i the — SON: EVEL ZZ, Wea wee ~ WS: Y b ey ASPORGNIGHITLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. VOLUME III. JANUARY TO DECEMBER 1904. ISSUED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Barbados; Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. The West Inpra Commrrrer 15, Seething Lane, E.C. Vou. III. No. 45. CONTENTS. A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. BARBADOS, JANUARY 2, 1904: Price ld. PAGE. Agricultural Shows :— Barbados... Forthcoming ... ... Agriculture in Peru... ... 3 Cocoa-nuts and Molascuit ine Oamada, ss saa 2 alo Cocoa-nuts for Planting ... 3 Coffee Culture in Queens- land 29 Cotton :— Barbados, in English Market no2s 900s 050 ys) By-products, Utilization Oe goo | ada. ote) onc 5 Ginning at Barbados 8 St. Kitt’s... ... 5 dbwnoGkrsl 66g Soca Seco nos | Cows’ Milk, Variation in Composition of . ¢) Department News ong JUL Department Publications... 15 Educational :—- Agricultural Scholarships 11 Essential Oils and Drugs... 7 Fruits, Food Value of 4 Geology in Relation to Agriculture... ... ... 3 Gleanings) <0...) mee ele Insect Notes :— Some Peculiar Structures 10 Thrips on Cacao and Onions. aerate eto Jamaica Exports ... ... 8 Lemon Trade in Sicily ... 4 Market Reports we. 14 Minor Industries in the West Indies ... ... 9 Notes and Comments ... 8 Onion Seed as Affected by INS) cna oops poo oan WW) Our Book Shelf :— Kultur des Kakaobaumes 11 The Soil... eeeelel: Picking and Ginning Cotton 1 Pine-apples and Mangos, Composition of ... ... 4 Poultry noo ooce pea. aco PAD Science Notes :— Custard Apple 6 Formation of Carbo- hydrates in Green Plants ... od. 00 Sea-moss, Utilization of ... Sea-weed as Manure Sugar Industry :— Antigua, Raising Seed- ling Canes at dod Beet Sugar Industry in United States 4 Situation in Regard to Sugai scr) less) Fee Trinidad, Forest Resources C1 West Indian Products in Canadanet i <8 >... 13 Picking and Ginning Cotton. ) MONG the points upon which the successful establishment of a cotton industry in these islands depends we may mention the pick- ing and ginning of the cotton, and it must clearly be understood by all cotton growers that success in the enterprise will largely depend upon the care which is exercised in the proper preparation of the cotton for market. It is just as important for the cotton grower to see to the picking and assorting of his cotton as it is for the fruit grower to pay attention to the handling and packing of his fruit. In picking cotton it is essential that nothing but perfectly ripe bolls should be picked. If immature bolls—that is bolls that are not fully open—are allowed to be picked, the quality of the cotton will be depreciated. Cotton from unripe bolls is weak and brittle and high prices cannot be expected for it. The picker must have two hands free for the picking operation, and this is secured by his being provided with a bag, 2 feet by 3 feet, suspended from his shoulders. Each boll should be grasped firmly in the left hand while the right removes the contents. The bags when full may be emptied into sheets or baskets placed at convenient spots at the end of the rows; the sheets (if used) could be folded together and tied, and the cotton carried to the store in them. After a little practice the picker should find no difficulty in his work; but he must be given clearly to understand that no impurities are to get into the bag with the cotton. A careless picker will gather with the seed-cotton frag- ments of pods, leaves or twigs, and these will later on have to be removed. It is with the view of preventing this that arrangements should be made for the picker to have the free use of both hands. After the seed-cotton is brought in, the next step to THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 2, 1904. is the careful removal of any impurities. This opera- tion is naturally very much simplified if the cotton is carefully picked in the first instance. Now comes the sunning. The cotton is spread out and dried on arbours or platforms so that it may become as dry as possible. After that the cotton is assorted. This is a point to which special attention should be given. Planters must realize that a small quantity of indifferent cotton in a sample will cause the whole to be classed as indifferent ; so that, possibly, a large quantity of really excellent cotton is sold at the price of poor cotton. If, however, the cotton is properly graded the higher quality cotton will fetch possibly a penny or two-pence more per pound. The smal] quantity of poor cotton will naturally be sold at a lower price. Asis always the case with unassorted produce, its mixed character lowers the price of the better grade, while it cannot possibly raise the price of the poorer grades. The next operation is ‘whipping, the object of which is to knock out all broken seeds, specks and motes. The cotton is thrown backwards and forwards (not rolled) on a large sieve, made of mesh wire netting strained over a frame, 3 feet long by 2 feet wide and 6 inches deep, through which the impurities fall. This last process should leave the cotton white and loose, ready for ginning. Provided that these directions with regard to the picking and grading of seed-cotton are carefully carried out, there will hardly be any need for further picking, during the ginning process. In the United States an extra charge of 53:00 for every 1,200 tb. of seed-cotton is made for picking, assorting and whipping at the ginning factory. It is more convenient and economical for this to be done by the planter before it is sent to the factory. There is another point to which cotton growers should pay attention. Vhen once cotton has been picked and dried it should not be exposed to the weather. No harm can come from storing seed-cotton provided it is properly dried beforehand. It is advisable for the small growers to store their cotton in bags or barrels until there is a sufficient quantity to be sent to be ginned. Since the high prices that are paid for Sea Island cotton are due to care in grading and to the removal of all impurities, the importance of paying attention to these points is obvious. In a recent letter to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, the Secretary of the British Cotton Growing Association writes: ‘T particularly wish you to impress upon the growers that every care should be exercised in picking and grading cotton; and also that it should be shipped in as large quantities as possible as it is very difficult to sell small lots. The qualities required in Sea Island cotton are length of staple, fineness, silkiness and cleanliness, and it must be carefully ginned and baled,’ Raising Seedling Canes at Antigua. The following brief account of the efforts that have been made at Antigua to raise seedling canes is taken from the Report on Sugar-cane Experiments in the Leeward Islands, 1902-3 — Considerable difficulty has hitherto been experienced in raising seedling sugar-canes in Antigua ; for several years all results ended in failure, either no seeds germinated, or the very few which did germinate died at an early stage of growth. In 1901, three seedlings were raised in the nursery, and produced well-developed plants for reaping in 1903. During the arrowing period in 1902, Mr. Sands, the Curator of the Botanic Station at Antigua, made several efforts to obtain seedlings. Arrows of D, 95 were selected, and in these pieces of arrows of White Transparent, Sealy Seedling and D. 95 canes were tied in order to provide pollen. Some of these arrows so treated were enclosed in muslin bags, but the bags were destroyed by the rain and the wind. The remaining arrows were not so enclosed, these escaped injury and were collected for seed. Under the circumstances one cannot be sure that the stigmas were fertilized by pollen from the arrows thus brought near them. Other ripe arrows of various kinds were collected without any attempt to pollinate them with any specific pollen. The arrows were sown at intervals from January 1903, and on this occasion a plentiful crop of seedling canes resulted. Amongst those germinating most freely were seeds in arrows of D. 61, Red Ribbon, Naga B. and D. 102. The seedlings were planted out in a field at Skerrett’s on May 5, 1903, as follows :— 183 seedlings from arrows from cane D. 61. 56 ” ” ” ” ” Naga Bb. 42 ” ” ” ” ” White Transparent. 9 be 21 ” ” ” ” ” D. 116. "7 . “i ” ” ” ” ” Red Ribbon. 112 ” ” ” ” LOS Ot 21 ” ” » 6 » Sealy Seedling. 35 ” ” ” 5 », Sealy Seedling x D. 95. Most of these are now growing freely ; those which have satisfactory field characters will be submitted to chemical examination in the usual way. Should there result any canes of good promise, they will ultimately be tested by being submitted to experimental cultivation. Vou. III. No. 45. The Situation in Regard to Sugar. A member of the Brussels Conference, who is closely interested in the West Indies, writes as follows as to the situation in regard to sugar in the United States and other markets :— T do not quite follow what was said at Jamaica as to the effects of the withdrawal of the countervailing duties in the United States on bounty-fed beet sugar. It was there stated that Jamaica sugar was thereby prejudiced in the United States markets. My view is just the opposite. Germany (I think most of the bounty fed sugar in the United States came from Germany) gave a direct bounty of about 25s. or 30s. a ton. I forget the exact amount at the moment. This was countervailed. As the duty was taken off so is the bounty, so that as regards competition with Jamaica, the taking off the duty makes no difference. But besides the direct bounty of 25s. to 30s. there was a Cartel bounty of £3 a ton which was not countervailed, ‘and which now goes, so that as regards German competition with Jamaica, Jamaica is in a better position than before. As a matter of fact, however, I do not think much German sugar went to the United States but that the real competition came from the home industry and the non-duty paying sugars of Hawaii and Porto Rico and that it was this that governed prices and not the European beet sugar. I hear in some quarters great ‘disappointment at prices of sugar keeping so low and even for delivery some time ‘ahead. This latter is of course pure speculation and may be mistaken, but in any case the bounty fed stocks can hardly be worked off before March. When they are, we must, I think, either see a reduction in European production, or an increase in European consumption. The latter I think is certain, partly from the reduction of the excise duties in France, Germany and Belgium, and partly from the endeayours now being made on the Continent to encourage the production of sugared products, such as chocolate, ete., which the Sugar Commission has just ruled are not sugar as regards Article III of the Convention, and may be heavily protected. Beet Sugar Industry in the United States. The Secretary of Agriculture for the United States refers as follows in his Annual Report to the development of the beet sugar industry :— In 1896, 29,220 tons were made ; one year ago 220,000 tons were made, Careful estimates put the crop now being worked up at 260,000 tons. This is a more rapid development than has taken place in sugar-making with new conditions in any other country. The future of the crop depends upon the adoption of economic methods in field and factory. The growing of seed in the United States of a superior quality is assured, which will result in much richer beets and better yield than from imported seed that is never first class. Heavier tonnage per acre will come from better farming, and more economic economy from intelligent disposition of the by-products. The industry is well established. Cocoa-nuts for Planting. To replant storm- destroyed cocoa-nuts and to extend the cultivation is a work of importance, and as there is some difficulty in getting plants here, the Board of Agriculture has arranged for importing from San Blas by the Royal Mail steamers. The nuts will be sold in Kingston at 10s. per 100. Applications to the Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, 4, Port Royal Street. (Jamaica Times.) THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 3 GEOLOGY IN RELATION TO AGRI- CULTURE. In the introduction to a recently published text- book on Agricultural Geology, the author, Mr. J. E. Marr, M.A., F.B.S., writes as follows on the relationship between agriculture and geology :-— The student of agriculture is no doubt chiefly concerned with the thin covering of soil which in so many parts of the land conceals the solid rocks beneath ; but a knowledge of these rocks is by no means useless to him. In the first place, much of the material which composes the soils is derived from the underlying rocks, and therefore varies according to their composition, The soil of a country composed of chalk is very different from that of an area where red sandstone is the prevailing rock, or of one in which clay is found beneath the soil. Again, the degree in which the underlying rocks are pervious to water is important, not only on account of the influence which is exercised upon the soil above—a porous rock causing the soil to be drier than a less porous one— but also because of the dependence of water-supply on the porosity of the underlying rocks. An acquaintance with the elementary facts of geology, and with the general principles of the science, may often save a farmer the trouble and expense of securing the services of an expert in order to obtain a supply of water. Many of the rocks which compose the earth’s crust are serviceable to the agriculturist, or contain substances which are of service to him. It is useful to be able to know what rocks may be utilized for building purposes, for road-metal, and for fertilizing the soil. Should he find it necessary to make road-cuttings, or to excavate pits or quarries on his property, it is important that he should have some acquaintance with the nature of the divisional planes which traverse rocks. Lastly, although he is not directly concerned with the mineral substances which may exist beneath his land, which are not useful for agricultural purposes, the knowledge of the distribution of substances like coal and ores may prove to be very serviceable. AGRICULTURE IN PERU. The following extract from a letter from Mr. A. R. Gilzean, of Cerro Azul, Peru, to the Imperial Com- missioner of Agriculture, is likely to be of interest to planters in these islands :— It is a pity you have not got a climate and soil like those of Peru to work on. The climate here is the finest in the world. For the last four months the temperature has ranged between 58° and 66° F. In the summer months it goes up to 82° at times. The soil will grow anything. Seventy- five tons of cane from an acre is not uncommon, and the cane often contains 20 per cent. of sugar. The usual crop of cotton is from 600 tb. to 900 tb. per acre from plants and a little over half that from ratoons. It can be produced, packed, in the ports, at about 20s. per 100 tb. As it is selling just now at 40s., everyone who can is planting it. Alfalfa grows splendidly here. It is the most wonderful food for stock that I have ever seen. It only thrives in the winter, so I fear it will never do for the West Indies. Rice of splendid quality is grown in the north of Peru. The country is very rich in minerals. Want of sufficient labour has been one of the principal drawbacks. Japanese can be landed here at £10 a head. 4 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 1904. JANUARY 2, WEST INDIAN. FRUIE. higher proportion of solid matter THE COMPOSITION OF PINE-APPLES AND MANGOS. Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., publishes in the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, for November, the results of analyses of pine-apples and mangos made at the Government Laboratory, Jamaica. Some of the results obtained are particularly interesting as showing the value of these fruits as food. The following is a brief summary of the results recorded in Mr. Cousins’ paper :— In the case of the pine-apples, representatives of nine different varieties growing at Hope Gardens were analysed. It is stated that the specimens were average fruits and may be taken as typical of pine-apples producible on the lighter soils of the Liguanea plain. The table of proportional parts—showing the proportion of top, rind, core and edible parts—brings out the great advantage to the purchaser of the ‘Smooth Cayenne.’ This variety with its particularly thin rind, contains 85°8 per cent. of edible matter; the remaining varieties average only about 55 per cent. The Ripley varieties, on the other hand, possess a large amount of rind, and this reduces the proportion of edible matter to about 55 per cent. Turning to the chemical composition of the edible portion, we find the advantage rests with the ‘Ripleys,’ which contain about 20 per cent. of solid matter and 14 per cent. of sugar. The ‘Smooth Cayenne’ has 16 per cent. of total solids and 12°5 per cent. of sugar. The ‘ Queen’ pine-apple also shows a high sugar-content. Mr. Cousins summarizes the results thus :—‘Some of our varieties, such as “Sam Clarke,” “Cheese” and “Cow Boy,” are decidedly inferior. The “ Queen” and the “ Ripleys” are the sweetest varieties, and are, for local consumption, unsurpassed. For commer- cial purposes, however, the superior eating qualities of the “Ripley ” are more than counterbalanced by the greater size, finer appearance and edible economy of the “Smooth Cayenne.” ’ Four varieties of mangos were analysed, viz., ‘No. II,’ ‘Yam,’ ‘Bombay’ and ‘Black.’ The superiority of the ‘Bombay,’ so far as edible economy is concerned, is most marked. It contains 65:1 per cent. of edible matter, as against 59°9 in ‘ No. IJ,’ 55:2 in ‘ Yam’ and 53°6 in ‘ Black.’ This, of course, is chiefly due to the small size of the stone, so characteristic of these eastern varieties. In the matter of sugar-content, however, the ‘ Black’ leads with 16°66 per cent., the ‘Yam’ containing the least sugar, viz. 9°52. The ‘Black’ also contains a much than the other varieties. Of this mango Mr. Cousins states: ‘As a food the ‘“ Black” mango holds the first place. A content of 22 per cent. of total. solids, containing 17 per cent. of sugar, is truly remark- able for a fruit of this character.’ THE FOOD VALUE OF FRUITS. Snyder, in his Chemistry of Plant and Animat Life, writes as follows on the food value of fruits —- Fruits contain a large amount of water and a small amount of dry matter. The dry matter is composed mainly of non-nitrogenous compounds, such as starch and sugar. These foods all contain small amounts of nitrogenous compounds, of which the larger portion is in non-proteid forms. Organic acids, in small amounts, and essential oils are characteristic features. When judged only on the basis of the nutrients present, many fruits would be assigned a low place in the list of foods, as they contain only comparatively small amounts. Most fruits are used in the dietary, not so much with the view of supplying nutrients as for other purposes. The organic acids, essential oils and soluble mineral compounds, together with the digestible form in which the nutrients are present, are the factors which give fruits their unique value. The organic acids and essential oils impart palatability and assist functionally in the digestive process. Some fruits, such as figs and prunes, contain chemical compounds which are laxative in character. In the human ration, fresh fruits are as essential, and occupy the same position, as roots and vegetables in stock rations. THE LEMON TRADE IN SICILY. The following is an extract from a letter from His Majesty’s Consul “at Palermo to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, published in the Dominica Official Gazette of November 28, in which information is given on the prospects of the green fruit trade in Palermo :— The fruit on the trees is abundant, but small; the crop is likely to be about 50 per cent. better than last year. The demand is feeble and prices low. This month, already 25,000 boxes have been exported, to 16,000 for the same period last year; half of this was last season’s crop and half green fruit of this season’s harvest. The low grade fruit not worth exporting is used for extracting the acid for the formation of citrate or else acetic [ ? citric ] acid. It sells locally for 1s. 8d. per 1,000, at which price it does not pay for the gathering. Vou. III. No. 45. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 5 COTTON. Cotton at St. Kitt’s. We extract the following information on the experimental cultivation of cotton at St. Kitt’s from a paper by Mr. A. O. Thurston published in the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. IV, pp. 227-8 — Advices received by last mail report the sale of the first shipment of 12,000 Ib. of lint at 1s. 1$d. per bh. From the experience gained during the past year, I have come to the following conclusions: (1) That the cotton industry is a promising one if the present prices last ; (2) that low-lying lands capable of bearing good crops of cane are also the best for cotton ; (3) that such lands should be well tilled and kept free from weeds from the time of planting to the develop- ment of the cotton bolls; (4) that during the process of cultivation the soil should be drawn up around the plants to keep them from being injured by wind ; (5) that 4-feet rows on good lands and 3-feet in hilly or exposed situations, with single plants left in 12 to 15 inches apart, are good distances ; (6) that June, July and August are the best months for planting ; (7) that it is necessary to have on hand spraying machines and a sufficient supply of Paris green or other insecticide, to deal with a sudden inroad of cater- pillars ; (8) that the red stain bug can also do considerable damage to the quality of the cotton, and efforts should be made to keep it in check; (9) that the cost of labour required to cultivate an acre, from the time of preparation to the reaping of the cotton, under conditions prevailing here in lands recently under cane cultivation, does not exceed 15s. ; and (10) that cotton is ginned much better if recently picked. In conclusion I may say that I purpose planting 350 acres in cotton this year. Utilization of Cotton Seed By-products. In the Consular Report on the trade of Marseilles for 1902 reference is made to the utilization of the by-products of cotton seed in the manufacture of soap. The information is supplied at the request of Indian cotton growers and makers of cotton seed cake, who have made inquiries as to the processes by which their waste products might be converted into paper and soap. In view of a possible cotton seed oil industry in these islands the following information is likely to be of interest :— Nothing is known in Marseilles as to the production and utilization of linter cotton. ‘The cotton seed used by the Marseilles millers is imported solely from Egypt. The Egyptian seed gives no lint. There is only one large crusher of cotton seed in Marseilles. He does not decorticate the seed, and the hulls are pressed into shape for cattle feeding and for manuring the market gardens in the neighbourhood of Marseilles. The turn out of the cotton oil in Marseilles is limited by the sale of the cake, which alone enables the millers to work at a profit. The supply of cotton seed from Egypt has been sufficient to meet the local demand. Some Indian trial importations were made, but shipments were discontinued owing to the seed being enveloped in lint and the oil obtained being inferior in quality to that given by the Egyptian seed. Marseilles soap manufacturers have established their reputa- tion by the superior quality of their soap ; and it is essential that the ingredients employed should be of the finest quality. A common brown soap is made at Marseilles from the residue of cotton seed oil after refining, the process adopted in refining the oil making the residue suitable to the purpose. After crushing, the hulls are pressed into cake, the oil extracted is refined by caustic alkalis (soda), and the residue, after refining, is thus in itself an imperfect soap. SEA-WEED AS MANURE. It has long been known that sea-weed has valuable fertilizing properties. Sir Humphrey Davy in his Elements of Agricultural Chemistry, published in 1814, refers to its use as a manure on the sea-coasts of Britain and Ireland. Yet the value of this material is not generally recognized and it is probably not utilized to the extent it deserves. Naturally its use, on account of its bulky nature, is restricted to lands near the sea-coast ; but in such places sea-weed might well be used as a means of enriching the soil. It may be regarded as a ‘general’ manure, supplying all the constituents of plant food, and is therefore classed with such materials as farmyard manure, although it contains a much higher percentage of potash. It is especially useful on light, sandy soils on account of the large amount of humus which it supplies to the soil, a soil constituent which, on account of the rapidity of decay under tropical conditions, is too often deficient in West Indian soils. Watts in his Introductory Manual for Sugar Growers writes: ‘This forms a valuable manure when ploughed in; by this means nitrogen and potash are supplied together with vegetable matter. About 20 to 30 tons per acre form an excellent dressing’. On the sea-side sugar estates in Jamaica and also in Barbados, sea-weed is freely used as a litter for stalled animals or for pen manuring, and many cultivators have employed it with considerable success for yams and other starchy ground provisions, just as it has been used to increase the yield of potatos in other countries. In the United States Department of Agriculture, Farmers’ Bulletin No. 105, an account is given of experiments in the use of sea-weed conducted by James Hendrick at Aberdeen University, Scotland, and by the Rhode Island Station staff in the United States, and gives the following summary of results :— While sea-weed has been used for a variety of purposes it is chiefly valuable as a manure. For this purpose it might be classed with green manures and barnyard manure, though differing from the latter in its higher content of potash (largely soluble) and lower content of phosphoric acid. On account of its higher content of potash, sea-weed is best adapted to soils deficient in this element and to crops which are ‘potash feeders’ such as potatos, clover, etc. To secure a well-balanced fertilizer adapted to general purposes, the sea-weed shouldbe combined with a phosphate of some kind. Sea-weed rapidly decomposes in the soil readily yielding up its fertilizing constituents to crops. It is therefore most economical to apply it to the soil as a top dressing or to plough it in in the fresh condition without previous fermenta- tion. An advantage of sea-weed over barnyard manure is its freedom from weed seeds, insects, and germs or spores of plant diseases. 6 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 2, 1904. POULTRY. The following notes are taken from the Furm Journal of Philadelphia :— Let poultry of all kinds fast at least twelve hours before killing. First make a few hens pay you a profit, then start a large flock, Many a man has made a failure by starting on too large a scale. No figures, however large, should tempt the breeder to sell his best birds. The best is none too good for the breeder who wants to keep his stock up to high standards, The business hen is the well-bred hen selected for the purpose. Many failures in poultry keeping have their origin in over crowding. We have no respect for age when it comes to old hens that have outlived their usefulness. Better sell them at the market price. A handful of sunflower seed, now and then, adds lustre to the plumage. The Agricultural Experiment Stations tell us that corn is one of the very best foods for poultry ; but they do not tell us to feed it exclusively. Corn exclusively is too heavy and too rich ; something to make bulk must be added. We know of nothing better than bran. SCIENCE NOTES. The Formation of Carbohydrates in Green Plants. It is a well-known fact that green plants, or parts of plants, in sunlight, are able to build up some form of carbohydrate from the carbon dioxide absorbed from the air and the water taken up from the soil. The process is accompanied by an evolution of oxygen about equal in volume to that of the carbon dioxide absorbed. The process is known as carbon assimi- lation or photosynthesis. Very little is known of the intermediate stages in this process. Baeyer suggested that the carbon dioxide is decomposed into carbon monoxide and water, as represented in the equation :— 500, = 2COMe 0, The water is also decomposed, according to this theory, into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen and carbon monoxide are then combined into a_ body known as ‘formaldehyde’ according to the equation :— CO) -H, —8CH, 0 and this formaldehyde is later converted into sugar. One great difficulty in accepting this theory has been that there is no evidence that carbon monoxide is formed and that no proof has been offered that this gas can be made use of by plants, as it should be if Baeyer’s theory is correct. Some experiments have recently been conducted on this latter point by Messrs. Bottomley and Jackson, and an account of them is given in the Proceedings of the Royal Society (Vol. LX XII, p- 130). The follow- ing abstract of the paper by Prof. Reynolds Green is taken from the Botanisches Centralblatt :— The authors publish a preliminary account of researches made on the power of green plants to utilize carbon monoxide with a view to the bearing of the work on Baeyer’s theory of photosynthesis. Their results are ;— (1) Plants of Zvopaeolum will thrive in an atmosphere containing carbon monoxide without a trace of carbon dioxide, provided that the quantity present exceeds the normal quantity of carbon dioxide in the proportion of the relative solubilities of the two gases in water. Greater quantities might be present, even up to 70 per cent., so long as oxygen was present in normal amount. (2) In bright sunshine a negative pressure is always observable in the bell jars containing plants growing in the monoxide, the volume of oxygen exhaled being only half that given off when the dioxide is supplied. (3) Starch is formed in plants supplied with the monoxide and exposed to sunlight. It was found in the leaves and in the green stems, especially crowded around the vascular bundles. (4) Seeds can be germinated and seedlings grown in an atmosphere containing as much as 65 per cent. of carbon monoxide, organic compounds of carbon being formed during the process. The Custard Apple. We gave on page 390 of the last volume of the Agricultural News a note on the sour sop (Arnona muricata) together with an illustration showing the fruits and leaves of the tree. Custarp APPLE. [Kew Guide. ] Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows the fruit and leaves of a closely allied tree—the custard apple (Anona reticulata). The tree bearing this well-known fruit is common in most of the West Indian Islands. The fruit is not as popular as that of the sour sop. It is more or less oval in shape and possesses a much smoother skin than the sour sop. In Grenada this fruit is called the ‘ Bullock’s heart,’ which is evidently a reference to its peculiar appearance. The leaves and young twigs are used for tanning, while a black dye is said to be obtained from the unripe fruit. Vou. III. No. 45. NOTES ON SOME ESSENTIAL OILS AND DRUGS. Considerable interest has been aroused from time to time in the West Indies upon the subject of the possibilities of a trade in essential oils. At the West Indian Agricultural Conference, 1902, a valuable paper was read by Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Trinidad, on the ‘Preparation of Essential Oils in the West Indies.’ This paper will be found in the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. II, pp. 171-8, together with some interesting remarks on the same subject by Dr. H. A. A. Nicholls, ot Dominica. We give below further notes on some of these oils :— OIL OF GUAIAC WOOD. This oil is the product of lignum vitae (Guaia- cum officinale) which is of common occurrence in these islands. The wood is chiefly obtained from Cuba and Hayti. An allusion is made to its export from the latter island in the Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 360, where it is stated that the export has increased greatly of late, 3,048 tons of wood and 27 tons of gum being exported during the year 1902. The wood is exported in the form of logs. The following reference is made to the oil of guaiac wood in the semi-annual report of Messrs. Schimmel & Co., of Miltitz, London and New York -— The importation of raw material has ceased completely, and as a consequence the prices have advanced by more than double. We were in the fortunate position of being able to provide our clients with abundant supplies, but at present stocks are entirely exhausted and no supplies of wood in sight. ‘ ; From a voluminous essay which was awarded a prize by the Medical Faculty of Rostock University, and which is entitled: ‘Contributions to the knowledge of guaiac prepara- tions,’ we abstract the following details of the physiological action of oil of guaiac wood and of guaiol :— Both preparations have the same action on the animal organism. Oil of guaiac wood passes without injurious effect through the organism of mammals. The central paralysis observed on frogs is produced by many essential oils in doses of a centigram. Guaiol is also free from toxic effect on warm-blooded animals, and it has no share (or only a very unimportant one) in the paralysing effect of the oil. It passes almost completely unchanged through the organisms, and only traces of glycuronic acid can be detected in the urine. LEMON This oil is the product of the lemon grass (And ro- poyon Schoenanthus). The oil has been exported from time to time from these islands in small quanti- ties, but it is hardly correct, as stated in the following note, also taken from Messrs. Schimmel’s report, that the cultivation of these grasses is extending to any great extent :— GRASS OIL. The value of this article unfortunately appears to remain at its present exceedingly high level ; it should prove highly remunerative to the manufacturers on the Malabar coast, if it is taken into consideration that the former normal price was less by half than what it is now. Stocks of any importance exist nowhere. There can therefore be no doubt that the high prices will remain in force. We THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. a have repeatedly mentioned in our reports that the cultiva- tion of andropogon grasses in the West Indian Islands appears to be extending more and more, as during the last few years we have frequently received from those countries samples of oils which were derived from this species of grass, and which were partly citronella oils, and partly oils of lemon grass. OIL OF PIMENTA., We give the following extract from the above- mentioned report referring to oil of punenta, but it should be noted that it is not stated whether this oil is prepared from the leaves of the pimenta tree (Pimenta officinalis) :— Colourless or pale-yellow, subsequently brown ; soluble in spiritus fortior in every proportion ; when shaken with the same volume of caustic soda lye, an almost solid mass should be formed ; the solution in an equal volume of spiritus fortior should only have a very feeble acid reaction ; test for carbolic acid. VANILLIN. Vanillin is the scent-yielding or aromatic consti- tuent of vanilla fruits, in which it usually occurs in the proportion of about 2 per cent. It is found on the surtace of vanilla pods in the form of minute glistening crystals. It is prepared artificially from coniferin, a substance occurring in the sapwood of some of the Coniferae. The following scientific note on this substance is also taken from Messrs. Schimmel’s report :— The decline in the value has not only come to a stand- still, prices show even an advance. They may have to be raised still further, should those of clove oil, which forms the material for vanillin, continue to rise. It will be known that vanilla fruit, in the state in which it is gathered, does not in the least possess the characteristic odour of vanilla. It only acquires this odour by suitable treatment. H. Lecomte has now studied the conditions which bring about the formation of vanillin, which imparts the wonderful perfume to the fruit. According to the researches of the above-named scientist, there exist in the vanilla plant two ferments, which differ in a marked degree from each other in their functions. The one, an oxydase, is present in the individual organs of the plant, such as the leaves, shoots, and their aqueous extracts, in the green and ripe fruit which has not yet been worked up, and in the prepared commercial fruit. Lecomte detected it in these organs of plants of different origin, by means of G. Bertrand’s reaction. At the same time, the presence of manganese salts was observed in all products, which renders it rot impossible that they stand in some relation to the above-named ferment. The second ferment is contained in the sap of the vanilla, and produces, as a hydratizing ferment (in the manner of diastase bringing about the conversion of starch into grape sugar), the formation of a substance which shows the same reactions as those which have always been met with in the vanilla plant. With regard to the mechanical treatment of vanilla, it would appear in the first instance as if it counteracted the function of the ferment. It consists, as is well known, of the immersion of the fruit during twenty seconds in water of 85° C., a manipulation which might bring about the destruction of the ferment. But the author has convinced himself that a temperature of about 50°, such as the interior of the fruit probably only reaches during the short duration of the process, really promotes the function of the oxydase. on THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 2, 1904, EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 15 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price ld. per number, post free 144d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d., post free 3s. 3d. Agricultural Slews Vou. III. 1904. No. 45. NOTES AND COMMENTS. SATURDAY, JANUARY 2, Barbados Cotton in the English Market. Information has been received by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture from the British Cotton Growing Association with regard to the sale of cotton recently shipped from Barbados. Of the 18 bales shipped, 11 were sold at 123d. per tb. and 7 at 133d. The cotton is reported as being ‘good staple, clean, fairly well prepared, but rather deficient in strength.’ EE Utilization of Sea-moss. Samples of sea-moss were recently received from Dr. Numa Rat, of Anguilla, at the office of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Dr. Rat mentioned that this moss is exported from Anguilla in some quantity to British Guiana, where it is retailed at 8d. per Ib., and suggested that an export trade might be developed. Messrs. Knight & Co., druggists, of Barbados, to whom a sample of this moss was sent, do not consider that the prospects of such a trade are at all promising, since a similar moss is collected locally and sold at from 6 cents to 12 cents per Ib. A sample has also been forwarded to Professor Dunstan, of the Imperial Institute, with a request that he will endeavour to obtain information as regards the value of this product. Another use for this sea-moss, suggested by Dr. Rat, is in the preparation of a paste (‘stickphast’). As such the product has been found entirely satisfac- tory, and it is possible that a sale might be obtained for it, if it can be manufactured at a sufficiently low price. Ginning Cotton at Barbados. We understand that at a meeting of the Cotton Committee of the Barbados Agricultural Society, held on Friday November 27, 1903, it was decided to fix the price for ginning and baling cotton at the Central Cotton Factory at 3 cents per tb. of lint. It is generally accepted that during the coming crop seed-cotton in all parts of the West Indies will be ginned at the rate of 3 cents per tb. It is essential, however, that the cotton be sent to the factory carefully assorted and whipped beforehand. SnD Cotton Cultivation in Trinidad. fhe following is a brief summary of a paper, published in the Proceedings of the Agricultural Society, Trinidad, showing the state of cotton cultiva- tion in that island at the end of September 1903, as reported in replies to a circular sent to all who had received seed from the Botanic Gardens. Thirty-one circulars were sent out, and fifteen replies received :— There are about 52} acres under cotton, some 340 tb. of seed having been sown. Of the seed sown only about 46 per cent. germinated. From the replies as to the state of the cotton, we gather that on about half the estates the cotton was ‘ growing well, while in the other cases it was reported as ‘ fair,’ EEE Jamaica Exports. The Annual Report of the Collector General for the year ended March 31, 1903, is published as a supple- ment to the Jamaica Guzette of November 19, 1903. The exports show a net increase of £353,198, or 18:2 per cent. over those of the previous year. The increases occur chiefly in the following :—cocoa-nuts, bananas, grape fruit, ginger, pimento and rum. A decrease in quantity and value is, however, recorded in respect of cacao, horses and mules, and lime juice. The following remarks by the Collector General with respect to certain articles of export are of interest :— ‘The increase in the output and the price obtained for ginger are encouraging. Jamaica ginger has a reputation for its excellent quality, but on account of the primitive method of preparing it for market, and the little attention paid to sorting and grading, Cochin ginger (which is of less intrinsic value than Jamaican, but is much better graded and sorted) obtains a higher price in the English market. It is hoped that the increase in our exportation recorded this year is an indication that exporters are paying attention to the need of careful preparation for market, by which the confidence of buyers may be established by success- ful competition carried on in the foreign markets. The honey industry is a flourishing one and the appreciable increase in this year’s output is one of the welcome signs of the awakening of the small settler to the knowledge that there is within his easy reach means of adding to his income, and the remunerative price obtained should be encouragement to continued effort on his part.’ Vou. III. No. 45. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 9 Variation in the Composition of Cows’ Milk. A report on experiments, conducted in the laboratory of the Agricultural Department of the University of Cambridge with the object of observing the effects of variations in the times of milking on the composition of cows’ milk, is published by the Board of Agriculture, England, in the Annual Report on the distribution of Grants for Agricultural Education and Research. Three cross-shorthorn cows were chosen; one was a good milker, the second a very fair milker, while the third was a poor milker. For the first fourteen days they were milked at regular intervals of twelve hours; during the second fourteen days the periods between the times of milking were unequal, viz., sixteen hours and eight hours alternately. It was found that the secretion of fat was considerably influenced by the alteration in the times between the milkings, while the solids not fat were only slightly affected. A larger quantity of milk was obtained after the longer period of secretion but the milk was poorer in fat. The fat appeared to vary inversely as the quantity of the milk. The experiments also appear to show that the cow giving the best milk was the one which showed the greatest variation. ae Minor Industries of the West Indies. The West India Committce Circular, of Decem- ber 2, has an interesting article on the subject of our minor industries. The writer after pointing out that there has been in the past an almost entire dependence upon the cultivation of sugar in these islands and that, with the exception of the cacao industry of Trinidad and Grenada, the lime juice industry of Montserrat and the banana trade of Jamaica, there has been an entire absence of minor industries, refers to the establishment of the Imperial Department of Agri- culture as the ‘first step towards the propagation of “minor industrialism,”’ and to the labours of Sir Daniel Morris in so sedulously fostering the knowledge of cultivation as ‘forming a splendid sequel to this act,’ Reference is made to the planting of cotton and to the possibility of the West Indies soon becoming recognized as a cotton-producing centre, and also to the desirability of greater attention being paid to the cultivation of cocoa-nuts. After touching briefly upon several other industries, the writer states: ‘And yet one hesitates to condemn those who have so far neglected the sources of income which have lain so close to their hand, for the individual is powerless to improve his lot unless directed in the way he ought to go. Hence one welcomes the work of the Agricultural Department, one welcomes the agricultural education which should never have been sacrificed to a more classical curricu- lum, one welcomes the local agricultural shows ; so, too, one hopes to see the establishment of co-operative societies for local sale, of agricultural banks for deserving workers and of ready transport facilities to markets near and far.’ Coffee Culture in Queensland. The Queensland Agricultural Journal for November contains the Annual Report of the Secretary for Agriculture and also that of the Instructor in Coffee Culture. From these reports we learn that the production of coffee in Queensland is only about 45 per cent. of the consumption. From 1895 to 1901 the area planted in coffee steadily increased, and while there was a decrease in 1902—attributed to the extraordinary season—it is to be hoped that this cultivation will be extended considerably. The pro- duction in 1901 amounted to 130,293 tb. During the year ended June 30, 1903, fair to good crops have been obtained on most of the estates, especially on those which have received cultural attention. The Instructor is able to report considerable improvement in the methods adopted both in the field andin the curing house. From the following quotation it will be seen that the prospects for coftee-growers in Queensland are distinctly favourable: ‘With an industry capable of extension to twenty times its present size before any grave consideration need be given to exportation, no fear need be entertained regarding the advisability of the cultivation of coffee in the Common- wealth on account of the apparent surplus in the world’s supply of low-grade cottees as would seem to be entertained in some quarters.’ EEE Forest Resources of Trinidad. We have received a copy of a paper read at the Victoria Institute, Trinidad, on March 7, 1903, by Mr. C. S. Rogers, Forest Officer, on ‘The Forest Resources of the Colony.’ In 1898 a committee was appointed to report on the subject of forest conservancy ; as results of the report of this committee may be mentioned the visit of Mr. F. Lodge, of the Indian Forest Service, in 1900, the appointment of Mr. Rogers as Forestry Officer, and the adoption of a forest policy by the Government. This policy is summarized by Mr. Rogers as including ‘the reservation of certain areas of land from sale and their management as forests for the protection of the climate, the regulation of the water supply in the rivers, the prevention of landslips and floods, and the production of timber and other forest produce.’ The total exports of timber from Trinidad were valued at £8,779 in 1901, as against £12,802 in 1900. This decline is principally due to the fact that the easily accessible forests have been exhausted. Mr. Rogers emphasizes the necessity for system- atic examination of all forests with a view to estimating the available supply. The chief difticulty lies in the fact that so few of the forests have been created by planting. Planters are urged to create new forests by planting and to improve the natural forests by adding valuable timber trees. The worthless trees should be cut out and in their places hard woods should be substituted. In the case of cedar forests planting has not been found necessary. The poorer trees have been cut out and removed, and a fine crop of young cedar has sprung up. 10 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. JANUARY 2, 1904. INSECT NOTES Thrips on Cacao and Onions. In a recent report the Acting Agricultural Instructor at Grenada draws attention to the increasing severity of the attacks of the cacao thrips, It is stated that on many estates and cultivations the ravages of this insect have been so serious as consider- ably to decrease the yield. Vigorous action on the part of planters in Grenada is most necessary. An obstacle in the way of getting rid of this pest appears to be the fact that it also attacks a variety of other trees, wild and cultivated. Suggestions as to the treatment of the cacao thrips will be found in the Agricultural News, Vol. I, p. 88; while _ fuller information is given in the West Jndian Bulletin, Vol. II, pp. 176 and 288. Thrips appeared last year and did some damage to the onion crops in Barbados. The pest has again appeared this season but has fortunately done little or no damage as yet. No successful remedy for thrips has yet been found, but trials are being made of various washes which, it is hoped, will prove effective in combating the pest. Some Peculiar Insect Structures. It is a general rule among all animals, except the very lowest, that individuals are bi-laterally symmetrical. This means that if a line were drawn down the back from front to rear or from head to tail, the right side would be like the left, and the organs and appendages of one side just like those of the other. This is especially true of insects, and in this group of animal life the exceptions to this rule are very rare. Thrips, however, presents a very striking exception, or a good example of asymmetry as it is called This is noticed in the mouth parts. The jaws of insects are at the sides of the mouth and work laterally, meeting in front. There are two pairs, the larger of which are mandibles and the smaller maxillae, the upper lip (labrum) and the lower lip (labium) form the upper and lower walls of the mouth. There are many modifications of these parts in different orders of insects, but these modifications rarely affect the symmetry. In the flies these are so manifest as to form a regular proboscis for sucking. In many bees and wasps the mandibles are but slightly modified, while the other parts form a proboscis which is used for sucking, but this is accomplished by a long tongue which reaches to the top of the proboscis, and the process is more a lapping action than real suction, as in the flies. The butterflies and moths and the bugs, such as plant lice, scale insects, lice, bed bugs, etc., have real sucking mouth parts, but the larvae of butterflies and moths all haye strong mandibles for biting. Beetles (hardbacks), grasshoppers, cockroaches and pond flies have typical biting mouth parts in larval and adult stages. In the case of the thrips, however, we have a rather large group of insects of world-wide distribution among which asymmetry of the mouth parts seems to be the rule. On the left side of the mouth is a large mandible, while on the right there is none or only the merest trace of a rudimentary jaw, and the upper lip is modified accordingly. The right half is well developed, while the left is very much atrophied. Although the right mandible is comparatively large, the insect feeds by sucking and the mandible merely serves for piercing the tissue and not for chewing. A very good description of the asymmetry of the thrips with drawings is given by Dr. W. E. Hinds in his monograph on the Vhysanoptera of North America, published by the United States National Museum, Washington, D.C. Insects are normally unisexual, but cases occasionally occur where both sexes are united in one individual. This is known as hermaphroditism and is the cause of another form of asymmetry. It is especially noticeable in those insects in which there isa marked difference in the form, size or colour of the male and female. Professor John B. Smith, in his Leonomie Entomology, says that no true herma- phrodites occur among insects, but since the writing of that book several instances have been recorded and the specimens preserved in different collections where they may be seen. Instances are on record of hermaphroditism in moths, the females of which are large, light-coloured, with slender antennae, the males much smaller, darker-coloured with feathery antennae. The hermaphrodite found has one side distinctly male and the other distinctly female ; one side of the body is dark with the small dark wing and the feathery antennae of the male, while the other is light with the large light-coloured wings and slender antennae of the female. The former of these two cases of asymmetry is very general with the entire order Thysanoptera to which thrips belongs, and which is considered to be one of the most primitive of all the orders of insects and one of the oldest orders geologically. The latter, however, is only occasionally found and is not con- fined to any order or group of insects, and must be regarded as a reversion to type, pointing to a remote ancestry in which both sexes were united in one individual, as in the case in the present-day forms of snails, slugs, and earthworms, and away from which insects, in common with many other forms of animal life, have developed by processes of evolution. ONION SEED AS AFFECTED BY AGE. The following account of experiments in connexion with the germination of onion seed is taken from American Gardening of October 17 :— Since November J], 1896, the Connecticut Station has examined samples of onion seed, both grown in that State and in California. While the number of samples examined of California-grown seed is not large enough to make a close comparison, it is quite evident that a larger percentage of the California seed germinates than of the Connecticut seed. It is also shown that onion seed more than one year old, as a rule, has much less sprouting capacity than new seed. Whether the plants produced from old seed are as vigorous and productive as those from fresh seed is quite another question, on which laboratory germination tests can give no light. The average sprouting capacity of four average varieties, of which a considerable number of samples has been tested, shows that the three Globe varieties and the Wethersfield Red are essentially alike in sprouting capacity, but the White Portugal appears to be distinctly inferior. Vou. III. No. 45. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 1] EDUCATIONAL. Agricultural Scholarships. As notified in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 333) the Imperial Department of Agriculture recently offered for competition two scholarships tenable at Harrison College, Barbados, of the annual value of £75, one for the Leeward Islands and one for the Windward Islands. ‘The examinations for these were held at Antigua, Grenada and St. Lucia on December 1, and following days. The Scholarship for the Leeward Islands has been won by A. H. Boon, of Antigua, and that for the Windward Islands by G. O. M. O'Reilly, of St. Lucia, The following list of marks shows the position of the various candidates at the examinations :— Grenada— C. Comwall : sats bs a 126 E N. Smith a he Ps Ae 256 St. Lucia— ie Bay Belmarifick-- ae eae sis 456 - G. O. M. O'Reilly 505* Antigua— A. H. Boon 406* G. A. Goodwin 154 F. H. Malone 376 A local Agricultural Scholarship, tenable at Harrison College, Barbados, was recently offered for competition. As a result of the examination R. C. Hunt has been awarded a scholarship of the value of £16, and the scholarship held by C. A. Hinds has been increased from £16 to £21 per annuin. DEPARTMENT NEWS. A conference of cotton growers was held at the Court House, Kingstown, St. Vincent, on Thursday, December 17, 1903, at which the Imperial Com- missioner of Agriculture gave an address on the cotton industry. Sir Daniel Morris spoke on the cultivation and picking of cotton and its preparation before it is sent to be ginned. He also explained the proposed working of the Central Cotton Factory now in course of erection at Kingstown. é Sir Daniel Morris returned to Barbados by R.M.S. ‘Eden’ on Saturday, December 19. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture left Barbados in 8.8. ‘Orinoco’ on the 29th. ultimo on an official tour in the Northern Islands and to confer with Sir Gerald Strickland in reference to the cotton industry and other matters of immediate interest in the Leeward Islands. It is probable that Sir Daniel Morris will return on or about the 10th. instant. : Mr. Henry A. Ballou, B.Sc., Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, proceeded to Montserrat on the 29th. ultimo to under- take a further investigation of the disease affecting cotton in that island. OTES ee THE SOIL: An introduction to the scientific study of the growth of crops. By A. D. Hall, M.A., London: John Murray, Albemarle Street, 1903. Price 3s. 6d. This volume by Professor Hall, Director of the Rotham- sted Experimental Station, formerly Principal of the South- eastern Agricultural College, Wye, is primarily intended, as stated in the preface, ‘for students of our agricultural colleges and schools, and for the farmer who wishes to know something about the materials he is handling day by day.’ We unhesitatingly recommend this book to all who desire to make themselves acquainted with recent investiga- tions connected with the scientifie study of soils. The subject is dealt with by Professor Hall in such a way as to be perfectly intelligible to readers who may not have made a special study of agricultural chemistry. The chemical, “physical and biological problems in the study of soils are here placed before the reader, who is thereby enabled to appreciate the amount of information that has resulted from investigations carried out along these lines. Throughout the whole of this book the close connexion between science and practice is brought prominently forward. The influence of the various tillage operations upon the fertility of the soil, the relation of ‘living organisms to soil fertility, the causes of sterility, and the possibilities of soil improvement are among the subjects upon which the reader will find this book shedding light. We would draw special attention to the seventh chapter, dealing with the living organisms of the soil. An interest- ing account is given of ‘the progress of our knowledge during recent years in this section of agricultural science. It is shown how the soil, formerly regarded as a mass of inert matter, is now regarded as being full of life, as containing thousands of minute organisms, which are now known to be responsible for many of the changes which were until recently thought to be of a purely chemical nature. Conse- quently soil fertility is no longer considered to depend solely upon the amount of plant food contained in the soil ; other questions, such as the healthy condition of the soil as regards the life of soil bacteria and their ability to carry on their important functions, have to be taken into consideration. DIE KULTUR DES SEINE SCHADLINGE C. Boysen, 1904. This is a recently issued text-book on the culture and diseases of the cacao tree. It appears to be a complete and concise guide for the cacao planter and to such as are able to read German will be found very useful. A detailed description of the plant is given as well as information relating to its requirements, both cultural and climatic. The author deals at considerable length with the subject of shade and suitable plants for inter-cropping. A section is also devoted to the gathering of the crop and its preparation for market. In Part II an account is given of the insect and fungoid pests of cacao, and here, as in Part J, the text is very w ell illustrated. KAKAOBAUMES UND dy Ludwig Kindt. Hamburg : 12 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. “a January 2, 1904. GLEANINGS. Information is desired by Mr. Herbert Barclay, of Georgetown, British Guiana, as to the method of manufac- turing cocoa-nut oil into lard. Possibly some of the readers of the Agricultural News will be able to supply this information, According to a despatch from Havanna to the Pruit and Produce News of New York, numerous experiments are being conducted in cotton growing in Cuba. It is claimed that the experiments are entirely successful and that a yield of 2 bales of long, fine, Sea Island cotton per acre will be obtained. The Comptroller of Customs, British Guiana, states in his annual report that the total value of exports of colonial produce, other than sugar, rum and molasses, exceeds the average of the previous five years by $127,806°89 and amounted to 29 per cent. of the total value of the exports of the colony. It may not be generally known that ramie is used in the manufacture of mantles for incandescent lamps. Indian Planting and Gardening quotes the Journal of Gas Light- ing to the effect that ‘the demand for ramie mantles has grown enormously of late, and most large buyers are specifying ramie mantles in their orders.’ The Mexican cotton boll weevil is steadily spreading in the United States. It has, however, not yet reached the eastern cotton-growing States. It is probable that Congress will be recommended to appropriate a sum of $5,000,000, to be expended by a commission under the direction of the Secretary of Agriculture in combating this pest. A sample box of sliced cassava tuber has been received at the office of the Imperial Department of Agriculture from St. Lucia. This sample was prepared at the Dennery Sugar Factory where the slicing is done by a machine invented by Mr. A. J. Pollonais. Dried cassava is shipped from several of the West Indian Islands to be used in the manufacture of glucose. The new molasses food, molascuit, originating in Demer- ara, is gaining ground rapidly. As we have previously stated in these columns, its success lies in the fact that sufticient of the cane cellulose is mixed with the molasses to permit its transportation as dry material, and this cane cellulose is found to be very largely digestible. Contracts for its delivery are now making in England on the basis of 45 per cent. saccharine matter, and the Argentine government is reported to be using molascuit for its cavalry horses with successful results. (Louisiana Planter.) Mr. Antoine Polimeni, of 12, Mark Lane, London, E.C., is desirous of opening correspondence with growers or merchants, dealing with concentrated lime juice, raw lime juice and oil of lime in the West Indies. According to the Jamaica Gleaner of December 9, the experiment in growing rice at the Prison Farm is an entire success. There are upwards of 3 acres in rice laden with grain. The yield is expected to be about 70 bushels to the acre. Good results have also been obtained in the cotton experiment plot, from which a large quantity of cotton has already been gathered. Colonel H. W. Feilden, C.B., of Burwash, Sussex, writes to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture : ‘Robinson Crusoe was quite correct when he described the Caribs landing on Tobago as cannibals, I worked at a kitchen ‘‘midden” on the shore, several times, and found in it human bones fractured and charred, along with those of a seal, shells of course, and broken implements.’ The Board of Agriculture of British Guiana has issued a notice that with a view to encourage the cultivation of cotton in the colony his Excellency the Governor offers a prize of $50 to the grower of the largest area in cotton, cultivated and reaped before June 30, 1904. Only those possessing or controlling less than 51 acres of land will be eligible for this prize. A second prize of $10 will be given to the next best competitor. Mr. A. K. Agar, Honorary Secretary of the Dominica Agricultural Society, has contributed the following note :-— ‘At a general meeting of the Dominica Agricultural Society, held on December 16, the Hon’ble F. Watts gave a very interesting address to a large number of members. He described in full the testing of both raw and concentrated lime juice, and advocated the planting of hedges of pois doux (Inga laurina) through lime plantations, as is done in Guadeloupe, as a means of protecting the soil.’ In reference to the note in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p 412) on the fruiting of the ‘Traveller’s Tree’ (Ravenala madagascariensis), Mr. J. B. Dopwell, Foreman at the St. Vincent Botanic Station, writes that one of these trees at the Station fruited in 1901, and a few plants were raised from the seed. Although none of the eighteen trees at the Station fruited in 1902, fruits were this year observed on the same tree that fruited in 1901. A few plants have again been raised from seed. Reference has been made in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, p. 283) to the export of monazite sand from Bahia in Brazil. According to the Consular Report on the Trade of Bahia for 1902 there is a considerable decline in the value of this sand. The following extract is of interest :— ‘This article continues to be a monopoly in the hands of the one firm which secured valuable concessions in the Prado district of this State in 1899. Various attempts are made from time to time to develop other new sand-bearing districts, but hitherto the percentage of thorium discovered has not proved sufficiently high to enable the sand to be put on European markets at a profit, after the export and State duties (in all about £8 per ton) have been paid.’ Vou. III. No. 45. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 13 WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Cocoa-nut Meal and Molascuit in Canada. The following letter, addressed by the Commis- sioner of Customs at Ottawa to Mr. J. Russell Murray, Agent for this Department in the Dominion of Canada, is of interest :— Ottawa, November 28, 1903. IT have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, of the 14th. instant, to the Hon’ble Minister of Customs in regard to the free entry of cocoa-nut meal and molascuit when produced in the British West Indies and imported into Canada. In reply I am to state that cocoa-nut meal is admitted to free entry under item No. 559 of the tariff as palm nut meal, You state that molascuit is the fibre of the sugar-cane after it has passed through the crushing mills, then mixed with a low grade molasses and prepared for stock feeding. Under the Customs Tariff of 1897, the duty on this article (molascuit), composed as above stated, would be 20 per cent. ad valorem, subject to a rebate of one-third of the above duty under the preferential tariff, when produced, in and imported direct from, the British West Indies. An Act of Parliament would be necessary to change the duty in this case, and I am unable to state what action Parliament may be inclined to take in the matter. I may point out, however, that under the tariff as it stands now, the British West Indies have a tariff preference of 62 per cent. in their favour, as against foreign competitors, in respect of molascuit imported into Canada. If the article were placed on the free list, this tariff advantage in favour of the British West Indian product would disappear. I have, ete., (Sgd.) JOHN McDOUGAL, Commissioner of Customs. West Indian Products in Canada. The following extracts from a report by Mr. J. Russell Murray, Agent of the Imperial Department of Agriculture at Montreal, on West Indian business in Canada, dated December 7, 1903, will be of interest to growers in the West Indies :— Cocoa-nuts: All grades of West Indian nuts are of ready sale if up to the standard of 32 inches in diameter and weighing not less than 140 Ib. per bag of 100 nuts. We can place a contract of 200 to 400 bags per month. Jamaicas, $28 to $30 per 1,000, duty paid in Montreal. Cacao: Offerings of new crop will now find market. Demand steady and prices in sympathy with New York. Trinidad, 14¢c. to 15. per tb. ; Grenada, 13c. to 134c. Coffee: Market continues to advance and fair business is being transacted for all grades. West Indian, 12c. per tb. ; Jamaica, 8c, for ordinary cand 10c. for fair to good. Sugar: The markets are flat owing to a general holding back of business in the United States until the Cuban reciprocity treaty is passed. No large lots have arrived in Montreal during the last two weeks. Molasses: Market continues firm owing to short supplies of New Orleans, and prices have advanced lc. to lie. per gallon. Barbados may be quoted to-day at 42c. to 47e. (inland cities). Molascuit : During the coming crop every effort should be made to develop this product. There will be a large market for it in Canada, and I should be glad to arrange contracts for producers. Samples of this product from Demerara have created a most favourable impression among the stock-farming interests. AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. Barbados. The Annual Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition of the Barbados Agricultural Society was held at Harrison College on December 21. Owing to the very inclement weather which prevailed on the three or four days preceding the Show, the exhibits were not as numerous as in previous years, but were on the whole of comparatively high quality. The Imperial Department of Agriculture offered three special prizes of $5:00 each, namely :— For the best collection of fruit. For the best collection of meals. For the best collection of vegetables. Ten ‘Diplomas of Merit’ of the Department were offered, of which six were awarded as follows :— WENTS. ashe se0 Castle Grant plantation. Pepers (fresh) ... Mr. Francis Lythcott. Grape fruit Castle Grant plantation. Muscatel Grapes Mr. Jas. T. Bourne. Cured and Pickled Hams and Bacon ... Salted and Pickled Fish ... Mr. G. W. Hunt. The stud Anglo-Nubian billy ‘Black Rock’ and the Toffenburg billy ‘ Bruce,’ imported by the Department with the object of improving the local breed of goats, were on show and attracted much attention. As usual the good quality of the ground provisions and vegetables was one of the striking features of the Exhibition. Another point of interest in connexion with this show was the exhibit of specimens of local minor industrial products— cured hams and bacon, biscuits, oleomargarine and preserved fish ready for export. It is to be hoped that these minor industries may so develop as not only to decrease the number and value of the imports in their respective lines, but to build up an export trade with the neighbouring colonies. The Zenith Packing Company. Forthcoming Shows. Arrangements are being made for the holding of the following Shows under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture :-— Antigua: February 1904. Barbados: The Local Industrial Exhibition and Show of Stock for Peasant Proprietors will be held at Lower Estate, St. Michael, on January 12, 1904. Dominica : Sixth Annual Show to be held in February 1904. Montserrat: The Fourth Annual Show, under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, will be held in the Market during the month of February 1904. St. Vincent: It is proposed to hold an Agricultural Show on March 10 next. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 2, 1904. MARKET REPORTS. gegndons. - Decanber 8, 1903. Messrs. Krarron, Pirer ‘& Co., THE West InpiA CoMMITTEE Crrcun AR; “THE Liv ERPOOL CoTron Association W EEKLY CIRCULAR’, Deneve: 4; and ‘Tur Pusric LepcEr,’ December 5, 1903. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/-; Curacoa, 14/- to 30/- per ewt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, 1fd. to 12d 1/8 per tb. Batata—1/9 to 2/3 per Tb. Bees’-wax—47 10s. to £7 15s. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 63/- to 70/- per ewt. ; Jamaica, 486 to 63/- per cwt.; Grenada, 53/- to 62/ per cwt. ; other islands, 51, - to 53/- Carpamoms—Mysore, 7. to 32 2 per Ib. Corree—Jamaica, ordin: Ary, 34/ - to 55/- per ewt. Corra—Trinidad, £15 15s. to £16 per ton, c.i-f. Corron—West Indian, 63d. per tb. Divi Divi—No quotations. Frvuir— Bananas—Jamaica, 7/- to 9/- per bunch. Grape Fruit—12/- to 13/- per case. Orances—Jamaica, 9/- to 12/- per case. Prve-arpLes—No quotations. Fustric—No quotations. Giycer—Jamaica, 36/- to 55/- per ewt. Honey—Jamaica, 19/- to 28,6 per cwt. Istnciass—West Indian lump, 2/3 to 2/10; Cake, 1/5 to 1/7 per tb. Kora Nurs—4d. to 7d. per th. Line Jurce—Raw, 10d. to 1/2 per gallon ; Concentrated, £12 15s. per cask of 108 gallons. Logwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—1/10 to 2/6 per th. NITRATE OF Sopa—Agricultural, £10 Ee ton. Nurmecs-—62’s, 2/4; To's, 1/105 85's, 1/7 per th. Pimento—- 32d. to 4d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 9. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/6 to 8/- per proof gallon. SARSAPARILLA—Jamaica, 10d. to 1/1 per th. Sucar—Crystallized, 15,3 to 16/6 per cwt.; Molasses Sugar—in demand, 11/6 to 15/-. SupHate or Ammonta—£12 5s. per ton. Tamarryps—Antigua, 8/- to 8/6 per cwt. ; Bermuda, 1/3 to St. John, N.B.,—December J, 1903.—‘ Tue Marrrnte MERCHANT.’ Mo.asses—Porto Rico, 41c. to 44c.; Barbados, 38c. to 39c. per gallon. New York,—November 27, 1903.—Messrs. GItLEspie Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao—-African, 12c. to 124c.; Caracas, 14c. to dc. ; Jamaica, 10}c. to 124c.; Grenada, 12}c. to 13c.; Trinidad, 13}c. to 14}c. per tb. Cocoa-nuts—Trinidads, $18- 00 to $20:00; $22-00 to $24:00 per M. selected. Correr—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 6c. to The. per tb. ; Manchester grades, 8c. to 10$c. perth. Grixcer—Jamaica, 7jc. to 8fe. per tb. Goat Skrss—Jamaicas, 50c. to 53}c. per th. Grave Frurr—-$3°50 to $6-00 per barrel. Orances—$3°25 to $3°75 per barrel. Pivento—7 jc. to 8c. per th., ex store. Jamaicas, British Guiana,—December 17, 1903. Rvusser—No quotations. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 3}c.; Muscoyados, 89°, 3}c. ;. Molasses, 89°, 3c. per th. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—December 19, 1903.—Messrs. T. 8S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°75 per 100 th. Cacao—$10°00 to $11-00 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nurts—$9'00 per M. (husked nuts). CorreE—Jamaica and ordinary Rio, $8-00 and $9°50 per 100 tb. respectively. Hay—$1°25 per 100 tb. Mancres—Nitrate of soda, $65°00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00 ; Sulphate of ammonia, $76°00; Sulphate of potash, $67°00; Sheep Manure, $6°25 per ton. Mo.rasses—No quotations. Onxtoxs—$3°25 per 100 th. Poraros, EncrisH—$1°70 to $2°40 per 100 tb. Rice—Ballam, $4°95 per bag (190 th.) ; Patna $3°75 per 100 tb. “Range $3°00 per 100 tb. Sucar—No quotations. essrs. WEITING & LUcHTER. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 38°75 to $9-00 per barrel. Barara—40e. to 42c. per th. Cacao—Native, Ile. to 12c. per tbh. Cassava Srarcu—5-00 to $5°50 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$8°00 to $10°00 per M. CorreE—Rio and Jamaica, 11c. to 12¢. per th. (retail). —Creole, 1lc. to 12c. per tb. Duat—New, $3°35; Old, $3°10 per bag of 168 th. Eppors—$1°20 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 15c. per gallon, casks included. Ontons—Madeira, 2hc. per tb. ex store ; 3 Garlic, 6c. to Te. Pea Nurs—Curacoa, 3je. ; American, 5c. per = (retail). PrLanTAtys—20c. to 40c. per bunch. Poraros, Excrisn-—$2°50 to $4:00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°60 per 177 tb., ex store; Creole 18c. to 20c. per galten (retail). Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1°44 per barrel. Tannr1as—$2°40 per bag. Yams—White, $1°68 per bag. Svucar—Dark Crystals, $1°82 to $1°85 ; Yellow, $2°20 to $2°30 ; White, $3°50; Molasses, $1°60 to $1-90 per 100 th. Timper—Greenheart, 32c. to 55¢. per cubic fout. WALLABA SHINGLES—$3'00 to $5°00 per M. Trinidad,—December 17, 1903.—Messrs. Gorpox, Grant & Co., and Messrs. Epcar Trrep & Co, Batata—Venezuelan, 38c. per th. Cacao—Ordinary, $13° 25 to $13°50; Estates, $14°25 to $14°50 per fanega. Cocoa-nuts—$16-00 per M. f.o.b., selected in bags of 100. Cocoa-nut Meat—lje. per tb. Cocoa-NuT Ort—5de. per Imperial Gallon (casks included). Corres—Venezuelan, 63c. per th. Corra—$2°40 to $2°50 per 100 tb. Oxtons—$3°50 per 100 Th. Poratos, ENGiisH—$1°25 to $1°30 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4°25 to $450; White Table, $5°50 to $5°75 per bag. Sccar—No quotations. Vou. Ill. No. 45. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 15 Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume 1. Reports of the Agricultural Conference of 1899 and 1900 and other papers ; complete, in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. The parts can no longer be sold separately. Volume II. Full report of the Conference of 1901 and other papers. Price, in original paper covers as issued, 2s, Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume III. Report of the Agricultural Conference of 1902 and other papers. Price, in original paper covers as issued, 2s. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. No.1. Papers on general subjects. No. 2 ditto. No. 3. Papers on Cotton. Price 6d. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied :— (3) Seedling and other Canes, at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 43d. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (7) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (21) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (22) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part IT. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 3) Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 4) Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2d. Post free, 2$d. 25) Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. 26) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 7) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 2hd. aa Lo Lo bo bo te ‘NATURE TEACHING.’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s. 6d. Postage in either binding, 33d. extra. COTTON. A special pamphlet (foolscap size), entitled ‘Information relating to Cotton Cultivation in the West Indies,’ has recently been issued. It is on sale by all local Agents of the Department. Price 3d. Post free, 43d. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS’ A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 14d. The subscription price, including postage, is 1s. 74d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vol. I complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. All applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department. Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the ae of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: Tae West Inpta Commirtes, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Tae EpucationaL Suppiy Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guianw: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Z'rinidad: Messrs. Murr, Marsnatn & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. Puacemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., “The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. St. Lueia: Miss A. E. Taynor, Castries. Dominica: Messrs. C. F. Duverney & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat: Mr. W. Lurwettyn Watt, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Manone, St. John’s. St. Avté’s: Messrs. S. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Nevis: Mr. 8. D. MALone, Charlestown. 16 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 2, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE SE AS peop Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [46. ] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. OA CHO.” JOURNAL D'AGRICULTURE TROPICALE. BY A MONTHLY ILLUSTRATED REVIEW DEALING WITH ALL MATTERS CONNECTED WITH Joon. HAR F.LS: NEW EDITION. TROPICAL AGRIGULTURE. Each number contains fifteen original A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND articles and a complete review of new publications. CHEMISTRY OF < , : a : The Journal d’Agriculture Tropicale has correspondents in the British, French and Dutch COMMERCIAL CACAG. colonies, as well as in Australia and North and South America. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. PARIS: M. Vilbouchevitch, Delambre. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. 10; seen Rae Subscription price: half-year 10 francs, or 20 francs = € . Price 3s. per copy per annum [50.] Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. bed BSE 5 ; a en at SNS dy Jos; we >er- = > rrr cS : , SRS SZ 5; wD ee =. Fm : : SN aN » SONG as of Te) =U) YQ oe ae St ae, | ; ET nt AY bat ‘ =} if attt = \ hey GA: Lie sail 4 \ RS ERY? Py ~ \ UM SALEM) Nv A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE Vor. Ill. No. 46. BARBADOS, JANUARY 16, 1904. Price 1d. CONTENTS. to molasses and syrup. ‘The greater part of the Pace. PAGE . - : : : , d “pamphlet is devoted to the report of the Imperial Agave Americana, Fibreof 24 | Gleanings... ... ... ... 28 y Ae Geno : : Agricultural Education .... 24 | Guinea Grass, Machine Commissioner and Mr. Bovell containing information Agriculture in Lagos ... 25 for Cutting ... ... 2! obtained in New York and elsewhere as to the trade Balata, Notes on -» 25 | Insect Notes :— in molasses. A brief summary of this report has Bananas from Sierra The Cotton Worm ... 26 é : 2 = = MA Greede pen ne = 28x 320 ‘ ~ already been given in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, Barbiclad andvParto Rico Jamaica, Prison Farm at 20 ». 387) Molasses ... ... .-. 17 | Lectures to Planters at Ba ‘ Barbados Local Exhibition 24 Barbados ... ... ... 23 - eo : Eeetpccring <= Monch itegoree os B1 It has for some time been felt that something West Indian Honey ... 22 | Notes and Comments ... 24 should be done to improve the quality of Barbados Cacao, Shade Trees and Ontario Crop Report ... 24 ee = [aif all a aaa ase Stee MATEY “oh | Oranges, Bide and molasses. Ina ae the Imperial Commissioner Carbon Bisulphide as an _ Packing for Export 20 of Agriculture, dated September 7 last, the Barbados __Insecticide —.... .... 29 | Our Book Shelf:— Committee of Commerce made the suggestion that it. Cotton :— Diseases of the Horse 27 9975 ae i Montserrat ... ... ... 2b Hints on Outfit for would be to the advantage of all concerned if Sir Daniel ae ae viene Oe ie in Tropical Morris and Mr. Bovell were able, while on a visit to the ¢ Ce ee ee SS ene cen coe Mb a .

N Pamphlet No. 28, just issued by this however it was ascertained that the time was not Department, planters and others are a suitable one for the purpose on account of the crop placed in possession of information relating season being over, this plan was abandoned. 18 - THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January L6, 1904. As has already been stated, it was found possible to obtain in New York and elsewhere valuable information which is summarized in a handy form in the pamphlet referred to for the use of planters and others interested in the matter. A careful perusal of the report will indicate the lines upon which an improvement in the quality of Barbados molasses might be made. The exports of molasses from Barbados during the past three years have been as follows: 1901, 46,043 puncheons, valued at £143,884 ; 1902, 42,760 puncheons, valued at £119, 728; and 1903, 30,177 puncheons, valued at £105,303, Barbados molasses, it was ascertained, would appear to correspond with the intermediate grade of Porto Rico molasses, known as ‘Choice’, although the latter is of a decidedly better colour, Porto Rico ‘Fancy, which is the highest grade, realized in New York last year 7e. per gallon more than the Barbados article. Nearly all of the ‘Fancy’ molasses is used in the eastern part of the United States, none going to Canada; on the other hand, Porto Rico ‘Choice’ and Barbados molasses nearly all go to Canada. In the matter of packages, it was ascertained that the hogsheads and puncheons are in some cases smaller and nearly always of a better quality than those used in Barbados. There appears to be a tendency for buyers of molasses to prefer barrels to hogsheads and puncheons for the reason that the latter when empty are practically It would be well if shippers were to note these points as well as the objection made to the method of fastening the Barba- dos hogsheads. unsaleable. Here the ends of the wooden hoops on the puncheons are placed together and wound with rope-yarn; in Porto Rico the hoops are locked. The Barbados fastening does not appear to be sufficiently strong: the plan of locking the hoops might perhaps be substituted. It is evident that sulphuring the cane juice and also the packages would be advantageous both in giving a better colour to the molasses and in prevent- ing the acidity, which was stated in New York to be an undesirable feature of Barbados molasses. Sulphur- ing the barrels has been found by Dr. Wiley, Chief of the Bureau of Chemistry, United States Department of Agriculture. to be very successful. Syrup so treated kept for many months although the barrel was opened several times for samples to be withdrawn. It would also appear necessary that greater attention should be paid to grading, as this would assist in improving the prospects of good prices. A suggestion is offered that a few trial shipments should be made of syrup, similar to that sent from Ruby estate last season. It must be noted that it is not proposed that syrup should be shipped on a large scale but only after it has been established that syrup would pay better than sugar. There would of course be a danger of serious competition arising, in which the Barbados syrup would not have the particular advantages enjoyed by the molasses produced in this island. It is hoped that planters and merchants, being placed in possession of information as to the require- ments of the market, will make an earnest effort to bring about such improvement in the general character of Barbados molasses as will lead to a demand for it at figures not below those obtained for the best qualities produced in other countries. Exactly similar remarks apply to the molasses shipped at Antigua and St. Kitt’s and indeed to all localities where muscovado made. At Jamaica little or no molasses is exported. It is there entirely utilized in the manufacture of rum. sugar 1s Barbados Molasses. The following extract from the Louisiane Planter of December 5, 1903, may be of interest as bearing on the question of improving the quality of Barbados molasses, which has of late occupied so much attention in this island :— We think that what is the matter with Barbados is what is occurring everywhere in the sugar world. The encroachment of corn syrups or glucose upon the market for liquid sweets is felt everywhere, and it has practically destroyed the Louisiana molasses trade, and we presume that its influence is now reaching the sugar planters of Barbados. Good, wholesome, plantation molasses is one of the best food articles known, and it is a pity that the chemically prepared corn glucose should seem to be crowding it out of existence. Porto Rico Molasses. Mr. Consul Churchward’s Report on the Trade and Commerce of Porto Rico for the year 1902, recently issued by the Foreign Office as No. 3,027 of the Diplomatic and Consular Reports, contains references to the island’s trade in molasses which are of consider= able interest :— Vou. III. No. 46. The total value of the exports of molasses during the year was £70,860 as against £63,324 for the previous year—an increase of nearly 12 per cent. Mr. Vice-consul Toro states that in the Ponce district, ‘there are no less than sixteen plantations, some of them large ones, which yet make only muscovado sugars, thus the large export of molasses, which amounted this year to 2,766,170 gallons, valued at £69,995.’ The Vice-consul for Mayaguez reports that 640,807 gallons of molasses were exported, of which no fewer than thirteen cargoes were in British bottoms for British North America. In the report of the Vice-consul at Arroya de Quayama, it is stated that the principal exports are sugar, molasses, cigars, bay rum, and essence of bay. The report continues : ‘As all these articles were free of duties in the United States of America, the difference in price is so enormous that they cannot be exported to other countries, except in the case of molasses, which in spite of entering free of duty into the United States, nearly all that is made in this district is exported to the Dominion of Canada, 395,645 gallons, of the value of £12,812, being sent to that country during the past year.’ It is further shown that of the £70,860 worth of molasses exported from Porto Rico during the year, £65,937 worth (or over 93 per cent.) went to Canada, Improvement of the Sugar-cane by Chemical Selection. The following abstract of a paper published by Dr. J. D. Kobus in the Annales du Jardin Botanique de Buitenzorg, is taken from the Jowrnal of the Royal Horticultural Society for October. It gives a concise summary of the main features of Dr. Kobus’ investigation on the subject of the raising of improved varieties of sugar-cane by vegetative reproduction :— This laborious and detailed paper on the ‘ Chemical Selection of the Sugar-cane’ is worthy of close study by every breeder of plants, for it gives an account of an attempt to produce by cuttings a race of sugar-cane that should display an increased vigour by an increased yield of sugar and by an increased power of resisting (sereh-) disease. The conclusions drawn obviously have a very important Vearing upon cultivated herbs that are propagated vegetatively rather than by seeds. The conclusions arrived at may be summarized as follows :— 1. The amount of sugar in the individual stems of one sugar plant was apt to vary greatly. The author selected for propagation plants that exhibited small variations, and he suggests that greater success might attend analogous attempts at improvement in the [English] potato were more attention paid to the amount of starch in the whole of the tubers rather than in individual tubers. 2. The variability of the amount of sugar in the different varieties was greatest in thick-stemmed varieties that had long been in cultivation, and least in young ones more recently selected from seed. 3. The amount of sugar in the cane varied directly with the weight of the same. 4. Heavy plants gave rise to heavy offspring. The same character has been shown in reference to the potato. 5. The descendants of plants rich in sugar were richer in sugar and heavier than unselected plants. 6. But the simple selection of cuttings of heavy plants did not lead to the production of forms markedly richer in THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 19 sugar, though the resulting plants were in general richer in sugar. Indeed, heavy plants poor in sugar seemed to have a much worse effect on the amount of sugar in the progeny than did light plants poor in sugar. 7. Extreme care had to be exercised in the selection of the ground on which the experiments were made ; for even on an apparently uniform soil great differences were apt to appear in the individual plants merely in consequence of local variations in the soil. 8. A most important discovery was made, namely, that the increased vigour as reflected in the larger yield of sugar was accompanied by greater immunity from the sereh- disease. TAMWORTH PIGS IN TRINIDAD. The following notes on the results obtained with Tamworth pigs at the Government Farm, Trinidad, forwarded by Mr. C. W. Meaden, the Manager, are of interest. It is evident from the financial statement that the experiment has been a success and that this class of pig is suited to West Indian conditions, when careful attention is paid to management :— These pigs seem to have adapted themselves to the climate of Trinidad, having withstood the test for three years. They are hardy, free from any kind of disease, good breeders, and the sows are careful of their young. No particular process of feeding has been adopted, anything usually produced in the way of garden produce being given cooked. They are comfortably housed in concrete styes with litter. They are fed at 6 a.m., exercised till 10 a.m., bathed and given a feed of Para grass and various. wild vines, and fed again at 4 p.m. With this treatment this class of pig will keep in reasonable growing condition, and at twelve months should produce 150 tb. of good, firm pork, the lean and fat being well distributed. Judging from particulars which have been received from purchasers of the young pigs, the introduction may be said to have been satisfactory. In their management it must be remem- bered that as these pigs are pure bred, they should receive rather more care than is usually given to the common native animal, especially in their early days. So far as can be learned, the crossing with the common sow has given favourable results. Experiments conducted in Canada have shown that crosses between the Berkshire and the Tamworth have given the best results so far as the production of the most suitable bacon for export is concerned. The combina- tion has been appreciated in the bacon market, as the meat produced shows the happy medium of lean and fat which is so much fayoured for the breakfast table. The following is the financial record of the experiment for the year :— Tevenne: 72 pigs sold at $3:00 per head $216-00 5 ,, transferred to Tobago Farm at $3-00 15:00 Service of boar to 13 sows at $1-00 13-00 $244-00 Expenditure : Attendant at $8:00 per month $96-00 Cost of food for six pigs at 3c. per day 65°70 $161-70 Profit on as fee O58 $82°3 The register showed for the year eighty-four births from five sows. Of these seventy-two were sold, five trans- ferred and seven died. 20 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 16, 1904. WEST INDIAN FRUIZ PICKING AND PACKING ORANGES FOR EXPORT. The subject of curing oranges has already been dealt with in an article in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 101), where great stress was laid on the necessity of drying the fruit before packing, so that the entrance of fungi may be prevented. It is also pointed out that the fruit must be so picked and packed as to prevent bruising. In an article on the cultivation of oranges in Industrial Trinidad, the writer, Mr. H. Caracciolo, states that success in the orange industry mainly depends on the picking and packing, and gives the following directions for shippers to which we would direct careful attention :— Oranges should be picked with a fruit picker. This consists of a pole to which is attached a shear, under which is hung a net-work bag to receive the fruit. They should be collected when full and before getting yellow, care being taken in clipping the stems to leave a small portion on the orange. They must then be spread in an open and airy shed and left there for two or three days (depending on the weather) to dry, but they must not be sundried. This process is adopted to drive away any extra moisture from the rind. They will then be wrapped in tissue paper, packed tightly but not squeezed, as one orange that may get damaged will very soon rot and spoil the whole box, the last operation being to cart to port. This should be done on springs as the jerking experienced by our system of carts will knock them about too much and cause much damage. It is also advisable to let fruits arrive at port on the day of shipment to avoid unnecessary handling. Fruits should be shipped to arrive in England from July to October, but August and September are preferable, and to the United States from September to February. In conclusion, I strongly recommend this business to my fellow colonists who will find it very remunerative ; we must not be intimidated by failures in the beginning, for nothing is attained without experiencing some difficulty and disap- pointment at first, but when these have been overcome, one will then look with satisfaction at the prospects that will be in store. I have had that experience already and paid dearly for it ; but given those shipping facilities, the rest is in our hands, and the day will come when we shall recognize its benefits. BANANAS FROM SIERRA LEONE. In reference to a specimen bunch of bananas shipped from Sierra Leone to London, a prominent fruit merchant in Covent Garden market writes :— It is a small bunch in a chilled condition and so discoloured as to be unsaleable and unusable. In fact, it is a very poor sample of the same variety that is coming from Jamaica and Costa Rica, and which, if in good condition, is worth only 5s. to 7s. per bunch; while the Canary Islands fruit is worth double, weight for weight, if in good condition. It might be mentioned that the bananas that are so successfully being shipped from Barbados are identical with those shipped from the Canary Islands and fetch similar prices. PRISON FARM AT JAMAICA. Several references have been made in the Agri- cultural News to the suecess which has attended the establishment of the farm at the Spanish Town prison in Jamaica. The following interesting report on the cultivation is taken from the December issue of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society :— It is now a year since the first operations were commenced at the Prison Farm, Spanish Town, and a visit to the place now will show that it is really a model cultivation. There are 10 acres under bananas, planted 16 by 16 feet, promising to begin shooting in January ; 3} acres of different varieties of rice, just ripening in magnificent condition ; 3 acres of sweet and bitter cassava, including the best known local varieties, and some seedling varieties ; 12 acres of sweet potatos, providing a succession of roots for use in the prison; 1 acre of cotton giving an exceptionally heavy bearing, something like ten times the average, and coming in at the best time—during the dry months of January and February; an acre of pumpkins, yielding a heavy weekly supply ; 3 acres of yams, just bearing; an acre of corn; 1 acre Guinea corn, } acre of peas, patches of peppers, kallaloo, ochros, and } acre of kitchen garden, growing tomatos, egg-plants, turnips, carrots, cabbage, kohlL-rabi, potatos, etc. The cultivation has paid its way, and is likely to do more. The laying out of the ground has been done with excellent judgement and skill, the irrigation system is economical and effective, and the water can be laid on at any place at any time, while the drainage system is complete and effective. Vou. III. No. 46. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 21 COTTON. Cotton at Montserrat. We extract the following information on the cultivation of cotton at Montserrat from papers by his Honour F. H. Watkins, the Commissioner, and Mr. A. J. Jordan, the Agricultural Instructor, in the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. IV, pp. 231-5. Mr. Watkins states that he is indebted for most of the results given in his paper to Mr. C. Watson, of Dagenham, and Mr. Jordan :— As to the character of the land specially suited to cotton, it has been found that soils of a light gravelly nature are the best adapted to its growth, an average of 1,000 tb. of seed-cotton per acre having been obtained as against a yield of 600 Ib. from heavier soils. Encouragement in the shape of free distribution of good, reliable seed has been given to the owners of suitable lands by the local government and the British Cotton Growing Association of Oldham. Of all the varieties of seed the Sea Island is decidedly the favourite, for it has given the best results both in quantity and in the length of the fibre. There is, moreover, a good demand for long- stapled cotton both in America and in England. For the crop of 1903-4 it is estimated that nearly 700 acres will be planted. The time for planting is in June and July, or August at the latest. The seeds are planted three to a hole, about 6 to 12 tb. per acre, in 4 feet rows and 16 inches apart. Some planters advocate 2 feet by 3 feet. The period for reaping extends from the middle of November to May, and onan average, 1,000 tb. of seed- cotton were obtained from an acre. After ginning, the proportion of seed was as 7,163 tb. of seed to 2,837 tb. of lint in 10,000 ib. of seed-cotton or, roughly speaking, 7-to 3. A woman—and picking cotton is work eminently suited for women and children—after a little practice, can pick 40 to 50 tb. of seed-cotton in a day, that is, an acre in twenty to twenty-five days: in other words, twenty to twenty-five women could pick an acre in a day. Care should be taken to pick the cotton in dry weather. Whether it will be of advantage to ratoon the crop, is a question to be decided by further experience. The minimum price obtained has been 10d. per tb., and a maximum of ls. 13d. per Ib. has been obtained. The cotton industry has come most opportunely and may enable the island to tide over, in a measure, a serious crisis in its agricultural history. COST OF CULTIVATION. Most of the land planted in cotton last season was previously in cane, but in one instance some new land was cleared of bush. The bush was first cut and burnt, the debris ranged in lines with a hoe and the cotton seed planted in between the lines. The cost of cultivation was given to me as follows: — 25 fy Gk Cutting and burning per acre age LO @ Ranging a) 4 0 Planting Pern 08 1 6 Three weedings @ ls. 2d. per acre... 3 6 Picking 1,000 tb. @ 1s. per 100 bb. ... 10 0 119 O In the case of land planted with cotton after cane, the work was much less. The cane stumps were dug out and the trash ranged in the furrows. The banks were then forked or grubbed over with a subsoil plough and the seeds planted. Three weedings were given during growth. The cost of cultivation was as follows -— 25 BE HGle Digging out cane stumps per acre ... 2 6 Ranging trash Wis fs 2 0 Forking banks ee qe ie Planting seed Be ti5 } © ’ net Three weedings @ Is. 2d. ,, ,,_ ..- ay Picking cotton @ 1s. per 100 tb 10 0 8) 5a When the plough was used instead of the fork, the cost of ploughing per acre was about 3s. The first weeding is generally given as soon as the plants are well above the ground, and the second and third weedings at intervals of from two to three weeks, and by the time the last weeding has been given the plants are almost meeting across the rows. Cotton Seed Cake. The Farmer and Stoch-breeder, of November 16, publishes a report on the adulteration of manures and feeding stutts, submitted by the Consulting Chemist to the last meeting of the Council of the Royal Agri- cultural Society of England. In this report Dr. Voelcker draws attention to the adulteration of Egyptian cotton seed cake :— There is good reason to believe that admixture of Bombay cotton seed with Egyptian-grown seed goes on extensively, the product being sold as ‘Egyptian cotton seed cake’, and at the price of the latter. As the Bombay seed, on account of the presence of an excess of cotton wool and of its inferior quality, is more than £1 per ton cheaper than the Egyptian seed, there is considerable margin for profit in this admixture, which is really an adulteration. Purchasers are advised to stipulate in their contracts for ‘pure Egyptian cotton seed cake,’ and to see that cotton seed cake sold to them is so described on the invoice sent. Machine for Cutting Guinea Grass, etc. The Hon’ble Lieutenant-Colonel A. H. Pinnock writes in the November issue of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society on the utility of horse-power mowing machines for entting Guinea grass and cleaning commons. The writer has had in use for eighteen months a ‘ Deering Ideal One- horse Mower,’ and during that time it has cut over 100 acres of grass and commons without requiring any expenditure whatever for repairs. The cost of this machine landed in Jamaica was £10 10s. Colonel Pinnock has found it advisable to attach to it a false shoe by means of which the knife is kept 3 to 5 inches, as required, above the level of the ground. This attachment protects the knife from injury by stumps, ete. It is estimated that with one big horse or a pair of small mules, the machine can cut an acre of Guinea grass in half an hour. This machine has also been found to give most satisfactory results when used for cleaning pastures and commons. Eight to ten acres per day would be a reasonable task for a man and two mules. 22 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. BEE-KEEPING. West Indian Honey. We extract the following from an article in the Canadian Grocer of December 4 :— Jamaica and Trinidad are the two islands producing the largest amount of honey. Jamaica has now attained the position of an exporting country, whereas Trinidad consumes all it produces. The industry of bee-keeping in Trinidad is on the increase, and before long that island will become a shipping centre. The variety of bees that is found to be a success is the Italian bee, and all colonies that are being developed are from these strains. The best honey is produced during the months of January to the end of May, that is during the period of the dry season. It is during the dry season that a large majority of trees are in flower, and owing to the dryness of the atmosphere, the saccharine cells in the flowers are most highly developed. During the other portion of the year the production of honey is much smaller owing to the lack of flowers and to the necessity of having to feed the bees with molasses and sugar. Honey produced during this period is of much poorer flavour than that produced during the early six months of the year. In St. Lucia bee-keeping and the honey industry is being pushed forward energetically and systematically by Mr. G. §. Hudson, the Agricultural Instructor, whose first sales in London brought 20s. per ewt. c.i.f. This honey was very favourably reported upon by the brokers, and though produced at the period when the West Indian hog plum tree was in flower, which tree produces one of the worst flavoured honeys, the quality of the honey, irrespective of the flavour, was of good standard. The colour of the West Indian honey is very much darker than that of our domestic white clover honey ; it is more of the character of buckwheat, though without this latter grade’s peculiar flavour. It is also very much stronger, and such honey as has been received in Montreal has been taken by the large biscuit manufacturers for its stronger and more penetrating characteristics. During the past season one Montreal biscuit and confectionery company bought over a carload. In the West Indies, as well, it is used in the manufacture of goods where sugar would have a tendency to ferment, and undoubtedly for a similar reason Canadian manufacturers find use for it. It is mixed with lime juice in the islands and this prevents fermentation and derangement of the stomach. As regards the prospect of trade with Canada there is no reason why good business should not result, though the greatest difticulty in the way of a regular and steady trade would seem to lie in the fact that the Canadian consumer has for so long been accustomed to using the distinctively rich, white clover, Canadian honey, and the stronger West Indian honey taste would require cultivation. Still as a product for use by manufacturers the field is open in Canada, and with its stronger and more fermenting characteristics it should find ready sale. The duty on honey coming into Canada is 3e. per b., but on West Indian honey coming in under the British prefer- ential tariff would be }e. less, or 2c. per tb. JANUARY 16, 1904. NOTES ON WATERING. Carelessness in the matter of watering is often the cause of failure in the garden. The following extract from an article on watering in Indian Plant- ing and Gardening of November 21, 1903, gives suggestions which might well be adopted :— One of the commonest mistakes is that of merely moistening the surface of the earth. If we casually glance at the work of our mali, it appears to be all right, but by removing a little of the top earth we find, in many cases, that the soil underneath is quite dry, the water never having reached the lower roots ; this is the cause of a large number of failures with our plants. When watering is necessary, let it be done thoroughly. Never water hard-baked earth ; first loosen the soil to a depth of 4 or 5 inches, then give a copious supply of water. Always keep the surface soil loose ; this will lessen the evaporation, and prevent the soil from baking and cracking. All watering, or as much as possible, should be done late in the afternoon. Water for many gardens has to be brought from a distance ; in these cases it ought to be carried in the daytime, kept in tanks or barrels, and applied as late as it can conveniently be done in the afternoon. When watering cannot be done in the afternoon, let the work be performed the first thing in the morning ; never, if it can possibly be helped, when the sun is shining. For all vegetable gardens we recommend the laying on of a mulch of manure, straw or some such material to prevent the rapid evaporation of moisture from the soil. It would serve the same purpose in our compounds, but looks unsightly, and ought to be used only when there is a scarcity of water. Fruit trees and shrubs are also greatly benefited by a mulching of good stable manure ; never apply it thicker than 3 inches ; if too thick a coat be given, it is apt to interfere with the free percolation of the air through the soil. It is preferable to use rain or pond water as long as it is procurable. All liquid manures should be saved from the cow-sheds and stables ; this should be diluted with clean water before being used. | Never give manure water to plants that are suffering from drought ; first give clean water, then, after the plants have revived, apply liquid manure. The majority of plants in the vegetable garden, when well established, will be greatly benefited by frequent applications of liquid manure. SUNFLOWERS AND BEES. Writing in the August issue of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, Dr. James Neish gives an interesting account of his experience in the cultivation of sunflowers. Referring to the general complaint of those who have grown this useful plant in the West Indies but have so often failed to make it produce seed, Dr. Neish confirms the opinion of the Director of Public Gardens and Plantations in Jamaica, that the want of success in this particular is due to the absence of bees in the locality where sunflowers are grown. Dr. Neish goes on to say :— At Old Harbour there are two extensive apiaries, and there is no lack of bees in this neighbourhood. When the sunflowers bloomed, it was interesting to notice the remark- able attention which the bees paid to them, as many as sixteen bees having been counted on one flower-head. The result has naturally been a full development of well-grown seeds, which are available for reproducing the crop. Under our tropical influences, the sunflower grows rapidly, and the cultivator will not have long to wait for a return. Vou. III. No. 46. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 23 LECTURES TO PLANTERS AT BARBADOS. The following is a summary of Mr. Lewton-Brain’s third lecture on Sugar-cane diseases :-— The root disease of the sugar-cane has probably caused more damage, during the past few years, than all other sugar- cane diseases together. It appears to attack equally well all varieties of cane at present in cultivation and yields to no fungicidal treatment. The fungus attacks ratoons more frequently than it does plant canes. The leaves first show signs of the disease ; instead of a dozen or so broad, bright green leaves, we get them drying up much earlier than they should do. The drying up takes place first at the tip and edges of the leaves and gradually spreads until the whole leaf is dry and withered. The younger leaves, before they even begin to turn yellow, do not open out as they should ‘do; they remain partially rolled up. Evidently the plant is suffering from the lack of water. The leaves farthest from the main axis, and first the parts of them which are farthest removed, are drying up and dying, while the younger leaves which are still receiving a certain amount of water roll up to reduce the water lost by the process of transpiration. The old dry leaf-sheaths, which in a healthy plant are thrown off leaving the base of the stem clean, remain attached and require considerable force to remove them. On examination we find that they are all matted together, by a clean looking, white felt which is the mycelium of the fungus Marasmius. The matted leaf bases have a characteristic musty smell. The roots normally spring from the nodes, burst through the leaf bases and then grow down into the soil. Either these do not develop at all or their growth ceases when they are about } or } inch long. The canes attacked by the root fungus are usually considerably dwarfed in comparison with others in the same field ; not only are fewer leaves developed, but the stems are much thinner and drier and usuaily shorter than normal canes. Again the diseased canes are very easily uprooted, the slightest pull being sufficient to remove the stool. Finally from the bases of the stools or from the roots arise the fruits of the fungus. These are small, white or yellowish toadstools, and we usually find them in groups. They are rarely to be found except in wet weather, and the best time to look for them is in the early morning before the sun has dried them up. These fruits bear the spores. Under natural conditions the spores are shed at the base of the cane plant and are thence carried away either by wind or insects. Each spore is capable, if conditions be favourable, of infecting a cane plant with root disease. If one of these spores be carried by the wind and get on a cane plant, it will, in all probability, fall on one of the leaf- sheaths and will lodge somewhere between the sheath and the stem. The chances are that the spore will germinate and soon give rise to a mycelium, which at first grows in, and obtains its nourishment from, the dead and dying tissues of the leaf-sheaths. It passes from one of these to another and by its dense matted habit of growth, binds them altogether into a musty smelling mass. In a similar way the fungus spreads to any dead or dying part of the plant above or below ground. The mycelium then proceeds to attack the growing region of the root which is composed of a number of very delicate thin-walled cells, full of protoplasm. The fungus does no other damage and attacks no other part of the plant; it simply enters the tissues of the growing points and destroys them. This is the cause of the dark colour of the root-tips which I mentioned as one of the symptoms of root disease. But this is quite enough to affect seriously the growth and nourishment of the cane. As roots die away and are not replaced by others, the water and mineral salts from the soil are absorbed in gradually decreasing quantities, consequently the leaves are unable to manufacture so much of the sugar and _ proteid substances, which are required for use during growth. The first sign of the disease is due to the cutting off of a part of the water supply. The effect on the plant is the same as that of excessive drought. The leaves under these conditions roll up in order to Jessen the loss of water by transpiration, and with plants infected with root disease this condition becomes more or less permanent. This prevents them from taking in the full amount of gases from the air. In this way the food supplies of the plant are attacked at both ends, at the roots and the leaves, and this at a time, it must be remembered, when the plant requires more food than usual in order to replace the roots which are being killed off by the fungus. The fungus has now established itself on its host. The latter gradually becomes weaker and weaker, owing to the process of slow starvation. The stunted habit of the plant is due to its inability to form new organs, owing to lack of nourishment ; while the ease with which the plant is uprooted is due to the non-development of roots, which are the anchoring as well as the absorbing organs of the plant. Later on in the year, usually during the wet season, the fungus proceeds to reproduce itself. This it does by putting out the small toadstools, on which the spores are borne. The toadstools usually grow out near the ground, either from dead roots or from the trash at the base of the stem. The cane does not of course always succumb to the attack of the fungus in this manner. The fungus will establish itself, as before, on the old leaf-sheaths and other dead parts and be ready to attack the roots. Buta plant cane growing vigorously and under favourable conditions will be able to form new roots so abundantly and so fast that the attack of the fungus produces little effect on it. The same thing of course may happen after the fungus has commenced to do damage, if the conditions change and become such as favour root development. The fungus is also spread by the mycelium travelling underground. Any old cane stump or piece of trash is a sufficient source of nourishment for the mycelium. If then any infected stump is brought near a growing cane, the mycelium passes from one to another. We must, in every possible way, increase the vigour of the canes. A cane growing vigorously is not likely to be damaged, seriously, by the root fungus. The soil should therefore be cultivated as thoroughly as possible, so as to give the roots the best chance of developing, and at the same time to weaken the fungus. When only a small patch in a field is attacked and the disease is noticed in time, this area should be isolated from the rest of the field to prevent the fungus spreading by its mycelium underground. This can be done by digging a trench around the area. Then we haye the disposal of infected material. All cane stumps infested with the Marasmius mycelium should, if possible, be burnt, otherwise they may be mixed with lime and buried, but not in a cane field. Trash from infested fields should not be used in cane fields, nor should it be made into pen manure which is to be applied to canes. It may be used on land which is to be planted in cotton or in any other crop which is not liable to root disease. Again land which has borne a badly attacked crop of canes should not be planted in cane till the fungus has been starved out. Cotton offers itself as a remunerative crop, which might be grown in rotation with sugar-cane. 24 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 16, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 15 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price ld. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d., post free 3s. 3d. Agricultural dews 1904. No. 46. Vou. Ill. SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, NOTES AND COMMENTS. Agricultural Education. At the recent Assizes held at Barbados, the Grand Jury, in their reply to the address of the Chief Justice, referred in the following terms to the efforts now being made to extend agricultural education and bring the rising generation into sympathy with agricultural pursuits :— We embrace this opportunity to express our appreciation of the efforts of the Imperial Department of Agriculture in trying to imbue the minds of the young that to follow the calling of an agricultural labourer is not derogatory, and we venture to assert that, if the Department is successful in this direction, in a few years there will be further ground for congratulation. rr Barbados Local Exhibition. The fourth annual Local Industrial Exhibition and Show of Stock for Peasant Proprietors, under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, was held at Lower Estate, St. Michael’s, on Tuesday, January 12. These local shows are organized mainly for peasant proprietors, for the purpose of encouraging the better selection and cultivation of fruit, vegetables, ete. With this object over 200 money prizes were offered for competition by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. Five diplomas of merit of the Imperial Department of Agriculture were awarded in various competitions. A more detailed report of the exhibition will be given in the next issue of the Agricultural News. Ontario Crop Report. The Crop Bulletin just issued by the Ontario Department of Agriculture, gives statistics and general information relating to the crops of Ontario for 1903, The condition of the tobacco crop at harvesting was reported as from fair to good; the cool, wet summer kept growth back, but the fine, early antumn was most favourable. Beets, of which a good yield was reported, appear to be growing in favour as a food for live stock. The honey crop was good except in a few districts where the weather was unfavourable. ED + a Fibre of Agave americana. Reference was made in the Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 398, to the uses of the agaves, and to the production of a drink, known as ‘ Pulque, from the century plant (Agave americana). Fibre is also obtained from this plant and a sample, obtained from Assam, was recently examined at the Imperial Institute. A report on this fibre is given in the Zmperial Institute Bulletin, No. 3. The report of the brokers to whom the samples were submitted was as follows: ‘Of good quality but rather too dry and brittle : its strength, colour and length are all described as fairly satisfactory. Portions of the samples are of good quality, being equal to ordinary sisal hemp from the West Indies and wouid realize about the same price, which ranges at the present time from £35 to £38 per ton.’ While it is pointed out that this price is exceptionally high, a trial shipment of a few tons was recommended. ee ———e Cotton Pests at Antigua. Ina recent report Mr. W. N. Sands, Curator of the Antigua Botanic Station, gives an interesting account of efforts directed against the cotton caterpillar and other pests that have appeared in the cotton cultivations during the past season. Experiments were conducted to ascertain the most ettective proportions in which Paris green should be used. Spraying with Paris green in water was found of little avail and dusting was then resorted to. When mixed with lime, 1 tb. of Paris green to 6 th. of lime gave the best results. This insecticide was also tried mixed with flour and with plaster of Paris, but in neither case were the results as good as when the Paris green was mixed with lime. The flour caused the Paris green to adhere to the leaves better but was very difficult to apply. A mixture of 1 th. of Paris green and 6 th. of lime was usually sufficient to dust 4 to 1 acre. Hand-picking of the caterpillars does not appear to be practical on a large scale, although good results are recorded where hand-picking of the pupae was practised. On one estate the cotton cultivation had been kept free from insects by the use of flocks of turkeys and chickens. It would appear from this report that the cotton worm can effectively be kept in check when Paris green is used with care and judgement /mimediately on appearance of the pest. Vou. III. No. 46. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 25 Agriculture in Lagos. The Annual Colonial Report on Lagos for 1902 contains a review of the agricultural position of the colony during the year. A model farm has been started at Oloke Meji with the object of promoting the cultivation of tropical products that can be grown in the colony and protectorate. With the assistance of the British Cotton Growing Association the cultivation of cotton has been embarked upon, several thousand acres having been planted out. Cotton was an established industry in the past, as shown by the fact that in 1869 the value of the cotton exported was £79,957, Of recent years the natives have grown merely sufficient for home use, As a result of the appointment of a European” Produce Inspector, the quality of the palm kernels shipped has been improved, the profits and the prices realized being higher than for many years. A very satisfactory state of affairs in the mahogany trade is reported, African wood being in great demand both in England and in America. The trade in cacao was not satisfactory: although Lagos cacao is of good quality, sufficient attention is not paid to curing. Of trade generally the Collector of Customs reports: ‘The year was one of the best the colony has ever experienced as regards both imports and exports.’ Shade Trees and Manures for Cacao. It may be of interest to record the following results of experiments, relating to shade trees and manures for cacao, conducted at Trinidad, Dominica and St. Lucia. The general experience with Immortel trees is that on poor soils these trees do not supply sufticient nitrogen for the cacao, and an application of some nitrogenous manure is advisable. In Trinidad, 23 ewt. to 3 ewt. of either sulphate of ammonia or nitrate of soda have given good results. Shade trees are not usually grown with cacao in Dominica on account of the damage done to the cacao by the falling of such trees as the Immortel or the Saman. The use of Castilloa elasticu is advocated by the Curator for this purpose on account of its withstanding gales better. With regard to the application of fertilizers, the large amounts of nitrate of soda and sulphate of -ammonia, suggested by the Botanic Department at ‘Trinidad, are not considered necessary either in Dominica or St. Lucia. As the result of trials in the latter island Mr. Hudson recommends the application of 1 ewt. of nitrate of soda (costing 15s.) or 1 ewt of sulphate of ammonia (containing 20 to 24 per cent. of -ammonia) at a cost of 17s. Basic slag has been found to give the best results _as a phosphatic manure for cacao. For St. Lucia an application of 8 ewt. to 10 cwt. is recommended. Much smaller quantities appear to be used in Trinidad. Potash is supplied in ‘Trinidad in the form of sulphate of potash (3 cwt. per acre) or wood-ashes .(7 ewt.); in St. Lucia the application of potash does not, as a general rule, appear to be necessary. Lectures to Planters at Barbados. The third and concluding lecture of the course of lectures to planters on Sugar-cane diseases was delivered by Mr. L. Lewton-Brain, B.A., F.L.S., Mycologist and Lecturer in Agriculture on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, on Friday, January 8. A summary of the lecture is given on page 23 of this issue. The full text of the three lectures will shortly be issued as No. 29 of the Pamphlet series. a Notes on Balata. The India-rubber Journal of December 7, 1903, contains an interesting article on balata by Mr, H. L. Terry, F.C. As a considerable amount of misconcep- tion exists as to the nature and uses of this substance, and there is a common tendency to regard it as identical both with gutta-percha and with India-rubber, we give the following brief summary of Mr. Terry’s article : Balata and India-rubber are entirely distinct bodies both as regards their origin and _ physical characters and also in the uses to which they are applied. With regard to balata and gutta-percha, however, it is impossible in the present state of chemical knowledge, to say that they are fundamentally different. Many of their properties are the same. Botanically they are quite distinct: balata is the product of Mimusops globosa, occurring pretty generally in Trinidad, the Guianas and Venezuela; while the gutta- percha tree is Dichopsis Gutta (found in the Malay Archipelago). Although it is commonly stated that balata is employed as an insulating material, the writer is of opinion that its use for deep sea work is practically nil. What is known with tolerable exactitude is the destination, other than cable works, of the London imports of balata, and when these various purchases are added up, it is seen that there is not much left for employment in the electrical industry. Moreover, the fact that the market price of balata has not risen in consonance with the great rise that has taken place in that of gutta-percha, would seem to indicate that balata cannot replace gutta-percha for electrical work. It seems fairly safe to assume that balata has very small application, if any, for insulating purposes. No doubt its defects are largely due to the amount of resinous matter that it contains, 40 to 50 per cent. being often found in the better quality, compared with 20 per cent. in the best gutta-percha. Like India-rubber and gutta-percha, balata is obtained as a milky exudation on the incision of the tree; the very wasteful method of cutting down the tree instead of tapping it being the procedure generally in vogue. The milk has to be coagulated in order to separate the valuable substance from the water in which it is disseminated. This is done either by boiling the sap in kettles until it is of a doughy consistency, this on exposure to air soon solidifying to a block; or by drying the milky fluid gradually in shallow pans exposed to the sun’s rays. 26 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 16, 1904. INSECT NOTES. The Cotton Worm. Several references have been made in recent issues of the Agricultural News to the cotton worm which has proved a troublesome pest to cotton in Barbados and elsewhere in the West Indies. In the present issue we reproduce from the West Indian Bulletin, (Vol. IV, pp. 269-71) extracts from Mr. Ballou's account of the life-history of this pest. It will be seen that probably three to four days are occupied in the egg stage, that the larval stage takes from one to three weeks, while the insect remains in a dormant state for about a fortnight, the whole generation taking between three and six weeks:— The egg: The egg is laid upon the under side of the younger leaves near the top of the plant. Each female moth lays a large number of eggs which are generally scattered and rarely, if ever, in clusters. The egg is pale green in colour and quite easily distin- guished upon the surface of the leaf. Seen from above, the egg presents a circular outline, but viewed from the Egg of Aletia argil- Side it appears rather ellipti- Fig. 2. a : lacea, greatly enlarged : a, dorsal ; Cal, or as if flattened from above. If it be examined with a pocket lens, its surface will be seen to be marked with fine lines or ridges radiating from the centre above. The duration of the egg stage in midsummer in the United States is given as three to four days, and in cooler weather slightly longer. The larva: When the young caterpillar first leaves the shell, it is very small and not easily seen, so nearly is it of the colour of the under surface of the leaf, where it remains a short time and begins feeding. At first it does not eat the tissue of the leaf clean but merely enaws away the under surface which is much more tender than the thicker upper surface. As it grows older it eats the entire tissue of the leaf except only the largest veins. This insect is one of the ‘loopers’ or ‘measuring worms.’ These names are given because the larva travels by arching its body and bringing up its hind legs to the forward ones and then reaching out again to get a new hold with the for- ward pairs. This peculiarity is shown even in the earliest stages. The development of the caterpillar requires from one to three weeks, and during this period the skin is shed five times. When first hatched, the larva is z yellowish in colour but Larva of Aletia argillacea, becomes greenish with numerous enlarged ; actual length indi- black spots and yellowish longi- cated by hair line. tudinal lines. The fully-grown b, side view. Corron Worm. soon a, side; 6, dorsal view. larva measures nearly 1} inches and is quite slender. The head is dull olive-green ; a very fine bluish-white line extends along the middle of the back the entire length of the body. On either side of this fine line is a wider green line ; each of these being, in turn, bordered by a yellow band. There are two rows of black spots along the back—one row in each of the yellow bands—each of the black spots has a fine stiff hair or bristle arising from its centre, and careful examination will show a fine white ring outside the black of each spot. The sides are olive-green with several more or less interrupted lighter lines running Jengthwise, the lower one being continuous. There are black spots on the sides also, which are like those on the back except that they are smaller, and are not arranged in regular rows. There is much variation in the colour of the larvae at different seasons of the year, the earlier broods being lighter and the ‘later ones darker. The pupa: When the caterpillar is fully grown, it spins a thin, scant cocoon inside which it pupates. The cocoon usually consists of a few whitish, silken threads, which hold the pupa on the under side of the leaf, the edge of the leaf being frequently slightly rolled or drawn under. The pupa is at first greenish, but soon becomes dark-brown. It is a little more than } inch in length. One week to thirty days is the length of time given for the pupa stage in the United States. Probably in the West Indies the time of pupation will not extend over more than two weeks on account of the uniformly warm weather. The adult insect: The adult or winged insect of the cotton caterpillar is a small greyish moth with a spread of wings from 13 to 1} inches. There are several fine, wavy, dark lines running across the forewings, and one or two: small bluish-white spots in each forewing toward the front. The moth is a night-flyer, hiding by day, and when disturbed, flying with short, swift darts. At night it flies. Fie. 4. Adult of Aletia argillacea: a, wings spread; b, wings folded, natural resting position. out to feed and lays its eggs. Egg-laying begins a few days after the female leaves the chrysalis and each female lays a large number of eggs—300 to 500. Many moths are unable to feed, others merely suck the juices of flowers and fruit ; but this one has a peculiar proboscis with which it is. able to pierce the skin and tissues of ripe fruits, ete., upon which it feeds It also feeds upon the nectar of flowers, ete. Further experimental work is still necessary to show how many broods there are in the West Indies, and at what times they appear ; but it is probable that breeding continues all the year round, and that the larger numbers at certain times or seasons are due to the increased amount of cotton available at those times. Five broods are known to occur each year in the United States. The eyes are dark, velvety-brown, large and prominent. Palpi are large and are directed forward and upward in front of the eyes. Between the eyes the long, slender proboscis is coiled up like a watch spring. The antennae are a light, yellowish-grey, long and slender and composed of a large number of small segments. Vou. II. No. 46. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 27 EDUCATIONAL. Agricultural Schools. The usual half-yearly examinations were held at the Agricultural Schools at Dominica, St. Lucia and St. Vincent in December last. The following are the general reports of the examiner (Mr. L. Lewton- Brain, B.A., F.L.S.), from which it will be seen that the results are, on the whole, of a satisfactory character :— DOMINICA. The papers, on the whole, are fairly satisfactory, especially those of the senior class. Both classes have sent in weak papers in Chemistry and the juniors also in Arithmetic and Geography. Great watchfulness is needed to prevent the boys’ knowledge being merely a matter of memory ; they must be taught, if possible, to think and reason. Great care should be taken, in performing experiments, that every boy sees and understands every detail. The average of marks is not high, owing to the fact that, in most subjects, all the boys fail, more or less, to answer one particular question, as is noted in the separate reports on the different subjects. Among the seniors, Elwin, Winston and Serrant have done fairly well. There is not much to choose between the others. Watty is the only one who has totalled less than 50 per cent. Among the juniors, Josse and Bruney are well above the others. Bellot, Gachette and La Rocque are all considerably under 50 per cent. ST. LUCIA. The new syllabus has now been in force for only a tew months, consequently the results, as was to be expected, are not so entirely satisfactory as they were under the old syllabus. There seems a tendency, especially in the Chemistry and Botany, for the work to be too bookish. This should be carefully guarded against and the work in these sciences should be taught in close connexion not only with the experimental work in the class room, but also with the practical work in the School gardens. The papers in Agriculture are the most satisfactory. There seems some confusion in the grouping of the boys into two classes ; some of them have done the senior papers in one subject and the junior in others ; consequently the arrangement of the boys in order of merit is hardly possible. Goring has again done very well, and Allahdua, Edgar, du Boulay and Flavien, fairly so. Pedriel is the only boy who has less than 50 per cent. of the total marks. ST. VINCENT. The two new boys, Falby and Henderson, have done very little: it is to be hoped that they will show considerable improvement at the next examination. Apart from them, the junior boys have not done well; in nearly every subject their answers are comparatively of less value than those of the senior boys. The seniors have done very well, on the whole; their answers show that the subjects have been taught in a practical manner and that they have seen and understood the experiments described. None of the juniors should be promoted to the senior class. Among the seniors, Glasgow and Derrick have sent in excellent papers all through. Derrick has beaten Glasgow on account of his arithmetic paper ; in the other subjects Glasgow is better or equal. None of the seniors have obtained less than 50 per cent. of the total marks; Browne and Warner are near it. Among the juniors, Durrant is the best. Longheed and Rankin have both totalled less than 50 per cent. ~ SS x HIN’ SS ON OUTIIT TROPICAL COUNTRIES : Principal of Livingstone College, Editor of Climate, and Instructor in Health and Outfit to the Royal Geographical FOR TRAVELLERS IN By C. F. Harford, M.A., M.D., Society. London - Row, W., 1903. The special object of this little handbook is to answer some of the questions that present themselves to intending travellers. While it is quite impossible to lay down rules that will meet all cases, there are, as stated in the introduc- tion, ‘certain general principles which should guide the intending traveller in the selection of his equipment, which are dealt with in succeeding pages.’ Chapter V dealing with Mosquito Protection is especially worthy of consideration. Information is given as to mosquito nets, mosquito boots and other methods of protee- tion. While this book is not written so much for the use of persons visiting well-organized communities, such as are found in the West Indies, as for those joining exploring expeditions and the like, yet it contains much _ useful information which should be of assistance to travellers in any tropical country. The Royal Geographical Society, 1, Saville DISEASES OF THE HORSE: <& special report of the Bureau of Animal Industry, United States Depart- ment of Agriculture. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1903. This is a new and revised edition of a report first issued in 1890, the limited edition of which was very soon exhausted. An entirely new article on ‘The examination of a horse’, by the State Veterinarian of Pennsylvania, is included, as well as a chapter on horse-shoeing, by Dr. J. W. Adams, Professor of Surgery in the Veterinary Department of the University of Pennsylvania. The report has been prepared by a number of the foremost men in the veterinary profession in the United States, and may, therefore, be regarded as the work of specialists in the various branches of the subject. It forms a safe and reliable guide for horse owners in the treatment of the diseases of the horse, the want of which has long been felt not only in the United States but also in Great Britain and the colonies. This volume has been prepared for the special use of the farmer, and will be found to be free, for the most part, from technical terms and expressions, and to be written in a more or less popular style. Horse owners will, no doubt, find the chapters on the diseases of the foot and horse-shoeing particularly useful in enabling them to adopt humane and scientific treatment of the horse’s foot, and to prevent the unnecessary suffering so often brought about by careless or unscientific shoeing. The volume is well illustrated throughout, containing some forty excellent plates in addition to a number of smaller figures. 28 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 16, 1904. GLEANINGS. The Maltese Jenny lately imported into Antigua has given birth to a fine young Jack which is in thriving condition. The death of the pure-bred Short-horn Bull at the Skerrett’s Farm, Antigua, was reported in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, p. 108). We learn that a fine bull calf, obtained from this animal, is now a month old and weighs 115 th. A second bull calf from the same animal is being reared on a private plantation, The Transvaal Agricultural Journal suggests the following for destroying fowl lice :—‘Put a little plug tobacco in some hot water. Let the solution stand over- night in a covered vessel, and then spray all over the body. Repeat in a week if necessary.’ The India-rubber Journal of December 21, 1903, has the following note on West Indian rubber :—‘ Trinidad exported 35,442 Ib. of balata, worth £2,888, in 1902. In the same year, British Honduras exported rubber to the value of $14,163, while Cuba imported rubber goods to the value of $134,995, as against $148,398, in 1901. About the middle of December last the Diamond plantation in British Guiana completed a record crop of 12,525 tons of sugar. Among the seedling canes under cultivation are 600 acres of Barbados cane, 208. Over the whole of the crop it is stated that ‘the seedling canes have averaged considerably more sugar per acre than the Bourbon cane. In the Colonial Report on the British Solomon Islands for 1902-3, it is stated that the area under cultivation of cocoa-nuts at the Tulagi Station has been increased from 105 to 135 acres. Many young cocoa-nut trees, of from three and a half to four years old, are showing signs of blossom and nuts, and young trees upwards of four years old are producing a return. The trees are planted 33 feet apart, giving forty to the acre. The growth has been so vigorous that in the older part of the plantation the leaves of adjoining trees overlap. A correspondent, writing in the October issue of the Agricultural Journal of the Cape of Good Hope, describes a simple preventive for ticks. A large herd of goats had suffered considerably from an attack of ticks, when the writer conceived the idea of trying the effect of the wild garlic plant. The remaining goats each received two of these bulbs, with the result that the ticks fell from the animals, which were not again attacked. It appears that oil of garlic isa strong germicide, permeating the whole system when eaten in quantity. The following notice, signed by the Hon’ble C. A. Shand, of Nevis, appeared in the St. Chiistopher Advertiser of December 22, 1903 :— ‘Cotton growers are warned against separating the cotton seeds from the lint by hand, as hand-picked cotton is very inferior to that ginned by machinery owing to the uneven staple resulting from the former process.’ According to the Board of Trade Journal attention is drawn in the report for 1902 of the Rotterdam Chamber of Commerce to the use of cocoa-nut oil in the margarine industry. Since the attempts to neutralize this oil—rendering it all but scentless and flavourless—proved successful, its consumption greatly increased. It is stated that the use of this fat is open to no objection as a constituent of margarine on account of its fairly high nutritive value. It is imported into Rotterdam from Marseilles, London and elsewhere under a variety of names, such as cocosine, vegetaline, ete. The Annual Colonial Report on Barbados for 1902 has the following reference to the establishment of a cotton industry in the island:—‘A large supply of seed has been imported and distributed free of cost to planters, and it is estimated that some 1,200 acres, capable of yielding about 300,000 tb. of clean cotton, will shortly be under culti- vation. The advantage of the industry to the colony hes in the fact that the cotton can be grown on land that is unsuitable for the sugar-cane, and its introduction will not, therefore, displace sugar cultivation to any great extent.’ Referrimg to the ‘canker’ which has made its appear- ance on rubber trees in Ceylon, the Jndia-rubber World says: ‘It would be strange if the acclimatization of the Hevea in Asia should be unaccompanied by some malady to which it has not been known to be subject in America. The transference of some other economic plants from their native habitat has developed in them unfavourable conditions, which in time have been remedied by science, and this very fact should prevent the complete discouragement of the Ceylon rubber planters at the first indication of any troubles. with their trees.’ The Gardeners’ Chronicle of December 19, 1903, has: the following reference to the cultivation of ginger in the: Central African Protectorate: ‘This product is giving great promise of being worthy of extensive cultivation. The climate is eminently suitable. As 40s. may be reckoned on as about the average London price per cwt., it ought to be largely grown. Propagation is. an easy matter, and it has been proved that from one crown it is possible to obtain over twenty good strong shoots in a year; and it is estimated that it is possible to get a half pound of ginger from each plant in the same period.’ The Colonial Report on Ceylon for 1902 states :—* Para rubber is rapidly taking its place as one of the most impor- tant of the cultivations of the island, and has been planted up in various climates at different elevations, but will be found no doubt most profitable at the lower elevations. During the year some 25,000 seeds have been distributed from the trees in the Henaratgoda Garden. Good yields. have been obtained, and the best methods of getting rid of the water and preparing the “biscuits” for the market are beginning to be understood and practised. Prices have been kept up to a high figure, over 4s, having been obtained for a large quantity.’ Vou. III. No. 46. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 29: BARBADOS AND PORTO RICO MOLASSES. Pamphlet Series, No. 28. This pamphlet contains correspondence relating to the inquiry conducted by Sir Daniel Morris and Mr. J. R. Bovell on the subject of Barbados and Porto Rico molasses and their report embodying the results of the inquiry. A clear statement is given of the relative merits of Barbados and Porto Rico molasses, and the preparation of the latter for market is described. It is considered that the quality of Barbados molasses might be improved by the adoption of some of the methods practised in Porto Rico. A brief summary of the report together with the recommendations made by Sir Daniel Morris and Mr. Bovell, hasalready appeared in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 387). A more complete review of this pamphlet together with a general statement of the position of affairs in connexion with this inquiry will be found on pp. 17 and 18 of the present issue. BRITISH GUIANA: REPORT OF THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE, 1901-3. By Professor J. B. Harrison, C.M.G., M.A., Deputy Chairman. This report gives an account of the work of the Board from its inception, in July 1901, to March 31, 1903. During this period eight general meetings have been held; the greater part of the Board’s business is conducted by circulating papers—a plan which admits of matters being disposed at the meetings with little expenditure of time and discussion. The following are the Standing Committees :—Finance and Executive, Stock, Library, Exhibition, Agricultural Education, Sugar-cane Experiments, and Subsidiary Products. We have already given in the Agricultural News, from time to time, extracts from reports on the sugar-cane experiments and on the efforts that have been made to promote agri- cultural instruction in the colony, by means of school gardens, agricultural shows, etc. Special attention is drawn in the report to the work performed by the Stock Committee: ‘In accordance with the recommendations of the committee, two half-bred Guernsey bulls were imported from Trinidad, two Plymouth Rock cocks and twelve hens of the same kind from Canada, while at the end of the financial year orders were in course of execution in Canada for a thoroughbred Short-horn bull, a Holstein bulland three Holstein cows, and in Trinidad for thoroughbred Berkshire pigs. This committee will doubtless in course of time find its work greatly increased. There is perhaps no subsidiary industry in this colony of greater promise than that of raising stock on the very extensive pasture lands of the littoral, and later, perhaps, on some of the Berbice savannahs.’ Similar accounts are given of the work performed by the other committees, which bear evidence of the usefulness of this recently-formed Board. There can be no doubt that this work, so well inaugurated, will have far-reaching effect on the agricultural progress of the colony. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture arrived at Antigua on Saturday, January 2. A meeting of planters was held at Government House on Wednes- day, January 6. The Governor, Sir Gerald Strickland, presided. Sir Daniel Morris gave an address embody- ing some of the results of his recent visit to the United States; and the Hon’ble Francis Watts laid before the meeting an outline of the scheme for advancing money to cotton growers during the coming season. Particulars of this scheme will be published later. The Commissioner of Agriculture returned to Barbados on January 9. We regret to announce the death, on January 3, of Mr. William Lunt, Curator of the Botanic Station and Agricultural Superintendent of Sugar-cane Experi- ments at St. Kitt’s. The occurrence is deeply regretted by all classes of the community. Mr. Henry A. Ballou, B.Sc., has been occupied in the investigation of cotton diseases at Montserrat. The ‘mite’ pest has caused some damage especially on the western slopes of the island, Mr. Ballou is expected to return on January 16. Mr. W. B. Seabrook, the expert ginner from the Sea Islands of South Carolina, whose services have been engaged by the Imperial Department of Agri- culture, arrived at Barbados in S.S. ‘Fluminense’ on the 13th. instant. THE' USE OF CARBON BISULPHIDE AS AN INSECTICIDE. We reprinted on p. 397 of the Agricultural News (Vol. IL) a pamphlet, prepared by Mr. H. H. Cousins, giving instructions as to the use of carbon bisulphide as an insecticide. The editor of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society gives the following additional notes as to its use for certain purposes :— Destroying stinging ants attacking pineapples and orange trees by finding their nests, pouring a little of the liquid in the hills or in the holes and fling some earth over. Even when the ants had their nests around the roots of the orange trees, the application of the bisulphide did not harm the roots. Where orange trees had leaves turning yellow, and attacks by grubs at the roots were suspected, four holes were bored dowr, 2 feet from the tree (closer in very young trees) and about a tablespoonful poured in each of the holes, quickly covering with some earth instantly. Barrels of corn and peas were protected from attacks by weevils, and these insects destroyed where they already existed, by pouring a teaspoonful of bisulphide into a little tobacco tin (or any other like utensil) placed on the top of the cover, a sack flung over and the lid of the barrel jammed down tight on the sack. The drawback to the free use of bisulphide in orange groves where the grubs of the Fidler Beetle were attacking the roots of the trees, was the expense of buying it, 3s. 6d. for a jar holding a little less than a quart. Now that the Chemist holds a supply at so cheap a rate as 4d. a Ib., this stuff ought to come into general use. 30 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 16, 1904.. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following report on the London Drug and Spice Market during the months of October and November has been contributed by Mr. J. R. Jackson, ALS. The last report (for September) of this series will be found in the Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 366 :— Tn the unavoidable absence from the Agricultural News of my notes on the London drug and spice sales during October last it will not be necessary, at this period, to review in detail the markets of that month, except where they have a bearing upon the of the month of November now under review, or in the case of a few special articles. Thus in the early part of October good West Indian kola nuts sold at 6¢. for good, bold bright, nine bags being disposed of at this date ; while a barrel of good sold at 53d., and some odd packages of mouldy and damaged fetched prices ranging from 4d. to 4d. per Ib. These prices varied slightly during the remainder of the month, the quotations at the sale on the 14th. being as follows: for good bright, Bhd. ; fair, 5d. to 5fd., and mouldy, 2d. to 24d. Sarsaparilla at the first sale in October sold at prices ranging from 9d. for damaged Jamaica to 1s. Id.; while some 28 bales badly sea-damaged and mouldy Lima Jamaica sold at 5hd. On October 14, over 300 barrels of manufacturing St. Vincent arrowroot was sold at 2d., and 50 tons at 33d. GINGER, The demand for ginger during the month was never very great. At the sale on the 7th. fair, washed, rough Cochin was quoted at 30s., and slightly mouldy cuttings at 26s. Of 277 barrels of Jamaica offered, only four sold at 52s. 6d. for good middling. At the first sale in November no Jamaica ginger was offered and there was little or no demand for the article of any grade ; 386 bags of Cochin were offered and bought in at 34s. for good, washed rough, and 50s. for good cuttings. In addition to this, 53 cases of small eut were also offered and bought in at 45s. The market remained practically in the same duil condition throughout the month, and at the last auction Cochin ginger was quoted at much lower prices, about 1,000 bags being bought in; 58 barrels of Jamaica were offered and 40 sold at 38s. to 39s. 6d. for ordinary dullish, and 43s, for medium dullish. SARSAPARILLA. The dealings in sarsaparilla during November may be thus stated. In the middle of the month fair Lima Jamaica was sold at steady rates, fair selling at 10d. per tb. Grey Jamaica was scarce, one bale offered being bought in at 1s. 4d. Two bales of mixed, red and pale, native Jamaica, realized 11d. per tb., and a bale of pale yellow Shd. : while for good brands of Honduras, 1s. 1d. to 1s. 2d. was paid. At the last sale of the month 45 bales of grey Jamaica were offered and sold at 1s. to Is. 1d. for fair rolled fibrous, and 10d. to 113d. for coarse and partly country damaged, sea- damaged fetching 9d. Eight bales of native Jamaica were offered and bought in, sales KOLA, Of kola nuts four bags of good, red West Indian were sold at the mid-month’s sale at 4$d., and for three packages of good small to medium, 4d. to 44. was paid, mouldy fetching 3d. to 33d. ARROWROOT., At the sale on the 12th., 100 barrels good mannfactured St. Vincent arrowroot were disposed of at 2}d., while fine St Vincent was bought in at 3/. to 44d., and good at 21d. Bermuda was also bought in at 1s. 6d. per Ib A week later 200 barrels of St. Vincent were offered at 1}. to 2d. per lb. Nothing further in this article is reported up to the end of November. MACE, NUTMEGS AND PIMENTO. At the spice sales on the 17th., West Indian mace was realizing somewhat lower prices, pale selling at 2s. 4d. ; fair, 2s. Id. to 2s. 3d.; ordinary, 1s. Lld. to 2s.; and broken, ls. 10d. to Is. l1d. Fair to good Jaya at this sale was bought in at 2s. 5d. to 2s. Td. West Indian nutmegs were selling at rather cheaper rates but with a steady demand, 243 packages being disposed of. At the last sale of the month three barrels of West Indian nutmegs, 112’s dark, fetched 11¢., no Penang or Singapore being offered. Pimento was at this sale bought in at 44d. to 42d. CASSIA FISTULA, ANNATTO AND TAMARINDS, The other iteins of interest at the end of the month are the following :—Cassia Iistula: nine baskets of very lean kind sold at 30s. per ewt. Annatto seed: of this article ro other kind but fair Madras has been quoted and this sold readily at from 3%. to 4d. per tb. Good Barbados tamarinds were disposed of at prices varying from 14s. 3d. to l4s 6d per ewt. To sum up, the general tone that has prevailed throughout the month in the drug and spice markets may be described as inactive. The interest excited in October on the subject of Mr. Chamberlain’s fiscal policy has as yet by no means subsided. POULTRY. Sulphuric Acid for Chicken Cholera. The following information relating to chicken cholera which originally appeared in L’Union Phar- muceutique, is taken from the Pharmaceutical Journal of November 28, 1903 :— Some poultry keepers are aware that the occasional addition of a little sulphuric acid to the drinking water supplied to their fowls has a beneficial and tonic effect, although the fact does not appear to be generally known- A recent outbreak of chicken cholera in Bulgaria has enabled P. Bitschetf to demonstrate that it is a valuable remedy in that fatal disease, at the same time rendering immune the healthy fowls exposed to infection. The dose given is three parts of sulphuric acid in 1,000 of water. Tt is stated that this acid water should not be given for more than three days at a time, since it is said to cause the laying of ‘soft eggs,” and to give rise to diarrhoea. The editor of the Pharmaceutical Journal com- menting on the above suggests the use of a solution of ferrous sulphate instead of sulphuric acid. One drachm to 40 fluid ounces has been found beneficial. When either this or the acid is used, the drinking vessel employed should be of earthenware and not of ‘galvanized’ iron. ‘Vou. III. No. 46. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 31 MARKET REPORTS. London,— December 22, 1903. Messrs. Kearron, Pirer St. & Co., Messrs. E. A. DE Pass & Co. and Messrs. J. Hares Catrp & Co., ‘THE LiverpooL Corron AssocraTION WEEKLY CrrcuLaR’, December 11 ; and ‘THE Pupiic LepceEr,’ December 19, 1903. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curagoa, 14/6 to 35/- per ewt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, 1}d. to 3$d.; Bermuda, 1/3 to 1/8 per tb. Barara—1/8 to 2/3 per th. Brrs’-wax—&7 10s. to £7 12s. 6. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 64/- to 72/- per cwt. ; Grenada, 53/- to 62/- per ewt.; Dominica, St. Lucia, Jamaica, 50/- to 60/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/2 per tb. CorrrE—Jamaica, ordinary, 35/- to 55/- per cwt. Corra—Trinidad, £15 10s. per ton, c.1.f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 1/1 to 1/2 per tb. Divi Divi— No quotations. Froir— Bananas—Canary Islands, 8/- to 11/- per bunch. Grape Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. ORANGES—Jamaica, 8/- to 10/- per case. PINE-APPLES—No quotations. Fustic—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. GiInGER—Jamaica, 36/- to 55/- per ewt. Honty—Jamaica, 19/- to 28/6 per cwt. Istnc~ass—West Indian lump, 2/3 to 2/11; Cake, 1/3 to 1/7 per th. Kora Nuts—4d. to 7d. per tb. Lime Jurce—Raw, 10d. to 1s. 2d. per gallon ; Concentrated, £12 15s. to £13 per cask of 108 gallons. Loawoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—1/10 to 2/7 per th. Nirrate oF Sopa—Agricultural, £9 12s. 6d. per ton. Nurmrcs-—69’s to 60's, 2/- to 2/6; 90’s to 80's, 1/2 to 1/6 per tb. Pimento—-35d. to 4d. per th. Rum—Demerara, 9/1. to 10d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/6 to 8/- per proof gallon. SaRsapaRILLA—No quotations. Sucar—Crystallized, 15/- to 16/9 per ewt.; Muscovado, 11/- to 14/6 ; Molasses Sugar, 11/9 to 16/3. SutpHate or Ammonta—£12 7s. 6d. per ton. Tamariyps—Auntigua, 8/- to 8/6 per ewt. John, N.B.,—December 1, 1903.—‘ Tur Manrrme MERCHANT.’ Motasses—Porto Rico, 41e. to 44c.; Barbados, 38c. to 39c. per gallon. New York,—December 11, 1903.—Messrs. GILLESPIE Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao— African, 11}e. to 12}c.; Caracas, 14e. to de. ; Jamaica, 10$c. to 12c.; Grenada, 12}c. to 13c.; Trinidad, 14c. to 15c. per tb. Cocoa-nuts—Trinidads, $18°00 to $20:00; Jamaicas, $22-00 to $24:00 per M., selected. CorreE—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, Te. to 8c. per tb. ; Manchester grades, 9c. to 11c. per tb. ‘GINGER—Jamaica, 7jc. to 8}c. per tb. Goat Sxins—Jamaicas, 50c. to 53}c. per tb. ‘GRAPE FRuItT—-$5-00 to $8-00 per barrel. ‘ORANGES—$3'00 to $3-50 per barrel. Barbados, Pinento—7 3c. per th. RupspeR—No quotations. i Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 3c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 3ic.; Molasses, 89°, 2} 3c. per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. January 2, 1903.—Messrs. T. 8. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncenw & Co. ArrowrooT—St. Vincent, $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—$10:00 to $11:00 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nuts—$9°00 per M. (husked nuts). CorreE—Jamaica and ordinary Rio, $9-00 to $9-50 per 100 tb. respectively. Hay—$1-25 per 100 tb. Manvures—-Nitrate of soda, $65°00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60-00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76-00 to $85-00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00; Sheep Manure, $6:25 per ton (ex ship). Motasses—No quotations. Ontons—$3°25 per 100 th. Poratos, ENGLisH— $1°70 to $2°40 per 100 tb. Rice—Ballam, $4°65 per bag (178 tb.) ; Patna $3°75 per 100 tb. ; Rangoon, $3:00 per 100 th. SuGar—No quotations. British Guiana,—December 31, 1903.—Messrs. Wirring & RICHTER. ARROwROOT—St. Vincent, $8°50 to $900 per barrel. Barara—40c. to 42c. per th. Cacao—Native, lle. to 12c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—5-00 per barrel. Cocoa-nuts—$11°00 to $12:00 per M. CorreE—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 15c. per tb. (retail). —-Creole, lle. to 12c. per th. Duat—New, $3°30 to $3:40; Old, $3°10 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—$1°44 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 15c. per gallon, casks included. Ontons—23ec. to 3c. per th., ex store; Garlic, 6c. to Ze. Pea Nuts—Curagoa, 3je. ; American, 5c. per th. (retail). PrLantTarns—20e. to 60c. per bunch. Poratos, EnxerisH—-$2°50 to $2°75 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°60 to $4:65 per 177 tb., ex store ; Creole, 18ec. to 20c. per gallon (retail). Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1°68 per barrel. Tannras—-$2°40 per bag. Yams—White, $1°68 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $1°82 ; Yellow, $2:20 to $2°30; White, $3°50 ; Molasses, $1°60 to $1-90 per 100 tb. Trurer—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. WaALLABA SHINGLES—$3-00 to $5:00 per M. Trinidad,—December 31, 1903.—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co., and Messrs. Epcar Tripp & Co. Batara—No quotations. Cacao—Ordinary, $13°00 to $15°25; Estates, $13-75 to $14:00 per fanega. Cocoa-NuTs—$16-00 per M. f.o.b., selected in bags of 100. Cocoa-Nut Mrat—l}e. per th. Cocoa-nut O11—5dce. per Imperial Gallon (casks included). CorrEe—Venezuelan, 63c. per th. Corra—$2°40 to $2°50 per 100 th. Onxtons—$3°50 per 100 tb. Poratos, ENGLisH—$1°16 to $1:20 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4°25 to $450; White Table, $5:50 to $575 per bag. Sucar—No quotations. 32 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 16, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE So2 EAS EU Ee Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [46. } Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. “CACEHO.,.” | JOURNAL D'AGRICULTURE TROPICALE. BS A MONTHLY ILLUSTRATED REVIEW DEALING WITH ALL MATTERS CONNECTED WITH J. H. HAR F.Lss. NEW EDITION. | TROPIGAL AGRICULTURE. | Each number contains fifteen original A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND articles and a complete review of new publications. | CHEMISTRY OF =, ' Z = ‘ The Journal d’Agriculture Tropicale has correspondents in the British, French and Dutch COMMERCIAL CACAO. | colonies, as well as in Australia and North and | | South America. © nea See DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. PARIS: M. Vilbouchevitch, : bre. Wm.WESLEY & Oo., 28, Essex St., London. 10, THe Pea a Subseription price}: half-year 10 franes, or 20 franes Price 3s. per copy ver annum. 1 [50.] Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. Be SN ee we > tg tS Ga - - i Se SN | —o 2x ry & ANY gs lt 6 A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. JAN UARY 30, 1 Pace ld. Vou. IIL ee “47. “BARB ADOS, “1904. CONTENTS. é ‘ : Mr. Rust moved the following resolution: ‘That Pace. PaGE. this Chamber has watched with much interest the Insect Notes :— Botanic Stations, Domi- nica and St. Lucia 42 Cotton Leaf-blister Mite 42 Rubber Trees, Insect Agricultural Shows :— Barbados Local Exhibi- GION sae Rsey ose tO) Bananas, Teeadbe ecole ee OD Barbados : Pests Off. «22 «.. 42 Geyral oes ee Fs Leeward Islands, Agri- cultural Improvements 41 Bee-keeping :-— Limes, Seedless... ... ... 36 Bee-paralysis and Sulphur... . 38 | Market Reports ... ... 47 Botanical Laboratory at 38 Notes and Comments ... 40 Cocoa-nut Planting in West | Onion Seed... ... ... ... 40 Indies... .. ... ... 86 | Perfumes, Manufacture of 43 Columbian Cassayas in on St. Vincent :— India... 6. we on 38 Botanic Station ... ... 43 AJ = on . an Cotton .atiein. oj. ee 4L PANIED es oaiias tu) see) foto, OL Sugar Industry :_— Barbados... vee OF Manainn 34 ee eal Sugar Consumption in Department News ... ... 43 | Canada... ... . 3D Refucational :— W oe Indian Molasses | in i Agricultural Tending & in ale sete es arene ‘Jamaica... 45 | Traveller’s Tree, Fruiting Lectures to Teachers in Obie... xiphopteroidoe- io duale. folium. Danaea nigrescens. * kookenaamae. Davallia Sloanei. AS Harrisi. Hymenophyllum kaieteurum. Pteris_bulbifera. Nephrodium negligens. > inaequalis, Jenm. non aS basiattenuatum. Baker. 33 nimbatum. “ Harrisonae. 1 grenadense. Trichomanes solitarium. Vou. III. No. 47. THE AGRICULTURAL. NEWS. 37 —$—$—$<—————————————————————————— COTTON, Cotton at Antigua. A special meeting of the Agricultural and Commercial Society and persons interested in cotton growing was held at Government House on Wednesday, January 6, on the invitation of his Excellency Sir Gerald Strickland, K.C.M.G. His Excellency in introducing Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.MG.., referred to the visit by the latter to the cotton-growing districts of the United States. The principal object of the meeting was to hear some of the information gathered by Sir Daniel on that visit. Sir Daniel Morris, in addressing the meeting, expressed great pleasure in being atforded an oppor- tunity of again meeting the planters of Antigua. He briefly reviewed the objects of his visit to the United States and discussed the question of the demand for Sea Island cotton and its market. ‘Merchants and brokers have,’ he stated, ‘no fear of the market being overstocked and prices depreciating, provided that cotton of first class quality is produced,’ After Sir Daniel had dealt with the soil and methods of cultivation, picking, etcl, observed in the United States, his Excellency asked Mr. Watts to explain the terms and arrangements to be made in connexion with the proposed cotton loans. Mr. Watts stated that of the £5,000 available for loans in the Leeward Islands, £1,100 would be allotted for use in Antigua. Regulations will be formulated and published in a definite manner. As the loans have to be repaid, and as his Excellency had hinted at personal responsibility, strict business caution would have to be exercised in lending this money. A charge of 2 per cent. would be made to cover working expenses, and in addition, interest at the rate of 5 per cent. per annum : thus a person borrowing £100 for six months would have to pay £4 10s. Od. By way of security, a lien on the crop must be given which lien must take priority : besides this the borrower must obtain other security, preferably the guarantee of one or two substantial persons. There were difficulties in the way of taking land as security, and as far as possible this would be avoided. The money would be advanced in instalments (probably at the rate of 10s. per acre) up to an amount not exceeding £2 per acre. To obtain these loans applications should be addressed to himself (Mr. Watts) in the case of persons resident in Antigua. In the other Presidencies, applications should be made to the Administrator or Commis- sioner. It was advisable that those desirous of obtaining loars should apply in good time, stating the acreage it was proposed to cultivate in cotton and the security offered. Early applica- tion was desirable because the amount available was not unlimited, and it might be necessary to make some selection regarding the allotment of the money. Generally speaking cotton should be planted between June and September, hence it was not likely that it would be necessary to advance any money before May or June. An exception might perhaps be made, as suggested by his Excellency, in connexion with clearing lands covered with serub at Piccadilly : in that case some small advance might be made towards clearing. There must also be a minimum limit as regards the amount lent : possibly no loan would be con- sidered on a smaller basis than 10 acres of cotton (i.e. £20). Cotton Cultivation at Barbados. The following observations, which appeared in the Barbados Agricultural Reporter of January 16, are specially useful in calling attention to the need for intelligent and careful treatment of the cotton fields at the present time. We have recently seen a fine field of cotton, ready to be picked, utterly neglected and the fibre allowed to be blown about and destroyed by wind and rain, No industry can prosper, if steady attention is not devoted to it :— The cotton field is now in evidence everywhere, and just now it may be seen at all stages. There are young fields recently planted, very healthy and promising. There are more advanced fields just throwing out flowers and bolls -—as many as eighty pods were counted on one plant at Westmoreland just lately—and again there are fields now yielding produce. Some planters have begun already to give cotton a bad name. ‘The worm and the disease destroy it. It does not give the return prophesied. It costs too much to grow it and reap it. The expense of ginning and shipping it cuts too deeply into the profit.’ Worm and fungus are, no doubt, a drawback ; but it has been seen that the injury by the former is much exaggerated, and that the latter may be combated and overcome. We cannot expect a good return from cotton or anything else without careful cultivation. Some planters have not kept their cotton fields as clean as they were advised, and some have thought they could plant cotton following upon second crop canes, without much tillage or any manure and yet expect a good return. There are fields of cotton now about to be reaped that have received as careful attention and as liberal treatment as first crop canes. If the return from these fields prove unsatisfactory, then there will be reason for disappointment; but it does not look like it to-day. As to cost of picking, especially, we are informed that in America they pay 45 or 50 cents per cwt. of seed-cotton ; that the reapers pick 100 tb. a day and could pick 200 Ib., if they chose ; that in Montserrat they pay one shilling per 100 tb. for picking. It is understood that it is a business that must be learned, and at first it is very tedious. It appears to us that some intelligent person should be sent in charge of the pickers on the first occasion, to illustrate to them what is required, and then the women may reasonably be expected to pick the cotton carefully at 6d. a day for 50 bb. Porto Rico Cotton. The London Times (Weekly Edition) of December 25, 1903, has the following note on the sale of Porto Rico cotton in England :— Mr. A. A. Paton, Vice-chairman of the British Cotton Growing Association, states that he has sold through Messrs. F. Zerega and Co. 13 bales of Porto Rico cotton at 143d. per Ib., and 33 bales more are to be delivered in Liverpool this week. The first lot was sold in small parcels, so that the spinners of the country might test its rare qualities. Altogether from 1,000 to 1,200 bales are to be shipped this season, and there is confidence that the price realized by the cotton just sold will stimulate cotton cultivation throughout the West Indies. Messrs. F. Zerega and Co. presented the above Association with all the seed from the cotton, and it is to be distributed among the West Indian Islands. In the view of Mr. Paton this is the finest cotton ever imported into Liverpool, and it is noted that for the cultivation of this fibre the climate and soil of the islands are peculiarly adapted. 38 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 30, 1904. The following letter has been received by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture from Dr. N. L. Britton, the Director-in-Chief of the New York Botanical Garden, dated December 26, 1903, in reference to the facilities that are being offered for research in tropical botany at Cinchona, Jamaica :— Referring to my letter of August 14, 1903, [see Agii- cultural News, Vol. II, p. 311] I take pleasure in stating that the group of buildings of the Colonial Government of Jamaica at the Cinchona Botanical Gardens will be maintained as a Botanical Laboratory by the New York Botanical Garden, under an agreement with Government, and with the co-operation of the Department of Public Gardens and Plantations of Jamaica ; sufficient land for experimental purposes and for a nursery is included in the leasehold privileges. The buildings include a residence known as Bellevue House, three laboratories, two ranges of glass, and one or two small buildings suitable for lodgings. Investigators are offered the following facilities :— 1. The use of tables in the laboratory buildings. 2. Lodging in Bellevue House or in one of the other buildings at Cinchona. 3. The use of land for experimental purposes. 4. Privileges to study the plantations at Cinchona and also those at Hope and Castleton Gardens. 5. Privilege to consult the botanical library of the Department of Public Gardens and Plantations at Hope Gardens, and to take books therefrom to Cinchona under such conditions as may be imposed by the Director of Public Gardens and Plantations. 6. An immense number of indigenous species is within easy reach in the primitive forests adjacent -to Cinchona. All persons who may apply for permission to study at Cinchona must submit such evidence as the Director-in- Chief of the New York Botanical Garden may require, that they are competent to pursue investigation to advantage. While in residence at Cinchona, they will be under the supervision of the Hon. William Fawcett, Director of Public Gardens and Plantations, to whose interest and advice the establishment of this American Tropical Laboratory is largely due. A laboratory fee, payable to the New York Botanical Garden, will be required of persons granted the above privileges. Upon approval by the Scientific Directors of the New York Botanical Garden, any other institution, society or individual may be assigned the use of a table at Cinchona by the payment of $100-00 annually, which will entitle them to nominate students desiring to avail themselves of the facilities of the laboratory for admission without the payment of fees, but not more than one person may be granted the use of any table at the same time. The necessary expenses for a month’s residence at Cinchona, including travelling expenses to and from ports on the Atlantic seaboard of the United States, are from $140:00 to $200-00 ; for two months’ residence, $160°00 to $230-00. the Colonial BEE-KEEPING. Bee-paralysis -and Sulphur. It is not uncommon for a bee-keeper to notice individual bees come staggering out of a hive and after a great deal of restlessness fall over on one side and eventually die. These are the symptoms of bee-paralysis. This disease has never had much attention paid to it by the bee-keeper, because it seldom causes the loss of the colony affected, but yet it is very distressing to watch a bee lose its life in this way. In Gleanings in Bee Culture for December 15 last, the following reference to the successful use of sulphur as a cure for bee-paralysis is made: In preparing the index for 1903 I was greatly surprised to see the number ‘of cases during the past year of the successful use of sulphur for curing bee-paralysis. These, coming from time to time, did not attract my special attention : but the fact that so many of them confirm O. O. Poppleton’s observations all through, is somewhat significant. Indeed, I think we may safely conclude that the once incurable disease is now easily curable. On reviewing the articles above indicated, it is found that a colony of bees affected with bee-paralysis is treated by simply sprinkling about a tablespoonful of finely powered sulphur over all the brood combs. COLUMBIAN CASSAVAS IN INDIA. The following is a letter addressed by the Inspec- tor General of Agriculture in India to the editor of Indian Planting and Gardening on the subject of the cultivation of varieties of Columbian cassava obtained trom Mr. Robert Thomson, of Jamaica :— The centtings sent by Mr. Robert Thomson to the Punjab Government either failed to germinate or the weak plants which grew from some of them subsequently died. The importation into Bombay proved to be more successful. Some of the cuttings were dead when they arrived. A_pro- portion of the remainder germinated satisfactorily. A good many varieties are represented. Some varieties grew excellently, and all did fairly well. The tubers from a single plant weighed in some cases over 30 Ib. These varieties appear to be easy to grow and are propagated from cuttings got from the main stems and maturer parts of branches. Consequently a well matured plant yields a considerable number. The cultivation will now be carried froin the experimental plot to the field. Arrangements have been made to compare these imported varieties with varieties which have long been cultivated in various parts of India. The drought-resisting capacity claimed for the imported varieties will be tested ; also their comparative values for the production of tapioca flour and for the production of tubers to be used as vegetables. It is possible that fully matured plants yield tubers best suited for the former purpose, whilst tubers fit for use as vegetables can be dug about six months after the sets are planted. These points have not yet been fully worked out. An inquiry into the poisonous characters of some varieties has been begun. I can promise that if the Columbian varieties are proved to be an introduction of agricultural and commercial value, every effort will be made to spread the cultivation. Vou. III. No. 47. RELATIONSHIP OF WOODS TO DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLIES. The following paper, on the ‘Relationship of woods to domestic water supplies’, taken from the Journal of the Board of Agriculture, December 1903, gives useful information upon this interesting subject :— This subject has, for more than twenty years, occupied much of the attention of Forest Experimental Stations, especially in Germany, France, Austria and Switzerland, and in view of its importance the conclusions arrived at may be usefully summarized. It has been asserted, and theoretically the contention is doubtless correct, that masses of woodland increase the rainfall. ‘The causes of this result are sought for in the reduction of temperature associated with forests, and in the greater absolute and relative humidity of the air in woods. But although it may be possible. to obtain experimental proof by means of elaborate and long-continued observations in a region where extensive afforestation or deforestation is taking place, it may at once be said that such tree-planting, as is practically possible in Britain, can have no appreciable influence on the rainfall. Trees do, however, under certain conditions of the atmosphere, condense dew on their leaves and branches, and_ this effect may often be seen in the wet state of the ground underneath trees on a foggy morning when the surface elsewhere is comparatively dry. But the case is materially different where the fate of the rain and snow that fall on a tract of woodland is considered. he foliage, branches and stems of the trees intercept much of the rain and snow, so that it never reaches the ground at all, the amount so intercepted usually ranging from 30 to 45 per cent. of the total, but much depends on the character of the rainfall and on the species of tree. In a district of heavy annual rainfall a smalier proportion of the precipitation is caught by, and evaporated from, the trees than where the rainfall is’ light. Similarly, in the case of heavy and long-continued rain, as contrasted with gentle showers ; in the latter case, in fact, but little of the water reaches the ground through the leafy canopy of a dense forest. Then again, much depends on the kind of tree, evergreens intercepting more water throughout a year than deciduous trees ; and a_ larger proportion of the rainfall is evaporated from the leaves and branches in summer than in winter. But although less rain-water reaches the soil of a wood than finds its way to the ground in the open country, the moisture in the soil is much better conserved in the former than in the latter case. This is due partly to the exclusion of the sun’s rays by the foliage, partly to the absorbent and retentive character of the decaying vegetable matter that covers the ground of a dense and well-managed wood, and partly tothe air ina forest being more humid and thus better fitted to discourage evaporation. The lace work of tree roots, too, that occupy the soil of a forest, offers mechanical resistance to the rapid surface-flow and _percola- tion of water. It is also to be noted that roots penetrate to great depths, and when they die, they leave holes through which water readily penetrates from-the surface. The friable condition of the soil of a wood, too, permits ready percolation of water, whereas in the open country the denser character of the surface of the ground is less favourable to the entrance of water. The consequence is that streams in a wooded country are not so subject to rapid rises and falls, the flow being maintained more equally throughout the year. Where water-supply for domestic or industrial purposes THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 39 is concerned, the avoidance of violent freshets on the one hand, and of scanty flow on the other, is alike desirable. Not only may the water of sudden and heavy floods be lost owing to the incapacity of the reservoir to contain it, but such floods have also the disadvantage of carrying much mud and similar material in suspension, and this gradually silts up reservoirs, besides entailing increased expenditure in filtering. It may be pointed out that the water of a reservoir surrounded by well-stocked woodland is not subjected to the same amount of violent agitation during gales as is the case where such sheltering agency is absent. The mud and silt deposited on the bottom, and especially along the margin, is, consequently, left comparatively undisturbed, with corres- ponding advantages in the matter of purity. When a catchment area is covered with trees, and with the vegetable matter that accumulates on the surface of the ground, the water that reaches the soil as rain is impeded in its flow and its evaporation is hindered, so that the general effect is equivalent to an increase in the size of the reservoir. It is also important to note, that snow melts more slowly underneath trees than in the open country, so that at a time of thaw the snow-water is yielded up more gradually. Forests not only affect the degree of moisture in soil, but they also exert a considerable influence on the soil temperature. Although this influence is greatest at the surface of the ground, it is also perceptible to a depth of several feet. On the average of a large number of Continental Stations, it was found that woods of various species and ages depressed the mean annual temperature at the surface of the ground by about 2°6° F., while even at the depth of 4 feet the reduction of temperature was 2°. This general cooling influence is due to a variety of causes. The foliage of the trees excludes the sun’s rays, the decaying vegetable matter that covers the ground prevents the free exchange of air between the soil and the atmosphere, while the water in the soil absorbs much heat without its temperature being much affected. While woods have a depressing influence on the mean annual temperature, it is found that this effect is much greater in summer than in winter. On the average of eleven German Stations, the July temperature of the surface soil in the forest was found to be 7° F. lower than that in the open field, whereas in December the former was rather warmer than the latter. Forests, therefore, tend to equalize the temperature of water collected in them, the temperature being slightly raised in winter and markedly reduced in summer. This result would appear to be of considerable practical and hygienic importance, where a supply of water for domestic purposes is concerned. To the credit of forests is also to be placed the fact that they exercise a purifying influence both on the air and on the soil, germs of all kinds being markedly scarcer in a well- wooded district than in a similar extent of treeless country. Felling Trees by Electricity. Successful experi- ments are reported from France with regard to the felling of trees by electricity. According to a recent issue of Le Jardin, in various forests the plan has been tried of using a platinum wire heated to a white heat by an electric current instead of a saw. By this means the tree is severed more easily and rapidly than by the older methods ; no sawdust is made, and the slight charring produced by the burning wire preserves the wood. The new principle is said to be eight times as speedy as when a saw is used. (Gardeners? Chronicle, January 2.) 40 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 30, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens Can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 15 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 144d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d., post free 3s. 3d. Agricultural slews Vou. III. SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 1904. No. 47. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Onion Seed. With the view of securing a supply of selected onion seed for planting this year in the West Indies, it is desired that orders for such seed (specifying whether white or red onion seed is required) should be handed in to the local officers of the Department not later than Saturday, February 20 next. In any case it is important that all orders for onion seed should reach the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture not later than February 27. The seed so ordered would be specially selected for the Department and arrive in the West Indies about August next. Se A The Woods of Barbados. At the regular monthly meeting of the Barbados Natural History Society, held at the Planters’ Hall on Wednesday, January 13, an interesting and instructive paper on the ‘Woods of Barbados’ was read by Miss Robinson. A description was given of the botanical character- istics and the appearances and uses of the woods of a large number of trees found in Barbados. These included the mahogany, tamarind, Barbados cedar, Barbados ebony (Albizzia Lebbek), lignum vitae, manchineel, logwood, fiddle wood, scarlet cordia, bay berry, bully tree, locust, fustie and others. We notice that the white cedar or white wood (Tecoma leucorylon) has apparently been omitted through inadvertence. No account of the woods of Barbados would be complete without a reference to this useful timber tree. Fruiting of the Travellers Tree. Mention was made in the Agricultural News, Vol. Il, p. 412, of the fruiting of the Traveller’s Tree (Ravenala madagascariensis) in Borneo, and it was suggested that instances of the fruiting of this tree in the West Indies might be recorded. We published on p. 12 of the present volume a note as to observations made in St. Vincent by Mr. J. B. Dopwell, Foreman of the Botanic Station. Mr. J. H. Hart, Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Trinidad, has also communicated interesting information relating to this matter. As far as Mr. Hart is aware, the tree has never fruited in the Botanic Gardens at Trinidad, but several plants raised in the Gardens have flowered in different positions as follows :— (1) Ina villa garden in St. Anne’s Road, Port-of- Spain, in 1895; (2) several at St. Madeline Usine, in 1897; (3) now in flower at All Saints’ Rectory, Port-of- Spain. SO $$ Barbados Central Cotton Factory. The Central Cotton Factory at Barbados was re-opened by his Excellency Sir Frederic Hodgson, K.C.M.G., on Monday, January 25. ‘The factory is now provided with six gins, a baling press and everything necessary for dealing with the present crop. The Chairman of the Cotton Committee (his Honour F. J. Clarke) presided, and after mentioning that the factory, opened by Lady Morris on July 31 last, had been greatly extended and improved, invited his Excellency to re-open the factory for the season 1904. His Excellency briefly reviewed the steps that had led to the erection of the factory and mentioned that the thanks of the planters were due to the Cotton Committee, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture and Mr. J. R. Bovell for the efforts they had put forth in endeavouring to establish this new industry, He also alluded to the considerable assistance afforded by the British Cotton Growing Association and the grants voted by the Barbados Legislature. He wished the industry every success and declared the factory open. Sir Daniel Morris in thanking his Excellency for re-opening the factory stated that the factory had cost £903, of which the Government of Barbados had contributed £640 and the British Cotton Growing Association £263. He emphasized the need for the planters to thoroughly clean and assort their cotton before sending it to the factory. He regretted to state that reports had reached him that in some parts of the island the cotton cultivation was not being looked after so closely as was desirable. He urged that the planters who had received seed, free of cost, were in duty bound to cultivate and care their cotton until it was gathered, even if it had to be done at a loss. In experiments of this sort as much was to be learnt from failure as from suecess. He was confident that when the planters realized the situation, they would do all in their power to assist in establishing a successful cotton industry in Barbados. Vou. III. No. 47. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 4] Care of Farm Implements. The care of implements is a matter to which far too little attention is usually paid by agriculturists: It is especially necessary in tropical countries that tools and implements should not be neglected. We would suggest that efforts be made to instil this into the minds of the young: lessons might well be devoted to this matter in the elementary schools. Moreover, it should be a sine qua non of the receipt ofa grant for agricultural teaching that proper provision is made for the tools to be used by the scholars. The Agricultural World of January 2 draws attention to the necessity of keeping machines and tools under cover when not in use, in order to avoid injury by weathering. The importance of a coat of paint as a protection to woodwork is generally well recognized, but the paint is seldom used. Another point is the damage that is done to the wearing parts of machines and implements through neglect to use oil and grease. Again, nuts and screws are allowed to rust through want of oil, with the result that the threads become worn out and the nuts and screws cannot be removed without injury. Careful attention to such points as these will cause farm implements to last much longer and, further, to give much greater satisfaction while in use. a Cotton at St. Vincent. A short note appeared in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 408) on the state of the cotton experiment plots at St. Vincent. A further report, dealing with the plots in Bequia, has recently been received from Mr. Osment, the Agricultural Instructor. The plot at Union consists of 5 acres—2} in Upland and 23 in Sea Island. The condition of both plots was good and the plants were bearing well. The average number of ripe and unripe pods on the Upland cotton was twenty-five; on the Sea Island, thirty-five. About 800 th. of seed-cotton had been picked from the Upland plot. Only a small quantity of the Sea Island cotton had been picked. At St. Hillary the plot required weeding, but the cotton plants appeared to be healthy. The same acreage had been planted as at Union. Over 400 tb. of Upland cotton had been picked and the plants still had a fair number of ripe and unripe pods on them, The picking of the Sea Island cotton was still in progress, about 50 tb. having been already picked. On both plots the Sea Island plants had been blown over to some extent by the strong winds: the Upland variety has not suffered much, apparently being able to withstand the wind better. The Agricultural Instructor also reports on a number of cotton plots, other than Departmental, in the district. The plots, though small, appeared to be well looked after, and the plants were bearing well. Mr. Osment remarks: ‘The planting of cotton experi- ment plots by the Imperial Department of Agriculture at Bequia has given the people an opportunity of seeing the proper way cotton should be planted and the necessity for planting the best varieties’. Relationship of Woods to Water Supplies. We reproduce on page 39 of this issue a summary of the conclusions arrived at by the Forest Experiment Stations in Europe in connexion with investigations as to the ‘Relationship of woods to domestic water supplies.’ It is not considered probable that the rainfall can be appreciably increased by such tree-planting as is possible in Britain, but it is pointed out that the great advantage of woods lies in their conserving soil moisture and consequently increasing the amount of available water. Not only is the soil protected by the foliage from the hot rays of the sun, but it is also rendered much more retentive and absorbent by the decaying leaves that have dropped from the trees. Moreover, the soil being in a more porous and friable condition, the rain-water finds a more easy entrance than it would in the open country. All this has an appreciable influence wpon the flow of streams that have their sources in a well-wooded district. Forests also have a cooling influence on the soil, which is due chiefly to the exclusion of the sun’s rays. Since, however, this depressing influence is much greater in summer than in winter, the effect of forests is to equalize the temperature of water collected in them, and this, it is pointed out, may be of considerable importance from a hygienic point of view. —— a Agricultural Improvements in the Leeward Islands. In the Leeward Islands Blue Book for 1902-3, the following review is given-of the recent improve- ments in Agriculture in the colony :— Owing to the critical condition of the sugar industry no substantial improvements in machinery have been made. Increased attention is being given to the cultivation of new varieties of sugar-cane, which have now largely replaced the Bourbon variety throughout the sugar districts of the colony. The investigations in connexion with varieties of sugar-cane and the manurial requirements of this crop have been continued by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, the expenses being defrayed from Imperial grants. The results of these investigations are followed with considerable interest by those engaged in the sugar industry. A small, but substantial, onion industry has been established in Antigua, and a useful effort has been made in the same direction in Montserrat, Owing to the low price of sugar, more attention has been given to the cultivation of corn (maize). Cotton has been planted on a considerable scale in St. Kitt’s and Montserrat, and on a small scale in Antigua. This industry promises to be of very great importance to the Leeward Islands. In Dominica the activity in increasing the cultivation of limes and cacao has been well maintained, new plantations have been opened and old ones extended. In Montserrat considerable progress has been made in the way of restoring cultivation of lime trees and food supplies after the diastrous hurricane of August 7, 1899. In the Virgin Islands efforts are being directed towards the establishment of such industries as cotton growing, limes and pine-apple planting, etc., for which purposes the climate and soil are well adapted. A2 THE AGRICULTURAL INSECT NOTES. The Botanic Stations at Dominica and St. Lucia. Mr. H. A. Ballou, B.Se.~the Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, recently spent a short time in Dominica and St. Lucia while en route for and returning from Montserrat, and has presented to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture a report on his visit to the Botanic Stations in those islands, of which the following is a_ brief summary -— Dy DOMINICA. The plants at the Botanic Station were found to be in good condition as far as insect pests were concerned. Overgrown and useless nursery stock was torn out and burned, and the remaining nursery stock was quite free from scale insects; while in the Gardens and _ plots only a few common scales were seen and these were not doing appreciable damage. Limes in the island have greatly improved during the wet season, the purple scale (Mytilaspis eitricola) having almost entirely disappeared from some estates. The Bath estate in its present condition shows what may be done by persistent spraying. Kerosene emulsion as a spray has been largely replaced by rosin wash (see Pamphlet No. 5, p. 12). The rosin wash has been found much cheaper, quite as efficient and much less likely to injure the leaves. Kerosene emulsion is frequently improperly prepared and in consequence sometimes burns the foliage and young twigs. This does not happen with the rosin mixtures. Lefroy’s mixture (crude Barbados oil and whale oil soap) is being tried on a small scale, and if it seems to give good results, will be tried on a larger scale in comparison with the rosin wash. This is very cheap when made in large quantities, and so far as tried has given good results. An account of this insecticide, with directions for mixing, is given in the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. U1, p. 319). A fumigating chamber is being built at the Station, and very soon Dominica will be in a position to fumigate all imported plants and cuttings and thus do much to prevent the introduction of new pests. ST. LUCTA. This report mentions that no new insect pests were noticed and very little damage was being done by the well- known forms, though a few of them were found in small numbers. The Station has a good equipment of spraying apparatus and insecticides, and considerable attention is paid to spraying, with very good results. Mention is also made of the occurrence of the mite of the cotton, Zriophyes (Phytoptus) gossypz, on a few cotton plants growing in the Gardens. Mr. George 8. Hudson, the Agricultural Instructor at St. Lucia, remembers seeing this disease of cotton for many years and believes it to be generally distributed over the island, but states that hitherto it has done but little damage. NEWS. January 30, 1904. Insect Pests of Rubber Trees. Writing in the Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits Settlements for October last, Mr. H. N. Ridley, M.A., F.L.S.. Director of the Botanic Gardens at Singapore, describes a longicorn beetle which has been observed attacking a young Casti//oa tree in that colony. Mr. Ridley mentions that this beetle appears to be Kpepseotes luscus, of wide distribution in the Eastern Archipelago. The perfect insect is described as being } inch in length and } inch across the back. The elytra (or wing covers) are brown, mottled with yellow, with a round, black, velvety spot on each shoulder, At Anandale estate, Grenada, West Indies, a longicorn beetle has also been noticed by the Hon. W. H. Lascelles to attack young Cuast///oa trees. A female specimen of the Grenada insect was forwarded to the Head Office at Barbados for examination and was recognized by Mr. Maxwell-Lefroy, then Entomologist of the Department, as Z'aenvotes scalaris, a species which is known to attack bread-fruit and wild rubber (/eus sp.) trees in these islands. The West Indian beetle is about the same size as its Eastern relative, but differs from it in appearance, being on the upper side of a dark-brown or almost black colour. The elytra are marked, throughout the entire length of their inner margins, with a narrow, yellow stripe and have also on each wing cover two or three small scattered spots of the same colour. Both species tunnel through the bark and have been found in the central pith of the tree. In the treatment of Epepscotes luscus, Mr. Ridley recommends passing a wire down the hole made by the beetle grub and applying Jeye’s fluid. Mr. Maxwell-Lefroy also recommends probing the holes with a hooked wire and suggests the application of a mixture of carbolic acid and soap. He also advises setting trap logs of wild rubber (/eus sp.) among the Casti//oa trees and hand-catching the beetles in the early morning. The above is interesting as illustrative of the similarity of the attacks made by insects of this family on Cast?//oa rubber trees in both Eastern and Western quarters of the globe. Cotton Leaf-Blister Mite. Mr. A. J. Jordan, Agricultural Instructor at Montserrat, has recently concluded a series of experiments with several insecticides for the control of the cotton leaf-blister mite so common in that island. Several of the well-known contact poisons were used as sprays and a dry mixture of lime and sulphur was dusted on to the plants. All the plants were badly affected by the disease and no difference was to be seen in their condition ;. but at the conclusion of the experiment, those plants treated with lime and sulphur were in a much healthier state than the others. The plants were cut and weighed, and the results carefully tabulated. The plot on which they grew was not treated except by the application of lime and sulphur. Young plants are coming up and, although those removed were badly infested, apparently the seedlings are compara- tively free from the disease. While this experiment is not conclusive, it indicates that lime and sulphur will probably furnish a means of control for this very serious pest. Similar experiments were started in Montserrat early in September last (see Agri- cultural News, Vol. H, p. 309), but owing to unfavourable- weather conditions they were discontinued before any results had been reached. Vor, Ill. No. 47. THE = == = THE BOTANIC STATION AT ST. VINCENT. We take the following extracts from an account of the Botanic Station at St. Vincent by the Foreman, Mr. J. B. Dopwell :— In one of the rich, well-sheltered valleys of St. Vincent, at an elevation of 203 feet above the sea-level, and about 4 mile north of Kingstown, will be found the Botanic Station. Here was formerly situated the old garden said to have been the first institution of its kind in the West Indies. The following historical extract is taken from the Rev. Lansdown Guilding’s account of the Botanic Gardens, St. Vincent, (1765-1825) :— This garden seems to owe its origin to certain advertise- ments in the Transactions of the Society of Arts for 1762 and the four following years, offering rewards to any one who should cultivate a spdt in the West Indies in which plants, useful in medicine and profitable as articles of commerce, might be propagated, and where nurseries of the valuable productions of Asia and other distant parts might be formed for the benefit of His Majesty’s colonies. General Melville, who was then Chief Governor of the Windward Islands, with a laudable and patriotic zeal resolved to commence the task, and in 1765 gave and cleared at his own expense 20 acres of land in the most favourable situation he could find. So great was the interest taken in this garden, which promised to be a source of much profit to the colonies and of commerce to the mother country, that His Majesty was pleased in 1790 to send a ship to the South Seas to procure for it the bread-fruit (Artocarpus incisa) and every other valuable tree that could be obtained. The lamentable termination of this first voyage is known to every one. Not discouraged by the fate of the first, the King determined to fit’ out a second ship of discovery, and shortly afterwards Captain Bligh set sail in the ‘ Providence’. In December 1792, Captain Bligh touched at St. Helena on his return, and in January 1793, attended by Captain Portlock of the ‘ Assistant’ brig, landed the best portion of his valuable cargo, about 530 plants, on the shores of St. Vincent. The extent of the garden, which is of irregular figure, does not exceed 39$ acres. In May 1823, most of the valuable plants at the St. Vincent Botanic Station were removed to the Trinidad Gardens, after which time some of the best trees were either stolen or disappeared through neglect, as no responsible person except a labouring man was placed in charge of the grounds. After many years of neglect and decline, the Botanic Station was re-established in May 1890 owing to the efforts of Sir Walter Hely-Hutchinson, G.C.M.G., then Governor and Commander-in-chief of the Windward Islands, now Governor of Cape Colony. At this time Mr. Henry Powell, who has recently left St. Vincent to take up an appointment at Mom- bassa, East Africa, assumed the duties of the curatorship. Then there were merely a few plants dotted here and there, notably cinnamon, clove, nutmegs and bread-fruit, and though some of these have been destroyed by hurricanes, others are well preserved. Entering the Station by the southern entrance, one comes to the circular drive. At the base of the central avenue, just above the circular drive, stand two fine specimens of the toddy palm (Caryota wrens). At this point three walks meet, viz., the central avenue, the lovers’ walk and the walk leading to the western entrance. These walks meet again at the rose garden and are again continued up to the nurseries and on to Government House. AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 43 The ground between the central avenue and the walk on the left is chietly under- nutmeg cultivation. On the other side are planted various rubber plants, coffee and timber trees. Along both sides of the central avenue are planted Caryota palms at intervals of about 60 feet, with a variety of other palms between. Then comes a plantation of grafted mangos. This order of planting continues for about 120 yards and then terminates in a rose garden. About 30 yards from the rose garden is the Curator’s office, to the east of which lies the nursery where plants are propagated for distribution to planters. THE MANUFACTURE OF PERFUMES. The following account of the manufacture of perfumes and flower essences in Grasse is taken from the Journal of the Society of Arts of November 20, 1903 :— The city of Grasse, the most important industrial place of the Riviera, is widely known on account of its perfume manufacture. At present thirty-five establishments making essences of flowers are in operation there, The average consumption of roses for that purpose is about 2,650,000 hb., and that of orange flowers about 660,000 ib. per annum. The annual sale of these essences amounts to about £200,000. Vallauris has nine such factories. The most important product of this industry is oil of neroli, made from the flowers of the bitter orange A kilogramme (2-2 bb.) of this oil is worth £12. From the peel of the bitter orange, oil of orange is made. The peel of the sweet orange is seldom used for making oi]. The manufacture of essence of roses 1s also very extensive. The so-called oil of roses is manufactured from Andropogon Schoenanthus. The flowers of the large-flowered jasmine yield the oil of jasmine. One acre planted with jasmine is said to yield a yearly product worth £250, but requires a good deal of work. A pound of essence of violets is worth from 9s. to 10s. Oil of geranium is produced from the flowers of Pelargonium capitatum. The flowers of the tuberose, of the Jonquil, and of a species of narcissus are manufactured into essences ; also the leaves of the citronella plant, the root of the Jris florentina (violet root), the patchouli flowers, sandalwood, ete. Fortunately for many places in the Riviera, the consumption of these essences has not decreased in late years. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Fish-curing Factory, which is being established at Barbados under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, was opened on Saturday, January 23, for imspection by a number of leading merchants and others. ‘The visitors were received by Sir Daniel Morris, who addressed a few remarks giving an account of the successive steps which had led to the establishment of the factory. A considerable quan- tity of cured fish had already been successfully exported to British Guiana and Trinidad, and forty barreis of flying-fish, albacore, dolphin and sprats either pickled, salted or dried, were now available for disposal at reasonable prices. He mentioned that Barbados imported every year salted and pickled fish to the value of £47,000, and ventured to think that a portion of this sum, at any rate, might be saved, and the island greatly benefited. 44 THE AGRICULTURAL GLEANINGS. Island ordered through the Imperial Department of Agriculture for use in Jamaica during the next planting season, A ton of selected Sea cotton seed has been Among the exports from British Guiana for the period January 1, 1904 to January 12, 1904, are mentioned 5023 tons of molascuit. An old time distich, reminiscent of the period when Barbados largely produced cotton, still survives amongst the peasantry :— ‘T live in the thickets: I live very well, Upon guinea corn, coco and cotton to sell.’ The Board of Trade Journal referring to the exports of Grenada, says: ‘Cotton and cotton seed are at present exclusively the product of Carriacou, the principal dependency of Grenada. In 1902, the actual export was 2,212 ewt. of raw cotton, and 4,536 ewt. of cotton seed, valued at £4,069.’ At a meeting of the Managing Committee of the St. Lucia Agricultural Society on December 30, Sir Daniel Morris promised, if the necessary arrangements could be carried out, to attend a Conference of landowners and planters at Castries on Tuesday, February 23, to discuss the prospects of the cotton industry. Mr. A. H. Clark, a graduate of Harvard University, is on a visit to the Lesser Antilles for the purpose of making collections of fossils and mammals. Mr. Clark is specially interested in bird life and he has already made investigations likely to be of value from the scientific as well as the agricultural point of view. The Journal of the New York Botanical Garden for November 1903 contains an interesting report by Professor F. E. Lloyd on a ‘ Botanical expedition to the island of Dominica, British West Indies.’ Professor Lloyd acknowl- edges his indebtedness for valuable suggestions and assistance received from Mr. J. Jones, the Curator of the Botanic Station, and states that ‘Roseau can boast of a very delightful and useful Botanic Station.’ The Annual Report of the Sinithsonian Institute for 1902, which has just been issued, contains two articles on the volcanic eruptions in St. Vincent and Martinique. One of these is the preliminary report of Drs. Tempest Anderson and J. 8. Flett, reprinted from the Proceedings of the Royal Society, while the second is by J. C. Russell, of the United States National Geographical Society Expedition to the West Indies. At the conclusion of the latter paper, there is printed a useful bibliography of magazine articles, reports, ete., concerning these eruptions. NEWS. January 30, 1904. A Prize List of the Demerara County Show 1904, to be held at Eve Leary Barracks on February 26 next, has been forwarded to this Office through the courtesy of Mr. T. S. Hargreaves, the Secretary of the Show Committee. We notice that an extra prize is offered by his Excellency the Governor for 50 tb. of beef corned in the colony, and also one, offered by Mrs. Macquarrie, for the best conditioned, groomed and harnessed donkey. We learn from the Jamaica Da‘ly Telegraph of January 12 that there is every possibility of an industry in cassava starch being worked up in that colony. A factory has been erected and the proprietor (Mr. J. W. Middleton) is about to make a trial shipment of 1 ton to England. A sample of starch from this factory was recently pronounced by Mr. Cousins to be ‘ free from acid and all impurities’. ; The cultivation of bees is rapidly becoming a national industry in America. It is estimated that 300,000 people are more or less interested and engaged in bee culture. Thirty years ago the output of honey was estimated at 15,000,000 Ib. ; its value last year is estimated by the Government at £4,000,000. As is so often the case with American industries, a pleasing feature of bee-keeping is the large number of small farmers who follow it. (Indian Planting and Gardening, November 28, 1903.) Another very wise precaution to prevent cocoa-nut palms being up-rooted by wind is to plant the seed-nuts at the bottom of holes, 3 feet deep. The holes. so dug are not filled up by hand, seeing that the light sandy soil fills up the hole in course of time. The roots of palms planted in this manner are naturally deeper and better covered than are those of trees grown from seeds embedded in the usual manner, immediately below the surface. (The Colonial Report on the Cocos-Keeling Islands for 1903.) Mr. William M. Smith, Acting Agricultural Instructor at Grenada, writes: ‘The planters here complain of the great increase of the “ Brown Rot ” fungus during the past year. They have lost sight of the fact that, although the burying and burning of the pod shells in the field is expensive, the saving of the cacao trees from the disease- more than compensates for the expense incurred in this way.’ A circular (No. 52) recently issued by the Office of Experiment Stations of the United States Department of Agriculture gives a list of ‘A few good books and bulletins on nature study, school gardening and elementary agriculture for common schools.’ The aim of the circular is to recom- mend a few books that are likely to be useful to teachers and pupils. It is also suggested that the books mentioned might serve as a nucleus for a public school agricultural library. Potatos meant to be used for planting require vastly more careful treatment than potatos meant only to be eaten. Sometimes potatos are raised from the beginning, in a special field with special treatment of the soil, special cultivation, and altogether special attention, to be sold for seed purposes; but mostly such high cultivation is given nowadays to all farm crops, that an ordinary field is gone through, and the finest and healthiest-appearing plants are chosen, and those that yield prelifically of good sized potatos, not necessarily the largest, but the best merchantable yield, are taken, and the soundest potatos chosen from these as ‘seed.’ (Journal of the Jamaica Aaricultural Society, December 1903.) Vor. HI. No. 47. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 45 EDUCATIONAL. Agricultural Teaching in Jamaica. Ata meeting of the Board of Agriculture of Jamaica held on November 10 last, on the invitation of the Chairman (the Hon. Sydney Olivier, C.M.G.,), Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., spoke in reference to teaching elementary science and agriculture in the primary schools in the colony. He suggested that greater importance should be given to these subjects in the Code by allotting to them the same number of marks on inspection as is given for other primary subjects. He stated that in Trinidad and elsewhere in the West Indies there were already numerous school gardens established, and that, probably, the reason for the small number in Jamaica was that the regulations were too severe, i.e., that the ground must be at least } acre in extent and that it must be fenced and tools provided before- hand. He also suggested that at all Agricultural Shows held in the island there should be a special section for school children, where they might exhibit plants grown by themselves in pots. ‘The question of inspection was then discussed, and it appeared to the Board that if the number of the Agricultural Instructors were increased, say by four, the Education Department might invite their assistance to supervise and assist the working of school gardens and to report on “them for the Department. The Board after discussion of Sir Daniel Morris’ criticism recorded its opinion that the progress made in the development of agricultural elementary education during the five years, to which attention had been directed to it, was not so satisfactory as could be desired. It was resolved to recommend to the Governor that the Superintending Inspector of Schools should be placed on the Board of Agriculture in order to afford him an opportunity of keeping in closer touch with agricultural development in the colony. (Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, December 1903.) Lectures to Teachers in Jamaica. We learn from Jamaica papers that the annual course of lectures to elementary school teachers commenced on Monday, January 4, and was_ to continue till Friday, January 29. The general programme of the course, which is similar to those of former years, except that it has been arranged for a portion of the practical instruction to be given at the Mico Training College, where the teachers are being lodged, is given as follows in the Jamaica Times of January 2 :— 7—9.30 a.m. Practical Work and Demonstrations at the Mico, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays ; at Hope Gardens on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 11.30 —2.30 Agricultural Science Course by Mr. Tever- sham. Afternoon, three each week, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Addresses on special subjects at the Mico, commencing at 4.30 p.m., open to the public. Evening, Messrs. Peet and Skyers hold classes in Manual Work by the Code. AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. Barbados Local Exhibition. As stated in our fast issue, the fourth Local Agricultural Exhibition and Show of Stock for Peasant Proprietors was held under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture at Lower Estate, St. Michael, on Tuesday, January 12. The show was in every sense a success, the fine weather which prevailed throughout the day permitting a large attendance. The number of entries was not as large as at previous shows, but there was an undoubted improvement in the quality of the exhibits. There were distinct signs of greater care being bestowed upon the growth and preparation of the products, and the one hundred exhibits sent in by pupils from the Primary Schools were of distinct merit. The vegetables shown in Class II were particularly numerous and of fine quality. The starches, meals and other prepared products in Class IV, though not as numerous as hitherto, were of a high order and formed one of the most encouraging signs of the improvement that is being steadily brought about by these shows. The exhibition was visited by his Excellency the Governor who made a careful inspection of all the exhibits. After distributing the prizes, Sir Frederic Hodgson briefly addressed the gathering. He had been struck with the unmistakable advance on previous years, and thought they had learnt the lesson that an expenditure of time, labour and skill resulted in products of great value and more easily marketable. He advised the cultivation of vegetables, the rearing of poultry and production of eggs, by means of which they might materially increase their earnings. In conclusion he congratulated the Imperial Commissioner and Mr. Bovell on the success of the exhibition. Sir Daniel Morris thanked his Excellency for his presence and for distributing the prizes, which, he remarked, showed the deep concern taken by him in everything connected with the interests of the people of Barbados. The better quality of the exhibits and the better style in which they were presented showed that they were advancing step by step in improving the treatment of the soil and in deriving greater profit from their labours. Their thanks were due to Mr. G, L. Pile, M.C.P., for kindly permitting the use of the buildings in which to hold the exhibition ; to Mr. Bayne, the manager ; to Mr. Bovell and to the judges and other gentlemen who had so largely contributed to the success of the show. In reference to this exhibition, the Barbados Agricultural Reporter of January 16, has the following :— On visiting this exhibition, we were again reminded of the value of the Imperial Department of Agriculture to this island, not only in the efforts it has put forth to assist our principal industries, but in the development of the energies of our industrious peasantry on their small holdings, and in giving assistance to the practical education of the children in our elementary schools. 46 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 30, 1904. ANALYSIS OF GRENADA CACAO * SOIL. The following is a report by Professor J. P. d’ Albuquerque, M.A., F.LC., F.C.S., on two samples of soil from Belle Vue estate, Grenada, forwarded by the Commissioner of Agriculture for A. Wellesley Lewis, Esq :— The samples of soil were mixed and an average sample analysed : a similar course was pursued with the samples of subsoil. The analyses phosphoric acid. indicate a clayey soil, deficient in The total péreentage of potash is rather low, but of this a fair proportion is immediately available. The amount of carbonate of lime though not great is probably sufficient for the needs of the trees, The percentage of nitrogen is rather high. T recommend an application of 4 ewt. of basic slag and $ ewt. of sulphate of potash per acre either dug in the holes before the cacao is planted or lightly forked in between the trees. When the trees show signs of flagging growth, apply 1 ewt. per acre of nitrate of soda as a top dressing near the trees and soon after the cacao crop has been reaped. MECHANICAL ANALYSIS (RESULTS CALCULATED TO SOIL DRIED AT 100° c.). Soil. | Subsoil. Decent. Pounds per peeent Pounds per Acre. Acre. Diameter of Particulars. Gravel 3 millimetres to 1 mm. ... PAT 4°1 Coarse sand 1 95 op WG a oc 7 | 30 Medium sand 0-5 = ny AD eg 9 | 5-6 Find sand 0-2 an 55 O;05 ers. 22-1 21°6 * Silt 0-05 ” op WUE. = 5p . 0 21°3 | 24°3 Fine silt 0-01 5 op WIVES og 28-6 29-2 (Clay 0-002 ” ” 23° 12°2 Fine clay* Os) » » =—— 1000 | 160:0 96-6 92-9 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF FINE SOIL (RESULTS CALCULATED TO SOIL DRIED aT 100° C.). Soil. Subsoil. Peveant: Pounds per | poy cent. Pr punds per Acre. Acre. Insoluble siliceous matter ... 560 p60 309 roe 34-967 1,049,010 33887 1,016,610 Soluble silica... ae Se 500 he “066 1,980 “050 2,700 Potassium oxidet Ris 6a0 S00 Ree ee jet 126 3,780 126 3,780 Sodium oxide ... Sse aa ae ae ; ee dee 118 3,540 “114 3,420 Calcium oxide ode as 680 ate Ae) ee “620 18,600 “640 19,200 Magnesia a ase one O80 abi ae Bie "662 19,860 “756 22,680 Manganese oxide Gas 200 689 ee ae as ac 160 4,800 180 5.400 Tron oxide and alumina re ane awe aie sie aAD 46/139 1,384,17 47-208 1,416,240 Phosphoric anhydride } do6 00 766 ac ‘141 4,230 “112 3,360 Sulphuric anhydride ais ne Ae dis aa “096 2.880 “142 4,260 Carbonic anhydride +t sins oes = a oneta) 5,250 “205 6,150 Combined water and organic matter * ... aes eae 16°730 501,900 16°540 496,200 100-000 3,000,000 100-000 | 3,000,000 * Containing Nitrogen ee nia gn ee wae wee 294 8,820 ‘231 6,930 + Containing Potassium oxide soluble in 1 per cent. citric acid “020 600 “O21 630 + Containing Phosphoric anhydride soluble in 1 per cent. citric acid ... wes 600 os nee trace trace ++ Equal to Carbonate of Lime ea ace B98 11,940 “466 13,980 Vou. III. No. 47. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 47 MARKET REPORTS. London, — January 5, 1904. Messrs. Knarron, Piper & Co., Messrs. E. A. Dr Pass & Co. and Messrs. J. HALES Carp & Co., ‘THE LivErroon Corron AssocraTION WreEKLY CircuLar’, December 23, 1903; and ‘Tue Poustrc Lepcer,’ January 2, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 14/6 to 35/- per ewt. Anrrowroot—St. Vincent, 14d. to 3$d.; Bermuda, 1/3 to 1/8 per tb. Barara—1)9 to 2/3 per tb. Bees’-wax—£7 2s. 6d. to £7 7s. Gd. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 64/- to 72/- per cwt. ; Grenada, 53/- to 62/- per cwt.; Dominica, St. Lucia and Jamaica, 50/- to 54/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/2 per Ib. CorrEE—Jamaica, ordinary, 35/- to 55/- per ewt. Corra—Trinidad, £15 10s. to £15 12s. 6d. per ton, ¢.i.f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 1/2 to 1/3 per tb. Divi Divr— No quotations. Frvuir— Bananas—Canary Islands, 8/- to 11/- per bunch. Grave Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. OraANGES—Jamaica, 8/- to 10/- per case. PINE-APPLES—No quotations. Fustic—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Grxcer—Jamaica, 36/- to 55/- per ewt. Honey—Jamaica, 19/- to 28,6 per ewt. Istnciass—West Indian lump, 2/3 to 2/11; Cake, 1/5 to 1/7 per th. Kora Nurs—4d. to 7d. per tb. Live Jurce—Raw, 10d. to 1s. 2d. per gallon ; Concentrated, £13 to £13 10s. per cask of 108 gallons. Logwoop —£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—1/10 to 2)7 per th. Nirrare or Sopa—Agricultural, £9 12s. 6d. per ton. Nurmecs-—69’s to 60's, 1/9 to 2/4; 90’s to 80's, 1/2 to 1/6 per tb. Pimenro—-33d. to 4d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 9d. to 10d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/6 to 8/- per proof gallon. SaRSAPARILLA—No quotations. Suear—Crystallized, 15/- to 16/9 per ewt.; Muscovado, 11/- to 14/6 ; Molasses Sugar, 11/9 to 16/3. SunpHate or AmMonta—£12 17s. 6d. per ton. Tamarmnps—Antigua, 8/- to 8,6 per ewt. Halifax, N.S.,—December 29, 1903.— ‘ Marnie MERCHANT.’ Bananas—$2'25 to $2°50 per bunch. OraNncEs—Jamaica, $5-00 to $5°50 per barrel. Prvne-appLEes—$3'50 for case of 24. New York,—January 8, 1904.—Messrs. GILLEsPrE Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao— African, 12c. to 12}c.; Caracas, 13}ce. to 14sec. ; Jamaica, 10$c. to 12$¢.; Grenada, 1235c. to Ldc.; Trinidad, 13$c. to 14$c. per tb. Cocoa-NuTs—Trinidads, $17°00 to $19°00; Jamaicas, $21-00 to $23°00 per M., selected. Corrre—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 8c. to 8c. per tb. ; Manchester grades, 10c. to 12c. per tb. Gincer—Jamaica, Te. to 8jc. per tb. Goat Skrxs—Jamaicas, 50c. to 54c. per th. Grave Fruir—$5:00 to $7:00 per barrel. Ornances—$3'75 to $4:00 per barrel. Pimento—7he. to 7}e. per th. Russer—No quotations. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 34c.; Muscovados, 89°, 3e Molasses, 89°, 2}c. per Ib. — INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—January 16, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lynco & Co. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°60 per 100 th. Csacao—$13-00 per 100 fb. Cocoa-Nuts—$9°37 per M. for unhusked nuts. CoFFEE—Jamaica and ordinary Rio, $9-°00 to $9°50 per 100 tb. respectively. Hay—$1°-25 per 100 th. Manvres—-Nitrate of soda, $65°00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76-00 to $85-00 ; Sulphate of potash, $67-°00; Sheep Manure, $6°25 per ton (ex ship). Mo rasses—No quotations. Oxtoxs—$3'50 per 100 th. Poratos, ENeiisH—$2°75 per 100 tb. Rice—Ballam, $5:00 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna $360 per 100 tb. Suear—No quotations. British Guiana,—January 14, 1904.—Messrs. Wintine & Ricwrer. Arrowhkoot—St. Vincent, $8°50 per barrel. Barara—40c. to 42c, per tb. Cacao—Native, Ile. to 12c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—$5-50 per barrel. Cocoa-nutTs—$11:00 to $12-00 per M. Correre—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 13c. per tb. (retail). —Creole, 1le. to 12c. per tb. Duat—$3-50 to $3°60 per bag of 168 Tb. Eppors—$1°44 per barrel. Motasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 15ce. per gallon, casks included. Oxtons—2he. to 3c. per tb., ex store; Garlic, 6c. to 7c. Pea Nurs—Curacoa, 3}c. ; American, 5c. per th. (retail). Priantarys—20c. to 60c. per bunch. Poratos, ENGLisH--$2°50 to $2°80 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $460 to $4°65 per 177 tb., ex store ; Creole, 18e. to 20e. per gallon (retail). Sweet Poraros—Barbados, $1°44 per barrel. Tannras— $2°64 per bag. Yams—White, $1°68 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $1°85 ; Yellow, $2°20 to $2°30; White, $3°50; Molasses, $1°60 to $1:90 per 100 tb. Triper—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. Wataba SHINGLES—$3°00 to $5°00 per M. Trinidad,—January 14, 1904—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co., and Messrs. Epcar Trire & Co. 3ALATA—34e. to 36e. Cacao—Ordinary, $13°25 to $13°75; Estates, $14:00 to $14°75 per fanega. Cocoa-Nuts—$16-00 per M. f.o.b., selected in bags of 100, (husked). Cocoa-Nut Meat—lje. per Ib. Cocos-Nur Om—55e. per Imperial Gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, 7%c. per tb. Copra—$2°50 to $2°60 per 100 th. Oxtons—$3-25 to $3°50 per 100 tb. Poraros, EnctisH—$1'10 to $1:25 per 100 tb. Ricr—Yellow, $4:°25 to $4:50; White Table, $5°25 to $5°75 per bag. Suear—No quotations. 4& THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. January 30, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE ASE ea Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [a2: Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. “CACAO.” | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. BY RECENTLY ISSUED: Pamphlet No. 28,— Joo. HAR F:L.s. _| ‘BARBADOS AND PORTO RICO MOLASSES.’ NEW EDITION. Price 3d. Post Free, 383d. ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. WV, NO. 3) Papers on Cotton. Price 6d. Post Free, 8. A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND CHEMISTRY OF IN THE P : COMMERCIAL CACAO. RESS Pamphlet No. 29,— DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. LECTURES ON DISEASES OF THE SUGAR-CANE, Containing report of Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S., on visit Do is r ihe : Fe sence Price 3s. per copy to the cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. [50.] 5 ah\ \ ay) } ; S Tea \ si GSH UH" a Leg N JN ay wy, Re Re Cape PNG pra | Et Sige CM: al DS A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE Vou. III. No. 48. IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. BARBADOS, FEBRUARY 13, 1904. Price ld. CONTENTS. Pace. PAGE Bacteria and the Nitrogen Gleanings ... ... 60 Problem ... ... ... 51 | Grenada, Exports of ... 57 Bee-keeping :— West Indian Honey on Royal Mail Steamers 54 Indigo, Natural versus Artificialan seem cecne es OG; Insect Notes :— = Experiment Station at Cacao, Cultivation in Lagos 56 Montserrat... ... ... 58 Cashew Tree ... ... ... 52 Cotton :— Disease at Montserrat... 5: SCCM sic, atert wawee ctval soe) OG Jamaica Soils ... ... ... 3 Machinery for Sale ... ... 5: | Market Reports... ... 6 Metric System... ... «.. Department Publications... 63 Mosquitogeiaas \ vane es oe eee | Mule-breeding in Trinidad 59 Dominica :— VNuscouad Sous 56 Crop Prospects ... ... 57 ao Property for Sale... ... 6 a) Notes and Comments ... 56 Onion Seed... ... ... «2. 56 Orange, An Abnormal... 55 Our Book Shelf :— A Treatise on Cacao ... 61 | Practical Pollination... ... 51 Sugar Industry :— . 49} Antigua Central Factory 51 British Guiana, Cane- farmingsineee ne) a2) OL Grocery Sugars inCanada 50 | Sunflower asa Crop... ... d4 Educational :—- Nature Study... ... ... 59 School Gardens in rIMIdad ya ees) ees) 10201 OD) Fish-curing Industry at Barbados pee ee Fruit and Vegetables, Grading of... ... ... 52 Temperate in West madtesy cay ceeiydeoyi ws Tropical in England ... 5: Mubene Parasites, Render- Tobago, Forest Reserva- & ing Plants Immune | sons geo against... . 56 | West Indian Products ... 61 bo ot Fish-curing Industry at Barbados. E published in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 217) an extract relating to experiments that were being tried in curing flying fish, in which it was mentioned that, Mr. G. W. Hunt had obtained, through the Imperial Department of Agriculture, the use of buildings on the Reef Recreation Ground for carrying on a fish- curing business. These buildings had originally been purchased from the military authorities by the General Board of Health for quarantine purposes. With the object of making better known the efforts that had been made during the last twelve months to establish a fish-curing industry in the island, and with the view of obtaining the assistance of merchants and others in disposing of the fish on a commercial scale, a number of gentlemen interested in the undertaking were invited to inspect the buildings on January 23, and to see something of the results of Mr. Hunt’s efforts. Sir Daniel Morris explained that the experiment had now arrived at a stage when it must either come to an end, or embark upon a career of comparative prosperity. It was his hope that fish- curing would make such progress in Barbados as to become one of the established industries of the island. What he wished to point out was that, when an industry of this kind had been shown to be a practi- cable one, it was necessary, in order to carry it on on commercial lines, for it to receive general support from the mercantile community. He therefore appealed to those present to do what they could to remove any prejudice that may happen to exist as to a new food of this kind. That the fish was perfectly wholesome, the letters that had been received from Trinidad and British Guiana, to which colonies several successful shipments had already been made, amply testified. 50 “THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fresruary 13, 1904. He would like to add that, while they were endeavouring to build up an export trade in salted and pickled fish, they were particularly anxious that the fish should, as far as possible, be utilized locally by the people and in the public institutions of the colony. In this way the importations of salted and pickled fish from the United States and Canada might be reduced. Barbados imported every year salted and pickled fish to the value of about £47,000, and while it could not be hoped to save the whole of this large sum, it might be possible, if the industry were placed on a permanent footing, that at least a portion of it, say one-third, might be saved with considerable advantage to the island. Sir Daniel stated that the subject of organizing the West Indian fisheries and rendering them more generally profitable had been engaging the attention of the Imperial Department of Agriculture for some time. He had, at one time, hoped it would be possible to establish a fishery branch of the Department as was the case with the Agricultural Departments of England, of Ireland, and of the Cape of Good Hope. The only difficulty was in regard to funds. The Secretary of State for the Colonies had approved of the proposal provided the various West Indian Colonies would contribute a share towards the cost of its maintenance. He had communicated with the different governments, but owing to the prevailing depression in the sugar industry and other circumstances, they were unable to afford material help. This was the case especially with Barbados. The reply he received in the ¢ colony was that the Governor-in-Executive Committee regretted that owing to financial considerations it was unable to assist with funds for starting a fishing industry. The Governor (Sir Frederic M. Hodgson) was, personally, in favour of something being done. That was three years ago. In May last year, Mr. Hunt approached him and asked if it would be possible to obtain assistance from the Department in starting an experimental fish-curing factory. Mr. Hunt mentioned the desirability of obtaining the present buildings. Eventually the Government of Barbados agreed to transfer them with the adjoining out-offices to the Imperial Department of Agriculture. The main building was 60 feet long and about 20 feet wide, and was well suited for the purpose in view. Since the building had been transferred, the Department had incurred expense in removing the partitions. re-arrang- ing some of the out-buildings and other necessary changes and additions. A jetty had been provided for landing the fish, the fore-shore had been fenced in and a fish-scaling shed had been erected. Also water had case of this been laid on from the mains of the Water Works Department. Altogether, with the aid of the funds of the Department, Mr. Hunt was now ina position to prepare and cure about 20 barrels of fish per day. That would mean something like 4,000 to 5,000 barrels per annum. It would be noticed that Mr. Hunt did not put up flying fish. only. There were also albacore, dolphin, shark and dried sprats. The fish was either pickled, salted or dried. The Imperial Department of Agriculture prepared to continue to give Mr. Hunt assistance from a scientific point of view and to furnish him with information, in regard to fishery matters, desired from other countries. Messrs. Hiins- chell & Co. were general agents for the factory ; but it had been arranged that merchants in Bridgetown, if they preferred it, could obtain their supplies direct from Mr. Hunt. Mr. Hunt at present had over 40 barrels of cured flying fish in stock. Each barret contained about 600 fish weighing in all about 150 tb. It was estimated that cured flying fish could be delivered locally at about $4:00 per barrel, or at about one-half the cost of salted fish from Canada, Was SUGAR INDUSTRY. Grocery sunt in Canada. The following letter in regard to the condition of the sugar market in the Dominion of Canada, has been received from Mr, Alexander Wills, of Montreal, dated January 21, 1904 :— In my last I advised you I would refer shortly to the position of British West Indian sugars in Canada. I have now pleasure in enclosing a copy of a circular letter that we have issued in the interest of the sugar shippers, in order to acquaint them with the conditions at the present moment existing in the Canadian markets for, especially, refining sugars. The letter speaks for itself and we trust it will save some of our friends making losses, or at least minimizing them. It may place business on a better basis by having all sugars for this purpose jirst offered direct to Canada, and so free them from the depressing effects of being handled by New York brokers, who offer them in turn to our refiners under the market conditions created by the passing of the Cuban Reciprocity Treaty. Grocery sugars are not thus affected and a good and growing market is to be found here. Montreal is the greatest centre for handling all classes of sugars and good results can be obtained for shipments here ; but this class of sugar must be shipped in bags or barrels, bags preferably, and not hogsheads, This package is of no use here and stops the sale of sugar. I understand some proposals are being considered in Jamaica on the above subject, and if you can advise me om what is being done, I shall be greatly obliged, Vot. Ill. No. 48. Antigua Central Sugar Factory. The following preliminary notice, signed by the Hon. Francis Watts, Chairman of the Central Sugar Factories" Board, appeared in the’ Leeward Islands Gazette of January 21, 1904 :— Under an agreement recently entered into between the Government of this Presidency and the owner of the Belvidere estates, arrangements have been made whereby sugar-canes grown by peasants, up to an aggregate amount of 1,500 tons in a year, will be purchased at Bendal’s Works on the following conditions :— Payment will be made for canes on a sliding scale, which will be published shortly. The price is never to be jess than 7s. 6d. per ton for good canes. Canes to be accepted inust be clean, sound and ripe. They are to be delivered at Bendal’s Works. Peasants desiring to sell canes to the Bendal’s Factory must give timely notice to the Manager of the Factory of their intention to send canes. Detailed particulars, as to the conditions under which canes will be received and paid for, may be obtained on application to the Manager of Bendal’s Factory or to the Chairman of the Central Sugar Factories Board. Cane-farming in British Guiana. The West India Committee Circular of January 5, after referring to the progress of cane-farming in Trinidad, gives the following account of what is being done in this connexion in British Guiana :— For some time past efforts have been made to start a similar industry in British Guiana, but the conditions regarding drainage, transport, etc., in that colony have been such as to retard the development of cane-farming hitherto. Tt will be noted with satisfaction, however, from the figures given below, for which we are indebted to Mr. F. I. Scard, of British Guiana, that some substantial progress has been made during the past three years. The figures show :— 1903. 1900. Essequibo (including Wakenaam) 580 45 Demerara B00 ee 308 26 Berbice ... on sis 130 1,018 cal These figures represent the acreage of peasant farmers’ canes dealt with by fifteen estates. The canes are mostly paid for by the punt load, at a price equal to about 8s. per ton, or by the gallon in one or two instances. Three estates adopt a sliding scale of price, according to the value of 96 per cent. crystals in Georgetown. _ Land for the purpose is provided by the estates in eight cases. In the Essequibo district and in one instance in Demerara, the managers speak encouragingly of the industry. The figures given do not include canes supplied in quantity by the employers of labour, but merely those grown by the individual exertions of the peasantry. The growth of the industry has been considerable, but it is much to be feared that the present low price of sugar will affect its immediate future very prejudicially. In Demerara the cost of canes, at 8s. per ton, to make a ton of sugar, would be somewhere about £5, leaving a loss to the manufacturer, while a reduction of price, in the present position of the industry, would, it is feared, effectually discourage the farmers. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 51 BACTERIA AND THE NITROGEN PROBLEM. A paper on this subject, by Mr. George T. Moore, Physiologist-in-Charge of the Laboratory of Plant-Physiology, Bureau of Plant Industry, was published in the Yearbook of the United States Department of Agriculture for 1902. The author first points out the importance of nitrogen to plants, which often overshadows that of potash or of phosphates, ete. He goes on’ to describe the ways in which nitrogen is lost, the principal being the waste due to modern sewage methods, the action of denitrifying bacteria, the washing out of soluble nitrogenous salts from the soil by rain, ete. i To supply this waste we have the supplies of nitrate of soda in Chili and Peru, which are, however, rapidly becoming exhausted ; the deposits of guano, which are also nearly exhausted, and the sulphate of ammonia obtained in the distillation of coal. There finally remains the nitrogen of the atmosphere. Many attempts have been made to combine this nitrogen with oxygen artificially, and to convert the compounds formed into nitrates, but none of them have yet been successful. Certain soil bacteria are known, which are able, while living independently, to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Attempts have been made to inoculate soils with these bacteria, but the results have not been uniformly successful, and the matter is still in an experi- mental stage. There are, again, the bacteria which inhabit the nodules on the roots of leguminous plants. Leguminous plants possessed of these nodules are able to flourish and produce seed in soils, which are absolutely devoid of nitrogen, the necessary supplies of this element being taken from the air. There are, however, certain regions in which the soil does not contain the right kind of bacteria, and in which, therefore, no tubercles are formed on the roots of leguminous crops, and no nitrogen is absorbed from the atmosphere. Cultures of these organisms have been prepared for the purpose of introducing them into the soil, the cultures being put up in tubes and sold as ‘nitragin.’ Cultures of special varieties of bacteria were prepared for each kind of leguminous crop. Here again, however, the results of inoculating the soil were usually disappointing. Investi- gations, made in the laboratory of plant physiology of the Bureau of Plant Industry, have led to better results. By the use of proper media artificial cultures have been made, which have proved quite successful in inoculating soils. The cultures are made on liquid media, which are soaked up in some absorbent material and then allowed to dry. These dry cultures retain their vitality for months. To use them, they are mixed up with a large quantity of water and the bacteria are left for a time to revive and multiply. The water containing the bacteria is then either applied to the soil, or the seeds to be sown are soaked in it before being planted. The trials have been made on a large scale, with very satisfactory results. Practical Pollination. Mr. Davidson, of Fanners, Wickam Bishops, Essex, described an ingenious method of artificial fertilization of flowers as follows :—‘I have adopted a method of economizing pollen, the ordinary camel’s- hair brush being very wasteful. If a stick of sealing-wax be rubbed briskly on the coat-sleeve, as for electrical experiment, and then presented to the flower, the pollen flies to it and adheres. Every particle can thus be utilized far more easily than with a brush.’ (Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society, October 1903.) 52 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fresruary 13, 1904. WEST INDIAN FRUIT. GRADING AND PACKING FRUIT AND VEGETABLES. The following is a brief summary of a leaflet (No. 98) recently issued by the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries on the subject of preparing produce for the market :— Admirable and necessary as the highest cultivation must always be, yet something more is required to secure complete commercial success, namely, the conveyance of the produce in the best possible style to the market or to the consumer. It is at this point too many fail, and a material proportion of unprofitable sales is mainly attributable to neglect in presenting goods in the most satisfactory manner. It is not sufficiently recognized how readily all fruits are injured by rough handling. Even hard, unripe apples and pears are soon bruised, and not only do these marks show as serious defects in the appearance of the fruits, but the keeping qualities are also affected. One general rule is applicable to all fruits, and that is, they shouid never, if it can be avoided, be gathered when they are wet, especially if they have to be packed for sending a long distance. In grading fruits the points of importance are:—(1) freedom from injuries and blemishes ; (2) good size and even form ; (3) colour ; (4) high quality with ripeness. The first two are essential to all high-class fruits. The bulk of fruit grading will be mainly concerned with variations in size ; it is of the utmost importance to ensure that each grade be as uniform throughout as close attention can accomplish. The essential rules in grading vegetables of all kinds are the following :—(1) Exclude all immature, overgrown, coarse or defective specimens from the leading grades. (2) Make each grade as uniform as possible. (3) Let freshness and fitness for use be the characteristics of all vegetables when consigned to market or consumers. The best culture and most careful grading may lose all their value through neglectful packing. In dealing with fruits the essentials for success are as follows :— (1) Use only perfectly sound fruits. (2) Pack firmly, without crushing. (3) Use the best, elastic, odourless materials as packing. (4) Place all choice and ripe fruits in small quantities and shallow packages. Various materials are available for packing purposes, but much the best are the several grades of wood-wool now prepared, the coarsest being suitable for large packages and heavy fruits, and the finest, softest samples for the choicest and ripe fruits. All choice and delicate fruits should be encircled with bands of folded, soft, tissue paper, having a glaced surface, which must be in contact with the fruit. In the matter of branding or labelling, a grower should adopt a uniform system and adhere to it, so that his brand may become known and have a market value, and every package ought to have the name of the variety and quality boldly printed on the label. THE CASHEW TREE. In forwarding an extract from the St. Thomas J/ail Notes of January 25 on the cashew tree (A nacardium occidentale) Dr. John Hutson, of Barbados, suggests that as this tree grows well over the St. Andrew’s hiils in Barbados, it might be worth while to make use of its products. The extract shows that American botanists are of opinion that the cultivation of the cashew should be encouraged in Porto Rico for the following reasons :— 1. No other nut can compare with it in delicious flavour. Candy manufacturers have a good thing in this nut. 2. The kernel yields a nutritive oil, equal to almond and superior to olive oil. 3. The gum is of special value being sub-astringent and specially obnoxious to insect life. The mucilage is therefore useful for book-binders. 4, The juice from the trunk is an indelible ink. 5. The bark is useful for tanning. 6. Acids obtainable are valuable as stimulants, anzes- thetics and lotions. One of the oils is a substitute for iodine. 7. Valuable as a cosmetic, will remove tans. TROPICAL FRUITS IN ENGLAND. It is recorded that among the chief attractions of the London fruit market at Christmas time were custard-apples, avocado pears, and persimmons. Custard-apples and avocado pears were of excellent quality, and the prices ran from 12s. to 18s. per dozen fruits, wholesale. The deep orange-red persimmons were selling at 3s. adozen. It is probable that most of these fruits came from Madeira and the Canaries, though the persimmons may have come from the United States, where they are grown to a considerable extent. The persimmon is a Japanese fruit that is very little known in England, but it is commonly cultivated in the United States, being usually propagated by collar-grafting upon seedlings of the native species (Diospyros virginiana). ; Vou. III. No. 48. COTTON. Cotton Disease in Montserrat. The following is the report of Mr. H. A. Ballou, B.Sc., Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, on his investigations relating to the leaf-blister mite which has been causing so much damage to cotton in Montserrat :— During my stay in Montserrat I visited cotton fields in all districts of the island with the view of obtaining any new facts as to the present distribution, the probable origin, and the seriousness of the infestation in different localities. In addition, a considerable share of my time was spent at Dagenham estate and vicinity and at the Grove Experiment Station, studying the development of the disease since my previous visit and devising and arranging the details of systematic experiments for its control. Dagenham estate is on the leeward side of the island ; here where the leaf-blister mite was first noticed, the damage from its ravages has been more serious by far than in any other part of the island. Mr. Watson, the Attorney, informed me that the yield of cotton from 130 acres will be no more, and probably considerably less, than that obtained from 30 acres the previous crop. In several fields the cotton was being up-rooted and burned. These fields, under normal conditions, should have gone on bearing for two months longer. At Dagenham there was a serious outbreak of the cotton worm in October, and in several large fields all the leaves were eaten off except those which were attacked by the leaf-blister mite. These mite-infested leaves were so distorted and deformed that they were of no use to the plants, and the mites from them infested the new leaves as fast as they were produced, making it especially difficult for the plants to recover. On other estates, fields, which were entirely defoliated by the caterpillars and which were not infested by the mite, made good recovery, and at the time of my visit gave promise of fair crops. The fields that were first attacked suffered most or they were completely destroyed first. On the windward side of the island the leaf-blister mite is to be found in nearly every field of cotton. At Trants, fields, which were in bearing and were slightly infested at the time of my visit in September, had in Junuary just finished an excellent crop. I was informed that these fields would soon be cleared and the plants burned without any attempt to produce a ratoon crop. Certain fields at Bethel and Whites are infested but only in spots, and these spots for the most part are on the windward side of each field. In the northern part of the island several fields of cotton were visited belonging to the Montserrat Lime Juice Company. These were slightly infested in each case, and as in other cases, nearly always at the windward side of the field. In the south part of the island the same condition was found, the infestation was slight, and on the windward side of each field, showing that the pest had been carried by the wind, and indicating that the mite in each case comes from outside the cotton field. One of the most common of the Montserrat wild plants is the shrub known as Acacia arabica. .... This plant is very seriously infested by a mite, which causes small, sub-globular galls on the leaflets and peculiar, irregularly shaped blisters on the young tender wood of branches and newly formed spines. The mite is very similar to the mite of the cotton, but a little smaller (see West Indian Bulletin, Vol. IV, p. 282). The galls on the a0e THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 53 leaflets are not at all like those on the cotton leaf, but where the wood is attacked, very much the same effect is produced, as that noticed on the tender stems of cotton. It frequently happens that several galls occur upon a single leaflet and sometimes on both upper and under surfaces. The galls are generally distinct and do not run together to form irregular, distorted masses, except upon the stems and spines where they frequently occur. At Dagenham, there are no Acacias growing very near the cotton fields in which the Hriophyes was first discovered, but in every case of recent infestation, as noticed at this visit, infested Acacias occurred in greater or less numbers to the windward and generally at a very short distance. In spite of these facts it is not possible to say definitely that this mite has come from the Acacia to infest the cotton. . .. The remedies for the cotton leaf-blister mite are still in the experimental stage. The experiments, which were commenced at the time of my visit to Montserrat in September, were discontinued on account of unfavourable weather conditions. Mr. Jordan, however, carried out some experiments along similar lines, and his results indicate that a mixture of lime and sulphur in equal parts, dusted on the plants, will help to control the pest. During this recent visit to Montserrat I arranged fcr two series of experiments, which should give more conclusive evidence as to the value of different insecticides in controlling this pest. One of these is a field experiment, for which Mr. C. Watson kindly provided } acre of land, which he had put in good condition for planting, and he promised the necessary labour for planting and for the application of the insecticides. The other series consists of several box experiments at the Grove Experiment Station. Mr. Jordan has undertaken the supervision of these, as well as the infestation experiment. It is hoped that these experiments will give results sufficiently definite to be of service in the preparation for the next crop of cotton. A report giving details of the experiments, the observations, results and conclusions, will probably follow in due course. Nothing has been added to the knowledge of the life-history of EHriophyes gossypii during this visit. The working out of this life-history would require several weeks of continuous investigation, and knowing that the necessary time was not available for this purpose, I devoted myself to the investigations as given in the preceding paragraphs. The following is a brief summary of this report with some conclusions that may be of more or less interest :— (a) The cotton leaf-blister mite has increased in severity in those fields, where it was already established, and has appeared in the cotton fields in all parts of the island. (b) The attack of the cotton worm greatly added to the injury by the mite in badly infested fields. (c) The appearance of the mite in recently infested fields indicates that it may have come from the common wild Acacia. (d) Weather conditions, during the past season have been rather unfavourable to the cotton, and consequently it suffered more from the attacks of the pests. (e) Considerable time is required after infestation before the attack becomes a menace to the crop. Ordinary conditions of clean culture and the careful destruction of all plants growing in cotton fields, at the end of the crop season, will probably keep the pest within reasonable bounds. (f) Experiments now in progress should demonstrate remedial measures of value in the cultivation of succeeding crops. 54 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fresruary 13, 1904- BEE-KEEPING. West Indian Honey on Royal Mail Steamers. In a recent letter to the Superintendent of the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company at Barbados, the suggestion was made by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture that a supply of ‘comb honey ’ might be obtained from St. Lucia, Dominica, Montserrat and other islands in the West Indies for the use of passengers on the transatlantic and _ intercolonial steamers. It is understood that Jamaica honey is entirely used on the steamers of the Imperial Direct West India Mail Service, and there is no doubt that its use serves to bring this product tothe notice of the public. The following communication, forwarded by Com- mander Owen, R.N.R., will show that the suggestion has been readily adopted, and it is to be hoped that the interests of West Indian bee-keepers will thereby be enhanced :— Attached please find a copy of a circular to Pursers of the intercolonial steamers directing them to obtain honey at the Leeward Islands and have it placed on the saloon tables. It may be useful for suppliers to know that the proper channel for obtaining supplies, according to the Jatest regulations, is through the Company’s Agents. If it proves a success, I will ask our Provedore Manager at Southampton to have it advertised on board the transatlantic ships. The following preserves and pickles, made in Barbados, are now advertised on board all the Company’s West Indian mail ships :—Guava jelly, guava cheese, pine-apple jam, shaddock rind, limes in syrup, hot sauce, mountain cabbage and pepper essence. [Circular.] Honey forms one of the minor industries in the Leeward Islands and it is considered by the Imperial Depart- ment of Agriculture that the Company’s ships could be the means of advertising and so encouraging it. At the same time it might be appreciated by passengers ; some of them are certain to like it and perhaps prefer it to jam or marmalade. While it is desired to have it placed on the saloon tables for the above reasons, the Company is not to be put to any more expense than would be incurred by adding another brand of jam or pickles to our store list. The Barbados industries of guava jelly, guava marmalade, pickles, shaddock rind, mountain cabbage and preserved limes are now regularly advertised on board all the Company’s West India mail ships and it is desired to do the same for the honey industry. It is obtainable at St. Kitt’s, Montserrat and at St. Lucia. Please give your attention to the above and report the results to me after a fair trial, for the information of the Company. It would be well if bee-keepers in the various islands were to communicate with the Company’s Agents, as advised above, with a view to enabling this experiment to be carried out successfully. THE SUNFLOWER AS A CROP. In the January issue of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, Dr. James Neish gives his experiences in the cultivation of sunflowers as follows :— To grow the sunflower beneficially as a crop, it should be planted in the spring-time of the year. During the past year the writer has carried on experiments, which show that when this seed is sown during the later and hot months of the year, in our tropical climate, the yield is diminished as compared with the yield obtained from a crop sown in February or March. It would, indeed, appear that as this plant is naturally a plant growing to advantage in temperate latitudes, we should adapt it to much similar conditions, and plant at that period of the year when vegetation first awakens, namely, in February or March. The sunflower then grows into a tall stem and bears a large flower at its summit. This is the characteristic growth of the Russian sunflower. The seeds in the large, single flower are well developed under attentive cultivation, and such seeds are well adapted for preservation, and may be depended on for growing succeeding crops. As already stated, the early crop not only gives a better yield, but the quality of the early crop is improved. On the contrary, our late-sown crops gave smaller plants, and they rushed into flower and seed before attaining a proper growth, the flowers being small, and the seeds being comparatively worthless. It has been shown that late-sown crops are not advantageous. It would appear that the high temperature of the later months stimulates the plants into permature flowering and seeding. The sunflower requires a rich and well-worked soil ; the plough and Assam fork are the implements to employ, and the soil should be made fine for a seed-bed. The modes of seeding and cultivation should closely resemble those of Indian corn. If the hoe be used, shallow excavations should be made in straight lines, 3 feet apart, and nct more than three seeds should be dropped in the excavations, taking some care to drop the seeds widely apart; they should be properly covered with fine moist soil and the soil compacted sufficiently to guard against birds, and also to ensure germi- nation. During the growth of the plant it should receive attentive hoeing. On the large scale this may be done with the cultivator, but some hand-hoeing will also be necessary close to the stem in order that all weeds may be destroyed. The plant quickly responds to attentive hoeing, and the careful cultivator will find it to his interest to give a frequent hoeing so as to keep the plant in active growth. During growth the sunflower seems to have few enemies. Fowls should be kept away, otherwise they soon acquire the habit of flying up to the seed-head and eating out the seeds. After the seed is harvested, however, the grower must beware of rats; the seed should be stored in rat-proof bins, after thoroughly drying the heads. In Jamaica the value of the sunflower as a crop will be found to consist in furnishing a plentiful supply of nectar to bees, and the seeds are most serviceable as a food for fowls, which rapidly get fat on this food when they are fully grown. The white seed is said to give a better quality of oil, but in our experience the grey-seeded sort gives a greater yield of seed. It is advisable to procure the grey Russian seed from a dealer. A very good sort of this kind was obtained locally from the agent of Burpee, of Philadelphia, the crop from this giving the best return. The object of this communication has been to suggest early planting as the best to command success. Vou. III. No, 48. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. or or CULTIVATION OF TEMPERATE FRUIT IN THE WEST INDIES. A reference is made in a recent issue of the Demerara Daily Chronicle to the efforts which have been made to cultivate English fruit in that colony. With regard to the attempts of the Mayor, Mr. E. A. V. Abraham, and Mr. M. A. Perreira, of the firm of Messrs. J. P. -Santos & Co., in this direction, the Datly Chronicle states :— ‘Mr. Abraham has succeeded fairly well with cherries, which are giving fruit at the present time, but not consider- ing the trees sutticiently grown, Mr. Abraham is taking off the blossoms. Mr. Abraham has also succeeded with pears and peaches, and an American apple tree he planted is now well grown, although it is considered doubtful whether it will ever yield fruit. Several experiments made by Mr. Perreira went well until the trees reached the size that Mr. Abraham’s has attained, but the plants died after this. Mr. Perreira’s efforts with strawberries have been better rewarded. He has several beds in fruit at present, and encouraged by the size and quality of his strawberries, he has decided to extend his cultivation.’ In other parts of the West Indies the question of growing temperate fruit, although never amounting to any- thing like an industry, has, also, from time to time occupied the attention of those having estates at high elevations where the climatic conditions are suitable for the growth of such plants. Thus, in Dominica it is recorded that Mr. George Snyder and others have obtained fruits of English apples and straw- berries at elevations of 2,000 feet and upwards. In Grenada, Dr, William Laing has obtained similar results with apples at Richmond estate; at St. Lucia, strawberries have been successfully grown at the Botanic Station at sea-level, and from other islands in the Windward and Leeward groups we Jearn of more or less successful sporadic attempts in this direction. At Jamaica, according to the Annual Reports of the Director of Public Gardens and Plantations for the years 1897 and 1898, such temperate fruits as figs, peaches, apples, pears, plums and Himalayan raspberries, planted at Resource Orange Garden, at an elevation of between 3,000 and 4,000 feet, grew well and, in the case of apples, are said to have ‘borne good crops of fruit.’ The chief difficulty experienced in the cultivation of temperate fruits in the tropics is that of checking the continuous growth of the trees during the winter months, November to February, when plants of all kinds in northern climates enjoy a complete rest. At Jamaica attempts have been made to imitate this condition of plant growth by removing the soil from around the roots during those months and replacing it with the return of spring. The plan has however not given satisfactory results in the case of any stone fruit—peaches, plums, etc. With the exception of strawberries, which, as already mentioned, have been found to grow and bear crops at low elevations, it may be assumed from the foregoing, that on small areas at high elevations in these islands the cultivation of temperate fruits on a limited scale is possible. At the same time it is doubtful if it could be made remunerative as an industry. Elevation must always be the main feature in determining the success or failure of such experiments. AN ABNORMAL ORANGE. A description of an abnormal orange found growing in British Guiana was given insthe Agricultural News (Vol. I, p- 201). In that case part of the fruit had the appearance of a sour orange, and part that of a sweet orange. Fig. 5 shows another abnormal orange, obtained through Mr. J. R. Bovell from Mr. H. T. Carrington, of Welches plantation, Barbados. On being dissectéd this fruit was found to have a very peculiar structure. ~ There appeared to be two placentae—one thick and displaced towards one side, while what was apparently the second formed a band across the long diameter. The cells were arranged irregularly—most appeared to radiate from the,band, the seeds being all in its immediate neighbourhood, Fic. 5. An ApnorMAL ORANGE. It is difficult to say whether the two placentae have arisen from two ovaries, or whether one placenta is merely adventitious and of later growth. Another possibility is that the former of these apparent placentae is not a placenta at all, but merely of the nature of a thickening of the rind due to some injury, or, if this is a twin fruit, a remnant of what might have been a dividing wall between the two. MACHINERY FOR SALE. A horse-power driving gear, recently imported into Antigua, is offered for sale. This could be used for driving any machinery, such as chaff cutter, corn mills, ete. It can be worked by any number of horses, from one to four, so that the power generated will depend on the number of horses employed. This part of the machinery cost £11 10s. 3d., and the proportion of importation charges amounted to £1, making a total of £12 10s. 3d. The following is the description, taken from the catalogue of Messrs. Hobson and Co., 17, State Street, New York :-— Hobson & Co.’s Iron Frame Horse Gear, No. 14. This is a very compact, high speed, all iron gear, perfectly adapted for driving light threshing machines, cross-cut wood saws, feed cutters, grinding mills, ete. At the ordinary walking gait of a horse, it will develop 200 revolutions per minute on the tumbling shaft. The diameter of the band wheel is 25 inches, with 4-inch face, but any other diameter will be supplied to order. Price, $6500. | Weight and measure-. ment :—seyen packages containing one complete machine, gross weight, 1,235 Ib; cubic measurement, 42 feet. Applications should be made to the Hon. Francis Watts, B.Sc., Government Analytical and Agricultural Chemist for the Leeward Islands, Government Labora- tory, Antigua. 56 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. FEBRUARY 13, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 63 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d., post free 3s. 3d. Agricultural stews Vou. II]. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1904. No. 48. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Onion Seed. With the view of securing a supply of selected onion seed for planting this year in the West Indies, it is desired that orders for such seed (specifying whether white or red onion seed is required) should be handed in to the local officers of the Department not later than Saturday, February 20 next. In any case it is important that all orders for onion seed should reach the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture not later than February 27. The seed so ordered would be specially selected for the Department, and it is hoped it will arrive in the West Indies about August next. It is urged that during the next season all the onion seed should be planted in beds: and when large enough the seedlings should be transplanted into the field. —EE ae —_ Muscovado Sugar. The following extract, taken from a recent book on Jamaica, exhibits a singular confusion of ideas in respect of West Indian sugar :— One rejoices to hear that the refiners of sngar in America are beginning to be nervous, lest, in consequence of the coming abolition of the Continental bounty system, the British West Indian sugar should find its way to the markets of the mother country. There is a special cane, called Muscovados, which to the American refiners is indispensable, and which apparently comes in greater bulk from our colonies. As is well known, ‘muscovados’ is not a special cane, but a term applied to a class of sugar made by what is known as the muscovado or open-pan process of evaporation. Cotton Seed. In support of what has been already mentioned in regard to the importance of obtaining the best quality of cotton seed for the West Indies, we quote as follows from a report by Mr. George P. Foaden in the Journal of the Khedivial Agricultural Society (Vol. V p. 178) :— ‘The question of the selection of seed for planting is one of very great interest; in fact it is one that cannot be overlooked. The choice of good seed is essential to the production of good staple cotton.’ ED EE Rendering Plants immune against Fungus Parasites. In an interesting article in the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society for October 1903, Mr. George Massee, F.L.S., suggests a method whereby cucumber and tomato plants may be rendered immune against fungus parasites. Mr. Massee has in view plants grown under glass, but it is not improbable that similar results would follow the treatment of plants grown in the open air in the tropics. It is recommended to begin watering the young seedlings (when a fortnight old) every third day with a solution consisting of 1 oz. of sulphate of copper dissolved in 50 gallons of water. After treating for six weeks as above, commence watering every fourth day with a solution containing 1 0z. of sulphate of copper in 35 gailons of water. The sulphate of copper should be pure, and rain-water should be used, if possible. It would be useful ifexperiments were tried, along the lines indicated above, on cucumber and tomato plants at the various Botanic Stations in the West Indies, and the results carefully noted. EE Cacao Cultivation in Lagos. The West African Mail of December 18, contains a report by Mr. E. W. Foster, Curator of the Botanic Gardens, Oloke Meji, on the cultivation of cacao, The following is a brief summary of the report :— Cacao should be planted in deep, moderately rich, loose clay, such as is found on the banks of streams. Dry rocky soils, stiff clays, and soils exposed to strong wind or sea breeze should be avoided. Care shonld be taken to select seed from the largest pods of heavy-bearing trees. These should, if possible, be trees far removed from inferior varieties in order to avoid variation resulting from cross-fertili- zation. The aim of the planter should be to plant trees of only one variety so as to secure beans of one size and quality. The nurseries should always be placed near water and well protected from wind and direct sunlight. After sowing, the beds should be kept shaded and be watered when necessary ; transplanting must be carried out with great care to avoid injuring the roots. The cultivation will have to be weeded about three times a year; this can be done with the hoe at first, but afterwards the weeds should be kept down with a cutlass, since the hoe is apt to injure the surface roots, Vou, Ill. No. 48. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. -~] or Jamaica Soils. An instructive lecture on ‘The Cultivated Soils of Jamaica’ was recently delivered to the teachers undergoing the annual course of agricultural instruc- tion in Jamaica by Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., the Government Analytical and Agricultural Chemist: The following is a brief summary :— When Mr. Cousins first went to Jamaica the idea was given him that most of the soils were so exhausted by long cultivation that his business was to prescribe some medicine that would improve them. His work at the laboratory very soon showed him that this was far from being the case. In most instances the factor that limited the growing of crops in Jamaica was not so much the supply of plant food as the supply of water. It must be recognized that if maximum crops were to be obtained, every possible means of saving water must be adopted. They must endeavour to get all the small proprietors to feed their stock on their back lands, collect manure and concentrate it on their cultivated lands, and then they would find their soil becoming richer and richer every year. Mr. Cousins then urged the teachers to put the knowledge they had gained during the course to the best possible advantage. They must aim at teaching the main points with regard to cultivation by illustra- tion in the school garden. a A Crop Prospects in Dominica. The following is a brief summary of an interesting and satisfactory report by Mr. J. Jones, the Curator of the Botanic Station at Dominica, on a recent visit to the windward district of that island :— As in other parts of Dominica, limes form the most important crop in this district. The trees are rapidly recovering from the attacks of scale insects, which did considerable damage in the early part of 1903. This is probably due to the rapid increase of their natural enemies, assisted, no doubt, by the heavy rainfall of the latter half of the year. Planters should provide themselves with spraying outfits and be prepared to deal with the pests immediately they appear. It is satisfactory to note that greater attention is now being paid to pruning in the wind- ward district, with the result that there are fewer fungus-infested trees. The cacao in this district is young and, on the whole, doing well. The Curator lays stress on the necessity for planting wind-breaks in exposed situa- tions, and advocates close planting, ‘The cacao experi- ment plots appear to have served a good purpose. Castillow rubber trees have been planted as shade ‘trees for cacao at Stowe estate, and as they resist the wind well, seem to be specially suited to the purpose. Experiments with Para rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) and Lagos silk rubber (Funtumia elastica) have not given good results, being easily uprooted by the gales. At Belvidere, at an elevation of 800 feet, several acres of Funtumia have been planted. If the experiment proves a success, the cultivation will be extended. Natural versus Artificial Indigo. A circular has recently been issued by the Reporter on Economic Products to the Government of India dealing with the present state of the trade in indigo between India and Allepo. Between 600 and 700 chests of indigo are imported into Allepo from India every year. On account, however, of the competition of German synthetic indigo, this is usually sold by the merchants at a. loss. This synthetic indigo has two advantages over the natural product, viz. that it is cheaper and that its price does not vary. It was generally thought that owing to these advantages natural indigo would be entirely replaced by the synthetic. That this has not happened is due to the fact that synthetic indigo has not the same smell as that to which the native dyers are accustomed, who are therefore prejudiced against it. | Moreover, cloth dyed with it alone fades im about two months. The consequence is that the two forms are mixed in about equal proportions, the resulting mixture being more durable and also brighter in colour than the natural indigo. On account, however, of the impetus that has been given to the dyeing industry by the popularity of this mixed dye, much more indigo is used than formerly, and the reduction in the demand for natural indigo has not been nearly as great as might have been expected from the facts mentioned. ——EnE> ee Exports of Grenada. The recently issued Colonial Report on Grenada for 1902 bears testimony to the satisfactory state of the trade in local products. ‘The exports were in excess of those of 1901 as well as of the average for the five years preceding 1901, The tables show that during the last five years there has been a steady increase in the exports of these products. The crop of cacao for 1902 was 61,285 bags (valued at £268,211), as against an average, for the five years ending September 1901, of 53,379 bags, This satisfactory increase is attributed to improved methods and extended cultivation as a result of the efforts of the Agricultural Instructor and the lessons taught by the experiment plots established by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Nutmegs and spices were exported to the extent of 6,839 ewt. (valued at £25,522). This is an increase of more than 2,000 ecwt. over the average for the previous five years, but the prices were not as favour- able as in 1901, and there is, therefore, a decrease in the value of the spices exported. In the case of cotton an increase is also recorded. The average export for the five years was 2,095 ewt. of raw cotton and 4,537 cwt. of cotton seed of the average annual value of £3,605; in 1902 the exports were 2,212 ewt. of raw cotton and 4,536 ewt. of cotton seed, valued at £4,069. As stated in the last issue of the Agricultural News (p. 44), the cotton and cotton seed are exclusively the product of Carriacou, a dependency of Grenada. 58 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fepruary 13, 1904. INSECT NOTES. The Experiment Station at Montserrat. The following is a brief report by Mr. H. A. Ballou, B.Sc., Entomologist on the statt of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, on the condition of the Grove Experiment Station at Montserrat in relation to insect pests. It will be seen that nothing of the nature of a serious insect attack has occurred at the Station and that every effort is made to keep the plants free from pests :— The general condition of the plants in the gardens and nurseries was very good : very few insect pests were found and these, with one exception, were well-known forms and in very small numbers. A tew plants in the nurseries, attacked by species of Lecanium and the Black Line seale, which had been left over in the nurseries, were taken out and destroyed. The only new insect found at the Botanic Station was a species of Bagworm, feeding on the leaves of the grape fruit. Several specimens were taken but all died while still in the larval stage, and so far Tam not acquainted with the adult insect. Spraying with Paris green will serve to keep this insect under control. In the report of my visit to Montserrat in May 1903 (Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 248) I mentioned a hedge of lime trees at the Station which had been sprayed, At the time of my last visit, this hedge had not received the second spraying and showed only slight re-infestation. The trees are remarkably healthy and vigorous, and their freedom from scales indicates what might be accom- plished by careful spraying. The spraying apparatus at Grove Station consists of two Knapsack sprayers and several Atomizers. A good stock of insecticides is kept on hand. Mr. Jordan is trying some experiments with crude sulphur from the local Soufriere, for insecticide purposes, and this will also be tried in the leaf- blister mite experiments. Onions in Montserrat have been attacked by two species of caterpillars, and this with the unfavourable weather will probably somewhat reduce the crop. The caterpillars differ trom the so-called onion moth in that they do not live inside the leaf. One of these is a moth larva, the adult of which I have not been able to obtain, and the other is a butterfly larva not determined, but probably Pverts sp. These are easily found in the very early morning or late in the evening. As soon as the sun is on the onion plants it is very difficult to find them as they evidently hide in, or on, the ground during the day and come out again to feed after sunset. These pests cause the leaves to turn a greyish brown, and the field takes a dry look as if some leaves were ripening prematurely. The larvae seem to be alike in eating only the outer epidermis and the soft tissues leaving the inside epidermis to wither and turn brown. Spraying or dusting with Paris green will probably prove a simple and effective check for this pest. I was unable to find any Thrips on the onions, FOREST RESERVATIONS IN TOBAGO. A letter was recently received by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture from Dr. J. C. Gifford, who has for some time been working on forest reserva- tious in Porto Rico, mentioning that he had found an old map of Tobago, made before Queen Victoria’s time, on which was marked a forest reservation. Dr. Gifford stated that it was,labelled ‘Reserved in Woods for Rains, and asked to be furnished with further informa- tion relating to these tropical reserves. The Government of Trinidad, on being communi- cated with, furnished reports on the subject by Mr. F. Lodge, of the Indian Forest Service, and Mr. C. S. Rogers, Forest Officer in Trinidad, and mentioned that forest reserves are now being laid out on all the mountain ridges in Trinidad. Mr. Rogers’ account of the Tobago rain reserve is as follows :— The reserve in Tobago referred to by Dr. Gifford was, until 1903, merely a tract of land reserved from sale and marked on the map. It included little more than the top of the main ridge of the Central Range of the island; its area was given as 2,500 acres. I find that its area by planimeter is 5,200 acres. In 1900, Mr. Lodge, Deputy Conservator of Forests of the Indian Forest Service, reported on Forest Conservation in the colony of Trinidad and Tobago. He recommended that the Tobago rain reserve should be enlarged so as to include the catchment areas of the streams which rise in the Central Range. A copy of Mr. Lodge’s report would doubtless be of interest to Dr. Gifford. In 1901, Mr. Rogers, of the Indian Forest Department, was appointed Forest Officer in the colony of Trinidad and Tobago. He visited Tobago in the following year and in order to carry out Mr. Lodge’s recommendations proposed a new boundary for the Tobago reserve. This boundary is a line parallel to the main ridge of the island at a distance of + mile from it on the northern, and 1 mile from it on the southern side, connected by lines skirting the boundaries of private lands on the east and west. These proposals were sanctioned and the boundary was ordered to be surveyed and marked out on the ground. The work is now in progress and it is expected that it will be finished by the end of February. The area is estimated at 10,000 acres. The map, from which the area of the old rain reserve was calculated by planimeter, is that in use in the Crown Lands Office. A Victim of the Mosquito Plant. Under the above heading a correspondent of the Madras Mail records the results arising after having thoroughly rubbed his hands and face with the fresh leaves of the African mosquito plant (Ocimum viride). The mosquitos being still troublesome, as a further precaution, he crushed the stalks of the leaves, and well rubbed in the juice. At the moment the effect seemed successful; but the next morning a rash appeared on his face which later on developed into rather painful blisters. The victim is now concerned to learn whether the juice of the leaves or the stalks caused the trouble. He has tried in vain to persuade his friends and the doctor to make experiments on themselves to settle this point, in the interest of science. ‘ For myself,’ he adds, ‘1 am content to consider the efficacy of the plant as a mosquito- fuge sufficiently proved, but I am bound to confess I prefer the evil to the remedy’. : Vou. III. No. 48. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 59 ——= IN TRINIDAD. The following notes on mule-breeding at Trinidad have been forwarded by Mr. C. W. Meaden, Manager of the Trinidad Government Farm. to supplement those already published in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 391) :— Mule-breeding is quite a new departure in this island and should by all means be adopted, as the demand for such animals for all classes of work is very great and their cost to purchase consequently high. An Andalusian jack was imported some two years ago ; he stands 14°2 hands high and possesses an excellent head and forehand ; his hind quarters are a little shallow, but this has not come out in his progeny yet. He has kept in good health and costs very little to keep, one feed of oats daily, with plenty of ripe Guinea grass, cane tops, ete. Three foals were born in October 1902: these have done exceedingly well and shown satisfactory growth; they are hardy and full of life. Their measurements are—No. 1, 14:2 hands high ; Nos. 2 and 3, 13-2 hands high; girth taken close up to the forearm covering the vital organs shows on the first 58 inches ; on the two latter, 55 inches. Three others, born in September last, show equally promising growth: there are a dozen good mares due to foal about April next. The feeding given to the mule foals after weaning is amixture of fine pollard and cocoa-nut meal in equal parts— 3 Ib. per head each morning, costing 4 cents. They run day and night on the pastures with the other animals and graze as they like. The total cost of rearing and placing a 15-2- hand mule on the market I estimate to be about $90:00 Should the growth of these three mules continue, they may, at the age mentioned, equal the class of mule imported here from the United States, whose present market value is about $180:00 each. This price would leave a fair margin of profit, providing the business is conducted upon a suffi- ciently large scale. Given good pasture land, the young mules might be brought up entirely upon grass until the time arrived for breaking them and thus reduce the cost of rearing. At this farm we are not able for the present to rely entirely upon grass for growth as the herbage is not sufficiently nutritious for the purpose. However, as time goes on the grasses under cultivation will probably become good enough to sustain the young animals during their early career. To breed big mules to compete with Americans, big dams must be used: the best for the purpose may probably be the roadster, with a dash of blood in them. A 16-hand mare put to a 14:2 to 15-hand jack would produce just what is required to suit the general market. The jack is sent round to the various country districts and Tobago, putting up at Police Stations. In this way he Served eighty-one mares which is about the limit which should be permitted per annum. If the result of this is 60 per cent. of foals, the breeding of mules has taken a very good start. Every effort has been made to induce East Indian and peasant proprietors to accept the advantage of breeding their own mules. Their particular employment as general carters, cane-farmers, ete., makes it necessary to possess mules. They have, I am pleased to say, been our best customers for the service, very much to their future advantage. EDUCATIONAL. School Gardens in Trinidad. As illustrative of the progress which has been made during the past few years in the teaching of practical agriculture in rural schools at Trinidad, the following extract from the Colonial Report on Trinidad and Tobago (pp. 8 and 9, par. 27) for the year 1902-8 is of interest :— Practical agriculture now forms a part of the daily teaching in most schools in the colony. The institution of School Vegetable Shows has proved a decided success, the local committees having entered heartily into the work. The following extract from the Annual Report of the Acting Inspector of Schools, laid before the Legislative Council at its last meeting, is of interest :— ‘Nearly every rural school has its tidy little garden, in place of the wilderness of weeds and rank grass formerly so much in evidence. In many instances the garden’s sphere of usefulness is not limited to the supply of edible vegetables. but it serves also as a miniature experiment station. Here may be seen plants in various stages of cultivation, and ‘perhaps even of uncultivation; some flourishing in soil rendered rich by manures, side by side with others struggling for existence for want of such aid; some lank and attenuated from overcrowding, others vigorous and healthy from being allowed ample room for growth; some sun-exposed and pining for want of water, others delicate and weakly from a too liberal supply of both water and shade. In such a school garden (and I have several in my mind), the pupils are receiving one continuous object-lesson.’ Nature Study. We take the following note on the establishment of a ‘School Nature-Study Union’ from Nature of December 10, 1903 :— A School Nature-Study Union has been established to utilize and make better known facilities which already exist for encouraging the study of nature by pupils in primary and secondary schools, and to supplement by work in several new directions the efforts of existing associations. The prospectus of the Union states that it is proposed to promote addresses to children by supplying lantern slides and speci- mens to teachers desirous of giving lessons on natural objects, and by providing qualified lecturers where desired ; to assist in the organization of school rambles and journeys, in the establishment of school museums and in the arrange- ment of conferences and natural history field days. ‘The inauguration of a junior department, of reading circles, of circulating libraries for teachers, is also contemplated, as well as the publication of an official organ. Sir George Kekewich, K.C.B., is the president, and the Rev. C. Hinscliff, Bobbing, Sittinbourne, is the hon. secretary of the Union. Metric System. We learn from Nature of January 7, that a Bill has been introduced into the United States House of Representatives to enact that on and after January 1 next, all departments of the Government shall employ and use only the weights and measures of the metric system. In view of this and the efforts that are proposed to be made to introduce the metric system into these colonies, it would be well if this system were to form a subject of instruction in all West Indian schools. 60 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fesruary 13, 1904. GLEANINGS. The lemon cultivated at Antigua has been determined at the Royal Gardens, Kew, as Andropogon Nardus, var. genuinus, Hack. grass According to the Consular Report on the trade of the Philippine Islands for 1902, the export of Panama hats, chiefly to the United States, has attained considerable dimensions, the total value exported being about £35,000. The Consular Report on the trade of Charleston and District for 1902 states that 11,937,406 Ib. of bagging were imported at the ports of the district. This was principally used for baling Sea Island cotton. According to a report from Nevis, dated January 26, some of the cotton fields in that island are turning out well, and about 50,000 Ib. of seed-cotton are awaiting the erection of the gins, which are expected to be ready for working about the end of this month. We are informed by the Curator of the Botanic Station at Tobago that it is estimated that 60 to 70 acres are under cotton cultivation in that island, and that, judging from the number of applications for seed made to the Botanic Station, there is every promise of this old industry being re-established. The Antigua Agricultural and Commercial Society has recently passed a resolution suggesting that the Government should introduce a flock of Barbados blackbirds, in order to protect the cotton and other industries from the attacks of caterpillars. According to the Lederalist and Grenada People, the trade in oranges between Grenada and Barbados is becoming an important one. The mail, that arrived at Barbados on January 16, brought over 20,000 oranges, and a large shipment was also made by the following mail. We learn from Dominica papers received by last mail that a second attempt is to be made to turn to a profitable account the Dominica sulphur springs, which are situated near Soufriére in the south-west corner of the island. Hitherto the sulphur has been exported in its crude form ; the new company will attempt to produce on the spot pure sulphur adapted to the trade requirements. We learn from the Consular Report on the trade of Costa Rica that the area under banana cultivation continues to increase rapidly. The export of this fruit to the United States was begun in 1831, when 3,500 bunches were shipped. During 1902, 4,174,199 were exported to the United States ; while a monthly fruit service between Limon and Bristol and Manchester has become during 1903 a fortnightly service. The Hon. Wm. ‘Faweett, B.Sc; F.L.S., Director of Public Gardens and Plantations in Jamaica, writes : ‘The “ Travellers Tree ” (Ravenala Madagascariensis) has fruited regularly at Castleton Gardens for over twenty years, and seeds have been gathered for propagating purposes and for distribution.’ : As stated in the Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 3, arrangements were made by the Board of Agriculture in Jamaica to import cocoanuts from San Blas for planting, in place of those destroyed by the hurricane. We learn from the current number of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society that 20,000 nuts were ordered, and as this number was not sufficient to meet the demand, 10,000 more have been obtained. According to a correspondent writing in the Demerara Argosy of January 27, ‘the cheap Costa Rica banana is very popular in the midland counties [of England], and whilst in the large cities, such as London, Liverpool and Glasgow, the choicer Canary banana is the most popular and highest priced, the cheap Jamaica and Costa Rica fruit takes the lead in the midland cities and inland towns.’ Mr. C. H. Knowles, B.Se., Acting Curator of the Botanic Station at St. Vincent, has reported on a visit of inspection to the Georgetown Experiment Station. A variety of crops is ‘being grown at the Station and these were found to be in a satisfactory condition. The country round Georgetown is fast recovering from the effects of the disasters, caused by the volcanic eruptions, and is gradually becoming covered with vegetation. It is interesting to observe from statistics given in the Consular Report on the trade of Charleston and District for 1902, that the exports of cotton (principally to the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Russia and Holland) show a steady decline during the last few years. The number of bales exported from Charleston, Savannah, Brunswick and Wilmington being as follows :—in 1900, 1,515,719 ; 1901, 1,374,291 ; 1902, 1,348,069. The exports of cotton seed, on the other hand, have greatly increased. According to Our Western Empire, an attempt is being made to make molascuit a free import in Canada as are the various oil meals. ‘The present duty on molascuit is 20 per cent. ad valorem, but subject, of course, to the preferential rebate of one-third. It is much more important at the moment that the West Indians, who supply molascuit, should be able to compete freely with other food-stuffs in the Dominion, than that they should have a preferential tariff as against molascuit supplied from any other quarter, and Canadian farmers should have every opportunity of obtaining this excellent cattle food.’ As is well known, the quotations in the public telegrams, received in the West Indies for cotton, apply only to Upland cotton, a variety which is not produced in these colonies. The variety, to which chief attention is devoted here, is Sea Island cotton. This is usually worth double the value of Upland cotton. At the request of the Imperial Commis- sioner of Agriculture, the General Superintendent of the West India and Panama Telegraph Company has been good enough to submit for the consideration of the Directors the desirability of substituting the quotations for Sea Island cotton for those of Upland cotton as likely to be of greater interest to cotton growers in this part of the world. Vou. III. No. 48. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 61 WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following is a report by Mv. J. R. Jackson, A.LS., on the London drug and spice markets for the month of December 1903 :— During the whole month of December, the reports of the markets in drugs and spices were characterized as more or less inactive. At the beginning of the month business was stated to be ‘far from brisk’ with but few changes of importance in any of the products for the preceding month. At the last drug sale of the year, which took place on December 10, nothing of special interest occurred ; buyers, it was said, were ‘holding back in view of approaching stock taking.’ A week later, business both in drugs and spices was limited to immediate necessities, and on the 23rd., two days before Christmas, the markets were reported as ‘practi- cally at a standstill.’ Besides the actual business transacted nothing of any interest has occurred either in the appearance of any new product or fresh sources of supply. The following details respecting the produce of the West Indian Colonies will illustrate the state of the London markets generally during the closing month of the year, a condition that is with very little change of annual recurrence. GINGER. At the first spice sale on the 2nd. of the month, there was a slow demand for ginger, the rates for which were generally lower than in the previous month: 488 packages of Jamaica were offered and 216 sold, the prices ranging from 47s. 6d. to 50s. for middling to fair bright small; 41s. to 43s. for medium daullish, and 37s. to 38s. for ordinary to ordinary dullish. There was a slow demand for Cochin, good, small cut being sold at 38s. 6d. without reserve, and medium and bold bought in at 65s. A week later, namely, on the 9th., no Jamaica ginger was offered and Cochin was again bought in, including medium to bold cut, at 65s. ; small, washed rough was sold at 26s. ; fair was bought in at 28s., and good, limed Japan sold at 24s. On the 16th., which was the last public spice sale of the year, no Jamaica was offered, but about 200 packages of Cochin were disposed of at the following rates:—Washed, rough wormy, 21s. 6d. to 22s. 6d.; damaged, 22s. to 25s.; white sound was bought jn at 26s., and small cut Cochin at 40s, PIMENTO, NUTMEGS AND MACE. At the first spice sale 70 bags of good pimento sold at 4d, fair fetching 527., and greyish 33¢. A week later the prices showed a downward tendency, 209 bags selling at from 32d. to 33d. for fair. At the last sale, on the 23rd., the demand had improved at somewhat advanced rates, about 300 bags of fair selling at 4d. per Ib. West Indian nutmegs at the beginning of the month showed a slight decline on the prices of the previous month, without any appreciable change at the succeeding sales. Mace also began the month at lower rates, West Indian selling at 2s. 4d. to 2s. 6d. for good; 2s. ld. to 2s. 2d. for fair; 1s. 1ld. to 2s. for ordinary, and 1s, 10d. to Is. 11d. for broken. At this same sale Java realized 2s. 4d. ARROWROOT, SARSAPARILLA, ETC. No St. Vincent arrowroot was offered at the first sale, and 15 barrels of Natal were bought in at 6$d. At the sale a week later, 830 packages of St. Vincent were offered and bought in, good to fine manufacturing at 24d. to 3id. On the 16th., over 300 barrels of St. Vincent were sold without reserve at 1d, to 13d. for common to ordinary. _ Sarsaparilla occupied but little attention during the month, there being practically no demand. Three bales of Lima Jamaica, fair sound, were sold at 10d. at the auction on the 10th., and no sale was effected for the native Jamaica offered. A small quantity of Honduras was sold at 1s. 1d. per Ib. Of the other products it may be mentioned that 14 bales of fair, bright, West Indian Cassia I’/stula were sold in the middle of the month at 30s. per ewt., and that good West Indian kola nuts realized 53d. per Ib. ies = A TREATISE ON CACAO (Theobroma cacao): By F. Emmanuel Olivieri. Trinidad: Mole Bros., 27, Chacon Street, Port-of-Spain. (3rd. Edition.) Price 5s. This work on the cultivation of the cacao tree and the curing and preparation of the produce for market is stated by the writer to be the outcome of twenty years’ practical experience. The author treats the subject entirely from the point of view of a Trinidad cacao planter, and while the book contains much that is of interest and value to cultivators in that island, the chapters devoted to shade trees, cultivation generally and manuring, describe methods which differ in some respects from those practised in Grenada and elsewhere in the West Indies. Parts vii and viii deal chiefly with the Bois Immortel as a shade tree for cacao, its manurial value and its effect as a preserver of the fertility of the soil as compared with other trees grown in cacao plantations in Trinidad. The chapters on insect and fungoid diseases of the cacao tree are of interest, as showing the importance which the writer attaches to the use of the remedial measures suggested by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. The book is fairly well printed and illustrated, although in the case of the various types of cacao represented in the latter, the wood cuts would be of greater value were the local names given to each variety instead of the general terms ‘Red’ and ‘ Yellow’ cacao, ete. The purpose of the book is excellent, and to all who are practically interested in cacao we have no hesitation in recommending it. DOMINICA. PROPERTY FOR SALE. In the Pegona district ; said to contain 252 acres of valley land, 35 acres in cacao (11 acres having flowered) and 20 acres in lime (4 acres in bearing). Price—£3,000. Apply by letter to Mr. Wm. Davies, Roseau, Dominica. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Frpruary 13, 1904. St. John, N.B., MARKET REPORTS. London,— January 19, 1904. Messrs. Kearron, Preer &Co., Messrs. E. A. Dr Pass & Co. and Messrs. J. HALES Carp & Co.; ‘THE Liverpoon Corron AssociaTIONn WEEKLY CrrcuLar’, January 15, 1904; and ‘Tue Pusric Lepcrr, January 2, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/-; Curacoa, 14/6 to 35/- per ewt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 14d. to 34d.; Bermuda, 1/5 to 1/8 per tb. Batata—1/9 to 2/2 per Ib. Bres’-wax—4£7 7s. 6d. per cwt. Cacao—Trinidad, 68/- to 76/6 per ewt. ; Grenada, 52/- to 62/- per ewt.; Dominica, St. Lucia and Jamaica, 51/- to 58/- per cwt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7. to 3/2 per th. CorreE—Jamaica, ordinary, 38/- to 56/- per ewt. Corra—Trinidad, £15 15s. to £15 17s. 6d. per ton, c.i-f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 1/2 to 1/3 per th. Divi Divi— No quotations. Froeir— Bananas—Jamaica, 5/- to 7/-. Grave Fruir—10/- to 11/- per case. OranGEsS—Jamaica, 8/- to 9/3 per case of 150 to 176. Prve-apreLes—No quotations. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gincer— Jamaica, 36/- to 55/- per ewt. Honty—Jamaica, 18/- to 30/- per ewt. Istycuass—West Indian lump, 2/3 to 2/11; Cake, 1/5 to 1/7 per th. Kota Nurs—4d. to 7d. per th. Live Jurce—Raw, 9d. to 1s. ld. per gallon ; Concentrated, £13 to £13 10s. per cask of 108 gallons. Lime Om—Hand pressed (discoloured), 2,6; Distilled, 1/3} to 1/4 per th. Locwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—I/10 to 2/6 per th. Nirratre or Sopa—Agricultural, £9 12s. 6d. per ton. Nurmecs-—69’'s to 60's, 1/9 to 2/3; 90's to 80's, 1/1 to 1/4 per tb. Prvento—4d. to 44d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 9d. to 10d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/6 to 8/- per proof gallon. SarsaparmLta—943d. to 1s. per tb. Sucar—Crystallized, 14,9 to 16/6 per ewt.; Muscovado, 11/- to 14/6; Molasses Sugar, 11/9 to 16/-. Sunpwatre or AmmMonta—£12 17s. 6d. per ton. Tamarinps—Antigua, 8/- to 8/6 per cwt. January 12, 1904.—‘ THe Maritime MeErcHaANtT,’ Motasses—Barbados, 34c. per gallon. Porto Rico, 40c. New York,—January 22, 1904.—Messrs. GitLespie Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao— African, 12c.; Caracas, 1c. to 14}c. ; Jamaica, 10sec. to 12hc.; Grenada, 125c. to 12}c.; Trinidad, 13jc. to 145e. per th. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $17°00 to $18:°00; Jamaicas, $2100 to $23:00 per M., selected. Corree—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, Te. to 8{c. per tb. ; Manchester grades, 10c. to 12c. per th. GrixceR—Jamaica, 7}c. per th. Goat Skrss—Jamaicas, 50c. to 54e. per th. Grave Frourr—-$3°50 to $5°60 per barrel. Orances—$3°50 to $4°00 per barrel. Barbados, British Guiana, Pimento—7}e. per th. RusseR—No quotations. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 344c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 227c. > Molasses, 89°, 21 8c. per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. January 30, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncn «& Co, ARrRowRoot—St. Vincent, $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—$10-00 to $10°50 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nuts—$9°37 per M. for unhusked nuts. CorreeE—Jamaica and ordinary Rio, $9°50 to $11:00 p 100 th. respectively. g o Hay—81°'10 per 100 th. Manvures—-Nitrate of soda, $65:00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76-00 to $85-00; Sulphate of potash, $67:00; Sheep Manure, $6°25 per ton (ex ship). Motasses—t6c. per gallon (puncheon included). Oxtons—$3°25 to $3°42 per 100 th. Poratos, ENGLisH—$2°00 per 100 tb. Rice—Ballam, $5°10 per bag (190 tbh.) ; Patna $3-60 7 100 1b. . ee Sucar—No quotations. January 28, 1904.—Messrs. Wrerine . & RIcHTer. Arrowkoot—St. Vincent, $8°50 per barrel. Batara—40c. to 42c. per tb. Cacao—Native, Ile. to 12c. per th. Cassava SrarcH—$6'50 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$11-00 to $12°00 per M. CorreE—Rio and Jamaica, 13¢. to 14c. per tb. (retail). —Creole, 13c. per th. DxHaL—$3'60 to 83°70 per bag of 168 th. Eppors—$1°44 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 15c. per gallon, casks included, Ontons—4c. to 5c. per tb., ex store; Garlic, 6c. to Ze. Pea Nutrs—Curagoa, 3fe. ; American, 5e. per tb. (retail). PLaNTAINS—20c. to 48e. per bunch. Poratos, ENGLisH—-$2°70 to $3-00 per barrel. Rice-—Ballam, $4°60 per 177 tb., ex store; Creole, 18c. to 20c. per gallon (retail). Sweet Poratros—Barbados, $1°32 per barrel. Tannras— $1°92 per bag. Yams—White, $1°44 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $1°85 ; Yellow, $2°20 to $2°30; White, $3°50; Molasses, $1:60 to $1:90 per 100 tb. TimbeR—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. WatLaba SHINGLES—$3‘00 to $500 per M. Trinidad,—January 28, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpox, Grant & Co., and Messrs. Epcar Trier & Co. Batata—No quotations. Cacao—Ordinary, $13-00 to $13:°50; Estates, $14:00: per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nuts—$16'00 per M., f.o.b., selected in bags of 100,. (husked). Cocoa-Nur Mrat—l}e. per Ib. Cocoa-Nur Or—5bde. per Imperial Gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, 7Ze. per th. Copra—$2°40 to $2°50 per 100 th. Ontons—$2°70 per 100 th. Poratos, ENGLisH—$1-00 to $1:25 per 100 th. tice—Yellow, $4°25 to $4:40; White Table, $5°25 to 35°75 per bag. Sucar—No quotations. Vou. Il. No. 48. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 63 Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture "FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume 1. Reports of the Agricultural Conference of 1899 and 1900 and other papers ; complete, in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. The parts can no longer be sold separately. Volume If. Full report of the Conference of 1901 and other papers. Price, in original paper covers as issued, 2s. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume III. Report of the Agricultural Conference of 1902 and other papers. Price, in original paper covers as issued, 2s. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. No. 1. Papers on general subjects. No. 2 ditto. No. 3. Papers on Cotton. Price 6d. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied ; — (3) Seedling and other Canes: at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 43d. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (7) Scale Insects of ‘the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West “Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 22d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (21) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, ‘2h. 22) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part II. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d, Post free, 5d. Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 2d. Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, 34d. ‘NATURE TEACHING.’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s. 6d. Postage in either binding, 3}d. extra. COTTON. A special pamphlet (foolscap size), entitled ‘Information relating to Cotton Cultivation in the West Indies,’ has recently been issued. It is on sale by all local Agents of the Department. Price 3d. Post. free, 4d. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS’ A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 1}d. The subscription price, including postage, is ls. Td. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vol. I complete ih “title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. All applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department, Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: Tae Wrst INpIA CommrrreEx, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados : Messrs, Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: THe Epucationan SupPLY Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guiana; ‘ Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Trinidad : Messrs. Murr, MarsHatt & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. PuaGemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., “The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. St. Lucia: Dominica: Messrs. C. F. Duverney & Co., Market St., Roseau. Jfontserrat: Mr. W. LLEWELLYN WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Matong, St. John’s. St. Avtt’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrerp & Co., Basseterre. Vevis: Mr. 8. D. Matonr, ‘Charlestown. lo Lo bo Lo lo be ooo o> RATS Ol Co SESS TSE 64 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Frsruary 13, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE ey ago sd} 2 Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. (72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. “CAGAO.” DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. BY RECENTLY ISSUED: Pamphlet No. 28,— J. H. HART, F.L-s: _| ‘BARBADOS AND PORTO RICO MOLASSES.’ NEW EDITION. Price 3d. Post Free, 33d. ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. IV, NO. 3) Papers on Cotton. Price 6d. Post Free, 8¢/. A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND CHEMISTRY OF i 7 IN THE PRESS: Pamphlet No. 29,— ‘LECTURES ON DISEASES OF THE SUGAR-CANE, COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. ‘West Indian Bulletin’ (Vol. IV, No. 4). Containing report of Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., Bie amie ® ; D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S., on visit [50.] em a to the cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. 50. _ SS * Printed at Oftice of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. Ka Sip Wwe NH e:iin LA a A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. Ill. No. 49. BARBADOS, FEBRUARY 27, 1904. Price ld. CONTENTS. Pace. PaGE Agave americana, Fibre | Insect Notes :— Of... ... «2. oe «- 72] Carbon Bisulphide for Arbor Day at Montserrat 70 Parasol Ants ... ... 74 RNa A eal’ 2 (68% | Fumigation of Imported vu = 7 de D al... OC e : [= Corn oil, Rubber from ... 77 Plamtsios ss. ..5 ... 74 ‘} . poor = Gutane 73 | Malaria, Prevention of ... 7 British Honduras, Worm | Market) Reports), -.. (3. 78 in... ... .«. 69 | Nutrition, Principles of ... 71 Bees site ees iB pation of.» + 72. | Our Book Shelf :— p npc ae pes ae oe Seed Selection, Improve- ae SuDTES sours pit ake meoee by. cx, cain 69 The Food of the Gods ... 75 | be é Selection of Seed... ... 69 | Paint, a Cheap... ... 2. Cotton Ginneries in the Para Rubber Seeds, Utiliza- West Indies... ... 65 tioMjOR mms sees ccs 7 Plants, Number to the acre 6: - NF roe Lind Doe ment NewS ing. Ny | Plants, Liquid Food for Department Publications... House wi, 20. « 75 Department Reports :— ie Lectures on the Diseases ee re SES NGiasar-ban’ v7 Seeds, Vitality of 75 S | Street Tree Planting 75 Fruit and Nuts as Food . . 68 | Gleanings ... ... Goat Keeping ... Hybridization Sugar Industry :— er British Guiana ... ... 66 neo 7) Jaye val 7 JAVA sR eM ecen Ueee) calcd 73 | Toronto Exhibition, 1904... 72 Cotton Ginneries in the West Indies. T is very creditable that within the short period of eighteen months several well- es equipped ginneries have already been successfully. established in the West Indies. The first ginnery was started under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture and the St. Lucia Agricultural Society at the Riviére Dorée Experiment Station at St. Lucia in 1901. This was placed under the charge of Mr. George Barnard, a responsible local planter, who has continued to take a great interest in cotton growing. The gin was a Dobson & Barlow single roller gin, the cost of which was provided by the St. Lucia Agricultural Society. A cotton press was added later by means of a grant from the Imperial Department of Agriculture. The gin was operated by a horse-power driving gear. Recently an aermotor has been erected by Mr. Barnard which is reported to be working satisfactorily. Two Macarthy gins, loaned by the British Cotton Growing Association, are in charge of Mr. H. D. Hunter, at the Dennery Sugar Factory on the windward side of St. Lucia. A hand-power gin, received from the British Cotton Growing Association, is for the present located at the Agricultural School at Union for the instruction of the pupils and use of the small settlers in the Gros Islet district. The first ginnery operated by steam power in the West Indies was started at St. Kitt’s on Canada estate (lately transferred to Spooner’s), under the control of Messrs. Sendall & Wade, and managed by Mr. A. O. Thurston. This consisted of two single action gins and a tramping press driven by a Tangye horizontal steam engine. ‘The first shipment of cotton from this factory comprised 12,000 tb. of lint. This obtained 133d. per tb. in the Liverpool market. A ginnery, also belonging to Messrs. Sendall & 66 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. = Fesruary 27, 1904. Wade and operated by steam power, was started at Montserrat in the beginning of 1903, This, at present, consists of two gins and a screw press operated by an oil engine. Another ginnery, owned by Mrs. Howes, is in active work on the windward side of Montserrat. A third ginnery is in charge of Mr, Wilkins. A Government ginnery, driven by steam power and containing one double action, single roller gin, was opened by Lady Morris at Barbados on July 31, 1903. This was re-opened, after considerable enlargement, by Sir Frederic Hodgson, K.C.M.G., on February 25, 1904. At present it consists of a 12 horse-power steam engine, six single action Macarthy gins (Platts) and a hand-power baling press. The cost of this factory is placed at about £900. Mr, J. J. Law was engineer in charge. It may be added that Messrs. H. E. Thorne & Son, at Barbados, have a private ginnery in operation with two Asa Lees single action, single roller gins, and a screw baling press of their own construction. Both the gins and press are operated by steam power. A Government ginnery, driven by an oil engine with three single action, single roller gins, (one Platts and two Asa Lees) and a hand-power baling press, was opened at Antigua by Lady Edeline Strickland on December 11, 1903. A hand-power gin, provided by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, has been in active use at Antigua for nearly two years. What is likely to prove the largest and most effective ginnery in the West Indies is now in course of being erected at St. Vincent under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Mr, J. J. Law is engineer in charge. The factory will be a three- storied building, 90 feet long, 27 feet wide, with a 12-foot There will be a lower or basement. floor, The roof of the verandah, a ginning floor and a_ cotton loft. verandah opening out from the cotton loft will serve for drying the seed-cotton, The machinery will be operated by a Hornsby-Akroyd oil engine and consist of eight gins—2 Platts, 2 Dobson & Barlows, 4 Asa Lees. “There are two baling presses: one is an exact counterpart of that used for packing Sea Island cotton in James Island, South Carolina. The latter was furnished by Messrs. Lebbey and Bailey, of Charleston, S.C. A hand-power gin is also available at St. Vincent. Mr. E. Y. Connell, an enterprising engineer, is engaged in establishing a central ginnery at Nevis, where he will be prepared to deal with all the seed- cotton likely to be produced in that island. The engine and a gin have been loaned by the local Government. Two more gins are shortly expected to complete the outfit for the current season. All the gins are a contribution from the British Cotton Growing Association, Two hand-power cotton gins and a press, are in course of being provided for use in the island of Anguilla. In the Virgin Islands a cotton gin and a press, contributed by the British Cotton Growing Association, are proposed to be operated by an aermotor similar to that in use at St. Lucia. A hand-power gin is provided for use, if necessary, in the out-islands of this group. According to a Grenada newspaper ‘cotton machinery is being erected by Mr. L. R. Mitchell on the northern side of the éareenage, St. George.’ At Jamaica, a Macarthy single roller gin and baling press have been contributed by the British Cotton Growing Association for the use of growers in that island. during the current year. Hand-power gins and presses have lately been obtained for use in Trinidad and British Guiana. These are intended to be used during the crop season of 1904, In regard to all these ginneries it is desirable to place on record an appreciation of the very active part taken in their establishment by the British Cotton Growing Association, The total value of the engines, gins and presses contributed by the Association cannot be far short of £700. It is understood that, unless otherwise agreed upon, the engines, gins and presses are to be regarded as on loan and to remain the property of the Association. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Experiments at British Guiana. The following is the progress report, prepared by Professor Harrison, C.M.G., M.A., F.LC., F.G.S., on the sugar-cane experiments at British Guiana for the half-year ended December 31, 1903 :— During the period under review the sugar-cane experiments have been carried on under my control, assisted by the advice of members of the Sugar-cane Experiments Committee of the Board of Agriculture. The actual conduct of the work has devolved upon Mr. R. Ward, Agricultural Assistant to that Board. They are proposed to be ready for use . Vou, Ill. No. 49. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 67 The months of July, August, September and October were occupied by the usual agricultural operations proper to the season. The canes made good growth during this period. During October and November examinations were made of some thousands of new seedlings raised from seed in 1900 and 1901. The canes commenced to arrow late in August, No. 95 flowering freely towards the end of that month. It was followed by Nos. 74, 116, 2,028, 3,157, 3,287, 3,866, and the White Transparent, all of which were in flower during the first week of September. Many other varieties flowered during September and October, but owing probably to the exceptional dryness of the weather, a large proportion of the arrows were abortive and remained arrested in their sheaths. Due probably to the same cause was the scarcity of fertile seeds produced this year. Two hundred and nine sowings were made and only 3,216 seeds germinated, the lowest rate for many years. About 2,500 young seedlings have been secured. The most prolific variety was No. 115, followed by No. 1,087 and by No. 2,468. The White Transparent and the Bourbon proved the least fertile. The cross-fertilization experiments again failed ; in the case of the White Transparent and the Mani completely, the two varieties not arrowing at the same time ; the experiment with these kinds will not be repeated : while in that of the White Transparent and the Po-a-ole only four plantlets have been obtained, which may or may not have resulted from cross-fertilization. The following are the varieties cut on the North field, the average of canes per acre yielded by them and the indicated proportions of saccharose in the juices expressed from them by a laboratory mill :— Ist. RATOONS. 12 MONTHS OLD. Nos. of | Tons of canes | Pounds of saccharose per gallon canes. per acre. in the normal juice. | 625 4GT5 1-756 116 39-4 1783 130 30°71 1-888 95 22-65 2-149 145 39°7 1958 109 35°6 1-857 78 3D'1 1-709 115 34:5 1-870 74 28°7 1-888 3,956 34-4 1816 PLANT CANES. 12 MONTHS OLD. Pounds of saccharose per gallon in the normal juice. Tons of canes Nos. of canes. per acre. B. 147 2: 32-7 1814 W.Transpt. 316 | 1-966 Bourbon 29°5 1°635 2,190 26:0 1-740 The average yield of the 1st. ratoon canes was at the rate of 38 tons of canes per acre, that of the plant canes 29-9 tons. Similar details for the varieties planted on South field and reaped as plant canes seventeen months old are as follows -— PLANT CANES. 17 MONTHS OLD. Nos. of | Tons of canes | Pounds of saccharose per gallon canes. per acre. | in the normal juice. 625 25°35 1-870 109 254. “| 1-886 115 24 | 1:869 W. Transpt. 2256) | 1998 | The average yield on this field was at the rate of 24-5 tons of canes per acre. The effect of nitrogen on the canes was well shown, the results being in tons of canes per acre :— Low Nitrogen. | High Nitrogen. Nos. of No (200 tb. sulphate (300 Ib. and 400 1b. Canes. Nitrogen. | ammonia per |sulphateammonia acre.) per acre.) 625 42:8 48-7 517 116 33°2 39 547 109 30°3 34:5 42 145 32-4 44-9 38°9 78 28°5 355 41-5 3,956 32°6 30°77 39°9 Mean 33:3 389 44-7 130 28-2 32 115 29°7 39:2 74 24:8 34:5 95 19-2 26°1 Mean 25:5 32°9 PLANT CANES. NORTH FIELD. B. 147 30 33 35°1 W.Transpt.| 30-2 375 Sal Bourbon 27-4 28°9 32-2 2,190 20 21:3 33°8 Mean 20-6 30°2 34:5 PLANT CANES. SOUTH FIELD. 625 22-2 23°6 30°2 115 V7 25°8 28:7 109 18-9 268 30°6 W. Transpt. 15-6 23°6 248 Mean 18°6 24-9 28-6 ee These experiments therefore have produced singularly clear proofs of the dependence of the yield of the sugar-cane on the proportion of available nitrogen added in manures, and, with others previously reported, show that the various varieties of sugar-cane resemble the Bourbon in the dependence of their yield upon this constituent. (Lo be continued.) 68 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fesruary 27, 1904. WEST INDIAN FRUIT: AN ABNORMAL COCOA-NUT. In the Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits Settlements for October last, Mr. T. F. Weld, District Officer at Kwala Selangor, gives the following interest- ing account of an abnormal cocoa-nut found in that colony :— At Assam Java, Kwala Selangor, there is a plantation of cocoa-nuts which contains two trees of great peculiarity. Instead of the bunches of flowers, which appear on the ordinary cocoa-nut tree, are found shoots which jut out from the tree not unlike the spike of a nipa palm. As the so-called spike grows, the cocoa-nuts themselves, without any show of flower whatsoever, appear in line along the whole length of the shoot somewhat like the fruit on a bunch of ‘rambai,’ but quite close together. As the nuts swell, the number, which at first might amount to fifty on one shoot, is gradually lessened as they fall off before maturity. In the end there probably remain some seven or eight nuts only on each shoot, of which there may be apparently about the same number as an ordinary cocoa-nut tree has branches of Howers. The natives here have never heard of any similar trees except these two and they call them ‘ nyor-nipa.’ FRUIT AND NUTS AS FOOD. Indian Planting and Gardening of November 21 gives an account of experiments conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture to determine the dietary value of different foods. The experiments in question were conducted during the space of two years by Prof. Jaffa, of the University of California. The following extract is of interest as indicating the food value of nuts and fruit, and more especially of pea nuts, or ground nuts as they are usually called in the West Indies :— The fare given in these experiments was in every case one that would appeal to any normal appetite. It embraced honey, tomatos, apples, bananas, grapes, pears, pomegranates, persimmons, oranges, strawberries, watermelons, figs, almonds, pea nut butter, ete. The only animal foods allowed were cottage cheese and eggs, and these in limited quantities. The cost of such a diet varied from 15c. to 18c. a day. Tt was found that the food eaten supphed about 60 per cent. of the protein usually secured by the average meat diet, while health and strength continued the same, if they did not improve, and in two or three cases there was a slight gain in flesh and weight. One of the chief objects of the series of experiments was to furnish data as to the value of nuts as food. Fruits contain little protein, and nuts are relied on in the fruitarian plan of eating to balance the ration. Fruits are rich in carbohydrates and nuts in fat. A pound of pea nuts, whieh costs 7c., furnishes 1,000 calories of energy at a cost of 34c., and protein at a cost of 36e. per Ib. The average price per Ib. of the protein of nuts ranges higher than the corresponding average of meats, but the cost per lb. of pea nut protein is lower than for meats, fish, eggs, milk, dairy products, and prepared cereals. The only foods which furnish protein at a less cost than pea nuts are flour and dried beans. According to Professor Jaffa’s experiments, nuts are the cheapest source of energy for the fruitarian, the pea nut ranging far ahead of any other kind. Although pea nuts supply protein and energy for a smaller sum than bread, they are outranked by dried beans, which at 5c. per Ib. will supply for 10c. over 200 grains of protein and 3,040 calories of energy. NUMBER OF PLANTS TO THE ACRE. The following table, showing the number of plants to the acre when planted at various distances, and the l , area, in square feet, available for each plant, is reproduced from Tropical Agriculture for convenience of reference :— Square | Number Square Number Feet | feet to |of plants | Feet | feet to of plants apart. each to the apart. each | to the plant. acre. | plant. | acre. taecmed i | iexaal ] 43,560 det -| 49 889 2 52 I 2 21,780 axaun 56 778 2x2 4 10,190 8x8 | 64 681 2x3 6 7,260 9x9 81 538 3} 53} 9 4,840 | 10x 10 100 435 3x4 2 3,630 || 12x12) 144 302 4x4 16 22) lida 225 193 4x5 20 2,178 || 16 x 16 256 170 b5) Se (3) 25 1,742 |} 17x17 289 151 5x6 30 1,452 || 18x 18 324 134 6x 6 36 1,210 || 20 x 20 400 109 6x7 42 1,037 || 25 x 25 625 69 Vor. Ill. No. 49. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 69 COTTON. | Improvement by Seed Selection. We published in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, p. 373) an extract from a report by Mr. George P. Foaden on a visit to the cotton-growing States of America. Mr. Foaden, who is the Principal of the School of Agriculture in Egypt, paid his visit to the United States in May 1903. His report is published in the Journal of the Khedivial Agricultural Society and School of Agriculture (Vol. V, Nos. 4 and 5). The following extracts from the report deal with the important subject of seed selection :— It is impossible to overestimate the importance of the selection of good seed or the influence which it has on the resulting cotton crop. In the absence of some system of selection, all cultivated plants tend towards deterioration though this is much more marked in some cases than in others. The more highly developed and specialized a plant is, the more rapidly will it deteriorate under adverse conditions. Of all plants, cotton responds liberally, both as far as yield and quality are concerned, to careful treatment, and the sowing of good seed is the very first essential to the production of good stapled cotton. However carefully our land may be prepared and manured, the production of superior cotton from inferior and mixed seed is an impossibility. The present variety of cotton known as Sea Island has in fact been obtained by one means, and that is ‘selection.’ While this has been the case, and while the fibre to-day is acknowledged to have attained the highest standard of excellence, yet it is accepted that its superiority can only be maintained provided a system of selection is continued. There is no question of allowing Sea Island cotton to deteriorate ; those interested in its growth by the careful system adopted prevent this. In the selection of seed for cotton we have two primary objects in view, viz., to obtain the greatest yield and the best quality. To select for both objects at the same time is quite possible, though we think that the main object in view can be accomplished by growing in the first place the very best seed obtainable, and then selecting seed from the heaviest yielding plants, provided the quality of those plants is equal to the best standard of that variety. In the system of selection adopted by Sea Island planters most distinctive results have been obtained. For example, one grower’s ideal has been to obtain heavy yields with but a secondary regard for quality and this has been quite successful, the grower’s cotton being known in the market as that from heavy yielding plants but whose quality is not ‘extra.’ Another planter again has selected for quality only, and though yield has been to a certain extent sacrificed, yet his cotton is sold for a much higher price. Thus, starting with the same seed, two different ideals may be reached according to the wish of the particular grower. As a rule, however, our primary object is to imcrease the yield, and while striving to obtain this we have to see that we do not sacrifice quality and other desirable characteristics, but keep them at least up to the best standard. The history of Sea Island cotton which is so extremely interesting provides us with an object-lesson and ample food for reflection. It serves as an example showing how a tropical plant has not only been adapted to another climate, but at the same time the produce has been brought to a very high pitch of perfection; the whole having been accomplished by selection, aided by good cultivation and manuring. In the year 1785, seeds were brought from the Bahamas and planted in the State of Georgia. The plants died down, but sprang up again from the roots and succeeded in ripening a few seeds before the next winter. The earliest of the seeds thus produced were sown and this again repeated the following year. By this means an earlier flowering and ripening plant was produced until at last the plant matured a large proportion of its seed before adverse climatic conditions came, and this even along the coasts of the Carolinas. Having attained this, a very careful system of selection was adopted with the view of improving quality, that is to say increasing the length, strength and fineness of the staple. By a continuation of this process of vigorous selection, the production of the finest quality cotton in the world has been attained. Selection of Seed. To a representative of the Barbados Advocate, who visited the Barbados Central Cotton Factory on January 29, Mr. W. B. Seabrook, Ginnery Expert to the Imperial Department of Agriculture for the West Indies, made the following remarks on this subject :— The first important step in planting cotton, with any hope of success, is to secure good seed—seed that can be guaranteed to yield fibre uniform in length and fineness of staple. It is as reasonabie to place a cur in competition with a fine-bred setter and hope to get a prize, as to place cotton of mixed quality and staple in the market and expect it to obtain the same price as that which is uniform. The good seed, to which I refer, and which is so essential to success, could be obtained to the best advantage where Sea Island cotton is raised in its highest state of perfection, viz., from the Sea Islands of South Carolina, especially those nearest to Charleston. The selection of cotton seed has long been a study with planters there, and good seed, yield- ing fibre of good length and fineness of staple, can be obtained from them as proposed by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Thousands of bushels of Sea Island cotton seed are used every year for fertilizing purposes—planters refusing to plant it because of deterioration in quality. This might be obtained for very little ; but if unfit for planting there, it would be unfit here. It is necessary, therefore, to obtain seed from a reliable source, and one where its purity can be vouched for. The difference in cost will be a small item in comparison with the difference in result. Once the strain is established in the West Indies, enterprising and intelligent planters could at once begin to make selections for themselves, and keep up a continuous supply of fine, long-staple cotton to be delivered to the Central Factories which are fully able to prepare it for the market in the best possible condition. The Cotton Worm in British Honduras. A correspondent writing in the Clarion states that some of the newly planted cotton in British Honduras has been attacked by the cotton worm. It appears that an attempt was made to grow cotton in that colony at the time when high prices were obtained for cotton during the American civil war, but was abandoned on account of the ravages of this pest. Now, however, that it is realized that the cotton worm can be kept in check by the use of Paris green, its presence need not prove a very serious obstacle. Evidently the cotton worm is general. It appears in every country where cotton is grown; so that there is nothing exceptional in its appearance in the West Indies. 70 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. PREVENTION OF MALARIA. The Barbados Official Gazette of February 11 contains a circular despatch from the Secretary of State for the Colonies giving information in connexion with the investigation of malaria and the training of medical officers in the treatment and prevention of tropical diseases. In this despatch an outline is given of what has been attempted in the direction of improving health and sanitation in tropical colonies and protectorates, and of the work of the Malaria Commission appointed by the Royal Society on the suggestion of the Secretary of State for the Colonies. As enclosures to the despatch are published a statement by the Secretary of the Royal Society, briefly reviewing what has been accomplished by the Commission, and a memorandum by Drs. Stephens and Christophers setting forth their views as to the results of their researches on native malaria and the prevention of malaria. From the latter enclosure we extract the following notes on ‘ personal precautions’ :— We cannot emphasize finally too strongly the need at present for these. We ourselves, by unremitting care, completely escaped contracting malaria during over three years’ residence in Africa and India ; in places, too, where, more frequently than not, the deadly conditions we have described existed. Among these precautions we place the proper use of a mosquito net as far and away the greatest means of individual protection. Mosquito net : The net should be square (not a bell net), should not have a single, even minute, hole, should hang inside the poles if these are used, should be tucked in under the mattress, and should noé trail on the ground. A piece of closely woven material, fastened on all round at the level of the body is a necessary addition, in order to protect the limbs during sleep from bites through the net. When not in use the ends of the net should be twisted up somewhat, and then thrown over the top. We always arranged our nets ourselves, never trusting to servants, and further to be doubly certain, we always carefully searched the interior with a candle before going to sleep. To these minute precautions, solely, we attribute our absolute freedom from malaria. Employed without care and _ attention, a mosquito net is little protection in such malarious places as most up-country African stations. 2. Subsidiary measures: In many of the more malarious places we visited we considered that other subsidiary precau- tions, such as will suggest themselves to any intelligent person, were also necessary. To protect our legs and ankles, for instance, we considered it necessary to wear thick trousers, with puttees, or the very convenient, so-called mosquito boots. The face and hands are not in waking hours very likely to be bitten by Anopheles, though they are very likely to be bitten by various species ot Culex. It must be understood, however, that for precautions to be effective in badly malarious places considerable care and thoughtfulness is entailed, and few followed our example. 3. Quinine: During the whole of our three years’ life in the tropics we found it quite unnecessary to use quinine. If, however, the bites of Anopheles cannot be guarded against, quinine should be taken as a prophylactic. We consider Professor Koch’s method of taking 15 grains on two successive days in each week as the best. Repeated small doses are of doubtful efficacy. In view of the above recommendations interest Fresruary 27, 1904. attaches to the following letter, from the Booth Steamship Co. to the Honorary Secretary of the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, published in the Journal of Commerce of January 22 :— The following extract from the log of the captain of our steamer ‘Javary,’ while lying at Iquitos, Peru, about two months ago, will no doubt be of interest to all connected with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine :—‘ There appears to be quite an epidemic in Iquitos this voyage, and several deaths have taken place from ‘“ Black Vomit.” Fortunately, the ship’s company keep healthy. The mosquito nets supplied by the company are a great boon to the men, for the mosquitos just now are almost unbearable.’ We may mention that, following the recommendations of the Liverpool School, our steamers trading to Iquitos have been for several years regularly provided with mosquito nets for the use of the crew, with the most satisfactory results. Cases of malaria were frequent, sometimes resulting fatally, but since the introduction of the mosquito nets and their general adoption by all embers of the crews, we are pleased to say that these steamers have enjoyed a wonderful immunity from sickness. In view of this we have latterly provided mosquito nets for the crews of all our steamers in the Para and Manaos trade, and although it is rather soon to make any definite statement as to the result, we have reason to suppose that it will be equally satisfactory, as it is some months since we heard of the last case of yellow fever, and so far as we know, not one has occurred in any steamer after the introduction of the mosquito nets. We place these facts before you as they will no doubt be of interest to other shipowners trading with the tropics. ARBOR DAY AT MONTSERRAT. The following letter from Mr. Charles M. Martin, Inspector of Schools for the Leeward Islands, to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, dated Mont- serrat, February 3, 1904, gives an account of the Arbor Day celebrations in that island :— You will be glad to hear that our Arbor Day celebrations in Montserrat were a great success. On Monday, January 25, fifteen trees were planted at Harris’ Cemetery to form an avenue along the main walk. On Tuesday, the two schools met before the Court House (the children wearing the distinctive colours of their school gardens) and, after a short address by me, marched to Cocoa- nut Hill, where nearly forty mahogany trees were planted on both sides of the road. Mrs. Watkins was present and planted the first tree. On Wednesday, the children of Olveston school planted six trees as the first beginning of what should be a fine avenue along the approaches to the school. On Friday, Bethel school planted eight trees along the boundaries of the school premises. In all, some seventy trees were planted and over 1,100 children took part in the proceedings. The amount of interest evinced by both teachers and children in the celebrations was gratifying. In future, Arbor Day will be held on the King’s Birthday. Special songs and recitations have been learnt and were rendered on the occasions referred to above, and it is evident that the day will be one of lasting good to all concerned. I must acknowledge with thanks the services of Mr. Jordan, which helped greatly to the success of the proceedings. Mr. Watkins, who took great interest in the arrangements, was unfortunately prevented by illness from being present on any of the days, and we much regretted his absence, Vou. III. No. 49. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 71 The following brief account of the general composi- tion of foods and feeding stuffs is taken from a recently issued Bulletin of the United States Depart- ment of Agriculture (Office of Experiment Stations, Bulletin No. 125) entitled: A digest of Recent Experi- ments on Horse Feeding. The concise explanations of the principal terms used in connexion with the composition of foods is likely to be useful :— The study of foods and feeding stuffs has shown that, although they differ so much in texture and appearance, they are in reality made up of a small number of chemical constituents, namely, protein, fat, carbohydrates and ash, together with a larger or smaller amount of water. The latter can often be seen as in the juice of fresh plants. In dry hay no water or juice is visible. A small amount is, however, contained in minute particles in the plant tissues. Protein is a name given to the total group of nitrogen- ous materials present. The group is made up mainly of the true proteids and albumens, such as the gluten of wheat, and of nitrogenous materials such as amides, which are believed to have a lower feeding value than the albumens. The group ‘fat’ includes the true vegetable fats and oils, like the oil in cotton seed or corn, as well as vegetable wax, some chlorophyll (the green colouring matter in leaves, ete.) and other colouring matters ; in brief, all the materials which are extracted by ether in the usual laboratory method of estimating fat. The name ‘ether extract’ is often and very properly applied to this group. Chemically considered, the true fats are glycerides of the fatty acids, chiefly oleic, stearic and palmitic. The group ‘carbohydrates’ includes starches, sugars, crude fibre, cellulose, pentosans, and other bodies of a similar chemical structure. This group is usually sub-divided, accord- ing to the analytical methods followed in estimating it, into ‘nitrogen-free extract’? and ‘crude fibre’; the former sub- division including principally sugar, starches and most of the pentosans, and the latter, cellulose, lignin, and other woody substances which very largely make up the rigid structure of plants. The proteids contain nitrogen in addition to carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and a little phosphorus and sulphur. The fat consists of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen, as do also carbohydrates. In the carbohydrates, however, the oxygen and hydrogen, are always present in the proportion in which they occur in water, namely, two atoms of hydrogen to one of oxygen. The group ‘mineral matter’ includes the inorganic bodies present in the form of salts in the juices and tissues of the different feeding stuffs, the principal chemical elements found being sodium, potassium, calcium, chlorine, fluorine, phosphorus and sulphur. The term ‘ash’ is often and very properly used for this group, since the mineral matter represents the incombustible portion which remains when any given feeding stuff is burned. The relation between the quantities of nitrogenous and nitrogen-free nutrients in the ration is called the nutritive or nutrient ratio. In calculating this ratio 1 tb. of fat is taken as equivalent to 2°25 tb. of carbohydrates—this being approximately the ratio of their fuel values—so that the nutritive ratio is actually that of the protein to the carbo- hydrates plus 2°25 times the fat. SUGAR-CANE EXPERIMENT STATIONS IN JAVA. The following interesting account of the sugar- cane experiment stations in Java, and the lines upon which investigations are being carried on, by Dr. J. D. Kobus, is translated from the Revue Agricole of Reunion for October 1903 :— The West Java station was started at Kagok in 1886. For three years it was located in the town of Pekalongan. The East Java station dates from 1887. It has been located from the beginning in the town of Pasoeroean. Formerly there was a third station—Central Java— founded in 1885. The able director, M. F. Soltwedel, died in December 1889 after having discovered the possibility of raising sugar-canes from seed. With him also originated the idea of growing sugar-canes in mountain lands at an elevation of 2,000 feet so as to avoid the ravages of the sereh disease. After two or three years the station was closed. At West Java the first director was W. Krueger, the well-known author of the German treatise on Sugar-cane and its Culture, in which he has recorded his personal experience in Java (from 1886 to 1891), as well as that of the other stations in the island up to 1896. In 1891, he was succeeded by Dr. F. A. F. C. Went, who has gained great distinction by his researches on the diseases of the sugar-cane. He was assisted by H. C. Prinsen Geerligs who succeeded him in 1896. The researches of Prinsen Geerligs on sugar manufacture are widely known, also his little work which has already passed through three editions in Dutch and in English. The first director of the East Java station was Dr. J. G. Kramers. I assisted him as sub-director. In the first few years we were engaged in soil research experiments with various manures, ete. In 1890, the director was succeeded by Dr. J. H. Wakker, a botanist of distinction. He set himself to concentrate our efforts on researches as to the cause of the disease known as ‘sereh,’ which threatened entirely to exterminate the sugar-cane in Java. Dr. Wakker made interesting and thorough research in regard to other diseases of the sugar-cane, but, like Dr. Went, he did not succeed in discovering the cause of ‘sereh’. After ten year’s of active work, Dr. Wakker resigned his post for personal reasons. I succeeded him in 1898. Since 1893, I had been editing the Archief voor de Java- Suikerindustrie, a work which I had to relinquish on assuming the directorship of the station. As you know the chemical selection of the sugar-cane and the raising of seedlings have since occupied the better part of my time. I still, however, continue my researches on the soil and my experiments with manures. ... All the publications of our stations are sent to the contributing members of each station. All without distinction can ask for information from each other and all have equal rights to the varieties of sugar-cane and seeds, provided that applications are received before July 1. We raise the canes ordered on their account and in January the seedlings are sent to them and the cost received. Last January more than 17 acres of cane were grown by us for raising seedlings. As soon as the young canes are six months old, each internode can be used as a plant. In January 1904, our nurseries will be on a still larger scale. Our experiment fields at the same station have an area of 86 acres, containing more than 200 varieties of seedling canes. The best only are distributed to the Usines ; before this it is necessary that they should haye been carefully proved for four consecutive years. a | to THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Frsruary 27, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 79 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. ( i 5 OH) ; Agricultural slows Vou. Ill. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1904. No. 49. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Fibre of Agave americana. Mention was made in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 24) of an account given in the Zmperial Institute Bulletin of fibre of a plant forwarded from Assam under the name of Agave americana, The following note appears in the current issue of the same journal :— ‘The Imperial Institute has now been informed by the Officiating Reporter on Economie Products to the Government of India that the identity of the plant in question is under investigation and that it is probably not Agave americana, as was originally supposed.’ ———— oD Oo Cotton Cultivation. With the view of presenting the details of cotton cultivation in a popular and attractive form, the Imperial Department of Agriculture is arranging for a series of addresses, illustrated by latern slides, to be delivered before the beginning of the next planting season. The addresses will afford hints and suggestions as to the selection and preparation of the land and the best time for planting. They will give full particulars of the methods to be adopted for sowing the seed, thinning out seedlings, weeding and moulding the plants and the treatment of the worm and other pests: also as to picking, assorting and grading the cotton ready to be sent to the ginning factory. It is probable that the addresses will be delivered simultaneously in each island in April, May and June next. 1904. In the Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 325, the attention of readers was directed to a report by Mr. G. Whitfield Smith, Travelling Superintendent of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, who happened to be present, on the West Indian section at the Exhihition held at Toronto in August and September last. It will be seen from this report that not only were the larger colonies well represented, but excellent exhibits were also forwarded from the Windward and Leeward Islands and from Barbados. The West Indian section generally was greatly appre- ciated and excited a good deal of interest among visitors at this Exhibition. With the view of again bringing the staple products of these colonies prominently under the notice of the Canadians, and of developing closer business relations between them and our fellow-subjects in the Dominion, it is desirable that each colony should be fully and attractively represented at the Exhibitions to be held in Toronto and elsewhere in Canada in August and September next. It is therefore important that steps be taken to obtain glass bottles for exhibits at once so that they may be ready in time for use when required in July next. Toronto Exhibition, ———— Cotton Planting at Montserrat. A discussion has taken place in the columns of the Montserrat Herald relative to the best time for planting cotton. A correspondent suggests that this should be done either earlier or later than has been the practice hitherto, in order to avoid having cotton in a forward state during the months of September, October and November. During these months insect pests are particularly abundant and the cotton worm has proved no exception. It is therefore contended that cotton should be planted either in March or, for late planting, in October and November. The early planted cotton, being then ready for reaping about August or September, when the caterpillar is abundant, would be in a condition in which it would be least likely to be harmed. On the other hand, the cotton planted during October and November would ripen from March to May before the insects are particularly abundant. The experience of this correspondent is to some extent confirmed by that of Mr. Jordan, the Agri- cultural Instructor, who gives figures to prove that the best results were obtained when the cotton was planted early. Mr. Jordan points out, however, that other factors have to be taken into consideration in determining the best time for planting cotton, and that this must be influenced largely by local conditions, This is an important matter and we would urge upon planters to endeavour to work it out by carefully tested experiments. At the same time it should be remembered that, if a good supply of Paris green be kept at hand and the plants dusted immediately they are attacked by the caterpillar, no serious loss need be anticipated. . | Vou. III. No. 49. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 73 Sugar-cane Experiments in British Guiana. We publish in this issue of the Agricultural News (pp. 66-7) the first instalment of a progress report on the sugar-cane experiments in British Guiana for the half-year ended December 31, 1903. In this report Professor Harrison reviews the work that has been carried out during the half-year. An account is given of the efforts to raise seedling canes. An idea of the extent of this work will be obtained when it is realized that some 2,500 seedlings were obtained, and that this is the lowest rate for many years. Owing to the exceptional dryness of the weather during September and October, a large proportion of the arrows were abortive and there was a scarcity of fertile seeds. The experiment in the cross-fertilization of the White Transparent and the Mani canes, which was not successful, is to be repeated. As will be seen from the tables, the manurial experi- ments bring out clearly the fact that the amount of available nitrogen added in manures is the principal factor regulating the yield. ——— EEE Utilization of Para Rubber Seeds. An interesting article on this subject will be found in the current issue of the Zinperial Institute Bulletin (No. 4). As mentioned in the Agricultural News (Vol. IL, p. 296), the Technical Branch of the Imperial Institute has been investigating the properties of the seeds of the Para rubber tree (Hevew brasiliensis). Several consignments of seeds and of meal prepared from them have recently been received at the Imperial Institute for a report as to their commercial values. Oil was obtained from the kernels, which constitute about 50 per cent. by weight of the whole seed, and from the whole seed; the former yielding 42°3 per cent. of oil, and the latter 20 per cent. The oil obtained from the kernels alone is clear, of a light colour, and has an odour somewhat resembling that of linseed oil. Leading brokers, to whom the oil was submitted, reported that it would probably be used as a substitute for linseed oil and would be worth at present £20 per ton. They valued the decorticated seeds at £10 to £12 per ton. The sample of Para rubber seed meal was free from husk and possessed the pleasant odour characteristic of oil meals. ‘The following results were furnished by the meal on analysis :—Moisture, 9:1 per cent.; ash, 353; fibre, 34; oil, 36:1; proteids 182; carbohy- drates, 29°67. ‘The results of this examination of the Para rubber seed meal indicate that the material thus prepared could neither be used as a fodder, owing to the presence in it of large quantities of free fatty acids, nor tor the expression of Para rubber seed oil, since the latter has been largely decomposed. It is probable, however, that if the oil were expressed from the decorticated seeds, the residual cake could be utilized as a feeding material. Such a “cake” should be almost as valuable as linseed cake, which at present sells at from £5 15s. to £6 15s. per ton.’ Cotton Growing in British Guiana. The Demerara Chronicle of February 10 reviews the first half-yearly report of the Berbice Cotton Growers’ Committee. While those whom the movement is essentially intended to benefit have not responded in as hearty a manner as might have been expected, and in consequence only a few competitors entered for the prizes offered by the Committee, yet the promoters are to be congratulated upon the start that has been made. The prizes for the best cotton cultivation in each of the ten districts of Berbice, into which the Committee divided the county, are to be offered again for the current half-year, when it is anticipated that there will be ‘keener competition and more promising results.’ It is reported that 460 tb. of cotton seed had been distributed during the previous three weeks, and that about 98 acres of land is expected to be planted in cotton on the West Coast, Berbice, and 50 acres on the Upper Berbice river. His Excellency the Governor has offered a prize of $50 for the largest area in cotton before June next, and Sir H. A. Bovell a prize of $60 for the best 200-Ib. bale of cotton. A prize is also being offered by Mr. Bruce Stephens, of Trinidad, to encourage the new industry. — ee ——— Hybridization. A paper on this subject was read by Mr. D. J. Wilson at the opening of the West of Scotland Agricultural College im October 1902. It is pointed out that work on hybridization has probably been carried on for ages. The first hybrid plant of which we have any record was the result. of the crossing of two species of Dianthus by Thomas Fairchild. Most of the earlier work on hybrids was done by gardeners rather than by agriculturists; this is to be explained by the facts that gardeners have a larger variety of plants to work on and that their knowledge of the individual plants is likely to be greater. The International Conference on Plant Breeding held in New York in 1902 showed how great an interest is now being taken in this subject, especially in the United States. The author himself has worked on an elaborate series of crosses in the genus Brassica. Among others, hybrids showing intermediate characters have been obtained using Brussels sprouts, as the seed parent, and curled kale, broccoli and savoy, as pollen parents. Some of the hybrids, although they flower profusely, do not bear seed; this is owing to the fact that the pollen is inferior. Crossing of Inish potatos is a difficult matter owing to the fact that some yarieties never bear flowers, while very few bear fruits freely. A number of hybrids have, however, been obtained, some of which have yielded promising results. One result is curious: when the tubers of one parent are red and those of the other white, it is found that many of the tubers of the cross are purple and white, but few are red. 74 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. FEBRUARY 27, 1904. INSECT NOTES. Fumigation of Imported Plants. The necessity for the adoption of a careful and systematic scheme to prevent the introduction of insect pests into agri- cultural centres has been forcibly demonstrated in recent years, and inspection and fumigation at ports of entry have been shown to be more effective than any other method yet devised. Of the insect pests that have become so serious as to threaten even the existence of several horticultural or agri- cultural enterprises, by far the greater number have been those introduced from elsewhere, which have found more favour- able conditions in the new localities than in the places from which they came. Striking examples might be given of such introductions, but a few of the more notable ones will suffice. The grape Phylloxera (Phylloxera vastatriz) which, in its native home in the United States was very insignificant as a pest, became, when introduced into the vine-growing districts of Southern France, a most serious scourge, causing loss aggregating millions of dollars and threatening the very existence of the vine industry. The Colorado potato beetle (Doryphora decemlineata), when first discovered, was merely of scientific interest feeding upon wild plants, but with the great increase in the area cultivated in the Trish potato (Solanum tuberosum) it has spread over the entire North American continent and has become a pest of vital importance. The Cottony Cushion Scale (Leerya purchasi) as a native was of minor importance in Australia, but when introduced into the citrus groves of California, it nearly ruined the orange and lemon industries. The histories of this pest in New Zealand and Cape of Good Hope, of the Gypsy Moth (Porthetria dispar) in Massachusetts, and the San José Scale (Aspidiotus perniciosus) in the United States all illustrate the serious danger that may arise from imperted pests. With a view to preventing any such serious trouble many governments have passed laws to prohibit the importa- tion of plants, cuttings, bulbs and other articles likely to be infested with serious pests, or the treatment of such imported articles at ports of entry in order to disinfect them. Among the countries haying such laws may be mentioned New Zealand, Cape of Good Hope, Germany, France, Switzerland, Turkey and Canada. In the United States many states have laws requiring the regular inspection, once a year, of orchards and nurseries, and, if found free of noxious insect or other pests, a certificate to that effect is given the proprietor. Many states also insist that all nursery stock shipped into the state shall be accompanied with such a certificate of inspection. In the West Indies also something has been done along this line. Jamaica has laws in operation requiring the fumigation with hydrocyanic gas of all imported plants. The fumigation as required by these laws has been carried on for several years with marked success. The British Guiana Court of Policy has recently passed a law entitled ‘An Ordinance to prevent the introduction into this Colony of Diseases of Plants.’ The planters in Dominica have asked for similar enactment to protect the lime and orange industries in that island, and already fumigating chambers are in course of construction and it will probably not be long now before suitable laws are enacted to provide for the fumigation of all imported plants. The general method adopted for disinfecting nursery stock and other plants is known as the hydrocyanic gas method, and when fumigation is mentioned in this connexion, it always means that treatment, unless otherwise specified. Hydrocyanic gas as an insecticide was first used in combating the Cottony Cushion Scale in California, by Mr. D. W. Coguillet in 1886. Since that time many experiments have been tried with it and its great value as an insecticide is now firmly established. It has been used for fumigating nurseries, orchards, granaries, mills, houses, ships, etc., as well as plants, fruits and vegetables for import or export shipment. As applied to the British West Indies fumigation of imported plants cannot fail to be of the utmost benefit. It is true that many insect pests and especially scale insects are already to be found in these islands, but as pointed out by Mr. Maxwell-Lefroy in his paper in the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. III, p. 240) entitled ‘Scale Insects of the West Indies,’ about one-third of all the species of scale insects now known in these islands are introduced species. Thus, 80 species are given as native, 4 as doubtful in origin, and 36 introduced. — Of the introduced species it is necessary to mention only two, the Purple or Mussel Scale (MJytzlaspis citricola) and the Orange Snow Scale (Chionaspis citri). These perhaps are the most serious pests of orange and lime trees in these colonies. On the other hand, the native West Indian Red Scale (Aspidiotus articulatus), found everywhere throughout the West Indies and on a great variety of plants, rarely becomes a serious pest. These instances might be multiplied, but they should suffice to convince any who may have hitherto doubted the value of preventive measures in dealing with insect pests. The fact that we are already troubled with pests of many kinds cannot for a moment be given as a reason why we should allow others to be admitted, and especially when it is remembered that imported or introduced pests are likely, and almost certain, to become more destructive than the native ones. Hence the necessity of adopting an efficient means of preventing the introduction of such pests will be apparent. The old saying ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure ’ may very truly be applied to the matter of insect pests. That fumigation with hydrocyanic gas furnishes the necessary prevention has been amply proved by workers in economic entomology in many countries and under varying circumstances. Carbon bisulphide for Parasol Ants. The Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information for January contains an interesting reference to the value of carbon bisulphide as a destroyer of the parasol ant in Trinidad. Mr. Hart states: ‘it has been tried here in every possible way on the “ Bachrack” or parasol ant and has been found very effective. It has also been recently used as an insecticide for herbarium specimens and books and found to be very effective. ’ A Cheap Paint. According to American Gardening of January 30, ‘a cheap and durable outdoor paint is made by mixing hydraulic cement, to the consistency that can be applied by a brush, with sweet skim milk. A quart of the cement requires about a gallon of milk.’ Vou. III. No. 49. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. -I or oor SADE ; a: alt, THE CYPRUS JOURNAL: Published at the ‘Cyprus Journal’ Office, Nicosia. Price 2ep. per number; annual subscription including postage abroad, 3s. This is a new publication, the purpose of which is described by the sub-titlke—‘a monthly review of the agriculture, industries and archaeology of Cyprus.’ It is proposed to publish in English and Greek, and in some instances in Turkish, information likely to be useful to the farmers of Cyprus. This issue contains a review of the efforts that have been made by the Government to bring about an improve- ment in the agricultural condition of the island. Nursery and Experiment Gardens have been started as a means of distributing economic plants, and land has been purchased for a Model Experimental Farm. Among other interesting articles may be mentioned : ‘Cotton cultivation in Cyprus,’ ‘the Advantages of Agri- cultural Exhibitions and Shows,’ and ‘the Requirements of Productive Trees.’ ‘THE FOOD OF THE GODS’ London : Rk. Brimley Johnson, W. C., 1903. This book gives a fairly complete, popular account of the growth and manufacture of cacao. It deals with the subject mainly from a commercial point of view and is naturally of very little special interest to the cacao planter. The book is nicely got up and contains a large number of well-executed illustrations relating to the cultivation of this crop in the West Indies. The first chapter deals with the nature of cacao, its uses, adulterations, constituents, etc. In the second chapter an account is given of the growth and cultivation of the cacao tree and the curing of the beans. The last chapter, dealing with ‘sources and varieties’ is also of interest. - By Brandon Head. 4, Adam Street, Adelphi, LIQUID FOOD FOR HOUSE PLANTS. The following note, taken from American Garden- img of January 30, should be of value to amateur gardeners and others interested in growing pot plants in the West Indies :— The best liquid food for house plants and the most economical is made from sheep manure. To prepare this make a bag of coarse material, and in it put a quart of sheep manure. Put the bag in a wooden pail, fill up with cold water and let it stand for a day. Pour off the water and use one quart to the gallon in the watering-can: apply only to the roots, giving each plant a good dose. Fill the pail again with water, and the next week use this half and half. Take out the bag and let it drip to give another dose, using this half and half, then spread-the dregs as a mulch on the soil of the pots. For house pots do not water the soil again until the pot on the outside shows the need of it. The harm done in watering house plants is in washing the nutriment out of the soil. STREET TREE PLANTING. Indian Planting and Gardening of January 2 has an article on the above subject emphasizing the need for the appointment of a special officer whose duty it would be to supervise the planting of trees in the streets of Calcutta. It is pointed out that not only are trees planted in a haphazard fashion without regard to their suitability for the purpose, but moreover, the employés of the ‘Telephone and Telegraph Companies are allowed to lop and hack the trees in such a way as to spoil their appearance. This is a point to which attention might also be paid in the West Indies; we have seen many instances of damage being done in this way. It is not only that the trees are made unsightly by this treatment, but the lopping being carried on without any regard for the most elementary rules of pruning, the result. is disastrous to the health of the trees. Rough stumps and jagged wounds are left which soon give rise to rotting and disease: the rotting spreads, and a fine tree is finally destroyed. If such “work were done under the supervision of a capable gardener, the trees would not be rendered unsightly nor would they be perma- nently damaged as aresult of fungoid attacks. The writer of the article referred to goes on to quote from a review in the Gardeners’ Chronicle of a recent French work on street planting as follows :— The methods of transplanting, the machinery employed, the care to be given after removal, the cost, and other particulars are briefly and clearly described. We notice, however, that M. Liquet, like every one else, adopts the plan of putting a grating (gri//e) close up to the base of the tree for the admission of air and water to the roots; but that is just the place where such an arrangemeut is least required. The grating should be fixed at some considerable distance from the trunk, so as to admit air and water to the feeding roots. These, as every one knows, are at a distance from the trunk. A similar mistake is often made in applying manure close round the base of the tree instead of at a distance. Two or three large gratings at intervals between each tree and its neighbour would be better than the present system ; better still would it be to have, wherever possible, an open border all the way along from tree to tree. Now that street- planting on an extensive scale will soon be carried out in the new streets in the course of construction in London, these details should be attended to. Vitality of Seeds. A remarkable instance of the extraordinary vitality of henbane seeds has perhaps sufficient importance to be placed on record. About four years ago a considerable portion of the foundations of the ancient Priory, near Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, was laid bare in the cause of antiquarian research, and the soil and other débris thrown out on the adjacent old pasture land. The following year some remarkably fine plants of Hyoseyamus niger grew, flowered and ripened their seed amid thistles and nettles. Several plants appeared the year after, but since that time they have, apparently, become extinct. Now, as this Priory is said to have been demolished in the reign of Henry VIII, a much longer period has elasped than in either of the instances mentioned above. Although Conium macu- latum abounds in the neighbourhood, I have never seen Hyoscyamus niger growing wild within a radius of 20 miles from Belvoir Castle. (Pharmaceutical Journal.) 76 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Frsruary 27, 1904. GLEANINGS: Good West Indian kola nuts sold recently for 53d. per tb. At a meeting of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, the Chairman (Sir Alfred Jones, K.C.M.G.) stated that the exports of West African cacao in 1893 were £9,000, and in 1902, £94,000 in value. The following report and valuation on a small sample of cotton sent from Hannay’s plantation, Barbados, has been recently received:— ‘Bright, clear, good, silky staple. Value per Ib. on spot, 13d. to 134d. It is announced that the Trinidad Agricultural Society has made suitable arrangements for the permanent exhibition of commercial samples of the products of Trinidad in the Board of Trade Building, Montreal. The Superintendent of the Botanic Station, British Honduras, gave two lectures with practical demonstrations to elementary school teachers on Tuesday and Wednesday, January 5 and 6, at the Botanic Station. (The Clarion, January 14, 1904.) We learn from the St. Vincent Government Gazette of January 21 that it is proposed to charter a vessel to ply between St. Vincent and Grenada every Friday, arriving at Grenada in time for Saturday morning’s market. It is hoped that in this way a market will be found for St. Vincent fruit and vegetables. According to Indian Planting and Gardening of January 9, careful experiments have been conducted in the Government Laboratory at Muktesar, which show that quinine is absolutely useless in cases of rinderpest. Inocu- lation treatment for this disease is, on the other hand, growing in popularity. The total value of the produce shipped from Tobago to Port-of-Spain during the year 1902-3 is given as nearly £30,000. The shipments include 1,086 cattle, 1,823 goats, 2,203 pigs, 3,260 dozen of eggs, 2,030 dozen of fowls, 16,600 gallons of cocoanut oil, 2,000 bags of cacao, 226 tons of sugar, and over 500 tons of vegetables. (Our Western Empire, January 15, 1904.) In view of the spread of the cotton mite at Montserrat, the Imperial Department of Agriculture is advising the planters that at the close of the present season all the old cotton plants should be destroyed (if possible by fire) and not a single one left to carry over the disease to the next season. Also that, as far as possible, the planting for the next season be established on fresh land and with selected seed obtained outside the island and carefully disinfected beforehand. It is announced that arrangements have been made through the Trinidad Agricultural Society for the importation of Gros Michel banana suckers in regular shipments by each Royal Mail steamer. These will be supplied in retail lots at cost price subject to a commission of 5 per cent. It is estimated that the cost landed on wharf will be 15s. per hundred. The Pharmaceutical Journal of January 30, 1904, states: ‘ A Congo plant, known as Iboga, has been examined by Landrin and Dybowsky. It is stated to possess properties similar to those of coca and kola. It is a woody plant of low growth, with a large root. The natives use all parts of the plant, but prefer the root, as being more active. Its physiological properties are due to an alkaloid named ibogaine.’ The farmer and Stock-breeder of February 1 contains notes by the Veterinarian of the Oklahoma Experiment Station on the treatment of mange in cattle. A cheap and effective remedy can be prepared from tobacco and sulphur as follows : ‘ Place 1 Ib. of tobacco leaves or plug in | gallon of water and allow to stand for twenty-four hours ; boil and allow to stand over night. Mix 1 tb. of sulphur in a gallon of water ; remove tobacco leaves from the infusion, and mix this with the sulphur water, adding 4 gallons of water.’ A Colonial Products Exhibition was opened at Liverpool on December 29 by the Duke of Marlborough. The exhibition owes its initiation to Sir Alfred Jones, K.C.M.G. Among the stalls, which attracted a considerable share of attention, may be mentioned Mr. Thomas Dowd’s West Indian Exhibit, containing a fine selection of Jamaica fruits, and the display of banana products (‘ Bananine’ bread and flour) by Mr. Wm. Alfred Jones, of the Jamaica Produce Company. The Jamaica 7%mes of February 6 announces the follow- ing results in connexion with the recent teachers’ agricultural course :— ‘Mr. Cousins gave £2 and Mr. Fawcett £1, as prizes for the best forked patch of land. Mr. G. A. Robinson, Mr. L. Virtue and Mr. Hay gained 97 marks out of a maximum of 100. They got £1 each. A further prize of £1 was given by Mr. Cousins for the best essay on the course. Mr. Jabez Stewart won this.’ According to the Tertile Mercury of January 23, notice has been received by the Cuban Vice-Consul in London ‘that the province of Santa Clara will be able to export, in four months’ time, an important amount of Sea Island cotton, which is the best quality, and a smaller amount of the Upland, which is not so good.’ This is interesting as showing that Upland cotton is not so satisfactory in Cuba as Sea Island, thus confirming the experience in the British West Indies. An interesting paper on a familiar subject, the relation of temperature to the keeping property of milk, has reached us from Storrs, Connecticut. The view of the writer, Dr. H. W. Conn, the well-known dairy bacteriologist, is that the keeping of milk is more a matter of temperature than of cleanliness. At 50° neither of the lactic ferments makes much growth, but putrefactive bacteria develop, and though these may not make the milk sour, they make it unwholesome. Milk, which has been kept sweet by exposure to low temperatures, should be viewed with suspicion. (Nature, January 29, 1904.) Vou. III. No. 49. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 7 LECTURES ON THE DISEASES OF THE SUGAR-CANE: By L. Lewton-Brain, B.A. F.LS., Mycologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Pamphlet series, No. 29. As announced on p. 25 of this volume, the lectures on the diseases of the sugar-cane, recently delivered at Barbados by Mr. Lewton-Brain, have been issued in pamphlet form. We quote from the preface the following remarks of the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture :— ‘The diseases referred to attack canes to a greater or less extent in all the sugar-producing colonies in the West Indies. The root disease (Marasmius) was especially prevalent at Barbados last year, and it was largely due to the attacks of this fungus that the sugar crop of 1893 (35,000 hhds.) was lower than any during a period of thirty-four years. It was even lower than in 1895, when the ravages of the rind fungus (Trichosphaeria) reduced the normal crop of 56,000 hhds. to 36,000 hhds. and led to the practical abandonment of the Bourbon cane. The principal canes now cultivated are the White Transparent and seedling canes. ‘A conservative estimate, after making every allowance for unfavourable seasons and other circumstances, has placed the loss due to the attacks of fungoid diseases at Barbados during 1903 at 10,000 hhds. of the value of £70,000. If we take into account the loss sustained in molasses also, the total loss in 1903 would not fall far short of £100,000. It was with the view of aiding the planter to control the diseases affecting his crops, especially in these days of low prices, that the lectures delivered by Mr. Lewton-Brain were organized. If the advice given in the lectures be closely followed, there is little doubt that the loss likely to be sustained from the attacks of cane diseases might be reduced at least one-half. It is hoped that in view of these facts the recommendations of the Department will receive the hearty support of all members of the planting community. ‘The root fungus is present again this year, but, owing to the greater vigour of the canes due to favourable seasons, the effects are not so marked as last year. It is recommended that tops for planting should be selected from healthy canes only ; that where the disease shows itself in small patches in the fields these should be isolated by a trench (about a foot deep) dug round them, so as to prevent the disease from passing through the soil and attacking healthy canes ; that "all cane stumps whatsoever should be dug up and destroyed either by burning or being heaped up and treated with quicklime ; and that where a field has been very badly attacked by root disease it should be thrown out of cultivation in canes, treated with lime, and planted with other crops for a period of at least one year, preferably two years. ‘These recommendations are of so simple and practical a character that no difficulty need be experienced in carrying them out, and especially as the probability is that they would be the means of saving a considerable portion of the loss to the sugar industry of this island which was estimated last year by responsible officers of the Department at £100,000.’ : DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture left for the Northern Islands in the S.S. ‘Orinoco’ on February 22. An important conference of landowners and planters was to be held at St. Lucia on the 23rd. instant to discuss the prospects of cotton growing in that island. Agricultural Shows were to be held at Dominica on February 25, at Montserrat on February 25, and Antigua, on February 26. Afterwards the Imperial Commissioner proposed to proceed on a visit of inspection to St. Kitt’s and Nevis, and return to Barbados in the 8.8. ‘Dahome’ on March 4 Subject to the approval of the Secretary of State, Mr. R. D. Anstead, B.A., Christ’s College, Cambridge, will assume the duties of Agricultural Assistant at the Government Laboratory under the Island Professor of Chemistry, in connexion with Sugar-cane Experi- ments at Barbados, from March 1 next. Pending the approval of the Secretary of State, Mr. W. N. Sands, Curator of the Botanic Station at Antigua, wil proceed to take up the duties of his appointment as Agricultural Superintendent at St. Vincent on or about March 5 next. GOAT KEEPING. The following notes on goat keeping appear in the Journal of the British Honduras Society of Agriculture and Commerce (Vol. I, Part 2, p. 32):— It is perhaps not generally known that thousands of kid gloves are made every year from goat-skins. Many millions of pairs of gloves of all shades and thickness are the product of the destructive goat. In the raising of goats we have another profitable industry which might advantageously be taken up by some persons in this colony. We are apt to look upon goats as a nuisance. So they undoubtedly are in the towns and wherever there is a garden or cultivation of any plants ; but there are thousands of acres of scrubby country land which could be utilized for raising large herds of these animals. Take our pine ridges, which are to some extent useless for cultivation : goats would thrive wellon such lands. They do not require very much care, as is the case with most other animals, and they are easily managed. A few boys can look after several hundred. In addition to this skin-value, the flesh, especially when young, is excellent meat and can be sold. Goats also furnish a very rich milk that can be made into cheese, ete. An ordinary sized goat-skin is worth from 25c. to 50c. There should be a large margin of profit in this business, as goats require no expensive feeding, in fact they can forage out all the food they need for themselves. Rubber from Corn Oil. According to the India Rubber World, rubber from corn oil is a most important rubber substitute, its popularity being due to its usefulness as a filler and insulator and to its low cost. Corn oil rubber is one of the products of the Corn Products Co. of the United States. The plants operated by this company also manufac- ture glucose, starch, dextrine, syrup, glycerine, ete., the rubber being one of the by-products. =T io) THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Frsruary 27, 1904- MARKET REPORTS. London,— February 2, 1904. Messrs. Kearron, Preer &Co., St. New York,—January 22, Messrs. E. A. Dr Pass & Co. and Messrs. J. Hates Carrp & Co.; ‘THE Liverroon Corron Association WEEKLY CrircuLar’, January 29, 1904; and ‘Tar Pupric Lepcrr, January 30, 1904. ALors—Barbados, 15/- to 35/-; Curagoa, 14/- to 35/- per ewt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, Id. to 3hd.; 1/8 per Ib. Batara—1/9 to 2/2 per th. Bees’-wax—£7 5s. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 68 - to 74/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 53 - to 62/- per ewt.; Dominica, St. Lucia and Jamaica, 51/- to 61,/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/2 per Ih. CorreE—Jamaica, ordinary, 40/- to 58/- per ewt. Corra—Trinidad, £16 15s. per ton, c.i.f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 1/4 to 1/5 per th, Divi Divi— No quotations. Frvir— Bananas—Jamaica, 5/- to 7/- per bunch. Grapre Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. ORANGES—Jamaica, 8/- to 9/3 per case of 150 to 176. Prve-arpLes—No quotations. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. GincEeR—Jamaica, 35/- to 55/- per ewt. Honey—Jamaica, 18 - to 30/- per ewt. Istyctass—West Indian lump, 2/4 to 2/11; Cake, 1/5 to 1/6 per th. Kota Nurs—4d. to 7d. per tb. Live Jurce—Raw, 9d. to 1s. per gallon ; Concentrated, £12 10s. to £18 per cask of 108 gallons. Live O11—No quotations. Locwoop—£4 Ys. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—J/9 to 2/3 per th. Nirrare or Sopa—dAgricultural, £9 15s, per ton. Nermecs-—69’s to 60's, 1/8 to 2/2; 90's to 80's, 1/- to 1/3 per th. Pimento—4d. to 44d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 9/. to 103d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/6 to 8/- per proof gallon. SaRSAPARILLA—No quotations. Scucar—Crystallized, 14,9 to 16/- 12/- to 14/-. Sutewate or AmMonta—£12 17s. 6d. per ton. Tamarinps— Antigua, 8/- to 8/6 per cwt. John, N.B., MERCHANT.’ Bermuda, 1/3 to per ewt.; Muscoyado, January 12, 1904.—‘ THe Maritime Motasses—Barbados, 34c. per gallon. Porto Rico, 40c. 1904.—Messrs. GILLESPIE Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao— ~~ SES OES SSS SY SO SS NYS © OSES OOS OSE r S Wwwwiwwwwk Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :-— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: Toe West Inpis Commirres, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: THe EpucarionaL Supriy Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guianu: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown. Trinidad: Messrs. Murr, MarsHatt & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. Pruscemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., ‘The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproot, Kingstown. St. Lucia: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F, DuvERNEY & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat : Mr. W. LLEWELLYN WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. S. D. Matong, St. John’s. St. Kitt’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Vevs: Mr. 8. D. Manone, Charlestown. Bahamas ; Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. 80 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fepruary 27, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE Se Se Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. (ees) Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. “CAGAO.” | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. oe RECENTLY ISSUED: | | Pamphlet No. 28,— | or Fa, F.LS:! | ‘BARBADOS AND PORTO RICO MOLASSES.’ NEW EDITION. | Price. 3d. Post Free, 3hd. ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. IV, NO. 3). Papers on Cotton. Price Gd. Post Free, 8d. A TREATISE ON THE @ULTIVATION, CURING AND CHEMISTRY OF COMMERCIAL CACAO. | Pamphlet No. 29,— ‘LECTURES ON DISEASES OF THE SUGAR-CANE.’ DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co, 28, Essex St, London. || | ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (Vol. IV, No. 4). Containing report of Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., z D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S., on yisit [50] Se ae to the cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. 50. Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. pads i) mM RACE A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. BARBADOS, MARCH 12, 1904. PricE ld. No. 50. CONTENTS. PAGE. PAGE Agricultural Shows : Guadeloupe Jaborandi ... 94 Antigua... ... ... .. 9 | Insect Notes :— MOminicay se e---ihes ues POL Lady-birds in West Montserrat ... ... ... 91 | Indies woo eee peaa AD Bananas, Varieties at Thrips on Cacao in Prinidads ti. jc ass. 194 Gronaduiee-eeass bee OU Barbados, Minor Indus- Market Reports ... ... 95 tries at ... ... .- 86 | Musk Seed... 93 Blindness from Sand-box | Nitrogen, The Supply of, MUICC Hees | iesse eee (wese G2 togblantsessecsd eae Cocoa-nut Disease in | Our Book Shelf :— British Honduras ... 88 | Dominica Agriculturist 91 Coffee Trade of Columbia 89 The Evolution of Plant Cotton :— JbihS, Seas) cco! «ood Teoh a Bales ... ... ... «.. 85 The Natural History of Cultivation —...--. ---1 oo Plants sen cop cap) wht Quotations for... ... 88 | Peasantry and Cultivation 84 Petroleum from Trinidad 89 Sugar Industry :— British Guiana Sugar- cane Experiments ... 82 St. Vincent... ... ... 85 | Supply of ... ... ... 85 Cotton Industry ... ... 2&1 Department News... ... 93 | Eelworms in Tobacco ... 86 | Venezuela, Agricultural Feeding, Economical, on Condition of ... ... 89 Sugar Estates... ... 89 | West Indian Products .. 94 French Guiana, Trade of | West Indies, Diversitica- Fruit, Carriage of... ... 84 | tion of Crops in ... 85 Gleamimosmcs | s-.) 22) 229,92) |oWindmills. neem eee OT a ioe) Cotton Industry. N spite of many adverse circumstances the cotton crop now being reaped, though small i in quantity, is proving of excellent quality everywhere in the West Indies. In this connexion it may be interesting to mention that the Secretary of the British Cotton Growing Association reports that a consignment of cotton just received from Barbados ‘is valued at from 16d. to 17d. per tb. and is considered the best Sea Island cotton which has yet been imported from the West Indies,’ The cotton ginneries at Barbados, Montserrat, Antigua and Nevis are in full working and it is expected that regular shipments of cotton, cn a commercial scale, will take place during the next few weeks. The yield, as already stated, is not so large so was anticipated, owing to the unfavourable season and the attacks of the cotton worm. It is felt, however, that with the experience now gained the cotton worm and other difficulties should be successfully dealt with during the coming season. The question of low freight for cotton is occupying a good deal of attention. It is probable that the present rates (65s. per ton weight) will have to be reduced, as there are indications that through shipment via New York to Liverpool or Manchester may be possible at about 45s. per ton weight. The great point in establishing the cotton industry is to obtain careful and intelligent action in cultivating the crop of 1905 and ensure that the utmost effort is made to obtain not only cotton of good quality but in such quantity as to make the industry remunerative. The experience so far gained should prove of great service in this direction. The heavy rains and strong winds, experienced during the past season, cannot be provided against ; but as regards better cultivation and the treatment of the cotton worm there should be great improvement in all directions. CO to THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Mancn 12, 1904. The first important matter to arrange for is the destruction of all old cotton plants at the end of the present crop so as to leave nothing for insects and other pests to feed upon to carry them over until the next crop. There should be no attempt to ratoon any areas in cotton this year. Those who do so will only have themselves to thank, if their plants are affected with disease and the crop is injured. Nothing can justify any attempt at carrying over a ratoon crop this year. It is hoped that no one will attempt anything of the kind. a ratoon crop from the present plants is likely to be so small as to be hardly worth the trouble. The next point is carefully to select new land for the next planting. The soil should be good and deep, of a light loamy character and in a sheltered and accessible situation. The land should be ploughed or forked and well broken up so as to form a mould. The locality should not be a wet one. A rainfall exceeding 80 inches per annum may be regarded as probably too heavy for profitable cotton growing. The selection of good seed has been urged so often that it is hardly necessary to repeat recommendations under this head. None of the seed grown this year in the West Indies should be used for planting purposes. The Imperial Department of Agriculture is prepared to supply the best seed direct from the Sea Islands at Further, this seed will cost price. be disinfected beforehand. Perhaps the most important point of all is to prepare for the attacks of the cotton worm, This attacks cotton everywhere. It is proved, however, that the treatment with Paris green and lime is absolutely trustworthy, if applied in time. For every acre planted in cotton there should be kept at hand, ready for use for the cotton worm, at a moment’s notice, at least 8 tb. of Paris green and 18 tb. of slaked lime; also bags of coarse osnaburg for distributing the mixture consisting of one part of Paris green to six parts of lime. Those who are prepared to carry out fully these suggestions and give close attention to the cultivation and care of their cotton fields need have little or no anxiety as to the future of the cotton industry in these colonies. Blindness Caused by Sand-box Juice. It is generally known throughout the West Indies that the juices (‘ milk’) of the sand-box, the manchineel and other trees are of an injurious nature. Asa case in point, mention might be made of a man in Trinidad who has been blind for about four years, the blindness having been caused, it is said, by the juice of the sand-box tree (Hura crepitans). The risk is too great, and, besides, the yield of SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Sepaeanents at British Guiana. The following concludes the progress report, the first instalment of which was published in the previous number of the Agricultural News :— Half of the older plots on North dressings of slag-phosphates in June 1901, applied at the rate of 6 ewt. per acre. The means of the yields of the varieties of canes grown upon it without and with slag- phosphates, when reaped in 1902 as plant canes, were 68°6 and 68 tons respectively. The following shows the tons of canes per acre reaped from each variety in December 1903 as classed under their various systems of nitrogenous manuring :— field received Ist. RATOONS. | No Nitrogen. | Low Nitrogen. | High Nitrogen. INos. off N° Slag- | No Slag- | No Slag- ee phos- | phos- | phos- | phos- | phos- | phos- *| phates. | phates. | phates. | phates. | phates. | phates. 625) 42°8 | “49-9. | Arey 3\ 048-2" 516) voles 116) 35:1 31-2 38°9 39-2 43°8 48°35 130] 28-4 28°1 32°73 31-2 95) 18:7 Il) 25:3 26°6 145 | 34:9 | 29°9 | 420 | 46:9 | 387 |) 42 109) 28-7 || 3169 || gba | 34-7 |-42 iados 78| 28-4 28°5 36°3 34:8 40-7 41-9 115} 28:3 31-2 36°6 418 74| 24:0 25°7 35°3 33-7 3,956 | 32:7 32°5 30-4 31 37°6 42-2 Mean | 30-2 30:2 36 36°8 44-8 Sixty plots on this field were occupied by four varieties, one-third of the plots receiving in 1902, at the planting of canes, slag-phosphates at the rate of 6 cwt. per acre, one-third ‘basic superphosphate’ at a similar rate, while the remaining third did not receive any phosphatic dressing. The results in tons of canes per acre were as follows :— PLANT CANES. No Nitrogen. Low Nitrogen. | High Nitrogen. SS Iles a) a | 2 os] & Rilo |m | a A z i Ale 2,190 }21-7 |} 21-1 | 26-231 | 18 tis 33°7 | 35:3) 32°2 B.147 | 30°3 | 30°3 | 29-4 |.25°5 | 34:5 | 39:1 | 35 |34 | 36:3 White Trans- parent | 28-9 | 31-7 | 29°9 | 32°8 | 36:9 | 42°9 | 36:9 | 37 | 37:3 Bour- bon | 29°5 |24°5|28 |29:2|31:4)26 | 29-5 | 31-7] 32:2 Mean | 27°6 | 26°9 | 28-4 | 29-6 | 30-2 | 30:2 | 33°8 | 34-5] 34-5 On South field, using ninety-two plots with varieties as plant canes, the comparative results with and without slag-phosphates were as follows :— THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 83 PLANT CANES, No Nitrogen. [Low Nitrogen.|/High Nitrogen. No | Slag | No | Slag- | No | Slag- Nos. of canes.) phos- | phos- | phos- | phos- | phos- | phos- phates. |phates. |phates. |phates. |phates. |phates. 625 20°2 | 20-2 | 21-9 | 25-4 | 29-4 | 31 115 Wl | W71 =| 25:7 | 25-8 | 28-7 | 286 109 7iSeh || TUG) 1 ri 26°5 | 29°8 | 31-4 W. Transpt. | 16 15-1 | 23°8 | 23-5 | 24:5 | 24-6 Mean 17-8 | 18-1 | 24-6 | 25:3 || 28:1 || 28-9 Taken in connexion with the figures, yielded by the analyses of the soil made in 1891-2 and in 1902 and contained in the reports for 1896-1902 and for 1902-3, the results indicate that if a British Guiana sugar-cane soil shows on analysis a content of ‘008 per cent. of phosphoric acid soluble in 1 per cent. citric acid solution or of ‘002 per cent. soluble in two-hundredth normal hydrochloric acid under conditions of constant shaking for five hours, manuring with phosphates in all probability will not produce appreciably increased yields of sugar-cane. This conclusion based on the results of twelve years’ field-experiments is an important one for the guidance of planters in this colony. At present large quantities of slag-phosphates (1,655 tons valued at $21,849 at port of shipment in 1902-3) are yearly imported, at an approximate cost on the field of say $20-00 per ton, and are applied to the soil at the rates of several hundredweights per acre. By submitting a properly drawn sample of the soil to which he contemplates applying slag-phosphates for analysis (at a cost of $2°50) the planter can ascertain whether his soil contains more or less than ‘008 per cent. of phosphoric acid soluble in 1 per cent. citric acid, and be guided accordingly. In my opinion considerable economy would ensue from the adoption of this course. The following, arranged in order of their yields of indicated saccharose, shows the rates of yields of canes per acre and the saccharose-contents of the expressed juices of the varieties of canes which were reaped in December 1903 as third ratoons on the Brickdam field :— oun ... | Tons canes Saccharose Bourbon eo canes: per acre. |b. per gallon.| equals 100. 1,087 44-7 1816 217-4 B. 147 45-2 1728 207-7 145 42-1 1:°822 198-3 625 52°6 1478 194-7 1,896 40-2 1-884 189 109 381 1°842 181°3 754 40°6 1796 — 17671 135 36°5 1°832 167-1 1,483 36°3 1°822 160 3,157 36°2 1-770 1581 1,143 35:2 1-718 157-9 1,640 34°5 1-738 saya) 1,184 32°6 1:863 156°6 115 39 1-671 153°7 3,873 33°6 1-759 151°4 a ang | Lons canes | Saccharose Bourbon SOE O! Canes: per acre. | tb. per gallon. | equals 100. 1,905 316 1-790 147-7 116 34:9 1-775 147°3 74 28 1884 147 2,190 33°8 1-796 143°3 125 351 1-619 140 2,028 31 1-660 139-2 130 41:3 1:666 139-2 132 32°8 1536 138°8 2,468 29 1816 136-4 4,399 36 1458 133-2 3,287 30°7 1-666 128:°7 102 28 1:666 124°3 1,880 24°6 1:863 123°8 3,866 31-7 1603 123-4 117 25:7 1:822 112°9 White Transpt. 25-4 1:730 1117 4,139 27-7 1536 110-1 Bourbon 21°6 1-796 100 1,859 17-1 2-009 ileal, These canes were not supplied and hence the results are indications of the actual ratooning powers of the varieties as compared with the Bourbon. The mean indicated saccharose in the expressed juice of each of the varieties per acre per crop, which has been cultivated on this field since 1900, is as follows :-— NioowOg Saccharose in Neva Saccharose in variety. expressed juice per ance expressed juice per acre of canes. acre of canes. B. 147 5°20 1,880 3°96 145 bali 1,896 3°95 625 4:99 116 3°78 115 4-74 125 3°76 1,087 4-69 130 3°72 109 4°66 135 3°72 74 4°63 754 3°60 2,190 4:10 102 3°37 1,640 4-05 117 319 RS Ii 4:05 White T. 3:15 132 4-01 1,483 3:06 2,468 4:00 1,905 301 2,028 3°98 Bourbon 3-00 The high yield of B. 147 in these experiments is worthy of note. As in the earlier Barbados experiments under similar conditions of plot growth, it has appeared to be a cane of exceptional high potential value, while, as it is reported to have been in Barbados, in this colony on a large scale it has been a comparative failure. Six hundred and twenty-five mule-cart loads of canes were distributed during the last fortnight of December to the various plantations and to a very few cane farmers who applied for them. I am of opinion that we now know sufficient about our new varieties of canes to be able to recommend some of them with confidence to cane farmers, and I hope in the near future to receive applications from them. la 84 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Marcu 12, 1904. N WEST INDIAN PRU: VARIETIES OF BANANAS AT TRINIDAD. We take the following note on varieties of bananas from the Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellaneous Infor- mation for January last :— The new varieties of bananas at St. Clair, which were introduced trom the East Indies by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, have commenced to fruit. The first bunch is mature and turns out to be something quite different to any hitherto grown in the colony. It came to us under the name of Musa discolor. CARRIAGE OF FRUIT. One of the difficulties in the way of establishing successful fruit industries in the West Indies is that of getting the fruit to the port of shipment. In some districts the absence of good roads increases this difficulty, and renders it almost impossible to avoid injury to the fruit. But even when roads are good damage is often done by carelessness in carting. ‘The state of affairs, described in the following extract from the Queensland Agricultural Jowrnal, is only too common in these islands :— A short time ago, while riding along a country road through one of our best orange-growing districts, I met a cartload of oranges on the way to the nearest railway station. Every case that I could see was standing on end in the cart, and had come its journey in that position. Now, fancy fruit being jolted along a bush road on end, and then shipped off to some distant market ! What chance has that fruit of presenting a sound and attractive condition and appearance under the salesman’s hammer? Is it not almost certain to be so seriously damaged as to lose a big percentage of its value? No other result is possible ; and yet growers complain from. time to time of their fruit going wrong when they send it away, and that in some way that they can never understand, They declare that it was perfectly sound when gathered and packed ; that nothing whatever was the matter with it. Well, all I can say is that there is likely to be a good deal the matter with it after going 8 or 10 miles over bush roads with the cases on end. One of the great points in packing and handling fruit for market. is the avoidance of pressure, and all jarring or bumping, as far as is possible. But here you have the greatest possible pressure, and the finest chance in the world for the maximum of jarring and friction. And supposing that the fruit was packed in the most careful manner to begin with, that careful packing is likely to be very seriously disturbed before the end of such a journey. I want to say to our growers that this sort of thing will not do. It will neither bring credit or profit to those engaged in the industry. Care at every point must be the motto, or some single act of carelessness will probably spoil a lot of good work and a lot of good fruit at the same time. PEASANTRY AND CULTIVATION. The Demerara Argosy of January 6, in reviewing the report of the Department of Lands and Mines for 1902-3, makes the following reference to cultivation by peasant proprietors :— The Commissioner regrets that the cane-farming industry is not in a more flourishing condition, but when we remember that the price of sugar has been abnormally low, we need not consider the fact that 2,500 acres have been devoted to the staple by farmers altogether unsatisfactory. It may safely be predicted that when a better price rules for sugar those peasant proprietors, whose farms are in the vicinity of sugar estates, will not be slow to take advantage of the inducements to put part of their land, at all events, in canes. Cane cultivation they are acquainted with and will take to, if they find a profitable market for their produce. At present, the farmers grow, for the most part, perishable products, it being estimated that 75 per cent. of their total cultivation consists of plantains, tannias, cassava, ete., and the Commissioner remarks that the supply of these already exceeds the demand. Except in the Pomeroon and the North-West District, the small holders do little more than grow sufficient vegetables for the support of their families. “While all are ignorant of the method of cultivation of crops of a more permanent nature,’ Mr. Fowler states, ‘the majority lack stimulus to increased: industrial activity, their wants being of the fewest and simplest, and readily supplied by the bounty of nature with a minimum of toil. It is this lack of stimulus that is responsible more than anything else for the backward state of our minor industries. In Barbados every plot of ground possible of cultivation is beneficially oceupied, because in the struggle for existence, rendered necessary by a dense population, the people realize the need of making the most of their opportunities. Here as much land as can be profitably occupied may be purchased at 15e. per acre, free of any conditions as to cultivation, so that our rural peasantry hardly require to exert themselves at all to supply their few and simple wants. It would bea good thing for Barbados, and a good thing for this colony, if a few thousands of that island’s agricultural labourers could be induced to come over and settle on our Crown lands.’ Vor. III. No. 50. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 85 COTTON. © DIVERSIFICATION OF CROPS IN THE 3 WEST INDIES. Cotton at St. Vincent. The following is a letter addressed by the The following notice, signed by Mr. W. B. Seabrook, Cotton Expert, and Mr. C. H. Knowles, Acting Curator of the Botanic Station, has been inserted in the St. Vincent papers :— Cotton planters are asked to facilitate the work of the Cotton Factory and also to further their own interests by giving careful attention to the following points when picking and preparing the cotton for ginning at the Factory :— (1) No short-staple cotton of any kind should on any account be mixed with the long-staple Sea Island. (2) Great care should be taken to remove al/ trash, bits of leaves, etc., from the cotton when picking and before it is mixed in bulk. (3) Yellow stained cotton can be ginned, but must be sent separately and not mixed with clean white cotton. Cotton Bales. ; We extract the following note on this subject from Mr. Foaden’s report to which we referred in the last issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 69):— The American cotton bale leaves a great deal to be desired, and the question is one which has been discussed at great length during recent years. Compared with an Egyptian bale, it is very inferior: it shows the cotton in many places, the bagging is inferior and the ties often break. The standard size of the American bale is about 54 inches long, 27 inches wide and about 16 inches thick, weighing about 500 Ib. The Indian bale is smaller and lighter, the Egyptian, though not much larger, is heavier. The average weight of the bale of the chief cotton-growing countries is approximately as follows :— American, 500 Ib. ; Brazilian, 230 tb. ; Egyptian, 740 tb ; Indian, 400 tb. ; and Peruvian, 182 tb. The Supply of Cotton. The following note, taken from the January number of the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, gives a hopeful account of the prospects of the cotton industry in the future, which should do much to remove any doubts of growers as to the ultimate success of the efforts now being made to revive the cultivation of cotton in these islands :— There never was a period in the history of cotton when the prospects of a great world shortage is so evident as now, a shortage, too, not like the one caused by the Civil War in the United States. Formerly it was almost wholly the county of Lancashire in England that consumed cotton. Now it:still takes as much as ever—or would if it could get it. It is not through want of trade but lack of supply that the mills there have shut down, and Belgium, Germany, Italy, Japan, India and the United States have all large cotton-manufacturing industries besides. The United States does not supply itself with just the varieties of cotton that we can grow best, viz., Sea Island and Egyptian. It imports from Egypt annually 7} million dollars worth of cotton. Was there ever an industry with such a good chance—when the world gasps for supplies and cannot get them? Will the demand last? It is calculated that it will, for the United States are using more and more of their Upland cotton, while it is not probable that they will ever be able to grow all the Sea Island they require. A shortage for many years yet isin sight. - Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture to the Editor of the Louisiana Planter on the above subject :— In the Louisiana Planter, No. 26, for December 26, I notice it is stated that although during late years I have been advocating a diversification of crops in the British West Indies, I am now said to have slightly changed my views. As the Louisiana Planter is so widely read in these colonies, as well as in other parts of the world, I would ask your permission to place on record that the views I have consistently advocated for twenty-five years have in no degree altered in regard to the necessity for a diversification of crops as a means of improving the circumstances of the West Indies. In my address at the Sugar Conference, held at Jamaica on November 11 last, I drew special attention to the sugar industry and advocated its extension, because in the eager rush for profits arising from the cultivation of bananas there were indications that the claims of sugar, as one of the staple industries of the island, were in danger of being overlooked. I went on to say that a prosperous sugar industry would also mean a prosperous pen-keeping industry. The sugar industry and cacao and other industries were essential in order to place the circumstances of the island in a stable condition, so that, if anything happened to one industry, the others should be able to take its place. It was not safe to depend alone on a flourishing banana industry. It was necessary that a flourishing sugar industry and flourishing cacao, coffee and other industries should also be maintained in the island. At the present moment, in order to aid still further in the diversification of crops, I am iaking an active part in encouraging a cotton industry and in starting on a moder- ately large scale the cultivation of rubber trees, onions, ground nuts, vanilla, oranges, grape fruit and pine-apples. I would take advantage of this opportunity of thanking you very heartily for the sympathy and the interest shown by the Lowisiana Planter in the welfare of the British West Indies In reviewing this letter the Editor of the Lowis- iana Planter writes as follows in his issue for February 13 :— Elsewhere in this issue will be found an interesting letter from Sir Daniel Morris, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture in the British West Indies. The letter explains the present position of Sir Daniel, and we were led into our conclusions, to which he takes exception, by his seeming reference to the sugar industry as the main dependence, after all, of the British West Indies, when the continually falling markets throughout the entire sugar world are seemingly carrying disaster to that industry everywhere. Sir Daniel Morris has done such excellent work already in urging the diversification of crops in the West Indies, that we can only praise his untiring interest, unflagging energy and supreme devotion to the cause in which he is engaged. In this connexion we may give, as applicable to Sir Daniel’s present position, a clipping from a recent issue of the Jamaica Gleaner, which really states the whole case :— ‘The great point in Sir Daniel’s agricultural gospel is the necessity for more industries to supplement those on which the island relies to too great an extent at present. He urged this when he was formerly in the island; he has urged it on every visit he has paid to it since ; he again urges it more emphatically than ever.’ 86 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Marcu 12, 1904. MINOR INDUSTRIES AT BARBADOS. Ata meeting of the Barbados Agricultural Society, held on February 19, after the special business before the meeting had been disposed of, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture addressed the members in reference to the present position of minor industries in the island. remarks :— The following is a brief summary of his Next to the sugar industry, the subjects that were of greatest moment to the island were the experiments that were being carried on in the cultivation of cotton, onions and bananas. ‘These experiments had been going on for some time and were still more or less in the experimental stage. Hence it was of great importance that the planters should consider the cireumstances connected with these industries and see what could be done in order to place them on a thoroughly satisfactory footing. COTTON INDUSTRY. With regard to the cotton industry, the general impression amongst members of the planting community was that the experiments of the last season had been a good deal interfered with, first of all by the cotton worm, and next by the unfavourable weather that had prevailed during the last three or four months. Nevertheless, the prospects for the present season were promising. He had already received orders for something like 850 bushels of the best cotton seed to be obtained from the Sea Islands, and the invitation to growers to pay for it within a certain time had been well responded to throughout the West Indies. To show that the people were in earnest in the matter in this island, he would mention that Mr. Bovell had received orders and payment for about 4,800 Ib. of seed, which meant that at least 800 acres would be put under cultivation during the next season. He had little doubt that, if the planters would exercise due care with their crops, they would have a fair chance of success. With regard to planting for the next season, he would strongly advise that every effort should be made to prevent the carrying over of diseases to the new crop. With that in view it was necessary tbat every portion of the last crop should be buried or burned ; that only selected seed, previously sterilized, should be sown; and finally that the cotton should be planted on entirely new land. If it were found, ultimately, that the conditions of climate and soil were unfavourable to cotton, by all means let them try something else; but until they had carried on experiments for another year or two, he was of opinion that they would not be in a position to say what the future of the industry was likely to be. The Hon. Forster Alleyne briefly stated to the meeting his experience and mentioned that although he was a little disappointed in the yield, yet he was not discouraged in the least and was intending to plant as much, if not more, cotton this year. ONION CULTIVATION. Sir Daniel Morris then proceeded to make some remarks about onion cultivation. He said that this cultivation had been carried on in some cases with success ; in others it had not been so successful. As far as he could gather, there had been two or three reasons why the cultivation this year had not been so successful as before. One of these was that the season had been an unfavourable one for onion growing. The weather had been very wet, and in some cases the bulbs had commenced to rot. The Department was hoping to obtain seed in July this year. Growers should try to plant their onions this year so as to get them ready for the market about the middle or end of January. At any rate, the experiments were well worth continuing. Mr. Seibert Evelyn agreed with Sir Daniel Morris that the weather had been most unfavourable for onion cultivation, but considered that, on the whole, the experiments had been satisfactory and should be persevered with. The Hon. Forster Alleyne also expressed himself as satisfied that onions were a most satisfactory crop to grow in Barbados, and stated he intended to continue their cultivation. SHIPMENTS OF FRUIT. Sir Daniel Morris said he would next touch on the exportation of fruit. The planters had been trying the experiment of shipping bananas from this island to the English market, packed in crates as in the Canary Islands. On the whole, these experiments had not turned out badly. Some growers had made money, others had lost. If the growers of bananas would grow large bunches and cut them exactly at the right time for shipment, there was little doubt that there was a prospect of a remunerative trade between this island and the United Kingdom by means_ of the Royal Mail Steamers. He suggested that a conference of the banana growers should be held to consider what might be done to advance their interests. Sir Daniel Morris then read a letter (dated January 13, 1904), that he had received from the Chairman of the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. The following is an extract from this letter :— From my previous communications you are aware that the question of the conveyance of fruit from the West Indies has been haying my close personal attention. CHINESE BANANAS FROM BARBADOS, T note that your desire is to establish a trade in the Chinese banana from Barbados on entirely different lines from those adopted at Jamaica by the United Fruit Company, of U.S.A., or at Trinidad by the Symington Syndicate, and that in your opinion, a system of ventilation by means of fans is sufticient to enable the Chinese banana, when packed in crates, to arrive in England in good condition. I also note that cold storage 1s not required for bananas from Barbados, provided the fruit chamber is thoroughly ventilated by fans sufticiently large to ensure a current of air through the compartment. ORDINARY BANANAS AND OTHER FRUIT, The result of my recent investigations has caused me to form an opinion coincident with your own, as to the best system of fitting steamers for the carriage of fruit, and I have now arranged to fit the system recommended by you in the ‘Tagus’ and ‘ Trent,’ in place of the existing system. The same air will then be continually passed through the chambers and returned to the refrigerators, when, on each occasion, it will be deprived of any moisture. When this work is carried out, and we have had time to ascertain by practical experience if the results are satisfactory, my company will take into consideration fitting a similar system in the other mail steamers. Eelworms in Tobacco. Mr. John Belling, B.Se, writes from the Agricultural School at St. Kitt’s: ‘Some plants of Sumatra tobacco, grown at the Botanic Station, suddenly wilted when about a foot high. In translucent swellings on their young roots I found motionless nematodes or eelworms. ‘The infection was traced to the compost in the boxes in which the seedlings were first pricked out.’ Vou. Ill. No. 50. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 87 —— WINDMILLS. The following information on windmills is taken from King’s Physics of Agriculture :— If we except horse-power and that of cattle, there is no torm of motor which has been so generally or so widely used on the farm as the windmill, and its use is daily increasing, especially now since all parts are made of steel, well galvanized to protect them from rust, and their relative efficiency has been increased. WORK TO WHICH THE WINDMILL IS ADAPTED. Tt must not be understood that a windmill is well suited to furnish power for any and all kinds of farm work, if only it is made large enough. On the contrary, it is only adapted to certain lines where the work done can be accumulated at times when the wind is favourable, such as pumping water for stock and for the supply of the house, if only a suitably placed reservoir of sufficient capacity is provided ; for grinding grain for stock, and for wood sawing. WIND PRESSURE. The pressure which the wind may exert upon a surface depends primarily upon (1) its weight per cubic foot, (2) its velocity, and (3) the angle at which it strikes the surface. ABILITY OF WIND TO DO WORK. The work which wind can do depends upon the amount which passes through a given windmill per inmute and the pressure which it exerts. But as the pressure varies with the square of the velocity, and the quantity passing the mill varies directly as the velocity, the theoretic working capacity of the wind must increase as the cubes of the wind velocity. Thus with miles per hour of 5) 10 | 15} 20 25) 30; 35] 40 Or, taking 5 to 1, they are as i) 2 3] 4 5) 6 7]; 8 The relative horse-powers are as 1} S| 27) 64} 125) 216! 343/512 Theoretical horse-power is| 025} +2 |°675)1°6 | 3°125) 5:4) 8°575)12°8 Perry regards it approximately correct to state that a 12-foot windmill in a 5-mile wind may develop qo of a horse- power, and the figures in the last line in the table above are his. RELATION OF DIAMETER OF WHEEL TO ITS EFFICIENCY. Tn increasing the horse-power of an engine it is not usually necessary to increase its weight and strength much more than in proportion to the increase of power which is to be developed, but in the case of two wind wheels, having the same type of construction, the one which is to develop double the horse-power must have a strength of resistance practically eight times as great in order to withstand the highest wind pressures to which it is liable to be subjected. This is so because doubling the diameter of the wheel not only makes the surface of wind pressure four-fold, but at the same time carries the centre of pressure farther from the axis of the wheel, causing it to act upon a longer lever arm. But to increase the strength of resistance of the wheel eight-fold makes it necessary to build it much heavier and this detracts from its relative efficiency. : Besides this, with wheels of large diameter there are much greater differences in the wind pressure on the different parts of the wind sails, because the actual velocity of the sails increases with the distance of their points from the centre of the wheel. But the angular velocity must be the same in all parts of the sail, and this causes the wind sail to be forced around away from the wind passing through the wheel with very different velocities, and this difference reduces the relative efficiency, so that large windmills of like pattern do not increase the available horse-power as much as the size is increased. AMOUNT OF WORK DONE BY A WINDMILL IN PUMPING WATER, We have measured the amount of water which was pumped during one entire year by a 16-foot geared windmill. This mill was provided with three pumps arranged so as to lift water 12°85 feet whenever there was wind enough to enable it to do any work. When the wind was lightest it was given the pump of smallest capacity, when stronger the one of next size, when still stronger both together ; the third pump being used only in the very highest winds. The smallest amount of water lifted 10 feet high, in ten days, was enough to cover 9°87 acres 1 inch deep, and this occurred from July 28 to August 7, at the time when water for irrigation is most needed. The largest amount pumped was enough to cover 75°73 acres 1 inch deep. AMOUNT OF WORK DONE BY A WINDMILL IN GRINDING FEED. Another set of trials, aiming to measure the amount of feed which may be ground with a 12-foot geared windmill, was made at the Wisconsin Experiment Station, and using the observed amounts of corn ground under a wide range of wind velocities and the observed hourly wind velocities, as recorded for the pumping experiment, the amount of feed which could have been ground, had it been fed automatically and kept running continuously, has been computed and given in the table which follows :— Table showing the amount of corn which could have been ground by a 12-foot aermotor windmill during the year, from March 6, 1897, to March 6, 1898, with all winds from 9 miles to 30 miles per hour. Ae sea ecwmabmic | eels = GS-3 || es || ae |S ‘aipe-chpreanor|mmene slag peel Bia s|.ee pa 5 Aol] 2) | Sa ce t= || eta ee ob ioae Bo %) Sy lhelae || 20 © bb ae S Shea oe = S See = A < i A 17 88 1: 500 i 60 83 1: 250 46 84 It will be seen that steeping cotton seeds in solutions of corrosive sublimate up to a strength of 1 in 250 has no effect on the total number of seeds germinated. The 1 : 250 solution, however, appears to have a slight retarding influence on the speed of germination. A second series of experiments has been started, carried out exactly as above. In this series, in addition, one set of seeds has been steeped in a 1 : 100 solution of corrosive sublimate. A third series, to test the effect of steeping the seeds, drying them, and then planting them at different times after drying, has also been started. Remedies for Scalds and Burns. A _ useful solution recommended for immediate application in the case of scalds and burns is sulphate of magnesia (common Epsom salts). A saturated solution of bicarbonate of soda, also, gives relief and is generally used asa first dressing. Directions for use are as follows: Keep cloths, well wetted with either of the solutions above mentioned, on the scald or burn, being careful not to remove the cloths but supply fresh solution to keep them always moist. 118 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Apri 9, 1904. CASSAVA STARCH. The following note on the manufacture of cassava starch appeared in the Journal of the Jamaica Agri- cultural Society for March 1904 :— The manufacture of starch from bitter cassava by machinery, which is being carried on at Longville, the prop- erty of Mr. J. W. Middleton, is being watched with interest. We haye talked much of a great starch industry; this is the first systematic attempt to grow cassava largely, make starch and ship it in quantity to the United Kingdom to be tested. The details of the cultivation and manufacture show that starch can be produced here on terms as good as, and perhaps better than, in most other countries. It remains to be seen how the starch made stands the test in Lancashire for sizing cloth goods, against German potato starch and United States corn starch. As both the cultivation and the process of manufacture can be greatly improved from experience gained in the first shipment of the experiment, it should not be confidently expected that the starch must receive the highest commendation, nor should we, if it is not perfect, be discouraged. The German and the United States makers have available the most perfect of machinery, and the very best skill through long practice. If we make a morsel of a show against the potato and corn products at all, better equipped machinery and longer practice will soon put us ahead. The price of starch varies from £10 to £14 per ton. At the lower figure it would pay very well—better than sugar. PROFITABLE RABBIT BREEDING. The value of the rabbits imported into this country [United Kingdom] last year was over a million sterling— just about the same as the value of the foreign motor-cars we bought ; but, whereas in the latter case there was a great to-do at our supineness in letting the foreigner benefit so largely in the trade, we accepted the million’s worth of rabbits without demur. The most profitable plan [for rearing rabbits] is the movable hutch, or Morant system—called after the inventor of it, Major Morant. This system requires grass land and a light, dry soil; the rabbits are kept in large hutches, movable, with wired floors, so that they can nibble the grass the hutch stands on.* These hutches stand out in the field, and must be moved regularly twice a day. The rabbits graze in the grass, and thus get a portion of their keep. In wet weather they must, however, remain stationery, as wet grass upsets the rabbits. At such times they should have a little hay. These hutches do equally well for the rabbits when taken away from their mother, and the buck can inhabit a somewhat smaller one of the same pattern. He likes a shelf to sit on in his. The management of the doe is very simple: Give her plenty of hay, and she will make her nest, lining it with her own fur. Some drinking water should be given her at this time, and a little bread-and-milk will be advantageous feeding. It is best not to meddle with the young. Dutch rabbits seldom mind, but other breeds do, and not infre- quently desert them if disturbed. Dogs, cats and mice also violently upset them. The doe should have all the green food and hay she cares to eat when rearing her young, and if there is a shortage of the first, roots can take their place. (County Gentleman.) * This plan is now being adop‘ed with Belgian hares at the Agricultural School, St. Lucia. [Ed. A.N.j FUNGOID DISEASES OF CACAO IN SURINAM. Professor F. A. F. C. Went, whose name is well known in the West Indies in connexion with his work on sugar-cane diseases in Java, has recently published an account of the diseases on cacao in Surinam entitled De Ziekteverschijnselen van de Cacao-plant in Surinam. The work is mainly devoted to fungoid diseases, and especially to the ‘ Krullotenziekte’ or ‘ Witch Broom disease,’ which causes great damage in Surinam and to which attention has repeatedly been drawn in the Agricultural News (see Vol. II, p. 117). Attention is drawn to the borer, Stedrastoma depressa, which occurs in various estates in Surinam, to the parasol ants, and to a caterpillar which eats the young leaves. Canker of the stem was observed on one plantation on the Surinam river. This is probably the same as that oceurring in the British West Indies, reported from Trinidad, Grenada and Dominica. It is characterized by the exudation of a red, gummy mass from the bark, followed by a drying up. On cutting into the bark this is seen to have a wine- red colour, the underlying wood also taking on an abnormal colour. If a section of such diseased bark be examined microscopically, the hyphae of the fungus can be made out, The fungus (¢ Veetria sp.) is probably a wound parasite and therefore careful attention should be paid to all wounds. A disease of cacao trees in Surinam is called by the planters ‘root disease’. A root disease, probably caused by some Hymenomycetous fungus, is known in the West Indies, and one caused by JMaerophoma vestita is known in Central America, It is possible that one of these fungi may be the cause of the Surinam disease. There is still another disease in Surinam which was not more closely investigated ; this was characterized by the drying up of the tops of the young twigs. The disease appears similar to that known in the British West Indies and caused by Diplodia cacavicola. The darkening of the fruits of cacao is stated by many planters to cause much damage ; but it must be remembered that often the difference between this disease and the hardening of the fruits, which accompanies the witch broom disease, is not understood. This darkening of the fruit was noted in Trinidad, and later in Grenada. Diseased fruits were sent to Kew and the fungus was identified as Phytophthora omnivora. A very full account is given of the witch broom disease. This includes a review of previous work, the results of an inquiry among Surinam planters, and of the author’s own inquiries and investigations. SCIENTIFIC AGRICULTURE. The following is an extract from the address made by His Majesty the King on the occasion of the opening of the new buildings in the University of Cambridge for the promotion of original research in agriculture :— I am very glad to know of the educational work in connexion with the great industry of agriculture which you have undertaken. In common with most branches of indus- try, agriculture has in modern times come to depend for its success and extension upon the unremitting application to it of the results of scientific investigation. No greater service can be rendered to this ancient industry than to furnish it with the means of research and instruction, which are essential in order that labour may be directed in profitable channels. ‘capable of expressing some practical insight into Vou. III. No. 52. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 119 EDUCATIONAL. Harrison College, Barbados. The following is the report on the examination in agricultural science, conducted by Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., Government Agricultural and Analytical Chemist, Jamaica :— Six students entered for this-examination. The marks obtained on the whole work vary from ‘a maximum of 83 per cent.—Bancroft—to a minimum of 46 per cent., with an average of 67 per cent. I mention this result as a striking proof that the higher standard of work I felt justified in asking for in this examination has been very adequately met both by the teaching staft and the taught. A comparison of the work submitted by the class in 1901 with that sent in in 1903 is truly surprising. The subject is now no longer an ordinary school subject strictly limited to mere text-book knowledge and practically devoid of technical value and insight. The papers sent are, for the most part, of a high standard and display a technical, agricultural and practical attitude that is highly creditable both to Professor d’Albuquerque, his staff and his pupils. As three years have now elapsed since I was first privileged to examine agricultural science at Barbados, I may perhaps be permitted to express an opinion as to the progress of this work. The agricultural science course at Barbados is a branch of the secondary education at Harrison College ; it might therefore seem, at first sight, unfair to expect any approach to a true technical standard of teaching under such conditions. I recognized, however, that in the Island Professor and his staff, with the reflected stimulus of the Imperial Department, Barbados possessed the requisite machinery for attaining a standard of high efficiency in the teaching of agricultural principles specially focussed to the needs and cir- cumstances of the colony. I therefore deliberately set myself to establish a standard in these examinations that should raise ‘Agriculture’ from its well-merited contempt as ‘a school or ‘South Kensington’ subject to a level the actualities of the local industry. The results in 1902 encouraged me in this aim, and the outcome of this last examination has entirely justified the opinion I had formed. With- out departing from the limits of the syllabus, questions were set involving agricultural ‘ nous,’ so as to elicit the information in the form in which alone such knowledge can be of use in practice. Had the class been taught in routine lines and from text-books only, the marks obtained would have been low. I am indeed pleased and proud to be able to record that, in the majority of cases, the questions were treated in a style and spirit deserving of all praise. These results must be recognized as an undeniable proof that the work at Barbados is not only educational but is also imbued with that technical and practical spirit, which is necessary if agricultural science is to be taught to any adequate purpose. The practical work in Sugar Chemistry showed a fairly uniform competence in the performance of the standard method of sugar analysis involved in modern factory control. Fic. 6. Barbados. The annual report of the Inspectors of Schools at Barbados contains the following notice of the educational work of the Imperial Department of Agriculture :— We would again record, with much appreciation, the assistance rendered to elementary education by the Agricultu- ral and Science Departments. The lectures of Dr. Long- field Smith on the study of nature were continued until June at the four centres arranged in the previous year. The ‘teachers attended regularly, and the increased interest mani- fested by the pupils at the annual examination in the object- lesson exercises, and also in the cultivation of plants, mostly in pots or boxes, but at a few schools in gardens, was evidence that the work of the lecturer had not been fruitless. At the local exhibition held at Lower Estate on January 12, 1904, the exhibits from the schools were fewer than on previous occasions, we think from local disadvantages, but the character of the exhibits was acknowledged by every one to be distinctly superior to that of those shown at previous exhibitions. Most of the prizes on this occasion were obtained by pupils in the Mount Tabor, Turner’s Hall, Clifton Hill, St. Augustine’s, St. Matthew’s, and Greenwich Schools. MALTESE DONKEYS. In May 1901, a fine Maltese jack ‘Orphan Boy’ and a jenny of the same breed were imported from the United States by the imperial Department of Agriculture and placed at the Skerrett’s Farm at Antigua. Both have MaALrEse JENNY AND Foau av ANTIGUA. since grown into handsome and valuable animals. In September 1903, the jenny gave birth to a foal which is represented in the above illustration. Another jack, ‘John B, Junior,’ was imported from the United States in June 1901, and placed at the Agricultural School at Dominica. A half- bred jack ‘ Bismarck,’ obtained from Jamaica in March 1901, has proved a great success at Nevis. The Department is anxious to obtain a good half-bred jack similar to the last from one of the other islands. 120 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 9, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 127 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price ld. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural Hews APRIL 9, 1904. No. 52. Vou. III. NOTES AND COMMENTS. SATURDAY, West India Committee Circular. During the past year this Circular has been largely extended and improved. It is now a fortnightly publication likely to prove of great value to the West Indies. A new feature in connexion with the efforts of the West India Committee is the organiza- tion of lectures on subjects of interest to these colonies. On March 8, a lecture was delivered at the Committee Rooms (15, Seething Lane, E.C.,) by Sir Patrick Manson on ‘The Disease Problem ofthe West Indies. A summary ofthis lecture; published im the West India Committee Cerenlar of March 1s deserves careful attention. It may be mentioned thateall the Publications of the Imperial-De are obtainable at the West Indi Horse Breeding in Rarbaick: A committee of the Jamaica Agricultural Society has recently formulated plans for the improvement of horses in Jamaica. It is argued that the industry needs resuscitation and that efforts in this direction should not be left entirely to private enterprise. It is recommended that four approved sires and also four approved jacks be placed at the disposal of the peasantry in the parishes of St. Elizabeth, St. Catherine and St. Ann at reduced fees. In the event of suitable animals not being pro- curable, it is recommended that the society be empow- ered, as soon as a Stock Farm is established, to obtain a stallion of the type used for getting hunters in England and a jack of the Maltese breed. Seed Potatos. The most satisfactory sort of Euglish potatos to plant in the West Indies is that known as the ‘Bliss ‘Triumph ’ Potato. It is the one largely grown at Bermuda for export to the New York market and after careful trial in the West Indies it has given the best results of any. ‘The difficulty is to obtain the seed potatos early enough in the autumn to allow them to be planted before the dry season sets in, in the Windward and Leeward Islands, in November and December of each year. The Imperial Department of Agriculture is prepared to obtain (at cost price) seed potatos to be delivered in the West Indies early in September next. The cost last year was at the rate of 18s. per barrel. Those desirous of obtaining supplies of English seed potatos are requested to communicate with the officers of the Department in the several islands not later than May 1 next. Supply of Paris Green. During the period when the cotton worm is prevalent in the West Indies there is possibly no article likely to be in more urgent demand than Paris green. This is an aceto-arsenite of copper and is regarded as the most effective substance yet known for the treatment of the cotton worm. Indeed, without it, there would be little chance of making the industry remunerative in any locality where the worm is common. As already advised in these pages, the first thing to be done by the cotton grower before the next planting season is to provide himself with a supply of Paris green and keep it on hand ready for immediate use. Probably Paris green will be procurable locally in all these colonies at a reasonable cost. Where, however, any difficulty is likety to be experienced, the material might be imported direct from Messrs. Gillespie Bros. & Co., 4, Stone Street, New York, Mr. James A. Blanchard, 80 and 82, William Street, New York, or Messrs. Legget and Brother, Agricultural Department, 301, Pearl Street, New York, or other manufacturers. Pe eee Agricultural Progress in Ceylon. In a paper read before the Royal Colonial Institute by Mr. John Ferguson, C.M.G., M.L.C., on ‘Ceylon from 1896 to 1903’, it is shown that there has been most satisfactory progress in the principal agricultural industries of the island. Coffee, which twenty years ago was the staple crop, is now a thing of the past; its place has been taken by tea, cacao, cardamoms and rubber. The rise of the green tea industry has all been within the last five years. In the eight years, cacao cultivation has expanded from 21,000 to about 35,000 acres, the exports having risen in that period from 31,000 ews. to about 60,000 ewt. ‘The area under cardamoms has been doubled, the exports in 1903 being 910,000 th. The development of the new rubber-growing industry has been most satisfactory: there is no risk of over production, and Ceylon rubber-has already secured a high character and good price in the London market. | | | | | Vou. III. No. 52. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 121 Vegetables of Costa Rica. An article entitled ‘Gemiisepflanzen von Costarica’ by C. Wercklé appears in the March issue of Der Tropenpflanzer, which gives a number of facts with regard to the vegetables used in that country. Among the plants, the leaves and young shoots of which are used as vegetables, may be mentioned the gourd, the ‘christophine’ or ‘cho-cho ’ (Sechium edule), the sweet cassava, the papaw (Curica Papaya) and other species of Curica, also a wild Cyclanthera. There are also used the young leaves of the ‘chicasquil’ (Jatropha multifida?), the very young leaves of the red variety of the ‘liquisque’ or tannia (Colocasia escu- lenta), and the leaves of a tree-nettle (Boehmeria sp.) : finally there are eaten the flowers of the ‘itabo’ (Yucca elephantipes?), and the inflorescence of one of the Commelinaceae, probably a Tradescuntia. The tomato, egg plant (Solanum Melongena), Spanish pepper (Capsicum annuum), ‘chayote’ or christophine (Sechiwm edule), ‘tacacos’ (Sechiwm sp. or Cyclanthera sp.?), the unripe fruits of species of Carica, and of Pussiflora quadrangularis, var. muacrocarpa (‘Granado real’) are the most important native fruit vegetables. Peas are grown in high lands and thrive very well, lentils are uncommon, lupins have only recently been tried. Beans are one of the chief foods and thrive excellently, there are two main kinds of the native bean (Phaseolus lunatus). The ochro (Hibiscus esculentus) is only planted here and there, mainly by negroes. An Asclepiad (Gonolo- bus edulis), bears fine fruits as large as a child’s head, which when quite young are liked as a vegetable. The tannia (Colocasia esculenta) and two species of Dioscorea are the only foreign tubers cultivated ; the native ones are sweet potato (Zpomoea butatas), hhish potato (Solanum tuberosum), ‘cho-cho’ (Sechiwm edule) and sweet cassava (Manihot Aipi). ‘Trade and Agriculture of British Guiana. According to the Colonial Report on British Guiana for 1902-3, the total value of colonial produce exported during the year was £1,673,549. The total export of sugar was larger than it has been since 1887. In that year the export of sugar reached 134,874 tons, at an average value of £13 6s. 8d. per ton. The average value for last year works out at £8 13s. 5d. per ton, the total value being £1,042,023. There was a considerable increase in the amount of rum exported, but the value of this was only £135,670 as compared with £160,846 during the previous year. The exports of molasses, which were over two and a half times those of the previous year, were valued at £10,496. Reference is made to the increase in the shipments of sugar to Canada, this trade having received consider- able impetus since the close of the year under review. The acreage in cane cultivation has again increased, 73,193 acres being under cane at the end of the year. The experimental cane cultivation under the Board of Agriculture was actively proceeded with during the year: the new varieties of sugar-cane have attracted much attention, all the estates in the colony now taking part in the work. The principal minor industries in the colony are rice, cacao, coffee, cocoa-nuts, plantains and bananas, and stock raising. ‘There was a decrease in rice cultiva- tion, due, it appears, to unfavourable weather. The crop, representing the cultivation of 16,628 acres, was estimated at 395,948 bags (of 120 th. each) of paddy. It is shown that the extension of rice cultivation has caused a steady decline in the rice imports. In addition to the exports of cacao (93,917 tb.) a considerable quantity was sold to the local chocolate factory; the coffee grown was all consumed in_ the colony. Reference is made to the work of the newly appointed Board of Agriculture, especially to its endeavours to interest’ the people in agriculture by means of shows, to promote the spread of agricultural knowledge, and to improve the breeds of live stock in the colony. Eee The Protection of Native Plants. A lecture was recently delivered by Dr. Robert T. Jackson before the ‘Massachusetts Horticultural Society on the above subject. The following is a brief résumé of the lecture :— The effort to do something to protect and maintain our wild animals and plants, instead of indiscriminately and even wantonly destroying them, is seen in a number of ways. Our fish and game laws look to the preservation of game animals; the Audubon Society attempts to check the destruction of our native birds ; the widespread forestry movement has attained an important standing as an effort to protect, improve and increase our forest areas. The larger plants or trees need protection and fostering care most emphatically. What causes the disappearance of plants? First and foremost are the axe and the plough. With the cutting down of forests, the spread of cultivated land and the extension of towns and cities, regions, once populated by native animals and plants, give way to the changed conditions. Plants are often reduced in number by thoughtless picking in unreasonable quantities; the principles that should be urged are: gather in moderation, cut the stem and not tear it off, never pull up the root except for transplanting, and, if there be reason to believe that a plant is rare, leave it to increase its kind by seed and root. Children should have the fact instilled into them that the plant, as a living organism, has a right to existence. After the axe and the plough, the worst enemy of our native plants is the commercial collector: owners of land could doubtless do much to check this by posting notices having reference to trespassing. The mountain laurel (Kalmic latifolia), holly, and the ground pine are plants that are much used in America for decorative purposes. As these are gathered in such large quantities, and the source 1s limited, some steps should be taken to protect them from more or less total extinction. Societies for the protection of native plants have been organized in numerous places : such organizations are of considerable value in spreading a spirit of protective care of plants for their own welfare. AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 9, 1904. tec INSECT NOTES. Ticks on Fowls. The Imperial Department of Agriculture has recently received, from a correspondent in Barbados, specimens of a tick from a fowl house. The specimens were accompanied by a letter stating that the fowls had been drooping and a few had died and that it was suspected that this tick might be the cause. Reference to this pest (Avgas sp.) is found in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, pp. 74 & 106). On p. 106 Mr. J. H. Hart, Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Trinidad, is quoted as saying: ‘It kills fowls rapidly unless they are treated. We have found kerosene and cocoa-nut oil, in equal parts, very effective.’ In Barbados pure kerosene oil has been recommended for disinfecting the poultry house, and also white lime wash with 4 oz. crude carbolic acid to the gallon of wash. These may be put on with a spraying pump, or with a brush, taking care to cover all parts of the interior and to penetrate all cracks and crevices. Careful disinfection of the poultry houses and fowl runs, and treatment of the fowls themselves will be necessary in order to exterminate the pests. Scale Insects in Cyprus. The Cyprus Journal (Vol. I, no. I) has an interesting article on Carob scale disease. The Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) is a tree which, while not yielding crops of high value, is of considerable importance on account of its contribution to the general supply of stock food in the island. Several scale insects are known to attack the Carob of which the White Scale (Aspidiotus ceratoniae) is the most serious. This appeared a few years ago in small numbers and in scattered localities, but is now generally distributed and has become in some places a serious pest. In the village of Kili the attack of the White Seale has been the worst. Here, in the valley lying between two ranges of hills, the atmosphere is hot and moist and peculiarly adapted to the multiplication of the scale insects. At the same time, the Director of Agriculture states that in this badly infested locality he had never observed the Lady-bird, Chilocorus bisustulatus, which is common in other parts of the island, nor had he seen any other parasite on the scale, and he considers that these facts explain why this locality should be more badly infested than others. The Carob not being considered of sufficient economic importance to warrant the processes of spraying or fumigating, the Director of Agriculture proposes the following method of combating the scale disease :— All the leaves, fruit and twigs are removed in January and the trunk and limbs of the tree are white-washed with a thick solution of slaked lime containing 3 to 5 per cent. petroleum. This is put on with a brush or a piece of cloth attached toa stick. This treatment is not costly and is quite effective. One year’s crop from the tree will be lost, as all the energies of the tree will be devoted to recovery from the stripping of the leaves and twigs. Watch should be kept of the trees for several years after this treatment and all scale-infested leaves, fruit or branches removed. Cockroaches. Several notices have appeared in the columns of the Agricultural News regarding the destruction of cockroaches. The following method, from L’Agricul- ture pratique des pays chauds, seems simple and likely to be effectual :-— Wide mouth bottles 6 inches or 8 inches in height are partly filled with oil [sweet oil?] and placed in the haunts of the insects. The bottles should be slightly tipped up and fastened in this position to make the ascent easier to the cockroach. Attracted by the odour of the oil the insect plunges into the bottle and the oil, where he is killed by the action of the latter. Banana Weevil in Madagascar. The L’Agricultwre pratique des pays chauds contains an article on this subject in which the damage to the ‘Fig’ banana by a weevil is mentioned and a description of the weevil in its different stages is given. This insect is the same as the Banana Weevil known in certain of the West Indian Islands (Sphenophorus sordidus), which tunnels in the stems and frequently causes the death of the tree. The special importance of this pest in Madagascar is due to the fact that the bananas are used as shelter for cacao, and the destruction of this cover gives the cacao a set-back for five or six months. No remedies are suggested, except to choose those varieties which are least susceptible to the attack. Mr. H. Maxwell-Lefroy, formerly Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, recom- mended the use of lime, ashes, soot, or refuse tobacco, at the base of the banana stem, to prevent the entrance of the adult borer, and the destruction of the infected stems by burning, by treatment with quick lime or by burying them, for the destruction of any eggs, larvae, pupae or adults that might be within. As a single banana stem sometimes contains as many as fifty borers in different stages, this would seem to be quite a rational method. The Tsetse Fly and Sleeping Sickness. An interesting article in Vatwre of February 1, 1904, on sleeping sickness rehearses the proof that the tsetse fly is responsible for the transmittance of this fatal disease. For 100 years the sleeping sickness has been known in Africa, but only recently has the nature of the disease and the method of its transmission been well understood. The tsetse fly disease (‘Ngana’) of cattle was shown by Colonel Bruce, R.A.M.C., F.R.S., to be caused by a microscopic organism, called by scientists a trypanosome. This organism is introduced into the blood by the tsetse fly when it bites its. victim, having been derived from an unhealthy animal. Surra disease of horses in India is also caused by a trypano- some and there is a similar disease of cattle in South America. In 1902, trypanosomes were discovered in man. Since that time much work has been done on the sleeping sickness and the relation between it, the presence of trypanosomes and the distribution of the tsetse fly, and it has been demon- strated that the distribution of the disease and of a certain species of biting fly are identical. Trypanosomes in the blood produce only a characteristic fever, but in cases where a trypanosome has gained entry to the cerebrospinal fluid, sleeping sickness and consequent death result. There is no treatment for the sleeping sickness that affords any hope of a cure ; the disease is always fatal. Von. Itt. No. 52. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 123 SCIENCE NOTES. A Weather Plant. About thirteen years ago M. Nowack, an Austrian, described a ‘Weather plant’ supposed to have been discovered by him. ‘The plant in question proved to be what is known in the West Indies and elsewhere as the ‘Crab’s Eyes.’ It is a slender vine with pinnate leaves, producing small, bright- red seeds with a black spot. The scientific name is Abrus precatorius. The first name was given on account of the softness of the leaves, and the second (prayer or paternoster pea) because the bright-coloured seeds were sometimes used as a rosary. M. Nowack claimed that by closely watching the changes that took place in the position of the leaves and the rise and fall of the twigs and branches he could predict ‘changes in the weather and also the occurrence of earth- quakes.’ After a full and careful investigation made at Kew and elsewhere, Professor F, W. Oliver was in a position to show, conclusively, exhibited the usual sleep-movements commonly noticed in tropical vegetation and that there was no connexion existing between these movements and changes in the weather or the occurrence of earthquakes. There appears to be a revival of interest in this matter. It is observed that the subject was recently discussed at a meeting of the Society of Arts in London, but apparently no new facts were brought forward ‘in support of the claims advocated by M. Nowack. Those interested in the subject will find full information and a detailed account of the investigations above referred to in the Kew Bulletin (1890, pp. 1-28). Propagation of Plants by Leaves. Herr Lindemuth of Berlin, has published in Gartenflora (1903, Heft 18 and 25) the results of his experiments on the propagation of plants by means of their leaves. Horti- culturists have long been accustomed to use this means of propagation in a few plants, notably in the Gloxinia and certain Crassulaceae, among which Bryophyllum calycinum {Leaf of life] is a well-known example. It was, however, probably not suspected that the leaves of so many plants could be made to produce roots. In his first communication Herr Lindemuth gives the names of twenty-eight species, of nearly as many different genera, in which his experiments have been successful. These include such plants as the foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), the musk (Wimulus moschatus), the tomato and the vine. The leaves of thirteen species, including the potato, monkshood (Aconitum Napellus) and the common bedding geranium (Pelargonium zonale) refused to root at all. Usually the roots were produced quickly—in the vine in sixteen days, in Veronica in seven days, and in the African marigold in eight days—but the amount of time required, and, indeed, success at all, was shown to depend very much on the season when the experiments were made. Thus, in the vine roots were developed in sixteen days in August ; but complete failure resulted in September when the leaves perished. In his second communication, the author records success with thirty-four additional species, including three of those with which he had met with failure before. The results so far obtained show that few of the leaves thus experimented on will form buds, only five having done so. (8S. A. S. in Knowledge and Scientific News, March 1904.) that the ‘Crab’s Eyes’ plant only - Yeast. Yeast is a substance, the uses of which for domestic purposes and in brewing, etc., are well known. Yeast itself is a plant belonging to the group of fungi. The yeast plant, Saccharomyces, differs from most other fungi in that its body consists of a single cell; it is probable that the yeast is a reduced form, being descended from ancestors which possessed a mycelium. When brought into a proper nutrient medium, such as a sugar solution containing ammonium tartrate (as a source of nitrogen) and minute quantities of mineral salts, yeast proceeds to reproduce. The process is one of budding. A small bulge appears at one side of the cell, which increases in size until it is the same size as the parent cell and is then cut off; the daughter cell then repeats the process. Sometimes the budding proceeds so rapidly that both the daughter and mother cells start budding again before they become sepa- rated ; in this way we get short chains of cells, each one of which, however, is a distinct plant. The spores of many other fungi are capable of reproducing in this way, by budding, but the buds so produced are capable, given the proper conditions, of giving rise toa hypha and so to a mycelium. The yeast buds have never been made to produce a hypha. Under certain conditions the yeast plant produces spores. We can make it do this by cultivating it until it is growing vigorously and then spreading it out in a thin film on the surface of a plaster of Paris plate; damp air is continuously passed over the plate. In twenty-four hours the cell contents become finely granular, next we notice four bright points appearing in the cell, and finally the cell contents group themselves around these, and separate off to form four ‘endospores’, arranged in a tetrad inside the old wall of the mother cell. Ordinary brewers’ yeast is a mixture of various species of yeast; some of these do not bring about alcoholic fermenta- tion, and are either useless or positively harmful. In this lies the advantage of using only pure cultures of particular yeasts, which are known to bring about the desired fermenta- tions. This method is now used in up-to-date breweries. DEPARTMEMT NEWS. Mr. George Whitfield Smith, Travelling Superin- tendent on the statf of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, has been appointed by the Secretary of State for the Colonies to the post of Magistrate for the Northern District of Grenada, to reside at Carriacou. In view of the important agricultural efforts to be carried on there and the value attached to the successful working of the Land Settlement Scheme, Mr. George Whitfield Smith’s appointment is calculated to prove of great service in advancing the general interests of that island. The Secretary of State has approved of the appointment of Mr. William Henry Patterson as Curator of the Botanic and Experiment Stations at Antigua in succession to Mr. W. N. Sands, who has been recently transferred to St. Vincent. Mr. Patter- son was sub-foreman at the Royal Gardens at Kew and previously for three years had been employed in the County Technical Laboratories at Chelmsford. His wife is also a skilled horticulturist, trained at Kew. Mr. and Mrs: Patterson are due to arrive at Antigua in the mail of April 13. 124 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 9, 1904. GLEANINGS. Sixty bales of cotton and 200 crates of bananas were shipped from Barbados to England by the 8.8. ‘ Atrato’ on March 26. The Bulletin of St. Thomas (D.W.I.) announces that labourers are wanted to plant cotton. Applications to be made to Lawyer Jérgensen, The second annual sale of stock took place at Woodlands Stock Farm, Grenada, on March 25. The sale included horses, Zebu and Hereford cattle, native milch cows, poultry, ete. According to a writer in the Journal d’ Agriculture Tropicale, it is possible to change the sex in the papaw plant. It is stated that if the male papaw be topped, as soon as its sex is ascertainable, the tree will bear good fruit. The Curator of the Tobago Botanic Station reports that the Parasol Ant is causing considerable damage throughout the island. The small settlers have been assisted by the Botanic Station in destroying this pest with carbon bisulphide. According to the Annual Report of the Department of Public Gardens, Jamaica, the trees of mangosteen, planted behind the Superintendent’s house at Castleton Gardens in 1875, fruited heavily during the year. There are now six or seven fruiting trees of this delicious fruit. Vanilla planifolia grows vigorously at Castleton, and one plant growing over the high limbs of a tree of Spondias /utea has produced several pods although the flowers were not fertilized by hand. The Centenary of the Royal Horticultural Society of England was celebrated on March 7 last. This Society has a splendid record during the last hundred years and deserves the hearty support of lovers of gardens in all parts of the Empire. A leaflet (No. 100) has recently been issued by the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries: it is entitled ‘ Pig Breeding and Feeding.’ This leaflet will be found to contain much valuable information on the subject with which it deals. According tothe Conswar Report on the trade of Alexan- dria for 1902, the exports of cotton were 6,621,608 kantars (about 292,651 tons): this is 16 per cent. more in quantity and 23 per cent. more in value than the average for the four preceding years. The exports of cotton seed amounted to 17,540,515 bushels—9 per cent. less in quantity, but 8 per cent. more in value. A tree of Monodora tenuifolia (natural order Anonaceae) is reported hy the Curator to be flowering for the first time at the Grenada Botanic Station. A similar tree is, also, in flower at the St. Lucia Botanic Station. It is stated in the India-rubber Journal that rubber planters in the Malay Peninsula are using aluminium cups for tapping purposes. By this means it is hoped to avoid impurities and discolouring due to rust. At arecent meeting of the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce it was suggested that steps should be taken to advertise the colony for the purpose of attracting tourists, It was stated that a sum of money had been placed by the Government on the estimates for this purpose. According to official returns recently published by the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries, the estimated total produce of potatos in Great Britain in 1903 was 2,913,713 tons from 564,286 acres. This represents a yield of 5:16 tons to the acre ; the average yield for ten years is 5-89 tons, In the discussion on the estimates in the Jamaica Legislative Council, it was stated by the Colonial Secretary that for eleven months of the year ended March 31, 1904, there had been a cash balance of £251 on the working of the Prison Farm at Spanish Town. The Curator of the Grenada Botanic Station reports that satisfactory crops of onions have been reaped in the island, during the past season, at Government House grounds, Good Hope estate and the Botanic Station. The seed used was that imported from Teneriffe by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. It is stated in the Annual Report of the Jamaica Board of Agriculture that nearly all the grafted nutmegs at the Hope Experiment Station flowered in January and February,. which are the windiest months: many flowers and even leaves were blown off ;a few held and the nuts are developing: in the same way as the old seedling trees. These were hand- fertilized. Mr. William M. Smith, Acting Agricultural Instructor at Grenada, writes that sheep manure is being used in large: quantities for cacao this year. It is brought in schooners. from Venezuela, Bonaire and St. Martins. Artificial manures are also being applied. It is gratifying to observe: that the value of high-class culture is being recognized by large and small cacao cultivators in Grenada. The Natal Agricultural Journal of January has an: interesting note on horse sickness, due to the bite of a mosquito. It is not shown that the mosquito gets the. infection from an unhealthy animal, but this is the case: with most of the insect-earried diseases. Protection of horses from night insects is the only effectual preventive, as. there seems to be no cure, when once the disease has been. contracted. In reply to a circular despatch of Mr. Chamberlain, September 9, 1902, British Guiana, Trinidad and the Leeward and Windward Islands have expressed themselves in favour of the adoption of the metric system [of weights and measures] ; Jamaica and British Honduras recommended the adoption of the system of the U.S.A. The reply of Barbados is, on the whole, unfavourable. (West India Committee Circular.) Vou. III. No. 52. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 125 WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following is Mr. J. R. Jackson’s report on the London Drug and Spice Market for the month of February :— The chief talk of the month, whether in social or commercial circles, has been of the Russo-Japanese war. From a business point of view its effects are already being felt on the markets, and advances in the price of Japanese products continue to be the natural result. The tone of the markets, generally, has, however, shown an improvement since our last report, though nothing of a special nature demands notice. The following are the chief items dealt with :— GINGER. At the auction on February 10, 20 barrels of Jamaica were offered and sold at the following prices: Small and medium, 39s. to 40s. ; bright, 36s. 6d. ; small dark, 35s., and rough dark, 33s. 6d. Fair, washed, rough Cochin sold at 27s., while 27s. 6d. to 28s. was paid for slightly wormy, and 23s. to 25s. 6d. for wormy brown. It was reported at this sale that a fairly large crop of the Jamaica product was expected this year, but that it was anticipated to be of unusually poor quality. At the sale on the 17th., prices stood thus: Jamaica common small being bought in at 36s., while cut Cochin unsorted was disposed of, without reserve, at 38s. to 38s. 6d. ; fair, good Japan realizing from 23s, to 26s, At the last sale on the 24th., 870 packages of Cochin were bought in at 57s. 6d. for good medium cut and 75s. for good bold. Two hundred barrels of new crop Jamaica were offered and 30 were sold at 43s. for bold dullish and 35s. for small dark. Japan limed offered at the same sale was bought in at 25s. ARROW ROOT. At the first sale on the 3rd., 250 barrels of St. Vincent were offered; of these 92 were sold at from 12d. to 2d. per tb. for fair manufacturing. At the succeeding auctions, arrowroot was slow of sale and the prices remained as above. SARSAPARILLA,. At the drug sale on February 4, 22 bales of grey Jamaica were offered and a few were sold at 1s. 1d. for fair, and for part coarse 1s. was wanted. For sea-damaged sarsaparilla a bid of 103d. was accepted; 6 bags of fair Lima realized 10d.; 9 bales of native Jamaica dull to fair red were disposed of at 7d., and two bales fine bright red, rolled, at 1ld. Atthe second sale in the middle of the month the prices remained about the same, at the following quotations: 4 bales fibrous, grey Jamaica all sold at Is. per Ib,; 14 packages of Lima Jamaica, fair quality, all sold at 10d., and 15 other bales at 9$¢7. to 11d.; Honduras was bought in at 1s. 2d. BAY OIL. Though bay oil does not seem to have been offered at any of the sales during the month, it may be interesting to say that in answer to inquiries made as to the uses of this oil, which is distilled from the leaves of Pimenta aeris, I am indebted to the courtesy of Mr. J. C. Ummey, of the firm of Wright, Layman and Umney, Ltd., Southark Street, London, for the following information :— ‘There is a considerable demand for this oil for per- fumery purposes and especially for hair washes. It is also used in some considerable quantities in the manufacture of toilet soaps, and if there should at any time be a large falling ‘off in the clove crops, it is not impossible that bay oil might come into use for many of the purposes for which oil of cloves, oil of cinnamon leaf, oil of pimento and other eugenol-containing oils are required. Synthetically produced vanillin is used to a very con siderable extent, and in its manufacture eugenol is used as a starting point. The adoption of bay oil instead of that of the clove and other oils mentioned would depend upon the price at which it could be produced in competition. The sweet and characteristic fragrance of bay oil is not due to eugenol, but to certain lighter fractions. It would thus seem that the extended uses of bay oil are possible in the future and that it is a likely substitute for many other well- known essential oils.’ KOLA NUTS, LIME JUICE, MUSK SEED, ETC. Of other products 17 baskets of fair, fresh, West Indian kola nuts were offered at the auction on the 18th., 8d. being demanded for them, but none sold. At the same sale 19 hogsheads of Dominica unworked lime juice were all sold at 10$d. per gallon, and one case of ordinary Dominica distilled lime oil was disposed of at 1s. 3d. per Ib. In the early part of the month one case of slightly mouldy musk seed was disposed of at 8/. per Ib. At the same sale a large quantity of good annatto seed from Ceylon was offered, 34d. per tb. being wanted, but some of it was afterwards disposed of at 31d. Mace, nutmegs and pimento were all in small demand at usual rates. West Indian Products in Canada. The following report on West Indian produce in Canada has been received from Mr. Alexander Wills, Import Agent, Montreal:— SUGAR. Prices have turned in favour of sellers and we sincerely trust this will continue for the benefit of our West Indian friends. Grocery sugars are in good demand, and those in colour under 16 D.S. sell well. MOLASSES. The new ruling of the Government regarding imported molasses has brought forth many opinions on the advisa- bility of the move. The new rule is that all molasses shall be tested by subjecting the article to indirect instead of direct polarization test. The duty on molasses testing 40 degrees, or over, cane sugar or sucrose, is 1#e. per gallon. Molasses under 40 degrees and not Jess than 35 degrees is charged 1c. per gallon and in addition le. for every degree or part of a degree under 40 degrees. All under 35 degrees must pay a duty of ?c. per Ib. The effect is the complete extinction of the low-grade molasses trade. Ontario is the principal centre of this trade, and it opens up another opportunity for good molasses. Trade in this product is fair, but buyers look for lower prices in the Barbados product, owing to report of a large crop. General prices have fallen from 2 to 5c, per gallon, Ontario showing the heaviest drop. LIMES AND PINE-APPLES. The season for these will begin in April, and I shall be glad to have timely advices of shipments so as to make arrangements ahead. An earnest endeavour should be made in Dominica and Jamaica to use cases instead of barrels, and pack pines eighteen to the case. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 9, 1904. MARKET REPORTS. London,—March 15, 1904. Messrs. Krarroy, Pirer & Co., Messrs. J. Hates Carrp & Co.; ‘THE Liverpoot Corron AssocriaTION WEEKLY CIR- cuLaR’, March 4, 1904 ; ‘THe Wesr INpIA Commutrer Crrcutar,’ March 15, 1904; and ‘THe Pusric Lepcer,’ March 12, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/-; Curagoa, 14/6 to 55- per ewt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, 137. to S4d.; Bermuda, 12 to 1/6 per th. Barata—l/6 to 111 per Ib. Bees’-wax—£7 to £7 5s. per cwt. Cacao—Trinidad, 60/- to 68/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 52/- to 59/- per ewt.; Dominica, St. Lucia and Jamaica, 51/- to 60 - per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/3 per th. CorreE—Jamaica, ordinary, 38/- to 60/- per ewt. Corra—Trinidad, £17 per ton, c.i.f. Corron—Carriacou 8#7. per th. ; West Indian Sea Island, 1/4 to 1/5 per th. Divi Divi— No quotations. Frvuir— Bananas—Jamaica, 5/- to 7/- per bunch. GrarE Freuir—10/- to il/- per ease. OrancEs—Jamaica, 8/- to 9/3 per case of 150 to 176. PINE-APPLES—No quotations. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gincer—Jamaica, 33/- to 55/- per ewt. Honey—Jamaica, 18 /- to 30/- per ewt. Istyciass—West Indian lump, 2/8 to 2/11; Cake, 1/1 to 1/2 per tb. Kora Nuts—4d. to 7d. per tb. Live JurceE—Raw, 9d. to 1s. 2d. per gallon; Concentrated, £12 to £12 10s. per cask of 108 gallons. Live O1—No quotations. Locwoop—£4 2s. Gd. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—1/9 to 2/5 per th. NirratEe oF Sopa—Agricultural, £9 15s. per ton. Nutmecs-—69’s to 60’s, 1/8 to 2/2; 90's to 80's, 1,- to 1/3 per tb. Pivento—34d. to 3gd. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 9d. to 103d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/6 to 8/- per proof gallon. Sarsaparmtta—Jamaica, 1/- to 1/1 per th. Svucar—Crystallized, 14/3 to 15/3 per ewt.; Muscoyado, Barbados, 14/6 per ewt. ScLpHaTe or AmMontTA—£12 17s. 6d. per ton. Tamartnps—Antigua, 8/- to 8/6 per ewt. Montreal,—March 9, 1904.—Mr. ALexanper WILLs. Cocoa-Nuts— Trinidad, $2400 ; Jamaica, $24°27 per M. CorrEE—Jamaica, 8jc. to 9$e. per Th. Gixcer—Jamaica, 6c. to 8c. per tb. Motasses—Barbados, 3lc. to 34c. per gallon. Morascurr—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 th. Nourmecs—Grenadas, 110’s, 20c. to 21}. per th. Pimento—Jamaica, 8c. to 8}c. per tb. Scear—Crystals, $2-09} per 100 Th. in bond. —Molasses, $1°24 to $1°24} per 100 th. in bond. New York,—March 4, 1904.—Messrs. GruLespre Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao—Caracas, 13c. to 14e.; Jamaica, 10}c. to 123c.; Grenada, 122c. to 12Zc.; Trinidad, 13c. to 13%c. per th. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $22 to $24 ; Jamaicas, $26 to $28 per M., selected. Corree—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 6jc. to 73 per th. Griycer—Jamaica, 63c. to Te. per th. Goar Skrys—Jamaicas, 58¢e. per th. Cc. GrarE Frvit—No quotations. ORrANGES—No quotations. Pimento—7 $e. perth. Rvusser—No quotations. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 343c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 213c. to 2Zc. per th. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,—March 23, 1904.—Messrs. Bexnerr Brysox. & Co., Lrp. Morasses—1l6e. per gallon (Imperial). Sugar—$1-40 per 100 tb. Barbados,—March 26, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—$12°50 to $13°50 per 100 fh. Cocoa-Nuts—$10°00 per M. for husked nuts. Corrre—Jamaica and ordinary Rio, $10°00 and $12-00 per 100 th. respectively? Hay—%6e. per 100 th. Manvres—-Nitrate of soda, (none in stock) ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76°00 to $85°00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Mo rasses—t4e. per gallon (puncheon included). Onxtons—$3°60 to $3-90 per 100 th. Poratos, ENcuisH—$1°60 per 100 tb. Rice—Ballam, $500 per bag (190 th.) ; Patna, $3°60 per 100 tb. SuGar—in hhds., $1°60 per 100 th. (packages included). British Guiana,—March 24, 1904.—Messrs. Wietine & Lucurer. Arrowroor—St. Vineent, $7°50 to $7°75 per barrel. Barara—40e. to 42c. per th. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13e. per th. Cassava StarcH—$6-00 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$8 ‘00 to $10-00 per M. CorreE— Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 15c. per th. (retail). —Creole, 12ec. per th. Duat—$3-90 to $4:00 per bag of 168 th. Eppors—$1-00 to $1°44 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon, (casks included). Onxtons—4ec. to Ge. per tb., ex store; Garlic, 6e. to Te. Pea Nuts—Curacoa, 4c. ; American, 5}c. per th. (retail). PLantatys—36e. to 68e. per bunch. Poratos, EnxciisH--$2°25 to $2°50 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°65 per 177 tb., ex store; Creole, 20c. per gallon (retail). Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1°20 per barrel. Tannias—$2'16 per bag. Yams—White, $1-68 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $1°88% ; Yellow, $2°30 to §2-40; White, $3°50; Molasses, $1°60 to $1°90 per 100 Th. Timper—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. WALLABA SHINGLES—$3°00 to $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—March 24, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpoy, Grant & Co., and Messrs. EpGar Tripp & Co. Batata—No quotations. Cacao—Ordinary, $13-00 to $15-25; Estates, $14°00 to $14°50 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nuts—-$20°00 per M., f.o.b., selected in bags of 100, (husked). Cocoa-Nut Mrat—tlje. per th. Cocoa-Nuv Or_—67e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, 6c. to Ze. per 100 th. Copra—-$2°75 to $3-00 per 100 th. OnrtIoNS—$3°25 to $3°50 per 100 th. Mo tasses—15e. per gallon (without cask). Poratos, ENGLIsH—$1°25 to $1°40 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4°25 to $450; White Table, $5-25 to $600 per bag. Sucar—Yellow Crystals, $2°25 ; Molasses Sugar, $200 per 100 th. Vou, Ill. No. 52. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 127 —— Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume JI. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes II and III. Price m original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. Nos. 1 and 2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton cultivation ; distribution and varieties of Sea Island cotton ; improvement by seed selection ; agricultural chemistry of cotton ; fungoid and insect pests. No. 4. Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the West Indies. Price 6d. each number. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer “be supplied : — (3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 4hd. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (7) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2¢. Post free, 23d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 25: Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. © Post free, 2 Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part II. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, 33d. Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING,’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s, 6d. Postage in either binding, 33d. extra. COTTON. A special pamphlet (foolseap size), entitled ‘Information relating to Cotton Cultivation in the West Indies,’ has recently been issued. It is on sale by all local Agents of the Department. Price 3d. Post free, 43d. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS’ A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 1}d. The subscription price, including postage, is Ls. Tid. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and IT complete with title page and index as issued. —Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. Ad/ applications , for copies are to he addressed to the Agents, not to the Department, Ld, 4d, > WwW WW Ll Wlk OH TH Ove WL ~~ OS SOS OES wer Sr Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: THe West Inpra ComMirres, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Toe Epucationan Suppiy “Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guiana: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Trinidad: Messrs. Murr, Marsnaty & Co., Port-of-Spain. Yobago: Mr. C. L. PuaGemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., ‘The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. St. Lueta: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, “Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F, Duvernry & Co., Market St., Roseau. Jontserrat : Mr. W. LLEWELLYN WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. S. D. Matong, St. John’s. St. Kvtt’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Wevis: Mr. 8. D. MAtone, “Charlestown. Bahamas : Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. T26 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 9, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE AR Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [r2.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. tf iJ Curacoa Society for the Promotion of C A C A O : Agriculture, Stock breeding, Salt Industry and Fishery. BY Pee A COLONIAL “EX Ad Bi hOm i. so .. AR ELS. Will be held in this island on May 23, 1904. (Sgd.) H. H. R. CHAPMAN, NEW EDITION. Curacoa, Vice-President. Dutch West Indies, March 5, 1904. DUSSEL, Secretary. A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND CHEMISTRY OF FOR COTTON GROWERS : ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. IV, NO. 4.) COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing fnll report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.G:S., Price 3s. per copy. on visit to the Cotton Growing districts of U.S.A. Printed at Office of Ayricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, = “a LAL eae = = Wa S / A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW or Vou. III. No. 53. IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. BARBADOS, APRIL 23, 1904. THE Prick ld, CONTENTS. PAGE. Paci Barbados, Exports of ... 155 | Insect Notes :— Mealie Grub od) Ado eles) Gand! Crasten yates oo. British Guiana, Rice industry ... -. .. Lol Cacao, Production and Mango in Jamaica ... 132 Consumption .... ... 157 | Market Reports vou 142 Cassava Starch... ... .. 137 | Northern Nigeria, Agri- Cocoa-nuts in the Philip- culture’... ... ... 139 pines... ... 0... «. 152 | Our Book Shelf :— Cotton Notes :— 133 Cotton Culture ... ... 141 Sales of Montserrat ... 133 Economic Zoology... 141 Selection of Seed 133 Farmers’ Bulletins of Philippines... «.. TAL Powell, H., in East Africa 154 St. Lucia, Trade and Agri- COUT encs Aon don Uy, Science Notes :— Insect-attacking fungi 135 Resurrection plants ... 135 Shade tree for Cacao ... 155 Sugar Industry : Demerara seedling in Elawyaie sees.) ene LOO) School Gardens and Molaseniiy 2... ...- 13 Arbor Day... ... 141 New Sugar-producing Fibre plants in Mexico... 15 TRIN: Goo a5) cna ane Aish Forests, Utility of ... ... 134 U.S. concessions to Shipment from Barba- dos ond)" bade se United States crop... 136 Department News... Department Publications 143 Department Reports :--- Lectures on Agti- cultural Science Leeward Islands Sugar- cane Experiments ... 15 Educational :— Fruit, Selection for Cubageeer pee ee Lol Export 152 | Tropical Diseases and their Gleanings ... 140 causes 139 Insect Notes :— West Indian Cotton. Funigation of Imported Wrong theories, Mischief Plants Sao pon deo Hots) of ood on, coo” pow akait West Indian Cotton. : g Manchester and the reports to hand as to the quality of the staple are uniformly satisfactory. In every instance where there has been a wise selection of soil and climate and where the cultivation and ginning have been carefully attended to, the financial results are most encouraging. We hope to publish the details as they come to hand. The chief drawback experienced during the past Where the worm did not appear at all, or where 16 was succesfully kept under control, the return in lint per acre was the Sea Islands of South Carolina. As it is admitted that im most parts of the West Indies ficld labour is cheaper and more reliable than in the United States, there can be little doubt that the profits likely to arise, on an average of years, from the best qualities of cotton grown in these colonies, should be as satisfactory as in any part of season was the attack of the cotton worm. quite as good as in the world. The best results have been obtained where the soil was originally of good quality or where it was manured and carefully cultivated. It should be clearly under- stood that it is useless to expect to grow large crops of cotton, or indeed of anything else, in poor soils, or even in good soils unless the cultivation receives constant attention and the plants are kept free from the cotton worm and other enemies. As regards the sort of cotton to grow, it has been conclusively shown that the best is Sea Island cotton. This, as is well known, is a native of the West Indies— a geographical fact of great importance—and in 130 , THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. addition it has been proved by experimental cultivation, over several thousand acres during the past season, that West Indian Sea Island cotton, when well culti- vated and properly prepared, is of exceptional quality and obtains high prices. If it should be shown, after careful trial, that any locality is found unsuitable to the growth of Sea Island cotton, it may be regarded as likely to be unsuitable for the growth of any cotton that will pay to cultivate. The Upland cotton plant is admitted to be hardier than the Sea Island cotton and it yield sa heavier crop, but it is usually worth only one-half the value of Sea Island cotton, and in the competition with other countries, which will inevitably follow the high prices now ruling, the cultivation of Upland cotton must prove still less remunerative. Sea Island cotton, on the other hand, can only be produced in a few localities and probably in no locality more favourably than in the West India Islands. As already indicated in these pages, it is of the utmost importance that only selected seed of Sea Island cotton should be planted for the next crop and that the seed be disinfected beforehand. In order to control the attacks of the cotton worm—the principal enemy so far met with in the West Indies—it is necessary that for every acre planted in cotton there should be obtained and kept ready for use, at a moment's notice, 3 tb. of Paris green and 18 tb. of slaked lime. After the experience of last season, it should be regarded as useless to attempt to grow cotton unless the cotton worm is entirely kept in check. The Paris green and lime treatment has everywhere proved successful. The season for starting operations for the next crop will soon be here. Already, selected seed of the best Sea Island cotton sufficient to plant 7,000 acres has been secured by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. This, after being disinfected, will be distributed to growers at cost price. Those who propose to plant cotton next season are advised to consult the local officers of the Department and after making a judicious selection of land to begin at once to prepare and manure it. If the opinion of the Department were to prevail, only capable and experienced planters would be advised, at present at all events, to embark in cotton growing. It is not desirable for amateurs or persons without means to attempt a cultivation of this sort. The safer course, for all new industries, is for Apri 23, 1904. them to be taken up by skilled agriculturists and carried on in a systematic and careful manner, so that the results attained may be published for the informa- tion and guidance of the general community. In view of the full and clear statement of facts respecting cotton growing in the West Indies contained in the recently published number of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. IV, no. 4), no intelligent planter should be in doubt as to the conditions necessary for establishing a successful -cotton industry. All who propose to plant cotton are recommended to study carefully the hints given in the work above referred to, and it is urged in the interests of all concerned that experiments with cotton growing in the West Indies be undertaken by the leading and more experienced planters in order that during the coming may be definitely and authoritatively ascertained what are the prospects of a cotton industry on a large scale as compared with sugar, cacao, fruit and other well-established industries in these colonies, season it SUGAR INDUSTRY. Demerara Seedling in Hawaii. The Demerara Argosy of April 6 has the following reference to the success that has attended the cultivation of Demerara seedling cane No. 117 in Hawaii :— At the usual meeting of the Hawaiian Sugar Planters? Association, when reports were received and considered from the various committees on the work for the year, Mr. Eckhart, Director of the Experiment Station, im discussing the merits of the different cane varieties, wrote: ‘ For irrigated plantations, Demerara seedling No. 117 is, in my opinion, the most promising variety, as at the experiment station field it easily leads all the other canes. On one of the Oahu plantations, where it has been tried in competition with Striped Singapore, Tibco Merd, Rose Bamboo, and Fijt Purple, it yielded from a ton to a ton and a half more sugar to the acre than the other varieties. It is a rather grassy cane, that is characterized by thick stooling, giving heavy tonnage per acre, and by juices of rather low purity except with ratoons, when purity is good. Louisiana Striped has been planted on quite a large scale (about 15 acres, I think) on one irrigated plantation and dces very well, that is, fully as well as Lahaina. It flowers earlier and more generally than Lahaina or Rose Bamboo.’ It was pointed out in conclusion that the cultivation of cane on cane land in Hawaii is practically continuous and that while burning of trash and leaves is general, it is the exception and not the rule to rest the lands, or to greensoil them by the cultivation of leguminous plants, | | Vor. III. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 131 Molascuit. The following note relating to the manufacture of molascuit is taken from the Demerara Argosy of April 6. Special reference is made to the fact that this product enjoys a decided advantage over other sugared stock foods on account of the absorbent properties of the megass:— Mr. George Hughes, the patentee of the now famous cattle food, molascuit, has written to a correspondent in Demerara suggesting that manufacturers in this colony should turn out an article containing at least 55 per cent. of sugar. In support of this suggestion, he states that there are on the market many sugared stock foods, but as these are made of materials that do not possess the absorbent qualities equal to a megass meal, their sugar content is lower. He thinks, therefore, that molascuit manufacturers should push this advantage to the utmost by producing molascuit containing at least 55 per cent. of sugar, thus rendering competition by those other stoek foods impossible, except from the disadvantageous position of an admittedly inferior article. United States Concession to Cuba. The following is an extract from an article on the subject of the Cuban reciprocity treaty that appeared in the Louisiana Planter of March 12, 1904:— From all these data we see that our reciprocity treaty with Cuba has been a very decided boomerang, doing no good to the Cubans, but returning to us and inflicting much injury upon us. It has not benefited the Cubans by making Cuban sugar worth more in that island than similar goods in San_ Domingo, or Jamaica, or Trinidad. On the contrary, the prices of sugars have been lowered and ‘this decline has - forced down prices throughout the West Indies generally and now, on the part of the Cubans themselves, in order to cover the deficiency in revenues arising from the diminished duties levied upon their chief imports from the United States, they simply elevated the duties 20 per cent. or more, and now collect as much as ever on the bulk of American productions entering the island. A New Sugar-producing Plant. Several references have recently been made in scientific and other journals to a new source of sugar. We reproduce the following account of the plant from the Gardeners’ Chronicle of March 19 :— In the early part of 1901 the authorities at Kew, as we learn from Mr. Hillier, received from H.B.M. Consul at Asuncion, Paraguay, fragments of a Composite plant credited with possessing a remarkable sweetening property, a few leaves being sufficient to sweeten a strong cup of tea or coffee, giving also a pleasant aromatic flavour. The plant was discovered growing in the highlands of Amambaya and near the source of the river Monday by Dr. Bertoni, and described by him in evista de Agronomia, il, pp. 35-7 (1899) under the name ELupatorium rebaudianum. From the meagre material received at Kew, it was found that the smallest portion caused a persistent sweetness in the mouth, and further that the floral structure of the Specimen agreed more nearly with the genus Stevia than with Zupatoriun, its affinity being with S. co//ina, Gardner. The foregoing facts are gathered from the Kew Bulletin for 1901, p. 173; and we find upon inquiry that living plants or full herbarium specimens are still desired at Kew to facilitate the identification of this interesting plant. THE MISCHIEF OF WRONG THEORIES. The following interesting extract is taken from the Monthly Weather Review of the.Weather Bureau of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for December 1903 :-— During the past century there has been such steady progress in all branches of science that the more intelligent portion of the community has abandoned those notions with regard to astrology, alchemy, spontaneous generation, witchcraft, and other philosophies, that were formerly accepted by the most learned. The diffusion of education has raised the children of the present generation above the level of the philosophers of « former generation. And yet we have seen it demonstrated again and again that the popular majority does not fully appreciate the extent of our present knowledge of the laws of the weather, and is still liable to resort to unscientific methods in the hope of accomplishing that to which science has not yet attained. We have seen communities in America and Australia carried away with the idea that cannonading can produce rain, or in Europe that the ringing of church bells or the offermg of prayers can avert droughts and floods. In Southern Europe the agriculturists are but just recovering from the strange belief that hail can be prevented by shooting rings of smoke toward the clouds. During the past ten years a wealthy engineer of Russia has devoted his fortune to the conversion of the people to his idea that the moon controls the weather, and so seriously does his advocacy of this error affect the uneducated agricultural community that the Director of the weather service at Odessa (Klossovsky) has gone to the trouble of publishing an elaborate statement of the errors in fact and theory committed by this engineer. He shows very clearly that Demtchinsky’s ,method of predicting the weather by lunar periods amounts to nothing more than predicting an average condition, an average which very rarely occurs, whereas the departures from it are very frequent. The verifications of these predictions are like the combinations in an ordinary game of chance, where there is an equal number of heads and tails or hits and misses. As the collection of meteorological statistics depends so Jargeiy upon the voluntary work of thousands of unpaid observers, it is to be feared that the good work we are doing in America may be seriously interrupted, if erroneous views are allowed to have an influence in this country as profound as they seem to have in Southern Russia. We cannot repeat too often and too clearly the general proposition that meteorology is to be advanced only by studying in details the effects on the atmosphere of insolation, radiation, the diurnal rotation and annual revolution of the earth, and the presence of continents and oceans. RICE INDUSTRY IN BRITISH GUIANA. In the course of an interview reported in the Demerara Argosy of April 6, Mr. T. E. Tinne, of the firm of Sandbach, Parker and Co., made the following reference to the rice industry :— I have also been impressed by the enormous extension of rice cultivation. In the not far distant future, we should be able not only to raise all the rice required for our own consumption, but to be exporters of rice to other countries. We have got the front of Leonora—some 300 acres—planted in rice. All the land we could spare we gave out to the coolies to encourage them to settle on the property, and we are finding the policy is sound. 132 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 23, 1904. WW WEST INDIAN BRUT: THE MANGO IN JAMAICA. The Jamaica Leader of March 25 has the follow- ing interesting note on the history of the mango in that island :— The plants found on board the vessel captured by Lord Rodney were lodged in a garden near Gordon Town, and twelve years afterwards, in 1794, an advertisement appeared in the Royal Gazette offering eighteen plants for distribution, six for each county. This was the nucleus of its cultivation in Jamaica, and such a congenial home did the mango find here, that thirty-two years after it was introduced it was described as being ‘one of the commonest fruit trees, in a great number of varieties.’ The next time that we find ‘new blood’ brought in is in 1869, when Sir John Peter Grant imported from India two cases of grafted mangos, the first containing six varieties, the second twelve. Among these was the famous ‘ Bombay.’ After this the number of fresh varieties introduced quickly increased in number, and in the succeeding years, up to 1901, young imported plants have been grown in the island, and swelled the numbers of this delicious fruit. In conclusion, a few words about the king of mangos, the No. 11, may not be uninteresting. According to one account it was the first that came into the island, the plants on the captured French vessel all being numbered—No. 11 being the famous variety. It has, however, been also said that the numbering took place many years later, when the different kinds of mangos then in Jamaica were thus enumerated to distinguish them one from the other. SELECTION OF FRUIT FOR EXPORT. In a leading article entitled ‘Some plain words to our banana planters,’ the Jamaica Daily Telegraph of April 5 mentions that the last Direct Line Steamer had taken a cargo of nearly 2,000 bunches of bananas—the _ first shipment since the hurricane of August last. In connexion with this shipment, it is stated, an important fact is to be noticed, viz., the Jarge number of rejections. This, of course, was due to the temptation of growers, particularly those with only a few acres who must have been suffering keenly from lack of money, to ship as much fruit as possible regardless of its suitability, or otherwise, for the market. The article continues :— ‘When will our planters learn to be wise? Had the rejected bunches only been allowed to remain on the trees two or three weeks longer they would have been fit for shipment, and would almost certainly have been purchased by the representatives of Messrs. Elders and Fyffes, Ltd., or the United Fruit Co. As it was, they were not purchased ; and the growers were the losers. We should like to see our banana planters acting ina manner which would show that they possess a real grasp of the existing situation. The United Fruit Co. and Messrs. Elders and I’yffes, Ltd., are not going to buy fruit which they will not be able to selk when they Jand it in America or England. Is not that fact self-evident? If so, why court disaster by eutting fruit which is sure to be rejected ?? COCOA-NUT CULTIVATION IN ‘THE PHILIPPINES. The Burean of Agriculture of the Philippines has recently issued a Bulletin on cocoa-nut cultivation, The Bulletin deals with the history and botany of the cocoa-nut palm, the uses of the various products and the methods of cultivation, including the treatment of insect pests and the renovation of old groves. The following is a summary of the conclusions arrived at by the author (Mr. W. S. Lyon, Officer-in-charge of the Division of Plant Industry ):— The present conditions present especially flattering attractions to cocoanut growers capable of undertaking the cultivation upon a scale of some magnitude. By co-opera- tion, small estates could combine in the common ownership of machinery, whereby the products of the groves could be converted into more profitable substances than copra. The present production of copra is an assurance of a sufficient supply to warrant the erection of a high-class modern plant for the manufacture of the ultimate (the ‘butter’) products of the nut. The products of such an enterprise would be increased by the certainty of a local market in the Philippines for some part of the output. The average market value of the best grades of copra in the Marseilles market is $5440, gold, per English ton. The minimum size of a plantation, on which economical application of oil and fibre-preparing machinery could be made, is 60 hectares [148-26 acres]. The natural enemies and diseases of the plant are relatively few, easily held in check by vigilance and the exercise of competent business management. In view of an ever-expanding demand for cocoa-nut products, and in the light of the foregoing conclusions, the industry, when prosecuted upon a considerable scale and subject to the requirements previously set forth, promises for many years to be one of the most profitable and desirable enterprises which command the attention of the Filipino planter. Vout. Ill. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 133 COTTON NOTES. Now that the returns of sales of West Indian cotton are coming in, interest in the industry is generally increasing. There is no doubt about the quality of the best Sea Island cotton produced in these colonies. What is important is to make sure that a// the cotton to be shipped next year will be uniform and of the best quality. It may be mentioned that sufficient selected cotton seed to plant, altogether, about 7,000, acres is now in course of being distributed by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. If all this seed were carefully planted and looked after, the Sea Island cotton industry in the West Indies would be well established on a large scale. A good many people will probably plant cotton without being fully acquainted with the conditions necessary for success. These simply court failure and loss, and will only have themselves to thank for taking up an industry they do not understand. There are several publications that have been issued during the last twelve months by the Imperial Department of Agriculture giving simple and clear directions in regard to cotton planting ; and, besides, there are officers stationed in each colony who are always prepared to advise and assist cultivators. To prevent disappointment it is advised that persons, who, hitherto, have had no experience in planting and are without means, should not start cotton growing. It is well known that starting a new industry like cotton requires a sound knowledge of planting and constant personal attention, or it is sure to fail. To make cotton growing a success it would be useful if, in each locality, a few really earnest and painstaking people would start the cultivation, after they have fully realized the difficulties that have to be overcome. Their example and experience would be more valuable than piles of literature. Tt has been suggested that the Board of Agriculture in British Guiana and Jamaica, and the Agricultural Society at Trinidad might greatly assist by starting ten or a dozen experiment plots (about one or two acres each) in different portions of these colonies, place them under experienced men and, if necessary, pay all expenses on condition that returns are presented at the end of the season showing exactly the details of expenditure and the gross receipts in each case. Ten such trial plots, at £5 each, would cost £50. Such a course would at once place the experiments on such a footing that the results would be immediately available and a large amount of time and money would be saved. It would, also, enable members of the mercantile community to form their own estimate of the probable value of the new cotton industry as compared with other industries. Where cotton has already been tried and failed, on account of disease, there should be an entire destruction of all old cotton plants by burning: that is the first requisite. After that the new cultivation should be in fresh land with fresh seed—care being taken that the soil is well prepared and manured beforehand. We learn that at Montserrat the cotton growers, at a public meeting, have resolved to carry out fully the above recommendations. It is well known that they have hitherto experienced many drawbacks ; but they now hope to make afresh start and overcome some, if not all, of their difticulties. It should be remembered that weak and badly nourished plants are more liable to disease than strong and vigorous plants. Hence the necessity for choosing good soil ; or, if the soil is not good, of giving it extra cultivation and plenty of manure. It is observed that at Jamaica, after some delay, it is proposed to go in for cotton cultivation on a large scale. This involves some risk, and especially if the growers are not fully informed as to the need for selecting good soil and carefully looking after every detail whilst the crop is growing. Also, in making due provision to meet the attacks of the cotton worm. A good stock of Paris green and powdered lime should, if possible, be secured before or as soon as the seed is planted. It is also proposed at Jamaica to begin planting cotton in April. This may answer in some districts where there are rains in May and June ; but in others, especially where trial plots are proposed to be assisted by the Board of Agriculture, it might be advisable to plant at intervals later in the year in order to determine the best planting season for each district by actual experiment. As a final word it is advised that those who are desirous of making themselves thoroughly acquainted with the details of planting Sea Island cotton in the West Indies should obtain a copy of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. IV, no. 4) and carefully study it. This publication is obtainable (price 6d., post free 8d.) from Agents in all parts of the West Indies. Also in London, from Dulau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W.; and at the rooms of the West India Committee, 16, Seething Lane, E.C. Sales of Montserrat Sea Island Cotton. From the account sales of a Montserrat cotton grower we learn the following satisfactory results of recent sales of Sea Island cotton shipped to England from that island :— From the sale of 499 tb. in July 1903, the net proceeds were £16 5s. 4d. In November 1903, 319 tb. were sold at 83d. per tb. ; the net proceeds of this sale were £11 2s. Lots of 35 tb. and 40 tb. sold at 54d. and 43d. respectively, and netted 15s. in each case. In January of this year, 1,955 tb. were sold at different times at 1s. 2d. per lb. After deducting charges for freight, insurance, brokerage, etc., the sum of £107 6s. was paid to the shipper. Selection of Cotton Seed. The following extract is taken from a letter, dated March 29, received from the Secretary of the British Cotton Growing Association :— The bulk of the cotton from Barbados is turning out very well, but you must impress on all the growers the necessity for very careful selection of seed and extreme care in cultivation and handling, as unless Sea Island cotton is quite right in all respects, it suffers severely in price. 134 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 23, 1904 THE UTILITY OF FORESTS. The following short statement of the uses of forests, which originally appeared in the Boston Transcript, istaken from the Barbados Daily News :— Let us take two hillsides of identical slope and exposure, one being forested, the other cleared. The rain falls on the canopy of trees in the one instance and drips softly from leaves and branches and trickles down the trunks. The soil beneath is soft and loose (even in winter it does not freeze hard), a composition of disintegrated rock, decaying leaves and twigs and even logs, and all tied together by a dense mass of roots and rootlets. The rain comes upon this forest soil so softly through the trees that the ground is not compacted and hardened or gullied as it would be if the rain fell directly on the soil. The loose and spongy earth takes up the water as fast as it falls, and that which is not seized by the roots for the nourishment of the trees is carried away into underground basins, from which it slowly percolates and eventually comes out upon the surface again as springs. So slowly does this filtermg go on, the spongy soil holding the water back, that the springs are given a constant and almost steady supply. Even a drought will actually dry up but few such. Snows also melt -more slowly in the forest, thereby preventing disastrous spring freshets. In the other case, that of the treeless slope, the rain falls directly on the bare ground and pounds it hard and impervious. ‘The water for the most part runs off super- ficially as from a roof. Not enough water sinks into the ground to help feed a constant spring. The surface run-off of a hard rain on a bare hillside is moreover conducive to gullying and washing of a most destructive nature, and the waters being poured immediately into the stream beds cause freshets. The freshet waters quickly rush by, wreaking havoe with fields, bridges and mills, and the next week the streams are nearly run dry. FIBRE PLANTS IN MEXICO. The following interesting account of the fibre industry of Mexico is taken from the Consular Report on Mexico tor 1902 :— Another branch which is also a very important one, and which, on account of the small amount of care required, is extending very rapidly, is the cultivation and exportation of fibres. Mexico is rich in plants which would give very good and strong fibres, if they were only carefully attended to. At present the only fibres that are of any importance and receive any kind of care are henequen, ixtle and the broom root. ‘The first is extensively cultivated in the State of Yucatan, and the exports are made through the ports on that coast, principally, if not entirely, through the port of Progreso, whence it is carried by vessels belonging to a company formed for the special purpose of conveying it to New York, which acts as the principal distributing centre. Ixtle is grown in the more northerly States on the Guif of Mexico, but especially so in the States of Vera Cruz and Tamaulipas, finding an easy outlet through the two principal ports of Mexico, namely, Vera Cruz and Tampico. Broom root is found in more or less commonly throughout the republic, but it is not cultivated. The total exports of fibres of all kinds in the year 1902 amounted to 105,913 tons. of which 88,087 tons were henequen (85,691 tons in the rough, and 2,395 tons in manufactured articles, principally hammocks and cordage), and the remainder consisted of 14,055 tons of ixtle (14,036 tons in the rough, and only 19 tons of manufactured articles, cordage, etc.), and 3,771 tons of broom root. The value of these exports, as given in the official returns, was £3,277,501, as compared with 103,518 tons of fibres valued at £2,438,979 in the year 1901. The values of the different fibres exported during the year were £2,946,900 for henequen, as against £204,700 for ixtle and £125,900 for broom root. The price of henequen on January 1, 1902, on the New York market, the principal consumer of this fibre, was 8$c., gold, a price which was maintained without any marked change through- out the year. The broom root exported during the year was sent almost entirely to Belgium, while the ixtle found its way to the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany. MR. POWELL IN BRITISH EAST AFRICA. Mr. Henry Powell, formerly Curator of the Botanic Station at St. Vincent, and now Assistant in the Agricultural Department in the British East Africa Protectorate, writes as follows :— The voyage out from England to Mombasa was intensely interesting. At Zanzibar, I met Dr. MacDonald, of St. Vincent, who took me to a fruit plantation in the island. At Pemba, I landed at two places and saw magnificent clove and cocoa-nut plantations. My headquarters in British East Africa are at Nairobi which is also the headquarters of the Uganda Railway, and where everything in connexion with the line is now built and repaired. Nairobi is 5,450 feet above sea-level and is distant from Mombasa by rail 328 miles. I regard the climate at Nairobi as unique. We are now in the hot and dry season and the temperature ranges from about 80° F. in the shade by day to 50° F. in the early morning. There are no mosquitos, no fever, no excessive perspiration even when hard at work, and as a result Europeans enjoy as good health here as in any part of Europe. English vegetables of nearly all kinds and flowers thrive admirably. The Agricultural Department here has only recently been established and we are all busy getting things into shape. At Nairobi we have an Experimental Farm with pedigree stock, including a Polled Angus bull, Muscat donkey, Irish Conemara stallion, fowls, ducks, ete. The crops under trial include wheat, oats, barley, flax, lentils, clover, fenugreek, maize, lucerne, beans, cotton, etc., and it is amazing how well the majority succeed. The sugar-cane also does well here, so that the immense range of cultivations. can be understood. Most excellent butter is made and dairying is on the increase, the milk being much richer than in the West Indies. Large numbers of settlers are constantly arriving from South Africa and other places, and immense tracts of land are being taken up. Ramie and other fibres are being grown and settlers are anxious to grow the former on extended areas. At Naivasha, about 60 miles from here, we have a large pedigree stock farm and the work of the Agricultural Department extends over many thousands of square miles. We have the services of a cotton expert from Egypt who is now touring the country, coastwards, selecting land for, and starting, experiments. I am following and shall continue to follow with the greatest interest the results of the experiments in St. Vincent, and I am convinced that the cotton industry there will prove a success. I am much indebted to yeu for causing the Agri cultural News and other publications to be sent me, and I can assure you that I continue to take the greatest interest in the work of your Department. Vou. III. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 135 SCIENCE NOTES. A Shade Tree for Cacao. The ‘Madera’ shade tree of Nicaragua (Gliricidia maculata) is reported by Mr. Broadway to be now in flower at the Grenada Botanic Station ; this is the second time this tree has flowered since it was introduced to Grenada from the Botanic Gardens at Trinidad. There are a number of these trees in the gardens at King’s House in Jamaica. The ‘ Madera’ shade tree is also now flowering at Chelston, Barbados, where it is regularly frequented by a large number of humming birds. It is worth cultivating for these alone. iricidia maculata, which belongs to the natural order Leguminosae, has flowers of a light-purplish colour borne along the branches for 18 inches or more. Mr. Hart states in the Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information (September 1893) that this is the tree in general use in Nicaragua as a shade for cacao: ‘The plantation is formed, and the ‘“‘ Madera,” or permanent shade, is planted from seed in straight lines, about 5 varas apart, which would be equal to about 13 English feet. After allowing the shade to grow for from eighteen months to two years, the cacao trees are planted in the same lines as the shade trees and alternating with them in the rows at about 12 or 13 feet apart or less. The ‘‘ Madera” becomes the permanent shade of the plantation.’ Insect-attacking Fungi. Fungi, in so far as they concern the agriculturist, are often looked upon as a group, every member of which is either harmful or certainly not beneficial. There is, however, a group of fungi the members of which are distinctly friends of the agriculturist ; this group includes those fungi which are parasitic upon insects. One of the most noted of these fungi is the so-called ‘South African locust fungus’ (J/ucor exitiosus), which has been largely used in South Africa for the destruction of the locust. Other fungi are known to be parasitic upon scale insects in the West Indies and elsewhere, and Mr. Ballou has expressed the opinion (Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 232) that some of these fungi do a considerable amount of damage to the scales. House-flies often suffer severely from the attacks of the fly fungus (Zmpusa) while chinch bugs are attacked by a fungus, Sporotrichum, which often destroys large numbers of these pests. Fic 7. Larva of Diatrea saccharalis killed by Cordyceps Barberi. Among the most interesting of these fungi are a number of species of the genus Curdyceps belonging to the Ascomycetes. The genus is world-wide in its distribution and most of the species live upon caterpillars and grubs of various kinds ; Cordyceps Barberi (Fig. 7) is parasitic upon the larva of the moth-borer of the sugar-cane. When a spore of Cordyceps falls upon the body of a living grub it puts out a short germ-tube or hypha, which bores through the skin of the host and then branches. The hyphae penetrate further into the inner tissues of the grub. Next these hyphae, inside the host, begin to produce spores (conidia) ; these conidia get into the blood and then commence budding in a similar manner to that described for the yeast plant (Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 123). The budding proceeds rapidly, and the spores so produced are carried in the blood to all parts of the animal, which then dies. The spores now put out hyphae which branch and grow through the tissues of the grub, which they consume and replace. Finally, what appears to be the insect body is simply a mass of very thickly interwoven hyphae of Cordyceps. The hyphal mass or sclerotiwn, however, still retains the external form of the grub. Later on, the fungus begins to produce spores. Thickly woven masses of hyphae break out from the sclerotium and grow up into the air to form club-shaped bodies with a stalk and head. The illustration shows these, in various stages, growing from all parts of the sclerotium. When ripe, the head is seen studded with numerous minute pores : these pores are the openings of flask-shaped chambers in which the spores are produced. In each flask numerous long, narrow asci are formed, and in each of these eight thread-like ascospores are formed. Before the ascospores are liberated, they break up into very numerous small spores, which escape through the pore of the flask into the outer air. A few species of this genus are parasitic upon other fungi, the truffles and their allies. One of these, Cordyceps ophioglossoides, is found in England, growing upon a fungus, Elaphomyces, which in turn grows upon the roots of pine trees. Resurrection Plants. Three different plants are known under the above name, says Mr. A. Hemsley in the Garden. Mesembryanthemum Tripolium is one of the most remarkable. When dry, the seed capsules are tightly closed up and when soaked in water the capsules will open out their curious valves. On being dried they will close, but will open again with moisture. This may be repeated several times without destroying the remarkable hygroscopic properties. The seed vessels or capsules of many other plants possess the same properties, and it is chiefly those which grow in countries or districts where they have long dry seasons. The seeds which ripen during the early part of the dry season, remain on the ground for a consider- able time, and are protected by the folding up of the capsules. When the rain comes these coverings open and allow the seed to escape during the time the ground is most suited for their germination. Anastatica hierachuntica is another known as the Resurrection plant. It is a curious little annual belonging to the Cruciferae. The third known as the Resurrection plant is Selaginella lepidophylla, a club moss, which, after being dried up, will again assume its natural appearance. On this account it is often sold as a vegetable curiosity. (Indian Planting and Gardening, February 6, 1904. ) Goats at Malta. Milch cows are few innumber nearly all the fresh milk being furnished by the goat, which is of a good breed, the best specimens being able to furnish on an ayerage from 5 to 6 pints per diem. The milk derived from sheep is all turned into cheese. (C.O. Report, 1902-3.) 136 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 23, 1904, EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 143 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 144d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural slows APRIL, 23, 1904. No. 53. Von. III. NOTES AND COMMENTS. SATURDAY, West Indian Bulletin. It is desirable to mention that the supply of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. IV, no. 3), containing general information respecting the cultivation of cotton and other matters, is now exhausted and further copies cannot be supplied. The Department is desirous of obtaining clean copies of this number. Any persons having them for disposal might communicate with the local agents of the Department, who are authorized to pay 3d. per copy. Copies of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. IV, no. 4), containing later information embodied in a Report by Sir Daniel Morris and Mr. J. R. Bovell on Sea Island cotton in the United States and the West Indies, are still available and may be obtained from all Agents (price 6/., free by post 8¢/.). Oo —” Shipments of Cotton from Barbados. During the current season Mr. Bovell reports that, according to returns furnished by the Comptroller of Customs at Barbados, there have been shipped, up to March 31 last, 244 bales and 2 bags of cotton, containing 61,000 tb., of the estimated value of £3,050. The Central Factory shipped 135 bales of Sea Island cotton, 21 bales of Egyptian cotton, 1 bale of Upland, and 2 bags of cotton from native plants. Others shipped 82 bales of Sea Island cotton and 5 bales of Egyptian. ‘This is interesting as a record of the first shipment of cotton from Barbados on a commercial scale probably for forty years. Leeward Islands Sugar-cane Experiments. Part II of the Report on the Sugar-cane experiments conducted in the Leeward Islands in the season 1902-3, under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, has recently been issued. The price of the Report has been fixed at 1s, for each part or 2s. per set. This publication may be obtained of all agents of the Department. ee Exports of Barbados. We extract the following figures relating to the exports of Barbados for 1903 from a statement in the Official Gazette of March 31, 1904:— Sheep, goats and swine, 720, valued at £601; butter, 741 tb., valued at £25; fruit and vegetables to the value of £7,099; hides, £569: ice, £218; building lime, £1,547; manjak, 650 tons, valued at £6,508 : molasses, 30,344 puncheons, valued at £136,548; muscovado sugar, 35,170 hogsheads, valued at £232,122; dry sngar, 3,453 hogsheads, valued at £27,624; and tamarinds, 866 barrels of the value of £866. The following items might also be mentioned as some of them occur now for the first time :—prepared cacao, £10; raw cotton, 550 tb., valued at £28; cotton seed, 3,700 th., valued at £13: cured fish, £5: Barbados petroleum, £18; salted and pickled pork, 200 tb.,. valued at £4; suceades, £240; and tar, £45. oe Eo The United States Cotton Crop. Frequent references have been made in the United States press to the anticipated results of the recent rise in the price of cotton, and to the specula- tions of the great dealers in this commodity. The New York Times of March 19 draws attention to the failure of the attempt to create a corner in cotton, taking advantage of the fact that the cotton yield of the United States was below the normal requirements of the world. Referring to the same subject, the Barbados Advocate of April 7 points out that, in spite of the repeated warnings of the press and the United States Department of Agriculture to farmers not to increase their sowings, it appears that the average increase throughout the whole cotton-producing area is about 30 percent. Such an increase would naturally have the effect of lowering the prices to a considerable extent, notwithstanding the ever-increasing demand for cotton. This fact need not, however. discourage West Indian planters from increasing their sowings of Sea Island cotton, for, as stated by the Advocate :-— Sea Island cotton, which is the variety indigenous to the West Indies will be little, if at all, affected by the increased acreage here referred to. So that planters who are proposing to go in for cotton cultivation on any scale need not be deterred from doing so. The area suited for the cultivation of this variety in the United States cannot be indefinitely enlarged. It is, in fact, already fully appropri- ated. Hence the high market value, which the Sea Island cotton has attained on account of the length and quality of the fibre which make it adapted to uses to which other kinds are not suited is not likely to suffer any considerable decline. | Vou. III. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 137 Cassava Starch in Jamaica. References have already been made in_ the Agricultural News (Vol. III, pp. 44, 105 and 118) to the etforts that are being made in Jamaica to establish an export business in cassava starch, and more particularly to the trial shipment that had been made by Mr. J. W. Middleton, who had started a factory for the manufacture of this starch at Longville, Clarendon, The Jamaica Daily Telegraph of March 26, 1904, states: ‘Mr. J. W. Middleton has just received a cable report from Manchester on the result of the tests to which the cassava starch made at his factory has been subjected. The results of the trial have been very satisfactory, and he has been asked to send at the earliest opportunity 50 tons, for which a price of £10 per ton in Bristol is offered.’ Commenting on this report the same journal remarks that it is conclusively shown that there is a bright future for the cassava starch industry, for, considering the cheapness with which cassava can be grown and the moderate cost at which the starch can be manufactured, there is money in the new venture. It is stated that the manufacturer has succeeded in making a starch to suit the finishers of high-class goods in Manchester, who at present use, for their finer processes, wheat starch which costs, on an average, £27 per ton. ‘The cultivation at Longville consists of about 50 acres, which will be ready for starch making this season. The capacity of the plant is about 150 tons per annum,’ EEE ee Cassava Starch. Referring some months ago to the experimental shipment of cassava starch from Jamaica, the result of which is given elsewhere in this issue, the Jamaica Times stated: ‘Ladies complain bitterly of the damage done to clothes by the acid in cassava starch as it is often put on the market here. We find that there appears to be a general belief in that direction throughout the West Indies: it is particularly prevalent, we are informed, in Barbados. With a view to obtaining further information on this point, a sample of Barbados cassava starch was, at the request of the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, forwarded to Professor d’Albuquerque for examination as to its freedom, or otherwise, from acid. Professor d’Albuquerque reported: ‘The acidity of this sample by ordinary tests is imperceptible. . . . This sample of cassava starch, in respect to freedom from acidity, compares very favourably with the best obtainable sample of arrowroot starch.’ With reference to the general characters of cassava starch for laundry purposes, the following report from a laundry in England is of interest :— I have tried the sample of starch you sent me both boiled and unboiled. One table-spoonful of your starch is equal to two of mine ; it is very glutinous. The cold starch, when used with borax, is certainly stronger than the starch I have been using, but it is inclined to stick to the iron and on the outside of the collars, etc. The starch is a good colour. It could be used for starching without borax, as it is very stiff and also gives a gloss. Trade and Agriculture of St. Lucia. The Colonial Report on St. Lucia for the year 1902 contains a number of interesting facts relating to the trade and agriculture of the colony. Although there is a considerable decline in the total value of the exports, this is mainly due to a falling off in the export of coal. The exports of sugar and sugar products also show a decline in value, but we are glad to notice that the steady increase in the export of cacao has been maintained. It is interesting to note that pimento sticks figure quite largely in the table of exports: 15,996 were exported during the year, their value being estimated at £446. Reference is made in this report to the work of the Agricultural Department, especially to that of the Botanic Station in distributing plants, and that of the Agricultural Instructor in advising planters on the preparation of produce for market and agricultural matters generally. Sane — The Production and Consumption of Cacao. The Tropical Agriculturist of March 1, 1904, publishes a report by Messrs. Lewis and Noyes on the above subject. In a list of the quantities of cacao (in bags) produced, during the last five years, in the various cacao-growing countries, it is shown that the principal producers in 1902 were: Guayaquil (467,000), Africa (297,504), Bahia (273,977), Trinidad (166,788), Vene- zuela (166,000), Grenada (61,279), Ceylon (60,455), Para (49,840), and Africa, British, (47,900). The production in Jamaica was 17,620 bags; the returns for Mexico were not complete, but the production in 1901 was 35,859 bags. There has been an important increase in the production of cacao in all countries except Surinam, Java, Hayti and San Domingo. In Surinam the decrease is due to the inroads of the ‘ Witch Broom ’ disease ; in Java to adverse climatic conditions, and in Hayti and San Domingo to political disturbances, On the other hand, the industry has made great strides in our West African possessions (where every assistance 1s being given by the authorities), as will be seen from the following figures showing the production : 1898 (787), 1899 (4,787), 1900 (9,047), 1901 (16,170), and 1902 (47,900). It would appear that there is likely to be considerable increase in the production of this article in the Congo, in Costa Rica, and also in Java and Ceylon. ‘The consumption appears to be growing steadily, and we see no reason why this healthy condition should not continue, when we take into consideration the many forms of manufacture from the raw state, and its growing recognition as a nutritious article of diet both in this and in other countries. The consumption of the world is estimated to be, for 1902, about 120,000 tons.’ A table, giving the comparative prices for the cacao exported from different countries, shows that the highest prices were obtained in 1903 for that from Guayaquil (65s. to 80s.), Trinidad (64s. to 75s.), and Grenada (51s. to 62s.). 138 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. APRIL 23, 1904. INSECT NOTES. The Fumigation of Imported Plants. The necessity for adopting preventive measures against the introduction of insect pests has already been dealt with in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 74). In that article it was mentioned that Jamaica had for some time been enforcing the fumigation of imported plants and that British Guiana had recently enacted a law for the same purpose. Of the Lesser Antilles, Dominica is the first to make a positive start in this matter. Fumigating chambers have been built and materials for fumigating have been procured. The fumigating chambers are of two sizes—one, 8 feet by 6 feet by 6 feet inside, and the other 2 feet by 2 feet by 2} feet. They are built of matched {inch pine (deal) boards, double boarded with a sheet of building paper between, and made as nearly air-tight as possible. The fumigation is accomplished by means of hydrocyanic acid gas. This is produced by the addition of potassium cyanide to a mixture of sulphuric acid and water. The cyanide should be ‘miner’s fused’, of a strength of 98 to 99 per cent., and the sulphuric acid, a good grade of commercial acid, with a specific gravity of not less than 1°83. For use in a box or chamber 1 oz. of cyanide should be used for each 300 feet (cubic content), and for generating the gas a vessel of wood, glass or earthenware, but never metal. The amount of acid should be one and a half times the amount of cyanide and that of water one and a half times as much as of acid. The amounts for the large fumigating chamker mentioned above would then be : cyanide, 1 oz.; acid, 13 oz. ; water, 24 0z.; and for the smaller box, cyanide, 1 gramme ; acid, 1} ce. ; water, 24 ce. An arrangement should be made so that after the mixture of acid and water is placed in the generating vessel, the cyanide, loosely wrapped in soft paper, can be added, after all doors, ete, are closed. This is accomplished by means of a string through a hole in the side of the chamber. The plants or fruits are put in place, the water and acid in the generator and the charge of cyanide suspended above the generator by the string. When all is securely closed, the cyanideislowered intothe generator, and the smallhole through which the string passes closed by means of a cork or wooden plug. When the cyanide is dropped into the acid and water, a violent bubbling takes place and a cloud of steam is given off ; this steam is mixed with the poisonous hydrocyanic gas, which continues to be given off till the cyanide is used up. As hydrocyanic gas is extremely poisonous, the greatest care 1s necessary on the part of the operators not to breathe it. It is nearly colourless, with a strong odour of burnt almonds, which is easily detected by one familiar with it, even when present in small quantity. For ordinary plants, the time required in fumigating is one hour, but more tender plants may be exposed for a shorter time, or the amount of the material used may be decreased. At the end of the required time, the doors and ventilators should be opened and the fumigating chamber allowed to become free from the gas. Not less than fifteen minutes should be allowed to pass before anyone should enter or breathe the air at the door or window. fusca). The Mealie Grub. The Transvaal Agricultural Journal for January 1904 contains an interesting article on the Mealie Grub (Sesamia The insect is one of the Noctuid moths and its habit of feeding in the mealie (maize) plant is very similar to the habit of the Moth-borer of the Sugar-cane (Diatrea saccharalis) of the West Indies. The eggs are laid on the leaf and the young caterpillar works its way down into the heart and stem of the plant, seriously injuring or killing the plant. The remedies suggested are—(1) Taking out the affected plants and destroying them ; (2) rotation of crops ; (3) late planting ; and (4) fall ploughing or burning of stalks. It may be of interest to note that the Mealie Grub of the Transvaal is the Sugar-cane borer of Mauritius, while the Moth-borer of the sugar-cane in the West Indies is known in the United States and other places as the Larger Corn-stalk borer, LEEWARD ISLANDS: CANE EXPERIMENTS, 1902-3. Watts, Agricultural Chemist. REPORT ON SUGAR- Part II. By Francis 3.Sc., F.LC, F.C.S., Government Analytical and Price 1s. This part of the report deals with the experiments that have been carried out during the year in the Leeward Islands. to ascertain the manurial requirements of the sugar-cane. It is proved that the use of artificial manures is not remunerative with plant canes, the use of pen manure and the proper preparation of the land being all that is necessary to give maximum crops: with ratoons, on the other hand, artificial manures are decidedly remunerative. For these nitrogen, in a rapidly acting form, must be used. The experiments also bring out the desirability of applying the nitrogen in one dose rather than in divided doses. An appendix to this report deals with the relationship: between the tonnage of cane and the pounds of sucrose in the juice—a question of great importance in connexion with experiments of this nature. Mr. Watts states: ‘It is probable that we shall in the future make our comparisons in manurial experiments on the basis of tons of canes, rather than of pounds of sucrose.’ LECTURES ON AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE: By Longfield Smith, B.Sc. (Edin.), Ph.D. (Leipzig), Lecturer in Agricultural Science at Barbados. Price 3d. This is a summary of the lectures that were delivered by Dr. Longfield Smith at Barbados in 1902 and 1903 and in Bermuda in 1904. In these lectures a wide range is covered, as elementary facts in chemistry, physics and biology, directly or indirectly connected with agriculture, are discussed. This publication is likely to be of considerable use to- officers of the Department and others in connexion with lectures to teachers. Vou. III. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 139 TROPICAL CAUSES. The following is an extract from the lecture on ‘The Disease Problem of the West Indies, delivered by Sir Patrick Manson, K.C.M.G., M.D., F.R.S., at the West India Committee Rooms on March 8. We propose to publish further extracts from this valuable lecture in future issues of the Agricultural News. The present extract deals particularly with the causes of certain tropical diseases :— Our knowledge of the cause of malaria and of the means by which it is disseminated is even more precise. We know that what we call malaria is a minute animal which lives in the blood of man. Each blood corpuscle occupied by the growing parasite is destroyed. When the corpuscles so invaded break up and liberate the little groups of young parasites into which the full grown parasites divide, the characteristic fever is produced. Generation of parasites follows generation, and in a very short time, in consequence of the destruction of many blood corpuscles, the patient is brought to a condition of profound anemia, even if he does not die of the disease. Under the most favourable cireum- stances he is unfitted for work for a longer or shorter time. If not properly treated, his fever spells may recur during several months or years, and all this time he is more or less of a burden to his friends or to the community. We know now that the malaria parasite is passed from the sick to the sound by a special kind of mosquito, and we also know that if this mosquito is prevented from biting the sick, or if it does chance to bite the sick, from subsequently biting the sound, there will be no spread of the infection. We are not so sure about the germ cause or causes of the dysenteries and diarrhceas, but we are sure that most of these diseases are caused by germs conveyed from the sick to the sound, either in food or in water, or by direct contact with the discharges from diseased surfaces, and, further, that the growth of these germs and the diseases to which they give rise are specially favoured by unwholesome feeding. The influence of feeding in inducing these intestinal diseases is specially well illustrated by what happens in most negro nurseries Writing in the sixth issue of that most instructive publication, the British Guiana Medical Annual, Dr. N. Barnes remarks: ‘As regards feeding, the children of our populace must be ranged in two great classes. The Hindu coolies almost invariably nurse their children. With the negroes it is far different. Almost from the moment of birth the black baby is crammed with pap made of plantain, Indian corn meal, cassava starch, etc., sometimes even with soup made of salt meat or fish. When this diet causes dyspepsia, and the child, being in pain, begins to ery, the usual treatment is to fill it up with more pap until it is unable to cry.’ Under such circumstances dysentery, or diarrhea, or convulsions, are only to be expected. This grotesque system of infant feeding has much to do with the enormous infantile mortality so notorious among the negro races. Crotons. A correspondent is anxious- to obtain a plant or two of croton ‘ Princess of Wales.’ Possibly some ‘of our correspondents can inform him where these are available and the cost, packed ready for shipment. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture embark- ed in H.M.S. ‘Pallas’ for St. Lucia and Antigua on Monday, April 18. After. completing his visit to Antigua it is probable that he will call at Dominica and St. Lucia and return by R.M.S. ‘Eden’ due at Barbados on the 23rd. instant. AGRICULTURE IN NORTHERN NIGERIA. In the Colonial Report on Northern Nigeria tor 1902, the High Commissioner (Sir F. Lugard) makes the following remarks on the agriculture of the colony :— Additional consignments of cotton seed have been received from England and distributed. Samples of indi- genous cotton from each province have been sent to the British Cotton Growing Association, and also some samples of the cotton from the new seed, but as yet their report has not been received. I hear that the latter has been valued at the very high price of 63d. per Ib. It is under consideration to send a cotton expert to Northern Nigeria, as has been done to each of the other West African Colonies, to instruct the natives in the use of ginning and _ pressing apparatus, and report on the suitability of various districts and soils for cotton cultivation, and upon the prospects of the industry if taken seriously in hand. My own view is that imported products such as cacao, improved cotton, coffee, etc., should not be grown in plantations by Europeans, but introduced as a crop among the agricultural villages, and their cultivation promoted by a distribution of plants and seeds, and by a promise to buy the produce, and by bonuses for good results in order to naturalize them in the country. The extensive growth of the onion and leek throughout the Hausa States shows that the people readily adopt a new culture. It is necessary to establish nurseries of such plants for distribution, under the care of an expert Curator, and I think it would be most useful to place in the Government Gardens specimens of indigenous trees of economic value (e.g., the various rubber plants, wood-oil trees, gambia pod, etc.), so that residents and others on arrival could learn to recognize these, and promote their cultivation, and check their destruction in their provinces. It is, above all, important to teach the people the use of oxen in agriculture, and to introduce the American or Indian plough used by the Kaffirs of South Africa. It has been pointed out by many writers, that since throughout Africa oxen are only driven or tended by men, the introduction of ploughs has the result of emancipating the women to some extent from the labour of field work, and causes it to be undertaken by men. Men, however, already work in the fields throughout the greater part of Northern Nigeria. Land Crabs. Mr. Henry Millen, Curator of the Tobago Botanic Station, writes that carbon bisulphide has been found useful for exterminating land crabs which abound in the Station. The following method has been found to give good results :—Cotton is placed in the holes to a distance of about a foot—large holes will require about a handfull. The cotton is then saturated with the carbon bisulphide, and the holes closed up. In these experiments it was found that a bottle of carbon bisulphide (sold locally at ls. 8d.) was sufficient to destroy from twenty-five to thirty crabs. 140 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 23, 1904. GLEANINGS. Voice of March 31 pupils and master of the Castries Boys’ Primary School on the success of the recently established school garden. The St. Lucia congratulates the There are a few vacancies for suitable pupils at the Agricultural School and Experiment Station at St. Lucia. Application for admission should be made as early as possible to the Curator of the Botanic Station. Prices for copra are slightly easier, being $2°75 per 100 tbh. We understand that practically all the cocoa-nuts in the island, for some months to come, have been engaged at very fair prices. (Trinidad J/rror, April 8.) The St. Croix Bulletin states that the smaller planters on the contiguous estates have signed contracts to deliver cane to the Bethlehem Central Factory, the cane growers to receive 6 per cent. in sugar of the weight of the cane. One hundred and ninety-one bunches of bananas, 10 crates of mangos, 12 bales and 3 bags of cotton and 12 bags of cotton seed, were shipped on the R.M.S. ‘Orinoco’ for Southampton, It is stated in the Sugar Planter’s Journal that a new use has been found for bagasse, viz., for the manufacture of cardboard. A company, known as the Fibre Board Company, has been formed for the purpose in Boston. More cane sugar for refining purposes is reaching the United Kingdom than for years, and Liverpool seems to be getting the preference as the port of arrival. The heavy dock charges of London do not conduce to increasing supplies. (International Sugar Journal.) American Gardening for February 20 has the follow- ing: ‘ Never plant seeds in dry soil, or in soil that is less moist than the seeds, as the drier soil will extract the moisture from the seeds and the germ will die. The finer soil particles are, whether for potting, the garden or the farm, the more their surface is increased for taking up and holding moisture, the greater the surface for root-hairs to work upon.’ In acknowledging the receipt of a copy of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. 4, no. 4), Mr. W. A. Orton, of the Bureau of Plant Industry, U.S. Department of Agriculture, an eminent authority on the cultivation of Sea Island cotton in South Carolina, writes : ‘This publication should prove of great value to your cotton planters, since, from its clear treatment of the culture of Sea Island cotton, it forms a very valuable addition to our cotton literature.’ Reports received from St. Vincent in respect of the working of the Central Cotton Factory are of a very satisfactory character. The machinery works smoothly and effectively anda large shipment of cotton is to be made by this mail. Be sure to include ground nuts in your order for garden seeds. Half a gallon of seed will contain about 400 kernels, enough to plant 200 hills, which, with proper care, should yield 2 bushels. Ground nuts are as easily grown as Irish potatos, the method of culture being similar. (J’arm Journal.) A French patent for the production of a substitute for India-rubber has been taken out by Fayolle. The ingredients used are glycerin treated’ with sulphuric acid ; afterwards formalin is added and later pure phenol. The new product is said to be suitable for use in rendering fabrics waterproof or as an electric insulator. A lecture was recently delivered in Jamaica by the Hon, T. H. Sharp on the cotton industry. Mr. Sharp is reported by the Daily Telegraph of March 31 to have ‘ exhibited samples of the Sea Island and Upland cotton, and pointed out that, owing to the texture of the latter, it fetched a much larger price.’ There is, of course, an error here, as it is the former, the Sea Island, that fetches the higher price. Mr. W. E. Broadway reports that the yam and sweet potato crops were recently dug in the ‘ Food Index Plots’ at the Grenada Botanic Station. Of the yams, the heaviest crops were yielded by the ‘White Water’ and ‘St. Lucia’ varieties, one tuber of the former variety weighing 234 hb. In the sweet potato plot the best results were obtained from the ‘Moko’ variety, which is also the favourite variety with the people of the island. According to the annual report of the Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, there are now forty-one affiliated branch societies with a total membership of 2,563. The Prize Holdings Competition scheme has been carried through with considerable success in the parishes of Hannover and Westmoreland. There were seventy-eight entries in the former parish and ninety-two in the latter. The judges expressed their gratification at the efforts of the competitors. The Hill Garden at Curepipe, Mauritius, is chiefly for nursing plants that cannot be grown at the tropical garden at Pamplemousses owing to the climate. Large numbers of seedlings are raised yearly—Juniperus, Pinus sinensis, Eucalyptus—and are planted on Crown lands in different parts of the colony or sold to private persons for re-afforesta- tion purposes. A Re-afforestation Ordinance has been passed, and arrangements under the advice of an expert forest officer of the Indian Forest Department are now being matured to give effect to it. (C.0. Report, 1902.) It is officially stated that the United States Government spends six and a quarter million dollars (£1,250,000) in promoting its agricultural interests, while the several States: and territories expend something over four and a half million dollars (£900,000) for a similar purpose. These make a total of ten and a quarter million dollars (£2,050,000) expended annually in advancing the interests of agriculture. It is added : ‘this is certainly a most liberal figure and much more than is being expended by any other Government in the world for the same purpose.’ a eae Vou. Til. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 141 ON ECONOMIC ZOOLOGY By F. V. Theobald. London: Printed by order of the Trustees of the Br ttish Museum, 1904. . This is next in series to the List Leport, a notice of which will be found in the Agricultural News, Vol. I, p. 331, and deals with animals grouped and classified according to the place they hold, considered from the point of view of Economic Zoology. Reports to the Board of Agriculture on Agricultural Zoology and answers to correspondents make up Part IT. There is also a list of insect pests of Egypt, additional insect pests of the West Indies and Coccidae of Egypt, altogether making a valuable and interesting collection of information. SECOND REPORT FARMERS BULLETINS OF THE PHILIPPINE BUREAU OF AGRICULTURE. We have received a number of Farmers’ Bulletins issued by the Philippine Bureau of Agriculture. These publications are of the same character as the Farmers’ Bulletins of the United States Department of Agriculture and are likely to be of the greatest value to planters i in the Philippines. Among the Bulletins already published may be mentioned: No. 1, ‘A Primer on the cultivation of sugar- cane’; No. 2, ‘Cacao culture in the Philippimes’; No. 3, ‘Modern rice culture’; No. 7, ‘Report on the introduction and distribution of seeds and plants by the Bureau of Agriculture’; and No. 8, ‘The cocoa-nut.’ In No. 1 it is stated: ‘The present practices plainly indicate a lack of knowledge of certain fundamental principles in cane cultivation, and the purpose of this paper is to place before the cane grower, in compact form, the elementary information essential to the success which lies within his reach.’ This quotation serves to indicate the general purpose and nature of the series. Bees. CULTURE: ByN. J.R No. 63 of the This bulletin, which is written by the Director of the Georgia Experiment Station, is chiefly devoted to the field experiments that have been carried on in that Station. The following experiments are reported upon: (1) variety test, (2) ‘composite’ seed test (where an early and a late variety are planted together), (3) manurial experiments, (+) planting on bed or level. In an appendix are given suggestions and manurial formulae based on carefully conducted experiments. The results of fourteen years’ experiments appear to justify the drawing of certain conclusions as to the requirements of the cotton plant. Thus, the following rotation is recommended : Ist year, corn and peas ; 2nd year, wheat and oats followed by cow peas for hay ; drd year, cotton. It must, of course, be understood that this bulletin deals entirely with Upland cotton and not with Sea Island cotton—the variety being grown in the West Indies. edding. Bulletin Georgia State Buperiment Station, 1903, EDUCATIONAL. School Gardens and Arbor Day. The following is taken from American Gardening of March 19, 1904: — SCHOOL GARDENS. School gardens continue to receive a constantly increasing of public attention. From very many parts of the country reports reach us bearing witness to this widespread interest. There can be no question but that the movement should be encouraged by all who are in any way concerned in practical horticulture. If the younger generation has implanted in it an intelligent interest in garden routine work, together with an intelligent acquaintance with growing plants, there will not be the need of so much missionary work in garden art in the future as there has been in the past. The school garden movement was started some eighty years ago, but its most rapid development has been within the last decade. Work in this country is not by any means sufficiently widespread. With a round 100,000 school gardens in Europe, is it any wonder that garden art has reached a wider distribution across the ocean than it has with us ! It is not at all necessary or desirable that all the school children should be made into gardeners, but the early teaching would raise the standard of those who adopt the calling and create a better appreciation of the craftman’s skill in ‘those who would depend upon the labour of others. From the standpoint of the trade, too, the increased interest in garden embellishment would stimulate a widespread and healthy demand for plants and seeds of high quality, ARBOR share DAY. Very closely associated with the school garden movement is the Arbor Day celebration. Nearly every State now sets apart one day which is devoted to the planting ot trees with more or less ceremony. True it is that a very large amount of the work involved is entirely spent and wasted energy. Too often, the planting is done in a perfunctory and haphazard manner, and the trees set out are left to care for themselves. Planted and neglected, and allowed to die, whatever possible good may have been started in the minds of children is entirely counteracted. Some of the most interesting tre2- planting exercises take place in connexion with the schools of densely populated cities. Usually, under such conditions, the park department (co-operating with the school system) supplies the trees to be planted, selects the locations, and attends to their subsequent needs. Where such planting has been done in small parks and city squares near schools, the children have begun to feel a personal interest in the growth of ‘their’ trees, and from this beginning a recognition of the purpose and value of parks can easily be traced, All these movements which draw attention to the living plant and better citizenship should receive the heartiest support of the horticulturist. In the West Indies the Imperial Department of Agriculture has devoted considerable attention to these matters. Every effort has been made to encourage the establishment of school gardens: at all the Agricultural Shows held under the auspices of the Department, special prizes have been offered for exhibits by the children attending elementary schools. Officers of the Department have also given every encouragement to the Arbor Day movement. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Arrit 23, 1904. MARKET REPORTS. London,— March 29, 1904. Messrs. Kerartoy, Prrer & Co., Messrs. J. Hates Camp & Co.; ‘THE Liverroon. Corron Association WEEKLY Cir- cuLaR’, March 25, 1904 ; ‘THe West Inpra ComMITTEE CrecuLar,’ March 29, 1904; and ‘THE Pusiic Lepcer,’ March 26, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/-; Curacoa, 21/- to 38- per ewt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 13d. to 3$d.; Bermuda, 12 to 1/7 per th. Batatra—1/6 to 1/11 per Ib. Bees’-wax—£7 to £7 5s. per ewt. Cacao—tTrinidad, 60/- to 70/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 52 - to 59/6 per ewt.; Dominica, St. Lucia and Jamaica, 51/- to 60/- per cwt. CarpamMoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/3 per tb. Corrre—Jamaica, good ordinary, 39/- per cwt. Corra—tTrinidad, £16 5s. per ton, c.i.f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 1/4 per tb. Divi Divi— No quotations. Fruir— Bananas—Jamaica, 5 - to 7'- per bunch. Grave Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. Orances—Jamaica, 8/- to 9/3 per case of LO to 176, Pine-areLes—No quotations. Fustic—£3 10s. to £4 per ton, Grxcer—Jamnaica, 33/- to 55/- per ewt. Honey—Jamaica, 18/- to 30 - per cwt. Isryetass—West Indian lump, 2.8 to 211; Cake, 11 to 1/3 per th. Kkota Nuts—4d. to 7d. per th. Lime Jurce—Raw, 10d. to 1s. 2d. per gallon ; Concentrated, £12 to £12 15s. per cask of 108 gallons. Lime O1-—No quotations. Logcwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Macre—1}/9 to 2,5 per th. Nirrate oF Sopa—Agricultural, £10 2s. 6/7. per ton. Nuermrcs-—69’s to 60's, 1/8 to 2/2; 90's te 80's, 1,- to 15 per tb. Pimento— 34d. to 34d. per tb. Rem—Demerara, 74d. to 93d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1 4 to 8/- per proof gallon. SarsaparILLa—Jamaica, 1/- to 1/1 per th. Scucar—Crystallized, 146 to 16- per ewt.; Muscovado, Barbados, 14.6 per ewt. Scipwate or AmMontra—£12 12s. 6d. per ton. Tamartnps—Antigua, 8/- to 8/6 per ewt. Montreal, March 9, 1904.—Mr. ALexanyper Witts. Cocoa-nuts— Trinidad, $24°00 ; Jamaica, $24°27 per M. CorreE—Jamaica, 8{e. to 9$e. per Th. Grixcger—Jamaica, 6c. to 8c. per tb. Morasses—Barbados, 3le. to 34c. per gallon. Morascurr—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 th. Ncurmrcs—Grenadas, 110’s, 20c. to 21}c. per th. Pinentro—Jamaica, 8e. to Ste. per th. Scucar—Crystals, $2°09} per 100 Tbh. in bond. —Molasses, $1°24 to $1°24? per 100 MH. in bond. New York,—Apri! 1, 1904.—Messrs. Gittespre Bros. & Co. Bananas—No quotations. Cacao—Caracas, 18c. to 14c.; Jamaica, 10$c. to 12hc.; Grenada, 12}c. to 13c.; Trinidad, 124e. to l4e. per tb. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $28 to $30 ; Jamaicas, $32 to $54 per M., selected. Corree—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, Tic. to Se. per tb. Grycer—Jamaica, 6}. to Tie. per th. Goat Skrss—Jamaicas, 50c. to 54c. per th. Grare Freir—-No quotations. ORANGES—No quotations. Prexto—7#e. per tb. Barbados,—April 9, Trinidad,—April 7, 1904.—Messrs. Reupeer—No quotations. Svcar—Centrifugals, 96°, 334¢. to3tte. ; Muscovados, 89°, Syzc. to 3y5e. 5 Molasses sugars, 89°, 233c. to 2V3e, per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,— April 6, 1904.—Messrs. Brennerr Brysow & Co., Lrp. Motassrs—16c. per gallon (Imperial). Sugar—$1°524 per 100 th. 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—$12-00 to $12'75 per 100 th. Cocoa-Nuts—$10°00 per M. for husked nuts. Corree—Jamaica, $9°00 to $12°50; ordinary Rio, $12-00 per 100 th. Hiy—95e. to 96e. per 100 tb. Manvures— Nitrate of soda, $60:00 to $65:00; Ohlendorff's dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76-00 to $8500; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Motasses—14e. per gallon (puncheon included). Oxtons—Madeira, $3°65 ; local, $3°00 per 100 th. Poratos, ENcuisH— $1°60 to $2°16 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $475 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°50 te $3°60 per 100 Tb. Scucar—in hhds., 89°, $1-60 (packages included). Dark Crystals, 96°, $2-00 per 100 th. British Guiana,—April 7, 1904.—Messrs. Wrerine & RICHTER. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 to $775 per barrel. Barara—40ec. to 42c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12e. to 13e. per th. Cassava SrarcH —$6°50 per barrel. Cocoa-NutTS—$8 00 to $10°00 per M. CorreE—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 13c. per th. (retail). Creole, 12c. per th. DxHAt—$3-90 to $8-95 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—$1-00 to $1°20 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks included), Oxtons—5e. to 6c. per th., ex store; Garlic, 6c. to Te Pea Nurs—Curacoa, 4e.; American, dc. to dsc. per th (retail). PLanvains—24c. to 72c. per bunch. Poraros, ENGLisH-—$2°25 to $2°50 per barrel. Rice-—Ballam, $4°65 per 177 tb., ex store; Creole, 20c. per gallon (retail). Sweer Poratos—Barbados, $1°52 per barrel. Taystas—-No quotations. Yamus—White, $1°68 to 81°80 per bag. Sccar—Dark Crystals, $2°00; Yellow, $2°30 to $2°40; White, $5:00 to 83°50; Molasses, $1°60 to $1-90 per 100 tb. Timper—Greenheart, $2c. to 55c. per cubie fout. Wattaba SHINGLES—$3'00 to $5°50 per M. Gorpon, GRANT & Co., and Messrs. EpGar Tripp & Co. Batara—No quotations. Cacao—Ordinary, $1260 to $13-00; Estates, $13-00 to $13°50 per fanega (110 th.). Cocoa-Nuts—-$20°00 per M., f.o.b., seleeted in bags of 100: (husked). Cocoa-nur Meat—l fe. per tb. Cocoa-nuv Ort—Gde. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Correse—Venezuelan, 6}c. to Te. per 100 Th. Copra— $2°75 to $3:00 per 100 th. Onxtons—$3°00 to $4°00 per 1C0 th. Moxasses—-No quotations. Portaros, ExertsH —$1°25 to $140 per 100 th. Rice—Yellow, $4°25 to $4°50; White Table, $5°25 to $600 per bag. Sucar--White Crystals, $3°25 ; Yellow Crystals, $2°25 3. Molasses Sugar, $2°00 to $2°10 per 100 Th. See ————— Wor. Ill. No. 53. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 145 —— —= Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume J. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes IT and III. Price in original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. Nos. 1 and.2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton Cultivation ; distribution and varieties of Sea Island cotton ; improvement by seed selection ; agricultural chemistry of cotton ; fungoid and insect pests. No. 4. Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the West Indies. Price 6d. each number. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular mamner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work -on sugar-cane and manures, the full ofticial reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied :— (3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 44d. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (7) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. y (14) Serew Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2¢. Post free, 24d. ) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. 1) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2¢. Post free, 24d. Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part II. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. : Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2. Post free, 2$d. Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1905. Price 2d. Post free, 2)d. Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, 33d. Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING.’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s. 6d. Postage in either binding, 34d. extra. COTTON. A special pamphlet (foolscap size), entitled ‘Information relating to Cotton Cultivation in the West Indies,’ has recently been issued. It is on sale by all Jocal Agents of the Department. Price 3d. Post free, 44d. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS’ A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and ‘other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 1}d. The subscription price, including postage, is ls. 74d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and II complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post ‘free, 5s. Only a few copies available. A// applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Departinent. bo bo ty to te to te Lo OH ATS OH LO ~eroSE NaS NS — Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Ayents: THe West Inpra Commirres, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Toe Epucationan Supriy ‘Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guiana; ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Trinidad: Messrs. Muir, MarsHatu & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. Puacemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., “The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. St. Lueta: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F, Duvernry & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat : Mr. W. LLEWELLYN Watt, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Matong, St. John’s. St. Avtt’s: Messrs. S. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Mevis: Mr. S. D. Manone, ‘Charlestown. Lahamas : Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. Tit THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aprit 23, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE AR Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure — Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. #2.) Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ices Sst UI eel le Curacoa Society for the Promotion of Agriculture, Stock breeding, Salt Industry aoe Fishery. “CACAO.” BY A COLONIAL EXHIBITION ye H. HART, F.L.S. Will be held in this island on May 23, 1904. (Sgd.) H. H. R. CHAPMAN, NEW EDITION. Curacoa, Vice-President. Dute ch Wee st Indies March 5, 1904, DUSSEL, = Secretary. A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND CHEMISTRY OF FOR COTTON GROWERS : ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. IV, NO. 4) COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C. LG... D.Se- and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., FCS, Price 38. = 9per ;copy. ni Nidibaie fie Campane -growing districts of U.S. A. I ee Bins va at “Office of Aone Re Foe 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barb aor OS. RS OO Z —— \ Fue - s Rs = " Rr ; z Ze . | | : Co A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW THE OF IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. III. No. 54. BARBADOS, MAY 7, Pricr ld. 1904. CONTENTS. PAGE. PAGE. Argentine, Agriculture in Notes and Comments 152 the = ee ee» 151 | Oil of Ben 150 Barbados, Shipments of Science Notes :— Cotton -.. 152 Albizzia Lebbek ... 151 Bee Keeping :—- Plants and Nitrogen ... 151 Cho-cho asa bee plant 155 Talipot Palm 151 Cassava Starch — ...150, 152 Ylang-Ylang coo coo Copra in Samoa ... 153 | Sea-moss, Utilization of 152 Cotton :— Stock Sale at Grenada ... 157 Ginneries in West Sugar-cane Experi- Indies + 153 ments in the Nano ec essy ces) pace, 149 Leeward Islands 145 Nevis, Experiments at 149 | Sugar Industry :— Notes seen, wesy ses LEO Barbados ai oor godone EXD Seed, Disinfecting . 149 Hawaii and Trinidad 152 Seed oil industry in Thymol for worms in India ... ceo oon 1S) Horses ce cag WY Department News... ... 155 | West Indian Products :— Gleanings... ... ... ... 156 Cassava for glucose Gommier Resin .. 155 manufacture ..- 148 Grenada Layas . 158 Cocoa-nuts in Canada 148 Insect Notes :— West Indian sugar in Cotton Leaf-blister mite 154 Canada dea aco Aleks) Sugar-cane beetle-borer 154 | Woolly Pyrol for green Sugar-cane leaf hopper 154 dressing oo 153 Jamaica, Exports of 153 | Yellow fever and Market Reports 159 Mosquitos... 157 Sugar-cane Experiments in the Leeward Islands. contained a brief review of the recently issued report on the sugar-cane manurial experiments conducted under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture in the Leeward Islands during the season 1902-3. The important nature of these results warrants our making a further reference to them. As stated by the Hon. Francis Watts in his letter of transmittal, ‘a considerable amount of information has been accumulated, and definite results are now appearing, some of them of a striking character.” Amongst these might be mentioned the detrimental effect of dividing the nitrogen into two doses. The experiments have clearly demonstrated that it is better, both for plant canes and ratoons, to give all the nitrogen in one application. It is further shown that this ettect is most marked where potash is given in considerable quantity with the first dose of nitrogen. It is suggested that this somewhat unexpected result is to be explained by reference to the manner of feeding in the case of the sugar-cane. We would draw particular attention to the statement made by Mr. Watts that ‘plant canes, when the field in which they have been planted has been properly tilled and manured with pen manure, require no artificial manure.’ Planters are advised to apply artificial manures to plant canes only when it has been found impossible to give the requisite amount of pen manure. With ratoon canes, however, it is very different. It is clearly shown by the experiments that maximum crops can be obtained only by the use of artificial manures. For ratoon canes, nitrogen, in a rapidly-acting 146 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 7, 1904. form, is very necessary and should take the form of 2 cwt. to 3 ewt. of nitrate of soda or 1} ewt. to 2} ewt. of sulphate of ammonia. It will be found profitable to apply, in addition, potash and phosphate, and for this purpose the application of {~ ewt. of sulphate of potash and 1} ewt. to 2 ewt. of either basic phosphate or superphosphate is suggested. The manurial requirements of ratoon canes differ consider- ably from those of plant canes. It should be borne in mind that these conclusions apply only in the case of sugar estates in the Leeward Islands and under the conditions normally existing there. In an appendix to the report Mr. Watts deals with the relationship between the tonnage of canes and the pounds of sucrose in the juice. The conclusions be regarded as importance both to practical planters and to chemists arrived at must of considerable in charge of sugar-cane experiment stations. Hitherto it has been the make comparisons between the various plots on the basis of eustom to the pounds of sucrose per acre in the juice expressed from the canes. Carefully conducted experiments have shown, however, that the artificial manures > employed do not exert a profound influence upon the amount of sugar in the cane, in contradistinction to its influence upon the weight of the cane. ‘The variations in the amount of sucrose as a result of the influence of manures are not great. Mr. Watts therefore arrives at the following conclusion : likely to be used in ordinary practice in the Leeward Islands, exert the weight of the cane per acre without profoundly altering the weight of sucrose to the ton of cane. It is probable that we shall in the future make ‘Mannres in such quantities as are their influence chiefly in altering our comparisons in manurial experiments on the basis of tons of cane rather than of pounds of sucrose.’ Some doubt has existed as to this point, and the conclusion is, therefore, of considerable importance. It may readily be understood how this will simplity the work of the Experiment Station worker and enable the results to be attained at a less cost than formerly. Sweet Cup. The purple-fruited Sweet cup (Pass/flora edulis) introduced by the Imperial Department of Agriculture from Jamaica is doing well at the Botanic Station at Antigua. A single vine is bearing at present about 100 fruits. The results at other Stations where plants have been raised would be of interest. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Experiments at Barbados. The following is a progress report by Professor d Albuquerque, M.A., F.LC, F.C.S.. and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., on the sugar-cane experiments at Barbados for the half-year ended December 31, 1903 :— During the half-year under review, the report of the manurial experiments for the crop reaped in 1903 was published. 'Thése experiments were carried on at Dodds Botanic Station, St. Philip, and at six plantations situated on typical black and red soils. At four of the stations the plots were approximately 1 acre each in area, and were laid down in duplicate. The object in adopting a limited number of plots of the larger area was, in the first place, to ascertain how far the results obtained with the ordinary small plots would agree with those on a somewhat larger scale, and, in the second place, to meet the wishes of planters who had expressed a desire to see some of the results tested on larger plots. At Dodds a gangway or unoccupied space is left around each plot; this eliminates the possibility of the canes in one plot interfering with those of the adjacent plots, but it also introduces a condition somewhat different to that of ordinary cultivation. The waste of land and consequent expense which would attend the employment of this method on a large scale, especially on ordinary estates, led us to look for another method of attaining the same object. Accord- ingly, the whole field under experiment is planted in canes and parcelled out into plots, and the whole of each plot is manured with its own proper fertilizer. In reaping, however, the outside ring of canes of each plot is left uncut and serves as a kind of guard ring to prevent the roots of the inner (reaped) portion of each plot interfering with those of its neighbours. This reduces the experimental area of the plot, but renders the conditions of cultivation perfectly normal and eliminates the likelihood of the manuring of one plot interfering with that of others. The lines upon which the manures were selected were the same as in the previous three years: that is to say, active forms of nitrogen (sulphate of ammonia, nitrate of soda), basie slag phosphate, superphosphate, sulphate of potash and slaked lime were the materials used for the experiments. The weather conditions were exceedingly unfavourable for the crops and for agricultural experiments, and the results of the manurial experiments serve to indicate the sort of return to expect from manuring in a year of repeated periods of drought rather than under the average conditions under which agriculture can be pursued with profit. The root-fungus (Marasmius sacchar’) was, under the conditions prevalent this season, distinctly in evidence in all parts of the island and must be reckoned with as a disturbing factor in estimating the value of the experimental results. The soil of Summervale field at Dodds, which was the manurial experiment field reaped this year, is a heavy clay black soil. It is poor compared with the soils generally under cultivation in Barbados: its content of carbonate of lime is below the average and the amounts of nitrogen, phosphoric acid and potash are exceedingly low. If welkh Von. Ill. No. 54. tilled and adequately manured with farmyard manure, it is to be expected that this soil would respond handsomely to appropriate chemical fertilizers. During the season under review, however, the droughts that occurred interfered with the normal sequence of events, and the usual favourable effect of applying sulphate of ammonia was not observed, except in the case of the plot that received 200 tb. sulphate of ammonia, part wpplied in January and part in June, which showed an increase by its application of 84 tons of produce {canes and tops). The plot that received 360 Ib. nitrate of soda gave an increase of 7 tons produce, but the best plot of the whole field was that which received 40 tb. nitrogen in the form of dried blood (i.e., about 350 Ib. dried blood) all applied in Janaary, which showed an increase of 10 tons produce, say, ? tons of marketable sugar with its attendant molasses. Of the phosphate plots those that received 200 Ib. to 250 tb. basic slag alone showed a small increase of 2 to 4 tons of produce. The potash plots showed a small but unprofitable increase as the result of the application of 80 Ib. to 200 Ib. sulphate of potash per acre. At Foursquare a field of 84 acres was under experiment. The soil is a rather stiff, black clay, and, in respect to its chemical constitution, altogether superior to that at Dodds, containing especially an abundance of potential phosphoric acid and by no means deficient in nitrogen or potash: moreover, it received an ample application of good farmyard manure. Ina year of drought it is therefore not surprising that the canes should be unable profitably to utilize any further supplies. As a matter of fact, the mean result of the twenty-one plots that received farmyard manure but no chemical manure was 214 tons of produce per acre. ‘I'wenty plots that received farmyard manure and an ordinary chemical manure, consist- ing of 200 Ib. sulphate of ammonia, 120 tb. nitrate of soda, 250 WB. basic slag and 100 fb. sulphate of potash, gave a mean result of 24 tons produce, that is, an increase of 24 tons of produce over the no chemical manure plots: a result which shows that in a year of drought the increased return would not compensate for the expenditure on manure. It is true that some of the plots showed larger returns than this, but, on the whole, it seems safest to limit ourselves to the following :— In the nitrogen series most of the plots showed no increase as the result of the application of the nitrogen. The plots that received minerals and 60 fb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia showed an increased yield of 24 tons produce. Double minerals in addition to nitrogen produced no adequate return for the extra outlay. In the absence of minerals, nitrogen in small applica- tions gave unfavourable results ; in large applications (80 th. to 100 tb.) gave favourable results. Phosphatic manures appeared to cause a small increase, and on the whole, superphosphate appeared to be superior to basic slag. The application of 25 tb. potash as sulphate gave an increased yield. Still in view of the interesting fact that an application of slaked lime has in other (and normal) seasons given good results in heavy clay soils, even though they were rich in carbonate of lime, we may here state that the six plots that received slaked lime gave an average yield of 27 tons of produce, that is, an increase of 5} tons, and we are inelined to attribute this result to the well-known effect of the soluble forms of lime on heavy clay soils of uniting the fine THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 147 particles into larger aggregates and thereby improving the drainage and aeration of the land. At Hopewell three experimental fields were reaped containing, respectively, plant canes, first and second ratoons. In Metcher field 34 acres were laid under experiment and divided into twenty-seven plots, each containing 252 stools of canes. The soil is a red clay, rich in nitrogen and phosphoric acid. The field received a heavy application of farmyard manure, 40 tons per acre. The results show an increase by manuring, which, in the most favourable plots, amounted to 6 tons produce per acre. Nitrogen was the most important constituent in producing this result, but there is evidence that both the phosphates and potash contributed to increase the yield. Basie slag was a more effective form of phosphate than superphosphate. Ashford field contained 4 acres of experimental plots which were of the usual size. The soil is a red, stiff clay on a stiff clay subsoil rich in nitrogen, carbonate of lime, and other mineral constituents required by plants. Before the canes were planted 30 tons per acre of farmyard manure were applied, and besides the experimental manures applied during the growth of the plants the ratoons also received various applications. Briefly put, the results of the experiments go to show that, in the case of these first ratoons, an application of chemical manure gave the substantial increase of 8 to 10 tons of produce, and that this increase was due in part to the application of phosphate, and in part to the application of nitrogen. The experiments did not show any superiority of one form of phosphate over the other. Hopper field contained second ratoons, and the experi- ments were a continuation of those of the two previous seasons, when plant canes and first ratoons were reaped from the same plots. The soil is a red clay and rests on a red clay subsoil. It is rich in carbonates of lime, nitrogen and phosphoric acid. Some of the plots received an application of 40 tons per acre of farmyard manure before the canes were planted. The results may be summed up as follows :— In the case of land that had received no farmyard manure before the canes were planted— Minerals alone produced no effect. Minerals and nitrogen produced a crop of 20 tons produce, and minerals were necessarily applied to the ratoons tor the nitrogen to produce its full effect. Basic slag phosphate produced no effect ; superphosphate a small increase. Potash in increasing applications up to 75 Ib. produced a large increase of yield. In the case of land that had received a large application of farmyard manure before the canes were planted — The application of nitrogen up to 75 tb. or 100 bb. produced a large increase in the yield. It is not clear whether minerals produced any effect when applied in addition to nitrogen, when the amount of the latter did not exceed 75 b. When the application of nitrogen reached 100 b., the application of minerals in addition produced no further increase of yield. ONE-ACRE PLOTS. The one-acre manurial plots were at Hampton, Bushy Park, Ruby and Blowers. ‘The results are, on the whole, similar to those obtained with small plots at Dodds and Foursquare, in that they show a comparatively small increase of yield as the result of the application of chemical fertilizers. This we attribute to the small and irregular rainfall of this season. (To be continued.) 148 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Cocoa-nuts in Canada. The following note on the trade between the West Indies and Canada in cocoa-nuts has been received from Mr. J. Russell Murray, of Montreal :— The great shortage of Jamaica nuts has brought about a demand for nuts from the various other islands, and I am writing to-day to the secretaries of the Agricultural Societies in the various islands asking them to put me in communica- tion with cocoa-nut growers. The Trinidad and Tobago section I have already covered, but if you know of any source besides Dominica, I should be glad if you would give me the necessary information. Do you know any growers of San Blas nuts ; so, can you give me their addresses? These are required here for a special class of trade the British West Indian nuts do not cover and I shouid like to get into connexion with them. and, if Cassava for Glucose Manufacture. Mention has been made in the Agricultural News (Vol. Ill, p. 12) of a sample of dried, sliced eassava tubers forwarded from St. Lucia, which, it was stated, were used in the manufacture of glucose. Samples of these tubers and others prepared in Barbados were forwarded by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture to Messrs. Garton, Hill & Co., Battersea, London, S.W., large manufacturers of glucose, with a request that they would furnish a report as to their value and suitability for the market. In their reply, Messrs. Garton, Hill & Co. state that the tubers are not in a convenient form for the manufacture of glucose and would have to be crushed or ground before going into the convertor. This extra treatment would be troublesome and expensive. For this reason it is not thought that the sliced tubers would have a sale in England. It appears, however, that there are prospects for a trade in cassava with glucose manufacturers, if it be prepared in another form, viz., as a meal. A sample of cassava meal was forwarded to the same firm from Jamaica by Mr. H. H. Cousins, Agricultural and Analytical Chemist. Messrs. Garton, Hill & Co. think that there should be a market for a limited amount of this flour, which they considered a very nice article, and report as follows :— This substance would be a suitable material for glucose and should command about 10s. per ton more than Borneo sago flour for this purpose. This would make its market value about £5 10s. per ton as competing with rough sago and tapioca flours, but as I mentioned in my last letter the fact that several of the largest glucose makers have put up plant to treat the whole maize — separating oil, husk, gluten, ete. and converting the starch at once into glucose— will make the demand for flour for glucose manufacture less certain. Still I am inclined to think that there should be amarket for a limited amount of this flour, and it is quite possible a demand for it for other purposes might arise, if the quality were similar to this sample. West Indian Sugar in Canada. The following is a circular letter, dated April 7, which has been sent by Mr. J. Russell Murray, of Montreal, Canada, to correspondents in the sugar trade with reference to the trade in West Indian sugar in Canada and particularly to the preferential tariff accorded by the Dominion Government :— As you will see by the copy of the Montreal Gazette L send you by this mail, we have managed to give the fullest publicity to the action of the St. Kitt’s, Antigua and Trinidad sugar planters in respect to the preferential tariff on sugar accorded by the Canadian Government to the British possessions in the West Indies, and their claim that the Canadian refiners here are reaping the entire benefit of same. I called to-day on both the sugar refineries here, and both of them professed to be quite open to do business, but explained that they never did make firm offers and would not do so. One of them told me that they considered it a great mistake for the West India planters and merchants to offer their sugars to New York, or to them, through New York brokers and merchants, as they would very much prefer considering offers made to them through Canadian brokers. Whether it is the prospective stoppage of consignments or the fear that the Government here may retaliate on them in some way for diverting into their own pockets what was intended to benefit the West Indian planters, I do not know ; but it seems to me that it would now be possible for sales of sugar to be made to the refiners here at a fair price, provided they cannot buy the same sugar from a New York house at prices on the basis of Cuban sugars duty paid New York. Tt now remains for you to send me firm offers at a price, c. & f., Montreal on the customary terms for Centrifugals 96 basis and Muscovado 89 basis in bags only, not hogsheads, in cargo lots—to Montreal direct by steamer or sailer—which I shall place before the refiners, and do my best to bring about business. Vou. III. No. 54. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 149 COTTON NOTES. A planter writes:—I am of opinion that land for Sea Island cotton should be regularly cultivated and manured as for canes. Under such treatment the yield of seed-cotton has averaged 1,000 tb. per acre. This gives me a retwn equal to that from canes, but in eight months instead of sixteen months. The planter continues :—I have had two places under my charge where these results have been attained, and I propose to take up cotton growing on a still larger scale this year. There can be no doubt that Sea Island cotton is the best to grow—that is, provided it is well looked after and the cotton worm is kept in check. The Secretary of the British Cotton Growing Association writes to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, under date April 11, 1904:—‘You will be glad to hear that the cotton coming forward is fetching good prices, especially that from Barbados. For some reason or other the cotton from Anguilla, St. Kitt’s, and some other small islands is not quite up to the mark.’ Disinfecting Cotton Seed. In a recent issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 117) an account was given of some experiments, carried on in the Mycological Laboratory of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, to test the effect on the germination of cotton seeds of steeping them in solutions of corrosive sublimate. In this series of experiments the seeds were planted immediately after being taken from the solutions. It was then mentioned that a second series of experiments had been started. This was a duplicate of the first series, but in addition, the effect of a 1: 100 solution was tested. The results were as follows :— Strength of Percentage of corrosive sublimate seeds solution. germinated. Water... ae Sue 76 1: 1,000... ace A. 74 Ile Secs 500 gt 83 1: 500... éé0 boo 78 he 2B ose neo as 81 1: 100... ane abe 43 The 1 per cent. solution thus had a marked effect in reducing the percentage of seeds that germinated. A third series was started to test the effect of steeping the seeds, drying them and then planting at different intervals. The seeds were all soaked in a 1 : 500 solution of corrosive sublimate for one hour, on March 23. The results were :— A. Seeds planted immediately, Percentage of seeds germinated = 13 B. Seeds dried, planted April 6 (after 14 days), Percentage of seeds germinated = 65 C. Seeds dried, planted April 13 (after 21 days), Percentage of seeds germinated 74 D. Seeds dried, planted April 20 (after 28 days), Percentage of seeds germinated oI bo It is evident, therefore, that, so far as the effect on germination goes, it is immaterial whether the seeds be planted immediately after being steeped or dried and planted at any interval afterwards. Improvement of Indian Cotton. In a recently published letter from the Govern- ment of India, the following important statement is made with regard to efforts that are being put forth to bring about an improvement in the quality of indigenous varieties of cotton:— As Sir G. Watt has pointed out in the papers forwarded with Lord George Hamilton’s despatch of July 17 last, efforts were at first directed too much to the acclimatization of exotic species. More recently attention has been given to the improvement of indigenous varieties at the various Government farms, and we are convinced that in this direction lies our best hope of success. The great importance of improving the quality of Indian cottons has always been recognized by the Government, and when an Inspector- General of Agriculture was appointed in 1901, he was asked to devote his first attention to the subject. Experiments were then undertaken on a more extensive scale under the persenal supervision of the Inspector-General, who had studied the methods adopted in America. The cultivation of exotic varieties has not been discontinued, but the main object of the experiments has been the improvement of the quality of indigenous varieties and the possibility of obtaining new and improved varieties by hybridization. Cotton Experiments at Nevis. The Hon. C. Arthur Shand has forwarded the following notes on the experiments in cotton growing at the Experiment Station at Nevis during 1903-4 :— The experiments were particularly designed to test the best distance for planting cotton. For this purpose four plots (A,B,C,D,) were planted in cotton at varying distances. The following table gives particulars for each plot :— Plot Area in Distance Yield in pounds "| sq. feet. between plants. of seed-cotton. A 7083 3.x 3 363 B 708} 2x 3 241 y 7083 2 x3 267 D 7083 1} x 3 413 It will be observed that the best results were obtained from plots A and D, especially the latter. The land was treated in the same manner for each plot, and no manure of any kind was applied. The total yield from the four plots (about ;1; acre) was 129 Ib. of seed-cotton, or at the rate of about 1,900 tb. per acre. Owing to frequent applications of Paris green no damage whatever was done by the cotton worm. Green Dressing. We are informed by Mr. John Belling, B.Sc., that in the drought of 1903 the velvet bean, grown in St. Kitt’s as green dressing, was often skeletonized by caterpillars, while the cow pea with leathery leaves was scarcely ever attacked by the inescts. 150 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 7, 19042 THE PROSPECTS OF CASSAVA STARCH. Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., writes as follows on this subject in the Bulletin of the Jamaica Department of Agriculture for March :— Through the enterprise of Mr. J. W. Middleton in testing the commercial production of starch at Longville and his public spirit in placing his results at the disposal of the Board of Agriculture, it is now possible to form some definite opinion as to the possibilities of cassava starch as an industry for Jamaica. The experiment at Longville has been of a tentative character, and the actual possibilities of the industry, when established on a reasonable commercial scale and with the best machinery and management, are far in excess of those directly indicated by Mr. Middleton’s preliminary results. AGRICULTURAL YIELD. The returns of tubers per acre at Longville, as recorded by Mr. W. J. Thompson, varied considerably. Where the cassava had been planted between bananas or under shade the yield was not satisfactory. Hight tons of tubers per acre were obtained on one piece of land, and there is every reason to believe that by thorough tillage and the propagation of the best varieties of cassava a return of 10 tons per acre can reasonably be expected. Mr. Joseph Shore finds that this is a fair return from lands in cassava on the northside. The cost of production at Longville was 10s. 6d. per ton with an 8-ton crop, allowing £1 per acre for rent. I estimate that the cost of production can be reduced to 8s. per ton by reasonable economies and improvements in the cultivation. The Florida factories pay 18s. per ton for the tubers in the field, the cost of digging and delivery to the factory being about 6s. a ton in addition. MANUFACTURE. At Longville, 6 tons of cassava tubers, pulped in a small St. Vincent rotary grater, yielded 1 ton of air-dried starch by the West Indian process. The cassava contained about 29 per cent. of starch. The actual cost of production of the starch, including the growing of the cassava, amounted to £8 per ton. COST OF BY-PRODUCTS. The bitty or residual pulp, when dried to a content of 15 per cent. of moisture, amounted toa return of 1} tons of dry material to each ton of starch. The composition of this product closely corresponded to that of the meal from the whole tubers sun-dried. Cassava bitty is therefore a valuable food-stuff for cattle or pigs. If we deduct 30s. per ton for the cost of expressing the excess of moisture, drying and bagging the bitty, its net value cannot be less than 30s, per ton to the factory, on a low selling price of £3 per ton. A deduction of £2 per ton on the cost of the cassava starch is therefore apparent. The cost of production of a ton of cassava starch with a process that only recovers 60 per cent. of the total starch in the tubers, is therefore only £6 per ton. COMMERCIAL PROSPECTS. The starch prepared by Mr. Middleton at Longville was of variable quality at the outset until a satisfactory method ot working had been arrived at. By careful neutralization of the erude starch with soda, using litmus papers as an indicator, it was found possible entirely to neutralize the organic acids of fermentation that are inseparable from any process of working on cassava tubers. A high-grade starch, free from fibre and dirt, was produced, and this should fetch anything from £15 to £20 a ton wholesale. A modern plant, which obviated the necessity of peeling the tubers by hand, would save £1 per ton in the cost of labour for making the starch. A return of at least 20 per cent. of starch equal to 2 tons per acre should be obtainable. It would appear that in cassava starch we have a product that will give us double the financial return per acre of sugar under ordinary Jamaica conditions and at a cost of production so considerably less, that there is large margin for profit, without which no industry can be generally successful in this island. RECOMMENDATIONS, The chief requirements for ensuring the success of the industry are the following :— (1) Capital for installing the best plant for dealing with tubers, so as to eliminate all unnecessary handlabour and ensuring the best product possible. (2) Lands of light texture in a district of moderate rainfall, capable of being cultivated by implements and within easy reach of the factory. (3) A good water-supply with a system of sand filtration and a covered tank for storing pure water, These conditions obtain on large areas of alluvial soil on the south side of the island, where bananas languish in an average season for lack of water. A system of ‘cassava farming’ by the local peasantry should be started in connexion with each factory. Experiments to test the most profitable varieties and methods of tillage, cultivation and management should be organized by the Department of Agriculture. ANALYSIS OF CASSAVA PRODUCTS FROM LONGVILLE. Starch | Insoluble Dees Moisture = Total. Total. fibre. Starch A. 15°62 76°67 0°32 Starch B. Starch C. Starchm)S saa Ric bce Bitty Bee ane adi Meal from \ whole tubers f 15°89 76°67 | 0°35 17-54 76°60 | 0°36 17-62 78:13 | 0:42 15:13 15:08 55-70 OIL OF BEN. The Pharmaceutical Journal of April 9 has the following note on oil of ben :— According to J. Lewkowitsch, the characters usually given for ‘ben oil’ do not accord with those afforded by an authentic specimen of the true oil, furnished by the Director of the Imperial Institute, derived from Moringa pterygo- sperma, from Jamaica. The chief interest of oil of ben lies in its very low iodine value; this explains why the oil is specially valuable for lubricating watch springs and other delicate machinery. An interesting account of this oil will be found in the Kew Bulletin (1887, p. 7), where it is mentioned that for many years efforts had been made in Jamaica to prepare oil of ben from the seeds of the horse radish tree (Moringa pterygosperma), but apparently without success. The original oil of ben is supposed to have been obtained from another species (MZ. aptera), a native of Nubia and Arabia. No. 54. SCIENCE NOTES. The Talipot Palm. We are informed by Mr. J. Jones, the Curator of the Botanic Station at Dominica, that the Talipot palm (Corypha umbraculifera) growing in the Public Gardens at Roseau is now throwing out its infloresence. This plant is said to be about thirty years old. References have already been made in the Agricultural News (Vol. Il, pp. 44 and 108) to the fruiting of this palm in British Guiana and Jamaica. The plant in British Guiana was about twenty-eight years old at time of fruiting; it possessed ‘a stem 50 to 60 feet high, crowned with a panicle, 10 to 12 feet long, bearing an enormous crop of fruit.’ This palm is a native of Ceylon, where its leaves are commonly used by the natives as umbrellas and also for thatching. The talipot palm fruits but once in its life, the fruiting process terminating its life. Vout. III. Ylang-Ylang.* The Ylang-Ylang or Thlang-Ihlang tree of the Philippine Islands yields flowers that furnish by distillation a valuable essential oil. The tree is cultivated in many of the Botanic Gardens in the West Indies and it appears to do well in this part of the world. It belongs to the Sour sop family (Anonaceae), but the fruit is not edible. The chief, in fact the only, interest attached to it is based on the perfume extracted from the flowers. According to Indian Planting and Gardening, the flowers of the Ylang-Ylang are being utilized in Réunion for the production of an essential oil that is in large and increasing demand in Europe. The price has been steadily rising during the last few years. According to M. de Flacourt, a hectare of land at Réunion planted with 500 Ylang-Ylang trees should yield a net profit of 1,116 francs. Mr. J. Charles Sawer, in a letter dated February 13 last, states that Ylang oil is costly and it cannot be prepared properly except by using a vacuum still made in London for such special purposes. He adds: ‘Manila Ylang oil goes higher and higher in price, the supply being insufficient for the demand ; the flowers obtain high prices in the island of Luzon’. Plants and Nitrogen. It is a well-known fact that the majority of green plants require their nitrogen to be supplied to them in the form of nitrates. Most green plants are unable to take in nitrogen which is in the form of ammonia or ammonia compounds. The following abstract, taken from the Haperiment Station Record of February 1904, gives an account of a small, green alga, which has adapted itself to the taking in of nitrogen in the form of ammonia compounds. The original paper appeared in the Proceedings of the Royal Society, Vol. 71, pp. 458-76 :— A study is reported of a small, unicellular, green alga, which was noticed as frequently present in sewage and sewage materials, when these had been kept for some time, particular reference being paid to its nitrogen metabolism. Diluted ammoniacal solutions were found to have become * Artabotrys odoratissimus. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. infested with this alga, a fact that seemed of interest in the physiology of the plant. Pure cultures were prepared and grown in various media. While chlorophyll-bearing plants in general prefer their nitrogen in the form of nitrates; these are found readily to assimilate nitrogen in the form of ammonia and to present the best growth when grown in cultures containing ammonia or various ammoniacal compounds. This feature of the nitrogen assimilation of the plant is believed to be a special- ized characteristic developed from the growth of the plant in water, which contained comparatively large amounts of ammonia such as are found in sewage and sewage-polluted water. Albizzia Lebbek. The following note on the growth of Albizzia Lebbek, known in Jamaica as ‘Woman’s Tongue’ and in Barbados as ‘Barbados ebony’, is taken from the Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information for April :— This tree, though so common in the island of Jamaica, is one which does not thrive under cultivation in Trinidad ; for even with the greatest care it can hardly be kept alive. This fact is strong evidence that there exists a decided difference in climate between the two islands. That the difference is not one of temperature, merely, is shown by the fact that the mean annual and daily readings at the two places differ but slightly ; the mean annual by half a degree only, at similar elevations. From observations during a series of years it would appear that the failure of Albizzia Lebbek in Trinidad, is due probably to the greater humidity which exists in the latter place, and possibly to a deficiency of calcareous matter in the soil. The Saman (Pithecolobium Saman, Benth.,) is a tree which flourishes in Jamaica side by side with the Albizzia, and does equally well, if not better, in Trinidad. We have here, therefore, a case which is interesting as to the why and wherefore of the different growth shown by two leguminous trees of similar habit and nearly related botanically to each other. In Trinidad and also Jamaica there is strong evidence that the Saman, (‘Guango’ of Jamaica) is an imported tree, while the A/dzzz7a is indigenous to Jamaica but imported to Trinidad. AGRICULTURE IN THE ARGENTINE. The Consular Report on the Argentine Republic for 1902 and 1903 has the following reference to agricultural progress in that country :— The abundant harvest of 1902-3, followed by the excellent prospects of that of 1903-4, has given a remarkable stimulus to agriculture in the Argentine Republic, and the area cultivated in 1903 shows a very large increase over any previous year. The chief features are the increasing cultivation of maize, especially in the province of Santa Fé, and the continued laying down of land to lucerne (alfalfa) in the western and north-western districts, where water is found only a few metres from the surface. In fact the growing of lucerne may be said to have revolutionized agriculture in this country, where it will yield excellent crops for many years, if not eaten down too closely by sheep or ruined by drought in districts where the water is deeper. The imports of agricultural machinery, threshing machines, etc., from the United Kingdom and the United States have been exceptionally large of late. — or bo THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 7, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Communications are invited, written on one side of the paper only. It should be understood that no contributions or specimens can, in any case, be returned. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 143 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price ld. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural slews MAY 7, Vou. IIt. SATURDAY, 1904. No. 54. NOTES AND COMMENTS. The Utilization of Sea-moss. A note appeared on the subject of sea-moss from Anguilla in the Agricultural News (Vol. ILL, p. 8) and it was mentioned that a sample had been forwarded to the Imperial Institute for a report as to its possibilities. In his report Professor Dunstan states that the two samples (one from Barbados and one from Anguilla) were similar in character to Irish moss, and it was thought that they might possibly prove suitable for some of the purposes for which the latter is employed. The West Indian mosses are less completely soluble in water than Imish moss, especially the sample from Barbados. In regard to gelatinizing power, the sample from Barbados was distinetly superior, and that from Anguilla inferior, to Irish moss. Six grains of Anguilla moss, five of Irish, and two of Barbados were required to form a jelly with 100 ¢. ¢. of water. Both specimens of West Indian moss yielded a mucil- age which possessed good adhesive properties. A firm of brokers, to whom specimens were submitted for valuation, reported that, as far as could be judged from the small sample available, the West Indian mosses were not equal to Irish moss for technical purposes, and that consignments represented by the sample would fetch from 10s. to 15s. per ewt. The market price of Irish moss was from 20s. to 30s. according to quality. It is suggested that consign- ments of several hundredweights of the two mosses should be forwarded in order that the market could be properly tested. Cassava Starch. In the last issue of the Agricultural News (p. 157) reference was made to the presence of acid in cassava starch, and to the results of Professor d’Albuquerque’s examination of a sample from Barbados, Professor d’Albuquerque has similarly examined a sample of cassava starch from Dominica, and reported: ‘The acidity of this sample by ordinary tests is imperceptible. The delicate method of estimation employed discloses a trace of acidity exceedingly small compared with the best available samples of arrowroot starch. This is a very carefully prepared starch.’ Sugar Industries of Hawaii and Trinidad. The Sugar Planter publishes an interview by a representative of a local paper with Mr. W. G. Kay, a sugar planter of Trinidad, who was on a visit to Hawai for the purpose of studying steam cultivation and methods of production generally. Mr. Kay draws an interesting comparison between the two countries as sugar producers. Conditions are widely difterent in Trinidad and Hawau. In Trinidad planters have to depend entirely upon the rainfall. The average production in Trinidad is 2 tons of sugar to the acre; in Hawaii it is double that amount. The total sugar output of Trinidad is 60,000 tons yearly. The cost of production is from $45 to $48 per ton : in Hawaii it is from $40 to $45. My. Kay was of opinion that Hawaiian planters go in for more intense cultivation: the labour-saving devices require a minimum of supervision, Triple crushing is the rule in Hawau, while in Trinidad double rollers are used almost entirely. a Shipments of Cotton from Barbados. A return with valuation of 82 bales of cotton shipped from Barbados on February 2 and March 12 last was received by last mail from the British Cotton Growing Association. There were 69 bales of Sea Island cotton and 13 bales of Egyptian cotton. The average price quoted for the Sea Island cotton was just under 15d. (30c.) per tb. The highest was 16$d. (33c.) per Ib: the lowest 13d. (26c.) per Tb. The highest figures, 16d. to 163d. per tb., were quoted for a Sea Island cotton described as ‘clean, bright, well prepared, with fine, long staple.’ The lowest price was for Sea Island cotton described as ‘ staple short, coarse and irregular’ For Egyptian cotton the highest value quoted was 83d. (174¢.) per tb., described as ‘ fairly clean, staple irregular but fairly strong. The average for Egyptian cotton was a little over 8d. (16c.) per tb. Later advices to hand state that of 51 bales of Barbados cotton recently shipped to Manchester the prices were as follows :— Forty bales of Sea Island cotton sold for 15d. to 16d. per tb.; 11 bales of Egyptian cotton sold for 8d. to 10d. per Tb. Worse. Lit: (No; of; THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 153 Cotton Ginneries in the West Indies. An article on this subject appeared in the Agricultural News for February 27. It was there stated that ‘in regard to all these ginneries it is desirable to place on record an appreciation of the very active part taken in their establishment by the British Cotton Growing Association.’ This is not quite correct, as we learn that the ginneries erected by Messrs. Sendall and Wade at St. Kitt’s and Montserrat received no support from the British Cotton Growing Association, The whole cost, including their erection, was borne by the firm named. EE Copra in Samoa. The only important export from Samoa at the present time is copra. The Consular Report for 1903 states that the value of the exports of copra was £68,526, or over 98 per cent. of the total value of exports. There was a serious decline in the value of copra exported owing toa drop in price from £14 to £9 15s. per ton, f.0.b. The Sydney market absorbs from 3,000 to 4,000 tons of Samoan copra yearly, the product being used in the manufacture of oil and soap. The only other products of any value are cacao (some 2,000 acres having been planted up to the present), kawa or kava (the root of Piper methysticum which has narcotic properties), and a little fruit. Attempts are being made to establish the cultivation of rubber trees. EE Exports of Jamaica. The Colonial Report on Jamaica for the year 1902-3 gives some interesting statistics with regard to the island’s exports. From the table of the exports of the ten leading products of the island itis seen that bananas occupy the first place, yielding £1,134,750, or more than one- half of the total value of the exports for the year. ‘The value of the other fresh fruit exported was as follows: oranges, £101,054; grape fruit, £9,189; pine-apples, £2,932; mangos, £605; limes, £502. The total value of perishable fruit exported was 56 per cent. of the total exported produce of the island. It is pointed out in this report that, however valuable the development of the fruit trade might be, it could hardly be regarded as satisfactory that the island should only have been saved from a decline by the increase in the exports of so precarious a staple as bananas. ‘These remarks,’ it is stated, ‘have been regrettably emphasized by the devastation etfected by the cyclone of August 11, 1903. There wasan increase in the values of the exports of sugar and rum; the total for the two products was £324,244, placing them second on the list of exports. The next staple on the list is coffee. Although the output increased during the year, the value, owing to low prices, was over £20,000 less than in the previous year. It is pointed out that the salvation of this industry is only to be looked for in improvement in methods of cultivation and curing. The Blue Mountain coffee is a product of a special class and always obtains a more or less satisfactory price. Woolly Pyrol for Green Dressing. Foremost among the plants used in the West Indies for green dressing is the woolly pyrol (Dolichos Lablab), This leguminous plant is very commonly used in Barbados, where it gives excellent results when ploughed into the soil. As this plant is a low, bushy grower, it has been suggested for planting with young cacao trees for the purpose of nitrogen fixation. At the Agricultural Conference of 1900 (see West Indian Bulletin, Vol. I, pp. 218-9), a discussion took place as to whether leguminous plants grown in shade, as for example, under old cacao trees, were capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen. With the object of arriving at a definite conclusion on this point, it has been arranged for experiments to be carried out at St. Lucia and Grenada with woolly pyrol as a green dressing for cacao plantations. It is proposed to endeavour to obtain in each island half a dozen plots of cacao of about } acre, three being in young cacao, where the leguminous plants would obtain a fair amount of sunlight, and three plots of fully grown cacao where the ground is completely shaded. Seeds of the woolly pyrol have been forwarded to St. Lucia and Grenada for the carrying out of these experiments, which will be reported upon in due course. Se Cotton Seed Oil Industry in India. The Agricultural Ledger (1903—No. 9) is devoted to a discussion on the cotton seed oil industry and the establishment of cotton seed oil mills in India. The following brief summary is likely to be of interest :— Cotton seed has always been a valuable agri- cultural product in Egypt and India. In America, where cotton seed was at one time practically a waste product, oil mills with machinery for delinting, hulling and pressing the seed are now extensively established. The refined oil is exported as a substitute for butter and lard, and also used locally for the manufacture of soap and salad oil. The cake is both exported and used in the country. The introduction of the American methods into India would, from an agricultural point of view, be preferable to a large export of cotton seed, provided the cake is kept in the country. The export of oil removes nothing which would add to the fertility of the soil, whereas the export of the cake, which might be used as a cattle food or directly as a manure, would be an agricultural loss. Very large quantities of oil seeds are exported from India, including linseed, rape seed, sesamum, cotton seed, poppy seed and earth nuts. The drain of oil seed exports from India is very severe on the agricultural resources of the country, and the more unsatisfactory because manufactured products obtained therefrom are re-imported and these help in no degree to return fertilty to the land. On account of the difficulty of freeing the seed from lint, cotton seed oil cannot easily be pressed in the villages as is done with other oil seeds. Conse- quently it is practically unknown in India, although excellent feeding stuffs are made from ground nuts, rape seed, sesamum, ete. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 1904. The Cotton Leaf-blister Mite. In a report to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture Mr. A. J. Jordan, the Curator of the Botanie Station at Montserrat, gives some of the results of the experiments that have been carried on for the purpose of controlling the leaf- blister mite (2riophyes yossypi/) in that island. These experiments were planned by the Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture at the time of his visit to Montserrat in January last. Mr. Watson, the Attorney for Dagenham estate, provided land, labour, and much of the material required, while upon Mr. Jordan devolved the general supervision of the planting operations and the application of the insecticides. For the experiment was used }$ acre of land near Dagenham works, which had been cleared of a crop of cotton just previous to the beginning of the experiment. This crop had been badly attacked by the leaf-blister mite. The land was divided into eight plots, and half of each was treated with crude sulphur from the local Soufriére sown broadcast at the rate of 100 tb. per acre. No effect was observed from this application. The plots which were not treated were the first to show infestation and they grew steadily worse. No better results were obtained from the plot treated with the crude Barbados oil and whale oil soap mixture. On the other hand, all the plots which received flowers of sulphur, either sprayed or dusted on the plants, gave the best results. Up to the time of reporting, six applications had been made on each plot, and the results appear to indicate that sulphur is the remedy to be employed for this pest. A series of box experiments with sterilized and unsteril- ized soil, and with sterilized and unsterilized seeds was also carried out. No effect was observable from the soil sterilization, but it is recorded that none of the plants from the sterilized seeds developed the disease until it was introduced intentionally. The soil used in these experiments was taken from the compost heap at Groye Station. Had soil from a field which had borne a badly infested crop of cotton been used, it is probable that a difference would have been noticed between the sterilized and the unsterilized soils. Attempts to inoculate healthy cotton plants by bringing them in contact with diseased Acacia leaves failed. This confirms the opinion of Dr. A. Nalepa, of Vienna, Austria, to whom specimens of affected cotton leaves and the leaf galls of the Acacca were submitted. Dr. Nalepa was able to say that the mites were different species. A brief account was given in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 42) of experiments on a small scale which indicated that sulphur was likely to prove a remedy for the leaf-blister mite, and the results of this field experiment all point in the same direction. The application of these principles to a field crop will be necessary to show whether they are practicable, and it is to be hoped that further experiments may be carried on extending over the entire growing season, in which the cost of the application of remedies can be reckoned against the yield, so that data may be obtainable for definite recommendations in the future. Sugar-cane Leaf Hopper in Hawaii. During the past two years considerable damage has been done to growing canes in Hawaii by a leaf hopper known as Perkinsiella saccharicida. So serious has it become that a bulletin has been published by the Hawaiian Board of Commissioners of Ree cctire and Forestry giving a complete account of the pest, and references have been made to it in newspapers in the United States and in Barbados. In view of the general interest taken in this pest the following statements may not be out of place at this time :— The leaf hopper of the cane in Hawaii is very closely related to the cane fly (Delphaw saccharivora) which is so common in the West Indies. In Hawaii it is an imported species, its original home being in Queensland, where it has long been know n; but as it has. never been destructiv e there, it probably has some powerful natural enemy which keeps its numbers down. In Hawaii, however, it has no such check, and it is attacking canes there with all the force common to imported pests. Attempts are now being made by the authorities to introduce lady-birds which will prey upon it. The common lady-bird in Hawaii feeds very readily upon the leaf hopper, but it is, in turn, kept in check by an enemy which lays its egg in the body of the adult lady-bird beetle. There is prob: vaubly no danger of this pest being introduced into the West Indies, as no plant canes are being brought from Australia, Java or Hawaii, where the leaf ‘hopper is, known ; and further, since planters are fully aware of the serious nature of this pest, they are not likely to take the chance of introducing it by importing canes from those countries. A Beetle-borer of the Sugar-cane in Java. In the communication No. 70 of the Experiment Station for Sugar Culture in West Java, is to be found a description of a beetle boring in the stem of the cane, with its life-history and an account of its occurrence in that island. This beetle (Holaniara picescens, Fairm.) was first recorded in West Java in 1897 by Dr. Went. Now its distribution is quite general. The eggs are eral and are laid singly in the ground. The larva when first hatched makes its way into the cane through the buds or eyes, frequently feeding first on the young tender roots at the mode or following around the line of tender growing tissue just above the node. The larval stage occupies two or three months. This is passed inside the cane in the burrow eaten out by the larva as it works down into the stem. The pupal stage of six days is passed in the ground, and although it is not known how soon the female begins to lay eggs after emerging from the pupal stage and how long the egg laying is continued, it is supposed “that there are only two generations per annum. The larva is about 10 mm. (2 inch), and the beetle 5 mm. (+ inch). Plant Diseases in Hawaii. A press bulletin (No. 9) recently published by the Hawaii Agricultural Experiment Station gives an account of two fungoid diseases: of crops in that island. The first disease is the well-known ‘pine-apple’ disease of sugar-cane, which was reported from one of the windward plantations i in 1903. The treatment is. that recommended by the Imperial Department of Agri- culture. The second disease is the * brown-eyed’ disease of coffee, so-called from the brown spots produced on the leaves ; the fungus also occurs on the half-formed berries. Vou. III. No. 54. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 155 oy BEE KEEPING. The Cho-cho as a Bee plant. In a bulletin issued by the United States Depart- ment of Agriculture, entitled : The chayote : A tropical vegetable, there occurs the following account of the value of this plant (Sechiwm edule), known in the West Indies as Cho-cho or Christophine, as a bee plant :— As in other vegetables of the squash family, the stamens and pistils are in separate flowers, pollination taking place through the agency of insects. To attract these the flowers of both kinds, but especially the pistillate, yield abundant nectar, which is secreted in ten glands, two at the base of each of the lobes of the corolla. In most of the countries into which it has been introduced bee keeping has not been a regular industry, and the value of the chayote as a source of honey has not been noticed, but the reports of experimenters in New South Wales contain very emphatic statements on the subject :— ‘Wher the plant is in flower I have noticed that the vines were swarming with bees, and as flowers are scarce in the autumn, the plant will no doubt be valuable as a honey producer. The plant, which spreads over a large area, commenced flowering at the close of the year, and has been well laden with mellifluous blossoms ever since. The bees are extremely fond of the cho-cho, and with the apiarist the newly introduced plant must become a strong favourite.’ It will be seen that the chayote differs from many Cucurbitaceae in producing numerous flowers on each fertile branch. It has long been known that the flowers of this family are rich in honey, but from the standpoint of the bee keeper they have been considered of little importance because seldom accessible in sufficient amount, though in the United States fields are recognized as good bee pastures. The chayote seems to make up by numbers what the flowers lack in size, so that the yield of honey may be larger than in related plants. In addition to this, there is the fact that Sechium is a perennial bloomer in the tropics and in the sub-tropical regions has a very long season. It is thus possible that in regions like parts of Florida, where bee keeping is already an established industry, the honey- producing qualities of the chayote may be found of practical account in connexion with its other utilities. It would be of interest if bee keepers in the West Indies would state their experience with this plant as a source of honey. GOMMIER RESIN. There are two gommier or resin trees known in the West Indies. The lowland gommier tree, also known as the birch or gum mastic, is Bursera gumimi- jera. This has a smooth, reddish bark and is a familiar object everywhere in the lowlands in the West Indies. A specimen of ‘Cachilou’ or ‘Incense gum’ from this tree was forwarded to the Colonial and Indian Exhibition, 1886, by Dr. Nicholls of Dominica; also a ‘Carib flambeaux made with gum Cachilou’ Mr. W. H. Porter sent to the same Exhibition a model of a dug-out or passenger canoe or ‘ pirouge’ with the shell made from the gommier tree (Bursera gumimi- fera). There is also a mountain gommier tree, with a rough, ash-coloured bark, growing inland at elevations of 1,500 to 3,000 feet—Dacryodes hexandra. This has been met with at Nevis, Dominica, St. Vincent and Grenada, but always in high woods. In the Bulletin of the Imperial Institute for March (p. 26), there is published an interesting account of a gormmier resin from Dominica forwarded by the Administrator to Mr. Watts who was then in England, It is not stated whether this was obtained from the lowland or the mountain gommier. It is described as ‘opaque, whitish and viscous’ and obtained from the gommier tree common ‘in the forests of Dominica and that the resin is collected by the natives and used locally in the preparation of torches and as incense, The probability is that it was obtained from Dacryodes hexandra. The following particulars are given as to the commercial valuation of gommier resin from Domi- nica :— The principal purposes to which elemi resin is applied are the preparation of printing inks and the manufacture of spirit varnishes, although a small quantity is also used in medicine. Specimens of gommier resin were submitted to manufacturers of printing inks and to varnish makers, who both reported that the soft gommier resin would answer their purposes as well as elemi. Other samples were then submitted to brokers for valuation, They stated that the material was somewhat dirty, and would only be worth from 17s. to 18s. per ewt., as compared with 50s. to 55s. per ewt. obtainable for true elemi. This difference in price is probably to be accounted for by the fact that elemi is usually sold in this country in a comparatively fresh and soft condition and that it is generally fairly free from dirt. It is probable that gommier resin, if exported in a fresh and clean condition, would realize prices more nearly equal to those obtained for true elemi. DEPARTMENT NEWS. With the approval of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture will proceed to the United Kingdom on duty in connexion with the work of the Department, on June 4 next. Mr. W. B. Seabrook, the expert cotton ginner from the Sea Islands, proceeded by last mail on a short visit to the Leeward Islands in order to afford assistance in connexion with cotton ginning, On his return, he will spend a day at St. Lucia. Mr. Seabrook will leave for Jamaica by the mail of May 9 next. 156 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 7, 1904. GLEANINGS. The rainfall at the Tobago Botanic Station for the year 1903-4 was 117:06 inches. This is the heaviest annual rainfall recorded since the establishment of the Station. According to the Guardian, the Legislative Council of Dominica has passed a measure for largely reducing the export duties on essential oils manufactured in the island. Specimens of the common Montserrat Acacia, which was . ? . . formerly thought to be Acacia arabica, have been identified at the Royal Gardens, Kew, as Acacia tortuosa, Willd. It is proposed to hold a Colonial and Indian Exhibition at the Crystal Palace during the summer of 1905. The West India Committee has agreed to undertake the charge of a West Indian exhibit. In reference to the note in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 124) regarding the flowering of Wonodora tenutfolia at Grenada and St. Lucia, we are informed by the Curator that this tree has flowered annually at the Dominica Botanic Station. As stated in our last issue, there are a few vacancies for suitable pupils at the Agricultural School at St. Lucia. There are also vacancies at Dominica and St. Vincent. Applica- tion should in each case be made to the Agricultural Superintendent. The Imperial Department of Agriculture has placed at the Agricultural School, St. Lucia, a single-acting, hand- power, Macarthy cotton gin, received from the British Cotton Growing Association. Two similar hand-power gins are at work at Anguilla and one at St. Vincent. Plants from two of the four seeds of the Coco-de-mer (Ledoicea sechellarum), received last year at the Dominica Botanic Station from the Seychelles, are reported to be growing nicely, and it is hoped that this interesting species will become established. Messrs. Rider & Son, Ltd., of Aldersgate Street, E.C., announce the early publication of a work entitled : ‘Timbers of Commerce and their identification,’ by Mr. Herbert Stone, F.L.S., F.R.C.1., to whose report on the ‘ Results of technical tests applied to timbers’ we have referred in these columns. According to the Z%mes, a syndicate has been formed to exploit the mangrove bark industry. As mentioned in the Agricultural News (Vol. U, p. 361) the mangrove is one of the tanning plants. Buyers are only offering £2 2s. 6d. per ton for this bark, but it is thought that better prices may be offered later. A consignment of the best varieties of pine-apples has recently been received at the Tobago Botanic Station from Jamaica. The local varieties produce, for the most part, small fruits which are inferior in flavour to the well-known varieties introduced. Mr. W. E. Broadway writes that there is a specimen of the Bullet Wood tree or Balata (Wimusops globosa) fruiting in the Botanic Station at Grenada. The tree is about twelve years old. It began bearing two years ago. A fine lot of fruit, of large size and juicy, has just been gathered from it. The fruits of the Bullet Wood tree are said to be delicious when fully ripe. Mr. John Belling, B.Sc., writes from St. Kitt’s : ‘ About two dozen grape vines (some American) were planted from cuttings at Stone Fort estate in February 1903. By the following autumn, having been well manured and watered, they nearly covered the arbours and produced a fair number of bunches of ripe fruit.’ Mr. Belling relates his experiences in the cross-fertiliza- tion of tobacco: ‘Some Havana tobacco seed from flowers cross-fertilized by hand yielded undoubtedly stronger plants than the ordinary seed, which I have observed is usually self-fertilized and only occasionally crossed by the humming bird or hawk moth.’ A $100,000 cassava starch factory is to be built at Lake City, Florida, by a Chicago firm. The citizens of the town provided the site and subscribed for a large block of stock. The mill will have a daily capacity of 120 tons of raw material, and is expected to be a great aid to farmers in the locality by furnishing a market for cassava roots. (Experi- ment Station Record, Vol. XV, no. 7.) The Gardeners’ Chronicle of April 9 has an interesting review of a work entitled: ‘The present condition of electroculture.” It deals with the subject of the application of electricity to vegetation. There are two stages in the electric treatment—the electrization of seeds and electrocul- ture proper. The latter consists in growing plants in the light of the voltaic arc, ete., and also in electrifying the plants, the air and the soil. According to the Tropical Agriculturist, the exports of tea from Ceylon during 1903 amounted to 151,120,009 tb. as against 84,000,000 Ib. ten years ago. The United Kingdom received about 63 per cent. of this amount. It is pointed out that the amount of tea taken by the United Kingdom has not increased in anything like the same proportion as the output from Ceylon, although her consumption has appreciably increased. In the interest of sugar manufacturers in the West Indies and British Guiana, the West India Committee is taking steps to collect and tabulate statistics regarding the cost of production of sugar on vacuum pay estates. A form is being circulated to estates which the management is asked to fill up, so that statistics may be obtained under certain heads. It is stated that ‘cost of cultivation’ is meant to include every expense up to delivery of the canes to the factory door and two-thirds of the management. By ‘factory expenses’ is meant to be included every expense from taking the canes at the factory and placing the produce f.o.b. Vou. III. No. 54. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 157 — THYMOL FOR WORMS IN HORSES. The following note on the use of thymol for the treatment of vermiceous diseases of horses, by Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., Government Analytical and Agricultural Chemist, Jamaica, is taken from the Bulletin of the Jamaica Agricultural Departinent for March :— Thymol is the most efficient remedy for the various forms of worms and nematodes that attack the horse. The writer has tested it in Jamaica with gratifying results and thinks it worthy of the attention of all horse owners in the island. Bots are a frequent cause of lack of condition in our horses in Jamaica, and other types of vermiceous pests are undoubtedly of frequent occurrence. Thymol has a marked taste and smell and special measures are necessary to secure its successful administration. For horses we have found it most satisfactory to dissolve the thymol in rectified spirits and to stir up the solution with ten times as much sugar. By evaporation at the heat of boiling water, the spirit is driven off and a uniform mixture of thymol and sugar is obtained. This can easily be administered by mixing it with ground corn or even stirring it up with the usual feed of corn or oats. The dose recom- mended by F. V. Theobald* has been found quite satisfac- tory, both as regards efficiency and freedom from hurt to the horse, viz., 15 grains of thymol morning and evening for two successive days. In the country districts it would be well to give a diet of a laxative green food, such as Spanish Needle, to promote the excretion of the parasites, The writer considers, from personal experience with his own horses during the past three years, that the thymol treatment should be regularly administered to all horses once a year, preferably in the spring. The market price of thymol varies considerably ; at present the ruling price is 7s. 8d. per Tb. in Germany. One ounce at 6d. would provide twenty- eight single doses, so that the actual cost of thymol per horse would not exceed one penny. Supposing 1 oz. of thymol were purchased this should be dissolved in a little spirit of wine and the solution stirred well into 10 oz. of white ‘Albion’ sugar. If placed in a tin pan and steamed for a “short time, the spirit will evaporate and the residue can be bottled for use. The dose for a horse would be 4 oz. ‘night and morning for two successive days. YELLOW FEVER AND MOSQUITOS. The following extract on the relationship between yellow fever and “mosquitos is taken from Sir Patrick Manson’s lecture on ‘ ‘The Disease problem of the West Indies, delivered at the West India Committee Rooms, on March 8, to which reference was made in our last issue :— As regards yellow fever, although we do not know the germ of the disease, we know w here! this germ resides and how it is acquired. The germ is so minute that it passes through the closest porcelain filter ; it is ultra-microscopic. But although it is invisible, we know it exists, and that like the germ of malaria it circulates in the blood and is transferred from one victim to another by a certain kind of mosquito. This knowledge, though only some two years old, has already done much, and is destined in the future to do more, for the West Indies and the neighbouring mainland than money subsidies, banana culture, trade preferences, and all similar methods of stimulating prosperity lumped together. The world should * Agricultural Zoology, p. 484. ever be grateful to the American authors of this, the latest and perhaps the greatest, triumph of sanitary science. Thanks to the labours of these Americans, we know that the germ of yellow fever is present in the blood of the patient only during the first three or four days of the disease. If the patient is bitten at this time by the common West Indian tiger mosquito (Stegomyia fasciata), the insect sucks up the germ. In the tissues of the mosquito the germ now under- goes certain developmental changes, which after the lapse of about a fortnight enable it, when re-introduced into another and non-immune man by the bite of the mosquito, to multiply in the blood, and after three or four days to produce this deadly disease. If, therefore, the yellow fever patient is not bitten by the mosquito in question during the first three or four days of his illness, or if the healthy man is protected from the bites of the infected mosquito, the latter will not contract the disease, even though he lives in the same room as the patient, or wears the same clothes, or even sleeps in the same bed. Acting on this knowledge, the American sanitarians have rid Havanna of yellow fever. For the first time in nearly 200 years there is now no yellow fever in that city, once the hotbed of this disease, a hotbed from which many devasting epidemics have spread all over the West Indies and to many parts of the United States, Mexico, and Central South America. STOCK SALE AT GRENADA. In the previous volume of the Agricultural News (p. 57) an account was given of the first annual sale of stock at the Woodlands Stock Farm, Grenada. ‘The following account of the second of these sales has been contributed by Mr. W. M. Smith, Acting Agricultural Instructor at Grenada :— The second annual stock sule at ‘ Woodlands’ estate took place on Friday, March 25. Owing to the inclemency of the weather, the attendance of intending purchasers was very small. The sale commenced at 2 p.m. with the offer of sixty Plymouth Rock fowls put up in lots of three (one cock and two hens). These were mostly young birds and realized an average price of 18s. per lot, the highest price paid for one lot being 25s. A Plymouth Rock hen and eight chicks sold for 18s. 6d. Thirty white Guinea fowls, in lots of six, were sold at an average price of 21s. per Jot. One hundred and twenty sheep were next offered in lots of twenty, but as no higher bid than £10 per lot was made, they were withdrawn. I understand that they have since been sold in one lot at $3°50 each. Of ten horses offered, five sold at the following rates :— A three year old half-bred filly aco goo) eaeK0) A four year old half-bred mare .. £34 10s. A two and a half year old half-bred colt sco eo) OES A 3 ay £18 10s. An aged ‘American draft horse Goo ono eeilb) WOs. A large number of half-bred Hereford and Zebu cattle were oftered, of which about twenty were sold at an average price of £7 each. These were principally milch cows and heifers. A few pure-bred Berkshire pigs were offered, of which two sows were sold at £4 10s. and £5 respectively. The results, on the whole, were not as satisfactory as last year. There was very little competition, and, conse- quently, the prices realized were comparatively low, and a large number of the animals were withdrawn. The stock offered this year was not quite so fine as that of last year. THE AGRICULTURAL SOME GRENADA LAVAS. The following notes on ‘Some Grenada Lavas’ have been communicated by Professor J. B. Harrison, C.M.G., M.A. FIC, F.CS., F.G.S., Government Analyst, British Guiana :— When examining the rocks collected in Grenada in connexion with the soil examinations made by me in 1895-6, the results of which were published in 1897 under the title of ‘The Rocks and Soils of Grenada,’ the microscopical examinations were made in London with slices, which I had prepared in British Guiana, and which from lack of practice Thad not succeeded in making as thin as desirable. The matrix of rocks of two types, which were classed as Augite- andesite with olivine and as olivine-basalt, was described by the gentleman who examined them for me as feldspathic. At the time I recognized that the analyses indicated that the rocks were of a more basic nature than either andesites or feldspathic basalts should be, but I was so fully occupied with other work that I did not inyestigate the cause of this. During a hurried visit to St. George, Grenada, in 1902, while in transit to Trinidad, I collected some further specimens of lava from some blocks lying in beds of voleanic conglomerate near the mouth of the Sendall tunnel on the shore of St. George’s bay, and I sent these together with some of those which, in company with Mr. Broadway, I had collected in 1895, to Messrs. Voigt and Hochgesang, and had thin sections prepared for microscopical examination ; these were made sufficiently thin to allow a satisfactory examina- tion of the matrix being made. The lavas are made up of phenocrysts of a green augite and some of plagioclase-feldspar with some small blebs of olivine in a felspathoid matrix of granules and prisms of nepheline, granules of colourless and of green augite ; grains of olivine and some grains of original and of secondary magnetite, the latter being derived from the green augite and from olivine. The lavas are therefore according to their matrix augite-nephelinite and nepheline-basalt, the matrix of the latter being very rich in green augite and in olivine. The analyses givenin ‘The Rocks and Soils of Grenada’ are as follows :— Augite- Nepheline- nephelinite. basalt. Silica ee 46°15 42°83 | Alumina 13°25 10°92 Tron peroxide nee 1-22 4°33 Tron protoxide ee eu 85 8-82 Magnesium oxide ; 782 14:02 + Calcium oxide 3.0 ne 13°89 3°20 | Sodium oxide ae me OTT 324 ; Potassiumoxide —... Pr 95 “64 | Water Bers ws 2-01 1-80 | Titanium oxide... we 36 05 ! Phosphoric anhydride ue Ate “39 | Manganese oxide... ohh 2h; “12 | = 100-37 100:36 | The augite-nephelinite is a rock of the albanase type, while the nepheline-basalt is allied to belchrose. The ultimate magnatie compositions of the lavas are as follows : — NEWS. May 7, 1904. Augite- Nepheline- nephelinite. basalt. Orthoclase ... ede ee i nee Andesite 75 13°35 Leucite 35 3:1 Nepheline 26-4 14:8 | Diopside 49-9 417 | Olivine (2 20-0 Apatite 3 1:0 Magnetite 19 63 At the time the original examinations were made the green augite was separated from the matrix and found to have the following composition :— Green Augite from Augite-nephelinite. Silica i; ass ts ax 46°78 Alumina ... 500 B85 Iron peroxide 4:25 Tron protoxide 6-24 | Magnesium oxide... 13°28 Calcium oxide 20-15 | 100°33 If we take into consideration the composition of the green augite which is present in both classes of the rocks, their mineralogical compositions are probably as follows ;— Augite- Nepheline- nephelinite. | basalt. Green augite 186 52-6 Diopside 379 35 Olivine 4:7 174 Nepheline a2 30°7 | 17-9 Anorthite ... = 2-6 Imenite 6 | all Magnetite =I 2°8 Apatite nog 3 | 10 Silica (secondary) ... 19 | 4:0 | Water 2:0 | 18 100-0 1011 The silica shown in both of the above calculations is doubtless secondary as many of the specimens collected showed signs of commencing decomposition. When small pieces of the rocks are placed in cold diluted hydrochloric acid of specific gravity 1:05, gelatinous silica is set free, the rocks are decomposed, and in the course of a few hours fall to pieces, a sandy residue being left, the dark-coloured augite resisting the action of the acid while the felspathoids and the olivine are quickly attacked and decomposed by it. The foregoing notes will to many appear out of place in a journal devoted to agriculture, but this is not so. They explain the formation, rapid production, and texture of the soils of great fertility in several parts of Grenada through the easy degradation, due to their mineralogical composition, of certain of its Javas to great depths. If similar rocks—nephelinites or nephelin-basalts—oceur in other parts of the West Indian Islands, soils of like properties to the Grenada ones will result from them. Vou. III. No. 54. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 159 MARKET REPORTS. London,— April 12, 1904. Messrs. Krarron, Prper & Co. Messrs. J. Hanes Carp & Co.; ‘THE Liverpoot Corron Assocration WEEKLY CiR- cuLar’, April 8, 1904; ‘Tun West InpIA Comarrer Crrcunar,’ April 12, 1904; and ‘THe Pusric Lepcer,’ April 9, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/-; Curagea, 13/- to 38/- per ewt. ARRowrRooT—St. Vincent, 1}d. to 3}d.; Bermuda, 1/2 to 1/6 per tb. Baratra—t1/6 to 1/10 per tb. Bres’-wax—£7 to £7 5s. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 60/- to 70/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 52/- to 59/6 per ewt. ; Dominica, St. Lucia and Jamaica, 51/-, to 60/- per ewt. CarpamMoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/3 per Ib. Corrrr—Jamaica, good ordinary, 38/- to 40/- per ewt. Corra—Trinidad, £15 15s. to £16 per ton, ¢.1.f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 1/4 per tb. Frvir— Banayas—Jamaica, 5/- to 7/- per bunch. Grape Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. OrancEs—Jamaica, 8/- to 9/3 per case of 150 to 176. PINE-APPLES—No quotations. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gixcer—Jamaica, 33/- to 55/- per ewt. Hoxey—Jamaica, 18/- to 30/- per ewt. JTstncLass—West Indian lump, 2/8 to 2/11; Cake, thin palish, 1/3 per tb. Koua Nuts—4d. to 7d. per tb. Lie Jvice—Raw, 11d. to 1s. 2d. per gallon ; Concentrated, £12 to £13 per cask of 108 gallons. Time O1—1/10 per tb., distilled. Locwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—},9 to 2/3 per tb. Nirrate or Sopa—Agricultural, £9 15s. per ton. Nuruecs-—69’s to 60’s, 1/8 to 2/2; 90's to 80's, 1/- to 1/3 per Ib. Prvento—-3}d. to 3fd. per Tb. Rum—Demerara, 74d. to 9$d. per proof gallon ; Jamaica, 1/4 to 8/- per proof gallon. SansapaRmLLa—Jamaica, 1/- to 1/1 per tb. Sucar—Crystallized, 14/9 to 15/3 per ewt.; Muscovado, Barbados, 13/9 to 14/6 per ewt. ; Molasses, 11,- to 15/- per ewt. SurpHate or AmMoNTA—£12 12s. 6d. per ton. Tamarryps—Antigua, 8/- to 8,6 per ewt. Montreal,—April 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russet Murray. (In bond quotations). Cacso—Jamaica, 18e. to 13}c.; Trinidad, 13e. to 13je. per tb. c. & f. Crpar—Trinidad, 45c. per cubic foot c.i.f. Cocoa-Nurs— Jamaica, $28°50 ; Tobago, $23-00 ; Trinidad, $27°50; per M. c. & f. Corrre—Jamaica, medium, 8}c. to 9$c. per th. c. & f. Gixcer—Jamaica, unbleached, 6c. to 8c. per th. c. & f. Moxascurr—Demerara, $132 per 100 tb. c. & f. Motasses—Barbados, 3le. to 34c.; Antigua, 33c. to 344c. per Imperial gallon. Nerwres—Grenada, 110’s, 18c. to 19$e. per th. c. & f. Pivento—Jamaica, 8c. to 8jc. per th. c. & f. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°32 per 100 th. ¢ &F. —Molasses, 89°, $1°46} per 100 tb. c. Xf. New York,—April 15, 1904.—Messrs. Grttespie Bros. & Co. Cacso—Caracas, 13c. to 14c.; Jamaica, 10}c. to 12ke.; Grenada, 123c. to 13c.; Trinidad, 125c. to 14c._per th. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $28 to $30; Jamaicas, $32 to $34 per Mw. selected. CorreE—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 7jc. to 8c. per tb. Gixcer—Jamaica, 6 $c. to Te. per th. Goar Sxins—Jamaicas, 50c. to 54c. per th. Pimento—7e. per th. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 38c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 3,%c. ; Molasses sugars, 89°, 213c. per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,—April 20, 1904.—Messrs. Brnnerr Bryson & Co., Lrp. Motasses—l4c. per gallon (Imperial). Sugar—$1-60 per 100 tb. Barbados,—April 23, 1904.—Messrs. T. 5S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncn & Co. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°60 per 100 tb. Cacao—$12-00 to $12°50 per 100 fb. Cocoa-Nuts—$12-00 per M. for husked nuts. CorrreE—Jamaica, $9:00 to $10-00 ; ordinary Rio, $12-00 per 100 tb. Hay—9de. to 96c. per 100 tb. Manvres—-Nitrate of soda, $60:00 to $65°00; Ohlendorfi’s dissolved guano, $60-00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76-00 to $85:00; Sulphate of potash, $67 -00. Motasses—124c. per gallon (puncheon included). Oxtons—Madeira, (bunched) $3°65 to $3°75; Bermuda, (loose) $2°00 per 100 th. Poratos, ENGiisH—$1°62 to $2-00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°75 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 tb. Suear—in hhds., 89’, $1:60 (packages included). Dark Crystals, 96°, $1°90 per 100 tb. British Guiana,—April 21, 1904.—Messrs. Wierine & RICHTER. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 to $775 per barrel. Barara—40e. to 42c. per th. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—$6°50 per barrel. Cocosa-Nuts—$8°00 to $10°00 per M. Corrre—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 13c. per tb. (retail). —Creole, 12c. per tb. Duat—New, $4:00 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—$1°00 to $120 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks included). Ontons—5e. to Ge. per tb., ex store; Garlic, 6e. to Te. Pea Nors—Curacoa, 4c. ; American, 5$c. per tb. (retail). PianTarns—24e. to 72c. per bunch. Poratos, ExeitsH—-$2°50 to $3°00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°60; Creole, $4°50 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1:°68 per barrel ; $1°44 per bag. Tannras—$2°40 per barrel. Yams—White, $1°56 to $1°92 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $2°00 to $2-05 ; Yellow, $2°30 to $2°40; White, $3°00 to $3°50 ; Molasses, $1°60 to $1-90 per 100 tb. TreER—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. Watapa SHINGLES—$3-00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. Trinidad, —April 21, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, GRANT & Co., and Messrs. Encar Tripp & Co. Baratra—No quotations. Cacao—Ordinary to Good Red, $12°7 to $13-00 ; Estates, $12-80 to $13°25 per fanega (110 fb.). Cocoa-Nuts—-$20-00 per M., f.0.b., large selected peeled in bags. Cocoa-Nut Meat—lje. per tb. Cocoa-Nut Om—6de. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corrre—Venezuelan, 3c. to Te. per tb. Coprra—-$2°85 per 100 ib. Oxtons—$2°90 to $3°50 per 100 Ib. Morasses—No quotations. Poratos, ENciisH—$1‘50 to $1°75 per 100 th. Rice—Yellow, $425 to $440; White Table, $5°25 to $6-00 per bag. Scucar—-White- Crystals, $3°25 ; Yellow, Crystals $2°25 $ Molasses Sugar, $2°00 to $2°10 per 100 th. 160 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 7, 1904. ee ASE ues Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [72] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. f 3 Curacoa Society for the Promotion of C A C A O x Agriculture, Stock breeding, Salt Industry and Fishery. i A COLONIAL EXHIBITION J... HARES. ELS. Will be held in this island on May 23, 1904. (Sgd.) H. H. R. CHAPMAN, NEW EDITION. Curagoa, Vice-President. Dutch West Indies, March 5, 1904. DUSSEL, > J La Secretary. A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND SS ; Sage CHEMISTRY OF FOR COTTON GROWERS : ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. IV, NO. 4) COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S., Price 3s. per copy. on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. | Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. OF A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. BARBADOS, MAY 21, 1904. Price ld. Vou. II. No. 55. CONTENTS. PAGE. PAGE. Castilloa Rubber Seeds ... 165 | Market Reports Sc 174 Citrus Fruit and Pine- Medicinal Plants, A apples in Jamaica ... 164 Garden of... ... 167 Cotton Notes :— Northern Nigeria, British Guiana ... 169 Exports of ... ... 168 Grenada Central Fac- Notes and Comments 168 tory ... ... ... ... 165 | Our Book Shelf :— St. Lucia, Experiments _ Flowering Plants and abe wee wee 165 Ferns 71 West Indies, History of Vegetables and Cottomin ... .-. «... 165 Flowers from Seeds 171 Department News... ... 171 | Pine-apple Fibre : 166 Department Publications 175 | Pine-apples, Tinning 164 Dominica, Exports of .. 169 Rainfall at Dominica 173 Fer-de-lance at St. Lucia 163 | Science Notes :— ee Fodder Grasses for West Pomegranate eee 167 enon 168 Red Sorrel and Surinam Gleanings... ... «. ... 172 gs _ Cherry Oe aes 167 Grapes, Culture of ... . 169 Silk-cotton for Canada ... 173 a Sisal Hemp in Queensland 166 Insect Notes :— Sugar Industry :— Grenada Maribunta ... 170 Barbados . 162 Insects and Disease ... 166 Maple sugar... ... ... 163 Paris Green and Trade in Cassava Products 161 London Purple - 170 | Vanilla in Pondichéry ... 169 Sugar-cane Leaf Hopper 170 | West Indian Products ... 173 Trade in Cassava Products. EVERAL references have been recent issues of the Agricultural News to ar the possibilities of a trade in cassava products being worked up between the West Indies and the United Kingdom. Cassava is so commonly made in es cultivated in these islands, and its cultivation so well understood by the small cultivators, that new outlets for its products would, no doubt, be eagerly taken advantage of. It would appear that there is a possibility of a market being found for cassava in at least two directions, viz., for cassava starch and for the manufac- ture of glucose. With regard to the former, much credit is due to the enterprise of Mr. J. W. Middleton, of Jamaica, in starting a factory for the manufacture of cassava starch on his property at Longville. In January of the present year, Mr. Middleton shipped a ton of cassava starch to England for the purpose of testing the market and learning the value of this product. The results of this trial shipment have already been announced in the Agricultural News: they were entirely satisfactory, asa price of £10 per ton in Bristol was offered, with a request that 50 tons should be shipped at the earliest opportunity. We learn that the factory at Longville is capable of turning out 150 tons per annum, and we have no doubt that as soon as it is shown that there is a ready sale for this product, Mr. Middleton’s operations will be extended. As we have already stated, cassava is a crop that is particularly suitable for the small proprietor, and there should be no difficulty in starting a very successful cassava-farming industry. In the article published in the last issue of the 162 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 21, 1904. Agricultural News, Mr. Cousins puts forward very clearly the conditions that are necessary for securing the success of this new industry: these are (1) capital for installing the best plant, (2) suitable lands within easy reach of the factory, and (3) a good water supply. The utmost care will be necessary to secure a high- grade starch, free from acid, fibre and dirt. There should be no difticulty in finding these conditions in many parts of the West Indies. Cassava starch prepared at the factory, where special attention is paid to these points, seems to be certain of obtaining good prices in the English markets ; when made, however, on a small scale, and the manu- facture is carried out in a dilatory manner, the product is likely to contain acid and to be, in consequence, unsuitable for the special purposes for which the high-grade starch is required, The figures given by Mr. Cousins show clearly that the cost of growing cassava and preparing the starch is so low as to leave a good margin for profit. Moreover, the residual pulp, or bitty, is of considerable value as a food for stock. Allowing for this, the total cost of producing a ton of cassava starch should not exceed £6. When it is realized that the average yield, in Jamaica at any rate, is 10 tons to the acre, it should be obvious that the industry is one that is likely to yield handsome profits. With regard to the other possible use of cassava, viz., as a source of glucose, the opinions of brokers have already been given in the Agricultural News. It is not considered that the exportation in the form of dried, sliced tubers is likely to receive much encourage- ment from the manufacturers of glucose on account of the additional expense entailed in grinding them. In the form of cassava flour, as recently sent from Jamaica, however, it is possible that there will be a limited market for cassava as a source of glucose, at a price, probably, of about £5 10s. per ton. Messrs. Garton, Hill & Co., to whom the samples were sent for valuation, have pointed out that the demand for cassava flour will be uncertain on account of the fact that several of the largest glucose manufac- turers have already installed plants for obtaining glucose trom whole corn. It would appear, therefore, that it is in the manufacture of starch that we may expect to find a profitable use for cassava. There can be little doubt that where factories for the purpose could be erected, the growing of cassava might with advantage be taken up by the peasantry on a fairly large scale. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Experiments at Barbados. The following is the concluding portion of the progress report by Professor J. P. d’Albuquerque M.A., F.LC., F.C.S., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S., on the sugar-cane experiments at Barbados for the half-year ended December 31, 1903 :— EXPERIMENTS UPON TILLAGE. At Hampton plantation a very level, 63-acre field (Drink-water field) was marked out into ten large strips and subjected to the different processes of tillage detailed below. The strips differed somewhat in length and width ; the width in different strips varied between 10 and 14 holes. The results are calculated to the acre and are given in the following table : — Numbers of plots. Canes, tons per acre, ‘Subsoiled close; lined 6 x 6; cane holes dug ; manured and _ cultivated in the usual estate manner. Meaniesnltst sui... eeecuieeee 15: — turning under farmyard manure 8 in. deep; cane holes dug; and estate jn flat with dise plough, ordinary methods. [retin in Nean resultsie.e. cea eeemeere 15°59 Subsoiled close ;a furrow opened js mould board plough 6 feet |} apart ; manure spread on banks ; ee canes planted in furrow 6 feet Sv) apart. Mean results: sc eescc) eee) ee 14°94 (Ridged with dise plough, turning under farmyard manure 8 in. deep ; planted in rows in bottom ‘of furrow ; cultivated with Dia- mond cultivator ; and trashed as usual. \. Mean results ... ... 13°20 ‘Subsoiling opened one way ; forked piece of land left between , cane holes ; and cultivated in the ordinary estate way. Mean results).:. <.. s..) .--|) plga20) 5, 10 It will be seen that an extreme difference of 2} tons of canes occurred between (1) the most favourable plots and (2) the least favourable plots. —————— ere rere Pe Vou. III. No. 55. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 163 (1) The most favourable plots were subsoiled close, cane holes dug and manured and cultivated in the usual estate manner. (2) The least favourable plots were ridged with the dise plough, turning under farmyard manure 8 inches deep, the canes being planted in rows at the bottom of the furrows and cultivated with the Diamond cultivator. EXPERIMENTS NOW IN PROGRESS. For the period now under review, there are 8,120 experiments covering an area of 143°294 acres. The experi- ments may, for the sake of convenience, be divided into two groups-—the first consisting of the experiments which were being carried on during the first half-year of 1903, the latter the experiments which were inaugurated during the half- year ending December 1903. As a detailed list of the first group was given in the last report (Agricultural News, Vol. LH, p. 306), there is no necessity for reproducing it here. We may, however, mention that the root fungus, which last half-year we reported as existing in some of the manurial plots, is, in spite of the favourable rainfall, still in evidence, and there is no doubt that in some plots it will unfavourably affect the results. We further regret to say that, in some instances, many of the seedling and other canes have also been attacked. On the whole, however, the stands of canes on the experimental plots have grown fairly well and will on some estates give large yields. The following is a detailed list of the experiments of the second group, the number of plots and areas under experiment :— EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES. Of the 106 plant cane manurial plots, covering an area of 14:196 acres, twenty-six are in ‘Summervale’ field at Dodds, twenty-six in ‘Negro Yard’ field at Foursquare, and fifty-four in ‘Ten Acre’ field at Hopewell. By the kind permission of Mr. A. Cameron, experiments on eighteen manurial plots, extending over an area of 16-02 acres, are being conducted on the estates of Messrs. T. Daniel & Co., Ltd. Of these, six are in ‘ Logwood’ field at Balls, six in ‘ No, 2 Lynch’ field at Hampton, and six in ‘ Upper Gall’ field at Ruby. With one exception the canes on the manurial plots have grown fairly well. EXPERIMENTS WITH SELECTED SEEDLING AND OTHER CANES, This group of experiments consists of 182 plots with an area of 10°815 acres. Of these, thirty-four are in ‘ Dixon’ field at Waterford, fifty-four in ‘ Upper Chapel’ field at Dodds, twenty in ‘Jack Tar’ field at Coverley, twenty-four in ‘ Cars’ field at Husbands, twenty-eight in ‘ Ginger’ field at Henley, and twenty-two in ‘Upper Belle’ field at Claybury. On the whole, the canes in this group of experiments germinated fairly well and at present there is every prospect of their giving a good return. EXPERIMENTS WITH SEEDLING CANES OTHER THAN THOSE OF THE FIRST YEAR AND DIFFERENT NAMED VARIETIES. In this section of the experiments there are 1,684 plots extending over an area of 22°264 acres. At Dodds there are 395 plots of plant canes in the following fields, viz :— ‘Cat Hole,’ fifty-five; ‘Upper Padmore,’ seventy-six ; ‘Harrow,’ thirty-four ; ‘Pilgrim,’ forty-two; ‘Upper Bay Tree,’ fifty-five ; ‘House,’ fifty-five; ‘Lower Nightingale,’ thirty-eight; and ‘Summeryale,’ forty. In ‘Seven Acre’ field at the Ridge, twenty-three; in ‘Cut Hill’ field at Hannays, twelve; in ‘Above the Yard’ field at Sunbury, twenty-nine; in ‘Garden’ field at the Pine, thirteen; in ‘Monkey Pond’ field at Brighton, twelve; in ‘Cow House’ field at Hampton, nine; in ‘South Negro Yard’ field at Oughterson, seven; in ‘Still Pond’ field at Clifton Hall, twenty-four; in ‘Simmons Bottom’ field at Lower estate, eight ; and in ‘Sandy’ field at Waterford, 1,172. With one or two exceptions, the canes in this section of the experiments have grown regularly and a uniform stand is being obtained. YOUNG SEEDLING CANES. During December and January seeds obtained from some of the old seedlings and from some of the other canes were sown. Owing, we think, to the drought which occurred while the seeds were maturing, their germinating power was lower this year than any year since canes from seed have been grown, and, although more seeds were sown, fewer grew than usual, and of those that did germinate many appeared so feeble that they died soon afterwards. Still, however, 1,000 have been obtained, many of which are now looking fairly well. Our best thanks are due to the proprietors, attorneys and managers who have so kindly placed land at our disposal and for their ready co-operation with us in carrying out the experiments. Maple Sugar. The Louisiana Planter of April 16, contains an interesting article entitled: ‘Origin of Maple Sugar.’ It describes the sacred myths and traditions connected with the maple tree that existed among the Iroquois Indians :— The season of sugar making from beginning to end is a sort of carnival or general holiday among these children of nature ; even those who are civilized and working in the towns will drop everything and hurry off to the woods when the sap begins to flow. Our pioneer fathers made few improvements upon Indian methods of sugar making, but in the course of years buckets have taken the place of troughs; open pans are used instead of kettles ; the furnace instead of the open fire. The work is done under cover and much of the outdoor poetry of this spring industry has faded into the light of common day, the prosaic air of our work-a-day life. ‘Sap-run’ does not last long; it comes and goes with the weather and has all the caprices of other delightful things, and no one can control its infinite variety. Every woodland creature enjoys the sweet drink. The squirrels slyly help themselves when no one is looking, cows will watch and empty the bucket while your back is turned, sheep will drink enough to kill them if they have half a chance, and boys must keep constant watch over the liquid. But best of all is the delight of the honey bees in the overflowing sap. Up and down the dark, shining trunks they crawl, sometimes so full of the enticing food that they can scarcely move, and could be brushed away by the handful. Fer-de-lance at St. Lucia. We extract the following from the annual report on the sanitary condition of St. Lucia, published in the Gazette of April 23 :—‘Unfor- tunately there is also recorded a death from snake bite. Some fifteen years ago, a week rarely elapsed, or a ride of 3 or 4 miles into the country, without my seeing one or more Fer-de-lance. Five or six snakes, 2 to 3 feet long, were always killed annually by the gang clearing the Victoria Hospital Grounds. Of late years no trace of one has been met with and I have not seen a live snake for several years.’ 164 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 21, 1904. WEST CITRUS FRUIT AND PINE-APPLES IN JAMAICA. In his report to the Trinidad Agricultural Society on the Fruit Industry of Jamaica, Mr. W. E. Smith makes the following reference to the trade in fruit other than bananas :-— Oranges, grape fruit and pines figure in no insignificant degree in the total value of their exports. During last year they shipped nearly 71,000,000 oranges (equal to 180,000 barrels), 8,011 packages of grape fruit and 8,220 dozens of pines. The Jamaica oranges possess a very fine texture and exquisite flavour, but they are in my opinion inferior in size and appearance to those ordinarily grown here, while the best of our varieties would be hard to beat anywhere. The greater proportion is sent to the States, but of late years considerable quantities have been put on the English market, and found much favour there, Notwithstanding a protective duty of $1°50 per 70 Ib. gross in the States, it seems that the Jamaica growers can still make a profit out of oranges so long as the Florida and California fruit is not in season. It is to the English markets that the buyers are at present looking, but the general complaint is want of more frequent shipping facilities than are afforded by the fortnightly service to Bristol by the Imperial Direct Line. The large buyers of oranges pay from Is. per 100 to as low as 3d., delivered at the nearest railway station, and the process of grading, wrapping and packing is done very much in the same manner as that followed by the Symington Syndicate here. The prices realized in English ports are subject to great variation, according to quality, condition and season. Last Christmas the best quality of Jamaica oranges fetched in London from 12s. to 14s. per box of 200, a statement I should myself scarcely credit, were it not taken from a very reliable source indeed. On all sides I heard the same story, that profits or losses (as with bananas) depend absolutely upon the kind of care given to the selection and handling of oranges before shipment, and to the maintenance of an equable temperature throughout the sea voyage. Quality and condition, as with most things, will always command and hold the best markets, and the Jamaica people seem to be fully alive to this. Budding of the choicer sorts is practised to some extent, and hybridizing experiments are also being carried out with the Ripley and Cayenne varieties of pines, the special object being to combine the superior edible qualities of the one with the more symmetrical shape and size of the other. \ INDIAN FRUIT. TINNING PINE-APPLES. Mr. H. N. Ridley, M.A., F.LS., writes as follows in the Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits and Federated Malay States tor February, on the tinning of pine-apples :— The pines are here always peeled by hand, though machines for this purpose have been invented, as it is found more economical to use hand labour here where it is cheap. The peelers are Chinese. They cut the top and bottom off the pine and peel it with a knife, holding the pine in the left hand, which is covered with an India-rubber glove, to protect it from the acid action of the pine juice. The gloves have constantly to be renewed as they are soon destroyed by use. The pines are then put in the tins which are filled. up with either water or syrup. The cores are removed previously, if required, by a tin tube which is pressed through the centre, but most pines are tinned without coring. The syrup is made of three catties of sugar to one picul of water, After the pine is put in the tin it is soldered up, and a number of tins are put on a kind of wooden raft and plunged in a tank of water heated by steam. They are boiled in this tank for from ten minutes, in the case of the smallest tins, to an hour and a half for large tins. The biggest tins weigh 5 tb. when full. After removal from the boiling water a puncture is made in the top of the tin with a hammer and punch, and in large tins two punctures. This is to let out the steam, and after this the holes made are resoldered and the tins plunged again into boiling water for nine minutes. They are then labelled packed for export. and The object of tinning without sugar is to avoid duty on sugar, and also to enable confectioners to use them for their purposes. Pine-apple juice is often added in the case of pines not preserved with sugar, but the tins are often filled with plain water. Other forms of exported pines are in slices } inch thick (sliced pines), and with the eyes removed (eyeless pines). Bruised pines and others are often cut into chunks, or cubes. All these are tinned in the same way. Grated or jam pine is another form of export. Crystallized pines are dried in the sun, and then crystallized in sugar. The sugar used is usually Java sugar, but Mr. Landau tells me he finds Austrian beet sugar better, on account of its colour. The cost is, however, about the same. One manufacturer states that he preserves all his pines in syrup about 30 degrees solution, using from 11 to 20 tb. of sugar to 1 ewt. of pines. Vou. III. No. 55. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 165 COTTON NOTES. Cotton Factory at Grenada. The following announcement relating to the opening of a cotton factory at Grenada, appeared in the public telegrams of May 12 :— At a meeting to-day of leading gentlemen highly representative of the commercial, agricultural and mercantile interests of the colony, at which also were present, his Excellency Sir Robert Llewelyn, Lady Llewelyn, Miss Gladys Llewelyn and Sir Daniel Morris, the Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies, a large cotton ginning and baling factory, erected by Mr. L. R. Mitchell, was formally opened at the upper end of the Careenage, St. George’s. The machinery was erected by Mr. J. C. McQueen, and is the first cotton factory erected in the island since the American Civil War. Cotton Experiments at St. Lucia. The Agricultural Instructor at St. Lucia has selected the following localities for cotton experiment plots to be started under the auspices of the St. Lucia Agricultural Society and the Imperial Department of Agriculture :— Laborie, at Saphir estate; Soufriére, at Petit Delcert estate ; Castries, at Vide Bouteille estate; Gros Islet, at Reduit estate ; Dennery, at Anse Canot estate, and Micoud, at Mde. Micoud estate. Each plot will be divided into three sections: section 1 to contain Sea Island cotton, planted May-June; section 2, Upland cotton, planted May-June ; and section 3, Sea Island cotton, planted September-October. Full instructions on cultural and other points are being issued to each plot owner and special stress is being laid on the necessity for the land being thoroughly forked before planting. In addition to these plots, there will be 2 acres planted in Sea Island and Upland cotton on land adjoining the Agricultural School at Union, and 3 to 5 acres will be planted with varieties of cotton at the Riviére Dorée Experiment Station. History of Cotton in the West Indies. Sir George Watt, Kt, C.LE., M.B., C.M., LL.D., Reporter on Economic Products to the Government of India, delivered a lecture at the West India Committee Rooms on April 19 on‘Cotton Improvement.’ The lecturer gave an interesting account of the history of cotton. We reproduce his remarks relating to the history of cotton in the West Indies :— It is believed that in 1657 cotton had actually been experimentally grown on some of the sugar estates of Barbados. We also read that early in the 18th. century cotton had become an important auxiliary crop in Jamaica, Trinidad and elsewhere in the West Indies. Several writers allude to at least two, if not three, of the best known cotton plants of the world as having been found in a truly wild State in the West Indies. As already indicated, they | supplied America with its finest seed, but the cultivation of cotton in these islands seems to have been given up in favour of sugar, thus leaving the American growers an absolutely free market in the British supply. There is nothing to Show that the retirement of the West Indies was in any Sense due to inability to produce cottons as fine as, if not finer than those grown in America. On the contrary, it seems fairly certain that the most prized cottons of the world (at the present day) all, or nearly all, originated in these islands. The American and West Indian series form an assemblage very distinct from that of the Old World. The leaves are very much larger, broader, nothing like so deeply segmented, and the bracteoles much more laciniate than those of India, China, Africa, and Egypt. Being also very highly cultivated states the seeds are mostly naked, after the removal of the long, silky floss. But due to their higher cultivation they are collectively much more liable to the ravages of pests and blights than are the Indian cottons. The so-called short staples of the American series are usually longer than the long staples of India. But as manifesting the great progress made by the American farmers, it may be added that the short staples of the New World belong for the most part to the Occidental series already mentioned. The New World it will thus be seen had been rapidly and most successfully established as an important source of supply in competition with the Old, and what was to India an even more serious aspect, the American and West Indian cottons were early recognized as superior to those of Asia. In a remarkably short time, therefore, the whole aspect of the cotton trade of the world changed. India fell into a position of secondary importance. The West Indies gave attention to indigo in preference to cotton, as their auxiliary crop, but soon abandoned indigo and concentrated attention on sugar. America, on the other hand, gave cotton produc- tion a prominent position in its agricultural enterprise, and with surprising rapidity distanced India both in quality and quantity. Instead of furnishing Europe with raw cotton and cotton goods, India now became dependent on England for her own supplies of the finer cotton textiles, and a large import trade was in consequence established. The triumph was thus complete of improved mechanical contrivances and intelligent agriculture over hereditary skill and child-like traditions. CASTILLOA RUBBER SEEDS. The following note on the packing of castilloa rubber seeds for transport is taken from the Consular Report on Samoa for 1903 :— It is generally understood that great difficulties exist in obtaining seeds of the Castilloa elastica in good condition from long distances. These difficulties would not be so great if the senders of the seeds would observe certain essential points, viz.: lst., the seeds must be perfectly ripe, and should not be allowed to stand any length of time before packing ; 2nd., they must not be packed in too large quantities—a tin box, 6 by 4 by 2 inches, will hold 250 seeds (of course there are exceptions, such as a person travelling with the seeds giving them personal attention) ; 3rd., the packing (powdered charcoal) should be wetted at least twenty-four hours before using and when used should not be too wet. In packing place a layer of the moist charcoal in the tin box, and then set in rows the seeds, leaving a little space between each seed, then another layer of charcoal and so on until full. Seeds packed in this manner under ordinarily favourable conditions should keep in a slow growing condition for forty days. If the ger- mination should happen to be rapid, or the box be a long time in transit, and the seeds when the box is opened be found to have grown into one another, then the sides of the tin box should be cut down in several places and the block lifted out intact ; afterwards, by carefully teasing the rootlets apart with two pieces of pointed wood, most of the contents can be used. 166 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 21, 1904, PINE-APPLE FIBRE. Farmers Bulletin No, 4, of the Philippine Bureau of Agriculture, entitled: ‘Preliminary report on the commercial fibres of the Philippines’ gives an interest- ing account of the extraction and uses of pine-apple fibre. It is mentioned that this fibre has long been appreciated in countries where the pine-apple flourishes, on account of its strength, fineness, and durability in water. It is used in India and China for thread and woven into cloth, the Chinese importing the fibre from Singapore :— In the provinces of the Philippines, where the plants are grown for fibre, the fruit is eut shortly after flowering, in order that the leaves may develop more fully. When the leaves are mature, they must be cut before they become old, and worked as soon as possible after cutting. The fibre is so fine that it cannot be separated from the pulp when the leaves are old and dry. As in the extraction of Manila hemp and maguey, the pine-apple fibre is also extracted in a simple and primitive way. ‘The fibre is too light and fine to admit of being drawn as Manila hemp is drawn, so the natives in Southern Luzon and Panay resort to a method of scraping. The freshly cut leaves are spread upon a narrow bench, and with light short strokes of an iron scraper, the edge of which is not too sharp, the epidermis is scraped off. Sometimes a bamboo or wooden scraper is used, and while this method is slower, yet there is less waste, and a softer quality of fibre is produced. This exposes a layer of fibre which is lifted by the fingers or a small spatula. The scraping is then con- tinued until another layer of fibre is exposed, and this in turn is lifted away. The process continues until all the fibres of the leaf are separated out. As the fibre is separated it is washed in clear water, and laid out in the sun to dry and bleach. The washing and drying may be repeated until the fibre possesses the texture and whiteness desired. A mature plant has about forty leaves from 1} to 3 inches broad and ranging from 2 to 5 feet long. In the provinces of Iloilo and Antique, where pine-apple plants are grown largely for their fibre, a ton of leaves, about 22,000, produces from 50 to 65 tb. of dry fibre. This is a small yield when we take into consideration the number of leaves which have to be handled and the labour of extracting the fibre. Before the pine-apple fibre can become a very important commercial product, machines will have to be devised for extracting the fibre on plantations more extensive than those worked at present. ‘Two machines have been used, the Van Buren and the Sanford Mallory, but they have not yet been able to produce a quantity of fibre sufficient to make their use economical. The pineapple fibre has not yet been produced in quantities sufficient to give it commercial importance. But no doubt it is destined to a more extensive use than ‘at present, as it possesses unique qualities. The fabrics called ‘pina’ and ‘ rengue,’ manufactured from it here in the Philippines, are constantly becoming more popular in both Europe and America, and there is a growing demand for these fabrics for embroidery. The rengue and pina are now valued at from 25 to 75c. per yard, and the fibre in the London market has been adjudged worth £30 per ton. The fibre is also used for small cordage where great strength is required. In Calcutta a rope 3} inches in circumference was tested and bore a strain of 5,700 tb. It has been suggested that the dried leaves from the fruit plantations could be used for paper stock, but as yet no trials along this line have been made. INSECTS AND DISEASE. The following is a further extract from Sir Patrick Manson’s lecture at the West India Committee Rooms on the disease problem in the West Indies :— From what I have said you will be struck with the importance of the réle played by the mosquito in the diffusion of tropical disease. In truth, take away mosquitos, and the tropics would be as healthy, if not healthier, than England. The fact of the matter is that it is only now we are beginning to recognize that nearly all the grave diseases of the tropics, and some of the grave diseases of temperate climates, are conveyed by the instrumentality of mosquitos, flies, ticks, fleas, and certain other small deer with names not to ke mentioned in polite society. It is a humiliating confession to have to make, but is nevertheless true, that until lately man was not the lord of creation; the flies that buzzed about him or the fleas that he carried on his person were his masters. We now begin to apprehend the rationale of cleanliness, of how it conduces to health. Dirt means vermin—vermin which bite, and by their bite transfer other and more deadly vermin. And not only is this the case as regards man; it is equally the case as regards the domestic animals. Thus the germ of a virulent cattle disease common in many parts of America, of the Cape, of Australia, and even of the south of Europe, is passed from cow to cow by the cattle tick. Nature rarely loses an opportunity of fostering parasitic life. The opportunity supplied by the habits of the blood-sucking insects is one which she has not neglected. She sometimes seems to goa long way out of her usual direct and simple course in order that so good an opportunity be not lost. Thus certain blood-sucking creatures, like the ticks, feed only once, and so cannot directly transfer disease germs from animal to animal. To get over this difficulty in the case of the ticks, nature has arranged that the disease germ shall pass into the egg of the mother tick and thus into the blood of the cow the young tick feeds on. There is a devilish sort of ingenuity in this utilization of blood-sucking insects in the conveyance of disease germs: it looks like design, but surely design of a vindictive order. SISAL HEMP IN QUEENSLAND. The following note on the cultivation of sisal hemp in Queensland is taken from the Textile Mereury of April 23 :— A sample of sisal hemp, grown at St. Helena, was recently forwarded to Messrs. James Miller and Co,, Melbourne, by the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Messrs. Miller have expressed a high opinion of the sample, and stated that there is a demand for at least 2,000 tons yearly, the value of which would range from £30 to £35 per ton, according to quality. Sisal hemp is now being grown in Queensland, and £30 to £35 per ton is the market price obtained. It is estimated that 2,000 tons a year can be disposed of in Australia itself, where it might be largely used for the manufacture of binder twine. Sisal is practically a modern fibre, and in Messrs. W. F. Malcolm and Co.’s hemp report for last year the consumption is put down at 610,000 bales—an inerease of 74,000 bales on the previous year. Manila and New Zealand hemps are just now very high in price, and as the world’s demand for fibre is somewhat greater than the production, there may well be a good opening for the production of this article in Queensland. Vou. Ill. No. 55. SCIENCE NOTES. Red Sorrel and Surinam Cherry. In Farmers’ Bulletin No. 169, of the U. S. Department of Agriculture, there is an article on some tropical and sub-tropical fruits, from which we extract the following information relating to the red sorrel (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) and the Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora)—two plants widely cultivated in these islands :— The roselle, or Jamaica sorrel, is the fruit of Hcbiscus Sabdariffa, a widely distributed tropical plant, which yields the roselle fibre of commerce. As grown in Florida and California it is an herbaceous annual. The plants are grown from seed in spring, and require a long season free from frost to mature. Under favourable conditions they produce a very heavy, continuous crop of blossoms in the latter part of the summer and autumn. ‘The fruits, which somewhat resemble okra or gumbo in form, though they are much shorter in proportion to their size, are a dark magenta red in colour and are used for making jellies and preserves, which are of a beautiful red colour and have a flavour suggesting that of the cranberry. The thick, juicy, dark-red calyxes are the only portions used, and these are at their best soon after the petals fall. If the harvest is long delayed, the enlarging ovary forms too large a proportion of the product and lessens its value by detracting from the flavour of the jelly or preserves. Roselle jelly is now on the market, though it is not very common. The Surinam cherry, sometimes called pitanga, is the fruit of a tropical shrub, native to Brazil and other tropical regions of South America. This shrub, which attains a height of about 20 feet, is grown to a limited extent in southern Florida and southern California. The fruit is about the size of an ordinary cherry, is roundish oblate in form, ribbed, bright red in colour and of a sharp, but pleasant, acid flavour. It is somewhat used for domestic jelly making, but the product has not yet attained commercial importance, at least in the United States. On an average, the roselle is made up of about equal proportions of pods and calyx. The edible portion of the Surinam cherry constitutes some 83 per cent. of the entire fruit, and the stems and stones together some 17 per cent. The average composition of these fruits is as follows :— Water.} Protein. | Fat ees ~| Ash. drates Surinam cherry 85-0 “4 (a) 13:2 | “7 Roselle : Calyx 86°5 2-1 3 103 | ‘8 Pod eis ...| 84:0 EOS |) 10) 12:2) | 1:1 Extract from calyx| 91-2 =) (@) GRAN er Extract from pods! 93:7 15 (Oy Cea (a) Including 10 per cent. invert sugar, 10°1 per cent. total sugar. (6) Including 1-6 per cent. sugar. * _(c) Including 1 per cent. sugar. The Surinam cherry and roselle do not differ materially in chemical composition from more common fruits. The total quantity of nutritive material is small in proportion to the bulk, while the proportion of water (juice) is large. These fruits are generally regarded as palatable and are of value in adding to the variety and attractiveness of the diet. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 167 The Pomegranate. The pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a native of North-west India, but cultivated in most tropical countries. The tree is small and of a somewhat straggling habit ; the flowers are crimson. 8. Punica GRANATUM. [From Kew Guide.] ‘ Pomegranates are greatly valued in warm countries on account of their delicious, cooling and refreshing pulp. Numerous varieties are grown, some being sweet and vinous, and others acid or of a bitter astringent taste; and the colour of their pulp is much redder in some than in others. They are generally about the size of the fist, and have a tough, leathery rind of a beautiful, deep, golden colour tinged with red, and are crowned with the remains of the calyx-lobes. The rind, especially that of the bitter kind, contains a large quantity of tannin, and is used for tanning the celebrated morocco-leather, and also as an astringent medicine ; the flowers likewise yield a red dye.’ (Treasury of Botany.) A GARDEN OF MEDICINAL PLANTS. American Gardening of April 16 has the following account of the interesting exhibit of medicinal plants at the Louisiana Exposition :— One of the features at the Louisiana Purchase Exposi tion is the outdoor exhibit of the office of Drug and Medicinal Plant Investigations of the U. 8. Department ot Agriculture, made under the direction of Rodney H. True, Physiologist-in-charge. This exhibit comprises growing specimens of various medicinal plants, some of them native species which are gradually becoming scarcer and therefore more valuable, some simply ordinary weeds that can be picked up on almost any farm, for which, however, there is considerable demand. A few foreign drug plants, of which we are now importing large quantities, and which could be cultivated in this country as well as abroad, are also introduced. The area devoted to medicinal plants consists of a strip of land 180 feet long by 40 feet wide. This is laid off in forty-seven plots, each measuring about 13 feet in length by 7 feet in width, with walks between the beds affording easy access to the plots for purposes of closer scrutiny and examination. The labels give the common and scientific names of the plants, the parts employed in medicine, and their properties. 168 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 21, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 175 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural dlews Wor, JUNE SATURDAY, MAY 21, 1904. No. 55, NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. Among the articles in this issue of the Agri- cultural News the following may be referred to as of particular interest :— On pages 162-3 will be found the concluding portion of the progress report on the sugar-cane experiments at Barbados. The instalment of this report published in the last issue dealt particularly with the manurial experiments at Dodds and Hopewell. In this issue the report deals with experiments with tillage and gives a detailed list of the experiments inaugurated during the period under review. An interesting note on the method of tinning pine-apples, as practised in the Straits Settlements, is given on page 164, where there will also be found a further extract from Mr. Smith’s report to the Trinidad Agricultural Society on the Fruit Industry of Jamaica. Mr. Smith’s report deals principally with the banana industry: the remarks given here refer to the trade in other fruits. Under ‘Cotton Notes’ will be found references to the opening of a Central Cotton Factory at Grenada and to proposed cotton experiment plots at St. Lucia. We also publish an interesting extract from Sir George Watt’s lecture on the Improvement of Cotton. This extract deals particularly with the history of cotton in the West Indies. The short extract on page 166 describing the methods adopted in the Philippines for the extraction of pine-apple fibre is likely to be of interest as indicat- ing a possible new industry for the West Indies. In the article on Paris green and London purple a brief comparison is given between these two insecti- cides, either of which might be used for the cotton worm. On the whole, however, better results are likely to be obtained from the use of Paris green. Exports of Northern Nigeria. According to the Colonial Report on Northern Nigeria tor 1902, the principal exports are rubber, shea nuts and shea butter, palm kernels, ivory, gum arabic, wood oil, and ground nuts. Shea butter is the product of a tree known as Butyrospermum Parkii, belonging to the natural order Sapotaceae. The value of the exports of shea nuts and shea butter amounted in 1902 to £15,205, against a total of £32,651 in the previous year. The failure was due entirely to natural causes, and the crop is expected to recover itself. The exports of rubber were valued at £21,927, of palm kernels at £10,481, and ground nuts at £1,958, $$$ + ——_§_ A Stitch in Time. Those about to plant cotton are advised to take precautions in good time to secure supplies of Paris green and lime in order to destroy the caterpillars which attack cotton. The proportions to be used are 1 tb. of Paris green and 6 th. of slaked lime. These are to be dusted on the cotton plants directly the worms appear. Local merchants are being asked to import and keep in stock the necessary supplies of Paris green and lime, from whom cotton-planters can purchase at reasonable rates and to whom they are advised to make known their wants at an early date. Cotton-planters are earnestly urged to provide themselves with supplies of Paris green and lime long before the caterpillars are due to make their appearance: it is only in this way that attacks can be quickly met and the best results obtained from the industry. Fodder Grasses for West Africa. The Bulletin of the Imperial Tnstitute, Vol. II, no. 1, contains an interesting article on the above subject. The particular problems to be solved in the case of West Africa are, it is stated: ‘The provision of fodder during (1) the wet season, and (2) the dry season, the latter being either ensilage, hay, or grasses which yield crops during this time. The plants to be employed must perforce be either native or introduced, but in the first instance attention should be directed to the former,’ Notes are given of the more important fodder grasses recorded from West Africa, where many of them are already held in high esteem. he list includes :—Guinea grass (Panicum maximum), ‘the most important for general purposes’; Para grass (Panicum muticum), a ‘permanent grass for swampy localities’; Barbados sour grass (Andropogon pertusus) and Jamaica pimento grass (Stenotaphrum ameri- canum), for dry regions and on poor soils; Bahama grass or devil's grass (Cynodon dactylon), Jamaica sour grass (Paspalum distichwm), sugar-cane (Saccharum officinarum), ete. “Notes, drawn largely from the West Indian Bulletin and the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture of Jamuica, ave given as to the value of these and other grasses as fodder. Mot. lil sNo: 55, Exports of Dominica. It will be of interest to have on record the following summary of the principal items of export from the island of Dominica during the year 1903 :— Bay leaves, 174 bales, valued at £783 ; logwood and divi-divi, 34 cords (£68) ; fresh fruit to the value of £4,501 ; preserved fruits (including tamarinds and pickled limes), 762 barrels, of the value of £322 ; lime juice (raw), 129,316 gallons, valued at £4,849 ; lime juice (concentrated), 6,670 gallons (£14,175) ; essential oils, 3,081 gallons, of the value of £1,544; sugar (crystallized) 225 tons, valued at £1,890. The exports of fresh fruit included bananas, cocoa- nuts, limes, mangos, pine-apples, ete. ; and the essential oils, bay, lime and orange. The bay oil (valued at £35) was, however, not the product of the island. A _ Vanilla in Pondichery. An article, by M. A. Block, in the March-April issue of L’Agricultwre pratique des Pays Chauds, 1904, gives an account of the trial cultivation of vanilla in French India. The plant was first introduced to the Colonial Garden at Pondichéry in 1879 from Réunion, the area planted being about 15 ares (rather more than } acre). The area was gradually increased, until in 1901, 3 hectares 77 ares (about 94 acres) were under cultivation. The author points out that the cultivation in Pondichéry must be considered an artificial one owing to the unfavourable conditions of soil and climate. Vanilla requires a porous, friable soil, rich in humus, and frequent but moderate rains. In Pondichéry the soil is clayey and for eight months (March to October) there is practically no rain, while torrents from November to February. The cultivation can thus be maintained only by constant care and attention, and by reducing the number of flowers pollinated to ~ a minimum. $< Cotton growing in British Guiana. Correspondence has recently been published in the Demerara press between Mr. E. R. Davson and Dr. Rowland, the honorary secretary of the Berbice Cotton Growers’ Committee. The policy of the committee has been to encourage cotton growing among the peasant proprietors, as stated by Dr. Rowland, ‘in much the same way as the coolie grows rice,....and they have only asked the planter to cultivate an acre or so, just as an example to the farmer.’ In his letter to Dr. Rowland, Mr. Davson remarks that it is a moot point, whether cotton growing should be developed on the large plantation or the small proprietary system, and states that, with a view to settling the point he is having 5 acres planted in cotton on Providence and Bath estates. This will be cultivated on ordinary estate conditions, and will enable sufficient reliable data to be obtained to decide whether cotton is a suitable crop to be taken up on a large scale in the colony. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 169 We have on several occasions expressed the opinion in the Agricultural News that it is desirable that experiments in cotton growing—as in the introduction of any new industry—should, in the first instance, be conducted only by experienced and skilful planters. It is only in this way that we can arrive at reliable data, as to cost of cultivation, yield, ete., which must necessarily be obtained before the industry can satisfactorily be established, and which can be published for the information and guidance of others. a The Culture of Grapes. The Bulletin of the Department of Agricultwre of Jamaica for March contains the report of a lecture on grape vine culture by the Rev. Wm. Griffith, an ardent horticulturist in Jamaica. The lecture, which was one of the recent course for elementary school teachers, contains many valuable hints on this subject which are likely to be of interest to some of our readers, and we therefore make the following brief summary :— The grape vine succeeds well in low-lying situations near the sea. Vines are raised in a variety of ways—from seeds, layers, single buds, and cuttings. The custom in Jamaica is to grow from cuttings with two buds planted firmly in light soil so deeply that the bud just peeps above the surface of the soil. It is a good plan, when the young vine has reached about 8 to 10 feet, to cut off about a foot of the top and so restrict the future growth, keeping both leader and laterals regularly pinched back. As arule the question of the next year’s crop is settled a year ahead. Pruning does not give fruit, it only settles its method of distribution over the surface of the vine. Two systems of pruning prevail—one is the close or spur pruning, and the other is to leave from two to three buds on the cane when pruning in spring. The latter plan gives larger and_ looser clusters, and less thinning is required. The proper time for pruning in Jamaica is between the end of January and the middle of March. If the season is dry and warm, the commencement of pruning may usefully be delayed. After pruning water should be given very sparingly until the buds begin to push, when a copious watering should be given. The next important duty is thinning out the young grapes as soon as possible after the fruit has set. Some varieties, such as Muscat of Alexandria and Muscat Hamburg, give little trouble in this direction, but Gros Colman and many others require from 50 to 70 per cent. of the set berries to be thinned out. With regard to the varieties to be grown there is a wide range for choice. Muscat of Alexandria is a universal favourite. More vines of this variety are grown in Jamaica than of any other. It is by far the best mid-year and late grape in cultivation. Where grapes are grown simply for home consumption, and only one vine can be grown, the Muscat of Alexandria should be selected. Where there is room for two or more vines, Foster’s White seedling, for early use, and Lady Downe’s Seedling or Alicante, for late supply, would be serviceable. 170 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 21, 1904. On the other hand, corrosive sublimate appeared to exercise no such injurious influence. The conclusion is, therefore, that the corrosive INSECT NOTES. Grenada Maribunta. The usefulness of the Grenada Maribunta (Polybia occidentalis) is mentioned in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, p- 200). A mass of these insects hanging to a palm leaf was recently captured in the Botanic Gardens at Grenada. They were probably swarming, as honey bees swarm when they start to establish a new nest. A swarm, or colony, of these insects contains three kinds of individuals—queens, workers and males. The adults feed their young on insects, generally caterpillars, which they partially masticate for them. Sugar-cane Leaf Hopper in Hawaii. In the last issue of the Agricu/tural News we published a brief note on the occurrence of this pest in Hawaii. In the 3ulletin there referred to as having been issued by the Hawaiian Commissioners of Agriculture and Forestry, an interesting account is given, as an appendix, of the chemical treatment of seed-canes containing eggs of the leaf hopper, with a view to destroying these without injury to the cane. The following is a brief summary of the experiments which were carried out by Mr. C. F. Eckart, the Director of the Experiment Station at Makiki :— The chemicals employed in these experiments were hydrocyanic acid gas, corrosive sublimate, and carbolic acid, and the relative resistance of the eggs of the leaf hopper to these was clearly shown. Sections of cane, 8 inches long, were cut from badly affected first-year canes, only such portions being taken as bore evidence of hopper eggs having been recently deposited. The canes were divided into eight lots and treated with corrosive sublimate solution, in various strengths for varying periods ; with carbolie acid, in various strengths for varying periods ; fumigated with hydrocyanic acid gas for twenty- four hours ; finally one lot was left untreated. After this treatment the canes were placed in boxes with tight-fitting glass tops, and the young hoppers which hatched out were counted at intervals. The various solutions of carbolic acid were found ineffective in destroying the eggs. The effect of the other chemicals will be seen from the fact that, although after nineteen days a total of 200 hoppers had hatched from the untreated canes, only one had hatched from the canes treated with corrosive sublimate and one from the lot fumigated with hydrocyanic acid gas A further series of tests was carried out to note the effect of fumigating canes for varying lengths of time, and of merely dipping canes in corrosive sublimate instead of soaking. The gas was found to be very effective in destroying the eggs when the canes were fumigated for periods of six hours and over: treatment for three hours was insufticient. The corrosive sublimate treatment appeared to be most effective when a 2 per cent. solution was used. Further tests to note the effect of the different treat- ments on the germinating power of the canes showed, however, that the length of time that the cane was in contact with the gas had a marked effect on the vitality of the eye. sublimate solution is the most useful agent, since it destroys the eggs and does not affect the germinating power of the cane, Paris Green and London Purple. During the last cotton-growing season Paris green and London purple were recommended in the Agricultural News for use in combating the cotton worm. It may be of interest to our readers to have a comparison of these materials to help in deciding which of them to use. London purple and Paris green are both arsenical poisons ; that is to say, arsenic is the killing agent, and their value as insecticides depends largely on the amount of this element they contain. They are known as stomach poisons, that is, they are effective only when taken into the stomach with food. Paris green is a chemical compound of arsenic, copper and acetic acid, and the higher the percentage of total arsenic and the lower the percentage of free or uncombined arsenic or arsenious acid, the better the insecticide. This is because, as already stated, the killing value of Paris green depends on the proportion of arsenic compounds, and because uncombined arsenic is almost certain to scald the leaves of the plants to which it is applied. London purple is a chemical compound of calcium and arsenic, and is much more variable in composition than Paris green. It is also much more finely divided and much lighter. It contains a lower percentage of total arsenic and, generally, a considerably higher percentage of uncombined or soluble arsenic, and this would have the same burning effect as in the case of Paris green. The fact that London purple is much lighter than Paris green and remains in suspension much longer is in favour of London purple when used in spraying operations ; further, its cost is slightly less. On account, however, of its lower arsenic content, a larger amount will be required to do a given amount of work. Tn using either Paris green or London purple as a spray, quick lime should be added to the mixture, equal weights of lime and poison being used. The free arsenic combines with the lime and is thereby rendered harmless to the leaves, while it retains its killing properties as a stomach poison. When dusted on to the leaves in a dry state, mixed with lime at the rate of one to six, neither of these poisons is likely to cause any serious injury to the plants. It is recommended in spraying operations that the mixture be made up and allowed to stand for from six to ten days before being used, and stirred every day: this gives time for the lime and arsenic to combine. For the same reason it would probably be equally advantageous to mix the poison and dry lime for dusting a few days before using. Briefly stated, then, the characteristics of Paris green and London purple are as follows :— Paris green. London purple. Rather heavy. Coarse. Settles quickly in water. High total arsenic content (56 to 60 per cent.). Low free arsenic content (usually about 6 per cent.). Light in weight. Finely ground. temains in suspension. Low total arsenic content (35 to 44 per cent.). Comparatively high free arsenic content (up to 15 per cent.). Uniform in composition, Variable in composition. Von. III. No. 55. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 171 OTES ard REVIEWS % VEGETABLES AND FLOWERS FROM SEEDS IN TROPICAL, SEMI-TROPICAL AND TEMPERATE CLIMATES: Reading, England: Sutton & Sons. Price 5s. The preface to this work refers to the craving of Europeans in distant lands for English vegetables and flowers. Many of these can be grown in every country of the world : others cannot be grown with any hope of success, except in certain favourable localities. The writers give in this useful handbook of horticulture information as to the requirements of the principal flowers and vegetables, which, it is hoped, will go far towards minimizing failures, as well as loss of time and money in profitless experiments. We feel sure that this work, which has had an excellent reception among horticulturists in England, will be found particularly useful to gardeners—both professional and amateur—in these colonies, where experiments with English vegetables and flowers are so frequently attempted, which, through insufficient knowledge as to the requirements of the plants, often meet with but little success. The growing of English flowers and vegetables has been frequently referred to in the Agricultural News, and it is probable that many persons, who have attempted the culture of them, will find much of value in Messrs. Sutton’s latest handbook. The book is well got up and contains a very large number of good illustrations. . FLOWERING PLANTS AND FERNS: By J.C. Willis, M.A., Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Ceylon. Second Edition, revised and re-arranged in one volume. Cambridge: The University Press, 1904. Price 10s. 6d. The first edition of this work was published in 1897 in two volumes and supplied a long-felt want for a dictionary in a small, handy form for students of botany. From students of economic botany, travellers in the colonies and others, it received a hearty reception. The author states in the preface to the new edition that he has found that the division of the work into two volumes was a mistake; therefore, the whole is now combined in one volume, the first part being shortened as much as possible. On the other hand, a large quantity of new and valuable matter has been added and various other alterations have been made to render the work as complete as possible as a work of reference for botanical students. Chapter IV (‘Economie Botany’) gives a_ useful summary of the principal products of the vegetable kingdom with a list of the principal plants cultivated for these different products. The chapter on the geographical dis- tribution of plants is also of considerable interest. We have much pleasure in giving a hearty welcome to this new edition of a work which we can without any hesitation recommend. Curators of Botanic Stations and lecturers in agricultural science in the West Indies, as well as all others who are interested in botany in these islands, will find Mr. Willis’ work extremely useful for purposes of reference. DEPARTMENT NEWS. With the approval of the Secretary of State for the Colonies the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture will be absent on duty in the United Kingdom from June 4 next. During the absence of the Commissioner, Professor d’Albuquerque, M.A., F.L.C., F.C.S., will be authorized to sign official correspondence. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture pro- ceeded on a tour in the Southern Islands on Monday, May 9. He landed at St. Vincent and visited the Central Cotton Factory which was working in a satisfactory manner. He afterwards proceeded to Grenada landing there on Tuesday, May 10. He was present at the opening of the Cotton Factory, erected by Mr. L. R. Mitchell, on Thursday, May 12, and attended the inaugural meeting of the Grenada Agricultural and Commercial Society (his Excellency Sir Robert B. Llewelyn in the chair) and delivered an address. On the return voyage Sir Daniel Morris took part in a conference of the cotton growers of St. Vincent held in the Council Chamber (his Honour the Administrator in the chair) on Saturday, May 14. He landed at Barbados early en the morning of the 15th. Mr. L. Lewton-Brain, B.A., F.L.S., Mycologist and Lecturer in Agriculture on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, proceeded to St. Vincent on May 9. During his visit to that island, he inspected the work carried on at the Agricultural School and the Experiment Station attached to it; also the Botanic Station and the conditions of the plants and the collections and nurseries, in respect of their freedom, or otherwise, from fungoid pests. Mr. Lewton-Brain returned to Barbados on May 15. Mr. Henry A. Ballou, B.Sc., the Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, proceeded to Grenada on May 9. He devoted special attention to the presence of ‘thrips’ on cacao trees and visited estates in St. Andrew, where thrips had been reported to be present. Mr. Ballou also studied the prevalence of ‘ black blight’ at Grenada with the view of offering further suggestions for dealing with it. The results of Mr. Ballou’s visit will be dealt with later. He returned to Barbados on May 15. Dr. Longfield Smith, Lecturer in Agricultural Science at Harrison College. Barbados, in connexion with the Imperial Department of Agriculture, who has been delivering a course of lectures on agricultural science to teachers in elementary schools in Bermuda, returned to Barbados in 8.8. ‘Ocamo’ on May 12. Mr. George 8. Hudson, Agricultural Instructor at St. Lucia, was a passengeron the R.M.S. ‘La Plata’ for England on leave of absence. During Mr. Hudson’s absence, Mr. G. A. Deveaux will act as Agricultural Instructor. 172 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. GLEANINGS. The Central American rubber tree is flowering for the first time in Montserrat, at the Harris Station. The United States Agricultural Appropriation Bill, as finally passed both houses, involves a total expenditure of $5,902,040. (American Gardening, April 16, 1904.) Four and three quarter pounds of vanilla beans cured at the Agricultural School at Dominica have been received by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. The beans are extremely well cured, and altogether the sample is a very satisfactory one. At the usual monthly meeting of the Jamaica Board of Agriculture held on April 12, it was reported that orders for 6,900 tb. of cotton seed had been received and further orders were being received daily. Half a ton of seed had therefore been cabled for, It is notified in the Grenada Gazette that his Excellency the Governor has appointed Mr. W. E. Broadway, Curator of the Botanic Station, to be the authority to determine whether any plants, vegetables and fruits, intended for importation into the colony, are diseased. Mr. John Belling, B.Sc., writes from St. Kitt’s advising those planting roses to choose, if practicable, the varieties recommended by Mr. Cousins as most suitable for Jamaica (see Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 260). Most American florists supply them at 10c. each. Mr. A. J. Jordan, Curator of the Botanic Station at Montserrat, reports results of experiments to test the best varieties of sweet potatos for the island. The varieties giving the best results were ‘ Caroline Lea,’ ‘Mama,’ ‘ Red Bourbon,’ ‘ White Gilkes,’ and ‘ Playwell.’ According to a report furnished by Messrs. Ide and Christie, the well-known Fibre Brokers of London, the average prices per ton of sisal hemp during the last seven years has been as follows: 1897, £16 6s. 8d. ; 1898, £27 18s. 4d. ; 1899, £34 4s. 2d. ; 1900, £35 8s. 4d. ; 1901, £32 11s. 8d. ; 1902, £43 1s. 8d. ; 1903, £36 6s. 8d. In reference to the note in the Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 156, respecting the hand-power cotton gin at the Agricultural School at St. Lucia, the St. Lucia Gazette contains a notice inviting growers of Sea Island cotton to make use of the gin. Application is to be made to the Agricultural Superintendent, who will explain the conditions under which permission may be granted for the free use of the gin. May 21, 1904. Mr. W. E. Broadway writes that the so-called Asparagus fern (Asparagus plumosus) is fruiting at the Government House grounds, Grenada. Lach fruit is green-coloured, containing a hard, round, black seed. Young plants are springing up spontaneously around the mother plant. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture has been informed that the Board of Directors of the West India and Panama Telegraph Co., Ltd., has decided to resume quoting in the public telegrams ‘middling Upland cotton’ as well as Sea Island cotton. A silver challenge medal has been presented by the Trinidad Agricultural Society for competition among the schools of the colony at the school shows. The medal was won this year by the Couva Government school, and it was handed to the winner by his Excellency the Acting Governor on May 9. Arrangements have been made for lectures and demon- stration lessons on agricultural science for elementary school teachers in British Guiana. Teachers who have passed the examination in agricultural science will have an opportunity of attending a class for practical work in the Bourda School Garden and a course of demonstration lessons at the Government Laboratory. Lectures in agricultural science will also be given in Essequebo and Berbice. Efforts are being made in Jamaica to develop the sheep- breeding industry. A large number of sheep are annually imported for the use of the troops. It is thought that sufficient sheep should be raised locally to supply this demand. The Agricultural Society has taken the matter in hand, and the Secretary is endeavouring to obtain information from sheep breeders as to the size of their flocks and the number of fat sheep they are likely to have for sale. In the annual report on the sanitary condition of St. Kitt’s-Nevis, Dr. Fretz states: ‘ Filariasis is an affection extremely prevalent in this presidency. As far as is known, the only cause of the distribution of malaria and filaria is the mosquito special to each disease, and as the subject is being made known far and wide, it it reasonable to expect that in the near future these diseases may become very much less common.’ According toa pamphlet on wheat growing in Canada, recently issued by Dr. Wm. Saunders, Director of the Canadian Experimental Farms, it is estimated that there are 171 million acres of land fit for settlement in Western Canada, of which 5 millions are now under cultivation. The: present production of wheat and other grains is estimated at 125 million bushels, and the possible wheat production at 800: million bushels. The Jamaica Leader is urging the peasantry to grow castor oil plants. A local soap factory, which has for some years been using cocoa-nuts through inability to obtain castor oil seeds, and which is at present unable to buy cocoa-nuts on account of the hurricane, is now offering 4s. a bushel, or 8s. 4d¢. per 100 tb., for castor oil seeds. It is pointed out that these might be produced in preference to corn. The oil nut plant bears soon and goes on bearing for several years without re-planting. Vor. Ill. No. 5d. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 173 WEST. INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following notes on the drug and spice sales in the London Market during the month of March last have been contributed by Mr. J. R. Jackson, A.L.S.:— In the drug and spice markets little or nothing has occurred during the month to call for any special observation with regard to the chief West Indian products. Interest continues to be centred in camphor, menthol, and other productions of Japan. A few West Indian products, however, such as kola and arrowroot, may be mentioned in regard to the price asked for the first, and with reference to the quality of the second. KOLA. Thus, at the first drug auction on March 3, 14 packages of kola were offered, though none found buyers, the prices asked being 33d. per Ib. for African, and 7d. for fair bright washed West Indian. No other offerings of West Indian were made during the month, but on the 30th. there was a demand for the cheaper qualities of West African at from 41d. to 43d, which were almost unobtainable. ARROWROOT, With regard to arrowroot, 94 barrels of good manufac- turing St. Vincent were disposed of at the sale on March 3, at 13d. per ib., which price was maintained throughout the month. On the question of the quality of arrowroot, the following paragraph recently appeared in the Chemist and Druggist:—‘We understand that the public analysts are about to pay attention to arrowroot, and we should not be surprised to hear that some prosecutions are to take place shortly.’ It is reported that some of the importers of arrowroot have decided in future to sell the article . Molasses sugars, 89’, 2}3c. per tb INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,—May 4, 1904.—Messrs. Brnnerr Bryson. & Co., Lrp. Motasses—l4e. per gallon (Imperial). Sugar—$1°60 per 100 th. Barbados,—May 7, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garraway & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°25 to $3°60 per 100 tb. Cacao—$11-00, to $12°50 per 100 Th. Cocoa-Nurs—$12°00 per M. for husked nuts. Corree—Jamaica, $9°00 to $10°00 ; ordinary Rio, 312-00: per 100 th. Hay—95e. to 96e. per 100 th. Manvures—-Nitrate of soda, $60°00 to $65°00; Ohlendorff’s. dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $76°00 to 85°00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Motrasses—?23e. per gallon (puncheon included). Oxtons—Madeira, (bunched) $3°00 to $4:00 ex store > Bermuda, (loose) $1°30 to $1°90, ex Dahomé, per 100 tb. Poratros, EncitisH— Nova Scotia, $2°00; Bermuda, $4:10- per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°65 to $4°75 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 Tb. SuGcar—in hhds., 89°, $1°65 (packages included). Dark Crystals, 96°, $2°05 per 100 Ib. British Guiana,—May 5, 1904.—Messrs. WueTine & RicHrer. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. 3aLata—40c. to 42c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 15e. per tb. Cassava Srarcu—$6°50 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$8°00 to $10°00 per M. CorrrE—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 13c. per th. (retail). —Creole, 12c. per tb. Duat—New, $4:70 to $4°90 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—80ce. to $1°08 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks. included). Oxtons—5e. to Ge. per th., ex store; Garlic, Te. to 8e. Pea Nours—Curacoa, 4c. ; American, 5$c. per tb. (retail). PrantarNs—25c. to 50c. per bunch. Poratos, ENGLisH—$3°25 to $3°50 per barrel. Rice-—Ballam, $4°60; Creole, $4°50 per 177 th., ex store. Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1°20 per barrel ; $1°00 per bag. Tannras—$2°28 per barrel. Yams—White, $1°92 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $2°10; Yellow, $2°30 to $2°40; White, §3:00 to $3°50; Molasses, $1°60 to $190 per 100 th. Timber—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per eubie foot. Waxtaba SHincLes—$3'00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. Messrs. Gorpon, GRANT & Co., and Messrs. EpGar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary to Good Red, $1275 to $15-0) ; Estates, $12-90 to $13°25 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nuts—-$20-00 per M., f.o.b., large selected peeled in. bags. Cocoa-Nur Mrat—l}e. per Ib. Cocoa-Nur Om—58e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, 6je. to Te. per th. Copra— $2-75 per 100 th. ONIONS “40 to $2°80 per 1CO tb. Motasses—-No quotations. Poratros, ENciisH—$1°70 to $1°80 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4:20 to $440; White Table, $5°00 to- $5°75 per bag. Sucar--White Crystals, $3°25; Yellow Crystals $2°25 ;. Molasses Sugar, $2°00 to $2°10 per 100 Tb. : 1 Vou. Ill No. 55. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 175 Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN. A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume J. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes IT and III. Price in original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. Nos. 1 and 2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton Cultivation (out of print). No. 4. Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the West Indies. Price 6d. each number. Post free, 8d. Volume V. No. 1. West Indian Starches ; Experiments with sweet potatos at Barbados; Fruit industry of Jamaica; Lemon industry in Sicily; Birds of St. Vincent; ete. Price 6d. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work .on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied :— (3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd. Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 43d. ) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. ) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 2) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 3 ) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 25d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 2}d. (21) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (22) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part II. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (23) Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (24) Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (25) Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (26) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. (27) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (28) Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses.. Price 3d. Post free, 34d. (29) Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING,’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s. 6d. Postage in either binding, 33d. extra. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS’ A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘ Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 1}d. The subscription price, including postage, is 1s. 73d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and II complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. All applications for copies dre to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department. Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: THe West [npis CommMirTes, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. arbados: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Toe EpucationaL Suppiy ‘Company, 16, King St., Kingston. ritish Guiana: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Trinidad: Messrs. Murr, MarsHatit & Co., Port-of-Spain. Tobago: Mr. C. L, Puscemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., “The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. ‘St. Lueca: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, ‘Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F, DUVERNEY & Co., Market St., Roseau. Afontserrat : Mr. W. LLEWELLYN WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Matong, St. John’s. Sé. Kitt’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Wevis: Mr. 8. D. Manone, ‘Charlestown. Bahamas : Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. 176 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. May 21, 1903s THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE ees A Eee Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, (72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ft CACAO.” DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. BY a J H HARE. F.L S JUST ISSUED: 5 ; ea NEW EDITION. ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. V, NO. 1). } a To be obtained of all Agents. A TREATISE ON THE CULTIVATION, CURING AND Price Gd. Post Free, 8d. COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Price 3s.) per copy. Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown Barbados. London, E.C. FOR COTTON GROWERS : ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. IV, NO. 4) Containing fnll report by Sir K.C.M.G., on yisit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. Daniel Morris, — D.Sc., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., f AO Yh ord mae - ost LANs A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. BARBADOS, JUNE 4, 1904. Price ld. CONTENTS. Pace. PAGE. Agricultural Societies :— Educational :—- Grenada - «. «. 178} St. Vincent Agricultural Arbor Day at Jamaica ... 187 School . 187 Avocado Pear ... . 187 School Gardens seq eye ae 181 Forest Reserves ona. lets) anané soda) on5 | "1 ¢ i F Dodds Reformatory ... 189 eu e ae 181 British Guiana, Instructor Pm 2 ame in Agriculture... ... 186 | Gleanings ... ++ 188 Cotton :— Jamaica Tea... ... ... 180 Barbados, Industry at 182 | Love Vine, Destruction Barbados, recent Sales of 182 Of Panes.) ese . 185 Diseases and Parasites Malaria and Mosquitos 183 of see nee eee eee 183 | Market Reports see JIS Factories at Barbados Minor Industries at and St. Vincent 186 Barbados pesmi} Jamaica... 185 | Notes and Comments ... 184 Lectures on ... 184 | Royal Mail Steam Packet Montserrat ... ... 185 Covmeaaeecse es - «-- 185 New Pamphlet on 185 | Rubber in Samoa ... 190 St. Vincent Factory .. 184 | Sugar Industry :— Hiplamdiss ices ase 182 British Guiana, Seedling Department News... ... 187 canes in ... 180 Department Reports :— Cuba, Experiments in 179 British Guiana alee Queensland, West Indian Educational :-—- Seedling canes in ... 180 Jamaica, Agricultural Toronto Exhibition, 1904 184 Scholarships 187 | West Indian Products ... 190 Minor Industries at Barbados. addressed a special meeting of Barbados planters on Tuesday, May 31, on the minor industries of the island. His Excellency the Governor presided. Sir Daniel Morris offered his congratulations to the planters on the very promising outlook for the sugar industry. While the Department had given, and would continue to give, every possibie attention to this, their main, industry, it was necessary that they should look around for other industries to supple- They would thus be ensuring their prosperity , There were two or ment it. by establishing these industries. three such industries capable of considerable develop- ment—industries for which they might utilize lands not particularly well suited to sugar-cane cultivation. - Tt was of these that he wished to speak that afternoon. First, with regard to the cotton industry. They had shipped to England about 300 bales, and the result was that they had established a reputation in Lancashire for Barbados cotton—for a cotton which was probably superior to any received from the United States. This was the result of about_fifteen months’ experimenting. Last season’s experience had, in one sense, been unfortunate: this was due to poor seed, their inexperience with regard to the right time for planting, and the cotton worm. Still, he considered that the almost pre-eminent position Barbados cotton had attained should encourage them to increase its production. He hoped that some 1,200 acres would be planted next season, and that should increase their export from 300 bales to something like 1,200 bales. a =I THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. June 4, 1904. He would, however, impress upon them that, if they wished to meet with suecess in these experiments, they must plant suitable land, manure and cultivate highly, and keep a keen lookout for the worm and other pests—in fact, the preparation of the land and the attention devoted to cotton must be just as good as that given to cane. With regard to the cotton worm, he would mention that two firms in the island were pledged to keep on hand } ton of Paris green and to sell it at 18c. per Ib. One of the great advantages of this industry was that they could obtain in eight months from cotton a return that would require sixteen months from cane. But the greatest advantage of all was that in Sea Island cotton this and other islands could have an industry specially their own. This was the reason why the Department was advising planters in the West Indies to go in only for Sea Island cotton. It was a maritime plant that would thrive only near the sea. If they were to grow Upland or short-staple cotton, they would soon come into competition with Brazil, Peru, Africa, and other countries, which were capable of enormous development in growing short-staple cotton, In the case of bananas, again, they had what might be considered a special industry, and one, which might be regarded as fairly well established. The requirements of the banana, viz., fairly strong soil and a sheltered position, limited somewhat the area that could be devoted to its cultivation: yet it was estimated that there were over 5,000 acres of land in Barbados suitable for this crop. So far the indus- try had been carried on by the Department, which shipped the fruit, England, and distributed the proceeds. arranged for its disposal in The results had been very satisfactory: during the period from January to April last they had shipped 809 large bunches (of which only 24 per cent. failed to arrive in a perfectly sound condition), and 378 bunches in double crates, The average price paid to the growers for the former worked out at 4s. 13d. per bunch: for the smaller bunches 3s. 53d. was the average price paid. Sir Daniel Morris then read a letter he had received from Messrs. Pink and Sons, in which was emphasized the need for uniformity in the size of the packages and of using crates of the exact size of the bunch. We propose to publish this letter in a future issue, Another industry that appeared to be full of promise was the onion industry. Their experiments last season had not, perhaps, been as successful as they might have wished, but that was to be attributed unfavourable season. The Department had again imported the best obtainable seed from Teneriffe, and, in the case of Barbados, it was proposed to plant about 50 acres. mainly to a somewhat A further matter mentioned was the raising of good The best variety for the West Indies was the Bliss Triumph and seed potatos of this would be obtainable early in September next. crops of English potatos. AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES. Grenada. At a meeting of the Grenada Agricultural and Commercial Society, held on Friday, May 13, (the Governor, Sir Robert B. Llewelyn, presiding), the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture gave an address of which the following is a brief summary :— He expressed pleasure in being present at what he understood was the first meeting of the newly constituted Agricultural and Commercial Society and wished the Society every success. The cacao industry, he observed, was of the annual export value of £300,000; spices, £30,000 ; fruit, £700; kola, £250 ; sugar, £270 ; making a total of £331,220. Owing to the very considerable demand on his time in other islands, not so fortunately placed as Grenada, he had not visited them often during the past year. His interest, however, had not slackened, and now that the local Agri- cultural Department was likely to be re-organized, his visits would be more frequent. As far as the Imperial Department of Agriculture was concerned, it was his desire to maintain and extend its usefulness by every possible means in Grenada. The experiment cacao and other plots started by the Department and worked under its direction by the travelling Agricultural Instructor, had been maintained for four years and he was satisfied that they had proved of considerable value both to large and small cultivators. It was now proposed to start a new series of such plots and carry them on in co-operation with an Agricultural Experiments Committee to be appointed by that Society. Sir Daniel regretted that no Agricultural Show had been held at Grenada since February 1902 and that the grant offered by the Department had been allowed to lapse. He suggested that district committees might be appointed to undertake arrangements for a Show to be held early in 1905, In regard to cotton, he congratulated the island on the opening of Mr. L. R. Mitchell’s cotton gimery at St. George on the previous day. In the southern districts of the island cotton was likely to do well, and it was also possible to develop very considerably the interesting cotton industry carried on for so many years by settlers at Carriacou. In conclusion he pointed out the desirability of starting an Agricultural School to afford a thoroughly practical training in agriculture to the youth of Grenada; and he specially urged the importance of successfully carrying on the school gardens already attached to some of the elementary schools in the colony. Vou. III. No. 56. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 179 SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Experiments in In the last volume of the Agricultwrul News (p. 179) we published the results of some experiments with new canes in Cuba, kindly furnished by Mr. Edwin F. Atkins, the proprietor of Central Soledad, one of the largest sugar plantations in that island. In forwarding the results obtained this year, Mr. Atkins has written to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture as follows :-— I enclose table of our examination of experimental canes, cut in February, which may interest you. The past season has been a dry one and may in part account for the high density of the juices. The one seedling that we have been Cuba. able to bring to maturity, namely, Harvard 208, is a cross between a Crystalline and a Ribbon cane, and the first examination, as you will note, shows a very satisfactory result. You will note by the table that some of your Barbados seedlings, as well as the D. 95, gave the highest polarizations and purity, your B. 208 leading in this respect, but being deficient in juice as shown by extraction. All these canes were ground under the same conditions in a small experi- mental mill operated by a belt from the main shafting of the machine shop. The ‘Caledonia Queen,’ of which we now have quite a fair-sized plot from the third planting, promises very well. EXAMINATION OF EXPERIMENTAL CANES, 1904. | Per cent. c Origin. Name. Extraction. puopent Ol Condition of Canes. Solids. Sucrose. PE Cuba Harvard 208 66°70 18:10 17-20 95-00 Healthy Barbados Cal. Queen 64-00 17-70 16°10 91-00 ns - B. 109 54:50 19-10 16-80 88-00 3 ¥ B. 156 61:90 20:10 18°10 90°10 e Queensland Meira 66°65 19°50 17°50 89°80 ,, first plant poor Red Cavengerie 68°75 16°40 12°20 74:40 Healthy Queensland Dan’! Dupont 60:02 19°80 16°40 82°80 », thin a White Bamboo 70-00 18°70 15:90 85-00 p Barbados B. 208 57:87 21-50 20°40 94°90 Healthy (short 2nd. plant) Demerara D. 95 60:00 21:40 20-00 93°40 Fair, badly sprouted Louisiana La. Purple 63°16 19-40 18:10 93°40 Healthy, rather weak Barbados No. 147 62°50 20°60 18°70 90°80 Healthy Cuba Cinta Morada 60°19 19-90 18-90 94-90 =a Barbados White Transparent 60-00 19°80 18-60 93-90 5, 2nd. plant poor Java Gen. Zambourt 96 61:53 18°10 16°50 91-20 Slightly sprouted i Gen. Zambourt 100 70°00 18°30 16°60 90°70 Healthy, short Cuba Black Mt. 58°33 19-00 15:50 81-60 Thin, badly sprouted ., White 66°66 17-10 15-00 87-70 Poor Jamaica — 68:96 17°60 15-00 85°20 Slightly sprouted Cuba White 65°52 19-70 18-00 91:40 Poor 4 Sitiera 62°50 20°50 19-10 93-20 Healthy Barbados B. 2,885 58°33 20°10 17-70 88-10 ss Queensland Black Fiji 66°67 18-00 14:80 82°20 3 Barbados B. 3,381 60-00 21-10 18°60 88:10 is Mexico Cinta 57°10 20°10 18-70 93°40 Poor, very short Barbados Ducumi B 62°50 18-40 16°80 91-40 Healthy, short Hawaii Lahaina 61°67 19°20 17°50 91-92 Poor Java Warren 36 55°56 18°80 14:90 79°30 Healthy, robust Barbados White Sport 66°67 17-90 15-10 84-40 », short Java No. 66 58°34 19-60 18-60 92-80 Poor 3 No. 137 70:00 20°70 19-20 92-07 Poor, owing to location 5 No. 247 66°67 19-60 17-20 87:70 Healthy on G.Z.P. 100 56°25 21:90 20°60 94:10 Fair, slightly sprouted . No. 239 58°80 14-60 10:10 69°20 Diseased ns No. 223 (red) 64:28 19-60 17°70 90°40 Poor Cuba Crystalline 66°67 19-50 17-00 87:20 Healthy Cinta 62°50 21:00 19°30 91:90 5 Java No. 51 63°52 19-10 17°30 90-60 Excellent 3, Black Louzier 311 58°62 21-20 18-20 85:90 Poor, owing to location us No. 223 yellow 60-00 18°70 16°40 87-70 Poor, borers 180 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. June 4, 1904. SUGAR INDUSTRY (Continued). Seedling Canes in British Guiana. The following interesting information in regard to the experimental cultivation of Seedling canes at Diamond Plantation is taken from a letter received from the Manager, Mr. John M. Fleming, dated March 24 last :— For the short grinding just completed here last week, 605 acres of Bourbon and 104 aeres of B. 208 were reaped. All of these canes suffered from a deficiency of rain in January to the middle of March, when they were young, and later on, from the middle of April to the middle of July, from excessive wet. ‘This made them stunted, and in the arrowing season almost every individual Bourbon cane flowered : B. 208 arrowed more than in the previous year, but still not nearly to the same extent as Bourbon. It exhibits, however, a marked tendency to sprout at the eyes after the arrowing period. The Bourbon cane yielded an average of 1°91 tons sugar per acre: the B. 208, 3 tons per acre, or about 57 per cent. more. This isa very much greater difference than I have hitherto observed, and is due to the stunted crop of Bourbon. Tt is an interesting record, but by no means expresses the comparative values of the two varieties in a year more suited to the Bourbon. The quality of cane juice from each was excellent, and far better than is usual in Demerara. The following table gives the results cf growing Bourbon and seedlings, for 1901, 1902, and 1903 on this plantation :— 2 , a The following is | Sellen BS a further expression ee | OU es : of opinion from Mr. | zls=/]8 = Fleming in regard to Silas | = 29 | 5 cane B 208:— =, ae zs = be = B. 208 is in ny ee: | Seo | 69 = opinion the best cane you | SLs IS have given us so far. I = | SS | have just finished reaping at | + nearly 100 acres of it, | ee ae eT and notwithstanding the Vie srs pee ccna ae fact that after they were tas eeaa|eoe| a planted in January 1903, Sear) 5 they encountered a severe Sen aes ==) | = 4 droughtand some months Wl tS) | Seierk | sS 2 later an exceptionally NE 1 OD heavy rainy season, and 2/9 a S|. mo were in consequence not [oe eS i a heavy crop, they were oS RCO era still a long way better == = than Bourbons grown a {ES Re under similar conditions. alan lal An objectionable feature ae + of this variety is a aloo |s 3 marked tendency to S Sao = 4 sprout at the eyes after = es — || 3, | the arrowing season, or = 2 S z S 2 when its growth has from || Se lias ‘ any cause been tempora- a | as |e rily checked. A very open | ov strong point in its favour ey Sais) that invevery trial 1 2 BS td = 3 have made of it I have 23 s 35 invariably found the op en _| juice of excellent quality. West Indian Seedling Canes in Queensland. Mr. Edward Grimley, Secretary of the Queensland Acclimatization Society, has forwarded to Mr. J. R. Bovell the following newspaper extract relating to seedling canes (B. 147, B. 156, B. 176) sent him some time ago. It will be seen that B. 147 gave particularly good results, 23°40 per cent. of ‘ possible obtainable cane sugar’ (a local term signifying 1ts marketable qualities) being recorded :— At the last meeting of our council the following analyses of sugar-cane were read. The canes were grown by Mr. J. G. Robbins, Mayfield, Mowbray River, Port Douglas. They are some of the canes this society imported some years ago from the West Indies, and were at that time the best of the seedlings raised in Barbados and Demerara, and which we distributed to some forty or fifty plantations all along the eastern coasts. At first they did not seem to do well, and I am now waiting for particulars of analyses from various sources. If they are found to do as well at other places as with Mr. Robbins, a great stride has been made in the fight between cane and beet. All these canes have been found in the West Indies to give a good tonnage to the acre, ranging mostly about 30 tons. ANALYSIS OF SEEDLINGS (JUICE). ) | t ] | Fe 2| Lo | = Bo lees ae BOP oe lies a (88) 2 |. 2 |e) a ares TE Es] a | iee x = ips = s Q |e) & | 3 | 50 | 6! |) aloe = m AR!) O | & | O | & |e D. 145 (R) 16-8 10691) 9:3/13-50 180 1°50 80-4, 11-85 (D. 115 (P)|L6°6 |1-0682|} 9°2}14-10) 1-44) 1:06 84-0) 12-85 /D. 116 (R)|18-7 |1-0779) 10-4|16-30| -74) 1-66 87-2! 15-10 IB. “(R), 10842) 11-0)17°80} +38) 1-62 89-9) 16.80 3. ) 19788] 10°5)16-90) +36) 1:24 88-9] 15-85 iB. yi: 11088] 14:1/24:10) -20) 1-20) 84:5) 23-40 ID. Ne 10954) 12°6)20°10} +96) 1-64 88-5) 18-80 D. ))23-20]1°0977| 12°8)21-20) -20) 9-77) 91-4] 20:20 ‘Dz )I: 1:0968] 12°7|21-10] -72/ 1-18) 91-7| 20°15 3. y): 1-1002} 13°5)22-80| +38) 1-22) 93-4] 22-00 3. i: 10977] 12°S/21-70| -39) 1-11) 93:5) 20-05 * Description of cane: (R) Ratoon. (P) Plant. The first five were cut on July 14, and the balance on October 4. JAMAICA TEA. The Jamaica Gleaner quotes as follows from the Financier :— The culture of tea seems destined to become an important industry in the island. The experimental stage was passed last year, when 5,030 Ib. was the crop ; this year 15,000 tb. were produced and it is confidently predicted by those engaged in the business that inside of five years an annual production of 250,000 Ib. willbe attained. Each year in December the plant is cut off about 8 inches above the ground, and, as it throws out its bud and leaf-bearing shoots, the buds are nipped off every two or three weeks through the year and the curling, fermenting and curing processes contribute to the making of the marketable product. That it meets the requisite standard of quality would seem to have been fully demonstrated, for the expansion of facilities on a large scale is in progress. vil 4 "Vor. III. No. 56. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. WEsr INDIAN FRUIT. BARBADOS BANANAS. The following is an extract from a letter from the Secretary of the West Indian Club (W. A. M. Goode, Esq.), dated London, May 2, addressed to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies :— I at once put your kind suggestion into execution and at the last Club dinner, held on April 27, we enjoyed the Barbados bananas and sweet potatos sent up by Messrs. Pink & Sons. Some twenty or thirty members were present and all expressed themselves as highly pleased with the quality of the product : the bananas were especially good. They were all labelled ‘Barbados,’ so that the island got full credit, and in addition I made a little speech in which I informed those present how the bananas came to be on the table. I have written Messrs. Pink saying that I shall be glad to help them in any way I can, and Mr. Rutherford, of Wilkinson & Gaviller, who presided at the dinner, has also written to them and sent a list of names of people to whom they might send samples and get business. Several merchants here that night expressed gratified surprise at the quality of the bananas, and I have no doubt from what I hear, that the Barbados trade in bananas will profit by your suggestion to the West Indian Club. HANDLING AND PACKING FRUIT. Mr. R. L. Young writes in the current number of the Bulletin of the Jamaica Department of Agri- cultwre on the subject of handling and packing fruit as follows :— Let me commence by stating that most of my experience in handling fruit of all kinds, more especially of citrus fruit, has been in cultivated groves; as I have never had any satisfactory results in handling our wild citrus fruit, owing to the inability to control the labourers, whilst scattered all over the pastures. In a cultivated grove the trees are followed row by row, one person with clipping sheers with round points, meant for that purpose, whilst a child follows with a padded basket to receive the fruit. Any fruits slipping from the hand or touching the ground ever so lightly are rejected. The fruits are not taken from the trees in one picking, the thoroughly ripe ones are selected first, a preference being given to those that are clean, bright coloured, well shaped, firm, and smooth, as most likely to command good prices; at the same time, by this method the trees are lightened, and assisted to bring on the later fruit. Another advantage of our cultivated over the wild fruits is that they can be stem cut right away from the trees, thereby avoiding the very common danger of tearing the skin, when the gatherers have to climb the trees to pull them. The fruit should be picked at least three or four days and spread out in the packing house, hefore attempting to pack them, allowing the rind to shrink and lose its surplus moisture. If packed immediately after picking they will sweat in the boxes, even at an ordinary temperature, and the contents of the box become damp, and are in danger of rot and decay. Another advantage gained by allowing the fruits to shrink is that the skin becomes more pliable and yielding, and the fruits are better able to stand the pressure of packing, at the same time bringing to light any with imperfections, such as prickle marks, scratches, or bruises, which can be rejected forthwith. The packing of oranges has now been reduced to a fine art, and the box usually used is the standard one of 26 x 115 x 114 inches, boxes being much preferred to barrels, owing to greater convenience in handling them. The oranges are then wrapped and packed. The old system of bringing one orange directly on the top of the other has been discarded. They are now alternated, so that each orange comes over the space between two, giving the whole more solidity and elasticity, and the fruit, as a result, sustains less injury from rough handling. The sizes of the oranges are regulated, a big and a small one never being put in the same box. For this purpose a sizer is used, which helps to simplify matters very much, boxes being arranged to hold 96, 112, 126, 150, 176, 200, 216, 250. The fruits are then packed closely and firmly in the box, so that there will be no room for them to tumble about and be bruised. Next, a thin cover is placed on, and held in position by two thin cleats across the top ends, the centre of the top being left free. The distinguishing brand is then placed on either end, and the number contained in the box is carefully printed on the side. The Moon Flower. We should be glad to obtain information as to the occurrence in the West Indies, in the wild or cultivated state, of the Moon Flower, Ipomoea Bona-Nox (Calonyction speciosum). As the juice of this plant can be used for coagulating the latex of Castzlloa elastica, it is desirable that the vine should be examined with a view to determining its constituents. —t ios) bo THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. June 4, 1904. COTTON NOTES. Recent Sales of Barbados Cotton. The following particulars have been furnished by the Secretary of the British Cotton Growing Associa- tion in respect of the sales of Barbados cotton shipped from that island from February 6 to March 26 last :— (1) 19 bales shipped per 8.8. ‘Darien’ and advised in yonr letter of February 6. All this is sold ; the 16 bales of Sea Island at 16d. to 163d. and the 3 bales of Egyptian at 83d. A report on this lot was sent to you on April 14. The net proceeds were £242 4s. 3d. (2) 14 bales shipped per 8.8 ‘Wanderer’ and advised in your letter of February 19. All this cotton is sold; 13 bales of Sea Island at 16}d. and the 1 bale of Egyptian (No. 27) at 83d. I enclose valuation of this shipment. The net proceeds of this consignment were £220 16s. 6d. (3) 41 bales of cotton and 9 bags of seed shipped per S.S. ‘La Plata’ and advised in your letter of February 27. All this cotton is sold; the 36 bales of Sea Island at 15d. to 163d. and the 5 bales of the Egyptian at 8$d. ‘The seed is unsold. A report on this consignment was forwarded to you on April 12. The net proceeds were £625 10s. 8d. (4) 43 bales of cotton and 17 bags of seed shipped per S.S. ‘Tagus’ and advised in your letter of March 12. All this cotton is sold with the exception of No. 98; the 34 bales of Sea Island sold at 14d. to 163d. and the 9 bales of Egyptian at 83d. A report on this shipment was forwarded to you on April 12. It realized net £669 5s. 4d. (5) 40 bales and 2 bags of cotton and 20 bags of seed shipped per 8.8. ‘Atrato’ and advised in your letter of March 26. All the cotton is sold; the Sea Island at 16d. to 164d. and 3 bales of Egyptian at 83d. The 2 bags of native cotton have been sold at 8$d. Valuation and report on this shipment are enclosed herewith. Barbados Cotton Industry. The following report from the Cotton Committee of the Barbados Agricultural Society was handed in at the regular meeting of the Society held on May 28 :— The committee appointed at a meeting of the Society held on February 6, 1903, to co-operate with the Imperial Depart- ment of Agriculture for the West Indies in its endeavour to establish a cotton and onion industry in Barbados, begs to submit the following interim report on the cotton industry. Later on, when the cotton season is over, the cotton shipped and the proceeds divided, the Committee trusts to be in a position to present a fuller report, giving a short history of the movement from its inception, together with a detailed account of the working of the factory, the total cotton ginned, ete. After extensive additions had been made to the factory towards the close of last and the beginning of this year, the Central Cotton Factory was re-opened by his Excellency the Governor on Monday, January 25 last. Shortly before the completion of the factory, Mr. Seabrook the ginning expert who had been engaged by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture specially in connexion with the cotton factory at St. Vincent, arrived in Barbados on his way to that island, and Sir Daniel Morris was good enough to allow him to remain in this colony for a fortnight so as to render assistance in setting the gins and explaining generally how cotton factories should be equipped and run. From the time the factory was started in January to the present time 225,224 tb. of seed-cotton have been ginned, yielding 64,909 tb. or 28°82 per cent. of lint, and 156,990 tb. of seed ; the loss during ginning amounted to 3,325 Tb. or nearly 13 per cent. of the total weight of seed-cottun, Of the seed 55,105 tb have been crushed, and 12,284 th. belonging princi- pally to peasant proprietors, have been shipped. The total expenses to date, including the money advanced to small proprietors, are £417 5s. The cost of crushing the seed at 6c. per 100 tb. is £6 17s. 9d. Since the beginning of the present ginning season 241 bales and 5 bags of cotton have been delivered. Of the bales 230 have been shipped and 11 delivered to the owners or their agents, while the 5 bags have been shipped Of the bales shipped 200 were of Sea Island, 28 of Egyptian, one of Upland and one of mixed Sea Island and Upland cotton, and three of the bags were Sea Island and two of cotton obtained from native plants. There is at present in the factory in small quantities belong- ing to different people sufficient cotton to make about 6 bales These small lots will be kept untilthe owners send in moreseed- cotton, when they will be baled along with the new lots of lint. There are also at present 79 bags of seed-cotton in the factory waiting to be ginned as soon as sufficient is received to keep the factory going for two or three days. Of the cotton shipped account sales have been received for 117 bales, realizing £1,760. Details as to the result of these shipments will be found elsewhere on this page. Upland Cotton. The following article on the cultivation of Upland cotton in the West Indies is taken from the Barbados Advocate: A writer in the Votce of St. Lucia pleads for the cultivation of Upland instead of Sea Island cotton in St. Lucia. The latter, he says, requires to be treated as a hot-house plant, and although it may bring double the price of Upland, it is too expensive to cultivate. He argues that St. Lucia should continue to cultivate Upland and go on experimenting with Sea Island. The question is purely a commercial one. If the good folk of St. Lucia can establish a better paying industry by growing Upland cotton than by cultivating Sea Island, they would be silly not to do so. But they can hardly expect the Imperial Department of Agriculture to advise and assist them in growing the inferior though hardier plant, when the results of the Department’s investigations all point to the inadvisability of such a course. At the present high market rate, there is a bare possibility that any other than the best lint might pay the cost of cultiva- tion in the West Indies and leave a margin of profit. But the cotton industry of these colonies is not intended to meet a temporarily inflated market. Unless it can hold its own when prices get back to their normal level, the money and time spent on its establishment would be wasted. There is abundant evidence that in the near future the supply of cotton will have once more overtaken the demand, and in that case the prospects of Upland cotton becoming a remuner- ative West Indian industry are not likely to be specially roseate. It is because Sir Daniel Morris is working for the future as well as for the immediate present, that he counsels cotton growers to concentrate their energies on the cultiva- tion of the Sea Island variety. That the experimenter will meet setbacks in the initial stages of the establishment of an industry is only what is to be expected; but such difficulties are seldom regarded as sufficient to justify the abandonment of the enterprise, unless it was entered on as a mere speculation without regard to the history of the plant or the suitability of soil and climate to its adaptation, The vast amount of literature on cotton issued periodically by the Agricultural Department shows how carefully that part of the question has been gone into, and how solid are the grounds on which the Commissioner bases his reasons for Vou. III. No. 56. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 183 advising that Sea Island be cultivated in preference to any other variety. If, then, the St. Lucia cultivators reject this advice and go in for Upland cotton, we believe they will still be afforded assistance by the Commissioner, but it must necessarily be discriminative. Otherwise, cultivators in other colonies, believing that the cultivation of Upland cotton was being carried on not merely with the sympathetic assistance but on the advice and with’ the active co-operation of the Department, might be misled into abandoning Sea Island and also take to growing the inferior staple. Cotton at Jamaica. The following is an extract from the official report of the meeting of the Board of Agriculture, Jamaica, held on Tuesday, February 16 :— A meeting of the Committee appointed to consider the applications for £5 grants for an experimental acre of cotton, consisting of Hon. W. Fawcett, Mr. H. H. Cousins and the Secretary, Mr. John Barclay, met at Hope Gardens on Wednesday, February 27, at 9.15 a.m. The meeting considered thirty-four applications and after rejecting those which were from good banana districts, chose the following ten, as representing the most suitable districts in soils and climatic conditions :— 1. Miss Marvin, Shortwood, St. Andrew. 2. J. J. Robinson, Stony Hill, 5 3. Arthur J. Webb, Llandovery, St. Ann. 4. The Rey. C. T. Ricard Pedro Plains, St. Elizabeth. 5, A. C. L. Martin, Alligator Pond, Manchester. 6. The Rey. E. A. Arnett, for lower Trelawny, Trelawny. 7. C. R. Taylor, Seere- tary, St. John’s Branch Society, Guanaboa Vale, 8. Thos. H. N. Cripps, Dallas Castle, 9. C. H. L. Nicholson, May Pen, Clarendon. 10. Rowland E. Gillespy, Falmouth, Trelawny. The Secretary read a minute from Mr. Fursdon report- ing that he had entered into arrangements with some Syrians, one of whom had long experience in all the branches of cotton cultivation in Egypt, whereby they could grow cotton as an experiment on 40 to 50 acres of land in the front of his house at ‘Two Mile Wood,’ Hartlands, on very reasonable terms, and he had given him an option to purchase a block of 480 acres of land within the next twelve months. The Board expressed satisfaction that these Syrians had been so encouraged and agreed that everything should be done with a view to facilitate the experiment. The Secretary submitted applications for the use of the steam gin at Spanish Town, from the Hon. T. H. Sharp, Mr. A. J. Webb, the Hon. H. T. Ronaldson, and Mr. Fursdon on behalf of the Syrians. It was agreed to assign the sum of not more than £20 for free grants of cotton seed, and the Secretary was directed to insert the following advertisement under Government notices, viz.:— The Board of Agriculture has decided to spend up to £20 from the grant made by the British Cotton Growing Association in the purchase of Sea Island cotton seed. The Board is prepared to consider applications for free grants of cotton seed on the condition that full reports are made to the Director of Public Gardens, to whom applications are to be made. At the monthly meeting held on Tuesday, March 15, the following business connected with the cotton industry was transacted :— St. Catherine. St. Andrew. The Director of Public Gardens said that he had ordered 2,640 tb. of cotton seed, and, taking into account the orders they had in hand, they would require 335 tb. more. It was decided to give free grants of cotton seed, sufficient to plant 1 acre, to approved applicants and the Director of Public Gardens was authorized to order 1,000 tb. more of Sea Island cotton seed. Applications for the use of the cotton gin were made by the Hons. T. H. Sharp, and H. T. Ronaldson, Messrs. C. A. T. Fursdon, and P. H. Greg. The Chairman moved that the gin be placed with Mr. Fursdon at Hartlands, the Archbishop seconded, and this was agreed to, Mr. Fursdon to gin cotton from the experimental acres and any others offered to a reasonable extent at the standard rate of 14d. per lb. The Chairman stated that he was writing to the British Cotton Growing Association asking for two hand gins which could gin 200 tb. a day. Diseases and Parasites of the Cotton Plant. Under this title there has appeared in the Demerara Argosy a series of four articles, written in a popular and interesting style, intended for the instruction of the cotton planters of British Guiana. The writer mentions the publications of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and of the Imperial Department of Agriculture for the West Indies as the principal sources of his information. The remedies recommended to the cotton growers of British Guiana are the same as those that have been found most useful in the West India Islands. Special stress is laid on the necessity for care and labour on the part of the planters, who are further enjomed to keep a sharp look out for pests and diseases of all kinds and to apply, on their first appearance, the remedies that are recommended. Planters are also warned to have on hand a supply of insecticides, so that they may not be taken by surprise in the event of an outbreak of insect or fungoid attack. It is pointed out in these articles that it is unnecessary for cotton growers to take alarm until some definite trouble arises, and then it is of vital importance to act quickly and intelligently. The importance of maintaining the cotton plants in as vigorous a state of growth as possible by manuring and careful cultivation is emphasized. MALARIA AND MOSQUITOS. At the recent International Congress on Hygiene and Demography held at Brussels, the following resolution regarding malaria was passed :— That this Congress, recognizing the practical importance of the mosquito-malaria theory, would urge on all Govern- ments in malarial countries :— (1) that officials, both civil and military, be required before taking service in such countries, to show evidence of practical knowledge of the theory and its application ; (2) that educational establishments, whether Govern- mental, missionary, or other, in such countries be requested to include in their curricula, instruction of native students in the mosquito-malaria theory and its practical application ; (3) that officials ignorant of the theory or systematically ignoring its practical application be considered as unsuitable for service in malarial countries, ee Paternoster Peas. A correspondent in Berlin is anxious to obtain a quantity of the ‘large paternoster peas (black and red, as large as a cherry).’ These are probably the seeds of Ormosia dasycarpa. 184 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. June 4, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 175 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural stews Vor. III. SATURDAY, NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. The present position of the cotton, banana, and onion industries at Barbados were discussed by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture at a recent meeting of Barbados planters (see editorial). JUNE 4, 1904. No. 56. On pp. 179-80 information is given as to the cultivation of seedling sugar-canes in Cuba, Queens- land, and British Guiana. B. 208 has given good results in Cuba and British Guiana, and B. 147 in Queensland. In our next issue we hope to publish information in regard to the area devoted to varieties of sugar-cane other than Bourbon in British Guiana. Our cotton notes on pp. 182-3 include the report of the Barbados Cotton Committee, the results of recent sales of Barbados cotton, and an account of efforts that are being made at Jamaica. We also publish a report by Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., of Trinidad, on a visit to the Barbados and St. Vincent cotton factories. Mr. Hart gives a fairly detailed account of the equipment and working of these two factories, At the request of the Chairman of the Board of Agriculture, British Guiana, we publish, on p. 186, a notice relating to the appointment of an Assistant Instructor in Agriculture at a salary of S600 per annum. Extracts from the annual report of the Acting Superintendent of Dodds Reformatory, Barbados, and from a report by the Assistant Instructor in Agri- culture in British Guiana on a visit tou the Pomeroon and Moruea districts will be found on p. 189. The report on Dodds Reformatory contains interesting information in respect of the experiments with cotton and onions. These experiments met with very fair success. Toronto Exhibition, 1904. The following is an extract from a letter received from Messrs. Pickford and Black, of Halifax, relative to a West Indian exhibit at the Toronto Exhibition proposed to be held in 1904:— It is our opinion that, because of the very large Fair at St. Louis, it would not be advisable to have a West Indian exhibit at Toronto this year, but to take it up again the following year. Whilst the Toronto Show will, no doubt, be largely attended, still the more extensive exhibition at St. Louis will draw very large numbers, and it would appear to us that an occasional omission of an exhibit, such as the West Indies make, is preferable to running it every year. rr + Seedling Canes in British Guiana. We publish on p. 180 interesting and encouraging information with regard to the success that has attended the growth of seedling canes in British Guiana. Itis worthy of note that at Diamond plantation excellent results have been obtained with B. 208, of which seedling, it will be seen, Mr. Fleming holds a high but discriminating opinion. Mr. Fleming demonstrates, in tabular form, the comparative results of seedling canes and the Bourbon variety during the last three years. ED Oe Lectures on Cotton Cultivation. As already briefly announced in the Agricultural News (Vol. ILI, p. 72), it is proposed during the next few months to have a series of popular lectures on cotton cultivation throughout the West Indies. For this purpose lantern slides have already been prepared, which will serve to illustrate the cultivation of cotton in its various stages. It is hoped that, by means of these addresses, the sympathy and co-operation of all classes of the com- munity will be enlisted, and that the experiments in cotton growing to be carried on during the coming season under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture will thereby be rendered of the greatest value to all concerned. OOD + ae St. Vincent Cotton Factory. In an address given by the Imperial Com- missioner of Agriculture at a conference of cotton planters of St. Vincent, held in the Council Chamber, Kingstown, on Friday, May 14, it was announced that the gross amount of seed-cotton delivered at the fuctory to that date was 91,420 tb. Of this quantity, 82,524 Ib. had already been ginned, producing 23,684 tb. of lint and 59,025 th. of seed. The proportion of lint to seed-cotton was at the rate of 29 per cent. This is a higher rate than usual for Sea Island and is probably due to the presence of a quantity of small-seeded cotton of the Marie Galante type. The earnings of the factory for nine working days, at the rate of 3c. per 100 Ib. of lint, were £148 Os. 6d. The prospects of cotton planting for the next season at St. Vincent are said to be promising. Vou. III. No. 56. Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. The following extract is taken from the opening remarks in the report of the Court of Directors of the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company presented on May 11 last :— In presenting the accounts for the year 1903, the Court of Directors have to report that the trade with the West Indies has continued in a depressed condition, and the rates of freight, both outwards and homewards, have, in many instances, been unremunerative. The action taken by the Colonial Office, in conjunction with the Imperial Depart- ment of Agriculture, for the development of the industries of the West Indies, which it is hoped will help to restore these colonies to their former prosperity, will continue to receive the warm co-operation of the Court, who in this connexion have had pleasure in carrying, free of freight, trial shipments of fruit, cotton, and machinery. This Department deeply appreciates the generous and sympathetic efforts made by the Directors to assist in its work, and is glad of the opportunity of expressing the value of their hearty co-operation in promoting the agricultural development of the West Indies. SS = Cotton Cultivation in Montserrat. A highly successful meeting of planters and small owners was held at the R. C. School at Montserrat on Saturday, May 14, when the Commissioner (his Honour F, H. Watkins) gave a ‘ Plain talk to Small Owners’ on the cotton industry in Montserrat. Mr. Watkins briefly summarized the advantages and disadvantages of cotton cultivation and urged his hearers, should they determine to embark on this new industry, to give their careful attention to various points in connexion with the grewth of cotton and its cultivation for the market. After going into these points in detail, Mr. Watkins impressed upon the growers that they must realize: (1) that cotton requires suitable soil and climatic conditions, and constant and intelligent observation; (2) that this industry should not be embarked upon, unless the growers were determined to throw all their energy and power of observation into the cultivation ; and (3) that if the industry 1s to succeed, unselfish and combined action must be taken to stamp out insect pests and clisease. 2 a Destruction of the Love Vine in Trinidad. On page 342 of the last volume of the Agvi- cultural News we gave a summary of a leaflet, issued in Trinidad, which described measures to be adopted for destroying the parasitic pest known as Love Vine (Cuscuta sp). So serious a menace to the agricultural interests of the island has this pest become, that steps have been taken to deal with it by legislation. Under the Agricultural Protection Ordinance (No. 20 of 1902) inspectors have been appointed who will collect from infested spots and forward for identifi- cation to the Chief Inspector (Mr. J. H. Hart, F.LS.,) portions of the pest. The Chief Inspector will there- THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 185 upon obtain the approval of the Governor to sign an order to destroy the parasite. ‘This order directs the destruction within twenty-one days, by burning or burying, ‘of all that destructive vegetable growth known as Cuscuta or Love Vine now being and growing upon the said land’, Provision is made under the Ordinance for the due carrying out of such order or for prosecution in the case of defaulters. $< n> + a West Indian Bulletin. The first number of Volume V of the West Indian Bulletin has just been published. his contains several articles likely to be of interest in these colonies. The first is a lengthy, but interesting article, by Mr. W. R. Buttenshaw, M.A., B.Sc, in which is brought together a mass of information relative to the starch-producing plants of the West Indies. ‘The text is illustrated by eleven original drawings showing the characteristics of the starch grains in each case. The second article is by Mr. R. Radclyffe Hall, B.A., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., giving the results of experiments in growing twenty-eight varieties of sweet potatos at Barbados under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Other articles are on the Fruit Industry of Jamaica, the Birds of St. Vincent and the Naudet process for extracting cane juice. It may be added that the West Indian Bulletin is on sale by the London and Local Agents of the Department (price 6d., post free 8 + A New Pamphlet on Cotton Cultivation. A pamphlet devoted to cotton cultivation is being prepared and will shortly be issued. This pamphlet, which is arranged in the form of a catechism of cotton growing, is designed especially for the use of peasant proprietors, small settlers and others who require information on this subject in a simple and popular style. It will deal with the essential points in regard to cotton growing in all stages from the preparation of the soil to the preparation of the seed-cotton for the factory. Clear directions will be given as to the sowing of the seed, the proper season for planting, manuring, tillage, and care of the plant during its growth, including minute instructions as to methods of treating the cotton worm and other serious pests of cotton. In this pamphlet will also be giyen directions as to picking and sunning cotton so as to enable growers to obtain the best possible prices for their product. Finally, all the more essential points, to which attention will have to be paid, will be carefully summarized. We strongly advise all cotton growers to obtain this pamphlet as soon as it is issued, and to make themselves thoroughly familiar with its contents: it is only by so doing can they hope to meet with that measure of success which is so heartily desired. 186 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. June 4, 1904. THE COTTON FACTORIES AT BARBADOS AND ST. VINCENT. The following is a report, dated May 17, 1904, by Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Trinidad, on a visit recently made by him to the cotton factories at Barbados and St. Vincent :— On the invitation of Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., and with the approval of his Excellency the Acting Governor, I proceeded to Barbados by the mail of May 6, for the purpose of witnessing the operations carried on in the cotton-ginning factory at Bridgetown, established by the Imperial Depart- ment of Agriculture. Communicating immediately on my arrival with Sir Daniel Morris, I was able to make arrangements to see the gins at work on the morning of Monday, May 10. On arrival at the factory, I was met by Mr. J. R. Bovell, who was kind enough to show me the machines in operation and to explain their working in full detail. As described in the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. IV, p. 317, the Barbados factory consists of six single-action roller Macarthy gins (Platts) and a hand-power baling press. My visit was timed to enable me to see the factory in full work and the first impression I received was the business-like character of all the operations. There appeared to be an abundance of raw cotton waiting to be ginned, and the machines were rapidly turning it into clean and marketable produce, in bales of 250 to 300 tb. each. Mr. Bovell explained that, on the delivery of the cotton, each grower was given a receipt for the gross amount of seed-cotton delivered at the factory, and when the work of ginning was complete, the grower received a statement showing the net weight of lint and seed produced, after deducting for any loss which occurred in the operation. The cotton is at once baled and addressed ready for the market. It is sent on to the British Cotton Growing Association, which undertakes to dispose of the parcels to the best advantage of the producers. The working of the power gins was thoroughly examined, and the most important features were clearly pointed out to me by Mr. Bovell. There appears to be little difticulty in obtaining operatives, and I am informed that they rapidiy acquire the necessary skill. Each gin is attended by one man to feed and one woman to pick and dispose of the cotton as it leaves the machine. The seed is crushed by a roller mill and is returned to the growers for cattle food; most of the present season’s seed has been treated in this manner, as it is intended to use imported seed for the next crop. As the full statistics of the Barbados factory will be published in due course, it is unnecessary to enter into details in this report. It may be mentioned, however, that the cotton appeared to be of excellent quality, and the manipula- tion all that could be desired. The soft and silky cotton coming from each machine at a regular speed, proved that they were working smoothly and well, and at a rate which caused the single baling press to be kept going at its best speed all the time. Having to pay a visit of inspection to the Tobago Botanie Station, I returned by the Intercolonial Steamer, which enabled me to land at St. Vincent and inspect the factory in that island. Sir Daniel Morris being on board, I was able to.accompany him on his visit to the factory, which is situated a short walk from the landing place. The inspec- tion showed an admirably arranged three-story building with six gins at work and plenty of cotton to work upon. This mill, I was informed, is considered by Mr. Seabrook, the American ginning expert, to be fully equal in its arrangements to any in the United States. The factory was in full work. The gins are of three different makes—two Platts, two Dobson & Barlow, and two Asa Lees. The gins, like those at Barbados, are some 40 inches in width, and their capacity has been estimated to be 300 Tb. of lint per hour for six gins, or 50 Ib. per hour for a single gin. The hand gins imported for use in Trinidad are roller gins of Platts make, and are about one-third the capacity of the power gin when driven at the same speed. They can be worked by power and are supplied with parts for that purpose. I was informed that hand gins can never be expected to do as good work as power machines, on account of the unpreventable variation in speed which oceurs with hand labour. The Trinidad hand gins have, however, per- formed all the work they were called upon to perform during the present season, and their work appears to compare favourably with that done in other colonies. If, however, a large area is planted in Trinidad during the coming season, they will not be sufficiently powerful to deal with the crop, and further provision would have to be made to meet the wants of growers. On enquiry I find that in none of the islands are advances made for growing cotton, but that full provision is made for ginning and marketing all that can be produced ; it is considered a better policy to assist the industry by such means than to make direct advances to the growers. I have, in conclusion, to record my appreciation of the kindness of Sir Daniel Morris in inviting me to inspect the working of the cotton factories under his Department, and for the personal trouble he took to ensure that I should make myself fully acquainted with essential details of the machinery and the methods of work which have been so successfully adopted. BRITISH GUIANA. Assistant Instructor in Agriculture. Applications are invited from candidates for the above post, who should be between twenty and thirty years of age. Preference will be given to candidates having knowledge of and experience in the growth of tropical products under the conditions existent on the coast-lands of British Guiana. A knowledge of draining operations is of importance. Candidates must submit with their applications copies of satisfactory certificates of good health and of good character together with copies of not more than three testimonials from their present or former employers. The salary attached to the post is $600 per annum. Duties. To give instruction in practical horti-agri- culture to farmers and settlers in the various districts of the colony, to assist in the inspection and examination of the scholars of primary schools in the elements of agriculture, to assist generally in the supervision of experiments carried on under the auspices of the Board of Agriculture, to assist in the work of the nurseries at the Botanic Gardens and to take part in the general work of the Board. The instructor will be expected to avail himself of the many opportunities which will be afforded him of increasing his knowledge of tropical agriculture, and will be required to undergo a course of instruction in agricultural science at the Government Laboratory. Applications should be addressed to the Deputy Chair- man, Board of Agriculture, Georgetown, British Guiana, on or before August 31, 1904. Vor, III. No, 56. EDUCATIONAL. St. Vincent Agricultural School. Several pupils of the Agricultural School, St. Vincent, will complete their courses, and be leaving in June and September. They will be nineteen years of age and have been in the school for four years. They have received a thorough training in all the operations connected with the cultivation and care of plants, and in the theoretical part of the subject. The Agricultural Superintendent of St. Vincent will be glad to hear from anyone desiring further information as to the character and capabilities of these boys. Agricultural Scholarships at Jamaica. The Leader of May 13 states :— The Board of Agriculture has decided to offer three scholarships of the value of £35 each, tenable at the Govern- ment Laboratory, Hope, next year. The examination will be held on January 15 next, and it is to be hoped that a large number of competitors will come forward in connexion with this excellent move. Tools for School Gardens. A number of tools suitable for school gardens have been specially imported into Barbados by Messrs. C. F. Harrison & Co., at the request of the Imperial Com missioner of Agriculture, and are now on sale at reduced prices as follows : Forks at 3s. 6d. each ; trowels (7 inches) at 1s. 3d. ; weeding forks at 1s.; spades at 3s. 6d.; rakes with from six to twenty teeth, from 6d. to 1s. 8d.; and hoes at Is. Laying out School Gardens. A circular has recently been issued in Grenada in which the Acting Agricultural Instructor makes useful suggestions for the laying out and general working of school gardens. We take the following extracts :— The garden may be laid out in the following manner :-— (a) A narrow bed against the fence all round the inside of the garden: in this might be planted a hedge, for which purpose hibiscus, crotons, etc., are to be recommended. Ornamental climbers might also be trained on the fence. (6) A number of small beds to be utilized for competition among the pupils in growing garden vegetables, ete. (c) Large square beds for specimen plants of all sorts, to be used for purposes of instruction. ARBOR DAY AT JAMAICA. The Director of Public Gardens, Jamaica, has issued a notice that allotments of seedlings of the following trees in bamboo pots would be made to any church, school, or private individual, prepared to plant them out on Victoria or Empire Day (May 24):-— Bread-nut, Cananga odorata, the Carapa tree of Guiana (Carapa guianensis), Cassia Fistula, Cassia siamea, Dillenia indica, Dolichandrone, Eucalyptus, the Silky Oak of Austra- hia (Grevillea robusta), Java Almond, Juniper cedar, Kola- nut, Lignum vitae, Mahoe, Mahogany, JJoringa, Palms, Sandbox, Spathodea, Wild Tamarind, etc. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 187 DEPARTMENT NEWS. As already announced, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies embarks to-day in R.M.S. ‘ Atrato’ for the United Kingdom. The Hon. Francis Watts, B.Se, F.LC., F.C.S., Government Analytical and Agricultural Chemist and Superintendent of Agriculture for the Leeward Islands, arrived at Barbados in the 8.S. ‘ Orinoco’ on Saturday, May 28, to confer with the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture on matters relating to the work of the Department in the Leeward Islands. Mr. Watts returned by 8.8. ‘Ocamo’ on Tuesday, May 31. Mr. W. R. Buttenshaw, M.A., B.Sc., Scientific Assistant on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, will leave Barbados on Monday, June 13, on an official visit to the Northern Islands. Mr. Butten- shaw will visit St. Lucia, Dominica, Montserrat, Antigua and St. Kitt’s, and is expected to return to Barbados by 8.8. ‘Dahome’ on June 24. AVOCADO PEAR. In the last issue of the Agricultural News (p. 167) we gave an extract from Furmers’ Bulletin No. 169 containing information as to the composition of the red sorrel and the Surinam cherry. From the same source we take the following account of the avocado pear :— The alligator pear, also known as aguacate, avocado, midshipman’s butter, ete., is the fruit of Persea gratissima, a tree native to tropical America, but now widely grown throughout tropical countries. The principal commercial supply in the markets of the United States comes from Jamaica, though there is a considerable and increasing production of this fruit in southern Florida, both on the mainland and on the keys. Small quantities are also grown in the wilder regions of southern California. The West Indian type, which is the only one found in the markets of eastern United States, yields a fruit of about the size of the largest pears. The varieties differ considerably in form, and range from deep purple to light green in colour. Generally speaking, they are not unlike a medium-sized egg-plant fruit in form and appearance. The portion eaten is a pulp which surrounds a single large seed. In texture the pulp is soft and somewhat like butter, and is perhaps most commonly used for salad making. The Mexican type of alligator pear, which is now being tested in California and Florida, is a smaller tree and yields a much smaller fruit. It is, however, reported to endure several degrees of frost, whereas the West Indian type is injured by a temperature of 32° F. According to Woods and Merril, who recently studied their chemical composition at the Maine Station, the average weight of the avocados analysed was about ? tb. each. The edible portion or pulp constituted, on an average, 71 per cent., the seed 20 per cent., and the skin 9 per cent. of the entire fruit. The chemical composition was as follows:— Water 81:0 per cent. Protein LON 825 Fat LO tie set od Carbohydrates 68 ,, ,, Ash 0-9 188 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. GLEANINGS. The Hon. C. Arthur Shand writes from Nevis: ‘The first shipment of cotton has turned out remarkably well and the prices realized vary from Is. 3d. to 1s. 4d. per tbl Agricultural Day Scholarships at the Antigua Grammar School of the value of £10 each a year have been awarded to Hugh Henry and Norman L. Yearwood. Mr. T. J. Harris, Agricultural Instructor and Assistant Superintendent at Hope Gardens, Jamaica, has been selected for the post of Superintendent of Public Gardens in Bermuda. The value of cotton and cotton seed exported from Egypt in 1903 amounted to £17,178,200, which represents about 89 per cent. of the total exports. (Board of Trade Journal.) In Sicily small or damaged lemons are utilized for the manufacture of essence from the peel and concentrated juice from the pulp. After the juice is expressed, the residue is fed to goats. The plot of land at the Mico Training College, Jamaica, that was dug by the teachers attending the agricultural course of training held in January last, is to be utilized by the students of that institution for cotton cultivation. Unquestionably the most important industry in the Bahamas is that of the sponge fishery. During last year 1,292,037 tb. of sponges, valued at £94,821, were exported, over 50 per cent. going to the United States. (Board of Trade Journal.) As showing the method of arranging the price to be paid for canes at central factories, we quote the following from the St. Croix Avis :—‘ The factory sugar price was fixed on Monday at $1°48 per 100 tb. of sugar, which, at 54 tb. per 100, is equal to 8-14. per 100 Ib. of canes.’ At the last meeting of the Nevis Agricultural Society it was decided to hold an agricultural show under the auspices of the Society at the end of the present year or the beginning of the next. It was also decided to celebrate Arbor Day on the King’s birthday. The importation of kapok again shows a marked increase, the total for the Netherlands amounting to 51,918 bales in 1903, as against 45,551 in the previous year. The prices range at present thus : extra cleaned East India, 54d. to 53d. per tb. ; first quality East India, 5d. to 54d.; uncleaned East India, 13d. to 14d. (Consular Report on trade of Amsterdam.) June 4, 1904. According to the report on British Guiana for the year 1903, the balata industry was particularly successful, the amount of the gum obtained for the year being 540,800 hb, or 50,357 tbh. in excess of the highest return ever reached in any one year. Official statistics show that the orange and lemon harvest of Italy for the year 1903-4 was a most abundant one, about 5,250,000,000 fruits having been gathered, compared with 4,900,000,000 in 1902-3. (Chamber of Commerce Journal, May 1904.) The Jamaica Leader of May 15 contains an interesting little article on the ground dove. It is stated that before the introduction of the mungoose this bird used to make its nest on the ground: now it builds principally upon low shrubs. This adaptation to new conditions has probably saved the ground dove from extinction. According to the Pharmaceutical Journal of April 30, a paper has recently been published in which it is shown that the seeds of Strophanthus gratus ave probably the best source of the drug strophanthin. The official seeds are those of S. hispidus (‘ Kombe’) ; but, it is pointed out, these are not easily obtained pure in commerce. SS. gratus occurs commonly in the English, French and German territories of tropical Africa. Prof. E. Dwight Sanderson, State Entomologist for Texas, writes in the Lntomological News: ‘The work of the Division of Entomology of the United States Department of Agriculture and of the State Entomologist has resulted in demonstrating practicable methods of fighting the cotton boll weevil and the boll worm, and it is now largely a question of getting the cotton planters to adopt the improved methods of culture outlined.’ According to the Consular Report on the trade of Iquitos (Brazil) for 1903, the total exports of rubber from Iquitos including Caballo Cocha and Leticia were 803,953 tb. Owing to the great rise in price of rubber, the difference in value is far greater, showing an increase on last year of £238,000, the total value being £650,000 as compared with £412,000 last year. Over 60 per cent. of the export were shipped to Liverpool, the remainder going to Havre. During the last ten years the importation into Balti- more from Jamaica of oranges, limes, bananas and other fruits has reached large proportions. During a single week of the past year nine steamers arrived bringing the enormous number of 199,010 bunches of bananas, besides other fruits. Owing to the hurricane in Jamaica of last August, however, the trade is at present [March 7, 1904] almost completely stopped, and it will be some months before it is resumed. (Consular Report on trade of Maryland, ete.) We extract the following from the annual report of the Headmaster of the Lodge School, Barbados: ‘The new science class room and physical apparatus have, I feel confident, proved of great benefit to the school in providing more scope both for teaching and for learning. And the substitution in the junior school of classes in elementary physics for the former weekly lectures on chemistry (a change which I have introduced in higher forms this year) is already showing good results in developing habits of observation and some degree of manual cleverness.’ Vou. Ill. No. 56. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 189 LEFORT.S, BRITISH GUIANA: REPORT ON A VISIT TO THE POMEROON AND MORUCA DISTRICTS: By FE. Beckett, Assistant Instructor in Agriculture. This is a report to the Board of Agriculture on a visit made to the abovenamed districts in January last. Mr. Beckett remarks that the most interesting feature of the vegetation of the Tapacooma Creek is the large number of Hevea rubber trees. Efforts made to obtain rubber from them did not, however, meet with success ; possibly better results would be obtained at a ditferent season. As Mr. Beckett states, it is difficult to tell whether the species are of any economic value, but it is probable that some of them are. We would suggest that a careful and systematic investigation of these rubber trees might be of considerable advantage to the colony at the present time. In any case, it is not unlikely that the true Para rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) would thrive equally well in the same situations and prove of value. At the Waramuri Mission Station a number of economic trees of various kinds were found, but there was little or no systematic cultivation. Mr. Beckett advised the growing of pine-apples and ground nuts. On the Aciwini there was a carefully cultivated cacao plantation, which the owner was recommended to extend. In this district cocoa-nuts have been planted pretty exten- sively. It is estimated that withm the last two years 70,000 trees have been planted. One planter has an excellent hand-mill, capable of grindirg 1,000 nuts per day. Coffee, cacao, cocoamuts and tobacco appear to be promising crops for this district. Insufficiency of labour is at present the chief drawback : it is considered that a better knowledge of even elementary principles of agriculture is yauch needed by the farmers. The following extracts from this report are of interest :— Maceaseema.—This is My. im Thurn’s old home and was once the most beautiful station in the colony, owing to the great 5 Saees A Fish oils from Dominica — 233 tion of an 226 Fumigation of Imported Jamaica, Manurial JAMS gos. Baa Sooo 221) experiments .. 227 a air I 5 a = Gleanings... ... ... ... 236 Rum as an illuminant 226 ) es cl . Guayaasaweed ... ... 229 | U.S. Tropical Experiment Hedge Plants ... ... ... 233 Stations 233 i=) West Indian Braducts in- London Market... 23 Wiane-Ylanp (te). .- 2oll Insect Notes *-— Entomology in Hawaii 234 Grenada SOS oe reece cso Fumigation of Imported Plants. N a previous issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 74) the important sub- its ject of the fumigation of imported plants was dealt with. In that article numerous instances were cited to show that most of the serious insect attacks, in different parts of the world, had been due to the importation of pests from other countries, where, owing to their having been kept in check by natural enemies, or from other causes, their effect on the crops had been insignificant. Tn new localities, under different conditions, these pests soon became a serious menace to agricultural indus- tries. With a view to preventing such undesirable introductions, many Governments have prohibited the importation of plants likely to be infected, or have allowed their importation only after fumigation at the port of entry. In order to furnish detailed information as to the action that has been taken in this connexion in some of the West India Islands, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture directed the preparation of a circular containing the laws and proclamations, issued in Jamaica from time to time, which have resulted in a system of fumigation of imported plants, which appears to work smoothly and which will, in all probability, prevent the introduction of new pests into that island. Copies of laws and proclamations issued in British Guiana and Dominica have also been printed. This circular has been sent to those islands throughout the West Indies which have not, so far, taken any definite action in this matter. It is hoped that the information contained in this circular will be of assistance to colonies about to frame new laws, or to modify existing laws for the purpose of preventing the introduction of insect pests. 226 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 16, 1904. As the fumigation plants has apparently been carried out with every success in Jamaica, it is suggested that similar regulations night be adopted in those islands where no such regulations exist. It is to be hoped that careful consideration will be given to this important matter, as there can be no doubt that it is greatly to the advantage of agri- various islands that some of imported cultural interests in the such well-digested scheme fer the prevention of the introduction of insect pests should be put into operation. The Jamaica ‘Seeds and Plants Importation Law’ gives the Governor of the island power to prohibit or restrict the importation of seeds, plants, cuttings, buds or grafts, as well as their coverings or packages. In order that such importations may conveniently be dealt with as the law directs, their entry is restricted to the port of Kingston. There they are taken charge of by an officer of the Customs Department, whose duty it is to notify the Island Chemist, who is the authority to decide on any questions connected with the fumigation of proclaimed articles. For the fumigation of large consignments of plants a fumigatory chamber has been erected at the government wharf, while small parcels are dealt with in a fumigatory box. Every care is taken to keep plants, cuttings, ete. alive and in good condition, and, so far as is known, but few instances have occurred where plants have suffered to any Serious extent from the fumigating process. Particulars as to the method usually adopted for the fumigation of plants have already been given in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 138). fumigating chambers are recommended—the large, 8 feet by 6 feet by 6 feet inside, and the smaller, 2 feet by 2 feet by 23 feet. Two sizes of Hydrocyanie gas—the poison used for this work— is obtained by the addition of potassium cyanide to a mixture of sulphuric acid and water. One ounce of the cyanide should be used for every 300 cubic feet of space. The larger chamber will, therefore, require abont 1 oz., and the smaller about 1 gramme. Every care must be exercised by the operator not to breath this poisonous vapour, and, after the chamber has been used, sufficient time must be allowed to lapse before it is entered. The fumigatorium recently erected at the Botanic Station, Dominica, has been used with entirely satis- factory results, and planters are co-operating with the Government in its endeavours to prevent the introduc- tion of pests. Production of Cane Sugar. According to figures published in the Yearbook of the United States Department of Agriculture, the total world’s production of cane sugar for 1903 amounted to 4,423,061 tons. Of this amount 1,130,000 tons were produced in Cuba, 1,000,561 in Asia, 513,000 in South America (excluding British Guiana), and 519,000 in Porto Rico and Hawaii, The British West Indies exported 145,000 tons, British Guiana 125,000 tons, the French West Indies 65,000 tons, and the Danish West Indies (St. Croix) 13,000 tons. Of these amounts the United States received, in 1903, 85,680 tons from the British West Indies, 76,947 tons from British Guiana, and 18,395 tons from the Danish West Indies. The largest suppliers of the United States in that year were: Cuba (1,069,865 tons) and the Dutch East Indies (397,213 tons). The total imports of sugar, beet and cane, amounted to 1,882,191 tons. Rum as an Illuminant and Source of Power. The following is taken from the West India Committee Circular of June 21, 1904 :— Professor J. B. Harrison, Government Analyst of British Guiana, has furnished to the Government an important report on the use of white rum as a source of power and an illuminant, and this is now published for general information in the hope that it may lead to a more general demand in the colony for white spirits for those purposes. Theoretically, alcohol has only three-fifths of the thermal value of petroleum, but for motor purposes it has been found that 28 per cent. of the theoretical efticiency of aleohol can be attained as against a maximum of 15 per cent. in the case of petroleum products. The results of experiments in France, Germany and Austria are given. At a price of about I4c. per gallon, it has been proved in Germany that alcohol can compete economically with steam and other agents in engines of less than 20 horse-power. In France, it appears that the (monetary) efficiency of a mixture of alcohol and 18 per cent. of petroleum spirit is almost equal to that of petrol. In Austria, as the result of tests made on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, it has been recommended that cheap denatured spirit, specially suitable for motors, be prepared by mixing 100 litres of alcohol with 5 litres of petroleum spirit, 0°5 litre of pyridine or some heavy oil containing ketones, and 0-2 grm. of methyl violet in aleohol solution as a means of identification. For lighting purposes, with incandescent lamps, aleohok lias been found to be much superior to petroleum. With alcohol at 22e. per gallon, with one form of lamp of German construction, a light of 85 candle-power has been obtained at a cost of $c. per hour, while another form— the so-called are lJamp—gives a light of 550 candle-power at two-thirds the cost of an electric light of the same power at Berlin rates. Professor Harrison points out that in British Guiana alcohol occupies a more favourable position than in Germany, France and Austria, with respect to petroleum spirit, the cost of the latter being high in a tropical climate. Vou. Ill. No. 59. THE AGRICULTURAL bo to ay NEWS. Manurial Experiments in Jamaica. The Bulletin of the Departmegt of Agriculture, Jamaica, for June 1904, publishes the first part of a report by Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., Agri- cultural and Analytical Chemist, on the manurial experiments on sugar-cane in 1903, The report records the results of the experiments on six estates with the ratoon crop of 1903, following the first series of experiments with plant canes, analyses being given in each case. The following is a brief summary of these results :-— At Albion estate in the parish of St. Thomas, the results with D. 95 Ist. ratoons are said to have agreed with those obtained in the previous year, the manures showing a general increase in all cases. With Mont Blane canes, however, quite different results are recorded. Last year the manures produced no results ; with the ratoon crop some of the plots showed an increase but not a profitable one, while others showed a deficit both in tonnage and in cost. At Holland estate, St. Elizabeth, the results previously obtained were confirmed, all the manured plots showing an increase and, with the exception of the pen manure, a profit on manuring. Mr. Cousins remarks that the figures in connexion with these experiments indicate ‘ that the yield on this estate, despite long years of cane cultivation, can be increased enormously by drainage, by liming, by the growth of leguminous dressings, and, with due caution and judgement, the use of a little complete chemical manure.’ At Hillside estate in Vere, the same manures were applied as at Holland. With one exception, all the plots receiving manure showed an increase. It is recorded that the juice obtained here ‘contained absolutely no glucose at all and the canes must have attained a state of complete chemical maturation.’ At Amity Hall, also in Vere, the increased yield by manuring was so small that losses occurred in all but two cases. ‘This is attributed to deficient rainfall. The results with ratoons at Caymanas estate in St. Catherine were confusing and at variance with those obtained from the plant canes, while at Vale Royal in Trelawny unfavourable seasons are said to have reduced the returns. The opinion is expressed that in an average year fertilizers should prove profitable. It might be added that the work of supervision of these experiments has now been specially provided for by the appointment of Mr. T. H. Sharp, Jr., B.S.A., as Superintend- ent of sugar experiments. AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES. Dominica. The following report of a meeting of the Dominica Agricultural Society held at the Court House, Roseau, on June 25, has been communicated by Mr. A. K. Agar, the Honorary Secretary:— The report of the committee appointed to consider a Produce Association was read, but the scheme was not found practicable. The committee for the management of the 1905 Agricultural Show was appointed. The Vice-President read some notes compiled by Mr. J. F. Scully on the climatic and agricultural conditions prevailing in his district, and a discussion followed. A few other minor items of local interest were also brought forward. STOCK NOTES. The following notes are taken from the Farm Journal of Philadelphia :— Love of stock is one of the essential elements of successful stock raising Feeding a little linseed meal occasionally to stock is beneficial, keeping the system regulated. Land that dries quickly after a rain is best for a poultry yard. Sour, tainted, or wet land will slaughter more fowls and chicks than will the dreaded roup. Wet the horses’ feet every day with a sponge, if you do not put them in a soaking tub. Simply wetting them every day will do more than you think to keep them in good condition. All grains fed to hogs had best be soaked twelve hours before being fed. Especially is this necessary with barley, peas, and corn. One of the best grains for growing swine is oats. Some cows will give down their milk best when they have a little grain in the manger before them to work at while the process of milking is going on. It is worth while to humour the fancy of these cows. To make the horse’s coat shine, feed him a bit of oil meal every day. Begin lightly : not more than a tablespoon- ful at first. Gradually increase until he will take a pint, then hold at that for a while. Horses that are given water with regularity fatten most readily. They can be taught to take water before breakfast, and this light drink seems to be worth a great deal to them. In an effort to put flesh upon an animal, the water is as big a factor as the grain. When a horse acquires the bad habit of gnawing at the manger, or the sides of the stall, or chewing at his halter rope, rub on some mutton tallow, as the taste of it is very disagreeable to him. A few applications are all that is necessary to break him of this habit. Salt regularly. Many do not do this, but wait a week or two and then give the cattle all the salt they will eat. Being hungry for it, they are apt to overdo the matter. Then down comes your milk test. Salt possesses medicinal qualities. Use it carefully for that reason. Thoroughly scald the churn, but have it cool when the cream is putin. If itis too warm the texture of the butter will be injured. From time to time, while the cream is accumulating before churning, it is a good plan to stir it once ina while. Keep in a warm, not hot, place, and be sure the cream is sour clear through before beginning to churn. There is a theory that nothing a cow eats affects the quality of her milk. If she is made to produce 5-per-cent. milk she will do it no matter what she has to eat. In practice this does not hold good, however. You cannot feed a cow dry straw and get rich milk. Every farmer knows that corn-meal will make the richest milk of anything. Pumpkins will also give us a thick, yellow cream. Cocoa-nut Oil for Toothache. With regard to cocoa-nut oil it may be useful to mention that it is used by the natives as a specific for toothache, and is said to be a never-failing remedy. The directions for use are as follows :— Procure a fresh cocoa-nut, cut it in half, place one half with the coneave side facing upwards ona large cup containing some cotton wool, and inside the cocoa-nut put some live charcoal. When the oil exudes on to the wool, take the latter out, and insert it with the aid of a blunt needle into the aching cavity. (Consular Report on trade of Kiungchow.) to te los} THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. JuLty 16, 1904. 4) R WEST INDIAN MANURING CITRUS TREES. In a previous issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 100), we published a note by Mr. E. A. Agar of Dominica, on the use of pen manure with citrus trees. Mr. Agar’s experience was that pen manure increased the size of the fruits at the expense of quality. The following note on the same subject, by Mr. W. M. Smith, Acting Agricultural Instructor at Grenada, will be of interest :— A grape fruit tree, growing at Nianganfoix estate, Grenada, from the roots of which all the soil, to a depth of about 12 inches, had been washed away, has been treated in the following manner with the best results: A 3-foot barrier of bamboos, enclosing a space of 7 feet square, was placed around the stem of the tree, and a compost was gradually accumulated in it for a period of about three months, until it reached the height of about 2 feet 6 inches. This compost was formed of sweepings from house, kitchen and yard, as well as a small quantity of pen manure and earth. This treatment was given just before the tree blossomed in 1903. It now has most luxuriant foliage, has given a big crop this year, and the fruits were not only large, but also as fine in quality as any grown in the island. PLANTING COCOA-NUT TREES. The British Guiana Board of Agriculture has recently published the following directions for planting cocoa-nut trees :— Selection of Seed.—Nuts which are quite ripe should be chosen from trees which bear good crops, and which are neither very young nor very old. They should be picked and not allowed to fall or they may be injured, and they should be kept for about a month before sowing. Very big nuts are not always the best, because only a few may be borne on the tree ; oblong nuts should be avoided. Sowing.—Trenches should be dug about 6 inches deep in good, light soil and the nuts placed in them on their sides about 6 inches apart, with the bigger ends slightly down- wards. Ashes should be placed in the trenches to keep away insects. The nuts should be half covered with soil and over all should be put about 6 inches of grass or cane trash. In dry weather, they must be watered every two days. Some of the nuts may not germinate, but in from five to eight months those that have sprouted will be ready to plant out. FRUIT Planting out.—At distances of about 30 feet apart dig holes 3 feet wide and about 25 feet deep. The soil should be taken out of the holes, thoroughly mixed with well-rotted manure or ashes, and then put back again. Put in the sprouted nut on its side and cover it with soil. All the roots that are injured should be cut off before planting. Treatment after Planting —Care must be taken that the nuts are kept covered with earth, as they tend to grow out of the soil in time. The soil round the palms must be kept clean and free from weeds and should be dressed about once a year with manure and ashes. Catch cropssuch as cassava, cotton, maize, sweet potatos, etc., may be planted between the trees, but not too close to them. In about five to six years’ time the palms will begin to produce fruit, but they will not bear well until the seventh to twelfth year after planting. COMPOSITION OF ORANGES AND LEMONS. The following notes on the chemical composition of oranges and lemons are taken from Snyder's Chemistry of Plant and Animal Life, reviewed on p- 219 of our last issue :— Oranges contain from 10 to 15 per cent. of solid matter, the larger portion (80 per cent.) being sugar. The citric acid content ranges from 1 to 2°5 per cent. in different varieties. The amount of protein, fat and fibre is small. The ash or mineral matter averages about } per cent. and is composed mainly of potash and lime with smaller amounts of other compounds. The iron and sulphur content in some kinds of oranges is larger than is ordinarily found in other fruits. In average oranges, the physical composition is as follows :— Rind, 20 to 30 per cent. ; pulp, 25 to 35 per cent., and juice, 35 to 50 per cent. Lemons differ from oranges in containing larger amounts of citric acid and smaller amounts of sucrose, levulose and dextrose. The average composition of lemons is as follows :— Physical Composition. Rind 25 to 35 per cent. Pulp 250 D2) Wie, sles Sugar Dt0: _ aes Juice LOMO) 5) sae meee Citric) acid) 6) to Olas The ash of the lemon is somewhat similar in composition to the ash of the orange, but is present in larger amount. Chemical Composition. Solids 10 to 12 per cent. 4 Vou. III. No. or s2 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. bo bo ie} COTTON NOTES. Expeirments with Varieties in British Guiana. A report by Mr. R. Ward, on the experiments carried on at the Botanic Gardens, British Guiana, 1n growing various kinds of cotton, was published in the Demerara Official Gazette of May 24 last. We take the following extract, from which it will be seen that the Egyptian and the introduced Sea Island, are spoken of as giving the best results :— Last year there were obtained, from different sources, small quantities of seed of the following varieties:—Buck, Brazilian or Kidney, Native Sea Island, introduced Sea Island, Egyptian, and Upland. The three first-named local varieties grew into plants which were much larger andmore bushy than the three last- named. Being much stronger growing, they require more space between the rows and between the plants in the rows. Plants raised from the seeds of local varieties took a longer time in coming into bearing than the introduced varieties of Sea Island and Egyptian, these latter yielding their second crop when the former were bearing their first. From this it will appear evident that it would not do to raise these large- growing sorts every year from seed; but as they ratoon readily and well, they should be treated as perennials, and earefully cut back after the reaping of each crop. The quality of fibre varies very considerably in these different kinds. The introduced Sea Island appears to give the best staple ; next to this in length of staple and first in silkiness is the Buck cotton—probably the same as the Black Peruvian. The other varieties—Native Sea Island, Brazilian and Egyptian—somewhat resemble each other in the quality of their product, the cotton from them being shorter in staple and less silky than that from the others referred to. The Egyptian and the Upland varieties are the first to bear from seed, the crop taking three or four months to mature. Next follows the introduced Sea Island, which requires four to five months. The others take from six to eight months. The ratooning power of the Sea Island is yet to be tested; but it is evident that the Egyptian variety must be treated as an annual. Owing to the bad season and irregular growth, it has not yet been possible to compile a reliable record as to yield; but speaking generally, I would say that the best yield has been got from the Egyptian (Mit Afifi variety), the intro- duced Sea Island coming after. The others had yielded very hittle when the time came for them to be cut back ; and itis as ratoons that I am expecting them to show to best advantage. In our small experiments we were fortunately not troubled with the cotton worm, so destructive to some cultivations ; but the insect known as the ‘cotton stainer’ was very troublesome. Various methods of trapping this are advocated, but further experiments are necessary before any one of these can be pronounced the most effective way of dealing with this pest. As regards the cotton worm, its treatment with Paris green and lime has been found to be absolutely trustworthy if applied at the proper time. On the branches and stems of weak and sickly plants, some scale insects have been met with; but these, while affecting the plants, do no harm to the cotton. As a general treatment which will have a favourable result on the various insect pests that are liable to attack the cotton, it will be found useful, when pruning or replanting, to remove care- fully to a convenient place and to burn all dead branches and stems of old plants. Sea Island Cotton. An interesting article in the Yearbook of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 1903, on the ‘ Principal commercial Plant Fibres’ contains the following reference to Sea Island cotton :— Sea Island cotton is obtained from a plant known technically as Gossypium barbadense. This species was found in the West Indies when Columbus first visited those islands. The best varieties of Sea Island cotton have been developed by careful seed selection and cultivation on James and Edisto islands, along the coast of South Carolina. This cotton is cultivated on other islands and the adjacent mainland in that region, and also in sandy soils in the interior, across southern Georgia and northern Florida. Fresh supplies of seed are brought from the coast every two or three years to keep up the quality of that grown in the interior. During the last two years the cultivation of Sea Island cotton has been re-introduced into Porto Rico and the British West Indies, and under improved conditions it seems likely to become more profitable there than before it was crowded out by the sugar industry. The Sea Island plant differs from that of Upland cotton in its larger growth—3 to 8 feet high—with longer and more flexible branches, more deeply lobed leaves, bright yellow flowers, and sharp-pointed bolls, having three, instead of four or five, divisions or locks. The seeds are black or dark brown, and are not covered with a persistent fuzz. The lint is 13 to 2 inches long, finer and longer than that of Upland cotton, and usually softer and more lustrous. It commands a price ranging from 2c. to 15c. per Ib. more than Upland cotton, but it requires greater care in its production and is more exacting in regard to soil and climate. It yields less per acre (100 tb. to 500 ib.), and costs more to pick and gin. It is used in making fine threads for sewing and for laces, fine yarns for fancy hosiery, for weaving into the finest lawns and dimities, and generally for the most expensive grades of cotton goods. THE GUAVA AS A WEED. M. Paul des Grottes, in the May issue of the Journal @ Agriculture Tropicale, draws attention to the care and judgement that should be exercised before introducing new plants into a country. He mentions the various superior cultivated guavas, the ‘pear,’ ‘strawberry,’ and ‘Cayenne’ varieties, which he says he would not hesitate to introduce anywhere. The case is different with the common wild guava. In spite of the delicious preserves that can be made from its fruit, its value for stock, its use for fire wood, etc., the guava is a weed. The qualities that render it a nuisance are the rapidity with which it reproduces and the difficulty of destroying it when established. Domestic animals, as well as birds, spread the bush in pastures, they eat the fruits, and the seeds pass through their bodies, uninjured and ready to germinate with vigour. Merely cutting back the bushes to the level of the soil is useless and has to be repeated every three months or even at smaller intervals during the rainy season. The only way of exterminating it is to remove every root. The author mentions that the best instrument, for this purpose, he has seen, was in St. Lucia ; it was introduced by the Agricultural Superintendent (see Agricultural News, Vol. Il., p. 43). With the use of this machine, a native of moderate strength could easily clear a hectare (24 acres) of bush in a day. 230 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 16, 1904. Mr. John Barclay, the Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, has forwarded notes on rabbit keeping, specially written for the Agricultural News. Mr. Barclay deals with the general principles of rabbit keeping, including housing, feeding, breeding, ete. In the first instalment useful information is given as to the breeds best suited to the West Indies, ete. :— I know of no hobby that can be made so practically useful as the rearing of poultry and rabbits. Both poultry and rabbits can, at the same time, provide as much vexation as anything I know of, if losses are the general rule. It is to prevent occurrences of this sort, as far as possible, by furnishing information from actual practice in the raising of rabbits, that these notes are written. HOW RABBITS ARE USUALLY KEPT IN JAMAICA, In Jamaica, rabbits are kept by every other small settler in some parishes, both for the sake of their manure and for their table value; most owners of estates, too, keep afew both as pets and for the table. There is no market for them yet, however, in the same way as there is for poultry, pork, and mutton, although a very limited trade does occur in Kingston during the tourist season, There is, unfortunately, no method, and little knowledge, among most small settlers as to how these animals should be kept, and their practices are often abominable. The rabbits are usually kept in hutches set on posts, about 4 feet from the ground, to prevent dogs jumping up. There is a hutch of one apartment, not often water tight, with a little open platform in front. Here bucks, does and young are often kept together in the one apartment. This is unnatural and cruel. The bucks torment the does, often the latter torment each other. The does have no privacy when they have young. The results are that the young ones are often killed as they are born, either by the doe herself or by other does, if she is not their superior in strength ; perhaps one or two young ones manage to escape harm and grow up. Running with bucks, the young does are bred before they are fully grown, and so deterioration goes on. Fortunately, the agricultural propaganda persistently kept up through Jamaica, and which deals with live stock as much as with cultivation, has at least inculeated a knowledge of the importance of fresh blood, so much so, for instance, that one breeder of predigree pigs reported to me that the prejudice against inbreeding was being carried to extremes. T considered this satisfactory. Thus settlers are now more frequently changing and exchanging their bucks. The additional evil of the promiscuous breeding of bucks and does of the same family is, therefore, not so common as it was, although still too common. In the wild state there is plenty of room, plenty of freedom, and the animals have abundance of exercise in securing their food. Moreover, the does can retire, each to her own particular burrow, and be in seclusion when they bear their young. The young rabbits have room to grow and escape the attacks of larger rabbits. The kind of rabbits kept among small settlers is thus generally very small, and poor-looking ; yet there is arising a desire for better stock, and inquiries for Belgian hares, pure, three-quarter or half-bred, to improve common rabbits, are becoming more frequent. Among larger planters in Jamaica, Belgian hares, pure or nearly so, are comparatively common, and the demand for fresh blood of that variety, though not so wide-spread as it might be, considering the number who keep rabbits, is regular, if limited. The common rabbits are of all colours, —white, grey and white, black and white; but the uniform grey of the Belgian hare is becoming more and more common. There are a great many different breeds of domestic rabbits throughout the rabbit-breeding world, but we are best suited here with the thin-coated, active breeds. The striving after size in animals for hot countries is, | think, not best served by the introduction of large, heavy-coated animals. These all the more quickly deteriorate, and the progeny from a large breed on a smaller one is, just as often as not, small and weakly, or, if big, sluggish in nature. The best method of improving a breed, increasing it in size and hardiness, is by care, attention and knowledge in breeding, feeding and housing, more especially in allowing animals to mature before breeding, and in breeding no near relations together. BREEDS FOR THE WEST INDIES. The breeds kept most in the United Kingdom are— the common wild rabbit (which is usually grey, though in some parts black is frequently seen), the Silver Grey, Belgian Hare, Flemish Giant, Angora, Dutch, Lop Ear, Himalayan, and Patagonian. Of these the following have been kept in Jamaica :— Belgian Hare, Silver Grey, Flemish Giant, Lop Ear, and the Angora. But no heavy-coated breed should be kept in warm climates. Of those mentioned the choice for the West Indies is the Belgian hare. This is really not a hare, and is no relation at all of the hare of the field. It is simply an improved rabbit. The Belgian hare is comparatively common in Jamaica and thrives easily with such ordinary attention as every domestic animal should receive. It is large, not thick-set, but rather slim, and active, of a dark-grey colour, deepening sometimes to a rich brown on the back. I have had does weighing 10 Ib., but find such not so successful as breeders as those weighing from 7 to 8 Ib. Bucks I have had to 12 tb., but such size and weight do not fit them for breed- ing successfully. Bucks from 8 to 10 Ib. are as heavy as is desirable. Of course, for animals fattened for table, the more weight the better, but very fat animals must not be kept over long. A favourite breed for crossing with Belgian hares among breeders in the United Kingdom is the Flemish Giant rabbit. These animals grow to a large size, but are very slow and clumsy. The does are not good mothers, as they are so heavy-footed that they are apt to trample on their young. Thus the custom is to use the Flemish Giant buck with the Belgian hare does, and this cross results in a fine table animal, putting on weight quickly, and easy to fatten. The young ones of this cross, pushed on with a little grain and milk, after weaning, can be used at three months old, when the flesh is white and tender—very good for an invalid and convalescent diet, being more delicate than chicken. The Flemish Giant is of a deep iron-grey colour, though rather heavily coated, and the fur is loose and not thick. A year or two ago a Belgian hare craze or fad broke out in the United States and great sums were paid for show specimens. It is best, therefore, to import from the United Kingdom where more sensible notions prevail in regard to the proper place and value of the Belgian hare. The sum of 10s. is enough to pay there for very good, selected specimens for breeding. In Jamaica, young ones can be had for 4s. and upwards for fair specimens, and 10s. each for a good wel]l-grown buck or doe should secure well-bred stock. Vou. Ill. No. 59. YLANG-YLANG. In a previous issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. If, p. 151) mention was made of the Ylang- Ylang tree, the flowers of which yield a valuable perfume. In their recent Semi-annual Report, Messrs. Schimmel & Co. state that the exceptional demand for the oil has been continued, their sales for 1903 being much greater than those for 1902. The following account of the cultivation of the tree is then given:— Flacourt, in Revue des Cultures Coloniales (Vol. 13, p. 366 ; Vol. 14, p. 16), makes some interesting communica- tions respecting the cultivation of ylang-ylang trees in Réunion, which are based on practical experience, and there- fore contain much useful instruction for those who are interested in the subject. Both Unona latifolia and Unona odorata* which have now for a long time been grown as trees for avenues are suitable for the cultivation. But absolute necessities therefor are a tropical tranquil climate, and a porous soil containing a certain amount of moisture. In order to grow the trees from seed, the latter, taken from the ripe fleshy berries, must be freed carefully, by repeated washing, from all traces of pulp, and immediately after the last washing be placed in the seed-bed which may be laid out in a rich, well-manured soil. The germ-plants make their appearance after forty to sixty days and after one to one and a half months are planted out in nurseries which must be situated in a shady place. This planting out in nurseries is, in Réunion, generally preceded by a process which consists of this: the young germ-plants are placed singly in vessels of beaker-form, so-called ‘tentes,’ which can be readily constructed from the leaves of Pandanus utilis. The plants, transposed in one or other manner, require about two months to attain a height of 25 to 30 cm. and to develop sufficiently. At this stage the plants are best suited to the process of transferring to the plantations. During the next two years the latter must be tended with care, and yet yield nothing. From the third year onwards the trees begin to flower and the crop can already be estimated at 150 to 200 francs per hectare (24 acres). It is, however, necessary to see that the trees do not grow to a greater height than 2°5 to 3 metres. This is done by cutting off the tops, which at the same time causes a powerful development of the lateral branches and an abundant formation of blossoms, so that the yield becomes very remunerative. The flowering period of the ylang-ylang trees commences in Réunion from January to February, but a regular forma- tion of blossoms, giving the best yield, can only be reckoned upon from May to August. Those blossoms which are freshest when submitted to distillation yield oils of better quality. Fifty to 64 kilos. of freshly gathered blossoms produce 1 kilo, oil, that is, 1°56 to 2 per cent. The yield from one hectare of plantation laid out according to Flacourt is annually from 3 to 4 kilos. oil, giving a net profit from 1,116 to 1,616 francs. *The botanical name of the ylang-ylang tree is usually given as Artabotrys odoratissimus, of which Unona odoratissina isasynonym. [Ed. A. N.] THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 231 AGRICULTURE IN THE BAHAMAS. The following extracts are taken from the General Descriptive Report on the Bahamas Islands in which is included the annual report to the Secretary of State for the Colonies for 1902 :— The surface rock in all the Bahama Islands is exceedingly hard, so much so that if struck sharply with a_ steel instrument, sparks are emitted, as in the case of flint ; this rock, however, is of very different texture beneath, and is easily sawn into blocks, making an excellent building stone. Moreover, if the rock is blown up and sufficiently pulverized, it forms an admirable medium for the growth of a variety of economical products, and is especially adapted to citrus fruits. There can be no question also that cotton would thrive in it, though, as I have pointed out elsewhere, the drawback to this culture is the practically certain attacks of formidable insect pests.... Unless the cultivator is prepared to deal with these pests scientifically, as is the case in the southern States of America, it is hopeless to expect to succeed with cotton. In these islands there is no such thing as scientific culture. It is true that pine-apples are grown on a large scale, especially in Eleuthera, and that a considerable measure of success has been achieved by certain growers, but it has been laid down as an axiom, that the plant will only thrive in the red soil mentioned, and when exhaustion of properties which render it a suitable food takes place, fertilization is resorted to, and an American mixture is used, whose component parts are entirely unknown to the users of it. Recent experiments, however, have proved that pine-apples will thrive elsewhere. At this moment there are some small plantations near the town, where the pines are being grown in the interstices of the most unpromis- ing-looking honeycomb rock ; there can be but a small deposit of humus in these fissures, but nevertheless, up to the present, the plants look healthy and vigorous. Almost all tropical fruits will thrive in Bahamas soil, given sufficient depth, but many trees may be seen growing out of interstices in the rocks, and this is especially the case with the sapodilla which seems to grow under the most adverse conditions, and produces excellent fruit. Several groves of cocoa-nuts exist, but the conditions are not so suitable to their growth as was considered to be the case some years ago, when extensive experiments were made. This palm thrives in some places near the sea, but I do not think its culture could ever be made a paying speculation. So much has been written in regard to the ‘sisal’ plant, that I need only say its cultivation is extending, and undoubtedly it grows well, established in places where the roots have room to spread. I see no reason why the extraction of the fibre should not be a profitable industry in these islands. Even taking into consideration adjacent competition and natural fluctuation of the market, the plant needs no special culture and is practically free from insect pests, drought does nor affect it, and, on the other hand, it is impervious to the torrential rain which generally occurs during the summer months. The leaves can be readily cleaned by hand, and there are good machines which do the work in a more expeditious manner. The type generally used here is the ‘Todd’ machine, which I understand is as good as any in the market. It is gratifying to be able to report that the Sisal Fibre Company of Little Abaco continues its work with every prospect of success. The company has about 5,000 acres under cultivation and 145 tons of fibre were shipped at an estimated value of £4,350. Additional machinery has been placed upon the estate, and it is expected that during the next year the output will approximate £15,000 in value. THE Lo oo bo AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Juty 16, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 223 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural dlews JULY 16, Vou. III. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. A short summary of the results of manurial experiments with the sugar-cane in Jamaica is given on p. 227; also a note by Professor Harrison, of British Gwiana, on the use of rum as an illuminant and a source of power (p. 226). SATURDAY, 1904. No. 59. Our cotton notes include a report on experiments with different varieties in British Guiana, and a short account of Sea Island cotton from the Yearbook of the United States Department of Agriculture. The first instalment of Mr. Barclay’s rabbit notes is published on p. 250. On p. 231 we publish an extract on agriculture in the Bahamas; information relating to the exports of those islands will be found on p. 233. A Curator is required for the Botanic Station which is shortly to be established. For particulars see p. 238. In an interesting note on black blight in Grenada (see p. 284) Mr. Ballou discusses the cause of this pest, the trees most frequently affected, and proposals for its extermination. Manurial experiments with cotton are to be carried out in the Leeward Islands. A complete list of the proposed experiments is given on p. 237. ‘These are to be arranged along the lines of the sugar-cane experi- ments in the Leeward Islands. Mr. J. R. Jackson’s usual monthly report will be found on p. 238. A quiet tone is reported in the London drug and spice markets, Rabbit Keeping in the West Indies. We have published in these columns articles on the management and rearing of poultry ana ducks, specially written by Mr. John Barclay, the energetic Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society. In this issue we commence a series of similar useful articles dealing with rabbits. Rabbit keeping is a remunerative industry, and one particularly in favour among small settlers in these islands. Mr. Barclay has had considerable practical experience in rearing birds and rabbits and_ also excellent opportunities for becoming acquainted with the special requirements for their successful manage- ment in these islands. We are therefore confident that his articles will be of great service to those of our readers who are interested in this branch of agriculture. DD Oe Sisal Hemp from Caicos Islands. An excellent sample of sisal hemp was recently received from his Honour the Commissioner of the Turks and Caicos Islands, who wrote, under date March 22, 1904: ‘The sample I send you is from a plantation owned by an American firm, From the two fibre plantations in the Caicos we exported last year 443,870 th., valued at £6,488,’ The sample, which was a remarkably good one, the fibre being bright and strong, was forwarded by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture to Messrs. Ide and Christie, who have furnished the following satis- factory report :— ‘Your favour of the 5th. inst. with sample of sisal hemp from the Caicos Islands safely to hand. The latter shows first-class material, better than any of the Mexican and as good as the best from the Bahamas. Value, £33 per ton, but less to sell quantity. For the past few years we have seen small lots on this market. Manila hemp being on the downward move, all hard hemps are likely to fall in value.’ The Juniper Cedar. The Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, for April 1904, has an article on the Juniper cedar. Dr. M. 'T. Masters pointed out in an article in the Bulletin of the Botanical Department, Jamaica, for April 1901, that the Juniper cedar of Jamaica was not, as had been supposed, identical with that of Bermuda. This opinion has been confirmed by Prof- essor C. S. Sargent, who states that it is identical with the special red cedar which is a native of Florida. Professor Sargent separates Juniperus virgini- and, as described in his Silva of North America, into three species : (1) Juniperus virginiana, the red cedar of the North, (2) the red cedar of Florida, which is not distinguishable from Juniperus barbadensis of the West Indies, and (3) the red cedar of western America. This opinion, it is stated, is of importance com- mercially, for ‘the Florida tree is the pencil cedar of commerce.’ The trees of Florida and Jamaica will now be known as Juniperus barbadensis, SE ———— Wor LID.» No: 59. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Fish Oils from Dominica. Samples of two oils obtained from Dominica were recently forwarded to experts by the Imperial Com- missioner of Agriculture with a view to ascertaining whether they possessed any commercial value. The first sample—one of shark-liver oil—has been reported upon by Messrs Burgoyne, Burbidges & Co. as tollows:— ‘We have examined the sample of shark-liver oil sent to us,and beg to say that it is of good quality, and fairly sweet, and we consider the value of same about £15 to £16 per ton, landed, packages free, less 24 per cent. There would be no use for this oil in medicine, but it could perhaps be used for leather, ete.’ Jas In regard to a sample of black fish oil, which is produced in fair quantities in Dominica, Messrs. Gillespie Bros. & Co., to whom the sample was sent, write as follows :— ‘Our brokers report that this is a nice, sweet oil but rather thick. They value it here at £15 per ton ex dock, less 24 per cent., at which price it should command a ready sale. This time last year the value would have been from £17 to £18 per ton, but the low price of linseed and other oils has depressed the market for the time being. ‘Our brokers further suggest that shipment be made in barrels or any other casks, and that care should be taken that they are in good condition for the voyage. Parcels of 10 tons and over would probably command a better price than that obtained for small lots.’ $< eee United States Tropical Experiment Stations. The report of the United States Secretary of Agriculture for 1903 contains references to the work that has been carried on in the Experiment Stations in Hawaii and Porto Rico. In Hawaii experiments have been continued on the tannia rot and potato rot. The former may be prevented, it is stated, by proper attention to methods of irrigation and the application of suitable fertilizers ; the potato rot can be combated by the use of Bordeaux mixture. It is hoped that the investigations in connexion with corn cultivation will succeed in placing this industry once more on a_ satisfactory basis, several introduced varieties having given excellent results. Preliminary operations have been performed at the new Porto Rico Station. ‘A beginning has been made to establish nurseries of citrus fruits and rubber and tea plants, as well as varieties of mangos, bananas, and tropical fruits. Arrangements have been made by which improved varieties of tropical fruits are being secured from different portions of the West India Islands through the courtesy of the Commissioner of Agriculture for the British West Indies.’ Experiments have been commenced to test various fibre plants, leguminous crops for restoring the soil, ete. At the La Carmelita plantation 10 acres have been placed at the disposal of the station for experi- ments with coffee to test the different methods of pruning, shading, fertilizing, ete. Hedge Plants. An interesting experiment has been carried out at the Botanic Station, Montserrat, to ascertain the most suitable plants for making hedges. This forms an excellent demonstration plot, as one can see at a glance which plants are likely to serve best for this purpose. The following plants have been grown: cushaw (Acacia tortwosa), logwood (Haematorylon campe- chianum), wild coffee (Clerodendron aculeatum), myrtle lime (Tvriphasia Aurantiola), and bread-and- cheese (Inga Unguis-cati). The Acacia, started from seed in 1903, has formed a dense hedge, 43 feet high, and the prickly nature of this plant should render it very suitable, since stock would be unable to push through. The logwood hedge is now 5 feet in height: the seeds were sown in 1902. Of this experiment, Mr. Jordan reports: ‘It is probable that cushaw and logwood will be found to be the best plants for the purpose of hedges. Seeds can readily be obtained from the wild plants in May. As both plants are rapid growers, it is better to sow the seeds in the position required than to transplant.’ Mr. Jordan estimates that the cost of planting such hedges would be about £2 per mile, with an additional 6s. per mile per annum for trimming and supplying. EE Exports of the Bahamas. We publish on p. 231 of this issue extracts from the recently published Descriptive Report on the Bahamas Islands relating to agricultural industries. A few notes on the principal exports from these islands may also be of interest. The exports figuring most prominently, with their values, included: sponges (£97,584), Bahamas hemp (£37,574), pine-apples (£36,957), canned fruits (£9,515), and turtle-shell (£8,886). Practically the whole of the hemp was exported to the United States ; also a large proportion of the sponge. On the other hand, the United Kingdom received most of the turtle-shell. The agricultural industries are principally the growing of pine-apples and oranges, both of which go to the United States. In the growing of oranges, Florida has proved so keen a competitor that it scarcely pays to ship them from the Bahamas, especially in the face of the duty of 1c. per tb. levied in the United States on foreign imports. The exports of this fruit have declined in value from £3,148 in 1900 to £1,446 in 1902. It is suggested that grape fruit cultivation would prove more remunerative. It is reported that there is little attempt at scientific culture, although there are signs of awakening to the value of land. The islands are handicapped in their development by the scant soil and absence of natural water supplies. ‘Agriculture is practically a neglected art. Soil culture is not easy, but, where it is systematically attempted, well repays effort. There is, undoubtedly, a more cheering look-out for the sisal industry, and those plantations which are worked on proper lines are yielding good results. This cultivation is extending and bids fair to be a permanent and promising one for these islands.’ 234 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. JuLy 16, 1904. Grenada. The following are further extracts from Mr. Ballou’s report on his recent visit to Grenada. The subject dealt with is the ‘black blight’ which is so prevalent in that island. Further information on this pest will be found in the Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 37:— Black blight is a fungus of the genus Capnodium. It finds nutriment and favourable conditions for growth in the secretions of the scale insects and is nearly always to be seen in greater or Jess quantity on scale-infested trees. As a first cause of Injury, it is comparatively insignificant, the damage done to plants attacked by black blight being almost entirely damage by scale insects. Several trees are always to be seen which show the black blight on leaves and twigs. The most striking of these are: clammy cherry (Cordia Collococca), mango (Mangifera indica), breadfruit (Artocarpus incisa), sapodilla (Sapota Achras), guava (Psidium guava), lime (Citrus medica, var. acida), orange (Citrus Aurantium). Black blight also seems able to subsist on the products of several different kinds of scale insects, prominent among which are the following: all the species of the shield scales (Zecanium), the glassy star scale (Vinsonia stellifera), the mussel scale (JJytilaspis citricola), and the mealy shield scale (Protopulvinaria pyriformis). Many of the plants affected by these scales, and the attendant black blight, live on year after year, though the upper surfaces of all leaves seem to be thickly coated with the mycelinm of Capnodium, and the under surfaces and small twigs seriously attacked by scale insects. No serious attack of black blight, or the scale insects causing it, has yet been observed on cacao or nutmeg, and it may be stated as a general truth that, until the scale insects attack these plants, the black blight will not, and that any observant planter will be able to detect the beginnings of such attack, and by the application of contact insecticides will be able to ward off the attack before it assumes serious proportions. The fact that for so many years cacao has been grown in these islands, where many of these scale insects are native, and has never been seriously attacked by them would lead to the supposition that it is not a favourite food plant for the scales. Mr. MacNeill, formerly Agricultural Instructor at Grenada, in a letter dated November 1902, gives a long list of plants affected by black blight and says: ‘When mangos, breadfruit and other trees become affected with the blight, the crops suffer and I have heard of cases where the trees died;’ but he does not say from his own knowledge that black blight does kill trees, or that he has everseen trees that he considered had been killed by this pest. As bearing on this point, I would refer to the mango. This tree, in many places, is affected year after year by black blight, and yet each new crop of leaves comes on and fully recovers the tree so that with the casting of the old leaves and the bursting of the new, the tree stands to all appearances a clean and healthy tree. Many affected leaves are left, however, and in a short time the scale insects take possession of the new growth and the black fungus soon appears on the leaves which were clean. When in Grenada, I noticed that the trees in the vicinity of St. Georges were much more commonly attacked by black blight than trees along the leeward coast and in the northern part of the island. What conditions are responsible for this 1am not able to say, but I presume that the more unnatural nature of the locality leads to this prevalence. The extermination of black blight in an island like Grenada would be a practical impossibility. That is to say, the expense of exterminating the various scale insects which furnish conditions favourable to the growth of the black blight would entail an enormous expenditure of money, which would hardly be warranted until the pest gave evidence of being seriously injurious to a valuable crop, and it would necessitate the destruction of so many trees and food plants of the scale insects that the results might be more unfavourable and far-reaching than would be supposed. The control, however, of black blight, and of the scale insects it follows, is, on the whole, a simple matter on any given area, In conclusion, I would again point out that black blight is unsightly but comparatively uninjurious ; the scale insects which it follows may, however, become a serious pest, but they can be controlled. Entomology in Hawaii. The Hawaiian Government employs four entomologists who are officers of the Board of Commissioners of Agriculture and Forestry. The chief entomological work is given in the Hawavian Forester and Agriculturist (Vol. I, no. 4, April 1904) as coming under two heads: (1) suppression of insect pests already in the islands, and (2) prevention of the introduction of new insect pests into the islands. For the former the natural enemies of the various insect pests are depended upon to a large extent. Two of the four entomologists spend a large part of their time travelling in search of natural enemies in the places from which different pests have been imported. The work under the second head is done by the resident entomologists, who inspect all importations of plants and decide whether they shall be allowed to land, and, if so, whether they shall be treated in order to deal with any insects that may have been found on or among them. In addition, the matter of spraying and the best cultural methods for dealing with pests attacking the various crops receive a good deal of attention. At present the leaf-hopper of the sugar-cane is one of the most troublesome pests. Not only does it injure the canes by puncturing the leaves and stems in feeding, and in egg-laying, but in addition these punctures serve to give entrance to fungoid diseases. The leaf-hopper of the Hawaiian Islands (Perkinsiella saccharicida) is closely related to the cane fly (Delphax saccharivora) and the corn fly (Delphar maidis) of the West Indies, but it is much more serious a pest than the latter. (See Agricultural News, Vol. IL, p. 154.) Pickling Lemon and Orange Peel. ‘The fruit is cut in half and the pulp extracted. The peel is then thrown into open casks of salt and water and soaked for three days. The water is then drawn off and the peels are packed in layers in barrels. When the barrel is full, it is closed down and salt water is poured in through the bung to fill up completely. When the fruit is saturated the cask is sealed.’ (West Indian Bulletin, Vol. V, p. 70.) ae ol Vou. III. No. 59. THE HOW 10 MAKE SCHOOL GARDENS : A manual By H. D. Hemenway, B.S., Director New York: Doubleday, for teachers and pupils. of Hartford School of Horticulture. Page & Co., 1903. This little manual is designed to be of service to those teachers, anxious to take part in the school garden move- ment, who may not have had the advantage of agricultural training. It is suggested that in laying out a school garden the aesthetic side should not be lost sight of, but that this should not, on the other hand, be the controlling element. A wise teacher will let the aesthetic and the agricultural elements harmonize. This is the key-note to this book. We hope that the establishment of school gardens in the West Indies will be along the same lines. We have seen school gardens which were really nothing but flower gardens. Something more than this is wanted: they should be miniature experi- ment plots designed to instruct the children and draw out their powers of observation. Full directions are given by Mr. Hemenway as to the laying out of the garden and the preparation and fertilization of the land before planting. Then follow notes on lessons in garden work, instructions being given for planting various vegetables and flowers. Lessons in greenhouse work deal with such matters as planting seeds, potting plants, striking cuttings, ete. Other lessons deal with grafting and budding. Although this book deals with the cultivation of temperate plants, there is much in it to recommend its intelligent adoption as a guide by teachers in these islands, who will be able to learn from it the best kind of instruction to give. SCHOOL GARDENS IN EUROPE: Special Consular Reports issued by the Bureau of Foreign Commerce, Department of State. Washington - Government Printing Office, 1900. This consists of ‘reports from Consuls of the United States in answer to instructions from the Department of State’ to prepare reports upon ‘ the founding, progress, and practical working of school gardens in your respective districts.’ Reports are published from Belgium, France, Germany, and Switzerland. Each contains interesting information relating to the nature of the instruction provided, programmes of the courses of instruction, ete. Excellent photographic illustrations of classes of children engaged in work in the gardens and in the school rooms add to the value of these reports. In several cases, grants are given by the Government towards the establishment and maintenance of these gardens. In Switzerland a prize of $50 was offered for the best compo- sition on the subject, and the Consul at Aaran furnishes a translation of that which received the prize, which is particu- Jarly interesting. AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 935 EDUCATIONAL. Agricultural School, Dominica. Mr. A. J. Brooks, the Officer-in-charge, reports as follows Since the opening of the school in 1900, eighteen boys have completed their course of instruction and left the school. All these boys are now engaged in agricultural work in this island. Eleven are working on estates as overseers, five are working land owned by themselves or relations, two are retained by the Imperial Department at the Botanic Station and Agricultural School. School Gardens in Grenada. The following is taken from the annual report of the Inspector of Schools in Grenada just issued :— It is with satisfaction that I note the completion of thirteen school gardens during the year. These have all been laid out and enclosed from government funds under govern- ment supervision. The total cost was about £170, the average size of each being between } and } acre. A scheme of cash payments in lump sum in connexion with the annual examinations was submitted to the Board of Education, but nothing has since been heard of it. At the annual examina- tions held October to December 1903, only two schools had really commenced operations, viz., the St. Paul’s Anglican and the St. Paul’s Roman Catholic schools. Each had “made a fairly good start. The gardens have all been established in prominent places, so as to become object-lessons to the people of the labouring classes. Blackie’s Readers are being more and more extensively used, and the theoretical work done during the year has stood the test of fairly searching examination by the Inspectors. Substantial progress may be expected at the next round of examinations. If the object-lessons were taught systematically, and the introduction of plant life into the course brought about, the lack of sympathy for the teaching of agriculture that has been so marked would gradually be removed, beginning at the lowest standards of the school. CAREFUL PREPARATION OF PRODUCTS. An article in the India-Rubber World for June 1, gives some figures to illustrate the bearing of the purity of rubber on its market value. After speaking of the high prices obtained by Ceylon planters for rubber from Hevea, compared with the prices obtained for Mexican rubber from Castilloa, the writer of the article goes on:— Para rubber, imported at 51 per tb. with 15 per cent. of shrinkage in cleaning, really costs the manufacturer $1173. At the same time Mexican rubber imported at only 75c., with 30 per cent. shrinkage, really costs at the factory $1:07 per lb. The chief explanation of the high prices obtained by the Ceylon planters is that they do not ship dirt to market ; the percentage of shrinkage in their product is almost nz/. Hence when some Ceylon rubber sold recently in London at 31:29} per ib., while Central American rubber brought only 81c., this difference alone formed no reason for discouraging the planters of Castilloa, which yields the Central sorts. The latter rubber might have brought $1 or more, if prepared as carefully as the Ceylon rubber. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Juty 16, 1904. GLEANINGS. Sea Island cotton seed is on sale at the Botanic Station, Grenada, at 2d. per tbh. Application for seed should be made to the Curator. The annual local agricultural exhibition and show of stock for peasants will be held at Dunscombe plantation, St. Thomas, Barbados, on Tuesday, January 10, 1905. A cotton ginning plant and baling press, capable of handling a crop of 600 acres, will shortly be put up at Stone Fort estate, St. Nitt’s. The plant will be ready for work in October next. A total of 4,225 tb. of Sea Island cotton seed has been distributed in Jamaica. This should be sufiicient to plant about 700 acres. Cotton will be ginned and baled at Hartlands at a charge of 3c. per tb. of clean cotton. In Jamaica the Island Chemist has made arrangements for supplying thymol, prepared as described in the Agri- cultural News, Vol. Ill, p. 157, which is recommended for bots and worms in horses, at the small charge of 2d. per dose. The second of the series of lectures on cotton growing in Barbados was given at the Parry School, St Lucy, on Wednesday, July 6. The lecturers were Mr. J. R. Bovell and Mr. L. Lewton-Brain. Owing to unfavourable weather the attendance was only fair. The British Bee Journal gives the approximate number of colonies of bees in various countries as follows :—United States, 4,500,000 ; Germany, 2,000,000 ; Austria, 1,800,000 ; Spain, 1,700,000 ; France, 1,000,000 ; Great Britain, 500,000 ; Holland, 250,000; Belgium, 200,000; Denmark, 100,000 ; Greece, 50,000 ; Switzerland, 30,000. According to a United States Consular Report, cedar holds a high place among the woods of Columbia, one year’s exports of this wood from the two principal ports of the Atlantic amounting to 2,481 metric tons. ‘On the Vene- zuelan border is found the red smelling cedar, called juniper, largely used in the manufacture of lead pencils.’ According to the Consular Report, there is likely to be a rapid development in the production of rubber in Indo- China. ‘The quantity exported rose from 53 tons in 1899 to 340 tons in 1900, but fell to 266 tons in 1901. The high prices offering have led to a somewhat reckless draining of the sources of supply during the last few years, but regula- tions are now being enforced to prevent wasteful destruction of plants and to encourage replanting.’ The Board of Trade Journal of May 12 gives particulars relating to the manufacture of cocaine in Peru. In 1901, 610,006 kilos. of coca leaves and 10,688 kilos. of cocaine were exported. The average price of cocaine in that year was £30 per kilo. We are pleased to hear that Mr. E. M. Cutting, the Barbados scholar of 1901, has obtained a First Class, in Botany, in Part II of the Natural Sciences Tripos at Cambridge. It will be remembered that in 1903 Mr. Cutting obtained a First Class in Part I of this Tripos, at the end of his second year at Cambridge. During the fortnight ended June 16, 301 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom, sales being effected at the following prices: West Indian, 6°75d. to 6°79¢.; West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 14d.; fine, 15d. ; extra fine, 16d. per Ib. One bale of Barbabos cotton realized as much as 18d. per tbh. (West India Committee Circular.) A correspondent writes in the Natal Agricultural Journal: ‘1 should like to warn your readers of the absolute necessity of providing bees with a regular supply of pure water during dry weather, otherwise they are likely to seek water in the foulest places. I have found it a good plan to float small pieces of wood in a pan of water, so that the bees can sit on them and drink without danger of being drowned.’ The Rev. Canon Weymouth, writing in the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society on the Hawaiian Islands, refers to the oily nuts of the Indian walnut or candleberry tree (Aleurites moluccana), which is not uncommon in the West Indies. He states: ‘The natives formerly strung the kernels on bamboo splints and used them as torches. Black polished ornaments are made from the shells.’ Among the recommendations contained in the report of the Committee appointed by his Excellency the Governor-in- Chief of the Windward Islands to consider the expenditure of the balance of the St. Vincent Eruption Fund, we notice the following: ‘That a sum of £1,000 be granted to the Imperial Department of Agriculture for the purchase of stock to improve the present breed of animals in the colony and for the housing and enclosure of such stock.’ In his annual Report on the work of the Government Laboratory, Jamaica, for 1905-4, Mr. Cousins reports a visit to a coffee plantation where trees were dying out in certain fields—a state of affairs attributed by the planter to the use of guano as a fertilizer. Mr. Cousins found, however, that the trees were affected by a root fungus and that there was a definite connexion between the roots of dead or decaying Avocado pear trees and the affected coffee. ‘This appears to confirm the opinion that the pears should not be grown on any lands intended for subsequent cultivation.’ The report of the Horticulturist of the Canadian Experimental Farms contains a reference to experiments in dust spraying. In dry districts spraying is sometimes difficult owing to scarcity of water. Satisfactory results have been obtained from the use of various machines invented for the purpose. Air-slaked lime has been used in the place of water for carrying the fungicides and insecticides. As a rule the nozzle of these machines is so far away that there is little danger to the operator from the use of arsenical poisons, provided the work is carefully done. Vou. Ill. No. 59. MANURIAL EXPERIMENTS WITH COTTON. It has been agreed, in consultation with the Hon. F. Watts, B.Se, FIC, F.C.S., that manurial experiments with cotton be carried on in the Leeward Islands. Experiments will therefore be conducted by the Department of Agriculture and cotton planters working together on the following lines :— The Department of Agriculture will provide the artificial manures for the experiments, and will supervise their application. The planter co-operating will be required to prepare the land for the experiments and to plant the necessary dividing lines of pigeon peas; to weed and care for the crop during growth, taking all reasonable precautions for the prevention of insect and other pests, including the provision and application of proper insecticides ; to gather the cotton from each plot separately, which can be readily done by having as many bags for storing cotton as there are plots in the series of experiments. When the reaping is completed the proceeds of each plot will be weighed, and ginned, and small samples of lint from each plot sent to the government laboratory for examination and valuation. The necessary information concerning the weight of seed-cotton, of lint obtained per plot and of the general nature and growth of the crop will be forwarded to the govern- ment laboratory for the purpose of preparing the proper report upon the experiments, in a manner similar to that followed in the case of experiments with sugar-canes. It is desirable that care be taken to provide for concise publica- tion of results ; fragmentary and piece-meal publication is to be deprecated. It is proposed that the experiments shall be arranged somewhat on the same lines as those conducted with sugar- canes, and a list of some thirty-five to forty experiments has been drawn up. These experiments are designed to ascertain the requirements of the cotton plant as regards (1) nitrogen, (2) phosphates, (3) potash, (4) salt, and (5) the influence of sulphate of copper. Other experiments, as for example, those with insecticides or fungicides may be added to the series, if local circumstances demand the addition. Each plot is to be 75 acre, and the plots are to be separated from one another by rows of pigeon peas. “Arranged in this manner, each series of experiments will require about 1} acres. "Little difficulty should be experienced in picking the cotton separately from each plot, if a bag is provided for each plot and plainly marked with the number of the plot. The bags should not be carried about from plot to plot while picking is going on. The following list of experiments has been put forward as suitable for this year’s work:— 1. No manure. 2. Pen manure. NITROGEN SERIES. no phosphate. 20 Tb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia, no no phosphate. 3. No nitrogen, 30 th. potash, 40 tb. phosphate. 4, 20 tb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia, 30 Ib. potash, 40 tb. phosphate. 5. 30 tb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia, 30 Ib. potash, 40 tb. phosphate. 6. 20 tb. nitrogen as nitrate of soda, 30 Ib. potash, 40 1b. phosphate. 7. 30 tb. nitrogen as nitrate of soda, 30 tb. potash, 40 th. phosphate. 8. 30 ib. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia, 30 fb. potash, 9, potash, THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 237 10. 30 Tb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia, no phosphate. 11. 20 tb. nitrogen as nitrate of soda, no phosphate. 12. 50 tb. nitrogen as nitrate of soda, no phosphate. no potash, no potash, no potash, PHOSPHATE SERIES. 13. No phosphate, 50 tb. nitrogen, 30 Tb. potash. 14. 40 tb. phosphoric acid as basic phosphate, 30 tb. nitrogen, 30 tb. potash. 15. 60 ib. phosphoric acid as basic phosphate, 30 Tb. 30 tb. potash. 16. 80 tb. phosphoric acid as basie phosphate, 30 tb. potash. 17. 40 tb. phosphoric acid as basic phosphate, no nitrogen, no potash. 18. 40 tb. phosphcrie acid as superphosphate, 30 tb. nitrogen, 30 Ib. potash. 19. 60 tb. phosphoric acid as superphosphate, 30 Tb. nitrogen, 30 tb. potash. nitrogen, POTASH SERIES, 20. No potash, 30 tb. nitrogen, 40 tb. phosphate. 21. 20 Tb. potash as sulphate, 30 tb. nitrogen, 40 tb. phosphate. 22. 30 tb. potash as sulphate, 30 tb. nitrogen, 40 tb. phosphate. 23. 40 Ib potash as sulphate, 30 ib. nitrogen, 40 tb. phosphate. 24. 40 tb. potash as sulphate, no nitrogen, no phosphate. COTTON SEED MEAL SERIES. 25. 3,000 tb. 26. 600 tb. 27. 300 tb. 28. 300 ib. 29. 300 tb. cotton seed. cotton seed. cotton seed, cotton seed, cotton seed, 30 tb. potash, no potash, 30 Th. potash, no phosphate. 40 th phosphate. 40 tb. phosphate. 30. 300 Tb. cotton seed, 30 1b. potash, 40 tb. phosphate, 30 tb. nitrogen. SALT SERIES. 31. 100 tb. salt alone. 32. 200 tb. salt alone. 33. 100 tb. salt, 30 th. nitrogen, 30 th. potash, 40 tb. phosphate. 34. 200 tb. salt, 30 Th. nitrogen, 30 th. potash, 40 tb. phosphate. 35. 100 th. salt, 300 tb. cotton seed SULPHATE OF COPPER SERIES.* 36. 20 tb. sulphate of copper. 37. 20 tbh. sulphate of copper, 30 tb. nitrogen, 30 tb potash, 40 Tb. phosphate. 38. 20 tbh. sulphate of copper, 300 tb. cotton seed. Note. Plots nos. 5, 14 and 22, also nos. 8, and 13 are identical, so that one plot, that is, no. 5, will serve 5, 14 and 22, and one plot, that is, no. 8, will serve for 8 and 13. Stingless Bees. From a commercial point of view, the stingless bees are of almost no importance, at least at the present time. There are several varieties, or, perhaps, more properly speaking, species, in the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, and the South American countries. Some of these bees will store as much as half a gallon of honey in a log; but the great majority of them, if I am correct, work from hand to mouth, just about as the native human beings exist in the same localities. We once had a colony of stingless bees imported from Mexico. Our climate did not seem to agree with them, and they soon dwindled away. While the stingless bees, as their name indicates, have no stings, yet they can bite pretty viciously. One variety is said to be able to ‘ bite so tremendously’ that the average person unfamiliar with the sting of the regular honey bee supposes he has actually been stung. (Gleanings in Lee Culture.) *See Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 56, ‘Rendering Plants immune against Fungus Parasites.’ 1 oo lo 4} THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 16, 1904. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following is Mr. J. R. Jackson’s report on the London Drug and Spice market for the month of May:— The same quiet tone reported for April has continued in the drug and spice markets throughout the month of May, and but little change may be expected through the summer months; consequently, there is nothing of any special character to note, and this applies not only to West Indian products but to those of other countries generally. ARROWROOT, As an illustration of the effect changes in cultures haye, or are likely to have, in different countries, on the several markets, it may be noted that, with regard to arrowroot, the following has appeared in that well-informed and up-to-date journal, the Chemist and Druggist :— ‘It is said that a considerable number of the proprietors of arrowroot estates in St. Vincent are, in the near future, to devote themselves to the cultivation of cotton, which fact may eventually bring about dearer prices for arrowroot. No supplies were offered at the London auction on Tuesday, May 3, and privately, the market is reported firmer, added to which deliveries during the first four months of the year amounted to 8,068 barrels against 5,487 barrels last year. The stock is now 9,022 barrels, against 11,205 _ barrels.’ Some proof of the above statement has been shown by the quotation of later prices. Commencing a week after the above statement appeared, good manufacturing St. Vincent realized 13d. to 13d. per b., while a week later, 2 236 barrels were offered and bought i in at 21d. to 33d. per Ib. GINGER. At the first spice auction of the month over 700 packages of Jamaica ginger were offered and somewhat more than half sold at steady prices, viz., 57s. for bold; 46s. to 50s. for fair to good washed ; 39s. to 43s., for medium dullish to medium washed, and 34s. to 38s. 6d., for ordinary to ordinary dullish. Cochin was in slow demand, fetching 25s. for shrivelled brown Calicut rough, and 21s. 6d. for small. A fortnight later, viz.,on May 18, as many as 1,300 packages of Jamaica were offered, and about 650 sold at the following rates :—Good washed, 47s.; bold, 45s.; medium to fair washed, 40s. to 44s., small and middling dullish, 36s.; ordinary, 34s. to 36s. 6d., and common dark, 31s. 6d. to 33s. Rough Covhin was quoted at about 2s. lower. It may be of interest to note in connexion with the ginger trade, that sales have been effected in Liverpool of the new crop of Sierra Leone at 20s. per ewt. MACE, NUTMEGS, PIMENTO, ETC. Of other West Indian spices, the quotations at the first sale of the month were as follows:—Mace, fair quality, ls. 9d. to ls. 10d. ; ordinary, 1s. 7d. to 1s, 8d., and pickings, 1s. 6d. to ls. 7d. per Ib. A fortnight later the prices had slightly advanced, good West Indian realizing 1s. 11d.: ordinary to fair, 1s. 8d. to 1s. 9d., and broken, 1s. 5d. Nutmegs.—These were from 3d. to 1d. per tb. dearer than in the preceding month, chiefly in the smaller and medium sizes, and these prices remained steady throughout the month. Pimento.—Of jimento 680 bags of 1901 import were offered at the first sale, greyish to fair quality selling at 34d. to 3d. per tb. On the 18th. a large quantity of pimento was again offered and disposed of, mostly without reserve, at prices varying but slightly from the above. Sarsaparilla.—On May 12, 3 bales of genuine grey Jamaica, of common quality, were offered and bought in at Is. Id. per tb. There was a fair supply of native Jamaica, but no fine red was offered: 6d. to 11d. per tb. was obtained for common mixed to fair red; Lima sold at 10d., and several bales of Honduras were limited at ls. 1d. to ls. 2d. KOLA NUTS, ANNATTO SEED, TAMARINDS, ETC. At the first sale, on the 12th., good West Indian kola nuts sold at 53d. to 6d. ;and two bags of good East Indian, said to be from Ceylon, were disposed of at “5d. per Ib. At the same sale, 51 packages of annatto seed were offered and 9 of fair Madras sold at 34d. per tb. At the same sale, 3 bags of ordinary West Indian musk seed were offered and 2 sold at 7d. per tb. Tamarinds were also offered in quantity, good bright Barbados, of new crop, selling at 10s. per cwt., in bond ; while low stony East Indian sold at 5s. A week later, viz., on the 19th., it was announced that the steamship ‘Inchmona’ from Barbados had arrived with 264 barrels, and the ‘Winnie’ from Antigna with 217 barrels and 33 half-barrels. The last named vessel had also brought 24 casks of Tonka beans from Trinidad. West Indian distilled lime oil was quoted at the end of the month at ls. 6¢. per tb., and new raw West Indian lime juice at from Is. 2d. to 1s. 5d., according to quality and quantity. BAHAMAS — ISLANDS. Appointment of Curator of Botanic Station. A Board of Agriculture has recently been estab- lished in the Bahamas, and it is proposed to start a Botanie Station for which a Curator is required, Particulars as to this appointment are contained in the following extract from a letter addressed by the Acting Chairman of the Board of Agriculture to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture :— Believing that a man who has become familiar with the climate, soil and plants of the West Indies would best suit these islands, the Board would be much indebted to you if you would kindly let it become known that such a man is wanted and forward to them, with your indorsement, any applications that may be made. The candidate is to state his capabilities. salary is from £150 to £200. The Board would prefer a practical man with some scientific training, and, as you may suppose, a knowledge of the sugar industry is umnecessary. The Bill appointing a Curator is for a period of three years only, but may be renewed if the experiment is found to be satisfactory ; and it is expected that the Curator with reach here not later than October. It would be well if applications for this post were addressed, in the first instance, to the Imperial Commis- sioner of Agriculture for the West Indies, Barbados. The proposed Lawn Grasses in Egypt. According to the Journal of the Alexandria Horticultural Society, anong the grasses most frequently used in Egypt for making lawns are Stenotaphrum americanum (the Jamaica pimento grass) and Cynodon Dactylon (the Bahama or Devil’s grass of the West Indies.) Of the latter it is stated: ‘Experience has shown the absolute necessity of obtaining a flat surface before planting, as no amount ef earth added after the grass has taken root will have the same effect in levelling up the soil.’ Vou. III. No. 59. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 239 MARKET REPORTS. London,—June 21, 1904. Messrs. Kerarron, Piper & Co., Messrs. J. Hanes Carrp & Co., Messrs. KE. A. de Pass & Co., ‘THE West INpIA COMMITTEE Circunar’; ‘THE LrvErroon Corron AssociaTION WEEKLY CIRCULAR,’ June 17, 1904 ; and ‘THE Puetic Lepcer, June 18, 1904. ALoEs—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curagva, 14/- to 38/- per cwt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, 13d. to 3}d.; Bermuda, 1/2 to 1/6 per tb. Batara—Demerara Sheet, 2/3; Venezuelan Block, 1/55 per tb. Bees’-wax—£7 to £7 7s. Gd. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 57/- to 68/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 52/- to 58/- per ewt.; Dominica, St. Lucia, and Jamaica, 50/- to 58/- per cwt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/3 per tb. CorrrE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 37/- to 38/- per ewt. Copra—Trinidad, sundried, £16 10s. to £16 15s. per ton, c.i.f. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 163d. to 18d. per Ib. Frouir— Bananas—Jamaica, 4/6 to 7/6 per bunch. Grave Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. OrANGES—No quotations. Pivg-aprLes—Antigua, 14/- to 16/- per barrel. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gincer—Jamaica, common to middling, 31/6 to 43/- ; good fair bright, 46/6 to 48/- per cwt. Honry—18/- to 30/- per ewt. Isrncitass— West Indian lump, 2/5 to 2/11 ; Cake, medium, palish, 1/3 per th. Koua Nurs—4d. to 7d. per tb. Lime Juice—Raw, 1/4 to 1/6 per gallon; Concentrated, £13 5s. per cask of 108 gallons. Lime Orm—1/5 to 1/6 per tb., distilled. Locwoop —£4 2s. Gd. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—1/2 to 2/1 per tb. Nirrate or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 per ton. Nurmncs-—140’s, 6d. to 64d. ; 100’s, 9d. ; 57’s, 2/3 per Th. Prventro—-3d. to 3$d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 7d. to 74d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s 93d. and upwards per proof gallon; Leewards, 7d. to 10d. per proof gallon. SarsapaRILLaA—Jamaica, 7d. to 1/- per tb. Sucar—Crystallized, 15/3 per cwt. ; Muscoyado, Barbados, 11/6 to 13/3 per ewt. ; 89°, 9s. 13d. on floating terms ; Molasses, 11/6 to 15/- per cewt. SunpHare or AmMMontIA—£12 per ton. Tamartyps—Antigua, 7/- to 8/-; Barbados, 10/- to 11/- per cwt. Montreal,—June 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russern Murray. (In bond quotations.) Bananas—Jamaica, $1°25 per bunch of 8 hands ; $1:40 per bunch firsts ; $1°65 per bunch Jumbos, c. & f. Cacao—Jamaica, lle. to 12c. per tbh. ec. &f. Srepar—Trinidad, 45c. per cubic foot, ¢.i.f. Cocoa-nurs— Jamaica, $24:00 to $26-00 ; Trinidad, $21:00 to $23-00 per M. c. & f. Correr—Jamaica, medium, 8he. to 9$c. per th. c. & f. Gincer—Jamaica, unbleached, 63c. to 8c. per th. c. & f. Limes—Jamaica, $6°00 per barrel, c. & f. Mo.ascurr—Demerara, $132 per 100 th. c. &f. Mo.asses—Barbados, 22c. to 25c.; Antigua, 21c. to 22e. per Inperial gallon. Nurmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 173c. to 183c. per th. c. & f. Pimento—Jamaica, 7}c. to 7c. per th. c. & f. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°40 to $2.50 per 100 th. c. &f. —Centrifugals, 89°, $2:05 to $215 per 100 th. c. & f. —Molasses, 89°, $1°88 per 100 tb. c. &f. —Barbados, 89°, $2°25 per 100 th. c. &. f. New York,—June 24, 1904.— Messrs. Gituespie Bros. & Co. Cacso—Caracas, 12$c. to13c.; Jamaica, 10}c. to 12c.; Grenada, 12}c. to 12$c.; Trinidad, 12{c. to 13}c. per tbh. Barbados, Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $19 to $21 per M., selected. Jamaicas--No quotations. CorrrE—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 7c. to 7ie. per tb. GincrerR—Jamaica, 63c. to 8c. per tb. Goat Skrns—Jamaicas, 52c. to 54$c. per tb. Pinvento—6je. to 6$c. per th. i Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 3%1¢.; Muscovados, 89°, 313c. Molasses, 89°, 3:4c. per fb Y INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,—June 29, 1904.—Messrs. BENNETT Bryson & Co., Lrp. Mo tasses—13$c. per gallon (Imperial). Sugar—$1°85 per 100 th. July 2, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garraway & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncw & Co. Arrowrkoot—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°70 per 100 th. Cacao—$11°50 to $12:00 per 100 ib. Cocoa-Nurs—$10°75 per M. for husked nuts. CorreE—Jamaica, $9°00 to $10-00 ; ordinary Rio, $11-00 per 100 tb. Hay—95c. to $1:00 per 100 th. Manures—-Nitrate of soda, $60-00 ; Ohlendorfi’s dissolved guano, $60-00; Sulphate of ammonia, $7500 to $76:00; Sulphate of potash, $67:00. Mouasses—13e. per gallon (puncheon included). Ontons—Madeira (stringed), $2°25 per 100 ib. ex ‘Sarstoon’ ; Bermuda-— No quotations. Poratos, ENctisH— Bermuda, $4:00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°50 to $4°60 per bag (190 ib.) ; Patna, $3°40 per 100 tb. Suegar—in hhds., 89°, $1°85 (packages included). Dark Crystals, 96°, $2°20 per 100 th. British Guiana,—June 30, 1904.—Messrs. Wuetine & RicHrer. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $9:00 per barrel. Batara—3idc. to 40c. per th. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13e. per tb. Cassava STARCH—§7 ‘00 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$8 ‘00 to $10°00 per M. CorrEE—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. per tb. (retail). —-Creole, lle. per tb. Dxrat—$4:60 to $475 per bag of 168 tb., ex ‘Sarstoon.” Eppors—96c. per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks included). Ontons—§$2°00 per 100 tb., ex ‘Sarstoon’; Teneriffe, 13c. to 2c. per Th. Pea Nurs—Curacoa, 4c. ; American, 5c. per Ib. (retail). Pranrams—20c. to 40c. per bunch. Poratos, EnciisH—§$3'00 to $4:00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, old, $4°60 ; Creole, $4°50 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweet Poratos—Barbados, $1°20 per barrel, $1:00 per bag. Tannras—-$1°20 per barrel. Yams—White, $1°68 per bag. Suegar—Dark Crystals, $2:12} to $2:173 ; Yellow, $2°25 to $2°50; White, $3:00 to $3°50; Molasses, $1°70 to $2:00 per 100 tb. Trmeer—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic fout. Watrrasa Surncres—$3°00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—June 30, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co. ; and Messrs. EpGar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary to good red, $12°10 to $12°25 ; Estates, $1225 to $12°45 ; Venezuelan, $12°60 to $12°80 ver fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nut Meat—l}e. per tb. Cocoa-NuT O1r—68c. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, 6c. per tb. Copra—-$2°65 to $2°75 per 100 tb. Ontons—Teneriffe, 80c. ; Madeira, $1°25 per 100 tb. Poraros, Encuiso—$1'75 to $2°25 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4°20 to $450; White Table, $550 to $5°75 per bag. Sucar—-White Crystals, $3:25; Yellow Crystals, $2°35 Molasses Sugar, $2°20 to $2:25 per 100 th. 240 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 16, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE =A Ree Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF'S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. (72. ] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. JUST PUBLISHED — DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. A. B. G. COTTON PLANTING | Ait aaa FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, | ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. V, NO. 1). Containing full directions for the coming season. Price 4/7. Post free, 5/ To be obtained of all Agents. Price 6d. Post Free, 8d. c¢ C AC Oe’ By J. He HART. Ps. FOR COTTON GROWERS : NEW EDITION. ‘ 3 A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of WEST INDIAN BULLETIN DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Sc., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. Price 3s. per copy. Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. = NEO A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT QF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. IT ite. 60. BARB ADOS, JULY 30, 1904. Ener 1d. CONTENTS. in these colonies since the inauguration of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. We give the following PaGE. PAGE 2 ‘S) Insect Notes :— Auto-spray ... ... ... 250 Black grubs... ... ... 250 Dominica... ... ... 247 Dry powder Gun... 250 Agricultural Shows, Jamaica, Government Circular to Exhibitors 254 Laboratory > «. 249 Kaolin in St. Kitt’s 8 Boo aes: 5) : Market Reports... ... 255 United States... ... 244 Notes and ents oe 248 Cacao, Yield in Dominica 246 | Oil of Ben Bee wes oes 49 Castor oil plant in Ceylon 249 | Onions :— Agricultural Industries in the West Indies 241 Agricultural School, Bananas, Consumption in Cotton Notes: — Bacterial rot weet 2s (245. St. Lucia ... seo 2AD Cultivation in Jamaica 253 Seed oil in Austria Bony 4: 555 West Indian Trade in 253 Shipment of West Indian... .. 245 Danish West Indies, Grasses and Cattle in 249 Department News... ... 251 Department Reports :— Our Book Shelf :— Senior Country Reader, III... ... 251 Pine-apples, Gathering 244 Poultry Notes... ... ... 247 Rabbit Keeping... ... 246 British Honduias —... 253 | Rubber planting in Mirmnidady "sr. se) se. 200 Ceylon... 250 Educational :— Sisal Exports from Mexico 251 British Guiana, Agri- cultural Apprentices 251 St. Lucia, School Sugar Industry :— Cane farming at Nevis 243 Manurial eo 242 Garden in : Hoy rae Porto Rico ... . ws 240 Falkland Islands, Agri- West Indian Fruit in culture in. «-. 249 London ... ... 244, 248 Gleanings... ... ... ... 252 | West Indian Products ... 254 The Agricultural Industries of the West Indies. > N his lecture to the members of the West India Committee on the ‘ Agricultural Industries of the West Indies, Sir Daniel Riorris gave an account of the progress of agriculture brief summary of the lecture. There was among some people an idea that the West Indies were played out or could not compete with other countries on account of want of land: that was altogether erroneous. It was estimated that there still some 2,000,000 acres of uncultivated land, suitable for bearing crops of some kind. Much of this was not, of course, suitable for bearing large crops of sugar, cacao, bananas, ete., but there were other industries capable of being started on such land, and it was part of the work of the Imperial Department of Agriculture to carry on experiments that would lead to the profitable cultivation of such industries on remunera- tive lines. were After indicating briefly the more important lines of work in which the Department was engaged, Sir Daniel referred to the sugar-cane experiments. These were devoted to raising new varieties of canes for the purpose of increasing the yield of sugar per acre and of obtaining disease-resistant canes; also to testing the relative values of manures and the most economical methods of cultivation. Altogether there were about 500 acres under sugar-cane experiments in the West Indies A yery considerable number of new canes was raised every year. Only very few of these proved worthy of being cultivated on a large scale. The work was still in the experimental stage but was nevertheless full of promise. The area planted in new seedling canes in British Guiana comprised about 13,000 acres. In Bar- 242 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 30, 1904. bados and Antigua, owing to the occurrence of disease in the Bourbon cane, seedling and other canes were The yield of seedling almost exclusively cultivated. canes in many cases exceeded that of the Bourbon. Sir Daniel then briefly sketched the history of the resuscitated cotton industry from the start that was made in 1900 up to the present time, when sufficient seed had been distributed to plant 8,000 acres. The result had been to show that the West Indies could produce as good cotton as the United States. The encourage- ment of this industry had received special attention from the Imperial Department of Agriculture. There were, he said, fifteen cotton ginneries already estab- lished, turning out cotton of high quality. He believed that by establishing a market for a special class of cotton, the Sea Island, the West Indies need have little fear from the competition of other countries, as they could not grow Sea Island cotton and would have to confine themselves to the ordinary class of short- staple cotton. With regard to subsidiary industries, cacao, rice, fruit, and limes were, next to sugar, among the most Experiments in the field treat- on at important industries. ment of cacao and limes were being carried Grenada and Dominica, The very extensive fruit indus- try of Jamaica, which was now worth nearly £1,000,000 per annum, had received a considerable impetus by the establishment of the Direct Line of steamers between that island and the United Kingdom. to export bananas and A serious attempt was now being made other fruit from Trinidad. A very interesting banana industry had lately been taken up in Barbados, where a banana exactly similar to the Canary banana was being cultivated, and a keen demand at good prices had arisen for it. Great care was being exercised in the packing of these bananas and they arrived in excellent condition. The export of oranges had been carried on in Jamaica on a considerable scale for some time, and now that greater care was being taken in selecting and marketing the fruit, there was no reason why the trade should not be very considerably increased in value. Pine-apples were being produced on a fairly large scale at Antigua. This pine was cf good quality and approached in flavour the much esteemed Ripley. For possibly the Smooth Cayenne was the best pine of all: this variety was being largely cultivated in Jamaica, and recently good fruit had been grown at Dominica and St. Vincent. export purposes, Recent experiments had shown that English potatos could be grown at a profit in the West Indies even to meet local requirements. Arrangements had now been made to obtain seed potatos of the ‘ Bliss Triumph’ variety for planting at the beginning of September. The potatos would then have time to grow before the setting in of the dry season, and they would be the first to come into the market in New York and London. An onion industry had been carried on for some time in Antigua to supply the New York market. In Antigua onions were grown entirely on the cane banks and received no special attention after they were once planted out. Therefore, whatever money was made from them was pure profit. As the West Indian onions would be placed on the New York market at least a month before those grown at Bermuda, there Was an opportunity for a comparatively large trade. In conclusion, Sir Daniel Morris said that it was impossible that this work should suddenly come to an end. ‘The way to ensure its continnance would be for each colony to supplement the Imperial Grant. It would still be desirable that the administration should be entrusted to the Imperial Commissioner of Agri- culture: unless they hada central authority it would be impossible to secure united action, without which they would fail to attain that degree of effort which was necessary for their highest prosperity. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Manurial Experiments with the Sugar-cane. It will be remembered that the manurial experi- ments conducted by Mr. Watts in the Leeward Islands tend to show that when pen manure is used phosphate and potash are not remunerative either when applied to plants or ratoon canes, nitrogenous manures being by themselves profitable. See Report on Experiments awith Sugar-canes in the Leeward Islands, Part II, (Manurial Experiments) pp. 8, 52, 102, 103, 106, and 107; also Pamphlet No. 30, Manurial Experiments with Sugar-canes in the Leeward Islands, pp. 55-62 These conclusions are supported by the following remarks taken from a paper on ‘The Sugar Industry in Java’ by H. C. Prinsen Geerligs (International Sugar Journal, June 1904, p. 283) :— The sugar-cane manure exclusively used in Java is a nitrogenous fertilizer ; potash and phosphoric acid, which are inissed in no fertilizing mixture, find no application here, as numerous experiments nade at the experiment stations in Java have shown they do not improve the quantity or quality of the cane manured with them. It must be observed that T am now speaking of Java only, and of cane planted on land which bears two rice crops on irrigated land between two cane crops, Vor. III. No. 60. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 243, Cane Farming in Nevis. We published in a_ previous issue of the Agri- cultural News (Vol. II, p. 226) particulars as to proposals for utilizing an additional Imperial grant of £1,000 in aid of peasant cultivation in the island of Nevis. It will be remembered that the arrangement was for muscavado mill owners, in consideration of a grant to be paid to them by the Government, to undertake to purchase canes from peasant proprietors and to pay for the same according to a sliding scale depending upon the net local value of muscovado sugar per 100 Ib. We are pleased to be able to record that the proposals have met with considerable success, some factories having purchased a much larger quantity of canes than their agreements required. These arrangements were mainly the outcome of suggestions submitted by the Hon. F. Watts, who writes as follows:— The proposals appear to have worked well and have proved useful in tiding the struggling sugar industry of Nevis over a very bad time. Among the important results following are the increased knowledge of the quantity of cane produced from a given area of land, and of the quantity of cane required to produce a ton of sugar. This knowledge cannot fail to lead to improvements both in the field and in sugar manufacture. The adoption of the plan of selling canes by weight has been to the advantage of both buyer and seller, by doing away with the troublesome and wasteful share system under which each person’s cane was separately manufactured into sugar and the produce shared. Sugar and Molasses in Porto Rico. The following extracts, taken from the Consular Report on the trade of Porto Rico for 1903, give an interesting statement of the condition of the sugar industry in that island :-— The area of sugar-cane cultivation is increasing, but not so rapidly as Porto Rico’s favourable position with regard to the certain and free United States market over other sugar- producing areas would seem to justify, even in view of the possibilities of the United States reciprocity with Cuba. The crop for 1903, as estimated in my last report, was almost accurately realized, viz., 105,000 tons, and these figures it is thought wili be exceeded by some 20 per cent. this year. The crops for the last three years are as follows :— Quantity. es Sugar. | Molasses. Pounds. | Gallons. 1900-1 137,817,470 2,848,314 1901-2 183,822,636 | 3,080,132 1902-3 233,070,000 | 3,537,000 DISTRICT OF PONCE. The general yield of sugar was a disappoincment ; fortunately, prices were fair and helped somewhat. This district produces about one-fourth of the whole island crop, and as soon as the central factories turn out their full capacity it will figure still higher : the value of the exports during 1905 amounted to £347,000; in 1902, £241,000. This increase is due to Guanica Centrale making its first crop. The first crop from Guanica Centrale was a disappoint- ment as only about 10,000 tons were produced. Prospects for next year are better, and they expect to make 25,000 tons, about one-quarter from their own canes, and the balance from planters’ canes. As almost all suitable cane lands are being put into cultivation, their next crop promises to be a large one. The Centrale’s actual grinding capacity is about 1,800 tons of cane per day, and this could be increased without great difficulty. The system of discharging the cane cars by means of electric cranes is a specially noteworthy feature and has proved quite a success. The company owns 16 miles of l-metre gauge railroad, 200 cars of 12 to 15 tons capacity, and four 40-tons capacity Baldwin locomotives. ‘The American [ailroad Company has acquired 150 of the same cane cars; there are thus 350 of these cars used in the transportation of canes. The company has a big electric plant for supplying power to the factory and to eight irrigation stations, where electric-driven, Root centrifugal pumps are used. Nine Stirling boilers are installed with a total of 4,000 horse-power. After the usual difficulties during the first crop in such large enterprises, the company seems to be working now with a brighter future. Molasses is decreasing in the district owing to less muscovado sugars being made. The exports were of the value of £45,544 in 1903, and £69,995 in 1902. DISTRICT OF MAYAGUEZ. The crop of sugar exported from this port during the year under review was about 7,750 tons, showing a falling off of nearly 1,000 tons as compared with the previous season of 1902, while that of molasses reached 622,757 gallons. The Guanica Centrale Factory, which lies within the Ponce district, has made arrangements with several sugar planters of this district to grind their canes there, so that although next crop’s production of sugar here will probably be larger, there is bound to be a considerable falling off in the produce to be exported from this port, and a little reduction in the quantity of molasses to be shipped during 1904 in consequence of so many small planters changing their muscovado to the centrifugal system employed by the Centrale Factory. The change cannot but be beneficial to sugar planters of the district with canes within reasonable distance from the railroad between this city and Ponce; but the com- munity in general, and particularly the great number of labourers who depended on the local sugar estates, will be losers. DISTRICT OF ARECIBO. The production of sugar has not been so satisfactory as was expected, considering the increased plantations in this district. The exports, all to the United States, show a decrease, partly owing to the lack of crushing facilities in certain sections of the district ; the canes are sent out and the sugar exported through the port of San Juan. Since the erection of modern sugar factories the produc- tion of molasses for export has ceased; only low grades suitable for alcohol are obtainable here. 244 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 30, 1904. WEST INDIAN FRUIT: WEST INDIAN FRUIT IN LONDON. West India We extract the following from the Committee Circular of July 5:— A feature of the banquet given by Mr. Lyttelton at the Colonial Oftice on the occasion of the celebration of the King’s Birthday, on June 24, was a selection of West Indian fruit, presented by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. ‘This consisted of a fine bunch of Barbados bananas, and a selection of Smooth Cayenne pine-apples grown in the island of Dominica. The Barbados bananas are a special sort and are sent over carefully packed in cotton wool in wooden crates. The flavour is said to be superior to that of any other bananas that reach this country. The pine-apples were greatly appreciated and their com- mercial value is shown by the fact that Messrs. George Monro, Ltd., who recently sold two crates, reported that it was the best fruit they had so far received from the West Indies, and that if similar fruit, carefully packed so as to protect both the erown and fruit, were regularly shipped from the West Indies, a good trade might be done in them. Of the first consign- ment, above referred to, every fruit arrived in excellent eondition and fetched an average net price of 4s. each. At the dinner given in his honour by the West Indian Club on June 22, Sir Daniel Morris presented a fine sample ef litchi fruit from the West Indies. This is a native of China and is highly esteemed, possibly next to the mangos- teen, for flavour and delicacy. So far, the litchi has not been exported from the West Indies, although fine large trees are to be found in some of the islands. The fruit successfully brought over by the donor was grown under the care of Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., at the beautiful Botanic Gardens at Trinidad. Mr. Hart mentions that this is only the third time in seventeen years that the Trinidad trees have fruited. Possibly by a system of skilful control and irrigation the trees may be induced to become more prolific and produce regularly large crops of one of the most delicious fruits of the tropics. GATHERING PINE-APPLES. With regard to the article on ‘Gathering fruit for market,’ reprinted in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 212) from the Bulletin of the Department of Agri- culture, Jamaica, Mr, J. H. Hart, F.L.S., writes from ‘Trinidad as follows :— The recommendations of the writers in reference to pine-apples are contrary to my experience. They write: Do not cut the stems but break off each rlose up to the base of the fruit. T should advise :— Cut the stems carefully close up to the base of the fruit, in the same way as oranges are treated, and do not break out the stem as it is apt to cause injury to the fruit and cause rapid decay. As this is a point in regard to which opinions of practical men appear to be contradictory, it would be of interest if pine-apple growers would give the results of their experience in this connexion. CONSUMPTION OF BANANAS UNITED STATES. The United States Monthly Consular Reports for March 1904 gives the following statistics showing the value of bananas declared for export to the United States during the fiscal years ended June 30, 1902 and 1903, respectively :— IN THE 1902. 1903. Country. Increase. British Honduras $115,803 | $129,512 | $13,709 British West Indies |$3,390,230 |$3,904,341 | $514,111 Colombia 601,072 635,200 | 34,128 Costa Rica ... ..-| 1,616,195 | 1,956,805 340,610 Dominican Republic 94,617 97,500 2,883 Guatemala ... 83,433 91,870 8,457 Honduras 749,681 | 1,097,066 | 347,385 Nicaragua 446,006 842,220 396,214 Total ...1$7,097,037 | 8,754,514 | 1,657,477 To Refine Bees’-wax. Melt the wax in a jar, and put into it powdered nitrate of soda (Chili saltpetre) in the proportion of 1 oz. to 1 tb. of wax, Afterwards add, by degrees, 2 oz. to 1 tb. of sulphuric acid, diluted with ten times its weight of water, keeping the wax warm, and stirring the while. Let it stand a short time, and then fill up the jar with hot water and allow the whole to cool. The wax should then be white. Afterwards wash with water to remove any nitric acid which may remain, as it would make the wax yellow. There is a slight difference observable in the quality during refining or bleaching. (Queensland Agricultural Journal.) Vou. Ill. No. 60. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 24 or COTTON NOTES. Cotton from St. Lucia. Reports have recently been’ received from the British Cotton Growing Association upon two samples of cotton forwarded from St. Lucia through the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. The report on a sample of Upland cotton was as follows :-— Clean, bright, well prepared. ‘ Fully good middling’ in grade. Staple equal to moderate extra American in length, but rather lacking in strength and regularity. Good useful cotton. Value, 7°20d. to 7°30d. (Value middling American, 6°72d.) The second sample—one of Sea Island cotton—was reported upon as follows :— Clean, bright, well prepared. Lacking in length and coarse. Value, 10d. (small black seed). Shipment of West Indian Cotton. We desire to draw the attention of cotton growers to the following important announcement made in the West India Committee Circular. It is only by giving careful consideration to such points as those referred to that it can be hoped to attain ultimate success with the cotton industry :— With reference to the shipment of Sea Island cotton from the West Indies there are two points, we are informed by the Imperial Commissioner, that require to receive special attention. The first of these is the packing. This is generally much tco loose, and in consequence, the freight rates for next season may have to be raised. It is well known that Sea Island cotton will not bear the heavy pressure that is employed for compressing short-staple cotton, but there is no doubt that the West Indian Sea Island cotton will stand, without injury, much greater pressure than is used at present, and it would be in the interest of the growers that this should be borne in mind. The next point is that to obtain the best prices for West Indian Sea Island cotton it should be consigned, for the present at least, to the British Cotton Growing Association. The Association, through its brokers, has established a special market for West Indian cotton, and the high prices now ruling are obtainable only where the shipments are placed in the hands of firms who make a specialty of this class of cotton, and who have the confidence of manufacturers who require long- staple cotton of the best quality. The shipment of small independent lots of West Indian Sea Island cotton is there- fore to be deprecated as calculated to injure the industry. Cotton Seed Oil in Austria. The following note appeared in the United States Consular Reports for March 1904 :— The imports of cotton seed oil from the United States decreased from 161 metric tons in 1901 to 120°4 metric tons in 1902, in consequence of the great increase in price of this article. Cotton seed oil is used extensively here asa table oil, but the prices at which it has been held during the past two years have placed it beyond the reach of the poorer classes and cheaper oils took its place to some extent. Attempts have been made to import the raw material and produce cotton seed oil in Austria, but all such attempts haye failed because the cotton seed suffers by the long sea voyage and the quality of oil produced therefrom is greatly inferior to the American product. Experiments made with Egyptian cotton seed, which does not seem to undergo chemical changes during the comparatively short journey from Egypt to Austria, have shown that it is not fit for the manufacture of edible oil. Furthermore, it is not at all probable, if the cotton seed oil industry were undertaken here, that a profitable market could be found in Austria-Hungary for the oil cake, which is so important a by-product of the cotton seed oil industry, inasmuch as its yield constitutes from 85 to 90 per cent. of the raw material. Serious doubts must therefore be expressed whether the proposed imposition of a prohibitive import duty on cotton seed oil would in the long run accomplish its purpose. A BACTERIAL ROT OF ONIONS. In Barbados, during the past season, onions have been attacked by a rot, which affects the inner scales of the bulb. It was generally noticed after the onions had been gathered and stored. Microscopical examination of the diseased scales showed that they were swarming with countless numbers of motile bacteria. No traces of fungus hyphae were to be found. It seemed probable that the bacteria were the immediate cause of the rot, and that their development had been favoured by moist conditions, either while the onions were growing or when they were being gathered or dried. The weather during last December, January and February was exception- ally moist in Barbados. It was noticed that in most cases the rot had apparently started at the collar. Inquiries were made of various persons who had practical experience in onion growing. Their replies, in nearly every case, attributed the disease to the wet weather while the onions were growing and ripening. In one case it was suggested that the rot followed attacks of onion thrips. An epidemic of a similar, if not the same, bacterial disease caused great loss to onion growers in New York State in 1898. It was made the subject of an investigation by Mr. F. C. Stewart, the Botanist to the New York State Experiment Station. It was found that, although the rot was quite certainly due to bacteria, it could not easily be conveyed to healthy plants by inoculation, except in the presence of water. It was shown that the unusually large amount of rot in 1898 was due to the excessively wet weather which occurred in July and August of that year. The only means of prevention are to keep the onions as dry as possible both in the field and in storage, and to keep the cultivation as clean as possible. KAOLIN IN ST. KITT’S. The late Dr. Haven, United States Commercial Agent at St. Kitt’s, reported last November on kaolin deposits in the island. Samples of the kaolin taken from a bank deposit at Ottley’s estate, were sent to Professor John Clark, of Glasgow, who reported: ‘ The results of my analysis indicate that this is kaolin, or China clay, and I am of the opinion that it is of sufficient purity for pottery purposes.’ Dr. Haven stated that there seemed to be a large deposit of this kaolin, which is covered by 3 or 4 feet of the red clay such as is much used in the adjacent island of Nevis for making water jugs, pitchers, etc., which being porous are employed as coolers. 246 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 30, 1904. RABBIT KEEPING IN THE WEST INDIES. The following is a further instalment of Mr. J. Barelay’s notes on rabbit keeping :— HOUSING, The hutch set on four posts, 4 feet from the ground, is the best for our conditions in general. This prevents strange dogs getting at the rabbits, and cats and rats are kept off by putting a sheet of tin round the posts the same way as is done with cocoa-nut trees. I have not much sympathy with the people whose house-dogs and cats are not to be trusted to run with the rabbits. On estates where there is some privacy and a good expanse of green pasture (common), what is called the Morant system, with boxes placed here and_ there around the house, is by far the best way of keeping rabbits, as the boxes may be shifted on to fresh grass daily ; and if the dogs are trained to protect, rather than molest, the rabbits, these can be allowed liberty to run in and out of the boxes as they please. The Morant system consists simply in providing a long box for the rabbits placed on the ground. This is divided into two, either open at the bottom, or with wide mesh wire to keep the rabbits from scraping (though Belgian hares are not given much to scraping). One division is closed round and with a box in it, meant for a breeding nest; the other with mesh wire all round, the top of the former being sloping, in the form of a lid, with hinges, so that it may be lifted up, and it is thus easy to get at the rabbits. For most circuinstances in the West Indies, however, the raised hutch will be the only kind of housing convenient. The following description, taken from the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society for July 1903, is written by an experienced rabbit keeper :-— ‘Hutches may be of any convenient shape, as large as can be afforded, with high roof well over-hanging to give shelter from driving rain. Three sides may be wired ( -nch wire) and one boarded for protection from wind. A board placed securely as a shelter, about 14 to 16 inches above the floor and 12 inches from the roof, on to which the rabbits can jump, is a great addition to their comfort, and gives exercise, besides providing a snug retreat out of wind and light, where they can retire to sleep during the day. A box put in the hutch is not so good, as most rabbits wiJl prefer to lie stretched out on their high shelf, which is cooler. But whatever the style of hutch, the floor should be of wirenetting (}-inch mesh) which will ensure a dry, clean house. The wire left bare would be injurious to the feet of the rabbits, and to avoid this a plentiful supply of dry hay-grass (or dried Guinea grass, if the other is not to be had) must be spread all over the floor. The rabbits will feed heartily on this when it is put in fresh every morning. The lhutches should be placed on posts at least 3 feet above the ground, and occasionally a layer of fresh earth should he spread under them as a deodorant. They should stand in a sheltered, well drained position under trees. Some sun should reach the rabbitry to keep it dry and healthy, but rabbits cannot stand much sun. ‘All the woodwork of the hutches should be painted inside and out with tar thinned with a little kerosene oil and laid on while boiling hot. This soon dries in and should be renewed every few months. The hutches should be tarred in rotation, removing their inmates for two or three days until the tar is dry. tive to the wood, keeping away insects and preventing the rabbits from gnawing. Any part of the hutch that is soiled should be wiped out daily with a cloth, wrung out of some weak disinfectant, Izal preferably, as it is non- potsonous, This is a preserva- ‘Hutches for nurseries should be more snug than those intended for half-grown or mature stock. They should be furnished with a confortable nest box, about 18 inches long, by 12 inches high, and 12 wide, with one opening 4 inches above the level of its floor, made like that of a pigeon cote.’ In one locality, where there was a stretch of green sward, the writer kept his Belgian hares running free, having trained the dogs not to meddle with them. ‘To prevent the animals from becoming wild, they were driven into their boxes occasionally and kept in for a few days at a time, being then let out only night and morning for fifteen minutes or so. They would all scamper to their house at a clap of the hands. In another locality, high and cool, the house is a hutch of the ordinary kind used by the people, with wattled sides and with a thatched roof, the back, turned towards the prevailing wind, being thatched also. This hutch is erected in a poultry run, which has a wattled fence around it, and the hares are let out occasionally for short runs. YIELD OF CACAO IN DOMINICA. In the following extract from his annual report on the Botanic Station at Doniinica, the Curator (Mr. J. Jones) gives the yield of cacao from the experi- ment plots and makes interesting observations as to the relative yields of wet and dry (cured) cacao :— The area under experiment is 1} acres. Besides the cacao trees there are growing on this land six large trees of Castilloa elastica, six nutmegs, and some fruit trees. The total yield from the five plots in wet cacao for 1903 was 5,352 Ib, After careful experiment it is found that at this station 100 Ib. of wet cacao give 425 Tb. of dry or cured cacao. The yield from the plot i in cured cacao is, therefore, 2,274 tb. (20°30 ewt.), or at the rate of 11°60 ewt. per acre, for the year ending June 1903. The total cacao crop at the station for the year mentioned was 50 ewt. For the year ending June 1904, the total yield from the five plots was 4,026 tb. of wet cacao. This is equal to 1,701 tb. of cured cacao (15°18 ewt.), or at the rate of 8°67 ewt. per acre. The total crop of cacao at the station this year was 44 ewt. The fall in the crop was probably due to unfavour- able climatic conditions. In some islands, wet cacao is calculated to give half its weight as cured cacao, This is a high estimate, but it can, no doubt, be obtained, if the cacao pods are all allowed to remain on the trees until quite ripe. The beans are then comparatively dry, as the mucilage surrounding the seeds, which is so abundant before the pods are quite ripe, disappears to a considerable extent. The Joss during the fermenting and drying process from thoroughly ripe pods is much less than from cacao pods less ripe. In Dominica, owing to the prevalence of praedial larceny, much of the cacao is gathered before it is as ripe as it should be, hence the return per 100 Ib. of wet cacao cannot be placed higher than 42 tb. In these experiments the beans are weighed immediately after breaking the pods. If cacao beans were allowed to drain for twelve to eighteen hours after breaking, and then weighed, the proportion of cured cacao per 100 i of wet would be higher. Vou. III. No. 60. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 247 DOMINICA AGRICULTURAL SCHOOL. Extracts from Ledger kept by a Pupil. The following are extracts taken from the ledger kept by a pupil of the Agricultural School at Dominica. It will be seen that each boy keeps an accurate record of the work done in the carrying out of each experi- ment :— SWEET POTATO EXPERIMENT. Area, 900 sq. feet, or 4, acre, approximately. Previous crop.—Onions and cabbage. The land was, however, resting for a considerable time. Number of banks, 16. Preparation of land.—November 26, 1902. The land was staked off at 3 feet apart at each of the long sides. The line was stretched and the land hoed up into banks 2 feet high. Preparation of cuttings.—November 26, 1902. Good, healthy potato vines were selected for making cuttings. From these, cuttings 9 to 12 inches long were made by cutting these just below a node and taking off the lower leaves, that is, the portion of the cuttings which are to be buried below the soil. Planting.—November 26, 1902. The cuttings were planted 9 to 12 inches apart on the banks. The method adopted was to make the holes with a ‘dibbler, then put in the three lower nodes of the cuttings and draw the soil firm around them. Two rows of cuttings were put on each bank. After-cultivation.—The weather being wet, the cuttings came on rapidly, and soon covered the banks. The weeds were thus kept down, and the plot was only weeded once— the first week in January 1903. Reaping and results——The vines were cleared off and the potatos dug on March 25, 1903—four months after planting. They were forked out, weighed, and stored up in a house after being lightly cleaned of the soil. The crop from the 100 sq. yards was 288 Ib. of potatos in all, that is, a return of 6°25 tons per acre. Value of crop at $d. per Ib. 12s. Od. Pi » per acre £29 Os. 94d. WHITE BEAN EXPERIMENT, Preparation of land.—December 12, 1902. The potato banks that were in the plot were levelled down with the hoe. As by this means the soil was already quite loose, no forking was done. The land was afterwards levelled with the rake. Planting.—December 12, 1902. The land was staked off 2 feet apart along the long sides, and the line stretched between opposite stakes. Holes were made about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart close to the line, and two beans planted in each hole and covered over. The soil being very loose was trampled down firm over the holes. The plot was then raked over. After-cultivation.—On January 14, 1903, the cultivator was passed between the rows of beans to cut off weeds and stir up the soil. At the same time the beans were hilled up by drawing up the soil on both sides to about 6 inches high around the plants. On January 22, the beans that were not hilled up on the first occasion were now done up. Reaping.—The beans were allowed to dry on the plant before being picked. The first picking took place on February 21, when 9} tb. of cleaned beans were got. The second reaping took place on March 3; the plants with the beans on were pulled out and put in the drying house. The total weight of beans got was 13 tb. Of these 12 oz. mildewed. YAM BEAN EXPERIMENT. Previous crop.—Plantains with bonavist peas between. Number of banks, 15. Preparation of land.—The land was pickaxed some time in March, and left in that condition. June 8, 1903. It was on this day gone over, and the lumps made fine, after which banks 4 feet wide were made. Planting.—June 9, 1903. Holes about 3 inches deep were made at 2 feet apart on the tops of the banks and two seeds were put in each hole. The rainy season had just set in, EXPERIMENT ON DESTROYING TICKS ON A COW. A cow at the school being affected with ticks was treated with a Strong preparation of kerosene emulsion which was made and applied as under :— Preparation of kerosene emulsion —(Stock Solution) May 26, 1903. Half a kerosene tin of water was put on the fire to boil. When boiling about 2d. worth of soap was put in and stirred until it had quite dissolved. The tin was then taken off the fire and one quart of kerosene was immediately added to it, the whole being well stirred up at the same time, to get the kerosene well mixed up with the soap solution. Vigorous stirring was then kept up for some time, until the mixture became white and creamy. Application.—The emulsion was mixed with water in the proportion 1:2 and the whole well mixed together. It was then sprayed on the cow with a ‘Knapsack sprayer’ and rubbed on to her with the hand. This was continued every five or seven days until she was free of the ticks. POULTRY NOTES. The Water Supply. We reproduce below (fig. 9) an illustration of a simple little contrivance for the poultry yard. The illustration is taken from the Reader, IIT, which is reviewed on p. 251. Country Senior Fig 9. PLAN FOR KEEPING THE DRINKING WATER CLEAN. It represents un inexpensive and easily made arrange- ment for keeping clean the water supplied to fowls for drinking purposes. The fowls can put their heads through between the laths and drink from the pan without dirtying the water. This plan might also be adopted where skimmed milk is fed to poultry. 248 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 30, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 223 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 1%d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural sews Vou. III. SATURDAY, JULY 30, 1904. No. 60. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. A brief summary of Sir Daniel Morris’ lecture to the members of the West India Committee on the ‘ Agricultural Industries of the West Indies’ will be found on p. 241. Under the heading ‘Sugar Industry’ are notes on manurial experiments, on the cane-farming industry in Nevis, and a statement of the condition of the industry in the neighbouring island of Porto Rico during 1903. Special reference is made to the first year’s operations at the Guanica central factory. Our ‘Cotton Notes’ contain a report on samples of cotton from St. Lucia and an announcement, relative to the shipment of cotton from these islands, made in the West India Committee Circular. Mr. Barelay’s rabbit notes are continued on p. 246. The subject of this instalment is the proper housing of rabbits. In a former issue of the Agricultural News we stated we should publish extracts from one of the ledgers kept by boys attending the Agricultural Schools, These extracts will be found on p. 247. The short account of a successful school garden in St. Lucia, given on p. 251, is likely to be of interest. On the same page we publish a note relating to an agricultural apprenticeship scheme which is to be put into operation in British Guiana. Short reviews on the recently issued annual reports of the Botanic Stations at British Honduras and Trinidad will be found on p. 253. On the same page are interesting notes on onion cultivation and the prospects of a West Indian trade, Botanic Station Reports. The first of the annual reports on the West Indian Botanic Stations, Agricultural Schools, ete., for the year ended March 31, 1904, viz., that for Dominica, has been published and is being distributed by this mail. It is expected that the reports for St. Lucia and Montserrat, which are now in the printers’ hands, will be ready for distribution by next mail. The report for St. Vincent is also in the press, and will shortly be published. rE Oe The Onion Industry. In this issue of the Agricultural News we publish several short articles on the onion industry in the West Indies. A very brief account of a bacterial disease, which caused considerable damage to onions in Barbados last season, is given on p. 245. A full account of this disease, methods of prevention, etce., has been prepared and will appear in the next issue of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. V, no. 2). Further notes on onion cultivation will be found on p. 253: these include details as to yield, ete., of an experiment carried on in Jamaica, and an interesting letter from British,Guiana giving certain hints that should be valuable to growers and shippers who are desirous of supplying British Guiana, n> + ae West Indian Fruit in London. We learn from the West Jndia Committee Circular that a large silver medal was awarded to the exhibit of West Indian fruit at the Horticultural Exhibition held at the Botanical Gardens from June 6 to 11. The arrangements of this exhibit were carried out by the West India Committee. A large exhibit was sent by the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company and comprised bananas, grape fruit, limes, mangos, oranges, pine-apples, and sapodillas. There were also exhibits of Antigua pine-apples, Jamaica bananas and grape fruit, as well as a fine show of fresh limes and lime products lent by Messrs. L. Rose & Co., Ltd. In this connexion mention might also be made of two crates of pine-apples from Dominica, which were taken to England by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. These pines were grown at the Botanic Station, Dominica, from suckers imported from Jamaica. As will be seen from the following report, from Messrs, George Monro, Ltd., of Covent Garden Market, these pine-apples arrived in excellent condition and fetched good prices. The brokers’ report was as follows :— ‘Your pines came to hand and are better in quality and condition than any we have as yet received from the West Indian Colonies. Ienclose our sale and think if they would be eareful to send only selected fruits, carefully packed to protect crowns as well as fruits, and sent in cool chamber, not frozen, there might be a trade to be done.’ From the account sales we learn that the sixteen pines fetched £3 4s. 3d., an average of 4s, each, Vou. Ill. No. 60. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 249 Government Laboratory, Jamaica. We have received a copy of the annual report of the Island and Agricultural Chemist in Jamaica for the year ended March 31, 1904. Out of a total of 485 samples (exclusive of plants for fumigation) dealt with during the year, 310 were classed as ‘Agricultural. The small proportion of police and customs samples enabled the chemist to devote most of his time to agricultural problems. The results of most of the agricultural analyses and investigations have appeared) in the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, and have been noticed from time to time in the Agricultural News. Reference is made to the work of Mr. C. Allan, BSe., who was appointed Fermentation Chemist during the year. Mr. Allan has visited a large number of estates, studying local conditions and taking samples for work in the Laboratory. Grasses and Cattle in the Danish West Indies. In a report, dated November 20, 1903, the United States Consul at St. Thomas states that it 1s remarkable to find so many fine cattle as exist among the native herds in the Danish West Indies, consider- ing they feed only on the native grasses. The grasses most popular for cultivated pastures are Guinea grass and ‘Spanish grass, by which name, we believe, Para grass is known in some _ parts. Although the former is more often grown, probably on account of its stronger and more rapid growth, herds- men are not able to state which is better for the cattle. Possibly the Spanish grass is better able to withstand drought, and it is remarkable how quickly the pastures are renewed after the rain begins to fall. The only drawback to the establishment of a stock-raising industry appears to be the occasionally protracted dry season. Investigations are, however, now being carried out with a view to the introduction of an irrigation system. Agriculture in the Falkland Islands. In these islands agriculture is practically confined to sheep rearing. According to the Annual Report for 1903, the estimated number of sheep on the farms was 681,209. The exports of wool during the year were of the value of £103,597 ; of sheep-skins, £7,450. It is reported that most of the farmers are endeay- ouring to improve their flocks by selection and the importation of new blood. During the year 515 sheep were imported from New Zealand, Romney Marsh rams being most favoured for the purpose. The great pest of the farmers is the so-called ‘ wild’ goose. ‘It is represented that from 100,000 to 150,000 (representing grass for 20,000 sheep) might, with advantage to the sheep farmers, be destroyed annually.’ Ten shillings per 100 is the price paid for the upper beaks of these birds as evidence of their slaughter. His Excellency the Governor does not sympathize with these efforts and is of opinion that, as the Falkland Islands goose is excellent eating, some scheme might be devised for preserving the food and marketing the high-class down. Oil of Ben. We published in the Agricultwral News, Vol. III, p. 150, a short note on oil of ben, in which reference was made to an examination of this oil by the Director of the Imperial Institute. In an article on the ‘Nature and commercial uses of Ben Oil’ in the Bulletin of the Imperial Institute (Vol. II, no. 2), reference is made to examinations of samples from Northern Nigeria and Jamaica. The seeds, which were identified as those of Moringa pterygosperma, received from Northern Nigeria, contained 38 per cent. of an almost odourless, pale-yellow oil, possessing a bland, agreeable taste. Brokers to whom the oil was submitted reported that the oil would probably be able to compete for edible and culinary purposes with American refined cotton seed oil, which is at present worth about £22 per ton. The seeds were valued at about £7 per ton delivered in London. The sample of ben oil received from Jamaica in December 1903 was found to have a very slight, pleasant odour, and an agreeable taste. The results of the chemical examination are given. It is pointed out that in arriving at the cost of production, which appears very large, the manufac- turers in Jamaica appear to have made no allowance for the residual cake which might be of value as a cattle food. —E ee Castor Oil Plant in Ceylon. The Annual Report on the Royal Botanic Gardens, Ceylon, contains an interesting account of experiments conducted at the Experiment Station with different varieties of the castor oil plant. Varieties were obtained from Calcutta, Madras, Colombo, and Hakgala. The Calcutta variety grows toa larger tree than any of the others. The crop is ready for reaping in four to five months after planting at stake, and a month later if the seedlings are transplanted. The yield was at the rate of 152 tb. of seed per acre. This variety, however, is not recommended for cultivation on account of its liability to the attacks of a green fly. The Madras variety, of much smaller habit, resisted, to some extent, the attacks of the fly. It bears fruit somewhat earlier than the preceding variety. The yield was at the rate of 43 cwt. of seeds per acre, and it appears to be one of the best varieties of the castor oil plant. The Colombo (‘Patna’) variety comes between the two preceding varieties in point of habit. The crop can be expected four to five months after sowing. The yield was at the rate of 3 cwt. of seed to the acre. The fourth kind, known as ‘ Major,’ is a perennial variety. It isa large, quick-growing variety, but was completely defoliated by the previously mentioned fly. The yield of seeds was at the rate of 354 Ib. per acre. Of all the varieties the Madras suffered least from the green fly. An effective remedy for this insect pest was found in Macdougal’s mixture. The leaves of the plant were also attacked by a fungus. This can be killed with a solution of copper sulphate (blue-stone) in the proportion of 1 in 1,000. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 30, 1904. INSECT NOTES. Dry Powder Gun. Several of these ‘guns’ have been imported into the West Indies for the application of Paris green to cotton and other crops, and appear to have given satisfaction. The following description is given in Messrs. Peter Henderson & Co.’s catalogue: For applying any dry powder, such as Paris green, hellebore, insect powder, plaster, etc., on plants or trees, the powder being evenly distributed over a wide space and with the least possible waste, the work being more rapidly done than by any other known instrument. It is 27 inches long, with extra tubes for dusting trees and holds 1 quart of powder. By turning the crank a fan is rapidly revolved which forces a current of air through the tubes, that carries with it a small portion of powder. The quantity may be increased or diminished as desired. The Auto-spray. This is an automatic, compressed air sprayer in which the pumping is all for the purpose of compressing the air in the receptacle, while the spraying is accomplished by the expansion of this compressed air. The sprayer consists of a plain, brass cylinder containing an air pump, a sling for carrying the whole, and a discharge pipe and nozzle. The Auto-spray is cheaper than the Success knapsack sprayer, and although perhaps not quite so durable, is a very simple and practical machine. A certain amount of care must be exercised, as, if too much pressure be put on, the tank might burst at the seam. The nozzle which is sold with this machine is a special feature, since it combines the Vermorel principle of spray with an automatic cut-off, and the needle used for clearing the nozzle vent forms also a part of the cut-off arrangement. The cost of the Auto-spray in the United States is from $5 to 37, while the knapsack sprayer costs $12. The former can be purchased in Barbados, complete with hose and nozzle, for $10. Black Grub or Cut Worm. The various species of insects known as Black Grubs or Cut Worms are made the subject of one of the Circulars of the Ceylon Royal Botanic Gardens, Vol. IH, no. 2, March 1904. The depredations of these insects in tea nurseries are mentioned, and remedies given. The remedies include poisoned baits and traps. Poisoned baits include freshly cut grass and clover dipped in Paris green mixture, and bran mixed with Paris green at the rate of 1 tb. Paris green to 1 bushel bran. These baits are put about in small piles at frequent intervals in the field. Growing the plants in a cylinder of tin or paper prevents the grub from getting at the stem of the plant. Kainit and nitrate of soda are known to act as deterrents to the cut worms, when applied to the fields as top dressing. Small conical holes in the ground, empty jam tins, ete., serve a useful purpose as traps into which the grubs fall, and from which they are unable to crawl out. Last season, cotton in some parts of the West Indies was attacked by cut worms. In case of other attacks probably the best bait would be a mixture of bran, molasses and Paris green. The tins, ete, have been successfully used at St. Kitt’s as traps for the mole cricket (Agricultural News, Vol. Il, p. 200). The bait of bran, molasses and poison should be valuable for use in fighting the mole cricket. RUBBER PLANTING IN CEYLON. We extract from the annual report of the Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens for 1903 the followin account of the efforts that are being made to establish a rubber industry in Ceylon:— The planting of rubber, more especially the Para kind, has been pushed on very rapidly during the year, and it is probable that about 12,000 acres are now devoted to this product, which bids fair to become the largest of the ‘minor’ agricultural industries. The export for 1903 was 389 ewt. (43,568 b.). Its success is a source of legitimate satisfaction to this Department and to the Governments concerned. It must not be lost sight of that Ceylon is now reaping the benefit of the action of the Indian Government aided by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The distribution of the tree in the island and the elaboration of the methods of cultiva- tion and of tapping and preparing the rubber have been the work of this Department. The cleanliness of the Ceylon ‘biscuits’ meets with much favour in Europe, and high prices, reaching at times even as much as 5s. per Ib., have been paid for them, prices considerably exceeding those paid for the best ‘wild’ rubbers. It seems not unlikely that the latter will in time be largely driven out of the market by the cultivated rubber, as occurred in the case of cinchona. At the same time, recent scientific investigations into the nature of rubber latex have thrown a good deal of light on the probable synthesis of rubber, and brought its artificial production measurably nearer. There is no need for alarm as to the future of rubber planting, for it is hardly to be expected that any efficient substitute or synthesized rubber will be produced on a large scale for many years to come at a price that will render rubber cultivation unremunerative. At present profits are large, and planters can face a consider- able reduction in the price of rubber; but now, while profits are good, is the time to study improvements, to try experi- ments on the best methods, and to reduce the cost of production. Careful attention is required to the methods of preparation, which at present are open to great improvement. It is of great importance to keep up the name which Ceylon rubber is acquiring for good quality and cleanliness. Some samples which have been exported show that the milk has not been properly filtered, as recommended by Mr. Parkin, and others have been taken from too young trees, the rubber consequently lacking tenacity. Planting is going on in all directions, and even in some unsuitable places, where disappointment is likely to ensue. Preparations are being made to try Hevea trees under irrigation at the Cotton Experiment Station at Mahailup- palama; should this prove successful an important industry will be thrown open to cultivators in the dry zones. Some alarm has been caused by the attacks of a canker fungus in many districts, but prompt steps have been taken for its treatment under the advice of the Mycologist, in whose report details will be found. Vou. III. No. 60. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. to ot — eS parr FG Of SHELF. Cg Se Eee a NOTES avd = —=, = SENIOk COUNTRY READER, IIT; By H. B. M. Buchanan, B.A., London: Macmillan d: Co., Ltd., 1904. Price, 2s. ; Among our book-shelf notes (Vol. II, p. 235) will be found a short review of a Country Reader, Part il. The present volume belongs to the same series and is equally to be recommended. It is entirely devoted to agricultural matters. Beginning with a chapter on ‘Simple principles of manuring,’ and another devoted to the use of agricultural implements, it goes on to deal with the various crops commonly cultivated in Great Britain. The later chapters should prove almost as useful in West Indian as in English schools: they deal with such subjects as ‘Cottage gardens,’ ‘ Cottage pigs,’ ‘Cottage poultry,’ ‘ Hares and rabbits —a comparison,’ etc. The chapters on poultry and rabbits are particularly well written and contain many useful suggestions, such as what birds and what breeds of rabbits to keep, the arrangement of the hutch, and so on. This little book contains a large number of admirable illustrations (one of which we reproduce on p. 247), and at the end is a vocabulary explaining many of the words used. A West Indian teacher, who is interested in agriculture and devoting his attention to a school garden, would be likely to find this little reader full of suggestions that would be useful to him both in his teaching and in his practical agriculture. SISAL EXPORTS FROM MEXICO. The following note, which appeared in the South American Journal, London, of February 13, 1904, is taken from the United States Monthly Summary of Commerce and Finance for February :— The export of henequen or sisal hemp, as it is often called, during the calendar year 1903 from Yucatan, through the ports of Progresso and Campeche, consisted of 611,939 bales, value declared in the custom-houses, $36,040,032°32. The exports during the last five years were: 1899, 445,978 bales ; 1900, 499,626 ; 1901, 517,519; 1902, 528,246: 1903, 611,939. It will be observed that there has been a steady increase in the production of henequen. The latest information is that during this year (1904) the plantations are being very considerably increased ; the yield for the year is expected to exceed last year’s. DEPARTMENT NEWS. At a convocation of the University of Durham, held on June 22, the honorary degree of D.C.L. was conferred upon Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Sc., M.A., F.LS., Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies. EDUCATIONAL. Agricultural Apprentices in British Guiana. At the last meeting of the British Guiana Board of Agriculture it was decided to approve of a scheme of agricultural apprenticeship whereby boys were to receive instruction at the Botanic Station and experi- ment fields. The following are the principal sugges- tions :-— That the number of apprentices shall for the present be limited to six. That a three-months’ probation shall be allowed. That the age limit shall be between fifteen and eighteen years. That the period of apprenticeship shall be three years. That the rate of pay shall be 16c. per diem for the first year, 20c. for the second year, and 24ce. for the third year, That the apprentice shall attend one course of lectures to teachers at Queen’s College during the second and third years of his apprenticeship, That a plot of land shall be given to such apprentices as are deserving of it, after the first year. That, if feasible, opportunities shall be offered to the apprentices of accompanying an Agricultural Instructor on some of his visits during the third year of apprenticeship. A School Garden in St. Lucia. On a recent visit to St. Lucia, we were much impressed with the excellent results that had been achieved in the garden at the Castries Anglican Juvenile School. This is undoubtedly one of the best attempts of the kind we have seen. Through the courtesy of the Inspector of Schools we were enabled to obtain from the teacher notes from which the follow- ing brief sketch of the operations that have been conducted has been compiled :— Operations were commenced soon after the Easter vacation in 1902, the necessary funds being supplied by the Manager for the clearing, forking, bedding, ete., of a plot, 72 feet by 32 feet, which was made up into eleven beds, 44 feet wide, with 2-feet walks between. Cabbage, tomato, egg plant, onion, beet, lettuce, and other seeds were sown in boxes, and the seedlings trans- planted into beds by the boys. In November, an additional plot, 68 feet by 36 feet, was made up into ten beds, 5 feet wide. Nine exhibits were sent to the Agricultural Show held on March 27, 1903, for which three first prizes were awarded. Throughout 1903 and up to the present the cost of upkeep has easily been met by the proceeds of the sales of produce. A bed, 20 feet by 4} feet, was planted with Sea Island cotton seed in September 1903. The lint was beautifully hand-picked by the girls. Cabbages have been grown weighing over 6 Ib. ; tomatos, 4 0z.; egg fruits, 4 Ib.; sweet peppers (‘Ruby King’), 6 inches long. : Much trouble has been experienced from attacks of the mole cricket. Over two dozen kinds of garden vegetables and eight other kinds of plants have been grown from time to time. The teacher of this school is to be congratulated upon the excellent results that have followed his efforts. 252 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Juty 30, 1904. GLEANINGS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture has presented to the Zoological Society of London two specimens of the tuberculated Iguanas (Jguana tubereulata) from Montserrat. One of these was about 3 feet long. A special number of the West India Commitee Circular was issued on June 28 devoted to a report of the lecture on ‘The Agricultural Industries of the West Indies,’ delivered by Sir Daniel Morris on June 23. At the Jast meeting of the British Guiana Board of Agriculture it was reported that a field in front of the Orphan Asylum was to be utilized for specimen minor cultivation of such crops as rubber, sisal hemp, coffee, and cacao. As a result of the damage done to the cultivations at the Government Reformatory, Jamaica, the value of the products reaped during the year 1903-4 was only £185 18s. ; in the previous year it was £364 18s. 9d. At the request of his Highness the Khedive, three wardian cases of the following varieties of bananas have been shipped from Barbados for trial in Egypt:— dwarf or Chinese, Jamaica or Gros Michel, red banana, fig, and the silk banana. According to the Consular Report on the trade of Porto Rico for 1903, cotton cultivation experienced an active revival all over the island. It is said that about 10,000 acres have been planted with cotton during the year, and that some 5,000 bales have been produced. The D. W. I. Fruit Company is making a pretty large shipment to Copenhagen to-day by the ‘St. Croix.’ Besides various kinds of dried fruits (bananas, pines, tamarinds) there are honey, wax, cocoa-nuts, yams, limes, etc., and several casks of tobacco grown in St. Croix. (St. Thomas Bulletin, July 5.) The 24th. inst.—St. John the Baptist Day—was a busy one at the Botanic Garden ; a large number of people went to the gardens for plants. Budded Washington navel oranges, spices, guavas, sweet oranges, and mandarins were the principal fruit plants in demand. Shade trees, etc., were also requisitioned. (Grenada /’edera/ist, June 28.) In the Belgium Bulletin of Agriculture an account is given of experiments to test the duration of the effect of green manure. ‘The results indicated that the effect of green manuring is quite noticeable on early potatos, less marked on late potatos, still less marked the second year, and disappears the third’ (Agricultural Gazette of New South Wales.) The Local Instructor at Montserrat reports that there is a good demand for papain, which is likely to increase, as Americans are advertising medicines made from this drug. Large quantities sent from India have, however, had the effect of lowering the prices. Prizes are being offered in Trinidad by the Government for (1) the best 2 acres of Sea Island cotton, (2) the best 1 acre, (3) the best sample of gimned Sea Island cotton in bale of not less than 150 tb. in weight. Sufficient seed will be supplied free to those entering the competition. The ‘dividivi’ of commerce contains on the average from 40 to 45 per cent. of tannin. The commercial value of such material at present is from £8 10s. to £11 per ton, and it is probable that Indian ‘ divi-divi’ of the same quality as the present sample would sell readily at this price. (Bulletin of Imperial Institute, Jane 30.) In Farmers’ Bulletin No. 190 the following method is recommended for disposing of animals dying of contagious diseases :—‘ In the absence of a furnace or specially prepared place for burning, a hole or trench, 2 or 3 feet deep, may be dug, a layer of brushwood placed on the bottom, and on this the body covered with brushwood sprinkled with kerosene.’ The fifth annual show was held under the auspices of the Port Royal Mountains Branch of the Jamaica Agri- cultural Society at the Hope Garden grounds on Wednesday, July 6. The show was an entire success, the attendance being large and the exhibits of high quality. As usual at this show, the exhibits of minor products were very numerous and attracted much attention. During the fortnight ended June 30, 195 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom (London, 154 bales; Southampton, 30; Bristol, 11), sales being effected at the following prices : West Indian, 5-91-6°38d. per Tb.; West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 14d.; fine, 15d.; extra fine, 16d. per Ib. (West India Committee Circular.) 3ermuda holds a unique place in the Western World. It is a little country, with absolutely no manufactures or railways, with agriculture alone as its industry (the annual export of potatos, onions, bulbs, and vegetables being about $500,000), with no business but that of selling goods at retail and in a limited way warehousing of wines and spirits ; nevertheless Bermuda is of importance in the Western Hemisphere. (U.S. Consular Reports, March 1904.) The most important industry in this consular district [Honduras] is the raising and cultivation of bananas. The United States takes the entire crop. The last year has been a very satisfactory one and good prices prevailed. The area of cultivated ground has been considerably increased. Quite a number of orange, lemon, and rubber trees have been planted, and the exportation of these products is expected to increase. (U.S. Consular Reports.) The British Consul at San Francisce states in his annual report that the exports of citrus fruit from California show a constant increase since 1892. Not many of the Californian oranges appear to go to the United Kingdom. The importa- tions of oranges and lemons show a decided decrease. Growers are most anxious to obtain a machine for extracting oil of lemon as the present process is not found to be satisfactory. Vou. III. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. to Or Ww BRITISH HONDURAS : BOVYANIC STATION, 1903. Superintendent. ON Campbell, REPORT TILE By te This report gives an account of the work carried on at the Botanic Stations and Nurseries under the supervision of the Superintendent. The Belize Station is maintained as an ornamental garden, the soil being unsuited for economic plants. The nursery attached to this station is described as important, being utilized by persons from all parts of the colony. At Stann Creek a variety of crops are being experi- mented with, including cacao, vanilla, nutmeg, Liberian coffee, ete. A number of small experiment plots were also planted at Corosal. The Superintendent has given practical instruction in agricultural matters in a number of cases where his services were requested by small planters and others. The parasol ant is described as being the worst pest of the British Honduras agriculturist. Carbon bisulphide is described as being effective, but its price is very high. An appendix to the report deals with experiments in cotton growing carried out at the stations and in conjunction with planters. he cultivation is still in the experimental stage, but there is reason to believe that cotton will be planted extensively during the coming season. TRINIDAD: REPORT DEPARTMENT, 1903-4. intendent. This report, which forms No. 17 of the series of Annual Reports, describes the work of the department for the last financial year. The number of purchasers of plants at the nursery was 601, an increase of 201 over the previous year’s record. Two Agricultural Instructors were supplied, whose duties included visits to every district of the island for the purpose of affording agricultural instruction in the schools and giving public instruction on agricultural topics at meetings, etc. Lectures were also given by the Superinten- dent at seven centres. There is a large stock of plants in the nurseries ; the large demand for economic and ornamental plants has been fully met. Mr. Hart makes interesting observations upon the seedling cane experiments, which have been continued with satisfactory results. Interesting notes are also given on a large variety of economic plants grown in the gardens, which include rubber, timber, and fruit trees. Experiments have been carried out with cotton, and seed, obtained through the Imperial Department of Agri- culture, was distributed to the amount of 1,201 tb.; cotton has been ginned at the St. Clair Station by means of two hand- gins provided by the Government, ON THE BOTANICAL By J. H. Hart, F.L.S., Super- ONION CULTIVATION. Jamaica. The following note, reprinted from the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society tor June, records the experiences of a grower of onions in Jamaica :-— In December 1897, I got } tb. of Bermuda onion seed from Messrs. Peter Henderson, New York: I sowed these in drills in nursery beds which had been thoroughly forked and raked quite smooth. When they grew to about the thickness of a pencil, I set them out to grow in deep loam soil which had also been thoroughly forked and raked quite fine. The beds were 4 feet wide and the onions planted in rows, 2 feet wide by 8 inches in the step. I kept them hand-weeded and moulded high all the time, and irrigated once a week until the onions began to dry. After that I did not irrigate or mould again. I left them in the ground until the stalk dried down to the bulb, then lifted them and gave them three days’ sun. They were then ready for market. I got 25s. per 100 tb. for them, selling them in Kingston and Spanish Town. They were very much praised by the buyers. About one-third of the crop weighed 4 tb. each, and they were very delicate in flavour. One quarter of an acre netted me £13 10s, These were grown at Turner’s pen, near Spanish Town. In 1899 I grew a small quantity at Colbeck for my home use. I cultivated these in the same way, but without irrigation, and not on such good soil, and these turned out fairly well, but did not come up to the standard of the irrigated ones. West Indian Onion Trade. At a meeting of the Antigua Agricultural and Commercial Society held on July 1, the Hon. F. Watts read the following extracts from a letter from Mr. S. Webb, of the firm of Wieting & Richter, of Georgetown, Demerara, relating to the onion trade : Latterly consignments of onions have been coming to this market from your island to parties here who do not know much about the trade, nor have they much hold on the buyers. It has occurred to me that the following hints may be useful to growers and packers. From March to June we generally get Teneriffe onions. The complaint against these onions is that their flavour is too mild and they are put up in strings, with far too much of the stalk on each string, which weighs as onions. From June to September-October, Madeira onions come in, put up in bunches, with far less of the stalk plaited in. They are full flavoured. From October to March we have to depend on Lisbon for our supplies. New Lisbon onions very seldom reach here in good order, and could Antigua or Barbados compete in these months, no doubt the trade could be deflected from Lisbon to our soils in the West Indies. but your onions at present are not treated in a way to suit this trade. The onions are, mind you, fairly good onions, but the roots should not be cut very close to the onion, nor should the stem be close cut; the stems should be at least 6 inches long, to allow for drying. The stalks should be allowed to dry gradually ; if cut close up to the onions, they (the onions) get hard and lumpy in their centres, which causes them to burst and spoil quickly. If your packers could bunch their onions and not ship them loose, their commercial value would be much enhanced. 254 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Juty 30, 1904. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. time for improving, selecting, and preparing exhibits. First New York. The following notes on West Indian products are taken from the annual report of Consul-General Sir Percy Sanderson, K.C.M.G., on the trade and commerce of New York and district for 1903 (Foreign Office : Diplomatic and Consular Reports, No, 3,159) :— Cacao showed an increase of about 10 per cent. in both quantity and value. Coffee decreased both in quantity and value, and the import from the Hast and West Indies diminished by about 50 per cent. The price ruled lower till towards the end of the year, when it rose somewhat rapidly owing to speculation. The importation of jute decreased by over 50 per cent. in quantity and only a little less in value. There was a slight increase in quantity but a decrease in value in manila, and an increase in both quantity and value in the import of sisal, Crude India-rubber showed an increase of about 10 per cent. in quantity and 38 per cent, in value. There was a large increase in the quantity of cane sugar imported, due probably to the treaty with Cuba, but the value did not show a corresponding increase. The export of Upland cotton shows an increase of about 54 per cent. in quantity and over 25 per cent. in value as compared with 1902 ;a reduction of 7 per cent. in quantity, but an increase of over 36 per cent. in value as compared with the average of the previous five years. The price increased enormously during the year, owing to speculation. In January it stood at 8°90c., from which point it gradu- ally rose to 13°50c. towards the end of July ; during August there was a partial reaction to 12°75c. and from that point the price gradually fell till it reached 9°6c. in October ; on reports, however, of a crop under 10,000,000 bales speculation was renewed, the price advanced to 13-7e. in December, and was pushed far higher in January 1904. The largest export is to the United Kingdom, and the quantity exported increased in 1903 as compared with the previous year, From the figures given in the table of imports at the end of the report, we notice that the total value of bananas imported into New York for 1903 was £324,000, being a decrease in value compared with 1902, of £3,000. The quantities imported are not given in this report. The value of vanilla beans imported during the year was £269,003; this was an increase of £127, 000 compared with 1902. ‘The quantities imported were : 1902, 201,000 tons: 1903, 326,000 tons. Mahogany, to the value of £276,000, was imported in 1903, being an increase of £10,000 as compared with 1902. CIRCULAR TO EXHIBITORS AT SHOWS. The Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society for June publishes the following ‘ Circular to Exhibitors, issued by the Port Roy: al Mountains Show Committee, which, it is stated, 1s ‘appropriate enough to be put on permanent record as containing useful hints for intending exhibitors at any show’ :— Do not decide to enter exhibits at the last moment, but several months before, if possible. This will allow plenty of read your ‘ prize list’ carefully and follow the regulations given therein, If six varieties of vegetables are “required send siz not eight or three, or some other number. by a ‘design’ (of flowers for instance) is meant a design, not a mere bunch and soon. If you do not quite understand the prize list or regulations, get some one who does to explain them to you. Be particular at the show with your exhibits. Be honest—do not show someone else’s products as your own. Be sure that your exhibit is entered for the vight class, and that the label is fully and correctly filled up. If possible see to this before the day of the show. The fact that the authorities will do their best to prevent your blundering does not in any degree relieve you of responsi- bility. Exhibitors must wait their turns and deliver exhibits at the show ground to the member of the committee arranging the class in which they are to be exhibited. They must not be dumped down anywhere. SELECTION AND PREPARATION OF MINOR PRODUCTS. Vegetables, bread-kind, fruits, ete., must be of good size, well shaped, good colour, nice flavour, and clean. They must not be so over-grown or old as to be coarse, or bruised, mil- dewed, rusty, or insect eaten. Pick all exhibits by hand, possible. Wash roots (such as cocos, carrots, and turnips) and fruits, if necessary, with a soft cloth, don’t scrape them. Cut cabbages, lettuces, flowers, ete., early the morning of the show or after sunset on the day before so that they may be quite fresh. Pot Plants.—Don't exhibit these in such things as old tins or boxes, or at any rate pick out the neatest you can find and paint them green or brown. Clean all pots. Remove insects and weeds. Prune the plants to remove (a) branches that spoil the shape of the plant, (b) dead or insect- eaten branches or leaves, (c) excess of ple Put a layer of damp moss about an inch deep above the soil in the pots. Don’t exhibit a pot or box too large or too small for the plant. Packing.—Kverything connected with the packing of exhibits must be, first of all, clean, and then of neat and simple design. Wooden trays, painted green, do well for most exhibits. Oils, preserves, pickles, syrups or liquids must be put up in clean, white, glass bottles or jars. Don’t use coloured glass. If your exhibit is a novelty, attach a neat card with its name and what it can be used for. Pack exhibits very carefully for carrying to the show. Put soft paper between fruits, ete., liable to bruise. Shade from sun everything liable to wilt. Aninals.—Groom well morning of show, having done so for months before, and afterwards a/ways continue this good practice. Use neat halters. Clean all the harness, and the trap perfectly. that live stock are quite comfortable before you leave your exhibit. See CONCLUSION, The judges’ duty is to search for faults, make a note of the faults in your exhibits, and correct for next show. Be prepared for the judges differing from you as to which exhibit deserves the prize. Don’t hang around to listen when the judging is going on. If you bave a good reason for believing that your exhibit has been overlooked by the judges make a polite appeal at once to the secretary and you will get justice. Do not be disorderly and risk being sent away. Remember your exhibit will have helped the success of the show, even if not quite good enough to take the prize this year. -Try again next time ! Vox. III. No. 60. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. bo ou or MARKET REPORTS. London,—July 5, 1904. Messrs. Kearron, Prper & Co., Messrs. J. Hates Carrp & Co., Messrs. E. A. de Pass & Co., ‘Tue West InpIA CoMMITTEE CrecuLar’; ‘THE Liverroon Corron AssociaTIONn Weekty Cincunar,’ July 1, 1904 ; and ‘THE Pusric Leperr,’ July 2, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 14/- to 38/- per cwt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, 13d. to 3}d.; Bermuda, 1/2 to 1/6 per tb. Barara—Demerara Sheet, 1/7 to 1/10; Venezuelan Block, 1/4 per Ib. Bees’-wax—£7 5s. to £7 12s. Gi. per cwt. Cacao—Trinidad, 59/- to 61/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 50/- to 57/6 per ewt. ; Dominica, St. Lucia, and Jamaica, 51/- to 57/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 3/3 per th. Corrre—Jamaica, good ordinary, 38/- per ewt. Copra—Trinidad, sundried, £17 to £17 5s. per ton, ¢.if. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, 15d. to 16d. per tb. Fruir Bananas—Jamaica, 4/- to 6/- per bunch. Grape Frurr—10/- to 11/- per case. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gixcer—Jamaica, common to middling, 31/- to 40/-; good fair bright, 43/6 to 46/- per ewt. Honey—18/- to 30/- per cwt. Istyciass— West Indian lump, 2/2 to 2/10; Cake, medium palish, 1/2 to 1/5 per th. Koia Nuts—4d. to 7d. per tb. Lime Jurce—Raw, 1/3 to 1/6 per gallon; Concentrated, £12 10s. to £13 10s per cask of 108 gallons. Lime Orm—1/5 to 1/6 per tb., distilled. Loawoop —£4 2s. Gd. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—1/1 to 1/8 per tb. Nirrare or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 2s. 6d. to £10 7s. 6d. per ton. Nurmecs-—110’s, to 100’s, 8d. to 9d ; 54's, 2/7 per th. Pimento—dd. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 7d. to 8d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s 3d. to 8/- per proof gallon ; Leewards, 7d. to 10d. per proof gallon. Sarsapanmpa—Jamaica, 8d. to 9d. per Th. Sucar—Crystallized, 15,6 to 16/9 per ewt.; Muscovado, Barbados, 15/3 per ewt. ; 89°, 9s. 3d. on floating terms ; Molasses, 11/6 to 15/- per cwt. SuteHare or Ammonta—£12 per ton. Tamarinps—Antigua, 7/- to 8/-; Barbados, 10/- to 10/6 per ewt. Montreal,—June 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russern Murray. (In bond quotations. ) Bananas—Jamaica, $1°25 per bunch of 8 hands ; $1°40 per bunch firsts ; $1°65 per bunch Jumbos, c. & f. Cacao—Jamaica, lle. to 12c. per tb. c. Gf. Crepar—Trinidad, 45c. per cubic foot, c.1.f. Cocoa-Nurs— Jamaica, $24°00 to $2600; Trinidad, $21-00 to $23-00 per M. c. & f. Corrre—Jamaica, medium, Se. to 9$c. per th. c. &f. Grycer—Jamaica, unbleached, 63c. to 8c. per tb. c. & f. Lives—Jamaica, $6°00 per barrel c. & f. Morascurr—Demerara, $132 per 100 tb. c. Gf. Motasses—Barbados, 22c. to 25c.; Antigua, 21c. to 22c. per Inperial gallon. Nurmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 173. to 183. per th. c. & f. Prmenro—Jamaica, Thc. to 7jc. per th. ¢. & f. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°40 to $2°50 per 100 th. c. &f. —Centrifugals, 89°, $2°05 to $2:15 per 100 th. c. & f. —Molasses, 89°, $1°88 per 100 tb. c. &E. —Barbados, 89°, $2°25 per 100 th. c. &. f. New York,—July 8, 1904.—Messrs. GrtLEsrie Bros. &Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12}c. to13c.; Jamaica, 10jc. to 11}c.; Grenada, 12c. to 12$¢e.; Trinidad, 12c. to 15#c. per th. Cocoa-nuts—Trinidads, $20 to $21 per M., selected. Jamaicas--No quotations. CorreE—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, Te. to T}c. per tb. Grixncer—Jamaica, 64c. to 8c. per tb. Goat Skrys—Jamaicas, 52c. to 54$c. per tb. Pimento—6}e. to 64e. per th. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 313c. to 4c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 3yi;¢. to 3$c. ; Molasses, 89°, 3fc. per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,-—July 13, 1904.—Messrs. Bennetr Bryson & Co., Lrp. Mo tasses—1l4e. per gallon (Imperial). Sugar—$1-90 per 100 th. Barbados,—July 16, 1904.—Messrs. T. 8. Garraway & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncn & Co. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°70 per 100 th. Cacao—$11°50 to $14-00 per 100 ib. Cocoa-Nuts—$10°75 per M. for husked nuts. CorrEE—Jamaica, $9:00 to $10:00 ; ordinary Rio, $11-00 per 100 tb. Hay—1°00 per 100 th. Manures—-Nitrate of soda, $60:00 ; Ohlendorft’s dissolved guano, $60:00; Sulphate of ammonia, $75°00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Mo tasses—l4e. per gallon (puncheon included). Ontons—Madeira (stringed), $2°25 per 100 tb. ; Bermuda, — No quotations. Poratos, ENGLIsH—$1°80 to $1°87 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°50 to $4°60 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°40 per 100 tb. Suear—in hhds., 89°, $1°95 (packages included). Dark Crystals, 96°, $2°20 per 100 Tb. British Guiana,—July 14, 1904.—Messrs. Wuetine & Ricwrer. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $8°50 per barrel. Barara—3dc. to 40c. per th. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava Srarcu—$7‘00 per barrel. Cocoa-nutTs—$8 ‘00 to $10°00 per M. Corree-—Rio and Jamaica, 12c. to 124c. per tb. (retail). —Creole, lle. per tb. Duat—$4'50 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—96c. per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks included). Ontons—$2°00 per 100 Ib., ex ‘Pocklington’ ; Teneriffe, + fe. to $c. per th. Pea Nurs—Curacoa, 4c. ; American, 5jc. to 6c. per tbh. (retail). Pranrains—20e. to 32c. per bunch. Poraros, ENGiLisH——$3'00 to $3°25 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, old, $4°60; new, $4°50; Creole, $4°50 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweer Poratros—Barbados, $1°44 per barrel, $1:20 per bag. Tannias—$1°32 per barrel. Yams—White, $1°92 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $2°20 to $2°225; Yellow, $2°50 to $2:60; White, $3°50 to $3°75; Molasses, $2:00 to $2°15 per 100 th. Trreer—Greenheart, 32c. to 34c. per cubic foot. Wattasa SHINGLES—$3°00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—July 14, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co. ; and Messrs. EpGar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary to good red, $12°10 to $12°25 ; Estates, $12-20 to $12°45 ; Venezuelan, $12°50 to $12°80 ner fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nut Meat—l{e. per tb. Cocoa-nutT Orn—67e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, (3c. per th. Copra—-$2°65 to $2°70 per 100 tb. = Ontons—Teneriffe, $1:00 per 100 th. Poratos, EncrisH—$1l°75 to $2:00 per 100 th. Rice—Yellow, $4°25 to $4°35; White Table, $5°50 to $5°75 per bag. Sucar—-White Crystals, $2°20 to $3°35; Molasses Sugar, —No quotations. 256 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Jury 30, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE = ASEween Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. (2 Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ESTATE FOR SALE OR TO -ET. | | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. An excellent property situate between the Wood- ford Hill and Brookdale Estates in the parish of St. Andrew’s, Dominica. = SPECIAL TERMS FOR CASH, For full particulars apply to the proprietor, | ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. V, NO. I). NATHL. POWELL, | Wesley, Dominica. JUST ISSUED: To be obtained of all Agents. Price 6d. Post Free, Sc/. “CA Caro’ By J. H. HART, F.LS. | FOR COTTON GROWERS : NEW EDITION. ‘ ; A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of WEST INDIAN BULLETIN COMMERCIAL CACAO. (VOL. IV, NO. 4.) DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. | | Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.CS., Price 3s. per copy. on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. f Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados R77 WF SS A FORENIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. Ill. No. 61. BARBADOS, AUGUST 13, 1904. Price ld. CONTENTS. PAGE. Agricultural Societies :-— St. Lucia | Gleanings... 262 | Grenada Mangos in New Bahamas, Agriculture in 260 York ... 265 Bananas, Chinese .. 260 | Insect Notes :— Bermuda, Eggs and Cotton leaf-blister Mite 266 Poultry in 266 Fiddler beetle of the British Honduras, Orange ... ... ... 266 Exports of —.... ... 265 | Market Reports... ... 270 Citronella Oil, Adultera- Notes and Comments ... 264 tion of ve wee eee 299 | Oranges, Packing for Cotton Notes :— English market —... 260 Jamaica ... 261 | Rabbit Keeping ... ... 262 Porto Rico .-. .. 261 | Science Notes :— St. Vincent Cotton sread-nut 263 Growers’ Association 261 | Shipment of Bananas West Indies, Cotton from Barbados 257 Growing in ... 261 | Sugar Industry :— Department News.. ... 269 Cane sugar and Beet Department Publications 271 SUCAL Seen E ne yrs 200 Department Reports :— Ideal sugar-cane 259 Dominica Sete se DOK Trinidad, Seedling Montserrat ... . 267 canesat ... ... ... 208 St. Lucia .. .. +... 267 | Sweet Potato Meal... ... 263 Dutch India, Exports of 265 | West Indian Products ... 269 Educational :-— Virgin Islands, Agri- Agricultural Schools ... 263 culture in ... Shipment of Bananas from Barbados. with the of bananas from g Barbados to which we desire to draw the attention of shippers. Mention has already been made in the Agricultural News of the need for shipment greater care in the making of crates. The points for shippers to remember are—first, that in making their they to certain standard measurements; secondly, the crates must be made of suitable material and sufhciently strong to enable them to be handled without getting broken. crates should conform First, then, in the matter of the size of crates, Complaints have been made by the Royal Mail Company that raany of the packages are far larger than is necessary and consequently take up more than their fair share of space. Mention was made of one bunch which was packed in a crate fully 6 inches too long and 3 inches too wide. But besides this, as pointed out by Messrs. Pink & Sons in arecent letter to Mr. J. R. Bovell, when larger crates are used than are required, 1t becomes necessary to use more packing. In consequence, particularly at this time of the year, the fruit is kept too hot and is over-ripe when it reaches England. In order to secure as much uniformity as possible, the company has suggested three standard sizes for crates, viz, (1) 27 inches by 15 inches, (2) 30 inches by 17 inches, and (3) 34 inches by 17 inches. For these three sizes the uniform rates to be charged to Southampton will be Is. 6d., 2s., and 2s, 6d. respectively. For all other crates, not conform- ing to these standards, the charge will be 16s. 8d. and 5 per cent. per ton measurement. It will thus be seen that it is both to the shipper’s interest and the company’s convenience that an effort be made to secure the uniformity suggested. It may be mentioned that, so far as the shipment of bananas by the Depart- 258 THE AGRICULTURAL ment is concerned, the new freight rates will come into operation with the first shipment next month. Next, in regard to the material to be used in making erates. These require to be made of teugh wood that will not split. It has been found that pine wood is not suitable for the purpose, as it is not sufficiently strong to bear handling. It the crates get broken, it stands to reason that the bananas will be bruised, and they cannot in that case be expected to arrive in a good condition. Similarly, Mr. Bovell has found it necessary to draw the attention of shippers to the fact that bananas have been sent for shipment packed in crates the slats of which were too thin. These ought to be half an inch in thickness. Again, others have had the slats projecting in such a way that they could easily be knocked off. Mr. Bovell has, therefore, warned shippers that bananas sent in such crates will not be accepted for shipment. It must be clearly understood that at this stage in the establishment of the banana industry, when every effort must be put forth to ensure the arrival of the fruit in the best possible condition, so that Bar- bados bananas may gain for themselves a good name in the English markets, most serious attention must be paid to such important matters of detail as those mentioned. It is only by exercising every care in the handling and packing of the fruit that if can be hoped to secure good prices. As our readers are well aware, good prices have been obtained, and the profits from the industry have been satisfactory; moreover, Bar- bados beginning to be known and appreciated in the English markets. It is with the view of assisting this promising industry that we refer once more to this subject. bananas are Further emphasis is given to the necessity that exists for exercising the greatest care, not only in packing but also in picking bananas for shipment, by the following extract from a letter addressed to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company by Messrs. J. & E. Hall, Limited, who have just completed the fittings of the ‘Tagus’ and ‘Trent’ for the cool transport of fruit:— “The success of the fruit-carrying department will largely depend upon the condition in which the fruit is stowed and on the handling of the plant before and after loading. If the fruit is cut too “full,” no refriger- ating power will carry it, once it has reached a certain degree of ripeness. It is found necessary on large fruit-carrying steamers to watch very closely the loading, and the ditterent degree of ripeness of fruit is very difficult to determine by any but experts. We NEWS. Avueusr 13, 1904. wish to draw attention to the importance of this aspect of the question, as we notice that even with all precan- tions on the part of shipowners, bananas are very often put on board in a state which is very prejudicial to their safe carriage and to obtaining a good market price at this end.’ 4 g Dinar ges} < SUGAR INDUSTRY. Seedling Canes in Trinidad. The following note in regard to the future cultiva- tion of seedling canes in Trinidad is taken from the Report on the Botanical Department for 1903-4 :— This season it is proposed to eliminate many of the seedlings, which have shown insufficient characters to render them worthy of general cultivation, and to use the area they have previously occupied for extending the cultivation of selected kinds, so as to afford material for planting on a larger scale. It would appear from results that our practice of eutting annually in May for several years past has led to a diminution of seed production ; as most of the varieties have produced either no seed at all, or only small and insignificant quantities. It is proposed therefore to select and plant a few of each of the best varieties in beds, for seed purposes only, and to allow them to remain over, without cutting, for longer periods than twelve months. Seed collected in October 1903 was small in quantity, but a goodly number of plants was raised, which will appear in due course. It has also been noted that the seedlings raised during the past four years have not shown the same variety or the same sucrose content as the batches raised six or eight years ago; and the evidence appears to point to this also beine due to annual cutting, ie., not allowing the cane a sutticient period of growth previous to the flowering stage, which generally occurs in Trinidad in October and November of each year. The Difference between Cane Sugar and Beet Sugar. The Journal @& Agriculture Tropicale tor June 1904 contains an article by Mr. George de Préaudet dealing with the superiority of cane over beet sugar. We give the following summary :— It is evident that of all refined sugars the purest is white cane sugar. For if this were identically the same as white beet sugar, as is held by some authorities, why is it that the large manufacturers of champagne require their sugar dealers to give them a formal declaration that they never allow into their works a single bag of beet sugar? Experience has shown that wines sweetened with beet sugar always give an after-taste of beet root. A very easy test is carried out as follows: Take two glasses containing moistened sugar—one beet and the other cane. Cover both with saucers and allow them to stand for some days. If they are tasted at the end of that time, it will be found that the beet sugar has assumed a taste of beet root and also emits a slight odour. Vou. III. No. 61. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 259 The refining of beet sugar is not carried on with as much care as is that of cane. The best, purest, and most delicate sugar is made from the sugar-cane. An Ideal Sugar-cane. The Queensland Agricultural Journal for April publishes the following extract from a statement made by Dr. Stubbs in a New Orleans paper :— Six years ago we received a large number of various canes from Trinidad. We promptly began to experiment. We tried to ascertain which cane was best adapted for this climate. We made a score or more experiments and carefully compared the results. We wanted to get a cane that would find ready and congenial growth here in Louisiana, and that would at the same time increase the sugar output for the acreage in this State. I am delighted to say that our patience has at length been rewarded. We now have two kinds of cane that are highly successful. They are unquestionably a great deal more satisfactory than the best cane known here for many years. In my opinion, they are the most valuable canes that ean be grown in Louisiana soil. They make what our agricultural experts call an ideal specimen. We have classified them as ‘T. 95’ and ‘T. 74. * To the lay public there is nothing exceedingly significant in these words ‘T. 74, but to the sugar-planter they will be nothing less than startling. This cane produces 38 tons to the acre. The juice yields 16 per cent. of sugar. Under a nine-roller mill 81 per cent. is obtained without saturation. If you will compare these figures with statistics of cane now grown, you will realize that this new cane will revolu- tionize the sugar industry of Louisiana. The old cane gives an acreage of 20 to 30 tons, with a 12-per cent. yield in the juice. Under the roller, it gives a percentage of 71. The new cane is long jointed, green, perfectly healthy, and beautiful in appearance. It has an excellent stubble and remarkable vigour. It withstood the terrific gale that swept over the city on September 9 and 10. It is deep-rooted and strong, and was the only cane in the field that was not blown either flat or partly down to the ground. It was not damaged the least bit by the storm. We are ready and willing to furnish this cane to any planter who may apply for it. We expect to send out more than 500 bundles in the next few weeks. Requests for the cane are coming in on every mail. We shall begin to ship the cane in a few days. Planters throughout the State show intense interest, and have strong faith in the new specimens. _We shall send some of the cane to the Experiment Stations in Cuba and the Hawaiian Islands. In the following issue of the Queensland Agr/- cultural Journal reference is made to the excellent results obtained by Mr. E. Grimley with West Indian seedling canes (see Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 180), and it is stated :— Tt will be seen that the ideal sugar-cane is B.147, giving 23°40 per cent. of crystallizable sugar. B.208 is another splendid sugar-yielding cane, and both are evidently superior to T. 74, notwithstanding the weight of cane per acre produced by the latter is 38 tons, and of the West Indian varieties, 30 tons. In Queensland, this weight will doubtless be exceeded. *We presume that this isa mistake. The canes referred to are undoubtedly D, 95 and D. 74. (See Agricultural Nevs, Vol. IL, p. 323.) ADULTERATION OF CITRONELLA OIL. The report for 1903 of the Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Ceylon, contains the following refer- ence to the decline of the citronella oil industry owing to adulteration and to efforts that are to be made to check this :— The heaviest fall is in citronella oil, amounting to over 230,000 tb. or 18 per cent. This, following a fall of 140,000 tb. in the previous year, indicates that the industry is on the decline, as was predicted in previous years, land going out of cultivation. Adulteration is chietly responsible for this state of things, though there has also been over- production. The drop in exports has caused a rise in price to Is. Id. or Is. 2d. per tb. The cultivation continues to extend in Java, and the pure oil thenee exported is preferred by consumers. Mr. Bamber, the Government Chemist, has been occupied with this question for some years, as mentioned in previous reports, and his investigations have lately been crowned with success. He has devised a test which is easily workable, and which shows in a few minutes the exact percentage of adulterant contained in any given sample of oil. Applications of this test to samples of export oils have shown that very large quantities of adulterant are often used. Schimmel’s test, the only one hitherto employed, is in any case less satisfactory, is more difficult to carry out, and is very often not properly managed by those using it. Proposals are being formulated to have an official examina- tion of all exported oils made at the ports, no oil being allowed to go out of Ceylon except under a Government certificate as to its composition as tested by Bamber’s test. In this way we may hope to see this important industry once more set upon its feet, and the decline checked, which would otherwise apparently lead to its almost total extinction, for it seems hopeless to expect the native cultivators and dealers to refrain from adulteration unless compelled, even though it be killing the industry. Particulars of this recently devised test are given in the following extract from the Government Chemist's report :— A large number of experiments have been made with pure and adulterated citronella oils to devise a method of detecting or estimating adulterants in the citronella oil. The following process has been found very successful, and depends on the greater solubility of the citronella oil than the adulterants in alcohol of known strength, when the oil has been previously mixed with a vegetable fatty oil. The test is carried out as follows :—Two cubic centimetres of pure, fresh cocoa-nut oil, free from acid, are measured into a graduated tube, then 2 cubic centimetres of the citronella oil to be tested, and both mixed. Twenty cubic centimetres of 83 per cent. alcohol are then added and the tube shaken for one minute. The tube is then placed in a Leffman-Beam or similar centrifugal machine and whirled for about one minute, when the tube is removed and the volume of cocoa- nut oil, plus the adulterant, read off. The graduations of the tubes, pipettes, ete., must be accurate, and the estimation made at a temperature of about 80° F. A pure citronella oil can be kept as a standard and occasionally tested in the above manner, when the reading should be exactly 2 cubic centimetres, or the amount of cocoa-nut oil added. Since this test has been devised for detecting adulteration with mineral and fatty oils, a new adulterant has quite recently been found in the form of spirit. This form of adulteration can be detected by other means, and the question is now being worked out, 260 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aueust 13, 1904. WEST INDIAN PACKING ORANGES FOR THE ENGLISH MARKBT. The Cyprus Journal for May contains an article in which the following hints on packing oranges for the English market are given by a well-known firm of fruit brokers :— Divide the oranges, keeping the rounds from the ovals, and pack each kind separately. This is absolutely necessary. Grade the oranges into three to five sizes and pack each size separately. This also is absolutely necessary. Pack the cases so that each case shall contain an equal number of equal-sized fruit, and on the end of the box brand the number of oranges contained therein. When branding the boxes state if they contain round or oval. It is of no use to pack both round and oval in the same box. In packing see that each orange is firmly placed so that it is not shaken loose when the case is handled. One of the several important reasons why the oranges in each case should be of equal size is to enable the retailers, who sell to the public at a certain rate, to give equal-sized fruit to their customers. The large fruit is preferred, as heavy supplies of small fruit are received from Spain, and prices rule munch lower for these than for large fruit. Attention should, therefore, be given to large fruit, and by preference to ovals, and exporters should, as much as possible, avoid shipping small oranges. The round orange has to compete with those from Valencia and Sidon. CHINESE BANANAS. The following note appeared in the Journal of the Jamaicu Agricultural Society for Jane :— After the storm of November 1899, and the hurricane of August last, when so much damage was done to bananas, we called attention to the dwarf banana (J/usa Cavendishi) commonly called here the Chinese banana, and its stout, wind-proof growth. It easily withstood the rain and wind- storm of November 1899, it even withstood the hurricane of August ; and both times a good quantity of this variety was under our personal observation. In Fiji, where the people have always depended largely upon the banana for food, and which now supplies the Australian and New Zealand markets with this variety, the introduction of the dwarf banana in place of the imposing-looking tall varieties saved the people FRU: from being sometimes on the verge of famine, as they formerly were, through losses by storms recurring at short intervals. This variety is said not to keep as well as the Martinique: we have not found it so. It grows better on poorer soils and does not require so much moisture. It certainly does not sucker so profusely as the Martinique ; but is not that an advantage, so long as it gives a succession of one or two, which it never fails to do? It can be planted 6 feet apart. At present our market in the United States does not want it, although it is the variety which goes from Hawaii to San Francisco and supplies the Pacific coast of North America. But in the British markets it is preferred, because it is the kind which has been and is now being supplied from the Canary Islands and is now also being shipped in small quantities, and successfully, from Barbados. The dwarf banana ought to be taken up and cultivated by those who would make a specialty of supplying the British market. It can be grown on this plan with a far more moderate supply of water than the Martinique. A systematic test of the dwarf banana should be made. AGRICULTURE IN THE BAHAMAS. We extract the following notes from the United States Consular Reports for March 1904 :— Fruit Trade.—The crop of pine-apples was fairly good, prices ranging rather lower than usual. More than $150,000 worth was shipped to the United States. There was some increase in the number preserved. Some guavas were also preserved. The orange and grape fruit came into market later in the season. The quantity of grape fruit is increas- ing. A destructive hurricane has just passed over this colony, which will seriously injure the orange and grape fruit crops for the ensuing fall. Hemp Trade.—The increase in the quantity of hemp produced is quite marked, and this industry will continue to prosper. Over $100,000 worth was exported, mostly to the United States, during this period. Agriculture. — Although considerable is done in the way of agriculture, there is little in the sale or use of machinery, the soil being altogether too rough and rocky. The implements in use are of an old-fashioned kind. Sponge Industry.—The sponge industry continues to be the most important business of the colony, and the amount taken by the United States maintained about its usual pro- portion, reaching some $275,000 per annum. The trade was, for a portion of 1902, rather dull, but during the first six months of 1903 it began to recover. Vor. bik sNo: 61. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 261 COTTON NOTES. Cotton Growing in the West Indies. Under the auspices of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce a large meeting was held on July 6 at the Exchange Station Hotel for the purpose of hearing addresses by Sir Gerald Strickland, K.C.M.G., and Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., on the possibilities offered by the West Indies for cotton growing. Sir Alfred Jones, K.C.M.G., presided. Sir Gerald Strickland pout out that in the West Indies there was much land, which was not suitable for sugar-cane cultivation, which might be utilized for cotton growing. He referred to the fact that up to a comparatively recent time sugar had been the main industry in the Leeward Islands. It was desirable to establish a cotton industry side by side with sugar. In the course of his address Sir Daniel Morris made the following remarks, for a report of which we are indebted to the Liverpool Mercury of July 7:— Next year they hoped to have 8,000 to 10,000 acres under cotton. In addition to See Island cotton seed, they put in Egyptian cotton seed, and they also planted native cotton. In spite of the bad quality of the seed they sowed last year, the price they received this year for their cotton was very favourable indeed. The greater part of cotton from Barbados—the best qualities—was fetching 15d., 16d., and 164d. per Tb., whilst one bale of the same cotton tad fetched ls. 6d. per Ob. This showed that, where they got good seed and proper cultivation, they were obtaining good returns, They hoped, before many years had passed, that the West Indies would export 20,000, 30,000, and up to 50,000 bales of cotton to this country. They had there an organization in the Department of Agriculture which could assist and advise the planters what to do. He said those who proposed to have any dealings with the West Indies at the present time could rest assured that the prospects of investment of capital were as good as in any part of the world. Cotton Growing in Jamaica. We extract the following from the report of the usual monthly meeting of the Jamaica Board of Agri- culture as published in 1 the Gleaner of July 20:— The report of the sub-committee appointed to inquire into the cotton industry was submitted. It recommended that the Board should do all in its power to bring forcibly to the notice of the Government the advisability of pushing this industry with all its resources, especially in fostering the industry in the plains of St. Hlizabeth where little that can be exported is produced at present. The committee also recommended that the Board should get in close touch at once with the British Cotton Growing Association and impress on them the capabilities of Jamaica for growing cotton, that the people are awakening to the importance of the industry, the results of experiments so far as gone, and the price of Jamaica cotton already marketed. The matter of cotton growing in the parish of St. Elizabeth has been enthusiastically taken up by the local branch of the Jamaica Agricultural Society. The Travelling Instructor is to visit certain districts of the parish to “report upon their suitability for cotton growing. St. Vincent Cotton Growers’ Association. We learn from the Sentry that in response to the invitation of the Acting Administrator a meeting of gentlemen interested in agriculture was held at St. Vincent on July 21, ab which it was decided to form a Cotton Growers’ Association in order to have a recog= nized local body to watch the interests of cotton growers. The officers of the~ association are—-Mr. Alex- ander Smith, Chairman; Mr. J. G. W. Hazell, Treasurer ; and Mr. W, N. Sands, Secretary. The following resolutions were carried :— 1. Resolved that this meeting considers that it is desirable to form a local Cotton Growers’ Association to protect and further the interests of the cotton industry_in this ee . Resolved that, in order to establish such an associa- tion as an organized body, growers of cotton and others interested in the cultivation who desire to become members of the association be required to pay an entrance fee of 5s. and a monthly subscription of 1s. The funds to be applied im such manner as the association may direct. That a President be elected under a working committee one of whom shall be nominated as Chairman, and that a Secretary be Appoluies. That the Government and Imperial Department of Agvoulinte be asked to recognize the association as an established body to co-operate in all matters for the advance- ment of the Cotton Industry. Cotton Cultivation in Porto Rico. The following account of experiments in cotton growing in Porto: Rico is contained in the Consular Report for 1903 :— Cotton cultivation experienced an active revival all over the island under the auspices of an American firm, which supplied a considerable quantity of seed gratis. About 10,000 acres are said to have been planted with cotton during the year and to have yielded satisfactorily (some 5,000 bales), both as regards quantity and quality. The results are pronounced capable of important improvement as soon as the now inexperienced cultivators, pickers, and handlers have mastered the methods of the novel industry. At present the introducers of the venture contrast the native labour very unfavourably with that in the American cotton fields and ginneries. Ginneries have been erected at San Juan, and other plants will follow at various points of the island to meet requirements that doubtlessly will be doubled or trebled in « short time. The sort is Sea Island. To the end of the year cotton to the value of £871 was exported to the United States. Mr. Vice-Consul Wilson reports on cotton cultiva- tion in the Arecibo district as follows :— There has been some attempt at planting Sea Island cotton in this district, but the result has not been so satisfac- tory as was expected, mostly owing to the poor attention given to the fields and the lack of experience in picking, etc. ; however, the reports as to quality and stoutness of the fibre are favourable. THE RABBIT KEEPING IN THE WEST INDIES. In the following further instalment of notes on rabbit keeping in the West Indies Mr. Barclay deals with the subject of the breeding of rabbits :-— BREEDING. Bucks and does should not be used for breeding until at least eight months old, and nine months is better. Usually in Jamaica does are bred as early as they will do so and have litters at six months old or before. This is wrong and results in deterioration. A doe which seems to be a_ persistent fighter should at once be fattened and killed for table, but when accustomed to each other young does will not as a rule fight. Young does therefore kept for breeding, can be kept together until of a breeding age. After being put to the buck, and within a fortnight of having young, the young does should be put each in its own separate apartment and disturbed as little as possible. At this time the doe should receive a little extra in the way of food, but not of a fatten- ing nature, like corn. per LOO tb. Timner—Greenheart, 32c. to 34c. per cubic foot. Watana SHincLes—$3'00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. $f aa) Gorpon, GRANT & Co. ;and Messrs. Epcar Tripp & Co, Cacao—Ordinary, $12°15 to $12°25; Estates, $12°25 to- $12°35; Venezuelan, $1250 to $1280 per fanega. (110 b.). Cocoa-Nuts—-$17°00 per M., f.0.b. Cocoa-Nuv Meat—lj{e. per tb. Cocoa-Nuv Or.—70e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corrre—Venezuelan, 63c. per Th. Corra— $2°70 per 100 tb. Oxtoxs—S$1-02 to $1°60 per 160 tb. Poraros, ExcrisH—$1'25 to $1°80 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $425 to $440; White Table, $5°50 to $5'75 per bag. Stcar—-White Crystals, $2°20 to $3°25; Molasses Sugar, —No quotations. Vou. Ill. No. 61. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 271 — ~ Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN. A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume JI. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes II and III. Price in original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. Nos. 1 and 2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton Cultivation (out of print), No. 4. Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the West Indies. Price 67. each number. Post free, 8d. Volume V. No. 1. West Indian Starches ; Experiments with sweet potatos at Barbados; Fruit industry of Jamaica; Lemon industry in Sicily; Birds of St. Vincent; ete. Price 6d. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only_a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are stil] available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied :— (3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. S teneral Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd. Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 43d. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (7) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2. Post free, 24d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (21) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 25d. (22) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part Il. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (23) Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ) Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2. Post free, 25d. ) Ground Nuts in the West Indies, Price 2d. Post free, 24d. ) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 23d ) Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, 33d. ) ) ) Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Manurial Experiments with Sugar-cane in the Leeward Islands, 1902-3. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. z ] A t=} = ~ es ’ ? A. B. C. of Cotion Planting. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING. A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s 6d. Postage in either binding, 33d. extra. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS. A Fortnightly Review The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 1}d. he subscription price, including postage, is 1s. 74d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and II complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. A// applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department. Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :-— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: THe West Inpra Commirres, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Tae EpucarionsL Suppiy Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guiana: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Trinidad: Messrs. Murr, Marsnatt & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. Puacemany, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrasr & Co., ‘The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. S¢. Lueia: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F. Duverney & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat : Mr. W. LLEWELLYN WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Martone, St. John’s. St. Kitt’s: Messrs. S. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Vevis: Mr. 8. D. MALONE, Charlestown. Bahamas : Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. 202 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Avcust 138, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE AR Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohiendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ESTATE FOR SALE OR TO LET. | | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. | An excellent property situate between the Wood- || ford Hill and Brookdale Estates in the parish of St. Andrew’s, Dominica. a= SPECIAL TERMS FOR CASH. _| ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN’ (VOL. V, NO. 1). For full particulars apply to the proprietor, j NATHL. POWELL, To be obtained of all Agents. Wesley, Dominica. Price 6d. Post Free, Sd. ~ Cl C Ra's,” By J. Ho HART, FLS. FOR COTTON GROWERS : NEW EDITION. || A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of [| WEST INDIAN BULLETIN COMMERCIAL CACAO. (VOL. IV, NO. 4) DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing fnll report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Sc..and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S8., 8 Price 3s. per copy. | | on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. f = ———— — _—__—__ Printed at Office of Avricultyral Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, i, L Fre Oe Pa ox eV, p> OEE fF fi iF 4A SG A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE Vout. III. No. 62. CONTENTS. Insect Notes :-— Brown Ant in Porto Rico: ee each aes ss St. Kitt’s-Nevis ... ... 282 Job’s Tears as a Famine Agriculture in :— Gold Coast .. ... ... 2 Portuguese East Africa 278 Cacao :— In Brazil F pO S Hoodese se. 275 & 7 9° ae ee of... 4. 281 Mango, Budding 283 Market Reports ... ... 287 Notes and Comments ... 280 Onion Seed for the West Paris Green, Applica- tion of few tke mtieceZOl West Indies mes) pees) DOH Department News... ... 285 Tadies 280 Department Publications 280 | p.) a Ke Fe the: Department Reports :— a WW t pee ee 278 British Guiana ... ... 285 Rubb hess pre oe Sth St. Vincent... ... ... 285 ts Mo sper om 9R Virgin Islands... ... 285 Sci * Not aa ae aah Dominica Pine-apples in , ra eae y onc onda 280 Argan tree of Morocco 279 a ESO Atmospheric Nitrogen 279 Educational :— Sea-weed as a Manure ... 279 School Gardens ... ... 286 | Sugar Industry :— Eel-wormsin St. Vincent 283 Virgin Islands 275 : posit West Indies oct age eV! Gleanings ... - 284.) West Tndian!Products ... 286 Horticultural Shows in Wind-breaks or Shelter- United Kingdom ... 276 belts ... BP gas 2 Wind-Breaks or Shelter-Belts. > N many of the West India Islands, more especially those which deforestation has $ caused to become wind-swept, one of the most urgent requirements, from an agricultural stand- point, is the protection of estates and peasants’ provision grounds from the wind. This can be effected by the planting of rows of suitable trees as wind-breaks or shelter-belts. When the principal crop of such islands was the sugar-cane, and when the peasants were content to grow canes and ground provisions, there was but little need for this protection. Now, however, that other industries are being introduced, when planters and peasant proprietors are commencing to cultivate such crops as limes, coffee and cacao, it 1s being realized that good results can be obtained only where satis- factory protection is afforded. In the absence of such protection the trees make poor growth and the yield of produce is unsatisfactory. In many districts the stunted and backward condition of the plants is at once an indication that the situation is unfavourable. Again, in the case of such trees as those men- tioned, where the yield depends upon the setting of the fruit, it is of primary importance that the flowers shall not be blown away by the wind before this takes place. That is one of the principal reasons for advocating the need of adequate protection for planta- tions of limes, coffee, or cacao. Neglect to take this precaution has been the cause of frequent failure. Another advantage of wind-breaks—one that is of considerable importance in districts lable to more or less prolonged droughts—lies in the part played by wind-breaks in conserving soil moisture. By sheltering the land from the drying winds they exercise a strong protective effect on the 274 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Avucusr 27, 1904. water supply, reducing evaporation to a considerable extent. This aspect of the question has already been dealt with in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 338) in an article on the ‘Conservation of Soil Moisture,’ where it was mentioned that ‘as the result of experiments, King states in his Irrigation and Drainage that “the drying effect of the wind at 300 feet was 30 per cent. greater than at 20 feet, and 7 per cent. greater than at 150 feet from the hedge.”’ For these reasons we would urge a careful consid- eration of this matter when a plantation is being laid out. If new land is being opened up for the purpose, the object will be satisfactorily attained by leaving a strip of the natural forest. In other cases, suitable trees will have to be planted in rows and afterwards pruned and trimmed in order to make them effective wind-breaks. They must not be allowed to give too much shade, but should be trimmed to form hedges. Further, it is advisable to choose a tree that is ever- green : a tree which sheds its leaves in the dry season, that is, just at the time an effective wind-break is particularly required, is scarcely suitable. Now, what are the most suitable trees for the purpose? We might give a long list of trees that have either been used or recommended for planting as wind-breaks, but we will refer to two only—Galba (Calo- phyllum Calaba), which is particularly suitable for planting in exposed situations; and, for more moist situations, Jnga lauwrina, known in Dominica and the French Islands as Pois doux, in Antigua and Mont- serrat as Spanish oak, and in St. Kitt’s-Nevis as Spanish ash. Galba is a quick-growing tree, capable of standing the sea blast, and possesses the further important It would be well if planters in those islands in which galba is found advantage of being an evergreen, were to collect as many seeds as possible and have them sown. Similarly, the local officers of the Depart- ment might raise seedlings for distribution, In the French West Indies hedges of nga laurinuw are planted about every 200 feet, across the direction of the prevailing winds, throughout the cacao and coffee plantations. They are also planted by the peasants around their provision grounds. These practices might well be copied in the British West Indies. It will be necessary in the first place to urge upon the peasantry the need for such wind-breaks, and this will perhaps best be done by object-lessons at the Botanic Stations. It will thus be seen that we strongly advise the systematic planting of wind-breaks as a protection from the wind. This is particularly necessary where crops like limes, coffee and cacao are being grown. One of the largest undertakings of this nature in the West Indies is in with the Land Settlement On the estates that have been given out in allotments in that island a comiplete system of wind-break planting was determined: the total length of these lines amounts to 20 miles. Galba is the tree that has been employed in this case. SUGAR INDUSTRY. The Sugar Industry in the West Indies. In his lecture to the members of the West India Committee on the ‘Agricultural Industries of the West Indies, Sir Daniel Morris made the following reference to the experiments with the sugar-cane and the present position of the sugar industry in these islands :— It is an important feature in all the sugat-cane experi- ments carried on by the Imperial Department of Agriculture that the canes are cultivated in the same manner as the ordinary crop of the estate, so as to institute a close comparison on the most practical basis between these canes and those ordinarily grown on the estate. It may be mentioned that the expenses of cultivating sugar-canes at the experiment stations on estates are borne by the planters themselves. A very considerable number of new canes are raised every year. Only very few of these prove worthy of being cultivated on a large scale. Some of the new seedling canes have proved of great value, not only in the West Indies, but also in Louisiana, Cuba, Natal, Mauritius, and (ueens- land. The work of raising seedling canes is still, however, in the experimental stage, but it is full of promise in the future. The area planted in new seedling canes in British Guiana has steadily increased, and now coniprises about 13,000 acres. In Barbados and Antigua, owing to the occurrence of disease in the Bourbon cane, seedling and other canes are almost exclusively cultivated. On regular plantations in the West Indies the total areas of seedling and other canes than Bourbon may be placed at about 30,000 acres. The yield of seedling canes has in many cases exceeded that of the Sourbon cane. On one large plantation in British Guiana the results in favour of seedling canes during the last three years have averaged 20 per cent. connexion Scheme in St. Vincent. Sir Daniel then referred to the excellent results that had attended the cultivation of West Indian seedling canes in Demerara, Louisiana, Cuba, and Queensland, information in regard to which will be found in the Agricultural News, Vol. II, pp. 179-80. Continuing, he said :— A factor of great importance in regard to the future of the sugar industry is the removal of the Continental sugar bounties. Every one interested in the welfare of the West Indies fully appreciates the active part taken by our Chairman, and those associated with him, in obtaining the abolition of the sugar bounties. Already a much more hopeful feeling prevails in regard to sugar growing in the West Indies and the prospects are possibly more encouraging than they have been for many years. A prominent member Vou. III. No. 62. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Lo =I On of the West India Committee has shown his confidence in the improved prospects of sugar growing by enlarging his possessions in British Guiana; the machinery on two of the largest estates in that colony have lately been improved; while at Antigua Sir Gerald Strickland has been successful in affording assistance in starting two sugar factories which will prove of great service in that island. There is also the hope that the Nandet system, which appears to combine the best results of crushing and maceration, may assist in reducing the cost of production. I understand that the new process is to be ~tried on a fairly large scale m “Trinidad during the next crop. There can be no doubt that in several of the West Indian Colonies the prospects for sugar growing are capable of being rendered as promising as anywhere in the tropics. There are extensive tracts of land in Jamaica, British Guiana, and Trinidad, where the soil is particularly well suited to the sugar-cane and where with good cultivation and a moderate quantity of manure the yield of sugar, now bounties are removed, would be likely to prove remunerative. The great point in favour of sugar cultivation, where it can be successfully carried on, is that it employs a very large amount of labour and gives employment also to various tradesmen, and circulates a considerable amount of money amongst the general community. There appears to be some- thing specially favourable to sugar in the atmosphere of the West Indies and in the disposition of the negro population towards it. One of the difficulties that the Imperial Department of Agriculture meets with in its endeavour to promote minor industries is the strong predilection of the negro to plant nothing but the sugar-cane. In spite of getting the poorest results from the cultivation of the cane in the exhausted soil of their provision grounds, the negro still prefers to plant sugar-cane than to plant cotton. ‘In the sugar-cane,’ he says, ‘I get something to eat; I cannot eat cotton, I therefore plant cane.’ It may be that it is merely a matter of sentiment, but in any case, where sugar can be made to pay better than anything else, there is no reason why that cultivation should not be continued. What, however, is claimed is that by growing cotton in suitable localities, the people in the West Indies might obtain the same results in eight months from cotton as they obtain from sugar-cane in sixteen months. Sugar-cane Cultivation in the Virgin Islands. The following extracts relating to experiments with the sugar-cane in the Virgin Islands are taken from the Report on the Experiment Station, Tortola, 1903-4. Tt is stated that about 2,000 tops of seedling cane B. 147 were obtained from St. Kitt’s and distributed among small proprietors :— : An acre of land on the bay side was cultivated and planted’ with sugar-canes in December and January. The variety selected was B. 147: About 15 tons of farmyard manure were dug in in December, and about 15 tons more in March; in the latter case holes were opened between the cane holes, and the manure placed in these and covered up. Owing to losses in shipment, due to the tops perishing, a Jarge quantity died, and the vacant holes had to be supplied. It was found that the tops grew much better than pieces of cane. Despite drought, the canes are now looking fairly well. The total cost up to date has been about £10. If the variety proves successful here, it is hoped to distribute it through the island. Hitherto the only cane grown in the island has been 'the old Bourbon, which is liable to attacks of fungus and borer. | It is felt that the island should at least produce enough sugar for local requirements. Last year some 20 tons of sugar were imported. From the old l-acre plot about 10 tons of cane were reaped and some fair-quality muscovado sugar was made. Muscovado sugar retails here at about 2d. tos 24d. per bb. Forty-five barrels of sugar were made for tenants and occupiers of land in the vicinity of the station, the sugar being of a good grocery type, and worth about £1 5s. to £1 10s. per barrel locally. A -larger ~mill is needed. excellent crushing but is too small. The present one does JOBS TEARS AS A FAMINE FOOD. The Agricultural Ledger (1904—No. 6) contains interesting information in regard to ‘Certain Indian accessory vegetable food-stuffs used in greater quantity when famine presses.’ Among the products studied were the seeds known as ‘Job’s tears’ (Coir Luchryma- Jobi), which are fairly plentiful in the West Indies. The native name of this grain is Kasaiya. We publish: the following extracts :— Elliptical seeds, sharply pointed at one end, olive-green to brown in colour, extremely hard, so much so that they cannot be broken between the teeth. Their size is rather larger than ordinary barley. They contain a white kernel of great hardness and of no flavour. Mr. Barucha (who sent the specimens) writes :— ‘Kasaiya is a large seed collected from plants or shrubs that look like reeds and grow on banks of streams. The seed is enclosed in a hard shell which has to be broken with a rod or has to be roughly ground. If mixed with maize it can be turned into bread, but it is mostly cooked like rice. It tastes like wheat, and is considered nutritious. A pound and a half of this Kasaiya would suffice for a man per day, but it is generally not used alone, and is not resorted to as long as maize is to be had.’ RESULTS OF ANALYSIS. Rroteidsies. ee. | ns 18°81 per cent. Bate Sess ice: 6:2 8 Soluble carbohydrates ... 59°55, Fibre Ben) Bey arte, 1k28" Ash saree eae Bins 4 Water 10-74 496 ‘5 Energy value ... 378 calories. Our analyses as well as those of Dr. Church show that this is a food specially rich in proteids and fats. When separated from its very hard husk, it should form a food of great value, especially as its energy-value is the highest of all the foods studied. Professor Church writing of this food says: ‘Through- out Assam and in the eastern frontier lands of India, this coarse cereal constitutes an important food of the hill tribes, replacing to some extent the millet of Northern and Southern India... The grains of wild kinds are exceedingly hard and are used as beads, those of the cultivated variety are much softer and more easily husked.’ He gives the following analyses of two varieties :— Water . 132 14°8 per cent. Albuminoids .... 18°7 1G:Ge Bot oe Starch 58°3 CORRE eT Oil nod’ poo. pamt 5784 Sad Vine Hibre! =e... leo QQ iad oie Ash See eee Qik SPT) Pe 276 uae AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aueust 27, 1904. INTERNATIONAL HORTICULTURAL EXHI- BITION IN EDINBURGH. The Council of the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society has arranged to hold an International Horti- cultural Exhibition in Edinburgh in September 1905. The following letter has been addressed by the Secretary to Sir Daniel Morris :-— The Council of this Society has arranged to hold an International Horticultural Exhibition here in September 1905, and is desirous that the exhibits from the colonies should be as complete as possible. It is not at all necessary that the exhibits should be large, but rather that they should be representative of the products of the colonies represented. I have heard from Kew that you are at present in this country and that you might probably see your way to make a really effective exhibit representative of the West Indies. If there is any further information which you would like to have, I shall be very glad to hear from you. The enclosed Preliminary Prize Schedule was sent out containing the principal competitions arranged up to February in order to let exhibitors see generally what they might be expected to prepare for, and other competitions are at present under consideration. Extract from Prize List. CLASS VI. To Growers only. other British Colony. Collection of fruits and vegetables of any sort. First prize, £10 10s. ; second, £7 7s. ; third, £5 5s. Open to Canada, Australia, and any SHOW OF COLONIAL FRUIT IN LONDON. A great show of colonial-grown fruit, and of British, colonial and foreign preserved and dried fruit, jams, ete., will be held in the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster, 8.W., on December 13 and 14, 1904. The following extract from a letter, addressed to Sir Daniel Morris by the Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society and extracts from the recently issued schedule will explain the objects and arrange- ments of this exhibition :— I send you herewith a copy of the schedule recently issued for the Autumn and Winter Shows of this Society. You will see that the Society proposes to hold an exhibition on December 13 and 14 next, of colonial-grown fruits, both fresh and preserved, or dried or bottled. This new departure has only been rendered possible for the first time this year, by the completion of the Society’s new Centennial Hall in Vincent Square, Westminster, and the Council is anxious to make the exhibition a success, and that it should worthily represent our colonies. Would you therefore be so kind as to let me know how best I may make it known in your colonies? I have sent the schedule to 100 colonial newspapers, _in addition to the press at home, and if you would oblige us by sending the names of any prominent shippers, importers, or growers, who you think might be likely to exhibit, I should be glad to send them schedules direct, or I would send you any number for distribution. If desired, the Society’s own officials will unpack and stage exhibits, provided they arrive in good time; but the Society cannot undertake to repack and return. No charge is made for space. Opportunity will also be afforded for each colony to make a collective exhibit in addition to individual entries. Decorations of such exhibits should, as far as possible, be confined to plants and foliage representative of each colony, Au exhibition of jams and of dried, bottled, and otherwise preserved fruits will be held at the same time, which will be open to home, colonial, and foreign produce in separate classes. A press view will be held on Monday, December 12, from 5 to 8 p.m., and the exhibition will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 13 and 14. The goods must be cleared away on Thursday, December 15. Extract from Schedule. DIVISION I. Colonial-grown Fruit. The staging must be finished by 4 p.m. on December 12, as there will be a press private view at 5 p.m. The colony in which the fruit has been grown must in all cases be stated. Medals or other prizes will be awarded at the discretion of the Council. Class 1.—Collection of colonial-grown Fruit. Such things as yams and sweet potatos may be included. Class 2.—Collection of colonial-grown Apples (Eating). Class 3.—Collection of colonial-grown Apples (Cooking). Class 4.—Collection of colonial-grown Pears. Class 5.—Colonial-grown Pine-apples. Class 6.—Colonial-grown Bananas. Class 7.—Colonial-grown Mangos. Class 8.—Colonial-grown Grapes. Class 9.—Any other colonial-grown Fruits. Class 10.—Colonial-grown Yams, Sweet potatos, ete. Wore) tit, No; 62: THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Pa COTTON NOTES. The Cotton Industry in the West Indies. Considerable interest is being taken in England in the efforts that are being made to establish a cotton industry in these islands. We reproduce the following interesting article from the Times of July 21:— It is satisfactory to report that the experimental cultivation of cotton in the West Indies has proved a success, and that the industry is now established on a commercial basis. Plantations exist in Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Montserrat, Antigua, St. Kitt’s, Trinidad, and the smaller islands, while plots have also been started in Jamaica and British Guiana. The total area estimated to be under cultivation is 4,000 acres. During the season just ended Barbados alone shipped, up to March 31, 244 bales and 2 bags of cotton, weighing 61,000 tb., and the gins have been busy since. The Imperial Department of Agriculture, which has the work in hand, has orders from planters for Sea Island seed suflicient to plant 7,000 acres,* and as this quantity has been paid for, the presumption is that it will be used. In Jamaica, where the pioneer work is being carried out by the Board of Agriculture, enough seed has been disposed of to plant 500 acres. A number of Syrians, who are acquainted with cotton growing in Egypt, are engaged in the cultivation there. Central factories for ginning and pressing the cotton have: been erected in the various islands, anda cotton gin expert, from the Sea Islands, has just completed four months’ work on the machines, all of which are now in perfect working order. He states that the factory in St. Vincent is the best-arranged and best-equipped he has ever seen. A nine-honrs’ run of the six gins yielded 3,800 Ib. of lint; in Barbados, where the methods and appliances are not so scientifically complete, a similar run gave from 1,500 tb. to 1,600 tb. There are a few private ginneries, but the majority are Government undertakings carried on under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. The cotton is ginned, baled, and shipped for the planters for 3c. per lb. of lint; seed-cotton is also purchased at the rate of 4c. per tb., which is equivalent to payment at the rate of about 11d. per tb. for the lint in the Liverpool market. The prices obtained for the Sea Island cotton have been highly satisfactory. One recent consign- ment from Barbados was valued at from 16d. to 17d. per bb., another averaged just under 15d., the highest price being 16}d., and the lowest 13d. Prices current exhibited in Barbados at the same time showed that Sea Island cotton was being quoted in Savannah at from 10d. to 124d., but this was evidently the price for common lint, as the last crop on the Sea Islands brought from 30c. to 35¢e.—this, of course, representing the resuit of thirty odd years of careful selection and cultivation. The figures given are sufficient to indicate that West Indian cotton, grown from Sea Island seed, is capable of yielding a return quite equal to the finest product of America. It is calculated that, the yield of lint being assumed to be 204 tb. per acre—the average in America— and the total cost of placing it in the Liverpool market 7d. per Ib. for cotton fetching 12d. per tb., the net profit would be at the rate of £5 2s. per acre. + Labour is cheaper in the West Indies than in the Southern States ; the cotton gin expert referred to was amazed at the low value of the labour in Barbados. Bia Probably 10,000 acres will be planted during the season 1904-5. tIncluding the value of the seed for feeding purposes, the total net profit would be about £7 per acre. Sir Daniel Morris, the head of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, is of opinion that the only cotton that should be grown in the West Indies is the Sea Island variety, which, it is well known, is a native of these islands. Other varieties are therefore being eliminated. Some planters favour the Upland, and even the indigenous varieties which are still found growing wild, but it will undoubtedly prove more advantageous to devote attention only to the highly cultivated, long-staple Sea Island cotton. The area through- out the world suitable for the growth of Upland is unlimited ; that able to produce Sea Island is strictly limited. The Jatter fetches double the price of any other cotton, and, like Blue Mountain coffee, will remain unaffected by future fluctuations of the market. A sample of the native cotton of Jamaica has been sent to England and pronounced very fine, being valued at 14d. per Ib. It is a cotton which appears to resist insect pests, and many think that a first- class variety might be evolved from it. The experiments in the island, however, are being made with Sea Island seed, and it will probably be found wiser to begin where the Sea Island planters have left off than to engage in experiments which may not prove successful. Many difficulties have naturally been encountered in establishing the industry, owing largely to the inexperience and ignorance of the growers, the most formidable being the attack of the cotton worm. Remedies were not at hand, and loss was sustained; but the planters are now forearmed, and they believe themselves able to cope with any similar emergency. Every assistance is rendered to growers by the Imperial Agricultural Department, which has published and circulated an extensive literature on the subject. One of Sir Daniel Morris’ latest ideas is to send the officers of the Department to the various islands to deliver popular lectures on the industry with magic-lantern illustrations. He recommends, however, that only capable planters should go in for cotton growing at present, and advises those who wish to come out to the West Indies to embark on planting on a large scale, to pay a visit first to St. Vincent, and study the conditions and opportunities there. Great credit is due to him for his indefatigable efforts to promote the industry during the past four years. West Indian planters are not very ready to strike out on new lines, and, but for the steady persistence and influence of the Department, aided by practical assistance from the British Cotton Growing Association and the West India Committee, it is doubtful whether the present important results would have been achieved. The following paragraph St. James’ Budget of July 23 :— The announcement that no less than 4,000 acres are now under cultivation seems to point to the establish- ment of the cotton industry in the West Indies upon that commercial basis which must be the foundation of its success. Plantations are now dotted over practically every one of the islands, and the future output shows a most promising tendency to increase. For the coming season the Imperial Department of Agriculture has already received orders—and better still, payment, for this argues confidence on the part of the planters—for enough seed to cover 7,000 acres. All this, considering the difficulties which have been encountered during the experimental period, forms a most encouraging start. And the excellent educational work which has been carried on, under the guidance of Sir Daniel Morris, by the Agricultural Department, must be most heartily commended for the stimulus and direction which have been given to the efforts of the pioneers in this most important movement. appeared in the THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aveust 27, 1904. RABBIT KEEPING IN THE WEST INDIES. The following is a further instalment of Mr. Bar- clay’s notes on rabbit keeping. The subject of this instalment is the feeding and watering of rabbits :— FEEDING. The young rabbits will begin nibbling at green stuff at three weeks old, although they may not be seen at first, as they come out during the night. They should get as much of this as they can eat and they will soon also eat every plant, root or grain put in. Rabbits should not be fed invariably the same stuff or roots, but should have a variety— not necessarily two or three different things at the same meal, but preferably a round of several plants they like for successive feeds. The following are all eaten with relish :— sweet potato vines, cowitch vines, pea vines, thistle (called in Jamaica ‘Rabbit Feeding, and eaten by rabbits with avidity); Spanish needle (a good laxative when young), all grasses eaten by cattle—but the rabbits only take these generally when none of the foregoing are available—Guinea grass, Para grass, Bahama grass, pimento grass, rice, corn (maize) and Guinea corn stalks and leaves are all liked when green, and so are the young blades of the sugar-cane. The leaves of the bastard cedar trees, wild grape, yam leaves, turnip, carrot, beet (both leaves and roots), cabbage, lettuce, parsley, etc. For roots, sweet potatos are most convenient and may be given raw, or boiled; also yam boiled, sweet cassava boiled. Bananas just turning yellow are relished. For grains, oats are best, but as it is not a_ native product, I find rice, cracked corn, a few peas and A little parched corn, and especially all for the doe in young. soaked peas are excellent for Guinea corn all liked. crusts of bread are best of I have mentioned that the suckling doe. Tt should be noted that sweet potato slips should never be given to a doe about to have young or when suckling young. It is current, in Jamaica at any rate, that it dries up the milk; and there may be truth in this. There is generally some foundation for such ideas, although we are apt to say ‘Bosh! We have in the West Indies a great variety of foods ayailable, and few owners would require to buy any feeding. For the young, growing animals, a variety of such green stuff, as has been mentioned, is good (giving just enough that they clear it off), and it should be given every evening at sundown. Note that wet stuff must mot be fed, and if rains are prevalent the green stuff should be pulled the day before and put aside under cover to dry. No wet, green stuff should ever be given. It is judicious to have in the hutches or boxes a rack to hold the feeding, otherwise when flung on the floor, half of it is wasted. A root of sweet potato, a chunk of hard-boiled yam or a crust of bread should accompany the green stuff, placed at the bottom of the heap so that they will not eat it first. If in the morning there is some green stuff repeatedly left uneaten, reduce the feed by the same quantity next evening, trying a little more occasionally to test their appetites. At the morning feed a little porridge and milk, made of rolled oats or cornmeal, is best, if this can be afforded, say about a heaped table-spoonful for each young rabbit, increasing to two for a full-grown animal. If not this, about the same quantity of oats, corn (maize) or Guinea corn, a banana, a crust of bread, and a little more green food, will do. The mother doe, as has been stated, should also have a few soaked peas. WATER. If any grain or dry meal stuff like cornmeal or rolled oats or oatmeal is fed, then water must be put before the rabbits; and the doe-mother, when about to have young, or after she has had them and is suckling them, should always have water by her. The water should be renewed each morning. Though rabbits, like sheep, in other countries seldom drink, here where the days are hot, and especially where the air is dry, rabbits will drink regularly. AGRICULTURE IN PORTUGUESE EAST AFRICA. The following account of the local industries in Portuguese East Africa is taken from the Consular Report on the trade of Beira for 1903 :— The exported produce of the district is almost a negli- gible quantity. At present, sugar, rubber, and wax form the most important articles enumerated. The former, manufactured on the Zambesi, is shipped exclusively to Lisbon, where it receives important preferential treatment and a substantial bounty per ton ; but large plantations of cocoanut palms are being made at various points on the coast, with a view to establishing a future export trade in copra, and doubtless when the young plants come into bearing the result will amply fulfil expectations. Ground nuts, although very largely and profitably exported from Quilimane and the northern ports of the province, would seem to attract but little attention here, and the same may be said of other important industries which are capable of being established. Much progress has been made during 1903 by the government of the Mozambique Company in an interesting experimental garden or plantation which it has established at Govuro in the south of the territory, with a view to determining what plants, etc., are best adapted to cultivation in the conditions locally obtaining. In addition to what has been done at Govuro, most valuable and interesting experiments have been made in the cultivation of cotton, for which this district is believed to be admirably adapted, and which should prove a source of great profit to local planters. The experiments in question were made under the direction of the company’s officials, and have had encouraging results. An area of about 4 acres was planted, but, owing to a misunderstanding, only 1,500 plants were raised instead of 5,000, which that extent of land could easily have sustained. The result returned some 1,300 tb. of cotton, which was forwarded unginned to Europe for examination and report. The British, French, and Belgian experts who conducted the examination were unanimous in regarding it as a fine cotton of the ordinary long-staple description, but remarkable for its extraordinary strength. The value placed upon it properly ginned and picked was Tid. to 8d. per tb. Naturally, 1,500 tb. of cotton to 4 acres of land is not a paying proposition ; but the area mentioned, as will be gleaned from the above figures, is capable of producing more than three times that quantity. Experiments with this valuable commodity are now being made on a much larger scale, and it is believed that cotton cultivation has a great future before it in this large and apparently suitable region. Vou. III. No. 62. SCIENCE NOTES. The Argan Tree of Morocco. It is said that the most interesting vegetable production of Morocco is the Argan tree (Argania Sideroxylon). This tree, which belongs to the natural order Sapotaceae, does not grow toa great height, but its trunk is of considerable size, one tree having measured 26 feet in circumference. The tree has a peculiar habit of growth; it gives off branches at a height of some 3 feet from the ground, which at first descend till they touch the ground ; at a considerable distance from the trunk they ascend. In this way each tree occupies a great space, the individual referred to above having a circumference of no less than 220 feet. From the seeds a valuable oil, resembling olive oil is extracted ; this is used for cooking purposes and also as an illuminant. Moreover, the fruits of the argan tree are eaten by stock. A full and interesting account of this tree is given in Hooker’s Marocco and the great Atlus, where it is stated : ‘When the fruit ripens, herds of goats, sheep, and cows are driven thither ;a man beats the tree with a long pole, and the fruits fall and are devoured voraciously by the cattle. In the evening they are led home, and, when comfortably settled in their yards, they commence chewing the cud and throw out the nuts, which are collected each morning as soon as the animals have departed upon their daily excursion.’ We are indebted to Mr. Henry Harries, of Kew, London, for the following memorandum on argan nuts, prepared by His Majesty’s Vice-Consul at Mogador :— ‘The natives collect the ripe nuts by knocking them off the trees with a stick ; they then break the nut with a stone to get the kernel out: they half-roast these and grind them in a hand-stone mill till the oil comes out. ‘The residue is made into cakes to feed camels, cows, and goats—not horses—and it is called “ zigmoona.” Sheep also eat it. ‘Europeans like the oil for culinary purposes. They heat the oil, which is brought in by natives in bottles. A piece of bread is put in the oil and is cooked with it; this removes the strong flavour. Natives, however, do not object to this strong flavour. It is preferred to olive oil for cooking purposes ; it is sweeter and more expensive by reason that each nut has to be cracked by hand, and these are very hard. The oil is burned by the natives tor lighting purposes, but is of no use as a lubricant, as it gets hot directly.’ Seeds of the argan tree were forwarded to the Imperial Department of Agriculture by Mr. Harries in January last. This is a sub-tropical, rather than a tropical, tree, but might be suited for planting in dry, hilly districts in the West Indies. Fixation of Atmospheric Nitrogen. In the Agricultural News, Vol. Il, p. 406, we published a note on the subject of the fixation of atmo- spheric nitrogen by chemical agency, in which it was stated that Dr. Frank had demonstrated that this could be effected by means of the carbides of barium and calcium. The latter, if was mentioned, was converted into calcium cyanamide, which could be used as a direct means of enriching the soil. The following extracts. upon this subject, taken THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 279 from the Bulletin of the Imperial Institute, are of considerable interest from both the scientific and the practical point of view :— The use of artificial nitrogenous manures supplies ready means of improving soils deficient in nitrogen, and the substances mostly used for this purpose at the present time are ammonium sulphate and sodium nitrate. Nitrogen- ous manures have so far been more expensive than those containing other plant constituents, and for this reason the importance of devising a practical means for utilizing the nitrogen of the atmosphere as a source of such manures has long been recognized. It is therefore interesting to note that the substance calcium cyanamide has recently been prepared with the use of atmospheric nitrogen on a com- mercial scale in Germany, and has been placed on the market under the name of ‘Kalkstickstoff.’ The manurial properties of this substance have been tested by Professors Wagner and Gerlach, at Darmstadt and Posen respectively, with various crop-plants, and although there is much to learn with regard to the conditions under which it may be most advantageously employed, this material has already proved itself a manurial agent apparently as valuable as ammonium salts and nearly as effective as sodium nitrate. It is considered very probable that if calcium cyanamide can be manufactured cheaply, it will find a place among the artificial nitrogenous manures. SHEA-WEED AS A MANURE. The following note on the use of sea-weed in Cyprus is taken from the Cyprus Journal tor June :— On many parts of the sea-coast of the island the wild waves of winter cast up from the sea large quantities of sea- weed, which is sometimes used by peasants, when the supply of old chopped straw is short, in the preparation of their sun-burnt mud bricks. This sea-weed, however, if the salt it contains is washed away by one or two good rains, can be used very profitably for manuring fields and plantations situated not far from the shore. For this purpose the sea- weed is conveyed to a more or less elevated position, where a bed of it from 4 to 5 feet thick is formed ; and after one or two sharp showers it is used as a manure either alone or, better still, mixed with stable manure. Sea-weed becomes far more useful as manure, if, before being brought to the field, it is used as a litter in the stable, because by absorbing the liquid excrement of the cattle its fertilizing value is increased. CACAO CROP OF BRAZIL. The following note appeared in the United States Monthly Consular Reports for March 1904 :— The cacao season of 1903 is much later than that of 1902. Cacao is a very erratic crop, and the oldest inhabit- ant will not venture a prediction on it. The last of the crop of the previous year was practically all in the manufacturers’ possession by this time. This year it is still coming in abundantly and will probably run far into September. The cacao season includes two crops, beginning, respectively, in January and June.. The summer crop is said to be a shade better (because drier) than the winter crop, though the yield should be about equal. This year more cacao came in the market in July than was received during the entire six months preceding. A few days ago about 2,000 tons were stored ‘in Para and every steamer was taking away large cargoes of it. However, the demand continues strong and the price good. bho (oa) oO THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aucust 27, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agricul- tural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A complete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 271 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural slows SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 1904. No. 62. Vou. III. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. We desire to draw attention to the necessity tor planting wind-breaks for the protection of crops. This subject is fully dealt with in our editorial. On pp. 274-5 we reproduce in full Sir Daniel Morris’ statement of the position of the sugar industry in the West Indies. Special reference is made to the Departments efforts in behalf of the industry. Preparations are being made for holding two important Horticultural Shows in the United Kingdom. It is important that the West Indies should be well represented at these, and the matter should receive early attention. Full particulars are given in the extracts published on p. 276. The Times’ review of the West Indian cotton industry, published on p. 277, will be read with interest by planters. The feeding and watering of rabbits form the subject of Mr. Barclay’s notes on rabbit keeping in this issue. See p. 278. Under the heading ‘Insect Notes’ will be found an interesting report on insects prevalent in St. Kitt’s- Nevis, and a note on the control of the Brown Ant in Porto Rico. On p. 283 is an illustrated article describing the methods of budding the mango. The directions are clearly stated and should easily be carried out. We publish a report from Mr. Russell Murray on West Indian produce in Canada. This report was unfortunately crowded out from our last issue. Teneriffe Onion Seed for the West Indies. The onion seed ordered from Teneritfe by the Imperial Department of Agriculture was forwarded to the various islands by the last Royal Mail steamer. In all 767 tb. have been received: this is made up of 5262 th. of white and 2403 tb. red seed. Of the total quantity 297 tb. are for Barbados, 254 tb. for Antigua, 50 tb. each for Jamaica, St. Kitt’s, and Nevis, and smaller quantities for the other islands. This seed has been specially selected for the Department and is the best seed obtainable. It is hoped that it will give good results. We would again urge those who are proposing to grow onions to sow the seed in beds, transplanting the seedlings when large enough to the fields. rr rr Department Publications. In consequence of the exceptionally large demand for Pamphlet No. 31, A. B. C. of Cotton Planting, it has been found necessary to issue a second edition. This pamphlet can therefore still be obtained of all agents of the Department; price 4d/., post free 5d. The hearty reception that has been accorded to this little publication is a gratifying indication that cotton cultivation is being taken up by the peasant proprietors as well as the planters throughout the West Indies. Two more of the annual reports on the Botanic Stations, ete., are issued to-day. These are (1) Reports on the Botanic Station, Agricultural School, and Land Settlement Scheme, St. Vincent: and (2) Report on the Experiment Station, Tortola, The price of these publications, which are reviewed on p. 285, is 3d. each. ro Dominica Pine-apples in London. In reference to the note in the Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 248, relative to the sale of Dominica pine-apples in London, it might be mentioned that a further shipment has been received by Messrs. Geo. Monro, Ltd., Covent Garden Market, who report that the fruits, which came in quite green, were placed in the banana room and coloured up all right and have been partly sold. The shipment consisted of twenty- eight fruits, which sold for £5 6s. 6d., or at an average price of 3s. 9}d. each. The results of the sales are most promising. It must be borne in mind that the consignment arrived at the height of the London season and was not too large to meet the demand. The brokers write that in selecting pine-apples it is better for shippers to err on the green side than the ripe, especially at this time of the year. They desire it to be impressed upon shippers that careful packing is most necessary. Many pine-apples have been received from the West Indies which have had to be sold at about a quarter of the price at which they should have been sold, on account of the difference in their condition on arrival. The fruits, the sale of which is recorded above, were Smooth Cayennes grown and packed at the Botanic Station, Dominica. Ve. III. No. 62. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 281 Rubber Exports from Mozambique. The Consular Report on the trade of Mozambique, referring to the great increase in the amount and value of the exports, states that the chief cause of this lies in the largely augmented output of rubber, the total value of which, in 1903, was £35,296, as against £12,058 in the previous year. It is stated that the rubber is of inferior quality, being extracted by what is known as the ‘cooking’ process. There are three recognized grades of rubber, viz., (#) pure rubber extracted by incision, (>) impure rubber extracted by incision, and (¢) rubber extracted by ‘cooking and crushing.’ Only 100 kilos, of the value of £20, of the first grade were exported. The exports of impure rubber extracted by incision amounted to 70,452 kilos, valued at £2,348, the remaining 278,878 kilos being ‘ cooked’ rubber. In all three grades there was an increased export. The other exports from Mozambique are ground nuts and mealies. he exports of the former, which were shipped to Bombay, Germany, and France, were of the value of £6,055 during the year 1903. Dae A New Cacao Disease. Specimens of twigs and leaves of cacao have recently been received at the Head Office of the Imperial Department of Agriculture from St. Lucia for examination. It was found that they were attacked by a fungoid disease which appears to be new, at least in the West Indies. The external appearance of the twigs attacked is quite characteristic. The hyphae of the fungus are joined together into dark-coloured threads, about the thickness of a horse-hair. Sometimes a number of these threads hang quite loosely about the cacao twigs, and then resemble very closely a bunch of horse-hair : closer examination reveals that these threads are all part of one branching system and that some of them are growing closely adpressed to the bark. In other cases the threads are nearly all growing in this latter manner, viz., attached to the bark. The threads also spread to the leaves and then appear to follow the veins. In their youngest parts the threads are white and thinner. It is proposed to make a further study of this disease. So far, it is known in only one small area in St. Lucia, and only on cacao. Should any of our readers have any knowledge of it, it is to be hoped that they will communicate any information to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. The points on which information is desired are whether the disease occurs in any of the other islands, whether it occurs on cacao or on any wild trees or bushes, how much damage it does, and whether any measures have been taken to eradicate it. Dried specimens of affected twigs and leaves should, if possible, be forwarded at the same time. Similar diseases have occurred on tea in India and Ceylon. It has been found possible to deal with them by careful pruning and by painting the affected parts with a lime-sulphur wash. Agriculture in the Gold Coast. We have received the Report of the Botanicul and Agricultural Department of the Gold Coast for 1903. The report deals with the gardens at Aburi, the station at Tarkwa, the Christansborg Castle garden and the cocoa-nut, rubber, and kola plantations. In an appendix the Curator makes interesting observations on some of the most important vegetable products exported from the colony. Although the exports of cacao steadily inereased up to 1902, there was a decline in 1903. It is stated that the cultivation of this crop is rapidly spreading in all directions. ‘The quality of the product appears to have deteriorated, in consequence of bad curing and insufficient grading. The exports of timber were larger than during the previous year. Rubber was exported in increased quantities, the increase in value over the exports of 1902 being £107,898. The exports of coffee, kola, and copra also show an increase. It is reported, however, that there was a decline in the exports of palm kernels, palm oil, Guinea grains, and gum copal. Considerable attention has been paid to the encouragement of the cotton-growing industry; the natives are beginning to take an interest in this crop, although, under existing conditions, 1t does not appear that there is much profit in the industry. The price paid for unginned cotton is 14d. per tb., while the cost of transporting a load of 60 tb. of cotton to the nearest market varies between Is. 6d. and 4s. oo + The Application of Paris Green to Cotton. The Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, for July, contains a letter from Mr. W. B. Seabrook relative to the method of applying Paris green to cotton. In this letter Mr. Seabrook advocates the use of the undiluted poison, and it is stated that the planters in the Sea Islands have given up mixing the Paris green with lime. As Mr. Seabrook’s advice might, at first sight, appear to be somewhat contradictory to that given by this Department, we reproduce the following extract from the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. IV, pp. 328-9), in which the reasons for recommending the admixture of lime for the West Indies are clearly stated :— The lime has been recommended in mixture with Paris green, in these islands, principally that the labourer might be able to see what he has done as he goes along, and the overseer could also see that the work has been done thoroughly, since Paris green by itself would not be seen on the leaves. Moreover, the lime serves to prevent undue waste. The labourers in the cotton fields in the United States are accustomed to cotton as a principal crop, and realize that their living depends on the success of the crop ; but in the West Indies this is different. The labourers having been brought up in the cane fields are not able to take the interest in cotton that they should, and their work is not reliable unless some check is kept upon them, so that it can easily be seen whether they have done their work properly. When the labourers become interested in the success of the cotton crop, and realize its importance to them, as well as to the planter, then it will be possible to use Paris green as it is used in other places, and get the same efficiency in results. 282 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Avcust 27, 1904. INSECT NOTES. St. Kitt’s-Nevis. The following extracts, taken from Mr. Ballou’s report on his recent visit to St. Kitt’s-Nevis, contain interesting references to insect pests which were found to be prevalent in the presidency :— ST. KITT’s. The Botanic Station, from its location and the nature of its soil, suffered severely from the lack of rain. The dry weather was especially favourable to the development of scale insects. The return of favourable growing weather, the completion of the plans for planting new trees and shrubs, and the remoyal of a few useless specimens, together with the application of insecticide remedies which I suggested to Mr. Shepherd, will, I believe, make this station even more attractive than usual, with a minimum of insect pests. Many of the scales ordinarily to be found in these islands were seen on the plants at the Botanic Station, most of them in comparatively stall numbers; a few, however, were found in some quantities. Among the latter may be men- tioned the purple scale (WWytilaspis citricola) on orange, the guava mealy seale (Pulvinaria jficus), the common shield scale (Lecanium hesperidum) on star apple, and the smaller snow scale (Chionaspis minor) on hibiscus. On the Hibiscus and Imbricaria hedges where the small snow scale was abundant a small, black lady-bird was found in large numbers. This insect was actively feeding on the scale and is probably very valuable in helping to keep down this particular scale. The lady-bird has not been determined, but it is closely related to the Penti//ia which has been so useful in the United States as an enemy of the San José scale. It may be possible to introduce this lady-bird to other islands to assist in keeping down certain species of scale Insects. Cotton during the past year was seriously injured by the ravages of the cotton worm (Alectia argillacea). The damage done was very severe because of the scarcity of Paris green at the time it was most needed. The leaf-blister mite (Lriophyes gossypii) has been present and occasioned some loss in the cotton crop, but has not been so serious as in Montserrat, where it first came to notice.. Occurring as it did simultaneously with the severe attacks of cotton worm, it caused more serious damage than it otherwise would have done. At Conaree estate an interesting experiment in growing cotton among plant canes was noticed. An account of this experiment was given in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p- 213). At the time of my visit (July 8) this cotton was very vigorous in appearance with many bolls and flowers, and apparently very little diseased. The leaf-blister mite was present, but on only a small proportion of the plants. It is of interest that these plants had been growing about, seven months before the leaf-blister mite was noticed, although careful watch had been kept for it, and in July only a few of the bottom branches showed the effects of its presence, It may also be mentioned that this cotton had not been attacked by the cotton worm. — NEVIS. During the past year the cotton worm had been a serious pest ; the cotton stainer had appeared in some parts of the island, and the leaf-blister mite had also done some damage, but it did not occur in all parts of the island. At Maddens estate I visited a plantation of cacao in one of the valleys on the mountain side. The plants were strong and vigorous in appearance and were, for the most part, free from disease and pests. A few plants, however, had been attacked and the leaves more or less damaged. No pest could be found at work and the injury was assigned to a small snail which is very common at that place. Lime and Paris green and lime were recommeded for trial as remedies. The plants seemed to be attacked only in the vicinity of the footpaths. The Brown Ant in Porto Rico. The Brown Ant (Solenopsis geminata) is a serious pest in the orange groves of Porto Rico; and the Porto Rico Agricultural Experiment Station has recently issued a special Circular (No. 4), entitled ‘Control of the Brown Ant in Orange Orchards,’ of which the following is a_ brief summary :— These ants feed on small seeds, dead insects, and the honey wax of the scale insects. They make their burrows at the foot of the trees and apparently do no damage until they have acquired a taste for the gum of the tree. From that time on, they seem to prefer the tree gum to the secretion of the scale insects, and to obtain it they not only make wounds, but keep old wounds open by gnawing at the edges, so that they are not able to heal over. In this way trees are sometimes entirely girdled and killed. This pest is considered to be next in the scale insects, and already severe damage has been done to the citrus orchards in Porto Rico. A large number of remedies have been tried, and two of the best are recommended. Girdle Paint.—This is a sticky, waxy mixture for covering wounds, to keep out air and water and prevent rotting of the wood, and to stop the passage of the ants up the trees. It is made as follows: 4 parts of common rosin and 3 parts (by weight) of raw linseed oil are melted together over a slow fire and boiled for ten minutes. After removal from the fire, but while still hot, this liquid is beaten up with a small quantity of cold tobacco tea (about $ pint of the tea to 3 pints of the rosin-oil mixture). The addition of the tobacco tea will thicken the brown liquid to a yellowish, semi-solid wax, which should retain its extreme stickiness for two to four days when applied to the trees. A ring of this wax, about 2 inches wide, around the trunk just above the ground, and a second rmg about 6 inches above the first will prevent the passage of the ants, so long as the wax retains its sticky properties. It is very valuable also for covering wounds of all kinds whether made by insects, gnawing animals, or by pruning. Ant Killer.—¥or exterminating ants in their nests, This is made of rosin, 2 parts ; washing soda, 1 part ; tobacco: tea, | part. Boil all together over a slow fire, stirring slowly, till all the rosin is dissolved. After simmering about fifteen minutes, remove from the fire and add, little by little, 10 to 15 parts more of tobacco tea, stirring rapidly for five minutes or more. A few spoonfuls of this mixture, applied with a coarse syringe at the top of an ant nest, will kill the ants without injuring the tree roots. It must be mixed to just the right consistency, however, for if too thick it will not run, and if too thin will soak into the ground and will not follow the galleries of the ant nest. seriousness to Vou. Ill. No. 62. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. The following notes have been extracted from Bulletin No. 46 of the Bureau of Plant Industry, U.S. Department of Agriculture, ‘The propagation of tropical fruit trees and other plants’ :— APPLYING THE BUDS. Two-or three-year-old seedlings and moderate-sized trees may be used as stocks on which to bud approved varieties of the mango. The stems selected for the reception of the buds should be at least an inch in thickness. When of this diameter, both wood and bark are thoroughly ripe, and the union of the scion with the stock will be easily accomplished if the operation of inserting the buds is performed carefully. The method of budding which has been found to work most satisfactorily (fig. 10) consists in removing a rectangular piece of bark from the stock and insert- ing a piece similar in shape and a trifle larger in size, hav- ing a bud in the centre, from a branch of a desirable variety. The bud must be selected from wood old enough to have lost its foliage. This means that the bud wood will some- times be over two years old. To a certain extent success depends upon the precision with which the section of bark . is removed from the stock and also from the variety to be propagated, as the more neatly the bud section is fitted into the space prepared for it, the greater the probability of a successful union. After the section of bark from the bud stick is nicely fitted in place, and before tying, a small quantity of grafting wax should be smeared over the parts where they come together and tied firmly in place with thick strands of raftia. (Fig. 10, ¢.) This effectually prevents the admission of air to the spaces which, no matter how carefully the operation be performed, exist between stock and scion ; it also serves to prevent moisture from gaining access to the cut surfaces. The cut surfaces and all but the bud should then be covered with strips of cloth dipped in melted paraftin, wrapping being begun at the lower part, so that when finished, water will not gain entrance to the wrapped section of bark. If that part of the stock where the bud is tied be exposed to the sun, it is always advisable to furnish shade, which is best supplied by strips of paper tied above the bud and extending down over it. Two weeks may be allowed to pass before an examination is made. The cloth wrappings may then be removed, and the raftia should be loosened if there is danger of its cutting into the bark. When a sufficient time has elapsed to make certain that union has taken place, part of Fig. 10. RecrancuLar patcH METHOD OF BUDDING THE MANco. the top of the stock should be removed in order to encourage the bud to start. WHEN TO BUD. Budding may be performed at any time during the growing season, but with each plant there are certain periods when the operation will be found to be more successful than at other times. These periods are indicated by the growths or ‘flushes’ being about half developed. At these times the sap appears to be more active than at others, as the bark peels from the wood more readily than when the growths are of firmer texture. A SECOND METHOD OF ATTACHING THE BUD. Another method of attaching the bud, varying slightly in the details from that given above, has been practised during the past season at Miami, Florida, with an encouraging degree of success. (Fig. 11.) The bud section differs from the rectangular - shaped piece of bark in that one end of it is pointed instead of being cut straight across, Which makes it possible to push the bark of the scion down tight against the bark of the stock; the top part is then cut off square with the transverse cut in the bark of the stock, and is pressed firmly into position previous to tying and waxing in the usual way. Fig. 11. METHOD OF BUDDING MANGO USED IN FLORIDA. THE EEL-WORMS IN ST. VINCENT. Specimens of yam plants were received at the Head Office of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados, recently from one of the refugee allotments at St. Vincent. The allottee complained that his cacao, yam, cassava, and tannia plants would not grow. On examination it was seen that the underground parts of the yams showed a number of large swellings or galls. These galls were examined microscopically and were found to contain a number of minute, thread-like eel-worms, which were undoubtedly the cause of the trouble. These eel-worms are a common pest in cultivated land throughout the world, and are very difficult to deal with. They attack very many kinds of cultivated plants and weeds, both in the field and garden. Attacked plants are usually stunted in their development; then, sooner or later, the foliage withers and the plant dies. A thorough dressing of lime is one treatment recom- mended; 1 to 2 tons per acre should be applied in two or three lots during the year. Carbon bisulphide kills the worms when applied to the soil, but is too expensive except in gardens. Another way is to find out what plants are not attacked by the worms and then to plant only these for a number of years, until the pests are starved out; the difficulty of this method lies in the necessity for keeping the land free from weeds during the period of starvation. bo 10 2) rss THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aucust 27, 1904. GLEANINGS. Efforts are being made to exterminate the mungoose in Trinidad. A reward of 5s. is being offered for each carcass of a female, and 1s. for the male. The Agricultural Superintendent at St. Vincent is 5 . . - a . c prepared to receive applications from parents or guardians of boys desirous of entering the Agricultural School. The Antigua Standard suggests that a remunerative trade in pine-apples might be established by shipping to the Danish West Indian Fruit Co. Ltd., of St. Thomas. A very dry year has been experienced at the Botanic Station at St. Kitt’s, only 39°54 inches being recorded. This was 10 inches less than in 1902-3. We have received from Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., a fruit of the Souari or butter-nut tree of Demerara (Caryocar nuciterum). This was from a tree grown in the Botanic Gardens, Trinidad, from a seed imported fourteen years ago. It is estimated that the total area under cocoa-nut cultivation in the Federated Malay States is 77,500 acres. In Ceylon the area under this cultivation amounts to over 800,000 acres. (Board of Trade Journal.) In April last some fields of sweet potates at Dodds, Barbados, were rather badly effected with thrips, which caused the plants to be defoliated. It was found, however, that the plants recovered without insecticidal treatment, and that the yield was not seriously reduced. The Board of Trade Journal gives the number of bales of cotton imported into the United Kingdom from the british colonies and possessions during the three months ended June 30, 1904, as follows: British India, 98,288 ; British West Indies, 1,302 ; British West Africa, 572. In connexion with the recent Arbor Day celebration in Jamaica, in May last, 6,870 plants were distributed free from the Public Gardens to 448 applicants. The plants most largely distributed were lignum vitae (929), palms (713), kola (661), eucalyptus (E38), mahogany (485), moringa (411), and mahoe (389). During the fortnight ended July 28, 115 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom. As we go to press we learn that sales of St. Vincent Sea Island cotton have been effected through the British Cotton Growing Association at 15$d. per tb., and Barbados Sea Island at 163d. per tb. The latter is reported to be very fine. (West India Committee Circular.) The Jamaica Daily Telegraph of July 30, referring to announcements that a quantity of new and improved machinery has been obtained for two well-known — sugar estates, states that there are welcome signs of a revival of the sugar industry in the island. A notice in the Demerara Argosy of August 3, states that inquiries have been received for ‘Carnauba wax, a material prepared by extracting the moisture from lacerated palm leaves.’ The palm referred to is the sealing wax palm of Brazil (Copernicia cerifera), an account of which will be found in the Agricultural News (Vol. I, p. 307). In his annual report the Inspector of Schools, Trinidad, states that the interest awakened some three or four years ago in the teaching of agriculture shows no signs of abatement. Of the 180 schools examined in this subject, thirty obtained the highest award ‘Very good,’ while 104 were classified as ‘Good.’ An Agricultural Show was held at Lucea, Jamaica, on July 28. There was a good attendance in spite of bad weather. The exhibits were not as numerous as at last year’s show, but a decided improvement in quality was noticeable, especially in the case of cured cacao. His Excellency the Acting Governor opened the show. Generally speaking there appears to have been a decrease in the native cultivator’s produce during last year, and an increase in jungle produce, due doubtless to the increasingly careful administration of the Forest Department. The increase both of imports and exports in Pahang is interesting as showing the steady development of that part of the country. (Federated Malay States Agricultural Bulletin.) The annual report of the Director of Agriculture, published in the Cyprus Journal for June, records that the work of the Department in introducing machinery has met with encouraging success. The use of reaping machines, and ploughs is steadily increasing. The example of the Govern- ment in importing a steam threshing machine has also been followed. The native process of threshing is tedious, and the quality of the prepared grain poor. Cereal growing is the principal agricultural industry in Cyprus. In a memorandum on the Jamaica sugar experiment scheme (see Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 211), Mr. H. H. Cousins refers as follows to seedling canes: ‘There are districts in the island where the seedling canes already at our disposal are capable of giving a return of at least 30 per cent. more sugar per acre than the Jamaica cane. The seasonable and irrigable areas should benefit with certainty from carefully controlled trials of the most promising seedling canes now in cultivation. Estate trials of ten varieties specially selected for local conditions have been arranged on twelve estates.’ The Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information, Trinidad, contains a report on logwood honey forwarded to the Imperial Institute from the Experiment Station. — It is stated that honey is liable to considerable variation, but in this instance the sample compares very favourably with the recognized standard of genuine honey. The brokers to whom the sample was submitted for valuation report that it is of ‘fair colour, clear, and would be worth about 20s. per ewt. in the London market.’ For comparison with this valuation, the following prices of honey are given: Chili, 18s. to 30s. ; California, 20s. to 40s,; and Jamaica, 16s, to 27s. Wot. III. No. 62. THE AGRICULTURAL, NEWS. 285 which he raises produce. Several of the boys obtained Ez prizes for their exhibits at the Show. : ATEN. a FEPORT §/ This is a satisfactory report, and it is evident that good KA Maer tie results are being accomplished. ae t Ze ” ‘e VIRGIN ISLANDS: ANNUAL REPORT ON THE EXPERIMEN! STATION, TORTOLA, 1903-4. The total expenditure on this station was £572 12s. 1d. ‘The receipts from the sale of produce amounted to £26 5s. 8d. The sugar battery was pulled down and completely rebuilt during the year. A new nursery shed was also erected. The condition of the garden appears to be satisfactory. The work of improving its general appearance has been continued. Vegetable seeds, plant tops of seedling cane B. 147, and pine-apple suckers were distributed. In the experiment plots, cotton, sugar-cane, yams, onions, cacao, and other economic plants were grown. The results were fairly successful. The cacao plot is particularly promising and has demonstrated the suitability of this cultivation to parts of Tortola, provided wind-breaks are planted. It appears that useful work is being accomplished by Mr. Fishlock for the improvement of agriculture in the Virgin Islands. ST. VINCENT: ANNUAL REPORTS ON THE BOTANIC STATION, AGRICULTURAL SCHOOL, AND LAND SETTLEMENT SCHEME, 1903-4. Botanic Station—Mr. W. N. Sands, having been appointed Agricultural Superintendent in succession to Mr. Powell, who left St. Vincent in November, took up his duties on March 4, 1904. The expenditure during the year, including the cost of upkeep of the experiment plots, amounted to £595 16s. 4d. The sum of £45 15s. 6d. was received from the sale of plants, ete. There was a very large increase in’ the number of economic plants distributed during the year. This increase was mainly due to the free distribution of plants to allottees under the Land Settlement Scheme. The experiments in growing crops in volcanic ash were continued. The conclusions arrived at are clearly stated. An account is given of the efforts made to establish a cotton industry in the island. The area planted last season was nearly 400 acres. Eleven experiment plots were also started during the year. Agricultural School.—Mr. Knowles reports that there were twenty boys in the school at the beginning of the year ; three others joined in August, and six have left during the year. The value of the food crops grown in the experiment plots during the year represented a saving of £24 4s. 1d. on the food expenditure. Satisfactory results were obtained at the two half- yearly examinations. The boys assisted in making arrangements for the _ Agricultural Show held in March. Each boy has a garden plot, 20 feet by 20 feet, in Land Settlement Scheme.—The report of the Agricultural Instructor deals with the work in connexion with the allotments at Linley Valley, Cumberland Valley, Clare Valley and Questelles, Richmond Hill, New Adelphi, and Park Hill. The total number of allotments on these estates is 646. Over 4,000 cacao, 108 nutmeg, 308 cinnamon, and 732 coffee plants were distributed to allottees. The work of planting and supplying the wind-breaks was continued. Over 20 miles of wind-breaks are being planted. On the whole, it is reported, the allottees appear, to be taking an interest in their allotments and are producing satisfactory results. The Instructor gave instruction in the planting and care of crops, with demonstrations in pruning, manuring, ete. BRITISH GUIANA: ANNUAL REPORT ON THE BOTANIC GARDENS, 1903-4. By A. W. Bartlett, B.A., B.Se., F.L.S., Superintendent. Mr. Bartlett took over the charge of the Botanic Gardens in November 1903. The usual routine work was carried on during the year. From the nursery 10,904 plants were distributed to public institutions, ete. The report includes an account of the work done at the Government House Gardens, the Victoria Law Courts jardens, the Berbice Public Gardens, ete. A long list is given of seeds available for exchange. The receipts from the sale of plants, produce, etc., amounted to $1,039. This is an increase of $54 on the last year’s receipts. The total rainfall at the gardens during the year was 104:43 inches, exceeding the average for the last twenty-four years by 10 inches. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Secretary of State for the Colonies has ranted an extension of leave to Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., from September 5 to October 24, during which period Professor J. P. d’Albuquerque will act as Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. It 1s expected that Sir Daniel Morris will leave England in the R.M.S. ‘Trent’ on October 12. Mr. L. Lewton-Brain, B.A., F.L.S., Mycologist and Agricultural Lecturer on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, left Barbadosin 8.8. ‘Oruro’ on Tuesday, August 23, for St. Vincent, for the purpose of inspecting the Agricultural School. Mr. Lewton- Brain was expected to return to Barbados to-day. Mr. F. E. Bundy, Acting Agricultural Superin- tendent at St. Lucia, having obtained leave of absence, the Rev. L. Barlow has been appointed to act as Agricultural Superintendent until further notice. 286 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Aveust 27, 1904. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Canada. Under date July 9, Mr. J. Russell Murray sends the following report on West Indian products in Canada: A considerable improvement is noticeable in general, and there is more inquiry for shipments during the last month than in the two previous months, but there is not the volume of trade that was anticipated. Agricultural interests have somewhat improved, though reports from Ontario indicate a shortness in several of the fruit varieties. SUGAR. The sugar market is strong, and European beet has again taken an upward move, to- day’ s quotation being 9s. 6d., or within 14d. of the point it touched on May 26, and all factors indicate a further advance. Local refiners advanced their prices to-day 5c. per 100 tb., but there is no active demand, and West Indian sugars remain quiet and practically unchanged. Fairly bright refining crystals and 89° syrup sugars “would find a moderate outlet. The S.S. ‘Larne’ landed a cargo of 31,000 bags of Trinidad sugar last week, and the 8.8. ‘Oxonian’ is expected in a few days with part cargo. The prospects of beet culture in the Province of Ontario cannot be said to have improved, two factories having closed down recently notwithstanding the Canadian bounty of 50c. per 100 tb. and the import tariff for refined sugars of 31-245 per 100 tb., which make a practical protection of 81-7435 per 100 tb. The bounty is to be continued for another two years. MOLASSES. The molasses trade is in a very uncertain condition, and little is being done. It is reported that a combination of buyers in the Maritime Provinces has been formed to purchase in bulk and fix selling rates, and a rumour of the formation of a similar corner in the Quebec market is also in circulation. Prices remain steady and the demand is good. COCOA-NUTS. The market continues steady, but the shortness of the supply of Jamaica nuts, hitherto depended upon, has given an opportunity for other islands to get a foothold, and if shippers will advise me of supplies available, I am in a position to secure them an opening and a profitable business. Shippers must be careful to ship only thoroughly ripened nuts. A shipment received to-day had many nuts evidently gathered before they were ripe, as shown by the whiteness of the fibre on the shell, and in every instance the nut was decayed. Prices are slightly lower, but good sound nuts command the full price. FRUIT. Limes.—Supplies continue to arrive in moderate quantities, but the continuous cool weather has retarded consumption, and the abnormally low price of lemons is also a potent factor in checking sales. Pine-apples.—The market continues well supplied, and demand is good. The ‘sugar-loaf’ pine is not desired in this market. Bananas.—F ull supply, and demand is good. SPICES, Nutmegs..—Grenadas, Pimento.—Stronger. Ginger.—Quiet and unchanged. steady and little demand. EDUCATIONAL. School Gardens. The Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, for July, contains an interesting article by Mr. T. J. Harris on school gardens. The article is. accompanied by a diagram showing how the garden should be arranged. We reproduce the following extract :— The first work to be undertaken by the elementary school teacher is to lay out a garden in such a way as to: permit of all the crops planted therein being neatly arranged in straight lines; to effect this a regular systematic plan should be followed; accompanying this note is a plan of a acre garden suitable for a school, in which it will be seen that the whole garden is an exact rectangle with an intersecting main path down the centre, and side paths leading from it to the garden fence to permit of inspection without trampling on ‘the plots. The width of the main path is 6 feet, of the side paths 3 feet, and the five sections. 24 feet; section No. 6 is 311 feet wide, making each side 1514 feet long; the width of the garden therefore, being 72 feet, this will make 10,890 square feet, or } acre. For a smaller garden, say, ene-half the size (4 acre), the same plan may be used, but the scale, of course, must be changed. Having lined out the plots and paths, the temporary pegs which mark the sections should be replaced with permanent ones of hard wood to serve as points from which to measure when lining out for planting the various crops ; the surface soil of the paths should then be removed to the depth of 4 to 6 inches and scattered over the adjacent plots, stones or shells laid along the edge of the plots, and the path filled with gravel or sand. It is highly important that the children be allowed to assist in the laying out of the paths and plots, and if the teacher is careful to get correct right angles and parallels and exact measurements, he will not fail to enlist the interest of the children. The work of planting may now commence, each section to be taken separately, beginning, say, with No. 6 ; reference to the plan will show this to contain bananas interplanted with cacao, and plantains with coffee ; the bananas are 12 feet apart and the plantains 8 feet. The cacao and coffee trees are not planted until the bananas and plantains are large enough to give sufticient shade. The lining out should be done as carefully as possible; a glance at the plan will suggest the method to be employed. The citrus section may be taken next, planting corn, when the proper season arrives, along the lines marked. The nursery will consist of a small seedand nursery bed, and later two rows of stocks set out for budding upon. A careful study of the plan will render instructions as to the remaining sections superfluous ; it must be understood, however, that this plan is more suggestive than imperative ; numberless difticulties will beset the teacher, but it is felt that these brief instructions will be found useful when the work is taken up in real earnest. Sumeire Tobacco in Jamaica. At the meeting of the Jamaica Board of Agriculture held on May 10, it was stated that a Cuban expert had reported that the Sumatra. tobacco grown at Hope Gardens was of very good quality and could not be known from genuine Sumatra, “and that it was. better than that grown in “Cuba. The value of the best leaf was estimated at from 6s. to 8s. per tb; and inferior quality at about half that price. — “Vou. III. No. 62. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 287 New York,—August 5, MARKET REPORTS. ‘London,— August 2, 1904. Messrs. J. Hares Carrp & Co., Messrs. Kearton, Piper & Co., Messrs. E. A. DE Pass & Co., ‘THe West InprA ComMirrer Crr- cuLAR’;and ‘THE Pusitic LepGEr,’ July 30, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 14/- to 38/- per cwt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 1}d. to 12d. per tb. Barara—Block, 1/3 to 1/33.per Th. Bees’-wax—£7 2s. 6d. to £7 12s. Gd. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 58/- to 62/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 52/- to 57/6 per ewt. ; Dominica, 54/- to 56/- per cwt. ; Jamaica, 48/6 to 56/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7}. to 2/- per th. Correr—Jamaica, good ordinary, 36/- to 38/- per ewt. Corron—St. Vincent Sea Island, 15}d.; Barbados Sea Island, 16$d. per tb. Fruir BaNnaNas—Jamaica, 4/- to 6/- per bunch. Grark Frurr—Jamaica, 10/- to 11/- per case. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Grxcer—Jamaica, common to middling, 31/- to 38/- ; fair to fine, 45/- to 55/- per cwt. Honey—18/- to 30/- per ewt. IstncLass—West Indian lump, 2/6 to 2/10; cake, 1/2 to 1/3 per th. Kora Nuts—4d. to 7d. per th. Live Jurce—Raw, 1/2 to 1/5 per gallon; concentrated, £14 per cask of 108 gallons. Lime O1—1/6 to 1/7 per tb., distilled. Loawoop —£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—Fair to good pale, 1/6 to 1/9; red, 1/2 to 1/5 per tb. Nirrate or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 5s. per ton. Nurmecs-—65’s, 1/8; 85's, 11d.; 105’s, 8d.; 125’s 64d. per tb. Pimento—3d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 7d. to 74d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s 9d. per proof gallon ; Leewards, 7d. to 10d. per proof gallon. Sarsaparttna—Jamaica, 7d. to 1/- per tb. Sucar—Crystallized, 16/- to 17/- per ewt.; Muscovado, 89°, 9s. 6d. on floating terms per ewt.; Molasses, 11/6 to 15/- per ewt. SubrHate of AmMoNIA—£12 per ton. “Montreal,—July 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russern Murray. (In bond quotations.) Bananas—Jamaica, $1°10 per bunch of 8 hands ; $1°50° per bunch firsts ; $1°75 per bunch Jumbos, c. & f. Cacao—Jamaica, lle. to 12c. per th., c. &f. Crepar—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot, c.i.f. Cocoa-nuts— Jamaica, $24°00 to $26:00; Trinidad, $21-00 to $25-00 per M., c. & f. Corrre—Jamaica, medium, 83c. to 9$c. per th., c. &f. Gixcer—Jamaica, unbleached, 6c. to 8c. per tb., c. & f. Limes—Jamaica, $6°00 per barrel, c. & f. Morascurr—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 tb., c. & f. Motasses—Barbados, 22c. to 25e.; Antigua, 19c. to 2le. per Imperial gallon. Murmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 17¢. to 18c. per tb., c. & f. Pimento—Jamaica, 8c. to 8}c. per tb., c. & f. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°50 to $2-60 per 100 th., c. &f. —Centrifugals, 89°, $2°15 to $2°25 per 100 th., c. & f. —Molasses, 89°, $2°00 per 100 th., c. & f. —Barbados, 89°, $2°25 per 100 tb., c. &. f. 1904.—Messrs. GILLESPIE Bros. & Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12}¢. to 13c. ; Grenada, 12c. to 12}c.; Trinidad, 12c. to 13c. per th. Cocoa-NutTs—Trinidads, $23 to $25 per M., selected. ; Jamaicas—$26°50 to $29. CorrrE—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 74c. to 8¢. per tb. GinceR—Jamaica, 6}c. to 7c. per tb. Goat Sxins—Jamaicas, 52c. to 54$c. per th. Pimento—4je. to 5c. per tb., spot quotation. Jamaica, 9}c. to 1c. 5} j | Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 4c. to 4c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 375¢. 5 Molasses, 89°, 3,;c. per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Antigua,—August 10, 1904.—Messrs. Bennerr Bryson & Co., Lip. Motasses—Markets closed. Sucar—$2-025 per 100 th. Barbados,—August 13, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garraway & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—Dominica, $14:00 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nurs—$10°75 per M. for husked nuts. CorreE—Jamaica, $900 to $10°00 ; ordinary Rio, $11-00 per 100 tb. Hay—$1°20 per 100 th. Manures—-Nitrate of soda, $60:00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60-00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72°00 to $75:00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Mo rasses—ld4e. per gallon (puncheon included). Ontons—Madeira (stringed), $1:75 to $1-:80 per 100 ib. ; Teneriffe, $1°19 to $1-25 per 100 th. Poratos, ENGLIsH—$2°75 to $3:00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°50 to $4°60 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°40 per 100 tb. Sue¢ar—in hhds., 89’, $1-95 (packages included) per 100 th. Dark Crystals—No quotations. British Guiana,—August 11, 1904.—Messrs. Wrerine & RicHrer. Arrowkoot—St. Vincent, $8-00 to $8°50 per barrel. Batara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—7°‘50 per barrel. Cocoa-NuTsS—$8 ‘00 to $1000 per M. Corrre—Rio and Jamaica, 125c. to 18e. per tb. (retail). —Creole, 1lc. per tb. Duat— $4:25 to $4°50 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—$1°20 to $1°44 per barrel. Moxasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per included). Ontons—$1°60 to $1°90 per 100 tb., ex ‘Saba.’ ; Teneriffe, ie. to 1dc. per tb. Pea Nurs—Curagoa, 4c. ; American, 5}c. to 6c. per tb. (retail). PLantTaIns—20c. to 36c. per bunch. Poraros, EnerisH—Tenerifie and Madeira, $2°75 to $3:00 per barrel (retail). Rice—Ballam, $4'40 to $450; Creole, $4°50 per 177 ib., ex store. Sweet Poratos—Barbados, $1°20 per barrel, $1°08 per bag. TANNIAS—$1°'92 per barrel. Yams—White, $2°40 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $2°25 ; Yellow, White, $5°50 to per 100 tb. Timper—Greenheart, 52c. to 34c. per cubic foot. WaALLABA SHINGLES—$3‘00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. gallon (casks $2°50 to $2°60; $5°75 ; Molasses, $2°00 to $2-15 Trinidad,—August 11, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co. ; and Messrs. Epcar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary, $12°15 to $12°20; Estates, $12°35 to $12°50; Venezuelan, $12°50 to $12°75 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nuts—$18'00 per M., f.0.b. Cocoa-Nut Meat—l}e. per tb. Cocos-Nut O11—70ce. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan, 3c. per tb. Corra—$2°70 per 100 tb. Ontons—$1°40 to $1°60 per 100 tb. Poratos, EncrisH—$1'20 to $1°45 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4:25 to $440; White Table, $5°25 to $5°75 per bag. Suear—No quotations. 288 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. August 27, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE oe ASE ae Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlenderff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ESTATE FOR SALE OR 10 LET. DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. An excellent property situate between the Wood- ford Hill and Brookdale Estates in the parish of St. Andrew’s, Dominica. FOR COTTON GROWERS : ca SPECIAL TERMS FOR CASE A. B.C. For full particulars apply to the proprietor, NATHL. POWELL, Wesley, Dominica. | | C 0 Ak T 0 N Pp L A N T [ N C FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, Containing full directions for the coming Cc ACA ©O : ot season. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. By J. H. HART, F.LS. NEW EDITION. A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of [| f WEST INDIAN BULLETIN " COMMERCIAL CACAO. | DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Oy Oe TY NO. ), OF Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., Price 3s. per copy. on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. f Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. > TF iI 9 E29 ar BORMNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. III. No. 63. CONTENTS. PaGE. PAGE. Banana Industry in the Onion Cultivation ... ... 289 Canary Islands . 292 | Onion Cultivation in Bermuda, Agviculturein 297 Egypt acc a00 . 295 Birds, Fruits, and Insects 299 | Our Book Shelf :-— Cocoa-nuts for New York 296 Cultuurgewassen en Coffee, Brazilian _ 298 Boschproducten in Cotton Industry :— de Kolonie Suriname 299 Jiammerten ts _ 293 Guide to Castleton Leanna 296 Gardens, Jamaica ... 299 w te eee nee 28 Notincunne: St. Vincent, Sales of... 293 ES OR NAVEEN Trinidad Ons 908 Agriculture . 299 West Indies.., . 293 | Pine-apple Cultivation in Date Palm in India ... 295 Fiji... ... .. ... 292 Department News... ... 301 | Queensland, Agriculture Department Reports:— MD 1 o00° oct 65 | pop eUIL D St. mae Nevis pe rads aot Rabbit Keeping in the ominica, Fish oils from 294 Wieetulndies _ 294 Fibre Plantsin Mauritius 297 | Rats and Mice, Destruc- Forestry in Hongkong ... 301 tion of coo og ass) Fumigation of Imported Rubber in Jamaica . 293 a sco PAE : . ee 300 Soil Moisture, Control- Tasca ANGER ais lingin the Orchard 295 Mexican Cotton Boll Suga Jini aay ra 4 Weevil 298 British Guiana . 290 Si ibatee oy 298 French West Indies ... 291 Market Reports... ... 303 | West Indian Products :— Mosquitos and Malaria... 292 Canada... .. ... 002 Notes and Comments... 296 London .-. 302 Onion Cultivation. ) S mentioned in the last issue of the Agri- cultural News, 767 tb. of onion seed have % been obtained by the Imperial Department of Agriculture from Teneriffe for planters in the West Indies. This amount of seed should be sufficient to plant nearly 200 acres. BARBADOS, SEPTEMBER 10, 1904. Price 1d. Within the last twelve or thirteen years onion cultivation has been to a certain extent revolutionized— mainly in consequence of what is known as the ‘New Onion Culture’ put forward by Mr. T. Greiner in a little book of that title. The novelty of the method consists in transplanting the onions from seed beds. It has been demonstrated by experiments that the transplanting method has many advantages over the old style of sowing the seeds directly in the field. The yield is larger; the bulbs are of uniform size and mature earlier; much waste of seed is avoided, and the young seedlings can be looked after better. On account of the smallness of the seed, special care is necessary in securing well-prepared nursery beds in which the seed is to be sown. These should be raised 1 foot or 18 inches, and the soil well pulverized. The seed should be sown in drills across the bed about 6 inches apart. As ants are very hable to be troublesome at this time, a careful watch must be kept: it would probably be as well to spray the bed lightly, before and after sowing, with a dilute kerosene emulsion. Perhaps a simpler method—and one which has proved equally efficacious—is that recommended in Pamphlet no. 8, ‘Cultivation of vegetables in Barbados,’ (p. 3): ‘The soil should be watered lightly with ordinary water, and then with a mixture of kerosene oil and water, in the proportion of one tea-spoonful of kerosene oil to 1 pint of water, which should be well shaken before and during use.’ THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SeprempBer 10, 1904. It is as well, also, to afford some protection to the seed beds from heavy rains which would wash out the seeds: for this purpose ‘cheese cloth’ can be tacked to laths placed on posts about 4 feet from the bed. The seed should not all be sown at once, but at intervals, so that the seedlings may not be all of the same size when the time comes for transplanting. The land chosen for onion cultivation should, if possible, be fairly rich and deep: it must be well drained and liberally manured. Absence of standing water must be upon. In the manuring of onion fields a serious mistake has been made in using fresh farmyard manure; this has probably been one of the causes of the bacterial rot referred to Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 245). The manure must be completely rotted before it is used. Finally, the land must be thoroughly cultivated and left with a smooth surface. insisted in the Now we come to the matter of transplanting. Full information on this part of the subject has already been given in the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 294-5), and we advise onion growers to read those pages carefully. The illustrations to the text show clearly how this operation should be carried ont. very Transplanting is most easily and conveniently done when the ground is freshly prepared, in which ease the plants can be set with the finger. If the earth has been allowed to harden or cake, a small dibber will be necessary. (See fig. 23 in the article previously referred to.) The operation is made easier if the plants are carefully trimmed at each end. Figure 24 shows exactly how this should be done. It is important that onions should not be set too deep. The plants should be set about an inch deep: this will allow the bulbs to grow to full size, and not being buried too deep, they can be easily harvested. Figures 27 and 28 indicate the correct and the incorrect depths at which onions should be planted. In addition to the articles that have already appeared in the Agricultural News, the following publications of the Department might usefully be consulted: Pamphlets 8, 16, and 21, and the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. I, pp. 163-6. In connexion with the cultivation of onions in the West Indies, we might mention that onion boxes can be delivered from St. John’s, N.B., at Barbados, e.1.f., at 10}c. each. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Experiments in British Guiana. The following is a report, submitted by Professor J. B. Harrison, C.M.G., M.A., on behalf of the Sugar- cane Experiments Committee of the Board of Agri- culture of British Guiana, on the results of the experi- ments with varieties of canes carried on on plantations during the crop season July to December 31, 1903. The committee has also published tables giving the mean results obtained with the different varieties :-— Twenty-four of the plantations which have placed their results at the disposal of the Board have carried on large- scale experiments during the crop, and the following shows the number of experiments made with certain varieties of canes, and the acreage occupied therewith :— Warists No. of experiments Acreage ariety. 2 ss reported. occupied, Bourbon... sis 15 7,507 White Transparent ... 19 1,279 D. 109 ae ses 7 987 B. 147 a Pe 12 446 D. 95 ee on 3 52 D. 78 ogD poe 8 93 D. 145 sigs ee 10 99 D. 74 rs Sn 6 24 D. 625 386 a2 ill 123 Sealy es 156 4 24 A large number of experiments with other varieties were reported, but as they were either small-scale experi- ments, in which each variety occupied a lesser area than 1 acre, or in which a yariety had been experimented upon on less than three plantations, the results, although in many cases interesting, are not included in this report. In the appended table of results the figures given are the mean figures deduced from the returns, the average of the experiments with a variety on a plantation being regarded asa unit. The following gives the mean yields and the true average yields of commercial sugar in tons per acre :— Variety. | Mean. | Average. D. 625 2°66 2-51 D. 109 2-09 1-95 B. 147 5 1:98 2:22 D: 95 1:96 2-06 D. 145 1°88 1-98 Bourbon 1:86 1:80 Sealy ape 1°83 1°72 White Transparent 1-64 1-3 D. 78 163 161 D. 74 1:50 1-87 The mean yields do not represent the actual yields per acre obtained as the areas of the experiments varied greatly, but as they are affected more by the locality of the experi- ments and less by the area in one locality than are the true averages, I think that they are the more reliable guides to the relative value of varieties. The attached tables give, in the case of each variety reported upon, the means of the data supplied with regard to Vou. III. No. 63. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 291 both plant and ratoon canes, and to plant canes and ratoons separately. As comparison of the figures obtained from the experimental fields at the Botanic Gardens with those from estates given in a former report conclusively proved that no reliable deductions can be formed from small experiments with varieties of canes regarding their probable yields when cultivated under estates’ conditions and on the manufacturing scale, I have not included in the tables any record from the experimental fields. These results will be found in the Report on the agricultural work in the Botanie Gardens and the Government Laboratory for the year 1903-4. As in former years, the value of the data varies greatly, the results recorded where the experiments have extended over large areas and on several plantations being generally more reliable than where the areas are small and the number of experiments reported few. The following shows the mean yield of each variety, in tons of commercial sugar per acre, during the years 1901-3, and the means of the yields of the three crop-years :— Wena Crop of |Crop of/Autumn crop Means eae es 1901-2. |1902-3.| of 1903. |1901-3.) | D. 625 2°95) || 2°52 2°66 2°71 Sealy 2-49 | 2-08 1:83 2-13 D. 95 2-24 | 2-06 1:96 2-09 D. 145 217 IV 1-88 2-07 D. 109 1°91 214 2-09 2-05 B. 147 1:99 1:95 1-98 eS)i Bourbon 2718 176 1:86 1-93 D. 74 coq) | 2UB) Baers’ 1:50 1°86 White Transparent) 2°03 1:86 1-64 1-84 D. 78 lee 39 1°83 1-63 1°62 | The following shows the recorded yields of commercial sugar per acre by the varieties as compared with that of the Bourbon taken as 100 :— 1901-3. 1901-5. Variety. Bourbon Variety. Bourbon as 100. as 100. D. 625 ... ...| 140°0 B. 147 102-1 Sealy... ..-| 110°3 Bourbon ... ..-| 100-0 1D) WB een ...| 108-3 D. 145 ees .--| 96°3 Dp. 145... coq) OA White Transparent) 95°53 1D), WOE) sae ...| L06°2 Di Se) tee sol te!) RELATIVE VALUES OF PLANTS AND RATOONS, The following shows the mean returns, in tons of commercial sugar per acre, of the varieties of canes as plants and as ratoons : — Prants Raroons. | Var 1901. |1902.|1903.|1901-3 | 1901. |1902./1903.)1901-5. D. 625 275 |2°57|2:65| 2:66 | 2°54 | 2:47)2°67) 2-56 | Sealy |No data} 2°32) 2°30| 2°31 |No data 1°83) 1°67) 1°75 | D. 95 218 |2:00|2°12) 210) 1°75 |2-13/1-88) 1-92 : D. 145 2:20 |2:18|1:89| 2°09 | 2°21 |2°17/1-88| 2-09 | D. 109 | 2:23 |2-17|2:18| 2:19 | 2°50 |2:10/2-01) 2-20 | B. 147 | 220 |2-25)1-90| 2°12 | 1°81 |1°76)2-05) 1:87 | D. 74 181 |1:95/)1°50) 1°75 | 2°58 | 2°16/1:50) 2-U8 | White | cy 1°63 |1:97)1-72| 1-77 | 1°86 |1°74)1-49) 1-70 | 1-62 11°7512-49!] 1:95 | 240 1:15 1-82 This indicates, generally, that the varieties raised and selected locally are as a rule good ratooning canes, and that the imported Barbados varieties (White Transparent, Sealy, and B. 147) are not of equal merit with them in this respect. (Zo be concluded.) The Sugar Industry in the French West Indies. The following letter from Guadeloupe, which appeared in the Louisiuna Planter of August 6, contains an interesting account of the position of the sugar industry in Martinique and Guadeloupe:— I have just returned from Martinique, where I have been sojourning some twenty days. All the sugar factories in that colony have completed their harvest of the cane crop and this latter has been generally very bad. The yield of sugar-cane has been from 25 to 30 metrical tons per hectare, or from 10 to 12 long tons per English acre, in place of 40 metrical tons per hectare, or 16 tons per acre, that are ordinarily obtained. This diminution of 25 per cent. in the crop is the disastrous result of the cyclone of August 8, 1903. The yield of sugar has been also very bad, the factories which have obtained the most getting scarcely 8 per cent., or 160 ib. of sugar per short ton of cane. The average has been but 7 per cent., or 140 Ib. of sugar per short ton of cane. The average yield in molasses has been from 3 to 4:2 per cent. of the weight of the cane. In Guadeloupe the harvest of the cane crop has also been completed, all the central factories having ceased operations early in June. The results here have been better than in Martinique. The yield of the fields in cane has been about 40 to 45 metrical tons of cane per hectare, or 16 to 18 long tons of cane per English acre, and the yield in sugar has been about 9 per cent. of the weight of the cane, or 180 Ib. of sugar per short ton of cane. ‘The yield of molasses has been less than that of Martinique and is about 24 to 34 per cent. of the weight of the cane. This colony, although it has fewer central factories than Martinique, produces generally more sugar. The yield in sugar in Guadeloupe has always been greater than that obtained in Martinique, which is attributed to the quality of the lands giving canes of higher saccharine content and with juice of greater purity. On the other hand, the yield in rum, or tafia, obtained in Martinique, has always been greater than that obtained in Guadeloupe, which is attributed first to the quality of the molasses, and secondly, to the method of manufacture. In Martinique they convert into rum all of the molasses produced in the manufacture of sugar in the factories and a large part of the molasses made in Guadeloupe. All the rum is exported to France. The rum consumed in the country is produced in plantation distilleries, which manufacture it directly from the juice in the cane. The latter is taken sometimes raw and sometimes concentrated by evaporation to 15 or 20 degrees Beaumé. The rum thus obtained is much finer and much more highly appreciated by the local consumers. Guadeloupe produces very little rum for export, only six factories distilling their molasses, the others deliver- ing their molasses to the distilleries of Martinique. The sugar industry of both Martinique and Guadeloupe is much behind in the matter of the progress realized in the sugar industry elsewhere during recent years. In order to arrive at the best results our factories would need to be much improved. to oO ko THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SepTeMBER 10, 1904. WEST INDIAN FRUIG THE BANANA INDUSTRY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS. Considerable space is devoted in the Consular Report on the trade of the Canary Islands for 1903 to the banana industry. We give the following summary, which is of particular interest in view of the develop- ment of the industry in these islands :— During the year 1,879,258 crates, of the value of £375,851 were exported, as against 1,656,876 crates, valued at £284,520, in the previous year. It might reasonably have been anticipated that the prices of the fruit would decrease in proportion as the output increased, but such has not been the ease. Even although a considerable amount of land has been brought under irrigation since 1900, prices have maintained a steady upward movement. It is confidently expected that prices will not only be maintained but continue to rise. Pessimistic views are, however, also held. In of the introduction of Jamaica bananas into the United Kingdom, shipowners deemed it advisable to meet the threatened competition by a reduction of freights. Competition among the shipping companies has also benefited the farmer, and an impulse has been given to increased cultivation. A further cause of the rise in values was the storm in Jamaica, which induced the belief that, for a considerable time at any rate, there would be short supplies in the United Kingdom. Although it is anticipated that freights may be raised and prices fall owing to Jamaica bananas resuming their place on the British market, some authorities are of opinion that growers have a sufficiently large margin of profit to allow for a considerable reduction in prices, and that the trade has a fair future before it, especially if the proposed irrigation schemes are carried out. consequence In a note added later it is stated that the prices have dropped considerably owing to increased arrivals from Jamaica. PINE-APPLE CULTIVATION IN FIJI. Indian Planting and Gardening has the following short article on pine-apple cultivation in Fiji. It will be seen that in several respects methods ditfer from those practised in the West Indies :— Our Fiji pines are all exported and find a market in Australia and New Zealand. We do not do any canning here, but ship the fruit whole in cases, averaging about thirty pines to the case. The nature of the country and climate of Fiji, however, are far more suited to the growing of bananas or plantains than pines: but unfor- tunately, the hurricanes we experience severely injure the bananas and do not harm the pines. Climate and Soil required. Pines require a moderately dry climate, otherwise they get too watery and soft, and then will not travel well when shipped. A loose, friable soil of a sandy nature is best. I generally plant 5 x 5 feet, so as to permit of subsequent crops mataring properly. Suckers for Planting.—Vhe young healthy suckers near the bottom of the parent plants are the best for planting. From such the fruit will be ready for cutting in about twelve months. From the head or top shoot when planted fruits take nearly two years to come to maturity, but from these it is a good plan to get a change of seed. Do not plant any suckers that have flowered, as the crop from these would be very small, The correct time to take the suckers for planting is before the fruit has been eut from the parent plant. After the third year of cutting it is advisable to replant, and if possible not on the old land, but select new soil. Cost and Labour.—lIf the land is heavily timbered it would cost £4 per acre to bring it into bearing in Fiji. After being planted one man can keep 15 acres clean—it must be kept very clean - but more Jabour is required during crop time. MOSQUITOS AND MALARIA. The following reference to the successful efforts that have been made to remove the cause of malaria at Ismailia cecurs in the Consular Report on the trade of Port Said and Suez :— Tn 1902, the Canal Company invited Major Ronald Ross to come out on a special mission in order to deal with the question of mosquitos in connexion with the malarial fever which for many years had proved a scourge at Ismailia. The report says: ‘Mosquito larvae developing exclusively in stagnant water, our first efforts were to deal with the marshy soil round the town. Several large pools were filled up, and where this could be done narrow trenches were dug and currents of water maintained in order to prevent the larvae from remaining. A staff was also organized for the regular inspection of buildings, and petroleum was freely used in all tanks, ete., which could not be filled up. These measures, combined with the obligatory employment of quinine, have produced the most satisfactory and decisive results. Not only have the mosquitos entirely disappeared, but the cases of fever have also diminished, and it may be regarded as certain that in the very near future malarial fever will definitely cease at Ismailia.’ Vou. III. No. 63. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 293 COTTON INDUSTRY. The Cotton Industry in the West Indies. The Jamaica Gleaner publishes a letter from Sir Daniel Morris from which we take the following extract relating to the cotton industry :-— I was very much impressed with-the high opinion that has been formed of our cotton in Liverpool. I had a long conversation with brokers who have dealt with recent shipments, and they assured me that they could receive at least 30,000 bales of Sea Island cotton without affecting prices. Spinners of long-staple have taken a special interest in West Indian cotton. They like it better than Egyptian and are prepared to give good prices for all our best qualities, such as are being shipped from Barbados and other islands. Everything I have seen and heard on this side is distinctly favourable to the idea of establishing cotton in the West Indies. Sales of St. Vincent Cotton. Mr. W. N. Sands, Agricultural Superintendent at St. Vincent. has forwarded the following information, abstracted from recently received account sales, relating to the first shipment of St. Vincent cotton. The cotton was shipped to the British Cotton Growing Association:— The Sea Island realized 15d. per tb. and the Cannouan and Union Island varieties from 7$d. to 73d. per tb. Reports of subsequent shipments show that the Sea Island has been sold at prices ranging from 14d. to 15d., but the account sales have not yet been sent out. These prices may be considered very satisfactory to all concerned. The first shipment consisted of 29 bales of Sea Island, 27 selling at 15¢. The two remaining contained a mixture of cottons. The other 10 bales were the local varieties, making the total of 39. Cotton Cultivation in Jamaica. The following extracts from a report by Mr. John Barclay, Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, on cotton cultivation are of interest in showing what is being done in the way of experiments in Jamaica, and further contain various useful hints :— I visited two of the largest plots in the island, that of Mr. Fursdon at Two Mile Wood and those of the Hon. T. H. Sharp at Angels and Eltham, near Spanish Town. I found Mr. Fursdon busy superintending the ginning of Egyptian cotton forwarded to him from settlers in the Pedro Plains. At the very outset there was a lesson to be learnt here. The cotton had been picked at least three weeks before it was fit; it had been carelessly picked, and was mixed with such foreign matter as bits of leaves and sticks and even bits of paper ; it looked dirty as if some of it had been taken up from the ground. This involved a great deal more trouble and labour in the ginning. Egyptian cotton is of a slightly yellowish-brown colour, but the colour of this cotton had been much deepened by its being packed in bags stained with red earth. So far, Mr. Fursdon’s is the only ginnery in the island. The gin is the one presented by the British Cotton Growing Association to the Government. The staple of Egyptian cotton being shorter than Sea Island, the gin has to be set closer to take the lint from the seed, so that it is very necessary that the two varieties should not be mixed. It is fortunate that this gin is already working smoothly. Mr. Fursdon has about.10 acres of cotton, part of it being Egyptian and part Sea Island. The Egyptian variety grows into a larger bush than the Sea Island, but I did not notice here that there was any distinction in their relative vigour ; both crops were in good condition. The Sea Island had been planted a month later and was just beginning to blossom. The plants were not over 3 feet high, while the Egyptian stood 4 to 5 feet high with the bolls already opening, showing the seed-cotton. Indeed a little of it was ready to be picked. Mr. Sharp has 10 acres of Sea Island cotton planted at Angels. This crop, planted in April, was nearly all coming into blossom, some of the most forward plants already having ripe bolls on them. The rainfall in this district is very light, but the Sea Island plants stood about 3 feet high and would evidently produce a very high rate of cotton per acre. Further down towards Spanish Town, at Eltham estate, Mr. Sharp has 10 acres more of cotton through an orange grove. Half of this cultivation is Egyptian and half Sea Island. I saw no insects but ants and stainers on the cotton. The Sea Island plants stood from 3 feet to over 5 feet in height. Some of the pods of Egyptian cotton are already ripening, and the first general picking will be made next week. While there will be a great erop here, I do not think it will be as much as if the plants had been further apart. Mr. Sharp has also 10 acres of cotton planted at Inverness and about the same acreage at Colbecks. While I am glad to say that neither of these cu!tivations has been troubled by caterpillars, as some cultivations have on the north side, I am sorry to say that the stainer is in very great numbers at Hartlands and at Eltham and may depreciate the value of the cotton by discolouring it. I did not notice any of these insects on the Sea Island cotton at Angels. Experi- ments are being tried with various mixtures to attract these insects from the cotton and kill them, as hand-picking would prove too expensive. RUBBER IN JAMAICA. The following brief note on the cultivation of rubber trees in Jamaica, which appeared in the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, is of interest :— It has been universally understood that with the exception of the Ceara rubber, other rubber plants only succeed in districts that are moist; and the planting of rubber trees has not been pushed in Jamaica for fear of interfering with the cacao and banana industries. Large numbers of plants, however, especially of Castilloa, have been distributed from the Gardens with a recommendation to plant them along fences to serve as fence posts, if they turned out to be of no value for the rubber. Experiments have been made in growing Castilloa, the most promising for Jamaica, both at Castleton and Hope Gardens. Contrary to expectation, it has been found that Castilloa succeeds better in the open than under shade, and this has been confirmed by experiments made by Mr. J. Shore at Cinnamon Hill. In the extracts now appearing in the Bulletin on Castilloa in Central America, by Professor Cook, it is shown that a dry season seems to be necessary for the full supply of rubber. It will be well therefore to experiment with Castilloa in districts where bananas and cacao do not thrive. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SeprtemBer 10, 1904. RABBIT KEEPING IN THE WEST INDIES. The following is Mr. Barclay’s notes on rabbits. This instalment deals with the common ailments of rabbits :— DISEASES. While rabbits are hardy, they are, like many other animals, subject to certain troubles. It would serve no purpose to describe many of these here fully. They all arise from (1) errors of diet, (2) bad housing—exposure to draughts and rain, (3) dirt, or (4) mbreeding, Tf a rabbit looks out of sorts, look to your treatment generally. (1) See that your hutch is water-tight. (2) See if wet green stuff is being fed, and if so, stop it ; diarrhoea is the result of feeding this sort of food. (3) See that too much corn or dry stuff is not being fed; this results in constipation. If so, give only green food and sweet potatos. The following preventive and curative treatment should then be immediately acted upon. [Remember that rabbits have claws and that the kick of their hind legs can give a deep seratch. They also bite, though not badly.] Lift by the ears with one hand, supporting the rabbit by holding the thighs with the hand. Sit down and place the animal between your knees, pressing it gently with them, pinch the side of the mouth with your fingers when it will open a little, insert a tea-spoon not quite filled with castor oil and dip it into the throat. Then by the ears pull the head up gently and hold the mouth, when the oil will be swallowed. The next day give sweet oil (cocoa- nut, cotton-seed, olive, ete.) instead of castor: repeat the castor oil on the second day, and the day after sweet oil again. Then stop. : ; This is a general preventive treatment when illness is not specifically diagnosed. Reduce dry food and increase the green food. This is especially the food for preventing constipation. For diarrhoea give the same doses of castor oil and sweet oil, but increase tne dry food and reduce the green food. Especially good for diarrhoea is a little dry boiled rice—not sloppy. Cold in the Head.—This is often caused by a crack in the hutch which causes the rabbit to be always in a draught. See to this at once. Remember prevention is always better than cure. If the rabbit has taken cold it will be constantly sneezing and running at the nose. Give warm food, such as bread and milk, boiled sweet potatos, served warm, mixed with a little cornmeal ; in each feed put eight drops of sweet spirits of nitre, and if the rabbit will not eat its food when this is mixed with it, put the spirits of nitre in a little milk and pour down its throat. Constipation.—I have referred to this above. This complaint only makes its appearance when there has been a lack of herbaceous food. The symptoms are as follows : The rabbit is seen sitting in one corner of the hutch taking no notice of food, and sometimes the body is swollen. It must be tempted to eat green food, such as Spanish needle, ‘Rabbit Feeding,’ banana or cabbage leaves. Should this fail to bring about the desired result, put a little salt and water down its throat; put in just enough salt to make the water saline, and put a few drops of ‘Healing Oil’ init. A few days of this treatment will put matters right. the concluding portion of Diseased Liver.—This is a complaint the rabbit keeper must be on the lookout for, as any sign of diseased liver will spoil the sale of his produce. There is a difficulty in breathing which is heavy and sometimes audible, and the rabbit should at once be killed. It is little use trying to doctor, in fact, it is not worth the trouble unless the animal is a very valuable one. In case a remedy is wanted, the following will be useful:—Give twice a day a tea-spoonful of castor oil, and plenty of young ‘Spanish needle’ amongst the green food. This disease will be prevented by not allowing the rabbit to eat off the floor, and by avoiding feeding corn, and cornmeal much. Dropsy ov Pot Belly.—This is one of the commonest of rabbit diseases and one to which the young stock are most liable. An excess of wet green food in large quantities, or large quantities of the same fed at irregular hours, or hutches too small—these are the general causes. The animal’s body becomes swollen, as the rabbit will keep on eating, if allowed ; the complaint is aggravated and death soon ensues. Induce it to have a run on dry ground. such as a few peas—leaves of the banana or plantain are good—and give a little parsley, thyme, or sliced carrots ; but any other green food or roots must be given sparingly. A proper allowance of sweet hay and corn with limited green food, fed at regular hours, is the prevention. Snuffles.—A common disease is a form of cold, called ‘Snuftles.’ The animal sneezes repeatedly and matter collects on its nostrils. Put a pinch of permanganate of potash in water, and bathe the nostrils, then touch them with eucalyptus oil. Do this daily until better: keep the animal dry and comfortable. It is exposure to damp, often the drip in a leaky house, that causes snuffles, and if neglected, this may turn into consumption, which is incurable. If a rabbit becomes very bad before it is noticed, it is better to kill it than attempt a cure. Give dry food, FISH OILS FROM DOMINICA. The Dominica Guardian makes the following reference to the note in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 233) on the above subject :— This industry has heretofore received too little notice here, albeit one that promises development as well as reward to those who would embark in an crganized venture in that direction. Sharks are pretty common in our waters, but it is only lately that the fishermen bring them to the shore, little regard being paid to the value of its oil, which is very seldom extracted. Shoals of black fish prank in the offing at all hours, but they are seldom interfered with, and only occasionally do we see one being taken to the market, probably when other fish are scarce. These are sold in large junks for a couple of pence which makes the catch scarcely worth the fishers’ while. In some instances the oil has been extracted, and here again there is discouragement, there being no market for it. We know of one or two instances where ventures at shipment have been made, with poor results, probably because the shippers did not know where to go to with the article, as most certainly £15 to £18 per ton would give a fine margin of profit. Now that the Department of Agri- culture has taken the matter to a certain extent in hand, with good results, it is to be hoped that they will not allow it to rest there. Wor, lille “Nos 63. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 295 CONTROLLIN G SOIL MOISTURE IN THE ORCHARD. This important subject has been referred to at various times in the publications of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, particularly in the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. Il, p. 96; Vol. IV, p. 176), and the Agricultural News (Vol. II, p. 187). It is further dealt with in the Report of the Fruit Growers’ Association of Ontario, 1902, by Professor J. B. Reyn- olds. We give the following short summary of this interesting paper :— The first point to consider is the proper preparation of the land before planting. The drainage of the land must receive attention; if the land is naturally well drained, artificial drainage will not be necessary. Then the soil must be thoroughly loosened so that the roots may be encouraged to go deep instead of keeping to the surface. Next, let us consider the various methods of treating the soil after the trees have been planted. One method is to put the orchard down to permanent sod. This method, which has obvious advantages, is not to be universally condemned ; its advisability will depend upon the locality. East of Toronto, where the rainfall is greatest, the sodding of orchards is not found to be unfavourable to the pro- duction of fruit. To the west of Toronto, on the other hand, this practice is rather objectionable from the point of view of soil moisture, and it is a question whether we can afford the withdrawal of the moisture from the land occasioned by the growing grass. The diminution of the water supply causes the apples to ripen earlier in the season, and therefore sodding cannot be approved in districts where moisture is scarce. Cropping is also a question of local climate. The orchard may be profitably cropped where the soil is rich enough to stand it, and the soil moisture is plenti- ful enough. It appears to me that, subject to the exceptions mentioned, the safest plan is not to sod an orchard nor to crop it, in the ordinary sense, but to use a ‘ cover crop,’ that is to say, a crop sown late in the summer, or early in the autumn, allowed to remain as a cover to the land during the winter, and ploughed down the following spring. It must be clearly understood that no particular system of soil culture for orchards can be recommended without a particular study of local conditions. THE DATE PALM IN INDIA. In the Report on the Botanical Gardens at - Saharanpur and Mussoorie, the Superintendent gives the following summary of his experiences with the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) :— It has been conclusively proved that date palms under ordinary care thrive well at Saharanpur. When the trees have attained to some age, ten years and over, they flower and set fruit profusely ; but only a very small percentage of the fruit ripens in normal seasons, and even in our abnormally dry seasons, one or two small showers of rain are sufficient to destroy the bulk of the crop. Date palms may, therefore, be successfully grown for ornamental purposes anywhere in the province ; but for food, in seasons of late or light rain- fall, the quantity of fruit that may be counted on to ripen is so small as not to be worth taking into account. ONION CULTIVATION IN EGYPT. The following account of onion cultivation in Egypt is taken from Bulletin No. 62 of the Bureau of Plant Industry of the U. S. Department of Agriculture, entitled : ‘ Notes on Egyptian Agriculture’ :-— Onions are grown to a considerable extent in Upper Egypt (not less than 15,000 acres), largely on the islands which appear after the fall of the Nile and on the banks of the river. They are also grown on ordinary soils under perennial irrigation. Although two or three varieties are recognized, that known as the Saidi forms the bulk of the export trade. The crop grows to the greatest advantage on deep, loamy soils, inclining to sandy, and possessing a con- siderable amount of humus. Seed is sown in a manured seed bed in September. About one-ninth of a bushel of seed sown on 350 square yards of land provides sufficient plants for 1 acre. The land for onions should be well prepared by two or three ploughings, reduced to a friable condition, and made into ridges about 2 feet apart. The seedlings are pushed in the sides of the ridges (both sides) by the fingers and are left about 6 inches apart. On the islands and river banks the land is not ploughed at all, but the seedlings are sown on the flat, either singly in rows about 14 inches apart, or in bunches in rows 20 inches apart. In this case the crop is not watered during growth. The operation of transplanting is done in November and December on the islands and river banks, but later on ordinary lands even up to January and February. The crop requires careful cultivation to prevent the growth of weeds, and a small hoe is employed to keep the land well stirred. During the first month after transplanting, the crop must be hoed and weeded, and this must be repeated during the second month. Onions respond to liberal manuring. Barnyard manure is employed, and on the alluvial deposits this is put under the plants at the time of transplanting, but on other land it is applied from one to one and a half months after trans- planting and as a rule before any water is applied. Small quantities of coufri are sometimes used, though barnyard manure is in greatest favour. On ordinary perennial irrigated lands six or seven waterings are given during the growth of the crop. These should be light and not sufficient in amount to soak the soil. About five months after transplanting, the bulbs have attained full size and the leaves become yellow. The crop is now ready to lift, and no water should be applied for nearly a month before harvesting; otherwise a second growth commences. The bulbs are removed and exposed to the sun for two days, the tops being then removed, and another day allowed for drying. Early in April the onion crop arrives at Alexandria for export, the first arrivals realizing the highest price. The product per acre amounts to 5 to 6 tons, on an average, on good soil. Care has to be taken in storing. If not thoroughly dried many of the onions will sprout, and those which have been injured or bruised will decay. The average price is from £2 to £3 per ton. The following figures indicate the export trade :— 1899, 76,568 tons to the value of £236,498. GOON O034.) 3 5 £157,670. 9 OI 649935) % 5 £133,986. 102, Zi ees os ae 3 £103,842. The bulk of the crop is sent to England, and the rest chiefly to Austria. 296 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SEerTEMBER 10, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A com- plete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 271 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 144d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural stews Vou. ITI. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 1904. No. 63. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. In our editorial we draw attention to some of the more important points coanected with the growing of onions. The short article on p. 295 on the cultivation of onions in Egypt is also likely to be of interest. The first portion of a progress report on the sugar-cane experiments that have been conducted on estates in British Guiana is given on pp. 290-1. This report will be concluded in our next issue. A short review of the last season’s operations on sugar estates in Guadeloupe and Martinique will be found on p. 291, On p. 292 we publish information relating to the banana industry in the Canary Islands. It will be seen that the trade with the United Kingdom has been considerably atfected by the imports from the West Indies. From our cotton notes it will be seen that the prospects of establishing a cotton industry in the West Indies are considered by persons connected with the trade in England to be encouraging. We also publish extracts froma report on experiments in cotton growing in Jamaica. In the present issue Mr. Barclay concludes his interesting and useful notes on rabbit keeping. Hints are given as to the treatment of the diseases of rabbits. On p. 298 a revie is given of the present position of the experiments that are being carried on in the United States against the Mexican cotton boll weevil. Although this pest has not, fortunately, so far, appeared in these islands, it 1s considered desirable that planters should be supplied with information as to the methods which have been found necessary for combating it. Lectures on Cotton Cultivation. In connexion with the lectures on cotton cultiva- tion being arranged by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, the following fixtures have been made in St. Vincent :—The Court House, Kingstown, on Wednes- day, August 31; the Barracks, Colonarie, on Monday, September 5: the Schoolroom, Stubbs, on Tuesday, September 6: the Schoolroom, Campden Park, on Monday, September 12: the Schoolroom, Barrouallie, on Wednesday, September 14. His Honour the Acting Administrator will preside at the first lecture, and all the lectures will be fully illustrated by lantern slides. The lecturers will be Mr. W. N. Sands and Mr. C. H. Knowles, B.Se. Cocoa-nuts for New York. Hemingways ‘London Purple’ Co., Ltd., has addressed a letter to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture asking for information on the situation of the cocoa-nut oil industry in the West Indies. The firm desires certain information, the nature of which will be gathered from the following extract:— ‘We may shortly be interested in an enterprise for the manufacture of cocoa-nut oil, and would be glad to have particulars which cocoa-nut palms are abundant; also as to the cost of land in these sections and the usual terms of land tenure. The above points are of particular in- terest. We should also be very glad if you could put us in the way of ascertaining at what price we could buy a good grade of cocoa-nuts already picked and delivered at ditferent points.’ En ee The Mexican Cotton Boll Weevil. We publish on p. 298 extracts from a recently issued bulletin on the Mexican cotton boll weevil. As is well known, this has proved a most serious pest, and there are indications that it will spread further and further. Yet it has been demonstrated that ‘a crop can be grown profitably in spite of the boll weevil? But this is possible only when great attention is given to cultural methods. The efficacy of these cultural methods against insect pests is not sufficiently realized in the West Indies, the tendency being to think that the application of insecticides will always put things right. In several of these islands we have noticed old cotton plants left standing long after their period of usefulness has passed. Such a practice only serves to give additional opportunities for the development of pests. As soon as it becomes apparent that no more cotton will be produced on the plants, they should be pulled up and buried, or, in the case of plants obvicusly attected by some pest, burned. It has further been demonstrated that the boll weevil is distributed with seed : this fact furnishes an additional argument for the sterilization of all seed before sowing, as has been done in the case of seed distributed by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. It would also be advisable to fumigate the seed in the chambers that have been, or are being, erected for the fumigation of imported plants. as to the localities in| pice: amount has been distributed. Wor, lt. No. 63. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 297 Rabbit Keeping in the West Indies. The notes on ‘Rabbit Keeping in the West Indies’ which have been written by Mr. John Barclay, Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, for the Agricultural News, are concluded in the present issue. These articles were commenced in our issue for July 16. They have dealt with the breeds of rabbits, their proper housing, breeding, and feeding, while the last instalment is devoted to the treatment of diseases. Mr. Barclay has clearly shown that care and attention are necessary to make rabbit keeping a success, but that when intelligently taken up the rearing of rabbits is likely to prove remunerative. rrr Fumigation of Imported Plants. We are glad to learn that an Ordinance (No. 9 of 1904) has been passed by the Legislative Council of Dominica, and has received the Governor’s assent, to provide for the fumigation of plants imported into the presidency. ‘This Ordinance is based upon that in force in Jamaica which has given entire satisfaction. It ordains that all plants imported shall be delivered up to the Treasurer who shall cause them to be conveyed to the agricultural authority (the Curator .of the Botanic Station) for fumigation; that plants shall be landed only at the port of Roseau; that the process of fumigation shall be conducted by the agri- cultural authority in such a manner as he may consider adequate for the destruction of any vegetable or insect pests which may possibly be on such plants: that all plants shall be removed by the owner from the Botanic Station immediately on his being required to do so. The Ordinance further states that the expenses of removal to the place of fumigation and of the fumiga- tion shall be borne by the Government, but that the ‘Government shall incur no lability in respect of any risk attending fumigation. eee ‘Cotton Experiments in Trinidad. In the Bulletin of Miscellaneous Informution Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., Superintendent of the Botanical Department, reviews the experiments that have been carried on with cotton in Trinidad. At the St. Clair Experiment Station the trial of Sea Island cotton was not a success, the plants being badly attacked by insects. Better results were obtained with Upland or Creole cotton, which did not suffer in this way. Samples sent to the Imperial Institute were reported to be superior to American Upland and to be -worth about 9d. per tb. Sea Island cotton from Princes Town district, ginned at the station, obtained a price of 15d. per tb. It is evident that serious efforts are to be made to carry on experiments during the ensuing season. “Over 2,000 th. of seed have been obtained through the Imperial Department of Agriculture, and a large Experiment plots are to be started at Diego Martin reformatory, River estate, -Cedros, Dabadie, and St. Clair with Sea Island cotton, with a view to proving whether this variety is suitable for cultivation in Trinidad. Fibre Plants in Mauritius. The Journal @ Agriculture Tropicale for March contains a paper by M. Boname on the fibre industry in Mauritius. The plant that is cultivated for fibre is Furcraea gigantea, called the ‘green aloe’ to distinguish it from the ‘blue aloe’ (Agave americana). The exports of fibre from Mauritius have varied from 358 to 3,000 tons annually. The machine used for extracting the fibre is very primitive and similar to the Mexican ‘raspador;’ it is worked by water or steam power. It is estimated that, on an average, 85,000 Ib. of leaves are required to yield 1 ton of dry fibre. M. Boname sets forth very clearly the superior claims of the sisal plant as a source of fibre. As the result of experiments it has been shown that the sisal plant gives 60 per cent. more fibre from a similar weight of leaves than the Fureraea. The sisal fibre is much easier to extract and clean, the price in foreign markets is higher, and the yield is greater. EE Agriculture in Bermuda. According to the Annual Report on Bermuda for 1903, there was a considerable increase in the value of the exports during the year. The principal exports were arrowroot, bulbs, hides, onions, potatos, and miscellaneous vegetables. The exports of onions amounted in value to £55,340: these were shipped almost entirely to the United States. The value of the exports of potatos was £33,945. There is in the colony an arrowroot factory equipped with a modern plant. The product of this factory is of excellent quality and commands a good price. The value of the exports of arrowroot (to the United Kingdom) was £1,184. Hope is expressed that this trade will grow, as the manufacture of arrowroot was at one time an important industry. The crops of potatos and onions were average ones ; higher prices were obtained for the onions than in the previous year, but the prices of potatos were low all through the season. The lily crop was small, and prices were low; consequently, there was a large falling off in the value of the exports of lily bulbs. There was an appreciable increase in the exports of vegetables other than potatos and onions, and it is stated that a much larger quantity would be exported to New York, if greater facilities for cold storage accommodation were offered. At the Public Gardens, which are supported chiefly as an agricultural experiment station under the Board of Agriculture, an experiment in the grow- ing and curing of tobacco was conducted during the year. A portion of the product was forwarded to the Imperial Institute for a report. Several thousand Panama-hat plants (Carludovica palmata) were raised from seed and distributed. A silo has been erected at the garden, and it has been demonstrated that ensilage might with advantage be generally made by farmers in the colony. Reference is made in the report to the arrangements that have been made with the Imperial Department of Agriculture for the services of an agricultural lecturer, THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SerremBer 10, 1904. 5 . INSECT NOTES. Mexican Cotton Boll Weevil. For ten years past the Mexican cotton boll weevil has been a pest of importance, steadily spreading through the cotton-growing region of Texas, and so difficult has it been to control, that many statements have been made regarding its destructiveness, present and future. The United States Department of Agriculture has made an exhaustive study of the life- history and habits of this pest and has recently issued a bulletin covering all the work to the end of the season 1903—Division of Entomology, Bulletin No. 45. The following notes consist chiefly of extracts from this bulletin, and in view of the many extravagant state- ments which have appeared from time to time in various newspapers, these extracts should be of interest to cotton growers in all parts of the world :— The Mexican cotton boll weevil (Anthonomus grandis, Boh.) has the unique record of developing in less than twenty years from a most obscure species to undoubtedly one of the most important economically in the world. Before the advent of the boll weevil into Texas, unfavourable weather at planting time, summer droughts, and heavy falls of rains caused very short crops to be produced. Now, however, the tendency is everywhere to attribute all the shortage to the weevil. Nevertheless, the pest is undoubtedly the most serious menace that the cotton planters of the South have ever been compelled to face, if not indeed, the most serious danger that ever threatened any agricultural industry. In spite of the generally serious outlook, however, it must be stated that fears of the damage the weevil may do are very often much exaggerated, especially in the newly invaded regions. It is not at all necessary to abandon cotton. The work of the Division of Entomology for several seasons has demonstrated that a crop can be grown profitably in spite of the boll weevil, and this experience is duplicated by many planters in Texas. The infested area. . . includes about 30 per cent. of the cotton acreage of the United States, which produced in 1900 about 35 per cent. of the total crop of the country, or about one-fourth of the crop of the world for that year. It seems safe to predict that in fifteen to eighteen years the pest will be found throughout the cotton belt of America. Although there are no truly cosmopolitan cotton insects, it seems likely that the boll weevil may eventually be more widely spread than any other.’ Cultural methods have been proved to be the only sure means of combating the weevil. Every suggested remedy has been tried and in every case negative results have been obtained. Cultural methods are summarized under five heads as follows :— 1. Fall destruction.—Cotton plants should be uprooted and burned as soon as the cotton is all harvested. 2. Early planting of rapidly maturing varieties. —This gives the cotton plants an opportunity to get well developed before the weevils become very abundant, and the injury is greatly lessened. 3. Wide spacing.—This favours rapid maturity of the plant, and acts as a remedial measure by allowing the sun to reach the ground and causing the drying up of the squares in which the larvae oceur. 4. Thorough cultivation. 5, Fertilization with commercial preparations containing high percentage of phosphoric acid. St. Lucia. The following notes are extracted from a report by Mr. Ballou, on his recent visit to St. Lucia :— The plants at the Botanic Station all seemed in good condition, none being sufliciently infested by scale or other insect pests to be noticeable. Mr. Buckmire informed me that a supply of the usual insecticides is kept on hand, and that the spraying apparatus which I had seen on previous visits was all in good order and frequently used. At the Agricultural School, the gardens and nursery plots were carefully inspected and for the most part found to be in good condition. The cacao and Castilloa rubber were apparently growing vigorously except a few cacao plants which were smnaller than others of the same age ; no cause was, how- ever, to be seen for this difference. These plants were quite free from pests, except one Castilloa plant which was badly attacked by the Akee fringed scale (Asterolecanium pustulans). T recommended that this plant be taken out and destroyed and. that others on which a few of the scales appeared be sprayed. In the nurseries some of the small orange plants were somewhat infested with the West Indian red - scale (Aspidiotus articulatus) and one of the shield scales (Lecantum sp.). It was recommended that these plants be sprayed. Two plots of cotton, one of Upland and one of Sea Island, were very strong and healthy. On the plot of Upland cotton one cotton worm was found, and a few plants were attacked by plant lice. These latter will probably not prove serious, as there were a number of the red lady-birds (Cycloneda sanguinea) present. Careful watch will be kept for the appearance of the worms, and Paris green will be promptly used. The Sea Island cotton was especially vigorous in appearance. No worms or plant lice were to be seen infesting it. The leaf-blister mite was not seen on either of these plots, though careful search was made for it. BRAZILIAN COFFEE. The Monthly Consular Reports (United States) for March contains the following note :— Careful investigation leads me to assume that the coming coffee crop (harvest of 1904-5) throughout the coffee States of Brazil will, from present indications, likely be below the average. It is of course impossible as yet to get reliable estimates, but there is no doubt that the coffee trees have suffered a great deal lately: first, probably on account of exhaustion, in consequence of consecutive abundant bearing ; and, second, through very severe droughts that have prevailed for the last few months. There has consequently already been a considerable rise in the prices of coffee here as well as abroad ; but this seems to be caused more by specula- tion than the natural condition of the market, as the visible supply in the United States, as well as in Europe, is large enough to satisfy a year’s consumption without any further receipts. The present rise in prices will mostly benefit the dealers abroad who hold large stocks, the producers having already disposed of nearly all their holdings. Vou. III. No. 63. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 299 Li - e —— e eee ‘6 -E GUIDE TO CASTLETON GARDENS, JAMAICA : By Wm. Faweett, B.Sc., F.L.S., Director of Public Gardens and Plantations. =a!) | 2 o | sig O° oF | = a © oO Ss a) ees. | Se.) 22 4 ss oO = =a ia} MA o gS pas D. 625 775 1:423 Biles 9-6 D. 109 61:2 1471 80°7 12:71 3. 147 ede 1485 82-4 10°1 De 95 56-9 1:433 80°8 14°3 DE 45 we: 69°5 1°506 82-4 10°5 Bourbon... 70°3 1°453 80-6 ETE Sealy... ea 48 1467 19) 12:0 White Transparent} 57-0 1-449 815 116 D. 78 63-4 1°395 78:2 14:4 |D. 74 61:3 1474 80°77 14°6 The means of the contents of saccharose in pounds per gallon, of the quotients of purity, of the quotients of non- sugars and of the recovery of commercial sugars per cent. of indicated sugar in the juices of the varieties during 1901-3 are as follows :— Variety. z Es op 2 5 ss 2 g iS 2 = eS = 3 | wal a A Cc a 1D), G25 so 1334 79:4 | 12°6 98 84:6 Sealy 1435 81-2 | 12-1 75 84:5 1D, BY) Gen 1:480 Sol lded 5:9) || 82-ll ID), 11285) 355 1-444 82:00 lel 92 | 843 IDS NOL eas 1:390 | 83:2 9-9 eal 82-0 B: 147. 1:376 | 79°8 | 13°6 8-0 83°5 Bourbon 1-480) S2eanlpelaticll 7-2 82°5 IDEs = see Sad||) eetax0) 81:9 | 12°6 6:2 83°9 WhiteTransparent) 1433 83-2 SO dell se co0) D. 78 1:305 (itte} || SISSY) 89 | 83:1 In considering these results it must be borne in mind that in the cases of many of the experiments the varieties of sugar-cane have been grown on land on which the latter cane does not flourish, while the Bourbon returns are, as a rule, from land of average quality. Sisal Hemp at New Orleans. The following table, states the Consular Report for 1903, shows how rapid has been the increase in the imports of sisal hemp from Mexico into New Orleans :— 1900 1,466 tons, valued at £37,281. 1901 ... 14,069 ,, gg coeetagalley 1902) ....°23,365 ., Mie.) £644,907 1903... 31,424 ,, a) eels 308 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SEPTEMBER 24, 1904. WIEST INDIAN PRUE THE CITROMETER. Ata meeting of the Dominica Agricultural Society, held on August 12, the Hon. Francis Watts addressed the meeting as follows on the subject of the citrometer, a special form of hydrometer for testing lemon and lime juice: The origin of the scale of the citrometer was unknown, and he believed he had rediscovered it, for he found that when the indications of the citrometer were taken in boiling concentrated lime juice they were found to approximate closely to the indications of a Twaddell’s hydrometer at 60° F. Thus, a sample of lime juice giving a reading of 60° citrometer at boiling temperature will give a reading of 60° Twaddell at 60° F. As a result of the discovery, the planters will now be able to concentrate their lime juice with some degree of scientific accuracy. MARKETING FRUIT. In an able article in the Natal Agricultural Journal on ‘Fruit gulture as a Natal Industry,’ the writer makes the following observations on the marketing of fruit :— No fruit, except the lowest qualities, should be marketed in rough bulk. All others should be graded to size, colour, form, and maturity, and packed so that they can be sold in the case. The fruit must arrive at its destination before it is fully mature, and still sufticiently free from bruises to allow it to ripen equally and thoroughly. It is in being able to judge, or to know from past experience, the exact condition in which each fruit must be picked in order to arrive fit, that the skilled grower and packer scores, while the amateur keeps on losing money while he learns. Regular senders of highest grades soon become known, and then constantly command a market. Their brands become widely recognized, the constant quality is a standing advertisement. But this condition is attained only by adhering rigidly to the principle of sending away no second grades ; indeed such should not be grown, but if they are grown make cider or marmalade of them rather than ruin a good name by marketing this class. It is not in the fruit alone that this care is necessary, but in every detail connected with each consignment, the grading, the quality, the maturity, the colour, the cases, the packing, the despatch, the cartage, the ventilated car, the cool chamber (if necessary)—in fact, every detail, however small, which can make or mar the success of a business, THE BANANA INDUSTRY IN THE UNITED STATES. The following account of the banana industry in the United States is taken from the Consular Report on the trade of Philadelphia for 1903 :— During the last fifteen years the trade in bananas has grown to an enormous extent in the United States of America. In 1902 there are reported to have been 50,000,000 bunches of bananas brought into the United States, while from ten to fifteen years ago the fruit was practically unknown here. Cuba was the first country to send bananas to the United States; the Spanish-American war, however, pre- vented the proper development of the crops, and finally the trade with that island ceased altogether. Jamaica, in the meantime, has substituted its banana crops for those of Cuba, and up to the time of the hurricane last year a large proportion of the bananas imported to the United States came from that island. The hurricane destroyed a large number of the plantations, and it will not be until next autumn that they will be again in operation. Of late great development has taken place in the banana trade of Central and South America, and a con- siderable portion of the supplies now received come from those districts. Another producer is Porto Rico, and many consumers think that its fruit is superior to any other, and the prices therefore range higher for the fruit from that island. The banana business has now been reduced to a science. Formerly shipments were made on sailing schooners, and in consequence large portions of the cargoes were always found to be spoiled, but of late this trade has been carried on with fine steamers fitted with refrigerating apparatus. Most of the fruit is consigned direct to the dealers, but occasionally a cargo arrives in port here, which is sold by auction. AGRICULTURE IN ST. LUCIA. In the St. Lucia Blue Book for 1903, the following remarks occur under the heading ‘Improvements in Agriculture and Manufactures’:— The cultivation of limes has been taken up on a small scale. Manioe cultivation and preparation for the export of starch is in the experimental stage. Cacao plantations are gradually being extended, and methods of cultivation improved. Cotton growing is slowly on the increase, the area under this crop being about 250 acres. Vou. Ill. No. 64. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 309 COTTON INDUSTRY. West Indian Cotton in England. The West India Committee Circular has the following interesting note on the position of West Indian cotton on the English markets :— We learn from Mr. Wolstenholme, Vice-chairman of the West Indies section of the British Cotton-growing Association, that, after remaining steady for several months, the market for Florida and Georgia Sea Island cotton in Savannah has declined Id. per tb. A stock of about 8,000 bales has been held there for extreme prices, and owing to the near approach of the new crop, which will come forward in September, holders are pushing sales. In consequence, all the lower qualities of West Indian Sea Island, which compete with Floridas and Georgias, have fallen in value to a similar extent. The very best, which compares with Carolina Sea Island, of which there is no stock, commands full rates. For Florida, which was recently worth 15d. to 16d. per tb., the new crop is expected to open at about 13¢., which was last season’s opening price. Cotton in Paraguay. The following note on the prospects of cotton cultivation in Paraguay is taken from the Consular Report for 1905 :— Cotton has been cultivated in Paraguay for many years, but hitherto little or no attempt has been made to export it. In the past year, however, considerable interest has been manifested in this product by cotton dealers and experts who have visited the country. Samples forwarded to the United Kingdom have met with considerable approval, and one shipment to Manchester was pronounced ‘ very good standard quality.’ Paraguayan cotton is said to resemble the Egyptian variety. A shipment of 12 bales has been sold by two different firms in London, the opinion expressed by the buyers being favourable, and to the effect that the cotton was clean, lustrous, and free from seeds or leaves, and shouid be able to compete with United Siates cotton. Besides the white variety, there is also a coloured cotton growing in this country which is stated to command a good price in Europe. The prices obtained for these cottons in Europe were 5d. per tb. for the white and 6. for the red. Galtonl@ulrisncodan Sait enmerins: At a meeting of the British Guiana Board of Agriculture held on August 26, Professor Harrison made the following interesting statement with regard to cotton experiments in the colony:— Since the Board’s last meeting he had visited the majority of places in the colony where cotton was being cultivated, and the result had pointed fairly conclusively to the fact that the cultivation of Sea Island cotton on heavy clay soil was absolutely waste of men’s time and money. On the lightest soil, like the soil of Bush Lot, satisfactory crops were being obtained, and if the experimenter had known more of agriculture he would have had not only a satisfactory crop but a heavy one. Jn going from place to place he saw a great variety of soils and in that way obtained indications with regard to the cultivation of Sea Island cotton. The experiments at Windsor Forest were very interesting. The variety there, which had been sold as Egyptian, seemed to be yery promising so far as growth was concerned, but how it promised commercially he did not know. Cotton Growing in the Gold Coast Colony. _ Mv Edward Fisher visited the Gold Coast in the interests of the British Cotton-growing Association in June last year to report on the prospects of establishing a cotton-growing industry in the colony. His report is published in the Report of the Botanical and Agii- cultural Department for 1903. The following is a summary of his views -— F Cotton will grow well in most of the districts visited, provided it receives proper care and attention. _ Labour-saving implements should be introduced, and the natives taught the use of them. Convenient markets should be provided in all cotton- growing districts. The producer should be paid the highest possible price for his raw cotton, even if the buyers have to abstain from making any profit at present. Until the stock and transport problem is settled, it will not pay to open up large plantations for the growing of cotton alone under European management. Native cotton receiving the same care and attention as is given to cotton grown from American seed would compare favourably with the latter, and being acclimatized is less liable to injury, although at present its yield is smaller. Insects are at present very injurious. Seed Selection. The following note on the importance of selecting good cotton seed is extracted from Bulletin 62, Bureau of Plant Industry, United States Department of Agri- culture, ‘Notes on Egyptian Agriculture’:-— The question of the selection of seed for sowing is occupying considerable attention in Egypt, as Afifi cotton, which is the mainstay of the crop, is greatly deteriorating. Owing to the great similarity not only of the plants of the different varieties grown in the country but also of their seeds, the matter is a somewhat difficult one. At the present time the question of seed is entirely in the hands of the cotton merchants. When the best qualities of cotton of the first picking are being ginned, the factory owner places on one side the resulting seed for disposal to his clients the following season. This is excellent as far as it goes, but where two or three varieties are being dealt with in a factory, even though the proprietor may clean his gins, his tiddles, etc., after each ginning, a certain admixture must take place. The seedsman class is quite wanting in Egypt, and until recently most of the cultivators were not sufficiently alive to the question of good seed. At the present time, howeyer, the Khedivial Agricultural Society is paying special attention to this most important subject, while individual cultivators appreciate more the necessity of employing good and pure seed. Small cultivators in the past obtained their seed to a great extent through the village money-lender, who supplied them with ordinary commercial seed quite unsuited for sowing purposes. The Khedivial Agricultural Society now distributes seed of first-picking cotton to small growers at cost price. The value of the seed, plus a moderate rate of interest, is collected by the Government agents when the ordinary taxes are collected. The seed is not paid for until the resulting cotton crop is picked. The benefits are two-fold, not only is the fellah provided with better seed than he would obtain elsewhere, but he is to a certain extent kept out of the hands of the usurer. The question of the establishment of seed areas is now under consideration, 310 THE AGRICULTUR: MANUFACTURE OF PANAMA HATS. The following interesting account of the nanutac- ture of Panama hats from “Cen ludovica palinata 1s taken from the United States Monthly Consular Reports for April :— These hats are made from the common fan-shaped palm, called ‘Palmicha,’ which grows wild in abundance, generally in moderate climate and fairly moist ground. Young shoots, uniform in size, are cut from the plant and boiled to a certain stage, being softened thereby and brought to a light-yellow colour, The process of boiling appears to be an art in itself, and only 7 few people can turn ont good straw. The boilers sell the straw at so much a pound, according to quality and the prevailing prices of hats. CARLUDOVICA Fig. 12. {From Dictionary of Gardening. | PALMATA. When the proper boiling point is reached the shoots are put up to dry and the leaves quickly separated. This is done indoors, where there is a current of air, but no sun- shine. When the leaves are nearly dry, they are split with a little Y-shaped instrument of wood, so that every good leaf is the same size. When left alone to dry the leaves curl in at the edges and are then ready for use, and at this point the straw is carefully wrapped in clean cloths, as the light and dry atmosphere spoils it. When finished the straw is carefully pared with a pocket-knife and then battered all over with a small hand maul, after which it is washed with common yellow soap and a little lime juice and left to dry, away from the sunlight. AL NEWS. SEPTEMBER 24, 1904. The hats made in Snuaza district in Colombia are considered much superior to those made in Ecuador, The manufacture of these hats is affected, to a great ( leg ree, hy climatie influences, an expert hatter being unable to make as good a hat in the dry, summer weather as during the rainy probably on this account hats parts of the Suaza district are superior a short distance away. Long training is necessary to become a good hatter, and the girls are started at the work at the very early age of ten years and must practise constantly. Hatters work every day from early morning, wasting very little time in eating and often carrying on their work by candlelight, so as to finish in time for market day, for the loss of an hour may mean to them the loss of the money which would have been acquired from the sale of the hat. Sensei < in some to those made just It may be mentioned that another species of the genus Carludovicu (C. jamaicensis) yields the straw from which the jippi-jappa hats are made in Jamaica. An interesting account of this plant appeared in the Bulletin of the Botanical Department, Jamaica, for October 1902. THE SEA ISLANDS OF SOUTH CAROLINA. The TVertile Mercury of August 20 following interesting note on he Sea cotton produc tion: has the Islands and A few people are under the impression that Sea Island cotton is grown in the South Sea Islands, whereas it is in those islands which form an archipelago on the south-east coast of the United States, extending from the mouth of the Savannah river northward along the coast to Charleston, that give their name to the special class of black, free-seed, long-staple cotton so commonly mentioned. The four larger islands are James, Edisto, Wadmalaw, and John’s, which occupy an sregate area of some 100,000 acres. There are five smaller islands, severally named St. Helena, Lady’s, Paris, Port Royal, and Spring. The climate is sub-tropical and the average annual rainfall about 353 inches. The precipitation is greatest at the time the cotton plants are growing, between May and August ; lowest when they are ripening, from September to November. The islands lie in about 33° north latitude, the same as Bermuda. cotton from the Sea Islands commanded 6s. 3/7. to 8s. 4d. per Ib. Later on, in 1867, trouble began in the form of labour difficulties, excessive rains, and the appearance of the destructive cotton worm, and continued for some four or five years. As a consequence, the methods of cultivation had to he altered, the planting of large tracts being discontinued, and replace red by the intense cultivation of smaller areas. At ee the Sea Island planters are enjoying the benefit of this new system, which was introduced first on James Island. After the civil war (1860-4) Lecture Experiments. ‘he teacher should set up the experiment before the class, carefully explaining, or rather letting them work out from his remarks, the logie of each step. Each student should then for himself observe and record results, and deduce conclusions as if the experi- ment were entirely his own. It is particularly necessary that the students understand the exact logic of each step, and that their records should bring it out clearly. Their records, too, should express and keep perfectly distinct (a) the object of the experiment, (b) the method and apparatus employed, (c) the results actually observed, (d) conelusions. (The Teaching Botanist.) Wor. Lit; No: 64: THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 31] THE AVOCADO PEAR IN FLORIDA. A bulletin, * recently issued by the Bureau of Plant Industry of the United States Department of Agriculture, contains a complete account of the propagation, cultivation, and marketing of the avocado pear (Persea gratissima). As this tree is widely cultivated throughout the West Indies, the following short summary is likely to be of interest :-— The avocado has never been subjected to cultivation and careful breeding. These pages have been prepared with a view to systematizing our knowledge of it and to pointing out the directions for its improvement. For Wind-breaks and) Shade purposes. —The vigorous- growing varieties of avocado will serve as wind-breaks as satisfactorily as purely ornamental trees, and in addition may be expected to give a veturn of fruit. The tall, sturdy growth makes free pruning of the lower limbs possible, while the abundant growth of leaves will still produce a dense shade. Methods of starting an Orchard.—While there are various ways in which orchards can be successfully started, the following is recommended. Place the seeds in a well- prepared seed bed, from + to 6 inches apart in a drill, 3 or 4 inches deep. Transplant trom the seed bed to the nursery when the seedlings are from 6 to 12 inches high. For transplanting rainy weather should be chosen, otherwise much watering will be necessary. In the nursery the rows should be from 4 to 6 feet apart, and the trees set about a foot apart in the row. After planting in the nursery, cultivation should be thorough and frequent. Budding.—In the avocado there seems to be no difficulty in making the buds take, but there is considerable difficulty in making them start. Experience indicates that budding at or near the crown is preferable to top-working. It is very important that the stock and scion be in as perfect condition as possible. The common shield-bud method seems to be as successful as any that have been tried. Transplanting to the ield.—A tree should not be transplanted from the nursery until it has attained a height of about 3 feet. In taking up these trees as many of the smaller roots should be secured as possible. The roots should be kept moist, and the tree well watered when set out. The top should be cut back to some extent, but enough foliage left to shade the stem. If the tree is not sutticiently provided with leaves, an artificial shade can be made by the use of palmetto fans. A considerable quantity of mulch should be placed about them: this prevents the soil from becoming hot about the roots and from drying out. One hundred budded trees to an acre are sufficient. Of the large-growing varieties eighty trees to the acre will be found sufticient. Superiority of budded Trees.—Avocados do not come true to seed, and orchards of seedling trees cannot be relied upon to produce good crops. Budded trees bear earlier than seedling trees. Picking.—As now grown, the fruits of a tree do not as a rule mature uniformly, so that in most cases two or more * Bulletin No. 61. ‘The Avocado in Florida ; its propaga- tion, cultivation, and marketing.’ By P. H. Rolfs. Washing- ton, 1904. pickings have to be made. The fruit must be removed from the tree while it is still very firm, if it is to be shipped to a distant market. The fruit should be broken off so as to leave a portion of the stem attached to the fruit. Packing.—Care must be exercised to have all the specimens in a erate of uniform shape and size. For ship- ping purposes the market at present demands a tomato crate or an egg-plant crate. Before packing, each individual pear should be wrapped in some substantial and attractive paper. Pear-shaped fruits and oblong shapes are preferred, Round ave less desirable than bottle-necked fruits. THE CULTIVATION OF CACAO. The following note on the cultivation of cacao in Colombia appeared in the United States Monthly Consulay Reports for April _— For the information of persons desirous of engaging in the cacao business in our insular possessions, [ submit the following memorandum of the process gone through in Colombia in preparing this bean for commerce. The first thing is to observe care in gathering the crop in season, or the bean suffers in appearance and quality. The cacao berry is generally extracted at the plantation, thus avoiding transportation of the husk. No machinery is used for the purpose of extracting the berry, the husk being broken by hand with a wooden mallet or with a short, curved-edge machete. The husk is cut open lengthways by two cuts on opposite sides, care being taken not to cut the berry. After opening the husk the grains are removed by hand or a small wooden ladle and taken to the cleaning house, where they are put in a wooden tank, having a slight slope, or in a room tiled with bricks and also having an inclined floor, the object of which is the draining off of the fluid from the cacao. This tank or room is known as a drain. The cacao is left to drain from thirty to forty-eight hours and is then placed in the sun to dry, either in brickyards or on hurdles of wood, which can be covered with sacking. After a day in the sun it is stored two days for fermenta- tion, as this is necessary to give the cacao grains the market requirements. It is then placed in the sun every day to dry thoroughly and, to hurry this process, it is laid out in layers and stirred frequently with wooden rakes. Whenever this sunning process is hindered by rain, hurdles are used, being placed over a fire made of dry wood, the latter precaution being taken to prevent smoke. There is also a machine made for the purpose of drying cacao. During the sunning and previous to laying out in yards or hurdles, and while the cacao is still fairly moist, it should _be mixed up with brick dust to which has been added a little common ash in the proportion of about 9 to 1. The result of this is that a varnish-like dust forms over it, giving it not only the necessary colour, but preserving it from what is known as the grub insect. The husk of the cacao is used on plantations as manure. Copaiba Balsam. Copaiba balsam is obtained from leguminous trees of the genus Coparfera (principally C. officinalis), which are indigenous to tropical America. Copaifera officinalis is also recorded in several of the West India Islands. The principal varieties are Maracaibo balsam and the Para balsam. According to the Consular Report on Caracas, the exports of copaiba oil from Maracaibo amounted, in 1903, to 625 ewt., valued at £5,986. Copaiba is used in the preparation of various medicines and is a specific for bronchial troubles. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A com- plete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 319 of this issue. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural dlews Vou. II]. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 1904. No. 64. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. On pp. 305-6 will be found a summarized account of an article in the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. V, no. 2) on the progress made by the cacao industry in the West Indies. The concluding portion of the progress report on the experiments that have been conducted with sugar- cane varieties on estates in British Guiana is published on p. 507. An interesting progress report on experiments, carried out in Jamaica to test the suitability of local sugars for use in fruit preserves, is also included in our ‘sugar notes,’ Several interesting notes relating to the cotton industry will be found on p. 309. In one of these the position of West Indian cotton on the English market is clearly stated. On p. 310 an account is given of the manufacture of panama, hats. Jn the article, on p. 311, on the cultivation of the avocado pear, the advisability of establishing orchards by badding is urged. A brief summary of the methods to be adopted is given, Under the leading ‘ Insect Notes’ we publish some interesting extracts from recent reports by the Entomologist of this Department. The Times’ review of the work of the Imperial Department of Agriculture is reproduced on p, 317. SEPTEMBER 24, 1904. Spraying in Lime Plantations. In the extracts given on p. 314 from Mr. Ballou’s report on his visit to Dominica, reference is made to the excellent condition of the hme trees on an estate where spraying was thoroughly carried out last year. In a recent address to the members of the Dominica Agricultural Society, the Hon. F. Watts referred to the same subject, stating that he had observed a marked improvement in the condition of the trees in the island. ‘The lime planters,’ he said, ‘ had evidently been alive to the situation, and had applied repressive measures of a varied nature with very marked success.’ -— + Exhibitions of Colonial Fruit in Great Britain. In a previous issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 276) we gave details of two important Horticultural Exhibitions for which preparations are being made in Great Britain. The first of these is being organized by the Royal Horticultural Society, and will be held at the Society’s new hall in London on December 13 and 14 next. Opportunities will be attorded for collective exhibits from each colony in addition to individual exhibits. The Society’s officials will, if desired, unpack and stage exhibits, provided they arrive in good time, The other exhibition is that being arranged for by the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society to be held in Edinburgh in September 1905. It will be seen that a special class is open to the colonies for fruits and vegetables of any sort. In these two exhibitions the West Indian Colonies have an excellent opportunity of bringing their products prominently before the notice of the British public. Such an opportunity of promoting trade should not be allowed to slip, and we trust that full advantage will be taken of it, _ + The Oil Seed Trade of Marseilles. An important feature of the trade of the port of Marseilles is the oil seed industry. According to the Consular Report, this trade was exceptionally ~ good during 1903. On account of the record crops of sesame seed and ground nuts in India and on the west coast of Africa, the prices of raw material were low. The principal oil seeds imported are ground nuts, gingelly (Sesamum indicum), cocoa-nuts (copra), castor oil, cotton, linseed, palm nut, ete.: the gingelly and undecorticated ground nuts yield edible oils, while oils from the other seeds are used in the Marseilles soap industry and for technical purposes. The large imports of oil seeds have rendered unneces- sary the importation of manufactured oils. There is a considerable export of ground nut husk meal from Marseilles. The undecorticated nuts are shelled, and the shells ground to a whitish powder which is used for cattle feeding. It is mainly exported to Hamburg and Stettin, where it is mixed with molasses, forming a good, brittle cake. All the linseed and practically all the gingelly and poppy cakes are consumed in France for feeding cattle or manuring. Wor Li No: iG; THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 313 Exports of Hayti. The Annual Report on the trade of Hayti has recently been issued. The principal exports of the republic are coffee, cacao, logwood, yellow wood (fustic), guiac (lignum vitae), cotton, wax, cocoa-nuts, ete. The principal market for these products is at Havre. ‘The exports of coffee and yellow wood show a decrease, while cacao, logwood, and guiac were exported in greater quantities than in the previous year. ‘There was an increase in the cultivation of cotton, and the output was much augmented. cotton are expected to reach 4,000,000 tb, in 1904. It is reported that there are no signs of any agricultural progress; the principal articles of export are allowed to grow wild, and it is only at harvest time that any attention is paid to them. rr - Sugar-cane Experiments in British Guiana. From the progress report on experiments with varieties of sugar-cane in British Guiana, published in this and the preceding issue of the Agricultural News, it will be seen that experiments have been conducted on twenty-four plantations, the principal varieties, other than the Bourbon, being the White Transparent, D. 109, and B. 147, Very good results have been obtained with D. 625, in respect not only of its yield of sugar but also of its ratooning powers, its milling qualities, and the quality of its megass as fuel. This cane and also D, 109 are therefore recommended to cane farmers for trial. The yields of some varieties—D. 74, the White Transparent, and D. 78—have fallen off, and the further extension of their cultivation is not recom- mended. $< + Cacao in the Dutch East Indies. An article in Der Tropenpflanzer for August gives an account of the position of the cacao industry in Java and other Dutch islands in the East Indies, The cultivation is not carried on to a large extent, but trees are found in gardens and in mixed planta- tions. The product is worked up by Chinese labourers. The trunks of older trees suffer from the canker disease (? Nectriw sp.), young twigs are killed by the so-called ‘djamur upas’ disease, and pods are darkened (? by Phytophthora). Pods are also bored by caterpil- lars of a small moth, and are attacked by several other insects; the plants also suffer much from leaf- eating insects. The exports of cacao from Java have increased from about 350 tons in 1890 to about 1,200 tons in 1903; in 1902 the yield was only about 800 tons, and in 1901 it was about 1,100 tons. The other islands, Celebes and the Moluccas, export very little. The yield is small, working out at less than } tb. of marketable product per tree. According to Dr. Zehnter, this is due, in part, to the fact that cacao is only planted in land that cannot be used for coftee, in part to irrational treatment of the plants and the consequent loss by insects and diseases. Most of the -cacao 1s exported to Holland. The shipments of Cotton Cultivation in St. Vincent. We are glad to observe that in St. Vincent considerable interest is being taken in cotton cultivation. Reference has been made in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 261) to the establishment in the island of a Cotton Growers’ Association. A meeting of this body was held on September 5, when important business was transacted. A letter was read from the Governor in which his Excellency consented to become the President of the Association, and another from the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture recognizing the Association as a representative agricultural body of the island. It is evident that such a strongly organized body as the St. Vincent Cotton Growers’ Association will be of the greatest value in furthering the interests of cotton growers, In our last issue we gave a list of fixtures which had been arranged in St. Vincent for the illustrated lectures on cotton growing. From reports received by last mail we learn that several of these lectures had been given and had, on the whole, been well attended, rrr rr West Indian Bulletin. The second number of Volume V_ of the Wes¢ Indian Bulletin (issued to-day) contains a number of interesting articles. Notes upon a variety of West Indian fodder plants have been collected and are published. These notes will supplement the paper by the Hon. Francis Watts in a previous issue of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. TEL, pp. 353-62). The article on ‘Cold Storage of Fruit’ contains the most recent information on the subject of the transportation of fruit, which has been obtained from experts connected with the fruit trade. In view of the efforts that are at the present time being made to establish a fruit trade between several of these islands and the United Kingdom, this article is likely to be of particular interest. The next article deals fully with the ‘Bacterial Rot of Onions,’ previously referred to in the Agri- cultural News (Vol. III, p. 245). Attempts have been made in the West Indies to introduce the cultivation of the Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera). Suckers have been obtained from Algeria and planted out in Jamaica and Trinidad, An account of these and other experiments is given, as also a summarized description of the methods of cultivating the date palm in Northern Africa and the Persian Gulf region. The next article is devoted to the ‘Sisal Hemp Industry. This article gives a complete account of the establishment of this industry in the Bahamas: references are also made to the successful cultivation of sisal in the Caicos Islands. The concluding article is an interesting description, by Mr. L. Lewton-Brain, B.A., F.LS., of the ‘West Indian Anthracnose of Cotton. Mr. Lewton-Brain’s paper, which is illustrated by a number of drawings, shows that this disease is caused by a variety of the fungus (Colletotrichum gossypii), which is the cause of the American anthracnose. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SEPTEMBER 24, 1904. INSECT NOTES. Dominica. The following extracts are taken from Mr. Ballou’s report on his recent visit to Dominica :— As the time at my disposal was very short I made no inspection of the gardens and nurseries. Some time was spent in discussing a disease of the pine-apple and an injury to cacao which Mr. Brooks brought to my notice. The pine- apple disease appeared to be ‘Tangle root,’ while the injury to cacao seemed to be due to the action of wind rather than to any specific disease. The two fumigation chambers have been completed and are in place at the Botanic Station ready for the fumigation of imported and other plants. Some time was also spent going over the lime groves on the Bath estate. Most of the lime trees were in excellent condition, and though a few scale insects were to be seen, the beneficial effects of the thorough and systematic spraying done in 1903 were very evident. No spraying has been done on the Bath estate on the present crop (1904), which, My. Frampton informed 10e, promised at that time to be the largest in recent years. On one lot (No. 12) Mr. Frampton pointed out several trees that had set large numbers of fruits which had dropped while still quite small, leaving only very few to develop. The cause of this was not apparent, and in view of the large crop being harvested, it would not seem that much loss had resulted from the dropping of the fruits, but in another year when the crop was lighter its effects might be much more noticeable. The trees on which this condition was observed were all old and slightly infested with scale insects (JV/yti/aspis citricola), and in some cases the tips of the branches from which the limes had fallen, were infested, but without further investigation it could not he asserted that they caused the young fruit to drop. Antigua. In his report on his recent visit to Antigua, Mr. Ballou makes the following interesting observa- tions :— At the time of my visit Antigua was suffering from an unusually prolonged and severe drought, the effects of which were plainly to be seen in the condition of the plants at the 3otanic Station, of the crops on the estates, and in the appearance of vegetation generally. In the nursery I discovered a red bug very similar to the cotton stainer of the Southern Islands (Dysdercus andrcae). This insect was feeding on the seeds, seedlings, leaves, and stems of the Balloon vine (Cardiospermum Halicacabum) in much the same way that the cotton stainers feed on the cotton. It proves to be quite a distinct species from the cotton stainers. It had not been previously noticed, and as syraying was at once resorted to, it is hoped to prevent its spread. At Scott’s Hill the seedling limes were quite free They had recently been sprayed. The lime from scales. hedge, however, was attacked by scales and a plot of cotton which was still standing was attacked, but this latter had yielded its crop and was about to be taken out and burned. At Bendall’s the canes which were at the factory were seen to be infested by the cane scale (Aspidiotus sacchari). It seems likely that this scale would have been much less conspicuous, perhaps not noticeable, had the canes been harvested at the usual time, but the harvesting of the crop had been delayed on account of the changes being made in the factory. In some parts of the island the gold tick (Hyalomma aegypticus) was abundant, and there were a few cases of skin disease of cattle reported. At Skerrett’s one animal was seen with skin disease, but no ticks were to be found. This animal (a young bull) has had the skin disease since last year, and though not getting better does not apparently get any worse, Most of the disease among cattle seemed to be due more to poor water and scarcity of feed and pasturage than to the skin disease. There seems to he a difference of opinion as to the relation of the ticks to this disease. Another serious problem is the disease of Antigua pine- apples. This disease has already had a very bad effect on the trade in pines, as many pines are lost in shipment ; pines which appear perfectly sound from without are found to have black hearts when eut. The cotton worm which has no other recorded food plant than cotton is said in Antigua to feed on the wiid tamarind (Pithecolobium filicifolium). In Antigna also it is reported that the gaulding feeds on the cotton worm. IMPERIAL DIRECT WEST INDIA MAIL SERVICE. Prior to the departure of the 8.8. ‘ Port Kingston,’ the latest addition to the Imperial Direct West India line of steamers, a luncheon was given on board by Sir Alfred Jones, which was attended by a representa- tive company of merchants, shippers, and others, Responding to the toast, ‘Suecess to Jamaica and the West Indies, Sir Daniel Morris said :-— He was of opinion that the West Indies, as a whole, were beginning to improve, after having had a long spell of bad times due to circumstances beyond their control. Now that the sugar bounties had been removed there was a better chance for that industry, and he believed that with fair play the sugar industry of the West Indies had as good a chance of being a success as that in any part of the world. He paid a tribute to the splendid work which Sir Alfred Jones had done for the West Indies in many directions outside the contract in connexion with the West Indian line. The Imperial Direct Company had done its best in the interests of Jamaica, and he believed it was possible for it to do still more by conference with the people of Jamaica, and by meeting their reasonable wishes as regards the shipment of fruit and produce. He was, he said, in full sympathy with anything calenlated to improve the service between this country and the West Indies. The company had already carried upwards of one anda half million bunches of bananas and had brought to this country about 35 million oranges besides other products. At his own expense Sir Alfred Jones had carried on the vessels a large quantity of live stock, he had sent out men to inquire as to the tea industry, and he had sent out mining experts, whilst in other ways steps were being taken to develop the resources of Jamaica. He rejoiced at the evidence to-day of the coming prosperity of the West Indies. Re me VoL. Ill, No. 64. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 31: ot DOMINICA AND SHIPPING FACILITIES. Dr. H. A. A. Nicholls, C.M.G., has forwarded a copy of a letter addressed by him, as Vice-President of the Dominica Agricultural Society, to the Quebec Steamship Company relative to the present arrange- ment ‘whereby some of your company’s vessels pass by Dominica on the outward voyage. It is also complained that cargo destined for Dominica is kept over by the agents in New York until there is ‘a sufficient accumulation to warrant, in their opinion, the stoppage of one of the steamers at the island.’ That this practice is detrimental to the trade of the island is manifest from the following extracts :— As acase in point, I may cite the following facts :— During the season a very considerable quantity of fruit, such as oranges and limes, is shipped from this island by your steamers. The trade is a growing one and naturally it needs fostering, if its capabilities are to be realized to their fullest extent. On June 22 last, a shipment of orange boxes was sent to your New York wharf for a firm in this island, and the boxes were detained until July 20, by which time your New York agents decided to take freight for Dominica. This occasioned a month’s delay in the receipt of the boxes, and it caused, moreover, the suspension of fruit shipments by the firm in question, the stoppage of further orders for fruit boxes, and the consequent loss of the trade to the island and to your company. It may be that in the opinion of your New York agents the trade between that city and Dominica is not now sutticiently large to warrant the calling at the island of all the outward-bound West Indian steamers, but Dominica is becoming prosperous and its exports and imports are increasing yearly, and the system adopted by Messrs. Outer- bridge & Co. is calenlated to retard the augmentation of trade relations with New York, and with Canada through New York, for in order to save time on the journey it is necessary for fresh frnit shipped to Montreal and Toronto to go via New York, as the route by St. John, N.B., is long and circuitous. IT would ask that the above facts may meet with the serious and sympathetic consideration of yourself and the Board of Directors of your company, and I trust you will be able before long to authorize me to inform the Agricultural Society that all your outward-bound steamers to the West Indies will call at Dominica, which is on their route to the south, so that the arrangement will involve very little extra expenditure and not much delay. THE PRODUCTION OF FISH MANURE AND FISH OIL. The Journal of the Society of Arts contains an interesting article on the production of fish manure and oil in Saghalien. It is stated that a great demand exists in Japan for fish manure, and oil obtained by pressure from the fish used for manure is employed, when properly refined, as a lubricant and for other purposes. After describing the fishing operations, the following description is given of the extraction of the oil, which, in view of the attempts that have been made to work up a trade in fish oils in Dominica, is likely to be of interest :— On arrival at the beach, the bag net is emptied, and the fish thrown into an enclosure fenced in by laths, some 6 feet high. On one side of the enclosure are a number of round iron boilers, 4 or 5 feet in diameter, erected on built-up fireplaces. The fish are taken from the enclosure by removing the laths, and are thrown into the boilers. After cooking, they are put into wooden presses, 2 feet 6 inches square by 2 feet in depth, the sides and bottom of which are composed of slates, with interstices a quarter of an inch wide between them. A lid is then placed on the top, and pressure exerted in a downward direction by means of levers. The oil and water pressed from the fish escape through the interstices in the side and bottom of the press on to a wooden flooring from which a conduit leads to a tank. The tank is divided by a partition, two-thirds its height, into two compartments. The conduit leading from the press discharges its contents into the first compartment, and as that fills, the oil rising to the surface flows over into the second compartment, leaving the water and other heavier substances in the first. The oil is then put into cans and is ready for shipment. Such-has been the process hitherto followed, but in the coming season it is intended partially to refine the oil by straining it through coarse Japanese paper previous to canning. he fish after being pressed, form a compact rectangular mass; this is broken into small pieces, which are laid out on straw mats to dry in the sun. When dried, the fish or, as it now is, fish manure, is packed in straw bales for transport, and is ready for use, From the foregoing brief description an idea will be obtained of the primitive methods employed in this industry, and also of the amount of valuable commercial product which must necessarily be wasted in consequence of the adoption of these methods. By the use of modern machinery a far larger output of fish manure and oil could be obtained from the same weight of fish. DEPARTMENT NEWS. It is probable that Sir Daniel Morris will return to the West Indies in R.M.S. ‘Trent, leaving South- ampton on October 12. Mr. H. A. Ballou, B.Sc., Entomologist on the statf of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, left Barbados in §. 8. ‘Sibun’ on Tuesday, September 13, for St. Lucia. Mr. Ballou will spend some time in St. Lucia for the purpose of inspecting cotton experi- ment plots and advising planters generally as to the cultivation of cotton and the treatment of pests. Mr. John Belling, B.Sc., Agricultural and Science Master at St. Kitt’s, has been granted six weeks’ vacation leave of absence from September 12. Dr. R. A. Stoute, D.V.S., Veterinary Surgeon to the Imperial Department of Agriculture, has been granted eight weeks’ leave of absence from September 16. During his absence, his duties will be performed by Dr. Perey Stoute, D.V.S. Bee Farming in Australia. During the year 1902-5, there were 4,402 bee keepers with 32,126 hives in the State of Victoria, Australia. They produced 1,199,331 tb. of honey and 23,061 tb. of wax. 316 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SepreMBer 24, 1904. GLEANINGS. It is notified that the first of a series of lectures on Agricultural Science in Berbice will be delivered at All Saints’ School, New Amsterdam, on December 7, 1904. The orange crop of Barcelona was very abundant in 1903, and the farmers obtained good prices. From Valencia and Denia 564,434 cases were exported. (Consular Report, 1905.) The fifth annual Agricultural Show under the auspices cf the Imperial Department of Agriculture will be held at Montserrat during the month of February. The rainfall at Antigua during the year 1903-4 amounted to 63°04 inches. This is 7°80 inches more than in the preceding year, and 16°33 inches more than the average for the past thirty years. The Agricultural Instructor at Dominica reports that at St. Sauveur Father Francois has been successful in the cultivation of asparagus in his kitchen garden. The crop was ready for reaping in thirteen months. Among the exports of St. Lucia during 1905 the following items are of interest: Cassia Fistula, 16 packages (value, £20); musk seeds, 25 barrels (value, £85 10s.) ; pimento sticks (value, £554 10s.). Mr. H. Millen, Curator of the Tobago Botanic Station, writes: ‘Bamboos are found growing on almost all the hillsides where cacao is being planted. As they gr Ww rapidly and are not easily uprooted, they are being retained as wind-breaks.’ Mr. J. R. Bovell, Agricultural Superintendent at Barbados, has received an order from a firm in England for 5 barrels of sweet potatos and 1 barrel of yams each month. Any one desiring to ship these vegetables should communi- cate with Mr. Bovell. A company has been floated in Jamaica for providing a system of cold storage. It is proposed to supply fresh meat to ships. The company is also desirous of working up a connexion with other West Indian Islands for the supply of beef and mutton. During the fortnight ended August 25, 47 bales of West Tndian cotton were imported in the United Kingdom. Sales have been effected at the following prices : West Indian, 4. to 6°34d.; West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 157: fine, l4d.: extra fine, 1607. (West India Committee Circular.) The rubber industry should be of far greater importance than it is at present. There are in Guatemala large tracts of land suitable for growing rubber; but owing to the impossibility of sufticiently policing the country, the rubber is frequently stolen from the trees. (Consular Report, 1902-3.) An Agricultural Show will be held at the Agricultural School, St. Vincent, under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture and a local committee, in March 1905. It is hoped that intending competitors will avail themselves of this early notification in the preparation of exhibits. At a recent meeting of the Trinidad Agricultuval Society, Mr. J. H. Hart exhibited specimens of the Mexican melocoton grown in the colony. This vegetable is used like a vegetable marrow. The melocoton has also been grown successfully at the Botanic Station at St. Lucia. There has been an increase in the export of oranges from Jaffa during the last few years. According to the Consular Report on the trade of Palestine, the exports of oranges in 1903 were valued at £93,435 as against an average value of £83,535 for 1899-1903. Further planting is in progress. The Maritime Merchant of August 11 contains an account of an interview with Mr. C. 8. Pickford, of the firm of Pickford & Black, who has recently paid an extended visit to these islands. Mr. Pickford speaks encouragingly of the hnproyed industrial conditions of the West Indies, making special mention of the sugar industry and of cotton growing. We are informed by a successful grower of onions in Barbados that he has experienced no trouble from ants when the seed has been sown, as recommended in the last issue of the Agricultural News, in drills. Where, however, the seed was merely scattered over the surface of the bed, a consider- able proportion was lost. In the course of a discussion at a meeting of the British Guiana Board of Agriculture on the advisability of importing cocoa-nuts for cultivation, Professor Harrison stated that he had obtained nuts from Singapore and Trinidad, and had come to the conclusion that nuts grown in the colony compared very favourably with those imported. What was required was selection, both for planting and for shipping. In the Natal Ayricultural Journal tor July 22, considerable space is devoted to notes on cotton cultivation, which include a number of extracts from the West Indian Bulletin. (nan editorial note it is stated that copies of the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. IV, no. 4, have been obtained by the Natal Agricultural Department, which may be obtained on application, price Is. During the quarter ended June 50, 1904, 1,438 bales and 12 bags of cotton were exported from the British West Indies. The total weight was 415,209 tb., and the estimated value £15,514 14s. The shipments were all to the United Kingdom. Particulars of the cotton exports for the previous quarter will be found in the Agriew/tura? News (Vol. IL, p. 204). ¥ wore LIE No: - 64. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 317 THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRI- CULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. The following appreciative review of the work of the Imperial Department of Agriculture appeared in The Times of August 27, 1904 :— In the midst of other and larger colonial preoccupations the West Indies have of late attracted little public attention in this country. In some respects that is a goed sign, since prosperity is generally very well content to be let alone, and as such we may fairly take it in the light of the speech delivered at Avonmouth the other day by Sir Daniel Morris, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies. No man is better qualified to speak with authority on this subject than Sir Daniel Morris. He has known the West Indies as few men know them for over a quarter of acentury. He has known them in the days of their deepest depression, as was shown by the report on their economic condition which he prepared for the Royal Commission of 1896. He has seen those days pass away and he has himself been largely, we might say mainly, instrumental in bringing about a better state of things It would hardly be possible to exaggerate the benefits, actual and prospective, which have been conferred on the West Indies by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, established by Mr. Chamberlain, and organized with admirable skill and energy by Sir Daniel Morris. Established at a very critical time, when the sugar industry, once the mainstay of West Indian prosperity, was being slowly bled to death by the desolating rivalry of the sugar bounties, when the planters were discouraged and impoverished, when some of the islands depending solely on sugar were on the verge of ruin, when, except in Jamaica, which had secured a large market in the United States, other agricultural industries were very imperfectly developed, the Department has in a few years done more than any other single agency to save and restore the whole situation. For the abolition of the sugar bounties it is not, of course, directly responsible, but by its systematic researches and experiments on the cultivation of the sugar-cane it has done a, very great deal to enable the West Indian planters to reap the full benefit of that most salutary measure. It has organized and encouraged the development of such alternative agricultural industries as are best suited to the climatic con- ditions of the several islands ; and, above all, it has promoted the cultivation by the best methods, and with the most approved appliances, of Sea Island cotton, a measure which, though it may have no very conspicuous effect on the cotton market in this country, and no commanding share in the industrial economy of the Empire, is undoubtedly one of real Imperial import, and of large promise for the future of the West Indies themselves. This is a very different picture from that which Sir Daniel Morris was compelled to draw for the Royal Commis- sion of 1896. Nor is it the only proof we have that the West Indies are about to see better days. The occasion on which Sir Daniel Morris spoke is another. His speech was delivered at Avonmouth on board the ‘Port Kingston,’ the largest and best appointed steamer that has ever been devoted to the West Indian trade. Five years ago scarcely any one had ever seen a Jamaica banana in this country. Now it is to be bought in all parts of the country at a price which brings it within the reach of all but the very poorest. ‘This is due to the establishment of the Imperial Direct Line -of steamers to Jamaica—another of the measures undertaken by Mr. Chamberlain on the recommendation of the Royal Commission. A large market for Jamaica bananas has been -ereated in this country, such as must result, in the long run, in a large development of the banana industry in Jamaica and a corresponding increase in the cultivation of other fruits, especially the orange; and, though the supply was interrupted for a time in consequence of the hurricane of last year, yet the putting of a new steamer on the line, which ean carry 40,000 bunches of bananas and 15,000 cases of other fruits, is a proof that Messrs. Elder, Dempster & Co., the owners and founders of the line, are as fully convinced as Sir Daniel Morris is that the prosperity of the West Indies, and of Jamaica in particular, is returning. EDUCATIONAL. Teaching of Agriculture in Trinidad. The annual report of the Inspector of Schools in Trinidad for 1903-4 contains the following account of the efforts that are being made to introduce the teach- ing of agriculture in elementary schools :— The methods adopted for fostering and maintaining a love of ‘ Nature study’ are :— (1) Making practical agriculture and ‘ Nature teaching’ a part of the curriculum in all rural primary boys or mixed schools. (2) Establishment of school gardens wherever practic- able. (3) Free distribution to teachers of agriculture literature, such as the Agricultural News, the Bulletin of the Botanical Department, and the Proceedings of the Agricultural Society of Trinidad. (4) Periodical visits to schoois by the Agricultural Instructors to give advice and instruction. (5) Bi-weekly lectures on chemistry to the male students of Port-of-Spain Training Schools by one of the Government Laboratory Assistants. (6) Weekly lectures on practical agriculture to the male students of the Port-of-Spain and San Fernando Training Schools by an Agricultural Instructor. (7) Annual School Vegetable Shows at four agricultural centres of the colony. With a view to stimulating teachers in their efforts to carry into effect the first and second of the above measures, the Board of Education has adopted two methods :— (1) By a re-adjustment of the scale of bonuses an award for agriculture is given to the teacher by the Inspector on the results at the annual examination. (2) By obtaining the highest award (‘very good’) in the subject of practical agriculture for three successive years, a third-class head teacher of ten years standing, may be promoted to the second class. In this way five teachers have gained promotion to the second class during the past year. The advantages gained by thoroughly grounding our teachers in a knowledge of the elementary principles of agriculture can hardly be over-estimated. I hope that it may be found possible in the future to send the Agricultural Instructors more frequently to the country schools. Nearly 200 of our primary schools now have gardens, and however successful these may be in the production of vegetables, if the experimental (and more purely educational) part of the work is to be of any practical utility, the advice of the expert will be constantly needed. I am glad to be able to report that in a few of the schools of the southern district, exceptionally good work of this character is in progress, and some interesting notes with reference to it are given in the report of the Senior Assistant Inspector. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SrerremBer 24, 1904. MARKET REPORTS. London,— August 30, 1904. Messrs. J. Hanes Camp & Co., Messrs. Krarton, Preer & Co., Messrs. E. A. pE Pass & Co., ‘THE West [npr Committee Crr- cuLar; ‘Tae Lrverroon Corron Assocration WeEEKLY Crrcutar, August 26 ; and ‘THE PuBLic Lepcer,’ August 27, 1904. Arors—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 14/- to 38/- per ewt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 1fd. per Tb. Baxara—Block, 1/3 per Tb. BEES’-WAxX—£7 5s. to £7 15s. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 58/- to 62/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 54/- to 58 - per ewt. ; Dominica, 49/- to 57/- per ewt. ; Jamaica, 51/- to 57/6 per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 73d. to 2/- per Ib. CorrEE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 38/- per ewt. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 138d. ; fine, 147. ; extra fine, 16d. per tb. Frvuir— Bananas—Jamaica, 4/- to 8/- per bunch. Grape Freir—Jamaica, 10/- to 11/- per case. OrancEes—Jamaica, 8/6 to 11/- per case. Prye-arpLes—Antigua, 14/- per barrel. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gincer—Fair to good bright, 426 to 47/6; common to middling, 29/- to 37/6 per ewt. Honex—15, - to 24/- per ewt. Istyatass—West Indian lump, 2/5 to 2/10; cake, 1/1 to 13 per th. Konia Nuts—4d. to 7d. per th. Lime Jurce—Raw, 1/3 to 1/5 per gallon; concentrated, £14 per cask of 108 gallons. Line O1—Distilled, 1/6 to 1/7 per th. ; handpressed, 2/9 to 3,- per th Locwoon —£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Macre—Fine pale, 1/8; Fair red to good pale, 1/2 to 1/5; per tb. Nirrate or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 5s. per ton. Nutmecs-—59’s, 2/4; 76's, 1/2; 100’s, 9d.; 150's, Sd. per th. Pimento—2}d. per th. Rum—Demerara, Td. per proof gallon; Jamaica, Is. o%/. tols 94d. per proof gallon. SarsaparmtLa—Jamaica, 7d. to 1/1 per Th. Sucar—Crystallized, 16/9 to 17/3 per ewt. ; Muscovado, Barbados, 13/6 to 14/- per ewt.; Molasses, 11,6 to 15/- per ewt. SutpHare or AmMontaA—£11 17s. 6d. per ton. Montreal,—August 8, 190!.—Myr. J. Russert Murray. (In bond quotations.) Bananas—Jamaica, 8dce. to $100 per bunch of 8 hands ; $115 to $125 per bunch firsts ; $1°50 per bunch Jumbos, c. & f. Cepar—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot, c. & f. Cocoa-Nurs— Jamaica, $25:00 to $27:00 ; Trinidad, $21-00 to $24:00 per M., c. & f. Correr—Jamaica, medium, 8c. to 9c. per th., c. & f. Gincer—Jamaica, unbleached, 64c. to 8c. per th., c. & f. Limes—Jamaica, $4°00 per barrel, c. & f. Mo rascvir—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 th., ¢. & f. Motasses—Barbados, 24c. to 26e.; Antigua, 20c. to 21e. per Imperial gallon. Nurmecs—Grenada, 110's, 17¢. to 18e. per th., c. & f. Pimento—Jamaica, 7j}c. to The. per th., c. & f. Pine-arpLteEs—Cubans, crates 36’s to 18’s, $3°75 to $4:10. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°55 to $2°60 per 100 Th., c. &f. —Centrifugals, 89°, $2°25 to $2°30 per 100 tb., c. & £. —Molasses, 89°, $2:10 per 100 tb., c. &f. —FParbados, 89°, $2°35 per 100 tb., c. &. f. - ~— New York,—August 19, 1904.—Messrs. GILLESPIE: Bros. & Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12{¢. to13c.; Jamaica, Mfc. to 11}c.; Grenada, 12c. to 124¢.; Trinidad, 12c. to 13c. per th. Cocoa-Nurs—Trinidads, $25 to $27 per M., selected ; Jamaicas—$30-00 per M. CorrrE—Jamaica, fair to good ordinary, 8$c. per tb. Gixcer—Jamaica, Te. to 8e. per th. Goat Skixs—Jamaicas, 52c. to 544c. per tb. Pimento—4Ze. per tb., spot quotation. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 4}c. ; Muscovados, 89°, 31}c. to 3c. ; Molasses, 89°, 3,%;¢. to 3$c. per Tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—September 10, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncn & Co. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—Dominica, $13°50 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nurs—$13°50 per M. for husked nuts. Corree—Jamaica, $10°00 to $11-00 ; ordinary Rio, $12-00 per 100. tb, Hay —9de. to $1°00 per 100 th. Manvures—- Nitrate of soda, $60-00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72°00 to $75°00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Morasses— Market closed. Oxtons—Madeira (stringed), $1°75 per 100 tb. Poraros, ENGLtisH—$2°88 to $3°00; Nova Scotia, $3-0% per 160 th. Rice—Ballam, $4°50 to $4°60 per bag (190 tb.); Patna, $3°40 per 100 tb. Sucar—Market closed. British Guiana,—September 8, 1904.—Messrs. W1EtTinG & Ricwrer. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. Batara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—$¢6°50 per barrel. Cocoa-Nurs—8 ‘00 to $10°00 per M. Corrre—Rio and Jamaica, 13c. to 13hc. per th. (retail). —Creole, lle. per tb. Duat— $4:25 to $4:40 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—Sd4e. per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 15}c. per gallon (casks. included). Oxtons—Madeira, $1°80 to $1-90 per 100 tb. ; Teneriffe, $1°50 to $1°75 per 100 Ib. Pea Nurs—American, 7e. per tb. (retail). Prayrars—20e. to 36c. per bunch. Poravos, Enxoenisa—Lisbon and Madeira, $1°50 per 100 th. (retail). Rrce—Ballam, $4°40 to $450; Creole, $4°50 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweer Poratros—Barbados, 7T2c. per bag. Tannras—$1°68 per barrel. Yamus—White, $2°64 per bag. Sccar—Dark Crystals, $2°50 to $2°60; Yellow, $2°50 to ‘80; White, $3°50 to $3°75; Molasses, $2°00 to 5 per 100 th. :—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubie foot. WaALLABA SHINGLES—$3'00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. Trinidad, —September 8, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, GRANT & Co. ; and Messrs. Epcar Trier & Co, Cacao—Ordinary, $1220 to $12°35; Estates, $12°40 to $12-60; Venezuelan, $1250 to $1275 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nuts—$19°00 per M., f.0.b. Cocoa-Nuv Or.—73e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corrre—Venezuelan, Te. to Tfe. per th. Corra—$2°85 per 100 tb. Ox1ons—$1-20 to $1:25 per 100 tb. Poraros, ExcrisH—$1°40 to $1°50 per 100 tb. t1ce—Yellow, $4°10 to $4°50; White Table, $4°80 to $5°50 per bag. Vou. Il. No. 64. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 319 Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume I. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes IT and III. Price in original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. Nos. 1 and 2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton Cultivation (out of print). No. +. Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the West Indies. Price 6d. each number. Post free, 8d. Volume V. No. 1. Papers on general subjects. No. 2. West Indian Fodder Plants ; Cold Storage of Fruit ; The Date Palm ; Sisal Hemp; Anthracnose of Cotton; &e., &e. Price 6d. each number. Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied :— (3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 2hd. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd. Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 44d. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2¢. Post free, 24d. 5 (7) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Séedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. a (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. ) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 241. 21) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. i 22) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part II. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. “ Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2. Post free, 24d. Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, . 32d. = Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Manurial Experiments with Sugar-cane in the Leeward Islands, 1902-3. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. A. B. C. of Cotton Planting. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING.’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2. 6d. Postage in either binding, 34d. extra. L b ee ee eee WwW wld wl = OO Waa Ul > ~~ (SSS SS SS OSE The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS, A _ Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. _The ‘ Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 13d. The subscription price, including postage, is ls. 74d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and II complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. AUl applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department. Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: THe Wes Inp1a Committers, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Sarbados: Messrs. Bownn & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Tae Epucarronan Suppry Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guiana: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Zrinidad: Messrs. Morr, MarsHatt & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. PLAGEMANN, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrasr & Co., ‘The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproor, Kingstown. St. Lucia: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F. Duverney & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat : Mr. W. LunwELiyn WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Msnons, St. John’s. St. Avtt’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Nevis: Mr. 8. D. MAtoNng, Charlestown. Lahamas : Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. 320 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. SepreMBerR 24, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE st PASE Ey Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ESTATE FOR SALE OR TO LET. An excellent property situate between the Wood- | ford Hill and Brookdale Estates in the parish of St. Andrew’s, Dominica. | zs SPECIAL TERMS FOR CASH. For full particulars apply to the proprietor, NATHL. POWELL, | Wesley, Dominica. ¢ CA CEO. By J. H. HART, F.LS. NEW EDITION. A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of ’ c « COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Price 3s. per copy. DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. FOR COTTON GROWERS : A. B. G. OF COTTON PLANTING FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, Containing full directions for the coming season. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 6 WEST (VOL. IV, NO. 4.), Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Sc., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter. 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, INDIAN BULLETIN’ | Andia Rubber in Bahia... 324 A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW NEW OBE OF IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDI “ =O fa aA", Fi f 7 a THE Wor. Ill. No. 65. BARBADOS, OCTOBER 8, 1904. Price 1d. CONTENTS. PAGE. Insect Notes :— Ants on Fruit trees ... 350 Cotton Worm ... ... 330 IMontsernaieeaameeeie ess Manila Hemp, Cultiva- tion of Ronee aoe Banana Industry :-— Barbados Costa Rica ... Bees’-wax, Indian ... Belgian Hares w- O28 we O24 . 329 . 383 Citrus trade in Sicily ... 324 Cotton Industry :— M arket Reports Raaicn 32g | Notes and Comments Manuring in Egypt ... 325 Orchard Culture, Experi- Gi. WAS 295 ments in... ... ... 326 Sveum Ibarra 399 | Plant Fibres, Principal € eee eee Ve a] Gace 292 lnited! States. Gea Commercial wes O20 a Poultry Notes... ... .. ddl Island Crop ... ... 32 West Indian Cotton ... 32: Department News... ... 33 Department Reports :— Science Notes :--- Bamboo, Flowering of 526 Essential Oils in Plants 526 Sugar Industry :— Pea ey ea=) a2 5-= SDS Cubs . Sipe, Shei g20 Grenada... w.- 338 Mauritius, Varieties in 328 Educational :— Trinidad, Cane farming Nature Teaching ... 331 i jon! oo ag oon St. Lucia... ... ... 331 | Sweet Potatos as Stock Gleanings ah 332 food ... 33 The Sisal Hemp Industry and the West Indies 521 West Africa, Develop- men OLweee ese ee O29 West Indian Products ... 334 Ground Nuts in Gambia 323 Hawaiian Islands, Agri- culture in . 329 The Sisal Hemp Industry and the West Indies. N regard to soil requirements the sisal hemp plant is not exacting, and there are, = 3 in different parts of the West Indies, considerable tracts of land which might be utilized for the cultivation of sisal hemp—land, too, which, on account of its dry and rocky nature, is not suitable for Moreover, there appears to be’ a considerable demand for this fibre, especially in the United States, and at present, at any rate, the price of sisal fibre is sufficiently high to enable it to be grown growing other crops. very profitably. As the Imperial Department of Agriculture is anxious to encourage the planting of sisal hemp, full information as to its cultivation and preparation for market has been published in the current issue of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. 5, no 2). In the same article a brief sketch is given of the progress of the industry in the Bahamas and the Caicos Islands. The cultivation of this plant on a commercial scale is carried on principally in Yucatan, the Bahamas, the Caicos Islands, and Hawaii. The total exports of sisal from Mexico (known there as henequen) in 1902 were 88,087 tons. From the Bahamas, in the same year, 1,042 tons, of the value of £37,574, were exported, while the Caicos Islands exported 222 tons, of the value of £7,100. In the same year 89,583 tons of sisal hemp were imported into the United States. The sisal industry in the Bahamas has increased in importance during the last eight or nine years to a very considerable extent. At first, as is usual in the initial stages in the establishment of such an industry, more or less serious difficulties had to be met, and doubts were entertained as to the ultimate success of the 322 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Octoper 8, 1904. ventures: now, however, the industry is well established and appears to be of a decidedly remunerative character. The progress of the sisal industry in the Caicos Islands, where excellent fibre is produced, is particu- larly interesting. The commencement of the industry dates from about 1889, when Captain Jackson, then Commissioner of the islands, drew attention to the existence of the plant. Through Captain Jackson's efforts a government nursery was established from which a large number of plants were distributed. The export of sisal hemp began in 1894 with £419 worth: from that time the exports have gradually increased till, as already stated, they reached the value of £7,100 in 1902, The price of this fibre in the London market has been subject to somewhat violent fluctuations. The highest price reached during the past twenty-five years was £56 10s. in March 1889: from that date, owing to the operations of the Cordage Trust, the price fell continually, until in 1895, it reached the lowest price it had ever reached, viz., £13 per ton, or a little less than 13d. per tb. During the past nine years, however, the prices have shown an upward tendency, reaching £43 in 1902; last year the average price was £36 per ton, or about 4. per Ib. In the United States there have been similar fluctuations: during the past ten years the price has varied from 2$c. to 10c. per tb. Next, with regard to the yield of fibre. In Yucatan the average yield from the fifth to the seventh year is 75 tb. of fibre to 1,000 leaves. It was estimated by Sir Daniel (then Dr.) Morris in 1896, that in the Bahamas the yield of fibre per acre would not be likely to fall below half a ton. If the cost of production be placed at 1d. per tb., there would be a profit of 37. per tb., or over £2 per acre, even at the lowest price (13d. per tb.) that sisal fibre has ever reached. It is obvious, therefore, that, with the price as at present, satisfac- tory profits should be obtained. In sisal hemp, then, we have a crop which can be grown in the poor and rocky lands unsuited to other forms of cultivation, its cultivation is a simple matter, and reliable machines can be obtained for preparing the fibre. It will be necessary for planters to direct attention to the uniform production of a first-class fibre to meet the requirements of the best markets, and an endeavour would have to be made to prevent the export of short or immature fibre in order to make a good name for West Indian sisal in the markets, SUGAR Cane Farming in Trinidad. INDUSTRY. The returns of the Trinidad cane farmers’ crop for 1904 are published in the Proceedings of the Agri- cultural Society (Paper no. 222). The following table is an abstract showing the returns for the last seven years :—- | Se , x 3 let Mh ee) a No. of Farmers. Fs =o o 2 = = = ee = ae! iS n> = os 5) | 22 Sale cee ees g|8)4 ee Se a Ons oe Es fon l= : a nee n? mu Br sey =5 =| 13/5 See ie | ous 5 E So), Olle la |S am = a <= oe '1904/50,744| 1,669 '385,015 171,947 $360,046 4,646 4,685 9,331 1903). 1,783 [337,632 166,590 $348, 445/4,443 4,440/8,883 11902} 2 4,379 (337,911 184,867 $327 ,183/4,506 4,850/9,356 11901} 5 3,652 434,003 169,918 $369, 482/3,819 4,737 /8,556 1900) 2 1,286 (364,355) 105,996 $227 .865/2,826 3,591]6,417 1899| = 1,571 eae 106,741/$219,011 2,826 3,870)6,696 l1s98| = -— |105.753!$202,901/2,326 3,82416, 150 The Cuban Sugar Industry. The Sugar Planters Journal contains an x interesting review, by Dr. C. A. Kern, of the sugar industry in the West Indies, from which we take the following extracts relating to the possibilities of Cuba as a sugar-producing country :— The recent passage of the Cuban reciprocity treaty has called the attention of the American sugar world to the resources and history not only of the island of Cuba, but also of the other West Indian Islancs, especially Hayti and Santo Domingo. The increase of the sugar product, and also the lessening of the cost of its production, as reported by the United States Consul-General in Havana, are remarkable, and show what might be accomplished in this line in the other islands. The cost of cultivation, planting, etc., is $1,201 per caballeria (33°16 acres) ; this produces, at a fair average, 614 tons of cane ; virgin soil yields as high as 1,000 tons of cane, but the afore-mentioned quantity is the average taken from statistical figures. The average yield in sugar is from 195 to 235 Ib. per ton, according to the more or less improved machinery employed. The percentage derived by the use of modern machinery is from 10°5 to 11 per cent. of sugar, while that derived by old machinery amounts to from’8°5 to 9 per cent. The possibilities of enlarging the output of sugar in Cuba are enormous. Of all the available land for cultivation of cane, only one-quarter is cultivated, viz., 12,784 caballerias of the suitable 51,344 caballerias. With proper cultivation and with improved modern machinery Cuba alone is in the position to produce annually about 5,000,000 to 6,000,000 tons of sugar, or about half of the present production of the world. ‘ Vou. III. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 323 Sugar-cane Varieties in Mauritius. In an article in the International Sugar Journal on the sugar industry of Mauritius, Mr. Noel Deerr makes the following observations on varieties of canes and seedlings :— A very large number of varieties of canes are grown: formerly the Louzier, a cane very similar to, if not identical with, the West Indian Bourbon, was the great sugar producer, but its proclivity towards disease has led to its gradual abandonment. The canes most in favour now are the White and Striped Tanna. The latter is the Cheribon cane of Java, a purple and yellow striped cane of great girth and length, fungus-resistant, but inclined to form short joints: the White Tanna is a bud sport from the Striped and is now held in great favour; it reproduces the best points of the parent cane, at the same time not being so inclined to form short joints ; from clinical field observation the writer does not think it is so fungus-resistant as the Striped. The Black Tanna, also a bud sport and much resembling the parent cane in habit, is not extensively grown. All these three varieties are gross feeders and do best when grown on rich soils,* or when liberally manured and watered ; they give the best comparative results as plant canes, their superiority over the Louzier being less pronounced in the ratoon crops ; over a four-crop rotation the writer has no hesitation in putting their superiority over the Louzier at 25 per cent. at least. Other canes extensively grown are the Port Mackay, a claret cane with inconspicuous, but well-defined, bronze- green stripe, and of average height and girth ; this cane is characterized by frequently forming variegated or quite white leaves ; the Iscambine, a red cane, and the Striped Iscambine, a yellow and green cane, are also frequently seen; both of these are non-resistant to fungus. ‘he classical Horne cane is also sometimes seen on the estate scale. The history of seedlings in Mauritius is very peculiar ; shortly after the discovery by Soltwedel in Java, and by Harrison and Boyell in Barbados, of the fertility of cane seed, seedlings were successfully raised in Mauritius by Mr. George Perromat: a large number of these were distributed to estates and raised to separate varieties, but the careful systematic work which has characterized the West Indian development of the subject has been entirely absent from Mauritius; each estate which received seedlings numbered them as it thought proper, and as estate managers frequently started seedling nurseries, chaos soon resulted : to cap all a seedling mania arose, and whole fields were put under seedlings, of the properties of which nothing was known ; provided a new seedling was well advertised, its fortunate proprietor could sell cuttings at fancy prices, to his own great benefit, and frequently to the detriment of the purchaser. Out of chaos something like order has at last resulted as the outcome of the survival of the fittest, and the following Mauritius seedlings may be mentioned as recog- nized sugar producers :— No. 33; a green cane of recumbent habit often forming peculiar abortive joints. Nos. 53 and 65; both purplish canes of average girth and height. No. 131; a deep purple cane of slender habit but extra- ordinarily prolific in the number of canes in a stool. No. 134 ; a brown cane at maturity of rather less than average girth. * ‘Tanna’ is the native Javanese term for ‘rich earth,’ GROUND NUTS IN GAMBIA. The principal article of export from Gambia is ground nuts. In 1903, the value exported was £275,394, or over 80 per cent. of the total value of the colony’s exports for the year. This is the largest output ever known. As this is the principal industry in the colony, the following note, from the Annual Report, on its cultivation, is of interest:— The ground nut which originally came from Brazil is the breath and life of the Gambia. It may be of interest to mention that the nuts are usually planted after the first rains in June and mature in about five months. They are reaped towards the end of October or beginning of November and placed in large heaps in the fields. Early in Jannary the nuts are ‘beaten,’ as it is termed, in order to separate them from the vines, and from the soil which has clung to them. ‘The clouds of dust raised from this beating can be seen for miles distant. The nuts are then collected and brought to the factories from whence they are shipped direct to Marseilles, where they are crushed in mills and the oil extracted. The oil of the ground nut, which is said to be as much as 40 to 50 per cent. of the weight of the shelled nut, is pleasant to taste and smell, and very closely resembles the best olive oil, for which it is largely sold. The lower grades of oil are used for lubricating purposes and also in the manufacture of soap. After the oil is extracted the refuse is converted into cake or meal for feeding cattle, ete. The best or picked nuts, which command about double the price of the ordinary nuts, are usually shipped to England for confectionery purposes. The average yield of ground nuts per acre is between 60 and 80 bushels, for which the natives were paid this year, on the average, 1s, per bushel. In the previous year the price averaged between 2s. to 3s. the bushel. In former years nuts were sold by the measure, the price for which was 2s. The price never altered ; but the measure, which contained anything between 52 to 68 Ib. of nuts, often did. With the introduction of the cash trade, however, the measure has gradually disappeared, the natives now selling by weight, a system they much prefer. PRINCIPAL COMMERCIAL PLANT FIBRES. In an interesting articleon the subject of commer- cial plant fibres, in the Yearbook of the United States Department of Agriculture, the writer classifies fibres as follows :— Vegetable fibres used in textile manufactures in this country may be readily divided into three rather distinct classes, either from the standpoint of the manufacturer, who regards the kind of machinery or process of treating the fibre and the character of the goods produced, or from the view- point of the botanist, who regards the character of the plant and the manner in which the fibre is borne. These three classes are : (1) The cottons, with soft, lint-like fibre, 3 inch to 2 inches long, composed of single cells, borne on the seeds of different species of cotton plants. (2) The soft fibres, or bast fibres, including flax, hemp, and jute ; flexible fibres of soft texture, 10 to 100 inches in length, composed of many overlapping cells, and borne in the inner bark of the plants. (3) The hard, or leaf, fibres, including Manila, sisal, Mauritius, New Zealand fibres, and ixtle, all having rather stiff, woody fibres, 1 to 10 feet long, composed of numerous cells in bundles, borne in the tissues of the leaf or leaf-stem. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Ocroper 8, 1904. AN WEST INDIAN FRUIT. CITRUS TRADE IN SICILY. The following extracts from the Consular Report on Sicily for 1903 indicate the extent of the citrus fruit industry in the island. The items of export under this head include oranges and lemons, pickled fruit and peels, concentrated lernon juice, citric acid, citrate of lime, and essential oils :— ORANGES AND LEMONS. Messina.—The oranges and Jemons exported in boxes from Messina during the years 1901, 1902, and 1903 amounted to 53,155, 53,815, and 19,342 tons respectively. The considerable decrease in the export is undoubtedly due to the fact that all the produce of the province of Catania which was formerly forwarded to Messina for shipment is now shipped direct from Catania. Moreover, several fruit merchants who were established at Messina are now transacting their business from Catania. In 1903, 7,076 tons were shipped from Messina to various ports in the United Kingdom. The total shipments of oranges and lemons in 1903 were 19,342 tons, as against 53,815 tons in 1902. Palermo.—Ot the total of over 100,000 tons of oranges and lemons exported, there were 84,436 tons of fresh lemons, 15,237 tons of fresh oranges, and 390 tons of pickled lemons. Catania.—Exports of oranges and lemons: 1903, 83,953 tons valued at £430,530; 1902, 93,655 tons valued at £536,603. Syracuse.—The number of boxes of lemons and oranges exported during the year was 70,928 for the United Kingdom and 242,091 for Austria-Hungary. CITRIC ACID AND CITRATE OF LIME. The production of citric acid in Sicily was estimated to be about 48 tons, caleulated to be worth about £6,150. Messina.—The quantity of citrie acid exported in 1903 amounted to 45 tons, all of which was shipped to the United Kingdom. -alermo.—Half the exports of citrate of lime went to the United Kingdom; 253 tons went to the United States. PICKLED FRUIT AND PEEL. Messina.—The export of citrons (halved) in brine amounted in 1903 to 2,160 tons, the quantity shipped to the United Kingdom being 1,065 tons. Syracuse.—The total number of casks of pickled orange and lemon peel exported in 1903 was 8,258, of which 7,467 went to the United Kingdom and 791 to the United States of America. The total quantity of bitter orange and lemon peel exported in 1903 was 7,582 tons. BANANA INDUSTRY OF COSTA RICA. The Consular Report on the trade of Costa Rica contains the following reference to the position of the banana industry :— The total area under bananas is returned as 24,317 manzanas, or 42,060 acres, and this area is rapidly being extended under the stimulus of the increased price, 3le. gold for each bunch of ‘firsts’ all the year round, paid to the growers for their produce by the United Fruit Company, and of the excellent transport facilities afforded by the Costa Rica and Northern railways. The fruit from Costa Rica enjoys the highest reputation, and throughout 1903 has been shipped to Manchester fortnightly, some 650,000 bunches in all having been sold there, with very satisfactory results. The number of bunches exported in 1903 shows an increase of 23:11 per cent. on that in 1902. The following shows the growth of this trade during the past five years :— 1899, 2,962,771 bunches ; 1900, 3,420,166 bunches ; 1901, 3,870,156 bunches ; 1902, 4,174,199 bunches; 1903, 5,139,063 bunches. The United Fruit Company employs in this trade 4,000 Jamaicans, and during the past three anda half years has, with its associated companies, planted 16,303 acres of land with bananas. During 1905, 206 steamers have cleared for the United States ports with this fruit and twenty-five for the United Kingdom (Manchester). INDIA RUBBER IN BAHIA. The following reference to the collection of rnbber is made in the Consular Report on the trade of Bahia :— India rubber improved greatly during the past year. An increasing and steady demand from Europe caused the discovery of new sources of supply in the interior of this State. Vast forests of Manicoba, the existence of which was never suspected, were exploited and a grade of rubber supplied far superior to anything hitherto seen on the Bahia market. Prices appear to have been satisfactory to collectors, and had it not been for the scarcity of labour and the absence of proper roads and insufticient water supply for the pack mules, the arrivals would have been far greater. I have seen samples of some specially well-cleaned and prepared Manicoba which recently reached the market from one of the new districts, and this fetched from 3s. to 4s. per tb. Vou. Ill. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 325 COTTON INDUSTRY. West Indian Cotton. The Textile Mercury of September 10, in a report ofa meeting of the Executive Committee of the British Cotton-growing Association, has the following reference to the prospects of the industry in the West Indies :— Sir Daniel Morris, the Imperial Commissioner of Agricul- ture for the West Indies, gave a short account of the prospects of cotton cultivation in the West Indies, expressing the opinion that the outlook was very bright, and the industry was now firmly established. He expressed great appreciation of the assistance which the Association had given. On the motion of the Chairman, the thanks of the Association were given to Sir Daniel Morris and his staff for their invaluable work in the establishment of cotton cultivation in the West Indies. The following note is taken from the Manchester Guardian of August 27 :— Sir Daniel Morris, addressing the Burnley Chamber of Commerce last night, spoke hopefully of the prospects of substantially increasing the production of cotton in the West Indies. The fibre produced was of the best quality, and though it was impossible to rush the cultivation of new areas, the aereage was being greatly extended. He thought cotton would eventually be produced on such a scale there that Lancashire would be able to look to the West Indies for an appreciable amount of the cotton she required. Prospects of Cotton Cultivation in St. Vincent. Mr. W. N. Sands, Agricultural Superintendent at St. Vincent, has forwarded the following brief report on the prospects of the industry in that island :— The prospects of the cotton industry at St. Vincent look very well at present. During the last three weeks I have seen a good deal of the cotton cultivations along the windward and leeward coasts. The cotton is being well cultivated, and the plants look strong and healthy. No disease of any importance has so far made its appearance. The approximate area planted is 1,600 acres. The total will probably be higher when all the planting is completed, but I do not estimate that it will reach 2,000 acres as at first thought. Several planters would have put in large cultivations had there been more labour available. The total quantity of selected seed distributed by the Department amounted to 10,214 tb., sufficient to plant 1,702 acres. The quantity of other seed sown was small, not more, I should estimate, than 500 tb. On the whole, should the weather be favourable, there is at this time every prospect of a good crop. The last few days have been very wet, and one or two large fields I saw yesterday looked as if a few bright days would be of great benefit to the plants. The Sea Island Cotton Crop of the United States. In a review of the Sea Island cotton crop of 1904, the Cotton Trade Journal states that in many respects the crop was one of the most unsatisfactory for all middle-men in recent years. The planters, on the other hand, secured good prices, The crop was 75,683 bales, against 105,955 last year, and 83,674 two years ago. ‘The season opened with Fancy Georgias at 20c. Sea Island cotton advanced till about Christmas when Fancy Georgias were 30c. The next step was the selling in August at heavy losses. The close of the season finds Fancy Georgias offered at 20hc. As to the new crop, reports vary. It appears that in South Georgia and Florida the acreage has been reduced. It is reported that the yield in South Carolina will probably be slightly more than 10,000 bags. Damage has been done to the crop by rains and insect and fungoid pests. The cotton worm is reported as troublesome on the Carolina islands. ‘We conclude that the new crop will not exceed, if it even equals, the old crop of Sea Island cotton.’ Manuring Cotton in Egypt. In the bulletin entitled ‘Notes on Egyptian Agriculture, reviewed in the Agricultural News, Vol. IIL, p. 299, Mr. Foaden deals fully with the subject of the manuring of cotton. The following is a summary of his observations :— (1) The cotton crop is almost invariably manured and responds freely to the application of manures. (2) Barnyard manure, or some manure of a similar nature, should form the basis of manuring in Egypt. (3) Leguininous forage crops form an excellent prepara- tion for a good cotton crop, but to obtain the best results the soil should be ploughed up some time before cotton planting takes place. (4) The fullest advantage of the use of these manures, as well as of any chemical fertilizer that may be employed, can only be obtained when the soil is well prepared, deeply cultivated, and the crop judiciously watered during growth. Frequent hoeings also keep the crop in a_ gradually progressive condition. (5) In addition to the use of bamyard manure at the rate of 10 or 15 tons per acre, applications of chemical fertilizers are attended with profit. (6) Phosphoric acid, at the rate of 400 lb. per acre, applied in the form of soluble phosphate, gives excellent results. It tends to check excessive growth, increases the yield, improves the staple, and hastens maturity. (7) A subsequent dressing of soluble nitrogenous manure is attended with excellent results. A good mixture in Egypt consists of about 125 Ib. of nitrate of soda and about 50 Ib. of sulphate of ammonia. Where larger quantities of barnyard manure are employed, it may be advisable to omit the latter. The soluble nitrogenous manure is best employed in two applications, (8) Potash manures in Egypt have not given any increase in yield and their value is problematical. Their effect on the quality of the fibre has not been accurately determined. Scale Insects and Fungi. The Victoria Depart- ment of Agriculture has recently issued a bulletin (No. 41) entitled ‘Two New Fungi parasitic on Scale Insects.’ Both new fungi belong to the genus Microcera, one being found on scale insects on Eucalypts in Tasmania, the other on the mussel scale on scrub boxwood in Victoria. Both fungi are first noticed when their bright pink fruits break through the scale. A very similar reddish fungus is frequently seen in the West Indies. On a rose tree in the Botanic Station, St. Lucia, hundreds of scale insects were recently noticed to be attacked. AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OctoBer 8, 1904. SCIENCE NOTES. Distribution of Essential Oils in Plants. for The Pharmaceutical Journal of August 6 has the following extract on the above subject :— Continuing their investigations on the history of essen- tial oils in plants, Charabot and Herbert state that after its formation in the green organs, chiefly the leaf, the essential oil is partly dissolved by the water which circulates in the plant. The chemical transformations which the terpene compounds undergo are such that the essential oil contained in the stem becomes less soluble than that contained in the leaf. The deduction is drawn that a portion of the odorous compounds migrates from the leaf towards the stem under the influence of the laws of diffusion. An examination of orange flowers and buds at different stages of growth leads the authors to think that the petals of the plant contain the greater portion of the essential oil of the flower, and contain also the greatest percentage proportion of oil. During the development of the flower, the essential oil becomes richer in esters of turpene alcohols, in methyl anthranilate, and in total aleohol. The ratio of the quality of combined alcohol to that of total alcohol increases ; in other words, esterification is continued in the flower, but at a slow rate. The proportion of geraniol increases, and that of linalool decreases, so that the alcoholic mixture becomes richer in geraniol. (Dudletin of Rouse-Bertrand Fils, 1, 9, 13.) The Flowering of the Bamboo. The bamboos form an interesting and important group of grasses, differing from other ordinary grasses in many ways. They are the giants among grasses, the erect sub-aerial stems of some species reaching a height of 120 feet, anda thickness of 12 inches. The floral structure also differs from that of ordinary grasses, the number of stamens in most species being six or more, while in other grasses (including the sugar-cane) it is usually three. Again, the fruit of some bamboos is a fleshy berry, while that of other grasses is a hard, dry grain or ‘caryopsis.’ The economic uses of bamboos in the East are too numerous to mention. An interesting biological peculiarity of many larger bamboos is seen in their flowering. For several years the plants grow vegetatively without flowering, and then in one year the whole of them, at least all those in a district, will flower together: Bambusa arundinacea, for example, is said to flower every thirty-two years. A correspondent in Vature of September 1 gives some particulars with regard to this point, which is also dealt with at some length by Dr. (now Sir George) Watt in his Dictionary of the Economic Products of India. The curious point about it is that plants raised from cuttings always flower in the same year as the parent plant even though they may be only one year old. After flowering the bamboos usually die down. It is still doubtful whether this gregarious flowering is really widespread or only local. It usually takes place in a dry season when other crops are poor, and the large quantity of bamboo seeds are used by the natives as food. As stated by Mr. Gamble in Vature, ‘information on the subject is being gradually collected in India ; the dates of flowering of the different species are, when observed by forest officers, recorded in their journal, the Indian Forester, and the behaviour of the clumps is being carefully watched, especially as the dying off of the clumps of a species over large areas may mean a serious dearth for several years of the most useful material for the construction of native houses and of many articles of common domestic use.’ Another point of discussion is as to whether the bamboo Howers when it attains a certain definite age (reckoned from the seed, so that cuttings are of the same age as the parent plant), or only at any period after it is mature when conditions are favourable. With regard to this point Dr. Watt says: ‘Both may be true, and this is probably the wiser solution of the difficulty, that is to say, a bamboo may not flower before it has attained a certain age, but its flowering is not fixed so arbitrarily that it cannot be retarded or accelerated by climatic influences.’ Reference will be found in the Agricultural Mews (Vol. I, p. 39) to the flowering of a clump of bamboos in Grenada. EXPERIMENTS IN ORCHARD CULTURE. A series of experiments in orchard culture has been conducted at the Agricultural Experiment Station of Nebraska, of which an account is given in Bulletin No. 79. The following summary of conclusions is published for its general interest: but it must be clearly understood that the existence of winter is an all-important factor in these experiments which is absent in similar experiments in the West Indies:— We may fairly say that the tests reported in this bulletin indicate the best all-round method of culture for young orchards to be thorough cultivation in early summer, followed by a cover crop in fall, so far as tests covering only a few years can prove any method best. A mulch of straw is known to keep the soil moist during summer and it also protects tender roots in winter, but its use will surely increase winter injury to tender tops of trees by prolonging fall growth. Besides, a mulch induces shallow root development, which may result disastrously in later years, and its use is out of the question in large orchards. Thorough cultivation protects trees against drought as well as mulching, and keeps the roots from forming near the surface of the ground. When cultivation is given in early summer, all that is necessary in order to furnish winter protection is to stop cultivating in midsummer, grow a cover crop (weeds being better than nothing) which will dry the ground in fall, causing the new wood growth to ripen early in preparation for winter and which will, by holding the snow or by matting down to form a mulch, protect tender roots during winter. Good cultivation in early summer can often be given young trees by growing some cultivated crop in the orchard. Tender crops are best since they can not be sown so early as to dry the ground seriously in spring and are killed by fall frosts, thus preventing very late drying. Cropping with corn, for instance, insures fairly thorough early cultivation, and corn is a fair substitute for a cover crop in fall and winter. Vou. III. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. CULTIVATION OF MANILA HEMP. The following notes on the cultivation of Manila hemp are extracted from Farmer's Bulletin No. 4 of the Philippine Bureau of Agriculture, ‘Preliminary Report on the commercial fibres of the Philippines ’:— Unlike many of the edible bananas, J/usa textilis produces sced-bearing fruits. These seeds may be planted for the reproduction of new plants; but except where very extensive plantings are wanted, a better method is to plant the small suckers which spring from the root of the parent plant. After the plantation has reached its maturity and harvesting is in process, the old plants are cut near the roots, and the suckers are left to grow up. After the plants reach maturity, the crop is constantly renewing itself so that harvesting can go on almost continuously. The plant is in the best condition for producing fibre about the time the flower-bud reaches the top of the plant. The stalk is then eut as near the root as possible and the leaf-sheaths are stripped off. The fibre is the so-called fibro-vascular bundles which make up part of the structural substance of the leaf- sheath surrounding the flower-stem from the ground to the expansion of the leaves. The length of the leaf-sheath determines to some extent the length of the fibre. This leaf- sheath is thicker along the centre than it is at the sides, and in order to facilitate the stripping of the fibre it is split longitudinally into strips 2 to 3 inches wide. ‘The strips from the thicker portion of the sheath are then torn tangen- tially, inasmuch as the fibre is contained mainly in the outer part of the sheath, and the inner portion of the thick ' strips which are torn off consist mainly of the valueless pulp. EXTRACTION OF FIBRE. For stripping the fibre the method almost universally in use is to draw these prepared strips between the edge of a knife or ‘bolo’ and ahard, smooth block. The apparatus can be set up at frequent intervals in the vicinity of the plants to be cut. A nipa shed is constructed, though sometimes the protection and shade of a large tree is chosen. To two uprights set in the ground, a horizontal pole is attached with ‘bejucos’ or rattan canes. A short, strong knife or ‘bolo’ with a wooden handle is firmly attached on a pivot or fulcrum upon the upper surface of the horizontal pole. The handle is attached by a rattan cane to a bamboo spring arranged in the roof of the shed, or to a branch of the tree, while another rattan cane runs from the handle to a treadle on the ground, which can be worked by the foot of the operator. The spring in the roof above holds the knife upon the pole or, in some cases, a block, with a uniform pressure, while the strip of the leaf sheath is being drawn between its edge and the pole or block. By placing the foot upon the treadle the pressure is released and the fibre may be redrawn or a new strip inserted. When it is not the desire of the operator to produce a fibre of fine texture and white colour, a knife with finely serrated edge may be used. By using a knife of this kind there is less waste of the fibre, but at the same time more of the undesirable pulp and, consequently, fresh juice is left with the fibre. This residue of pulp and juice drying upon the fibre gives it an undesirable colour, and if too much is left on, the strength of the fibre is injured and the market value is much reduced. The whitest fibre is drawn under a knife with a smooth edge and immediately after the plant is cut. If the stalks and strips are allowed to lie in the sun for any length of time before the fibre is drawn, the fibre will be coloured more or less yellow. As a means of increasing the fineness a and whiteness of the fibre the strips may be drawn several times when they are fresh. Of course, the greater the number of times the fibre is drawn and the greater the pressure upon the knife, the more is the waste; but the increased value of white fibre will compensate for a certain amount of waste. In yield Musa teaxtilis varies considerably. In Albay, Sorsogon, and Masbate, where the rainfall is heavy and the humidity of the atmosphere is high, the yield ranges from 12 to 16 piculs of dry fibre per hectare each year (687°5 to 967°6 tb. per acre). In other provinces where the climate is drier the yield may not exceed 6 piculs per hectare. In some localities the quality of the fibre is injured by the work of borers. Wherever these insects work the fibre is either eut entirely or it is injured in colour and strength. Several attempts have been made to perfect machines for extracting this fibre economically, but these machines have either fallen far short of their requirements or have not met with favour among the natives who have had occasion to use them. The most essential feature at the present time of a machine for this work is that it be light and portable. The greater part of Manila hemp is produced on the mountain or volcano sides or ou very rough ground, and as the plant stalks are quite heavy, all planters have found it most economical to transport their apparatus rather than the material. It is hoped, however, that some apparatus can be devised to avoid the great waste which renders the present method objectionable. It is variously estimated that from 20 to 30 per cent. of the fibre is wasted by this crude process of drawing, and this fibre, too, is fine and of good quality. The thought is at once suggested that this waste fibre might be used as a paper stock if it is not too much injured by -the juice and pulp with which it is mixed, and if it can be economically separated from them. This is .a line of investigations which will be subsequently taken up. CLASSIFICATION AND USES. For commercial purposes the fibre is classified into several groups according to colour, texture, and strength. Length plays a less important part in the commercial grades. The great lightness, combined with strength, is the character- istic of this fibre which gives it its great value. The qualities usually recognized are the superior, current, second, and red. Then there are numerous gradations in each of these groups. The fibre for export is usually tied in small wisps or hanks, and these are put up in bales weighing 2 piculs (275 tb.). In all countries to which this fibre is exported the greater part of it is used for cordage and ropes. In the United States immense quantities are made into binder twine, and because of its lightness, strength, and compara- tive durability, it is very serviceable for ship’s ropes and cables. From old and disintegrated ropes our valuable Manila paper is made. In the Philippines the finer qualities are used in the manufacture of textile fabrics. Throughout the entire archipelago these weavings are worn extensively by both men and women, and when the fibre is mixed with cotton a durable fabric is produced which is well adapted to the climatic conditions of the islands, It is believed that the demand for the better qualities of these fabrics will increase in the United States and Europe. A small use is made of the fibre in upholstery, packing, and brush making. For observations on the prospect of establishing an industry in Manila hemp outside the Philippines readers are referred to the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 201). THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Octoper 8, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A com- plete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 319 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural slows SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 1904. No. 65. Vou. III. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. The editorial of this issue deals with the sisal hemp industry. There has been marked progress in this industry in the Bahamas and the Caicos Islands during recent years. On p. 322 we publish information relating to the Trinidad cane-farming industry. experiments with varieties of Mauritius is also of interest. the sugar-cane in Our cotton notes include a brief review of the prospects of the cotton industry in St. Vincent, and a note on the Sea Island cotton crop of the United States. The summary of conclusions as to manurial experiments with cotton in Egypt is hkely to be of interest as serving as a basis for similar experiments in the West Indies. An article on the cultivation of Manila hemp in the Philippines is published on p. 327. In our ‘Insect Notes’ a warning with reference to the cotton worm is inserted, to which we desire to draw the attention of all cotton growers. From the extracts from the report of the Inspector of Schools at St. Lucia, it will be seen that considerable progress is being made in agricultural education, more especially in connexion with school gardens. Under the heading ‘Department Reports’ on p. 282, will be found short reviews of two reports recently published by this Department. With the issue of these two reports the publication of the annual reports on the Botanic Stations in the West Indies is completed. The account of Shipment of Bananas from Barbados. Ata meeting of the Barbados Agricultural Society, held on September 30, a discussion took place on the subject of the shipment of bananas. On the motion of the Hon. F. M. Alleyne, the following resolution was passed :— ‘That the Hall system of cold storage having been instituted on the “Trent” and “ 'Tagus,” and having so far proved entirely satisfactory for the safe carriage of bananas, the Barbados Agricultural Society trust that the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company will see their way to establish the same system of cold storage on their other ships.’ In the course of the discussion if was mentioned that, while hardly a single bunch had been lost when shipments had been made by the ships in which the system had been installed, shipments by the other steamers of the company had not proved satisfactory during the recent hot season. It was understood that the company had fitted up the steamers mentioned by way of experiment and that the system would be extended to the other ships as soon as it had proved successful. The society therefore desired to urge the company to do this with as little delay as possible, rr me Cotton Growing in Jamaica. From newspapers to hand by last mail it is apparent that in Jamaica considerable interest is being taken in cotton growing. The Board of Agriculture and the Agricultural Society are giving every encouragement and much assistance. Several meet- ings have recently been held at which useful addresses on cotton growing have been given. Special encouragement is being given to this cultivation in the dry district of Vere. Here several planters have conducted experiments with such a measure of success that they have decided to carry on the cultivation upon a fairly large scale. At one of the meetings referred to the Hon, H. 'T. Ronaldson gave his experiences in a l-acre experiment plot. The result was eminently satisfactory: he sold the seed-cotton for £7 and succeeded in netting £5 from the acre within six months. In another dry district of the island, where new crops to take the place, to some extent, of cane were urgently required, viz., St. James, Mr. Shore, a member of the Board of Agriculture, has, it is reported, succeeded in obtaining 400 Ib. of lint cotton from 7% acre. Messrs. Elder Dempster & Co., anxious to do all in their power to make cotton growing a success, haye agreed to carry cotton freight-free until further notice. The Hon. T. H. Sharp has announced that he will purchase, locally, ginned or unginned cotton, while Mr. J. H. Levy is prepared to deal similarly with cotton grown in St. Ann, and Mr. C. G. Farquharson will buy cotton at Black River. The Jamaica Daily Telegraph closes a leading article en the subject of cotton growing with the following remarks: ‘The conditions are all favourable and it would be a pity if this splendid opportunity were lost.’ | | a piece of coarse cloth. 4,000 to 5,000 ewt. Vou. III. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 329 Cotton and other Crops in Sierra Leone. The recently issued Colonial Report on Sierra Leone devotes considerable attenticn to the subject of cotton growing. An indigenous variety grows freely without any attempt at cultivation, the product being spun into excellent cloths. Every encourage- ment is being given by the Government to those who are interesting themselves in the growing of cotton, At first experiments were made to introduce exotic varieties, but it is apparently considered that native varieties, if improved by selection, will prove more successful on account of the difficulties of acclimatization. Experimental farms have been started by experts from the Southern States of America. There is a large area, within easy reach of rail and water, in which cotton might with advantage be cultivated. The principal staples of the colony are palm oil and palm kernels, kola nuts, and rubber. The exports of rubber have declined very consid- erably during the past eight years. The Government is encouraging the efforts at present being made by individuals to produce rubber, especially by experi- mental plantations. Sierra Leone rubber (from Landolphia owariensis) realized, in October 1903, 3s. 8d. per tb, which is Ils. more than at the corres- ponding period of the previous year. ————_— En a ____ Indian Bees-wax. A recent issue of the Agricultural Ledger (1904, no. 7) is devoted to ‘an account of the sources, preparation, trade, and composition of the bees’-wax of British India.’ Indian bees’-wax is derived from three species of the genus Apis, the waxes prepared from the three species being practically identical in composition. The wax is seldom adulterated for fraudulent purposes. Its preparation is a very simple operation, as it is usually collected by almost wild tribes from trees and rocks. ‘The honey is squeezed by the hand from the wax, which is then washed in cold water before being heated in water over an open fire. The melting wax rises to the surface and the impurities sink to the bottom of the vessel. If necessary the wax is strained through In some districts peculiar methods are adopted for purifying and clarifying the wax, cow-dung, tamarind leaves, aud salt beimg among the agents employed. The annual exports of bees’-wax from the whole of India during the last few years have amounted to The trade has remained almost stationary for the past twenty years, but is undoubtedly capable of great expansion. In concluding his paper the writer refers to the successful results that have followed the attention given to apiculture in the West Indies. ‘During the ten years 1888-98 the value of bees’-wax exported has increased from £4,823 to £10,389. Some share of this increase is no doubt due to the intelligent action of the Jamaica Agricultural Society. .. Another feature .of success is the high-class quality of the wax sent to the London market and the consequently good prices realized.’ Agriculture in the Hawaiian Islands. The Consular Report on the Trade of Hawaii states that the export of raw sugar during the year ended June 30, 1903, amounted to 387,412 tons, valued at £5,220,187, all of which went to the United States. In comparison with this the other items of export (consisting of coffee, fresh fruits, hides and skins, honey, rice, etc.) were insignificant. The production of sugar has steadily increased during the last three years. For some time past the price of sugar has been low, but the recent improvement in prices has been a source of satisfaction to growers and merchants. The new pest, known as the ‘leaf hopper, has proved very destructive. In consequence of the recommendation of a pro- tective duty, to enable coffee planters to compete with Brazilian imports into the United States, the larger coffee plantations have continued cultivation. But smaller growers have been discouraged by the poor prices. There was a considerable increase in the output. The cultivation of sisal hemp has received an impetus owing to the satisfactory prices obtainable at San Francisco, Hitherto, the difficulty has been to obtain a market for this product. The exports of honey were valued at £3,121, and those of fresh fruit at £13,690. — ———————— The Development of West Africa. A series of interesting articles on the above subject has recently been published in the Syren and Shipping. Reference is made to the need of encourag- ing agricultural industries and more especially that of cotton growing. Of the British Cotton-growing Association it is stated: ‘So far the work of the Associa- tion has progressed, the most ample and conclusive evidence has been forthcoming that, in the development of West Africa, cotton growing is destined to rank as the foremost industry. The Association is encouraged, from the samples already received, to believe that the most suitable cotton for Lancashire may ultimately be obtained from native seed or from a cross between native and American. In Lagos an Agricultural Society has been formed, which already has 400 members. The British Cotton- growing Association is to conduct a model farm for the purpose of demonstrating to the natives approved methods of cultivation. In Sierra Leone, too, encouragement is being given to the natives to take up the cultivation of cotton. An expert who recently visited the colony has advised a large scale of operations, and this is being established. With regard to Liberia, it is stated that it seems destined to rival, if not to surpass, the Congo Free State in the extent and value of its rubber resources. There is every prospect, also, of great progress in the cacao industry. Cotton growing is also receiving attention. In Southern Nigeria ‘the cultivation of cotton gives the greatest promise of any of the local industries.’ The forest resources of the colony are also being exploited. 530 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OctoperR 8, 1904. INSECT NOTES. The Cotton Worm. Keports have been received that the cotton worm has made its appearance in fields of young cotton. We have repeatedly urged in the Agricultural News the need for a careful look-out being kept for this pest. We would further urge planters to communicate with the local officers of the Department immediately on the appearance of the worm if they are in any doubts as to the methods of treatment to be employed. It is absolutely necessary that prompt action be taken if this pest is to be successfully dealt with. Ants on Fruit Trees. A planter in Dominica has experienced trouble from ants infesting blossoming orange trees. He states that in some cases they swarm the blossoms and ultimately destroy the young fruits. The most effective treatment in such cases would be to treat the nests with carbon bisulphide if they can be located. An alternative treatment is to band the trees with any sticky mixture which would prevent the ants from climbing the trunks, especially if it contained kerosene oil or other substance which ants will not Kerosene emulsion (stock solution) applied with a brush over 2 or 3 feet of the trunk should serve the purpose. cross. Montserrat. The following extracts are taken from a report by Mr. H. A. Ballou, B.Sc., Entomologist on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, upon a visit paid by him to Montserrat in July last :— The plants at Grove Station were inspected and were found in excellent condition as far as pests were concerned. A wild cotton tree, a few citrus plants in the nursery, and a Tabernaemontana were more or less infested with scales, These were taken out and burned. On account of the dry weather that had prevailed but few crops were being grown. Land was being prepared for cotton and a small amount of seed had already been put in. The cotton worm is not much dreaded as a pest, as the supply of Paris green on hand in the island is believed to be sufficient to meet the needs of this year’s crop. The experiments tried at Dagenham with various insecticides indicate that the leaf-blister mite can be controlled by the use of sulphur. Sulphur and water seem to give the best results, without harm to the plants. The application of dry sulphur and lime is much cheaper, however, and giyes very good results, although it is likely to cause a slight scorching of the leaves. It seems probable that the use of sulphur and dry air-slaked lime will check the develop- ment of the leaf-blister mite sufficiently to allow the production of good crops of cotton. The most serious menace to the cotton crop at present is the black boll or boll rot. This is probably a vegetable organism and attacks the bolls in all situations, under the greatest variety of conditions of location, soil, growth, and season. I visited several of the lime plantations of the Montserrat Lime Co., and found that spraying had been practised to some extent, in some cases with good results. In other cases, however, the trees sprayed were old, and rather badly infested; the improvement in such cases was not marked. I suggested the desirability of spraying young trees and attempting to keep them from serious infestation, and this will be tried on a fairly large scale. It would seem that this would be both practicable and effective. I saw several fields in which Bengal beans had been planted and allowed to climb over the lime trees. These beans grow so vigorously as to cover the tree completely, and yet trees which had been so covered were vigorous and comparatively free from scales, while I was informed that previous to the planting of the Bengal beans they had been badly infested. If this practice is always successful, it would seem to be a good one to follow, as the growth of such a vigorous leguminous crop must result in the fixation of a large amount of nitrogen, and the roots and vines thus furnish a large amount of valuable manure. SWEET POTATOS AS A STOCK FOOD. The New South Wales Agricultural Journal for August has an article on the cultivation of sweet potatos, which, it is stated, are not cultivated in that State as extensively as they deserve to be. In New South Wales the sweet potato has proved a splendid drought resister. The following note on its use as a stock food is of interest :— In addition to the value of the roots as a vegetable, they are also a valuable stock food, and the vines make an excellent cattle food. The roots have a slightly higher feeding value than common potatos, but like them are fat, heat, and energy producing rather than flesh forming. Pigs are very fond of the succulent roots and can harvest them without ditticulty or assistance. It is said that they keep the kidneys and bowels in good order and so ward off disease. Pig farmers who have poor sandy land would do well to consider the advisability of raising this crop exten- sively in place of maize for fattening. It is estimated that it requires 44 bushels of sweet potatos to equal 1 bushel of maize grain in feeding value. But much sandy soil which does not produce 1 ton of maize could be made, with little trouble, to produce 5 or 6 tons of sweet potatos. Duggar, in the United States Department of Agriculture Farmers Bulletin no. 26, ‘Sweet Potatos: Culture and Uses, gives the average percentage composition of the roots as follows, and discusses the relative food values of corn and sweet potatos :— Water a oe we) OOS BtOmmemial Ash Js aoe ae 109 elo Protein abs ois ate E38) 55) 2a Fibre wee aa ae 0:86) .. e23 Starch, ete ... — ae 220 ae oeeo Fat eh re a. 0°43) 5. 80-85 Three pounds of sweet potatos afford almost as much dry matter, quite as much carbonaceous material, but less than half as much protein, as is contained in 1 Ib. of corn. By using } Ib. of cotton seed meal or 1 tb. of cow peas (seed) for every 10 tb. of sweet potatos, this deficiency in protein is fully supplied. Vou. IDI. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 331 EDUCATIONAL any teaching; these are the qualities constituting the St. Lucia. In the annual report of the Inspector of Schools at St. Lucia considerable space is devoted to the subject of agricultural instruction and school gardens. Mr. Bundy reports as follows :— The formation of School Gardens in 1903 was taken up with great zeal and success by teachers in most parts of the island. The district of Anse-la-Raye and Canaries is now the only one in which no school garden is to be found, each of the other districts having at least two. During the year the Government made special grants out of the grant-in-aid to primary schools for tools for school gardens. Sixteen complete sets, including spades, forks, hoes, sieves, watering pots, trowels, pruning knives, lines, etc., were purchased in Barbados and England and _ distributed. Unfortunately, the vote becoming exhausted, no further assistance was possible. In July 1903, twenty-five teachers went into residence at the Union Agricultural School and passed a fortnight there receiving lectures and practical illustrations on agri- cultural subjects from the Curator and Agricultural Instructor. The experiment proved to be a great success. The teachers were boarded and lodged at the expense of the local Government, the Imperial Department of Agriculture affording the instruction and all assistance. A grant of seed to the various schools was also made by the Imperial Department, and I was greatly indebted to the Curator for the assistance afforded by him in making out lists of various tools suitable for school gardens. Altogether a very satisfactory beginning has been made in the direction of practical agricultural teaching in our schools. The agricultural work done, is not only, nor principally, confined to work in the school gardens. Demonstrations and object-lessons on agricultural subjects form a regular part of the ordinary school work, and there has been a real awakening of interest both among teachers and scholars. In an appendix Mr. Bundy reports fully on school gardens in the island. From this it appears that only six schools are now without gardens. Notes are given on twenty-three gardens. In most cases the work done is reported as very satisfactory, the gardens being well kept and serving as useful object-lessons to the neighbouring peasantry. Nature Teaching. At the present time many of the teachers in the West Indies have attended lectures on some of the elementary scientific principles underlying local agriculture and have passed the examinations on those lectures. All this is of course a beginning and has always been intended as a mental stimulus to the teacher and not in any degree as the end of the matter. Only those teachers who are continually improving themselves and their teaching can hope to attain any great measure of success in nature teaching in the schools. On this subject we reproduce the following paragraph from The Teaching Botanist, by Professor W. F. Ganong, (pp. 51-2) :— Many of the qualities essential to good botanical steaching are, of course, the same as are needed for success in teaching temperament. This consists in a deep-seated pleasure in the exercise of guiding minds from ignorance to knowledge and in seeing the light dawn throug’: darkness ; in a power of positive self-reliant leadership ; in ability to project one’s self into the student’s mental position ; and in a personality that can win respect and affection. Of all these characteristics, sympathy is one of the most important ; for the good teacher is, first of all, a mental physician of the truest sort, diagnosing each individual case, and fitting its proper treatment to it. He is a leader and not a driver. He is always an uncompromising though genial critic, using sarcasm only for otherwise incorrigible cases. He diplomati- cally makes use of all devices for arousing interest and holding attention. Especially is he ever investigating, experimenting and improving in his teaching, reading newer books upon it, and keeping in touch with educational progress as shown in the educational journals. It is, indeed, only by constant advance that he can escape that mental drying up, which is the greatest danger, and too often the most obvious badge, of the teaching profession. And he has a deep respect for his profession, views it as his life work, and upon every possible occasion champions its interests. POULTRY NOTES. The Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society for September 1904 publishes some interesting notes on preparing poultry for the table, from which we make the following extracts :— No fowl should appear on the table until it has gone through a process of fattening. Even this is not understood, A few fowls are crammed in a dark, dirty coop, or a cage exposed to all weathers, sun or rain, a handful of corn is flung in twice a day, water is forgotten, and the fowls are thinner and bonier, if not diseased, when the putting up process is over and they are taken out to be killed. A well-fed, properly-fatted fowl, fasted for twenty-four hours with plenty of water given the while, killed and hung for twelve hours in a cool place or as long as the climate allows, is one that will make a good and delicate meal for four or five people. Every fowl which is intended for killing should be kept twenty-four hours without food before being killed, but it may have water. Thirty-six hours fasting will not hurt them, if they have plenty of water to drink. This may appear cruel to some people, but we do not think it is in the least so. Animals, birds, and even human beings, can go without food much better than they can drinking water, at any time. When a hen is made to fast in this way before being killed the flesh is so much nicer, and the owner is able to keep the bird much longer before cooking it. If an animal is kept without food in the same way before being killed, the meat is always better. There is more flavour in a hen when she is eighteen months old than there is in a chicken three months old, and a hen four years of age is as good as one eighteen months old if it is cooked properly. If meant for breakfast an old fowl should be killed over-night if possible ; if for dinner, it should be killed in the early morning and hung in the safe wrapped in the leaves of the papaw. There will be no taint in twelve hours if the safe is in a cool place, as all safes ought to be. They always require boiling a little longer in very hot weather, as they cannot be kept long enough, but when they are killed between October and January they may be kept easily for two or three days. Old hens, when they are cooked properly, are a great luxury. wo wo lo THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Ocroser 8, 1904. GLEANINGS. The exports of divi-divi from Maracaibo in 1905 were valued at £7,500. (Consular Report on Caracas.) Sir Robert Llewelyn will be asked on his next visit to acquire more land under the Land Settlement Scheme for the settlement of smallholders. (St. Vincent Z%mes.) Mr. A. J. Jordan reports that at Montserrat the cotton sown during the first two weeks of September has made good growth and that the earlier-sown cotton is flowering freely. According to the Montserrat Herald, there are prospects ota trade being worked up in sulphur from the local Soufriére. It is reported that the sulphur will be partially refined before exportation. The St. Vincent Government Gazette publishes the terms of an Ordinance ‘to interdict the sale of cotton without a certificate, and for more effectually preventing the purchase and exportation of stolen cotton.’ The committee appointed by the Texas Legislature to investigate methods for the extermination of the boll weevil and pay a reward of £10,000 to the discoverer of any such method, has decided, says Scvence, that no one has earned this reward. (Nature.) The Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society urges the need for greater care in the picking and packing of fruits. Although there has been a notable improvement of late years, there is still room for further advancement in this direction. It has been shown that the citrus industry can be made to pay in Jamaica, but before shippers can hope to participate in the success, slip-shod methods must be abandoned. Last year Mr. Dunn, Superintendent of the Botanical Department, Hongkong, visited Weihaiwei to report on its agricultural possibilities. He is of opinion that Weihaiwei would make an excellent centre for the cultivation of silk, the growing of fruit, the establishment of vineyards, and the establishment of a trade in bean cake and white wax. (Colonial Report on Weihaiwei, 1903.) Egyptian cotton, grown by settlers on the Pedro Plains and ginned by Mr. Fursdon at Hartlands, resulted as fol- lows :—Gross weight, 428 Ib.; lint, 158 tb.; seed, 263 Ib.; loss in ginning, 7 Ib. Some of this cotton looked to haye been picked before it was fit and had not been kept clean, and thus there may be a loss in value. Carefulness in picking and keeping cotton clean is everything. (Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society.) During the fortnight ended September 8, 202 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom. Sales have been effected in Liverpool at the following prices : West Indian, 4°25d. to 8d.; West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 13d.; fine, 14d.; extra fine, 16d. per tb, (West India Committee Circular.) According to the Chamber of Commerce Journal, the cultivation of peppers has extended rapidly in French Indo-China during the last few years, and has now become an important and prosperous industry. The exports amounted to 3,423 tons in 1902. The industry is largely in the hands of natives. In forwarding a report by the Agricultural Superin- tendent on the lectures recently given in St. Vincent in connexion with the cotton industry, the Acting Administrator has written that the lectures have been a distinct success, and has expressed the wish that a second series shall be delivered at the approach of the next bearing and picking season, In his annual report the Magistrate of the Second and Third Districts of St. Lucia states that the cacao crop was abundant—due largely to a satisfactory season. My. Palmer reports that this is also partly to be attributed to improved methods of cultivation which have been adopted by the planters, and which have been to some extent copied by: neighbouring peasants. Reporting upon a sample of tamarinds sent to the Imperial Institute from Northern Nigeria, Professor Dunstan states: ‘The demand for tamarinds in this country is at present supplied almost entirely by the West Indies, whence they are exported whole, preserved in syrup. The present value of West Indian tamarinds varies from 7s. 6d. to lls. 6d. per ewt., according to quality.’ The St. Croix Avis, in reproducing our recent editorial on wind-breaks (Agrieu/tural News, Vol. II, p. 273), refers to galba thus: ‘We have never heard it called ‘“‘galba” here, but we believe it is known as “ bastard mahogany.”’ Accord- ing to Baron Eggers (Zora of St. Croix and the Virgin Islands), galba is known as ‘Santa Maria,’ while ‘bastard mahogany’ is the local name for Andira inermis, a legumin- ous tree known as the ‘cabbage-bark tree.’ Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., writes: ‘In view of the note on date palms in India in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 295), it may be interesting to state that all our trees in Trinidad ripened all the fruit set, and this actually during the wet season (August). I find it best to cut the fruit when “full” and allow it to ripen under coyer, as birds carry them off as fast as they ripen if left upen the trees. A heavy shower readily detaches and destroys any ripe fruit’ The Botanisches Centralblatt of September 6, gives an abstract of a paper by Professor E. Laurent on a new type of plant disease which he calls fatty degeneration (dégénérescence graisseuse). The disease appeared on the leaves of palms in greenhouses as yellowish spots which later turned brown in the centre. In the parenchyma cells there were found spherical refractive bodies of various size, which were darkened by osmic acid. These oily bodies are supposed to be degeneration products of the chloroplasts. The disease is apparently due to physiological causes, chiefly too much moisture and a low temperature. Vou. III. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 333 ANTIGUA: REPORTS ON THE BOTANIC STATION, ECONOMIC EXPERIMENTS, A ND AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION, 1908-4. + Botanic Station.—In the absence on leave of Mr. W. N. Sands during part of the year and after his removal to St. Vincent, the duties of the curatorship were discharged by Mr. A. H. Kirby, B.A., Agricultural and Science Master. ‘There was a slight increase in the number of economic plants distributed from the station. The work of raising seedling canes was continued. A supply of plants was furnished for planting in connexion with the Arbor Day celebrations. The season appears to have been an unusually favourable one, the rainfall for the year being 7°80 inches greater than in the previous year and 16°33 inches greater than the average for the past thirty years. Economie Experiments.—Experiments were carried on at Scott’s Hill and Skerrett’s with a large variety of economic plants. In the case of the experiments with sweet potatos, largely increased yields were obtained. The experiments with new varieties of corn were continued. This report contains an interesting and comprehensive review of the cotton experiments. In all, nearly 600 acres were planted. Insect pests, especially the cotton worm, proved very troublesome. Mr. Sands rendered valuable assistance to planters in advising them as to methods of suppression. The Central Factory, opened in December last, has three gins and a baling press: already 150 bales, of 180 tb. cach, have been sent out. Agricultural Education.—Fyrom the report of the Agri- cultural and Science Master it appears that full advantage is being taken of Mr. Kirby’s services. In addition to his work at the Grammar School, he has given instruction at the Girls’ High School and at the Female Training College. Mr. Kirby also gave a series of lectures to elementary school teachers. GRENADA: REPORTS ON THE BOTANIC STATION AND° EXPERIMENT PLOTS, 1905-4. Botanic Station—The expenditure for the year was £570 18s. The proceeds of the sale of plants, fruit, ete., amounted to £44 19s. 9d. The rainfall for the year was 82°40 inches. There was a falling off in the number of plants distributed from the station. Satisfactory results appear to have been obtained in the experiment plots attached to the station, especially in the case of onions. Experiment Plots.—Experiments with cacao were earried on at four plots, while a plot each was devoted to pineapples and grape vines. The report of the Acting Agricultural Instructor deals with the working of these four plots. On the whole, good results were obtained from the cacao plots, especially those at Vendome and Colombier. In the manurial plots basic slag and sulphate of potash have given the best returns. BELGIAN HARES. The following note on Belgian hares is taken from the Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society for September. In view of Mr. Barclay’s recommendation of this breed for the West Indies in his notes on rabbit keeping, this description is of interest. Further particulars as to Belgian hares, their characteristics, cost, ete., will be found in the Agricultural News (Vol. IL, p. 280):— A good many who write us about rabbits are very hazy as to what the animal called Belgian hare is. It has no connexion whatever with the hare of the fields of Great Britain or true hares anywhere. It is a large breed of rabbit, simply that, and it is a large and fine breed because it has been taken up by skilful breeders, more than any other breed, and carefully bred; and then it became the subject of a particular fad in the United States when fabulous prices were paid for pairs corresponding to the best type laid down at shows. It is of a medium size and active and suits our conditions here, and with those who have kept it the Belgian hare is a great favourite. It will be as well to give the standard points of the breed :— Colour.—Rich rufus-red, carried well down sides and hind quarters, and as little white under jaws as possible— 20 points. Shape.—Body long, thin, well tucked-up flank, and well ribbed-up back, slightly arched, loins well rounded, head rather lengthy, muscular chest ; tail straight, not screwed ; altogether of a racy appearance and free from white bars, feet well coloured—20 points. Ticking.—Of a rather wavy appearance and plentiful— 10 points. Ears.—About 4 inches, well-laced tips—10 points. Eye.—Hazel colour, large, round, bright, and bold— 10 points. Legs and Feet.—¥ore feet and legs long, straight and slender, well coloured—10 points. Size.—About 8 tb.—5 points. The breed is perfectly hardy, well suited for being kept here either on the hutch system or on the Morant system. The does are prolific and good nurses, and those with plenty of green food on hand may do far worse than go in for breeding a few of these animals for their table. To breed them one of the largest, good-sized hutches must be used to enable the occupant to take plenty of exercise, but according to their size they are perhaps the smallest eaters of any kind of rabbit. DEPARTMENT NEWS. Mr. H. A. Ballou, B.Sc., Entomologist on the statf of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, returned to Barbados in the §.S. ‘Oruro’ on Thursday, September 29. While in St. Lucia, Mr. Ballou visited all parts of the island in connexion with the advancement of the cotton industry and addressed a meeting of the St. Lucia Agricultural Society on Monday, September 26. Mr. Bailou also took part in two of the lantern lectures on cotton growing. Mr. George 8. Hudson, Agricultural Instructor at St, Lucia, returned from leave of absence by the R.M.S. ‘Atrato, and resumed the duties of his office on Tuesday, September 27. B34 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Ocroper 8, 1904. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. Mr. J. R. Jackson, A.L.S., has forwarded the following report on the London drug and spice markets for the month of August :— Considering that we are still in the midst of the holiday season, it is satisfactory to note that in the produce markets generally a fair trade has been done during the month of August. Neither in drugs nor spices were any markets held in the first week of the month, the August bank holiday falling in that week. GINGER, At the first dealing in this spice about 550 packages of Jamaica sold at steady rates ; good washed realizing 43s. 6d. to 47s. 6d.; middling to fair washed, 37s. to 40s. ; ordinary dullish, 34s. to 35s., ordinary small and ordinary, 29s. to 31s. per ewt. Cochin was bought in, bold native cut at 40s. and Bengal at 19s. A week later there was a moderate supply of Jamaica offered, part of which sold at steady prices, good fetching 43s. to 45s. 6d., fair washed, 39s.; middling, 35s. ; ordinary to ordinary dullish, 30s. to 33s.: and common, 27s. Cochin was again mostly bought in at the following rates :— tood bold selected, 65s.; medium and bold, 49s.; and small medium and bold, 38s. In the following week, viz., on August 24, the large quantity of over 1,000 packages of Jamaica were offered and 200 disposed of at auction, further sales being afterwards made privately: the prices quoted were as follows :—Good washed, 46s. to 47s. 6d. ; fair washed, 37s. 6d.; ordinary to middling dullish, 33s, to 36s. Sixty-nine cases of Cochin were also offered at this sale, 57 being sold, including small medium cut, mouldy, at 28s. 6d. From these figures it will be seen that the Jamaica product is still to the fore in quantity and price. NUTMEGS, MACE AND PIMENTO, At the first sale West Indian nutmegs were in good supply, 486 packages being offered and sold at steady prices, but at a slight increase on those of the previous month. But little or no change took place at the remaining sales. The same may be said of West Indian mace, which at the last sale, on the 24th., fetched 1s. 8d. for fine pale, 1s. 4d. to 1s. 5d. for fair, and 1s 2d. to 1s, 3d. for ordinary ; 53 packages of West Indian being disposed of. Of pimento, 558 packages were offered at the first auction and bought in at rates from 2?d. to 24d. For the remainder of the month little or no change occurred in prices and there continued a fair demand. ARROW ROOT. Arrowroot, which is always offered at the spice sales, began with the offering of 100 tins of St. Vincent, which were bought in at 3d. per tb. On the 24th. some 500 barrels of St. Vincent were offered and again bought in. In connexion with the imports and deliveries of arrowroot, the following note has been published, giving the quantities in the first seven months of 1904 and the stocks on July 31 :— Imported, 11,485 barrels, 807 boxes and tins ; delivered, 2,905 barrels and 714 tins; stocks, 11,216 barrels, 1,159 boxes and tins. Our well-informed contemporary, the Chemist and Druggist, gives the following note on Bermuda arrowroot :-— ‘The export of arrowroot from Bermuda during 1903 amounted to 9 tons 9 ewt., valued at £1,300, against 11 tons 12 ewt. exported in 1902, valued at £1,347. This return: points to a rise in the price of the Bermuda variety. There- is One arrowroot factory in the island, which is equipped with modern plant and is capable of producing a large quantity of this valuable article. The arrowroot manufactured in the colony is being placed on the markets at the present date in attractive packages and in small quantities, with distinctive labels as to origin, and it is expected that the demand for this product will materially increase.’ SARSAPARILLA, With regard to this drug, the same paper from which we have quoted the above paragraph had the following note in its issue for August 6: ‘There is a good inquiry for grey Jamaica but very little is obtainable. The exports of sarsaparilla from Guatemala during 1903 amounted in value to £417 compared with £430 for 1902. The British Vice- Consul at Livingston (Guatemala) states that the gathering of sarsaparilla and the bleeding of rubber trees decreased in proportion with the imerease of the banana industry. The cause is not difficult to see ; the ‘““Nuwero” and the ‘“Sarsero” gave up their former toilsome occupation and turned their attention to the ore profitable banana planting. The total amount of sarsaparilla shipped from Livingston during the last four months of 1903 amounted to 61 bales weighing 11,032 tb.’ At the drug sale on the 18th. it was reported that there was an absence of good quality sarsaparilla of any deserip- tion; rather course Lima Jamaica fetched 10d. Twelve bales of fair grey Jamaica sold at from 1s. to 1s. 1d., and a bale of medium native red was disposed of at 9d. TAMARINDS, KOLA NUTS, CASSIA FISTULA, ETC. Of other products it may be noted that at the first spice sale, 60 barrels of Barbados tamarinds were offered and bought in at 8s. 6d. per ewt. Two bags of fair bold West Indian kola nuts were offered on the 18th. for which 53d. was asked, while at the same sale, 12 barrels of ordinary mouldy and partly shrivelled African were disposed of, at from 2}d- to 3d. per Ib. On the 24th., 11 packages of West Indian, including green, were sold at from 6d. to 10d., dry at from 3d. to 34d. and common at 2d. per Ib. On the 18th., 28 packages of Cassia I’istula were offered and 5 sold. Good bold, part rattly Dominica fetched 25s., and 4 bags of part mouldy were sold at 10s. per ewt. Twelve bags of fair Madras but more or less sea-damaged annato seed, were sold at 1?d. to 34d. No West Indian has been offered. The quotations for good raw West Indian lime juice have been Is, 2d. per gallon and refined ls. 3d, White Wax. Mr. 8. T. Dunn, Superintendent of the Botanical Department, Hongkong, in a report on the agricultural possibilities of Weihaiwei, states that Mraxinus chinensis, the tree upon which insect wax is produced, is common around Weihaiwei, and the valuable white wax is- sparingly cultivated upon it by the Chinese. Although the insect deposits its wax upon the ash it breeds upon a species. of privet (Ligustrum lucidum), and either the inseet must be imported from a district where this tree grows or else the tree must be introduced, for it has not been observed in Shantung. The price of white wax has fallen and the supply has diminished of late years, but if a regular outturm were secured and exported, the industry might be carried on profitably by the farmers in their spare time. (Consular Report on Weihaiwei, 1908.) Vou. II. No. 65. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 335 New York,—September 16, 1904.—Messrs. GILLESPIE MARKET REPORTS. London,— September 13, 1904. Messrs. J. Hates Carp & Co., Messrs. Kearton, Prrrr & Co., Messrs. E. A. DE Pass & Co., ‘THE West INDIA CoMMITTEE CiR- cuLAR’; ‘THE LiveRPooL Corron AssocraTION WEEKLY CIRCULAR, September 9; and ‘THe Pubic LepDGER,’ September 10, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 14/- to 38/- per ewt. ARRowrRooT—St. Vincent, 1fd. per th. Batata—Block, 1/3 per tb. Begs’-wax—&£7 10s. to £7 12s. 6d. per cwt. Cacao—Trinidad, 58/- to 62/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 54/- to 58/- per ewt.; Dominica, 51/- to 56/- per ewt. ; Jamaica, 53/6 to 57/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 73d. to 2/- per th. CorreE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 38/- per ewt. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 13d. ; fine, 14d. ; extra fine, 16d. per tb. Froir— Bananas—Jamaica, 2/- to 4/- per bunch. Grare Frurr—Jamaica, 10/- per case. Orances—Jamaica, 8/- to 9/- per ease. Fustic—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. GinceR—-Fair to good bright, 42/6 to 47/6; common to middling, 29/- to 37/6 per ewt. Honrty—16/- to 19/6 per ewt. Isinctass—West Indian lump, 2/5 to 2/10; cake, 1/1 to 1/5 per th. Kota Nurs—4d. to 7d. per tb. Lime Jurcr—Raw, 1/4 per gallon; concentrated, £14 per cask of 108 gallons. Lime O1r—Distilled, 1/6 per th. ; hand-pressed, 2/6 to 2/9 per th. Locwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—Fair to good pale, 1/6 to 1/11; red 1/3 to 1/5; broken, 1/- to 1/1 per th. Nirrare or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 5s. per ton. Nurmecs-—54’s, 2/3; 102’s, 9d. ; 158’s, O$d. ; shell, 43d. to 5d. per tb. Prento—-22d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 7d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s. 9d. to ls. 9$d. per proof gallon. SaRSAPARILLA—Jamaica, 84d. to 94d. per th. Sucar—Crystallized, 17/6 to 18/6 per ewt. ; Muscovado, Barbados, 13/6 to 14/- per ewt.; Molasses, 11/6 to 15/6 per ewt. SuLpHATE oF AmMoNnIA—£12 per ton. Montreal,—September 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russptn Murray. (In bond quotations.) Bananas—Jamaica, 75c. to 95e. per bunch of § hands ; $105 to $1°15 per bunch firsts ; $1°40 to $1°50 per bunch Jumbos, c. & f. Srpar—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot, c. & f. Cocoa-Nuts— Jamaica, $25°00 to $27:00; Trinidad, $21-00 to $23°00 per M., c. & f. CorrreE—Jamaica, medium, 9c. to 10c. per th., c. & f. GincerR—Jamaica, unbleached, 6}c. to 8c. per th., c. &f. Limes—Jamaica—No quotations. Mo.ascurr—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 tb., c. & f. Motasses—Barbados, 24c. to 26c.; Antigua, 20c. per Imperial gallon. Nurmres—Grenada, 110’s, 18¢. to 19$c. per th., c. & f. Pimento—Jamaica, 6}c. to 7c. per th., c. & f. Prne-APPLES—Cubans, crates 36’s to 10’s, $3:00 to $4:10. Svucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°60 to $2-70 per 100 th., c. GE. —Muscovados, 89°, $2°30 to $2°60 per 100 th., c. & f. —Molasses, 89°, $2°15 to $2°30 per 100 th., c. &f. —Barbados, 89°, $2°40 to $2°45 per 100 th., c. &. f. Bros. & Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12}¢c. to13c.; Jamaica—No quotations 5 Grenada, 12c. to 12}c.; Trinidad, 12c. to 13c. per fb. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $28 to $30 per M., selected ; Jamaicas—$32‘00 per M. CorreE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 8}c. per tb. GincER—Jamaica, good grinding, 7c. to 8c. ; bold root, S}c. to 8he. per th. Goat Skrns—Jamaicas, 54$c. per tb. Pimento—ie. per tb., spot quotation. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 44¢. to 4,5;¢.; Muscovados, 89°, 3}c. ; Molasses, 89°, 3c. per INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—September 24, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncnw & Co. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 tb. Cacao—Dominica, $13°50 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nuts—$13°50 per M. for husked nuts. Corrre—Jamaica, $10-00 to $11-00 ; ordinary Rio, $12-00 per 100 tb. Hay—95ce. to $1°00 per 100 tb. Manvures—-Nitrate of soda, $60-00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72-00 to $7500; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Motasses— Market closed. Oxtons—Madeira (stringed), $1°75 to $200 per 100 tb. Poraros, ENGLtisH—$2°88; Nova Scotia, $2°16 to $3:09 per 160 tb. Rice—Ballam, $4°60 to $3°40 per 100 tb. Suear—Market closed. $472 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, British Guiana,—September 22, 1904.—Messrs. WirTINe@ & RIcHTer. ARRowrRooT—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. Batara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava Strarcu—6:00 per barrel. Cocoa-NutTS—$8 ‘00 to $10°00 per M. CorreE—Rio and Jamaica, 15$¢. to 14c. per tb. (retail). — Creole, llc. per tb. Duat— $4°25 to $4°30 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—S84e. per barrel. Morassrs—Vacuum Pan yellow, 153c. per gallon (casks included). Ontons—Madeira, $1°90 to $2-00 per 100 tb. ; Teneriffe, $1°50 to $1°75 per 100 th. Pea Nurs—American, 7c. per tb. (retail). PLANTAINS—16c. to 36c. per bunch. Poraros, EnerisH—Lisbon and Madeira, 100 tb. (retail). Rice—Ballam, $440 to $4:45; Creole, $4°50 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweet Poratos—Barbados, 72c. to 84c. per bag. Tannras—$1°80 per barrel. Yams—White, $2°64 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $2°50 to $2°60; Yellow, $2:90 to $3:00 ; White, $5°50 to $3°75; Molasses, $2:00 to 2°25 per 100 tb. Timper—Greenheart, 32c. to 55¢. per cubic foot. Wa tabs SHINGLES—$3'00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. $150 per Trinidad,—September 21, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, GRANT & Co. ; and Messrs. Epcar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary, $12°35 ; Estates, $12°40 to $12°60; Venezuelan, $12°45 to $12°65 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-Nuts —$19-00 per M., f.o0.b. Cocoa-NutT O1r—77c. per Imperial gallon (casks included). CorrEeE—Venezuelan, 7}c. per tb. Copra—$2°80 per 100 tb. Ontons—$1°20 to $1°25 per 100 tb. Poratos, EncrisH—$1°40 to $1°65 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $410 to $440; White Table, $5:25 to $5°50 per bag. 336 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OcroperR 8, 1904.. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE oes AS Eee eee | Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all ‘other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. ESTATE FOR SALE OR TO LET. DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. An excellent property situate between the Wood- ford Hill and Brookdale Estates in the parish of St. Andrew’s, Dominica. FOR COTTON GROWERS : as SPECIAL TERMS FOR CASH. | A. B. S. For full particulars apply to the proprietor, NATHL. POWELL, | Wesley, Dominica. | C 0 A T 0 N p L A N T | N C FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, OF Containing full directions for the coming ; CAG © : 4 | season. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. By J. H. BART, ELS. NEW EDITION. | A treatise on the cultiveleaet curing and chemistry of | bes WEST INDIAN BULLETIN 2 COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. | (Ob. es Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. | Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, : K.C.M.G., D.Se., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.C.S., Price. 38 “per . copy. on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter. 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. eas Ss, es ‘ SS ih A Se AE \ \ A\ | ei A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. III. No. 66. BARBADOS, OCTOBER 22, Prick ld. 1904. CONTENTS. PAGE. Pacer. Arrowrovt, St. Vincent... 345 Insect Notes :— d ; aC usects of ... 046 Bee-keeping Industry in Cac 10, Iuse ake Sit mae Sot: Cocoa-nuts, Scale CIETONEIKE, Sag Gon. Goo Gi Tasccreton 346 Brazil, Agriculture 10 345 ; ep ta Cotton Boll Weevil, Enemy of the... ... 346 Job’s Tears as Poultry HOOdmEemErE- ri ss. O4e Market Reports... ... dd1 Notes and Comments ... 344 Oranges, Cultivation in Cacao manurial Experi- ments at Grenada ... 547 Cassava in Jamaica ... 049 Coffee, Quality of ... ... 845 Cotton Industry :— Emergency Grants... 544 Gambia Sop 000 cca oH Dominica... ... ... 340 ~ Montserrat... ... ... 341 | Pine-applesin Hawaii ... 340 SHINES o.. gies Eeeoal: Poultry Notes... ... ... 343 MODaC Omens ess) wesc as Ook Breeding Turkeys... 343 West Indies... ... ... 344 Virgin Islands... ... 341 Fixation of ... ... 843 SN ea aa 347 Sisal Hemp in the Caicos ca « Sp fe a ee ele 342 Department News... ... 349 | «. bia Ai ea ag Bi esiicueiRepories— Spices in Zanzibar... ... 340 : Sugar Industry :— PAW AM ele che deder Lees (O49 F BartocRica 349 Experiments at Bar- Science Notes :--- Atmospherie Nitrogen, bados eR ts. GOO East Africa, Notes from... 342 | Uganda, Resources of Educational :— Western ... ... ... 345 Nature Teaching... 3550 | West Indian Products ... 350 West Indies and Crystal Palace Exhibition ... 350 Fruit Imports of the U.S. 340 Gleanings ban neo) coo BEES Bee-keeping Industry in Jamaica. F all the British West India Jamaica is the only one in which the Islands bee-keeping industry has attained a really important position. It is probably not generally realized that the annual exports of honey from Jamaica are worth about £10,000, and those of wax over £6,000. Of recent years much progress has been made in this industry, and Jamaica has won a good name in the markets for both honey and wax. The following figures, giving the amount and value of the exports of honey during the past six years, are of particular interest in indicating the material progress that has been made:—1897, 2,440 ewt. (£1,891); 1898, 4,934 ewt. (£2,124); 1899, 5,037 ewt. (£3,673) ; 1900, 8,174 ewt. (£6,539): 1901, 13,423 ewt. (£10,738): 1902, 16,804 cwt. (£9,241). These figures are obtained from the annual report of the Collector General for the year 1901, who states: ‘The improvement in the exports of honey bears witness to the combined intelligence and patience which are being brought to bear on the production of minor products. adopted centrifugal apparatus for expelling the honey from the comb, and the comb itself, instead of being melted down as heretofore, is returned uninjured to the hive, thus considerably increasing the output of the more valuable product, honey, whilst reducing that of wax. Bee keepers have In that way, then, can we account for the decline of recent years in the export of wax from the island. In 1898, 1.590 cwt. were exported, of the value of £10,388: in 1902, the amount was 992 ewt., and the value £6,020. There is no doubt that the progress of the Jamaica bee-keeping industry is mainly due to the efforts of the Jamaica Bee Keepers’ Association. This 338 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Ocroper 22, 1904. is a commercial undertaking, working along co-opera- tive lines, which has set itself steadily to improve the quality and the appearance of the honey shipped. With this object in view a board of examiners was appointed, which inspects every package sent by members to the for shipment. The product is graded by the examiners, and if it is found to come up to the required standard, the package is branded with the Association’s stamp. In the market reports Jamaica honey has, during the last few months, been quoted at from 15s, tu 30s. per ewt. Association In regard to Jamaica bees’-wax, it has already been mentioned that the exports have of late declined somewhat. It is interesting to note, however, that, according to a writer in the Journal of the Jumaica Agricultural Society (Vol. VII, p. 186), Jamaica wax always finds a ready sale in the market on account of its undoubted purity. It fetches from £7 10s. to £8 15s. per ewt., as against £6 10s. to £7 7s. 6d. for French, Italian and Spanish wax, and £6 10s. to £6 15s. for wax from Madagascar. It is principally used in the manufacture of boot and furniture polishes, for tailors’ wax, photographic compositions, ete. Of late years there has been an increase in the exports to the United States and a decrease in the shipments to the United Kingdom. This product is now quoted in the London market reports at £7 10s. to £7 12s. 6d. per ewt. The Imperial Department of Agriculture has given considerable encouragement to the bee-keeping industry in the West Indies, and there are indications that the business is being taken up with a certain amount of enthusiasm in some of the islands. In St. Lucia, especially, distinct progress has been made in recent years, and there are now a fairly large number of colonies kept in modern hives. So far, the exports from St. Lucia and the other islands in which bee keeping has been taken up have been in very small quantities, but there is every indication that in the course of a few years, when there will be less necessity for thinning colonies for purposes of increase, a large honey yield will be obtained. Of course, it must be understood that much of the success that has attended the establishment of this industry in Jamaica is due to an abundance of honey flowers, especially logwood, In Barbados, for example, there is not much prospect of bee keeping being carried on successfully on a large seale on account of the scarcity of honey-yielding flowers. We have given the above short sketch of the progress in this industry in Jamaica that bee keepers in the West Indies may realize the possibilities of this profitable undertaking. At the same time we desire, by mentioning the efforts of the Jamaica Bee Keepers’ Association, to give prominence to the necessity of taking steps to secure that only a good grade of honey and wax shall be shipped. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Sugar-cane Experiments at Barbados. At a meeting of the Barbados Agricultural Society held on October 14,a paper was read by Professor J. P. d’ Albuquerque and Mr. J. R. Boveil on the results of the sugar-cane experiments carried on at Barbados under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. results with seedling canes :— In the first place, we invite your attention to the compar- ative results of a few of the best seedling varieties for the past five years, together with those obtained with the White Transparent variety. As you are aware, these canes have been grown on duplicate plots in several estates situated in representative parts of the island. The plots usually contain 100 stools of canes each ; they are cultivated under the ordinary conditions of the estate where they are grown, and care is taken to eliminate any error that might be due to the growth of one variety interfering with that of a neighbouring one. Now, while the plots are small, there are several of each kind and an average is taken of each variety, and there is distinct evidence, wherever these results can be brought into comparison with those of the canes grown on the ordinary estate scale, to show that the results of the plots agree very well with the results on the estates. In black soils, an average of five years’ experiments shows that plots of White Transparent plant canes yielded about 21 tons of sugar per acre. This, we think, agrees fairly well with estate results when it is remembered that the iand of all the fields upon which these canes were grown was good land. The plots of White Transparent ratoon canes in black soils yielded about 1 ton of sugar per acre. In red soils White Transparent plant canes gave a little less than 2 tons of sugar per acre, and the ratoons gave about 14 tons of sugar per acre. These results again agree, we think, very well with those on a large scale on similarly situated estates. The black soil districts are not generally regarded as favourable to ratooning. In black soils, therefore, the results of plant canes are looked upon as allimportant. Looking at the results for the five years, only two seedling varieties, viz., B. 208, and B. 147, have exceeded in their yields those of the White Transparent variety. On the average of five years’ experiments, the differences in favour of B. 208 and B. 147, as compared with the standard variety, are small, amounting to 5 per cent. in the case of B. 208, and 4 per cent. in the case of B, 147. The following is a short summary of the in Vou. Ill. No. 66. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 339 Five per cent. increase on a long average is not to be despised, but at the same time it is not such as to satisfy the aspirations either of the planters or those engaged in sugar- cane experiments. Certainly much more than that is hoped for from the raising of scedling canes, when the large numbers that have been annually raised for the past five years come to be thoroughly tested. The juice of B. 208, both with the plot-samples and samples grown on trial areas of an acre and upwards, and sent from the estate mills, is uniformly very rich and very pure: and on this account the cane merits some attention from muscovado plantations. B. 147, on the other hand, yields a juice which, on the average, is less pure than that of the White Transparent, and in many cases, especially in unfavourable years, would give trouble in the muscovado factory. These results have been calculated as an average of plots in St. Michael, Christ Church, St. Philip, and St. Lucy, but it should be pointed out that B. 147 has given uniformly high comparative resuits, year after year, at Dodds, St. Philip, and in St. Lucy, and that there is no doubt in our minds that in certain thin and well-drained black soils B. 147 does give a yield which is a substantial increase on the White Transparent. We can testify that the results of the estates of a large company that grow this cane upon a large scale, show that this variety in St. Philip parish can be made to give both as plants and ratoons higher results than the White Transparent, and evidence is forthcoming from other cane-growing countries of the excel- lence of this variety. Still, it is evident that, for general cultivation in other parts of Barbados, this variety cannot be recommended. In black soils, the ratoon yields of sugar were as follows :—White Transparent, 2,400 tb.; B. 208, 2,900 hb. ; B. 147, 2,800 tb. The results in red soils are more encouraging experimenters than those in the black soils. The yields of muscovado sugar of the White Trans- parent variety were:—plant canes, 4,300 ; ratoons, 3,500 Ib. ; average, 3,900 Tb. B. 208—plants, 5,650 Ib. ; ratoons, 3,800 tb. ; average, 4,700 th. Increase over White Transparent, 20 per cent. D. 95—plants, 4,550 tb.: ratoons, 4,480 Ib. ; average, 4,520 tb. Increase over White Transparent, 16 per cent. B. 147—plants 4,070 tb. ; ratoons, 2,290 tb. ; average, 3,180 tb. These red soil results, we think, should lead planters to give to B. 208 a careful and universal trial on a small estate scale. B. 208 owes its yield partly to the extreme richness and purity of its juice, and it often happens that, although the yield of canes, and therefore their field appearance, is not equal to that of White Transparent, the results when it comes to the factory eclipse those of White Transparent. We urge a general trial of B. 208 on a small scale in red soils. Evidently the ratoon results on red soils of B. 147 put it entirely out of the question as a variety for those districts. Turning now to the year 1904, taken alone, the results are chiefly of interest as introducing, for the first time as selected seedlings, a few of the newer seedling varieties. It is appropriate at this point briefly to view the weather conditions of the season under report. As we all clearly remember, the rainfall for the first nine months was all that a planter could desire, and led to a good spring of young canes and a luxuriant growth. Late in October and in November, however, which is generally recognized as a critical period in regard to the yield of the cane, a period of to the some weeks of severe drought set in, a drought that completely checked the growth of the crop. ‘This was followed by heavy rains that lasted till quite late into the following reaping season. On the whole, the weather conditions were highly fayourable to a large return, but at the same time the November drought must have had the effect of sensibly diminishing the crop. The crop of 1904 is not what was expected from these conditions. But, in the first place, the conditions were not equal everywhere. To leeward, for example, the rainfall could not be painted in the favourable colours used for the rest of the island. Then again the crop is recorded in estimated hogsheads, and the estimated hogshead this year was above the average weight. Were the crop reckoned in tons, the comparative yield of the year would show up more favourably. But over and above these reasons, it should be borne in mind that owing to several estates being in recent years sold out in small lots, there is less land under cane cultivation. Then, land that used to be in plant canes is now in ratoons ; upwards of 1,000 acres were under cotton, some was under bananas, and lastly, the estates have adopted a policy of self-support which involves a rotation of crops and a proportion of land under provision and fodder crops. Brietly put, the following are some of the most interest- ing results in the black soils. Yield of muscovado sugar per acre :— White Transparent—plants, 5,560 tb. ; ratoons, 2,960 Ib. ; average, 4,300 tb. B. 208—plants, 5,660 tb.; ratoons, 3,800 tb.; average, 4,740 tb. B. 147—plants, 5,320 Ib.; ratoons, 3,130 tb.; average, 4,230 Ib. B. 1,529—plants, 7,470 Ib., i.e., 30 per cent. increase on White Transparent plant canes of the same year. This variety gave favourable yields on single plots in the two. previous seasons, a result that led to its trial as a selected seedling. The favourable results of this cane are due to a combination of good tonnage and very rich and pure juice. The cultivation of this variety will be extended at once to as many experimental plots as possible. It is premature to say whether the results of this year will be confirmed in our subsequent trials. The remaining seedlings grown in black soils call for ro special comment. The results in muscovado yields are given as follows :— D. 842—plants, 5,480 Ib. D. 95—plants, 5,410 tb. ; ratoons, 4,960 tb.: average, 5,190 Ib. D. 1,438—plants, 5,400 ib. B. 376—plants, 5,300 tb. ; ratoons, 3,032 bb. ; average, 4,160 Ib. The more interesting red soil results were as follows-— yields calculated on muscovado sugar :-— White Transparent—plants, 5,400 Ib. ; ratoons, 4,830 b.; average, 5,120 tb.; B. 208—plants, 7,210 tb. ; ratoons, 4,260 tb. ; average, 5,740 tb. B.1,529—plants, 6,650 tb. B. 376—plants, 6,360 Ib.; ratoons, 5,290 tb. ; average, 5,830 tb. B. 393—plauts, 5,980 fb.; ratoons, 1,950 tb. ; average, 3,960 Ib. B. 379—plants, 5,480 tb.; ratoons, 5,272 tb. ; average, 5,370 tb. D. 95—plants, 5,210 tb.; ratoons, 5,390 tb. ; average, 5,300 tb. Three varieties, viz., B. 208, B. 1,529, and B. 376 have given yields which show an increase over the White Transparent. 340 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Ocroper 22, 1904. AN WEST INDIAN FROIE: PINE-APPLES IN HAWAII. The following is a brief summary of interesting observations made in the annual report on the Agricultural Experiment Station in Hawaii on the cultivation of pine-apples:— There are two large pineapple canneries in successful operation in the island of Oahu. Experiments in the cultiva- tion of this crop have been carried on for fully twenty years. Practically all the known varieties have been imported from different parts of the world. It has been found that the Smooth Cayenne is the best adapted to Hawaiian conditions. The Hawaiian canned pine-apples are superior in quality to any others now placed on the American market, because they are allowed to ripen and attain their fullest development in the field. The pines have not been affected by any serious disease ; they are also comparatively free from insect injury. There are many thousand acres of land suited to the cultivation of pine-apples, and the industry is capable of very great expansion. As long as the Hawaiian growers maintain the high standard of excellence now existing, there will be an almost unlimited market. CULTIVATION OF ORANGES IN DOMINICA. The Hon. Francis Watts writes that while in Dominica recently he visited ‘Corona, the orange plantation belonging to Mr. Scully, in connexion with which there is an experiment plot, under the direction of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, for the cultivation of varieties of oranges. Dr. Watts makes the following remarks on this cultivation :— Mr. Scully’s oranges look remarkably well, some of them being about to come into bearing. Scale insects have been controlled by the careful use of insecticides. Mr. Scully remarked that the young plants received from the Dominica Botanic Station are in much better condition than those coming from Jamaica. The system of cultivation adopted has much to commend it. It agrees well with the general principles I have tried to lay down. A circle, 10 feet in diameter, is kept clean round each tree: no weeds are allowed to become established in this space, which is weeded at frequent intervals, care being taken not to scrape the soil away from the roots of the tree. The intervening space between the clean circles is not forked or dug up, the grass and weeds being cut down at intervals and used as a surface mulch. The condition of the soil appears to be all that can be desired. FRUIT IMPORTS OF THE UNITED STATES. The following note on the importation of fruit, especially bananas and lemons, into the United States appeared in the Crop Reporter (published at Washing- ton by the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture) for September :— The fruits imported into the United States in large quantities are almost exclusively from tropical America, and from Southern Europe, and from Turkey-in-Asia. As estimated by value, over one-third of the imports consists of bananas ; these are derived chiefly from Central America, Cuba, and the British West Indies; they are imported in quantities ranging from 25,000,000 to 30,000,000 bunches annually, and their cost, laid down at ports of the producing countries, ranges from 57,000,000 to $8,500,000 a year. To these may be added annually about $25,000 worth of plantains, a fruit closely resembling the banana and used for cooking purposes in some of the Southern States. Next in importance to bananas in the import fruit trade are lemons, for which upwards of 53,000,000 are expended abroad annually, Italy (Sicily) being the almost exclusive source of supply. These two products, bananas and lemons, regularly constitute in value over one-half the total annual imports of fruit. Pine-apples are imported from tropical America in considerable quantities: the annuai imports amount in value to $500,000 to $600,000. SPICES IN ZANZIBAR. The Consular Report on the trade of Zanzibar and Pemba contains interesting references to the spice industry :-— The clove crop for 1903 was an exceptionally good one for the island of Zanzibar, and an exceptionally bad one for the island of Pemba. ‘The exports were of the value of £186,399 and £88,592, respectively. Cloves represent about 80 per cent. of the value of the total exports from Pemba year by year, copra and cocoa-nuts standing for 16 per cent. The exports of chillies from Zanzibar amounted to 516,428 tb., valued at £7,116. It is to be regretted that more attention is not paid to the cultivation of this crop, for which the soil of these islands is especially suitable. Thanks to local legislation, copra and chillies are being brought into market in a much better condition than heretofore. Cloves also are cleaner and drier, and more free from khoker and stems. 341 Vou. Ill. No. 66. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. COTTON INDUSTRY. _ St. Kitt's. Mr. F. R. Shepherd, Agricultural Superintendent Virgin Islands at St. Kitt’s, has forwarded the following report on the MEW) Fighioee Aer: fis ieee trict ; prospects of the cotton industry in that island :— r. W. C. Fishlock, Agricultural Instructor at Tortola, reports :— I have very little reliable information with reference to the amount of cotton planted in the Virgin Islands. The weather during May, June, and July was very dry, and it was impossible to plant, although much land was cleared. I believe about 15 to 20 acres have been planted at Norman Island, and I am informed that a considerable amount has been planted at Virgin Gorda. I should say that there is every prospect of 50 acres being planted in cotton in this presidency. In most cases people have saved and planted their own seed. Some was obtained from St. Thomas, and 100 tb. from the station. Tobago. Mr. H. Millen, Curator of the Botanic Station at Tobago, reports as follows on the prospects of cotton growing in the island :— The approximate area planted is 120 acres, of which 80 acres are planted in Marie Galante cotton, and the remaining 40 acres in Sea Island. It is probable that not more than 50 acres will be planted this season. One reason why planting was not more extensively carried on was on account of the want of machinery for cleaning the cotton. A cotton gin and a baling press have been received from the British Cotton-growing Association. This is the second lot of machinery imported into the island for this purpose. Now that machinery has been received, planters will be stimulated to plant, as they can now be certain of getting their cotton cleaned for export. From this station 53 tb. of Sea Island cotton seed have been distributed ; several planters have also obtained seed direct from Trinidad. Montserrat. Mr. A. J. Jordan, Curator of the Botanic Station, has reported as follows on the prospects of the cotton industry in Montserrat :— During this season 2,730 lb. of Sea Island seed have been distributed through the Department, and about 600 tb. of planters’ own seed have been treated with corrosive sublimate solution at Grove Station. About 600 acres have been planted, and if proper care is exercised to keep the leaf-blister mite in check, and neither the ‘black boll’ nor any new disease attacks the plants, an average yield of 200 Ib. of lint is expected to be reaped. Since the middle of July the weather has been excellent for the growth of cotton, and seed sown at that time has developed into plants about 4 feet in height, which are already setting pods. No attacks of the cotton worm have been reported, but a large, black caterpillar was seen eating the stems of the seedlings. The damage done by these was not, however, considerable. A greater space has been allowed to each plant than last year, most planters having planted at 4 feet by 2 feet, some at even 5 feet by 3 feet. From information collected, I find that the area of cotton already planted is 1,000 acres, and arrangements are being made to plant 50 more during the month. This will make a total area of 1,050 acres. Of this area 500 acres have been planted with the selected Sea Island seed imported by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, and 550 acres with seed from Sea Island cotton grown locally. The cotton crop in the island is, on the whole, in a very promising condition ; the earlier-planted cotton is already bearing heavily. The cotton worm has made its appearance in a few localities, but has been at once kept in check by the application of Paris green. The leaf-blister mite has also attacked the plants in some places, and a mixture of sulphur and lime has been used. Since the recent rains these pests have not been so troublesome, and consequently there seems to be a good prospect for the cotton. The amount of imported Sea Island seed, sold and planted in St. Kitt’s, was 2,295 tb. Gambia. Considerable space is devoted in the Annual Report on Gambia for 1903 to an account of the efforts that have been made in that colony to establish a cotton-growing industry. The following brief sum- mary is likely to be of interest :— In the early part of 1902, 1,325 tb. of American, and 1,185 tb. of Egyptian, seed were distributed among the Chiefs of the protectorate. The result cannot be said to have been very satisfactory, as only 578 tb. of lint were shipped to England. The failure of the crop was attributed by the natives to the seed having been sown too early: it is considered, however, that it is more probable that it was due to intentional want of care on the part of the farmers, who hoped that, in the event of the first crop proving a failure, the experiment would be abandoned and they would be allowed to continue their ground nut planting in peace. The first shipment of 112 tb. of lint realized 6d. per 0b.; probably the price would have been higher, had the quantity been greater. The brokers reported that this cotton was superior to the usual, rough West African cottons, and were of opinion that, with careful cultivation and proper picking and ginning, West African cotton might obtain equal prices with American Upland. As a result of the visit of an expert sent out under the auspices of the British Cotton-growing Association early in 1903, special attention has been devoted to experiments in the Upper River district where an experimental farm has been established. It is estimated that in that district about 400 acres have been planted in cotton. The crop for 1903, which was expected to be about 50 to 60 tons of seed-cotton, was being bought by the Government at 2d. per tb.—a price which is readily accepted by the natives but which has been fixed for the purpose of encouraging the natives and cannot be regarded as likely to make the experiment a profit-making one. The yield may be said to be about 300 Ib. of seed- cotton per acre. With this yield the crop is not likely to be as profitable as ground nuts. On the other hand, there is no reason why the yield should not be raised to 450 hb. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OcroBEeR 22, 1904. NOTES FROM EAST AFRICA. Mr. Henry Powell, formerly Curator of the Botanic Station at St. Vincent, now Assistant in the Agri- cultural Department of British East Africa, has forwarded the following notes which are of interest to agriculturists in the West Indies :— Ravenala madagascariensis.—The fruiting ‘ Travellers’ palm’ at the Botanic Station, St. Vincent, was raised in 1890 from seed received from the Royal Gardens, Kew. Only one other ‘Travellers’ palm,’ established at the station, was raised from seed—the others being either imported from Trinidad, or grown from suckers. p Passiflora edulis.—This is very common at Nairobi and in other parts of East Africa. It yields an abundant crop of delicious fruit, and seed can readily be obtained here, for the West Indies, if desired. When in London recently the writer took notes at the Natural History Museum on mungoose, agouti, and manacou, these animals having been familiar to him at St. Vincent. Mungoose.—The mungoose so common in St. Vincent appeared to be closely allied to one labelled East Africa or dusty mungoose (L/erpestes pulverulentus). Other similar mungoose were Ceylon mungoose (//erpes- tes fulvescens) and Indian mungoose (Herpestes mungo). The white-tailed Natal mungoose (erpestes albicauda) is 3 feet in length and a foot high. A label on the case stated that ‘all are deadly foes to snakes but suecumb if bitten, their agility saving them.’ In the Nairobi district there are several species of mungoose including one with a white tail. The * Puff Adder’ (Bitis Gabonica) and other deadly snakes are fairly common around Nairobi, but as these usually make their homes in holes in the ground, the mungoose has a more ditticult task to kill them than in the West Indies. Agouti.—The agouti (Dasyprocta agoutis, or agutis).— These are labelled ‘Rodents’ and there are said to be ten known species, all nocturnal. Manacou.—This is classed with the opossums. A specimen labelled Didelphys Marsupialis from Florida, closely resembled the St. Vincent manacou, but the first- named was somewhat larger and greyer in colour. Palm Nut Cracking Machine—At the Imperial Insti- tute the writer saw one of these machines tested, and was convinced that by means of this machine the nuts of the Gri-Gri palm of St. Vincent could be turned to account. The makers are Adam Knox & Sons, Engineers, Glasgow. It is known that the fibre obtained from the leaflets of this palm is among the finest and strongest in the world, but is difficult to extract. Cotton Industry.—The writer is very pleased at the success of the cotton industry in St. Vincent and trusts that planters and others there are very largely increasing the area under cotton this year. East Africa with its thousands of acres of cotton land will be in the field in a year or two, and it should be the aim of the St. Vincent community to grow only the best possible kind, as recommended by the Imperial Department of Agriculture. JOBS TEARS AS A POULTRY FOOD. On p. 275 of this volume of the Agricultural News we published some information from the Agri- cultural Ledger in regard to the use of ‘Job’s tears’ as a famine food. It appears that these seeds are used in Jamaica for feeding poultry, and the following note by Mr. H. H. Cousins, M.A., F.C.S., appears in the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, for September :— The seeds of Cote Lacryma-Jobi, popularly known as Job’s tears, are used as food for poultry, and two samples have been submitted to the laboratory for analysis. The outer husk is very hard and the seeds must be crushed before being fed to the fowls. The digestible portion is mainly starch, and this food cannot be recom- mended for laying fowls. It should, however, prove a useful material for feeding to poultry in process of fattening for the table. The analytical data as determined by Mr. Hammond, F.C.8., are as follows :— ss Constituents. (1) (2) Moisture 9°87 7°33 Fats ‘ ee 0-62 0-52 Nitrogenous matter* 744 6°56 Indigestible fibre ... 21-96 19°21 Carbohydrates 3°D2 51:02 Ash 16°59 15°36 Total 100-00 100-00 * Nitrogen 19 1:05 It would appear that the above figures are for unhusked seeds, and this fact must be borne in mind in comparing these results with those previously published for Indian seeds, where the analyses of kernels are given. SISAL HEMP INDUSTRY IN THE CAICOS ISLANDS. In the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. Ne no. 2) an account was given of the progress of the sisal hemp industry in the Bahamas and the Caicos Islands, On p. 151 a table was published giving the value of the exports from the Caicos Islands since 1894, At the time of preparing that article we were not in possession of the necessary information as to the amount of the exports to make the table complete. We have since received from the Commissioner of the Turks and Caicos Islands figures which enable the table to be completed as follows :— | | Exports oP Sine | Export | | Year. | in Seer Year. in ae | pounds. | | pounds. oes | | — — = 2 1894 | 69,501 |£ 419 |) 1899 | 510,406 | £7,493 1895 | 95,788 620 1900 | 349,482 5,080 1896 | 167,592 1,047 |) 1901 | 461,183 6,551 | 1897 | 405,898 | 2.539 || 1902 | 498,334 7,100 | 1898 | 469,825 | 2,901- | Fee ee Worse lhl No; 66; THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 343 POULTRY NOTES. The following notes are taken from the Haim Journal of Philadelphia :— In killing lice on chicks, quick work can be done by taking a machine-oil can filled with Iubricating oil and putting a drop or two on each chick’s head. For diarrhoea, or cholera, in hens, ducks, or turkeys, give a weak solution of copperas, say a piece as large as a pea to a tea-cupful of water. If they have real cholera they will readily drink this, if given to them for drinking water. Canker in fowls can be successfully treated by washing the head and eyes, and rinsing out the mouth and throat, with a dilute solution of chlorate of potash and alum, equal parts. Remove the ulcers with a quill and apply powdered burnt alum to the places left bare. Repeat twice a day. Tsolate the sick fowl. Pip is not a disease: it is a condition. A hard substance develops on the tongue, which interferes with the partaking of food, especially hard grains. Anoint the tongue with glycerine, repeating the treatment several times in succession, and a cure is generally effected. Breeding Turkeys. In Furmers’ Bulletin No. 200, of the United States Department of Agriculture, ‘Turkeys: Standard varieties and Management,’ the following observations are made on the selection and treatment of breeding stock :— There are some rules that must be followed in the ~ selection of turkeys for breeding, if it is hoped to succeed Careless neglect has given no end of trouble to turkey raisers. In some instances, which the writer has investigated, all the turkeys owned in one locality have descended from the one original pair purchased many years before. If this foolish procedure had been continued, it would have resulted in the destruction of the constitutional vigour of the turkeys. A few plain rules which may be observed to advantage are as follows :— Always use as breeders turkey hens over one year old. Be sure they are strong, healthy, and vigorous, and of good, medium size. In no instance select the smaller ones. Do not strive to have them unnaturally large. The male may be a yearling or older. Do not imagine that the large, overgrown males are the best. Strength, health, and vigour, with well-proportioned size, are the main points of excellence. Avoid close breeding. New blood is of vital importance to turkeys. Better send a thousand miles fora new male than to risk the chances of inbreeding. AFRICAN RUBBER. The Lust African Quarterly (Vol. I, no. 2) reproduces from the Anglo-African Argus the follow- ing interesting note on African rubber :— The question of making West African rubber more marketable is now exercising the minds of merchants engaged in that trade. The rubber that comes from Para (South America) fetches on the English market double the price of that product from West Africa. The only reason for this is the different method of curing the rubber when taken from the tree—a very simple process. The way to effect it is as follows, writes a correspondent: ‘After the milk has been collected and brought to the house, a smoke fire is made, over which a funnel is placed, then a stick is cut, made to the shape of a paddle, which is dipped in the milk and then held over the top of the funnel in the smoke. When dry, another dip is taken and again dried, and so on, until the rubber round the paddle becomes an inch or so thick, or eyen less. If too heavy to handle, then a knife is taken and a cut made down the rubber into the wood, which enables the product to be taken from the paddle. The rubber, which is then put on one side, is ready for the market. The same process is again repeated until all the rubber has been cured. The process should be slow; by smoke on/y, not by fire. The difference between Para and African rubber is similar to that between a loaf of bread just made up into dough and a loaf that has been through the oven and been properly baked. In other words, while the substance is the same the one is an imperfect article ; the other a finished one, so far as the production of rubber is concerned.’ SCIENCE NOTES. Fixation of Atmospheric Nitrogen. On p. 279 of this volume of the Agricultural News we dealt with the subject of the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen by means of chemical agency, stating that experiments con- ducted in Germany had demonstrated that a substance known as calcium cyanamide could be prepared on a com- mercial scale and used as a fertilizer. In his address at the recent meeting of the British Association, Dr. Wm. Somerville, Chairman of tle sub-section, Agriculture, dealt at considerable length with this subject. He stated that it had long been the dream of chemists to discover a chemical process, capable of industrial application, whereby the nitrogen of the atmosphere could be made available to supplement the rather limited supplies of nitrogenous manures. Sir Wm. Crookes looked hopefully to electricity to solve the problem. He pointed out that with current costing jd. per unit—a rate possible when large natural sources of power, like Niagara, were available—the cost of such artificial nitrate of soda need not be more than £5 per ton. In Germany it had been estimated that the cost of electric nitrate, as compared with Chili nitrate, would be in the proportion of 24 to 39. That good progress had also been made in another direction in the commercial fixation of atmospheric nitrogen viz., by the preparation of the substance calcium cyanamide, already referred to, was shown by the results published by Professor Gerlach, of Posen. ‘So far,’ said Dr. Somerville, ‘as one might judge from the information available, it would appear that agriculture would not have long to wait till it was placed in the possession of new supplies of that most powerful agent of production, nitrogen.’ Wrapping Fruit. Every year we are learning to put up our fruit with more care. The improvement comes both with the fruit grower and with the consumer. The market is becoming more refined, and customers are willing to pay more for a fancy article put up in a tasteful fashion. The use of the box for shipping apples is a step in this direction, and the wrapping of the individual fruits in paper is another step. Experience this year has shown this last step to be a very important one, for it materially increased the prices realized. (Southern Planter.) 344 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OcroBER 22, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. A com- plete list of the London and Local agents will be found at foot of page 319 of this volume. The ‘Agricultural News’: Price 1d. per number, post free 14d. Annual subscription payable to Agents 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural sews \Wor, IU SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 1904. No. 66. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. Our editorial deals with the progress that has been made in the bee-keeping industry in Jamaica. Honey and bees’-wax from Jamaica invariably find a ready sale in the markets on account of their known parity. The paper on sugar-cane experiments at Barbados (pp. 338-9) is briefly reviewed elsewhere on this page. On p. 341 will be found brief reports on the prospects of the cotton crop in several of the West India Islands. A short note on the cotton industry in Gambia is also published. Mr. Henry Powell, formerly of St. Vincent, has sent some interesting notes which are published on p. 342. Our insect notes deal chiefly with the present position of the efforts to keep the Mexican cotton boll weevil in check by means of the ‘kelep’ or Guatemalan ant. The report on cacao experiments at Grenada published on p. 347 is likely to be of interest to cacao planters in the West Indies. Reviews of two interesting reports will be found on p. 349. These relate to the working of the Agri- cultural Experiment Stations in Hawaii and Porto Rico. Mr. J. Russell Murray’s report on West Indian produce in Canada shows a satisfactory state of affairs in regard to sugar, bananas, and cocoa-nuts. The abnormally cold weather has spoiled the lime business. Cotton Industry in the West Indies. We commenced in the last issue of the Agri- cultural News the publication of a series of brief reports on the prospects of the cotton industry during the present season in the several West India Islands, In the last issue we published the report sent in by Mr. Sands from St. Vincent. Reports from the Virgin Islands, Tobago, Montserrat, and St. Kitts’ appear on p- 341 of this number, and we hope to be able to publish the remaining reports in the next issue. It will be seen that the general tenor of these reports is encouraging and that the local officers of the Department throughout the West Indies are hopeful as to the prospects of the crop. EE ee Emergency Grants for the Cotton Industry. The British Cotton-growing Association has made a further grant of £300 to meet expenses connected with special emergencies arising during the growth of the present cotton crop in the West Indies. This sum will be supplemented from funds of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. The emergencies alluded to in particular are such insect and fungoid diseases as may attack the crops, and the object of the grant is to secure extra assistance and instruction in order to meet such emergencies promptly and effectively and to save the cotton crops from the severe injuries that occurred last year. Of the sum set apart for this purpose £50 have been allotted to St. Vincent and £30 to St. Lucia, In these cases the Agricultural Superintendents have been directed to select and train thoroughly three or four young men to be able to distinguish the common diseases and to know the remedy to apply and the best means of application. Oe ___ Sugar-cane Experiments at Barbados. The paper on the sugar-cane experiments at Barbados, by Professor d’Albuquerque and Mr, Bovell, which we publish on pp. 338-9 of this issue, contains interesting observations on five years’ work with seedling varieties. Comparing seedlings B. 208 and B. 147 with the standard variety—the White Transparent—it is found that, as the result of five years’ experiments the difference in the case of B. 208 is 5 per cent., and 4 per cent. in the case of B. 147. Although these increases are not to be despised, they do not satisfy the aspirations of the experimenters, B. 208 has, however, given uniformly good yields, which it owes to the richness and purity of its juice, and a trial of this seedling on a small scale in red soils is urged. It is pointed out that the crop of 1904 did not turn out as well as was expected of it from the fairly favourable weather conditions during the season, It is probable, however, that this was due to a smaller acreage being now planted in cane on account of land being devoted to other crops, such as cotton, bananas, ground provisions, forage crops, ete. — Vou III. No. 66. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 345 St. Vincent Arrowroot. In a leading article the St. Vincent Sentry deals with the unsatisfactory condition of the arrowroot industry and urges planters to combine with the object of regulating the production and shipment of arrowroot. About three years ago a combination was formed and an agreement entered into to limit the output and demand a minimum price of 2d. per tb. in the English market. The result was that the price of arrow- root advanced very satisfactorily. Unfortunately, the agreement was signed for one year only, and at the end of the year, the agreement not being renewed, the prices fell back, until now this product is being sold below the cost of production. Reference might be made in this connexion to the note in the Agricultural News (Vol. IL, p. 217) in which it was stated that the advice of the Grocers’ Monthly was that St. Vincent arrowroot should be judiciously advertised. Re The Resources of Western Uganda. In a paper on Western Uganda, read at the Royal Geographical Society by the Rev. A. B. Fisher, reference 1s made to the natural resources of the districts which are stated to be partially or entirely undeveloped. Almost anything will grow, and the year having only one season, a constant crop of fruit, vegeta- bles, and flowers can be obtained. The coffee is of exceptionally fine flavour, and in the Semliki plain specimens of cotton were seen which were much superior to other kinds produced in’ the protectorate. ‘The present hindrance,’ states Mr. Fisher, ‘ to aggres- sive industries is the difficulty of transport.’ The rubber industry is absolutely untouched, and in all the forests of these provinces there is a consider- able quantity. rn ae The Quality of Coffee. In his fourth annual report the Agricultural Chemist for the Mysore State, India, makes some interesting observations on the quality of coffee. The old standard of quality was simply the appearance of the bean: now the ‘liquoring’ of coffee is introduced. Though neither of these methods is as accurate as might be desired, no more reliable method of judging quality is available. It is not yet known upon what constituent or constituents the quality of cottee depends; with a view, therefore, of throwing some light on this matter, analyses of a number of samples were made. The price obtained for these in the London market was taken as an indication of quality. From the table of Specific gravities given it is seen that the heavier the bean, the better the price paid for it. The same holds good as regards the nitrogen contents of the sample, and practically, also, in the case of the percentage of potash and phosphoric acid. ‘So far as the results go, they are very satisfactory indeed. But the number of analyses is much too limited to warrant drawing any conclusions. The work will be continued next year, if suitable samples can be obtained.’ Tobacco Experiments in the West Indies. Considerable interest is attached to the experi- ments in tobacco culture that are being carried out in the West Indies, especially in Cuba, Porto Rico, and Jamaica. We have referred in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 268) to the experiments in growing tobacco under shade in Porto Rico: similar experiments are being conducted in Jamaica. In the former island, we learn from the recently issued report on the Experiment Station, the experi- ments have shown that ‘under cheese-cloth tents a wrapper of the finest quality can be produced.’ In regard to similar experiments in Jamaica, it is stated in the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture that 4 acre of land was devoted to growing tobacco under artificial shade at the Hope Experiment Station. ‘The leaf developed in a very favourable manner, and a crop of a promising quality of Sumatra leaf was successfully grown.’ Owing to rapid drying and the absence of special means of controlling moisture in the drying house, the leaf was not successfully cured: the experiment is therefore being repeated. A full account is given in the Bulletin of the method of cultivating tobacco under cloth. It is stated that in Cuba in 1903 there were about 1,000 acres of shade-grown tobacco, in Porto Rico about 250 acres, and in Florida about 2,500 acres. The plan is also being tried in the East Indies. EE aa ——— Agriculture in Brazil. An illustrated pamphlet on the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil, recently issued by the Department of Agriculture, gives interesting information and statistics relating to agriculture. Suitable provision is made in the state for agri- cultural education. A ‘School of practical Agriculture’ was established in 1900, which gives a three-year course, There are in addition three other agricultural schools with two-year courses. Agriculture is the principal source of wealth in the state, coffee holding the first place among the cultivated plants; after it come sugar-cane, cotton, grapes, tobacco, and cereals. Statistics collected by the Department in 1901 show that there are 15,828 coffee estates, occupying over 10,000,000 acres. The cultivation of sugar-cane is carried on princi- pally for the distilling of ‘aquardente’ (cane whisky). Cotton cultivation was at one time in a very flourishing condition, especially between 1867 and 1876, when, besides supplying the home demand, a considerable amount was exported. From that time on, a decadence in cotton culture set in, until now the production is not sufficient to supply the well-developed weaving industry of the state. Lately, cotton culture promises to take a new impetus, Grape grewing for the manufacture of wine is the newest agricultural industry of the state. Through the energy of Dr. Barretto, the problem of grape culture has been solved: he has succeeded in breeding a vine especially adapted to the climatic conditions of Sao Paulo, which resists all the vine diseases. 346 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Octoprr 22, 1904. INSECT NOTES. Insects of the Cacao Tree. Under the title of ‘A preliminary Bulletin on Insects of the Cacao, the Department of the Interior for the Philippine Islands publishes an account of the insects attacking cacao in those islands. The injuries to cacao in the Far East would seem to be much the same as those of the West Indies, although in most eases the insects causing the injury are not the same. This being a preliminary report, the technical names are not given, aud the insecticides recommended for dealing with the pests are general and not the result of experience under the local conditions. The illustrations, of which they are a large number, are mostly from photographs and are very good. Thrips, aphis, borer, leaf-eating caterpillars, ants, termites, and scale insects are all dealt with, and several beneficial insects are also mentioned or described. This is, perhaps, the first publication on the economic entomology of the Philippines, and will serve an excellent purpose in helping the cacao planters to understand and deal with the cacao pests. An Enemy of the Mexican Cotton Boll Weevil. Professor O. F. Cook, of the United States Depart- ment of Agriculture, visiting Guatemala in April this year, discovered an ant which destroyed the Mexican cotton boll weevil. This was recognized at once as a very important discovery, since the boll weevil is at present the most serious pest of cotton known (see Agricultural News, Vol. II, p. 298). Reports of this ant and its work were published in certain American newspapers at the time (see Agricultural News, Vol. III, p. 204) which, though based on fact, were yet without authentic details, and many extravagant statements were made. Since that time careful investigation has been made by the United States Department of Agriculture and the results have been published in a report on the habits of the Kelep, or Guatemalan cotton boll weevil ant, by O. F. Cook, (Bulletin No. 49, Bureau of Entomology). The following notes are taken from this bulletin :-— The kelep was discovered on cotton on April 20, 1904, at Alta Vera Paz, Guatemala, and its efficiency as a destroyer of the cotton boll weevil (Anthonomus grandis, Boh.) was demonstrated the next day. Eighty-nine colonies numbering together about 40,000 ants have been taken to Texas in healthy vigorous condition. Although the journey with the various delays oceupied more than a month, scarcely more than a dozen ants died on the way. This indicates that the ants are hardy, and argues well for their successful establish- ment under new conditions. The kelep, like many wasps, has the power of stinging its prey and paralyzing it, thus making it easier for them to carry it to the nest. The introduction of any insect or other form of life to a climate and locality where it is not known is always attended with risk, and many objections are naturally raised. The objections in the present case have been met and disposed of :— (a) The kelep is entirely carnivorous and predaceous and does not attack plants. It feeds to some extent on the secretions of the honey glands on the leaf of the cotton. (b) The kelep does not excavate large chambers in the ground to serve as pit falls for men and farm animals. The chambers are deep and consist of narrow passages and tunnels running to a depth of 5 feet. : (c) The kelep never attempts to sting human beings unless actually held or injured, and their sting is neither powerful nor dangerous. In addition to preying on the boll weevil, the kelep attacks several other insects, the boll worm among them, but so far does not attack the larvae of the lady-birds. It also attacks and kills a large stinging ant which is a serious pest in some parts of Texas. The kelep is as yet the only ant known to attack and destroy healthy, adult boll weevils, just as the cotton grown with the protection of the ants is the only field culture permanently maintained in the weevil-infested regions of Central America. The present status of the boll weevil ant investigation may be summarized by saying that three of five crucial questions have been met and answered and that the two others are still to be reached, but with no insurmountable obstacle in sight. : (1) An ant has been discovered in Guatemala which attacks and kills the adult boll weevil, and thus holds this most injurious insect im check and permits the regular harvesting of a crop of cotton, even under conditions favourable to the weevil. (2) This ant is carnivorous and predaceous; it injures no form of vegetation, and takes nothing from the cotton plant except the nectar secreted for it on the leaves and floral enyelopes. (3) The habits and temperament of the insect are such that it is readily capable of domestication, transportation, and colonization in the cotton fields of Texas. The issues which remain to be determined are :— (4) Whether the keleps will survive the winter climate of Texas. (5) Whether they can be obtained or propagated in sufficient numbers to serve the practical purpose for which they have been introduced. Scale Insects on Cocoa-nuts. In his report, referred toon p. 549 of this issue, on plant diseases in Porto Rico, Mr. F. S. Earle makes the following observations on cocoa-nuts -— Cocoa-nuts are widely planted in Porto Rico. For the most part they seem quite healthy. No trace of either of the serious diseases found in Jamaica * was observed. In the neighbourhood of Ponce many of the trees were yellow and some were dying. Inspection showed that the trouble was caused by scale insects. Fortunately a lepidopterous larva was present in some numbers feediig on the scales- Specimens were secured by Professor Barrett, and it is hoped he will succeed in rearing them. Unless this or some other enemy of the scale multiplies very rapidly, a number of trees in the neighbourhood of Ponce will be lost, as they are badly infested. See West Indian Bulletin, Wol. IV, pp. 4-6. Vou. Ill. No. 66. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 34 ~I DATE PALMS FOR ARBOR DAY PLANTING. It has been suggested that an excellent tree for planting in connexion with Arbor Day celebrations in the West Indies is the date palm (Phoenix dacty- lifera). Anarticlein the Natal Agricultural Journal on ‘Some ornamental and useful sub-tropical Trees’ has the following reference to the date palm:— Many specimens of this exist in and around Durban, one well-known tree being that in the garden in front of the Royal Hotel ; but though tropical in appearance, it is one of the most hardy palms, fine specimens being in evidence in Capetown, while one at Kat River, Cape Colony, occupies a hot valley just below the Katberg, on which snow often lies for weeks. The date palm Inxuriates in hot, dry, desert country, where its roots can strike water—whether fresh or brackish is of little importance. Egypt and Arabia are its native habitat, and there it is said to fruit better in the hot, dry interior than near the coast. Probably the same will be found here, and it may prove more profitable in the hot valleys of the Umkomaas, the Tugela, and the Umfolozi than on the coast, though in growth at least it has thus far done well on the coast. It is dioecious (i.e., the fertile flowers are on separate trees from the male flowers), so several trees should be grown together to ensure fertilization. It grows easily from seeds taken from commercial dates, but the plants grow slowly at first, and seedlings often fail to maintain the reputation they have had in Australia and California of fruiting while quite young. On the Mediterranean coast many named varieties are cultivated haying different fruit- forms and different seasons of bearing ; the fertile trees of these are propagated and maintained as distinct varieties by the use of suckers, but seedling male trees are satisfactory. The date palm grows to a height of nearly 100 feet, and will probably be an important article in the drier portions of Zululand. None but seedlings are as yet grown here, but the Government is making an endeavour to obtain suckers of best fruiting kinds from Egypt. It yet remains to be proved whether dates can be produced on a commercial scale in the West Indies, but there can be no doubt as to the desirability of planting this tree for purposes of ornamentation. CACAO MANURIAL EXPERIMENTS AT GRENADA. The following report and table, showing the results of the working of the cacao experiment plot at Nianganfoix estate, Grenada, have been forwarded by the proprietor for publication :-— This plot was handed over on September 30, 1903, by the Department of Agriculture to the proprietor who still carries on the experiments, in order to obtain the highest possible yield from an acre of land by the use of fertilizers and green soiling. * During the period, extending over four crops, from April 1, 1900, to September 30, 1904, two applications of manures were made, as shown in the table, the first during the first crop 1900-1; and the second application in the Spring and summer of 1902 just before the third crop. ‘A’, the pen manure section, is the wettest section of the plot, and it will be noticed that, notwithstanding the heavy * The sections have been bedded twice yearly. application of manure in May 1902, the yield fell below the two preceding crops, and only recovered after several rods of new drains had been added to those already existing —and dug diagonally across the slope. This illustrates the value of drains in a wet clay soil, without which manure is at a discount. The potash section ‘D’ has steadily advanced, and, unlike sections ‘B’ and ‘C,’ which unaccountably fell off by 4 to { bag, held its own during the crop 1902-3. The cost of production for the first two years averaged £1 per bag of cacao, and for the second two years 12s. per bag, or an allvound average of 16s. per bag for four years’ working. When the results of the fifth year’s working are known, the cost of production will be considerably reduced. Crop 1900-1. Crop 1901 2. Crop 1905-4. Crop 1902-3. acre Manuvres applied (with dates). ection. (pounds). (pounds). (pounds). (pounds). Dry cacao per sectional acre Bags per acre. Dry cacao per sectional acre Bags per acre. Dry cacao per sectional Bags per acre. Dry cacao per sectional acre Bags per acre. A.|June 1900.— Pen manure, 3 baskets per tree, 15 tons per acre. May 1902.— ditto. [Extra dug, 1902]. B.|August 1900.— | Basic slag, 8) ewt. per acre. February 1901.— Sulphate of} ammonia, 14) cwt. per acre. 1.112 May 1902. |? ~~ Basic slag, 8 cwt. per acre.) | August 1902.— | Sulphate — of ammonia, 14 ewt. per acre. | C./ August 1900.— Basic slag, 8 | ewt. per acre. ‘February 1901.- Nitrate of} Ie soda, 14 cwt. | per acre. ‘May 1902.— Basic slag, 8 | cwt. per acre. ‘August 1902. — | Nitrate of soda, 14 cwt. | per acre. D./August 1900.— | Basic slag, 8 cwt. per acre, and sulphate of potash, 1 cwt. per acre | (mixed). | | \ 1,036 868 | 42 1,184 | 64 or cok 4} drains | August | 6| 1,572 | 84] 1,512 | 8] 1,648] 9 | 1,324 |74|1,309| 7 1,492] 8 | | | | 860 1,488 8|1,612| 83 May 1902.— ditto. ee | oN] ae ioe THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OctepER 22, 1904. GLEANINGS. The bee keeper who extracts green, raw honey for the market isa foe no less to be dreaded than the adulterator. (Jamaica Zimes.) Mr. L. R. Mitchell announces that he will undertake to gin and bale cotton for the sum of $d. per Ib. of lint at his cotton-ginning factory, St. George, Grenada. Of the exports of Madagascar, India rubber showed an increase of £81,433 in 1903, and raftia fibre of £31,969. The exports of bees’-wax and yanilla both declined in value. Nitrate to the value of £9,480,507 left the Republic of Chili during the year 1902, which, compared with 1901, gives an increase of £565,998. (Consular Report for 1902.) Complaints have again been made by Messrs. Pink & Sons that some of the crates used for packing bananas at Barbados are too large. With reference to the note in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 296) stating that Hemingway’s ‘London Purple’ Co. wished to purchase cocoa-nuts, it is desirable to mention that the address of the firm is 133, Front Street, New York. The position of Assistant Instructor in Agriculture in British Guiana, particulars of which were given in the Agr? cultural News (Vol. III, p. 186), has been filled by the appointment of Mr. A. L. Mansfield. In the Consular Report on the trade of Vera Cruz, Mexico, it is stated that growers of sisal hemp have become enormously wealthy. ‘Roughly speaking, what costs $1 to produce sells for 54.’ It is suggested by the Acting Superintendent of the Royal Mail Steam Packet Co. that efforts be made to work up a banana trade between Barbados and Paris. Mr. J. R. Bovell announces that he will forward bananas by the R.M.S. ‘Catalina,’ if so desired by planters. The total output of sugar and molasses from Barbados during 1904, according to Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co.’s report, amounted to 56,771 tons of sugar and 45,683 puncheons of molasses, as against 38,179 tons of sugar and 30,233 puncheons of molasses in 1903. According to the Journal d’Agriculture Tropicale, all the sisal hemp produced is absorbed by manufacturers in the United States, who pay higher prices than are offered in Europe. The latest quotations are 90 francs per 100 kilos., or about £37 6s. 8d. per ton. At a meeting of the St. Vincent Cotton Growers’ Association, held on September 28, a letter was read from Sir Daniel Morris advising that bales should be more tightly packed in order to save freight charges. We learn from the Jfrror that a consignment of new stock was recently received from Halifax for the Government Stock Farm in Trinidad. The consignment consists of two bulls (Hereford and Guernsey), two Shropshire rams, two Tamworth boars, and two lots of poultry (Plymouth Rocks and Wyandottes). A correspondent in the Jamaica Gleaner dealing with the subject of the yield of coffee trees, states : ‘ My estimate for a well-pruned, well-kept tree is an average of } Ib. of cured coffee per tree. This, with 1,200 trees to the acre, would give 900 Ib. of coffee, which should net 40s. per 100 tb. in London.’ j The Hon. T. H. Sharp, discussing with a representative of the Jamaica Gleaner the question of the use of locally- grown cotton seed for planting, states that he has come to the conclusion that it will not be necessary to continue importing Sea Island seed provided care be taken to select seed from the largest and best-shaped bolls. A planter writes from Dominica: ‘You were kind enough to supply me with a bushel of ‘woolly pyrol” seed last April; as these have grown so well and are likely to prove valuable as a green dressing in our cacao fields, I should be glad if you could procure me a couple of bushels of seed, or put me into communication with some party from whom I could purchase it.’ Mr. H. Millen writes from the Botanic Station at Tobago that a bunch of the ‘apple’ banana, weighing 100 b., has recently been produced at the station. The plant, which was obtained from the Grenada Botanic Station, received no special attention. The hands are eompact and resemble those of the variety known as ‘Silk fig.’ The fruit is smaller than the ‘Gros Michel’ but of good flavour. In Messrs. Gordon, Grant & Co.’s market report for October 5, it is stated that the exports of Trinidad cacao for the year ended September 30 were 221,816 bags as compared with 194,403 bags for the corresponding period in 1903, showing an increase of 27,413 bags. It is also stated that shipments during the year have been fairly well distributed among the principal markets. According to a bulletin (no. 28) recently issued by the Bureau of Statistics of the U. 8. Department of Agriculture, ‘The commercial Cotton Crops,’ which gives the amounts of cotton imported into Great Britain from all sources for 1895 to 1902, the imports from the British West Indies have been as follows: 1895, 934 bales (of 500 tb.) ; 1896, 804; 1897, 474; 1898, 642; 1899, 568 ; 1900, 872; 1901, 700; 1902, 839. Arrangements have been made with the Syndics of the Cambridge University Press to begin the issue of a Journal of Agricultural Science, under the editorship of Messrs. T. H. Middleton, T. B. Wood, R. H. Bitfen, and A. D. Hall, in consultation with other gentlemen. It is proposed to issue the Journal as matter accumulates, aiming at quarterly parts of about 100 royal 8vo. pages. The Journal will publish only definitely scientific work in agricultural science. Vou. III. No. 66. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 349 HAWAIT: ANNUAL REPORT ON THE AGRI- CULTURAL EXPERIMENY SVATION FOR 1903. By Jared G. Smith, Special Agent-in-charge. Besides the United States Treasury appropriation of $12,000, $600 were derived from the sale of products. Among the experiments carried on at this station during the year may be mentioned those with corn, potatos, tannias, tomatos, forage plants, tobacco, vanilla, sisal hemp, castor beans, pine-apples, coffee, and cotton. A number of new varieties of seed-corn were planted, and experiments were conducted in methods of planting, manuring, ete. It is considered that the outlook for vanilla cultivation is very bright, the plants not appearing to be affected by any of the serious diseases which affect this crop in other countries. An experiment was made in curing and fermenting the pods, which was entirely satisfactory. The castor oil plant is recommended as a suitable plant for cultivation by small landholders ; there is a ready market for the beans in Honolulu. Pine-apples are grown very satisfactorily in Hawaii, and there is a considerable trade in fresh pines with the Pacific coast which is regarded as capable of extension. It is evident that a great obstacle in the way of agri- cultural operations is the injury to crops by insect pests. The entomological work of the station has consequently been of great service to planters. PORTO RICO: ANNUAL REPORT ON THE AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION LOk 1903. By F. D. Gardner, Special Agent-in-charge. Tn addition to the United States Congress appropriation of $15,000, the insular legislature passed a special vote of $2,700 for special services. A considerable portion of the latter sum was spent on repairs to buildings, fencing, drainage, ete. Considerable attention was paid to experiments with leguminous plants for the purpose of securing a plant suitable for enriching the soil and improving its physical condition, and at the same time preventing the severe washing, which takes place on the steep slopes. With alfalfa a good stand was secured and the plants at first made good growth, but afterwards ceased growing and barely managed to survive. No tubercles were formed on the roots. Neither cow peas, soja beans, nor beggar weed gave satisfactory results: the velvet bean did best of all, and of all the leguminous plants tried, this appears to be the most promising. A large collection of vegetables from northern-grown seed was planted. Most of these gave rather poor results. The tomatos, ege-plants, and potatos were all affected in a similar way by a bacterial or fungoid disease. Tobacco investigations of a comprehensive character have been carried out, and the services of an expert obtained. A large collection of economic plants has been assembled at the station. In addition to fruit plants, this includes a number of fibre and rubber plants. Mr. Gardner acknowledges the assistance he has received in this connexion from the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture and the Superintendent of the Trinidad Botanic Gardens. The report also contains notes by the Entomologist on a large number of insect pests, while a report by Mr. F. 8. Earle gives interesting information on the horticultural possibilities of the island and on plant diseases. It is apparent from this report that much work of an extremely useful nature is being carried on in Porto Rico, which should considerably increase our knowledge of tropical agriculture. CASSAVA INDUSTRY IN JAMAICA. In the Bulletin of the Agricultural Department, Jamaica, for September, Mr. H. H. Cousins deals fully with the ‘Agricultural basis of the Cassava Industry,’ The following summary is of interest :— Cassava should cost—for cultivation only—£3 13s. to £5 2s. per acre, according to the locality and circumstances. Rent, interest, and management are excluded from this estimate. The lower price represents the estimated cost under the most favourable conditions of broad-scale implemental culture; the higher, that of hand Iabour in rocky land by small cultivators—cassava farming in short. An average of £4 per acre represents the estimated cost under favourable conditions of estate cultivation. Yield per Acie.—The data from Longville showed that yields of 6 to & tons of tubers were there obtained under somewhat unfavourable conditions. Mr. Shore gives 8 tons as an ayerage return from Little liver lands, and states that he knows lands that give more. On the other hand, Mr. Calder sounds a note of warning, that he found when growing cassava in St. Elizabeth that it took eighteen months to produce 5 tons per acre. Only experience and local experience can settle this eruvial point of the agricultural yield of cassava. Tf we can maintain an 8-ton standard, cassava would be a very profitable crop; if, on the other hand, the yield should only be 4 tons per acre, the results would not be remarkable. Profit. —This depends upon the yield and again upon the price obtainable for the product. I have estimated that an S-ton crop of cassava giving 5 tons dry meal for shipment to England to glucose makers would yield a profit of £700 to £900 upon a scale of 100 acres. Selling tubers to a starch factory at £2 per ton would mean a profit of £8 to £10 per acre on the same basis. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies left England for Barbados in the R.M.S. «Trent? on Wednesday, October 12. The Secretary of State for the Colonies has appointed Mr. C. H. Knowles, B.Se., Resident Master of the Agricultural School at St. Vincent, to the post of Agricultural Superintendent at Fiji. Mr. Knowles will probably leave St. Vincent for Halifax on October 29: It is proposed that the next West Indian Agricultural Conference will be held at Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, early in January 1905. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Octoper 22, 1904. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Canada. The following is Mr. J. Russell Murray’s monthly report for August on West Indian produce in Canada :— Fall business has been fairly large. Grain crops are expected to reach the estimate and reaping is now in full operation. Fruit crops are proving ample, especially the apple crop which is very abundant and of fine quality. Under such conditions the autumn trade is likely to be good. The summer has been unusually cool, there being only one short period of warm weather in July: the result has been ruinous to all lemon and lime business. Sugarv.—The continued steady rise during last month from 10s, 33d. for August beet deliveries to 10s. 9fd. for September deliveries has been reflected locally by an adyance of 10c. per 100 tb. for granulated. West Indian sugars have moderate inquiry, but a better demand is expected before the winter sets in, 8.8. ‘Degama’” has just arrived from Demerara and ‘Antigua with 32,000 bags centri- fugals and a small lot of molasses sugars, which, while about 1414 D. S., were sold at $2°70, duty paid. A small cargo by schooner from Barbados arrived a fortnight ago. Molasses,—Trade has been fairly active in the hands of distributers, deliveries being made to outlying points freely, bot importing orders have been few. A small shipment from Barbados is to hand and also a small lot from Antigua, the quality of which is much better than of some previous lots. Cocoa-nuts.—The New York market has again recovered prices and these are now equal to May quotations. Prices here continue steady with an upward tendency. Fruit.—Trade in bananas has been very active and prices well maintained. A fair supply of oranges from Jamaica has turned out well and sales are active. Limes are a dead-letter with the present abnormally cold weather : no sales can be made. Good, steady business has been done in Cuban pine-apples. Spices.—During the latter end of August there was more inquiry, but general business was qmet. Pepper and cloves have advanced. INQUIRIES, NOTES, ETC. Sugav.—I am open to receive firm offers of centrifugal crystals 96°, basis cf 145 to 155 D.S., shipment direct to Montreal, offers to be quoted ec. & f. I can also place yellow crystals, and would be glaa to have offers of same. I can place good bright grades of muscovados, offers need not be confined to those under 16 D.S. Sugars must be dry and free from footings. With regard to molasses sugars, in bags of 14 D. 8. and upwards, offers are required c. & f. Montreal for 1,000 bags. In all cases send postal sample to indicate ayerage grade. Cocoa-nuts.—Ofters wanted of up to 50,000 per month. Size, minimum, 5} inches in diameter, and of not less than 130 tb. gross per bag of 100 nuts: shipment via Halifax. Quote c. & f. per 1,000. Oranges.—Consignments of these will receive every attention. THE WEST INDIES AND THE INTERNA- TIONAL FOOD EXHIBITION AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. The stand of Messrs. James Philip & Co. (Pure Cane Sugar Co.) 4, Fenchurch Buildings, E.C., was unanimously declared to be the most interesting in this Exhibition, being: described by more than one old West Indian as the most complete collection of West Indian produce they had ever seen in England. The exhibit comprised sugar, sugar-canes, syrup, turtle, guavas, guava jelly, cassava cakes, cassareepe,. pickles, sauces, arrowroot, cigars, rum, fresh limes, yams, sweet potatos, ete., ete., added to which were shown preserved specimens of cacao pods, coffee, ete. The interest shown by the public in the stand amply proves how keen an interest is. taken in colonial produce, and how much good may be done to colonial industries by well-organized efforts to put such things directly before the consumer. It is worthy of note that Messrs. Philip & Co. were the first to introduce the system of packing ‘cance’ sugar in small bags for household purposes. The Exhibition jury gave them the exceptional award of two gold medals for their exhibit of cane sugar and other West Indian produce. At the great Colonial Exhibition to be held next year in the Crystal Palace, Messrs. Philip & Co. are applying for space, and they would be glad to try and make arrangements by which they might undertake the exhibition or sale of an West Indian produce entrusted to them. As this exhibition will remain open five months, and will doubtless be visited by great numbers of people, it should be a_ splendid opportunity for bringing such goods directly before the 3ritish public, and creating a more widespread and general demand for cane sugar and other things. EDUCATIONAL. Nature Teaching. The Cyprus Journal for July, has the following review of this Department’s publication, Nature Teaching * :— One of the most intelligible and instructive educational manuals that we have yet come across is Mature Teaching, by Francis Watts, F.L.C., F.C.S., Government Analytical and Agricultural Chemist, Leeward Islands, a copy of which has just reached us. It has been compiled especially for the use of schools, and although the information is stated to be specially suitable for the West Indies, it treats mostly of those general elementary laws of nature which are of world-wide application. Each chapter is divided into two parts. No. 1, explana- tory and descriptive, while No. 2 is in each case headed ‘Practical Work,’ and this is the distinctive feature of the book, and from this it derives its chief utility. The chapter on ‘ Plant food and Manures’ deals witle this subject in an exceptionally clear and simple manner, and explains the differences and the uses of the leading artificial or chemical manures in a way that could be understood by every average schoolchild. There is added a useful glossary of technical words ite common use, e.g., albumen, bacteria, capillary, nitrifieation, pistil, and so forth ; and an appendix gives lists of tools and appliances needed for school gardens. We strongly recommend it to the attention of school- masters and others desirous of instructing themselves or their children in the elementary operations of nature. * Issued under the authority of the Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies. To be obtained of all agents of the Department. Price, limp cloth, 2s., or in a superior style of binding, 2s. Gd. Postage in either binding, 33¢. extra. Wor. III. No. 66. . London,— September 27, 1904. Mess MARKET REPORTS. . J. Hates Cairp & Co., Messrs. Kearton, Prrer & Co., Messrs. E. A. DE Pass & Co., ‘THE West InprA CoMMITTEE Crr- cuLar’; ‘THE Liverroon Corron AssocraTIoN WEEKLY CrrcuLar,’ September 23; and ‘THE Pusric LEDGER,’ September 24, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 14/- to 38/- per ewt. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, 1d. per th. Batata—Block, 1/3 per Ib. Bees’-wax—£7 10s. to £7 12s. 6d. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 57/- to 61/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 53/- to 56/- per ewt.; Dominica, 48/6 to 54/- per ewt. ; Jamaica, 53/6 to 57/- per ewt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 74d. to 2/- per th. CorrEE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 38/- per cwt. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, inedium fine, 131. ; fine, 14d. ; extra fine, 16. per th. FRrvuir— Bananas—Jamaica, 2/- to 4/- per bunch. Grape Frurr—12/- to 13/- per box of 150-200. OrsancEs—Jamaica, 6/- to 8/- per case. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. GinceR—-Fair bright, 37/6 ; common to middling, 29/- to 37/6 per cwt. Honey—Jamaica, 16/- to 22/- per ewt.. Istvctass—West Indian lump, 2,5 to 2/10; cake, 1/2 per th. Kora Nuts—4d. to 7d. per tb. Live Jurce—Raw, 1/4 per gallon; concentrated, £15 15s. per cask of 108 gallons. Live Ort—Distilled, 1/6 per th. ; hand-pressed, 2/6 to 2/9 per 1b Locwoop —£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Macre—Good bold pale, 1/6; red 1/2 to 1/3; broken, 1/- to 1/2 per tb. Nirrate or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 7s. 67. per ton. Nurmecs--71’s, 1/8; 90's, 11d. ; 155’s, 53d. ; shell, 53d. per tb. Pimento—22d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 7d. to 8/. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s. 9d. per proof gallon. SarsaPpaRILLA—No quotations. Sucar—Crystallized, 17/6 to 19/- per ewt. ; Muscovado, Barbados, 14/- to 14/6 per ewt.; Molasses, 12,- to 16/- per ewt. (wanted). SuLpHATe oF AmMMoNIs—£12 per ton. Montreal,—September 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russert Murray. (In bond quotations, c. & f.) Bananas—Jamaica, 75ce. to 95ce. per bunch of 8 hands ; $1:05 to $1:15 per bunch firsts ; $1°40 to $150 per buneh Jumbos. Crepar—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot. Cocos-Nurs— Jamaica, $25°00 to $27-00; Trinidad, $21-00 to $23-00 per M. CorreE—Jamaica, medium, 9e. to 10c. per th. GixceR—Jamaica, unbleached, 63c. to 8c. per tb. Lives—Jamaica—No quotations. Morascurr—Demerara, $132 per 100 tb. Motasses—Barbados, 24c. to 26ce.; Antigua, 20c. per Imperial gallon. MNurmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 18c. to 19}e. per th. Pimento—Jamaica, 6}c. to 7c. per Tb. Prne-sppLes—Cubans, crates 36’s to 10’s, $3°00 to $4°10. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°60 to $2:70 per 100 th. —Muscoyados, 89°, $2°30 to $2°60 per 100 tb. —Molasses, 89°, $2°15 to $2°30 per 100 tb. —Barbados, 89°, $2°40 to $2°45 per 100 th. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 351 New York,—September 30, 1904—Messrs. GILLESPIE Bros. & Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12}¢. to13c.; Jamaica—No quotations ; Grenada, 12c. to 12}c.; Trinidad, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $30 per M., selected ; Jamaicas, $35-00 to $37:00 per M. CorreE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 83c. to 9c. per Tb. Gincer—Jamaica, good grinding, 7c. to 8}c. ; per tb. Goat Sxkrys—Jamaicas, 54c. per Pimento—4Ze. per th., spot quotation. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 4}c. to 4;;¢.; Muscovados, 89°, 3ze. to 31%; Molasses, 89°, 3hc. to 3;;c. per Th. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—October 8, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncn & Co. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 tb. Cacao—Dominica, $13°50 per 100 tb. Cocoa-NutTS—$13'50 per M. for husked nuts. Corree—Jamaica, $10°00 to $10°50 ; ordinary Rio, $12:00 per 100 tb. Hay—95e. to $1°00 per 100 tb. Manures— Nitrate of soda, $60°00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72°00 to $75-00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Oxtoxs—Madeira (stringed), $2°25 to $2-05 per 100 tb. Poratos, ExetisH—Noya Scotia, $1°86 to $2°16 per 160 th. Rice—Ballam, $475 per bag (190 tb.); Patna, $3°40 per 100 tb. British Guiana,—October 6, 1904.—Messrs. Wuretrne & RicHrer. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. Batarsa—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—§&6°00 per barrel. Cocos-Nuts—$8 ‘00 to $1000 per M. CorrrE—Rio and Jamaica, 134c. to 14c. per tb. (retail). —Creole, 1le. per tb. Duat— $4°25 per bag of 168 ib. Eppors—84e. to $1:00 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 15}c. per gallon (casks included). Oxtons—Madeira, $1°90 to $2:00 per 100 tb. ; Teneriffe, $1-50 to $1°75 per 100 th. Pea Nors—American, 7c. per tb. (retail). PLaNTAINs—l6c. to 32c. per bunch. Poratos, ENciisH——Noya Scotia, $1:00 per 100 th. (retail). Rice—Ballam, $4°40 to $4°45; Creole, $4°50 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1°44 per bag; $1°68 per barrel. Tannras—$2°16 per barrel. Yams—White, $2°40 per bag. Sucar—Dark Crystals, $2°50 to $2°51; Yellow, $2-90 to $3:00 ; White, $3°50 to $3°75; Molasses, $2:00 to $2°25 per 100 tb. TrweeER—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. Waiasa SHrncLes—$3'00, $3°75 and $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—October 6, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co. ; and Messrs. Epcar Tripp & Co. Cacso—Ordinary, $12°25 to $12°30; Estates, $12°40 to $1260; Venezuelan, $12°30 to $12°80 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocos-Nuts—$19-00 per M., f.0.b. Cocos-Nut Om—77e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corrree—Venezuelan, 7c. per Copra—-$3°00 per 100 ib. Ontons—$1°25 to $1°30 per 100 tb. Poratos, ENGLisH—§1°25 to $1°70 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $410 to $4:°40; White Table, $5:25 to $5°50 per bag. Motasses—Market closed. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE 5 CASEU EES 352 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. OcroBer 22, 1904. Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—Fer Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure » Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure : Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY: LTO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF'’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. (72. ] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. | JOURNAL DAGRILULTURE TROPICALE.) | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. 4 MONTHLY ILLUSTRATED REVIEW DEALING WITH ALL MATTERS CONNECTED WITH TROPICAL AGRICULTURE. FOR Se OT CNS CHOME SE | PARIS: M. Vilbouchevitch, A. B. 6. | 10, rue Delambre. = OF Subscription price : half year 10 franes, or 20 franes re anita | COTTON PLANTING FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, Containing full directions for the coming s ) | rj d e De C Ane ACO : season. Price 47. Post free, 5d. By J. H/@etAR i erriaS: NEW EDITION. A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of f WEST INDIAN BULLETIN ’ COMMERCIAL CACAO. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Ob iyaNes 2): t Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing fall report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Sc. and Mr. J. lt. Bovell, F.L.S., F-C.s5 Price 3s. per copy. | | on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, A FORPNIGHTLY..REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. III. No. 67. BARBADOS, NOVEMBER 5, 1904. Price ld. CONTENTS. PAGE. Pace Bananas and Pine-apples Insect Notes :— in Porto Rico ... 356 Ticks so oad) a6 GAY British Cotton-growing Loads) | Aiieeemeiecsiiiae. (O02 Association Deputa- Lemon Grass Oil from tion po -ps0 doo GAOL Montserrat —.... «.. 361 Cacao, Samples of... ... 356 | Mangrove Bark Industry 362 Market Reports Notes and Comments... 360 Cotton Industry :— PAO UU ar fees) ses) ose, OO = o=~ | Pine-apples, Tobago... 356 Bar bados crt 887 Rubber in the Gold Coast Production of Fine Colony 355 ; ao op oe Tee VE etd tl Bae Science Notes :— Ooo. é a cee . Oo Wet or Sea Island Crop... ... 357 Be coeaehe sikh" zee oa a SRG 10orn Apple 398 West Indian Cotton .. 359 Sugar Industry :— Department News... ... 363 Manurial Experiments Department Publications 367 | at Barbados 3d4 Educational :— Naudet Process for St Vincent ... 108 BS} | extracting Cane Juice 354 Tobago... ... ... ... 363 | Sunflowers asa Crop... 361 Exports and Rainfall ... 361 | West Indian Agricultural Gambia, Exports of . o04 Conference mst sis LODO. Gleanings + ae eee 364 | West Indian Products ... 365 Grenada, Exports of . 360 | Ylang-ylang Oil 363 West Indian Agricultural Con- ference. * S briefly aunounced in the last issue of the Agricultural News, it is proposed to hold % the next West Indian Agricultural Con- ference in Trinidad from about January 4 to January 13, 1905. Trinidad possesses special advantages asa meeting place for the leading authorities connected with West Indian agriculture, as those selected to attend would have opportunities for obtaining information likely to be of great benefit to their respective colonies. Not only will Trinidad afford welcome opportunities for the study of the cacao and sugar industries, but the colony pessesses several institutions where important agri- cultural work is being carried on. The Royal Botanic Gardens are amongst the oldest in this part of the world, and contain interesting collections of trees and other economic plants. A successful Experiment Station for sugar-cane, rubber-yielding trees, coffee, cacao, ete. has been established in recent years at St. Clair, while the Government Stock Farm in the parish of St. Joseph is also likely to prove of interest to the representatives. It may be possible, too, for a visit to be paid to the large Central Sugar Factory that is in full working at St. Madeline, near San Fernando, several cacao planta- tions whose produce obtains the highest prices in the European markets, and the local cotton experiment stations. Taking into consideration all these advantages, there is no doubt that the Conference of 1905 will be no less useful than former Conferences. It would be of advantage if those who are likely to attend would give careful consideration to such subjects as it may be desirable to bring forward. As mentioned in the Agricultural News (Vol. 354 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. NoveMBEr 5, 1904. II, p. 274), in discussing the possibility of holding a Conference last year, there are a number of important subjects that are likely to be brought before the Conference for discussion. Since the last Conference— that of 1902—the subject of cotton growing in the West Indies has been brought prominently before planters and must naturally oceupy an important place. Another subject in which several of the colonies are directly concerned is the onion industry. Then again, considerable attention has been devoted to the efforts to establish a fruit trade between several cf the islands and the United Kingdom. The efforts of the Symington Syndicate in Trinidad are in particular likely to afford material for discussion, Other subjects desirable to be ventilated are the cultivation of the best rubber trees, the cultivation of cassava as a source of starch, the improved cultivation of cacao, in view of the increased production of African cacao, the cultivation of ground nuts for the production of oil and ground nut meal, the improvement of the bay oil industry, and many others. A further subject suggested to be dealt with is the best means for checking ‘ Predial larceny,’ that is, the theft of growing crops. A good deal has been written in regard to this, but it would appear that we are as far as ever from solving all the difficulties connected with it. It might be of considerable advantage if we could ascertain exactly what is the position in dealing with predial larceny in the several colonies ; and a review of the laws, as they now stand, and the extent to which their provisions are enforced, might serve as a useful basis for discussion, If the question of dealing with predial larceny is to be discussed at all at the forthcoming West Indian Conference, it is hoped that those attending it will be duly prepared beforehand and. that they will be in a position to join in recommendations of a practical character for getting rid of one of the most retarding influences associated with agricultural development in the West Indies. Exports of Gambia. As stated in the last issue of the Agricultural News, the principal item of export from Gambia is ground nuts. In 1903 the export of these showed an increased value of £81,909. Over 90 per cent. of the nuts were shipped to France. The only other item under exports showing an increase, according to the Annual Report, is hides. There were decreases in the exports of rubber (due to tappers having to go farther afield to collect it and to their taking it to the French port of Cassamance), and in the exports of palm kemels and bees’-wax. The exports of bees’-wax were 38,640 Ib. of the value of £1,589. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Naudet Process for Extracting Cane Juice. The following reference is made in the Consular Report on the trade of Madeira for 1903 to the sugar industry and particularly to the patent Naudet process for extracting and purifying cane juice, a complete account of which was given in the West Indian Bulletin, Vol. V, no I:— The cane crop of 1903 was*exceptionally short, owing to want of rain at the proper season, and also to a fungoid disease which attacked all qualities of cane about one month before reaching maturity. The only exception is the ‘ Yuba? cane, which has up to the present resisted the disease, and there is no doubt whatever that in two or three years’ time this cane will be universally grown in the island. The entire cane crop of Maderia was roughly estimated at 19,000 tons, valued at £56,000, of which 6,000 tons were converted into sugar and the remainder into cane spirit for local consumption. It is early to say what the result will be of the seedling canes imported from Barbados, but at present they do not appear very flourishing. All the cane turned into sugar was manufactured by the Hinton-Naudet process, being an improvement on the Naudet process, and the results were remarkable. During the 1905 season all the juice or saccharime matter was extracted from the cane with a loss of 36 per cent. of the total sugar contained in the cane, and this juice was obtained in nine-tenths of its original density. This process has made quite a sensation in the sugar world, and during the 1904 season, which is just over, planters from Trinidad, Demerara, and Réunion came to Madeira to inspect it. I am informed that a large plant to treat 600 tons of cane per day is now being made in Glasgow for Trinidad. Should the advantages claimed for this process by the inventors be true—and I am told they have been demonstrated by practical experience— there is no doubt that it will revolutionize all over the world the manufacture of sugar from cane. Manurial Experiments at Barbados. In the last issue of the Agricultural News a summary was published of the results of experiments with seedling canes at Barbados, as given by Professor dV Albuquerque and Mr. Bovell in their paper read before the Agricultural Society on October 14. In the same paper the following summary of the results of manurial experiments was given :— The mannrial experiments were carried on at Dodds plantation and Foursquare plantation, St. Philip, and Hopewell plantation, St. Thomas. In addition to these, fields of large manurial plots, of the approximate area of 1 acre each, were reaped at Hampton, Foursquare, and Ruby_ st. Philip, and Blowers, St. James. it is estimated by one of us that in 1904 the average price of a ton of muscoyado sugar and its molasses was $50°87, that the cost of reaping and manufacture is $1°30 per ton of cane, and that 134 tons of cane are required for the manufacture of 1 ton of muscovado sugar. According to this estimate, the value of a ton of cane in the field was $2°46— Vou. III. No. 67. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 355 The experiments at Dodds were in continuation of those carried out on similar lines since 1892. The field received an application of 20 tons of farmyard manure per acre, and the most favourable result was obtained on the plot that received minerals (80 tb. phosphate as superphosphate, and 60 tb. potash as sulphate of potash) in January, and 60 Ib. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia in June. The increase over the plot that received no chemical manure was 83 tons cane, and at $2°46 per ton was worth $20-91. Deducting the cost of manuring, $1548, leavesa profit, by manuring, of 35°43 per acre. The experiments indicated a gain by manuring with nitrogen and potash, but a loss by manuring with any form of phosphates, and they also indicated that a further profit would have accrued had phosphates been omitted. At Foursquare the field received an application of 35 tons of farmyard manure per acre. This application is in excess of that generally used except when the fields are intended to be ratooned. It would be expected that, as a result, the effects of chemical fertilizers would be minimized. As a matter of fact the results indicate that 60 tb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia gave an increase of 5 tons cane at 2-46, worth $12°30. The cost of the manure being $9 70, the profit by the application of sulphate of ammonia was 89-70. 100 Ib. phosphate as superphosphate gave a further increase of 2 tons cane, worth $4°92; cost of manure, say, 3-00; profit $1°92. 100 Ib. potash as sulphate of potash gave an increase of 1‘7 tons cane over no potash, worth $418; cost of potash, say, $5°80 ; loss, $1°62. Total profit by manuring with, say, 250 tb. superphosphate in January, and 300 tb. sulphate of ammonia in June and July, $4°62. At Hopewell plantation an experimental field of plant canes, and one of ratoons were reaped. Each field being destined for ratoons received 40 tons per acre of farmyard manure. The plots that received 40 tb. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia in June, and 50 tb. phosphate as superphosphate, and 50 tb. potash as sulphate of potash in January, gave an increase of 5 tons of cane over the no chemical manure plots. This was worth $12°30; cost of manure, $10°80; profit by manuring, $1°50 per acre. The plots on Fletcher Field were reaped as plants in 1903 and ratoons in 1904. The plots that received each year no phosphate, but 50 tb. potash as sulphate in 1902 and 1903 (total 100 tb. potash) and 60 Ib. nitrogen as sulphate of ammonia in 1902 and 1903, gave in comparison with the no chemical manure plots the following results :-— 1903. 1904. No chemical manure 15°39 15:38 Chemical manure as above 17°63 32:16 Increase tons of canes =) 224 16-78 2:24 tons cane at 41°67 $374 16:78 =, M9) 246 41:28 Total per acre, two years 45-02 Cost of manure, $25-00 ; profit two years, $2002; average annual profit, $10-01. The results indicate also that the potash might have been omitted during the first year, with at least equal, if not more, favourable results leading to a slight additional profit. LARGE PLOTS. All the fields were heavily manured with farmyard manure. At Hampton, on one field, 200 tb, sulphate of ammonia gave an increase of 5 tons cane over no nitrogen, worth $12°30; cost of sulphate of ammonia, say, 86°40 ; profit, 35°90. On another and more fertile field the no nitrogen plot gave higher results, and in this case an application of 400 Ib, of sulphate of ammonia gave an increase of 4 tons over the no nitrogen plot, worth $9°84; cost of sulphate of ammonia, say, $12°89; loss by manuring, $2°96. The increase by manuring therefore on a very fertile field was much less than on a less fertile field, both having been manured with heavy applications of farmyard manure, and an ordinary application of mineral manure. Poursquare. 33°5 tons cane 35°00 568 SBE 1:50 tons cane worth $3°69; cost of basic slag, say, $3°00; profit by phosphatic manure, $0°69. No phosphate plots 250 Ib. basic slag... Increase Blowers. Phosphate plots. of phosphatic manure. These plots showed a loss by the use Ruby. Potash plots. No potash, average tons canes... 35°00 100 tb. sulphate of potash 37°50 Increase tons of canes 2°50 worth $6°15 ; cost of manure, say, $2°90 ; profit by manuring with sulphate of potash, $3°20 per acre. On the whole, the results confirm previous conclusions that nitrogenous manures were the most important, and in nearly all cases profitable; that sulphate of potash gave increased returns which, however, were in one instance not large enough to pay the cost of the manure. That in the case of some soils, the application of phosphate led to increase of yield and profit, in the case of other soils it led to no increase or even diminution of yield, and loss of money. The question of profit or loss by manuring depended also upon the current price of sugar. These results were obtained on land that received liberal application of farmyard manure. Previous results indicate that in the absence of farmyard manure and probably also when farmyard manure is supplied in insufficent amounts, all these forms of fertilizers would give larger increases. In the case of ratoons, the results indicated that, looking to the large application of farmyard manure, nitrogen was alone necessary in the first year, and that the most favourable applications to the ratoons were 100 sulphate of potash and 200 tb, sulphate of ammonia in June, and 1 ewt. of nitrate of soda as soon as the stools began to spring. RUBBER IN THE GOLD COAST COLONY. The following extracts from the Annual Report on the Gold Coast for 1903 relating to rubber cultivation are of interest :— Samples of Para rubber (/Zevea brasiliensis) and African rubber (untumia elastica), grown in the gardens at Aburi, in comparatively poor, stony soil, were sent to the Government Chemist at Lagos for analysis and produced highly satisfactory results. The Para rubber was reported on by English brokers and found to be quite as good as that exported from Ceylon. The Central American rubber (Castilloa clastica) has not produced satisfactory results, the soil at Aburi not appearing to suit it. In the rich, low-lying hands at Tarkwa, better results are likely to be obtained from all the species, and 6,000 Para plants have already been raised there from seed sent from Ceylon. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. NoveMBER 5, 1904, NN WEST INDIAN FRUIT. TOBAGO PINE-APPLES. The Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellancous Infor- mation contains the following notes on a collection of local varieties of pine-apples sent from Tobago :— No. 1. Local name —‘ Black Antigua.’ True to name. This variety is also known in England as ‘Ripley Queen,’ and there is a Jighter-leaved variety, known as the ‘ White Ripley,’ bearing fruit of the same class. When in good order there are few pine-apples to beat this variety for flavour. No. 2. No name. A pine resembling the Smooth Cayenne by its smooth leaves only. The form and flavour of the fruit differ. It is much nearer to a variety known in Jamaica as ‘ Black Pine’ or ‘ Black Jamaica,’ but is not the same. It is a desirable variety. No. 3. Local name—‘Grass Pine.’ Resembles very much, if not identical with, the Jamaica ‘Cowboy.’ It is an excellent pine of good flavour. No. 4. Local name—‘ Sugar Loaf.’ Not the ‘Sugar Loaf’ of Jamaica, but more like one called ‘ Bull Head,’ but better in flavour. A pine well worth growing. It appears to resemble very closely the pine known in Trinidad as the ‘La Brea,’ or Pitch Lake pine, but has not the form of a sugar loaf. BANANAS AND PINE-APPLES IN PORTO RICO. The following note on the prospects of the banana and pine-apple industries in Porto Rico is taken from the report by Professor F. S$. Earle appended to the Annual Report on the Agricultaral Experiment Station :— The horticultural crops now attracting most attention in Porto Rico are oranges and pine-apples. Bananas are grown extensively, but mostly in the interior, where difficul- ties of transportation would prevent their becoming an article of export. Some of the lowlands near the coast are well adapted to the culture of bananas, and there seems no reason why they could not be grown there profitably for the United States market. At present the subject seems to be receiving no attention. To develop successfully this, or in fact any other, branch of the fruit business, better transportation facilities will be necessary. The present steamer service is poorly adapted for the transportation of perishable fruits. Pine-apples thrive in many parts of the island. The finest ones seen were in the neighbourhood of Lajas, south- east of Mayaguez. A number of acres are grown here for the Mayaguez and Ponce markets. Some have been shipped to the States, but usually with unsatisfactory results, and the impression prevails that Porto Rican pines do not ship well. This is not remarkable when we remember that they are hauled in bulk often 15 miles in ox carts over a very rough road before being packed for shipment. Under these conditions it would be indeed astonishing if any arrived in good condition. The completion of the railroad now building between Mayaguez and Yauco will make it possible to deliver these at the seaboard in good condition, when their shipping qualities can be fairly tested. There is now a considerable planting of pines in the neighbourhood of San Juan. Some shipments from this region are reported as proving satisfac- tory and as carrying well. I see no reason why the growing of pines shonld not become a large and profitable industry. A small canning factory has been established at Mayaguez, which, if successful, will lead to a largely increased home market. Pine-apples seem very healthy in Porto Rico. No diseases or serious insect pests were observed. SAMPLES OF CACAO. Excellent samples of the following kinds of com- mercial cacao have been received by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture from Messrs. Rowntree & Co., Ltd., of York -— Common Unfermented Cacao :— Acera. Jamaica. Average Quality Fermented Cacao :— Dominica, Grenada. Jamaica. Bahia. Surinam. African. Congo. Camaroon. Trinidad :— San Antonia. Guayaquil :— Superior Summer Arriba. Machala. Para s—— Para Sertao. Venezuela :—— Unelayed Caraeas. Ceylon :— Best Ceylon. The samples of Dominica and Jamaica were prepared by ourselves, and were valued by a London Broker at 57s. 6d., the market price of Fine Grenada being 58s.-59s, at the time. Finest Puerto Cabello. It may be mentioned that on August 17 last the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture spent the day at the works of Messrs. Rowntree and was kindly received and shown every detail in the manufacture of cocoa. tiinin Vor. Ill. No. 67. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. COTTON INDUSTRY. Barbados. Mr, J. R. Bovell, has reported as follows on the prospects of the cotton crop at Barbados :— I beg to inform you that 8,826 tb. of Sea Island cotton seed have been distributed to date, of which 503 tb. are seed selected from that obtained from cotton which realized the highest prices in the Manchester market this year. Of the total quantity, 814 tb. have been sent to the other islands, ete., leaving 8,012 Ib. of seed as the quantity purchased by local residents for planting. In addition some of the planters have been planting their own seed, and from all I can gather, I estimate that about 1,600 acres of cotton will be planted this season. I am glad to say that, so far, hardly any insect pests, except plant lice (Ap/zdae), have been noticed, and in nearly every instance where caterpillars have appeared the cotton has been promptly dusted with Paris green and lime. At the present time the young cotton crop is all that can be desired, and with favourable weather, and the absence of insect or fungoid pests, the crop next season is likely to be a good one. St. Lucia. The Rey. L. Barlow, Acting Agricultural Superin- tendent at St. Lucia, writes as follows on the prospects of cotton growing in that island :— After a most careful inspection of the entire cotton cultivation of the island, in company with Mr. Ballou, I estimate the area at from 60 to 70 acres. Of this area the greater amount is ratoon cotton of the ‘degenerate Sea Tsland’ type. Up to the present time 171 tb. of seed have been sold ; we are expecting to have immediate orders for seed for the new areas that are just being put under cultivation. Mr. Ballow’s visit has had the immediate effect of awakening an interest in the industry, and I think that at least 30 acres more are being put under cultivation for Sea Island cotton for the present season. « Anguilla. Mr, F. R. Shepherd, Acting Agricultural Superin- tendent at St. Kitt’s, has furnished the following information in regard to the prospects of the cotton crop in Anguilla :— The approximate area planted in cotton in Anguilla for 1904 is 250 acres. Of this area about 70 acres were planted with selected Sea Island seed, and the remainder with other Sea Island seed. According to information received from Dr. J. N. Rat and Mr. C. Rey, the cotton is looking well, but the young plants have been damaged by attacks of beetles,* specimens of which were forwarded to you on October 4. Dr. J. N. Rat, Magistrate of Anguilla, writing on the same subject, states that the Government has sold 520 th. of cotton seed to four persons in the island and has distributed 300 tb. gratis. In addition sufficient seed has been distributed by other persons to plant between 100 and 200 acres. * One of these was a black ground beetle, common throughout the West Indies, technically known as Hopatrinus gemellatus. The other is a small, greyish weevil, not yet identified. [Ed. A,N.] Sea Island Cotton Crop. _ The following extract is taken from the ‘Annual Sea Island Report’ issued by Messrs. W. W. Gordon & Co., dated Savannah, Georgia, U.S.A., September 15 :— The high price of Uplands in March and April induced a considerable transfer of acreage in Georgia from Sea Island to Upland cotton. This decreased acreage is conservatively estimated at 20 per cent. In Florida and South Carolina the acreage planted was about the same as in the previous year. An early stand was obtained and the weather was favourable until July. Since then there has been too much rain, which has caused shedding and rust and has somewhat delayed the maturing and marketing of the crop. In Florida and some parts of Georgia caterpillars have been more numerous and destructive than for the last ten years. Very little Florida cotton has arrived ; the Georgia receipts have been generally of excellent body and staple but not brilliant in colour. Crop estimates are for a crop of 90,000 bales, if no killing frost occurs before the end of November : but all crop estimates are merely guesses thus early in the season. The average crop for the last ten seasons, 1894-1903 inclusive, was 85,650 bales. World’s Production of Fine Cotton. _ The following diagram has been prepared for use mm connexion with addresses on cotton in the West Indies :— Fad eee scala) ae ae EB oa 2 9 Se : SMa S 22 chee, 2 © | "sp So = ge 2 | as 3 & E S o-Ata | “o> > = ee = aie Sea Island ! ,, 13d. to! Li j (5S. Carolina) ou 32d. 10,000 |= 1,500 + £30,000) | Florida | ,5 5) (S. L) 420 | 12d | -| 80,000 |=2,500 +} £50,000 Georgia || ,o | | 420 (S. L.) 420 1ld. Egyptian | ~ . S 0 500 {9-101 2 = 2 (Extra, Fine.)| 900 |9-104d.) 20,000 1,000 7} £20,000 Total | 110,000 | 5,000 |£100,000 Note—Production in West Indies to total production less than 5 per cent. + No Florida, Georgia or Egyptian cotton has been planted in any quantity in the West Indies. The above figures are intended to represent only grades of quality equivalent to the cotton from the countries named. Sea Island v. Upland Cotton. A correspondent in one of the Northern Islands, who has hitherto been in favour of planting Upland cotton instead of Sea Island now writes:—‘I am quite converted to the planting of Sea Island cotton, so much so that I am planting 5 acres myself this month and expect to increase to 50 acres next year. There is money in it on the right soil and with good cultivation. Our average crop of Sea Island cotton this year will be between 200 tb. and 250 Ib. of clean lint per acre.’ 358 = - ~ = — THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. NOVEMBER 5, 1904. SCIENCE NOTES. Thorn Apple. The thorn apple or ‘Jimson weed,’ as it is called in America, is a common weed in Barbados and in other West India Islands. The botanical name of the plant is Datura Stramonium, and it belongs to the same Natural Order (Solanaceae) as the tobacco, tomato, English potato, Petunia, ete. Not only is the thorn apple a common weed in the West Indies, but it occurs all over the world in warm, and even in some temperate, regions. [ The plant is somewhat coarse-growing, reaching a height of 2 to 3 feet ; it branches vigorously and the branches spread Datura STRAMONIUM. BRANCHES FLowers AND FRuIvT. WITH [From Dictionary of Garde ning. | out widely, so that a single plant will cover quite a large area. : : a a The leaves are large and ovate with toothed margins (fig. 13). The flowers also are large and distinctly ornamental. The corolla is funnel-shaped, about 6 to 8 inches long, and generally pure white in colour, Other species of the genus, for example, Datura fastuosa, are often found in gardens as ornamental plants. ay The fruit (fig. 14) isa capsule which is covered with t=} Fig. 14. Marure Fruir or Datura Srramonium. [From Dictionary of Gardening. } the stout spines that give to the plant its common name of thorn apple. It opens by four valves. The plant is exceedingly poisonous, containing the alkaloids known as atropin and hyoseyamin. These occur in all parts of the plant, but the seeds are especially poisonous. The effects of the poison are somewhat similar to those of belladonna : small quantities are sometimes used medicinally in cases of neuralgia, epilepsy, mania, etc. In India and China the seeds of an allied species are used by poisoners. The Peruvians are said also to prepare an intoxicating beverage from the seeds which induces stupefaction and furious delirium if partaken of in large quantities. Nitragin. In his address as President of the Sub-section Agriculture of the recent Cambridge meeting of the British Association, Dr. Somerville made the following remarks regarding the artificial inoculation of soils with organisms from the nodules of leguminous plants :— A few years ago much interest was excited in this and other countries by the announcement that the scientific discoveries of Hellriegel and Wilfarth had received com- mercial application, and that the organisms of the nodules of the roots of Leguminosae could be purchased in a form convenient for artificial inoculation. The specific cultures placed upon the market were largely tested practically and experimentally, but the results were such as to convince even the patentees, Nobbe and Hiltner, that the problem which promised so much for agriculture had not been satisfactorily solved. Since that time, however, investigators had not been idle, and the present position of the subject was to be found in a recent report by Hiltner and Stormer. The nitragin put on the market a few years ago was used in two ways, being either applied directly to the fields, or mixed with water and brought into contact with the seed before sowing. Under the former method of procedure, an Increase of crop was obtained only when the nitragin was used on land containing much humus. The explanation given for failure under other conditions was that the bacteria artificially introduced perished for want of food before the leguminous seed germinated and produced plants. Failure of the nitragin to effect an improvement in the crop when it was sprinkled on the seed was now believed to be due to the action of secretions produced by the seed in the early stages of germination. This difficulty was found to be got over by moistening the seed and allowing it to sprout before the nitragin was applied ; but manifestly such a procedure would always be difficult, and often impossible, to carry out in practice. The object, however, would appear to have been gained in another way, namely, by cultivating the bacteria in a medium that imparted to them the necessary power of resistance. Such nourishment might take various forms, but that which gave the best results consisted of a mixture of skim-milk, grape sugar, and peptone, and it was in this medium that the organisms of the nitragin now distributed were cultivated. Ram Goat Wanted. A correspondent in Barbados writes: ‘I have an inquiry from Demerara for a young ram goat of good milk strain.’ Any person having for sale a ram goat of good breed, preferably one of the offspring of this Department’s ‘Black Rock’ or ‘Bruce,’ should com- municate full praticulars to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. Vou. III. No. 67. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. WEST INDIAN COTTON. The following is a short summary of an address delivered at Barbados by Mr. E. Lomas Oliver, one of the Deputation from the British Cotton-growing Association ‘— It is always an advantage for the producer and consumer to keep in close touch with one another. You are cotton growers: I am a cotton spinner. If I can do no good, it can at any rate do no harm for us to explain to one another the difficulties we have to contend with in our relative industries. I intend to be perfectly candid with you and to tell you the faults as well as the merits of the cotton you have so far sent us. One of the characteristics of the West Indian cotton shipped during the last two years has been the large proportion of fibres which contain little or no natural twist, the cotton not being round with a spiral twist but flat like a tape. This natural twist is very desirable because, if it is not in the fibres naturally, the spinner is obliged to put in extra twist to hold the fibres together. The more twist a spinner has to put in, the more his cost of production is increased. Even when the extra twist is put on, the yarn is not so good, because the twist being artificial and not natural, the yarn is rendered more brittle and less elastic and snaps more easily under any strain. At the close of my remarks, I shall show you samples of these fine yarns and I think you will then understand the great advantage of the presence of natural twist. I understand from Sir Daniel Morris that one of the chief causes of this absence of natural twist in West Indian cotton was the presence of immature fibre caused indirectly by the attacks of the cotton worm, and by picking the cotton before it was properly ripe. More care will therefore have to be taken by the pickers, if you are to send us perfect cotton. Another important point is most carefully to avoid mixing the seed of long-staple and short-staple cotton, and, if through any cause whatever after carefully selecting your seed-cotton, that grown on one patch should be inferior to that grown on another patch, then keep them separate, for, if you mix them, you will only obtain a price equal to the worst cotton in each bag, and, even then, a spinner will avoid buying mixed cotton, if there isa plentiful supply of perfect cotton on the market. Just as the strength of a chain is its weakest link, so is cotton only worth the value of the poorest cotton in the bag. Tf necessary, divide your crop into three grades, and, if you do this, you will be able to obtain the full market prices for each grade. Remember you are aiming at supplying a trade in which quality is all important. Those planters who intend producing a really good quality of cotton should put their names, or the name of their estate, upon the bags containing their first grade of cotton, and some other distinguishing mark on their second grade. In our trade, if a cotton of a certain mark has been found to yield satisfactory results, the spinner will look out with interest for the same mark of cotton again, and in two or three years that planter, if he keeps up a regular standard quality, will have established a reputation which will prove a very valuable trade asset. A third point, which it is very desirable you should observe, is to use a good covering for the bags and to press them to about 200 cubic feet to the ton weight, and to let the bags be between 300 and 400 lb. weight each. Of course, if you have 100 or 200 tb. over, you will have to send a smaller bag to finish off the crop of that grade; but do not be tempted to make up a bag of full weight by mixing two grades, for it is almost certain the spinner will find you out and your reputation as a grower will in consequence suffer. It will be well for you not to ship smaller lots than 5 or 6 bags of one grade at a time. Odd bags are not easily saleable and less than 100 fb. is not a merchantable quantity. The British Cotton-growing Association will, however, buy odd bags of ginned cotton which are not stained, but which are clean, at 8d. per tb. Stained cotton should nof be shipped unless the owner is prepared to see it sold for 5d. per tb. when it reaches England. It would also be as well for a standard weight and size of canvas to be adopted for the whole of the West Indies, and be sure to choose a fairly good quality so that when the cotton arrives at the mill in England there is no cotton protruding through holes in the bag. This may not be as important as the first points I have touched upon, but you will be well advised if you bale your cotton so that it will arrive in the best possible condition. Some of your cotton is sent out in bales bound round with iron bands like Florida and Georgia Sea Island cotton, but I understand in some cases presses have been obtained for making up the cotton in bags without bands, which will give the bales the same appearance as the cotton from Edisto and James Island. The very finest and highest-priced cotton never has iron bands round the bales. I do not think a single planter in Edisto or James Island puts bands round his cotton, and to see bales with iron bands round them might lead some spinners to be suspicious lest they were buying Florida and Georgia Sea Island and not real Sea Island grown upon islands. You have had a considerable advantage over every other British cotton-growing area in that you have had the benefit of Sir Daniel Morris’ presence and his unrivalled agri- cultural knowledge. Most of us have to buy our experience very dearly and learn by the mistakes we make how not to do it. The progress which you have so far made in cotton growing is simply phenomenal; and if your industry has made such strides, you have Sir Daniel Morris and his staff to thank for obtaining such an accumulation of knowledge of detail as you could not perhaps otherwise have gained in less than a generation of failures and mistakes. It is a great pleasure to me, I can assure you, to come here and second the efforts of so devoted a public official, and, if my experience as a spinner of cotton is of any use to you, I shall be only too happy to explain what the requirements of a spinner as regards his raw material are. Remember that the class of cotton you are growing does not go into coarse goods where defects are not readily detected. It is used, amongst other things, in the manufacture of Brussels and other lace, embroidery, curtains, muslins, gloves, and the best sewing cotton. If you will follow the advise of Sir Daniel Morris and the members of his staff on matters on which you are not quite sure, you will be well advised. The great regret often expressed at the British Cotton-growing Association meetings is that they are unable to find five or six other agricultural authorities with the same energy as Sir Daniel, because they see that the state of progress arrived at in the West Indies surpasses by far the progress made in other places where we are trying to grow cotton. The cotton you have already sent possesses some most important and satisfactory features. It is not yet quite so good as the cotton we get from Edisto and James Island, but, with the hints which have been given you from time to time, there is no reason why, if you follow them, you should fear, in the case of very fine cotton, the competition of the whole world, and you will be able to take that place to which your soil and. your climate entitle you in this important industry. 360 EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. Local Agents: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridge- town, Barbados. London Agents: Messrs. Dulau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W., and The West India Com- mittee, 15, Seething Lane, E.C. A complete list of agents will be found at foot of page 367 of this issue. The Agricultural News: Price 1d. per number, post free 1}¢. Annual subscription payable to Agents Qs. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural slows SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1904. No. 67. Vou. III. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. The editorial in the present issue deals with the proposed arrangements for holding the next Agri- cultural Conference at Trinidad. In connexion with the sugar industry a note on the Naudet process of sugar extraction and a summary of results of manurial experiments at Barbados are published on pp. 354-5. Further reports on the prospects of the cotton crop in the West Indies are likely to be of interest. Other notes relating to the cotton industry contain important information with regard to the production of long-staple cotton. (p. 357.) Extracts from the address delivered at Barbados by Mr. E. Lomas Oliver, of the Deputation from the British Cotton-growing Association, contain hints of importance to West Indian cotton growers. (p. 359.) Under the heading ‘Insect Notes’ will be found a brief account of the usefulness of the toad as a destroyer of insects. (p. 562.) Two extracts relating to agricultural education indicate that satisfactory progress is being made in this connexion at Tobago and St. Vincent. (p. 363.) The report by Mr. J. R. Jackson on West Indian products in the London market for the month of September is published on p. 365, THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. NovemBer 5, 1904. Sugar-cane Experiments at Barbados. The summary of the results obtained in the manurial experiments with the sugar-cane, carried on at Barbados during the past year, which is published on pp. 354-5, shows that, on the whole, previous conclusions are confirmed. Nitrogenous manures were found to be the most important, and their application was nearly always profitable. Phosphatic manures led to profits in some cases and to losses in others. In most cases a profit accrued from the use of potash as sulphate of potash, $a Exports of Grenada. The following summary of the principal items of export from the island of Grenada during the year 1903 may be of interest :—- Cacao, 58,490 bags, valued at £229,463 6s. 2d.; nutmegs anc spices, 7,959 cwt., of the value of £31,583 1s. Sd.: raw cotton, 2,687 ewt., valued at £4205: cotton seed, 6,757 ewt., of the value of £1,140. 5s. 8d. Comparison with the exports for 1902 shows a falling off in the output of cacao, the crop in 1902 being 61,258 bags. In the case of nutmegs and spices, there was an increase of more than 1,000 ewt. over the export in the previous year, which was 6,839 ewt. — As regards cotton, in 1902 the exports were 2,212 ewt. of raw cotton and 4,556 cwt. of cotton seed. In regard to ‘Agricultural Improvements’ it is stated: ‘The application of manure to cacao cultiva- tion is on the increase throughout the island, and the drying of that product by artificial means, instead of relying upon sunlight, is being gradually adopted.’ EE Oe West Indian Cotton. In his address to the members of the Barbados Agricultural Society on West Indian cotton (see p. 359) Mr, Oliver dealt with some of the faults of cotton that has been sent from these islands, It is hoped that cotton growers will give careful consideration to the points raised in this address. One of the most serious faults has been the absence of the spiral twist on the fibre so much desired by fine spinners. This is due to much of the cotton having been picked before 1t was thoroughly ripe. The absence of this twist materially increases the cost of production to the spinner. Next, care must be taken to avoid the mixing of long-staple and short-staple cotton. The cotton must be carefully graded, for the spinner does not want mixed cotton: moreover, for mixed cotton the shipper will obtain only the price of the worst cotton in the lot. Mr. Oliver advises growers to brand the packages with the name of their estate and to have a distinguishing mark for each grade. In this manner growers of really good- quality cotton will be able to establish a reputation for their product. Finally, Mr. Oliver advised shippers to adopt astandard weight and size of canvas for the whole of the West Indies, and to avoid the use of iron bands which are not used for the very best grades of Sea Island cotton but only for Florida and Georgia cottons. | Vou. III. No. 67. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 361 British Cotton-growing Association Deputation. Messrs. E. Lomas Oliver and Richard Stanclitfe, forming a Deputation from the British Cotton-growing Association, arrived at Barbados on October 24. During their stay in Barbados they have visited a number of estates on which cotton is beimg grown, and on October 28 were present at a meeting of the Barbados Agricultural Society. At this meeting Mr. Oliver delivered an address, a summary of which is published on p. 359. On November 1 the Deputation left Barbados, in company with Sir Daniel Morris, on a tour of the Northern Islands, visiting St. Lucia, Dominica, Montserrat, Antigua, and St. Kitt’s. Later, a visit will be paid to St. Vincent (November 12), and if steamer movements permit, probably Grenada and Tobago will also be visited. Messrs. Oliver and Stanclitte will leave Trinidad for Jamaica on November 22. Mr. Oliver is possessed of wide experience in regard to cotton matters. He is a Director of the Fine Spinners’ Cotton Association, and from the first has taken a deep interest in the West Indian cotton industry. He is desirous of obtaining samples of cotton (5 th. to 50 tbh. each) produced from the early plantings this year, in order that he may have an opportunity of expressing an opinion upon them for the information of growers, and of pointing out their merits or detects, as the case may be. OD + a Exports and Rainfall. During last year there was a considerable decline in the export trade of Lagos—a decline which is due entirely to unfavourable meteorological conditions. In dealing with this matter in his Annual Report on the colony for 1903, the Governor states that variations in exports are purely a matter of rainfall. This is particularly the case with the products of the palm oil tree (Llaeis guineensis) which form over 50 per cent. (in value) of the colony’s exports. By means of figures dealing with the last fifteen years, the unmistakable correlation between rainfall and the exports of palm produce is demonstrated. Thus, in 1901 the rainfall armounted to 11259 inches (the unprecedented fall of 31 inches being recorded for September and October); the effects of this are seen in the record crop of 5,240,137 gallons of palm oil and 75,416 tons of palm kernels in the following year. On the other hand, the exports in the following year were 3,174,060 gallons of oil and 63,568 tons of kernels: this decline might have been predicted by an intelligent observer from the fact that the rainfall for the previous year (1902) had been only 47°82 inches. The figures show that the exports of palm oil are even more sensitive than those of kernels, Normally, the oil palm flowers every five or six weeks and bears eight or nine mature bunches of fruit in the year; if, however, the rainfall is scanty, the tree flowers only every ninth or tenth week, and the number of fruit bunches is reduced to about. five. Insufficient rainfall also has the effect of reducing the proportion of oil in the fruits. Lemon Grass Oil from Montserrat. The Bulletin of the Imperial Institute (Vol. II, no. 3) contains a report on a sample of lemon grass oil from Montserrat forwarded by the Hon. F. Watts. An herbarium specimen forwarded subsequently was identified by the Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew, as Andropogon nardus, lL, var. genuinus, Hack., which is commonly known as the true lemon grass. Results are given of analyses obtained with the Montserrat oil both at the Imperial Institute and at the Government Laboratory for the Leeward Islands, as well as corresponding figures for commercial lemon grass oil distilled in India from Andropogon citratus. Lemon grass oil is now principally employed as a source of citral, and the amount of this constituent practically regulates the commercial value of the oil. It is therefore interesting to learn that the Montserrat oil contains as large a proportion of this valuable constituent as the Kast Indian oil. The Montserrat oil, however, differs from the latter in being incompletely soluble in 70 per cent. alcohol. It was found that this fact caused the dealers to whom specimens were sent to quote a low price (44d. per oz.). It was considered, however, that 5d. to 6d. per oz—the present price of good-quality East Indian oil—might be obtained, if regular shipments were made in fair quantities. “These results indicate that Montserrat lemon grass oil, in spite of its peculiar partial insolubility in alcohol, would probably find a ready sale at remuner- ative prices in this country and on the Continent.’ rr ee Sunflowers as a Crop. The Agricultural World of October 1 has an interesting article on the culture, uses, and value of sun- flowers as a crop. In Western Europe and America the sunflower is chiefly grown for ornamental purposes and has hardly, except in recent years, risen to the dignity of a crop. In Russia, however, sunflower seeds have come into general use as a staple article of human food and for the production of oil which closely resembles olive oil. The ‘oil cake’ left after the oil has been extracted is rich in protein and oil and well relished by stock, being equal, if not superior, to linseed cake for feeding purposes. Sunflower seeds contain from four to five times as much fat as corn and more protein than any of the cereal grains, comparing well in proteid content with peas and beans. Hitherto they have been used chiefly as a poultry food. To obtain the largest crops fertile land rich in humus is necessary. In producing the large amount of protein contained in the seed, the crop exhausts the soil of its nitrogen. The seed is planted in rows 3 to 34 feet apart, and 3 to 4 inches apart in the rows. Later, the plants should be thinned to 12 to 18 inches apart in the row; in other respects the crop should be cultivated in the same manner as corn. The heads should be harvested before the seeds are fully ripe, and then cured for a week or so before shelling. As a rule, the seeds are shelled by hand, but doubtless cheaper and more rapid methods could be devised. 362 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. NoveMBer 5, 1904, INSEG Ticks. The following note on ticks is taken from the Cyprus Journal :— Many owners of dogs as well as other animals are doubtless troubled at finding how constantly their four-footed friends become coyered with ticks. With a view to checking the multiplication of these objectionable insects, the following points may be worth noting. The tick does not travel, nor will it reproduce until it has sucked blood. The female is usually found in the folds of an animal’s ears, neck, or other concealed part, gorged with blood, and with the male, a smaller parasite, close to it. As soon as the fertilized female falls from her prey, she produces her young, commonly known as grass lice. When she drops them they climb up a grass or other stalk, and cluster at the top like bees, where they lie in wait to fall upon any passing living creature. Should none approach within reach, they simply die. It is, therefore, of importance that, when the ticks are removed from the animals, they should be immediately destroyed, so that they may be prevented from propagating their species. In some parts of the world, notably in the West Indies, ticks have been’ at times a great scourge, and elaborate means have had to be taken to pen the animals, and after removing the ticks, collect them into some vessel and then destroy them by fire. Care in promptly killing the ticks at once after removal will do much to check their increase. The daily brushing and examining of dogs is a useful and effective precaution. NOTES. Toads. Throughout the West Indies, and extending south to Brazil and Argentine and north to Bermuda, the toad or crapaud is quite common. It is known as the great Surinam toad and Agua toad, and its scientific name is Bufo ugua. It is considered the largest existing toad, and is supposed to have been introduced from the mainland of South America to the West Indies. It is of interest to agriculturists on account of the nature of its diet, which consists chiefly of insects. Professor A. E. Verrill in his book, The Bermuda Islands, says: ‘In Barbados and Jamaica it is valued because of its habit of catching field rats and insects.’ Cockroaches, and ground beetles have been com- monly found in the stomachs of toads, and it is well known that the common hard-back, the larva of which is the root- borer of canes, is eaten by them. They breed in stagnant water, each female laying a large number of eggs. The only objectionable quality attributed to this animal is the ‘venom’ secreted by the parotid and dorsal glands. Dogs that bite or attack toads invariably become extremely ill and sometimes die in a very short time. According to Professor Verrill, the secretions of the glands, when injected into the circulation of dogs, birds, and other animals, cause convulsions and death even when in small doses. He also records that a member of his party in Bermuda on one occasion saw the venom ejected as a fine spray from the parotid glands of a large toad when it was much irritated. Persons, however, handle these toads without injury or noticeable effect from this secretion. , The American toad (Bufo Jentiginosus) is similar in appearance to the crapaud but smaller. In an excellent paper, entitled ‘Usefulness of the American Toad,’ published as Larmers’ Bulletin No. 149 of the United States Depart- ment of Agriculture, Mr. A. H. Kirkland discusses the habits and food of this interesting animal. In 149 stomachs he found that 62 per cent. of the food consisted of injurious species exclusive of ants, and if these were counted as injurious, the total of injurious species amounted to 81 per cent. This total includes, beetles (hard-backs), caterpillars and cutworms, wireworms, millipeds, sow bugs (wood lice), and grasshoppers. Poisonous secretions are found in this species also, but Mr. Kirkland mentions them as secretions of the skin, and they are less violent in their effect. Toads are voracious feeders and from the nature of their food are of benefit in an agricultural community. They live in holes under stones or other protection, and it is a common thing to find several in an old cane trash heap. They could probably be easily established in any locality if they were introduced and provided with shelter, and might be efficient in cases of infestation by mole crickets (‘ Cochon terre’) or other insect of similar habits. The toad, however, is different from the crapaud or ‘mountain chicken’ of some of these islands. The mountain chicken is a frog, and though it, too, feeds on insects, its habit of living in the mountains and forests probably makes it less useful from an agricultural point of view. MANGROVE BARK INDUSTRY. The exports of mangrove bark from the island of Pemba amounted in 1903 to 95 tons, valued at £380, The Consular Report on the Trade of Zanzibar and Pemba has the following note on this industry :— The item mangrove bark, which appears for the first time in 1903 amongst the customs returns, is a product of high value for tanning purposes. It grows in great abund- ance in the numerous tidal creeks throughout the island, and it appears to be of excellent quality from a commercial point of view. I believe that the Pemba bark would fetch £5 or £6 per ton in the European markets. The Zanzibar Govern- ment has lately prohibited the collecting of mangrove bark in Pemba, save under licence. I understand that up to the present one firm only, a French firm in Zanzibar, has applied for and obtained such licence. According to the British Honduras Clarion, mangrove bark is fast becoming an important article of export from that colony. The demand is said to be practically unlimited. In the West Indian Colonies there is an almost inexhaustible supply. Nut-Cracking Machine. Experiments were tried during the year with a patent machine for cracking palm nuts, as large quantities of the kernels are wasted by the natives in the primitive methods adopted; but though the reduction in the cost of labour in passing 2,050 tb. through the machine worked out at 41 per cent., it was found that 19 per cent. of the nuts remained unbroken, and a more effective machine is required. (Annwal Report on Gold Coast for 1903.) Won. U0: No: 67. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 363 EDUCATIONAL. School Gardens at Tobago. Mr. H. Millen, Curator of the Botanic Station at Tobago, has forwarded the following note on school gardens in the island :— Most schools have attached to them a plot of land devoted to the growing of tropical and temperate economic plants. There exist twenty-three gardens in the island. Recently these have been inspected by the Curator and Agricultural Instructor, and some of the gardens are very creditable ; the gardens are worked entirely by the boys attending the schools. It was noticeable that the gardens in Country Districts are generally kept in a better condition and more interest is taken in them than those in or near a town. At the next School Garden Show to be held in November some good exhibits are expected ; the Botanic Station has assisted in distributing seeds and plants; but to secure a regular supply of European vegetables seeds should be imported at intervals. Agricultural Education at St. Vincent. The following extracts relating to the teaching of Agriculture are taken from the report of the Inspector of Schools for the Windward Islands on the examination of the elementary schools of the colony of St. Vincent held between May 20 and July 27, 1904 :— This was the first occasion on which this subject also formed part of the school curriculum. With the exception of the examination at Chateaubelair Wesleyan School, the whole lot of examinations was conducted on _ purely theoretical lines. School gardens have been laid out at the following schools :—Chateaubelair, Troumaca, Buccament, Chauncey, Camden Park, and Brighton, but only those at Chateaubelair, Chauncey, and Camden Park have been cultivated, the others probably having been allowed to await the incoming of the rainy season. The pupils of Kingstown Anglican, Roman Catholic, and Wesleyan Schools which have no plots attached to them, pursued their studies during the year at the Agricultural School in Kingstown on certain regular days appointed for the purpose. ‘There are, in addition to these school gardens, plots under Government control available for primary school work at Belair and at Georgetown, adjoining the schools there; while at Stubbs and Marriaqua, there is ample frontage for making good gardens. The teaching has been confined as a rule to a very elementary course of study: but Chateaubelair, Kingstown Anglican, and Brighton did rather more advanced work than the others. The first mentioned was by far the best in the colony. The pupils gave practical demonstration of their knowledge of the theory taught them, by the ease and familiarity with. which they dissected and removed the several parts of bean seeds, showed and handled separately the different parts of the hibiscus flower, unpotted plants and understood their re-potting, and answered questions particularly relating to soils and drainage, together with various other tests undergone by them. Their garden was in excellent order notwithstanding the fact that the dry season had scarcely then passed. On the whole, first principles were well and carefully taught in all schools offering this subject. Blackie’s 7vopical Readers have been supplied in all the schools and are made use of by the pupils, the teachers supplementing the information therein given, when found necessary, from the notes taken at the lectures attended by them. There was hardly any cultivation of plants in pots or tubs. Those schools which possess no garden might advantageously make an effort in that direction, especially as the Imperial Department of Agriculture awarded Diplomas of Merit to several schools for the excellence of their exhibits in pots and tubs at the Agricultural Show held in the month of March of this year. From the very satisfactory results obtained at the Chateaubelair Wesleyan School, I strongly recommend and advise teachers to teach ‘object-lessons’ as frequently as opportunity will permit, from plant life and agricultural subjects. The subject should be taught in the lower standards with the view, among others, to becoming the handmaid eventually, by means of lessons on plant life, etc., of the more advanced study of agriculture. As taught at present, this latter is not unfrequently looked upon by junior men as being merely an overgrown parasitic off-shoot of the former and nothing more. Managers, by co-operation with such teachers, can readily disabuse their minds of this fallacy and, as time goes on, the harmonious relationship of the two subjects will naturally be brought into full play, almost unconsciously, with all the advantages derivable therefrom. YLANG-YLANG OIL. The Board of Trade Journal for September 8 has the following extract from the ‘Monthly Summary’ of commerce of the Philippine Islands: Among the other products of economic value in the Philippines, ylang-ylang oil as an export amounted to $123,182, or about 50 per cent. increase over the trade in 1902, the shipments to France advancing in about the same proportion. Some consider the oil as equal in perfume to attar of roses, and by the greater yield of essence furnishing a less expensive base, it becomes a strong competitor of the latter, the perfumers of the United States to whom exporting houses in Manila shipped nearly $10,000 worth last year, making it the base of some of their most expensive extracts. ‘he ylang-ylang tree grows best in the Philippines and it takes about 75 Ib. of the flowers, worth from 8e. to 15c. gold per tb. to yield 1 tb. of oil. The cost of manufacture -is about $4, and it sells readily for from $40 to $50 in open market, with the supply unequal to the demand. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture return- ed to Barbados on Monday, October 24, and resumed the duties of his office the same day. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, accom- panied by Messrs. E. Lomas Oliver and Richard Stanclitte, the Deputation from the British Cotton- growing Association, left Barbados on S.S. ‘Dahome’ on November 1, for the Northern Islands. It is expected that Sir Daniel Morris will return to Barbados in SS. ‘Orinoco’ on November 11. He will leave soon afterwards with the members of the Deputation for the Southern Islands. Consequent on the departure from St. Vincent of Mr. C. H. Knowles, B.Sc, and pending the arrival of his successor, Mr. A. J. Clarke, of Barbados, has been temporarily appointed to carry on the duties of Resi- dent Master at the Agricultural School. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. NovempBer 5, 1904. GLEANINGS. An Order-in-Council, dated August 13, 1904, provides for the free importation into St. Lucia of ‘ insecticide ingredients and apparatus for the application thereof.’ Arbor day will be celebrated at Nevis on the Kings’ birthday, November 9. Everything is being done to bring it to a successful issue. Regulations and prize lists of an Agricultural Show to be held in Trinidad from February 13 to February 18, 1905, have been issued as an Agricultural Society paper (no. 215), The principal exports from Trinidad during 1903-4 were :—Crude asphalt, 1902-3, £145,712; 1903-4, £178,984 ; cacao, 1902-3, £907,531; 1903-4, £897,033 ; sugar, 1902-3, £410,000 ; 1903-4, £435,931. (Board of Trade Journal.) The Gardeners’ Chronicle, referring to the increasing demand for bananas, states that during the past eight months 2,492,702 bunches were imported as against 2,041,835 in the same period last year, and some 1,650,992 bunches for the same period of 1902. The exports of cotton from Peru in 1903 amounted ta 7,530 tons, an increase of 1,050 on the previous year’s exports. Cotton seed, to the extent of 5,264 tons was also exported, as well as 2,212 tons of cotton seed oil cakes. (Consular Report.) We congratulate the Rev. N. B. Watson, B.A., of St. Martin’s Vicarage, Barbados, on being elected a Fellow of the Entomological Society of London. Mr. Watson contributed a valuable paper on ‘The Root Borer of Sugar- cane’ to the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. IV, pp. 37-47). It has been decided by the Exhibition Committee of the Jamaica Agricultural Society that a representative exhibit shall be sent from the colony to the Colonial and Indian Exhibition to be held at the Crystal Palace in 1905. The exhibit will include specimens of economic plants and products, and a special representation is likely to be made of honéy and preserves. With reference to the paragraph in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 348) in which it was stated that at Grenada Mr. L. R. Mitchell was prepared to gin and bale cotton at ¢d. per tb., it is desirable to mention that this is for Upland cotton for which a saw gin can be used. Sea Island cotton, which fetches about three times as much, requires a roller gin, and the ginning is naturally more costly. Messrs. Picktord & Black have written to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture regretfully informing him that the West Indian exhibits left over from previous Canadian Exhibitions were totally destroyed by the fire at their premises on September 19 last. With reference to cotton planting in Trinidad, Mr. J. H. Hart writes as follows: ‘We have no means of correctly ascertaining what the area under cotton is. One planter is under orders to plant 50 acres, and in small lots probably some 100 acres will be grown, including the four experiment plots supported by the Government.’ During the fortnight ended October 6, 46 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom. Sales have been effected in Liverpool at the following prices : West Indian, 4:00d. to 6°75d.; West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 15d.; fine, 14d.; extra fine, 16d. per ib. (West India Committee Circular.) Dr. Watts writes from Antigua: ‘Will you please draw attention to an omission, due to an imperfect copy being supplied to you, in the list of cotton experiments published in the Ayrieultural News (Vol. ILI, p. 237). Plot 16 should receive 30 tb. of nitrogen in addition to the phosphate and potash.’ Among the articles, the free importation of which into Montserrat is allowed by an Ordinance which came into force in July 4 last, may be mentioned ; chemicals for agri- cultural purposes, insecticides and fungicides, multiple-etfect machinery for manufacturing sugar, and other machinery to: be used for the preparation of agricultural produce. The exports of cotton from Alexandria amounted im value, in 1903, to £15,873,514, the quantity being 545,852,342 Ib., about one-half of which went to the United Kingdom. This value represents an increase of over £1,700,000 on the exports of the previous year. (Consular Report.) Raw rubber was by far the most important article of import into Belgium from the Congo Free State in 1903 and showed an increased volume of 321 tons, and an increased value of £515,640. The total value of the rubber, which amounted in volume to 5,917 tons, was £1,656,800. (Consular Report on trade of Belgium.) According to the Consular Report on the trade of Madeira, the whole of the onion crop (1,161 tons in 1903) was exported to the West Indies and Demerara. The West Indies also received a share of the potato exports. In exchange Madeira imported from the West Indies and Demerara molasses and sugar. Many of the pictures which have appeared in the West India Committee Circular are being reproduced as picture post-cards, and will shortly be published by the well-known firm of Raphael Tuck & Sons. With the object of popularizing the West Indies a series of the photographs taken by the Secretary of the West India Committee will shortly be published under the title ‘Sun Pictures of the Antilles and British Guiana.’ Full particu- lars can be obtained from Messrs, H. & W. Grant, 18-19, Whitefriars Street, E.C. Vou. III. No. 67. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 365 WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following report on West Indian products, more especially drugs and spices, in the London market, has been furnished by Mr. J. R. Jackson, A\ GIS) < BANANA TRADE, Though drugs and spices, generaily, continue to have but a normal existence in the London sale rooms, other West Indian products have been well to the fore during the month of September, particularly the banana, which has of late taken a firm and increasing hold on the popular taste. ‘The daily press has drawn particular attention to the value of the banana, not only as a delicious fruit, but also to its importance as a food, and has further pointed out that at the rate of three and, sometimes, even four a penny, at which prices they have been sold in London and some of the large provincial towns, no cheaper or more wholesome fruit can be obtained, and this in a season when English home-grown fruits of nearly all kinds are most plentiful. It is satisfac- tory to note that Jamaica stands prominently forward as the principal colonial source of supply and that the new steamer “Port Kingston ’—the latest addition to the Direct Line between Bristol and Jamaica—arrived on September 28, making the voyage in ten days, and bringing 24,000 bunches of bananas, besides oranges and other fruits, and further, that samples of Jamaica cotton had been brought by the same vessel, for the purpose of submitting them to experts of the British Cotton-growing Association. Though fruit and cotton have only an indirect bearing on the subject of drugs, allusion is here made to them as showing that the interest in all West Indian products is being keenly main- tained in the mother country. GINGER, Reverting to the spice and drug markets, and taking ginger for our first consideration, the month did not open very bright ; only small sales were effected in all the kinds, Jamaica fetching 40s. for bold and 35s. for middling, while for bold cut Cochin, 60s. was asked, and small medium, 40s. A week later 191 barrels of Jamaica were offered for which there was no demand, and inferior qualities of Cochin sold at low prices. A better tone prevailed at the spice sales on the 2Ist., when about 200 bags of Jamaica were offered and sold chiefly at 37s. 6d. for middling washed, 30s. 6d. to 32s. 6d. for ordinary to good ordinary, and 26s. to 29s. for ordinary small to dark lean. A moderate supply of Cochin and Calicut was also offered at this auction, fair washed rough Cochin being sold at 18s., wormy ditto at 16s, ; brown Calicut, wormy, realized 14s. 6d. and small, rough wormy 14s. to 14s. 6d. Bold, bright Calicut, slightly wormy, fetched 26s., as did also bold bright rough. At the last sale of the month, on the 28th., the market was dull and prices remained about the same, As bearing on the supply of ginger generally, it may be interesting to quote from a paragraph that has appeared on the exports of ginger from Sierra Leone during the year 1903, which amounted to 17,567 ecwt., realizing £15,898 as against 15,512 ewt., of the value of £17,358 in the previous year. It is thus evident that, although there was a larger export than in 1902, there was a decrease in value, due mainly to the fall in the market price which was as low as Iid. per hb. SARSAPARILLA, At the drug sale on September 1, sarsaparilla stood thus :—A bale of fair red native J amaica realized 94d., and another bale, less bright, 84d. No grey Jamaica was offered, but 1s. 2d. was mentioned as about its value. On the 15th. there was again an absence of grey Jamaica and there was no demand for native, of which 11 bales were offered and bought in. Seven bales of rather coarse, sound, Lima-Jamaica were disposed of at from 10d. to 1l}d., and 6 bales of Tampico, without chumps, were held at Is. per tb. At the last sale, on the 29th., genuine grey Jamaica was reported as still scarce, only 10 bales being offered ; 1s. 2d. was refused for fair, the buying-in price being 1s. 67. Two bales of sea- damaged realized 1s, 1d., while of native Jamaica, 5 bales were sold at 74d. to 8d. for medium dull yellowish. KOLA NUTS, On September 1, 57 packages were offered and 21 sold mostly at steady prices. Of these, 13 packages of fair to good bold bright West Indian halves were disposed of at from 4d. to 5d. per tb., 47d. being also paid for 4 cases of good bold Ceylon. Twenty-eight packages of African were offered and bought in at 4d. per tb. On the 15th., the markets had but very slightly changed, good bold bright Jamaica fetching 4d. to 44d., ordinary mouldy West Indian 32d., and mouldy fresh 1d. per tb. These prices varied but little at the end of the month. From Hamburgh a report comes that there has been a brisk demand during the month, and no important supplies have entered the market, in consequence of which prices are tending higher, A Sierra Leone report on the trade in kola nuts during the year 1903. states, that the exports in that year were 15,176 ewt., of the value of £76,355 as compared with 14,707 ewt., of the value of £60,517 in 1902. The export is chiefly to the Gambia and the French West African Colonies of Senegal, namely, Rufisque, Dakar, and Goree, whence it is carried to the interior where there is an insatiable demand for it. The supply is obtained largely from the Protectorate whither a large number of traders from the colony resort during the last quarter of the year, which is regarded as the kola Season, and make purchases partly by cash payments and partly by a system of barter. ARROWROOT, The market in this article has been quiet throughout the month. At the spice sale on the ith., 135 packages of St. Vincent were bought in at 2d. to 3d. per lb. ; and on the 21st., 250 bags were offered, of which 100 of good manufae- turing were sold at 12d. per Ib., which had slightly declined at the sale on the 29th. LIME JUICE, NUTMEGS, MACE, AND PIMENTO. Lime juice at the beginning of the month was reported as both plentiful and cheap, good raw West Indian being offered at 1s. to ls. 1d. per gallon, while fair West Indian distilled oil of lime sold at 1s. 5d, per Ib. at the close of the month. Of nutmegs, in the early part of the month, West Indian were realizing rather higher rates than had ruled in August. Mace was also steady, West Indian selling at ls. to Is. 3d. for red; 1s. 4d. to Is. 5d. for ordinary to fair ; ls. 7d. to 1s. 8d. for pale; and Is. 1d. to ls. 2d. for pickings. On the 7th., 238 bags of pimento were offered, 34 being sold without reserve at 25d. for greyish, this price being maintained at the closing sale of the month, when 247 bags were offered and 120 found purchasers, THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. November 5, 1904. MARKET REPORTS. London,— October 11, 1904. Messrs. J. Hanes Carrp & Co., Messrs. Kearton, Piper & Co., Messrs. E. A. pE Pass & Co., ‘THe West InprA ComMirree Crr- cuLtar’; ‘THe Lrverroon Corron Association Weekty Crecuar, October 7; and ‘THE Pusnic Lepcer,’ October 8, 1904. Arors—Barbados, 15/- to 35/- ; Curagoa, 14/- to 38/- per ewt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 13d. to 3}d. per th. Batata—Block, 1/3 to 1/3} per Tb. Bees’-wax—&7 5s. per cwt. Cacao—Trinidad, 56/- to 67/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 51/- to 57/- per ewt. ; Dominica, and Jamaica, 49/- to 56/- per cwt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 7d. to 2/- per Ib. CorreE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 38/- per ewt. Corrox—West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 13d. ; fine, 14d. ; extra fine, 16d. per tb. FRrvir— Bananas—Jamaica, 5/3 to 7/- per bunch. Grare Freurr—7/- to 9/- per box of 150-200. OraNcES—Jamaica, 6/- to 8/- per case. Fustic—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Giycer—-Fair bright, 37/6 ; common to middling, 29/- to 37 6 per ewt. Hoxey—Jamaica, 15/- to 28/- per ewt. Tsryeiass—West Indian lump, 2/5 to 2/10; cake, 1/2 per th. Koia Nurs—sd. to 43d. per tb. Lrre Jurce—Raw, 10d. to 1/2 per gallon; concentrated, £14 per cask of 108 gallons. Lime Or—Distilled, 1/53 per tb. ; hand-pressed, 2/6 to 2.9 per 1b. Locwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—Good bold pale, 1/6 to 1/11; red, 1/2 to 1/5; broken, 10. to 1/2 per th. Nirrate or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 7s. 6d. per ton. Nourmecs—59's, 2'7; 88's, 1/1; 146’s, 63d. ; shell, 43d. to 43d. per th. Pimento— 22d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 7d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s. %. per proof gallon. SarsaparmLa—9d. to 1/6 per tb. Svcar—Crystallized, 18/3 to 19/3 per ewt. ; Muscoyado, Barbados, 14/- to 14/6 per ewt.; Molasses, 126 to 16,- per cwt. ScreHate or AmMmonta—£12 per ton. Montreal,—October 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russert Murray, (In bond quotations, c. & f.) Bayavnas—Jamaica, 50c. to 75c. per bunch of 8 hands ; $1-00 to $105 per bunch ‘firsts’; $1°30 to $140 per bunch ‘jumbos.’ Cepar—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot. Cocoa-Nuts— Jamaica, $27-00 to $29°00 ; Trinidad, $29-00 to $25°00 per M. Correr—Jamaica, medium, 9e. to 10c. per Th. Gixcer—Jamaica, unbleached, 6}c. to 8c. per tb. Lines—Jamaica—No quotations. Morascuir—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 tb. Motasses—Barbados, 25c. to 27c.; Antigua, 2Ic. per Imperial gallon. Nurmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 19¢. to 19$¢. per th. Orances—Jamaica, $4:°00 per barrel, $2°00 per box; Dominica, $2°20 per box. Prrento—Jamaica, 5}e. to 6fe. per th. Prxe-apeteEs—Cubans, crates 36’s to 10's, $3°00 to $4°10, Svcar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°70 to $2°75per 100 Tb, —Muscovados, 89°, $2°50 to $2°65 per 100 Ib. —Molasses, 89°, $2°25 to $2°35 per 100 th. —Barbados, 89°, $2°45 to $2°50 per 100 Ih. New York,—October 13, 1904.—Messrs. GrtLespre: Bros. & Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12fc. to 13c. ; Jamaica—No quotations ; Grenada, 12c. to 12}c.; Trinidad, 12c. to 18c. per th. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $33 to $34 per M., selected ; Jamaicas, $34°00 to $35-00 per M. CorrrE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 8}c. to 9c. per th. Goat Skrys—Jamaicas, 54¢e. per tf Orances—Jamiuca, stem cut, $4°00 to $4°50 per barrel. Prento—4 ic. per tb., spot quotation. Sccar—Centrifugals, 96°, 4}c.; Muscovados, 89°, 3}c.5 Molasses, 89°, 3)ce. per Th. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—October 22, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncx & Co. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°50 to $3°60 per 100 th. Cacao—Dominica, $12°00 to $12°50 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nuts—$15°50 per M. for husked nuts. CorreE—$10-00 to $12°00 per 100 th. Haxy—9dc. per 100 th. Manvcres—- Nitrate of soda, $60-00 ; Ohlendorft’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72°00 to $75:00= Sulphate of potash, 367-00. Oxtoxs—Madeira (stringed), $1°51 per 100 fb. Poratos, ENGLIsH— Nova Scotia, $1°60 to $2715 per 160 tbh. Rice—Ballam, $4°80 to $4:95 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°40 per 100 th. British Guiana,—October 20, 1904.—Messrs. Wrerine & RicHrer, Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. Barara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35c. per th. Cacao—Natire, 12c¢. to 13e. per tb. Cassava Srarca—$6'00 per barrel. Cocoa-NutTs—$8 ‘00 to $10°00 per M. Corree— Rio and Jamaica, 134c. per tb. (retail). —Creole, Ile. per th. Duat— $4°20 to $4°25 per bag of 168 tb. Eppors—80c. to $108 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks. included). Ganens MMos: $2°00 per 100 tb. ; Teneriffe, $1°75 per 100 Th. Pea Ncvs— Molasses, 89°, 3}}c. per th. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—November 19, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. Ankrowroor—St. Vincent, $3°60 to $3-75 per 100 tb. Cacao—Dominica, $11°75 to $12°00 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nurs—$17°00 to $19-°00 per M. for husked nuts. Corree—$10-00 to $12-00 per 100 th. Hay—0c. to 95c. per 100 th. Manvres—- Nitrate of soda, $60-00 ; Ohlendorft’s dissolved guano, $60°00 ; Sulphate of ammonia, $72-00 to $75-00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Oxtons—Madeira (stringed), $2-25 per 100 tb. Poraros, ENGLisH— $2°04 to $2°30 per 160 tb. t1ce—Ballam, $4°75 to $4:90 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $5°25 to $3°40 per 100 tb. British Guiana,—November 17, 1904.—Messrs. Wintine & Ricurer. Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. Batara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 3dc. per th. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 18e. per th. Cassava SrarcH—$6°50 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$8°00 to $10°00 per M. Corree—Rio and Jamaica, 13$c. per th. (retail). — Creole, Ile. per th. Drar— $4°20 to $4°25 per bag of 168 th. Eppors—96e. per barrel. Motassrs—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks included). Oxtoxs—Madeira, $3:00 to $3°50 per 100 tb. Pea Nurs—American, 7c. per tb. (retail). Prantains— 24c. to 40c. per bunch. Poraros, ExcrisH—$3°50 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4:40; Creole, $4°40 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweer Poraros—Barbados, 96c. per bag, $1-08 per barrel. TanniAs—$2°16 per barrel. Yams—White, $2°28 per bag. Scucar—Dark Crystals, $2°65 to $2°90; Yellow, $3-00 te $3°10 ; White, $3°60 to $3°90; Molasses, $2:25 to $2:40 per 100 tb. TimbeR—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foot. WALLABA SHINGLES—$3°00, $3°75, and $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—November 17, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpoy, Grant & Co, ; and Messrs. Epcar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary, $12:00 to $12°10; Estates, $12-25 to $12°50; Venezuelan, $1225 to $1250 per fanega (110 ib.). Cocoa-Nurs—$19-00 per M., f.o.b. Cocoa-Nur Om—71le. per Imperial gallon (casks included). Corree—Venezuelan—No quotations. Corra—-$3-00 to $3°20 per 100 tb. ONTONS—$1°60 to $1°80 per 100 th. Poraros, ENGLisH—75e. to $1°10 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $425 to $440; White Table, $4°50 to- $550 per bag. Vou. III. No. 69. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 399 Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume I. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes II and III. Price in original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. 8d. Volume IV. Nos. 1 and 2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton Cultivation (out of print). No. 4. Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the West Indies. Price 6d. each number. Post free, 8d. Volume V. No. 1. Papers on general subjects. No. 2. West Indian Fodder Plants ; Cold Storage of Fruit : The Date Palm ; Sisal Hemp; Anthracnose of Cotton ; ete., ete., Price 6d. each number, Post free, 8d. PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written in a simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work -on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars -of all the pamphlets which are still ave aan Be cee anbeaare out of print and can no longer be supplied :— 3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 0. rice 2d. Post free, 24d. a General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd. Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 4ld, (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. % (7) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. i (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2¢. Post free, 24d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. — Sg SS) — ~~ (22) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part Il. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (23) Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (24) Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (25) Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (26) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (27) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (28) Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, 34d. : (29) Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (30) Manurial Experiments with Sugar-cane in the Leeward Islands, 1902-53. Price 4d. Post free, 5d, (31) A. B. C. of Cotton Planting. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING.’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s, 6d. Postage in either binding, 34d. extra. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS. A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 14d. The subscription price, including postage, is ls. 74d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and II complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. All applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department. Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: THe West Inpra Committers, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowrn & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: Tur Enpucationat Suppiy Company, 16, King St., Kingston. British Guiana: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Zrinidad: Messrs. Murr, MarsHatt & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. PLaGeMANN, Scarborough. G'renada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., ‘The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproot, Kingstown. Sé. Lucia: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F. Duverney & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat: Mr. W. Lurwrettyn WALL, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. S. D. Matons, St. John’s. St. Aité’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Wevis: Mr. 8. D. MAtone, Charlestown. Bahamas. Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. 400 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. December 3, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE EAC EUEEaE Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. JOURNAL D'AGRIGULTURE TROPICALE. | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. A MONTHLY ILLUSTRATED REVIEW DEALING WITH | SSS > ALL MATTERS CONNECTED WITH | | FOR COTTON GROWERS : TROPICAL AGRICULTURE, | PARIS: M. Vilbouchevitch, | A. B. G. 10, rue Delambre. | | a | OF Subscription price : half-year 10 francs, or 20 franes per anima, i || GOTTON PLANTING FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, Containing full directions for the coming : 7 jaN CA A 0. season. Price 4¢. Post free, 5d. By J. H. HART, PLS. NEW EDITION. A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of “WEST INDIAN BULLETIN 2 COMMERCIAL CACAO. 4 wh (VOL. IV, NO. 4,), DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, 4 : K.C.M.G., D.Sc. and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.8., Price’ 3s. per copy. on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. —_<—<$§<—<— fee at t Office os Ap aD rene a Te sh Riek BE aeceean Barbados, 2x 4 — SNF A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Vou. IIT. No. 70. CONTENTS. Pace. PAGE. Agricultural Shows :— Jamaica :— Forthcoming... ... 413 Exports of ... ... ... 409 Minor Industries in ... 414 Market Reports ... ... 415 Martinique, Exports of 408 Melo-coton see so! Adsl! Notes and Comments ... 408 Oranges in Porto Rico ... 404 Petroleum Resources of West Indies ... ... 409 Royal Horticultural Society’s Exhibition ... 404 Sheep, African Hairy ... 407 Sugar Industry :— Jamaica Sy ose. eee 41D Tobago, School ... ... 418 Trinidad, School Garden ... ... ... 413 Arbor Day :— Dominica ... ... ... 403 Montserrat ... ... ... 403 Bread-fruit Meal ... ... 404 Citronella Grass in Ceylon’ W225 a +s. 410 Colonial and Indian Exhibition ae ee 09. Cotton Industry :— Consumption ant Germany ... ... ... 402 Supply... ... ... 405 Jamaica oto. “Boommaceme 0B) Jamaica sta oto ao SU ‘Male’ Sugar-canes ... 402 Lectures at Antigua ... 408 | Tropical Hygiene, IRickin ge marscieters een AO) Lectureson ... ... 411 Prospects of Crop... 405 | Vanilla :— Sea Island Market ... 405 In the Seychelles... 408 Department News... ... 407 Supports for con bog ZED) West Indian Agricultural Conference, 1905 :— 401 List of Representatives 406 Programme of Pro- ceedings ... |... 406 Department Reports, aMUICAaes ce) oa ALL Dominica Fruit for London Exhibitions 404 Fruit Trees, Road-side planting of =... ... 418 Visits and Excursions 407 Gleanings 412 | West Indian Products in hondont@iresescs 260 414 Con- Insect Notes, St. Vincent 410 West Indian Agricultural ference, 1905. 6 a ae) ‘ P [SS HE arrangements for the forthcoming Con- R ference are in course of being completed, : and there is every prospect that it will be even more successful than any of its pre- decessors, As already announced, the Conference will BARBADOS, DECEMBER 17, 1904. Price ld. be opened in the Council Chamber at the Prince’s Buildings, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, on Wednesday, January 4, and it will probably close on Wednesday or Thursday in the following week, viz. on January 11 or 12. The Conference will thus extend over several days. At previous Conferences, owing to the difficulty with regard to steamer services, two days only were available. This, therefore, is the first occasion on which it will be possible for the Representatives to deal fully and exhaustively with the numerous and important subjects brought before them. Hitherto, owing to the limited time at their disposal, some subjects on the programme of proceedings had to be omitted altogether, while the discussion on others had to be compressed within such narrow limits as to greatly lessen its value. The Representatives will consist, as heretofore, of the principal officers connected with the Chemical, Botanical and Educational services, and the scientific officers on the staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. The Representatives of the Agricultural Boards and of the chief Agricultural Societies in the West Indies have in many cases already been appointed, and there is little doubt that in this respect the forthcoming Conference will be reinforeed by members of the planting community whose recommendations and opinions will be listened to with due attention. The total number of Representatives will probably be less than on previous occasions, no doubt owing to the longer time they will be required to be absent from their homes. On the other hand, those 402 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DrEceMBER 17, 1904. appointed are men of wide experience and knowledge, and with their assistance the results of the Conference cannot fail to advance the interests of these colonies, A glance at the provisional programme of proceed- ings published in another column will show the importance of the subjects likely to be brought forward and discussed. As usual, the condition and prospects of the sugar industry are the first topics for discussion. Taking into consideration the very extensive series of experiments that have been carried on for several years with the view of raising new and richer varieties of canes and improving the commercial yield of sugar by means of artificial and other manures, the results to be submitted at this Conference should prove of special interest. The cacao industry, it 1s evident, would well repay any efforts that are made to keep the trees in good health and increase their productiveness. Experiments in this direction have already been started on successful lines. The use of cacao driers for drying the crops by artificial heat in unfavourable seasons is gradually extending. It would be useful to have the results so far attained clearly placed before the Conference. The very successful cultivation of fruit in Jamaica has stimulated other colonies to endeavour to establish a fruit industry. Efforts at Barbados and Trinidad are full of promise and are likely to be prominently brought before the Conference. ‘The cotton industry, on the lines now carried on, is comparatively new. The prospects of the present crop are so encouraging— that is, in localities suited to the requirements of the cotton plant—that everything of practical value connected with the industry would be a welcome addition to our knowledge of the subject. Amongst subjects of a general character papers on Agricultural Banks, on Rubber Plantations, on the occurrence of Anthrax, on the Hairy or Woolless Sheep of the West Indies, and on the local manufacture of Cocoa-nut oil may be cited as indicating the wide range of topics to be submitted for discussion outside the staple indus- tries of these colonies. It would be impossible to omit the consideration of the valuable work that is being carried on, every- where, with the view of introducing the teaching of the principles of Agriculture into the Primary and Secondary Schools in the West Indies. In some colonies this work has received considerable attention and striking results such as those that have arisen in connexion with School Gardens and School Shows at Trinidad deserve to be prominently brought before the Conference. The question whether or not Praedial Larceny is to be discussed in its general bearing on agricultural progress will probably be submitted for decision by the Representatives after their arrival at Trinidad. It only remains to express the hope that all who are appointed to take part in the coming Conference will carefully study the provisional programme of proceedings and that they will do all that is possible to obtain such facts and figures as appertain to their respective colonies before they leave for the Conference. It may be added that it would greatly contribute to the interest and success of the Conference if specimens and samples were brought for exhibition, as well as to illustrate the remarks of the speakers AR INDU ‘Male’ - Sugar-canes. In a previous issue of the Agricultural News (Vol. I, p- 325), mention was made of the occurrence of so-called ‘male’ or ‘man’ sugar-canes in Antigua. Dr. Watts, who examined these specimens, stated that they were simply canes in which the side buds (‘eyes’) were slightly, or not at all, developed. Mr. J. R. Bovell, Agricultural Superintendent at Barbados, recently found some of these ‘male’ canes in the fields at Dodds Experiment Station. An examination of these specimens shows that the degree of suppression of the buds varies. In some cases these are normal at one or two nodes of a cane, and suppressed at all the others. In other cases a few of the buds can just be made out on very careful examination, while at the other nodes not the least trace of a bud is to be discovered. The variety of sugar-cane in this instance is B. 3,661. So far as is known, no explanation has been offered of this phenomenon. Germany. The Consular Report on the trade of Germany for the first half-year of 1904 has the following reference to the sugar industry :— The sugar industry is seriously affected by the Brussels Sugar Convention, which, as was anticipated, checks the export of the formerly bounty-fed beet root sugar. The imports and exports for the last three years were as follows :— Imports in metric tons. Exports in metric tons. 1904/1903'1902 131) 108} 88 | Raw sugar Refined and | other kinds) 696 452 309,755 584,395 462|| 213,191 296,547 | Total | 827] 5601 550 444,719 Vou. III. No. 70. THK AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 403 The total production of sugar in Germany (calculated as raw sugar) was from Sept. 1, 1903, to June 30, 1904, 1,896,644 metric tons. Aug. 1, 1902, to June 30, 1903, 1,733,660 ,, - Aug. 1, 1901, to June 30, 1902, 2,269,896 _,, 45 The reduction of home prices, consequent upon the considerable abatement of the inland tax and the import duty, has increased the consumption nearly 50 per cent. Jamaica. In the last issue of the Agricultural News we published a short note on the prospects of the sugar industry of Jamaica. That there is a more hopeful outlook for this industry in that island appears to be confirmed by the following extract from the Annual Report of the Collector General. Special reference is made to the progress of cane farming :— The injury caused by the storm to this industry was comparatively slight, owing to the fact that the main sugar districts were out of the area visited by the storm, but this crop has nevertheless suffered much by drought, and a shrinkage has to be recorded in the year’s transactions. This is unfortunate, especially when it is remembered what a struggling industry this has been, but much is hoped from the abolition of the bounties in restoring the value of this industry, an industry that once placed Jamaica on the list of wealthy places. Possessing a soil suitable to the growing of the sugar-cane, Jamaica should be able to hold her own in the sugar markets of the world. The old troublesome problem of sufficient labour is one, however, still to be solved. Possibly the difficulty will be overcome in the near future by the peasantry taking seriously to cane farming, and in this connexion it may be interesting to note, that in Westmoreland the peasantry are planting canes for the purpose of supplying estates wherever land is ayail- able, and the canes so grown find a ready sale at 8s. per ton. One estate bought during the year 2,400 tons of small- settlers’ canes, while in another instance, 50 tons were purchased. There is also promise in St. Elizabeth and Clarendon of an increasing trade between the peasant cane farmer and the estate. The question of finding new markets for our sugar is also one that must be faced sooner or later, in view of the reciprocity treaty recently entered into between the United States of America and Cuba. Canada offers special advantages to British cane sugar entering the Canadian markets, and the preference amounting to about £1 a ton allowed by that country on British cane sugar should draw this product to the Canadian markets ; the sugar planters to secure this advantage would, however, be required to make such arrangements in obtaining a direct entrance into that market that would prevent the Canadian refiners from uniting to secure the preference to themselves. The effect of the removal of the beet bounties is already showing itself in the increase in the consumptive capacity of Europe and America, and it is estimated that the world’s con- sumption of sugar during the current year will show an increase of as much as 700,000 tons. This growing demand for a larger supply of sugar promises a ready market at better prices and may be taken as the silver lining to the cloud of depression that has long hung over this industry. These changed circumstances should puta check to the abandon- ment of sugar estates which has been going on year after year, and induce proprietors to replace antiquated plants by modern machinery and thus enable our sugar to be produced ata price that will not hamper competition, ARBOR DAY. Montserrat. Mr. A. J. Jordan, Curator of the Botanic Station, has forwarded the following brief report on Arbor Day celebrations in Montserrat :— Owing to local circumstances, it was found advisable to celebrate Arbor Day on different dates in the different districts. In Plymouth, November 7 was observed, and the children from the three schools assembled at the Court House at 10 a.m., and after addresses by his Honour the Commissioner and the Inspector of Schools on the objects of the observance of Arbor Day, they marched to the Windward Road leading from the town, and there planted young trees of locust and Acacia arabica. They then marched to ‘The Hill’ and planted mangos, seeded bread fruits (Artocarpus incisa, var. seminifera), and avocado pears. On November 18 trees were planted at Harris Village by the children of St. George’s school. Addresses were given by his Honour the Commissioner and the Inspector of Schools, and the trees were planted on a plot of Jand used as a playground for the school. The trees planted were Casua- rina, mahogany, locust, Acacia arabica, and Spanish oak. A label, with the names of the children who planted it, and the date of planting, is being placed by the Manager of the school, before each tree to retain the interest of the children. On November 21, Arbor Day was celebrated at Kinsale and St Patrick’s. The children from Kinsale school marched to Fairfield Road and planted locust, Acacia arabica, Casuarina, and galba. At St. Patrick’s the trees were planted on a piece of land adjoining the school. Addresses were given as on previous occasions. The trees used were date palms, mahogany, locust, Gliricidia maculata, Lagos silk rubber, Sesbania, Acacia arabica, and Casuarina. The Curator and staff of the Agricultural Department assisted in each district. Trees were also planted at Cavalla Hill and Bethel schools, and also by several of the adult inhabitants upon their own land. Altogether 220 trees were distributed from Grove Station for the purpose of Arbor Day celebration. Dominica. The following is a brief account, forwarded by Mr. A. J. Brooks, Acting Curator of the Botanic Station, of celebrations in the country districts of Dominica. The celebrations in Roseau were referred to in our last issue (p. 390) :— Arbor Day was celebrated in the country districts on December 1. Every school in the island took part in the movement. The planters in each district co-operated with the schools on this occasion. In some cases the planters provided the plants for their own district. This was the case at Belvedere where Mr. P. Cox supplied plants of Castilloa clastica for planting along the public road. The following plants were used on this occasion and distributed by the Botanic Station :— Castilloa elastica and Funtumia elastica, mahogany (Swietenia Mahagoni), Eucalyptus punctata, saman (Pithe- colobium Saman), locust (Hymenaea Courbaril), Cassia Fistula, Cassia siamea, almonds (Terminalia Catappa), and palms (Areca Catechu), 404 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. Decemper 17, 1904. Weot INDIAN FRUIT. DOMINICA FRUIT FOR LONDON EXHIBITIONS. Mr. A. J. Brooks, Acting Curator of the Botanic Station, Dominica, writes as follows :— The Dominica Agricultural Society forwarded by the mail leaving Dominica on November 11, 20 cases of fruits, ete., for the Royal Horticultural Society’s Colonial Fruit Exhibition to be held in London on December 13 and 14. The cases contained :— Mangosteens, carambolas, bananas (16 hands each bunch), limes, oranges (Washington navels, sweet and Seville), shaddocks, grape fruit, citrons, papaws, etc. Also samples of all citrus oils and juices, besides a splendid exhibit of various flours and meals, including banana flour, ginger powder, corn flour, clove powder, tumeric powder, pumpkin flour, cinnamon powder, tannia starch, arrowroot, etc. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S FRUIT EXHIBITION AWARDS. We extract from the Public December 13, the following list of awards secured by the West Indies at the above exhibition :— The following awards have been made in connexion with the exhibition of Colonial fruit at the Royal Horti- cultural Hall. The Royal Horticultural Society’s gold medal for Dominica and Barbados fruit, and Jamaica garden oranges shown by the West India Committee. A gold medal for preserves and a silver gilt medal for fruit to James Philip & Co., and a silver gilt medal to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company for their display of West Indian fruits. ORANGES IN PORTO RICO. dulletin No. 4 of the Porto Rico Agricultural Experi- ment Station deals with the propagation and marketing of oranges. It is stated that the cultivation of oranges in Porto tico on a commercial scale has commenced since the American occupation and has not yet gone beyond the experimental stage. It is estimated that fully 6,000 acres have already been planted in budded trees secured either from Florida or local nurseries. The orange having been grown for many years from seed, the fruits exhibit a great variation in quality. While some of the fruits are quite worthless, a few are as fine as «an be found in California or Florida. It is recommended Telegrams of that growers should rather propagate from such trees as these than plant Jarge areas with trees budded from varieties that are new to the island. The bulletin has therefore been prepared with the view of instructing small growers throughout the island. Detailed instructions are given as to the propagation of oranges by budding, and the formation of a grove. The writer also devotes some attention to working over old trees. The methods suggested in this connexion are crown grafting, top grafting, top budding, dormant budding, inarching, and bridge grafting. It is stated that, although it may seem wasteful to cut down a large tree bearing a comparatively good grade of fruit, it is astonishing how soon after working over the same tree will bear as large a crop of much finer fruit. The directions are accompanied throughout with excellent illustrations which greatly enhance the value of the bulletin. This also applies to the instructions as to picking, grading, and marketing. Growers are warned not to ship inferior fruit: ‘No fruit should be shipped out of Porto Rico unless it is of the very best quality and has been carefully graded and packed. A box of fruit generally sells in the market on the merit of the poorest specimens contained in it.’ BREAD-FRUIT MEAL. The following is the result of an analysis by Prof- essor J. P. d’Albuquerque of a sample of bread-fruit meal from St. Lucia :— Moisture ane ag one Se 12°13 Oil = Bs Jes tee j19833 Albuminoids* ... 308 aae as 35] Mucilage, starch, ete. t me aa 77-00 Indigestible fibre che ane mee 3°98 Ash + so a ae oe 2-05 100-00 * Containing nitrogen ... vs ao) SNA ai . Starchesnes fs -.. 68°81 aT es phosphoric anhydride... -21 7 - potash... sed =» 00 T ‘s insoluble siliceous matter 34 Value in units ane are 89 1 to 22-09 Professor d’Albuquerque remarks: ‘This is a well prepared specimen of bread-fruit meal.’ Albuminoid ratio Vou. III. No. 70. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. COTTON INDUSTRY. Prospects of the Crop. Arrangements have been made for fortnightly reports to be sent in by the agricultural officer in each of the West India Islands in which cotton is being grown briefly reviewing the condition of the crop. The following is a short summary of the reports received by last mail :— In Barbados, Mr. Bovell reports that the four inspectors who have been visiting and assisting the peasant proprietors have found that about 100 acres of cotton are being grown by peasants. The cotton, all over the island, appears to be in a healthy condition, and only in a very few instances have caterpillars been seen. Mr. Jordan’s report from Montserrat shows that pests— the cotton worm and the leaf-blister mite—have attacked the cotton, but that they have been kept in check and have not done serious damage. The black boll is present. Similarly we learn from Mr. Shepherd that in St. Kitt’s the plants are bearing well and ripening up rapidly ; they are, on the whole, free from disease and insects. In St. Vincent, Mr. Alexander Fraser has been appointed special emergency officer in connexion with the cotton industry. He has been actively engaged, with experiments that are being carried on at Rutland Vale for checking the attacks of the leaf-blister mite. Jamaica. Mr. John Barclay has submitted the following report on the prospects of cotton growing in Jamaica in continuation of the report published in the Agri- cultural News, Vol. III, p. 373 :— I have been making up statistics for Messrs. Oliver and Stancliffe and I find there is not much to add to what I reported before. Everybody has been waiting to see how the spring crops turn out and to hear the reports as to quality and price. Our cotton experiments have not had a fair chance as we took up the matter too late to catch the best planting time. Still a good many estates have done exceedingly well, but this lateness in planting and waiting for results made few people plant in the fall, and those who have planted, I am afraid, planted late again. But if the reports as to the quality by the cotton experts are satisfactory, it is very likely that there will be extensive plantings in March and April. I have sent out enough seed to plant 778 acres, but many of the experiments have been abortive and many people did not plant all the seed. I do not think there are more than 50 acres altogether of Egyptian, and probably 400 to 500 in Sea Island at the present time, and some of that forms the first ratoon crop of what was planted last season. Mr. Oliver has reported against growing a ratoon crop, as it does not produce a good quality of cotton. There will therefore be very little Jamaica cotton exported before the month of April next. I hope, however, that in the proper season, March and April, there will be extensive plantings. I have already submitted some samples to Mr. Oliver. He tested them yesterday [November 27] when he declared that three samples from Dr. Pringle’s estates in St. Mary, where cotton was grown as a catch-crop among young bananas, were exceedingly fine, the value running from ls. 2d. to 1s. 4d. per tb. The other samples submitted varied, but some of them were also very good. Consumption and Supply of Cotton. The Journal of the Khedivial Agricultural Society (Vol. VI, no. 4) contains the following note by Mr. G. P. Foaden relative to the consumption and supply of cotton —- During the last twenty years the consumption of cotton in the Southern United States has increased 1,607,000 hales, or 509 per cent.; the consumption in the North increased by 762,000 bales or 59 per cent.; and in the whole country, 2,369,000 bales, or nearly 148 per cent. During this period the United States increased its cotton crop nearly 54 miliion bales, or about 96 per cent.; India’s crop increased 14 million bales (of 400 tb. each), or 73 per cent.; the Egyptian crop by 570,000 bales (of 500 tb. each), or 75 per cent.; Russia, which formerly drew so largely on America tor raw cotton, is now supplying her own mills with 200,000 to 300,000 bales grown in her Trans-Caspian provinces. The consumption of cotton in Europe has been increased by 23 million bales, or about 200 per cent. Japan has erected mills consuming 600,000 to 700,000 bales annually, of which nearly 25 per cent. is American. The world’s consumption of cotton has increased nearly 7 million bales, or about 94 per cent., and the United States, which is the largest producer, has become also the largest consumer of cotton. Picking Cotton. The following remarks on the picking of cotton, made by Mr. E. Lomas Oliver, of the Deputation from the British Cotton-growing Association, deserve careful consideration by all growers of cotton :— This point is probably the one which will require greater devotion to detail and more constant supervision on the part of planters than any other. Good cotton may easily be depreciated 2d. or 3d. per lb. by careless and slovenly picking. The man who follows his pickers while at their work, until they are thoroughly educated as to what is required, is the man who will earn the highest reputation as a cotton grower. The pickers must pick the cotton dry, clean, and free from leaf and trash : they must pick the cotton ripe, as no spinner likes to spin unripe cotton. When the cotton is perfectly ripe, the bolls will be fully open, and the cotton can be extracted from the boll without the employment of any force. If a planter will open a green pod and examine the fibre while the seeds are white, he will find that he can rub the fibres into a paste: in exactly the same manner the cotton-spinning machinery rubs the soft, unripe cotton into a spongy mass which is called ‘nep.’ It was this soft, spongy fibre which was so prominent a feature of West Indian cotton last year. Growers must learn to distinguish between cotton which is soft and cotton which is fine; the former is a defect, the latter is very desirable. Sea Island Cotton Market. The following note is from the Sea Island Cotton Report of Messrs. H. W. Frost & Co., dated, Charleston, S. C., December 3:—‘The market remains steady and unchanged with a continued demand for all of the receipts of odd bags at 27c. and 28c. to 285c. We quote: fine to fully fine, 27c. ; fully fine to extra fine, 28c. to 284c. ; extra fine crop lots, 3le. to 32c. ; extra extra-fine crop lots at 40c. to 55c.’ In comparison with this, it should be noted that Upland cotton was quoted on December 13 in the Liverpool market at 44d. per tb. 406 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DerceMBER 17, 1904. WEST INDIAN AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCE 1905. The following is a provisional list of the Repre- sentatives likely to be present at the Agricultural Conference to be held at Trinidad from January 4 to January 12 next. his list will be revised in accord- ance with the further information to be received by the mails to-day :— President. Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., M.A., D.C.L., D.Sce., F.L.S., Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies. Representatives. JAMAICA. The Director of Public Gardens and Plantations (the Hon. William Fawcett, B.Sc., F.L.S.). The Representative of the Board of Agriculture (the Hon. Henry Cork). BRITISH GUIANA. The Representative of the Board of Agriculture (the Hon. B. Howell Jones). The Superintendent of the Botanic Gardens (A. W. Bartlett Esq., B.A. B.Sc., F.L.S.). The Lecturer in Agriculture (E. W. F. English Esq., B.A.). The Assistant Instructor in Agriculture (J. E. Beckett Esq.). TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO. Representatives of the Trinidad Agricultural Society :— Peter Abel Esq. (Usine St. Madeleine), J. G. de Gannes Esq., and Edgar Tripp Esq., Secretary. The Government Analyst and Professor of Chemistry (Professor P. Carmody, F.1.C., F.C.S.). The Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens (J. H. Hart Esq., F.L.S.). The Principal of Queen’s Royal College (W. Burslem Esq., M.A.). The Principal of the College of the Immaculate Conception (the Rev. Father Neville). Additional Representatives for Trinidad :—The Hon. G. Townsend Fenwick, C.M.G., and the Rey. Dr. Morton. Representatives for Tobago :—The Hon. H. L. Thornton, Tm i. "M. Orde Esq., J.P:, and the Curator of the Botanic Station, Tobago (Henry Millen Esq.). WINDWARD ISLANDS. Representative of the Grenada Agricultural Society (the Hon. D. S. De Freitas). The Inspector of Schools, Grenada (J. A. Harbin Esq.}. Representative of the St. Vincent Cotton Growers’ Association (the Hon. Conrad J. Simmons). The Agri- cultural Superintendent, St. Vincent (W. N. Sands Esq.). Representatives of the St. Lucia Agricultural Society :— The Hon. E. Du Boulay and C. R. Kennaway Esq. ‘The Agricultural Instructor, St. Lucia (George 8. Hudson Esq.). BARBADOS, Representatives of the Barbados Agricultural Society :— The Hon. Forster M. Alleyne, Vice-President, and The Island Professor of Chemistry in chemical charge of Sugarcane Experiments (Professor J. P. d’Albuquerque, M.A., F.LC., F.C.S.). The Agricultural Superintendent of Sugar-cane Experiments (J. R. Bovell Esq., F.L.S., F.C.8.). The Head Master of Harrison College (Horace Deighton Esq., M.A., F.R.A.S.). LEEWARD ISLANDS. The Government Analytical Chemist and Superintendent of Agriculture (the Hon. Francis Watts, C.M.G., D.Se., F.I.C., F.C.S.). Dr. H. A. Alford Nicholls, C.M.G., M.D., F.L.S., ete, Author of ‘Tropical Agriculture,’ Dominica. The Officer-in-charge of the Agricultural School, Dominica (Archibald Brooks Esq.). His Honour the Commissioner, Montserrat (F.H. Watkins Esq., I.8.0.). The Resident Magistrate and President of the Agricultural Society, Nevis (the Hon. C. A. Shand). The Agricultural Superintendent, St. Kitt’s-Nevis (F. R. Shepherd Esq.). OFFICERS OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF FOR THE WEST INDIES. Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies (Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., M.A., D.C.L., D.Se., F.L.8.). Scientific Assistant (W. KR. Buttenshaw Esq., M.A.,B.Sce.). Mycologist and Agricultural Lecturer (LL. Lewton- Brain Esq., B.A., F.L.S.). Entomologist (Henry A. Ballou Esq., B.Sc.). Honorary Secretaries to the Conference—W. R. Butten- shaw Esq., M.A., B.Se., and Alleyne Graham Howell Esq. AGRICULTURE Programme of Proceedings. The following is a preliminary programme of the subjects likely to be brought forward and discussed at the Conference :— The Representatives appointed to attend this Conference will be received in the Council Chamber, Princes’ Buildings, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, by his Excellency the Governor (Sir Henry M. Jackson, K.C. M.G.) at 12 noon on Wednesday, January 4, 1905. SUGAR INDUSTRY. if Results of recent experiments with Seedling Canes and Manurial Experiments in the West Indies. (Brief papers with discussion.) I. Review of the principal Fungoid Diseases affecting the Sugar-cane. (Mr. L. Lewton-Brain, B.A., F.L.S.) III. review of the treatment of Insect Pests affect- ing the Sugar-cane. (Mr. Henry A. Ballou, B.Sc.). Vie Field treatment of cane tops for planting purposes. : Cane farming at British Guiana and Trinidad. (The Hon. B. Howell Jones and Professor P. Carmody.) Wile On the polarometric determination of Sucrose. (The Hon. Francis Watts, C.M.G., ete., and Mr. Harold A. Tempany, B.Sc., A.I.C.) WUE On the Central Sugar Factory in course of being erected at Antigua. (The Hon. Francis Watts, C.M.G., ete.) CACAO INDUSTRY. VIIL. Experiments in improving the health and _pro- ductiveness of Cacao trees in the West Indies. IX. Cacao-drying houses and the results so far attained. X. Cacao cultivation and green dressing. FRUIT INDUSTRY. dle The Fruit Industries of Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, and other parts of the West Indies. (Brief papers and discussion.) COTTON INDUSTRY. XI. Results of experiments in the cultivation of cotton at Barbados, St. Vincent, the Leeward Islands, and other colonies. (Brief statements and discussion.) XII. = The principal Diseases of Cotton, and the best means of controlling them. (Mr. Henry A. Ballou, B.Se., and Mr. L. Lewton-Brain, B.A., F.L.S.) GENERAL SUBJECTS. XIV. Agricultural Banks. (The Hon. William Faw- cett, B.Se., F.L.S.) XV. Review of efforts to establish plantations of rubber-yielding trees in the West Indies. 407 Vou. III. No. 70. THE “AGRICULTURAL NEWS. XVI. The manufacture of Cocoa-nut oil in the West AFRICAN HAIRY SHEEP. Indies. (Mr. W. Greig.) XVII. The occurrence of Anthrax and the best means of controlling it. (Dr. C. W. Branch and Mr. H. A. Ballou.) XVIII. The Hairy or Woolless Sheep of the West Indies. (Mr. W. R. Buttenshaw, M.A., B.Sc.) XIX. The Present Position of Rice Cultivation in the West Indies. XX. The influence of the soil on the special qualities of Agricultural Produce. (Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S.) XXI. Are the special qualities possessed by individual plants sufficiently regarded! (Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S.) XXII. Butter-making at Trinidad—with exhibits. (Mr. C. W. Meaden.) EDUCATIONAL SUBJECTS. XXIII. The Results of efforts to introduce the teach- ing of the principles of Agricultural Science into the Colleges and Schools in the West Indies. (Brief statements and discussion.) XXIV. School Gardens and School Shows in Trinidad. (Mr. J. H. Collens, Inspector of Schools.) XXY. Higher Agricultural Education at Trinidad. (Professor P. Carmody, F.I.C., F.C.S.) Visits and Excursions. The members of the Trinidad Agricultural Society are arranging for excursions to places of interest. The following are amongst the probable arrangements in regard to visits and excursions :— Wednesday, January 4, 4.30 p.m.—Reception by Lady Jackson at Government House and visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Thursday, January 5, 4.30 to 6 p.m.—Visit to the St. Clair Experiment Station; Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., will meet visitors and show the various objects of interest. Saturday, January 7.—A day’s excursion to the Usine St. Madeleine, via San Fernando, proceeding afterwards to Princes’ Town to lunch. Monday, January 9.-—Afternoon visit to Mr. Hoadley’s cacao estate at Chaguanas to inspect a new steam-drying plant for cacao: also a factory for preparing concentrated lime juice and distilled oil. Tuesday, January 10.—Probable all-day excursion by steamer to the Pitch Lake at La Brea. Wednesday, January i11.—Afternoon visit to the Government Stock Farm at Valsayn. The annual sale of stock is fixed for this date. Catalogues of the sale may be obtained on application to the Secretaries of the Conference. Thursday, January 12.—Afternoon visit to the fine cacao estate of Messrs. Borde Bros. at La Horqueta, and, if time permits, on to the newly opened district of Sangre Grande. The members of the Agricultural Society have kindly undertaken all arrangements for the entertainment of Representatives at the excursions on January 7, 10 and 12. Bee Keeping in Bosnia. His Majesty’s Consul- General at Serajevo reports : ‘Great attention is being paid to the keeping of bees in this country, which promises to be very lucrative. Under the auspices of the Government an association, which already numbers 2,500 members, has been formed for the promotion of this industry, to which the Government contributes 4,000 kr. (£167) annually. There are already 6,000 hives on the most approved modern principles, and the honey produced is excellent.’ The following interesting note on African hairy sheep, also known as Barbados woolless sheep, by Mr. R. Lydekker, F.R.S., appeared in The Field of October 8 :— Those interested in the origin of our domesticated breeds of sheep should pay a visit to the Natural History Museum to inspect a very remarkable type which has just been added to the collection in the North Hall. The specimen in question is a ram of the red, hairy breed of sheep native to the West Coast of Africa, whence it has been exported to Barbados, the birthplace of the present example. Although an adult ram, the museum specimen has no signs of horns, but I believe these appendages are developed, in some instances at any rate, in the original African breed. The most striking features of the Barbados ram (which by the way, was presented to the museum by the Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies) are, firstly, the uniformly foxy-red colour of the coat, and, secondly, the short and hairy nature of the latter, which displays no tendency to woolliness, and is almost exactly similar to the summer coat of the wild mufflon or oorial. The head is, in fact, almost identical in form and general appearence with that of a female of one of those two species, and thus quite different from the long and slender head of the African wild sheep or oodad, which has been regarded by some as the ancestral stock of the domesticated breeds. The tail, too, is much shorter than in European domesticated sheep, not reaching to within a considerable distance of the hocks. From the uniform colour of the coat if would seem probable that the breed is more nearly related to the oorial than to the mufflon, and if the former were originally domesticated in Persia, it might well have been introduced into Africa by way of Syria. Be that as it may, it seems most likely that in the West African breed we have the earlier stock of the more specialized woolly breeds of Europe. An instructive case has just been arranged in the museum to exhibit some of the most extreme types of domesticated sheep. The exhibits include the above-mentioned hairy breed, the fatrumped Hedjaz sheep, the four-horned African, the spiral-horned Wallachian, the Scotch mountain, the Leicester, and the Shropshire breeds. It may be mentioned that at the request of the Chief of the Bureau of Animal Industry, a number of these sheep were procured by the Imperial Commis- sioner of Agriculture for the United States Department of Agriculture and shipped from Barbados to New York in July last. The animals arrived in excellent con- dition and have since been reported to be doing well in Tennessee. As mentioned elsewhere in this issue, this breed of sheep will form the subject of a discussion at the forthcoming West Indian Agricultural Con- ference at Trinidad. DEPARTMENT NEWS. Mr. Joseph Jones, Curator of the Botanic Station at Dominica, who has been on leave of absence since June 2, returned to the West Indies in R. M.S. ‘Atrato’ and resumed his duties on December 6. Mr. J. C. Moore, Agricultural Superintendent at St. Lucia, also returned in the same steamer and resumed his duties on December 6. 408 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. December 17, 1904. EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. Local Agents: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridge- town, Barbados. London Agents : Messrs. Dulau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W., and The West India Com- mittee, 15, Seething Lane, E.C. A complete list of Agents will be found at foot of page 399 of this volume. The Agricultural News: Price 1d. per number, post free 13d. Annual subscription payable to Agents, s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Agricultural News wes Vou. Ill. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1904. No. 70. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Contents of Present Issue. In the editorial to the present issue further infor- mation is given as to the arrangements that are in course of being made for the fifth West Indian Agricultural Conference. The provisional list of representatives and programme of proceedings will be found on pp. 406-7, as well as a list of excursions and visits that are being arranged. The present position of the sugar trade in Germany is reviewed on p. 402. There has been a considerable increase ia the consumption of sugar. A further note on the improved prospects of the industry in Jamaica will be found on p. 403. Further notes on Arbor Day celebrations appear on p. 403. These relate to Dominica and Montserrat. The prospects of the cotton crop in the West Indies are briefly reviewed on p. 405; also the prospects in Jamaica. A note on the consumption of cotton and directions by Mr. Oliver as to how cotton should be picked will also be found on this page. On p. 407 will be found an interesting note from The Field on the Barbados breed of Woolless or Hairy Sheep. Notes on several recent Agricultural and School Garden Shows are published on p. 413; also a list of shows to be keld early next year under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture. Mr. J. R. Jackson’s usnal monthly report on the London Drug and Spice Markets will be found on p. 414. Lectures on Cotton in Antigua. The Hon. F. Watts has reported upon the series of illustrated lectures on cotton cultivation in Antigua. Altogether twelve lectures have been delivered in that island; two by Mr. W. H. Patterson, Curator of the Botanic Station, and the others by clergymen of the various denominations in their respective schoolrooms. These gentlemen based their remarks largely upon the information contained in the pamphlet, A. B. C. of Cotton Planting. ‘The lantern slides provided by the Imperial Department of Agriculture were used to illustrate all the lectures. On the whole, considerable interest was taken by cotton growers in these lectures, and it is likely that they will bear fruit as cotton cultivation extends in Antigua. $$ + Vanilla in the Seychelles. In the Annual Report on the Seychelles consider- able attention is devoted to the position of the trade in vanilla, which is still, im value, the most important article of cultivation for export. A table is published giving figures as to the exports and prices of this article, ‘with a special view of illustrating the risks Which attend the cultivation of tropical products for which there is only a limited market. From 1898- 1900 prices were very high (30-33 rupees per kilo.) owing to the expansion in demand; there followed a decline to 8} rupees in 1903, owing to the reaction when manufacturers found the price too high and had recourse to substitutes, Now planters have to face the possible use of the substitute ‘vanillin, of which an account has been given in the Agricultural News (Vol. IIL, p. 103). As a result, planters are turning their attention to the cultivation of other tropical products. oe Exports of Martinique. The Consular Report ou the trade of Martinique for 1903 has recently been issued. The value of the exports shows a decrease of £65,231 compared with that of the previous year. The exports of sugar show a decrease of 5,906 tons in quantity, and of £61,679 in value. This decrease is stated to be due to a variety of causes, the chief being the low price of sugar. The crop of 1903-4 promises to be still smaller owing to the damage done to the young plants by the cyclone of August 1903, In 1903, 53,982 gallons less rum were exported; better prices, however, prevailing, £26,518 more were realized than in 1902. The cacao plantations suffered much from the volcanic eruptions of 1902 and the cyclone of 1903. The exports of this product were 6,339 cwt., or 1,934 ewt. less than in 1902. Furthermore, as the plantations are situated within the zone of possible devastation from voleanic eruptions, it is not likely that the cultivation of cacao will be extended for the present. It is interesting to observe that the northern parts of the island, which were not devastated, but were evacuated as a measure of precaution, have been gradually re-occupied. -_ = Vou. III. No. 70. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 409 Arbor Day Celebrations. In the last issue of the Agricultural News we published brief accounts of the celebration of Arbor Day in several of the West India Islands on the King’s birthday, November 9. In the present issue are two further notes, one upon the celebrations in Montserrat where tree planting was carried out in several districts, and the other in reference to tree planting in the country districts of Dominica. From these accounts it will be seen that this matter has been taken up in these islands with consid- erable enthusiasm. In all cases suitable addresses were given with the object of explaining clearly the purpose of the Arbor Day movement. a + or Exports of Jamaica. The Annual Report of the Collector General, which appears as a supplement to the Jamaica Gazette of November 17, contains interesting information as to the exports of the island’s products during the year ended March 31 last. As was only to be expected, the returns show the disastrous effect of the hurricane of August 1903. Cocoa-nuts show a decrease in value from £67,902 in 1903 to £49,899 in 1904; bananas, from £1,134,750 to £585,243; citrus fruits, from £110,742 to £81,269 ; pimento, £91,997 to £88,847 ; sugar and rum, £324,242 to £218,750 ; coffee, £130,775 to £112,085 ; and cacao, £65,284 to £41,540. On the other hand, an improvement is to be noticed in the following articles: kola nuts, from £243 in 1903 to £781 in 1904; walking sticks, from £222 to £1,111 ; logwood, from £97,106 to £110,928 ; logwood extract, from £33,363 to £47,609 ; tobacco leaf, from £157 to £582 (although cigars and cigarettes show a decrease); and lime juice, from £2,549 to £3,546. Honey shows an increase in value of £1,473, but a decrease in quantity of 1,348 ewt.; lime juice, a decrease of 7,430 gallons, but an increase in value of £996. bial As the Collector General states, this is a gloomy record, but the island is recovering from the damage sustained by the hurricane and drought; with the extension in the production of minor products, the removal of the sugar bounties, the extension of irriga- tion, and the better education of the people in agri- cultural matters, there is ground for hope that prosperity will not be long in returning. quo +a Petroleum Resources of the West Indies. A series of articles has appeared in the Bulletin of the Imperial Institute on the ‘Petroleum Resources of the British Empire. ‘he third article, in the issue of September 29, is devoted to West Indian supplies. Petroleum and allied substances are met with in Cuba, San Domingo, Barbados, and Trinidad. The commonest form of bitumen in Trinidad is asphaltum, known locally as pitch. It is found in and near the Pitch Lake close to the village of La Brea, as well as in several other localities. The purer varieties of bitumen are known as glance-pitch, asphalt-glance, or manjak, This form occurs in much less amount than asphalt. Liquid asphalt and petroleum occur in Guayaguayare Bay. The total value of the exports of asphalt and allied products from Trinidad in 1902-8 was £170,563. In Barbados bitumen and petroleum are associated with the Scotland formation consisting, for the most part, of red, shaly, incoherent sandstones. Asphalt does not appear to be present, but manjak has been found at several points. Manjak was first worked in January 1896, and the new industry has met with considerable success, but recently the export has diminished, though the price has advanced. The largest output was in 1897 when 1,880 tons were exported: in 1903, 651 tons were exported, the price per ton being £10. It is exported mainly to the United States for use in the manufacture of Brunswick black and as an insulating material for electric cables. Petroleum is found in the valleys of the streams that flow by Turner's Hall Wood, Haggatt’s and Baxter. It is also met with at Springfield and at Lloyd’s Wells. In 1901-2 the total output was about 7,200 gallons. It is now used locally as a fuel and a lubricant, and sells at from 2d. to 6d. per gallon. Colonial and Indian Exhibition, 1905. In most of the West Indian Colonies preparations are being made for representation at the forthcoming Colonial and Indian Exhibition to be held at the Crystal Palace in 1905. It is hoped that we shall be in a position to insert in the next issue of the Agricultural News a plan of the exhibition. From this it will be seen that the space allotted to the West Indies is in a most advantageous position. A strong and influential committee has been appointed in Trinidad, with Professor Carmody as Chairman and Mr. J. H. Hart as Secretary. A vote of £1,500 has been approved of for the purpose of securing an adequate representation of the colony’s products. The colony is to have 1,500 square feet of space. As regards Jamaica, £1,000 is likely to be voted to meet the necessary expenses, and a space of 2,500 square feet has been applied for. The Barbados House of Assembly unanimously voted on October 25 the sum of £400 to defray the expenses of the representation of the island at this exhibition. Preparations by a local committee, of which his Honour F. J; Clarke is Chairman, are in a forward state. A committee has been appointed in Grenada to take charge of the arrangements for an exhibit, and the Government has been approached for the purpose of a grant to defray expenses. ; We understand that Dominica has also decided to be represented. At arecent meeting of the Royal Agricultural and Commercial] Society of British Guiana it was intimated by the Chairman that the state of the funds of the society prevented it from assisting in the exhibition. It was, however, suggested that the society should forward exhibits collected by members and others. 410 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. December 17, 1904. INSECT NOTES. St. Vincent. The following are extracts from Mr. Ballou’s report on his recent visit to St. Vincent :— BOTANIC STATION. A careful inspection of the nurseries and gardens at the Botanic Station was made and they were found to be in excellent condition. Several of the more common scale insects were seen, but with very few exceptions these were in small numbers and not causing any appreciable injury. The Liberian coffee trees, mentioned in my last report, are much improved, though there are a few live scales still to be seen on them, and the cinnamon trees also are very much improved, though a few live scales (Protopulvinaria pyriformis) are still to be seen. The fiddle wood trees (Citharexylum quadrangulare) were attacked by a web worm. This insect could probably be best controlled by spraying with arsenate of lead, or the trees might be removed altogether except one specimen for the species. Oranges do not thrive in the Botanic Station; a few specimens are to be seen, but they have made very poor growth, and it would seem that the conditions are not right for them. A few live scales were to be found on each of them, and on a few many dead ones. There were a number of trees on which black blight (Capnodium sp.) was to be seen, but the scale insects do not seem to do much harm. The mango trees and the Indian teak seemed to be most affected, especially the row of teaks at the upper entrance to the gardens. These are outside, but possibly an arrangement might be made to have them lopped and sprayed by the labourers from the garden. There were but few plants in the nurseries at the time of my visit. Of these by far the greater number were cacao seedlings and they appeared to be healthy and free from scale or other insect pests. A few Bois Immortel plants were infested with white scale (Diaspis amygdalt). These were to be taken out and destroyed. AGRICULTURAL SCHOOL, The cotton at the Agricultural School had made excel- lent growth. It was slightly attacked by the leaf-blister mite anda few cotton stainers were to be seen. A field of corn was badly attacked by the moth borer of the cane (Diatraea saccharalis) and the corn ear worm (? LHeliothis armigera). This latter is probably the same insect that in years past has done much damage to cotton in the United States by boring into the cotton bolls, from which habit it has received the common name of ‘cotton boll worm.’ The corn ear worm was found only in the ears of the corn, but the moth borer of the cane was found in the stalk and the ear. The corn, when its condition was discovered, was at once cut and will be fed out as fast as possible. The yams in the plots above the school building had been attacked, and nearly all the leaves of some yarieties were eaten. This was probably the work of the slug (Veronicella oceidentalts), as no insects could be found and many slugs were hidden in the soil under the vines. This is said to be the season of greatest abundance of these animals. Paris green and lime dusted on the leaves would probably be an efficient remedy. The hedges and ornamental plants were found to be in good condition, also the cacao. ry Y? lod On Thursday, November 17, I gave a lecture to the boys at the agricultural school on insects and ways of combating them. It seemed necessary to make this lecture an elementary talk on account of the junior boys, some of whom had just been admitted to the school. SUPPORTS FOR VANILLA. Messrs. Schimmel & Co.'s Semi-annual Report has the following note on the above subject :— De Cordemoy reports in the Journal d’Agriculture Topicale (Vol. 4, 1904, p. 104) on the experiences of the Réunion vanilla planters with regard to the supports used for training the vanilla plant. According to the author, wooden or metal poles have been entirely discarded there, and in the course of time the planters have adopted the use of trees as natural supports for the vanilla. The kinds which come especially under consideration are Casuarina equiseti- Jolia Forts., called ‘filao,’ and further physic-nut (Jatropha Curcas) and the screw pine (Pandanus utilis). The ‘filao’ soon came out of use, as during the growth its bark peeled off, and the vanilla shoots lost their support. The experience with the Jatropha was favourable, but in the case of heavy shoots it was found too feeble and had to be supported by poles. The most satisfactory was the Pandanus, which through its numerous adventitious roots offers a sufficient resistance to the cyclones which occur so frequently in Réunion. It is usual to plant the vanilla cuttings close to the roots of a Pandanus, when the shoots very rapidly twine themselves round the roots and trunk. This method appears to be the one generally employed. Very remarkable is the oecurrence of a microscopic fungus between the aerial root and bark of the living support, whose mycelial filaments penetrate not only the root-bark of the vanilla, but also the bark of the supporting tree, and, according to de Cordemoy, are important for the nutrition of the vanilla plant. CITRONELLA GRASS IN CEYLON. In a letter to the editor of the Tropical Agri- culturist, dated October 1, commenting on the late Mr. C. J. Sawer's article in the Chemist and Druggist on ‘Citronella and Lemon Grass in Ceylon, India, and the West Indies, Dr. John C. Willis, Director of the Royal botanic Gardens in Ceylon, makes the following observations with reference to citronella grass :— ‘ There are two cultivated forms in Ceylon, called ‘ Lena Batu’ and ‘Maha Pangiri’ respectively. A good account of them is given in Messrs. Schimmel & Co.’s Semi-annual Report for October 1898. ‘Lena Batu’ is the form culti- vated by the native growers, and furnishes practically all the exported oil. ‘Maha Pangiri’ is the form cultivated by Messrs. Winter & Son at Baddegama, and gives a much finer oil, but needs more trouble in cultivation, having to be frequently replanted. The native prefers the ‘Lena Batu,” because he does not need to replant it. He frequently abandons the cultivation when the grass is ten years old or more. The wild Andropogon Nardus, one of our most common grasses, is known to the Singhalese as ‘ Mana,’ and is distinct from the cultivated forms; it yields a good oil, but the quantity is smaller. Lemon grass is also cultivated in Ceylon, and we have a considerable quantity of it at the Experiment Station at Peradeniya. Vou. III. No. 70. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. All JAMAICA: PUBLIC GARDENS AND PLANTATIONS, 1908-4. By W. Fawcett, B.Se., F.L.S., Director. This report isa record of the useful work done during the ANNUAL REPORT ON THE year in the various public gardens in Jamaica. It contains many interesting notes on experiments of various kinds, some of which it is proposed to publish in the Agricultural News. Much damage was done to the gardens by the hurricane and this has entailed considerable extra work on the staff. Besides the damage done to the fine shade trees at Hope, the large and varied collection of orchids was sent flying in all directions. The nursery stock also suffered considerably and much time and care will have to be expended to work up the collection again. The record of plant distribution is as follows : economic plants sold, 33,171 (cacao, 20,646) ; ornamental plants sold, 14,312; miscellaneous free grants (including cane tops and cuttings), 62,817. The educational work at the Hope Experiment Station was continued ; this included lessons to (1) Industrial School boys and apprentices, (2) students at Training Colleges, (3) Laboratory pupils, and (4) elementary school teachers. The work of the Travelling Instructors is also reported upon. MELO-COTON. Seeds of a Mexican vegetable known as ‘ Melo-coton’ have been received from Mr. J. H. Hart, E.L.8., Superinten- dent of the Trinidad Botanical Department. The following note regarding this vegetable appeared in the ‘Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information (Vol. V, p. 573) :— “Under the above name we have received a kird of squash, pumpkin, or marrow which is reported by Mr. E. J. Campbell, of the British Honduras Botanic Station, as coming from Mexico. This is a trailing cucurbit which gives long, smooth, green fruits, a foot in length and 4 to 5 inches in diameter. It is very prolific and makes an excellent substitute for the well-known vegetable marrow, which it much resembles when prepared for the table in its immature state. When ripe the fruit turns a dark, reddish brown. It is considered an acquisition to our list of table vegetables. Mr. Campbell describes the fruit as a “rare Mexican melon of handsome appearance and good flavour,” and says “‘it is is eaten stewed with sugar and fresh.”’ With regard to the last point, we are inclined to agree with Mr. Hart, who states in his last Annual Report: ‘We have now seen and tasted the ripened fruit, which it was -asserted could be used asa melon. It has a decided sweet melon taste, but it is not sufticiently enticing, in our opinion, to find favour as a desert fruit. As a vegetable, however, it is very useful and yields abundant crops.’ We learn from Mr. Hart that the plant bearing these fruits is reported by the Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as being Stcana odorifera, Naud. LECTURES ON TROPICAL HYGIENE. The following is a report by Mr. Austin H. Kirby, B, A., Agricultural and Science Master at Antigua, on a series of lectures on Tropical Hygiene recently delivered by him to teachers in elementary schools in Antigua. Such lectures as these should have a useful effect in spreading a knowledge of the causes of tropical diseases and their prevention :— I have to report that lectures were given on Tropical Hygiene on the first Saturday in the months of March, April, May, June, September, and October in the science lecture-room at the Grammar School. Those which would otherwise have been given in July and August were omitted, in the one case on account of the Elementary School holidays, and in the other, because of non-attendance of the teachers owing to unfavour- able weather. The omission of these lectures, however, did not cause any curtailment of the course, but merely postponed its termination. Invitations to the lectures were issued through Mr. J. E. James, the Education Officer, to twenty-one teachers, and the average attendance during the whole course was ten. The small response was chiefly due to the difficulty which the teachers in the outlying districts have in getting means of transport to St. John’s, and suggests that some aid of the nature of a grant toward this would be beneficial in the future. The subject of the course was Tropical Hygiene, having especial regard to the following diseases : Malaria, Filariasis, Yellow Fever, Ankylostomiasis, Typhoid Fever, Cholera, and Dysentery. Preparatory to the more specialized work, a description was given of the circulatory and alimentary systems of the body. The lectures were chiefly illustrated by means of diagrams, either printed or specially prepared, and their subject-matter included information as to (a) the geographical distribution of the disease, (b) the life-history of the germ or parasite, if any, producing it, (c) the harmful effects on the body, and (d) the preventive measures to be taken, with the reasons for them. Very special attention was drawn to part (d) of the subject, and there is no doubt that interest in it was increased and the knowledge of it rendered easier of acquisition in view of the information gained in parts (b) and (c). An intelligent interest was evinced by those who appeared regularly, and they are now in a position to impart very useful knowledge to the pupils under their charge. The greatest advances in hygienic reform can undoubtedly be made by the education of the rising generation in that direction. This points to the advisability of affording its teachers, as being those through whom it can be reached most successfully, better facilities for attending centres where they may gain the knowledge necessary to help such a plan to its fruition. ‘Sun Pictures of the Antilles.’ A feature of this book, which is to be published under the auspices of the West India Committee at the close of the year with the object of popularizing the West Indies, will be statistical information in a brief and popular form regarding the West Indies, which it is hoped will prove interesting to tourists and useful for purposes of reference generally. As has been mentioned in the Agricultural News (Vol. III, p. 304), this book consists of a series of photographs taken by the Secretary of the West India Committee, Full particulars can be obtained from Messrs. H. & W. Grant, 18-19, Whitefriars Street, E.C. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. GLEANINGS. The half-yearly examinations at the Agricultural Schools in St. Vincent, Dominica, and St. Lucia have been held during the past fortnight. The exports of teak from Bangkok amounted in 1903 to 58,142 tons. First-class logs fetch £9 to £9 10s. per load ; first-class planks from £10 to £12 10s. (Consular Report.) It is interesting to observe in the Consular Report on the trade of Goa for 1903, that the average annual value of the exports of mangos from 1900-02 was 74,876 rupees (£4,992). The provisional prize list for the Exhibition of the Agricultural and Commercial Society of Grenada, which is to be held in that island in February next under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture, has been issued. Three additional prizes of $3 each are being offered by the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture at the Annual Industrial Exhibition to be held at Barbados on December 20 for the best goats the progeny of the imported stud goats ‘Black Rock’ and ‘ Bruce.’ His Excellency Sir C. C. Knollys has formed the nucleus of an army which is to wage war on mosquitos in the city of St. John’s, Antigua. This is an example worthy of being copied in all the West Indian Colonies. (West India Committee Circular.) From Jamaica papers to hand by the mail we learn that Messrs. Oliver and Stancliffe, forming the Deputation from the British Cotton-growing Association, arrived in that island on November 25, and had paid a number of visits to estates on which cotton was being grown. As a supplement to the November issue of the Cape of Good Hope Agricultural Jowrnal, there is issued a chart (20 x 30 inches) to show at a glance what treatment should be given to trees to avoid or check specific insects and cliseases. From a report by the Officiating Chemist of the Natal Agricultural Department we learn that some sugar-canes (White Transparent, B. 109, and D, 95) sent to Natal from Antigua have made satisfactory growth and have proved acceptable to cane growers. According to the Cotton Trade Journal, a cotton- picking machine is likely to be on the market for the coming picking season in the United States. Such a machine is among the great necessities of the age, and keen interest will be taken in the trials, DecemBer 17, 1904. An intimation has been received by the Imperial Com- missioner of Agriculture from the British Cotton-growing Association that two cotton seed disintegrators have been shipped for the Central Cotton Factories at Antigua and Barbados. ae Mr. J. H. Hart, F.L.S., has written to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, in response to a request for a supply of plants of the Trinidad seedless lime, that he will be happy to supply all the Botanic Stations a stock is available. as soon as During the past fortnight 28 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom. Sales have been effected in Liverpool at the following prices: West India, 5d. to 625d. ; West India Sea Island, medium fine, 124d. ; fine, 134d.; extra fine, 15$d. (West India Committee Circular, November 22.) It is desired to make the following corrections in the article on ornamental seeds in the last issue of the Agr? cultural News (p. 395): the specific name of the Circassian seed tree should read pavonina and that of the yellow ‘rattle bush,’ retusa. In the case of the soap-berry plant it is the covering of the seeds that is used as a substitute for soap. At the Local Agricultural Exhibition to be held at Dunscombe, Barbados, on January 24, 1905, two additional prizes are being offered by ladies for the best working donkey (the property of a peasant who works it himself). This is with the view of obtaining better treatment for these useful little animals. A correspondent has written asking what style of preparation for market is necessary in the case of kola nuts. It may be mentioned that there is a regular demand for nuts carefully cured and dried so that they may not become mouldy on the voyage. They should be packed in bags similar to those used for cacao. For recent prices for kola nuts see p. 414. The principal items of export from the Society Islands, exclusive of mother-of-pearl, are copra and vanilla. According to the Consular Report just issued, the values of these during 1903 were £87,924 and £23,424, respectively. The increase in the value of the copra exports, as compared with 1902, amounted to no less than £14,254. A bag of fruits of Barringtonia speciosa has been received from the Botanic Station, Antigua. Persons desiring these fruits should apply to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. This handsome tree is a native of the Moluccas ; from its seeds a lamp oil is obtained. Specimens already exist at Barbados, St. Vincent, Grenada, and Trinidad. Reporting on an examination of two samples of cassava starch from St. Lucia, Professor J. P. d@’Albuquerque remarks that, instead of being, as usual, slightly acid, they are slightly alkaline, a result due probably to the use of alkaline substances in the manufacture. Both samples were well prepared. The inaugural meeting of the Association of Economic Biologists was held at Burlington House, London, on November 8. The object of the association is to promote the science of economic biology in its agricultural, horti- cultural, medical, educational, and commercial aspects. The Honorary Secretary is Mr. W. E. Collinge, M.Sc., the University, Birmingham. Vow. II. No. 70. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 413 AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. Forthcoming Shows. Arrangements are being made by local committees for the holding of the following Shows under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture early next year :— Dominica.—February 23, 1905. Montserrat.—The Fifth Annual Show will in the Market Place on February 24, 1905. Antigua.—February 25, 1905. Jevis.—A show wili be held at Charlestown on February 28, 1905. Barbados.—The Local Industrial Exhibition and Show of Stock for Peasant Proprietors will be held at Dunscombe plantation, St. Thomas, on January 24, 1905. Grenada.— February 1905. St. Vincent.—It is proposed to hold an Agricultural Show in March next. be held Jamaica. We take from the Gleaner of November 28 the following notes on the annual show at Kendal :— The exhibits in every class showed a marked improve- ment on previous shows. The show was attended by a large crowd, his Excellency the Governor being among those who journeyed from Kingston. Unfortunately rain fell in the afternoon, which rather interfered with the attendance. The exhibits were well arranged and the judging was carried on without a hitch. The cattle class was well represented, and some fine animals were shown. In the horsehind classes Kendal show always stands out above every other, and the lot seen could not have been equalled any- where. There was a good exhibit of sheep. The minor products were limited in quantity but fine in quality, the best class being the citrus fruit and the cured coffee. Schools’ Show in Trinidad. We learn from the Port-of-Spain Gazette that the third Annual School’s Show was opened on November 29 at Tunapuna by his Excellency the Governor in the presence of a large and representative assemblage. Sir Henry Jackson, in opening the show, stated that there could be nothing more useful than this friendly competition between the schools of the colony to produce the best garden and the best products of the garden. He was very glad to see that the young generation were being taught to turn their hands to agriculture and to develop the natural resources of the colony. He was very pleased at the improvement that had been made and he hoped it would continue year after year. He was sorry that Sir Daniel Morris, who had expressed his great disappointment at not being able to be present, had had to leave Trinidad that day. Mr.- J. H. Collens, Inspector of Schools, stated that much of the suecess of the show had been due to the excellent section that had been opened this year, for the first time, for the exhibits of outsiders, the prize money for which had been found by the Agricultural Society and local sub- seribers. Among those who had taken a specially active part in opening up that section was Professor Carmody, to whom and to the Agricultural Society their thanks were due. The report continues: ‘The show was an unqualified success, and the smoothness with which everything went off reflects very creditably on the management of the officials of the Education Office, .. The judges, Mr. J. H. Hart and Mr. J. McInroy for the agricultural produce, and Mrs. Smart and Mrs. Collens for the needlework, are unanimous in declaring the exhibits to have been extremely good, especially the. needlework.’ School Garden Show at Tobago. Mr. H. Millen, Curator of the Botanic Station in Tobago has forwarded the following note with refer- ence to the second aunual School Garden Show held on November 16 :— Twenty-three schools competed ; the sections, classes, and number of exhibits surpassed those of the previous year by 171 exhibits. Several new features were added, and the exhibits were generally better than those of last year ; besides vegetables, fruits, flowering plants, ete., good samples of native-made rope, cotton, and herbarium specimens were exhibited. The Agricultural Society of Trinidad gave prizes to small proprietors for vegetable products. Although the above information was received late at Tobago and not much time given to exhibitors to prepare exhibits, yet a very creditable show in this section was made. There were 40 exhibitors, 42 classes, and 143 exhibits. Good exhibits of cacao pods, rice, and citrus fruits were represented ; also samples of tobacco and cotton. The officers of the Botanie Station gave assistance in arranging and judging, and_several object-lessons prepared by the students of the station were also exhibited. ROAD-SIDE PLANTING OF FRUIT TREES. The following note, from the Jowrnal of the Board of Agriculture, on the custom of planting fruit trees along the road-sides, which is quite a feature of certain parts of France and Germany, is worthy of consideration in connexion with the Arbor Day movement :— In some parts of the Continent itis the practice to plant fruit trees in suitable positions along the road-side in place of the ornamental or forest trees more usually employed. The subject was discussed at the International Congress on Arboriculture of 1900, and a resolution was passed to the effect that in view of the injury, which is caused to adjoining lands by the presence along the roads of Jarge trees with their far-reaching roots, the planting of fruit trees in their place should be encouraged. In France, during the past fifteen years, pear and apple trees have been planted in places along the national roads, and in 1901 it was stated that there were half a million fruit trees planted along French roads. As an example, it may be mentioned that in the Department of l’Oise, a distance of 182? miles has been planted with 57,795 trees, the total length suitable for fruit trees being 2572 miles. The cost of planting and purchasing the trees is about the same as that of ornamental trees, and the sale of the fruit yields a small annual return. Apart, however, from the return, it is contended that the fruit tree serves equally well for shade, that its appearance when in flower is picturesque, while it serves the subsidiary purpose of interesting the population in the growth of fruit. The employment of the less edible varieties of fruit is recom- mended, and the cider apple is, perhaps, the most commonly used. The practice prevails also in parts of Germany. In Hanover there were in 1901, 189,586 trees planted on the road-side by the Provincial Government, which produced a revenue of £8,386, although a considerable proportion of the trees were not in full bearing. 414 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DecemBer 17, 1904. WEST INDIAN PRODUCTS. Drugs and Spices in the London Market. The following report on West Indian products in the London Per kee during the month of October has been forwarded by Mr. John R. Jackson, A.L.S.:— In the London drug markets the month of October opened very quietly, slightly improving as the month went on and ending with a generally better tone. No one product was marked by any prominence with, perhaps, the exception of quinine, which ‘dropped at the ae of the month to 11d. per oz. for German makes. At the spice sales, prices for all articles ruled at rates varying but slightly from those of the previous month. The following are the chief items :— GINGER. At the first sale on October 5, Jamaica was in small supply and partially sold at the following rates: middling boldish, 38s. ; ordinary small dullish, 31s. ; ‘and common small, 25s. to 27s. About 130 packages of Cochin and Calicut were sold at this sale at ordinary rates, including 35s. to 36s. for fair unassorted native Cochin, and 26s. to 26s. 6d. for bright rough Calicut, slightly wormy. A week later over 600 packages of Jamaica were offered and were chiefly disposed of at previous rates; fair bright realizing 39s. to 40s. ; middling dull, 35s. 6d, to 37s. 6d. ; and common to ordinary, 28s. 6d. to 33s. At this sale native-cnt Cochin was bought in at 38s. to 40s. On the 19th., of 400 packages of Jamaica offered, 36 were sold, fair bright fetching 45s.: ordinary to good ordinary, 28s. to 34s. ; and common lean and dark ratoon, 25s. to 26s. Cochin and Calicut were offered in very large quantities and about half sold at firm prices, common small rough fetching 16s. 6d. SARSAPARILLA. At the first drug sale in the month 2 bales of genuine grey Jamaica were submitted to auction and Is. 3d. per Ib. accepted, 2 other bales having been sold privately. Three bales of very common Lima-Jamaica realized 7d. per Tb., and 11d. was asked for a quantity of rather coarse, chumpy ; 74d. was paid for a bale of medium yellow native Jamaica, and 9td. for medium red. At the last sale on the 27th., 46 bales of Jamaica were offered, all of which were sold. In con- sequence of its scarcity, grey Jamaica was readily disposed of at ls. 2d. per hb. for good, and 113d. for coarse, badly sea-damaged; for 15 bales of native Jamaica, 64. to 74d. was paid for dull medium red to common mixed; for 3 bales of dull lean Lima-Jamaica, 11d. per Ib. was obtained. ARROWROOT. At the first spice sale good manufacturing St. Vincent sold at l}d. to 14d. per tb., and a week later 50 cases of coarse Natal were offered, 10 of which sold at 44 ld. per tb. On the 19th., 580 packages of St. Vincent were offered and A9S sold at 1#d., and on the 26th. St. Vincent was again offered and bought in at from 2d. to 3d., while 100 boxes of Natal, slightly country-damaged were disposed of at from 24d. to 24d. KOLA NUTS. Kola nuts were offered at the first auction to the extent of 8 bags of dry Grenada, which realized from 240. to 33d. per lb. In the middle of the month the quotations were: good washed Jamaica, 34d.; and sea-damaged, 2{d.; while for good bright washed, rather dark, 5d. was ‘asked, a bid of 4d. being refused. NUTMEGS, MACE, PIMENTO, FC. At the first sale nutmegs were in good supply and sold at firm to dearer rates, while West Indian mace realized higher prices than previously, the position of both remaining about the same to the end of the month. Pimento was steady throughout the month, the prices ruling from 24d. for ordinary, and 23d. for fair. At these rates some 130 bags were sold at the mid- monthly sale out of 194 offered. At this sale 5 bags of dull West Indian Cassia Fistula were sold without reserve at 18s. per ewt. ; 98 packages were offered. In connexion with the subject of new drugs and other vegetable products which not infrequently find their way to: the produce brokers, we may draw attention to the appearance during the month of a consignment of 35 bales of a wild or false ipecacuanha, the produce of Asclepias curassavica. The use of a technical museum attached to warehouses and factories was proved by the identification of this sample with one contained in the museum attached to the Crutched Friars drug warehouse where the sample came originally from Trinidad under the name of Trinidad ipecacuanha. MINOR INDUSTRIES IN JAMAICA. The Annual Report of the Collector General in Jamaica contains the following reference to the progress of minor industries in that island :— Cassava.—The interest taken in cassava growing is increasing, and 15 tons of starch manufactured from this plant have been exported to England. J learn that in one parish the manufacture of starch is to be undertaken on a large scale by a company, and if this enterprise passes through the experimental stage successfully, the manufacture of starch should become one of our paying industries. Cotton.—The interest taken in the cultivation of cotton in this island is increasing steadily. Two small shipments have been made, indicating the beginning of what may yet prove to be a very important industry, and in this connexion I may mention that a gin has been erected on one property at which cotton from other places is prepared for market. Rice.—Rice is grown in but few parishes, viz., Trelawny, Westmoreland and St. Catherine. The cultivation in Trelawny consists of 41 acres; in Westmoreland there are 100 acres under cultivation, and in St. Catherine 7 acres. This smallness of cultivation is disappointing, in the face of the fact that we send out of the country large sums of money to purchase a commodity which could be produced to a large extent at home. Tea.—Tea is now grown in one parish, St. Ann, and a measure of success has attended this industry, but the cultivation has not yet been taken up by more than one proprietor. The collector for St. Ann reports that the undertaking is full of promise:—‘The Hon. H. E. Cox (Custos) has been extending his tea cultivation, and it is pleasing to the eye as one drives along the roads passing the tea fields to see how beautifully they are kept ; besides which he has imported machinery at an enormous cost for curing the tea, and it is hoped that his reward is looming ahead. The average expenditure per week is from £30 to £40, which is a boon to the people living in the district.’ Hard-woods.—Reference has from time to time been made to the hard-woods in the country, but there has been no attempt ithere to show their value in money. The Director of the Jamaica Railway who has become a large purchaser of late years for the railway has, however, forded some information from which it is gleaned that during the past year 69,795 hard-wood sleepers were supplied to the railway for which the sum of £13,587 was paid. a ate) Ill. No. 70. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 415 MARKET REPORTS. London,— November 22, 1904. Messrs. J. Hanes Catrp & Co., Messrs. KEarton, Preer & Co., Messrs. E. A. DE Pass & Co., ‘THE West INprA CoMMITTEE Cir- cuLar’; ‘THe Liverroon Corron AssocraTion WeekLty Crrcutar,’ November 18; and ‘THE Pusric Lepcerr,’ November 19, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 13/- to 35/- ; Curacva, 16/- to 38/- per ewt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 1d. per Ib. Batatra—Block, 1/5 to 1/35 per tb. Bees’-wax—£7 2s. 6d. per ewt. Cacao—Trinidad, 56/- to 65/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 54/- to 57/- per ewt.; Dominica, 50/- to 52/- per ewt. ; Jamaica, 49/- to 54/- per cwt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 73d. to 2/- per Ib. CorreE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 37/- to 38/- per cwt. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 123d. ; fine, 13d. ; extra fine, 153d. per tb. FrRoir— Bananas—Jamaica, 4,6 to 7/- per bunch. Grapr Frurr—6/- to 7/- per case. OrancEes—10/- to 11/- per box of 150-176. Prye-appLes—Jamaica 1/- to 1/6 each. Fustric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. Gincer—-Fair bright, 45/-; Jamaica, common to good common, 28/- to 31/6 per cwt. Honrty—Jamaica, 17/6 to 22/- per cwt. Istnctass—West Indian lump, 2/4 to 2/8; cake, 1/5 per tb. Kora Nets—4d. to 6d. per tb. Lue Jurce—-Raw, 9d. to 1/2 per gallon; concentrated, £13 17s. Gd. to £14 per cask of 108 gallons. Lure Orm—Distilled, 1/4 per tb. ; hand-pressed, 2/6 to 2/9 per lb. Locwoop—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—Fine pale, 1/9; red, 1/1 to 1/3; broken, 1/- per tb. Nirrare or Sopa—Agricultural, £10 17s. 6d. per ton. Nurmercs-—70’s, 2/4; 85’s, 11d.; 140’s, 5d. per tb. Pimenro—23d. per tb. Rum—Demerara, 84d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, 1s. 9d. per proof gallon. SarsaparILLa—73d. to 1/2 per th. Sucar—Yellow crystals, 22/ to 23/6 per ewt. ; Muscovado, Barbados, 16/- to 17/- per cwt.; Molasses, 14/- to 17/- per cwt. SunpHATE oF AmMMoNntA—£12 12s. Gd. per ton. Montreal,—November 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russert Murray. (In bond quotations, c. & f.) BaNnanas—Jamaica, 50c. to 75c. per bunch of 8 hands ; $100 per bunch ‘firsts’; $1°30 to $1°40 per bunch ‘jumbos.’ OrparR—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot. Cocoa-nuTs— Jamaica, $26:00 to $28:00 ; Trinidad, $22:00 to $24:00 per M. Corrre—Jamaica, medium, 9c. to 10c. per th. GincErR—Jamaica, unbleached, 6c. to 8c. per th. Motascurr—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 tb. Motasses—Barbados, 25c. to 27¢.; Antigua, 2le. per Imperial gallon. MNurmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 20c. to 203e. per th. OraNncEsS—Jamaica, $3°60 per barrel; Dominica, $3- per barrel : $1°75 per box (duty paid). Prvento—Jamaica, 5c. to 6c. per th. PineE-sPpLeES—No quotations. Sucar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2-90 to $3:09 per 100 th. —Muscovados, 89°, $2°75 to $2°80 per 100 th. —Molasses, 89°, $2°50 to $2°60 per 100 th. —Barbados, 89°, $2°60 to $2°75 per 100 th. New York,—November 25, 1904.—Messrs. Gitiespre Bros. & Co. Cacao—-Caracas, 12}c. to 13c. ; Grenada, 11}e. to 11}e.; Trinidad, 12c. to 13¢. per tb. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, $25:00 to $27-00 per M., selected ; Jamaicas, $28-00 to $30°00 per M. CorrrrE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 8c. to 9c. per tb. Goat Sxrins—Jamaicas, 52}c. to 54c. per tb. Grave Fruir—Jamaicas, $2°00 to $4:00 per barrel. OrancEs—Jamaica, $3°50 to $4°00 per barrel (stem cut). Pimento—4b3ec. to 42c. per th. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 43c.; Muscovados, 89°, 4te.; Molasses, 89°, 4c. per tb. INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. Barbados,—December 3, 1904.—Messrs. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncu & Co. ARROWROOT—St. Vincent, $3°60 to $3°75 per 100 th. Cacao—Dominica, $11°75 to $12:00 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nurs—$12:00 per M. for husked nuts. CoFrrEE—$10-00 to $12-00 per 100 tb. Hay—90e. to 95c. per 100 th. Manuvres—-Nitrate of soda, $60°00 ; Ohlendorff’s dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72°00 to $75-00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Oxtons—Madeira (stringed), $3:00 to $3:50 per 100 Th. (retail). Poratos, ENGLIsH—-$2°00 to $2°25 per 160 th. Rice—Ballam, $4°85 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3-20 per 100 th. British Guiana,—December 1, 1904.—Messrs. Winrina & Ricwrer. Arrowkoot—St. Vincent, $7°50 per barrel. Barara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35c. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 13c. per tb. Cassava SrarcH—6:00 per barrel. Cocoa-nuts—$10:00 to $12°00 per M. CorrEE—Rio and Jamaica, 15}c. per th. (retail). —Creole, lle. per tb. Duat— $4'30 to $440 per bag of 168 th. Eppors—80ec. to $1°20 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16c. per gallon (casks included). Ontons—Madeira, $3:00 to $3°50 per 100 tb. Pea Nurs—American, 7e. per tb. (retail). Pranratns—20c. to 40c. per bunch. Poratos, EnciisH—--$3°00 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°40; Creole, $4:40 per 177 tb., ex store. Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $1:08 per bag, $1:20 per barrel. Tannras—$1°44 per barrel. Yams—White, $2°16 per bag. Suear—Dark Crystals, $3:00 to $3:10; Yellow, $3°25 to $3°50; White, $4:°00 to $4°25; Molasses, $2°60 to $3:00 per 100 tb. Timper—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubie foot. WattaBa SHINGLES—$3'00, $3°75, and $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—December 1, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, Grant & Co. ; and Messrs. Epcar Trrep & Co. Cacao—Ordinary to good red, $11-90 to $12°25; Estates, $12°20 to $12°50; Venezuelan, $12°35 to $12:70 per fanega (110 tb.). Cocoa-NuTs—$19:00 per M., f.o.b. Cocoa-Nut Orr—71e. per Imperial gallon (casks included). CorrrE—Venezuelan—9ec. to 10c. per th. Corra—$3°00 to $3°20 per 100 th. Onrons—$1°60 to $1:80 per 100 tb. Poraros, ENcLisH—$1°00 to $1°25 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4:°25 to $4:40; White Table, $4°50 to $5°50 per bag. 416 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DrcemBER 17, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE i eA TER ety Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—For Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers, APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. 72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. JOURNAL D'AGRICULTURE TROPICALE. |; | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. A MONTHLY ILLUSTRATED REVIEW DEALING WITH ——- ALL MATTERS CONNECTED WITH TROPICAL AGRICULTURE. | AOR Sian e woee ee PARIS: M. Vilbouchevitch, A. B. C. 10, rue Delambre. —— Or | GOTTON PLANTING | FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, Subscription price : half-year 10 franes, or 20 franes per annum. Containing full directions for the coming : CACAO : | season. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. By J. H. HART, F.LS. NEW EDITION. | A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of ale WEST INDIAN BULLETIN ‘ COMMERCIAL CACAO. | DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. ee Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., D.Se.j°and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.LS., F.C.S., Price 3s. per copy. on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. 3% es = 3 ee ee eee — Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, eric Y is. Ne id No \\ Pi AGE i Sel ks et a wr iV) / A FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE WEST INDIES. Worse Nos ile DECEMBER 31, Pues a? 1904. BARBADOS, CONTENTS. PAGE. Pac Agricultural Shows :—— , Insect Notes :— Barbados ... 422 | Cane Pest in British A BeOS | pac ee B rae : wee - 426 nnatto 5 . 420 | otton Insects in Banana Meal and Farine 497 | Barbados . Ns . 426 Bananas, Barbados... . 420 | Kayok and its U ses . 426 Cassava Poisoning ... . 423 | Market Reports . 450 Coco-de-Mer . 429 | Notes and Comments 424 Copra, Drying in ‘Samoa 420 | Orange Supply, Great Cotton Industry Britain’s soc 45) ue : pea ee ee apples, Wybridiza- ise xperts in Jamaica » £24 10n © 3 .. 42 Prospects of Crop . 421 | Plants as Analy tical West Indies .. a0 ba Heel | Agents . 425 Cotton Market, The ... 417 | Rubber Tree Planting it in Department News... ... 427 | Para Saws » 425 Department Publications 431 | Science Note, Lotus Educational :-— | Lily 427 London University | Sugar Industry :— Science Degree . 419 Markets for West Technical Education in Indian Sugar .. 418 Agriculture .. 429 | Seedling Canes in Gleanings Pa 2oi| Jamaica . 419 Goat Raising in i Mexico. 421 | Tobacco in Jamaica 425 Ground Nuts as Green | West Indian Agricultural Manure . 424 Conference, 1905 <.. 422 The Cotton Market. g \ oe He American crop is colossal, and the planters the folly of suggesting the plant- ing of any other cotton than Sea Island’ Mr, C. M. Wolstenholme, Thus wrote the well-known Liverpool Rf decline in prices should prove to your cotton broker to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture by the last mail. The crop referred to is, of course, that of ordinary or Upland cotton. The latest estimates place the present crop in the United States at about 11,000,000 bales. This represents an increase of something like 2,000,000 last It is only natural that this very large visible supply, in addition to all the cotton of a similar grade that is being produced in other countries, should have caused a con- With the price of Upland cotton as low as it is to-day (about 4d. per tb.), its likely to be profitable in these bales over years crop. siderable drop in prices. cultivation is scarcely colonies. The state of the market in Liverpool is indicated by the following quotation from the Liverpool Cotton Association Weelly Circular of November 25: ‘The cotton market has been quiet throughout the week, prices have been easier, and quotations generally show a decline.’ the following week: ‘The cotton market has been more active, but prices continue to tor Ameri- Again, decline.’ The prices quoted on December 2 can cotton 477d : good middling, 4877. They have since fallen to 41d. per tb. If these quotations be compared with quotations for the same time last year (684d. and 6°92d., respectively), it will be seen that the decline in prices has been consid- erable—nearly 3d. per tb. were: middling, Turning now to Sea Island cotton, we see at a glance that the market shows a different state of quote again from the Liverpool Cotton faa] affairs. 418 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DecemBErR 31, 1904. Association Weekly Circulur: ‘Sea Island descrip- tions have been neglected. The quotations for fancy Georgia and Florida are reduced 4d. per th. Forwarded this week 269 bales Sea Island.” And again a week Jater: ‘Sea Island descriptions are in limited demand -at unchanged rates. Forwarded this week 235 bales.’ Similarly with Egyptian, it was reported that a limited business had been done and quotations had not undergone much change, varying according to quality from 73d. to 1ljd. A a more hopeful, position exists in the American Sea Island Messrs. Frost & Co. report that at Charleston the market remains steady and unchanged with a continued demand, and the last report (dated November 25) from Messrs. W. W. Gordon & Co. states that the ‘continued quiet and steady, with a good demand at full prices. The quotations, contained in Messrs. Frost’s report for December 3, will be found on p. 405 of this volume of the Agricultural The ‘quotations the following week were unchanged except for a decline of 3c. for fine to fully fine. similar, but on the whole markets : market News. It will thus be seen that while the market for ‘ordinary Upland has been affected to a considerable extent by the largely increased supplies, the Sea Island market (and the Egyptian also to some extent) has remained steady. The reason for this will readily be seen if we look to the crop estimates of the Sea Island sorts. The present crop is estimated at from 82,000 to 84,000 bales, as against 75,683 bales for the last crop, and 105,955 bales for the year before. The increase in production, therefore, is very slight, and consequently there has been nothing, so far at all events, to cause an appreciable fall in prices. What it is desired upon cotton growers in the West the fact that the markets for Upland and Sea Island cotton are entirely distinct. A decline in prices of Upland does not necessarily cause a corresponding decline in Sea Island. There is, therefore, no need for cotton planters here to take alarm at the somewhat sensational notices that appear from time to time with regard to fluctuations in the cotton market. They have to remember that, while the price of Upland cotton may be attected by large supplies or speculation, they have in Sea Island cotton a product for which there is a special market and a limited supply. The production is not likely to be increased to such an extent as to cause prices to drop below a figure at which its cultivation is remunerative. Provided that reasonable care be taken in producing and marketing to impress Indies is Sea Island cotton of the highest quality, there appears to be no reason to doubt but that prices during the next season will be such as to leave a good margin of profit. In the opinion of those who are acquainted with all the facts and circumstances of the case, the price of fine Sea Island cotton is not likely to drop at any time below 1s. per Ib. Even in the event of an appreciable decline in the price of Sea Island cotton, we are inclined to think that this would ultimately have a beneficial effect. At its present high price, Sea Island cotton is out of the reach of many manufacturers who would be likely to use it if the price fell. Once Sea Island cotton had found a wider use, it is unlikely that, when the price rose again as a natural consequence of this increased demand, it would be discarded for a return to the common grades. It would appear, therefore, that from a general review of the situation as existing to-day, the prospects of the growers of Sea Island cotton are as satisfactory as they can be; and no alarm need be felt at the movements that are taking place on cotton market. the ordinary They may have a temporary quieting effect upon the demand for Sea Island cotton, but the West Indies are aiming to supply an article which is practically unattected by these movements. SUGAR INDUSTRY. Markets for West Indian Sugar. The following is a memorandum, prepared by the Vice-President of the Westmoreland (Jamaica) Planters’ Association, upon the situation with regard to the sugar market, which was adopted by the association at a meeting on December 7. It would be well, however, to mention that recently, Canada has been giving better prices to West Indian growers :— The price of centrifugals in New York to-day is 43e. per Ib., the price of beet, f.o.b. Hamburg, is 14s. 6d. per ewt., equal to 5-12c. in New York; that is to say, whereas beet sugar would cost 5'12e. per Ib., duty paid delivered in New York, centrifugals can be had there for 4c., a difference of gc. per tb., or £1 15s. 9d. per ton against cane sugar. The reason of this difference in price is obvious. New York offers, and Cuba accepts, a price lower than the parity of beet, because Cuban sugars go into New York at a reduction on the United States import duties of 20 per cent., or about 34s. per ton; that is to say, Cuban sugar being bounty fed by the United States to the extent of 33s. per ton, 4c. per Tb. is to Cuba as good as 5:°12c. per bb. to, say, the British West Indies, Vou. III. No. 71. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. On the price paid Cuba the New York refiner bases his price for all other centrifugal sugar. On the New York prices the Halifax refiner bases his prices for British West Indian sugar. Therefore Halifax is paying for British West Indian sugar a figure much below the parity of beet, even after allowing 10s. per ton for rebate on duties. In consequence of the bounty paid by the United States to Cuban sugars, New Yerk is no longer a profitable market for the sugars of the British West Indies, nor can Canada be, if her prices are based on New York prices. Canada buying British West Indian sugar on the parity of Cuban sugars in New York, instead of on the parity of beet, is paying less for our sugars than their value to-day in the United Kingdom. Our muscovados are to-day quoted in Halifax at $3-30 per 100 tb. for 89°, but gauged by the price of beet they are worth $3°69 per 100 ik. In other words, because our sugars are sold in Canada at a price based on bounty-fed Cuban sugar, instead of on the price of beet, we are getting about 35s. per ton less for our sugar than we should, or 25s. per ton less, if we deduct the 10s. per ton allowed us last year by the refiners as rebate on duties. Under these circumstances, before we ship our sugar next season blindly to Halifax, it would be well for us to see what the United Kingdom market will do for us, for the price of our sugar in the United Kingdom is largely governed by the price of free beet, whereas in Canada it is entirely determined by the price of bounty-fed Cuban sugar. In reference to the above, Mr. J. R. Bovell makes the following interesting statement: ‘I hope soon to be ina position to say definitely how the price of sugar in Canada compares with New York and Great Britain, as I expect to ship 125 bags of sugar and 4 hogsheads of molasses for a planter to Toronto by the Pickford and Black steamer scheduled to leave on December 27. I may also add that from the pro forma sale received from Messrs. W. H. Millman & Sons, to whom I am sending the sugar, it would appear that the difference in favour of sugar shipped to Canada over that sent to New York is considerable. Seedling Canes in Jamaica The following reference to the work of raising seedling canes in Jamaica is made in the Annual Report of the Director of Public Gardens :— A number of seeds were gathered at Hope and sown, resulting in 594 plants being set out at a distance of 5 feet by 5 feet in April last. When fully grown and ripe, ninety. were selected as to agricultural yield and the remainder dug out and destroyed. Of these a final selection of thirty was made, the sixty being cut down to ratoon for another trial before finally discarding them. Twelve tops (six holes) of each of the thirty have been planted for chemical test next year. The question of raising seedlings has now been taken up by estates, and, in the case of Mr. Burgess, with great success so far. Tops of D. 95, Po-a-ole, and White Trans- parent were planted mixed together at Mt. Eagle estate, as advised in the Bulletin for October 1900; these flowered together and were presumably cross-fertilized. The seeds, when ripe, were gathered by a former Hope apprentice, now in Mr. Burgess’ employ, and forwarded to Hope, resulting in a batch of over 2,000 vigorous seedlings. 41% The following shows the varieties grown and _ the: number of selections yielded by each :— Parent. No. of No. Ist. No. 2nd. seedlings raised. selection. selection. De 5 340 38 at B. 109 17 1 1 D. 115 34 9 3 D 80 51 1 2 D 95 34 9 4 D 37 34 2 1 D. 1,439 34 0 0 D 99 68 0 2 D. 102 85 0 4 Total ... 697 60 3 EDUCATIONAL. University of London Degree in Science for Colonial Candidates. Revised regulations have recently been issued by the University of London for the holding in the colonies of its examinations for Matriculation and the degrees of B.D., LL.B., and BSc. From these we extract the following information with regard to the degree of Bachelor of Science :-— The first examination to be passed towards the attainment of a degree is that for Matriculation. Two more examinations must be passed after Matriculation before the student can obtain a Bachelor's degree. The Intermediate examination cannot be taken by a candidate unless he has. matriculated not later than the preceding January, nor can the first degree examination be taken less than three years after matriculation. In the Intermediate Examination in Science candidates shall be examined for a pass in any four subjects from the following : (1) Pure Mathematics, (2) Applied Mathematics, (5) Experimental Physics, (4) Chemistry, (5) Botany, (6): Zoology, (7) Geology. One at least of the four subjects selected must be taken from among the first three. In the final examination candidates for a pass degree shall be examined in any three which may be selected from eleven subjects —which comprise the seven mentioned for the- Intermediate, and in addition, Astronomy, Physiology, Psychology, and Logic and Methodology. In the case of the examinations in science, the University requires an assurance that the Colonial Govern- ment will provide Assistant Examiners to supervise the practical examinations in adequate laboratories and report thereon to the University Examiners. Applications are not received from individual candidates. Any person desiring to be examined at a colonial centre should apply, not to the University of London, but to the Government of the colony wherein he resides, to ascertain (a) whether any arrangement has already been made for holding an examination in the colony, or, if not, (4) whether: the Government will make the necessary application to the Senate in order that such arrangement may be made. Full information relating to degrees will be found in the- University Calendar, which may be obtained (price, 5s. 10d., post free) on application to—The Financial Secretary,, University of London, South Kensington, London, §.W..,. England. 420 DrEcEMBER 31, 1904. NSS WEST. INDIAN FRU: BARBADOS BANANAS. The following is a copy of a letter which has been addressed to the Superintendent of the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company in reference to the temperature to be observed for Barbados bananas when carried in the fruit chambers on board the ‘Trent’ and ‘'Tagus’:— Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture —to the Superintendent, R.MS.P. Company, Barbados. Barbados, December 17, 1904. I believe that it would be desirable to place on record, in a clear manner, exactly what we would wish in the way of temperature when Barbados bananas in crates are shipped in the cool chambers on board the ‘Trent’ and ‘Tagus.’ We should be satisfied if it would be possible to maintain a temperature not below 60° F. and not 65° F. It is not necessary, however, that we should obtain a temperature of 65° immediately the fruit is put into the chamber at Barbados. If the temperature could start at about 75° or even 80° at Barbados, then it might be gradually reduced within a few days to 65° and, if possible, a day or two later to 60°, but not lower. Tf during the winter months when approaching England, the temperature on deck falls below 60°, then the object of the officers should be to maintain the temperature in the fruit chamber from falling befow that. This might be done by stopping the working of the fans for a brief period and carefully watching the results. The fans might be re-started directly the temperature rises above 65°. As you are aware, this information is not of value to the officers on board the other ships, as they are not, as yet, fitted with cool chambers. above HYBRIDIZATION OF PINE-APPLES. Reference has already been made in the Agii- cultural News (Vol. II, p. 404) to the experiments that are being carried out in the Botanic Gardens at Hope, Jamaica, with a view of producing hybrid pine- apples. The following extract on this subject is taken from the Annual Report on the Public Gardens and Plantations for the year ended March 31, 1904 :— With a view of raising a variety of pine that would combine the fine appearance and shipping qualities of the Smooth Cayenne with the delicious flavour of the Ripley, experiments in hybridization were instituted in the year 1904. No Cayenne plants being in flower at Hope when the Ripleys were ready for pollination, some flower heads were very kindly contributed by the late Mr. Chas. E. Smith. As a result of the initial experiment, sixty-four plants were raised and planted out. The Ripley flowers were eross-ferti- lized between April 25 and May 20, 1901, and the fruits ripened in the middle of July; the seeds were sown in clean sand the first week in August, the seedlings potted into bamboo pots early in September 1901, and planted out at a distance of 2 feet apart in Angust 1902. Several of the plants very quickly took the lead and grew vigorously, whilst a number of them exhibit a very feeble constitution: all differ from each other in appearance —some are spineless like the male parent, and some are spiny like the Ripley. The first fruit was cut on November 18, 1903, and was fairly good; the second one was stolen—it resembled very closely the ‘Red Spanish.” The third to ripen was a curiosity, a rather poor *Cayenne’ devoid of top. Others are now developing fruits. During 1901 preparations were made for extending this important work, and in the following year, 1902, Cayenne, Ripley, and Queen were brought into flower at the same time to permit of crossing and intercrossing ; resulting in the following being raised : — j Ripley x Cayenne 900 seedlings, Cayenne Ripley 800 - Queen x Cayenne 100 “ Queen x Ripley 25 a Ripley x Queen 120 ss Fertilized by natural means 250 os otalaeeeeasmees 2195 These have been planted ont at a distance of 9 inches apart in nursery beds, to be grown on to the sucker size and treated as such when large enough, e.g., dug up, trimmed, and planted ont in ‘ field’ beds. The third batch, numbering 500, raised in 1903, is now being nursed in 3-inch pots in the glass-house. Drying Copra in Samoa. The copra driers in Samoa all use the hot-air system. Air is heated in a fireplace and conducted through iron pipes which cross and recross the lower part of the building: the end of the pipe is generally turned into a smoke-stack. The drying is caused by a continuous current of air admitted through ventilators in the side of the building at its base. This air is warmed in passing the heated pipes, and then passes through and dries the trays of copra, and is drawn out at the roof by another set of latticed ventilators. (U.S. Monthly Consulai Reports.) Wore Ik .No., 1: THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 421 COTTON INDUSTRY. Prospects of the Crop. From the fortnightly reports of local officers we extract the following information with regard to the condition and prospects of the cotton crop :— In St. Vincent picking was being actively carried on, and it was estimated that over 80,000 Ib. of seed-cotton had been picked up to December 16. The leaf-blister mite was present in several cultivations but not in alarming propor- tions. In St. Kitt’s, Mr. Shepherd reports, cotton was being picked on several estates, and the product was clean and of very good quality. On most of the other estates the plants were well advanced and promising excellent yields. The effect of the leaf-blister mite was to be seen on some of the older trees, but these were too far advanced to be seriously damaged. Some cotton planted at Bourkes in November was likely to be a useful experiment in late planting, and the results will be carefully watched. Mr. Bovell reports that at Barbados ‘ the cotton all over the island is, so far as I know, with a few exceptions, in a healthy condition and practically free from insect pests.’ In two cultivations the red maggot has appeared ; in these cases dead and dying branches are being carefully cut out. West Indies. Mr. CG. M. Wolstenholme, of the firm of Wolsten- holme & Holland, Liverpool, writing to the Liverpooi Mercury, makes the following reference to cotton growing in the West Indies :— In the West India Islands, which have been in a state of lethargy since the decline in the value of cane sugar, I can confidently say that we have established a most profitable industry on a sound commercial basis. The planters are enthusiastic, and a member of the association, who is a practical spinner, is now in Barbados with Sir Daniel Morris, the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, arranging final details. The West Indian crop this season promises to be 5,000 bales, worth £100,000, apart from a considerable quantity of indigenous cotton. Last season we marketed upwards of 2,000 bales of new growths, including the product of Sea Island seed, which sold up to 18d. per hb.; and Egyptian seed, which sold at the price of ‘good fair’ brown. Cuba. Mr. F. S. Earle, Director of the recently established Agricultural Department, Cuba, writes as follows to the Havana Post on cotton growing in that island :— The planting of cotton is attracting considerable attention in Cuba at this time. The present indications are that the conditions here are all favourable for this crop with one important exception. Intending planters should be informed that the boll weevil exists in many parts of Cuba and that it is likely to prove exceedingly troublesome. It is not necessarily certain that the damage will be as great here as it has been in Texas, for the boll weevil is supposed to be a native of Cuba, and in many cases native insect pests have natural enemies of one kind or another that hold them more or Jess in check. It is when they migrate to other -eountries and sueceed in leaving their enemies behind them that insects become more destructiv:. While there is thus reason to hope that natural enemies of the weevil exists here, none have so far been observed, and we can only conjecture what the effect on this insect will be of the rapid increase in its food supply that is now taking place in some parts of the island. The best time for planting cotton in Cuba seems to be in May and June, so that the crop will mature during the dry season. It is almost impossible to harvest cotton that ripens during a period of frequent rains. Another point to be carefully considered by those intending to plant on a large scale is the matter of an adequate supply of labour for picking the crop. Cotton picking is a slow, laborious process at best, and with a scanty supply of unskilled labour it would be exceedingly difficult to harvest a large crop properly. It is by no means intended to discourage the planting of cotton in Cuba. The crop is on many accounts a most attractive one, but it would seem wise not to invest too heavily in it until its possibilities under our conditions are more thoroughly understood. This year’s experience will probably demonstrate whether or not it can be profitably grown here. GOAT RAISING IN MEXICO. The following interesting account of goat raising in Mexico is taken from the U.S. Monthly Consular Reports for August :-— The ordinary domestic goat, so well known in the United States, is the species raised throughout Mexico, It is valued for its pelt, its tallow, and its flesh, both fresh and dried. As yet no use has been made of either horns or hoofs. In the vicinity of San Luis Potosi the entrails have been spun into long strings of so-called catgut, and the finer and more delicate strings have been profitably exported by mail, in small parcels, to Chicago and New York. The Angora breed is not appreciated in Mexico, though it finds favour in western Texas, near the Mexican border. If of pure blood and if neglected during the season for pulling, it is apt to leave iis hair scattered upon the scrub and brush. Furthermore, whether pure or crossed, it is more of a sheep than a goat, its skin being less than one fourth as valuable as ordinary goatskins. This destroys the value of the Angora in Mexico. The ordinary goat, when slaughtered, yields 4 tb. of dried meat and 6 Ib. of refined tallow, which, together with the skin, are worth here in the home market, in Mexican silver, $3:-46 (81:57 in gold)—the 4tb. of dried meat, at 20c., 80c.; the 6 tb. of refined tallow, at 16c., 96c.; the cured skin, 2 tb., at 85c., $1°70. The original cost of goats for breeding purposes is, on an average, $2°50 a head in Mexican silver ($1°10 in gold). The common goat, well cared for, is hardy and well suited to the country. It breeds four times in three years. The Profits of Goat Keeping.—The idea that a goat is an unprofitable and useless possession should be dispelled. A good goat will yield on an average, for the first three months she is in milk, 3 pints daily. During the next three months she will yield 1} pints, and for the remaining ninety days } pint daily. This brings the return from milk to 240 quarts, which, at 4d. per quart, is £4 from this source alone. Then there is the new-comer to be considered. If it be of good pedigree, healthy and well marked, it should fetch sufficient to pay all the expenses of the parent’s keep, so that one goat may show a profit of £4 within the space of eight months. (Agri- cultural World.) 422 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DeceMBER 31, 1904. M.D., F.LS., ete, Author of ‘Tropical Agriculture,’ WEST INDIAN AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCE Dominica. The Offiter-inehepe cot the AcEenaT I eceiegt 1905. Dominica (Archibald Brooks Esq.). The Agricultural The following is a Rona list of the Representa- tives likely to be present at the Agricultural Conference to be held at Trinidad from January + to January 12 next. President. Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., M.A., D.C.L., D.Se., F.L.S., Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies. Representatives. JAMAICA, The Director of Public Gardens and Plantations (the Hon. William Faweett, B.Sc., F.L.S.). The Representative of the Board of Agriculture (the Hon. Henry Cork). The tepresentative of the Agricultural Society (J. R. Williams Esq., M.A.). BRITISH GUIANA. The Representative of the Board of Agriculture (the Hon. B. Howell Jones). The Superintendent of the Botanic Gardens (A. W. Bartlett Esq., B.A., B.Sc. F.L.S.). The Lecturer in Agriculture (E. W. F. English Esq., B.A.). The Assistant Instructor in Agriculture (J. E. Beckett Esq.). TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, Representatives of the Trinidad Agricultural Society :— Peter Abel Esq. (Usine St. Madeleine), J. G. de Gannes Esq., and Edgar Tripp Esq., Secretary. The Government Analyst and Professor of Ghemister (Professor P. Carmody, F.LC., F.C.8.). The Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens (J. H. Hart Hsq., F.L:S.). The Inspector of Schools (Mr. J. H. Collens). The Principal of Queen’s Royal College (W. Burslem Esq., M.A.). The Principal of the College of the Immaculate Conception (the Rey. Father Neville). Additional Representatives for Trinidad :—The Hon. G. Townsend Fenwick, C.M.G., and the Rev. Dr. Morton, Representatives for Tobago :—The Hon. H. L. Thornton, ™ i. M. Orde Esq., J.P; and the Curator of the Botanic Station, Tobago (Henry Millen Esq.). WINDWARD ISLANDS. Representative of (E. M. De Freitas Esq.). (J. A. Harbin Esq. }. Representatives of the St. Association (the Hon. Conrad J. Simmons and Edwin Richards Esq.). The Agricultural Superintendent, St. Vincent (W. N. Sands Esq.). The Agricultural Hudson Esq.). the Grenada Agricultural Society The Inspector of Schools, Grenada Vineent Cotton Growers’ Instructor, St. Lucia (George §. BARBADOS, Representatives of the Barbados Agricultural Society :— The Hon. Forster M. Alleyne, Vice-President, and G. Sebert Evelyn Esq. The Island Professor of Chemistry in chemical charge of Sugar-cane Experiments (Professor J. P. dAlbuquerque, M.A., F.LC., F.CS.). The Agricultural Superintendent of Sugar-cane Experiments (J. R. Bovell Esq., F.LS., F.C.8.). The Head Master of Harrison College (Horace Deighton Esq., M.A., F.R.A.S.). LEEWARD ISLANDS. The Government Analytical Chemist and Superintendent of Agriculture (the Hon. Francis Watts, O.M.G., D.8ce., F.LC., F.C.8.). Dr. H. A. Alford Nicholls, C.M.G., Superintendent, St. Kitt’s-Nevis (F. R. Shepherd Esq.). OFFICERS OF THE IMPERIAL DEPARTMENT OF FOR THE WEST INDIES. Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture for the West Indies (Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., M.A., D.C.L., D.Se., F.L.S.). Scientific Assistant (W. R. Buttenshaw Esq., M.A., B.Se.). Mycologist and Agricultural Lecturer (L. Lewton- 3rain Esq., B.A., F.L.8.). Entomologist (Henry A. Ballou Esq., B.Se.). Honorary Secretaries to the Conference—W. R. Butten- shaw Esq., M.A., B.Se., and Alleyne Graham Howell Esq. AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. Forthcoming Shows. Arrangements are being made by local committees for the holding of the following Shows under the auspices of the Imperial Department of Agriculture early next year :— Dominica.— February 23, 1905. Montserrat.—The Fifth Annual Show in the Market Place on February 24, 1905, Antigua.—February 25, 1905. Nevis.-—A show wili be held at Charlestown on February 28, 1905. Barbados.—The Local Industrial Exhibition and Show of Stock for Peasant Proprietors will be held at Dunscombe plantation, St. Thomas, on January 24, 1905. Grenada.— February 1905. St. Vincent.—It is proposed to hold an Agricultural Show in March next. AGRICULTURE will be held Barbados. The Annual Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition of the Barbados Agricultural Society was held at Harrison College on December 20. Though the exhibits in some departments were not as numerous as in previous years, they were on the whole, however, up to the standard quality, The Imperial Department of Agriculture offered three special prizes of 45 each, namely :— For the best collection of fruit. For the best collection of vegetables. For the best exhibit of Sea Island cotton. Also two prizes of $3 each, for kids the progeny of either the Anglo-Nubian billy ‘Black Rock’ or of the Toffenburg billy ‘ Bruce,’ namely :— For the best billy under twelve months old. For the best native she-goat with kids from either of the above sires from two to six months old. Diplomas of Merit of the Department were awarded for the following exhibits :— Fancy Pigeons ... 400 ... Mr. E. W. Williams. Bunch Dwarf Bananas... ..- Mr. C. M. Austin. Collection of Fruit ee ... Mrs. T. Clarke. Sea Island Cotton 30 ... Mr. H. M. Sisnett. She-goat and three kids ... Mrs. T. Manning. The stud goats ‘Bruce’ and ‘Black Rock’ were on show and attracted considerable attention. As usual the good quality of the fruit, ground provisions, and yegetables was a striking feature of the exhibition, Vou. Ill. No. 71. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 493 CASSAVA POISONING. The following correspondence in reference to cassava poisoning has been published in the Barbados Official Gazette of December 19, 1904:— The Governor directs the publication for general infor- mation of the following correspondence with reference to acase of cassava poisoning which recently occurred in Barbados. By command, (Sged.) S. W. KNAGGS, Colonial Secretary. Colonial Secretary, Barbados—to the Imperial Commis- sioner of Agriculture. November 3, 1904. Sir, With reference to the previous correspondence on the subject of cassava poisoning, and to your letter No. B. 1,045— of March 27, 1903, I am directed by the Governor to forward to you the enclosed copy of a minute made by the Coroner of District ‘A’ on the proceedings at an inquiry into a recent death from that cause. His Excellency will be glad to be favoured with your observations on the minute of Mr, Coroner Briggs. I have, ete., (Sgd.) S. W. KNAGGS, Colonial Secretary. Note made by Mr. N. PF. Briggs, Coroner, District ‘ A, on the proceedings of an inquest into the cause of death of a boy, Theophilus Laylor—Verdict, ‘ Accidental Death’— Cause of death, ‘Cassava Poisoning. October 21, 1904. Nore:—It is frequently stated by witnesses when deaths occur from eating roasting cassava (always when not thoroughly cooked) that if roasting and poison cassava grow closely side by side, the roasting cassava takes up some of the poison from the poison cassava. Again, it is stated that the roasting cassava gets a ‘spring in it’ and that makes it poisonous. I notice in the Hints and Information in regard to Cassava Poisoning, * issued by the Imperial Department of Agriculture for the West Indies, that no allusion is made to these probably mistaken notions, and I would suggest that some authorized experiments might be carried out to test the truth or falsehood of this. (Intld.) N. F. B. October 28, 1904. Imperial Coninissioner of Agriculture—-to the Colonial Secretary, Barbados. December 12, 1904. Sir, I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. 1,586 of November 3 last, in which you enclose copy of a minute made by the Coroner of District ‘A’ on the proceedings at an inquiry into a recent death from cassava poisoning. In reply to the reauest contained in the 2nd. paragraph of your letter under reply, I may mention that I have given *A copy of the Leaflet (No. 7) on Cassava Poisoning published by the Imperial Department of Agriculture, which also contains hints as to the immediate treatment of sufferers until medical aid is available, may be obtained free on appli- cation to the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture, Head Office, Barbados, careful consideration to the minute made by Mr. Briggs. There are apparently no grounds for the supposition ‘ that if roasting and poison cassava grow closely side by side the roasting cassava takes up some of the poison from the poisonous cassava.’ There can be no direct connexion between the two plants, and it is impossible that the poison can pass through the soil from the poisonous cassava to the sweet. It is well known, as the result of actual experiment, that if roasting cassava is planted under favourable conditions the amount of prussic acid contained in the roots may be increased. For instance, an experienced planter at Jamaica states: ‘The soil has a great effect on cassava. I have seen sweet cassava turn quite bitter in some lands, the variety called “ Mexico” being especially apt to change in this way.’ The second point noticed by Mr. Briggs is that the roasting cassava gets a ‘spring in it’ and that makes it poisonous. If by the ‘spring in it’ is meant that the plant starts into second growth after heavy rain, it is probable that certain changes may take place inducing an increase of the poisonous quality. What probably happens when persons die from eating sweet or roasting cassava is that it is either too old or it has been removed from the fire before the whole of the acid has been driven off; in consequence it produces symptoms of poisoning more or less acute according to the amount of cooking it has received. Usually those who die from cassava poisoning in this island are ill fed and neglected children. This class is most difficult to reach, and I can only suggest that the sympathy and co-operation of all who are in a position to bring the necessary information within reach of those concerned may be fully enlisted. This was the object of the Leaflet No. 7 recently published by this Depart- ment. Several thousand copies of this leaflet were distributed in Barbados and other parts of the West Indies. The important point to dwell upon is that sweet or roasting cassava is only really wholesome when the roots are not too old and when they have been cooked until they are quite soft. If the exterior portion only is soft and the centre is hard, the probability is that the latter is more or less poisonous and should not be eaten. Further, it is important to bear in mind that cassava after it has become cold, or is allowed to stand for some time after it is cooked, may become unwholesome and not fit to eat unless it is cooked a second time. I suggest that it might be useful if a copy of your letter and enclosure and also of this letter were published in the Official Gazette and that slips be struck off and distributed through the Educational Department to all the schools in the colony. I have, etc., (Sgd.) D. MORRIS, Commissioner of Agriculture, Copy of a minute by the Governor. Hon. Colonial Secretary. Correspondence to be published and my obligation expressed to the Commissioner. The great point to emphasize in this matter is thorough cooking. This is well understood in West Africa where large quantities are consumed and its poisonous properties under certain conditions well understood. (Intld.) G. T. C. December 12, 1904. 494 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DucemBer 31, 1904. ! EDITORIAL NOTICES. Letters and matter for publication, as well as all specimens for naming, should be addressed to the Commissioner, Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. All applications for copies of the ‘Agri- cultural News’ should be addressed to the Agents, and not to the Department. Local Agents: Messrs. Bowen & Sons, Bridge- town, Barbados. London Agents: Messrs. Dulau & Co., 87, Soho Square, W., and The West India Com- mittee, 15, Seething Lane, E.C. A complete lst of Agents will be found at foot of page 431 of this issue. The Agricultural News: Price 1d. per number, post free 1$¢. Annual subscription payable to Agents, 2s. 2d. Post free, 3s. 3d. Vou. Il]. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1904. No. 71. Contents of Present Issue. The present state of the cotton market is briefly reviewed in the editorial to the present issue. ‘The position of Sea Island cotton has been but slightly, if at all, affected by the considerable decline that has recently been brought about in the price of Upland cotton by the great increase in production. The position of West Indian sugar in the New York, Halifax, and London markets is clearly stated in the memorandum published on p. 419. On p. 420 will be found a note on the shipment of bananas from Barbados, and also an interesting extract from the Annual Report of the Director of Public Gardens in Jamaica on the hybridization of pine-apples. Extracts from fortnightly reports on the condition of the cotton cultivations in the various islands are to be found on p. 421. A further note in reference to this industry deals with experiments that are being conducted in Cuba. Official correspondence in regard to Cassava Poisoning is published on p. 423. The insect notes in this issue refer to cotton pests at Barbados and a butterfly borer that has been doing considerable damage to canes in British Guiana. An interesting description of the Lotus Lily is given on p. 427. On the same page will be found a report on a Jamaica sample of banana meal. West Indian Agricultural Conference. We publish on p- 422 a revised list of the Representatives who are likely to attend the Agri- cultural Conference that is to be held at Trinidad during the next fortnight. Several additional Representatives have been appointed since the publication of the provisional list published in the last issue of the Agricultural News, We regret that a number of gentlemen, who it was hoped would be present, have found it impossible to attend, eae Ground Nuts as a Green Manure. In a recent lecture before the Kandy Planters Association, Mr. Herbert Wright, Controller of the Experiment Station at Gangaroowa, Ceylon, dealt with the subject of green manures for tea, cacao, rubber, and cocoa-nuts. Special reference was made to the use of ground nuts for this purpose. The varieties recommended by Mr. Wright— known as the Tanjore and the Pondicherry—produce minimum crops of nuts and a maximum of leafy growth. The actual amount of woody tissue is very small and practically confined to the roots. Within five months 4,540 th. of fresh, green material can be obtained, without allowing for the large amount of ieaf falling to the ground. This plant has been culti- vated as a green manure and for crop purposes on young clearings of rubber and cocoa-nuts, the green material being buried as soon as the nuts have been picked. There seems to be every possibility of being able to use this crop in this way, thereby clearing the cost of upkeep of new clearings in certain districts, OSE Cotton Experts in Jamaica. A very successful conference, arranged by the Board of Agriculture to meet the Cotton Experts, Messrs. Oliver and Stanclitfe, took place at Kingston, Jamaica, on November 29. The Chairman of the Board (the Hon. H. Clarence Bourne) presided, his Excellency the Governor being also present. In the course of his address Mr. Oiiver referred to the cultivation of Egyptian cotton. There was, he said, an unlimited demand for this class of cotton, but whether it would pay them to grow it he did not know. They would not receive for Egyptian cotton more than half what they would receive for good cotton grown from such seed as the Imperial Department of Agri- culture secured from Mr. E. L. Rivers’ estate last year, An important point he desired to bring home to them was that if they grew Egyptian cotton they should confine it to a certain area, as it was most essential that different kinds of cotton should be kept absolutely distinct. Mr. Oliver dealt also with the subjects of picking, ginning, and baling. It may be mentioned that Mr. Oliver has expressed himself as being very pleased with some of the cotton cultivations he has seen in Jamaica. He visited one estate where 50 acres of cotton were being grown and said he had seen no better cultivation since he had left Barbados. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 49} aii Cassava Poisoning. We publish on p. 423 interesting correspondence on the subject of cassava poisoning. The correspond- ence was the result of a note by the Coroner at a recent inquest in Barbados where cassava poisoning was the cause of death. It would appear that there are various mistaken notions regarding the cassava plant more or less commonly held by the peasantry in Barbados, while the same class of people is not fully impressed by the precautions that are necessary in preparing cassava for eating. The points of importance in this connexion are clearly dealt with in the letter of the Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture. eS ee Plants as Analytical Agents. In a paper read before the recent British Associa- tion meeting at Cambridge, Mr. A. D. Hall, M.A, referred to the attempts that have been made from time to time to use the living plant as an analytical agent for discovering the manurial requirements of asoil. ‘lo try the agreement between the method of using plant ashes, to ascertain the needs of the soil, and chemical analysis, experiments were begun in 1902 with oats grown in pots containing soils of very different types. Although in certain cases both methods agreed in their results, there was no strict measure of consistency between the two sets of figures. Experiments were also tried with root crops. The results indicated that the analysis of the ash of the Swede plant would often provide a better indication of the phosphoric acid requirements of the soil than the analysis of the soil itself, while, similarly, the mangel plant will serve to test the state of the soil as to potash. It will be necessary to obtain further data before this method can be employed for practically testing the soil. Great Britain’s Orange Supply. The Liverpool Courier of November 23 has an interesting article on the orange supply of Great Britain. It is stated that about 6,000,000 cases of -oranges are landed every year; nearly four-fifths of these are imported from Spain, the province of Valencia being responsible for the greater part. In return, Great Britain pays Valencia at least about £6,000,000 a year. The thinness of the peel and the richness of the flavour of Valencia oranges enable them to vie successfully with those of Florida and even ‘California. Paris is Great Britain’s keenest competitor for these oranges, where extravagant prices are paid. The old method of crowding a large number of oranges of all shapes and sizes in rough and clumsy- looking packages has been abandoned, and the fruit now undergoes systematic treatment through its long pil- grimage. It is carefully picked, and conveyed in padded ‘carts to well-ventilated warehouses, where it is allowed to sweat. The oranges are then carefully graded and wrapped in tissue paper before being packed in scientifically ventilated cases. The treatment on ‘board ship also ensures the best possible ventilation. Shade-grown Tobacco in Jamaica. Reference has several times been made in these columns to the experiments that have been carried on in Jamaica for the purpose of testing the possibility of producing, locally, the expensive, imported wrapper tobacco. It will be remembered that Mr. F. V. Chalmers, who recently visited Jamaica in connexion with the tobacco industry, reported: ‘fhe product has every appearance when perfected of being a type of tobacco which is hardly likely, for the purpose of cigar manufacturing, principally from a Wrapper point of view, to be excelled by any other tobacco of the world, and from the estimate prepared by the Hon. Wm. Fawcett of the cost of such production, in my opinion, a very lucrative industry should arise in Jamaica.’ (See Agricultural News, Vol. III, p- 379.) Further reference is made to these experiments in the Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaica, for December, from which we learn that the cost of production per pound of tobacco (calculating on the wood-work to last for five years, and putting on new cloth each year) is estimated to be about 2s. 1d. This estimate assumes a yield (a low average) of 800 Ib, per acre. It is stated that it appears to be ‘safe to advocate the cultivation of this valuable crop only in such districts as Upper Clarendon and Temple Hall.’ EEE Rubber-tree Planting in Para. The United States Monthly Consular Reports tor June contains an interesting article on ‘Rubber-tree planting in Para.’ It is stated that there can be little doubt that the Para rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis) of the great Amazon Valley will ultimately be exhausted. Experiments tried in various parts of the world to see if artificial plantations could not be established have been measurably successful. The principal difficulty has always been that of transporting the seeds, which very soon lose their power of germina- tion. The ideal place to try such experiments would seem to be in the natural home of the tree, but little has been done in this way. Considerable interest is therefore attached to the experiments of a Mr. Martins, who some years ago cleared a space and planted a large number of Para rubber seeds on his estate, Da Fundo. These sprang up and flourished in such a way that Mr. Martins continued the experiment. his spring he tapped, for the first time, some forty trees. His success was complete and undoubted. There are now several hundied trees that are beginning to yield latex. There are between 2,000 and 3,000 young plants from 2 to 20 feet high. It is estimated that in a space of 5 acres ‘there will be, ten years from now, at least 1,000 full-bearing trees, and they will produce more and better rubber than the trees on ten forest “runs ” (the usual “run” being 2 miles long), for it will be gathered more quickly, in a more cleanly manner, and with greater care of the tree in tapping. Trees can profitably be planted as close as 6 to 8 feet apart each way, giving easily 800 trees to the acre. 426 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. December 31, 1904. INSECT NOTES. Cotton Insects in Barbados. In November and December 1903 cotton in Barbados was very seriously attacked by the cotton worm, and many fields were completely defoliated. This year there has been but little evidence of such attacks. A few estates have reported the appearance of the worm, but the prompt application of Paris green has been efficient in killing them before any damage had been done. In a few instances, managers have delayed the application of poisons for a day or two, and in such cases some plants have been more or less stripped of their leaves. The cotton stainer has not been reported as doing any damage, but the cotton aphis has been present in large numbers in a few fields. The lady-birds, however, have been very numerous and probably no damage has been done. The red maggot has made its appearance but only in a few places, and then only in small numbers. Attacked stems and branches have been cut out and burned and no serious damage is expected from this cause. Tn one field a small number of bolls have been attacked by a caterpillar that eats into the inside and destroys the young seed and fibre in exactly the same way that the boll worm attacks the cotton. This field is near the spot where a small plot of corn was last year destroyed by a worm, and it is likely that this is the same species, though it has not yet been identified. New Cane Pest in British Guiana. In October last specimens of a butterfly borer were received from Mr. G. N. Bethune, of Plantation Enmore, British Guiana, which was reported to be causing considerable damage to the canes. More recently, the British Guiana Board of Agriculture has sent additional specimens with reports by the Executive Secretary and the Agricultural Assistant. The following brief description of this pest and the damage caused by it is likely to be of interest :— The adult of the borer is a large butterfly, with a spread of about 3 inches, dark brownish-grey above, light-grey beneath. The head is large, with large, prominent, dark- brown eyes. The antennae are about 3; inch in length, slender, swollen towards the tip, the extreme tip being a fine, slightly curved point. The colour of the antennae is dark- brown, lighter at the tip. The fore wing is crossed by a white band from within the middle of the front margin to the hinder angle, with a shorter white band outside it and nearly parallel to it. The hind wing has a white band, which begins with two spots at the front margin and extends back across the wing, increasing in width, so that it is widest near the hind margin. The hind wing also has six pale- orange spots along the margin. The egg is about | inch in length, pointed at each end, with five prominent ribs running from end to end. The colour ranges from a light grey to a dark grey. In captivity the eggs are laid singly, and not attached. The full-grown larva is about 2) inches long and } inclv in diameter at the widest point, which is just behind the head. The colour is acream white, head light-brown with black mandibles. The young larva enters the cane near the ground, and tunnels a short distance up in the caneand then goes into the underground portion of the stool. Mr. Robert Ward, Agricultural Assistant, states that the cocoon is in the under- ground portion of the canes. Larvae in captivity at the Head Oftice of the Imperial Department of Agriculture tunnelled through the ground and one at least built a cocoon or eartle cell in the soil. It is supposed that the adult emerges by means of the tunnels in the cane stumps, but it has not yet been proved whether it has any other way of getting above ground. This condition has suggested the plugging of the holes in the cane stumps with wet clay, which is being tried and some success has been reported. Mr. Bethune reported that he was catching about 1,000 butterflies daily, with nets, in the hands of children. ; The damage to the cane by this pest is twofold; the riper cane is severely injured by the large tunnel extending through about 2 feet of the basal portion, and the stumps are so thoroughly eaten out underground as to make it impossible to ratoon them. It is hoped that a_ better knowledge of the life-history and habits of this pest will make it possible to apply remedies to prevent serious damage to canes in British Guiana in future years. az KAPOK AND ITS USES. The following account of kapok and its uses is taken from Chambers’ Journal :-— Every year that busy centre of commerce, Amsterdam, receives nearly 1,000 tb. of a curious and_ interesting vegetable substance known in Java and in the trade as kapok, which is found very useful for stuffing L cheap: mattresses and pillows, among other purposes. It is a sort of yellow wadding which nature uses as a covering for the seeds of certain trees in the Malaceas. Its fibres being very non-resisting, it has been found impossible to spin or weave it, but it gives excellent results for bedding, making a mattress delightfully soft if it 1s exposed to the sun before being used. It is exceedingly light and buoyant, in this respect greatly surpassing cork, as it will support in the water thirty-five times its own weight. The tree whence it is derived (Zriodendron) grows rapidly, and in the second year is 12 to 15 feet high, but it does not fruit abundantly until the fourth year. Like the cotton plant, it bestows two gifts on man, the special wadding mentioned, which lines the husk, and the oil extracted from the seeds, which is used especially in the Chinese markets. The threads of the soft fibre taken from the pods are light-yellow, rather silky, and only about an inch in Jength. They are made into thin rings. Kapok, it is said, never decays. Among the ever- increasing uses to which this curious vegetable product is put—causing the culture of the Eriodendron to make great strides in the Dutch Indies, while efforts are being made to cultivate it in similar climates—it has been suggested that excellent life-saving apparatus might be made from it, which should be in the form of mattresses and cushions, easily obtainable in moments of danger. Three hundred grammes of kapok (105 oz.) will support a man of 10 stone 5 Tb. (145 Ib.) in the water; and experiments by a French society with articles made of this wadding, which had previously been soaked im water for eighteen hours, gave excellent results. One small mattress supported seyeral men. of kapok. It is probable that soon all ships’ beds will be made: Ne pe "= 2A Re ee oe Wor. III. No. 71. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 427 SCIENCE NOTE. The Lotus Lily. The sacred lotus of the ancient Egyptians is known botanically as Velumbium speciosum ; the other species of this genus (.V. Jutewm) is a native of North America and J amaica and is shown in fig. 16. These plants are fairly common in cultivation in the West Indies. They belong to the natural order Vymphaeaceae, to which also belong the English water- lilies and the giant water-lily of the Amazon (Victoria regia). Both species of Nelumbium are water, or rather marsh, plants ; the flowers and leaves project above the surface of the water. The large leaves are peltate, that is, the leaf- stalk is attached to the centre of the almost circular blade ; the leaf-blade is covered by a fine microscopic down, which by retaining a film of air over the upper surface prevents this from being wetted ; when water is poured on it simply rolls off in drops. As in many water and marsh plants the leaf-stalks and the long flower-stalks contain large air spaces which connect with the breathing pores and are useful in respiration. Fic. 16. NELUMBIUM LUTEUM. [From Dictionary of Gardening.) The petals and stamens are both numerous, they are not arranged in whorls but form a close spiral. In the centre of the flower is the curious pistil, shaped like an inverted cone. It consists of a number of earpels which are embedded separately in the top of the swollen receptacle. This recep- facle becomes very dry and light, and the true fruits, which are one-seeded, small and dry (achenes), separate from it as they ripen. It breaks off bodily from the stalk and floats about until decay sets in ; the fruits are in this way liberated and settle down to the bottom of the pond, where germination fakes place. Nelumbiun speciosum is now found throughout India, China, Japan, Persia, Australia, ete.; it no longer occurs on the Nile. Sculptures of it are very frequent in Egyptian temples, and it is still regarded as sacred in India, Tibet, and China. The seeds of this species are used as food in Cashmere and China. ‘A reference to the occurrence of J, speciosum in Antigua, where it was establishing itself in a wild state, is made in Volume I of the Agricultural News (p. 104) BANANA MEAL AND FARINE. In a report by the United States Consul-General at Halifax, recently reproduced in the Agri- cultural News (p. 397), it was mentioned that inquiries had been made for banana flour. ‘The November issue of the Jowrnal of the Jumaica Agricultural Society contains an article by Mr. H. H. Cousins on local products that might be used instead of imported cornmeal. The following analysis and report are given with regard to a locally prepared sample of banana meal :— Moisture 10°88 per cent. Albuminoids * O71 Fats and oils 0-22 Pe Sugar 348 5 Starch 60°42 5 Pectin 20°93 . Fibre 0-72 5 Mineral matter Ae soo, ey! 5 * Containing nitrogen O1-14 From the chemical composition of this banana flour it is clear that practically the whole of it is readily digestible. The mineral matter contains soluble phosphates such as occur in wheaten flour. This flour consists almost entirely of carbohydrates of a readily digestible nature. The high proportion of pectin imparts to it the mucilaginous properties of a fruit extract. I consider it a well-prepared article of high dietetic value. In regard to the farine, Mr. Cousins states :— Farine should be of high dietetic value when used in conjunction with more nitrogenous foods like eggs, fish, peas and beans. For production of work, and general main- tenance, 11 Ib. of farine are equal to 10 tb. cornmeal. There are also other products which can be made into meal for storing, but the two mentioned, favine and banana meal, will likely prove the most useful. We ought to have at least some supplies of local cornmeal, and Mr. J. H. Levy, of the Jamaican Products Company, Brown’s Town, has put in machinery for the purpose of making cornmeal from Jamaica grown corn, and is open to buf all the corn he can get at a fair price. Sweet potato meal is also a most useful form of storing farinaceous food. DEPARTMENT NEWS. The Imperial Commissioner of Agriculture and the scientific staff of the Imperial Department of Agriculture will be at Trinidad from January 3 to 13, 1905. The Secretary of State for the Colonies has been pleased to appoint Mr. Thomas Thornton, an Associate of the Royal College of Science, to be a Travelling Instructor in connexion with the cotton industry under the Imperial Department of Agriculture in the West Indies. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. DecemBer 31, 1904. GLEANINGS. It has been decided to hold the annual Teachers’ Agri- cultural Course in Jamaica from January 2 to 25, 1905. It is a coincidence that the new Governor of Barbados (Sir Gilbert Carter, K.C.M.G.), and the new Governor of Martinique (M. Bonhoure) are both keen entomotogists. St. Vincent honey can be obtained from Messrs. Leonard Hall & Co., 132, Queen Victoria Street, London, E.C., in cases of six 1-Ib. jars, carriage paid, for 5s. per case. The Montserrat Agricultural Society is making arrange- ments for holding an Agricultural Show at St. George’s Schoolroom on Easter Monday, April 24, 1905. As an indication of the confidence in the future prospects of the sugar industry in Barbados, it may be mentioned that on December 9, no less than six plantations were sold at the Master-in-Chancery’s office. Tt may be useful to mention that bags for baling Sea Tsland cotton may be obtained from Messrs. Henry Knuck & Co., Whitehall Works, Dundee. Their cost, c. 1. f. Barbados, is 2s. 9d. each, less 24 per cent. Mr. Henry Millen writes that there is at the Botanic Station, Tobago, a mango tree in fruit for the second time this season. he fruits are of average size and good flavour. Tt is most unusual to have mangos in fruit in December. No. 3 of the West Indian Bulletin (Vol. V) is now in the press and will be issued shortly. The succeeding number will contain the official report of the proceedings of the fifth West Indian Agricultural Conference. According to the Hawaiian Forester and Agriculturist, the Hawaiian Sisal Co. estimates the future cost of producing a ton of sisal hemp and delivering it in San Francisco at $74. At the latest New York quotation of $165 per ton, it is evident that there are prospects of excellent profits. Tt is announced in the Journal of the Jamaica Agri- cultural Society that a firm in Kingston is in want of a consignment of 5 or 10 tons of bird peppers for which they offer 21s. per cwt. This is a product that might easily be raised by small settlers. During the past fortnight 512 bales of West Indian cotton were imported into the United Kingdom. Sales have been effected in Liverpool at the following prices: West India, 4°75d. to 5:20d. per tb.; West India Sea Island, unchanged ; medium fine, 124d.; fine, 134/.; extra fine, 15d. (West India Committee Circular, December 6.) According to the Board of Trade Journal, the Syndi- cate of Sugar Manufacturers, Java, offers prizes to the inventors of the best apparatus for automatically registering the weight of sugar-cane juice in lots of not less than 1,000 kilos. The notes on ‘Rabbit Keeping in the West Indies’ by Mr. John Barclay, Secretary of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, which recently appeared in the columns of the Agricultural News, will shortly be published in pamphlet form. It is far more difficult to keep poultry in wet districts than in dry districts: This refers especially to turkeys which are very difficult to keep in wet districts. Guinea fowls also thrive best in dry districts. Ducks are much easier kept in wet districts. (Journal of the Jamaica Agricultural Society.) The West India Committee’s Antigua correspondent writes in reference to the visit of the Cotton Experts as follows: ‘The general result has been to leave the planters with much clearer and more definite ideas as to improving the quality of cotton, and these should make themselves felt when the next picking season comes round.’ His Majesty the King has thanked the Dominica Agri- cultural Society for offering for the use of the hospitals, the fruit which gained a gold medal at the recent Fruit Exhibition of the Royal Horticultural Society, and suggested that it should be sent to the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. During the quarter ended September 30, 1904, 393 bales and 2 bags of cotton were exported from the British West Indies. The total weight was 119,052 tb., and the estimated value £5,603. Particulars as to the exports of cotton for the previous quarter were given in the Agri- cultural News, Vol. 11, p. 316. Under the power given by the Jamaica Rum Protection Law, the Governor has appointed Mr. J.C. Nolan to be the person who is empowered to institute proceedings and undertake the prosecution in the United Kingdom and Ireland and elsewhere of offences under the Merchandise Marks Acts, so far as such Acts apply to Jamaica rum, and to take all necessary steps for protecting Jamaica rums from imitations and frauds. (Gleaner, December 7, 1904.) A correspondent writes to Zhe Times that, having to live in a town in Brazil where no mosquito nets were procurable, he could get no rest on account of the assaults of mosquitos until he hit on the simple expedient of anointing the tace with kerosene oil and soap in the proportion of about a teaspoonful of oil to a lather of soap and water, which, when free from bubbles, would fill one-third of a soap dish. No injury was done by this mixture to the skin. According to the British Medical Journal, bananas are in the best condition for eating when ‘they are so ripe that the skins show dark spots.’ Usually in Europe, and to some extent in the United States and Canada, bananas are eaten when quite hard and the skin slightly tinged with yellow. This is a mistake. In consequence the banana is not so easily digested and is not so extensively used as it deserves to be. In the West Indies, bananas as a dessert fruit are only eaten when sweet and pulpy. They are then delicious ant wholesome. Vou: Ih. No: 71. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. ANNATTO. The Agricultural Ledger, 1904—No. 12, is ‘devoted to a review of existing information »s to the annatto plant and its dye. The following extracts are likely to be of interest -— Annatto or arnatto is a dye obtained from the coating -of the seed of an American shrub or small tree known as Bixa orellana. Tt is a plant easily cultivated, is not very exacting in the matter of soil, and has been taken to nearly every country of the tropics. The flowers are showy, sometimes white, sometimes pink ; and often it is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. The plant grows to a height of 12 to 15 feet. The leaves are heart-shaped, sharp at the end. ‘The flowers are borne at the ends of the branches in a loose bunch and are large, regular and showy. The pods are rather urn-shaped in general outline, laterally compressed and slightly beaked above; they are covered with weak prickles. At full maturity they crack open from the beak downwards, along the two edges and expose the seeds. The annatto harvest begins when two or three of the pods of a bunch are gaping slightly: then is the time to cut off the whole and to take them to any suitable place for shelling out the seeds. These seeds are either dried carefully in the sun and sent into the market as they are, or else the dye is prepared from them by one of the processes to be described. CULTIVATION, The cultivation of Bixa is very simple, and the bush has few enemies. ‘The first return comes in the second year, Seeds from which the dye may have been washed are sown at the beginning of the rains about 7 to 8 feet apart in prepared soil. Two or three seeds may be put into each hole, and ultimately the weaker seedings eliminated, or else the seedlings may be grown in a nursery and planted out at the distance named. On the fattest lands the intermediate plants may ultimately have to be removed, so that the bushes may stand 15 feet apart. As the young plants come up a little shade is given either by placing large leaves over them to protect them during the heat of the day, or by “putting mats over them. When they area foot high they may be considered to be established and need no further shade. Weeding is necessary until by their own growth they so cover the ground as to keep weeds down. Pruning is desirable to make the plant bushy ; for the flowers are borne on the ends of the branches. Annatto plants make good hedges and may be used for wind-breaks for other kinds of cultivation. YIELD. The yield per acre is set down at 65 to 7} maunds * of seeds, and as 9 to 10 seers of seed will give one seer of the prepared dye, it is 26 to 30 seers of dye. The first full crop may be set down at 5 ewt. (4 mds.) of seed per acre ; the subsequent crops increasing. The markets for it now are chiefly in Europe and North America, and the chief countries supplying it are Brazil, French Guiana or Cayenne, the French West Indies, and, to a less extent, the British West Indies. Ceylon and Madras also send a small quantity of seed to Europe. The annatto of Cayenne obtains the highest price, and in France it may, sold in bulk, touch at times 200 franes per 100 kilos. The less valuable kinds sell at much lower prices, down even to 30 franes per 100 kilos. An average price * One maund = 40 seers = 9°8 gallons. (Ed. A. V.] in Germany seems to be about 80 marks per 100 kilos. [About £2 per ewt.] PREPARATION, ' . : . : . : The preparation of annatto in any form is quite a sunple one. The better stuff is made in the following Way :— The seeds, taken out of the capsules, are placed in a receptacle, and hot water is poured over them until they are well covered: they are then stirred for a considerable time until the colouring matter has been washed off. That done, the liquor and seeds are separated by straining through any suitable material. The former carries with it all that is of value, and is set to stand so that the dye may fall to the bottom ; the latter are thrown away. When all the dye has settled, the supernatant water is poured off as far as possible, and the fine residue placed in the shade where the rest of the water may evaporate without the aid of artificial heat. As soon as the mass is dry enough to be kneaded, it is moulded by hand into rolls or cakes and these are put by until they are perfectly hard. When moulded they are wrapped in clean leaves, plantain or banana, and when dry they are packed in layers in boxes. COCO-DE-MER. In his report on the Botanic Station in Seychelles for 1903, Mr. R. Dupont, the Curator, makes the following reference to the interesting double cocoa-nuts known as ‘coco-de-mer’ (Lodoicea, sechellarum) :— The exportation of double cocoa-nuts from Seychelles reaches about 300 per annum. These curious fruits are principally exported to. India. They should be made known much more in Java, Malay Peninsula, China, Philippines, Australia, Cuba, ete., where they could be employed in sugar factories for the extraction of sugar from the centrifugals. By cutting the two lobes lengthwise, a nut can be made to produce two very large bowls, each capable of containing 5 Ib. to 10 tb. of sugar. These bowls are extensively used in Mauritius for this purpose and cannot be replaced by metallic vessels which injure the copper wire of the centrifugals or are soon oxidized. The coco-de-mer bowl is besides extremely light and durable. The nuts also contain a very hard kernel which has been sent home for report as to the possibility of using it as are the other vegetable ivory-like substances in different manufac- tories. It is difficult to find a bigger mass of vegetable ivory than the one which is contained in the coco-de-mer nut. It might be mentioned that some of these nuts were obtained from Seychelles for the Botanic Station at Dominica. Mr. Jones stated in his report for 1903-4 that two of the four seeds were growing nicely. Technical Education in Agriculture. In an article in the U.S. Monthly Consular Reports on ‘ Technical Edueation, the basis of German Industrial Progress,’ the Consul-General at Berlin makes the following reference to agricultural education: ‘The careful analyses of scils and the skilful use of chemical and other fertilizers to meet exactly the deficit in essential elements have revolutionized agriculture in this country. It is due largely to the work of expert chemists that the percentage of saccharine centent in sugar beets has been raised from 5:72 per cent. in 1840, to 13 per cent. in recent years, whereby the whole German sugar industry was saved from collapse.’ THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. December 31, 1904. MARKET REPORTS. London,— December 6, 1904. Messrs. J. Hanes Carrp & Co., Messrs. KEarro, Pirer & Co., Messrs. E. A. DE Pass & Co., ‘THe West Iyp1a Commirrer Crr- cuLAR’; ‘THe Liverroon Corron AssocratTion WEEKLY CrrcuLar,’ December 2; and ‘THE Pusiic LepcGer,’ December 3, 1904. Ators—Barbados, 15/- to 35/- ; Curacoa, 15/- to 37/6 per ewt. Arrowroot—St. Vincent, 1}d. per tb. Bartara—Block, as 3 to 1/35 per tb. Burs-wax—£7 2s. 6d. to £7 7s. 6d. per ewt. Choma 56/- to 65/- per ewt. ; Grenada, 55/- to 57/- per ewt ; Dominica, 50/- to 52- per ewt. ; Jamaica, 48/- to 65/- per cwt. Carpamoms—Mysore, 74d. to 2/- per Ib. CorrEE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 37/- to 38/- per cwt. Corron—West Indian Sea Island, medium fine, 124d. ; fine, 13hd. ; extra fine, 153d. per tb. Froir— Bananas—No quotations, Grare Frurr—6/- to 7/- per case. ORANGES—8,- to aby) - per box of 150-176. Prye-arpies—-No quotations. Fusric—£3 10s. to £4 per ton. GINGER— Jenne fair bright, 37/-; ordinary to good ordinary, 27/- to 30,- Bee ewt. Honey—Jamaica, 17/6 to 22/- per ewt. Isryetass—West Indian lump, 2,5 to 2/8 Kora Nets—4d. to 6d. per tb. Lime Jurce—-Raw, 9/. to 1,- per gallon; concentrated, £13 15s. per cask of 108 gallons. Lime Orr—Distilled, 1,5 per tb. ; hand-pressed, 2/6 to 2,9 per lb. Locwoon—£4 2s. 6d. to £5; Roots, £4 to £4 10s. per ton. Mace—Bold pale, 16; red, 1/1 to 1/2: broken, 1/- to 1/1 per tb. Nrrrate or Sopa—Agriculiural, £11 per ton. Nurmecs-—55’s, 3/-; 61's, 1/9; 82°s, 1/-; 140's, 5d. per tb. Pimento—-2$(/. per ib. Rum—Demerara, 10d. per proof gallon; Jamaica, Is. 9d. per proof gallon. SarsaPaRILLa—7 3d. to 12 per th. Sucar—Yellow crystals, 20, to 23/- per ewt.; Muscovado, Barbados, 16,- to 17,/- per ewt.; Molasses, 14,6 to 17/- per cwt. SULPHATE OF AmMONIA—£15 5s. per ton. ; cake, 1/3 per th. Montreal,—November 9, 1904.—Mr. J. Russecn Murray. (In bond quotations, c. & f.) Bananas—Jamaica, 50c. to 75e. per bunch of 8 hands ; $100 per bunch ‘firsts’: $1°50 to $140 per bunch ‘jumbos.’ Cepar—Trinidad, 40c. per cubic foot. Cocoa-nuts— Jamaica, $26°00 to $28-00 ; Trinidad, $22°00 to $24:00 per M. Corree—Jamaica, medium, 9c. to 10c. per th. GincER—Jamaica, unbleached, 6c. to 8c. per th. Mozascurr—Demerara, $1°32 per 100 tb. Motasses—Barbados, 25c. to 27c¢.; Imperial gallon. Nurmecs—Grenada, 110’s, 20c. to 203e. per th. Ornances—Jamaica, $3°60 per barrel; Dominica, per barrel : $1°75 per box (duty paid). Pimento—Jamaica, 53c. to Ge. per th. PINE-APPLES— No quotations. Sccar—Grey Crystals, 96°, $2°90 to $ $3 09 per 100 Tb. —Muscovados, 89°, $2°75 to $ Aes 2°80 per 100 th. —Molasses, 89°, $2°50 to & $2°60 per 100 th. —Barbados, 89°, $2°60 to $2°75 per 100 th. Antigua, 2le. per “p © Col of Barbados,—December 17, 1904.—Messrs. New York,—December 9, 1904.—Messrs. GILLEsPrie Bros. & Co. Cacao—Caracas, 12c. to 13c. ; Grenada, 11jc Trinidad, 12e, to 13fc. per th. Cocoa-Nuts—Trinidads, ‘go 5°00 to $27-00 per M., selected ; Jamaicas, $27°00 to $28°00 per M. CorrrE—Jamaica, good ordinary, 8c. to 9c. per th. Goat Skrys—Jamaicas, 58e. to 60c. per th Grave Frurr—Jamaicas, $2°50 to $300 per barrel. Orances—Jamaica, $3°50 per barrel (stem cut). Pimentro—4éec. per th. Sucar—Centrifugals, 96°, 43c.; Muscovados, 89°, Molasses, 89°, 4c. per tb. to L1}e.; leas 45 INTER-COLONIAL MARKETS. T. S. Garra- way & Co., and Messrs. James A. Lyncuo & Co, Arrowroot—St. Vincent, $3°40 to $3°75 per 100 th. Cacao—Dominica, $11°25 per 100 tb. Cocoa-Nurs—$9'00 per M. for husked nuts. CorrreE—$10-00 to $12°00 per 100 tb. Hay—90e. to 95e. per 100 th. : Manures—. Nitrate of soda, $60°00 ; Ohlendorff's dissolved guano, $60°00; Sulphate of ammonia, $72°00 to $75:00; Sulphate of potash, $67-00. Oxtons—Madeira (stringed), $250 to $3°50 per 100 tb. (retail). Poraros, ENGLisH—$1°75 to $2°25 per 160 th. Rice—Ballam, $480 to $4°85 per bag (190 tb.) ; Patna, $3°25 per 100 th. British Guiana,— December 15, 1904.—Messrs. Wretinc & Ricwrer, Arrowroor—St. Vincent, $7°50 to $8-00 per barrel. Barara—Venezuela block, 25c.; Demerara sheet, 35e. per tb. Cacao—Native, 12c. to 18c. per Th. Cassava SrarcH—$6-00 to $6°50 per barrel. Cocoa-Nuts—$10-00 to $12°00 per M. Corree—Rio and Jamaica, 14c. per th. (retail). —Creole, llc. per th. Duat— $4°30 to $4°40 per bag of 168 th. Eppors—$1°68 per barrel. Morasses—Vacuum Pan yellow, 16e. per gallon (casks included). Onxtons—Madeira, $3-00 to $4:00 per 100 tb. Pea Nurs—American, 6c. to 65c. per tb. (retail). Pranyvarys—20e. to 40c. per poe Poraros, ENGLisH—$2°00 to $2°10 per barrel. Rice—Ballam, $4°35 to $440; Creole, $4°25 per 177 ex store. Sweer Poraros—Barbados, $168 per bag, $1°92 per barrel. Tannias— $2°64 per barrel. Yams—White, $2°64 per bag. Svuesar—Dark Crystals, $3:03 to $3-15 ; Yellow, $3-20 to $3°30 ; White, $3°75 to $4°10; Molasses, $2°75 to $300 per 100 th. Timper—Greenheart, 32c. to 55c. per cubic foovt. WALLABA SHINGLES—$3°00, $3°75, and $5°50 per M. Trinidad,—December 15, 1904.—Messrs. Gorpon, GRANT & Co. ; and Messrs. EpGar Tripp & Co. Cacao—Ordinary to good red, $11°60 to $12°00 ; Estates, $12:00 to $12°30; Venezuelan, $1230 to $1250 per fanega (110 tb.) Cocoa-Nurs—$20-00 per ML. f.o.b. Cocoa-Nuv Orn—Vle. per reaere ul gallon (casks included). Corres—Venezuelan— 9c. per Tt Corra—-$3'10 to $3-20 per 100 oh. Oxtons—Stringed, Madeira, $3°50 to $400 per 100 tb. (retail). Poraros, Encrish—$1°‘15 to $1-25 per 100 tb. Rice—Yellow, $4°25 to $440; White Table, $5°25 to $5°50 per bag. Vou. Ill. No. 71. THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. 431 Publications on sale of the Imperial Department of Agriculture FOR THE WEST INDIES. The ‘WEST INDIAN BULLETIN.’ A Quarterly Scientific Journal. Volume I. Complete in the original paper covers as issued, post free, 5s. Volumes IT and III. Price in original paper covers as issued 2s. each. Post free, 2s. Sd. Volume IV. Nos. land 2. Papers on general subjects. No. 3. Papers on Cotton Cultivation (out of pri Wo. 4 Sea Island Cotton in the United States and the Westiindios.. oie eb ee number. Post free, 8d. Volume V. No. 1. Papers on general subjects. No, 2. West Indian Fodder Plants ; Cold Storage of Fruit ; The Date Palm ; Sisal Hemp; Anthracnose of Cotton ; ete., ete., Price 6d. each number. Pack free, im PAMPHLET SERIES. The Pamphlets are written ina simple and popular manner and the information contained in them is especially adapted to West Indian conditions. They contain, amongst other subjects, summaries of the results of the experiment work on sugar-cane and manures, the full official reports of which have only a limited circulation. The following list gives particulars of all the pamphlets which are still available. The missing numbers are out of print and can no longer be supplied :— (3) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1900. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (5) General Treatment of Insect Pests, 2nd. Edition Revised. Price 4d. Post free, 41d. (6) Recipes for cooking Sweet Potatos. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. r (7) Scale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part I. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (9) Bee-keeping in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (12) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1900-1901. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. (13) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1901. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (14) Screw Worm in Cattle at St. Lucia. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (15) Plain Talk to Small Owners. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (16) Hints on Onion Cultivation. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (17) General Treatment of Fungoid Pests. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (18) Recipes for cooking West Indian Yams. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. (19) Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1902. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. (20) Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1901-1902. Price 2d. Post free, (21) Cotton and Onion Industries in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. ) Seale Insects of the Lesser Antilles, Part II. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. 7 Notes on Poultry in the West Indies. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Dominica, Hints to Settlers. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Ground Nuts in the West Indies. Price 2d. Post free, 24d. Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1903. Price 4/7. Post free, 5d. Seedling and other Canes in the Leeward Islands, 1902-1903. Price 2d. Post free, 23d. Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses. Price 3d. Post free, 35d. Lectures on the Diseases of the Sugar-cane. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Manurial Experiments with Sugar-cane in the Leeward Islands, 1902-3. Price 4d. Post free, 5d, A. B. C. of Cotton Planting. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. Seedling and other Canes at Barbados, in 1904. Price 4d. Post free, 5d. ‘NATURE TEACHING’ A text-book based upon the general principles of Agriculture for the use of schools, prepared by the Honourable Francis Watts and others. (Pages XII and 199). Price, limp cloth 2s., or in a superior style of binding 2s. 6d. Postage in either binding, 34d. extra. The ‘AGRICULTURAL NEWS, A Fortnightly Review. The ‘Agricultural News’ contains extracts from official correspondence and from progress and other reports; and, in fact, any information indicating what is going on in each colony and the progress made in Agricultural matters throughout the West Indies. The ‘ Agricultural News’ is printed in time to be distributed, regularly, by each mail, and is on sale by the local agents of the Department at one penny per number, post free, 1}d. The subscription price, Including postage, is 1s. 74d. per half-year, or 3s. 3d. per annum. Vols. I and II complete with title page and index as issued.—Price 4s. Post free, 5s. Only a few copies available. JJ applications for copies are to be addressed to the Agents, not to the Department. Price 67. each I1] ay. 3% Wo OO MATS OF WW lo SS SS SOO OSE Agents. The following have been appointed agents for the sale of the publications of the Department :— London: Messrs. Dutau & Co., 37, Soho Square, W. City Agents: Tas West Inpra Commirrer, 15, Seething Lane, London, E.C. Barbados: Messrs. Bowrn & Sons, Bridgetown. Jamaica: THE EpucationaL SUPPLY Company, 16, King St. Kingston. British Guiana: ‘Daily Chronicle’ Office, Georgetown, Trinidad: Messrs. Murr, Marsnatt & Co., Port-of-Spain. Zobago: Mr. C. L. Puacemann, Scarborough. Grenada: Messrs. F. Marrast & Co., ‘The Stores,’ St. George. St. Vincent: Mr. W. C. D. Prouproot, Kingstown. St. Lucia: Mrs. Borman, Bridge Street, Castries. Dominica : Messrs. C. F. Duvernry & Co., Market St., Roseau. Montserrat: Mr. W. Lunwettyn Watt, Plymouth. Antigua: Mr. 8. D. Maton, St. John’s. S¢. Kitt’s: Messrs. 8. L. Horsrorp & Co., Basseterre. Nevis: Mr. 8. D. Matonx, Charlestown, Bahamas - Wesleyan Methodist Book Concern, Nassau. 432 THE AGRICULTURAL NEWS. December 31, 1904. THE BEST MANURES FOR COLONIAL USE 2 ARE Ohlendorff’s Dissolved Peruvian Guano—*or Sugar-cane and general use Ohlendorff’s Special Sugar-cane Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cocoa Manure Ohlendorff’s Special Cotton Manure Sulphate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Soda, Superphosphates, high grades, Potash Salts, Basic Slag and all other high-class Fertilizers. APPLY TO LOCAL AGENTS OR DIRECT TO THE ANGLO-CONTINENTAL (LATE OHLENDORFF’S) GUANO WORKS, London Agency: 15, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C. [72.] Barbados Agents: Messrs. James A. Lynch & Co., Bridgetown. __ ee see JOURNAL DAGRICULTURE TROPICALE. | | DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS. 1} A Monthly Illustrated Review, published in French, dealing with all matters connected with Tropical Agriculture. FOR COTTON GROWERS : PARIS: M. Vilbouchevitch, 10, rue Delambre. A B G TL >| ca . s e Subscription price : 20 francs per annum. Agents : London, W. Dawson & Sons, Ltd., Bream’s | OF Buildings, E.C.; New York, G. E. Stehert, 9, East 16th. pre! Ale) A aes Ou Solloso ; Hayti, | | C 0 T T 0 N p L A N T | N C Ss FOR PEASANT PROPRIETORS, Containing full directions for the coming } ‘ ’ al 4d. ree. 5d. cA C INTO) : season. Price 4/7. Post free, Byade le EVAR Reis: NEW EDITION. | A treatise on the cultivation, curing and chemistry of | | “WEST INDIAN BULLETIN ; COMMERCIAL CACAO. VOL. IV, NO. 4. DAVIDSON & TODD, Trinidad. CHO v; ) Wm.WESLEY & Co., 28, Essex St., London. Containing full report by Sir Daniel Morris, § | | K.C.M.G., D.Sc., and Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F.G:S., F Price 3s, gpery (copy; | | on visit to the Cotton-growing districts of U.S.A. f | | Printed at Office of Agricultural Reporter, 4, High Street, Bridgetown, Barbados. 9 43: CGARDEA INDEX. A. Agriculture in British Guiana, 121. | Antigua, lectures to teachers, 108. = — East Africa, 217. |—; — on tropical hygiene, 411. Abrus precatorius, ue 2 3 == -— Falkland Islands, 249. —, mosquitos, destruction in, 412. Acacia tortuosa, 156, Adenanthera payonina, 395. parca, East, agriculture 1 in, ZTE Portuguese East, agriculture in, 278 —, West, fodder grasses for, 168. Agave americana, fibre of, 24, Agouti in East Africa, 342. Agricultural Industries in the West, Indies, 241. Instructor for British Guiana, 186. Scholarships, Barbados, 11. . Leeward Islands, ice —, Windward Islands, School, Dominica, 27, Sie = —, Geisenheim, Germany, 300. — =, iin Uno, Bie — —, st. Vincent, 27, 284. — ‘Shows, 89, 9 — —, Antigua, 13, 91. = =, Barbados, 13, 24, 45, 236, 429 = —, British Guiana, 44, 205, 268. = —, circular to exhibitors, 254. — Dominicans. oie — —, fortheoming, 392, 413, 422.) — —, dsamaica, 220, 252, 284, 413. — = Montserratwe lia; esol, LOT 316, 428. — —, Nevis, 188. = —, poultry at 390: — ee otavancenty lls, LOmjoll6; — —, School, hints for exhibitors, 379. —, —, Tobago, 413. —, —, Trinidad, 413. , Trinidad, 364. Societies, Antigua, 37. Barbados, 328. British Honduras, 268. , Dominica, 12, 108, : —, Grenada, 178 —, Jamaica, 140. |. sea moss from, Nevis, 108, 204. —, St. Lucia, 44, 262, 268. riculture and geology, 3. in Argentine, 151. — Bahamas, 231, — Bermuda, 297. — Brazil, 345. 260. — — Gold Coast, 281. — Hawaiian Islands, 329. — Lagos, 25. — Northern Nigeria, 139. = == Remy ey — — Portuguese East Africa, 278. as — Queensland, 301. a — Sin (Ooi B75. = — St. Lucia, 137, 308. == — U.S.A., 140. — — Virgin Islands, 265. —s scientific, 118. Albizzia Lebbek, 151, 395 Akees, gathering for market, 212. Aletia argillacea, 26. Aleurites moluccana, 236. Alexandria, exports of cotton from, 124, 564. Anguilla, cotton cultivation, 357, 380. 152 Alfalfa in Argentine, 151. Algae, West Indian fresh-water, Algarrobilla seed, 195. Anacardium occidentale, 395. Anastatiea hierochuntica, 155, Andropogon Nardus at Antigua, 60. Annatto, cultivation of, 429. —, preparation, 429. , West Tadion, value in London market,} 30, 94, 125, 173, 190, 238. —, yield from, 429. Anona reticulata, 6. Anstead, R. D., agricultural assistant,| sugar-eane experiments, Barbados, iT. Anthonomus grandis, 298. Antigua, agricultural show, 13, 91, 97. —, arbor day celebration at, 390. Barbados blackbirds in, 60. Botaric Station, 333. 380. Hes —, cotton, 37, 300, 369, 373, 389. —, — experiments in, 364. — — experts in, 386, 428. —, — ginnery, 66. —, — lectures in, 408. — pest at, 24. —, fire- flies in, 108. — ’ grammar school, ships at, 188. —, insect pests, report on, 314. —, irrigation for, 300. agricultural scholar- —, onion cultivation, 104. — onions in Demerara, 253. —, rainfall at, 116, 316. —, stock at, 28 —, sugar-cane central factory, 51. — — seedlings in, 2 Ants and carbon bisulphide, TA. — — onion cultivation, 289. Aphis gossypii, food for lady-bird, Arbor Day, 99. — celebrations, 409. == —, date palms for, 347. — in Antigua, 390. — — Dominica, 390, 403. — — Grenada, 214, 25 Jamaica, 187, 284. Montserrat, 70, 403. Nevis, 196, 364, 390. St. Kitt’s, 390. — — Tobago, 204. — — United States, 141. — — Virgin Islands, 390. —, road- side planting of fruit nee 415 Argan nuts, oil from, 279. tree of Morocco, 279. Argania Sideroxylon, 279. Argentine, agriculture in, 151. Arrowroot, Fiji, analysis of, 268. = in London market, 30, 61, 94, 125, 302, 334, 345, 90. 173, 190, 238, 269, 365, 414. St. Vincent, 217. =) Artabotrys odoratissimus, Lol, 2318 Artocarpus incisa, var. seminifera, 300, 396. Asclepias curassavica, 414. Asparagus cultivation, 316. — plumosus at Grenada, 172 Asphalt, exports from Trinidad, 364, Association of Economic Biologists, 412. Atkins, Edwin F., sugar-cane experi- ments in Cuba, 179. Australia, bee farming in, 315. Avocado pear, budding, 311. —, cultivation of, 311. — foe wind-breaks and purposes, 311. — in Florida, 311. picking and packing, 311. 263, shade a a? 434 B. Bacteria and nitrogen, 51. Bacterial rot of onions, 245. Bahamas, agriculture in, ‘ —, Botanic Station, 300, , curator for, 238. —, exports of, 233. —, sisal hemp industry, 321. , Sponge fishery, 183. Bahia India-rubber from, 324. Baker, R.T., A research on the Eucalypts, 205. Balata, 25. — industry in British Guiana, 188. — Surinam, 396. — Trinidad, 28. cotton leaf-blister mite, 53, 231, 260, 393.| 393. Ballou, H.A., 394. —, cotton worm, 26. —, insect pests, Antigua, 314. _, — —, Dominica, 42, 314. — — -, Grenada, 218, 234. _, —- , Montserrat, 58, 330. St. Kitt’s-Nevis, 282. b ? —, — —, St. Lucia, 42, 298. -, — -, St Vincent, 202, 410. —-, visit to Grenada, 171. —, — — Montserrat, 11, 29. —, — -—- Northern Islands, 221, 269. — — — St. Lucia, 315, 333. St. Vincent, 381. Baltimore, Jamaica fruit imports, 188 Bamboos, as wind-breaks, 316. —, flowering of, 326. Bambusa arundinacea, 326. Banana, ‘apple,’ at Tobago, 348. Banana Industry : — Barbados, 36, 86, 108, 113, 114, 140, 178, 242, 257, 328. British Guiana, 380, 388. Costa Rica, 60, eae 324, Honduras, 220, 252, 396. Jamaica, 100. Porto Rico, 356. Queensland, 372. Bananas, Barbados, 181, 204, 220, 244. -, —, carriage on aero 420) -, —, crates for, 196, 257, 258. _, —, packing, ne _, —, picking, 258. -, Chinese, at Barbados, 113. = m=, — Jamaica, 260. -, condition for eating, 428. --, fertilizer for, analysis of, 388. — gathering for market, 212. in United Kingdom, 364. — United States, 244, 308, 340. ; meal from, 427. Musa Cavendishii from Trinidad, Sierra Leone, value in London market, 20. _ suckers, importation into Trini- dad, 76. _ — from Barbados for Egypt, 252. Banana trade at Halifax, 397. — between Barbados and Paris, 348. —, varieties at Trindad, 84. — West Indian in London, 365. | Barbados, agricultural education, 24. — industrial exhibition, 13, 412,) 422. _—, — local exhibition for peasant proprietors, 24, 45, 236, 412. —, — scholarships, 11. —, banana industry at, 36, 113, rie 348, bananas, 181, 204, 220, 24 —, crates for, 196. —, shipment from, 257. —, storage on boardship, 86, 328, 420. — blackbirds at St. Kitt’s, 92. —, cassava poisoning at, 423, — cotton industry, 28, 86, 177, 182, 357, 389. —, — cultivation in, 37, 405, 421. -, — experts at, 385. = — exports from, 124, 136. — — factory, 40, 182, 186. “= — ginnery, 8, 66. — —, insects on, 426. —, — lectures at, 216, 236. ee ip: Morris, 359. — —, maloation of, 8, 76, 149, 152, 182, 284. , English potato experiments in, —, exports of, 136, 393. , fish-curing factory, 43, 49, 104. —, lectures to planters, 23. manjak, 409. , minor industries at, 86, 177 molasses, 17, 18. —, mungoose, legislation against, 108. , hature teaching in, 380. onion cultivation at, 86, 178. » — thrips, 10. petreleum, 409. ——, report on Dodds 115, teformatory, 189. — Lodge School, 188. —, school gardens in, 119. —, sea moss from, 152. , sugar-cane crop, 108. = — diseases, 77. — experiments, 115, 146, 162, 338, 344, 354. —, sugar and molasses, exports of, 348. —, thrips on sweet potatos, 284. —, woods of, 40. Barber, C. A., sugar-cane experiments in India, 115. Barbuda, cotton industry, 369, 373. Barclay, J., cocoanut oil industry Jamaica, 372. —, cotton “cultivation in Jamaica, 293. rabbit Hou in West Indies, 230, 246, 262, 278, 294. Barlow, L., acting agricultural superin- tendent, St. Lucia, 285. —, report on cotton crop at St. Lucia, 357, in Oliver and Sir Barrett, O. W., orange pest in Porto Rico, 394. | Barringtonia speciosa, 412. | Bartlett, A. W., report on British Guiana Botanie Gardens, 285. | Bay leaves from Bermuda, 220. -— oil, 125. Beckett, E, report on a visit to the Pomeroon and Moruea districts in British Guiana, 189. Bee Keeping :— 3ee-paralysis and sulphur, 38. Bees and sunflowers, 22. Cho-cho as a bee plant, 155. Colonies of bees in various countries, 236. Honey, West Indian, in Canada, 22. : on Royal Mail premiers D4, —, logwood, from Trinidad, 284. —, raw, 348. in Australia, 315. Bosnia, 407. Jamaica, 8, 337. St. Lucia, 268, 338. St. Vincent, 92, 428. United States, 44. Nuclei in queen rearing, 378. Stingless bees, 237. Water for bees, 236. Worker comb, how Bees’-wax, adulterated, —, Jamaica, 337, 338. —, Indian, 329. — refining, 244. Belgian hares, 230, 333. -— at St. Vincent, 220. Belling, John, vacation leave, 315. 3en oil, 150, 249. Jermuda, 252. agriculture in, , bay leaves from, 220. , importation of eggs, , lectures to teachers, rainfall, 300. Bidens leueantha, 199% Birds, economic relation of to fruit rais- ing, 299. — of St. Vincent, 3ixa Orellana, 429. Blackbirds, Barbados, in Antigua, 60. Book Reviews : Chemistry of Plant and Animal Life, The, 219. Cotton Culture, 141. Cyprus Journal, The, 75. Die Kultur des Kakoabaumes seine schidlinge, 11. Diseases of the Horse, 27. Dominica Agriculturist, 91, 381. Eenige pathologische en physiologische waarnemingen over Koftie, 205. Evolution of Plant Life, The, 91. Farmers’ Bulletins of the Philippine Bureau of Agriculture, 141. Flowering Plants and Ferns, 171. Grasses, 220. to get built, 198. a2) 297, 266. 109. 216: und 435 Book Reviews (Continued) :- Guide to Castleton Gardens, Jamaica, 299. Hawaiian Forester 106. Hints on outfit for tropical countries, 27. How to make school gardens, Jornal dos Agricultores, 106. Meteorology of Jamaica, 219. Natural History of Plants, The, 91. Nature Teaching, 381. Notes on Egyptian Agriculture, and Agriculturist,| travellers in 235 299: Overzicht van de Culturgewassen en) - Boschproducten in de Kolonie, Suriname, 299. Proceedings of the International Con-|- ference on Plant Hybridization, 381. Research on the Eucalypts, A, 205. Schoul gardens in Europe, 235. Second Report on Economie Zoology, 141. Senior Country Soil, The, 11. ‘The Food of the gods,’ Treatise on Cacao, a 61. Vegetables and flowers from seeds in tropical, semi-tropical and temperate climates, 171. Botanical laboratory in Jamaica, 38. Bovyell, J. R., Barbados and Porto Rico molasses, 17. —, report oncotton crop at Barbados, 357. —, sugar-cane experiments at Barbados, 146, 162, 338, 354. Bracken, leaf structure and environment, 215. Brazil, agriculture in, 345. —, cacao crop of, 279. coffee, in 298. cotton cultivation in, 345. grape growing in, 345. monazite sand from, 12. Bead: fruit meal, analysis of, 40+. —, seeded variety of, 263. Bread-nut, 263. British Cotton-growing Association and Imperial Department of Agriculture, 391. Breeding and) teader, ILI., 251, 75. ? , cotton seed dis- Fae aia for Antigua and Barbados, 4] 2 British Guiana, cotton experiments in, 229. — -, — gins in, 66. — —, exports, 12, 121. —, molascuit, exports of, 44. —, peasant proprietors’ cultiva-) tions, 84. —, report on Botanic Gardens,| = — the Moruca districts, 189. rice cultivation, 121, 131, 215 specimen cultivations in, 252. stock show in, 92. Pomeroon - cultivation, 51, WZ. aD) = — - experiments, 66, 73, Pela 290% 30%, Sill3: a= —,; -, hew pest on, 426. = — - seedling 208 in, 180. = —-, trade and agriculture in, 121. British Honduras agricultural society, 268. —- —, cocoanut disease in, 88. — —, cotton cultivation in, 69, 104. — —, exports of, 265 = —, lectures to teachers, 76. = —, rainfall at Belize, 300. = -, report on Botanic Station, 253, = —, rubber exports, 28 Britton, Dr. N. L., West Tndian Flora, dsl. Broadway, W. E., appointed authority on diseased imported plants, 172. Brosimum Alicastrum, 263. Buchanan, H. B. M., Senior Reader, IIT., 251. Bufo agua, 362. Bundy, F. E., report education in St. Lucia, Burns, remedies for, 117. Bursera gummifera, resin from, Buttenshaw, W. R., 395. —, visit to Northern Islands, 187, 221. West Indian starches, 185. Butter-nut tree, 284. Butyrospermum Parkti, 168. Country on agricultural 331, 155. ormamental seeds,| Deputation, 361, 377, 385. British Guiana, agricultural apprentices in, 251. — _, — education in, 172, 268, 316. _— —, — instructor for, 186. — —, — show, 44, 205, 268. — , balata industry, 188. — —, . banana shipments from, 380, 388. —, cocoa-nut cultivation, 316. —, cotton cultivation, 12, 133; ics 197, 309, 389. Sugar-cane crop, 28 | C. Cacao brown rot, 44, 108. consumption in E urope, 92. — United Kingdom, 387. cevarion, 311. , Brazil, 279 —, Dominica, £ 57. —, yield of wet and dry in, ? ? —, Dutch East Indies, 313. Grenada, brown rot at, 44, Cacao cultivation, Grenada, exports from, 57, 300, 305, 360. = —, —, manurial experiments at, 347. = —, —, sheep manure for, 124. Bes —, —, thripsattacking, 10, 218, = —, Jamaica, 305. — —, Lagos, 56. Martinique, 408. Nevis, 220. Philippine attacking in, 346. —, St. Lucia, 305, 33 , anew disease at, 251. Surinam, fungoid diseases in, Islands, insects ’ —, Trinidad, 305, 348, 364. —, Virgin Islands, 265. —, West Africa, 76. —, West Indies, 242, 305. experiments with shade trees, 25. Gliricidia maculata as shade for, 135, importation into United States, 220. in Canada, 13. manuring of, 25. samples from Messrs. —, shelter-belts for, 273. — soil, analysis of, 46. —, thrips on, 90. —, treatment of wounds, 195. —, world’s production and consumption 137. Caesaipinia Bonducella, 212, 395, Caicos Islands, sisal hemp from, 322, 342. Calabash fruit, 108. Calcium cyanamide, 279, 343. California, citrus fruit from, 252. Calophyllum Calaba, 215, 274. Campbell, E. J. F.,- report on Botanic Station, British Honduras, 253. Camphor, artificial, 108. preparation of, 201. Canada, sugar consumption, 35, —, sugars, grocery, 50. —, West Indian molasses, 55. — products in, (see West Tedhas Products in Canada). — sugar in, 148, 201. —, wheat cultivation in, 172. Canary Islands, banana industry, 292. —, tobacco culture in, 392. —, tomatos from, 300. Candleberry tree, 236. Canna indica, 395. Carbohydrates in green plants, 6. Carbon bisulphide and land crabs, 139, — parasol ants, 204. — as an insecticide, 29. Carludovica palmata, manufacture of hats from, 310. Carnauba wax, 284. Carriacou, cotton cultivation, 44. Carruthers, J. B., Director of Agriculture, Federated Malay States, 380. Caryocar nuciferum, 284. Cashew tree, 52. Rowntree, 356, 232, ; 436 Cassava cultivation, 150. —, Jamaica, 150, 349, —, India, 38. —, for glucose manufacture, 148, — meal from Jamaica, 148. — poisoning in Barbados, 423. — products from Jamaica, analysis of, 50. —, trade in, 161. , sliced, from St. Lucia, 12. — starch, by-products, 150. —, cost of manufacture, 150. — factory in Florida, 156. Jamaica, 162. for laundry purposes, 137. from Dominica, 152. —— St. Lucia, 412: — industry in Jamaica, 44, 105, » lai Cassia Fistula, 316. —, in London market, 30, 61, 94, 173, 190, 269, 334. Castilloa elastica, cultivation Coast Colony, 355. — seeds for distribution, 220. Castor oil for soap manufacture, 172. — plant, cultivation of, 203. —, In Ceylon, 249. Cayman Islands, cotton in, 396, Cedar, exports from Columbia, 236. Ceylon, agricultural progress, 120. —, castor oi] plant in, 249. —, citronella grass in, 410. = — oil industry, 259. —, cocoanut cultivation in, 248. —, rubber cultivation in, 28, 250. —, tea exports from, 156. Chalmers, F.V., report on bacco, 300, 379.” Chestnuts and chestnut trees in Italy, 109. Chicken hawk and mole crickets, 218. Chili, Algarrobilla seed from, 195. —, exports of nitrate from, 348. Cho-cho, as a bee plant, 211. agricultural yield, 414. 162. exports from St. Lucia, Gold in Jamaica to- Citric acid and citrate of lime, exports, from Sicily, 324. Citrometer, 308. Citronella grass in Ceylon, 410. — oil, adulteration of, 259. Citrus fruits, exports from 252. California, : Jamaica, 164. - -, Sicily, 324. —, gathering for market, 212. — fruit and peel, pickled, exports from Sicily, 324. — seedlings versus grafts, 196. — trees, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides ll99: —, manuring, 100, Clark, Tks ol 8 hes birds of West I Clarke, A. J, acting at School, St. Vincent, 363. 5 228. Indies, 44. Agr icultural | ’ | Goeoemer Cocaine, manufacture in Peru, 236. Coccinellidae, description of, 106. Cocoanut, abnormal, 68. - cultivation in British Guiana, British Honduras, Ceylon, 284. — Federated Malay States, 284. —- — — Jamaica, 3, 60. | = == - Philippines, 132. | - — —- Solomon Islands, 28.) - = - West Indies, 36. —, imports into U.S.A., 377. — meal in Canada, 13. — oil, 12 = , for toothache, 227. — - industry in Jamaica, 372. — —, use in margarine industry, 2 2 — plantations, fodder: plants in, 217. — trees, planting, 44, 228, 378. = -—, scale insects on, 346. Cocoa-nuts, West Indian, in Canada, 13, 148, 206, 221, 286, 302, 350, 382, 397. - New York, 296. 156, 429, Coffee, annual production of, 108. —, Brazilian, 298. — cultivation and avocado pears, 236. , Columbia, 89. | = Jamaicans —, Queensland, 9. —, in Canada, 13. —, quality of, 345. — trees, shelter belts for, 273. —, yield from, 348. Coix Lachryma-Jobi, 275, 342, 595. Cola vera, distribution from Royal Gar- dens, Kew, 300. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides of citrus, trees, 199. Collins, G. N., visit to Jamaica, 220. Cotton, 316. | - 38.) — to W. I. Botanic Stations,) - Colombia, cacao se, ail cedar, exports of, 236. , coffee trade, 89. Conference, West Indian Agricultural,| (see West Indian Agric ultural ( ‘onfer- ence). Congo Free State, exports of raw rubber to Belgium, 364. Connell, M.B., Assistant Clerk, 203. Cook, O. F., Mexican cotton boll weevil, 346. Copaiba balsam, 311. Copaifera officinalis, 311. Copernicia cerifera, wax from, 234. Copra, drying in Samoa, 420. exports from Samoa, 153. — Society Islands, — Tahiti, 268. insect-attacking fungi, ’ ’ Cordy ceps Barber 135. Corn oil, rubber from, 77. — stalks for hay, 102. Corypha umbraculifera at Dominica, 151.) Costa Rica, banana cultivation, 60, 324. vegetables of, 121. 412.)- Cotton, Antigua, value of, 300. — bales, 85, 359, 428. Barbados, 8, 76, 149, 284. consumption and supply, 405. cultivation and Paris green, 16%. — West Indian Bulletin, 88, 104, 130. , conditions necessary for, — in Anguilla, 380. Antigua, 182, 28 ) 133. oc, at 37, 357, 364, Sis: - — — Barbados, 8, 28, 37, 86, 177, 182, 189, 357, 359, 360, 405, EDIE -—— Barbuda, 373. = eBriazileot: = -— British Central African iprotes torate, 396. | Fey Sie —— Empire and S| Guiana, 12, 73, 169, 204, 2293093 3598 = = — Honduras, 10t. = — Carriacou, 44. - - — Cayman Islands, 396. = — — Cuba, 12, 105, 421" — -—— East Africa, 342, - - — Egypt, 325. = — Gambia, 341. = — —— Gold Coast Colony, 509. . = — Grenada, 178, 348, 364, 373, — —— Hayti, 216: == = — gaa Me) 140, 183, 188, 197, 261, 293, 328, 348, 373, 405, 414. —- — — Lagos, 25. — = — Leeward Tslands, man- urial experiments, 237. — Montserrat, 21, 72; 185 213, 332, 341, 405. — Nevis, 60, 149, 373. -— Northern Nigeria, 139. — Paraguay, 309. = Portor Rico} valae2o2. 261, 389. — — — Portuguese East Africa, 278 a — St. Kitt’s, 5, 213, 341, 405, 421, — — St. Lucia, $4, 156, 165, 172, 213, 245, 357 — St. Thomas, 300. — — §$t. Vincent, 41, 325, 348, 405, 421. Sea Islands, 525, Sierra Leone, 329. Tobago, 60, 541. Trinidad, 8, 92, 20: 297, 364. U.S., 136. — — Virgin Islands, 341. = -— West Africa, 329. Indies, 81, 133, 165, 197, 242; 261, 277; 325, 344, 369, 389, 421. —, Notes on, 133, 149, 375. amphlet on, 185, 437 Cotton, Egyptian, in West Indies, 117, 332. , emergency grants from B.C.G.A., 344. — experiments, suggestions for, 133. -— expertsand the West Indies, 300, 385, -—, recommendations, 370. —, exports from Alexandria, 124, 364. — — Barbados, 124, 136, 152. British Colonies, 24. India, 380. West Africa, 380. Charleston, 60. Cuba, 76. Egypt, 188. Grenada, 57, Jamaica, 204. Montserrat, 133. Nevis, 204. Peru, 364. St. Vincent, 268. — — West Indies, 204, 236, 245, 252, 268, 284, 300, 316, 3 348, 364, 380, 396, 412, 428. — factory, Barbados, 40, 186. —, Grenada. 165. —, St. Vincent, 85, 117, 140, 184, 186. —, freight rates on, 101. — ginneries in the West as —, ginning and picking, —, grading, 359. —, half-wild varieties, improvement. of, 102. —, Indian, improvement of, 149. 360. —, lectures, 72, 101, 184, 200. —, —, Antigua, 408. — —, Barbados, 216, 236, 359,)- St. Vincent, 296, 332. Tortola, 268. 417. —, Charleston, 405. —, New York, 254. — quoseiions in public telegrams , 60, 88, 104, 17 -; Nevis, value a 188 — pests at Antigua, 24. — Barbados, 426. —, boll weevil, Mexican, 12, 188, 204, 296, 298, 332, 346. —, eradication of, 183. —, leaf-blister mite, 264, 266. - market, — —, — — in Montserrat, 42, 53, 76, 154. - ; St. Vincent, 394 = —, stainer, 218. — —, worm, 26, 82, 130, 330. , -— and Paris green, 281. — in British Honduras, 69. , St. Vincent, 101, picking, 375, 405. — by hand, Nevis, 28. = machine, 108, 412. —, St. Vincent, 284, 293. —, sale of, legislation in St. Baws 2 Vincent, 65, 153.| - Cotton, Sea Island, 229. 130, 357. —, —, conditions for planting, 101. — in relation to Lites of Upland, 418. ——, market price, 417, 418. —, production in the West! Sinaia: 2935 ? dos, 124. t) 129, 149. seed as manure, 393. — by-products, 5. cake, adulteration of, 21. 101, Cotton = — — and meal, 213. = —, crushed, 108. = —, disinfecting, 117, 149. — disintegrator at St. Kitt’s, —, distribution in Grenada, Jamaica, 22 236. 44, 236, St. Lucia, Pel and molasses for 262. stock, oil industry in Austria, a — India, 153. ; Sea its sland, 1904, 130. —, selection of, 309, 3D9, 375. —, supply of, 85. , twist, natural in, —, Upland variety in West Indies, 182. market price, 417. alive 3, 69, 117, 1: 359. ) Ww est Indian in England, 29 309, —, world’s production of fine grades, Cousins, H. H., analysis of banana meal and farine, 427. —, cassava industry in Jamaica, — starch, 150, 162. ) 349, ) ,;—, composition of pine-apples and man-| gos, 4. —, Jamaica soils, 5 — sugar for preserves, 506. Job’s tears as a poultry food, nitrification, 110. , Teport on agricultural science at Har- 9 » rison College, Is), -—, seedling canes in Jamaica, 284. —, sugar-cane experiments in Jamaica, 227. —, thymol for horses, 157. Cow pea as green dressing, 149. Crabs, land, and carbon bisulphide, 139. Crops, diversification in West Indies, 85. Crotolaria retusa, 395, 412. Croton, ‘ Princess of Waies,’ 211. Crustacean from Trinidad, 380. Cuba, cotton cultivation in, 421. ; — experiments, 12. —, crops in, 105. —, department of agriculture, 204. 76. —, exports of cotton, 357.| 4%)! —, compared with Upland, market) —, shipments from Barba-| variety for West Indies, | 0.) 245.) for planting in| i | Cuba, imports of rubber, 28. -, Sugar industry in, 32 22, —, sugar-cane experiments in, 179. : — seedlings from, 194. —, U.S. concession to, 131. Cuscusta sp., destruction in Trinidad, 185, Custard apple, 6. Cutting, E. M., and Science Tripos, Cam- bridge, 236. Cycloneda sanguinea, 90. Cyprus, introduction of machinery, 284. -, scale insects, 122. D. Dacryodes hexandra, mountain gommier, 155. '@Albuquerque, J. P., analysis of sweet potato meal, 263. —, report on cassava starch, 137, 152. -, Sugar-cane experiments at Barbados, 146, 162, 338, 354. | Danish West Indies, in, 249. | Date palms for arbor day planting, 347. — fruit from Trinidad, 332. — in India, 295. | Tiree Stramonium, 358. grasses and cattle 5) Demonstration farm, value of, 200. Department publications, 399. Diaprepes spengleri, 394. Dichopsis Gutta, gutta-percha tree, 25. | Dictionary of Economic Products of India, 380. Diseases of plants, citrus trees, 199. - — —, English potato, 199. = = —, Gumea corm im Madras, 201. — == —, tobacco, 199. — = —, treatment of, 209. Divi-divi, demand for, 252. — from Maracaibo, 332. Dolichos Lablab, as green dressing, 153. Dominica agricultural school, 27, 235, 247, 263. = —sshowsnlas Olen oie —~ — society, 12, 108, 227. — and Royal Horticultural Society Exhibition, 380. —, arbor day at, 390, 403. — Botanic Station, 44. —, bread-fruit from, 396. — —, reports on, 267. — cacao, experiments with shade trees and manures, 25. —, yield of dry and wet, cassava starch from, 152. crop prospects, 57. essential oils, export duties on, exports of, 169. 246, b] by 156. , fish oils from, 233, 294. — fruit, Royal Horticultural Show, — for London exhibitions, 428. 404. Dominica, fumigating chambers at, 138. ’ t=} t=) —, — imported plants, ordinance for, 297. + gommier resin from, —, insect pests in, 314. = , botanic station, 42. —, ine trees, spraying, 312, 514. —, orange cultivation in, 340. — pine-apples in London, 244, 280. + report on, 24%. rainfall at, 173. shipping facilities at, sulphur, 60, 396. vanilla beans from, 172. , woolly pyrol in, 348. Downs Maltese, 119. Drugs, 7. Dysdercus andreae, 90. Dysentery and diarrhcea, cause of, 139. Duerden, J. E., study of living corals in Hawaiian Islands, 300. Dunstan, Professor W., artificial vanilla, 103. —, cotton cultivation in the British Em- pire and Egypt, 197. —-, report on sea moss, 152. Dutch India, exports of, 265. Is¥y, BJ 315, E. Earle, F. S., banana and cultivation in Porto Nico, 356. —, cotton industry in Cuba, 421. . Porto Rico, —, scale insects on cocoa-nuts, 346. East Africa, cotton industry in, 342. —, ground nuts in, 377. —, notes from, 342. East Indies, Dutch, cacao cultivation in, 313. Ebony, Barbados, 151. Editorials :— | Agricultural Education in Trinidad, 1193: | Agricultural Industries of Indies, The, 141. Agricultural Shows, 97. Barbados and Porto Rico Molasses, 17. Barbados Fruit Trade, 113. Bee-keeping Industry in Jamaica, 337. Cacao Industry in the West Indies, The, 305. Cotton Ginneries 65. Cotton Industry, 81. Cotton Market, The, 417. Fish-curing Industry at Barbados, 49. Fumigation of Imported Plants, 225. Minor Industries at Barbados, 177. Onion Cultivation, 289. Picking and Ginning Cotton, 1. Prospects of the Cotton Crop in the West Indies, 369. eae of Bananas from Barbados, 95 in the West Indies, pine-apple, the West Editorials (Continued) -— | Entomology in Hawaii, 234. Sisal Hemp Industry and the West Epsom salts, remedy for scalds and burns, Indies, The, 321. Islands, 145. Trade in Cassava Products, 161. Treatment of Plant Diseases, 209. Trinidad Fruit Trade, Visit of Cotton Experts to the West Indies, The, 385. 353, 401. West Indian Cotton, 129. Wind-breaks or Shelter-belts, 273. Eelworms in tobacco, 86. Education, Agricultural :-— at, 188. In Barbados, 24, 119, 188, 280. — British Guiana, 172, 251, 268. Dominica, agricultural school, 3h Germany, 300. Jamaica, 45, 187. Sieluciawwaol: —, agricultural school, 221. St. Vincent, 235, 563. —, Berbice, 316. Bermuda, 109. —, British Honduras} 76. —, Jamaica, 45, 76. Nature teaching, 331, 350. School agricultural shows in Trinidad, 193. gardens, 286. and arbor day, U.S., at Barbados, 119. — Grenada, 221, 23 D. Antigua Grammar School, scholarships = -, agricultural school, 187,| 263. —— Drinidadeliiaosees4. ol 7. | | | West Indian Agricultural Conference, Exhibition, 9) | |—, international food, 117. Sugar-cane Experiments in the Leeward Eriophyes gossypii, 53, 154, 594. Erythrina Corallodendron, 395. Essential oils, —, export duties in Dominica, 156. — in plants, 326. ‘Eugenia uniflora, Surinam cherry, 167. 3arbados industrial, 412 — local agricultural, 412. 156, 364, 409. ’ , Colonial and Indian, -, Grenada local, 412. at the Crystal Palace, 350. — horticultural in Edinburgh, 276. , Liverpool, of colonial products, 76. —, Royal Horticultural Society’s, colonial fruit 276, 312, 388, 404. Exochomus nitidulus 90. Exophthalmus spengieri, 39+. Exports and rainfall, 361. of EF: Lectures to teachers, Antigua, 108, $11. Falkland Islands, agriculture in, 249. Farm implements, care of, 41. ‘Fawcett, Wm., Guide to Castleton Gar- dens, Jamaica, 299. -, report on Jamaica Public Gardens and Plantations, 411. ‘Federated Malay States, cocoanut culti- vation, 284. Feilden, H. W., Caribs in Tobago, 12. WO ‘Ferns, West Indian, — in relation to agricultural Fish-curing factory at Barbados, os — — &, imei, Os, We 251, 268. — — — Tobago, 363. — — — Trinidad, 59. shows, 98. —, laying out, 187. —, tools for, 187. — nature study, 59. Education, Educational, University of London Degtee| in science for Colonial Candidates,| 419. |\Eggs, age of, 202. —, condensed, 115. ‘Egypt, Barbados banana suckers for, —, cotton cultivation in, 197. — exports from, 188. —, — manuring in, 325. —, ground nuts in, 300. —, lawn grasses in, 238. —, onion cultivation, 295. Elaeis guineensis, in Lagos, 361, Electroculture, 156, ? technical, in agriculture, +29.| Fishlocs Wes | | | | Fer-de- lance: at St. Lucia, 163. 36. Fibre plants, perc — in Mauritius, 297. — Mexico, 154. vegetable, at Madagascar, 380. Fibres, |Fiji, pine-apple cultivation in, 292. Fire-flies in Antigua, 108. 43, 49, 104. — manure, production of, 315, — oils from Dominica, 233, 294. —, production of, 315. cotton erop in Virgin Tslands, d41. Fleming, JM., sugar-cane seedling 5. 208 in British Guiana, 180. Florida, avocado pear in, 311. Foaden, G.P., consumption and supply of cotton, 405. —, improvement of cotton by seed selee- tion, 69. —, Notes on Egyptian agriculture, 299. ‘Fodder grasses for West Africa, 168. - plants in cocoa-nut plantations, 217. Forest reservations in Hawaii, 189. — Tobago, 58. — resources of Trinidad, 9, 439 Forestry in Hong-kong, 301. — West Africa, 393. Forests, utility of, 134. France, destruction of rats and mice, Fraxinus chinensis, white wax from, Freeman, W.G., Nature Teaching, French Guinea, exports of rubber, 204. —, trade of, 88. — Indo-China, pepper cultivation, 332. 299. 99 Oot. — West Indies, sugar industry in, 291. Fruit as food, 68. —, carriage of, 84. —, economic relation of birds to, 299.) food value of, 4. gathering for market, 212. grading and packing, 52. rowing in Jamaica, 100. — Mexico, 116. — Porto Rico 264. handling and packing, 181. imports into the U.S.A., 340. Jamaica, in Baltimore, 188. marketing, 308. picking and packing, 3 selection for export, 132. , temperate, in West Indies, trade, Bahamas, 260. —, Barbados, 86, 115. —, Trinidad, 33. trees, ants on, 330. —, road-side planting of, 4153. Trinidad for London exhibition, 388. tropical, in England, 52. o fo) 29 v=. —, West Indian in Canada, 286, 302, 350, 382, 397. A London, 244. United Kingdom, 268. -, wrapping, 343, Fungi and plant diseases, 209. — scale insects, 325. —, insect-attacking, 135. Fungicides, 214. —, preparation of, 210. Fungoid pests, cacao, 281. Fungus parasites, rendering plants im- mune against, 56. Funtumia elastica, in Gold Coast Colony, Fusarium of English potato, 199. — tobacco, 199. G. Galba tree, 215, 332. —, as wind-break, 274. Gambia, cotton cultivation in, 341. —, exports of, 554. —, ground nut cultivation in, 323. Gardner, F.D., Annual report Porto Rico Agricultural Experiment Station, 349. —, cotton in Porto Rico, 389. Garton, Hill & Co., cassava for glucose manufacture, 148, 162. |Germany, exports of sugar from, 402. 381.1- Geology and agriculture, 3. Gilzean, A.R., Agricuiture in Peru, 3. finger, cultivation in Central African) Protectorate, 28. - in London market, 30, 61 jSmelI0! 238) 269; 3025 3: 414. --, Jamaica, 8. 'Gliricidia maculata, shade for cacao, 135.| Glucose manufacture, cassava for, 148. —, preparation from cassava flour, 162. Goa, exports of mangos from, 412. Goat keeping, 77, 421. Goats, in Mexico, 421. — — Malta, 135. Gold Coast, agriculture in, 281. —, cotton cultivation in, 309. —, rubber cultivation in, 355. Gommier resin, 255. Gossypium barbadense Grapes, gathering for market, 212. —, growing, in Brazil, 345. —- Jamaica, 169. . — §t. Kitt’s, 156. Grasses, anatomy of the leaves of British, 374. Great Britain’s orange supply, 42 Green dressing, woolly pyrol, 153. Grenada, agricultural society, 178. —, arbor day celebration, 214, 252 —, Asparagus plumosus at, 172. —, black blight in, 234. —, Botanic Station, yam potato experiments at, 140. —, bullet wood tree at, 156. cacao brown rot in, 44. exports of, 300, 305, 360. manurial experiments, 12 2299 aeedid y ) and sweet} ? ? 347. cotton 389. soil, analysis of, 46. cultivation, 360, 369, factory, 165. — ginnery, 66, 548, 364. exports from, 57, 360. lavas, 158. local exhibition, 412. mangos in New York, 265. Monodora tenuifolia, 124. onion cultivation in, 124. orange trade with Barbados, 60. report on Botanic Station, etc., — insect pests, 218. school gardens in, 221, 235. stock sale in, 124, 157. thrips on cacao, 10, 90. Ground dove in Jamaica, 188. — nuts as green manure, 424. —, cultivation in East Africa, id (i. 3: o 2 — — Egypt, 300. — Gambia, 323: —, planting, 140. Guadeloupe Jaborandi, 94. —, sugar industry in, 201. Guatemala, rubber industry, 316, Guava, as a weed, 229. \Guinea corn, diseases of, 201. - grass, machine for cutting, 21. H. Haematoxy] plant, 2: Halifax, banana trade at, 397, —, imports of molasses, 92. Hall, A.D., The Soil, 11. Hall, Maxwell, Meteorolegy of Jamaica, 219. Hard-woods, trade in Jamaica, 414. Harford, C.F., Hints on outfit for travel- lers in tropical countries, 27. Harries, H., Argan nuts, 279. Harris, T. J., superintendent of public gardens, Bermuda, 188. -, school gardens, 286. Harrison, J. B., British Guiana board of agriculture, 29. —, cotton cultivation in British Guiana, 309, 389. —, experiments in planting cocoa-nuts, 378. on campechianun, as a hedge 2) -, Grenada lavas, 158. —, rum as an illuminant and source of power, 226. -, sugar-cane experiments in Guiana, 66, 73, 82, 290, 307. Hart, J.H., crustacean from Trinidad, 380. —, date palm, fruiting of, 332. ~, report on Barbados and St. Vincent cotton factories, 186. = — — Trinidad botanical depart- ment, 253. Hawaiian Islands, agriculture in, 329. entomology in, 234. pine-apples in, 340. plant diseases in, 154. report on experiment station, British = —, sugar-cane cultivation, 152. = =, — leaf hopper, 154, 170. seedlings in, 386. , D.117 in, 130. 7. Hay, corn stalks as, 102. Hayti, cotton cultivation in, 216. —-, exports of, 313. Head, Brandon, ‘ The food of the gods,’ Hedge plants, 233. Hemenway, H.D., How to make school gardens, 235. Hemp trade in the Bahamas, 260. Hering, C.J., Overizicht van de culturge- wasssen en Boschproducten in de kolonie Suriname, 299. Hevea brasiliensis, 355, 425. Hibiscus Abelmoschus, 93. Guaiac wood, oil of, 7. - Sabdariffa, 167. 440 Holaniara picescens, 154. Honduras, banana cultivation, 220, 252, 396. Hong-kong, forestry in, 301. Horse breeding in Jamaica, 120. — nicker seeds, 212. — sickness and mosquitos, 124. —, use of thymol for worms in, 157, Hudson, G.S., leave of absence, 171. —, resumption of duties, 333. Hunt, G.W., and fish-curing industry at Barbados, 49. Hura crepitans, 82. Hurricane, Jamaica, and exports, 108. Hybridization, 73. Hydrocyanic acid 74, 226. Hyoscyamus niger, 75. gas and fumigation, Iboga, 76. Iguanas from Montserrat, Imperial Department of ed iculture and British Cotton-growing | Association, Bon - — — — — cotton industry, PMT — — — —, review of work of, 317. — Direct West Indian Mail Service, 314. inported plants, fumigation of, 225, 297. India, 380. ’ —, Columbian cassavas for, —, date palms in, 295. —, sugar-cane experiments in, India-rubber, exports from Bahia, Madagascar, 140. cotton exports to Great Britain, — seed oil industry, 153. ; 35. 115. 324. 348, 3 , substitute for, Indian beeswax, 529. Indigo, natural versus artificial, 57 Indo-China, production of rubber, 236. Inga laurina, as a wind-break, 274. Insecticides, carbon bisulphide, 29. dry powder gun, 250. the auto-spray, 250. Insect pests :— Ants and fruit trees, 350. — —— onions, 289, 316. Banana weevil in Madagascar, Beetle borer in Java, 154. Black blight in Grenada, 254. — grub or cnt worm, 250. Brown ant in Porto Rico, 282 Cacao tree, ak ’ 0) a4. oy Cockroaches, 122. Cotton, boll ai 12, 188, 204, 296, 298, 332, 3406. — leaf-blister mite, 42, 76, 154, 264, 266. — stainer, 218. — worm 24, 26, 281, 330, J. Jackson, J. R.,West Indian Products, 30, 61, 94, 102, 125, 173, 190, 238, 269, Insect pests (Continued) :— Dust spraying, 236. Hel worms in St. Vincent, 283. Fiddler beetle of the orange, 266. | - Fumigation of imported plants, 74, 138,) — DDD: Antigua, 24, 314. - Cyprus, 122. — Dominica, 42, 514. | Montserrat, 330. Nevis, 282. -—— St. Kitt’s, 282. St. Lucia, 42, 298. — St. Vincent, 202, 410. Kelep and cotton boll weevil, 346. Lady-birds, 90, 106, Longicorn beetle on rubber trees, 42. Mealie grub, 138, Mole crickets and chicken hawk, 218. Mosquitos and kerosene oil and soap,| 428 —— tropical diseases, 157, 166,! 183, 292. 172. , destruction in Antigua, 412. Orange pest in Porto Rico, 394. Parasol ant and carbon bisulphide, in Tobago, 124, 204. Paris green and London purple, 170. at St. Kitt’s-Nevis, 7TH. Scale insects and fungi, 325. — — in Dominica, 314. — — — Montserrat, 220. — — on cocoa-nuts, 346. Sugar cane beetle-borer in Java, L154. — borer in British Guiana, 426. leaf-hopper in Hawaii, 154, 170. Thrips on cacao, 10, 90, 218. onions, 202. 10, 2 284. Ticks, 28, 129, 247, 362. Tsetse fly and sleeping sickness, Toads and insects, Insect structures, some peculiar, 10, Insects and tropical diseases, 166, —, useful, Grenada maribunta, 170. parasitie and predaceous, 106. Ipomoea Bona-Nox (Calonyction specio- sum), 181. Iquitos, rubber cultivation in, 188. Ismailia, mosquitos and malaria in, Italy, orange and lemon crops, 188, Ivory nut palm, buttons manufactured from fruits, 108. 2) 362. 292, 302, 334, 365, 414. Jaffa, export of oranges from, 516. — sweet potatos in Barbados,) — Jamaica, agricultural shows, 284, 413. — society, 140. . -—— teaching, 45. Albizzia Lebbek, 151. — and Colonial and Indian exhibition, 364. -, arbor day celebrations in, bananas, Chinese, in, 260. —, —, exports of, 108. — hee keepers’ association, 357. bee-keeping industry, 22, 337. — bees’-wax, exports of, 337, —, botanical laboratory, 38. —, cacao, exports, 305. — cassava industry, 349. — meal, 148. -— starch, 44, 105, 118, 137, 150, 161. —, castor oil plants, cultivation of, 172. 187, 284: |—, citrus fruit, 164 ? —, —— oil industry, 372. —, cocoa-nut planting, 3, 60, 108. — coffee, 153. —, cold storage company, 316. —, cotton cultivation, 140, 183, 158, 204, 26, 2935 328Ns485 369 amos 389, 405, 414. —, —, distribution of seed, 172, 256. —, -— experts in, 424. —; — ginning, 66, 197. —, — Egyptian from, 332 — — seed for, 44. —, English fruit in, 396. —, exports from, 8, 153, 380, 409. fiddler beetle in orange plantations, 266. — fruit industry, 100. — picking and packing, fumigation of imported plants, government laboratory, 249. = — reformatory, 252. grape cultivation in, 169. —, ground dove in, 188. — honey, exports of, 337. horse breeding in, 120. hurricane and exports, LOS. —, lectures to teachers, 45, 76. —, mango in, 132. —, minor industries in, 4, —, nutmegs, grafted in, 124. —, oil of ben from, 150. —, onion cultivation, 253. , pineapple cultivation, 164. hybridization at Hope Gar- dens, 420. prize holdings’ scheme, 300. prison farm, experiments at, 20, 124. public gardens and plantations, 107, 411. —, research laboratory at, —, rubber cultivation in, 293. -— rum, protection of, 428. sheep industry, 172, 206. soils, 57. sugar and preserves, 306. go Jamaica, agricultural scholarships at, 187. sugar-cane industry, 34, 284, 403. 441 Jamaica, sugar-cane experiments in, 211, -, -— seedlings in, 284, 419. — tea, 180. — tobacco industry, 286, 300, 545, 376, 379, 392, 425. —, travellers’ tree in, 60. Jatropha Cureas, oil from, 376. Java, exports of, 219. sugar-cane beetle borer in, 154. — — experiment stations, 71. Jimson weed, 358. Job’s Tears, analysis of seeds, 242. as famine food, 275. —, — poultry food, 342. Jones, J., leave of absence, 203. —, resumption of duties, 407. Jordan, A.J., cotton cultivation in serrat, 213, 341. —, — leaf-blister mite, 42. Juniper cedar, 232. b] ? Mont- K. Kaolin in St. Kitt’s, 245. Kapok, 188, 426. Kerner, The Natural History of Plants, 91. Kindt, Ludwig, Die kultur des kakao- baumes und seine shadlinge, 11. Kirby, A.H., lectures on tropical hygiene,| 411. | Knowles, C.H., agricultural superintend- ent at Fiji, 349. —, report on Georgetown district, Vincent, 60. Kobus, J.D., Improvement of the sugar-| cane by chemical selection, 19. Kola nuts, preparation for market, 412. — —, West Indian in London mar- ket, 30, 76, 94, 102, 125, 173, 190, 238, 302, 334, 365, 414. St. L. Lagos, agriculture in, 25. —, cacao cultivation, 56. —, exports from, 377. —, palm oil tree products from, 361. Lavas, notes on Grenada, 158. Lawn grasses in Egypt, 238. — mowings, utilization of, 213. Lecture experiments, 310. Lectures to teachers, (see Education). Leeward Islands, agricultural scholarships, iil — —, — improvements, 41, —, cotton cultivation, acre- age in, 389. —, Paris green and cotton worm, — /—, unslacked, and Paris green, 197, _— , Sugar-cane experiments, 145. Lemon crop in Italy, 188. — Sicily, 396. Lemon grass at Antigua, 60. = oil % - from Montserrat, 361. — peel, pickling, 234. — trade in Sicily, 4. Lemons, composition of, 228. —, exports from Sicily, 324. —, imports into U.S.A., 340. —, utilization of damaged in Sicily, 188. Leucaena glauca, 374, 395. Lewton Brain, L., anatomy of the leaves of British grasses, 374. —, lectures on diseases of the sugar-cane 2B), Title —, visit to Dominiea, 301. — St. Lucia, 301. 3 — — St. Vincent, 171, 285. Liberia, vegetable products of, 201. Lime juice in London market, 94, 125, 173, 190, 302, 365. — industry in West Indies, 242. — trees, Montserrat, scale insects on, 220. —, shelter belts for, 273. —, spraying in Dominica, 312, ? 314. 281. Limes, seedless, 36. —, West Indian in Canada, 125. Lizards, exterminators of rats, 371. Lloyd, F.E., Dominica botanic station, 44. Loders & Nucoline, cocoa-nut planting in} West Indies, 36. Lodoicea sechellarum, 156, £29. Logwood as a hedge plant, 233. London purple and Paris green, 170. — show of colonial fruit, 276. Lotus lily, 427. Louisiana, sugar-cane seedlings in, 259. Love vine, destruction in Trinidad, Lucerne in Argentine, 151. Lucky beans, 388. Lunt, Win., death of 29, 93. 92,| Lydekker, R., African hairy sheep, 407. M. Mace, 30, 61, 94, 125, 173, 238, 269, 302, 334, 365, 414. Madagascar, banana weevil in, 122. —, exports of India-rubber from, 348. —, — — ratftia fibre from, 348. —, vegetable fibres in, 380. Madeira onions, exports to West Indies, 364. —,.Nandet process for extracting cane juice, 354. Madera shade tree, 135. Mahogany in England, 105. Malaria and mosquitos, 183, 292, —, cause of, 139. —, prevention of, 70, Malay States, pine-apple cultivation, 116. -, rubber cultivation in, 371. Malta, goats at, 135. Manacou in East Africa, 342, Mango, budding, 283. —, composition of, 4. , crop in Trinidad, 204. , exports from Goa, +12. -—, gathering for market, 212. —, Grenada in New York, 265. —, history of in Jamaica, 132. —— jam and Jamaican sugars, 307. — tree, fruiting in December, 428. Mangosteen, fruiting at Jamaica, 124. Mangrove bark industry, 156, —, Zanzibar and Pemba, 362. Manila hemp, classification and uses, 327. —, cultivation of, 327. -—, extraction of fibre, 201, 327. Manjak from Trinidad, 105. Mansfield, A.L., Assistant Instructor in Agriculture, British Guiana, 348. Manson, Sir Patrick, disease problem in the West Indies, 139, 157, 166, 198. Manures, green, duration of effect, 252. —, —, ground nuts for, 424. —, pen, preserving of, 268. Maple sugar, origin of, 163. Maracaibo, divi-divi from, 332. Market reports, 14, 31, 47, 62, 78, 95, 111, 126, 142) 1159; 174; 191, 2075 222) 239, 25d 2710; 287, a0dq oles 335, 351, 366, 383, 398, 415, 430. Marr, J.E., Geology in relation to Agri- culture, 3. Marseilles, oil seed trade, 312. Martinique, exports from, 408. —, sugar industry in, 291. Massee, G., The Evolution of Plant Life, OT. Mauritius, Curepipe Gardens, 140. —-, exports from, 396. —, fibre plants in, 297. —, sugar-cane varieties in, 325, Maxwell, W., Maceration and extraction of sugar, 370. Meaden, C.W., molaseuit as stock food, 387, --, mule-breeding in Trinidad, 99. Meat, preservation of, 114. Medicinal plants, exhibit at Louisiana exposition, 167. Megilla maculata, 90. Melo-coton, 316, 411. Mesembryanthemum Tripolium, 135. Metric system, 59, 124. Mexico, fibre plants in, 154. —, fruit growing in, 116. goat raising in, 421. —, sisal hemp exports from, 251. Mice, destruction of, 299. Milk flour, 92. — in relation to temperature, 76. —, variation in composition, 9. Millen, H., bamboos as wind-breaks, 516, cotton crop in Tobago, 341. ? 2 Millen, H., school gardens in Tobago, 363. Mimosa pudica in cocoanut plantations, 217. Mimusops globosa, balata, 25, 156. Minor industries at Barbados, 86, 177. — of West Indies, 9. products, selection, ete. for agri-— cultural shows, 254. Mitchell, L.R., cotton gimnery in Gren- ada, 564. Molaseuit, 12. and Trinidad stock farm, 387. exports from British Guiana, 44. in Canada, 13, 60. , manufacture of, 131, 370. , variations in, 268. Molasses and cotton seed meal for stock, 387. , Barbados and Porto Rico, 17, —, exports from Barbados, 348. imports into Halifax, 92. industry in Porto Rico, 245. , short supply in markets, 92. West Indian in Canada, 13, 35, 125, 206; 22:1, 286; 202; 350, 382, 397. Monazite a= =—T ’ 149) 373. — cultivation, =, — ginnery, 66. —, Insect pests, 282. New Orleans, imports of sisal hemp, 307. Nicaragua, ‘Madera’ shade tree at, 135. Nicholls, H. A. A., Dominica Agricultur-, ist, 381. 3.9% : — exports from, 1638. ) BDS, 34.92 36034— (Olivieri, F. E., Nitrate, exports from Chili, 348, Nitrification, notes on, 110. Nitrogen amd bacteria bile — plants, 93, 151. —, atmospheric REN of, 279, 343. |Nutmegs, exports from Grenada, 57, 360. grafted in Jamaica, 124. West Indian in London market, 30,. 61, 94, 173, 238, 269, 302, 334, 365, 415 Nutmeg tree, 374. Nutrition, principles of, 71. Nuts as food, 68, O. ‘Ocimum viride, 58. ‘Oliver, E. Lomas, cotton picking, 405, —, — Teconmmendanione ré, 370. —; — in West Indies, 360, 361, 371, 385, 391, 424, 428. Professor F. W., T he Natural History a Plants, 91. A treatise on Cacao, 61. Oil of ben, 150, 249. — seed bade of Marseilles, ‘Onion gulbivation, 289. Antigua, 104, 242. Barbados, 86, 178, 189. Egypt, 295. Grenada, 124. Jamaica, 253. Madeira, eee Montserrat, — seed, 40, 56, 104, 480, 396. —, germination of, 10, 12 I 3 ‘Onions and ants, 316. Antigua, in British Guiana, 253. —, bacterial rot of, 245. —, thrips attacking, 10, 202. —, transplanting, 290. Ontario, crop report, 24. Orange, an abnormal, 55. — crop in Italy, 188. - cultivations, fiddler beetle attacking, 266. — leaves, essence of, 204. -— peel, pickling, 234. Oranges, composition of, -, cultivation in Cuba, 228. 540. =; = Dominica, 105. — — Porto Rico, 264, 372, bod, 404. |—, exports from Jaffa, ur — —_— -— Sicily, 324 —, — = Weilleanth Baa Denia, 316,. Great Britain’s supply, 425. —, handling and packing, 20, 181, 260. _, trade between Grenada and Barbados, , 60. Orchard, controlling soil moisture in, 295, - culture, experiments in, 326. Ormosia dasycarpa, 183, 395. Oroxylon indicum at Barbados, 100. Pe Pachyrhizus tuberosus, 109. Pahang, exports and imports, 284. Paint, a cheap, 74. Palm nut cracking machine, 362. Panama hats, manufacture of, 310. Pandanus, support for vanilla, 410. Papain industry in Montserrat, 252. Papaw, change of sex, 124. Para, rubber cultivation in, — rubber, 235, 371. — seeds, utilization of, 73. Paraguay, cotton cultivation in, 309. Paris green and London purple, 170. —, application of, 168, 281. -— for Leeward Islands, 197. —, supply of, 120. Passiflora edulis, flowering and fruiting of, 146, 190, 342. Paternoster peas, 183. Patterson, W. H., curator 123. Pear, Avocado, 187, 212, 236. Pearl fishery, 109. Peasant proprietors in Demerara, 84. Pemba, mangrove bark industry of, Peppers, bird, demand for, +28. ~—, cultivation in French Indo-China, 332. Perfumes, manufacture of, 43. Perkinsiella saccharicida, 154, Persea gratissima, 187, 311. Peru, agriculture in, 3. —, cocaine manufacture in, 236. —, exports of cotton, 364. Petroleum from Trinidad, 89 —— resources of West Indies, 409. Philippine Islands, cocoa-nut cultivation in, 132. —, insects of the cacao tree, 546. —, manila hemp cultivation, 327. —, Panama hats from, 60. —, pine-apple fibre industry, 166. —, ylang-ylang oil from, 364. Phoenix dactylifera for arbor day planting, 347. Physic-nut oil, 376. Phytelephas macrocarpa, 108. Pigs, Tamworth, in Trinidad, 19. Pilocarpus microphyllus, 94. Pimenta oil, 7 Pimento sticks, 316. —, West Indian in London market, 94, 190, 238, 269, 302, 334, 365, 414. Pine-apples, composition of, +4. —, cultivation in Fiji, 292. Hawaii, 340. Jamaica, 164. Malay States, 116. Porto Rico, 359. Queensland, 372. St. Lucia, 300. OYs 4 at Antigua, 362. exports from St. Lucia, ; — — West Indies, 242 , Dominica, 248, 280. , fibre from, 166. —, gathering for market, 212, 244, /Plant study, 375. 30, |- ‘Porto Rico, bananas in, Pine-apples, hybridization, 420. , imports into U.S.A., 340. —, packing and shipping, 280. , Ripley variety, 204. -, Slices in syrups from Jamaica sugars, 307. -, tinning, 164. , Tobago, 156, 356. West Indian in Canada, Piheeelaneamn filicifolium, — Saman in Trinidad, 151. — Unguis-cati, 395. ~ Plantain fibre, 201. Plant diseases, dégénérescence graisseuse, 332. —, in Hawaii, 154. —, marasmius, 23. | 125: 374. Plants and fungus parasites, 56. | — nitrogen, 151. — as analytical agents, 425. diseased, 92. essential oils in, 326. fumigation of imported, 74, 138. liqnid food for house, 75. number to the acre, 68. propagation by leaves, 123. —, protection of native, 121. Poe doux, as a wind-break, 274. Pollination, 51. Polybia occidentalis, 170. Pomegranate, 167. Pondicherry, exports of, 204. , vanilla in, 169. 356. brown ant in, 282. —, cotton cultivation in, 37, 261, 389. —, fruit growing in, 264. —, molasses, 17, 18, 245. —, orange industry, 372, 252 B94, —, pines in, 356. —, report on agricultural experi- ment station, 349. —, scale insects on cocoa-nuts, 346, — —, sugar and molasses industries, 243. — —, tobacco experiments in, 268, 345, Potato starch, demand in Vienna, 396. Potatos, English, disease of 199. —, experiments in West Indies, 242. , returns in Great Britain, 124. -——, seed from, 120. : —, selection for planting, 44. ct —, Sweet, analysis of, 330. —, as stock food, 330. experimentsin Dominica, 247. ‘4 Montserrat, 172 b) Poultry, eggs in Bermuda, 266. —, Job’s tears as food for, 342. —, notes on, 214, 331, 343. , pens for exhibiting at shows, , turkeys, breeding, 343. —, water supply, Powell, H., in British East Africa, 134. —, notes on British East Africa, 342. Products, careful preparation of, 235. Prosopis pallida, Algarrobilla, 195. Pteris aquilina, leaf structure and envir- onment, 215. Punica granatum, the pomegranate, 167. B95. Q. Queensland, agriculture in, -, bananas in, 372. —, coffee in, 9. pine-apple in, 372. —, sisal hemp in, 166. West Indian seedling canes in, 259. Quinine and rinderpest, DOL. 180, 76. R. Rabbit pee in the West Indies, 246, 262, , 294. Rabbits, Aaa 118, 392. breeds for West Indies, ses of, 203, 294. 230, 2 230. —, dise: —, feeding, 278. honsing, 246. -—, water for, 278. Ratta fibre, 92. —, exports from Madagascar, 348. Rainfall and exports, 361. Ramie, mantles for incandescent lamps, 12. Rats, cleared from a garden by lizards, 371. , destruction of, 299. tavenala madagascariensis, 12, £0, 60, 342. Red sorrel, 167. tedding, R. J., Reports :— Antigua Botanic Station, ete., 333. Barbados and Porto Rico molasses, 29. British Guiana Board of Agriculture, 29) fruiting of, Cotton Culture, 141. 285. Moruca — , Botanic Gardens, —-, Pomeron and districts, 189. British Honduras, Botanic Station, 255. Dominica Botanic Station, ete, 267. Grenada Botanic Station, ete., 333, Hawaii, 349. Jamaica, Public Gardens and Planta-~ -, from Barbados, 316. —, meal from, 263. —, —, thrips in Barbados, 284. 99 wey Poultry, 6, 428. \— diseases, 28, 30, 122, 214, 342, tions, 107, 411. Leeward Islands sugar-cane ments, 138, Montserrat Botanic Station, ete., 267. experi- 444 Reports (Continued) — Porto Rico, 349. St. Kitt’s-Nevis Botanic Station, ete., 301. St. Lucia Botanic Station, ete., 267. ‘Vincent Botanic Station, ete., 285. Tin.ad wotanical Department, 253. Virgin Islands, experiment station, 285. Research Jaboratory, Jamaica, 92. Resurrection plants, 135. Rice, analysis of husk ash, 204. —, cultivation in British Guiana, 121, US; 215: ; — in Jamaica, 12, 414. Ricinus communis, 203, Rowntree & Co., samples of cacao from, 356. Royal Horticultural Society, centenary, 124. ~~ Mail Steam Packet Company, 185, Rubber, African, 543. —, aluminium cups for tapping, Castilloa in Dominica, 57. —— Montserrat, 1 transplanting, 220. cultivation, Ceylon, 28, 250. Gold Coast colony, 555. Guatemala, 316. Tquitos, 188. Jamaica 295, Para, 425. Samoa, 190. —, Sierra Leone, 329. — Exports from British Honduras, , Congo Free State, 364. , French Guinea, 204. Baio aenbince, 281. , from corn oil, 77 —, imports into Cuba =, lame, Bal —, preparation of, 255 production in Indo-China, 236. 124. ? > ? 28, ? ? — seeds, Central American, packing for transport, 165, = a a = for 220). —, Para, utilization of, 73. — treatment of gutta-percha for shoes, 220. — trees, acclimatization in Ceylon, 28. — , longicorn beetle attacking, 42 Rum, as an illuminant and source of power, 226. —, Jamaica, protection of, 428, manufacture in Martinque, 291. ? Ss. St. Croix, agriculture in, 375. —, cane farming in, i40. central factories in, 188. sugar industry in, 268. St. Kitt’s, arbor day celebration, Barbados blackbirds at, 92, ? 590. 28.} distribution. | St. Kitt’s, Botanic Station, rainfall at,284. St. Vincent, report on Georgetown: —, cotton in, 5, 213, 341, 369, 389, 405,| district, 60. 421, | —, stock at, 108, 236. — — experts in, 386. |—-, trade with Grenada, 76. . —= — ginnery, 65, 236. /Saman in Trinidad and Jamaica, 151. —, grape vines in, 156. /Samao, copra in, 153, 420. kaolin in, 245. —, rubber cultivation in, 190, —, mosquitos and tropical diseases, 172. Sand box juice and blindness, 82. —, report on Botanic Station, etc., 301. Sands, W. N., and Antigua agricultural ~— — insect pests, 282. | society, 92. Ist. Lucia, agriculture in, 137, 308. —, agricultural superintendent in St. , agricultural education in, 351. Vincent, 77. == — school, 27, 156, 172, 221, 298. ——, report on Antigua Botanic Station, -- —- society, 262. | 333. bee keeping in, 22, 268, 338. = — cotton cultivation in St. bread-fruit meal from, 404 V incent, 32 ;—, cacao crop, 332. | Sapindus Saponaria, 395. — — diseases, 108, 281. Sarsaparilla in London market, 50, 61, a — experiments, 25, 94, 125, 173, 190, 269, 302, 334, 365 —: — exports, 305. | 414. —, cassava starch from, 412. ‘Scalds, remedies for, 117. —, Cassia Fistula from, 316 Scale insects (see Insect Pests). — cotton, 245. | School gardens (see Education). --, — cultivation, 44, 165, 357, 369,! Science and weather, 131. 389. | Seabrook, W. B., 29, 155. _ — emergency grant, 344. —, selection of cotton seed, 69. —, —— experts in, 385. | —, visit to Jamaica, 204. —, — ginnery, 65, 215. Sea Islands of South Carolina, 310. Fer-deance at, 163. |= — — — —-, cotton crop in, free importation of insecticide ingre- SBE BMG dients, etc., 364. Sealing wax palm, carnauba wax from, —, Insect pests at Botanic Station. 42.| IR4. 298. | Sealy, John, experiments with English ——, musk seed from, 516, | potatos at Barbados, 115. —, pimento sticks from, 516, | Sea-moss, utilization of, 8, 152. —, pineapple cultivation in, 300. | Sea-weed as manure, 9, 279, —, report on Botanic Station, ete., 267.) Sechium edule as a bee plant, 155. —, schooi gardens in, 108, 140, 251, 268. Seeds, germination of, 140. 300. —, ornamental, 395. —, vitality of, 75. St. Thomas, cotton cultivation in, —, shipments of dried fruits from, 252. St. Vincent, agricultural instruction in, Selaginella lepidophylla, 135. 363 Sensitive plant in cocoanut plantations, 263, 28 316. 4,4103)) ) 217 | Seychelles, vanilla in, 408. Shea butter, 168. | Sheep, African hairy, 407. - school, 27, i87. — show, 1399, 107, arrowroot, 217, 345. , bee-keeping in, , 92 Ja. , Belgian hares in, 220. | — industry in Jamaica, 172, 206. —. birds’ of, 21.6: | —, shipment of Barbados to U.S.A., 407. — Botanic Station, 43, 410. Shelter-belts or wind-breaks, 273. | — cacao industry, 306. | Shepherd, F.R., agricultural superintend- cotton, 284, 293. ent, St. Kitt’s, 93, | —, — cultivation in, 41, 268, 325, —, cotton crop in Anguilla, 357. De : = | 332, 369, 389, 405, 421. — Se Se Shy Ita BEI = — emergency grant, 344. | Sicily, citrus trade in, 324. —, — experts in, 386. | —, lemon crop in, 396. — — factory, 101, 117, 140, 184,)—, —— trade of, 4. 186 Sierra Leone bananas in London market, . 1 ~~ | = ginnery, 66, 5). | 20. — ‘Growers’ Association, 261,/— —, cotton and other crops in, 329. O13, d48. Silk cotton for Canada, 173. 5 leat-blister mite in, 39+ | Sisal hemp cultivation in Bahamas, 231. ; lectures, 296, 352 - =) — — Gaicos islands je2e— |—, eelworms on yams, 283. | tae | honey in London, 425. Queensland, 166. —, insect pests, 202. (= — — = Turks Jslandseedes — land settlement scheme, 532 = — — = Vera Crunches |—, report on Botanic Station, 285. | — — — Yucatan, 382. 445 Sisal hemp exports from Caicos, Islands, | re ave. — — — — Mexico, 251. — — imports into New Orleans, 307| ~ USA, Bs — —— industry and the West Indies, 321. —, prices of, 172, 322, 348, 428. —, yield from, 322. Sleeping sickness and tsetse fly, 122. Smith, G. Whitfield, Resident Magistrate, Carriacou, 123, Simiths He iG: Euealypts, 205. Smith, J. G., Report on Station, Hawaii, 349. | Smith, Longfield, lectures to teachers,| Barbados, 158. | : , Bermuda, 109, 171.; Smith, W. M., manuring citrus trees, 228.) Snyder, H., The Chemistry of Plant and, Animal Life, 219. Society Islands, exports of copra and) vanila, +12. Soil moisture, controlling in the orchard,| 295. A Research on the | Experiment Solenopsis geminata in Porto Rico, 282. Solomon Islands, cocoa-nuts in, 28. Souari fruit, 284. Spanish ash, as a wind-break, 274. Spanish needle, 199. Spanish oak, as a wind-break, 274. Spices in Grenada, 360. = — Zanzibar, 340. —, West Indian, in Canada, 206, 286, 350, 382, 397. Sponge industry in the Bahamas, 188, 260 Stancliffe, R., in West Indies, 361, 363, 385, 391, 424. Stock at Antigua, 28. — St. Lucia, 262. — St. Vincent, 108, 236. —, Ceylon, in Trinidad, 220. —, disposing of careases, 252. —, eating bark of trees, 196. —, grasses for, in Danish West Indies, 249. —, Indian, in West Indies, 92. molasses and cottonseed meal for, 387. notes, 227. sale at Grenada, 124, 157. — Trinidad, 380. show in British Guiana, 92. —, sweet potatos for, 330. —, treatment for mange, 76. Stoute, R. A., leave of absence, 315. —, resumption of duties, 381. Street tree planting, 75. Strickland, Sir Gerald, cotton growing in West Indies, 261. Strophanthus gratus, source of strophan- thin, 188. Sugar at Liverpool for refining purposes, 140. —, consumption in Canada, 35. —, cost of production on vacuum pan estates, 156, Sugar, countervailing duties and Brussels| Conference, 3. —, exports from Barbados, 348, —, — — Germany, 402. =; -—— — Trinidad, 364. —, — — West Indies, 204. —, grocery, in Canada, 50. Jamaica, 306. , Java, 220 , maceration and extraction, 370. , Inuseovado, 56. —— producing plant, a new, 131. — production of the world, 226. —, U.S. concession to Cuba, 131. —, West Indian in Canada, 13, 34, 125, 148, 201, 206, 221, 286, 302, 350, 382, 397. — —— —, markets for, 418. Sugar-beet in U.S.A., 3. Sugar-cane bagasse for cardboard, 140. —, chemical selection of, 19. cultivation in Antigua, 51. — british Guiana, 51, 121. | Sun Pictures of the Antilles - Cuba, 322. ae -— — French West Indies, 291. = —=— — Hawaii, 1152: = — — Jamaica, 354, 284, 386, 405. Martinique, 408. Nevis, 243. Porto Rico, 243. St. Croix, 140, 188, : Trinidad, 152, 322. West Indies, 274. Virgin Islands, 275. , deterioration of cut, 98. —, diffusion process of extracting sugar from, 99. — estates, economical feeding on, 89. — experiments in Barbados, 115, 146, 162, 338, 344, 354. — British Guiana, 66, 7 62) 194, 211, 290, 307, 313. — Cuba, 179. — Iinel, W6}. lo 3, — Jamaica, 211, 227. — Java, 71. — Leeward Islands, 145. — West Indies, 241. —, growth variation of, 98. —— juice, Naudet process for extracting, 354. —, weighing, +28. —, lectures on diseases of, 23, 77. —, male, 402. — manurial experiments, 242. — pests, beetle borer in Java, 154 —, British Guiana, 426. —, leaf-hopper in Hawaii, 154, 170. —, root disease, 23. — seedlings, B.147, 338, 339, 344, 387. _- —, B. 208, 180, 338, 339, 344. — —, cultivation in West Indies, 274, — D, 95, 339. Sugar-cane seedlings, D. 117, 130, 386. - — in Antigua, 2. — — British Guiana, —— — Cuba, 194. -~ -— Hawaii, 386. - Jamaica, 284, 419. — — Louisiana, 92. Natal, 412. — — Trinidad, 258. —, West Indian, in 259. 180. Louisiana, b] 180, 259, — varieties in Mauritius, 323. — versus beet, 258. Sulphur from Dominica, 396. Sulphurie acid and chicken cholera, 30. Sunflowers, 54, 361. —- and bees, 22 a. : - Queensland, les, 411. Surinam cherry, 167. —, exports of balata, 396. —-, cacao and fungoid diseases, 118. Sweet cup, fruiting of, 146, 190. Symington fruit syndicate in Trinidad, 33, 388. ite Talipot palm, 151. Tamarinds in London market, 30, 190, 238, 269, 302, 332, 334, 374. Tea, Ceylon, 156. —, Jamaica, 180, 414. Teak, exports from Bangkok, 412. Terry, H. L., Notes on balata, 25. Texas legislature and cotton boll weevil, 332. Theobald, F. V., Second Report on Econ- omic Zoology, 141. Thevetia nereifolia, 388, 395. Thompson, H. N., Forestry in West Africa, 393. Thorn apple, 358, Thornton, Thomas, Travelling Inspector in connexion with cotton industry, 427. Thrips tabaci, 202. Thymol, 157, 236. Ticks, (see Insect Pests). Times, The, and the cotton industry in West Indies, 277. -; » — — Imperial Department of Agriculture, 317. Tobacco, consumption in United King~- dom, 396. —, cross-fertilization of, 156. — cultivation, Canaries, 392. —, Jamaica, 286, 300, 376, 379: 25. —, Porto Rico, 268. —, West Indies, 345. —, eel-worms in, 86. —, fusarium on, 199. 392, 446 156. 369. rainfall at, 60, 341, 204, Tobago Botanic Station, —, cotton cultivation in, , Empire Day celebration, —, exports from, 76. forest reservations, 58. —, parasol ants in, 124. pine-apples, 156, 356. —, school gardens in, 363, 413, Tomatos, exports from Canaries, 300. Toronto exhibition, 72, 184. Travellers’ tree, 12, 40, 60, 342. Trees, felling by electricity, 39. —, pruning 378 ses agricultural education in, 193 , 284, 317. — school show, — show, 364. , Albizzia Lebbek in, , asphalt in, 364, 409. , balata exports, 28, , bananas in, 76, 84, —, bee keeping in, 22. , cacao in, 25, 30: 5, 348, 364. ., Ceylon cattle in, 220. 172; 413, 151. 220. ==, cotton in, 8, 66, 92; 252, 297, 364, 369, 389. —, dates from, 332. —, forest resources of, 9 -—, fruit trade, 33, 388, —., logwood honey from, 2&4. —-, love vine in, 185. —, mango crop, 204. —, manjak from, 105. —, mule breeding in, 59. , mMungoose in, 254, 380. —, petroleum from, 89. Tamworth, in, 19. , products in Montreal, 76 , report on botanical Department , School gardens in, 59. + sugar industry, 152, 258, 322, 364. ., stock sale, 380. West Indian Conference in, 353, Tropical diseases, 139, 166, 198. hygiene, 411. Tsetse fly (see Insect Pests). Turkeys (see Poultry). Tivks Island, sisal plantations in, Turner's Hall woed, Barbados, 102. —, pigs, 953: 396. U. United States, agricultural interests, 140. —, bananas in, 244, 308. —, bee keeping in, 44. —, beet sugar in, 3, 204. ~, cacao in, 220. —, concession to Cuba, 131. —, cotton boll weevil in, 12. — crop, 136. , fruit in, 340. United States, school gardens and arbor day in, 141. —, sisal hemp in. 395. —, tropical experiment stations |96 ear in, vanilla in, 103, United Kingdom, cacao, consumption in, 387. Uganda, economic plants in, —, resources of, 345, 376. V. Wanilla, 925 1038 G24" 172, 408, 410, 412. Vanillin, 7, 103. Vegetable products of Costa Rica, — Liberia, 201. Vegetables, grading and packing, Venezuela, agric ultural condition RG Ce. 169, 12 td) LAS of, Vera Cruz, sisal hemp in, 548. Virgin Islands, agriculture in, . arbor day celebration, . cotton in, G6, 268, 3 POD. 390, — A B69: . reafforestation in, 265, —, report on experiment station, Sugar-cane cultivation, 275. eruptions, St. Vincent and +4 Volcanic Martinique, W. Ward, K., cotten experiments in British Guiana, 229. Water supplies, Watering plants, purification of, 215, 99 --. Watson, N. B., fellow of Entomological Society, 364. Watts, Francis, cotton experiments in Antigua, 364. 20 —, manurial, —, Nature Teaching, 381. —, oranges in Dominica, 340. —, report on Virgin Islands, 265. — sugar- nae experiments in| hae ard Tslands, 138; 145. The citrometer, 508. Wax, white, 334, Weather and science, 131. Weather plant, 123. Wethai-wei, agricultural possibilities of, Bow Went, F. A. F.C., Fungoid diseases of cacao In Surinam, 118. West Africa, cotton in Great Britain, 380. — ~, development of, 329. —, forestry in, 393. West India Committee Charter, Circular, 120. Agricultural Conference, 354, 397, 401, 406, 407, 300. West BAY, 422, Indian — Botanic Stations and industry, 306. Bulletin, 88, Uy 8318}, ane 148. — cocoa-nuts in New York, 296. —— cotton exports (see Cotton). ~— exhibits at Halifax, 364. — flora, 381. CACAO = 130, 136, 140, cassava for glucose manufae- = — fruit, 244, 248. = — products in Canada, 13, 125, 148, 201, 206, 221, 286; 302; 350; 382, 397 a = London, 30, 61, 94, 125, 173; 190, 238, 269, 302, 334; 365, 414 — — —- New York, 254. — — seedling canes in Louisiana and Queensland, 259. West Indies, agricultural 241. industries of, —— and British Cotton- growing Association deputation, 377. — International Food Exhib- ition at Crystal Palace, 350. — natural history, 116, —, cacao industry in, 305. — —, cocoanut cultivation in, 36. — —, cotton experts in, 385, 391. = = == industry, 101, 182, 19%, 260, 2, 298; 325 , 344, 369, 389 421. = —-, — ginneries in, 65, 153 — —, —, history of in, 165. diversification of crops in, 85. —, fruit exports from, 268 , —~, temperate, in, 55. —, fumigation of imported plants,. Indian cattle in, 92. lady-birds in, 90. —, minor industries of, 9. —, onion seed for, 280. —, petroleum resources of, 409. —, rabbit-keeping in, 278. —, sisal hemp industry, 321, —, sugar industry, 156, 204, 274 —, tobacco experiments in, 345. — —, tropical diseases in, 198, Wilber, D. F., Barbados cotton industry,. 389. Willis, J. C., Flowering Plants and Ferns, Nfl Wind-breaks or shelter-belts, + Windmills, 87. Windward Islands, agricultural scholar ships, 11. Wheat cultivation in Canada, 172. White bean in Dominica, 247. Wolstenholme, C. M., cotton industry in| West Indies, 421. Woman’s tongue tree, 151. Woods, Barbados, 40. —, relationship to supplies, 39, 41. domestic Wooly pyrol, 153, 348. Yi Yam bean, 109, 247. | Yams, composition of dried tubers, —, eel-worms in, 283. —, from Barbados, 516. \ | | | water Yeast, 123. | Yellow fever and mosquitos, 157. 380. Ylang-ylang, 151, 210, 231, 563. Yueatan, sisal hemp in, 382. Z. Zanzibar, mangrove bark industry, 562. — spice trade, 340. Zimmermann, A., Eenige Pathologische en physiologische waarnemingen oyer koftie, 205. t meen at — alk Deh rag ood eee he t ey Rey etd a} armen! sites une t le ay, : SA ROU yt (infin {UNG ia DM sue ae ou it o iA tas - i Y Pol é S " 4 : 5 4