any other of our trees. This
character, together with its open foliage, permit and favor the
growth of grass beneath its shade.
3d. The long and numberless roots and fibrous rootlets make
it valuable for planting to hold earth and prevent its washing.
Hence its usefulness on steep slopes and on the waste areas along
our ravines.
4th. It is a rapid grower, and in this growth the change of
sap- wood to heart-wood is rapid .
 36

5th . The later growth is slow and the tree is short-lived.

Hence its value for quick results. In ten years it will attain the
height of twenty to thirty feet, and a trunk diameter of ten
inches, thus making timber fit for fence-stakes, posts and railroad 1
ties.
6th. Its wood is compact, close and dense, and its durability is
well known. It is unsurpassed in hardness and elasticity.
7th. From the above it follows that it is a profitable tree .
Examples show this.
The borer Clytus robinia has , however, greatly retarded the
planting of this valuable tree, and discouraged the extension of
its domain as a timber tree. This borer burrows in the bark and
sap-wood, generally circling around the trunks of large trees or
perforating the trunk of smaller and younger trees.
The ravages of this tree-borer have not been so wide-spread as
may be supposed. They have not seriously damaged the groves
and forests on Long Island , and in some of the Western States
they are not so great as in former years, Illinois , for instance. It
is claimed that in plantations or groves there is less injury by the
borer than in single trees, and further that trees on the outskirts
of such groves are more subject to attack than those in the same.
My own personal observations are that the tree, being a rapid
grower, will for a time in groves survive these attacks. As soon
as the trees have attained a size fit to cut remove them, and so
make way for a second growth. In this way more can be realized
from an acre than in allowing them to attain greater age. For
example : two cuttings in forty years will do better than one,
producing 50 per cent. more wood.
I incline to the opinion that there are periods, not, perhaps ,
regular, but periods of such insect tribes ; otherwise epochs, as
in geology. We are leaving one now.

On the Forestry question , Mr. Hance, who was absent, sent the
following : " I was requested to say something at the meeting in
reference to the subject on the programme, ' Is New Jersey
giving sufficient encouragement to Forestry ?" "
66
Some of the Western States, that are much nearer the lumber
centres than we are, offer very liberal inducements to forest or
shade tree planters. It may be argued that New Jersey, being
one of the older States, has no room for more trees.
" There are many hillsides that are now washing down and
destroying navigation , which are not profitable for tilling, that
could be utilized, and many other places would be found if the
matter only received due consideration , and last, though not least,
if the roadsides were lined they would make a great forest in the
 37

aggregate. The matter of lumber is only a small proportion of

the advantage to be gained, the influence of the proper amount of
trees on health , and the moisture of the soil to produce crops, can
scarcely be estimated until we find it too late.
" As a beginning to encourage Forestry, and all that relates to
tree culture generally, cannot something be done to induce the
State to publish our proceedings ? Our usefulness as a Society is
seriously impeded from lack of revenue.
" Our faithful Recording Secretary should by all means be
remunerated, but how are we to do it ? I hope this latter clause
will claim the serious consideration of the Society.
" Trusting that you may have an interesting meeting, I remain,
Yours, very respectfully,
" B. B. HANCE ,
66
Corresponding Secretary."

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON TROPICAL FRUITS

AND PRODUCTS.

THE COMMITTEE ON TROPICAL FRUITS AND PRODUCTS reported as

follows :

We have examined specimens of fruits, jellies, &c. , contributed

by Mr. H. S. Williams, of Rock Ledge, Indian River, Florida.
The oranges were of good size, smooth, beautiful color, and
remarkably sweet, much superior to specimens from Mandarin,
on the St. Johns River, and better than the fruit known in our
market as Florida oranges.
The French lemons were of large size and good color . A
variety of sweet lemons and a citron fruit are a curiosity, and
attract much attention. The limes are of good size, first- rate
color and uniform in appearance.
The dried citron compares very favorably with the commercial
article, being sweeter, more tender, and of superior flavor.
Specimens of guavas canned are in good condition , and the
guava jelly and marmalade, of ' domestic manufacture, were
deemed especially worthy of commendation , as they were of
delicious flavor and fine, clear color. The samples shown would
successfully compete with the imported article on account of its
superior flavor and color, and is put up in jelly.tumblers of one-
third pint each .
Orange marmalade was also exhibited , and is of good appear-
ance and flavor.
 38

The whole exhibition of Mr. Williams' was attractive and

interesting to the Committee.
JOHN T. HILL,
MRS. J. C. SMOCK,
MISS MARY A. CAMPBELL,
Committee.

Report accepted and Committee discharged with thanks .

Mr. Goldsmith moved the Society tender a vote of thanks to

Mr. Williams, of Florida , for his varied and exceedingly interest-
ing exhibition. Adopted unanimously.

The subject of exhibitions was introduced, and in order to get

the views of members Mr. Goldsmith moved that the Society
hold a Strawberry Exhibition next June in the city of Newark .
He had heard several express a desire for such an exhibition
under the auspicies of this Society, and was inclined to regard
the project favorably. A hall suitable for the purpose had been
offered on condition that the Society bear the expense of fitting
it up and cleaning it.
Messrs. Van Deventer, Thompson , McLaury and the Secretary
discussed the subject in its various aspects, and the matter of this
and any other exhibition for the current year was referred to the
Executive Committee with power to act.
On motion of Mr. Van Deventer, the Society tendered a vote
of thanks to the Recording Secretary for his labors in connection
with the Society for the past year.
The Secretary acknowledged the compliment, and said he had
requested the Nominating Committee to name his successor, but
from some cause, best known to them, they had failed to do so.
He was gratified to learn his humble efforts were appreciated. A
prompt response to his calls on the part of the members would
materially aid in his labors in the future.
Mr. Ward moved that the next annual meeting of the Society
be held in Newark , and tendered the use of a room for the pur-
pose.
Several members advocated moving about as one means of
extending the objects and influence of the Society and accom
plishing more good.
Prof. Cook said he was authorized by the Trustees of the col-
lege to say that this hall was at our service in the future as in the
past, and should be glad to have the Society come to New Bruns-
wick whenever they felt disposed , but as all previous meetings had
 39

been held here he could not object to consider the claims of other
places.
Mr. Ward's motion was unanimously adopted .
The following resolution , offered by Mr. Van Deventer, was
adopted unanimously :

Resolved, That the heartfelt thanks of this Society are due, and are hereby
tendered, to the Trustees of the college for the free use of this hall for our
meetings ; to the contributors of plants and flowers for decorative purposes.
and to the citizens and resident members for their kind offices tendered to
members during the meeting, and their acceptable service on committees.

The Society then adjourned sine die.

E. WILLIAMS ,
Recording Secretary.
 40

CORRESPONDENCE.

FROM M. WHITEHEAD, LECTURER, NATIONAL GRANGE,

PATRONS OF HUSBANDRY.

ON THE CARS IN OHIO, Jan. 11th, 1879.

MR. E. WILLIAMS, Recording Secretary N. J. Horticultural Society :
Riding along on the cars to-day, to reach a point over a hundred miles
distant, and, looking over a number of letters, I find one from you con-
taining notice of annual meeting of our Society at New Brunswick next
week, and your welcome words as an old friend, requesting also that I
should, if possible, send on anything in the Horticultural line that may
have come under my observation during my constant travels among
farmers in my present official position as a member of our great farmers'
organization- the Grange. And as I have been riding along to -day I
have thought to make the attempt, under these rather unfavorable
circumstances, for want of a better opportunity, to jot down a few notes
Horticultural, possessing, perhaps, little that is new or of value, but sent
with the sincere desire to add a mite in helping on the Society that
represents the chosen and dearly loved profession of my life, assuring
you that though absent in person I shall be with you in spirit.
I have been glad to note in my visits among farmers in many States
of our Union that the interest in fruit-growing, floriculture and home
adornment is constantly increasing.
FRUIT AND FEVERS .
One fact I am becoming more and more convinced of is, that plenty of
of all varieties of fruit on a farm and their daily, free and abundant use
is, to a great extent, a prevention of many of the malarial fevers,
agues, & c., that afflict the people of large sections of country. It is
well known that many districts, when first settled up, are for many years
troubled with these fevers. It is also known that as the country grows
older - settled or cleared up-it is said to become more healthy . I
believe the increase of health is largely owing to the fact that the fruits
that were wanting in the early days have a chance to grow and come
into use.
 41

FORESTS .
I have noticed the sad destruction of the forests in all sections of our
land, wasting our birthright of a new and heavily-timbered country for
use of railroads ; for staves, hoop-poles, tanbark ; " deadened " by thousands
.66
of acres so as to get new land" for tobacco and other crops, every
year opening up a greater sweep for cold and destructive winds and the
blighting effects of long continued droughts. I am glad to find that this
subject is attracting the attention of many thoughtful farmers, and our
Society and others cannot do a better work than aid in educating the
great farming class to the importance of conserving our woodlands ere it
is too late, and we invite the fate of other lands and people who have
swept away the timber until their gardens have become a desert.
PEAR BLIGHT.

I have daily evidence of this great hindrance to successful Pear

culture. In these Western States I believe, from observations, that
hardly one in ten of the pear trees planted ever pass the tenth year from
planting. Don't believe I can offer any new theory or remedy for the
evil. I have noticed that when trees are well cultivated, for say four or
five years after planting, and then neglected, a sod allowed to form or
purposely seeded to grass, that they run a chance of escaping longer
than when highly cultivated. I have yet seen nothing to convince me of
these causes for blight than, like the rust in grain crops, it is a bursting
of the sap cells produced under such conditions of growth and atmosphere
as to produce what, in the human family, would be called apoplexy .
Some varieties of trees and plants of all species are more tender in their
structure than others, hence more liable . If caused by insects , as some
claim, why does it in all portions of the country and in different soils
attack some varieties and others seldom, if ever ? On my own farm in
Somerset county, with nearly three thousand pear trees, five to eleven
years planted, I have, so far, after they arrived at bearing age, lost about
two per cent. a year. This past season less than for several years .
GRAPE ROT.
I have found that Grape rot is on the increase in some localities . One
fine vineyard visited in this State the past year had never been affected
until the last two seasons. The opinion is gaining ground with some
 42

growers that it is caused by a minute insect that punctures the fruit soon
after it has formed, the rot spreading from this spot . This theory is
well sustained this year by one grower living near me in the vicinity of
Cincinnati. He procured a lot of the small paper bags used by grocers,
and at an expense for material and labor of about three- quarters of a
cent per bunch, covered 3,500 bunches after the fruit had fairly formed,
and had that many fine clusters free from rot. It is certainly worthy of
further experiment.
APPLES AND VINEGAR .
The Apple crop has been very large this past season over most
portions of the Ohio valley, and while they are now doing better were so
low in price as to bring but little profit. One subject I think fruit-
growers might take action upon with profit to themselves and the welfare
of consumers, and that is, exposing the frauds in vinegar. Thousands of
bushels of apples that now go to waste could be manufactured into pure
and healthful cider vinegar , but with this vile trash sold in all our cities
and towns, under fancy names, as " White Wine Vinegar, " & c., made
from poisonous acids, sour beer (itself adulterated with poisonous sub-
stances), sold by grocers and others because it pays large profits and
used by people because it looks well. I find these vinegar factories in all our
cities, sending out thousands of dollars worth of an article that is
destroying the teeth and general health of the people, and every barrel
of it is crowding out of market a barrel of pure cider vinegar, such as
could be made from our surplus apples in the years of large crops. What
can be done to educate consumers on this point, or by law to protect them
from imposition ?
Speaking of Apples, I might say that I find the Rome Beauty to be
the most profitable apple for market all along the Ohio river in Kentucky,
Ohio and West Virginia. Large orchards contain nothing else, and tens
of thousands of barrels are shipped from some counties. The original
tree still stands in Lawrence county, Ohio. It is found that the fruit of
this and other varieties is better when grown on hill land than when
grown on level or bottom land, and dealers and shippers always pay a
higher price for the " hill fruit."
I find the complaint almost universal that the Fallawater or Tulpehocken
apple trees die when from ten to fifteen years old, all apparently from
 43

the same cause, the bark at the instep, or where the tree goes into the
ground being found dead, somewhat like pear blight. In its native soil
(Eastern Pennsylvania) it is now generally considered short-lived, and,
as before said, almost universally in other States also . It is too good
an apple of its kind, and hopes are entertained by some growers, who
are experimenting, that by top grafting it into other trees it will escape
a trouble that seems to be confined to a part of the tree near the roots.
PEACHES.

I find that growers of peaches do not think much of the several

varieties of extra early peaches that have been so highly praised for
several years past. Like the Hales' Early, rot is the trouble. Speaking
of peaches, they bid fair to be scarce indeed in this Western land
next summer ; during the past week the thermometer has been down to
18 and 20 degrees below zero, and not only are the buds all killed , but
many fear the trees are permanently injured.
KITTATINNY.

I have found that the Kittatinny is by all odds the favorite Blackberry ,
standing more cold than any other ; its only fault being the red rust.
I saw one very fine patch of about two acres this past summer in
Indiana that could not be finer. It was heavily mulched with fresh
leaves and straw. The grower said he had for several years on the
very first appearance of the rust dug out the affected plant and destroyed
it, and so far with fair success.
TREE AGENTS.
I cannot begin to tell the injury that has been done the cause of
horticulture, and the thousands of dollars that are worse than stolen
from the pockets of those who would like to surround their homes with
fruits and flowers, by the traveling humbugs called tree agents. Even if
some of them do start out with honest intentions, I believe that in their
desire to make sales that they nearly all fix up varieties and stories
to suit their customers. The latest humbug-and I even see that they are
advertised in some agricultural papers -are the " Russian Apples, " some
paying as high as 50 cents and $ 1 each for these " wonderful insect and
disease proof trees that will never freeze ' or die under any circum-
stances." Let our Society encourage farmers to buy of good, reliable
 44

home nurserymen , or else in Grange and farmers ' clubs combine their
orders and send off to some firm that has a reputation to make or lose.
Well, I must close, did not expect to write so much, but if there is
anything herein contained that you think will be of any value, even if
written while " riding on the rail, " you are welcome to use it. And
with kind regards to all old friends, and a hope for the continued success
and prosperity of the New Jersey State Horticultural Society in its
field of usefulness -amid fruits and flowers, and whose achievements
" Leave no sting in the heart of memory,
No stain on the wing of Time. "

I remain , yours as ever,

MORTIMER WHITEHEAD .
 HORTICULTURE IN FLORIDA .

BY H. S. WILLIAMS, ROCK LEDGE, INDIAN RIVER, FLORIDA.

But little more than a decade of years have passed away since Orange
growing assumed sufficient importance to induce imigration to engage in
its culture exclusively, as a source of revenue . In fact, ten years ago
one could count on the finger tips of his hand all the bearing groves in
the State that had a reputation beyond the limits of their own immediate
neighborhood . Although every farm house in the orange- producing belt
had a few trees growing in odd places, and producing enough fruit,
perhaps, for home consumption , yet Hart's grove on the St. Johns, and
Dummitt's at the head of the Indian River, with perhaps one or two
others, exported nearly all the oranges that found a market beyond the
limits of the State.
With the complete change of our labor system came a revolution in
the pursuits and occupations of our citizens. The loss, repeated year
after year, in Cotton culture, under free labor, compelled the planter to
change his tactics. Then the wonderful adaptability of our soil and
climate for the growth of the Citrus family of fruits became known, and
for the past ten years a steady stream of immigration has flowed into
our State, while the orange groves have increased to a marvelous number.
The great trouble with the average American citizen, who decides to
migrate, is in the fact that he thinks the locality where he was raised
possesses all the intelligence of the country, while the spot he selects for
his new home, whether it be on the bleak plains of Nebraska, in the
fertile valleys of Texas or in our own flowery State, is settled by a set
of ignorant boors who know nothing, while it is his special mission to
enlighten them . He fails to adopt that wisest of old maxims, " When
you are in Rome you must do as the Romans do," which fact accounts.
for a large per centage of the failures in a new line of industry and in a
 46

new country. It is this fact that explains the cause of so many failures
in orange culture. Men move here full of their own conceit, and over-
sanguine of their own success, who clear, and plant, and scorn to take
advice, then fail and leave with a curse to the country, when, in reality,
they alone are at fault. They fail to realize what should be patent to
the most careless observer of Nature and Nature's laws- that a different
climate, a different soil, and a different pursuit requires a different system .
In a word, the new settler on the peculiar soil of Florida should unlearn
everything and commence anew.
In choice of location one cannot be too particular. To imagine that
all Florida is a good orange-producing region is a mistake. Number one
orange lands are as one to one thousand. We selected Indian River
after an extended tour of observation, and for several reasons : Its
adaptability for the whole of the Citrus family of fruits, its freedom from
injurious colds, its remarkable healthfulness , the advantages of living on
salt water, and many others. Our location is in the centre of Rock
Ledge hummock, on the west bank of Indian River, near the 28 ° of
latitude. Rock Lodge hummock comprises a body of high, rich land ,
three miles long by nearly half a mile deep, and is classed as No. 1
orange land in every respect, as the bearing groves within its limits
amply testify.
Here let us say one thing-not because we have lands for sale, but
because it is a fact, and an important one to the new settlèr- better pay
an apparent big price for a few acres of first- class land at the start than
have a quarter section of poor land given to you. In one case, if you
have the energy and patience to carry you through, your venture is a
success ; in the other, a most lamentable failure.

We will now proceed to present briefly to those who may take sufficient
interest in the subject the modus operandi of making a successful grove.
Buy your land- fifteen acres is enough- commence clearing by cutting
down all the underbrush and piling it in heaps, and as soon as dry
enough burn it. As our soil is all light burning injures it, consequently
our object is to burn it as little as possible. After the brush is out of
the way grub the land pretty thoroughly . Then mark off your rows
twenty- five or thirty feet apart, and place a small stake at each spot
where a tree is to be set. The next thing to be done is to cut all the
 47

large trees , particularly hickory. The live- oaks had better be topped.
What is known as forest culture is now generally adopted, that is, to
leave enough palmettos to partially shade the ground . Set the trees at
any time when ready, but we prefer January and February, as the copious
rains that generally last until May will give them a good start and help
them to pass through the ordeal of a long, dry summer in safety.
Our advice would be for the new comer to set one hundred
sour stumps, from one-and-a-half to two inches in diameter, to be
budded as soon as in proper condition . Get good, healthy
trees. dig them up and set them carefully. The best manner to
set the trees can only be learned by close observations and proper
instructions from your more experienced neighbors . These hundred
trees are for quick returns in the way of fruit. For the balance of your
grove set the best and most carefully selected nursery stock- sour
seedlings budded from the choicest bearing trees. The number of trees
set at the start depends, of course, on the means at command. If you
have to depend on your own efforts one hundred and fifty trees are
enough.
During the summer plow and break up the land thoroughly. A crop
of pumpkins, peas, & c., can be grown advantageously among the trees
during the season . In three years, if the sour stumps do well, they
will bloom, and in four years from the setting you can gather a little
fruit. In one grove we have several trees of this age that have averaged
fifty oranges to the tree.
LEMONS, LIMES and CITRONS do equally as well with us, and will, no
doubt, prove profitable crops in the near future.
BANANAS do well, but they require low, black hummock land, very rich
and rather moist. The bulbs are set 8 by 12 feet, and should be
amply protected from the high winds by a heavy margin of trees.
Transportation to market is the great drawback to this branch of industry.
When allowed to fully ripen on the stalk they are far superior to those
found in northern markets, which are cut in a green state.
GUAVAS grow to perfection and bear enormous crops. The young
plants are taken from the seed - bed in the early spring, and set twelve
feet apart in the grove. They commence bearing when two years old,
and improve as they increase in size and age until they average a crop of
 48

three or four bushels. The fruit is of two varieties, sweet and sour.
The sweet are used for table and for canning, the sour for jellies and
marmalade. The jelly, if properly manipulated, is superior to the
imported article, both in looks and taste, and only requires to be intro-
duced and well- known to create a large demand . Like all new things, a
market has to be created for it. At first but few persons like the fruit,
but when the taste is once acquired it is classed superior to all others.
PINE APPLES in suitable locations do well, and promises to be one of
our most profitable sources of employment. The main crop ripens in
July and August, but a few ripen at all seasons of the year. At this
writing (January 5th) a few are ripening in the larger patches. On
Merritt's Island the settlers in particular have gone into their culture on a
large scale, and during another season thousands of young plants will
be set.

We now have growing in our grounds, in addition to the fruits already

noted, the tamarind, date, sugar-apple, Japan plum, sappadillo, mango
apple, and Carica papaya or West India pawpaw. We regret that we
cannot send a specimen of the latter to place on exhibition, as it is quite
a curiosity in the fruit line.
CANE, in the list of field crops, is the most profitable . Like corn and

bananas, it requires low, black hummock to grow to perfection . When

the season is favorable $300 per acre has been realized . Corn can never
be made a profitable crop outside of the roasting ear patch.
CASAVA is a crop that has never been valued at its real worth . The
root is grated, and, on being washed, the starch settles to the bottom ,
while the pulp is made into pies and puddings, or dried, and ground into
a flour for cakes. Our housekeepers consider the starch equal to any in
the market. It does best on moderately poor soil, and produces
enormously. The tubers fed to hogs and chickens fatten them in a very
brief space of time.
GARDEN VEGETABLES , to be successful, depends in a great measure on
the seasons. We have had English peas, snap and butter beans,

tomatoes, &c. , all through the winter months. And at this writing we
have corn in silk. With irrigation we would have no lack of vegetables
the year round, barring a killing frost that sometimes visits us . Our
 49

transportation is as yet too slow and expensive to make gardening for

profit an object.
INDIAN RIVER, the finest body of water we have ever seen, is well-
supplied with fish and oysters, which form no inconsiderable factor in our
items of household economy . Our climate is all that could be desired,
and is as near perfection, perhaps, as any in the world. During the
month of December just past we had clear skies, while our thermometer
ranged from 44° up to 76 ° . On New Year's evening, while the members
of the New Jersey Horticultural Society were seated around their blaz-
ing fires, our neighbors were enjoying themselves by sailing on the broad
bosom of our river, and the only complaint made, if any, was that it was
almost too warm for comfort .
Jan. 5th, 1879.

51

4
A FEW THOUGHTS ON SOME OF THE .

QUESTIONS DISCUSSED .

BY DR. J. A. WARDER, CINCINNATI , OHIO.

My good friends of the NOVA CESAREA :

The return of this season brings pleasant recollections of your winter
meetings in the cause of Horticulture and its attendant and allied topics.
So also does the missal of your good Secretary, the announcement and
programme of your approaching meeting, in which appear at least four
questions for discussion that bear directly upon the subject presented and
so graciously received by you last winter, as the salutation from your
absent friend, who would now as then have been happy to join in your
pleasant and profitable discussions ; but that, now as then, he can only
meet you on paper, and this will be done only on those points that espec.
ially interest your correspondent.
1st. Is New Jersey giving sufficient encouragement (attention)? to
Forestry ? This you should be more competent to answer than a
stranger, especially one who has never traversed more than a very small
portion of the State. His views were freely expressed , perhaps too
freely, in a former communication . From this limited knowledge, and
upon general principles, he is disposed to take the negative on this ques-
tion, but feels gratified that, at least, and at last. you have determined to
make a thorough self- examination ; and he earnestly entreats you to see
that it be thorough. He has great hopes for the result and waits impa-
tiently to hear that you have decided in the negative, and that you will
at once take the initiative steps in this great reform. That you will, even
in New Jersey, bestow much more attention and encouragement to this
great branch of Agriculture, and that, eventually, thousands of acres of
lands now unprofitably occupied and almost waste will be covered with
thriving woods, that will eventually bring the rich harvests, which, as was
shown in the essay presented last year, they are capable of producing.
 51

Aye ! plant trees ? "They'll be growing the whiles you're sleeping,

Jack. "
2d. Your experience as to the durability of Catalpa wood will be

gladly received, and no doubt if it can be collected it will tally with the
mass of testimony we have already collected in this part of the world.
Let us have it, for we desire to compare your Catalpa in all points with
our own, which is perdurable. We have specimens, perfectly sound, that
have lain on the ground and more or less in the water for one hundred
years ; sound fence posts , planted in the early years of this century, and
•
many that have remained in the service forty, thirty, twenty years and
still good for as much longer. We have cross- ties, daily traversed by
burden trains ever since they were laid in the track eleven years ago,
while the oak ties beside them have twice been replaced and that in a
swampy region, almost on the level of the Mississippi river, and often
overflowed. We have dead trees, still standing, in the water of lagoons
that were sunken by the earthquake of 1811 , near New Madrid, Missouri .
Dead, to be sure, but standing and alone, for all other trees killed by the
same submergence have long since crumbled with decay and disappeared .
Now you may not have had the same experience -give us what you
have.

By the by, we have our own particular Catalpa, a different tree from
the one we have received from the East, and which you probably have in
cultivation- which is a native of the South, from Georgia- and which has
been traced from Augusta, Ga., northward and then westward, until it
has passed the Mississippi.
Ours is Western, and we think, yes, we know, that it is a superior
plant, whether for ornamental purposes or for the production of timber.
The growth is rapid, it is upright, and not low- branched like the
Georgia kind. From its more beautiful and larger and more showy
flowers, expanding, too, a fortnight sooner, this kind has been christened
already in 1853, the Speciosa variety. You may have it, if not you
should at once endeavor to possess it.
3d. The Locust Borer is a terrible bore- what can be done ? Allow an
observer of trees to suggest that in the native forests this tree is rarely
social but usually solitary or in small groups, but always surrounded by
other trees, making a dense shade. This is true here-aways, though in
 52

odd fields, and on some of the Alleghany slopes in Pennsylvania where

the trees are all of small size, many are often associated together that
appear to have escaped the borer as well as the original growth in the
thick forests -scattered trees are destroyed .
Further, the beetle which lays the eggs that produce the grubs which
so terribly bore the locusts is a rare gay fellow- a true lucicola, and
apparently never so happy as when sporting in the bright September
sunshine, and seeming even to prefer the southern sides of the trees, where
he, theClytus pictus, may to the best advantage display the brilliant sheen of
his gay coat of mail, done in gold and green. Those are the colors under
which this destructive fellow sails. He is a verderer ( forester), to be
sure, and a richly gilded one at that, but a rascal in the eyes of those who
look for profit to the Locust Groves.
Now put this and that into your vest-pocket, or rather, into your
thinking-box, and mayhap something may be eliminated from your
brains to put into practice.
Query : Will it be possible to shade him out by planting some
vigorous and not too heavy vine, such as the polyganum durnitorum ?
Let this go for what it is worth. Certainly the rascal don't work in the
shade, he's too proud of his clothes for that- make what you may of the
facts.
But alack and alas ! we have another trouble that. is playing hob with
our locust trees- a mining larvæ so minute as to amuse himself his whole
feeding life-time in the restricted limits between the two faces of the light
leaflets of this useful tree, consuming all the chlorophyl tissue and causing
whole groves to turn brown as though scorched . Name nor family given,
to the writer at least, though in habits a very Tramp. Give him a wide
berth. If you have his name send me his card . If you don't know him,
64
you need not desire his acquaintance, for surely none know him for to
love him, none name him for to praise." (After the poet Drake. )
4th. Which are the best evergreens for orchard evergreens ? Why
any or all, if you especially need them in your snug little corner of the
foot- stool- except perchance on the coast- but, forsooth, have you, or
will you ever have, any orchards in that region ? Tell me for the sake of
enlightenment- don't the cedar swamps protect you ?
But seriously, we who do have great need of wind-breaks especially in
 53

the prairies where there is often not a hill nor a bush for hundreds of
miles to intercept the "Zephyrs" that slide a - down the long slope from the
base of the Rockies, to the bed of the Missouri and Mississippi, we do this.
When we have first erected a barrier of the "' cheap-trees, " invaluable
nevertheless, such as the cottonwoods, willows and box- elders, in the way
of a windbreak, but, mark me ! not one day before, we plant one or more
rows of any thrifty evergreen, preferring in, most cases the Norway
Spruce, but anything that will grow, and the Red Cedar is the tree that
has naturally bridged across the open chasm between the eastern and the
western woodlands. Soon, very soon, we may hope to see windbreaks of
that most lovely and truly hardy evergreen the Menzies Spruce, but be
sure to get the Colorado stock, and not those grown from Pacific seeds.
This has been called the Abies Menziesii Parryana, in some catalogues.
It is recommended, upon high authority, (perhaps Prof. C. G. Sargent ?) for
forest-planting even in Northern Europe. There are already in Illinois
many thousands, perhaps a million or more of the young plants ready to
be schooled for transportation and planting . When you want them you
shall be advised where, or you may consult the advertisements , but this
paper does not belong to that category, and the gentlemen who hold the
stock would never forgive me were it to be made one.
And now by way of return to the writer, please to send him a few pods
of your Catalpa trees for study. They are needed in the preparation of a
memoir on the tree.
 ROOT CULTURE ; ITS VALUE AND

, PROFIT.

BY HENRY STEWART, HACKENSACK, N. J.

Heretofore it has been considered that our corn crop is of such great
and general value that it relieves us from the necessity for growing roots ;
that it occupies the place in America that the root crop does in Europe.
This is a great mistake. We need roots as well as corn. In fact roots
are really the complement of corn , aud the one crop needs the other to
become of the most value to us. Corn is a highly carbonaceous food and
when fed alone is not healthful ; it is not a complete food and its disas
trous effect upon the health of domestic animals which are confined to it
as a staple diet, is exemplified in the enormous losses of swine by the
fatal disease well but incorrectly known as hog cholera.
A healthful food should combine nitrogenous and carbonaceous elements
together in the ratio of 1 of the former to 5 of the latter. In corn there
are 7 of the latter to 1 of the former ; in turnips there are 4 of
the latter to one of the former ; in kohl-rabi, which should be
classed practically among the root crops, there are but 3 of the former to
1 of the latter ; in sugar and other beets, the proportion is the other way,
but the carbonaceous elements exist largely in the form of sugar which is
free from the injurious effects of an excess of starch ; so that chemically,
corn and roots together form a perfect food. But aside from the chemical
qualities of roots, their succulence and the bulkiness of their cellular
structure exert a favorable effect upon the digestive organs of animals
fed upon them, and tend greatly to lessen any injurious influence which
might be exerted, even in the case of the more highly carbonaceous roots..
Without going further into this part of the subject, permit me to state as
a scientific fact, as well as a general practical experience, that roots are
indispensable ; that corn cannot usurp the place which they are called
 55

upon to fill ; and that without roots we cannot hope to secure the full
advantages to be derived from the use of corn ; just as without corn we
should fail to secure all the benefits to be gathered from roots. There-
fore corn and roots should go together, and one can never become a
substitute for the other,
The division of my subject, as it has been presented to me for considera-
tion, is reversed, and is not in natural order ; and I therefore beg your
permission to refer first to the value and the profit of root culture, and
then to the proper methods for success in it.
Many years ago, before America became noted for the production of
beef, England was the only country in the world where this meat could be
found in perfection . " The roast beef of old England "" was extolled in
poetry and in prose ; and a quarter of a century ago when the writer first
made its acquaintance, both as an agricultural production and as an article
of food, it must be confessed that it greatly surpassed the best that we could
then produce . The beef of that day differed from that of the present
time in several important points , it was more mature in growth and
better in flavor and substance ; and the fat and lean of the meat were
intimately mixed, rather than laid on in separate layers or patches. The
reason for these differences is that roots were then the principal food of
both growing and fattening cattle, and that now " corn and cake, " by
which are meant maize and the oil cakes, cotton- seed , linseed, rape-seed ,
palm -nut, and other oleaginous substances, the refuse of oil mills, are
used in place of these to a great extent.
By the use of these stimulating oily foods in place of the more healthful
and nutritious turnips and other roots, the English breeders have to a
large extent spoiled their market for beef ; they have succeeded in pro-
ducing a race of cattle which grow rapidly and become ready although
far from fit for market at 2 years old, making what they call " baby beef; "
more fit for the tallow vats of the candle makers or the oleomargarine
dairymen, than for domestic consumption . This is the prize beef- a
marvel of fatness, but comparatively useless as flesh -which actually gives
place to our American production which is grown and matured upon grass
and corn . Give us roots wherewith to feed our cattle, and our beef
would be second to none, not even to the best of the root- fed beeves of
England. Unfortunately some of our breeders have been led to follow
 56

the vicious examples of some of the very wealthy English breeders and
to abandon their former style of breeding and feeding , in the hope of
securing high prices for their stock. They have practiced high feeding
on corn and oil cakes, and have been able to show, in many cases,
some monstrous moving heaps of fat useless either for breeding or for
beef. But this effort to imitate the English breeders has led to severe
disaster, and hundreds of wealthy Kentuckians have been ruined in the
attempt. At the present time, however, a healthier state of things exists
here ; and a vast prospect has opened for a profitable business in rearing
cattle and producing meat for export as well as for home consumption.
I am confident that we can only fully fill this great opening by intro-
ducing the general culture of roots for the purpose of feeding the cattle
and sheep, which shall furnish the meat required . not only by our own
growing population, but by needy foreign nations.
A fair crop of roots amounts to 1,200 bushels per acre ; a fair allow-
ance of roots for a mature beef animal is a bushel and a half per day ; so
that one acre of roots can subsist one animal for 800 days. A parallel
crop of corn would be 75 bushels per acre, and one peck of corn would
be consumed by a mature animal with no better results than with a bushel
and a half of roots. An acre of corn would therefore subsist one animal
300 days . Of course with these rations a corresponding one of straw or
other fodder is to be given. The fodder from the corn and the leaves from
the roots would fairly balance each other. This estimate is wholly
favorable to the corn. The difference in effective value is obvious . But
the result reaches farther than the mere money value of this difference.
The product of the land is increased in the ratio of 8 to 3 .
The number of animals reared and fed can be increased in proportion ,
so that where three were formerly kept with corn as a staple food. eight
may be kept with roots as the food. I will go further, and say that by
combining the two crops, that is, substituting roots for half ofthe usual
corn crop, an equal addition to the stock can be maintained ; and this by
reason of the increased value brought out of the corn by the addition of
the roots to the feed. Just as we all know that in fertilizing, by the use
of nitrogen or potash, we can gain results additional to those of the
fertilizers, because they bring into profitable action hitherto dormant
elements of plant food ; so in feeding animals, the use of roots will
 57

increase the effectiveness of the more concentrated corn by aiding greatly

in its more perfect digestion and assimilation . The effects of this result
are far-reaching and invaluable. We all know the benefit we should
derive could we suddenly increase the available supply of manure in the
ratio of 8 to 3. " That goes without saying. " With that, the productive
value of our land would increase in proportion ; with this, the actual
value would also increase and a farm or market garden now worth $ 3,000
would advance practically in value to $ 8,000 . This result, too, would be
gained without any increased labor or expenditure, for an acre of roots
can be grown as easily as an acre of corn, and at a very trifling additional
expense for seed alone .
The after effect of the cultivation of roots upon the condition of the
soil is very beneficial . I would not suggest that roots be substituted for
corn. The tenor of these remarks I hope will be understood as advoca-
ting the growth and use of roots with corn and not instead of it . The
modes of culture common with us would then scarcely be changed.
It would be necessary only to add one element to our present rotation,
and follow corn with roots instead of oats, thus bringing in one more
cultivated crop, by which the land should be cleaned and freed from
weeds ; and where now we have but one such crop in five or six years ,
we should have two. This advantage is obvious. If with increased
fertility we should be able to gain greater freedom from weeds by the
introduction into our system of regular root crops, the innovation would
certainly be worth much pains to accomplish.
The method of culture for root crops are very simple and can be
applied upon all sorts of soils and in all localities in the United States and
Canada. The only requisites are a rich soil, deeply mellowed ; good seed ;
early planting, and clean culture. But while stating this as a general fact
it may be well to give some directions for securing these requisites. It
it is well known that to be virtuous is to be happy, but yet we pay enor-
mous sums of money to religious teachers from whom we may learn how
we may be virtuous. So it is to be hoped that this paper may fall under
the notice of many who do not know how to make their soil rich ; how to
mellow it deeply ; where to procure good seed, and how to attain the
highest cleanliness of culture ; otherwise it were a waste of time to write
or read it, for roots would now be grown wherever there could be found a
 58

place for them, no one doubting the value and importance of the culture.
It is not sufficient to simply furnish manure for the enrichment of a soil
and the production of a crop. The manure must be of an available kind
and such as will supply the suitable plant food required. For a root crop
this can only be furnished by thoroughly well decomposed stable manure
and some concentrated fertilizer. The latter is indispensable. Roots are
mineral feeders chiefly, and phosphoric acid is their choice nutriment ;
but as the increased growth induced by the action of phosphoric acid calls
for additional nitrogen, and both of these together call for more potash, it
is necessary that the crop be furnished with manure and fertilizer rich in
all these elements ; unless it has been found by previous experiment that .
the soil is abundantly rich in available potash, which would be the most
likely element of the three to be present in quantity at least in any part
of New Jersey, for the geological character of our soils is such as would
class them as potash soils. But I would be safe, and would use a fertili-
zer containing potash, because at any rate it would not be lost, as it
remains in the soil and is not fleeting as the nitrogen is. So that to come
to details there should be a fair supply of well decomposd barn-yard
manure, say 10 to 15 loads per acre, and 300 pounds at least of a mixture
of prepared bone phosphate, dried blood and potash salts. These are
compounded in a most available form in the Mapes ' turnip or beet fertili-
zer, which I have used with great success both for mangels and turnips,
and which contains 7 per cent. of ammonia, 5 per cent. of phosphoric acid
and 7 per cent. of potash. The method of using manure which I prefer is
in the drill.
I plow out a double furrow as deeply as possible ; ten inches is
not too deep if the soil is good to that depth -- but I would not go below
the good surface soil ; in this furrow the manure is dropped from a wagon
which is driven quickly along the rows. The manure is spread in the
rows by a boy who follows the wagon . When the drill is manured, it is
closed by throwing the soil back again with the plow. The ridges thus
formed are leveled with a flexible harrow, and there is no better imple-
ment than the chain harrow, which is made of large square links attached
together at the corners by rings. Just before leveling-and in some cases
it is best done when the drill is only half closed- the artificial fertilizer is
sown and lightly covered with soil . The bed is then ready for the seed .
The proper mellowing of the soil is procured partly by this preparing of
 59

the drill, and partly by a previous thorough plowing and harrowing, which
should have been done in the previous fall upon all heavy soils, but may
be done early in the spring upon light soils .
The seed should be fresh, not over two years old, and I give the prefer-
ence most decidedly to seed that has been imported from England . This
is on account of the longer season for the growth and maturity of the seed
in that country, and also on account of the greater care used by the seed
growers there in improving varieties. Four pounds per acre should be
used of turnips, and eight of beets ; thick planting gives a good stand,
which can be more easily thinned out than a thin stand can be filled up. It
is unfortunate that no American root grower, with the exception of Hon.
Henry Lane of Vermont, has given any attention to the improvement of
seed ; and that his Improved Imperial sugar beet is the only variety that
can be claimed as American .
The proper season for planting mangels and sugar beets is May or
early in June ; the earlier the better after corn is in the grouud. Ruta-
bagas should be sown in June and turnips from July to August. Late
sowing tends to light crops because of the insufficient time given to
mature a full sized bulb . A longer season , with less forcing by manure,
gives a more solid root than rapid growth. A small solid nutritious root
is preferable to an overgrown pithy and watery one. It is not desirable
to aim at any larger product than 40 tons of mangels or 30 tons of turnips
per acre ; any excess above this is gained at the cost of economy in use.
The solid matter in a crop of 40 tons of mangels per acre has been found
to amount to precisely the same as that in a crop of 70 tons, of which
some of the roots have weighed more than 40 pounds each. The planting
of the seed is an important point. It should not be more than one inch in
depth and half an inch is better. * One of the hand seed sowers is excel-
lent for this purpose and can be run on the top of each drill leaving the
seed at the precise depth required.
Clean culture consists in the proper singling of the plants (for a plant
where it is not wanted is a weed) in the removal of weeds, and in the

*Many persons mistake about beet seeds. The rough capsules which contain the
seeds are mistaken for the seed itself. The seed is smaller than turnip seed, and if
planted over one inch deep many will not grow. Each capsule may contain three or
four seeds.
 60

frequent loosening of the soil between the rows. The plants should stand
not less than 14 to 16 inches apart. Where the roots are expected to be
large, this distance should be increased rather than diminished ; but I
would prefer to have smaller roots 12 inches apart, than larger ones more
distant. With rows 3 feet apart and with plants 12 inches apart in the
rows, there will be 14,520 plants to the acre, with roots averaging 6
pounds each--a very desirable size-there would be more than 43 tons
per acre and a crop of that kind could not be surpassed in point of desira-
bility. Last year I had roots 24 pounds in weight and a large portion ofthe
crop weighed from 10 to 14 pounds per root, but there were many vacant
spaces on account of too deep planting of the seed. The crop here
referred to was grown by the aid of 600 pounds per acre of Mapes ' mangel
manure and no other manure or fertilizer whatever.
Weeds must be kept down . This cannot be dispensed with . No other
crop suffers so much in its early stage from weeds as any root crop. An
excellent implement for the destruction of weeds is the Shaxes horse hoe,
an old fashioned but a standard implement . A new implement which I
have recently tried, and which is very effective for this purpose, is a
cultivator known as the Johnson Cultivator, which has a parallel move .
ment of the sides and hoes for adjusting it to wide or narrow rows, and
which cuts, and stirs the ground in a thorough manner. It was tried upon
my farm by the New York Plow Company, who are bringing it out the
present season. I have found a light hand cultivator a very useful tool
in root culture, equally as effective both as to time and work as a horse
cultivator, and dispensing with the labor of the horse and not being at all
hard work for a man. The Clipper Garden Weeder of the New York
Plow Company does this work remarkably well. A root crop cannot be
laid by until the leaves shake hands across the rows. When the ground
is shaded so as to prevent any struggling weed from reaching the light,
then, and not until then, work may cease, so far as regards cultivation of
the crop .
This paper would not be complete or fully useful without a word or two
as to the harvesting and storing of the crop. The gathering of beets is
very easy. They grow largely out of the ground and are attached to it
very loosely by their roots. To cut off the leaves by a quick blow with a
sharp hoe, and to tear the roots loose from the soil with a blunt pointed,
 61

flat bladed hook, is a very simple matter. Mangels and beets have tender
skins , and should be handled carefully. Turnips and ruta- bagas will stand
rougher treatment without injury. The harvesting should be done as
early as may be. Frost injures all the beet tribe and these should
be safely stored before ice appears. Turnips and ruta- bagas may remain
until later, as they will continue to grow until the ground freezes, but it is
best to have them safely under cover before the 10th of November.
The best method of storage is in pits, were they are cool. The pits
are simply heaps, made upon a well drained spot, and covered with a foot
of straw and then with four inches of earth. Ample means of ventilation
should be provided in the tops of the heaps lest the roots should heat . I
decidedly object to heaps made larger than four feet in width and the
same in height ; the length is of no account. A narrow low heap cannot
heat injuriously even if somewhat neglected . Air holes should be left at
every six feet in the pit and the covering should not be fully completed
until hard frosts occur.
I have purposely neglected the deep-growing roots, as carrots and
parsnips, for the reason that the cost of harvesting these is a serious
objection to their use in ordinary culture. While we have the globe and
long mangels, the different sugar beets, the various turnips and ruta-bagas
we are amply supplied with varieties for all purposes and for all soils and
conditions of culture. These roots I would choose in the following order,
viz. the long red mangel, the yellow mangel, Lane's improved sugar
beet, the improved Swedes or ruta-bagas, and the grey stone turnip.
Vilmorius ' improved sugar beet is sweeter than Lane's, but yields a
smaller product. In conclusion I would say most confidently that the
man who patiently succeeds in growing one good crop of roots, will never
afterward fail to continue their culture.
 62

THE FRUIT LIST.

AS ADOPTED BY THE NEW JERSEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AT ITS

ANNUAL MEETING, JAN. 15 , 1879 .

GENERAL LIST APPLES. TRIAL LIST.

Baldwin, Bailey's Sweet,
Red Astrachan, Hubbardston's Nonesuch,
Smith's Cider, Benoni,
Rhode Island Greening, Peck's Pleasant,
Maiden's Blush, Summer Pippin,
Orange Pippin, Fallawater,
Large Yellow Bough, Moore's Sweet,
Gravenstein, Tetofsky ,
Fall Pippin, Nero,
Early Harvest, Dunker.
Porter,
Roxbury Russet,
Duchess of Oldenburg.
PEARS.
Bartlett, Easter Beurre,
Seckel, Howell,
Duchesse d'Angouleme, Urbaniste,
Lawrence, Dana's Hovey,
Beurre d'Anjou, Quinn,
Clapp's Favorite , Mt. Vernon ,
Doyenne Boussock, Abbott,
Beurre Clairgeau, Souvenir de Congress,
Buffam , Petite Marguerite .
Beurre Bosc,
Beurre Giffard,
Manning's Elizabeth,
Sheldon.
 63

GENERAL LIST. PEACHES . TRIAL LIST.

Crawford's Late,
Old Mixon ,
Stump of the World,
Mountain Rose,
Smock,
Large Early York,
Crawford's Early,
Honest John,
Morris County Rareripe.
Keyport White .
PLUMS.
White Magnum Bonum , Wild Goose,
Richland, De Caradeuc,
Green Gage , Miner,
Damson. Bassett's American .

CHERRIES .
Black Tartarian, Early Purple Guigne,
Early Richmond, Luelling,
May Duke, Bigarreau d'Oulin.
Black Eagle,
Bigarreau,
White Amber,
Coe's Transparent,
Rockport Bigareau,
Gov. Wood.
RASPBERRIES .
Doolittle Blackcap, Winant,
Philadelphia, Ganargua,
Mammoth Cluster Delaware,
Brandywine, Early Prolific,
Highland Hardy. Reliance,
Cuthbert.

BLACKBERRIES.
Kittatinny, Snyder,
Wilson, Taylor.
Dorchester .
 64

GENERAL LIST. STRAWBERRIES . TRIAL LIST.

Wilson, Great American,
Chas. Downing, Durand's Beauty,
Boyden's 30, Duncan,
Monarch of the West, Prouty's Seedling,
Downer's Prolific , Cinderella Sharpless,
Cumberland Triumph. Miner's Prolific,
Crescent.
GOOSEBERRIES.
Houghton ,
Downing,
Smith's,
Mountain.
CURRANTS .
Cherry, Long Bunched Holland .
Red Dutch , Lee's Prolific.
Versailles ,
White Grape,
Black Naples. GRAPES .

Concord, Wilder,
Delaware, Elsinburg.
Hartford, Brighton,
Martha, Early Amber,
Agawam, Barry,
Salem . Lindley,
Merrimack,
Massasoit.
Goethe,
Worden,
Elvira,
Moore's Early,
Highland,
Lady Washington.
Champion.
QUINCES
Apple or Orange,
Rea's Seedling.
 PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

NEW JERSEY

State Horticultural Society ,

AT ITS

SIXTH ANNUAL MEETING ,

HELD AT

Newark, February 10th and 11th,

1881 .

TRENTON, N. J .:
JOHN L. MURPHY, BOOK AND JOB PRINTER.
1881.
 OFFICERS FOR 1881 .

PRESIDENT
JOHN S. COLLINS ..... .Moorestown ... Burlington County.
VICE PRESIDENTS.
HENRY STEWART.. Hackensack.. .Bergen County.
J. S. REDFIELD . Burlington Burlington County.
EZRA STOKES... Berlin.... .Camden County.
GEO . M. COLE... Deerfield . Cumberland County.
E. W. DURAND .. Irvington.. .Essex County .
C. W. IDELL…….. Hoboken.... Hudson County.
E. P. TOMLINSON .. ..Stockton .Hunterdon County.
PROF. GEO. H. COOK. .New Brunswick .. .Middlesex County.
JAMES VAN DEVENTER. Princeton .Mercer County.
WM. H. GRANT.. Red Bank .. ..Monmouth County.
JESSE BATTEY... .Manchester ... Ocean County.
D. C. VOORHEES. Blawenburg .Somerset County.
J. R. SHOTWELL .. .Rahway Union County.

RECORDING SECRETARY .
E. WILLIAMS ..... .Montclair.... Essex County.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.
J. T. LOVETT.... .Little Silver...... Monmouth County .

TREASURER.
WM. H. GOLDSMITH............Newark ...... Essex County .

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE .
CHAS. L. JONES... Newark Essex County.
E. P. BEEBE... Elizabeth .Union County.
JAMES NEILSON.. New Brunswick.. .Middlesex County.
C. W. HARRISON. Irvington . .Essex County .
E. ROBERTS... .Fellowship ...... ..Burlington County.
FRUIT COMMITTEE .
WM. PARRY.. Parry .Burlington County.
B. B. HANCE.. Red Bank . .Monmouth County.
C. W. IDELL.... .Hoboken .... Hudson County.
WM. R. WArd .. .Newark .. .Essex County .
CHAS. BLACK .Hightstown .Mercer County.
FLOWER COMMITTEE .
JAMES TAPLIN . Maywood.. .Bergen County.
E. T. FIELD... .Red Bank. .Monmouth County.
GEO. C. WOOLSON .. .Passaic. Bergen County.
VEGETABLE COMMITTEE.
B. L. TRAFFord . .Red Bank .. Monmouth County.
HENRY STEwart . Hackensack.. .Bergen County.
S. C. DECOU.... ..Moorestown... .Burlington County .
 MINUTES .

NEWARK, N. J. , February 10th , 1881.

The Society was called to order a little after ten o'clock, by
President Collins, in a few congratulatory remarks at the num-
ber present, considering the stormy weather. He hoped the
session would be pleasant and profitable .
The reading of the minutes of the last meeting being called
for, the Secretary read the list of officers , & c . , elected at the last
meeting, and as the rest of the minutes were substantially as
published, they were adopted without further reading.
Reports of committees were laid over till afternoon .

REPORT OF THE RECORDING SECRETARY.

MR. PRESIDENT AND MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY : -I have to

report that since our last meeting, with the assistance of the
committee appointed for the purpose, the proceedings of the
Society for the year 1879 , were revised and published last April ,
and copies sent to all members and Societies in correspond-
ence with us.
A very full abstract of our proceedings for 1880 was prepared
for and published in the annual report of the State Board of
Agriculture .
It was intended to publish this summary, together with the
other papers read , in a volume uniform with our previous reports,
but owing to the sudden illness of the member of the committee
appointed to attend to it, he was unable to do so at the proper
time, and the opportunity was lost . The report, therefore, in
the State Board of Agriculture was the only one we had , and a
copy of this was sent to each member of the Society.
At the request of several members a meeting of the Executive
Committee was held in Newark, May 10th , 1880, to consider the
propriety of holding a strawberry exhibition .
The result of that meeting was a decision to hold such an
exhibition. The necessary arrangements were made, and the
 4

exhibition was held in Park Hall , June 10th and 11th , 1880 .
The exhibition, as an exhibition , was a success, notwithstanding
the unprecedented drought that prevailed, but as a profitable
enterprise, it was a failure .
Never before was so fine and large a collection of strawberries
gotten together in this State, or so good an opportunity to com-
pare the various kinds , yet the visitors were " few and far
between ."
Judging from the apparent lack of interest, (even among the
members) it may seem superfluous to devote further attention to
it, but, as it is possible, some may be benefited by a knowledge
of what they missed , and an interest awakened in the future , I
present the following brief synopsis :
There were eighty entries, from twenty-two exhibitors, making
nearly two hundred plates of strawberries, and eight of cherries ,
beside the floral exhibit.
The awards were as follows :

For the largest and best collection of not less than 20 varieties—
E P. Roe, of Cornwall, N. Y. , first premium .. $10 00
For the best 10 varieties-
1 C. W. Harrison, Irvington, first premium ....... 3 00
E. & J. C. Williams, Montclair, second premium……………… 2.00 ,

For the 50 heaviest berries (Great American) .

H. Jeroleman, Hilton , first premium..... 2 00

For the 10 heaviest berries (Great American)-

H. Jeroleman, Hilton, first premium ….... 1 00

For the best quart of any new variety not before shown-
E. W. Durand, of Irvington , for his " Superb," first premium.... 2 00
E. W. Durand, of Irvington , for his " Jersey Queen," second
premium .... 1 00
In this class there were 14 entries.

For the best quart of Charles Downing (4 entries)—

Dr. S. B. Hunt, of Irvington , first premium..... 50

For the best quart of Cumberland Triumph (4 entries)—

N. W. Parcell, of Elizabeth , first premium ...... 50

For the best quart of Crescent Seedling (4 entries )—

50

Wm. A. Tracy, of Irvington. first premium.. 50

For the best quart of Duchesse—

30

E. P. Roe, of Cornwall, N. Y. , first premium……………. 50

 5

For the best quart of Durand's Beauty-

Wm . H. Goldsmith, of Newark, first premium ...... ........ $0 50

For the best quart of Forest Rose-

F. M. Hedden, East Orange, first premium ..... 50

For the best quart of Glendale-

E. & J. C. Williams , of Montclair, first premium ... 50

For the best quart of Great American , 5 entries—

50
Wm A. Tracy, of Irvington , first premium .. 50

For the best quart of Kentucky—

50
N. W. Parcell, of Elizabeth , first premium.... 50

59
For the best quart of Monarch of the West-
N. W. Parcell, of Elizabeth, first premium ...... 50

For the best quart of Boyden's, No. 30. (3 entries)—

Wm. H. Goldsmith, Newark, first premium..... 50

For the best quart of Sharpless (6 entries)—

Wm. H. Goldsmith , Newark, first premium..... 50

SPECIAL AND DISCRETIONARY .

A dish of Great American strawberries-

50

Dr. S. B. Hunt, of Irvington (special) .... 50

New varieties. Very fine and large specimens of Superb and Jersey
Queen-
E. W. Durand, Irvington (discretionary).....

Two varieties of cherries from-

Wm. H. Goldsmith , Newark ; "" very good " (discretionary) .......

Dish of peaches. "" Good specimens of early growth under glass

Chas. Black, of Hightstown (discretionary )......

For the best hand bouquet-

E. & J. C. Williams, Montclair, first premium………….. 2 00

For sixteen seedling Petunias, Tuberoses and Smilax-

John Rassbach, of Bloomfield, special premium
.…………….. 2 00
 6

A collection of 58 varieties of Hardy Perennial flowers . A very inter-

esting and useful collection , and strongly recommended for a special
prize-
Woolson & Co., Passaic , N. J ......…………. $3.00

Blossoms of Magnolia macrophylla-

Dr. J. B. Ward, Newark, special premium of.......... 1 00

Total awards-$35.50.
PETER B. MEAD ,
C. H. HEDGES,
Judges.

The above awards have been approved by the Executive Com-

mittee .
Of them the following have been donated to the Society :

E. P. Roe, of Cornwall , N. Y .. $10 50

E. & J. C. Williams , of Montclair, N. J ……………………. 4 50
H. Jeroleman, of Irvington , N. J .. 3 00
N. W. Parcell, of Elizabeth, N. J ...... 1 50
Wm. H. Goldsmith, of Newark, N. J.. 1 50
Dr. J. B. Ward, of Newark. N. J ........ 1 00

Total.. $22 00

Were it not for this kindness on the part of our friends the
society would have incurred a loss from this attempt to develop
an interest and taste for horticulture in this vicinity.
We are daily reminded of our mortality, and the brevity and
uncertainty of human life. For the fourth time since the organ-
ization of this society it has been my sad duty to write the word
deceased opposite a member's name . Two weeks ago to - day, Alex.
Barclay, a very valuable member of this Society, and Vice Presi-
dent for this county, was suddenly summoned to that " bourne
from whence no traveler returns . ”
My personal acquaintance with Mr. Barclay began with his
membership, and has been of the most pleasant character.
After a successful business career in this city he abandoned its
perplexing cares and confinement, and retired to his pleasant
home on the hill, devoting his time and labors to the cultivation
and development of fruits and flowers, a pursuit quite in keeping
with his quiet and unobtrusive disposition , and one in which he
was eminently successful.
 7

His death is a sad loss to this Society, and to the community

in which he lived .
A Committee on Resolutions should be appointed .
Respectfully yours ,
E. WILLIAMS ,
Recording Secretary.

THE TREASURER'S REPORT .

Balance on hand January 16th , 1880………………. $116 28

Fees of new members ..... 29 00
Annual dues .. 63 00
Receipts of strawberry exhibition .. 17 00
Premiums donated....... 22 00
Total ......... $247 28

EXPENDITURES.

January 26th, Secretary's bill, postage, &c ... $9 88

March 27th, L. J. Hardham, printing ..... 5 50
March 29th, Daily Advertiser, printing report.……………………. 85 00
August 11th, Daily Advertiser, printing premium schedule... 8 00
August 11th , Recording Secretary's bill..... 18 21
August 11th, expenses strawberry exhibition 970
Premiums awarded .. 35 50
$171 79
Leaving a balance on hand at this date, of....... $75 49
W. H. GOLDSMITH ,
Treasurer.

These reports were adopted and ordered placed on file.

NEW GRAPES.

The next in order was a paper on the most promising of the new
grapes, by Geo . W. Campbell, of Ohio , Secretary of the Ohio
Horticultural Society, read by J. T. Lovett.

GENTLEMEN OF THE NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL

SOCIETY :-In consenting to furnish you a paper giving my
impressions of some of the best of the new grapes which have
appeared within a few years past, I have the object in view,
more of eliciting valuable information from your discussions,
than of giving such information myself.
 8

So very many new grapes have recently been placed upon

exhibition and upon the market, which seem so worthy and so
promising, one is met at the outset with the difficulty of deter-
mining which among them shall be chosen for remark and dis-
cussion.
That this large number of new and excellent grapes indicates
both remarkable and substantial progress , I think none can doubt.
And that a largely increased interest in grape culture is awakened
is evident by the importance given to it in all the recent meet-
ings of prominent horticulturists throughout the country.
And that there is a grand and prosperous future for American
grape growing is apparent, when we consider the wonderful pro-
gress of the past thirty years . I well remember when three or
four varieties included all the grapes known to cultivators . At a
recent exhibition , during the past Autumn, two- hundred and forty-
nine distinct kinds of American grapes were upon the tables ;
and still some of the most prominent of the new grapes were
absent.
It may be proper to say that my views of the character and
value of grapes are formed in a locality not specially favorable to
grape growing, and where we are subject to extreme and sudden
changes of temperature . With summer heat that ranges to 98 °,
and winter's cold that sometimes reaches 25 ° to 30 ° below zero,
it will be understood that hardness and vigor of constitution are
of the first importance ; and this is no less true of the great grape
growing region of the West and Northwest.
It is quite noticeable that a large proportion of the new grapes
of recent introduction are of the light green or yellowish shade,
popularly called white grapes ; and one of the most prominent
among them is
The Prentiss, which has been offered for sale the past season ,
and has been quite extensively exhibited for some years . So far
as I know it has not been fairly tested away from its native local-
ity, which is understood to be more than usually favorable. The
grape, as exhibited, shows great productiveness, compact and
handsome bunches of medium size, and in quality so nearly
resembles the Rebecca that it would be difficult, if not impossi-
ble, to distinguish one from the other, by the fruit alone. There
 9

is no reason to doubt its value in the place where it originated ,

and for all similar locations. But its usefulness for extensive cul-
ture in other and less favorable ones, will depend mainly upon
the health and hardiness of the vine.
The Niagara, though not yet offered for sale, is prominent
before the public. Its merits have been pretty fully descanted on
by the company who have it in charge, and who wish to impress
us with the belief that it is the grape for which the world has
been in waiting till now. We are led to understand that when
a sufficient stock has been produced to meet the expected demand,
and to make millionaires of the whole concern , it is to be let out
under seal, and with some extraordinary and mysterious restrict-
tions , which shall protect the unsuspecting public against impo-
sition from anybody but the company. To one who has pur-
chased the Adirondack (under seal) at $3 each ; the Rebecca ,
the Iona and the Walter, at the same price ; and who remembers
how each in its turn has been apotheosised , all this high falutin is
just a little amusing ; and it will not surprise me if in a few years
after its introduction the Niagara occupies the same position with
the above named , and for the same reason ; lack of hardiness in
severe winters. They are all equal or superior in quality to the
Niagara, but few people care to plant them now. The Niagara
is a handsome grape, medium to large in bunch and berry, evi-
dently a strong grower and productive . In quality good, to my
taste better than Concord ; ripens early and keeps well . At
Lockport there is no doubt that it does well , and it may reason-
ably be expected to succeed equally well in all similar locations,
but it is not always safe to judge of a grape by its performance
in a single place , and what this one may do when exposed to
more trying and rigorous climates remains to be seen .
The Pocklington is a very large and attractive white grape ,
which , from its foliage and habit of growth is evidently of Con-
cord origin. It appears rather more slender in growth than the
Concord ; but the leaves remain healthy and the wood ripens
early and well . Its period of ripening is about with the Con-
cord, and, except that it has rather more of the peculiar odor
called foxiness, is richer, and better flavored . It has a thin but
tough skin, and will bear handling and shipping well ; is also a
good keeper retaining its flavor and character till late in the
 10

season . Its good qualities , with its handsome and showy appear-
ance must make it a popular and valuable market grape , if it
proves as healthy and hardy as it now promises. The late M.
B. Bateham had it under trial some years , and regarded it as the
most promising for permanent value of all the newly introduced
white varieties.
The Duchess is to my taste the finest in flavor and quality of
all yet named, and as I have seen it on exhibition , is a handsome
and very attractive white grape, more like the foreign Chasselas
than a native American. The clusters are large ; berries
medium ; skin thin , semi-transparent. A somewhat limited
experience in growing this variety shows it to be a good and
vigorous grower ; but its foliage inclines to mildew, and I think
it will prove much like Croton and Allen's Hybrid in general
character. A fine garden and amateur grape, for favorable
localities ; but doubtful for general culture .
Antoinette is one of the late T. B. Miner's white Concord
seedlings ; and is wonderfully like the Pocklington in its general
character and flavor ; with rather smaller clusters, vine of more
vigorous growth, and a little less of foxiness in its fruit. It
ripened the past season a little earlier than Concord , and promi-
ses to be a good market grape.
Purity is the name of a small white grape of the Delaware
type and class ; but a stronger grower, and with larger and
thicker foliage, not subject to mildew here, where it originated .
It is a seedling from Delaware crossed with some native variety ,
perhaps Martha. It has proven one of the hardiest in winter,
seems free from rot, like the Delaware ; is one of the earliest to
ripen and the purest and highest flavored grape I have ever
grown outdoors . Its one fault as grown here , is want of size .
It is too small for popular taste, smaller in bunch than average
Delaware ; but with rather larger berries. Has not been exten-
sively tested , but has proven by comparison here, as hardy, and
as healthy in foliage as Concord or any grape of that type.
The Lady Washington is one of the handsomest white grapes
among Mr. Rickett's remarkable collection , I have only grown
it two years, and have not personally tested it sufficiently to say
more than that the vine is a strong and vigorous grower, and
the foliage large, thick, and so far, entirely healthy. Its fruit
 11

is good and quite pure, but not very high flavored ; but its size
and appearance as exhibited by its originator has been really
magnificent. It will soon be known how well it is suited to
general use ; and it is to be hoped it will not disappoint the high
expectations it has excited . We may reasonably expect it to
equal the well-known and popular Hybrids of Mr. Rogers in
health and hardiness.
Speaking of Rogers' Hybrids induces me to mention one of
his grapes, which seems to have remained unnoticed until quite
recently, but which seems to me one of the very best of them
all, and one of the best black varieties in cultivation . I think I
should class it as the best :
The Herbert, or No. 44 -a fine strong grower, healthy, produc-
tive, bunch and berry large, pulp tender, flavor sweet, rich and
sprightly, without even a suspicion of foxiness . I am quite
delighted with it, and wonder that it has not been heretofore appre-
ciated. I really doubt if among all the Hybrid grapes that have
since been produced, there is a black one that has as many
excellent qualities as the Herbert.
Although I have the highest hopes that some of Mr. Rickett's
fine grapes may be found of value for general use in all reason-
ably favorable grape growing sections, my experience with some
of his earlier productions has not been very satisfactory.
Secretary, though a strong grower matures rather late, the
foliage mildews easily, and the vine is tender in winter.
Advance, mildews badly, makes an unhealthy growth , and is
also tender.
Raritan, makes a strong growth, foliage much like Delaware ;
by carefully protecting in winter, this grape might be grown
successfully here, and is quite productive. But exposure in
severe winter finishes it.
A limited trial of Highland, and El Dorado , shows healthier
foliage and better growth, and I regard them as more promising
than those others before mentioned .
The Jefferson, claimed to be a cross between Concord and Iona ,
if there is no doubt about its parentage, will probably be found
of more value . The fruit is certainly of very high character, to
my taste better than Iona, and from a single year's trial, the
foliage appears quite healthy, growth only moderate . I regard
 12

the Jefferson as among the most promising of the new grapes,

and sincerely hope the future may justify our high expectations.
The fine specimens which have been exhibited for several
seasons, show that it can be grown in great perfection and
beauty in its native locality .
Moore's Early, I presume , has now been pretty thoroughly
tested . I have fruited it the past two years, and find its earli-
ness has been greatly over- stated . The report that it was two
or three weeks earlier than Hartford , is simply nonsense. I

doubt its being quite as early as Hartford , but it is better in

quality. Moore's Early is an early Concord, and nothing else ;
ripening a week to ten days earlier than its parent. In quality
undistinguishable from Concord ; berries a little larger, and
clusters rather smaller as grown here . In growth, habit of vine,
and foliage essentially Concord over again .
Worden's Seedling, is another product of the Concord , which
promises permanent value and popularity. Its general charac-
ter is like Concord ; growth rather more slender ; very productive ;
clusters averaging larger than Concord ; berries about the same.
It ripens a few days earlier, and is generally considered better
flavored , with which opinion I agree.
Brighton, may still be considered among the new varieties, and
in quality and flavor has proven to be among the best. A free
and vigorous grower, with healthy foliage in favorable localities
and seasons ; great productiveness, and handsome clusters, it has
deservedly become quite popular. Unfortunately , however, it is
not hardy in severe winters , and to insure success in northern
localities, and when the thermometer goes much below zero ,
pruning in the fall and winter protection will be indispensable .
The Lady, as an early white grape has generally proven satis-
factory, and will probably retain a place among standard valuable
kinds ; like the Concord, adapted to general cultivation . It has
proven both healthy, hardy and productive, enduring severe cold
at least, as well as Concord , and its foliage as free from mildew.
One of the very earliest to ripen , and one of the best in quality
of the Labrusca class, it is believed to be the best very early
grape of any color, yet introduced . Its thin and tender skin
and pulp, unfits it for rough handling and distant shipment ; and
although it will hang long upon the vine in good condition , it
 13

does not keep very long after being gathered . Its chief value
must be for garden and home use, and in vineyard for near by
market. In some places complaint is made that its growth is
slow ; and I think it requires a good, rich soil to give its best
results . Its growth becomes much stronger with increased age,
and I think it promises to be a permanently healthy and long-
lived variety .
Noah, is one of a quite remarkable class of grapes which have
been produced principally in Illinois and Missouri , and are seed-
lings from the Taylor, and are regarded as specially valuable for
the South and West, both for wine and for table use . All that I
have tested are remarkable for vigor of growth , hardiness and
productiveness, as well as healthy foliage . The Noah seems an
improvement upon the Elvira, which is of the same class, but does.
not seem to be very popular outside of Missouri . The Noah has
large, long bunches, not too compact ; ripens a little later than Con-
cord ; but is better flavored than some others of the Taylor seed-
lings, Elvira included . I have no doubt some of them will prove
valuable, and I think them worthy of trial. There are a number
of them , including both Rommel's and Grein's seedlings, many of
which were upon exhibition at the meeting ofthe Mississippi Val-
Y
ley Horticultural Society, at St. Louis, last Autumn, and which
deservedly attracted much attention from their varied character,
and marked improvement upon the parent stock.
A grape sent me from Freeport, Illinois, said to be a seedling
Delaware, may prove valuable. It resembles Delaware in color
and in flavor, but is not as fine . Clusters and berries are, how-
ever, both larger, and the foliage is thick and downy like Concord.
I have also a good many native crosses and hybrids of my own
under trial, of which I will only say some of them are of admi-
rable quality, and I hope may prove sufficiently healthy and
hardy to be worthy of introduction .
A grape named Early Victor, originated by John Burr, of
Leavenworth, Kansas, has fruited with me for two years,
and I have seen specimens grown elsewhere. I think it

promises to be the best and most valuable very early black

grape that I have yet seen. The vine seems one of the hardiest
of the Labrusca type, and the foliage perfectly healthy. It is
also of vigorous growth , and very productive. Bunches and
 14

berries are about the size of well-grown Clintons, and are hand-
some and well formed , moderately compact. In flavor very
good, rich, sweet and sprightly, entirely free from the coarse
foxiness that characterizes the Hartford , Talman, Ives, and all
that class whose wretched and abominable flavor should drive
them out of the market. The Early Victor is a really good grape,
and if not the very earliest, at least among the earliest varieties
known. I think it will be found at least a week earlier than
Moore's Early and greatly superior to it in flavor and quality.
I do not know when Mr. Burr will offer it for sale ; but it will
be worth looking after whenever it is in market.
I have doubtless extended these remarks as far as may be
desirable . It will be found , as varieties increase, we shall be
able to select such as are best adapted to special localities ; and
we shall probably be obliged to give up the idea that any grape
can be found suited to universal cultivation in our widely extended
country.
GEO. W. CAMPBELL .

On its conclusion a vote of thanks was tendered Mr. Campbell

for his interesting paper, and discussion followed.
R. Lush, of Vineland , mentioned the Black Hawk as a variety
he thought very highly of. He first saw it in fruit on the grounds
of Mr. Pierson of the wine company, and it pleased him so well
he set fifty vines . It was a week earlier than Hartford, very
productive, quality fine, very sweet and rich, size between Clin-
ton and Concord , bunches very compact, vine apparently very
healthy and holds its foliage well . Last season , being particu-
larly anxious to save them, he enclosed the bunches in paper
bags, and the weather being very hot they were literally cooked
in them . He had tried twenty-four of Rogers' Hybrids, but they
rotted so badly he dug them up. He was now sorry he did it,
as he was satisfied bagging would have saved them. If put on
when half grown it would answer. Used bags costing about$
$1.40 per 1000. A smart woman would bag 1000 clusters a day.
Boards forming a roof over the vines would also prevent rot and
mildew. Found no difference in size or color of bags, but used
thin, light colored ones. Thought the vine was quite as vigor-
ous as Hartford , possibly a little less so than Concord .
 15

E. P. Beebe thought this was valuable information .

W. R. Ward feared it was too expensive at the present low
price of grapes, and asked how bagging affected the bloom .
Mr. Lush replied , the bloom , if anything, was improved .
Experience with Moore's Early was called for.
J. H. Hale, of Connecticut, found it to ripen about eight days
in advance of the Hartford.
J. T. Lovett found it earlier than Champion or Telegraph .
Hartford was about a week later.
W. H. Goldsmith enquired as to the productiveness of Moore's
Early.
J. H. Hale-As he first saw it it did not seem very produc-
tive , but as he saw it at Mr. Moore's last year it was very pro-
lific .
R. Lush mentioned Ives' Seedling as an injury to their inter-
ests. Tons on tons were grown in Vineland merely because
they would sell , and their effect on the market was an injury to
the sale of their better varieties .
E. P. Beebe asked Mr. Goldsmith's experience with Brighton.
W. H. Goldsmith-It bore finely last year ; too much so he
thought to ripen well . When allowed to hang too long it does
.
not seem to improve . It was about the season of Concord . Very
little mildew ; not enough to hurt it.
J. I. Lovett- Mildews badly with me.
J. H. Hale- Never mildewed with us ; consider it one of the
best.
P. T. Quinn- Thought well of it.
C. W. Idell- Thought we wanted a good white grape. There
was no danger of overstocking the market with them for at least
five or six years.
W. H. Goldsmith- This was an important question , Why do
not white currants sell as well as red ones ? they were far superior
in quality. Why do not white hot house grapes sell as well as
black ones ?
C. W. Idell could not tell ; he only knew it was so. The
Isabella grape was black, yet did not sell as well as blue ones .
Jas. Taplin gave as the reason why white exotic grapes did not
sell as well as black ones, because good , high- flavored kinds were
not grown .
 16

R. Lush- Grew hundreds of pounds of Marthas last season ,

which sold for double the price of Concords right at home.
C. W. Idell- Ives' was a desirable variety to grow south, the
season being longer it ripened better. The great trouble was it
was marketed before it was ripe
E. P. Beebe asked if the Lady was likely to supersede the
Martha for general use.
J. T. Lovett―The Lady is much the best in quality . When
young it grew slowly, but when older it grew well enough.
C. W. Idell- The Salem had lately given good satisfaction in
the New York market, and sold for three cents above the Con-
cord .
C. L. Jones being called on to give his experience, said the
Croton was the only white grape he grew, and it did admirably ,
made very fine clusters, of fine quality, far better than Martha .
Iona also does very well , producing large bunches of fine flavor .
Eumelan does well and suits his taste. He does not market any
fruit.
Grows his vines low with two tiers of arms ; the lower ones fif-
teen inches from the ground . Finds they do better low than high ;
applies mulching to keep the lower ones clean ; prunes close to
get good crops.
On being asked if he had any experience with the Medicine or
Iron Clad grapes replied he had seen and tasted some of the
fruit, and poorer he never tasted . For the benefit of the unini-
tiated I will say that these so- called medicine grapes were a dozen
in number, and were sold in and around this city to the extent
of $ 1500 . These wonderful varieties could only be propagated
by some process known only to the seller. They would not grow
from cuttings . They grew about five feet high and produced
remarkable fine grapes , possessing wonderful medical properties .
The Secretary regarded the Jefferson as much the best of
Rickett's seedlings yet introduced , and probably the most prom-
ising of all the new ones now being offered .
J. Parry had no experience in fruiting the new grapes .
On motion of Mr. Idell , Messrs . Beebe, Hale and Woodward
were appointed a committee to examine the fruits and flowers
exhibited .
On motion of Mr. Ward, Messrs . Parcell, Idell and Lovett
 17

were appointed a committee to nominate officers for the ensuing

year.
On motion of Mr. Quinn , Messrs . Quinn , Ward and Gold-
smith were appointed to report suitable resolutions respecting
the death of Mr. Barclay.

RASPBERRIES .

The following paper on raspberries, by William Parry, was

then read :
GENTLEMEN OF THE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY :-At the invitation
of our President, I offer a few remarks on the raspberry, which
fills an important place in the list of small fruits, ripening just
after strawberries and preceding blackberries and peaches, when
the markets are bare of choice fruits, they generally command
good prices. There are two distinct species of raspberries.
The Rubus Strigosus, an upright grower, that is propagated by
suckers grown from the roots, and are usually red or yellow in
color, such as Antwerps, Brandywine and Orange. And the
Rubus Occidentalis, mostly black, sometimes yellow and purple,
propagated from tips, which, after growing a few feet in length
bend over and strike root in the ground , from which, the follow-
ing spring, is sent forth new shoots, which, in like manner,
extend still further from the original plant, so that the next and
all succeeding generations will have new soil in which to grow ;
and those who would be successful in cultivating raspberries
must not disregard the natural inclination of the plants for new
soil when selecting a location for a new field of raspberries , and
obtain some land where raspberries have not recently been
grown .
The principle of rotation applies as well to them as to other
fruits and farm crops .

WHAT KINDS TO PLANT.

That must generally be determined by experiment, as rasp-

berries are very sensitive to climate, soil and location .
Nearly all foreign or imported varieties and seedlings grown
from them, however good and luscious their qualities may be,
2
 18

are unreliable, only succeeding in some favorable localities, pro-

tected from extremes of heat and cold , and should not be planted
largely.
In 1838 I commenced cultivating raspberries for market.
The prominent object with me has been to grow those kinds
which produced the most money with least labor, and the result
has always been in favor of those yielding the largest quantity
of fruit per acre.
For several years, following the theory of those who could
manage the pen much better than the soil, I was led into con-
siderable loss of money, time and labor, by purchasing and
planting such as were highly recommended on account of
superior qualities for the table, without regard to their inability
to withstand exposure in the open field , and having grown since
that time more than one hundred varieties, many of them
imported , and others raised from their seeds, but few of which
are of any value here as field crops .

NATIVE VARIETIES .

The same general rule will apply to raspberries as to other

choice fruits, viz ., that to be successful we must depend on native
varieties, and to improve which, plant the best kinds near together,
so as to insure the mixture of the pollen of many blossoms,
which is carried by the wind , or by the little insects, ever useful
in their way, passing over the blossoms in search of food, thereby
combining several qualities in the new seedlings grown from
them , which could in no other way be found in the same fruit.
It is advisable for beginners, when practicable, to go and see
plantations in fruiting, of the kinds they propose to cultivate.
Having noticed the crop of fruit, with the surrounding circum-
stances they can compare it with their own situation and form a
better estimate, than without seeing, as to which kinds would be
safest to purchase, and by a trial of several kinds most likely to
succeed, they can determine which is best for them.

BLACK CAPS .

Perhaps the following named varieties are the most reliable

among Black Caps, viz.:
 19

Doolittle, for early, which is large, black , sweet, juicy, very

early, productive and hardy.
Davison's Thornless, is similar to the above, and having smooth
canes is more pleasant to handle, but no better in other respects .
Mammoth Cluster, is a very large Black Cap raspberry, hardy and
productive, late in ripening.
Gregg, is probably the largest and best Black Cap yet offered
for sale, perfectly hardy, strong vigorous grower and very pro-
ductive. The four varieties above mentioned are the most cer-
tain productive Black Caps of the many varieties which I have
tested.
RED RASPBERRIES .

In Philadelphia and New York markets red raspberries are

more in demand and sell better than Black Caps, and here in
New Jersey, where they succeed so well, and are produced in
such great abundance, it is hardly worth while to occupy much
land with Black Caps .
The Purple Cane, is not only the oldest native red raspberry with
which I am acquainted , but is the source from whence our most
productive and valuable hardy raspberries have been produced .
Its fruit is large , dull red color , good quality , rather soft for ship-
ping. And here it may be well to remark that berries having
good shipping qualities , viz , firm dry flesh and full of seeds, are
not so good for table use .
The Philadelphia, was accidentally found growing wild, in a wood
near the city and in the county, from which its name was taken ,
about forty years ago.
It was cultivated for market, and kept in the hands of a few
gardeners for many years, and so highly prized that no plants
were spared except to particular friends.

SEEDLINGS FROM THE PURPLE CANE.

As the only raspberries grown in the neighborhood at that

time were the Purple Canes, and from the close resemblance of
the new plant in its smooth, purple canes, hardy and productive,
dull red color of the fruit, juicy and of good quality, rather soft
for shipping, it was generally conceded to have come from the
Purple Cane .
 20

It may truly be said that it was wonderfully productive, yield-

ing at the rate of 200 bushels per acre, and attracted so much
attention that a fruit grower paid $ 100 for a few plants to prop-
agate from.
Its reputation spread far and wide and gave a greater impetus
to raspberry culture than was ever known before.
The Herstine was the next improvement in the same line of
descent. The late David W. Herstine, of Philadelphia, desir-
ing to improve on the plan adopted by Dr. W. D. Brinckle, to
whom we are indebted for the Orange, Cushing, Col. Wilder
and other delicious raspberries , produced by crossing or mixing
the pollen of the large Hornet, Imperial, Fastolff and Souchet ,
all foreign sorts, and not adapted to our climate . The seedlings
grown from them prove to be luxuries for amateurs, but were
not suitable for field culture. D. W. Herstine selected the
Philadelphia as the female plant, on account of its productive-
ness and hardiness to withstand the extremes of our hot, dry
and changing climate . Then planting near it some of the finest
foreign varieties, such as Hornet, Imperial, Fastolff and others ,
so that the pistils in the blossoms of the Philadelphia should be
thoroughly impregnated by the pollen from the large English
varieties. Then saving and planting seed of the Philadelphia
he produced the large, fine and luscious raspberry that bears his
name.
And for a time it was considered a great improvement over
our native varieties ; but after a few years trial has been found
not reliable for field culture, and is now mainly grown by ama-
teurs, where high fences, buildings and trees afford some pro-
tection.
The Reliance was the next improvement in the same line, for
which we are indebted to Oscar Felton , an energetic and suc-
cessful originator of new seedling fruits in Camden county,
New Jersey. He has, for many years, acted on the judicious
plan of selecting seed from the finest fruits , planted near each
other for the purpose of impregnation , then sowing the seed and
saving the best and most promising plants grown from them,
has succeeded not only in producing superior raspberries, but
some of the largest and finest strawberries, such as the Orient
and Satin Gloss, which will rank high in large size and beauti-
 21

ful appearance. He soon observed what many others have

since, that the largest and best of the Philadelphia raspberries
were grown on low branches that put out near the ground .
Selecting seed from those for propagation , his efforts were
rewarded by getting the Early Prolific, a very early red rasp-
berry, and the Reliance , a large, late, red raspberry , hardy and
enormously productive , having yielded , at a single picking , 100
bushels per acre. Although the above-mentioned raspberries ,
which descended from the Purple Cane, seemed to possess all
that could be desired for hardy and productive raspberries , yet
they were lacking in that bright scarlet red color so very
attractive in market , causing raspberries to sell well without
much regard to quality.

SCARLET RASPBERRIES .

The Pearl, is of this character, beautiful, bright red color,

medium sized , flesh dry, firm and a good shipper, and from its
handsome appearance in market always sells well .
The Thwack and Brandywine, so nearly resemble the Pearl in
growth, appearance of plant and fruit, that they are probably
both seedlings from it.
The Cuthbert and Queen of the Market, are probably the largest
and finest, hardy red raspberries now in cultivation , and are
being planted more largely for market than any other varieties .
They are similar in appearance , quality and habits of growth ;
are both hardy and productive and of the very largest size . I
have frequently measured selected specimens three inches around ;
they are claimed to be of different origin, though some consider
them identical. Be this as it may, they are both valuable, lack-
ing but one important quality for the market, that of early ripen-
ing ; and this can probably be better supplied by another seed-
ling raspberry, which is now about to be introduced by the
name of Welsh, from the originator, Isaac Welsh, of Camden
county, N. J. , who has been a successful fruit grower and mar-
ket gardener for many years, and adopted the plan of sowing
seeds of his best fruits, and planting the offspring largely.
A few years since hearing that he had a seedling raspberry
much earlier than any others in the neighborhood , I visited his
 22

plantation containing several acres mostly seedlings , and observ-

ing one bush on which the fruit was fully ripe, and appeared to
be a week earlier than any others ; the early Prolific not then
having turned red, I purchased the young plants growing around
this one extra early bush, from which we now have a small
plantation ; strong, thrifty and uniform in appearance, which
produced ripe fruit last year on the seventh, and some of which
was exhibited at the strawberry show held on the ninth day of
June, 1880 , being several days in advance of any other red
raspberry.

SOIL AND TREATMENT.

A rich mellow soil , naturally moist, but not wet, inclining to

the northward is a favorable location .
The plan which I have adopted, with good success on ordi-
nary soil, and am now preparing a field of poor sandy land ,
though inclined to moisture, to plant next spring, is as follows :
Last fall we opened deep furrows with two horses, six to
eight feet apart ; have dug and hauled 250 cubic yards of tide-
water muck to fill in the furrows which will be thoroughly
frozen before spring, and at the approach of warm weather will
crumble and become mellow, so as to spread evenly, then apply
a good coat of ground bone or hair manure along the rows and
set the plants two to three feet apart, requiring about two thou-
sand plants per acre. Bone , hoof, horn , hair or any refuse ani-
mal matter is well adapted to promote the growth of raspberries .
And muck is a valuable addition to poor sandy land ; it gives a
better color and substance to the soil, absorbs and retains warmth
and moisture, for which both raspberry and blackberry roots
show a great partiality by following the muck deposit and
making a more vigorous growth than elsewhere .
Such treatment prepares a good foundation for carrying a
raspberry crop through a spell of dry weather without suffering
from drought. Potatoes or other vegetables may be grown
between the rows the widest way the first summer ; after that
the raspberries will require the whole space .
The cultivation is very simple. Stir the ground frequently
with horse and cultivator to keep down grass and weeds, being
 23

careful the latter part of summer not to disturb the small roots ,
feeding near the surface by deep culture.

PRUNING.

The old wood may be removed as soon as convenient to do it,

after the fruit is off. Early in spring, before the buds push out,
the canes should be shortened to about one-third their length,
which will increase the vigor of the plants, and improve the
size and quality of the fruit. The raspberries should be care-
fully picked in small baskets, not larger than pints, better less ;
both baskets and crates should be ventilated so as to favor the
free circulation of air to absorb the heat and moisture, as they
will bear transportation to market much better when cool and
dry.
YIELD AND PROFIT .

There is probably no branch of fruit culture that pays better

than raspberries, when proper care is taken to select varieties
that ripen early, are hardy and productive.
The best native varieties, with ordinary treatment will yield
as many bushels per acre as corn , and generally bring five times.
as much in market, and when once planted remain for several
years, producing an annual income better than government
bonds.
One farmer near where I reside sent to market a one-horse
wagon load of red raspberries, and received $220 for the lot.
One lady near by rented out her farming land while her hus-
band was from home, reserving a patch of raspberries and black-
berries, from which she sold that year 43,000 quarts of berries ,
worth at eight cents per quart, $3,440, being more than the tenant
made from all other crops on the farm.
I once visited a farmer who paid some attention to small fruits
as well as the more important staple crops of grain and grass .
The day I was there they gathered for market 200 bushels of
raspberries and some days did more.

PREMIUM CROP .

A few years since the premium offered by the Burlington

County Agricultural Society for the most profitably cultivated
 24

crop, the net profits of which should exceed $ 100 per acre, was
awarded for ten acres of raspberries.

The gross sales were... $4,338 50

EXPENSES.

Commissions at 10 per cent..... $433 85

Picking 26,300 quarts @ 3c .. 789 00
Manure ..... 100 00
Cultivating, use of crates , etc........ 215 65

Total expenses... $1,538 50

Net profits ........ 2,800 00

$4,338 50

The above returns were for fruit only. There were large
quantities of plants disposed of from the same ground , which,
if included, would have increased the amount received .
The same field has yielded since that time, in one year, $281
per acre for fruit alone, without regard to the plants sold , which
were sufficient to defray all expenses.
Last year 74,000 quarts of berries were grown by one fruit
grower residing near me, and 2213 bushels by another, which
came in very opportunely to bridge over the dull, hard times
through which farmers had to pass before reaching the open field
of prosperity now before us.

CONCLUSION .

The foregoing reports are from field culture, of hardy native

varieties, requiring no extra care nor protection of any kind .
Under favorable circumstances some small patches of choice for-
eign varieties have yielded much larger returns.
I once saw a small plantation of Hornet, and Imperial , rasp-
berries in Camden , N. J. , the fruit from which was sold on the
vines, and the purchaser paid for picking and handling. One
year he paid ninety and the next seventy cents per quart for the
fruit, which amounted to more than $2000 per acre. Yet those
foreign varieties have not succeeded with me, though several
times tried, which shows the importance of experimenting with
 25

several kinds to determine which are best adapted to the soil,

climate and location desired.
Imported raspberries are uncertain , and liable to casualties
that will injure the crop.
An excess of heat or cold, wet or drought, and sometimes
causes unexplained , will disappoint the fondest hopes of the
grower.
And my experience for more than forty years has been that
none but hardy, native varieties can be relied on for field culture.

Accepted with a vote of thanks .

Society then adjourned to two o'clock.

FIRST DAY. -AFTERNOON SESSION .

The society was called to order by the President.

The first business in order being the deferred reports of this
morning.
The Fruit and Vegetable Committees had no report to offer.

James Taplin , of the Flower Committee, reported as follows :

This year has not been noticeable for many floral novelties .
Probably the best and most useful is the new scarlet carnation,
Firebrand, exhibited at a meeting of the New York Horticultural
Society. There are also some fine new seedling bedding ger-
aniums, from seeds raised in this country, some quite distinct in
color, which promise to make useful bedding plants.
Another very promising flowering plant is the new double
white Bouvardia, which will, no doubt, be very useful for cut
flowers, though the bouvardia, now being out of fashion , proba-
bly it will not attract as much attention as it would have done
some years ago.
Among roses , various novelties have been introduced, not
only in new varieties, but old ones brought into notice ; for
instance Adam, and Catherine Mermette, the former having been
in cultivation for twenty years, but it has only been prominent
for about two years. Both, when grown in first -class style, com-
 26

mand a ready sale at very high prices . While speaking of

roses, we may note the success of one of the Madison growers
in having a full crop of General Jacqueminot, in for Christmas and
New Year, all of which were sold wholesale at a dollar apiece,
and retailed at from two to three dollars each, the high price in
this case being obtained not so much from the quality of the
flowers as their being few in the market. We may here men-
tion that the principal supply of cut roses, not only for New
York, but for all the principal cities as far west as Chicago is
grown in New Jersey . A lot of Hybrid Teas, a cross between
Teas and Hybrid Perpetuals , have been raised in Europe, some
We may
of which are good , while others are of little account.
also say this has been a great year for new Coleus, many of
which, when grown in pots, were wonderfully fine, but whether
they would carry out their promise as bedding plants is for
others to say, but in number and variety there has never been
so many . In the way of Orchids, a class of plants for which a
taste is growing in this country, there has been few novelties ,
many being varieties of old species, and , in most cases, not as
good . In stove and greenhouse plants, there has been few
additions ; none worthy of special note .
In pitcher plants, a class not very generally grown in this
country, there has been a number of new varieties exhibited in
England, most of which were seedlings of mine, as that special
cross has never been obtained in England , the growers there
never having those two varieties in flower at the same time, if
at all . Some of the unnamed seedlings being sold to English
growers were named and sent out as their own productions.
The business of forcing early bulbs has wonderfully increased ,
so that now Tulips, Hyacinths and Narcissus are forced by tens
of thousands, and Lily of the Valley by hundreds of thousands ,
one New Jersey grower having two houses, each 100 feet in
length, devoted entirely to Lily of the Valley, and the demand
for flowers is on the increase, for though there are houses going
up in all directions, the demand is greater than it ever was before.
The prices are good, but the quality of the flowers must also be
good. Last year Paris Daisies or Marguerites were in demand
at a high price , but this year the price is very low. Probably
their dearness helped their popularity last season .
 27

There is also a greatly increasing demand for furnishing plants,

which will stand the heat of rooms, and also plants for dinner
table decorations, an example of which was seen at the late din-
ner of the New York Horticultural Society, at Delmonico's , but
as for bedding plants, the buyer can almost get them at his own
price, owing to the number of small growers, who are glad to
take any chance of disposing of them.
The most popular flowers now are roses, Lily of the Valley,
and Violets. There is a limited demand for rare flowers, such
as Orchids, but most people prefer roses .

Report adopted and ordered placed on the minutes .

PROGRESS IN STRAWBERRY CULTURE .

Dr. F. M. Hexamer, of New Castle, N. Y. , then read the follow-

ing paper on Progress in Strawberry Culture :
MR. PRESIDENT :--The subject you have assigned to me appears,
at a first glance, to be rather discouraging —a topic about which
there has so much been said and written that it might be feared
the very fountains of life of our strawberry plants had become dry
ere this. But as I have to speak to you about Progress in Straw-
berry Culture, it becomes necessary to survey our ground, to let
the eye glance swiftly over the broad fields, endeavoring to find
some firm landmark from which might be obtained a glimpse of
the past as well as a view of the present day. It wanders back
to the time when a few wagon loads of wild Hackensack berries,.
brought across the river in sailing sloops, as often as twice a
week when wind and tide permitted , constituted the entire sup-
ply of New York markets, and when a period of three weeks.
comprised the limits of the strawberry season . Let us suppose
that we had fallen asleep under one of those piles of quaint
splint baskets, Rip Van Winkle like, to awake to - day from our
half- century nap in the midst of blooming strawberry fields along
the shores of the St. Johns river, in Florida, where already the
pickers are busy on the most southern plantations of our sub-
tropical peninsula .
Small and insignificant, like a snow-flake which, rolling down
the mountain side, gathers strength as it moves, increasing in
 28

dimensions with every moment until it becomes the huge ava-

lanche which carries everything before it, and meets resistance
only on the immovable rocks of the snow- capped alps, so do we
now perceive on the far- off horizon the incipient formation of a
wave of scarlet and crimson. Like the light ripples of a brook, we
see it gently flowing northward along the coast and valleys of
Georgia and South Carolina, where, at Charleston , it already
has grown to respectable dimensions ; onward and forward rolls
the wave, gathering strength with every moment, and covering
a large part of Virginia and Maryland ; still it moves on with
unabated vigor, sweeping mountain high across Delaware and
New Jersey, to dash fiercely against the majestic Palisades , the
giant fortress of the noble Hudson . Here its force becomes
broken and its current divided into two arms, one to flow north-
ward along the shores of the river , the other to take an easterly
direction along the coasts of Long Island sound ; both spreading
as they move, traversing the larger part of New York and New
England, crossing the St. Lawrence to be swept northward over
the Dominion of Canada, by the balmy breezes of early summer,
until sweetness and fragrance congeal on the ice-bound shores
of the sub- arctic region . Six months have passed since we
picked the first ripe berries , six months since we started on our
journey of two thousand miles . A season of three weeks has
been lengthened to six months in less than fifty years ; need we
look further to perceive Progress in Strawberry Culture ?
There is another standpoint from which to measure the Pro-
gress in Strawberry Culture. In 1872 , the strawberries shipped
from Charleston to Northern markets brought an average price
of fifty- seven cents per quart ; in 1874 , thirty- eight cents ; in
1876, twenty-one cents ; in 1879 , fourteen cents ; and last year,
twelve and a half cents per quart. Jucunda's from the Knox
Farm at Pittsburg brought, in years gone by, from fifty to
seventy-five cents per quart at wholesale ; and, for several years
after the war, first-class Triumphs and other large varieties sold
readily for forty and fifty cents per quart, by the crate, while
now the very choicest would not bring half as much. This
decline in prices is , of course, mainly caused by the larger
quantities of berries raised, and partly by the difference in our
currency valuation ; but there is another important factor which
 29

causes the present low prices for first-class fruit. In formier

years, when our selected Jucunda's and Triumph's came to

market, the only competition they had to encounter was from
small Scotch Runners, or sour, sandy Wilsons, and the contrast
was so great that buyers paid willingly three and four times
more for the best. But now, owing to the rapidly increasing
competition, and the great improvements in new varieties, poor
berries can hardly be sold at any price, and the average market
fruit has improved so much that there is but little difference
between this and the choicest, and here, as in other trades, a
plentiful supply of cheap goods depreciates the value of the
better grades.
The most important revolution in strawberry culture, how-
ever, so far as concerns the grower, at least, has been effected by
the changing of our markets . The market centres for fruits, as
well as other goods, are rarely permanent ; they are frequently
moving from one place to another, or changing in their respec-
tive locations . Many of the prominent business houses in New
York have changed several times , within our recollection , the
location of their stores, have moved with the migration of their
customers, or have transformed their business in such a way as
to conform with the altered conditions. The strawberry market
is not exempt from these fluctuations of trade. A few years ago,
New York was the great distributing centre of berries for hun-
dreds of miles along every railroad and steamboat line entering
the metropolis ; but now the markets of most inland towns and
large villages are supplied with home-grown fruits, and only an
inconsiderable amount of berries is re- shipped from New York.
It is therefore that, while the demand for products of nearly all
kinds has largely increased during the last years, the amount of
perishable berries disposed of in New York has decreased rather ;
and while the producers of wheat and corn, of butter and
cheese, of beef and pork, and many other farm products find , at
home and abroad , new and profitable outlets for their bountiful
crops, the small fruit grower who depends on the New York
market finds the demand for his products diminished instead of
increased , and, naturally enough , wonders where that much .
talked- of national prosperity may be found .
Let us start right here in our search, and we shall find that it
 30

is only a few years since Newark obtained its principal supply

of strawberries from New York ; but should we ask now where
the magnificent berries, which we saw last June displayed in
your markets, came from, your Quinns, Durands, Goldsmiths,
and other champion strawberry growers, would resent the ques-
tion as an insult. To-day the vicinity of this city produces, not
only sufficient for its home demands, but enough to return to
New York more than what it received in former years, and the
growers seem well satisfied with the new order of things. Similar
conditions prevail in hundreds, if not thousands, of towns ; still,
there are many populous inland places which are not yet suffi-
ciently supplied with strawberries, so that those who start now
in fruit culture need have no difficulty in finding favorable
locations.
On the other hand , there are large areas where no home mar-
ket can be created, where nearly every one raises strawberries ,
and some large city offers the only market. What shall the
fruit-grower do who sees the demand for his crops steadily fall-
ing off, or the prices dwindling down so low that both ends cannot
be made to meet ? The tiller of the soil cannot, as easily as the
merchant, move his business place and follow his customers .
Generally he has to stay where he is, and has to find out the
most suitable and profitable crops for his soil , for his markets ,
and for his own qualifications . If he can grow strawberries
better and cheaper than his neighbors, those who understand
the least of their culture have sooner or later to leave the busi-
ness. All cannot live by growing strawberries ; some have to
be contented with raising cabbages, and others with peanuts,
each one according to his inclinations and abilities. The law of
the survival of the fittest holds as good here as anywhere. The
conditions essential for success remain in all places and at all
times, but the local and temporary means necessary for its attain-
ment vary in every place and with every year.
Some people are constantly complaining that " business is
We
overdone, " that " times have changed, " and so they have.
cannot reverse the order of the universe . Times do change, and
unless we change with them, we have to go under ; everything
changes with every year, with every day, with every moment, —
commercial relations, seasons , vegetation , —the earth itself has
 31

changed from vapor into solid matter, and continues to change

till the end of time. Without change there is no motion ; with-
out motion there is no life ; inertia is death. How can we expect
to remain at a stand - still when everything around us moves ?
These various changes in the Progress of Strawberry Culture
have brought us to the present period ; they have developed two
sharply defined systems , each with its appropriate modes of culti-
vation, and with its distinct varieties, specially suited for its require-
ments-the home market and the shipping system . Strawberry grow-
ing for a home market is almost exclusively a retail business with
all its concomitant details , while the grower for a distant market
is strictly a wholesaler, who , like the large manufacturer, ships
all his goods to a commission merchant, whose business it is to
sell to the best advantage of the producer. As in other whole-
sale trades, success depends mainly upon the talent and man ·
agement of the owner ; and, hardly less, upon sufficient capital ,
good shipping facilities, competent help , and , in our case, suita
ble soil . Where these chief requisites are wanting, no amount
of perseverance and energy can produce satisfactory results. In
many cases it would, no doubt, be far better to sell out, even at
a loss, and seek a locality better suited to one's resources than
to persevere in a fruitless toil and hope against hope .
To a man with small means, a good home market offers most
always the largest profits ; at least there can be no actual loss, as
is frequently the case during a glut in the wholesale markets,
when loads after loads of unsold berries have to be dumped into
the rivers. The cost of picking, freights, cartage, and other
unavoidable expenses have to be paid by the grower, whether he
receives anything for his berries or not . These expenses can be
saved in a local market, as the berries may be left on the vines
if there should be a temporary lull in the demand . To this
necessity, however, an active and energetic man will hardly ever
be compelled ; a little forethought and effort will readily open
new channels .
The study of the requirements of one's markets is in either
case of the greatest importance, but with a direct market, where
the grower becomes personally acquainted with his customers ,
such knowledge is easier obtained . As a rule, it is poor policy
to try to coax or force new things on the market, expecting to
 32

create a demand for them. It matters but little how desirable we

consider the article -people know generally just, what they want
and will have nothing else ; it is, therefore, ordinarily more
profitable to find out what there is a demand for, and then try
to supply it as well and as cheap as we can .
It would be to little purpose to attempt to give here specific
directions for the culture of strawberries. In fact , I think one
of the most decided additions we have made to our stock of
practical science consists in the knowledge that but few, if any,
rules can be laid down which are equally applicable to all condi-
tions and in all localities . Each one has to observe and study
his own markets, his own soil, and the varieties , fertilizers , and
cultivation best adapted for the same. We have to practice what
observation and experience have taught us. The keenest observ-
ers, and those who can draw the most correct conclusions from
their experiences, and will apply them judiciously, are always
the most successful.
Of scarcely less importance to the strawberry- grower is the
proper selection and application of fertilizers . How and from
what to reap the best returns for the money invested is, and
always will be, the leading problem . There are no doubt, many
among those present who know that bone dust is best ; others
have used stable manure with success, and want nothing else ;
and still others may be sure that there is nothing better than a
certain special strawberry fertilizer. All may be right, and
showing their good sense by continuing what they found to be
good and profitable ; nevertheless, should these gentlemen change
places with each other, some would probably soon modify their
practices somewhat.
Careful observation and extensive experiments have convinced
me that the strawberry plant is not only a glutton, but an epicure
at the same time ; that it is not satisfied with an abundance of
the richest food -it also insists upon having it prepared in the
most palatable manner, served in the most dainty style and as
often as it feels inclined to partake of it. Of course, you can
force and starve it to exist on most anything rather than die ;
but if you want it to put on its sweetest airs, to be pleasant and
have rosy cheeks, and do its best generally, it must, like other
pets, be coaxed and petted .
 33

Now, wherever you keep your pets, be it north or south, on

sandy plains or on heavy clay hill- sides, there is one decoy to
which they respond every time and without fail , and this is a
good, well-decayed compost. Whatever the fertilizer to be used
consists of, composting increases its strength , enhances its value,
and prepares it for the immediate needs of the plants . I do not
wish to be understood as underrating the value of stable manures
nor of special fertilizers, some of which are among the crowning
triumphs of scientific agriculture , but I do assert that practice,
as well as theory, have proved that however effective either
alone may be, combined they often become, doubly valuable.
It is a great mistake to use commercial fertilizers only to
lengthen out the supply of stable manure ; much better results
may be obtained by composting all the available manure with
all the purchased fertilizers- mixed with sufficient muck or soil
to prevent too violent fermentation - and to distribute the entire
bulk over all the land to be cultivated . We all know that in
seasons of severe drought ordinary fertilizers rarely produce the
desired results, and that too much rain carries a considerable
part of fertilizing matter below the reach of roots ; composts ,
however, by reason of the minute division of the active princi-
ples contained in them , are immediately available as plant food ,
and, by being evenly scattered over the surface , benefit all plants
alike, and become absorbed in a shorter time than raw fertilizers .
To obtain the best results from composts, it is advisable to
divide the quantity to be used during the season into several
parts, and to apply them at different intervals instead of using
all at one time. We practice a similar method in feeding
animals. We are careful to give them all, and no more, than
they will eat up clean at one meal, else a part of the fodder
becomes wasted and useless , while with judicious feeding
nothing is wasted , and all the provender goes to strengthen
the animal . The same principle underlies the system of feed-
ing plants. I will not take up your time by entering into the
details of preparing compost heaps, but I am sure that any one
who will give composted fertilizers a fair trial will soon become
convinced of their great value in strawberry culture. What
ready cash is to the tradesman a good compost heap is to the
strawberry grower, although even the latter does find a good
3
 34

bank balance in no way inconvenient. As the merchant who

has ready cash is better prepared to strike an advantageous
bargain when opportunity offers than one who has to wait till
money comes in before he can buy, so is the fruit grower who
can rely on his compost heap in some measure independent of
weather and seasons ; he can count on its good results every
time.
I perceive that the material on hand has already outgrown its
intended dimensions, and I shall be able to allude only to our
progress in some other new methods in strawberry culture.
Irrigation is attracting much attention now. We can hardly
call it new, for the Egyptians practiced it to perfection more
than four thousand years ago, and at the present time exten-
sive systems of irrigation are found in Italy, Spain , India, and
many other countries of the eastern hemisphere . Except in
California, we have made only a few isolated attempts in irri-
gation, but wherever tried systematically it has proved emi-
nently satisfactory. The time cannot be far when we shall
become enlightened enough to utilize the immense stores of fer-
tility contained in our mountain lakes and streams, which are
now permitted to flow into the ocean .
The use of potted plants has likewise become more general,
and as an article of trade they are already of considerable
importance . For the amateur, and especially in cases where
spring planting is not practicable, potted plants have certainly
much in their favor.
Before closing, will you permit me to review briefly the bene-
fits which progress in strawberry culture has brought us, as a
people and as a nation . Let us leave for a moment the crimson
waves of the fragrant current which we have seen rolling over
strawberry fields and markets, to follow the mild ocean breezes
which fan the luscious aroma far over the land ; let us follow
the little curling waves that flow through valleys and over
plains, and push their gentle ripples to the remotest farm house ;
let us enjoy a plate of luscious berries with the far off pioneer,
and participate in the delight and enjoyment which the divine
fruit spreads in cot and palace alike.
It is but a few years since strawberries were considered a
great luxury, to be indulged in only by the wealthy, who could
 35

employ professional gardeners skilled in the mysteries of their

culture. Improvement and progress have dispersed these anti-
quated notions, and have placed a strawberry bed in the garden
of every right minded citizen. While many of those present
may remember the time when strawberries were hardly known
as a luxury even, it would be difficult to find now a comfortable
home in city or village, or on the farm, where strawberries do
not constitute an indispensable part of at least one meal a day
during the season . It is true that improved means of com-
munication and transportation have greatly facilitated the dis-
tribution of this delicate fruit, but were it not for the improve-
ments in strawberries and progress in strawberry culture, could
it be supposed that our strawberries of the past would have
become more disseminated than they were then ? It is only
through the wonderful progress in cultivation and improvements
by hybridization that the strawberry has reached its present
commercial importance. Statistics show that the value of straw-
berries sold annually in our large cities amounts to many
millions of dollars , but the priceless value in enjoyment, in good
cheer and health to the millions who grow and pick and eat
their own berries is incalculable. With the planting of every
strawberry bed on a farm where there was none before, the
corner stone is laid for a happy home, for every plant we intrust
to the soil bears in it the germs for happiness and health.
Would we know where the strawberries grow, let us drive along
the country road to yonder cozy cottage, where the rosy cheeks
and bright eyes, the happy faces and cheerful expression of the
children playing under the rose-covered veranda , tell, plainer
than words can tell , that the strawberry bed is not far away.
But progress in strawberry and other fruit culture has accom-
plished more than invigorated health, increased enjoyment, and
made home dearer to our children ; it has sharpened observa-
tion, brightened thought, and inspired the development and
stability of the noblest traits of human nature. No plainer
object- lesson was ever taught, no more impressive sermon
preached, than that which Nature has instilled in every root, in
every leaf, in every expanding bud, and every fading flower
which must wither that the more perfect fruit may spring into
life.
 36

There is a class of people who do not believe in progress, who

think the world had reached perfection when they were young,
and that it has gone backward since . But who could , fifty years
ago, have imagined the wonderful progress of the present day,
and who can conceive what progressive ideas, progressive minds
and progressive men will accomplish in another half century ?
We may, at times, go too fast and make missteps, or we may
put on too much steam and burst a boiler, but what of that ?
What does the brave soldier care if he must lose his life that his
brothers may march to victory ?
He who does not believe in progress is the most virulent sore
on the body of the community, the most dangerous enemy to
society, the State and mankind ; far better that he should perish
than impede the wheel of progress.
The reading of this paper was listened to with marked atten-
tion. On its conclusion , it was accepted with a vote of thanks ,
and a copy requested for publication .

STRAWBERRY CULTURE FOR PROFIT.

The next paper was on Strawberry Culture for Profit, by J. H.

Hale, of Connecticut.
GENTLEMEN :-You have often heard the familiar quotation,
" Carrying coals to Newcastle, " and I feel that this is just what
I am doing in attempting to convey to the members of this
society any ideas in regard to strawberry culture for profit, and
yet in my journeys through your State, which is often called
" The fruit and vegetable garden of America, " I have noticed
acres upon acres of strawberries growing upon the broadcast or
66
slip-shod " system, if system it can be called, that it appeared
to me were paying little or no profit to their owners, or any one
in fact, unless it be the transportation companies that carry
the fruit to market, where it often sells for little more than
enough to pay expenses, and it is for the owners of these fields
that I write, and not for your many successful growers that are
annually supplying the markets with fruit that is a credit to
themselves and their thorough manner of cultivation , and sell-
ing at a price which shows conclusively there is yet such a thing
as strawberry culture for profit. Gentlemen, right here in
 37

Newark and vicinity, I am told, have, for some years past, been
selling fruit at from seventy-five cents to one dollar per quart,
while I have to confess of never having grown any that sold for
more than sixty cents. However, I will try and show, as best I
can, how the business may be made profitable to the average
grower. The main point to start with , is to have a reasonably
good soil, one that will at least produce thirty to forty bushels
of shelled corn per acre, well drained , either naturally or artifi-
cially, and has been cultivated in hoed crops for at least two
years previous. Would not advise planting directly after pota-
toes , as they exhaust the potash from the soil, which is of great
value to the strawberry plant. Plow deep and, if possible , use
a sub- soil plow ; from my own experience I believe it will add
at least twenty-five per cent. to the value of the crop in helping
to retain the moisture in a dry season, and for more perfect
drainage in a wet one. After ploughing, harrow thoroughly
with a La Dow, Randall or Acme harrow, any one of which
is worth twice its cost in preparing a strawberry field . By
thoroughly I don't mean once or twice over, but six or eight
times, until you think you have it done to perfection , and then
harrow it over again . For fertilizer, well- rotted stable manure´
is best of all, if it can be had at a reasonable cost, say not more
than five dollars per solid cord delivered on the field . Apply it
broadcast before harrowing. As it can seldom be bought for
the price named , most of us are compelled to substitute com-
mercial fertilizers of some kind . At Elm Fruit Farm we have
tested almost everything, and find we get much the best returns
for the money invested from pure , ground bone, mixed with
muriate of potash and dry ground fish, in the proportion of
three parts bone to one each of the potash and fish . The
amount applied depending somewhat upon the quantity of
berries we want per acre-for a fair crop , 1200 to 1500 pounds
will answer ; for a good one, 2500 pounds, and for a big crop ,
use all you think you can afford , then shut your eyes and put
on just as much more, it will pay every time.
The different methods of culture each have their champions,
some preferring the matted row, others the hill and some the
narrow row system. I know of one man that did claim that the
slip- shod was the most profitable, but changed his mind two
 38

years ago, after having cultivated, or rather not cultivated , six

acres one season in his usual style, at a total cost of $ 110 , while
a neighbor spent over $250, on two acres, and obtained 8600
quarts of berries , which , selling at sixteen cents per quart,
brought him $ 1376, while the slip-shop man obtained 7000
quarts of fruit which sold at eight cents per quart, making only
$560 from the whole six acres . He is now a believer in the
narrow row system, and he told me, a few weeks ago , that he
last season received more from one acre than ever before from
six in his old way, and while soil , climate and varieties each
have their influence, from a careful observation of the methods.
followed by the most successful growers of strawberries , and
from my own experience I would recommend the narrow row
system as the most profitable of any in general use. It consists
of setting plants from ten to fifteen inches in the row, and rows
three feet apart, keeping all runners cut . There is still another
plan that I think well worthy of attention, as I believe it will
ere long be adopted by most of our large planters, as it greatly
reduces the cost of cultivation , most of the work being done by
a horse and cultivator. It is to mark off the field in rows four
feet apart each way, and setting four or five plants in a circle of
a foot in diameter at the junction of the rows. Then a horse
and cultivator can pass each way between them , leaving but
little to be done with a hand hoe about the plants, which should
have all runners cut, and by the end of the first season, if the
plants are set in spring, they will have formed an immense stool
two feet or more in diameter, that will give an amount of fruit
that will be astonishing to any one who has not tested this
method of culture.
Planting may be done any time in April, May, August or
September, but the best time is very early in the spring, just as
soon as possible after the frost is out of the ground . After
having prepared your field, decided upon methods of culture,
time of planting, & c. , the question comes, what shall I plant—
what is the most profitable variety ? and here is where the.
" doctors disagree." Mr. A. , in his catalogue, says there is
nothing equal to the Champion of America, while Mr. B. is
sure there is more profit in one acre of his Mammoth Elephant
than in five of any other sort in cultivation , and Mr. C. devotes
 39

half of his catalogue in the praise of his Great American Mon-

arch of the World , that yields 20,000 quarts , per acre, of berries,
ten to twenty inches in circumference , that sell readily for one
dollar a quart, when Wilsons are worth six or eight cents, and
should you ask your neighbor, he will doubtless tell you to plant
the Wilson , it is the only kind he has ever tested, and so , of
course, he says it is the best, and will advise you to plant no
other.For my own part, I feel a little bit as the boys say,
"backward about coming forward, " in the recommendation of
any one variety for profit, for so much depends upon the char-
acter of the soil on which they are to be grown, the method of
culture, and particularly on the market to be supplied , that it is
impossible to confine ourselves to any one variety. Wilson's
Albany Seedling, as is well known , has in the past been more
extensively grown for market than all other sorts combined .
First, because it was more productive than any variety we then
had ; secondly, because it was the only berry firm enough to
stand up well after being handled to any extent, and , lastly, it
seemed adapted to every variety of soil and climate and almost
any method of culture, in fact the leading berry in every State
in the Union, but it has seen its best days and is being rapidly
crowded out of market by larger and better fruit. However, I
would not be understood as saying that it is not worthy of cul-
tivation, for I believe it is , where one is several hundred miles
from market and must ship by rail . I say hold on to it as your
leading berry, it is still the best shipper we have. It has yet
another strong point to commend it to every one who grows
strawberries for profit, and that is its strong staminate qualities ,
and, when planted even with other perfect flowering varieties,
it not only increases their productiveness , but the size of the
fruit as well. This I know to be a fact, and I believe if one
were to plant say ten rows of any one variety alone, or seven of
the same kind and three of Wilson , one on each side and one in
the middle, that the seven would yield more and better fruit
⚫ than the whole ten growing without the Wilson .
Of the larger and better sorts, Charles Downing is one of the
most valuable, productive and delicious flavor. It is a general
favorite in every market where it is well known . Cultivated in
hills or narrow rows, it will continue in bearing five or six years,
 40

each year growing better and better. The finest Downings I

ever saw were brought to Hartford last season by a gentleman
who told me they were the seventh crop he had gathered from
a half acre set eight years before , and I was afterwards told that
he received $400 for the fruit last season .
Windsor Chief, Miner's Prolific, Glendale and Crescent Seed-
ling, I consider the four most profitable sorts for all markets,
except those that are willing to pay an extra price for very large
fruit like Sharpless, President Lincoln , Pioneer or Hart's Seedling ;
and right here let me say a word in favor of the highly praised ,
and by some much abused , Crescent Seedling . The trouble is,
my friends, you don't know it, planted as it has been by many
in matted rows , and allowed to make runners as fast as you all
know it will if left alone, it has by the end of the season formed
such a thick mat of plants that you get nothing but a lot of
small worthless berries, even if you do have every fourth or fifth
row planted with some perfect flowering variety, which you
must do if you expect any fruit from it. Grown in hills, narrow
rows , or even in matted rows , if you will not let too many run-
ners grow, leaving plenty of room for sunlight to get in , and
well impregnated with pollen from some perfect flowering
variety, you will find it is not only the most productive of any
except Windsor Chief, but that it is of good size and flavor,
beautiful color and will sell well at good paying prices in any
market. Windsor is more productive even than Crescent, pro-
ducing last season, at Elm Fruit Farm, at the rate of 12,800
quarts, per acre, of large rich- colored fruit that was far more
attractive to the eye than to the palate, for it is a very acid berry
even more so than the Wilson , yet on account of size and fine
appearance sold for twenty cents per quart, wholesale , and if I
were compelled to grow but one variety for market it would
be this.
Possibly the opinions of some of the most prominent fruit
growers in different states may be of interest and value, and I
here quote from letters received from them on the subject.
Samuel Miller, of Blufton , Missouri , writes :
" To my notion, and in this place, Windsor Chief, Captain
Jack and Cumberland Triumph are the three most profitable. "
T. B. Wakeman, Green's Farms, Connecticut :
 41

" The Wilson is one of the best where it does well, but has
failed of late years, as the foliage is injured by rusts much more
than other kinds . I did the best with the Col. Cheeney one
year of any berry I ever raised from six acres. I sold 1200
bushels, and realized about $3000 . The Crescent Seedling has
done well with me, and is one of the best kinds . "
C. S. Pratt, Reading, Massachusetts :
" The most profitable varieties here are Champion , Crescent
Seedling and Miners Prolific . Soil, sandy loam . Market, Bos-
ton, fourteen miles away. "
Mathew Crawford , Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, writes :
" For general cultivation in our country I consider the Capt.
Jack the best, Duchess next, if not to be shipped too far, Chas.
Downing next. I would substitute Prouty for the latter if it
were not that its fruit stalks are too short for a near market,
where good fruit is appreciated . Cumberland Triumph may
prove best of all."
D. Hoxie, Northampton , Massachusetts , writes :
" Crescent Seedling , Wilson and Green Prolific are the three
varieties most grown and sold here . Crescent Seedling being
decidedly the most profitable . Capt. Jack does finely with me,
but poor quality, Sharpless not as productive as I hoped it
would be."
Truman M. Smith, St. Paul , Minnesota :
" For me, with my limited experience, with about fifty or
sixty varieties, so far as I have fully tested , I have no hesitation
in naming as the three most profitable on our soil, and for our
market, Hart's Minn . Seedling, Chas. Downing and Wilson's
Albany Seedling."
Chas. A. Green, Clifton , New York :
" Chas. Downing, Cumberland Triumph, Crescent, Sharpless
and Wilson are the most profitable here. Crystal City is the
best in quality and the earliest, but has not been tested here for
profit. "
After deciding upon what variety it will be best to plant, we
have to look about us for a stock of plants which, if purchased,
should be from some reliable dealer, who has a reputation for
selling first-class , pure and unmixed plants, even if his prices
are a little above that of your neighbor, who will supply you
 42

from some old , worn -out fruit bed.If you can grow your own ,
so much the better. No matter where you get them, always be
sure that they are young and thrifty, and from beds set the pre-
vious year. Good soil and thorough preparation will , avail but
little if poor, worthless plants from old fruiting beds are used .
Cultivation and hoeing should begin about two weeks after set-
ting, or as soon as the plants are well established , and be con-
tinued as often as once in two weeks all through the season ,
keeping the soil loose and mellow, free from weeds all the time.
Any experienced fruit grower will tell you there is no profit in
weeds, especially if growing in a strawberry field, and Mr.
Olcott, one of our Connecticut men, whose fruit always sells
for the highest price, is so thoroughly convinced of this fact that,
if possible, he will not have even a single small weed in any of
his beds, and once offered me a dollar a pint for all I would find
there, and at that price I do not think I could have earned a
shilling a day, for his plantation of five acres is a model of neat-
ness that it would be well if more of us would follow.
A good covering of mulching material of some kind, at the
beginning of winter, is essential to success in strawberry culture
for profit ; this should be spread evenly and not so thick as to
smother the plants or prevent their growing up through it in
the spring, as it serves to keep the ground moist, and fruit clean
in fruiting time.
And now, my friends, after having, with good soil, careful
preparation of it, choice plants and good clean culture brought
your field up to the fruiting season, there is yet another thing
that should be adopted , if possible, as it will add more to the
value of the crop than any other one thing I know of, and that
is irrigation . The secret of success in growing large berries is
water- water and then more water. I have tested it in a small
way, and find it will double the size of the fruit in thirty- six
hours, and I had rather have ten acres of strawberries where
irrigation could be practiced at a reasonable cost than the best
100- acre farm in your State. Of course many farms are so situ-
ated that it cannot be accomplished except at a cost far beyond
what the profits would warrant, and therefore we must do the
best we can without it. But there are many fields, or portions
of them at least, that can, at a cost of from $1000 to 1500, be
 43

supplied with an abundance of water for this purpose, and when

once we begin to irrigate our strawberry fields we can produce
100 quarts of first- class fruit as cheaply as we can 50 quarts at
the present time.
Choice, well-grown fruit is already half sold, so that little
need be said in regard to picking and marketing, except that
picking should always be done in the cool part of the day,
either morning or evening, and the fruit sent to market in clean ,
attractive-looking crates or baskets . Nothing will hurt the sale
of fruit more than soiled and untidy-looking packages .
Last season, being in a Hartford fruit store one morning, just
at the time of the arrival of the daily train, loaded with southern
berries, the proprietor, being called away on other business, said
to me, " Mr. Hale, will you go down to the station and buy six
or eight crates of berries for me, and , if necessary, pay one or
two cents more a quart for fruit in good, clean baskets, the
growers who are careful enough to use clean baskets are usually
sure to have good fruit run well all through the crate . "
A friend in a fruit store, two years ago, was surprised to find
a difference of three cents a quart between two lots of berries of
the same variety and , to all appearances, the same size and
quality, and, on questioning the proprietor , was informed that
one lot was from a well- known grower, that had a reputation
for always sending fruit to market in the best possible manner,
and many times while it was no better than that of others, it
would sell readily at higher prices .
A New York gentleman told me last summer, that while he
would like berries on his table at every meal from the beginning
to the end of the season , he often went without them, for on
going to the grocery he many times found them in such old dirty
baskets that he could not relish them, and therefore would not
buy. It is such facts as these that should convince us all of
the great importance of cleanliness in the matter of crates and
baskets . Discard all baskets as soon as slightly soiled, keep
crates in good repair and well painted . The cost will be small
in comparison to the profits derived from a more ready sale and
higher prices obtained . It is often said that "Cleanliness is
next to Godliness," and it is surely akin to profit in this matter
of crates and baskets.
 44

With soil properly prepared , well enriched , good plants of the

best varieties grown in hills or narrow rows, clean culture, lib-
eral mulching, irrigation if practicable, fruit carefully picked
and sent to market in best possible shape, the cost will be from
$200 to $250 per acre, and the returns from $ 500 to $ 1000 , and
in some cases even more than the latter sum where all the con-
ditions are favorable. I have had small fields that have given
returns at the rate of more than twice that sum per acre . Two
rods of Crescent Seedling gave 182 quarts that sold for sixteen
cents per quart, $ 29.16 , or $2332.80 per acre. Four rods of
Pioneer gave 175 quarts which sold at forty cents per quart,
$70, or $2800 per acre ; and last year one rod of Windsor Chief
gave eighty quarts, sold at twenty cents per quart, $ 16 , or
$2560 per acre, and this without irrigation , in one of the dryest
of seasons . At twelve and one-half cents per quart, Wilsons
Albany gave us $700 from three- quarters of an acre one year,
and one of your New Jersey growers, I am told , has averaged
$700 per acre, from two acres, for the past ten years . Last
season, although suffering from drought, a friend of mine
received $1500 from two acres of Crescent Seedling and Down-
ing. These, of course, are exceptions and not the average, yet
go to show what the strawberry is capable of.
Occasionally I hear some one say, " Strawberry business is
being outdone ; too many in it ; supply greater than the demand ,
&c. , " yet can any one name an instance where strictly first- class
fruit has been lost for want of a purchaser ; if so , it is of rare
Occurrence. In the height of the season there are always a few
days when some berries must necessarily be lost or sold at very
low prices . If any are lost, they are of the very poorest quality.
Have no fear of over- production , the demand is yet in advance
of the supply, and is rapidly increasing, especially for fruit of
the better varieties. I well remember when in Hartford , there
were not more than eight or ten stores that sold strawberries,
and none of them more than a bushel a day, and now there are
more than fifty some selling only one, and others from ten to
twelve bushels a day all through the season.
The borough of Winsted, Conn. , with a population of over
5000 , I am told, has no one in its neighborhood growing small
fruit for its markets, which are only partially supplied with fruit
which has to be brought a long distance by rail .
 45

A Boston gentleman told me a short time ago that he did not

eat his usual allowance of strawberries last summer, as in their
season, he was in Malone, N. Y. , a village of about 6000 inhabit-
ants, and all the fruit he could get there was occasionally a few
wild berries, picked from the field . This does not look like
over-production , at least in the vicinity of the towns named .
You have within a distance of 100 miles from this hall ten
cities, to say nothing of smaller towns and villages, whose aggre-
gate population is over 3,000,000 . Allowing that each family
of five persons consumes a quart of berries a day during the
season, you have a consumption of 18,750 bushels each day, and
it seems to me with such markets at your very doors, as well as
the rich and prosperous manufacturing cities and towns of New
England within easy reach by rail and sound steamers, that any
such thing as overdoing the business is almost an impossibility.
Webster once said " There is plenty of room at the top of the
ladder, " and there is more room there now than at the bottom
in the strawberry business, and always will be for first- class fruit.
Therefore , what we do raise let us do it so well, and send it to
market in such good order, that inferior fruit, even in large
quantities and at low rates, will not affect our prices.

This, on motion of Mr. Goldsmith , was accepted with a vote

of thanks, and a copy requested for publication .

DISCUSSION.

W. H. Goldsmith- In the matter of clean baskets alluded to ,

he had found that if new baskets were sent to market, old ones
were invariably returned . Grocers generally, in emptying bas-
kets, threw them altogether in a heap , and when the crates were
returned they were filled with baskets from the heap promiscu-
ously.
The Secretary had experienced the same difficulty. Last year
he used new baskets for his strawberries, and the returned crates
contained mostly old, soiled, dilapidated baskets of every con-
ceivable form and shape, totally unfit for use.
Dr. Hexamer- In Mr. Hale's case, if his berries brought two
cents more per quart in clean baskets than in soiled ones , he
 46

would still be better off, as the increased price would more than
pay for the baskets .
Mr. Hale replied he really considered it more profitable for
him to use new baskets every time and destroy the soiled ones .

Next come the

PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS .

FELLOW-MEMBERS :-It has now been five years since the first
annual meeting of the New Jersey Horticultural Society was held ,
and the question naturally arises with us, have we made a satisfac-
tory progress in that time, is our standing as a society as high as we
could wish, is our membership as large as we could wish or expect.
The first published report of our membership shows that we had
ninety-seven members representing thirteen counties. The report of
our Treasurer, for the past year, shows a membership of ninety-
seven representing thirteen counties . Why is it that at the end of
five years existence of our State Society, there should be still eight
counties unrepresented ? The area of our State is not large, and all
the published statistics show plainly, that New Jersey is in the very
front rank as a producer of orchard and horticultural products.
Although her position , lying between and contiguous to the largest
cities and shipping ports of the United States, is such as to give us
the benefit of the best markets, yet we will not for a moment admit,
that our producers are callous to improvement or independent as to
the best results attainable.
A good, large representation from all the counties would enable us
to perfect our list of fruits that we recommend for general planting
in New Jersey. A large representation , each giving their experi-
ence, which is often expensive, or practical ideas , to the general stock,
would add greatly to the value of our proceedings ; each member of
course being entitled to all the benefits of the whole number and to
the published proceedings . In a recent published report of the
Montreal Horticultural Society it was stated that they had 697
members who paid annual dues of $2 each . If increasing our annual
dues to $2 would increase our membership, I would recommend that
we do so at once. A membership of 600 for New Jersey should not
be considered an unreasonably large number. Such a number of
 47

active horticulturists and fruit growers, from all parts of the State,
would give us great prestige and enable us to accomplish great
results.Our society will not probably attain to the large size and
practical value that we wish to see, or that we wish it to do, while
we continue in the practice of holding our annual meetings at or
near the same place. The plan has not been found advantageous
with other State societies. The United States Pomological Society
holds its meetings at points more than 1000 miles apart. The
Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Kentucky Horticultural and Fruit Growers
Societies hold their meetings at different points of the State ; and of
local societies some of the most active and efficient are those that
hold their meetings at the different members ' homes .
The subject of holding exhibitions of fruits and flowers in the
summer, or of fruits , &c. , in autumn, either alone as a society or in
conjunction with some agricultural society, should claim our atten-
tion , although the want of patronage to our creditable strawberry
and flower show last June, in the largest city of our State, tends to
cool our ardor in that direction. A similar neglect to a fine show of
fruit can be recalled by some of the people of Philadelphia vicinity,
a few years since. The fine exhibition of fruit and flowers was
almost neglected while the largest place of amusement in the city
was crowded to see a minstrel troupe. Our exhibition in conjunction
with the Burlington County Society in 1878, was a success , and if
we could exhibit each autumn with some society it might add to our
strength and usefulness .
I would recommend that a large general fruit committee, consist-
ing of one from each county, to report either individually or through
a chairman of the committee, to the annual meeting, be appointed
each year. In this way all parts of the State should be heard from.
Each could report of the success or failure of crops in their localities
and call attention to any valuable new or old varieties that might
otherwise not be noticed by the society.
Although we have been gratified to notice the general revival
during the past eighteen months in almost all kinds of manufactur-
ing business, which we hope may benefit us in the way of better
prices for our produce, yet it is known that large crops and low
prices generally go hand-in-hand , and with poor crops, even high
prices leave little or no margin of profit to us. For satisfactory
results we are compelled to use all the skill and intelligence that we
 48

can possibly obtain , to plant a careful selection of the best varieties ,

give best care and cultivation to produce the very finest fruit, and to
use the most economical and efficient fertilizers to produce good
results ; the most efficient means to destroy insect enemies, and still
further to place within reach of the consumer in the most attractive
form .
Instances of large and profitable products of the past season's
crops could be given ; one , a yield of over 1000 pounds of Napoleon
Bigarreau cherries, from two medium sized trees, sold from eight to
twelve cents per pound ; yet that return , in some other cases, would
cover an acre of ground . And of apples the past season , although
the crop was unusually large, the prices ruled very low, so that only
best selected varieties were profitable . Pears having produced a
heavy crop in 1879 , did not yield heavily, as a rule, the price being
more satisfactory to the producer.
The planting of peaches , especially in West and South Jersey, has
increased very much within the last few years, the trees yielding
more satisfactorily than during a previous decade . A great part of
the fruit grown in the southern portion of the State is canned in
that vicinity .
The strawberry holds the position of being the most important of
the small fruits, and is more appreciated by consumers than any
other berry that we cultivate, and of all the crops raised in our
State, none, perhaps , are as variable in their results or profits as
the strawberry crop . Results were obtained during the past season
in our vicinity, with quite similar treatment in previous seasons'
culture and manuring, that the yield varied from less than $50 per
acre to the rate of over $ 1800 per acre. One extreme of this great
difference in result was from a thrifty growing variety on land that
was somewhat moist, producing fine berries, which sold at high
prices, while the other was obtained from small vines and small
berries growing on dry soil, and selling at extremely low prices.
The fact of the strawberry being rather exhaustive of moisture, and
the roots not penetrating as deeply as some others , and requiring, at
the same time, a large amount of moisture at the time of blossom-
ing and fruiting, renders it peculiarly liable to be affected by drouth
at the fruiting season. While I could not quite unite with his ideas,
the saying of the venerable Marshal P. Wilder is suggestive. He
said : " In the first place the strawberry's chief need is a great
 49

deal of water. In the second place it needs more water. In the

third place I think I would give it a great deal more water.”
The past fruiting season of the strawberry being unusually dry,
caused more efforts to be made at irrigating, or perhaps at sprink-
ling than ever before , which was generally done by pumping water
into casks or tanks and driving over the beds, so arranged that once
passing over the beds would empty the cask. In one case I saw a
steam pump forcing water through hose to the highest ground,
where it was let to run between the rows , seeming to impart new
life and vigor to the vines and fruit, even though it was being
applied in the sunshine and heat of the day. Should the coming
strawberry fruiting season bid fair to be dry, there will, no doubt,
be more extensive preparation made for irrigating. A running
stream for a supply will be found desirable , and a wind-mill to
force water into a reservoir, might, in some cases, be made to pay ;
but the large amount required-27,000 gallons —to give an acre an
inch of water, and as that much should be supplied every five or six
days, will necessitate some figuring to be sure of the plan being
profitable. If a person is located so as to utilize a running stream
by damming and getting sufficient head to run a water wheel , it
would probably furnish the cheapest power to elevate a portion of
the stream to the requisite height.
I know of one small turbine wheel that was put in during the
past autumn, with a view of forcing water through pipe to the
highest ground in a strawberry patch, 1200 feet distant. The

capacity of the wheel is calculated to be to elevate fifteen gallons of

water per minute to a height of thirty-five feet, requiring the use of
sixty-four cubic feet of water, with a head of three and a half feet.
The proposed plan , in this case , is to force the water to the highest
ground, then let it flow between the rows, in that way requiring but
little labor or expense in distributing the water . The same water
wheel that furnishes power to run the pump runs a small iron mill
for grinding feed when not otherwise engaged . The pond is used to
furnish ice for ice houses in winter.
The general plan of growing strawberries in our section is to
plant in the spring and cultivate through the season, forming beds
or matted rows for next season's fruiting . Of late years, some of
our most successful growers are planting in summer or early
autumn. Several acres, making the finest prospect for a good pay-
4
 50

ing crop of strawberries that I know of now or that I ever saw,

were planted last August ; four rows are planted, 10x12 inches
apart, then a path 30 inches wide , then four more rows, requiring
34,848 plants per acre. New young plants were set in this way on
carefully prepared land . The expense of cultivating has not been
heavy. Runners have been kept off, causing the plants to form
immense crowns .
With raspberries and blackberries , the markets in which we have
an interest were well supplied ; the prices ruled very moderate,
although the crops were much injured by dry weather.
The subject of new varieties of apples, pears, and other tree
fruits, as well as of new strawberries , raspberries , blackberries , &c. ,
will properly come up for discussion with us here at this meeting,
under the head of revising our list of fruits , to recommend for
general planting.
I cannot congratulate the members of the society on the great
amount of their good works as a society for a score or more of
years, as it has been in existence but a comparatively short time ;
but I feel that our labors have been in the right direction , and that
our efforts may have been, at least, like unto the bread cast upon
the waters.
As the wealth, culture and taste of the people of our state
increases , they will seek instruction in matters of horticultural
interests, not only in such directions as how to beautify our homes
by planting and the care of flowers and ornamental trees, &c., but
will seek and will find instruction in the way of providing luxuries
for their tables , as fresh home-grown fruits and garden vegetables
should be considered .
My impression is, that a large portion , especially of the farming
community, do not take sufficient care to add to the attractions of
their homes, not only in the way of beautifying them, but in the—
shall I say, more practical way, of supplying the necessities for good
health ; plenty of choice fruits.
The farmer's son who must needs go to the village, or city, to even
see fruits and vegetables in their season, is not as likely to stay on
the farm as one who has a liberal supply of them, to gratify his
tastes.
In view of these facts, there need not be any cause for surprise
that the late census reports of some of the strictly rural districts,
actually show a decrease in population within the past ten years.
 51

The consideration of the subject of the best varieties to plant, how

to manage and make the most productive and profitable , is an object
of pursuit that is worthy of all the exertions of even older societies
than ours .

This was followed with discussion on irrigation .

Mr. Lush thought the greatest difficulty in the way was a sufficient
supply of water ; it was so with him.
Dr. Hexamer put a pump in a well containing eighteen feet of
water, pumped it dry, and it is dry yet.
Mr. Quinn, being called on to give his experience, said that during
the drought last summer he rigged up a temporary arrangement and
hauled probably 500 tons of water on his plants, and thought they
were much benefited ; thought the berries on that portion of the
grounds receiving the most water were as fine as he ever grew, and
thinks it paid him well ; applied 800 gallons to a row four feet wide
by 400 feet long at a time.

J. L. Chapman submitted the following observations and experi-

ments on the strawberry plant :

1. What shall we do with our old plants ? Some take them up, and rely wholly on
young plants. The old beds I believe, are if properly managed, more profitable.
The expense is less. Do not cut them down . They need the sap in the leaves for new
roots. And then the flea is apt to feed on the feeble growth , unless the season should
be very favorable. Clean and dress the old beds.

2. What plants shall we set , not what kind ? Shall they be runners from plants
that have fruited, or from plants that have not fruited ? The latter, most certainly,
for they and they alone can furnish them in season and in vigor.
3. Shall we discriminate between pistillate and bi -sexual plants ? If we do, let it be
in favor of the pistillate. And why ? It is passive in fertilization , and is not so much
exhausted as the bi- sexual. It is a mistake to think that it degenerates. But then
furnish it generously with pollen.

4. What time shall we plant ? Spring, Summer, or Fall ? Circumstances have to

be taken into account here . Assuming that we can be ready at any of the seasons
named, what is the best time ? My observations favor Summer , then early Fall but
neither observations nor judgment favor the Spring. If the plant requires from nine
to ten months for the full action of the growing and fruiting principles to prepare with
all their energy for the exhausive crop of berries, the Summer, or early Fall, if the
weather be favorable, is the best time to plant. Late in planting is easy in gathering .
5. Shall we depend on watering ? If we have facilities, and can apply water on a
generous scale, it will pay. Moderate or occasional watering is of little use, and
 52

when applied to the leaves and fruit, it is an injury. We must, in most cases, depend
on rich soil and mulching.

6. Shall we follow a loose or hard culture ? Neither. The mean here, as in other
things , is the best way. I will explain . My neighbor L. adopts the loose culture.
The plough and cultivator are used as freely in his strawberry field as in his field of
corn. The growth is rapid and strong. Roots shoot out a foot and a half on each
side of the rows. Plenty of leaves and roots , but a moderate show of fruit. My
neighbor G. prefers the hard culture. He opens, in the ground, ploughed some time
before, a shallow and narrow drill, and fills it with fine compost. After that, the hoe only
is used. The plants are smaller and the fruiting is fair. These methods are extremes .
Between them lies the mean, in two ploughings and good harrowings before we plant ,
and after that clean culture with the hoe, and liberal top dressing in season.

Dr. Hexamer, in answer to the inquiry how he applied the fertil-

izer he mentioned, stated that in a field of one acre devoted exclu-
sively to potted plants, he divided the compost in four parts and
applied at as many times. After taking off one set of potted plants
applied one- quarter of the compost, and found this continuous feed-
ing was preferable to feeding all at once, and paid him well . He
had since practiced this method with other plants and with equally
satisfactory results . Feeding plants was somewhat analagous to feeding
animals or human beings ; to keep them in good condition we have to
keep up good feeding . To overcome the perversity of hired help , who
would get plants mixed , if it were possible, he had adopted the plan
of planting his strawberries in rows twelve feet apart ; the inter-
vening space was planted with peas. The following season this
space was ploughed, manured and planted with plants from the
adjoining row only. And after the fruit was gathered the old beds
were ploughed up and planted to pickles, to be re-planted with straw-
berries in the following spring ; of course this plan would not be
found profitable where land is high priced . On the subject of
irrigation he did not think it would do for shipping berries , as it
tended to make them soft. We often see this effect in exhibition
berries.
W. R. Ward thought this daily or frequent watering deteriorated
the quality of the berries, making them soften , and noticed the irri-
gated berries did not keep as well ; saw Mr. Quinn's berries on the
market, and they did not look as solid as they ought to.
He had one and a- half acres on a hillside where watering was
impracticable, cultivated two or three days a week up to the time
the berries began to color and had a fine crop , so he did not fear
cultivation.
 53

J. T. Lovett made a mistake in cultivating last year.

J. H. Hale had a field last year from which he removed the mulch-
ing from three-quarters of it and cultivated every other day and got
more than double the amount of fruit from the same area than from
the one- quarter of the field on which the mulching was left.
The Secretary would merely call attention to a fact with which all
were familiar, that strawberries in a wet season were softer and
more deficient in flavor than in a dry one .
C. W. Idell thought too much water was injurious ; had received
such fruit that would not stand up, and had to be sold at once to
realize anything from them .
C. W. Harrison asked if pistillate berries were less firm than per-
fect flowing kinds . He had found that Gypsy, fertilized by Black
Giant, partook of the nature of the latter. Champion, fertilized by
Great American, resembled it. Their resemblances were very appar-
ent in color and firmness of flesh.
J. L. Chapman.— We must admit the fertilizing plants have their
influence . The office of the male parent is not only to quicken into
life, but its greater potency imparts its nature to its offspring ; was
inclined to believe the Glossy Cone would deteriorate any plant it
fertilized .
The Secretary hoped the fruit and seed would not get confounded
in this discussion. It was through the seed only we look for results
in crossing and hybridizing, and if the effects of this cross - fertilization
was visible in the fruits, or to what extent the fruit exerted its influ-
ence as the seed, was one of those intricate processes of nature, which
was, and to a great extent ever will, remain a sealed book to us.
J. S. Collins could not see how the claim of greater fruitfulness ,
by means of cross - fertilizing , could hold good in regard to some varie-
ties . Take the Wilson, for example, he did not see how it was pos-
sible to make it more productive by this means, or any other variety
that perfected a fruit from every blossom .
J. H. Hale noticed that Crescent Seedlings , fertilized with Wilson's ,
were firm enough to carry to Boston, 110 miles, while those fertilized
by Charles Downing were too soft for that purpose.
C. W. Harrison's observations had given him faith in this matter.
Pale berries fertilized by dark ones, he was sure would be improved
in color.
J. T. Lovett had no doubt some varieties would give more perfect
fruit if well supplied with pollen from perfect flowers.
 54

Dr. Hexamer thought this a very interesting subject because we

know nothing about it. He had no faith in it, yet it was worthy of
trial and study. The variations in time of perfecting the pollen may
be the cause of many visible effects ; so with the condition of the
weather at the time fertilization is going on.
J. 1. Lovett cited a garden in which some years ago were Wilson
and French seedling strawberries , and no difference could be detected
in the looks of the fruit. The flavor of the Wilson was also improved.
D. C. Voorhees thought the unfruitfulness of some plants was ,
perhaps, due to unfavorable weather at the time of fructification.
If rainy, damp or foggy it was unreasonable to expect the pollen to
thoroughly accomplish its mission ; believed with the Secretary that
the seed only was affected by fertilization.
The Committee on Resolutions, relative to the death of Mr. Bar-
clay, reported as follows :

WHEREAS, Since our last meeting we have lost by death Mr. Alex. Barclay, one of the
Vice Presidents of this Society, and an active member since his connection with
the Society ; therefore,
Resolved, That by the death of the late Alexander Barclay, this Society has lost a
valuable member and an earnest and successful horticulturist ; a man of undoubted
integrity, straightforward and honorable in his daily walks of life and his dealings
with other men ;

Resolved, That this Society deeply regret the loss of Mr. Barclay, and the horticul-
tural interests of our State has by his death lost an intelligent worker, an earnest
friend and a man who has left a record well worthy of emulation by horticulturists in
this or any other State ;
Resolved, That the State Horticultural Society tender to the family of the late Alex-
ander Barclay their most earnest sympathy and condolence in their bereavement, and
that the Secretary of this Society forward to the family a copy of these resolutions,
and that they be spread on the minutes of this Association.
P. T. QUINN ,
WM. H. GOLDSMITH ,
WM. R. WARD,
Committee..
Unanimously adopted .
The Committee on Nominations reported.
The Secretary asked to be relieved from further service, and some
slight changes being necessary, the matter was laid over till to-morrow
and the Society adjourned till seven o'clock this evening.
 55

FIRST DAY.- EVENING SESSION.

The society was called to order by the President.

A paper by A. F. Boyce, of Richmond , Va. , on fruit lands, was
read by Mr. Lovett, accepted and ordered on file.
The Secretary read a paper on City Gardening, by an amateur .
New acquisitions among vegetables was then taken up, and the
Secretary named the Perfect Gem squash and White Elephant
potato as of excellent quality and very promising and worthy of
trial.
J. T. Lovett commended Bliss's American Wonder and the Tele-
phone peas .
Mr. Lush had found the Philadelphia Extra Early quite satisfac-
tory for a home market.
Inquiry was made in regard to experience with Mammoth Pearl
potatoes. One gentleman present reported a yield of one and one-
half bushels from one pound of seed.
D. A. Vandeveer gave the following yields as the results of one
pound of each kind planted :

St. Patrick, fourteen pounds ; tubers small.

Ohio Beauty, twenty-four pounds ; medium to large ; rose color ; excellent keeper.
Matchless , forty-two pounds ; medium to large ; white ; round or oblong.
Beauty of Hebron , forty-six pounds ; medium to large ; white.
Silver Skin, sixty-one pounds ; medium to large ; white and smooth.
Mammoth Pearl, seventy- two pounds ; white, resembling Peerless in form.
Pride of America, eighty-six pounds ; medium to large ; long and white.

Experience with Egyptian sweet corn was called for .

Mr. Lovett and others had tried it, and not found it superior to
other varieties . This corresponded with the Secretary's experience.
After trying this, Moore's Early Concord, Campbell's Sixty Day ,
Farmers' Club Sweet, Excelsior, Mammoth Sweet, Darling's,
Stowell's Evergreen , &c. , he had selected the Mexican as the
richest, tenderest and sweetest of all for early use, and Triumph for
second early and late use, and , if planted at the same time, the latter
will be ready for use as the former goes out. The ears are large,
first quality and very productive. Sowed all his spare ground with
these varieties, in drills, for fodder, as late as the twelfth of July last
year, and had fine “ roasting ears " when frost came.
 56

C. L. Jones- This accords with my experience exactly. The

Mexican is the sweetest and tenderest sweet corn I ever tasted , and
the Triumph comes next to it.
D. C. Voorhees described a new peach, first shown last September,
as very large in size, golden yellow, with red cheeks, form nearly
round, flavor very sweet and rich, a good keeper, a strong, vigorous
grower, and very productive. Ripens about September 10th . Free-
stone. It is not yet for sale.
Adjourned to 10 o'clock to-morrow morning.

SECOND DAY.-MORNING SESSION .

The society was called to order by the president.

The executive committee, through its chairman, W. R. Ward,
reported that for a long time many members of this society had
regretted their inability to allow any compensation to their faithful
secretary, who had rendered so much service gratuitously ; but the
executive committee felt that it would be imposing upon good nature
to longer ask these services without some compensation . Therefore
it was unanimously resolved to recommend twenty-five dollars for
the past year's services, and the same amount for the ensuing year,
and to increase it to fifty dollars if the funds of the society will
permit. This report was accepted and adopted unanimously.
W. R. Ward appealed to every member present to procure
another during the coming year. If all would do this, and it
required but a little exertion , it would not only increase our sphere
of usefulness, but place us in a position financially that would enable
us to give our secretary some adequate compensation for the per-
formance of his duties, and to publish our proceedings promptly.
D. C. Voorhees moved that the names of all members over two
years in arrears for dues be dropped from the roll . Adopted .
C. W. Idell then read the following paper on

MIDDLEMEN.

I have chosen this subject for a paper to be read before our society,
on account of seeing so many articles in the daily and weekly
 57

papers in regard to middlemen ; and as these are simply a denuncia-

tion of a class of men known as commission merchants, particularly
those connected with the fruit growing interest of the country, I
take the liberty of calling attention to them in order to show these
writers how little they know of the true relation existing between
the grower and the merchant. If you will recall some of these
articles to your memory, you will recollect that the writers assume
that the merchant is a mere parasite in the business community,
clinging to the farmer in order to live on his labors , without giving
an equivalent in return for what he receives, and in all cases they
are spoken of disrespectfully, but they never tell the farmer how to
market their crops successfully without them . Possessing some
knowledge of the true relation existing between these two parties , I
will undertake to say a few words in behalf of the merchant. I do
not wish to be understood to say that the fruit growers endorse the
views of these writers . By no means ; for they, as a class , possess
sound , practical sense, and fully appreciate the duties and responsi-
bilities of the merchants. I contend that the word middlemen
should never be used in a disrespectful sense at any time, for to a
great extent all are middlemen, and all depend largely on one
another for support. All are customers of the farmers, and the
more customers they have, the better prices they receive for their
produce. Farmers cannot leave their farms to go to China for their
tea or to Brazil for their coffee, so they avail themselves of the
privilege of buying, not of those who import it, but of the merchant
who buys of the importer.
A farmer sells his grain to the miller, who grinds it and sells the
flour to the merchant, who in turn sells it to the consumers, who
among them perhaps may be the farmer who sold the grain , but who
would think of denouncing this class of men for so doing.
The time has been when farmers were compelled to cart their pro-
duce to a market and even then they preferred selling their loads to
the merchants, who bought in large quantities, for the farmers
could not wait to retail it to the consumers, although they lived but
a short distance from the market ; but now the demand is so large .
that the supply must be obtained from a greater distance, say from
Florida, in the South, to the most Northern States in the Union , as
well as from foreign countries, so that you can readily see that if the
growers cannot accompany their produce to market and the consumer
 58

cannot go to the farmer, there must be an arrangement made for

some one to receive and sell it ; consequently a commission merchant
is a necessity of the age.
For the sake of argument, let us suppose a farmer could follow his
produce to a market ; could he get more money for it than the commis-
sion merchant ? I think not . For considering his expenses, which would
frequently consume a large portion of his sales and the loss of time
from his farm, he would be the loser. Besides, did he come with
fruit, he would be compelled to leave many of his packages in the
possession of the purchaser, who would not leave a deposit on them ,
not knowing when the farmer would be in again to redeem them.
Now let us look at the duties and responsibilities of the merchant,
and see if he is not a necessity to the grower. As the merchant is
in the market all the time, it is presumable that he keeps himself
well informed of the amount of produce received daily, and through
this information he is enabled to judge of its value, and also to know
the particular class of persons that buy, not only a certain variety,
but quality also, and through this information can return the shipper
more money for it than the owner could have sold it for. There is
another point worth considering in connection with this subject, of
which you gentlemen are well aware of, that there is a constant
change of the styles of fruit packages which only the merchant can
keep track of, and if he is prompt to recognize these changes and
inform his customers of them, the growers receive the benefit. It is
scarcely necessary to call attention to these changes , but would sim-
ply remind you of the time when we had no quart or pint berry
boxes or crates to put them in ; when huckleberries and blackberries
were shipped in any boot, soap or candle box that the owner might
possess.
Again most of the prominent commission merchants of large cities
keep themselves well informed of the value in other cities of the
fruit they receive, and many of them have customers in those cities
to whom they ship , and such are the facilities of shipping fruit
brought about by these merchants , that berries are sometimes
received in New York city, shipped again, and received East as far
as New Haven, Connecticut, before all of that day's consignments are
taken out of the cars in New York. Again, growers are constantly
introducing new varieties of fruits. Those originators can attend to
the Horticultural and Farmers ' Societies, and give an ever so glowing
 59

an account of their beauties and excellence, and get a large adver-

tisement in the papers, but the more shrewd portion of growers fully
appreciate the influence of a dealer's opinion , consequently take to-
him a sample of the fruit, and having procured a favorable decision
of its merits , publish that decision freely, knowing that a large por--
tion of the farmers will not buy of him unless its character is
endorsed by some one or more reliable merchant.
There is another point that I wish to call attention to that is not
generally understood by even the growers, that is, the power these
merchants possess in influencing the directors and managers of
transportation companies in correcting abuses along the line of the
roads , and to give the shippers a cheaper and quicker transit for
their fruit. Permit me to speak of one or more instances of this
kind. A few years since a railroad company whose business con-
sisted largely in carrying coal, extended their road through a peach
growing section of our state, and strange as it may seem, the mana-
gers did not know that the fruit was grown in that section, conse--
quently made no arrangements for their transportation . The farmers
of that section talked about the running of a train for their accom-
modation, but each waited for the other to act, which was caused by
their not knowing just who to go to, to get their request granted , as
either end of the line was at some distance from them . One of the
growers comprehended the difficulties they had to contend with , ·
wrote to his commission merchant asking his aid. The merchant at
once set himself to work to find the person who had the control of
that department, sought and obtained an interview with him. Dur-
ing the conversation the official expressed his surprise to learn of
the large amount of fruit grown along the line of the road, and very
readily gave his consent to establish just such a line as the growers
desired, and unlike some officials, who are ever ready to promise but
not fulfill , he sent a trusty messenger up the road to procure the
necessary information, and in due time the train was started . In a
few days after word was sent to the merchant that the train on its
arrival was run on a side track, where the carmen could not get at
the fruit readily, which detention caused a considerable depreciation of
its value. The merchant at once wrote to the official and the objec-
tion was promptly remedied .
Permit me to give another item, which I think is interesting,
because it shows the necessity of a person knowing just who to go to
when they wish to get a complaint remedied .
 60

My experience is , that it does little or no good to go to any other

official, for as an officer with whom I was well acquainted once said
to me, " Don't ask me to interfere, for if it were known that I had
complained, they would almost drive me from my office with their
annoyances." It was during the huckleberry season , when the fruit
was delivered by a boat, the terminus of the road being some dis-
tance from the city. The boat arrived at the dock at one A. M., but
for some cause those having charge of her would not begin to unload
till four A. M. Then the carmen must wait their turn to get their
fruit. This delay caused the shippers a loss of from fifty cents to
one dollar per bushel on their berries, and this continued till a mer-
chant sought and found the location of the official having control of
the boat, wrote to him giving a full account of how the fruit was
detained and the loss arising from it. Very promptly that officer
answered the communication and thanked the merchant for the
information , and stated that he was much surprised to learn how his
orders had been disobeyed, for he had given strict orders to unload
the boat immediately on arrival and give the merchants their fruit.
Now, what do you suppose was the cause of this delay ? Simply
this , the stevedore, whose duty it was to unload the boat, found that
by delaying the unloading tillthe hour named he would only have
to pay the laborers day rates of wages, but previous to that time the
higher night rates, so in order to save a few dollars for his own
pocket, he caused the loss to the shippers of hundreds of dollars .
Again, there are thousands of farmers in this country who have but a
small surplus of their produce to sell , which they would be compelled
to lose, were it not for these commission merchants, who receiving,
sell and return the shippers their money, without any trouble or loss
of time to them.

The above was listened to with much interest and on its conclusion
Mr. Lovett moved a vote of thanks and requested a copy for publi-
cation. Adopted.

The question of future meetings being raised, on motion of Mr.

Ward the matter was deferred to the opening of the afternoon
session.

H. E. Hooker hoped to hear some discussion on Mr. Idell's excellent

paper. One point of interest was to learn the best packages and the
 61

best fruits , and he thought these merchants had many valuable facts
in their possession which would be of great value to the grower if
they would only give them . His own observation was that about
half the fruit sent to market ought never to have left the farm. It
was a loss and a nuisance to the merchant, a disgrace to the grower,
and he hoped the merchants and middlemen having facts that would
be of benefit to the fruit grower, would communicate them .

The Secretary here read the following, on the same subject, by

I. J. Blackwell, who was unable to be present :
Nearly all branches of trade have been in the habit of employing
middlemen, many manufactured articles in daily use passing from
the raiser of the crude material to the middlemen , who sell the
cotton or wool to the manufacturer, from the manufacturer it goes.
to the jobber, from the jobber to the wholesale dealer , from the
wholesale merchant to the retail dealer, and from the retailer to the
consumer, and if experience is a good thing to go by this is the best
way. It is impossible for the raiser to be a manufacturer, and the
manufacturer cannot put his goods in shape to retail , with profit.
Now what holds good with the manufacturer holds good with the
market gardener, fruit, grain and stock raiser. The market gardener
must, if he carries on much of a trade, either have a partner or else
employ some one to retail his produce, for the master's eye must be
on the workman or things will soon go wrong, and this applies to the
selling as well as raising. The fruit grower is needed at home more
than the gardener, as to-day he may think that the crop will be some
days before it is ready to gather, a change in the atmosphere changes
his fruit faster than he supposed , and every effort has to be made to
gather and get the crop ready for market. This is particularly the
case with berries and peaches, all perishable. The pear and apple
grower will find enough to do in a large orchard without going often
to the market, and if he does go to market, he must wholesale or
else keep a retail store , and at times become himself a middleman .
The same holds with live stock and grain . It may pay to retail to
customers when the customer and grower are near each other ; with
the great majority this is not the case. Strawberries, peaches, pears,
apples , blackberries , raspberries, tomatoes, potatoes , cabbages , onions,
peas, beans, cucumbers, &c., are shipped hundreds of miles, and are
sold by commission men , and these parties get control of the market,
so that as a rule, the raiser will find it best to employ them.
 62

C. W. Idell- Poor fruit, or good fruit in poor order, is what the

merchants have to contend with. For example, a grower sent in a
large lot of good strawberries . It was unloaded at his store at
seven o'clock A. M., long after the morning sales were over. The
juice was running from the crates , and after hours of effort he sold
them at one cent per quart to the only person who would make an
offer for them. He used the juice. About an hour afterwards he
was notified by telegraph of the shipment. Of course the shipper
was dissatisfied with the returns .
Had he been notified of the shipment as soon as it was made, his
truck would have met them on arrival and they would have sold at
fair prices. For eight hours they lay at the depot awaiting the con-
venience of the express company.
W. R. Ward- This is an important question, how to sell the
fruit. The grower is not the person to do it, as it is a trade one
must learn . The merchant is better posted and able to judge of
what is coming and what is best to do with it. The best way is to
select a commission merchant who is honest, and then give him your
full confidence. If advised to hold back or push in your fruit accept
his advice. This had been his practice, and he seldom lost by so
doing. Of course strawberries could not be held long, but apples
and pears could. Last season he sent about 1500 pounds of cherries
in boxes, as usual , which sold well . The price began to drop, and
his merchant told him to change his packages to baskets . He did
so, and they brought two to three cents per pound more. As to
poor fruit he sent all , and it suited all classes . He sent pears that
sold at forty cents per bushel, and others that brought two and
three dollars per bushel. The poor we always have with us , and we
should supply them as well as the rich.
P. Snyder remarked this advice to sort fruit is correct in theory
and not in practice. He had often found the poor fruit sold for the
same price as the good, and asked why it was so. Could Mr. Idell
explain ?
C. W. Idell-The explanation is very simple. It is often sold by
the lot, and the poor fruit fixes the price for the whole. That is, the
larger the proportion of poor or medium quality the lower the
general average price.
J. S. Woodward-This only confirms what I have told our West-
ern New York people, not to cheat the hogs. Avariciousness is the
 63

cause of all this trouble about poor fruit. The best way is to keep
hogs. If you have none buy some, and feed them the poor and
worthless fruit instead of sending it to market. You save the
expense of sending the poor to market and the good brings enough .
more to pay, and you benefit your neighbors at the same time . The
poor crowd the good in any position . Put up your best fruit well
and honest and sell it on its merits . A little less avarice, and a
little more honesty among fruit growers would improve our markets
in quality and prices .
R. Lush- We Vineland people do not like to give up our poor
wind-fall Bartletts as long as they could be sent to Boston and
bring four dollars per bushel. We considered them too valuable
for feed at that price.
J. S. Woodward - Such fruit only had a tendency to injure the
sale of good fruit , and was a disgrace to the grower . The gentle-
man ought to know better than to practice or defend such a system .
He never sent a barrel of second class fruit to market from his
orchards. It either went to the dryers or was fed to his stock.
A. D. Capen endorsed Woodward's views. The case cited was an
exceptional one. Boston did not want our poor fruit. A dealer in
that city recently said if people would take a large seive and sift out
the poor fruit it would be a benefit to all , and poor people would buy
good fruit.
W. R. Ward thought if Boston or Rochester would buy our poor
fruit, and pay more than New York, they would get it, not other-
wise ; but he did not advise the selling of very poor or damaged
fruit.
R. Lush-In Vineland we raise a good many grapes . The good
early ones sold well. Ives was poor . Not fit to eat .
The people
would not touch them, yet they were sent by the ton to Boston three
weeks ahead of Concords, simply because it pays .
Woodward- That just proves my position and confirms the
charge of avariciousness . If people would not grow such poor stuff
as Ives and Champion , and glut the market from the start, it would
not remain so all through the season. Poor people were like the
Indian " who liked good grub as well as white man, when he get it."
A. D. Capen- I once met a farmer taking some very nice peaches ,
put up nicely, to market. I asked how he did it. He replied : I
pick off the hog fruit and destroy it. I sell first-class fruit at first-
 64

class prices . I can carry a dozen peaches to market for a dollar

easier and cheaper than a bushel for the same price. Your early
fruit may bring profitable prices in Boston before theirs come in,
but afterwards it would not sell at all.
D. C. Voorhees claimed the eye was the guide. Quality was
ignored . A good looking, handsome fruit would sell before one less
handsome and of better quality.High or artificially colored butter
would sell more readily than a paler article, though of inferior
quality.
J. T. Lovett claimed the course so fittingly denounced by Mr.
Woodward was already injuring the European demand for our fruit,
D. C. Voorhees showed some Pennock apples, which, owing to
their size, handsome color and appearance, would sell in some mar-
kets sooner than a better apple less attractive in appearance.
C. W. Idell— The most Pennocks were shipped to the West Indies
because they kept well in that climate.
P. M. Van Riper-We must grow fruit for the masses, not for
the rich. If you sort over five barrels of fruit, taking out one, you
save the cost of carting one to market, and get as much money for
the other four. He knew this by experience. We want the best
fruit at the lowest prices so the masses could get it.
On the question of keeping and coloring fruit
Mr. Goldsmith was called on to give his experience. He used ice
to maintain a low uniform temperature ; had some Windfall Seckels
last season which he placed in his ice house ; temperature reduced to
forty-five degrees. They kept well and colored finely. Matured fruit
did not keep so well . It was important to have uniform tempera-
ture and keep out currents of air. A wilted pear will not color.
Considerable moisture was no injury. In one instance water got in
the boxes, two or three inches deep, and the fruit in the water was
better than in the top of the box ; more crisp and better flavored .
Keep dark. A damp cellar was better than a dry one for keeping
apples.
P. M. Van Riper thought dampness was not so important as
uniform temperature. He had put away apples in alternate layers
with corn- cobs and kept them till May in excellent condition .
Mr. Goldsmith called attention to the samples on the table. He
had never succeeded in keeping Northern Spys before. He put up
twenty bushels in strawberry crates in his ice house, and in picking
them over got a peck of decayed ones ; temperature, 36 ° to 37.°
 65

H. E. Hooker.- Mr. Goldsmith's experience compares favorably

with ours in Western N. Y. The fruit should be gathered at
maturity ; if too'ripe would not keep so well ; preferred to pick as
soon as they would separate reasonably well from the stem. To
preserve the flavor they should be in packages by themselves ; no
wrapping necessary ; pack in barrels, allowing to stand a few days
to shrink before heading up ; pick when ripe ; better err in the other
direction if at all ; keep dark in cool and constant low temperature,
are the conditions necessary according to my experience. In open-
ing a barrel of Spys a few days ago did not find two quarts decayed .
W. H. Goldsmith .- The time of picking is very important, some,
Clapp's Favorite, that were blown off, kept far better than those
allowed to mature .
P. M. Van Riper.—Early picked fruit kept the best, but not so
good in flavor .
H. E. Hooker. This is a very nice point and must be determined
by the grower .
C. W. Harrison thought uniform temperature most important.
C. W. Idell mentioned a case of poultry being taken out of a bar-
rel, washed in ice water and re- packed in ground ice. When asked
how long it would keep, the reply was, forever, if necessary, by
maintaining this temperature.
W. R. Ward had taken Bartletts out of ice water after a month's
immersion , and they were pronounced superior to those kept dry.
If he could he would have his pears kept in ice water .
W. H. Goldsmith.- A neighbor sent a quantity of his fruit to a
New York refrigerating house last fall where the temperature was
kept at 34 °. The moisture was all condensed on the pipes in the
shape of ice, and the air was so dry a match would ignite anywhere.
Mr. Quinn being called on to give his experience , alluded to the
advantage of keeping and retarding the ripening of fruit for a bare
market. He put 300 bushels of Duchesse pears in the house men-
tioned . At the end of the fourth week they had shrunk 12 per
cent. , and were ripening. They went in large and plump and came
out a grade lower in size. Moisture must be had to prevent this .
H. E. Hooker.- Will they ripen up as well ?
P. T. Quinn thought they did.
J. B. Rogers mentioned the case of a wagon loaded with Fameuse
5
 66

apples that broke through the ice and sunk in a lake in Vermont.
When it was raised the apples were found to be in fine order, while
the same variety kept in the ordinary way were ripe and gone for
five months .
J. T. Lovett thought this feature worthy of experiment.
J. S. Woodward. — A firm in Lockport was trying to keep fruit
with carbonic oxyd gas . He saw Hale's Early peaches in good con-
dition thus kept, when Crawford's Late were in season . They did
not pay any regard to temperature, though they had lost some fruit
by the cold weather. Hoped they would succeed .
Dr. Hexamer.- Some years ago I had more apples than I could
store. I hired a cellar of a neighbor and put in it several hundred
barrels . When I came to take them out found water in the cellar
three or four feet deep . Took out and sold those above the water,
and concluded the rest were a dead loss and left them till I found
time some weeks afterwards to take them out, when to my surprise.
found them in first rate order, better than the others . The exclu-
sion of air and low temperature did it.
It is said that apples rot before their time much worse than
formerly. Now the natural time for any fruit to rot is when it is
ripe, and it is unnatural to keep it longer. It must decay that its
seeds may become liberated to sprout and grow, thus reproducing
and perpetuating its species . If we could completely succeed in our
fruit-preserving tendencies we would exterminate every orchard .
Still nature has so amply provided for the perpetuation of every kind
that even if only the thousandth part of the seeds annually produced
should grow there would soon not be room enough on the surface of
the earth to hold the trees.
H. E. Hooker did not think it good policy to resort to expensive
means to keep fruit long beyond its season . He would not give
much for a basket of peaches now. With the enormous crop of ice
now stored its use for keeping fruit ought not to be very expensive.
W. H. Goldsmith had no difficulty in keeping the fruit one or two
months after taking it off the ice, but considered moisture essential
afterwards. Exhibited some Bolles pippins thus kept.
J. Jelliff exhibited samples of the same variety in fine condition.
They were left on the tree very late, till the last of October, put in
his carriage house till fear of freezing, then taken in his cellar.
 67

Mr. Quinn, in answer to a question as to how long it was desira-

ble to keep the fruit for profit, replied, a month or six weeks was
sufficient, till the public were hungry enough for them .
Adjourned till half past one o'clock.

SECOND DAY. -AFTERNOON SESSION.

The Society was called to order by the President.

The list of officers , as reported by the nominating committee, were
elected.
Proposals for the next annual meeting.
R. Lush, of Vineland , stated he was authorized by the Vineland
Horticultural Society to extend us an invitation to hold our next
meeting there, proffering us a good hall to meet in and a cordial
welcome .
J. T. Lovett proposed we go to Camden.
The President favored Camden first, then Vineland .
R. Ege named Trenton .
Vandeventer and Rogers favored Vineland.
After some discussion , on motion of Mr. Voorhees , it was decided
to go to Vineland .
President Collins thought it was desirable to meet earlier in the
season, in order that we might issue our reports before spring work
commenced.
C. W. Idell favored the suggestion , and appealed to members for
samples of fruits and flowers ; they were such pleasant features of
our meetings . If every one would bring something , if only a single
article, in the aggregate they would make quite an exhibition .
E. P. Beebe thought January would be early enough , though
December was favored by some.
Finally, on motion of Mr. Ege, the time was left with the execu-
tive committee.
The executive committee reported the following amendments to
the by-laws :

First. Any member who shall allow his dues to remain unpaid for
two years, shall be considered suspended until all arrearages are paid .
 68

Second. Persons out of the State may become non -resident mem-
bers on payment of one dollar per year, and entitled to the privi-
leges of the society , such as notices of meeting, tickets to exhibitions,
reports, etc., for the year their dues are paid.
Third. Associate members shall consist of the wives of members ,
be exempt from dues and entitled to the privileges of the society for
their aid and influence .
These several amendments were duly adopted .

REPORT OF THE SPECIAL FRUIT AND FLOWER COMMITTEE .

MR. PRESIDENT :-We find on exhibition several new seedling

apples, two of which we regard worthy of special mention . One a
medium sized red apple, of fine, delicate flesh, with very pleasant,
agreeable flavor, from N. W. Parcell , Elizabeth , New Jersey . The
other a large yellow apple , in some respects resembling Porter, the
sample exhibited being over-ripe, your committee were not able to
fully judge of its merits , but think it a very promising sort, and
have no hesitation in recommending it for trial , from Mr. Bradish ,
of Bayview, Long Island , New York. Some of the finest specimens
of Northern Spy apples ever seen in the State, are exhibited by
Wm. H. Goldsmith, of Newark. Some remarkably fine, well pre-
served specimens of Fall Pippins are exhibited by the Secretary,
Mr. E. Williams , of Montclair, and N. W. Parcell , of Elizabeth.
The greatest novelty on exhibition in the fruit line, is a fine speci-
men of what is known as the preserving citron (or dried citron of
commerce) , being one of two grown on a small branch , the two
weighing when taken from the tree, twenty-four pounds . These
were grown by Mr. H. S. Williams, of Rock Ledge, Indian River,
Florida, and are said to be the largest ever grown in the State.
A very meritorious and attractive display of cut flowers exhibited
by Mr. Jas . Taplin, of Maywood . Also

Thirteen varieties of apples from the Secretary , Montclair.

Nineteen varieties of apples from N. W. Parcell , of Elizabeth .
Four varieties of apples and Easter Beurre pears from W. H. Goldsmith , Newark.
Three varieties of apples from W. R. Ward , Newark .
Very fine specimens of Canfield apples from Wm. H. Jackson , Newark .
Four varieties of apples from P. M. Van Riper, and Anthony Francisco , Belleville.
 69

Fine specimens of Bolles pippin from J. Jelliff, Newark.

Fine specimens of Baldwins from T. C. Munn , East Orange.
Specimens and grafts of the Farmers greening , an excellent apple of Massachusetts
origin from A. D. Capen , of Boston , Massachusetts .

Respectfully submitted ,
E. P. BEEBE,
For the Committee.
Report adopted and ordered placed on file .

The subject of pear blight and peach yellows was introduced by

J. T. Lovett, as follows :

MR . PRESIDENT AND FELLOW HORTICULTURISTS .- In appearing

before you to say a few words on the subjects of " Pear Blight "
and the " Yellows in Peaches, " permit me to ask, at the outset,
if you do not think they have become a little thread-bare ; to
say the least , somewhat hackneyed ? However, the interests at
stake may be as great as the amount of breath and paper that
have yet been spent (mostly wasted it must be admitted ) upon
them . I will not occupy your time with any attempt at statistics
to show the loss the country has sustained by the workings of
the scourges, or the importance of the subjects, for we all know
they are simply enormous ! Nor shall I attempt to propound any
new hypotheses concerning either of the evils, or to lay down.
any definite rules or describe any specific remedies for the sup-
pression of either of them . What I shall say will be more in
the way of suggestion ; coming before you as I do, with the
hope of eliciting the experience of those present, who are so
much better qualified to speak upon the subjects than myself.
The chief difficulty in determining remedies for the diseases
has been in determining the seat and causes of the same.
Arriving at an accurate diagnosis is usually the hardest task of
the physician hence, being quite confident we have arrived at
that point, I am led to believe we shall soon discover the proper
medicines, so to speak, and the proper treatment to administer
in order to ward off and cure the tree of the diseases. I am of
the opinion that the " theories " attributing the difficulties to
insects, atmospheric influences , over-nutrition , frozen sap , sun-
scald, &c. , &c. , and the greatest of all -electricity, have had their
day, and a new era is awakening in which we may proceed
 70

understandingly ; for I think it has been pretty definitely

demonstrated that they arise from the action of parasitical fungi .
The first gentleman I remember having advanced this hypothe-
sis was Prof. Thomas Meehan . By scrutinizing and unremitting
observation he was led to this conclusion ; and he was led to the
same conclusion respecting both Pear Blight and Peach Yellows.
To solve the problem conclusively he must find the minute plants
doing their work of death— must catch them in the very act of
sucking up and poisoning the life blood of the tree. This he
was unable to do, even with the most powerful microscopes at
his command ; hence, it remained to be determined whether the
A gentle-
fungus was the cause or a consequence of the diseases.
man residing in Chester county, Pennsylvania, ( I refer to Mr.
John Rutter), a district noted for the prevalence of the yellows,
being a close observer, arrived at the same conclusion as Prof.
Meehan, and like him, also , was unable to discover the dire
destroyers until after the trees had commenced to show the
disease . Knowing, however, that caustic lime and potash are
destructive to fungus growth, he commenced experimenting with
these materials . In his work entitled " The Culture and Diseases
of the Peach , " he fully explains the experiments , and plainly
points out in detail the favorable results . In his little book Mr.
Rutter makes the important statement that " These experiments
have not been confined to a dozen trees in an old garden , but
extended to thousands, in open field culture ; and not with one
orchard, but with half a dozen ; and not only in one location ,
but in several, (one a distance of ten miles from the others , and
in an adjoining county, and in a different formation of soil) ;
and not planted at one time, but at different times . These
orchards , during their bearing for twelve to fifteen years, (it should
be borne in mind that these orchards were situated in a district
where the yellows had been so devastating as to have forced
fruit growers long before to abandon the culture of the peach as
unprofitable) , were noticed for their thrifty growth, health and
productiveness ." True, Mr. Rutter's experiments do not con-
clusively prove the cause of the disease to be fungus , yet, if there
is anything in the adage that the " proof of the pudding is in
the eating thereof, " they certainly do prove the efficiency of the
effect of the antidote. Just here permit me to cite a trifle of per-
 71

sonal experience in the same direction, which, it may be added,

happened entirely independent of the experiments of Mr. Rutter
or others. Having some thirty trees of new varieties of peaches
coming into bearing and showing signs of the yellows, as a
"forlorn hope, " as I thought at the time I covered the ground
about each tree, and for some six feet from the trunk, with a
heavy dressing of wood ashes which I worked into the soil. To
my infinite surprise, the trees put forth leaves in spring with full
vigor, and several seemed to recover entirely from the malady ;
all maturing a crop in quite good shape , although some of the
most affected , from which I did not expect any fruit, bore unmis-
takable evidence of the presence of the disease at the end of the
season, and were rooted out.
The preceding, it will be observed , is all circumstantial
evidence, although it would appear like evidence strong enough
on which to base a verdict against the fungus of " murder in the
first degree. " It is, however, with the most profound satisfac-
tion that I state a detective has been found equal to the emergency
of the case, and one who has at last caught the murderer in the
act ! I refer to Prof. T. J. Burrill . The discovery of this
gentleman I regard as one of the most important of the age.
" There's millions in it ! "-Millions of dollars for the fruit
growers of the country, millions of peaches and pears for the
ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls- for who don't like them ;
and added to this the Professor found millions of these micro-
scopic plants in a single twig, no larger than what constitutes a
respectable rod for directing young America in the road he
should go .

As regards pears, some would recommend as the only means

of evading the blight, to plant only such varieties as do not
blight. " Blight proof " pears, you know, which have become
remarkably popular in a surprisingly short time ; but, for one,
I cannot feel content to see the good old friends sicken and
perish from neglect, and allow their places to be filled with those
which survive solely by their greater crudeness. Since it is
known that caustic lime, potash and sulphur are destructive to
fungus, I would urge all to experiment with these elements , and
hope for a general expression of experience of those present who
have experimented with any of them. For one, I mean to use
 72

sulphuric acid , in various ways, with a hope of arriving at some-

thing of value, and would suggest that others do also.

R. Lush had not been troubled much with the " Yellows " till the
last year ; thought it was due to exhaustion . Had some pear blight,
a few Vicars but no Bartletts .
R. Ege had heard the pros and cons. on these subjects for years,
and the various theories as to the causes. He was surprised to hear
a statement made at a meeting of the State Board of Agriculture a
few years ago, that the pits of early, premature and diseased peaches ,
that came into New York market in an unsalable condition , were
saved, cleaned , and afterwards sold as prime southern pits. If
diseased pits were planted diseased and unhealthy trees were the
inevitable result.Had used wood ashes as a fertilizer with good
results.
H. E. Hooker asked if the Yellows had ever entirely disappeared
from any locality where it once prevailed .
J. T. Lovett thought not , only partially so.
J. M. Randall thought pear blight was rather on the increase ;
had thought it due to insects. On removing affected limbs the trees
had recovered . With the peach the first trouble visible seemed to
be with the leaf ; thought some insect was the cause ; could only
account for it in this way. The elements of fertility might be gone,
or the tree unable to appropriate them ; if the former, the trouble
was no doubt due to impoverished soil .
R. Ege-A neighbor has 4000 peach trees which he dresses liber-
ally with wood ashes and has no trouble with Yellows .
H. E. Hooker hoped the curled leaf would not be confounded with
the Yellows, and would like to hear of some locality from which the
Yellows had disappeared and peach growing again became possible .
W. H. Goldsmith could give an infallible remedy for this disease.
It was to build a city on the ground . In this city there were thou-
sands of trees of great age, healthy, producing good crops, with no
trouble from " Yellows ."
N. W. Parcell- Most of the premium peaches exhibited at
Waverly were grown in this city.
R. Lush- Had lately seen statement by three different persons
who had tried the oil remedy for pear blight with success .
D. C. Voorhees was afraid that it would injure the tree.
 73

P. M. Van Riper- Had used salt on pear trees ; would try it on

peach ; would clean away the earth about the roots and apply a
quart to a tree.
A paper on the trials and tribulations of a young grape grower
was then read by the Secretary, after which the question of fertil-
izers was discusssed . '
J. H. Hale-Was obliged to buy manure largely. Years ago they
bought stable manure in New York but found it too expensive ; also
bought ashes , raw and leached , the latter at sixteen cents per bushel,
but for the last five or six years had used ground bone and muriate
of potash largely. Must be used with caution .
W. H. Goldsmith asked how he applied the muriate of potash.
J. H. Hale-Composting is best. Last season prepared six acres ;
part was harrowed in with a LaDow harrow, and the rest with a
common harrow. Lost most of the plants set on the portion pre-
pared with the common harrow, while on the other part of the field
the loss was next to nothing . How much is used ? 1000 pounds
per acre is a heavy application . A second application was 1200
pounds of bone, 400 pounds each of muriate of potash and Peruvian
guano.
J. B. Rogers- Used carbonate of potash in preference to the
muriate. The latter increased the sweetness of the fruit but made a
spongy growth of wood .
J. H. Hale- Got more benefit from these fertilizers than from
stable manure . Had a piece of ground badly run down . The last
crop of rye was but four bushels per acre. Applied one ton of bone,
one-half a ton of fish, and one- half a ton of muriate of potash,
eighty per cent. per acre. Had a crop of strawberries one year ,
plowed it up and applied a ton of Mapes ' tobacco manure. A neigh-
bor applied fifteen cords of stable manure per acre . He got $700
worth of tobacco, and his neighbor $400 worth.
N. W. Parcell applied one- half a ton muriate of potash to an acre ;
harrowed it five or six times with a disc harrow, and planted with
strawberries ; it came dry, and the plants all died ; plowed again
and re-planted , and the plants did well . This experience led him
to think composting was the best and safest way to use it.
J. H. Hale used muriate instead of sulphate, on account of the
cost, the latter costing about six cents per pound, the former three
to three and one-half cents.
 74

P. M. Van Riper asked if the potash mentioned did not spend all
its force the first year, while barnyard manure left two-thirds to
three-fourths of its force in the soil for future use, and if the con-
tinued use of yard manure would not prove better in the long run.
J. H. Hale. This field gave twenty-seven bushels of wheat per
acre after the tobacco, and now has as fine a sod as we could show
in New Jersey, and no fertilizer since.
J. S. Woodward believed in stable manure ; commercial fertilizers
had no effect on his land . He would pay the expense of any one
who would come up and tell, from the crops , where the commercial
manures were applied .
R. Ege was anxious to learn the cheapest manure to use.
T. B. Wakeman. -500 tons of bone was used in his vicinity in one
season ; more than 4,000 bushels of ashes there now. It was a
great place to raise onions. Manure cost three dollars per load .
Don't rely altogether on commercial fertilizers ; use both.
W. H. Goldsmith .-The relative cost of manure would seem to
settle this question. Manure up the Hudson from New York City
costs two dollars per ton on their wharf. He could not afford to pay
that price. He pays one dollar per load of about two tons .
H. E. Hooker's experience was similar to Goldsmith's. A good
pair of horses would haul two tons at a load , costing seventy-five
cents to one dollar, and three or four loads a day to his place.
P. T. Quinn- The quality and value of what is termed barn
yard manure depends solely on what sort of food the animals are
fed upon. When cattle get salt hay or pine shavings for fodder the
manure from such is worth little or nothing outside of its mechanical
effect on heavy soil . The question should be how much phosphoric
acid , nitrogen and potash a ton of barn yard manure contains ,
and whether these substances could not, in many instances, be sup-
plied much cheaper from other sources than barn yard manure. In
his opinion two tons of muriate of potash was too much for a single
application for strawberries, and a much less quantity would give as
large results.
P. M. Van Riper asked if the sun took anything but water from
manure spread broadcast, and got no answer.
R. Lush asked for a remedy for the cane borer in the Wilson
blackberry , and got no response.
 75

ADVANTAGES OF FALL OVER WINTER OR SPRING PRUNING OF THE

GRAPE.

The Secretary remarked that the advocates of fall pruning

generally advised not to prune as close in the fall , to provide against
the loss of buds by accident or otherwise, and in spring rub off such
as is desired .
J. B. Rogers thought if the wood was thoroughly ripe it made
but little difference when the pruning was done.
W. R. Ward asked for a cheaper method of training and pruning.
W. H. Godsmith alluded to the Kniffin system as practiced on the
Hudson. It would seem to meet the requirements. On being
asked to explain the system, replied : There were two wires used ,
one three and one-half feet from the ground , the other six feet . The
vine was trained up to the top wire, with two arms eighteen
inches long on each wire, and renewed annually. The aim was to
get about five buds on an arm, and preference was given to medium
sized shoots, with full, well-developed buds, over the stronger and
more vigorous growth.
J. S. Woodward saw the vines alluded to last fall yielding 28
pounds of fruit each. Few would believe it possible to get so much
fruit on a vine, so little wood is left. Nowhere did he ever see so
fine a show before.
H. E. Hooker thought the lower arms would have the disadvan-
tage by not getting as much sap as the upper ones.

The President called attention to the importance of revising the

Society's catalogue, but the members did not seem desirous of taking
up the matter at this late hour.
The subject of State aid and the best means of increasing our use-
fulness was also briefly alluded to.
H. E. Hooker was very glad to see the earnestness with which
the members took hold of things, and questioned the expediency of
any outside aid. The Western New York Horticultural Society had
been in existence 25 years , and they had never incurred a debt that
had not been lifted among themselves , and any proposition for the
Legislature to help them to the amount of $100 or so would be
 76

regarded as a farce. He thought outside aid would tend to lessen

individual interest, and appealed to those present to increase their
efforts in the laudable work of the Society and make it more than
self-sustaining. It is true their Society allowed itself to become in
debt to the Secretary, who like yours , has a good deal to do , but
at their last meeting a little extra effort among themselves raised
the deficiency and placed the Society out of debt, and he hoped the
same course would be pursued here, feeling assured it would pro-
mote our best interests .
J. S. Woodward-Was proud to belong to the Western New
York Horticultural Society. Its influence and teachings had been
far - reaching, and it was a proud satisfaction to its members to know
its work had been accomplished solely through the energy and liber-
ality of its members . Adversities were of benefit . The more diffi-
culties we have to contend with , either as societies or individuals , the
better we become. He had been agreeably surprised to see so much
interest manifested ; it was a good omen for the future, and he hoped
to have the pleasure of meeting with us again and witness rapid
progress in improvement and usefulness .
A. D. Capen, of Boston, being called on to say a few words , said
he was in the infant class in horticulture. [The pertinence of this
remark will appear when we consider that the speaker is past three
score and ten.] He believed in fruit culture . We must not only
grow good fruit but create a taste for it. Any one can grow an
apple tolerably fine, but you can't make people buy it unless they
are inclined to do so. So also you "( can lead a horse to water but
you can't make him drink." He was on board a steamer befogged in
Long Island sound twenty-four hours , and only enabled to reach here
at the last end of the feast. Was glad for even this opportunity, and
would embrace it by saying that the American Pomological Society
would hold its next biennial session at Boston next September , and
would extend to this society a cordial invitation to attend . He hoped
to see us all there and promised a hearty welcome.
President Collins , on behalf of the Society, thanked Mr. Capen for
the kind invitation, and to our visiting friends, who, by their pres-
ence and experience had contributed so much of value and profit to
our meetings. He hoped , if life and health permitted , they would
feel encouraged to repeat the experiment in the future, assuring
them of a cordial welcome. He hoped our members would not for-
 77

get the invitation to Boston . Would like to see the society well
represented on that occasion.
Woodward and Hooker invited the members, one and all, to visit.
the Western New York Horticultural Society , at their winter meet-
ings, which occur in January of each year.
These several invitations were received with thanks .
A number of questions handed in were read by the Secretary , the
only one eliciting any discussion being the following : " Should a
person planting an orchard of 500 standard Bartlett pears buy trees
three years old when he can get six year old trees of vigorous
growth, well cut back, by paying six cents more per tree ? "
Mr. Hooker thought it would be difficult to get such trees , and
the expression was unanimously adverse to any such course .
No further business of importance transpiring, the President
declared the society adjourned sine die.
E. WILLIAMS ,
Recording Secretary.

THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF A GRAPE GROWER .

BY A VICTIM .

A young man was presented with a grape vine, which he car-

ried home, planted and cared for it most tenderly until it bore
fruit . Then , on its arriving at maturity, he found it to be a
Miss Isabella . Now this little maiden was the first of the fam-
ily he had seen, and to possess one of his own was indeed a
treasure, and in an ecstacy of delight he pressed her to his lips
and found her to be delicious . He never tired of singing her
praises or boasting of her health and fruitfulness . True she had
a black skin, but what cared he for that, if beauty was only skin
deep, color could penetrate no further, and , like many another
lover, was true to his dark skinned maiden , till one day a neigh-
bor said to him, " I know how highly you appreciate Miss Bella ,
and I endorse all you say of her, but I have a young friend , a
Miss Concord, staying with me, that I think is far more beauti-
ful, and if you will call I will introduce you to her." Now Miss
Concord was a farmer's daughter that had quite recently made
 78

her entree into society, and reports said she came from unusually
hardy parents, had received a good education and for substantial
qualities was equal to any . A few gentlemen who affected a
highly educated taste, and who would not admit that a farmer's
daughter, born and reared in the open air, could be aught but
common compared with the hot-house maiden , said , " It is true,
she is good -looking and bids fair to be popular with a certain
class, but her low origin would always develop itself as soon as
tested. " Our young man had heard of all these good and bad
things said of her, which only increased his desire to meet the
lady.
So he called on her, and was surprised to find that her
skin was not so black as Miss Bella's, and that her cheeks were
covered with a rich purple bloom, with a thin delicate skin , her
form more voluptuous and taste even more delicious . The more
he conversed with her, the more pleased he became , till he
neglected his first love and no longer enjoyed her society. Thus
time passed on and he considered himself one of the happiest of
beings ; but poor fellow, how little did he dream of the many
temptations he would meet with in his life , or how easily he
could be dazzled by beauty and led away from those whose com-
pany he now enjoyed so much . While out walking one day
with Miss Concord, they met Miss Dela(ware) , that little witch
with rosy cheeks and sparkling eyes, whom every one falls in
love with at sight.
He proved to be no exception, for her pure style of beauty
overcame him , and as Miss Concord greeted her with a kiss, he ,
too, claimed the privilege and found her beauty exceeded only
by her sweetness. Then he became infatuated with her and
neglected Miss Concord . Now Miss Concord was not pleased
with this exhibition of his fickle character and remonstrated with
him, for coming from a strong and hardy race herself, she looked
upon those possessing a delicate constitution with contempt.
She told him that while no one could dispute her delicacy and
beautiful appearance, yet she possessed so frail a constitution
thas it was only in certain sections of the country that she could
live, and that she would be of no use to him. But all to no
avail. He discarded Miss Concord and openly declared Miss
Della to be the queen of beauty.
 79

How like others we know of, who think only of the present
and care or think naught of the future.
Little did he think after rejecting two such good and substan-
tial maids as he had , that the time was coming when he would
regret so doing ; for one need not suppose that because he rejected
them that there were others who would not, as our story will
show, for Miss Concord's hand was secured by an enterprising
fellow, and in due time she gave to the country several beautiful
daughters .
One evening, while attending a social held at the residence of
a noted horticulturist, where all the beauty of the country were
assembled, he met Madam Catawba with her two daughters ,
Misses Iona and Diana. Madam was a proud dame of the
brunette type of beauty, possessing a full round form with that
peculiar clearness of skin which usually accompanies that charac-
ter, and makes them so attractive .
Although sometimes called proud , sometimes capricious, she
was a charming companion for all who possessed a refined and
cultivated taste ; and all who met with her were pleased with her,
and when surrounded with all the refining influences of such an
atmosphere as suited her health she developed as he saw her, but
he hesitated about forming her acquaintance , preferring the more
agreeable companionship of her daughters, who evidently were
disposed to flirt with any good looking young man they met,
and some said that Miss Iona had flirted with several married
men whom she had entangled in her toils, and who had spent
thousands of dollars on her before she jilted them . But that did
not hinder our friend from seeking an introduction to her.
Miss Iona bore a striking resemblance to her mother, and were
it not for the difference in their ages would frequently have been
taken for a twin sister. Like many others he admired her as
others made her, for she was fair to look upon , but her well
known capricious character caused him to avoid all entangle-
ment with her. But turning to Miss Diana, who by the way, if
not descended of the old goddess of that name, was named after
her, and I presume her father, like many another loving parent,
thought that she was fit to be one. Miss Diana, as she then
appeared, was a beauty, strongly resembling her mother in size,
but she possessed a more compact form, was strong and healthy
 80

and very attractive ; but on enquiring of a friend in regards to

her habits he was told that in some parts of the country she
developed to perfection, and was a delightful companion, but
more often she failed , when she became very disagreeable, besides
her breath was frequently tainted with a disagreeable odor. As
soon as he could politely do so he excused himself, and on turn-
ing around he met Miss Brighton , face to face, who had recently
reached that age fit to be introduced to society.
In form and color she strongly resembled Madam Catawba,
but in purity of type and sweetness of character Miss Della .
Although some said that she had a dash of foreign blood in her
veins, which if so , was no disgrace to her, for who of us have
not the same. He fought shy of her winning smiles and bright
glances, determined not to fall in love with her at sight, but being
thrown again and again in her society, and hearing others speak
so highly of her modesty and worth, he was gradually yielding to
her sweet and gentle influences when a friend interrupted his
enjoyment by introducing Miss Rebecca. He looked around
and with a low bow he beheld one of the fairest of the fair, with
the brighest and most happy of faces. Owing to the crowd that
pressed around her our friend had but a slight chance to con-
verse with her, but it was evident to all that she was very popu-
lar, owing not only to her personal appearance but good health
and bright ceeks . An old batchelor who had been trying to get
an introduction to her but could not grumbled out, " Oh yes she
is all that, but some think her very capricious and would not
prove to be a staunch friend in time of need ." However true that
may be, there were several prominent horticulturists of the day
present who were willing to cast their lot with her, and take her
for better or worse. And he might have done so too , were it not
just then a friend requested his company, in order to introduce
him to two other young ladies who proved to be Miss Martha
and Miss Lady, twin sisters .
Miss Martha was a lovely lady to look upon , with her bright
skin and supple form . It was evident that she too was sought
for, although she bore the name of a flirt and that her beauty
was her chief attraction .
But the most popular of maidens will find those who are ever
ready to tell all they know of them, and the more it is to their
 81

disadvantage, the more they enjoy telling it. Our young friend
soon learned that these two lovely girls were daughters of his
rejected friend Concord, although so unlike their mother that
only the assertion of those he knew to be truthful, could con-
vince him .
Her twin sister was of the same type of beauty and it has been
said of her by at least one person , that in character she has never
developed one weak point, that she gains her full form at an
earlier age than her sister, has the same hardy constitution handed
down by their mother, of which she is justly proud , yet with such
a delicate complexion and appearance that one would fear that
each rude blast would harm her . Such was her power to resist
outside influences, that it is said of her, that she has more power
to resist the fatal disease (mildew) than any other maiden .
No one could resist the winning ways of these two lovely sisters ,
so we cannot blame our friend for yielding to their influences, or
could we tell " what might have been , " had not a very happy father
touched his arm with, "permit me to introduce to you my daughter,
Miss Prentiss , of New York State. " Miss Prentiss was one of the
reigning belles of the day, and her father had spent his money
freely in educating and developing her good qualities, for she
was as fair as Miss Martha or Miss Rebecca, equally as healthy,
and promised to be as fruitful as either . Our hero was well
pleased with her, and he spent some hours in her agreeable
company, but in an unexpected moment he was doomed to
another mortifying exposure of his former fickleness of character
from her sweet lips, for while questioning her upon her origin, a
point on which he was quite particular, she informed him that
" her mother's name was Isabella, who was one of the oldest and
hardiest women in the country . " None knew that fact better
than he, and now he was reminded of it most forcibly by this
beautiful Miss, who might have been his, was now the daughter
of one of the most honored men of the country.
His gloomy meditations were rudely interrupted by a throng
that hovered and pressed around a tall, beautiful blonde named
Miss Croton, who had just entered , who perhaps, more on account
of her peculiar style of beauty attracted hundreds to her, as many
another blonde has done, for we cannot deny that that type of
beauty in females is peculiarly attractive to the opposite sex . She
6
 82

was a New Yorker, born " under the hills " of that State, and
possessed a remarkable feature of the sex that is called double-
shouldered , indicative of strong health , had sweet and winning
ways, but while she attracted many to her presence, but few
seemed to think well enough of her to propose for her hand.
One among the number did not, that was certain , for he had not
yet recovered from the confusion in which Miss Prentiss ' infor-
mation had thrown him. He was soon aroused from his lethargy
by a ripple of silk and a murmur of applause, caused by the arrival
of two beauties, who laid claim to the belleship of their State,
Miss Lady Washington and Miss Duchess .
Miss Lady Washington, of Newburgh , N. Y. , although no
relative of the Lady Washington of old , whose name is so
honored throughout the land, yet she was her peer for beauty
in form, graceful, possessing a clear skin , with cheeks tinged
with the red blood of health . Coming from the hills of old
" Ulster county, " none could question her hardiness ; nor would
any one who had examined her symmetrical form , surmounted
with such a pair of strong double shoulders , suppose that she
had ever sprang from a Rickett-y family. But she did , and her
father is very proud of his beautiful daughter.
The other was born in the same county, and owing to her
mature form and carriage, was christened the " Duchess, "
although by no means connected by blood with the English
nobility, her father evidently considered her their peer for
beauty and high breeding. A friend said of her : " She is vigor-
ous and productive, perfectly healthy, in size and form medium
to large, compact shoulders, thin skin , flesh tender, sprightly,
rich and delicious to the taste , with a fair delicate skin ."
While our young man was spending his hours attending to
first one and then another, he became so bewildered with the
number of beauties that were crowded in his list of acquaint-
ances, that he could come to no decision or make up his mind
which to select, for one heard him exclaim, " Oh, I could be
happy with either if the other dear charmer were away. " So at
last age came upon him, without his having any one to cheer
and comfort him in his declining days.
 PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

NEW JERSEY

State Horticultural Society

AT ITS

SEVENTH ANNUAL MEETING ,.

HELD AT

VINELAND, JANUARY 11TH AND 12TH , 1882 .

NEWARK, N. J.
ADVERTISER PRINTING HOUSE.
1882.
 OFFICERS FOR 1882 .

PRESIDENT.
WILLIAM R. WARD . Newark ... Essex County.
VICE-PRESIDENTS.
E. S. CARMAN. River Edge . Bergen County.
J. S. REDFIELD. Burlington . -Burlington County.
EZRA STOKES . Berlin.. Camden County .
F. R. FITHIAN Bridgeton Cumberland County.
J. B. RODGERS . Milburn Essex County .
J. G. WHITALL . Woodbury. Gloucester County .
C. W. IDELL . Hoboken Hudson County.
E. P. TOMLINSON_ Stockton Hunterdon County .
GEO. H. COOK .. New Brunswick . Middlesex County .
JAMES VAN DEVENTER. Princeton ... Mercer County.
JNO S. GREEN.. Green Village . Morris County.
DAVID BAIRD. Manalapan Monmouth County .
JESSE BATTEY Manchester . Ocean County.
GEO. C. WOOLSON. Passaic Passaic County.
D. C. VOORHEES Blawenburg- Somerset County .
E. P. BEEBE .. Elizabeth Union County.
RECORDING SECRETARY.
E. WILLIAMS . Montclair . Essex County.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.
J. T. LOVETT Little Silver... ... Monmouth County.
TREASURER.
WM. H. GOLDSMITH ..Newark.. Essex County.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
J. B. WARD Newark Essex County.
C. W. IDELL…. Hoboken Hudson County.
CHAS. L. JONES . Newark. Essex Couuty.
E. P. BEEBE_ Elizabeth ..Union County.
HENRY CAMPBELL Freehold . -Monmouth County.
FRUIT COMMITTEE.
J. B. RODGERS_ Milburn .. Essex County.
JNO. R. PARRY. Parry. Burlington County.
CHAS. L. JONES. Newark. Essex County.
JNO. S. COLLINS . Moorestown .. Burlington County.
JNO. T. LOVETT. Little Silver.. Monmouth County.
FLOWER COMMITTEE.
GEO. C. WOOLSON Passaic .. Passaic County.
JAMES TAPLIN Maywood.. Bergen County.
J. B. WARD .. Newark.. Essex County.
VEGETABLE COMMITTEE.
JOHN J. QUINN Waverley. Essex County.
S. C. DE Cou.. Moorestown . Burlington County.
WM. F. BASSETT . Hammonton . Cumberland County.
 MINUTES OF THE SEVENTH ANNUAL MEETING .

VINELAND, N. J. , January 11 , 1882 .

The meeting was called to order by President Collins,

who expressed himself pleased to see so goodly a number
present at the opening, notwithstanding the stormy weather.
We are here, he said, in response to an invitation sent us
last year by the Vineland Agricultural Society, and he hoped
0 the present occasion would be of mutual interest to us all.

President Clark, of the Vineland Agricultural Society,

then arose and, in behalf of his Society and the citizens of
Vineland , extended a cordial welcome to the Horticultural
Society, and expressed a hope that our deliberations would
be interesting and profitable.
President Collins responded, thanking President Clark for
his words of welcome, and announced the meeting ready
for business.
Reports being first in order, the Treasurer reported as
follows :

TREASURER'S REPORT.

RECEIPTS.

Balance on hand Feb. 10th , 1881 .. $75 49

Annual dues ... 63 00
Membership fees . 15 00
18 $153 49
 6

DISBURSEMENTS .

February 23d , rent of Board of Trade Rooms,

Newark, for annual meeting, 1881 .... $ 17.00
February 25th , bill of Recording Secretary, postage
and cards . 8 71
March 4th, salary of Recording Secretary, 1880 ... 25 00
March 19th, T. T. Kinney, for printing- 4 75
April 2d, J. L. Murphy, printing Report . --- 52 28
August 16th , Recording Secretary, postage, etc ..-- 9.75
December 31st, Treasurer, postage, etc ... 4 25
121 74

Balance on hand January 10th, 1882 . $31 75

WM. H. GOLDSMITH , Treasurer.

Report accepted and ordered on file.

REPORT OF THE RECORDING SECRETARY .

Mr. President and Members of the New Jersey State

Horticultural Society.

The labors of your Secretary, after the adjournment of the

last annual meeting, were immediately devoted to the prepa-
tion of the minutes of that meeting for publication , which
was completed and the Report published in March, a copy
being sent to every member. I have several calls for our
fifth Report. If means could be devised to publish it, we
should then have a complete set from the date of organiza-
tion.
The next labor performed was in pursuance of the invita-
tion extended us at our last meeting to send a large delega-
tion to the session of the American Pomological Society,
held at Boston, Mass . , in September last. I wrote to most
of the members, urging the importance of a large attendance
from our Society on that occasion . Quite a number attended
and took an active part in the discussions. We hope for a
report from those delegates during our present session .
 My later efforts have been devoted to making arrange-
ments for this meeting. The results of these labors, with
the co-operation of our Vineland friends, at whose invita-
tion we are here assembled, are about being developed and
will be apparent to all present .
Respectfully yours ,
E. WILLIAMS ,
Recording Secretary.

A committee of five, consisting of E. P. Beebe , A. W.

Pearson, Chas. DeGroff, J. Wilcox and Nelson Roberts, was
appointed to examine and report on the fruits, etc. , exhibited .
On motion of Dr. Ward, C. W. Idell, D. Baird and S. C.
DeCou were appointed a committee to nominate officers for
the ensuing year.
W. R. Ward offered the following amendment to the by-
laws :
Resolved, That the by-law on admission be changed to
read, " Admission fee one dollar and annual dues one dollar . "
In support of this resolution he stated that the desirability
of an increase of membership was apparent to all, and after
consultation with several members they had concluded to
try the experiment and see if reducing the membership fee
to one dollar would accomplish the object. After some dis-
cussion the resolution was unanimously adopted.
A recess of fifteen minutes was then taken, to allow per-
sons present who desired to become members.
Resuming business, the revision of the Society's catalogue
of fruits was taken up, commencing with apples, the Presi-
dent reading the list as it stood and calling for any changes
that were thought desirable.
The Red Astrachan- Mr. Blackwell, of Mercer, would
strike from the list.
R. Lush, of Cumberland , said it was his best early apple.
He had realized more from it than any other. It rots occa-
sionally, but is generally very satisfactory.
Mr. Meech coincided with Mr. Lush.
Mr. Wilcox thought it did tolerably well in Vineland .
 8

Mr. Mortimer, of the same place, thought it very unsatis-

factory.

J. B. Rogers said it was very unsatisfactory in Essex

county.
Jno. Crane, of Union, planted several trees of it, but after
twenty years' experience, must pronounce it a failure. He
was now grafting his trees over. It ripened too unevenly
to be profitable .
The Secretary had similar experience . It always rotted
badly before it ripened, and bearing in clusters, was invaria-
bly wormy and too acid for a dessert fruit. If he were
planting 100 trees, he would have but one of this and that
for variety only; for market he would prefer Duchess of
Oldenburg, an equally large and handsome apple and
almost invariable fair and smooth .
Mr. Lush said his experience might be exceptional in his
case, as his trees were very well fertilized .
Mr. Beebe spoke favorably of the Astrachan and thought
the number of trees called for was an evidence of its popu-
larity.
Mr. Pearson, of Cumberland, has them " top grafted"
upon other sorts, trees upon which scions were set, twelve
years old; grafts first fruited in 1881 ; fruit splendid in
appearance. Scions were taken from an Astrachan on a
neighboring farm which had been in bearing ten years, pro-
ducing small, worthless fruit , generally rotting on the tree.
Thinks much depends upon the stock and upon vigor from
fertilization . Had used oyster-shell lime freely on orchard
200 bushels per acre. Thought lime had much influence in
obviating tendency to rot. Principal objection to the Astra-
chan, was as suggested by Secretary Williams , it bears in
clusters, which ripen unevenly.
Mr. Crane found this a serious objection, for in picking
out the ripest ones others were sure to fall .
J. S. Cone, of Cumberland, had twelve trees . They had
borne well but the fruit was very unsatisfactory, and he
wanted to graft them over.
 Mr. Fithian, of Cumberland spoke favorably of it .
Mr. Baird, of Monmouth, thought we would not arrive at
any satisfactory conclusion if we discussed it all day, and a
motion to place it on a list for special localities prevailed .
The Baldwin was declared a failure in South Jersey. The
same was true of the Rhode Island Greening, and the latter
meeting with little favor elsewhere, was placed on the list
for special localities , while the former was allowed to remain.
Orange Pippin. — Mr. Baird, of Monmouth , spoke highly
of this as the only apple of its season that had been success-
fully sent to Europe. It ripens a little before Maiden's
Blush. This view was corroborated by several from the
lower part of the State.
Early Harvest, Mr. Blackwell said, was a little earlier
than the Primate, but not near so good.
Roxbury Russet was stricken off the list.
Hubbardston Nonesuch was well spoken of by Mr. Crane,
of Union, and Mr. Bassett, of Cumberland.
Peck's Pleasant was placed on the general list .
Nero.-Mr. Blackwell said this was sent out as very desi-
rable, but as a rule had not given satisfaction.
Mr. DeCou, of Burlington, hoped we would not be too
hasty in passing judgment ; further trial was needed to
determine its true position .
Mr. Wilcox, of Cumberland, had heard it spoken highly
of as a very handsome apple and a good keeper.
Mr. Baird's experience with it had been very favorable.
Of varieties not on the Society's list, Mr. Bassett men-
tioned Summer Rose as very fine ; its chief fault was under
size. Lippincott's Early was said to be identical. It was
put on the trial list.
Mr. Wilcox , of Cumberland, commended Early Strawberry.
J. S. Redfield , of Burlington, named Roman Stem and
Summer Hagloe as very desirable, and they were placed on
the general list .
Rawles' Janet Mr. Bassett considered worthless here, but
at the West does well.
 10

Ben Davis, Mr. Wilde, of Cumberland, had found very

satisfactory and it keeps well.
Mr. Fithian said it was very popular in South Jersey, Mr.
Lush concurring.
Mr. Pearson - It is a fine cropper and poor keeper ; quality
second-rate. Heretofore a good keeper. Had kept Ben
Davis sound in an ordinary cellar till the following May.
Kept poorly in 1881 , probably due to excessive drought ,
depriving fruit of some elements of growth requisite to
health , and rendering it more accessible to fungus attacks.
It was put on the general list .
Mr. Blackwell named York Imperial as very handsome
and promising, fine specimens of which were on the table.
It was put on the trial list .
Mr. Crane named Smokehouse as very promising with
him , and profitable in Pennsylvania ; tree a good grower.
Mr. Blackwell named the Dominie as bearing three bushels
to the Smokehouse one.
Mr. Crane would reverse the statement .
Mr. Redfield regarded the Smokehouse as desirable, and it
was put on the trial list.
Grimes' Golden was placed on the trial list .
Mrs. Fowler, of Cumberland, mentioned Mead's Keeper as
a very desirable variety. It keeps till May. She brought
the grafts from Virginia.
The Nickajack also with her was a good variety and a
long keeper.

PEARS.

Clapp's Favorite was pronounced one of the worst to

blight.
Beurré Clairgeau was very unsatisfactory with some, and
so was the Seckel, and a motion was made to strike the lat-
ter from the list.

Mr. Ward thought that would be folly. Although there

was no money in it generally , in some sections it was grown
with satisfaction .
 11

Buffam was stricken from the list.

Beurré Bosc was transferred to the trial list.
Manning's Elizabeth was taken off the general list,
Howell and Dana's Hovey put on. The latter though small ,
like the Seckel, was pronounced by the Secretary and others
the most delicious and highest-flavored pear on the list .
Mr. Crane inquired for experience with the Quinn pear.
Mr. Goldsmith had fruited it the past year for the first, on
grafts four years old, and thought well of it so far.
A motion to strike the Abbott from the trial list was op-
posed by Mr. Crane . His experience with it had been very
favorable.
Mr. Goldsmith had over one hundred bushels yearly for
two years past, and found no trouble to sell them at three
dollars per bushel, while Bartletts brought but half that
price.
Mr. Ward bore testimony to the same effect. With him
they sold in preference to the Bartletts and at better prices ,
and though the latter were superior in size, they were only
taken after the Abbotts were sold .
Leconte had disappointed Mr. Parry. It was not as early
as the Bartlett .

Kieffer was described and commended by Mr. Parry as a

desirable market fruit, citing an instance of one person's
crop selling at three dollars per bushel the past year. It was
put on the trial list.

PEACHES .

Fox's Seedling and Salway were put on the general list .

Early Louise and Early Rivers were put on the trial
list.
Mr. Wilcox stated the chief objection to Early Rivers,
Early Louise, Amsden's June and Alexander was that they
rotted badly .
Mr. Blackwell stated that Early Troth and Rivers ripened
together, the latter much the best of the two.
 12

PLUMS.

The Wild Goose Mr. Crane said was strongly recom-

mended as curculio proof, and his experience had led him
to believe it was possibly because the curculio could not
find any fruit to sting.
It had proved a shy bearer with the Secretary, fruit hand-
some, but only fit for cooking.
The Blue Damson Mr. Lush had found very profitable.
Experience with Bassett's American plum was so decided-
ly adverse to it it was stricken from the list .
The Secretary mentioned the Reed plum, a seedling of the
Illinois plum, originating at Hightstown, as the most desir-
able of all that class of plums he had ever seen. It was
very handsome, and such crops of fruit as he saw on the
trees last season at Hightstown were truly marvelous . It
was placed on the trial list.
Mr. Idell mentioned the German Prune as coming to New
York market very fine from up the Hudson River.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

On assembling this afternoon the Secretary read a com-

munication from the Hon. George B. Loring, Commissioner
of Agriculture, announcing a series of conventions now
being held at the city of Washington, devoted to the agri-
cultural and kindred industries of the country, and this So-
ciety was invited to send delegates to such as they were
most interested in.
The Secretary stated that as no meeting of the Society
had occurred since the receipt of this communication , he had
replied to it, and it now remained for the Society to take
action thereon.
The matter was favorably discussed, but as no one present
was willing to go as delegate at his own expense, and as the
 13

funds of the Society were inadequate for this purpose, on

motion of Mr. Redfield the communication was accepted and
ordered on file.

The Nominating Committee reported a list of officers for

the ensuing year, which being acceptable to the Society, on
motion of Mr. Idell, Mr. Beebe was appointed to cast the
ballot for the Society , which being done, the President an-
nounced the result, declaring the following officers elected
for the current year, viz.:

PRESIDENT WM. R. WARD . Newark.

..... E. WILLIAMS .
RECORDING SECRETARY .. .Montclair.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.J. T. LOVETT . Little Silver.
TREASURER . WM. H. GOLDSMITH.Newark.

A Vice-President from each county and the usual commit-

tees were also elected, a full list of whom will be found
elsewhere in this report.

The President also appointed a committee to wait on the

President-elect and introduce him to the meeting.

The revision of catalogue was then resumed, taking up

the list of

GRAPES.

Mr. Beebe, of Union , named Worden for the general list ;

it was earlier and better than the Concord.
Mr. Bassett, of Cumberland , had a number of vines some
years ago from, as he supposed, a reliable source, and at first
thought it earlier than the Concord, but of late years found
there was little difference.

The Secretary stated these diverse views were probably

due to the fact that thousands of Concords had been sent
out as Wordens , and mentioned the case of a member of the
Society who, in his rambles in Western New York last Sum-
mer, met the originator of this grape, who related to him the
case of a large propagator who was so persistent in his as-
 14

sertion that the two varieties were so nearly identical they

could not be distinguished , that he was induced to visit his
grounds to satisfy himself, and he found that among the
large number of bearing vines put out for Wordens, the
great majority were genuine Concords, yet he had been
propagating them largely and selling the young vines as
Wordens. He (the Secretary) obtained his vines from the
late Dr. Sylvester, of New York, had fruited them for three
or four years past, found them earlier and better than Con-
cord, and should not be surprised if ere long it superseded
to a large extent that excellent and popular variety.
It was placed on the general list, as were also Wilder and
Brighton.
The Duchess, Pocklington, Cottage and Prentiss were
placed on the trial list.
Mr. Crane thought the Delaware was losing ground and
should hardly stand next to Concord. He had grown it a
good many years and it was not satisfactory.
Mr. said his Delawares had done better since he
neglected them than when he kept them well pruned and
cared for.
The Secretary stated that the general testimony at the late
meeting of the American Pomological Society regarding the
Delaware was that it needed generous feeding, avoiding over-
cropping, and shelter where it was liable to mildew.
Mr. Bassett named Conqueror and Challenge grapes, va-
rieties originating at Hammonton , which he thought were
rot- proof.

CHERRIES .

Mr. Crane said Downer's Late Red was his favorite, and
was worth double any Bigarreau or any of the white heart
varieties. It was desirable and profitable on account of its
keeping so well on the trees.
Mr. Redfield , of Burlington, said it was the best variety
he had, and it was placed on the general list.
Luelling was said to be worthless .
 15

Montmorency had done very well with Mr. Stokes, of

Camden, and it was placed on the trial list .
Mr. Bassett, in response to an inquiry, said Belle Mag-
nifique did admirably in Hammonton.
Mr. De Cou, of Burlington, named Early Richmond as the
most profitable of all in his section .
Mr. Wilcox thought the Hearts and Bigarreaus a failure
in Vineland. The Early Richmond was very profitable ; so
were the Dukes and Morellos .

The discussion on cherries ending, Mr. Beebe announced

the presence of Mr. Ward, the President-elect, and escorted
him to the platform . On being introduced to the audience
he made a brief speech, thanking the members for the un-
expected honor and pledging his best efforts for the promo-
tion of the interests and welfare of the Society, in which he
invoked the earnest and active support and co-operation of
every member. He hoped they would pardon any mistakes
he might make, and attribute them to the head rather
than the heart, and asked forbearance with his inexperi-
ence. [Applause . ]
Ex-President Collins felt that the position of a President-
elect being unexpectedly called on to preside was somewhat
embarrassing, especially if an address was called for on tak-
ing the chair, and he therefore moved that in future the
President-elect should assume his duties at the close of the
meeting at which he was elected .
The motion, being seconded , was adopted .
The Society then proceeded to business.

QUINCES.

The subject of Quinces was taken up, and the Champion

was placed on the trial list . Mr. Parry being called on for
his experience, stated a three-year-old tree bore one speci-
men the past season weighing one pound ; quality good.
Mr. Meech, of Vineland, had given the quince a good deal
of attention ; had seven varieties on trial, and showed shoots
of the Pear Quince seven feet in length . He regarded salt
 16

as a special fertilizer for the quince, and attributed his suc-

cess in a large measure to its use.
Mr. Goldsmith, of Essex, said that pear quinces when well
grown, were often sold as orange quinces because they sold
better. The fruit was finer in texture, kept better, and
ripened a little later. It was placed on the general list .
Mr. Beebe showed a fungus on the quince from Western
New York, which was new to him.
Mr. Goldsmith had plenty of it in his orchard years ago,
but of late years it had become less prevalent .
Mr. Meech also showed specimens , and gave the scientific
name as Ræstelia Aurantiaca, and the remedy was to cut
it off and burn it.
The question relating to " keeping fruits by the aid of
water," as mentioned last year, was then taken up.
Dr. Ward stated that in view of the statement then made,
relative to apples being kept successfully under water, he
took a bushel box of Bartlett pears and submerged it in his
spring ; at the end of three weeks an examination showed
them to be all decayed . This may have been due to the
temperature of the water not being low enough, and it may
not. There was the experiment and we could deduce our
own theories .
Mr. Goldsmith showed specimens of apples kept in boxes
in his ice- house.He found some that had received the drip
from the ice were cracked , while others of the same variety
were not affected in this way and were a perfect success .
Mr. Pearson had preserved ripe Bartlett pears till the fol-
lowing November, submerged in a jar of water in which sali-
cylic acid was dissolved , twelve grains of the crystals to
one gallon of water. It preserved them from decay, but
gave them a puffy , parboiled appearance, and utterly de-
stroyed their flavor. Uneatable.
The President had made up his mind that we could not
rely on submerging fruit to preserve it, but it had been
proved that slight dripping of water was not detrimental.
Moisture was necessary. Some of the pears exhibited the
 17

water had run over, while the Bartletts, kept in a moist

low temperature, had kept equally well.
Mr. Pearson thought that the secret of preserving fruit
from decay lay in the presence of just sufficient moisture to
keep it from wilting, and low enough temperature to abort
fungoid growths-say 35° to 40° Fahrenheit.
He said it may be that apples can be successfully kept, like
the sweet potato, by first subjecting them to a high tempera-
ture, say 140° Fahrenheit, to destroy fungi; afterward kept
sufficiently dry at ordinary temperature to avoid condensa-
tion of moisture, yet not wilt the fruit.
Mr. thought the keeping qualities of the fruit
depended, to some extent, on its sweetness or acidity .
Observations regarding the " influence of pollen on the
fruit of strawberries, " as mentioned last year, being called
for,
Mr. Rogers stated he had Glendale and Sharpless side by
side, and found berries on each row possessing character-
istics of the other, and where they had run close together it
was still more marked. In picking two or three quarts of
the Glendale, a large proportion would show characteristics
of the Sharpless .
Mr. Wilcox could not believe the berry would be affected
by any such influence ; the seed only would show the results
of cross -fertilization .
Varieties were next considered.
Boydens 30, Mr. Bassett thought worthless at Hammon-
town.
Mr. Rogers thought fertilizers were an important factor
in the success or failure of a variety, as they were the life
or death of the plant.
The Monarch of the West, Mr. Beebe thought, was too soft
and too shy a bearer to be retained on the list.
Mr. Clark, of Vineland, pronounced it the largest, at the
same time the meanest, berry he had ever grown. Stricken
from the list.
Downer's Prolific shared the same fate .
 18

Cumberland Triumph was generally conceded to be a fine

amateur berry.
Mr. Rogers, of Essex, had experimented with different
fertilizers on it, and found the size and flavor good, one of
the very best amateur berries.
Mr. Brown stated the color was very much admired in
Vineland, but it was objectionable elsewhere, and the berry
was soft.
Mr. Rogers was satisfied potash affected the color of
berries.
Mr. Loughran, of Cumberland, shipped thirteen crates of
this variety after carting them nine miles in a wagon, and
heard no complaint of their not arriving in good order. They
were grown on clover sod.
The Great American it was proposed to strike from the
list.
President Ward confessed it had disappointed him last
year, but as it had done so well before, he was disposed to
try it a little longer before discarding it.
Mr. Crane thought it hardly wise to strike it off, as in
some places it did admirably . It seemed to delight in a rich ,
heavy soil.
Mr. Burt's experience with it was limited ; he liked the
fruit very much ; his difficulty was to get the plants to stand ;
as far as he mulched the plants they did well . Had a neigh-
bor who succeeded admirably.
President Ward thought it had been well demonstrated
that a heavy, clay soil was essential to success with it .
Durand's Beauty, Duncan, Prouty and Cinderella were
stricken off, and Sharpless and Miner's Prolific were put on
the general list .
Of new varieties, Mr. Collins named Mount Vernon. He-
was so confident of its merits he should not hesitate to rec-
ommend it to be put on the general list .
Objection being made, it was put on the trial list .
The Manchester was placed on the trial list
Mr. Idell being called on to give his opinion of it as a
 19

market berry, said he had sold it for three years past and
considered it much better in flavor, color, and shipping qual-
ities than the Wilson.

Mr. Battey, the originator, exhibited plants with roots

more than a foot long, which he claimed enabled it to stand
the drought, as they ran deep. On being asked how it com-
pared with Wilson in price and productiveness as grown on
his grounds, he replied that it was much more productive ; he
was not now growing Wilsons to any extent, but his neigh-
bors ' Wilsons sent to market the same day brought five or
six cents per quart, while his Manchesters returned him ten
cents.
The Bidwell was put on the trial list .

CURRANTS .

The Long Bunched Holland was stricken from the list.

RASPBERRIES .

The Philadelphia was stricken off the list .

The Mammoth Cluster shared the same fate.
Mr. Beebe objected .
Mr. Crane had grown this berry before it was renamed.
It was first sent out as Miami Black-cap, and should not
have been called anything else . When it was introduced
and lauded so highly as Mammoth Cluster, he sent and
bought plants of what he afterward found he had plenty of,
and claimed that Mr. Downing was deceived in regard to it,
as he afterward visited his place and declared on examina-
tion of both lots of plants while in fruit, that they were one
and the same.
Mr. Van Doren, of Monmouth , had abandoned it because
it was not hardy ; grew Doolittle instead.
The Brandywine was hardy and not hardy .
Mr. Parry had known them to fail once .
Mr. Van Doren had dug out eight acres as worthless, be-
cause they were not hardy, while his neighbor had grown ,
and still did grow them successfully .
 20

Mr. DeCou asked if the killing was due to cold or fungus

that impaired the hardiness of the plant.
The Secretary had no doubt much of the so-called winter-
killing could be traced to other causes .
Mr. Baird, of Monmouth, mentioned two neighbors ; one
failed entirely with them, while the other had good crops
which proved very profitable. He had four acres that utter-
ly failed, while plants from the same lot planted in another
field were an entire success.
The Highland Hardy was pronounced a failure in South
Jersey.
Mr. Goldsmith had no difficulty in selling them in the
Newark market for twenty-five and thirty cents per quart,
the same season that Hudson River Antwerps from New
York sold for eight and ten cents . Its value was in its
earliness . Put on trial list .
The Winant, Ganargua and Delaware were stricken off,
and the Reliance and Cuthbert put on the general list, and
the Gregg on the trial list.
Experience with the Turner was called for.
Mr. Pearson had grown them for five years, shipped them
to Newark and New York in good order. Commission men
wrote they were the finest red raspberries they had seen .
Has one patch in a swamp too wet for anything but swamp
grass , covered with water and ice nearly all last winter, so
soft in April that a man would sink to his boot-tops in it.
Canes there make threefold the growth of those on dryer
soil. Fruit larger and more of it . Berries held large to the
last . The Turner can scarcely be over-fertilized with phos-
phates. Prune the canes to not more than two feet in height .
If many canes in a hill, cut down to eighteen inches .
Keep out all Suckers. Pick as soon as the fruit will part
from the core. Thus treated the fruit is nearly first- class in

size ; in quality best ; and packed in flat pints carry well

enough.
Mr. Bassett spoke well of it, and it was put on the trial
list.
 21

The Superb was named as a new variety of promise ; color

about like Philadelphia ; ripened last year June 22 , and the
year before June 16.
Mr. Stokes had it growing within twenty yards of Turner ;
found it three times the size, ripens with it and lasts longer.
In regard to hardiness Mr. Crane remarked that any rasp-
berry that sheds its leaves before frost comes would surely
freeze to death before spring, if not dead before winter
set in.
The Souhegan Black-cap was placed on the trial list.
Adjourned till 7.30 o'clock .

EVENING SESSION.

The meeting was called to order by President Ward:.

The Secretary presented the credentials of Mr. Whitehead ,
delegate from the Cincinnati Horticultural Society. He also
read the following :

REPORT OF THE FLOWER COMMITTEE.

To the Members of the New Jersey Horticultural Society:

GENTLEMEN-Owing to press of business I am personally
unable to attend the meeting, so I present this small report.
There were very few useful novelties sent out this past
year. Among those I mentioned in my last report, the
double Bouvardia has proved a very satisfactory winter

flowering plant, both in pots and planted out for cutting.

Among the Hybrid Tea Roses mentioned in last report, Duke
of Connaught proved excellent, as I saw flowers sold for
seventy-five cents each wholesale, the first week in Decem-
ber, the flowers being handsome and more durable than Gen-
eral Jacqueminot. Also, several new winter-blooming Car-
nations proved good on trial. One, called Sea Foam, a fine
white, is apparently only a bloomer for the spring. When
19
 22

speaking of Carnations, we may say that the crop is almost

a total failure this season. In consequence of the hot, dry
summer, disease attacked the plants, so the flowers were
very scarce and high at the holidays, many growers having
none at all. Probably from the same cause the Violets were
also a failure, as only a few growers have any flowers at all,
many having lost the plants altogether, and the few left do
not seem to flower freely. Early in autumn there was a
good demand for Chrysanthemum flowers, more from the
fact that other flowers were scarce than from any taste for
them , although there seems to be a growing taste for single
varieties .

The single Dahlias, from which so much was expected this

autumn, have proved a failure ; although they flowered
fairly well at the end of the season, no one could do any-
thing with them when they were expected to bloom under
glass..
Lily of the Valley and Roman Hyacinths were particularly
good this season . I saw them finely in bloom the first week
in November. For the Committee.
JAMES TAPLIN.
Report accepted and ordered on file.

The President read the following :

REPORT OF THE FRUIT COMMITTEE .

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN--The winter of 1880 and 1881

proved very beneficial for an abundant yield of fruit, pro-
tected as it was from the sudden changes of temperature
which so often prove damaging, especially to our small
fruits.

STRAWBERRIES .

The Strawberry, protected for so long a time by the frequent

snow-falls, produced an abundant crop, which would have
been increased to an enormous yield in the northern counties
but for the partial blasting of the flowers by storms, and
 23

later by hail, but on the whole the crop was satisfactory and
remunerative.
The principal varieties which have so long been the stand-
ard sorts in our markets held their former reputation . The
new varieties brought to our notice are the Manchester and
Jersey Queen, the former grown by our associate and active
member Mr. Battey, who kindly extended an invitation to
members of this Society, the past season, to visit his place
and see the berries under cultivation .
These visitors reported very favorably on its merits, as to
size, color, quality and productiveness, and considering the
light, sandy soil in which it grew, regarded it a marvelous
production .
The Jersey Queen, though not strictly a new variety, has
been tested only by its originator, Mr. Durand, and under
all such cases must be placed on the trial list, but from our
observations and Mr. Durand's statements, it has many in-
quiring friends.

CURRANTS AND RASPBERRIES .

Currants and Raspberries produced an abundant crop, but

disappointed many by low prices, in some cases not paying
picking and freight expenses.
The Blackberry, affected by the severe dry weather, pro-
duced only a moderate crop, far below the ordinary average.

PEARS.

The Pear crop in the northern counties was exceedingly

large - too abundant without thinning for maturing the
fruit or bringing out its fine flavor, and it was seriously
affected by the want of moisture, in some cases drying up
the leaves and withering the fruit before fully ripe ; the
effect of this was very discouraging, and, though there is no
question that the fruit could be kept a much longer time
for marketing from the lack of its natural juices, yet on ac-
count of the want of flavor and size, much less has been
 24

realized from the crop than was anticipated , considering the

exceedingly small crop of its greatest competitor, the Peach.
To all pear-growers we can make the cheerful announce-
ment that experiments in keeping fruit in ice-houses has
abundantly demonstrated the ability to prolong their season
and the attainment of better prices.

PEACHES .

The largest proportion of Peaches grown in this State are

grown in Hunterdon and Morris counties. The Hunterdon
county crop was fair in some sections of that county, while
in others it was a failure. It was yet lighter in Morris
county, and poorer in quality. Prices ranged high in pro-
portion, owing to the entire destruction of the crop in Mary-
land and Delaware.

Ulster county, New York, is now one of the prominent

peach-growing counties of that State, and during the past
season the general run of trees arrived at maturity, and the
crop was a fair average both in quality and quantity.
Among the new varieties we find the Salway was one of
the best. It is of a medium size, yellow and free at the pit,
and a great favorite with consumers.
Another (possibly October Late), made its appearance in
the New York market. It was grown in Marlboro, New
York, begins to ripen after the Salway -in fact was the
latest in the market. Size medium, bright skin with a
mottled appearance, free at the pit, yet firm. The grower
said it was the first time he had ripened it . We would state
in conclusion that the New York peach crop was seriously
affected by the drought, they having no rain until after the
majority of the crop was marketed .

GRAPES.

The Grape crop of this State is becoming one of great in-

terest, but owing to the variety principally cultivated (the
Concord), which ripens during the heated term, growers are
 25

compelled to market them promptly in order to realize even

the small amount they receive from them. It is a question
with your Committee whether the coolers used for retarding
the ripening of the pears cannot be utilized for the purpose
of retaining the freshness of the Concord until at least the
bulk of the vine crop is exhausted .
A year since tons of Concords were stored in the city cold
storage houses , and had the owners been satisfied with a rea-
sonable advance of prices and sold their fruit promptly, the
experiment would have proved profitable ; but it was held
until the Catawba came in, in quantities, and till the berry
began to drop from the stem, an item which was overlooked
by the owners in their egarness to make money.
We believe that this point is well worth the consideration
of those grape-growers who own coolers . The Concord is
the popular grape of the day, and the one generally grown
in our State , while the Catawba and Delaware are the prin-
cipal ones grown in the interior of New York State.
The Concord crop of our State may be stated as not being
quite up to the average in quantity, while the entire crop
was large and very fine.
The New York crop was up to the standard both in quality
and quantity. The prices started low on all varieties , but
gradually increased until the crop of Delawares was ex-
hausted . Then the prices of Catawbas also advanced , until
to-day they are selling in New York market at twelve to
thirteen cents per pound.
This season the New York market was very destitute of
fine white grapes, the few that did arrive were inferior in
quality ; consequently the demand for them was limited.
The California grape is now being introduced in our market
very successfully, and is really the competitor of the hot-
house article ; besides, it is so rich in flavor and beautiful in
appearance that it has reduced the demand for the hot-house
varieties, until some of our growers have become discour-
aged. We think it safe to state that our growers of native
varieties have nothing to fear from the introduction of more
 26

fine varieties, as they do not compete with the demand for

them. It may be interesting to state that the California
grape is brought through on refrigerator cars to Chicago ;
then examined and reshipped to New York in the same
kind of cars ; then placed in cold storage in New York until
they are wanted .

APPLES .

The Apple crop in many sections has been exceedingly

light, and owing to the excessively warm weather many of
the earlier varieties decayed badly and were sold very low,
but in other parts of our State an average crop was gathered
and this fruit is now selling at very high rates .
Very respectfully submitted .
W. R. WARD,
C. W. IDELL,
For the Committee.

Report accepted and ordered on file.

Mr. George C. Woolson, of Passaic, then read the follow-

ing paper :

HARDY HERBACEOUS PERENNIAL PLANTS

AND BULBS.

The title of this paper is one which, though long and per-
haps not euphonious, cannot be stated in any fewer words
and at the same time express all that is intended . The term
hardy is applied to plants which, without protection in
green- houses or cold-frames, can be left in the open ground
during the winter ; herbaceous to plants whose tops die
down to the root each autumn; and perennial to those
whose roots continue to live from year to year. It is, how-
ever, true that there are some species which have been
called herbaceous, that are in reality woody evergreens, but
the term is the most expressive and comprehensive that can
be used . By common consent some of the smaller growing
 27

66 Hardy
shrubs have come to be included in the term
Herbaceous perennials, ” as they seem to be better suited for
this department than to that of " Trees and Shrubs. " If
the lines were drawn too closely we should have to exclude
our little " Twin Flower, " Linnæa borealis, " Partridge
Berry, " " Trailing Arbutus, " etc. , which, though strictly
speaking, shrubs , yet are manifestly out of place among
ordinary shrubs. The term " hardy" is merely an arbitrary
one, for it is obvious that if a plant is hardy here, it does not
follow that it will be so one hundred miles north. We use
it here, however, to apply to those species which are hardy
in the latitude of New Jersey.
We know of no one branch of floriculture which is now
attracting so much attention as the cultivation of hardy
plants and bulbs . For many years past this beautiful class
of plants has been almost entirely neglected, except here
and there where some zealous amateur has found more
enjoyment in their cultivation than in the bedding plants
so generally seen in our public gardens and private grounds.
We hope the time has passed, never more to return, when
the odium which has been cast upon these plants so freely
will be continued, and that they may take their place among
the most beautiful objects with which to decorate our lawns
and gardens. In no other class do we find such a variety
of plants, adapted to so many purposes, as here ; whether
for planting in beds upon lawns for color effect, in mixed
herbaceous borders , along brooks and the margins of ponds ,
either natural or artificial, in meadows, upon the rugged
hill-side or sandy plain, are many beautiful species which
readily adapt themselves to these varied soils and positions.
We also find that their period of flowering is much longer
than with bedding plants . From the earliest spring, when
the beautiful Hepatica opens its azure flowers, to the time
when the last Golden Rod or Aster fades in November, there
is scarcely a day when we cannot find some new or inter-
esting species in bloom in a well-selected collection . The
idea, so prevalent with many, is that hardy perennial plants
 28

are nothing more than weeds, and not worthy of a place in

a good garden, and we often hear this remark made by
persons who should know better.
That a mass of weedy plants is sometimes to be found in
gardens under the name of " Hardy Plants, " we must admit,
as for instance, some of the Weedy Asters, Golden Rods,
Toad Flax, Live Forever, Hemerocallis or Day Lily, and
some others occasionally seen, but these will never be planted
by one who understands their habits, or if planted by mis-
take, will soon be rooted out, when there are so many showy
species which are as easily grown and which, either in foliage
or flower, are more attractive . The comparative cheapness
of hardy plants is an item to be taken into consideration by
those whose time and means are limited . No costly green-
houses and their attendant expenses are required, no im-
mediate large outlay for plants or seeds, no necessity of
being obliged to procure new stock each season, as with bed-
ding plants ; only a few dollars expended judiciously from
year to year, either in plants or seeds of the choicer sorts,
and in a wonderfully short period a garden well worthy of
the name, and one which will be a delight to its owner as
well as the visitor, is the result.
In how few of our gardens, either public or private, do
we find groups of magnificent lilies, one constant succession
of bloom, from the earliest dwarf Lilium tenuifolium to the
latest auratum and speciosum . And yet there are no plants
more easily grown . A deep soil, well dug and enriched to a
depth of not less than two feet, and an abundance of heavy
mulching in summer to prevent the sun from burning the
bulbs and the soil from drying out, is all that is required to
give us the most beautiful and rich shades of color through-
out the summer and autumn months . Such a bed prepared
as above, and planted with the various species of Lilies, now
much cheaper and more commonly found than formerly,
the bulbs planted not less than six inches deep , will not need
to be disturbed for four or five years ; the only attention it
requires is to apply a heavy coating of well-rotted manure
 29

each fall or spring and fork it lightly in . We have grow-

ing over our meadows and roadsides in this State three
species of Lilies , which, though common , are none the less
beautiful and worthy of a place in the garden , as there they
become much finer.
Nor need we confine ourselves to Lilies for beautiful sub-
jects ; take our own wild Orchids , plants scattered over many
portions of the Northern States, and notably numerous in our
own, and which from their showy as well as curious flowers
are attractive to all, surpassing in many instances in beauty
those rare species which can only be grown in green-houses.
These are readily cultivated in low moist ground where they
can have partial shade, or even, in many instances, in ordi-
nary garden soil. What is so showy in the Orchid family
as our native " Ladies' Slipper, " Cypripedium spectabile,
with its charming white and pink flowers, or its near rela-
tive, the " Yellow Moccasin Flower, " Cypripedium pubes-
cens, both of easy cultivation in spots such as we have de-
scribed, or the last species even in quite dry soil if it can
have partial shade. Besides these we have the pretty little
Calopogon pulchellus, Pogonias of several species, Calypso
borealis, a rare and delicate plant, whose beauty is seldom
seen in cultivation, and Arethusa bulbosa , found in many of
our bogs, with beautiful large, rose-purple flowers ; the last two
require more care and attention than the " Ladies' Slippers, "
but can readily be grown in pots or pans of sandy leaf-mould
with plenty of drainage, and kept in a shaded cold-frame.
There are also many species of Habenarias or " Fringed
Orchids, " with spikes of fringed white, purple or yellow
flowers , which appear in summer and early autumn, and
are of easy cultivation. We might also mention many of
the Orchids found in Northern and Central Europe, and
which are as well worth growing as our own, such as the
Fly Orchis and Bee Orchis, but enough has been said to
show the capabilities and uses of hardy Orchids .
Still another large group of hardy plants must claim a
share of our attention, as the species are so readily grown
 30

and so showy in flower. This is the Iris, which for beauty

of bloom may be compared to that of the Orchis family.
From the early- blooming bulbous Irises, like the " Spanish, "
66
English, " " Snake-head" and other species, to the large
German sorts of nearly every shade of color, followed by
the Japanese Iris lævigata Kampferi, there is a constant
succession of flowers of nearly every hue, combined in many
queer and fantastic associations, like Iris Iberica, with large
dull purple flowers marked with a velvety black spot on each
petal, and Iris tuberosa, or " Snake-head Iris, " with a queer
combination of velvety black and green in its flowers, or
Iris Sibirica var sanguinea, with deep, rich, purple flowers.
A choice collection of Irises, with the colors properly
arranged in beds or groups in the garden or on the lawn , is
a very beautiful sight.
We now come to speak of the different methods of plant-
ing. The most common method is in what is known as the
" Mixed Border. " This may be described as a bed five feet
or more wide, and of any length suited to the size of the
garden or number of plants used . Such a bed as this allows
ample scope for the display of judgment and taste in the
proper selection and planting. At the back should be
arranged the taller-growing species, gradually sloping to the
front edge, where some dwarf or creeping plants are to be
used. In planting such a border, care must be taken not to
repeat the same species at equal distances, as this gives too
formal and monotonous an appearance. A few of the plants
adapted to such a bed and which are perfectly hardy in this
latitude, we here enumerate, simply adding that this list
could be increased almost indefinitely. For tall-growing
plants, Campanula pyramidalis, Delphinium formosum and
the finer hybrid sorts of Larkspurs, Iris lævigata Kæmpferi,
I. Sibirica and its varieties ; Lobelia cardinalis, than
which there can be no showier scarlet flower ; Lychnis
Chalcedonica, Liatris or " Blazing Star" in its many fine
species ; the choicer hardy Penstemons, such as Penstemon
Cobaa Murrayanus and Torreyi ; the best sorts of hybrid
 31

Phloxes Spiraea lobata or “ Queen of the Prairie ;" Veronicas

or " Speedwells, " like Veronica candida, grandis and ame-
thystina. These are but a few of the more effective plants
for the back of the mixed border . Next in size we will
mention Anthemis tinctoria , with its bright yellow flowers
and finely-cut leaves ; Asphodelus lutens, or “ Yellow Aspho-
del ;" Dictamnus Fraxinella, or " Gas Plant, " with its bril-
liant spikes of red or white flowers, which give off a vapor
which is readily lighted and produces a considerable flash ,
seen easily at dusk ; the smaller growing Asters or " Star-
worts," like A. Bessarabicus, A. ptarmicoides and A. spec-
tabilis, all showy and not in the least weedy; Dicentra
spectabilis, or " Bleeding Heart, " one of the oldest and best
of our hardy plants ; Funkia subcordata, or " White Plan-
tain Lily;" perennial Candytufts or Iberis , such as I. Corri-
folia and I. Gibraltarica; Iris Florentina, with its large,
deliciously fragrant white flowers ; Scutellaria macrantha ,
with purple and white flowers ; Aquilegias or " Colum-
bines, " especially the fine blue one from the Rocky Moun-
tains ; A. cœrulea and its relative, the long- spurred yellow
one, A. chrysantha ; Anthericum Liliastrum and A. Liliago,
or " St. Bernard" and " St. Bruno" Lilies, with their numer-
ous white fragrant flowers.
Coming toward the front, the following sorts may be
used : Dicentra eximia, or " Plumy Bleeding Heart ;"
Dianthus Plumarius, or old fashioned " Cushion Pink ;"
Mertensia Virginica , or " Virginian Lungwort, " with beau-
tiful blue flowers in very early spring ; Silene Pennsylvanica
and S. Virginica, Pink and Scarlet " Catchflies ;" Phlox
pilosa and P. Stellana, with pinkish purple and white
flowers ; Anemone Pulsatilla, or European " Pasque Flower,
and its rarer but equally fine companion, A. Nuttalliana, of
our Western prairies ; Iris pumila and other dwarf species ;
Gentiana acaulis and G. cruciata, two of the finest and
most easily grown of the genus, and producing flowers of
the most intense blue ; Armeria vulgaris, or " Common
Thrift, " Arabis alpina, or " Rock Cress, " and the beauti-
 32

ful variegated variety, both producing myriads of deliciously

fragrant white flowers in early spring ; Adonis vernalis,
with finely divided leaves and large deep yellow flowers ;
Campanula Carpatica, or " Carpathian Harebell, " with
broad , bell-shaped, handsome blue flowers , freely produced
all summer; Epimediuns, especially E. Alpinum and E.
macranthum, with curiously hooded flowers in early spring ,
followed by the beautifully delicate tinted leaves ; and
Viola cornuta , or " Horned Violet, " equaling in beauty
and often in size the fine varieties of Pansies , and
able to bear our hot summer sun without injury .
Lastly we come to the outside of the border where such
plants as the " Moss Pink, " both the white and purple,
together with the many new seedling varieties now being
introduced, can be used ; Achillea tomentosa, with moss-
like foliage and brilliant yellow flowers ; Aubrietias, with
evergreen leaves clustered in little rosettes and numerous
bright purple flowers in early spring ; our native Viola
pedata bicolor or " Pansy Violet, " with beautiful deep pur-
ple flowers, the two upper petals of which are of a dark, rich
velvety texture ; Silene maritima and its double variety,
with pretty inflated calyxes and pure white flowers, forming
a dense mat on the ground ; Sempervivums or " House
Leeks , " well adapted for dry borders ; Hepaticas of many
sorts, including the double blue and red , together with
Anemone Nemorosa and A. vernalis. From such a list as
the above it would not be difficult to arrange a border of any
size with plants which would be attractive both in flower
and leaf, and one which would always have the charm of
novelty about it . We might mention a much longer list of
really desirable hardy plants for such a border, but it is need-
less to multiply names. A bed like the above, if thoroughly
well prepared and made rich by the addition of well-rotted
manure first, will need but little attention except to keep
the weeds down during the summer, and in spring or autumn
removing the dead flower- stems, and giving a light dressing
of fine manure on the surface every season to keep the soil
 33

in good condition. Such a border may have the choicer

species of Lilies set between the taller plants, so that their
flower-stalks will not show, as when planted separately, and
only the flowers appear.
Another plan which will commend itself to many is, the
planting of the various ornamental grasses in beds or circles ,
beginning in the centre with such plants as Arundo donax
and the variegated form, following with a circle of Eulalia
or Erianthus Ravenna, then with the beautiful Panicum
virgatum , and finally ending with Stipa pennata or " Feather
Grass, " and Festuca glauca. A bed arranged in this man-
ner is very showy, especially in late summer and autumn,
and when well prepared and enriched, and the plants given
plenty of room , will form an attractive feature upon a large
lawn. The same plan may be followed in the arrangement
of a bed of Lilies, Phloxes, Delphiniums, Irises, etc.
A very effective method and one which is easily executed
is to select some free-growing flowering plant and set in
masses in beds or circles, using only one sort in each . One
of the most useful plants for this purpose is Enothera Mis-
souriensis or " Missouri Evening Primrose, " which flowers
freely all summer, and its large, bright-yellow blooms and
silvery-edged leaves make a beautiful show throughout the
season.
A bed of the large " Californian Rose Mallow," Hibiscus
Californicus, or even our own Hibiscus Moscheutos, seen so
abundantly in the marshes along our sea-coast, do finely in
ordinary garden soil . Some other plants well suited to this
plan are Gillenia trifoliata, with delicate white flowers
borne upon stems so slender that they seem, at a little dis-
tance, as if they were floating in the air. Clematis David-
iana, a new erect species with light purple fragrant flowers ,
borne in large clusters and somewhat resembling those of
a Hyacinth ; Sedum Spectabile or " Rosy Sedum " with large
flat corymbs of rosy-purple flowers, and well suited for dry
soils ; Platycodon grandiflorum, with large purple and white
bell-shaped flowers ; Thalictums or " Meadow Rues, " of
 34

several species which are attractive, both in foliage and

flower, are useful, and adapted to this style of planting.
We will here mention the artificial rock-work, where can
be grown the various plants found upon the mountains of
our own and other countries, and which require a spot some-
what raised above the general level, to give thorough drain-
age and at the same time furnish little cosey nooks in which
the delicate, early-blooming plants may be protected from
the cold blasts of early spring or partially shaded from the
fierce heat of our summer sun. We would here say that by
rock-work we do not mean a pile of whitewashed stones
laid up carefully and regularly like the foundation of a
bridge pier, as we have sometimes seen, and on which a few
Geraniums, Verbenas, Portulaccas or other tender plants
were allowed to live or die according to the season, but an
irregular mound raised above the general level according to
the extent of the design, and where the stones are placed as
naturally as possible without any attention to regularity, but
so as to form spaces in which may be planted delicate Al-
pine plants, in sunshine or partial shade according to the
requirements of the plant . You will readily see that with
the addition of a natural brook, together with the partial
shade obtained by planting trees or shrubs where the grounds
will permit, that a charming spot may be made, and one
which will always present some new or attractive feature.
On such a rock-work, made up of leaf mould , loam and sand
in almost equal proportions, may be grown most of our
mountain plants, such as the various species of Antennarias
‫وو‬
or " Mountain Catfoot ,' the smaller-growing " Colum-
bines, " the rare and delicate Campanulas or " Bell Flowers "
of our own and European mountains, the Alpine Gentians;
and in half-shaded moist spots the numerous sorts of prim-
roses so common in European gardens, but so seldom seen
here; the " Scarlet Windflower, " small species of Allumini
Scillas, Narcissi, and even the rarer Lilies and Orchids,
the modest little " Twin Flower, " " Spring Beauties, " the
pretty dwarf Phloxes, Potentillas, and many others rarely
 35

seen in cultivation , but which only require such a situation

to become in a short time firmly established and more attrac-
tive each season .

As to the propagation of hardy plants and bulbs, we would

say that it is easily accomplished by division of the roots in
early spring or fall , or in cases where the roots are not suit-
able, by seeds sown in shallow boxes of rich soil in a shaded
cold-frame as soon as ripe ; in most cases these germinate at
once, and weeding, with an occasional watering when dry, is
all that is required until the seedlings are large enough to
transplant into other boxes ; after this, when the plants are
large enough to transplant to the open ground, which is
usually the following year, they are to be treated exactly as
the plants set out in the mixed border. Many hardy plants
are readily grown from cuttings, but the two methods given
above are best for amateurs.
We come now to the last point to which we wish to call
the attention of all lovers of flowers ; this is, that there need
not of necessity be one single dollar expended to stock a
garden. All over the State of New Jersey, as well as in
every State in the Union , are to be found beautiful wild
flowers, which, with a little care in transplanting, may be
placed in our gardens, and probably few persons would rec-
ognize these wildlings, but wonder where such fine flowers
came from . In this county are to be found some of the
rarest as well as commonest plants in the United States,
sought for by amateurs as well as dealers in distant countries,
and there carefully nursed and admired. Only a few years
ago one of the leading horticultural papers in Great Britain
gravely stated that the " Pitcher Plant " of our swamps,
Sarracenia purpurea, had stood the winter in a sheltered
cold -frame, and that there was a probability that it would
eventually prove perfectly hardy.
The very common " Turkey's Beard " of the "Pine Bar-
rens, ” Xerophyllum Asphodeloides, is greatly in demand by
English amateurs, and last summer it was awarded a first-
class certificate at one of the exhibitions of the Royal Horti-
 36

cultural Society of London . In this part of New Jersey it

grows very abundantly, and is perhaps, too common to cul-
tivate, but it is nevertheless, very beautiful in the garden ,
and when once well established is very attractive. And the
little plant found in your moist " Pine Barrens " is the
" Flowering Moss, " Pyxidanthera barbulata , studded in
early spring with numerous white star-shaped flowers. I
feel proud to say that I have a fine large clump of this plant
thoroughly established at my home in the northern part of
the State, where it does not occur wild, and one of these
days some enterprising botanist or collector may make the
important discovery that the " Flowering Moss " has been
found " sparingly in Bergen county, " far from the " Pine
Barrens, " where it has always been found heretofore . But
it is perhaps , not best to weary you with further descriptions
of special plants. Suffice it to say, in conclusion , I hope the
time is not far distant when all who wish to ornament their
gardens and grounds will not neglect the most showy and
satisfactory sorts to be found, viz . , hardy perennial plants
and bulbs.

On the conclusion of this paper Mr. Lovett commended it

as one of great interest and replete with information . New
Jersey is the richest State in the Union in desirable native
plants of this class, and he moved a vote of thanks for this
valuable paper, and that it be published in our proceedings .
This motion was seconded and unanimously adopted .
Mrs. J. D. Meech, retiring President of the Vineland
Ladies' Floral Society, in response to an invitation from
President Ward to the ladies present to say something on this
or kindred topics , came forward and read the following on

BULBS

GENTLEMEN AND LADIES—In representing the Ladies'

Floral Society at this meeting, I was at a loss for a subject—
none being selected for me. I noticed upon your programme
" Perennial Plants and Bulbs, " and as bulbs always were
 37

wonderful things in my estimation , I thought I would give

the time allotted to me to their consideration.
Perennial generally conveys to our mind the idea of ever-
lasting or unceasing, but the term as used in Botany and
Floriculture, only means living from year to year and is
used in contradistinction to annual and biennial. It is ap-
plied to plants that do not need to be renewed every year or
two years, but continue their growth and beauty for an in-
definite period. There is a charm about the term perennial,
even if it does not mean forever, for it suggests the flowers
that bloom by the River of Life.
Hardy bulbs that you can plant out of doors in the
autumn with a sure prospect of flowers in the early spring
and summer, give me more pleasure than any other flowers
that I cultivate, with the single exception of the rose.
They seem to me to have a marvelous amount of reserved
force hidden in their folds, and a wonderful power of repres-
sion, or of holding this force in check for a fitting oppor-
tunity to put it forth . How they will wait and wait for you
to get ready to plant them, showing no sign of life until
they are in the right place to work. They will, if you
keep them waiting too long, push up a little green head, as
much as to tell you that they are ready, and also to remind
you that they will have no time to make flowers for you, if
they are obliged to grow before they can send out roots to
feed them on. Few bulbs produce more handsome and at-
tractive flowers than the Japan lilies . When planted in
beds 'out of doors, the effect is striking and beautiful.
Until lately the bulbs have been too expensive for us to allow
our eyes this luxury.
There is quite a variety of them. One is white with
crimson spots , another white with rose-colored spots, and
one pure white . Then there is Lilium Auratum, or Golden
Banded Lily, which is a very queen among them for beauty
and size. These lilies have an exquisite fragrance. They
grow in the fields in Japan in great numbers . The bulbs
20
 38

are eaten there. When cooked they are sweet and mucila-
ginous, without decided taste.
We are told to " consider the lilies of the field , " and the
lilies of the field in many climes, and even those of our own
land, are certainly worthy of consideration.
A writer says : " The royal robes of Solomon , as he stood
before the altar, hung in graceful folds, and shone with the
purple blush of Tyre, but no angel's wings sweep in more
graceful curves than those in which this ' lily of the field '
upturns its blushing face to the light and dews of heaven. "
While the lilies hold the palm , we must not forget the
hyacinth's fragrant bells which the bee loves so well, too
well for the honey - eaters, who prefer the flavor of clover
to that of the hyacinth . Then there is the tulip , whose
bulbs were once worth a fortune to dealers, and their posses-
sion coveted by all florists .
The Snowdrop and Crocus are favorites , too, because they
are harbingers of the coming spring. As this is a Cultural
Society, I would like to speak of their cultivation, but
that is impossible this evening, and I am glad to leave
that to others of larger experience . When my chil-
dren were small they, like all children, wanted me to tell
them fairy stories. As these had to be impromptu, I made
the flowers and their habits help me. A lily and a pansy
furnished my heroines, and I remember how I enjoyed the
imaginary exploits of the little fairies that had their homes
in these flowers . I had always thought it a pretty conceit
to make the fairies live in flowers, but never thought how
near the truth it is, till I read in a little book that " these
flowers which appear to us only dots of beauty on the sur-
face of the field, are the beautiful abodes of innumerable
beings. Myriads of them live in a single corolla, but they
are too small for our sight.
66" The instruments of science have discovered them and
learned men have, in some cases, counted them and de-
scribed their structure. They tell us that 45,000 sometimes
live in one drop of water. A flower is a little universe with
 39

millions of inhabitants. The velvet surface of its leaves

is wrought into small habitations, splendid palaces and
beautiful bowers, where they live amid an atmosphere of
fragrance. Thousands recline around its pores drinking
from wells of sweetness . Thus wonderful are the works of

God. Those objects, which so far as we are concerned, seem

to have been made only for our gratification , contain in re-
spect to other beings, all the interests of a world."
The Society tendered a vote of thanks to Mrs. Meech for
her interesting and opportune paper, and the Secretary called
attention to increasing interest being developed regarding
the newer clematis as ornamental climbers . Although the
severe drought last year played havoc with his recent ven-
tures in this line, his previous ones had given great satis-
faction.
His Jackmani last season, clothed in robes of royal pur-
ple, was the admiration of all who saw it. It is one of the
oldest and best . Albert Victor, and Standishi, purple ; Miss
Bateman and Helene , white ; Sophia, lilac, Lady Londes-
borough and Lawsoniana, lavender, are a few of the many
desirable ones .
Mr. Woolson named Graviolens, as growing thirty feet
from July to November, and Coccinia, both desirable and
perfectly hardy, the latter not so strong a grower as some,
his plant being eight feet high.

Winter Protection-" What fruit does it pay to protect,

and the best methods of doing it?" was next discussed .
The Secretary would mention Grapes as one thing,
especially of the tenderer varieties, such as Rogers' hybrids,
etc. He had pruned all his vines and laid them on the
ground, pegging them down without covering ; believed that
was all that was necessary .
Mr. Lovett agreed , but thought it paid as well to lay
down Concord as any.
Mr. Rogers saw no difference in vines laid down and con-
fined or allowed to swing .
 40

He was asked what advantage was gained in laying

down Concord. He replied , larger and more perfect bunches .
Mr. Pearson has 600 Ives vines on low ground ; lost the
crop in 1881. Vines killed down to the snow-line ; 1,500
Ives on high ground not injured . In view of the possibility
of severe winters, thought it safest to lay the canes on the
ground.
Mr. Meech thought the buds governed the size of bunch ;
the first bud on the outside of the cane, if it produced fruit,
the bunches would be loose and scraggy, while the next bud
would give full- shouldered bunches .
Mr. did not think it necessary to cover straw-
berries in this climate.
The Secretary thought the injury to the embryo fruit- buds
by alternate freezing and thawing was quite as great as
any the roots sustained by breakage from heaving.
Mr. Crane endorsed this view and advocated covering after
the ground was frozen to keep it so ; used salt hay, and
thought there was no danger of getting it on too thick. One
season he drew it on and threw it in large heaps . Snow came
and the hay laid till spring, and when he came to remove it ,
expecting to find the plants smothered, to his surprise they
came out green and in fine order ; did not seem as though
they had seen any winter at all . He cited the case of a
gentleman near Irvington who sold $1,500 worth of straw-
berries from an acre of ground ; he could not have done this
without protection .
Mr. Pearson had protected them by turning a light fur-
row on them. Intended now to try it again.
Grafting Grapes was the next subject and was introduced
by Mr. Lovett showing his method with samples . Had
grafted various sized vines up to one inch in diameter, and
succeeded well.
Mr. Wilcox had grafted thousands ; some seasons 95 to 100
per cent. grew, but one season with another 40 to 50 per
cent. Grafted beneath the ground , and where splitting was
impracticable sawed a cleft for the scion. Late grafts suc-
 41

ceeded about as well as early ones, but grapes had done so

poorly of late he had become discouraged and concluded not
to graft any more.
Mr. Clark had grafted successfully without tying at all.
Mr. grafted about three hundred vines, half of
which grew. If doing it now, would do it under ground
and use but one bud on a scion and put two in a stump.
Mr. Pearson had grafted large vines three inches in diam-
eter, above ground, sawed off the vines, say three inches
above the surface of the ground ; split the stump across each
way at right angles . Set four scions, one bud on each, cut
wedge-shaped without shoulder; opened the clefts with a
small chisel and placed in the scions, tapping them gently,
and withdrawing the chisel, the stock held the grafts firm.
Then covered all with soil to about the depth of one inch,
placing an old tin quart fruit-can over the grafts, pressing it
firmly into the soil. Renewed this when the buds appeared.
Generally all four scions grew, which were allowed to re-
main during the first year, or two of them might be re-
moved.
Grafted two years ago an Ives on a Rogers No. 15 ,
twelve-year-old vine ; all the scions grew, removed two, and
one of the two remaining made fifiteen feet of cane during
the first summer.
Mr. Baird invited the Society to hold its next meeting at
Freehold. After some discussion the matter was referred to
the Executive Committee .
The Question Box was opened and questions propounded.
How should trimming cherry and plum trees differ from
apple and pear? The reply was that the former need com-
paratively little trimming beside the latter.
The Lawrence was named as the most desirable winter
pear for market.
The success of trials with the Worden grape was reported
very satisfactory so far .
The best fertilizer, next to barn-yard manure, for raspber-
ries and blackberries?
 42

Ground bone, muriate of Potash and Mapes' fruit and vine

manure were named.
The cause and cure of rust on raspberry and blackberry
vines?
A fungus was the cause, and digging out and burning the
affected plants was the only known remedy.
The best season for pruning fruit trees, was said to be
spring.
Can any one name an apple possessing all the good quali-
ties of the Baldwin that will keep longer than that favorite
variety ?
The response was that the York Imperial, samples of
which were on the table, might be that variety.
Adjourned .

SECOND DAY - MORNING SESSION.

It was a little after 9 o'clock when the President called

the meeting to order, as the members had been enjoying a
ride about town. In view of this entertainment, Mr. Rogers
moved a vote of thanks to the citizens of Vineland, for the
ride and opportunity afforded us for observation. Adopted .

PACKING GRAPES FOR SHIPMENT

was the first subject taken up, Mr. J. B. Rogers reading the
following paper :

In this paper I shall consider the term packing to include

every requisite, from the cutting of the bunch from the vine
until the arrival of the package at its destination for sale .
Several years since, having raised a large amount of first-
class fruit, I exercised, as I then supposed, the greatest
possible care in the preparation and packing of the same,
and when the package was fastened they were in prime
order. Complaint was made by the middleman , and per-
sonal inspection confirmed the justice thereof, that the
 43

package as it came to his hands was short in weight, had

many cracked berries, was not full, in a word, was in bad
order and had to be disposed of at a less price on that
account. The loss averaged two cents on the pound , certain
days seeming to be particularly unfortunate in this respect .
During the following winter I made an extended exami-
nation as to the causes that could induce this state of things.
I came to the conclusion that the water contained in the
berry might be the source whence the difficulty came.
Eight years of investigation and experiment have but con-
firmed that idea, and I propose to give some of the results
in this paper :
66
'Water constitutes the principal part of wine , for the
best ones contain at least sixty per cent . of it, the poorer at
least eighty or ninety per cent. The grapes will be more
watery in wet years, or if they grow in a moist soil, or if
rains predominate shortly before or during vintage.
" In a very wet fall, the quantity of rain water or dew
entering the must depends greatly on the form of the grape.
We shall look a little closer into the quantity and effect of
this water. For instance, a grape, if plucked on a warm
day and accurately weighed, then put into a vessel filled
with water for a few minutes, and weighed over again, will
show a gain of from eight to twelve per cent. water, accord-
ing to the distance of the berries one from another.
" If, therefore, the vintage takes place after a rain or
heavy dew, from eight to twelve per cent. water is trans-
ferred to the tubs by the grapes themselves ; one hundred
pounds of grapes, on the average, giving not more than
seventy pounds of wine, it is evident that as all the added
water remains in the must, this eight to twelve per cent. of
the weight of the grapes forms from eleven and a half to
eighteen per cent. of the wine. "
These authorities, though in relation to the making of
wine, serve to show the extent to which water may enter as
a factor as to size and form of the berry, and the increased
weight imparted also .
 44

From an extended course of experiments, the converse of

this is found to be true. Under certain circumstances grapes
packed will lose weight, and as a natural consequence oc-
cupy less space. Grapes picked immediately after a rain or
heavy dew, and then packed in a box and fastened tight,
placed in a warm, dry position, will lose in weight in
twelve hours from five to twelve pounds to the hundred .
The average will be from seven to eight pounds. The
shrinkage will be sufficient to allow of shakeage, and the
space left in the box will cause the berries to crack and the
contents to arrive in bad order at their destination.
From an equally extended series of experiments, it is evident
that grapes cut from vines on a clear day, after a night on
which no rain or heavy dew has fallen, packed tightly,
securely covered and deposited in a damp place, or left
where the damp air from a rain can reach them, will in-
crease in weight and bulk. I have had them weigh in
twelve hours after packing ten pounds to the hundred more
than when packed . The increase in bulk in this case is not
as detrimental to the safety of the contents of the package
as shrinkage ; the only fear is that afterward a shrinkage
may take place, in which case bad order is sure to be the
consequence.
Would time allow, we might extend this paper as to the
effect produced by leaving the cover open, etc. , but space
will only permit me to say that weight is best preserved and
bulk never diminished if a small space is left, say a lath
placed flatwise, under the cover, and so left until the time of
shipment arrives.
The greatest fallacy in the packing of grapes is that of
packages holding a uniform weight of fruit. The state of
the atmosphere when the bunch is cut, until the final sale of
the fruit, has such an intimate relation to the bulk taken by
them in the package, that disaster will attend every grower
who seeks to gauge weight by space. I believe, from ex-
tended observation , this to be the secret why such a large
proportion of grapes now reach market in bad order.
 45

There is one other point, namely, the form of the berry,

that merits attention . We are apt to class grapes into thin
and thick skins . It is said that the Concord are so thin-
skinned that they carry badly. To the novice in grape -culture,
it would seem that the Concord in its natural condition as
to size and shape, independent of the fact of the amount of
water contained in the berry and of the change in the shape
of the berry occasioned by the surplus quantity of water that
distends the skin, is a difficult berry to pack. This propo-
sition loses sight of the fact that berries of the grapes are
in shape from round to oblong oval. Can you pack a round
berry in the same position in the package and handle the
bunch in the same manner as you would an oval one? Can
you safely pack an egg on its side? Experience has taught
me that in cutting grapes just after the dew is off in the
morning, when the berry is distended at the sides and flat-
tened at the poles, the slightest pressure on the flattened side
by the hand, or the placing of the bunch in the basket after
it is cut, on its side, will result in cracking of the finest ber-
ries on the bunch . Place such bunches upright or inclined
in the basket and your fruit is comparatively safe from that
evil. By noon of the same day the shape of the berry
changes ; it is now flattened at the sides and extended at the
poles, or more oval in shape . Less care needs to be exercised
now, as the danger is not so great.
The cutter and packer needs to be a person of great expe-
rience, who has a keen eye and whose whole soul is in his
work. The bunches selected for the top layer should be
those whose shape as regards the berry and the position of
the same on the bunch will allow of pressure on the side of
the berry. He finds another bunch in which the shape is
such that the pressure can safely be from the top of the
bunch ; its proper position is determined from this fact.
Prepare a package with these facts in mind , and there will
be little need of cutting bunches to fill spaces, a firm pres-
sure can be exerted to hold the contents in their place, and
the result of your labor will be increased.
 46

Whether baskets, boxes, crates or other mode or form of

package shall be the one used, the market to which the
same is to be sent will determine for you, bearing in mind
the state of the weather when the grapes are picked,
packed and on their way to their destination , will and must
ever exercise an influence that you cannot safely omit to
heed.
We should ever bear in remembrance " that a crop well
grown is half sold, " and striving ever to attain perfection ,
if we can, push upward and onward to that end .

The reading of this paper was listened to with much in-

terest, and accepted with a vote of thanks.

DISCUSSION.

Dr. Young gave an account of the practice pursued in

Vineland, viz .: Picking the grapes in large trays or baskets
and allowing them to wilt for twenty-four hours before
packing.
Mr. Wilde had shipped grapes to a good many merchants ,
and believed the disparity in weights was in the merchants
and not in the grapes .

Mr. Wooding thought small packages , such as two-pound

paper boxes, preferable for long distances.
Mr. Idell said this subject of evaporation and absorption
is a very important one, and I am glad to find one man, a
grower at that, who really knows something on the subject.
I have often found a great discrepancy between the actual
weight and the mark on the package. The past year had
given a good deal of dissatisfaction in respect to weights,
and he had given a good deal of attention to the matter, en-
deavoring to find the reason, and he had no doubt Mr.
Rogers had solved the problem.
Mr. Loughran asked him if a ten- pound package was
preferable to a larger one for Concords in the New York
market.
Mr. Idell replied , yes , decidedly ; he showed the style of
 47

basket most popular in the New York market this season,

but could not tell where or by whom made, but he could sell
ten times as many grapes in those ten-pound baskets as he
could in larger ones.

Mr. Wooding found the cost of freight and cartage was

more on small packages than on large ones .
Mr. Loughran said the freight was by weight ; the size of
the package made no difference.
Mr. Idell said the door of the commission men is a very
convenient place to lay your complaints of cartage, etc. ,
but the fact is they are not to blame at all . The Carmen's
Association regulates the charges, and all the merchants had
to do was to pay the bills. It was a matter entirely under
the carman's control. Of course, a carman would not take a
single package or a few a mile or two for the same price
that he would a load ; it would be unreasonable to expect it .
Mr. A. W. Pearson then read the following paper

ON PROTECTION OF GRAPES FROM ROT AND

MILDEW .

Grape-growers around Vineland have probably had more

extensive and more satisfactory experience in the various
methods employed to protect the vine and its fruit from
mildew and rot, than has been enjoyed by any other viticul-
tural region of the United States.
Commencing its ravages about 1870, the grape disease
yearly increased in malignity until, in 1876, it began to be
apparent that either the culture of the Concord Grape must
be abandoned in this section, or else some means of defence
against this mysterious foe must be devised and adopted .
Opinion was unsettled as to what was the matter, and much
of observation and experiment was requisite to establish
the fact, now evident enough, of the fungoid nature of the
malady.
In 1876 I was satisfied, after seeing various accidental
instances of exemption from disease, that the fruit might be
 48

saved by extending above the trellis a shelter similar to a

roof, and in 1877 I tried an experiment to verify this, by
constructing a roof, sixteen inches in width, made of half-
inch pine boards, over about one hundred yards in length of
trellis . The result was as anticipated ; the grapes were

saved from rot, while those on the adjacent trellis rotted

almost totally. It was found, however, that the width of
the roof, sixteen inches, was insufficient ; as in vigorous
growth many fruiting canes would extend laterally beyond
the edge of the roof, and the exterior clusters upon such
canes would be diseased . The philosophy of this protection
appears to be, as suggested by Professor Silliman, the
obstruction of radiation of heat, and consequent prevention
of condensation of moisture upon the surface of the grape,
which affords a foot-hold for the attachment and germina-
tion of the fungus spore. This, however, is theory. Such
will be the result of this mode of protection upon clear
nights, but it is scarcely likely that it would be equally
efficient as a guard in the case of dense fogs, unless it be
that the spores which float off in the atmosphere are carried
by currents of air and settle down when the air is still. It
may be that the shelter protects against this settling of
spores which subside by gravitation . Until further experi-
ment, I can only affirm the fact that this overhead defence
saves the grapes from rotting. How and why it does so is
yet to be explained .
The same season I tried the effect of protection upon isolated
clusters, by inclosing them in cloth bags. This was success-
ful, and next year, 1878, I called public attention to the subject
in our village papers. I also , over my experimental row of
trellis, substituted for the boards a covering of cheap cotton
cloth three-fourths of a yard wide . This proved equally
efficient as the boards, but scarcely wide enough to save all
the clusters . The shelter should be at least three feet in
width.
In 1879 various parties tested the efficacy of protection by
means of manilla -paper bags, and in 1880 there was an
 49

almost universal employment of them. Many persons

expended from thirty to fifty thousand bags apiece.
In 1881 the abandonment of grape bagging was as unani-
mous as was its adoption the year previous . Not because
the protection, properly applied, was inefficacious, but
because the thing did not pay. The objections to grape
bagging may be summed up thus : It was proved that to be
of use, the bags must be applied almost immediately after
formation of the cluster. At this period of growth the stem
is so brittle that it is very liable to be broken off while apply-
ing the bag. This was the case with a costly proportion of
what I had bagged. The bagging must be completed within
a very few days to be sure of safety, and there is no way to
learn how many days' grace are allowed . The spore of the
Phoma is invisible, and time may be wasted in the applica-
tion of bags to apparently healthy fruit, when the result
will show that infection has already taken place . I thus
expended ten thousand bags upon clusters which afterward
rotted. In addition to the hardship of being forced to com-
plete a large amount of work in an indefinitely short space
of time, it was found that the hired labor requisite to accom-
plish this could not always be relied on. Those thus em-
ployed were, in many cases, careless, breaking off the cluster
when putting on the bag, so that when the bag was removed
in autumn its contents were found to consist only of the
miserable little dried up anatomy of an incipient cluster of
grapes.
Some of those employed were not precisely honest. The

practice was to pay so much per thousand for applying the

bags, and the operator, receiving his quota in the morning,
would, at the close of each day's work, report the number
expended and be paid accordingly. Some made astonishing
progress ! A neighbor boasted to me that he had two first-
class hands . They put on 1,300 bags each per day. In
plowing his vineyard afterward, he occasionally turned
up a bunch of bags, 100 or 250, or, as in one instance, 500,
showing that one of his baggers was careless, to say the least
 50

of it. Again, upon gathering the grapes in the fall, he fre-

quently discovered bags which, while inclosing a cluster
of fruit, also contained from six to a dozen similar paper
bags compactly folded and stuffed in with the cluster. It
was some gratification here to recognize that the operator
was conscientious. He honestly pinned on all the bags he
claimed pay for ; only found it more expeditious to do it that
way than to potter with separate bags for separate clusters .
To cap the climax of all disappointments, it was found
when the bagged grapes got to market, that, though much
nicer, they sold for scarcely any more than did the trash
from rotten vineyards . I shipped to New York as fine clus-
ters of bagged Concords as could be produced, which sold for
three and a half cents per pound .
This was " the most unkindest cut of all. " It squelched
grape-bagging, which had a short life, but a merry one, at
least for those who got a dollar a thousand for expending
bags as I have described.
If the application be made in time, the paper bag will pre-
serve the cluster in more exquisite perfection than can be
secured in any other way . The grapes come forth luscious
and beautiful enough to amaze nature herself. To the
amateur, who wants his fruit superlatively nice, and who is
able to expend his own bags without conscientious help, this
mode of protection is to be recommended . Next to this is
the shelter named . This saves all the grapes , and holds
them in condition nearly equal to those bagged, and far
superior to those ripened outside . It also protects the leaves
from attack of the Peronospora, thus securing the ripening
of the fruit . But this mode of protection is expensive, and,
at the present market prices for grapes , is not rewarded by
the returns .
In localities where the grape, or certain varieties of it, can-
not be matured without protection, it is vain to expect that
grape culture, as a business, can compete with those more
favored spots not liable to disease . There are plenty such in
the United States, and to them must be relinquished those
 51

sorts of grapes which are proved liable to rot . It is doubtful

if the old days of prosperity for the Vineland Concord will
return. I have nearly relinquished the hope of it, and shall
supplant my Concords with grapes which I know are able
to take care of themselves.
The profitable future of grape culture is at best somewhat
uncertain. As regards grapes for the table, it is evident that
the demand can be readily over-supplied . The country can
raise more than the town can consume. The only avail-
able outlet for the surplus is conversion into wine. But
science has so developed the art of wine -making that grapes
are no longer an essential ingredient. One of our papers,
prominent in the interests of grape- wine production, sug-
gests to the grape-growers to go slow, and not to indulge
in too enthusiastic anticipations ; that the large wine
dealers have learned to avail themselves of the laboratory,
the distillery and the pump, and that " grape juice " is a
little " played out. "
It also quotes from a newspaper published in Paris, France,
which states that although , by reason of disease of the vines ,
grape production in Europe is diminished two-thirds , there
is no diminution in the number of gallons of wine made
and exported . It is feared that the Parisians may be in
danger of sipping adulterated wine, and it is positively stated
that no pure wines are now exported. Notwithstanding
this, native American wines, even if made in the highest style
of modern art, cannot compete with foreign names, and our
home wine manufacturers are forced to export their pro-
ducts, so as to re- import them properly baptized . These
straws show which way the wind blows, and tend toward
the conclusion that it will be safe to indulge in grape culture
only to a moderate degree.
In speaking of protection of grapes by the cloth cover,
I omitted to mention an observation made last summer.
When I first applied the cloth I did it in April, before the
opening of the buds, and protection was complete . Last
spring it occurred to me to defer application of the cover
 52

till later, in order by this means to gain some knowledge of

when the fungus attacks the grape . I accordingly did not
cover the trellis until after blossoming time, when the grapes
had grown to about an eighth of an inch in diameter. There
was then no sign of disease, except an occasional yellow
spot, caused by the Phoma, upon a few of the vine leaves.
A small per cent. of the grapes, covered thus late, rotted,
proving that at the date of June 13th, when the cloth was
put on, the infection was already prevalent. Safety is not
assured unless the protection is provided as soon as the clus-
ter is formed.
As regards desirability of grafting, it is proved that weak-
growing sorts, as the Ives , Delaware and Catawba, can be
improved in vigor and productiveness by grafting on the
Clinton or Concord. I have even fancied that in case of the
Ives I could see an influence of the stock on the graft, in
increased size and sweeter savor of the fruit . By grafting
upon an old stock full production can be reached two years
sooner than from the cutting. With good stocks, a favor-
able season, and careful work, grape grafting should have a
success of at least eighty per cent . As good use as can be
made of old Concords is to graft them with Ives.

Paper received with a vote of thanks .

The reading of this paper elicited a good deal of discussion .

Bagging it was thought would protect the grapes from the
curculio as well as the rot.
In reply to a question, Mr. Pearson stated that the spores
of the fungus float off when ripe into the atmosphere and
settle upon the surface of the fruit . Warmth and moisture,
especially the latter, are requisite to the germination of the
spore. When the surface of the berry is dry the spore will
either not stick or fail to germinate . Experiment proves
that any temperature below 60° kills the growth of the fun-
gus in the grape. Subjected to this degree of cold either in
arefrigerator or on the vine, the " rot speck " will cease
 53

spreading, will dry up like a scab, and the remainder of the

grape will ripen .
Dr. Young- If this is so, how and where do the spores
pass the winter.
Mr. Pearson- The spores, the seed of the rot, can be found
now (January 12th) in the dry rotten grapes, and on the dry
leaf- stems on the ground in the vineyard . They will retain
their vitality at any ordinary temperature. Have germi-
nated them this winter.
Under favorable conditions , such as warm, moist foggy
weather, the rot may attack the berry of the grape at any
time after it has shed the blossom. If such conditions have
prevailed, protection by bagging is not absolutely certain
after the grapes are an eighth of an inch in diameter.
Mr. Loughran had put on the bags while the grapes were
in, or just out of bloom. Mr. Lush coincided .
Mrs. Butler wished to mention one fact that had so far
been overlooked, and that was, bagging not only saved the
fruit, but preserved the bloom and increased the flavor, and
the fruit brought higher prices.
Mr. Wooding thought the bags should be made like a let-
ter envelope .
Mr. Wilcox saw no use of bottoms to the bags ; he pre-
ferred them without.

Mr. Cone disagreed . Tight bags afforded perfect protec-

tion .
Mr. De Groff cut off the upper corner of the bags so they
would wrap around the cane easier. Bagging retarded the
ripening of the fruit, lengthened the season, and he agreed
with Mrs. Butler that the quality was much improved; used
4,000 bags last season, putting two clusters in each, and
thought that eventually bagging would pay.
Mr. Clarke did not think the quality was as good.
Mr. Cone used two-pound bags ; thought generally from
six to eight hundred could be put on in a day.
Messrs . Pearson and McMahan showed how they applied
the bags, inclosing the cane over the cluster .
21
 54

The former thought closed bags would exclude the moth

of the grape curculio . The bags should be perforated at bot-
tom to permit drainage of water from rains. The little flies
often seen about grapes packed for shipment , are usually
" wine flies, " an invariable accompaniment of vinous fer-
mentation in all saccharine fruits and vegetables when the
juice is escaping. Doubtful whether bagging will prevent
their manifestation. Had made no observations, however,
with reference to this .

The next subject discussed was

THE SWEET POTATO.

Mr. A. P. Arnold -The importance of this question was

greatly increased ; owing to our vineyards failing, the double
blossom in our blackberries, and the low prices received for
our fruits , we have to resort to other crops by which to
secure a living, and probably no other crop gives better
promise of supplying this than the Sweet Potato .
The difficulties and uncertainties attending the raising of
small fruits is well-nigh discouraging, and we hope to find in
Sweet Potato culture an industry well suited to the soil and
climate of this part of New Jersey. Many, especially those
situated on sandy soils, are engaging more and more exten-
sively in this crop year after year, and find it pays well.
The first consideration is good seed, and we find from our
experience that the short round Maurice Sweet is the best
variety, yielding and selling well, with less small ones in pro-
portion to the crop than the long , slender kind . This variety ,
as well as others, is subject to disease.
After trying all manner of hot-beds, we have settled down
on the horse-shoe tile bed as the best by far. A brief de-
scription of my bed is as follows : 80 feet long by 12 feet
wide, running east and west, with a fire-bed or furnace in
the centre, 4 feet long, 2 feet high and 16 inches wide, with
an air-chamber 6 inches square, 4 feet long, for the tile to
enter at right angles to the fire-box and air-chamber. Four
 55

tile flues running right and left from the fire-box to ends of
bed, equal distance from each other; depth of tile at fire -box
4 feet from surface at each end , 8 inches ; and a smoke-
stack at the end of each flue, 4 at each end of the bed.
With this kind of a bed we can grade the temperature to
75 or 80 degrees where the seed lies, which is sufficient .
We cover the joints of the tile to prevent the entrance of
anything to obstruct the heat.
On the surface of the bed we want six inches of good
sandy loam ; to every square rod of surface one one-horse
load of manure, and 10 or 12 pounds of fine bone. The bed
should be rich . My experience leads me to believe this is
the best cure for such diseases as affect the Sweet Potato.
Good thrifty plants kept growing is what we want.
The seed are laid 2 inches apart, with 2 inches of soil over
them, and a blanket of leaves or salt hay to keep the heat
in. Our soil being sandy and loose, we avoid plowing deep
at any time.
If the ground to be planted is clean and free from weeds,
we cultivate and harrow the surface and run light furrows
3 feet apart. Leaving the soil hard and undisturbed at the
bottom has a tendency to keep the potatoes short . Save
your own seed ; if you buy you are sure to get the thin, long
fellows, just what you do not want . Our manure is mostly
a compost of muck, mould , turf, leaves, sand, and sawdust
used for bedding our stock. We calculate to use 10 one-
horse loads of this per acre , in which is mixed 200 pounds
of fine bone and allowed to heat. In the furrow, strew 200
pounds muriate of potash and 200 pounds of good phos-
phate mixed, per acre. In four years' experiments with
commercial fertilizers, I find that potash is much needed in
this soil.

RESULTS OF EXPERIMENTS.
Product per Acre
Natural soil.. 68 bushels
Nitrate of soda, 200 pounds per acre . 91 66
Dissolved bone-black, 300 pounds per acre . 77 66
 56

Muriate of potash , 200 pounds per acre . 110 bushels

Manure, 10 loads 66 118 66
.166 66
Bone-black and potash mixed ...
-177 66
Soda, bone-black and potash mixed

On another part of my farm where I used compost in the

hill, 12 loads per acre, the yield was 120 bushels per acre :
Product per Acre .
Nitrate of soda added gave . 180 bushels.
Dissolved bone-black added gave . .160 66
Potash, added gave . ..170 66

Not being entirely satisfied , I tried it again, with this re-

sult :

Product per Acre.

Natural soil gave ….- .133 bushels.
Nitrate of soda gave .. .158 66
Dissolved bone - black gave .. -152 66
Potash gave .-- .188 66
Soda and bone - black gave- 172 66
Soda and potash gave .. .200 66
Bone - black and potash gave .. 208 66
Soda, bone-black and potash gave…- .222 66
Manure, 20 loads per acre, gave . _203 66
Nothing gave .... - 109 66

Last year, by using 36 loads of manure with fine bone

mixed, the results were better than with phosphate alone ;
therefore I have adopted this formula of mixing : 200 pounds
fine bone with 10 loads of compost, and using 200 pounds of
potash and 200 pounds of phosphate in the furrow, and that
has given me the best results .
Last year where I had no manure I used 400 pounds fine
bone, 200 pounds fish guano and 200 pounds potash, and
obtained a yield of 152 bushels per acre. I use the compost
in the hill, the commercial fertilizers in the drill . Set
plants about the middle of May. If cut-worms are trouble-
some I use three-fourths of a pound of carbolic acid to forty
gallons of water. In setting plants, I open a hole with a
trowel, set in the plant, a boy following fills the hole with
 57

water. Have set eighteen to twenty thousand plants per

day . Cultivate and hoe as often as necessary to keep the
weeds down and the ground loose between the rows.
If plants set at this time get a good start they will do to
dig by the last of August . If intended for winter keeping,
wait till frost, then dig and store. We use a digger with
two horses, that takes out an acre in two and a half hours.
Some growers ship their crop in the fall, and we find it an
advantage to scatter them as much as possible ; every place
into which they get introduced and tested, the cry is for
more, even at advanced prices, for the quality is extra.
Those intended for winter use or sale are stored immedi-
ately in large bins with a good circulation of air, not allow-
ing the temperature to get below fifty degrees . Then they
can be sent to market at any time during the winter.
Mr. Quinn- Do you grow the red variety?
Mr. Arnold- I do not ; it is grown here to some extent .
Mr. Quinn- They sell better in Newark market than any
other.
Mr. Arnold advocated planting the same ground to pota-
toes three or four years. Since using the special manures,
and using twenty-five bushels of lime to the acre after the
potatoes, he had no trouble in getting clover to grow.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock.

AFTERNOON SESSION.

On assembling this afternoon, the first business was the

REPORT OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON FRUITS .

Your Committee on Fruits exhibited at this meeting,

would respectfully report that, for the season of the year,
we find on exhibition some very fine, well -preserved speci-
mens of fruit, remarkable among which is a plate of Bartlett
Pears kept three months beyond their season. The art of
 58

keeping fruit under the influence of ice for so long a time

must be a source of profit to the producer, while it enables
the consumer to obtain our choice fruits nearly the entire
year.

W. H. Goldsmith, of Newark, N. J. , exhibits seven varieties of apples, viz.;

Newtown Pippin, Wine Sap, Rhode Island Greening, Northern Spy, Bolles' Pip-
pin and Pennock, and one variety without a name.
Prof. York, of Vineland, one plate of Wine Sap.
Mr. Mortimer, one plate of Wine Sap.
Nelson Roberts, one plate of Lady Apple, one of Wine Sap and one of Ben Davis.
A. W. Pearson, of Vineland, one plate of Ben Davis, very large and fine.
H. M. Engle, of Pennsylvania, one plate of apples (York Imperial) which your
committee pronounce the best new apple on the table-good size, good red color,
sub-acid, juicy: also one plate of Hubbardston Nonesuch.
F. S. Newcomb, Vineland, one plate of Winter Wine, good size, red apple,
pronounced second best. a meritorious apple ; one plate Fallowater, one plate
name unknown ; the last two varieties having been kept under ground.
C. B. Campbell, Vineland, one plate Roman Stem, one plate Wine Sap.
David Baird, Manalapan, N. J. , one plate Nero Apple, very fine, color red,
good size and quality ; also one plate Smith's Cider.
Ira J. Blackwell, Titusville, one plate Smith's Cider.
E. & J. C. Williams, of Montclair, N. J. , Baldwin Apples, very fine, well pre-
served ; Jersey Hawthorn, light color with an unusually attractive red cheek,
very fair, quality good ; Canfield (sweet) ; Rambo, a great bearer : also seven
plates of Pears, Winter Nelis, flavor very fine ; Lawrence, Beaurré, Clarigeau and
Doyenne Sieulle, a variety new to your committee.
W. R. Ward, Newark, N. J. , a splendid collection of Lawrence, Easter Beurré,
Beurré Bosc, Bartlett, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Columbia, Beurré Clarigeau, Beurré
Diel and Doyenne Sieulle ; one plate of Lady Apples and one Turnip, fifteen
months old. This collection, aside from the turnip, is so well preserved that the
fruit appears to have just been gathered from the trees.
E. P. Beebe, of Elizabeth, N. J. , exhibits one specimen of Quince destroyed by
fungus.
C. W. Idell, of Hoboken , N. J. , one basket of Catawba Grapes in fine condition.
Your committee did not learn by what process they were so well preserved.
H. Z. Ellis, Vineland, N. J. , one very large wax pear, fac-simile of one weigh-
ing 28 ounces, of the Duchess variety.
John Churchman, of Burlington, N. J. , exhibits one bottle of the Superb Rasp-
berry, a new seedling of fine appearance.
John Willcox, of Vineland, N. J. , exhibits one bottle of Reliance, one bottle of
Cuthbert and one bottle of Turner Raspberries, preserved in alcohol.
McMahon & Son show one dish of preserved Strawberries, labeled Vineland
Seedling.
Rev. W. W. Meech, Vineland, N. J. , exhibits Quince parasite of 1881 ; also nest
of eggs of a caterpillar destructive to the Quince ; also Quince cuttings, the result
of his particular mode of culture, of remarkable growth, 74 feet .
C. B. Bagster, specimen of the native India Tea Plant, growing in a pot ; also
the seed and prepared tea, direct from Assam, India.
 59

J. B. Ward, flowers of the Cactus family.

A. J. Washburn, Vineland, two baskets Florida Oranges and one of Lemons,
very fine.

All of which are before you for inspection .

This report, although not so elaborate as the exhibit would
warrant, is respectfully submitted by your committee.
E. P. BEEBE,
A. W. PEARSON,
CHARLES DEGROFF ,
J. WILLCOX ,
P. S. CONE.

Report accepted and ordered on file.

The question of Drying Fruits was then taken up. Mr. J.

D. Cole had had some experience in the matter. His
machine cost $550, and about as much more for fixtures,
and would evaporate forty bushels in ten hours, or one hun-
dred bushels in twenty-four hours ; did not think it would be
of much benefit to the farmer. Five pounds of dried fruit
was about all he could get out of a bushel of apples, and
seven cents a pound for the product; with apples at fifteen
cents a bushel, the labor, packages, freights and other costs
would amount to as much as, or more than the receipts.
Mr. Arnold asked regarding the quality of the stock used.
Mr. Cole -It must be first-class to pay at all ; the poorer
the fruit the greater the cost of the product.
Mr. Idell mentioned the making of apple-jelly as a new
product now made and sold in large quantity .

Farmers' Gardens. Why are small fruits so generally

omitted or neglected, and what can be done to awaken
farmers to the importance of their use?
Mr. Clark's answer was , want of time .
Mr. Beebe called attention to the difference between the
gardens of farmers and townspeople in this respect. The lat-
ter, though often confined to a small area, raised more of their
 60

table supply from it than many farmers did from their broad
acres . Why was this ? It was simply neglect, nothing else.
Mr. Rogers -The remedy I propose is to convince them
that good health, happiness and a saving of doctors' bills
would more than offset the cost.
Mr. Crane did not think the small fruits were neglected as
much as formerly ; times have changed ; their farms are their
gardens now; they could not afford to have a garden, but
raise small fruits by the acre ; that was his case ; he grew ten
times as much fruit now as when confined to his garden ;
that would hardly suffice for the chickens now.
The Secretary said that notwithstanding the cheerful view
Mr. Crane took of this question , it was a lamentable fact
that many farmers ' homes were destitute of an adequate
supply of these table luxuries, very much to the detriment
of their health , morals and pockets . He presumed this
community and those present were an exception, but no
doubt many present could find in their own vicinity cases to
which the question would apply, and there is a field for mis-
sionary work of the best kind. The farmer who will rear a
family of children without these comforts is bad morally,
and offers a premium on dishonesty, for fruit his children
will have. Human nature in this respect has not materially
changed since the creation , and a little of the " original
sin " Mother Eve found in the garden of Eden, and of the
same kind, still exists in her descendants of to-day .

Live Fences. Are they desirable and profitable ? If so,

what are the best kinds for the farm and for ornamental
grounds ?
Mr. Crane thought they were not desirable for the farm .
Iron was better and cheaper.
Mr. Wilde - They rob the soil for some distance from them,
and were objectionable on that account .
Mr. McMahan would not have a barbed wire fence on his
farm on account of danger to man and beast .
Mr. Beebe -A live fence on a farm for a screen was worth
 61

more than its cost for the comfort and shelter it affords.
The screens and evergreen hedges we saw in this town this
morning were an honor and credit to their owners ; the sight
of them had amply repaid him for coming here.
Mr. Wooding said a handsome evergreen hedge was a de-
sirable object, and as they did not rob the soil more than six
feet distant on either side, he was willing to give them that
for their beauty .
Mr. Engle was satisfied the Osage orange was the cheapest
and best of all for the purpose of a farm fence. They need
care and attention while young, and three prunings a year,
which if done at the proper time, was cheaply and easily done.
If neglected, it was a big job to get them in proper shape.
Mr. Ward asked if close pruning would not induce dying
back .
Mr. Engle thought not, but did not know.
The Secretary thought Mr. Beebe had struck the key-note
to the ornamental part of the question , and he wished to add
a word. There may be finer evergreen hedges than were
shown to us this morning, but he did not recall ever to have
seen any; these were good enough, and the question of de-
sirability, he ventured to assert, would be promptly and
satisfactorily answered if the owners of them were about to
sell their places. They were an evergreen monument to
the taste, skill and enterprise of their fortunate possessors .
As to the best kind of those we have seen , he thought all
would agree the Hemlock (Abies Canadensis) would carry off
the prize .

Asparagus-culture and varieties—was the subject next

in order and was introduced by the Secretary reading a letter
inquiring the value of muck for this crop .
Mr. Whitall thought mud or muck, if not too expensive ,
a very valuable fertilizer on their light soil.
Mr. Dare would plant six inches deep and three or four
feet apart; there would not be so much to cut at first, but
more in the long run ; applied manure after he was done
 62

cutting ; uses the disk harrow to cultivate it with-the best

instrument he ever used.

Mr. Collins planted three acres in 1861 , one foot by four ;

cut as much as 10,000 bunches and realized $1 , 500 some years ;
sold wholesale at that ; planted one foot deep , and knew of
no bed that beat it. Another bed planted four by six feet
never made as much show; believes there is more in the feed
than in the breed.
Mr. Beebe cited the case of a bed planted thirty years ago,
still in good order ; it was annually covered with manure in
the fall and allowed to remain without disturbance .
Mr. Dare found his plants that were near the surface pro-
duced more small shoots than those deeper; could not tell
how much manure he used ; put on all he could get and all
he could afford and did not have enough ; used fully a ton
to the acre of Mapes ' special manure last spring, he thought,
with benefit, but owing to the drought did not think he re-
ceived the full benefit of it.
Mr. Collins asked what to do to get rid of the asparagus
beetle ; they were very numerous and destructive.
Mr. Crane was very much alarmed eight or ten years ago,
but paid little attention to them now, as they were not so
numerous as they had been .
The Secretary added that the injury was done by the larva
after the cutting season was over and the tops had branched
out. Then a dose of Paris green or London purple applied
as for potato bugs was not dangerous save to the insects.
Air-slaked lime was also named as simple and effectual .
How to get rid of the tops was answered by Mr. Collins
thus : Drag a wooden road- scraper or something similar
across the rows when the stalks are frozen stiff or covered
with ice, and the work is quickly and efficiently done .

Insects, the best methods of destroying or repelling

them, was next taken up, and much time consumed in talk-
ing about the habits of the white grub and apple worm.
For the former Mr. Crane named the skunk, and Mr. Wilde
 63

the mole as efficient agents in their destruction . For the

latter Messrs . Engle and Beebe recommended feeding the
stung fruit to animals and using bands around the trees to
trap the larva. The Secretary read the following from the
Weekly Tribune of December 14, 1881, as apropos just
here :

CODLING MOTH AND CANKER WORM.

The codling moth lays its eggs from the time the apples
set till the last of August. The worms will be found in the
fruit from some time in June till the apples are carried into
the cellar. There are two broods each year, and the moths
of each brood scatter along for some weeks . The worms
commence leaving the fruit the 1st of July here, or about
six weeks after the trees blossom, and continue to leave till
after the apples are taken to the cellar. By placing a band
of woolen cloth , five inches wide, about the trunk of the
trees, the worms will, as they leave the fruit, hide under
these bands. They remain under these bands for ten or
twelve days before they come out as moths. So by examin-
ing these bands every ten days, the insects may be killed .
This remedy is not satisfactory unless all will practice it.
So it generally fails to satisfy. In large orchards there is
no remedy equal to that of turning hogs into the orchard,
and then thinning out the wormy apples. This gives the
fruit and worms to the appreciative swine. The fair fruit
will remain on the tree and be the better for the thinning
process, and we will soon be rid of the insects . Fruit-growers
can be induced to do this, and it is therefore the most prac-
tical remedy . Some prefer sheep to hogs to turn into the
orchard.
In using Paris green to destroy the canker worms, the
fruit-growers of Western New York have learned that this
is a very perfect remedy against the codling moth. Said a
large apple-grower to me : " The application of this sub-
stance the last of May works wonders. " For the past two
years I have tried this remedy, with the most satisfactory
 64

results . I used London purple , one tablespoonful to two

gallons of water. I made two applications, one about two
weeks after the blossoms had fallen off the trees, and the
other four weeks later. The apples on these trees were
almost entirely free from worms. Professor Riley says that
plaster would do as well. We have tried it, and it seemed
to do no good at all. Professors Riley and Saunders both
say that this is a dangerous use to make of the poisonous
arsenites. True, this objection is the strong argument
against this remedy. But the small size of the fruit when
the application is made, the very small amount of poison
that will fall on any single fruit, the almost absolute cer-
tainty that this little will be removed by the heavy rains, as
the blossom end of the fruit, which was up when the poison
was applied, turns over and then down , makes the danger
very light, if it exists at all.
In one place, as I made the second the application , I ap-
plied the liquid very copiously, so much so that I destroyed
the foliage on the tree. This excessive amount was not
needed, but was purposely applied . The blossom ends of the
fruit, the place where the poison would lodge, if anywhere,
were cut out and carried to Dr. Kedzie that he might test
for the presence of the arsenite . Two separate analyses
were made, and in both cases not a trace of the poison was
found . This remedy has been tried extensively in Illinois
and New York as a remedy against the canker worm, for
which it is a most excellent specific, and no harm is found
to result . Of course, in the use of these arsenical poisons
the greatest caution should be used, as their virulence is
great and certain. In this case it could not be recommended
at all if it was not certain that it would all be removed from
the fruit before the latter would be used .-[ Professor A. J.
Cook, Michigan Agricultural College.

Mr. DeGroff raised the finest and best fruit the past sea-
son he ever did. He scattered air- slaked lime and sulphur
over the trees when in bloom. If he could keep hogs to eat
the fallen fruit, should do so.
 65

Hellebore was recommended for the cabbage worm.

Mr. Cone used rye flour and plaster.
Mr. Engle hoped Pyrethrum would become so cheap we
could afford to use it ; then we should have an effectual rem-
edy, safe to use.
The Secretary stated a correspondent of the Gardener's
Monthly for January gave an instance of using gas-tar water
for the potato bug and currant worm with effectual success.
Its efficacy was disputed .
A remedy for the pear slug was asked for.
The Secretary named air- slaked lime as a simple and
effectual remedy.
Mr. had heard it recommended and used it without
effect, and a few days after the slugs were more numerous
than before.
Mr. · -A second crop evidently; there is no doubt of
its efficacy, but one application is not always sufficient.
Mr. Washburn had two Lawrence pear trees attacked by
slugs last season. Colonel Pearson told him to use air-
slaked lime . He made two or three applications and had
1,000 fine pears on the two trees . Put it on when the trees
were wet ; on one side of one tree was his asparagus bed,
and to avoid getting wet by going into it, that side of the
tree received no lime, and the slugs had their own way.
He was informed the lime was just as efficacious when
the foliage was dry ; it would stick to the slugs wherever it
touched them, and accomplish its work.
Inquiry was made regarding a worm that bored in the
young blackberry canes. The remedy suggested was to cut
off and burn the affected canes.
Considerable complaint was made of double flowers
on the Wilson Blackberry, and speculations as to cause and
cure, high culture as a remedy seeming to meet with most
favor.

President Ward announced that the Executive Committee

had decided to accept the invitation to meet next year at
Freehold .
Adjourned to 7:30 o'clock.
 66

EVENING SESSION.

The Society convened at half-past seven o'clock, with

President Ward in the chair.

The first subject for discussion was : How best to restore

to fruitfulness our old orchards?
Dr. Young thought the best method with some would be
to dig out and burn the trees up .
Mr. McMahan thought many orchards had been planted
too thick ; in such cases thinning out would be the best way ;
thought failure of the pear in Vineland was due to this
cause.
Mr. Lush was not aware the pear crop had failed in Vine-
land ; he thought the trouble was in over-cropping and fail-
ing to fertilize properly .
Mr. Pearson knew an instance of a prominent fruit-grower
in Michigan, who applied seventy 2-horse wagon loads of
slaughter-house manure, residuum from the lard tanks, etc. ,
per acre of orchard, without detriment . Results, enormous
yield of splendid apples, principally Baldwin . No cause of
failure in orchards so prolific as starvation of one or more
of the requisites for growth and health . The same party
writes me that he was offered several hundred dwarf pears,
Duchesse, which had become a failure on a neighbor's farm ,
free gratis, if he would remove them. He transplanted
them to his own rich soil, and applied high fertilization .
Result entirely satisfactory , in renewed vigor of trees, and
heavy crops of fine fruit .
Too much of ammoniacal manures would probably be of
injury to fruit, unless compensated by a sufficiency of lime
and potash. Have seen great benefit from the free applica-
tion of lime, even on a limestone soil.
Mr. Engle thought there was nothing so short- sighted as
starving orchards and expecting field crops and fruit crops
at the same time, constantly robbing the soil without giving
it adequate returns.
Their experimental farm in Pennsylvania had a neglected
 67

orchard on it; the sod was broken up and half a bushel of

wood-ashes applied to the tree with very satisfactory results.
Mr. Lovett said there was nothing more effectual than
potash. It was the great need of all fruits , especially on our
worn-out or exhausted soils.

Muriate of potash was thought to be the cheapest form in

which it could be applied .
Mr. Beebe Stir the soil, fertilize, and prune to secure
vigor of growth. The tree must grow and shed its bark as
well as its leaves . It was as natural to do this as for a
horse to shed his coat.
Mr. Meech called attention to the danger of exposing the
trunks and limbs of trees to the sun; had lost trees thus
exposed by removing the limbs for grafting.
Mr. Lord had trees die in the same way as described that
were not grafted.
President Ward differed from the gentleman who asserted
pruning would not make new growth. It concentrated the
supply of sap, and confined its labor to less surface. If the
manure generally applied to an acre of ground was put on
a quarter of an acre, the result would be an increased vigor
to the crop so treated ; the effect is the same in both cases.
Mr. Cranmer - A word just here, as to shading the
trunks. Last spring I received a lot of peach trees in such
bad order I was undecided whether to return them or put
them on the brush heap. The buds had started and the
roots had been cut short in digging. On consulting a neigh-
bor, he advised me to plant them and cut off the tops and
every limb, reducing them to a naked stick . I did so , and
a finer growth I could not desire . The sun was about as hot
last season as I ever knew it to be, and I saw no injury from
it on my peach trees .
The Secretary. -The cases are not analagous. Mr. Cran-
mer's treatment of the peach trees was exactly suited to
them, and should always be practiced with young peach
trees at planting, no matter what their condition otherwise.
With large trees, cutting off the distribution , without regu-
 68

lating the sources of supply, would have a very different

effect . Nature is generous and will stand a limited amount
of interference, but where the disparity is too great, as in
Mr. Meech's case, she struggles awhile and then yields to a
fate she cannot avert.

The best means of increasing the growth and promoting

the objects of the Society, after some discussion, was ex-
pressed in a nut-shell by Mr. Idell, thus : Join the Society,
pay your dues, attend the meetings and bring something to
exhibit.

The question if we had learned anything new in regard to

pear blight during the year, led to discussing the theories of
the past as to its origin, cause, etc. , till speakers were asked
by the President to confine themselves to the question.
Some took the ground we had not learned anything new.
Mr. DeGroff said he had learned to cut off the limb and
burn it ; to cut below the affected part, even if he had to cut
below ground .
Mr. Lovett said he thought we had learned a good deal .
Last year Prof. Burrill, of Illinois, said he thought it was
caused by bacteria . Now his experiments enable him to
say he knows this is so . He has inoculated trees with the
spores and had ninety per cent . of them grow, and when we
remember that it takes 35,000 of these spores to make a
mass the size of a pin-head, it will be seen how extremely
minute they are. He thought the demonstration of this
positive fact was a great deal to learn in one year.
Mr. Beebe had slit the bark through the affected spots
while they were small, and he thought with benefit. Had
seen trees so treated recover repeatedly.
Mr. Ward mentioned a new feature of blight , known as
twig blight, which had appeared for the first time on his
grounds the past season. Whether it was different or the
old enemy in a milder form, he could not say.
 69

QUESTION BOX.

What is the best early market apple for South Jersey?

Southern Early Strawberry and Red Astrachan were
named .

In applying muriate of potash to fruit trees, what quan-

tity should be applied?
About two hundred pounds per acre was named, broadcast
or composted with other manure.
What special manure besides barn-yard manure is best for
strawberries and sweet potatoes ?
The same answer as above was given.
How do New Jersey grown pears compare in size and
quality with the same kinds grown in New York?
The latter are generally larger and smoother, while the
former are generally of higher quality and color.
What animals are friends of the agriculturist?
The skunk, mole and crow were named.
The Secretary read some letters of a miscellaneous charac-
ter and the following

REPORT OF DELEGATES TO AMERICAN POMO-

LOGICAL SOCIETY .

Mr. President and Members of the New Jersey Horticultural

Society:

The undersigned, delegates to the American Pomological

Society at Boston, last September, respectfully report the
work of revising the Small Fruit List, and the experience
related with the newer varieties , were very interesting, and
we think of great benefit to the country at large.
The exhibition under the supervision and in connection
with the Massachusetts Horticultural Society , though not as
large as some previous ones, was very interesting and
instructive.
22
 70

One of the most prominent features was the interest cen-

tred in the new grapes, a large number of which were on
exhibition.

The severe drought and intense heat that prevailed over a

large extent of our country, with the unfavorable damp
weather at the time of flowering, with other peculiarities of
the season, was apparent in the grapes exhibited, and this,
together with the fact that many varieties were unripe ,
probably prevented an accurate judgment of their merits.
The most prominent of the newer kinds on exhibition
were the quartette of white ones, Prentiss , Duchess, Niagara
and Pocklington, the latter surpassing all the others in size
of berry and bunch , and being of Concord origin , it promises
to be worthy of extensive trial for its size and beauty alone .
The Niagara, though not so large, as well as the Prentiss ,
seem to maintain their promises as to great productiveness
from the loaded branches exhibited, and all seem to be well
worthy of extended trial. At all events, from our observa-
tions, they attracted more attention than any other varieties
on exhibition . DAVID BAIRD,
J. T. LOVETT,
J. S. COLLINS ,
E. WILLIAMS .
Report accepted and ordered on file .

Mr. Idell offered the following resolution :

Resolved, That the thanks of this Society are justly due
and are hereby tendered to the Vineland Agricultural
Society, for their generous hospitality in furnishing this
eligible hall for our meeting, and to the individual members
and citizens who have done so much for our comfort and
pleasure on this occasion .

The President, Secretary and several others warmly sup-

ported this resolution with appropriate remarks, and hoped
the associations and acquaintance thus formed would prove
lasting and beneficial for years to come.
The resolution was adopted unanimously.
 71

Mr. Lush responded , thanking the Society, on behalf of

the Vineland people , for coming down and holding its meet-
ing here. They were especially gratified to meet so many
experienced horticulturists from the more northern coun-
ties, and had no doubt all had enjoyed a pleasant and profit-
able season, as he had.

The President then declared the session adjourned sine die.

E. WILLIAMS ,
Recording Secretary.
 THE FRUIT LIST .

AS ADOPTED BY THE NEW JERSEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AT

ITS ANNUAL MEETING, JANUARY 11 , 1882.

APPLES.

GENERAL LIST. TRIAL LIST.

Baldwin, Bailey's Sweet,
Smith's Cider, Hubbardston's Nonesuch,
Maiden's Blush , Benoni,
Orange Pippin, Summer Pippin ,
Large Yellow Bough, Fallowater,
Gravenstein. Moore's Sweet,
Fall Pippin, Tetofsky,
Early Harvest, Nero ,
Porter, Dunker,
Ben Davis, York Imperial,
Duchess of Oldenburg, Smoke House,
Roman Stem, Grims' Golden,
Summer Hagloe , Summer Rose(Lippencott's Early)
Peck's Pleasant ,
Red Astrachan,
Rhode Island Greening , Special localities .

PEARS.

Bartlett, Easter Beurre ,

Seckel, Urbaniste,
Howell, Quinn,
Duchesse d'Angouleme, Mt Vernon,
 74

GENERAL LIST. TRIAL LIST.

Lawrence , Abbott,
Dana's Hovey, Souvenir de Congress ,
Beurre d'Anjou, Petitte Marguerite,
Clapp's Favorite , Beurre Bosc ,
Doyenne Boussock, Rieffer.
Beurre Clairgeau,
Beurre Giffard,
Sheldon.
PEACHES .

Crawford's Late, Early Louise,

Old Mixon, Early Rivers,
Salway,
Stump the World ,
Mountain Rose,
Smock,
Fox's Seedling,
Large Early York,
Crawford's Early,
Honest John,
Morris County Rareripe,
Keyport White .
PLUMS.

White Magnum Bonum, Wild Goose,

Richland , De Caradeuc ,
Green Gage, Miner,
Damson, Reed,

CHERRIES .

Black Tartarian , Early Purple Guigne,

Early Richmond , Luelling,
May Duke, Bigarreau d'Oulin,
Black Eagle, Montmorency.
Bigarreau,
White Amber,
Coe's Transparent ,
Rockport Bigarreau,
Gov. Wood,
Downer's Late Red .
 75

RASPBERRIES .

GENERAL LIST. TRIAL LIST.

Doolittle Black- cap, Gregg,
Reliance, Turner,
Brandywine , Early Prolific ,
Cuthbert. Souhegan,
Reliance ,
Highland Hardy.

BLACKBERRIES.

Kittatinny, Snyder,
Wilson , Taylor.
Dorchester.

STRAWBERRIES .

Wilson, Great American ,

Chas. Downing, Mt. Vernon,
Boyden's 30 , Bidwell,
Cumberland Triumph, Crescent,
Sharpless, Manchester.
Miner's Prolific,

GOOSEBERRIES .

Houghton,
Downing,
Smith's,
Mountain.
CURRANTS .

Cherry, Lee's Prolific.

Red Dutch,
Versailles,
White Grape,
Black Naples.
GRAPES .

Concord, Elsinburg,
Delaware, Cottage.
Hartford , Duchess,
Martha, Pocklington ,
 76

GENERAL LIST. TRIAL LIST

Agawam , Prentiss,
Salem , Early Amber,
Wilder, Barry,
Brighton, Lindley,
Worden. Merrimack,
Massasoit,
Goethe,
Elvira,
Moore's Early,
Highland,
Lady Washington,
Champion.

QUINCES .

Apple or Orange, Champion.

Rea's Seedling ,
Pear Quince.
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