LIBRARY

OF THE

111 I"

1

MASSACHUSETTS

AGRICULTURAL

COLLEGE

Source.

DATE.n-^-"

fTer

ISot,

liASSACIRJSETTS
CHOP H]':P0KT .

19
1906 .

\v

Home garden.
Dairy profits.
Clover .

Poultry feeciirig.
Cranberry grov/ing.
Peach culture.

Series of 1906. Vol. 19. Xo. 1,

MASSACHUSETTS

CEOP KEPOET

FOK THE

MoxTH OF May, 1906.

THE HOME GAEDEN.

ISSUED MOXTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTOX, MASS.

J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.

Entered Juxe 3, 1904, at Bostox. Mass., as Secoxd-class Matter,
uxDER Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.

BOSTON :

WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,

18 Post Office Square.

1906.

Approved by
The State Board of Publication

/ fo G

Crop Eeport foe the Month of May, 1906.

Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., June 1, 1906.

We present herewith Bulletin No. 1, Crop Keport for the
month of May, the first monthly crop bulletin for the year.
In the past, these bulletins have included statistics in regard
to the crop conditions of the country, weather conditions in
New England and elsewhere in the United States, a sum-
mary of the crop conditions in the State, at the time of
making returns each month, compiled in this office from the
reports of our correspondents, selected reports of corre-
spondents, and an article on some subject of interest to
farmers at the close of each bulletin. This plan will be
substantially followed during the present season. Sugges-
tions for improvement will be welcomed from all interested.
The article for the present issue is on " The Home Garden,"
by Prof. Frank Wm. Rane, professor of horticulture at the
New Hampshire College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts.

The garden is a subject of vital interest to many, and
should be to all, for if the old adage that " Economy is
wealth" be true, it is equally true that there is no greater
money-saver, either on the farm or in the suburban home,
than a well-managed and productive garden.

Progress of the Season.
The May returHs of the Crop Reporting Board of the
Bureau of Statistics of the United States Department of
Agriculture (Crop Reporter for May, 1906) show the area
under winter wheat remaining in cultivation May 1 to have
been about 29,023,000 acres, 6 per cent less than the area
sown last fall, and 1 per cent less than the area harvested
last year. The average condition of the growing winter-
wheat crop on May 1 was 91, as compared with 89 on April

1, 92 on May 1, 1905, 70 on May 1, 1904, and 85, the
mean of the ]\Iay averages for the last ten years.

The average condition of winter rye on M.slj 1 was 9o, as
compared with 91 on April 1, 94 on May 1, 1905, 81 on
INIay 1, 1904, and Si^, the me;in of the May averages of the
last ten years.

The average condition of meadow mowing lands on May
1 was 92, against 93 on May 1, 1905, 85 on May 1, 1904,
and 90, the mean of the Ma}'^ averages of the last ten years.

The average condition of sj^ring pastures on ^lay 1 was
91, against ':)2 on May 1, 1905, 80 on May 1, 1904, and 89,
the mean of the ]\Iay averages of the last ten years.

Of total acreage of spring plowing contemplated, (34 per
cent is reported as actualh^ done up to ^Nlay 1 , as compared
with 72 per cent at the corresponding date last 3'ear and a
ten-year average on May 1 of (37.

Of sprino- planting, 53 per cent is reported as having been
completed on ^lay 1.

In Massachusetts the average condition of winter rye was
ofiven as 89 ; the average condition of meadow mowing lands
as 94; the average condition of spring pasture as [^2 : the
percentage of sprmg plowing actually done as 42 ; and the
proportion of spring planting done as 15.

"Weather Summary, Jan. 1 to May 1, 190G.

[Furnished by Weather Bureau, Boston.]

The weather of January was generally unseasonable, the
storms being of much less intensity than those usual for
the month, and fewer in numl)er. The temperature showed
a marked departure from the normal, ranging high through-
out the month, with an average daily excess of nearly 8
decrees. The maxima over the State from the 21st to the
24th, and the mean for the month, were the highest ever
recorded for January. The mild Aveather caused buds to
start on some trees. Ice disappeared from man}^ streams and
its thickness Avas greatly diminished on ponds. The greater
part of the precipitation occurred as rain, and was fairly
well distributed over the month. The snowfall was light,
and at the close of the month there was little on the ground
and the soil in many localities was free from frost.

February weather was less severe than the normal. The
month opened with generally lower temperatures, the mer-
cury falling to or below zero on the 3cl and 6th. The
ground remained bare of snow until the 9th, when there was
a general and quite heavy snowfall, except on the immediate
coast, where rain fell. The month closed with a storm of
moderate energy, both rain and snow falling, followed by a
decided fall in temperature, and high winds and gales on the
27th and 28th.

March was unseasonably cold as a whole, the temperature
ranging at or near zero to an unusually late date, and the
mean for the month 1)eing 3 to 5 degrees below the monthly
normal. The snowfall was greatly in excess of the March
average, generally exceeding the fall of the three months
preceding. Heavy gales and storms caused great damage
to shipping on the coast, wnth considerable loss of life.
After the 2(ith the temperature was decidedly higher, and
with rains during the closing days the snow rapidly disap-
peared, so that at the end of the month the ground was
generally bare.

April was a seasonable month, no marked departures from
the normals occurring in any of the elements. During the
three first days the temperature was low, but after the 4th
it ranged near the monthly average. The highest tempera-
tures were generally on the 21st, with the maxima mostly
between 70° and 75°. The precipitation was well distributed
through the period and over the State, with only slight de-
partures from the monthly average. The principal storm
occurred on the 9th and 10th, with heavy precipitation, gen-
erally as rain, and high winds along the coast. The month
as a whole was pleasant, and the season was near the average
at its close.

Temperature axd Rainfall for the Whole Country.

[From United States National Weekly Weather Bulletin. 5

W^eek ending 2Ia>/ 7. — The week averaged warmer than
usual in the middle and north Pacific coast districts ; also in
the west Gulf States and in all districts east of the Missis-
sippi River, with the exception of the upper Mississippi
valley, the western portion of the upper Lake region and

6

the interior of uortliern Xew England. In the southern
Plateau region and over the eastern Rocky Mountain slope
and the Missouri and upper ^Mississippi valleys the week
averaged colder than usual. The rainfall of the week was
above the average over the greater part of the Southern
States. Moderate to heavy rains occurred in eastern Xe-
braska, in portions of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota
and Wisconsin, and at some stations in southern XeAv Eng-
land and the Middle Atlantic States. Elsewhere the pre-
cipitation was generall}^ below the average, no appreciable
amounts occurrino- in the southern Plateau and Pacific coast
regions.

Week ending May 14. — The week averaged warmer than
usual on the north Pacific coast, throughout the Plateau and
Rocky ]Mountain regions and in the Missouri and Red River
of the X'orth valleys. In all districts east of the Mississippi
River the week averaged cooler than usual, being abnormally
cool in the lower Lake region, Ohio valley, in the Middle
and South Atlantic and east Gulf States, and over the west-
ern portion of northern Xew England, freezing temperatures
occurring in all these regions except the South Atlantic and
east Gulf States. The rainfall was below the average in
nearly all districts east of the Rocky Mountains, the week
being practically rainless over the greater part of the central
and west Gulf States and in Tennessee, and in portions of
the lower Ohio and central Mississippi valleys.

Week ending May 21. — The week averaged cooler than
usual in the central and northern Pacific coast districts and
over the western portions of the middle and northern Pla-
teau reeions. On the immediate west Gulf coast and in
extreme southern Florida the week averaged slightly cooler
than usual, but elsewhere east of the Rockv ^Mountains the
week averaged Avarmer than usual, being decidedly warm
over the middle Rocky Mountain slope and throughout the
central valleys, Lake region and Middle Atlantic States,
where the daily average temperature excess generally ranged
from ()° to 10'^. As a whole, the week was drier than usual,
a large })art of the Atlantic coast and east Gulf States and
portions of the central valleys and Lake region receiving
no appreciable amount of rain. Heavy rains occurred in

northern Texas and portions of Oklahoma and Indian Terri-
tory. Minnesota, eastern North Dakota, Montana and por-
tions of South Dakota, Io\va and southern Florida received
more than the average.

Week ending May 28. — The week averaged cooler than
usual in the Pacific coast and Rocky Mountain regions and
over the northern portions of the upper Mississippi valley
and upper Lake regions. The average daily temperature
was also below normal in northern Xew England and in the
South Atlantic and east Gulf States. In the lower Missouri,
central Mississippi and Ohio valleys, Lake region and Mid-
dle Atlantic States the week was considerably warmer than
usual. Throughout the Pacific coast and middle and northern
Rocky Mountain regions, and also in the upper Missouri,
upper Mississippi and Red River of the North valleys the
rainfall was much above the averasfe. Good rains fell over
most of the country east of the Rocky Mountains, amounts
ranging from 1 to more than 3 inches occurring in New
England.

Special Telegraphic Reports.

[Weather Bureau, Boston.]

Weeh ending May 7. — New England. Boston: The
precipitation was copious in coast sections and lighter, but
sufficient, in the interior. There was much cloudiness. The
da}^ temperatures were seasonable and nights cool, Avith frosts
on the 3d and 4th.

Week ending May 14. — New England. Boston: The
temperature was low, except during the latter part of the
week. On the 12th heavy frost was general, the ground
freezing in some parts. The precipitation was light in the
southeastern portion and copious in the western and northern
portions.

Week ending May 21. — New England. Boston: Al-
though frosts occurred during the fore part of the week, the
temperature averaged above the normal. There was liiuch
sunshine. The precipitation generally was light.

Week ending May 28. — New England. Boston: The
fore part of the week was clear and cool, with frost ; the
middle and last of the week were showery, with thunder-
storms, heavy rain being general on the 27th.

The Weather of May, 1906.
The month was characterized by much pleasant weather,
there being an average of thirteen clear days, eleven days
when the sky was only partly obscured, leaving seven days
without sunshine. Xotwithstanding the unusual prevalence
of fair weather, the total rainfall was considerably in excess
of the normal amount for the month. More than half of
the monthly amount occurred during one storm, that of
the 27th-28th. Excepting this storm, the precipitation was
light and in well-distributed showers. The mean temper-
ature of the month shows the weather to have been some-
what warmer than the seasonal average. This is contrary
to the popular opinion, for, on account of the many days
with easterly winds and the uneven distribution of the tem-
peratures, many considered the month unseasonably cold.
The month opened with several days when the mercury w^as
quite high. A cool spell followed, lasting from the 7th to
the 12th. High temperatures obtained again from the loth
to the 19th, during which the mercury ranged as high as 90°
in some localities, particularly on the 18th and the 19th.
The remainder of the month was cool, with slight excep-
tions, and general light to killing frosts were reported in
nearly all except coast sections. Severe local storms were
less frequent than usual during this month, although in some
localities considerable loss to property and several deaths
resulted from electrical disturbances. The weather of the
month, as a whole, was very favorable to all out-door pur-
suits. At the close the season was generally considered to
be from a week to ten days later than the average 'May.

In the circular to correspondents, returnable May 2b, the
following questions were asked : —

1. How does the present season compare, agriculturally
speaking, with a normal season ?

2. What is the promise for pastures and mowings, and did
fall seeding winter well ?

3. How did the bloom of apples, pears, peaches, plums
and small fruit compare with the bloom of former years, and
has it suflfered from frosts ?

9

4. What insects appear to be doing the most damage in
your locality ?

5. How is planting progressing?

6. Is farm help scarce or plenty; and what proportion
can be called good help?

7. What are the average wages paid farm help in your
vicinity, with board? Without board ?

8. Will there be any marked changes in the acreage of
the usual farm crops, particularly corn and potatoes, and do
you note any new enterprises in the line of agriculture ?

Returns Avere received from 154 correspondents, and from
them the following summary has been compiled : —

The Sea SOX.
April was a rather cold month and May opened somewhat
backward. The weather of May as a rule was cold but
pleasant, there being very little rain during the month,
with the result that the season was, at time of making
returns, somewhat more backward than the normal in most
sections. Rain was much needed at that time, both for
germination of seed and for growth of grass and hoed crops,
but the heavy rains of the 27th and 28th efiectually broke
the drought, thoroughly soaking the ground. The frosts
on the mornings of the 20th and 21st did considerable dam-
age to early vegetables and gardens.

Pastures and Mowings.
In spite of the exceptionally open winter, grass of all
kinds, especially fall seeding, generally wintered very well
indeed. The cold weather of the latter part of April and
the first portion of May held grass back, feed being slow in
starting in pastures and grass making little growth on mow-
ings. Since then the dry weather, with little precipitation
and strong winds, has operated to check grass in both pas-
tures and mowings, and at the time of the breaking of the
drought it was badly in need of rain in all sections. With
seasonable weather in future there should nevertheless be at
least an average crop of hay and good feed in pastures, the
heavy rains of the 27th and 28th thoroughly soaking the sod

10

and providing a reserve supply of moisture for the next
Aveek or ten days.

Fruit Bloom.
The apple bloom Avas generally good, many reporting it
to be exceptionally heavy, even for the bearing year, and was
about normal in time of appearance in most sections. Pears,
plums and cherries, however, showed rather a light bloom,
and the peach bloom appears to be considerably below the
normal in most sections. Small fruits and berries generally
l)loomed full, though perhaps a little late. The frosts of the
20th and 21st did some damage, particularly on low lands,
but it does not appear that the damage was general or severe.

Insects.

At the time of making returns few insects had appeared
and those noted were doing little damage. Teiit caterpillars
were those most frequently mentioned, while cut worms
appeared to be more than usually numerous. Other insects
reported are currant worms, potato bugs, asparagus beetles,
the curculio, black cabbage flies and gypsy and brown-tail
moth caterpillars.

Planting.

The month of May was unusually free from rain, and
there were more than the usual number of days on which
farm work could be pushed. Nevertheless at the time of
making returns planting appeared to be somewhat behind
the normal in most sections, due largely to the late opening
of the month and the cold weather, which prevented the
soil from drying out and warming up sufficiently for early
planting. The dry weather was also unfavorable for the
germination of seeds, and the crops put in had not, in many
instances, come up as freely and promptly as desired. With
the breaking of the drouoht these conditions should be
remedied, and all seed put in prior to the 27th should
o:erminate readily and make rapid growth.

Farm Help and Wages.
Judffins from the returns, there is an unusual scarcitv of
farm help tlie i)resent season. There is much complaint as

11

to the quality of that to be had, but it is probal)lj not below
the usual average of the same class of labor in former years.
The highest efficiency is not to be expected in any but a
very few of those content to be wage earners, either on the
farm or elsewhere, and farmers are perhaps inclined to set
their standard for "good help" too high, calling only the
best ffood, though not expecting to secure the measure of
efficiency they hope for. Wages average about $20 per
month with board in the strictly farming districts, and a
little higher near the cities. Twenty-eight dollars per
month would perhaps be a fair average of the wage paid
without board, where tenement, milk and firewood are fur-
nished, and $35 without any of these accessories. For day
work farmers are generally obliged to pay $1.50 per day,
and higher prices during haying and harvesting.

Acreage of Farm Crops.
There is no particular change in the acreage of farm crops,
though perhaps more corn and potatoes have been put in
than in immediately recent years. In the Connecticut valley
it is probable that the acreage of both tobacco and onions
Avill be slightly increased. New cranberry bog is also re-
ported as being made in more than average amount in south-
eastern sections. Some correspondents report an increased
amount of forage crops as being planted, to supplement
the pastures and aid in keeping up the milk supply during
the summer months.

12

:n^otes of cokrespondents.

(Returned to us May 25.)

BERKSHIRE COUNTY.

Neio Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades). — The season seems to be
a little late, and rain is now needed. Pastures and mowings came
through the winter well and promise good crops. Pears bloomed
full ; apples fairly well ; peaches injured more or less by severe
weather in April ; no other damage by frosts. Currant worms
have commenced to do damage. Potatoes are planted, but corn
crop and gardens are late in being planted. Farm help is scarce.
Wages average 825 per month with board, and Si. 50 per day with-
out board. I think there will be about the usual acreage of farm
crops.

Alford (Lester T. Osborne). — The season is the most favor-
able one we have had for a long time up to the present. Pastures
and mowings are in better than average condition, and fall seeding
wintered well. The fruit bloom is rather below normal. So far
no insects have appeared. Planting is nearlj' finished. Farm help
is very scarce, and good help that can use teams and machines is
hard to get. "Wages average from §22 to S24 per month with
board, and $35 per month without board. The acreage of farm
crops is about the same as usual.

West Stockhridge (J. S. Moore).' — The season seems late at
present, but is probably about as usual. Pastures and mowings
are looking nicely, and there was no damage to fall seeding.
Fruit trees bloomed full, but frosts injured small fruits No
insects are doing damage as yet. Planting is progressing about
as usual, few gardens made yet. Farm help is very scarce, and
but little good help to be had at any price. Wages are from S20
to S25 per month with board, and average $35 per month without
board. There are no changes to speak of in the acreage of farm
crops. A milk station has been established in town, and much
attention is being given to dairy farming.

Becket (Wm. H. Snow). — The season is about an average one
so far, with cool nights. Pastures and mowings are looking well,
and fall seeding wintered well. A full fruit bloom is expected,

13

but is not all out yet. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage.
Planting is progressing very well. Farm help is very scarce, and
there is little good help. Wages average S20 per month with
board, and ?35 per month without board. More potatoes will be
planted than usual.

Richmond (Timothy B. Salmon). — The season is a backward
one. The promise for pastures and mowings is good, but fall
seeding did not winter well. The fruit bloom is up to the aver-
age, but has suffered from frosts. Currant worms and tent cater-
pillars are doing some damage. Planting is later than usual.
Farm help is scarce, and half of it is good help. Wages average
825 per month with board, and 81.50 per day without board.
There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.

Hinsdale (Thos. F. Barker). — The season is rather backward
and cold. Mowings look green and fall seeding looks well. There
is a full average fruit bloom ; heavy frost May 20th. No insects
have appeared as yet. Planting is now progressing well. Farm
help is scarce, and about half of it is good help. Wages range
from 818 to 823 per month with board, and from 822 to 830 per
month without board. There is not much change in the acreage
of farm crops. The apple bloom is very backward, hardly com-
menced as yet.

Dalton (Wesley B. Barton). — The present season is a good
one to date. Pastures are doing finely, and mowings start well;
fall seeding in good condition. Apples half a bloom ; pears av-
erage ; no peaches ; plums and small fruits full. No insects have
appeared as yet. Fully the average amount of planting has been
done. Farm help is scarce, and 40 per cent of the supply good
help. AVages average 823 per month with board, and 81.65 per
day without board. No changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Rain is needed, but we have had a splendid time for spring work.

Cheshire (L. J. Northup) . — The season is somewhat later than
usual. Pastures and mowings are full}' equal to former years.
Pears, plums and small fruits bloomed very full, and the frost did
not hurt them. There are no insects doing damage. Planting is
progressing finely because of pleasant weather. Farm help is get-
ting more scarce, and is not as good as in former years. Wages
are from 820 to 825 per mouth with board, and average $1.50 per
day without board. There will be more ensilage corn and prob-
ably about the same acreage of potatoes planted as formerly.

Williamslown (S. A. Hickox) — The season is a week later
than the normal. Pastures are 15 per cent below the normal in
condition. There was a medium fruit bloom. No insects have ap-
peared as yet. Planting is progressing fairly well, but is rather

14

behind the usual rate at this time. Farm help is scarce, and one-
fourth of it good help. Wages average $25 per month with board,
and S35 to S40 per month without board. There will be no change
in the acreage of the usual farm crops. Rain is very much needed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Monroe (David H. Sherman). — The season is backward.
Grass looks fairly well on very rich and new seeded fields, but
old meadows are very brown for the time of year from lack of
rain. Fruit trees have not bloomed as yet; white frosts on the
mornings of the 21st and 22d. No insects have put in an appear-
ance as yet. Farm help is scarce, and perhaps half of it is good
help. Wages range from $20 to $30 per month with board, and
from $1.50 to $2 per day without board. There are no marked
changes in the acreage of farm crops.

Charlemont (J. M. J. Legate). — The season is a little later
than the average, but the weather has been such that farm work
is well along. Pastures and mowings are looking well, but we
need rain badly ; fall seeding never wintered better. There is
more than average fruit bloom, but it has suffered from frosts,
though it is not entirely ruined. No insects are doing damage.
Potatoes are mostly planted, and our farmers are in the thick of
corn planting. Farm help is very scarce, but what there is is
good help. Wages average $20 per month with board, and $1.50
per day without board. There is no marked change in the acreage
of farm crops.

Hawley (C. C. Fuller). — The season is rather below the aver-
age in promise at present. Pastures and mowings are rather dry ;
and fall seeding lacked snow to protect it. The fruit bloom is not
fully out yet, so has not suffered much from frost. Not much
trouble from insects as yet. Planting is late. Farm help is very
scarce, but what can be obtained is good. Wages average about
$25 per month, and about $1.50 per day without board. There
are no marked changes in the acreage of the usual farm crops.

Shelhnrne (Geo. E. Taylor). — The season is a few days late.
Grass in pastures wintered well. There is an average fruit bloom,
and no damage from frost. No insects have been doing damage
to date. Planting is nearly finished. More farm help is needed,
but what we have is fair. Wages average $20 per month with
board, and from $1 to $1.50 per day without board. The acreage
of farm crops will probably run on about the usual lines. Rain is
very much needed.

Gill (F. F. Stoughton). — The season is late and dry. Pastures
and mowings are not looking very well, owing to the lack of rain.

15

There was a full fruit bloom, but damage from frost on the 21st.
Planting is progressing well. Farm help is scarce. The acreage
of the customary farm crops will be about the same as usual.

Deerjield (H. A. Wells). — The season is rather a late one.
Pastures and mowings are looking well, and fall seeding never
wintered better. All fruit trees bloomed fairly well, though not
full ; it is still uncertain how much they suffered from frost. There
is no damage from insects. Planting is nearly completed. Good
help is scarce, especially good teamsters ; Polish help plenty.
"Wages range from §22 to $25 per month with board, and average
$1.50 per day without board. There is an increase in the acreage
of potatoes ; that of corn about the same as usual.

Sunderland (Geo. P. Smith). — April and May have been rather
cold and dry. Grass and pastures look well, and fall seeding
wintered well. Apple bloom uneven ; pears and plums light; not
many peaches or small fruits here. No insects are doing damage
at present. Corn and potato planting is finished, and tobacco set-
ting has just begun. Farm help is scarce, more so than usual,
but two-thirds of it is fairly good. Wages average §21 per month
with board, and $1.50 per day without board. No change in the
acreage of farm crops. A New York party has bought a farm,
intending to raise 50 acres of tobacco.

Erving (Chas. F. Clark). — The season has been rather more
backward than usual. Pastures and mowings look promising, and
fall seeding wintered well. There is a fair bloom of small fruits
and a light bloom of winter apples ; no damage from frosts. In-
sects are doing very little damage. Planting is progressing rather
slowly. Farm help is scarce, and half of it good help. Wages
average Si per day with board, and $1.50 per day without board.
There are no marked changes in the acreage of the usual farm
crops.

New Salem (Daniel Ballard). — The season is about a nor-
mal one at present. The promise for pastures and mowings is
very favorable now that the dry spell is broken ; fall seeding
wintered well. There was quite a full bloom of apples, especially
Greenings ; full bloom also of pears and small fruits ; some injury
by frost on low lands. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage.
Planting is progressing rapidly. Farm help is scarce, with. about
the usual proportion of good help. Wages range from $18 to §26
per month with board, and from $1.50 upward per day without
board. About the usual amount of the usual crops will be planted.

16

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

Enfield (D. O. Ciiickering). — The season is from a week to
ten days late. Dr}' weather has hurt pastijres and mowings ; fall
seeding wintered well. There has been about au average fruit
bloom. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Planting is
well along. But little farm help is employed here. There are no
marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.

Pelham (John L. Brewer). — The season is one week late.
Pastures and mowings appear well, and fall seeding wintered fairly
well. There is a full bloom of apples, pears, peaches and plums,
and so far as we have observed small fruits are blossoming well ;
light frosts did no damage. No insects are doing damage as yet.
Planting is somewhat late. Farm help is scarce, but all that avail-
able is good help. Wages average $1 per day with board, and
$1.50 per day without board. There will be no marked changes
in the acreage of the usual farm crops.

Amherst (Prof. Wm. P. Brooks) . — The season is a normal one ;
if anything, rather exceptionally favorable. Mowings and pastures
never looked better, and fall seeding wintered well. Apples made
an uneven bloom, on the whole light for bearing year ; pears, peaches
and plums heavy ; currants and strawberries heavy, but latter some-
what injured by frost. Cut worms are doing some damage. Plant-
ing is well advanced, corn being quite generally in. Farm help is
scarce, and the number of really competent men small. Wages
range from 816 to $30 per montli with board, and average $45 per
month without board. The acreage of tobacco will be increased.
Rather more interest is shown in wise selection of fertilizers, and
more are using chemicals. More farmers than usual are spraying
fruit trees.

South Hadley (W. F. Person). — The season compares well
with the normal. Pastures are in fair condition, mowings look
well and fall seeding is in good condition. Apples and pears
blossomed full, and were not injured by frost. Planting is pro-
gressing very slowly. Farm help is very scarce, and about one-
third of it good help. Wages average about S22 per month with
board, and 81.50 per day without board. There will be a large
acreage of corn this year and au average one of potatoes.

Northami^ton (H. C. Comins). — The season is a fair average
one, though rather backward. Pastures and mowings promise
well, and new seeding looks well. All fruit trees have blossomed
quite full, and there has been no damage from frost. Cut worms
are very troublesome on early vegetables. Planting is nearly all
done, as the fair weather has given an opportunity for farm work.

17

Farm help is very scarce, and not over ten per cent is first class.
Wages range from $20 to $25 per month with board, and from
$36 to $40 per month without board. The acreage of onions and
tobacco will be somewhat increased. Rain is greatly needed by
pastures and mowings as well as to hasten germination of seeds.

Easthampton (Wm. C. Clapp). — The season is about an aver-
age one at present. Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall
seeding looks better than could be expected after the open winter.
There was a full fruit bloom, but early strawberries suffered from
frost. Caterpillars and cut worms are numerous. Planting is in
full progress, and some farmers have most of their corn and all
their potatoes planted. There seems to be plenty of Polish help,
and most of it is good help. Wages range from $15 to $20 per
month with board, and from $1.25 to $1.50 per day without board.
There will be fully as large an acreage of tobacco, corn and pota-
toes as usual.

Williamsburg (F. C. Richards). — The season is later than
usual, the weather having been cool and the ground not yet well
warmed. Pastures and mowings are looking well, but fall seeding
winter-killed in some places. Pears, peaches and plums and small
fruits gave a full bloom, with no injury from frosts. Tent cater-
pillars are beginning to appear. Planting is late, but with season-
able warm weather now we will have it well in hand. There is the
usual scarcity of help, and that available is poor. Wages average
$18 to $20 per month with board, and $30 to $35 without board.
The acreage of corn aud potatoes will be about as usual. Apples,
with exception of Baldwins, show a heavy bloom.

Goshen (Hon. Alvan Barrus). — The season is a week to ten
days late. Though late, pastures are fairly promising ; also mow-
ings aud fall seeding. All fruit trees show a very uneven bloom,
all the way from none to very full. Very few insects have made
their appearance. Farm help is scarce, and good help out of the
question. Wages range from $1.50 to $2 per day with board, and
from $1.75 to $2 per day without board. No changes in the acre-
age of farm crops worthy of mention. There have been severe
frosts on low lands, none appearing to be damaging on the hills.

Plainfield (S. W. Clark). — The season is a little late, but is
otherwise normal. Grass is looking very well and fall seeding
wintered very well. Fruit trees have bloomed full, and there has
been no injury from frosts. Tent caterpillars are the only insects
that have appeared as yet. Planting is progressing very well,
with no delay from rainy weather, but rain will be needed very
soon. Farm help has been scarce, but a lot of Poles are just in
and they are good help. Wages average $25 per month for six

18

months with board, and $18 to S20 per month by the year; no
help hired without board. Many farmers are giving more atten-
tion to potatoes than formerly. The prices of dairy products are
a little off from last year, but the quantity and quality are fully
up to the normal.

Huntington (Henry W. Stickney). — Pastures are very back-
ward and do not have much feed. Mowings promise well; fall
seeding winter-killed on low lands. The bloom for all kinds of
fruits is very good, but it is feared that frosts have injured it on
low lands. There are very few insects to be seen. Most farmers
have finished planting, but rain is needed to germinate the seed-
Good help is scarce. Wages average $1 per day with board, and
$1.50 per day without board. The acreage of potatoes is larger
than usual.

HAMPDEN COUNTY.

Blandford (Enos W. Boise). — The season compares favorably
with the normal. The month has been so dry and cold that pas-
tures and mowings do not promise well, and without rain soon the
hay crop will be short; fall seeding wintered well. There was a
very full bloom of all fruits except peaches, and no damage from
frost. No insects have appeared as yet. Much planting has been
done and there is yet much to do. Farm help is scarce, and re-
liable men hardly to be obtained. Wages average from $20 to
$25 per month with board, and $35 to $40 per month without
board. There are no changes from the usual acreages of the
usual farm crops.

Russell (E. D. Parks). — The season is up to the average, ex-
cept that it is very dry at present. Pastures and mowings need
rain; fall seeding wintered very well. The fruit bloom was up
to the average, the apple bloom being very full ; no damage from
frost. Currant worms and tent caterpillars are doing some dam-
age. Planting is nearly completed. Farm help is scarce, and but
little good help is obtainable. Wages average $25 per month
with board, and $1.75 per day without board. There will be no
marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.

Southwick (L. A. Fowler). — The season is quite up to the
average. Pastures and mowings are needing rain, and fall seed-
ing wintered well. Fruit trees bloomed well ; strawberries suf-
fered slightly from frost in some localities. Cut worms are doing
some damage. Planting is well under way. Farm help is scarce.
Wages average from $18 to $20 per month with board, and $1.50
per day without board. There are no changes in the acreage of
farm crops.

19

Agmvam (J. G. Burt). — The season is about au avei'age one
agriculturally speakiog. Pastnres and mowings look well but
need rain ; fall seeding wintered well. The fruit bloom was about
average, but has probably suffered from frosts. Tent caterpillars
are doing some damage. Planting is progressing fairly well.
Farm help is scarce, and not more than half of it good help.
Wages average from S20 to S22 per month with board, and $35
per month without board. The acreage of farm crops will be about
the same as usual.

West Springfield (T. A. Rogers). — The season has been cold
and dry. Pastures short, mowings late ; fall seeding wintered
well. Apples did not make a full bloom; pears, peaches and
plums full ; small fruits hardly out yet. No insects have appeared
as yet. Planting is progressing well, as we can work all the time,
the weather being pleasant though dry. Farm help is scarce, but
what help we have around here is very good. Wages range from
S25 to $30 per month with board, and from $1.50 to $1.75 without
board. There is a full acreage of corn and potatoes.

East Longmendow (John L. Davis). — The season is cold and
backward. Old pastures look dry ; fall seeding winter-killed in
low places. There was a good fruit bloom, but frost must have
done some damage. Planting is progressing fairly well. Help is
scarce, and farmers cannot afford t6 pay the price of good help.
Wages average $25 per month with board, and $1.75 per day
without board. More ensilage corn will be grown than in the past.

Hampden (John N. Isham). — The season is a little late, and
rain is needed. Pastures and mowings are starting slowly, and
fall seeding wintered unusually well. Apples, pears and small
fruits blossomed full ; plums light ; no injury from frosts. No
insects to speak of as yet. Potatoes are mostly planted and
farmers are busy preparing for corn planting. Farm help is
scarce, but it is mostly good help. Wages average $20 per month
with board, and from $30 to $35 per month without board ; help
by the day $1.50. There is a full acreage of farm crops, and
more peach trees than usual are being set out.
' Monson (F. D. Rogers). — The present season is an average
one to date. Pastures are ini[n*oving and mowings are in excellent
condition ; fall seeding wintered well. There was a heavy bloom
on apples and pears ; plums and peaches fair. No insects are
doing any great .amount of damage ; some currant worms and cut
worms. Planting is well along. Farm help is very scarce, and
most of it is good help. Wages average $20 per month with
board, and $1.50 per day or $30 per month without board. More
corn will be planted than usual.

20

Palmer (0. P. Allen). — The season is very late. Pastures
and mowings promise well, and fall seeding came through the
winter well. The bloom of all fruit trees was very full, but
late frosts have probably done some injury in some localities.
But few insects are in evidence as yet. Planting is progressing
fairly well, but is late. Farm help is scarce, and about one-third
of it good help. Wages average Sl8 per month with board, and
$1.50 per day without board. There will be but little change in
the acreage of the usual farm crops.

Holland (Francis Wight) . — The season is about an average
one to date. Pasture and mowings are fairly good, and fall seed-
ing is in fair condition. The fruit bloom was above the average,
but has been severely injured in some places by frost. Tent
caterpillars are the only insects doing damage. Planting is being
driven hard just now. Farm help is scarce, and not over half of
it can be called good help. Wages average $1 per day with board,
and $1.50 per day without board.

WORCESTER COUNTY.

Dudley (J. J. Gilles). — The season is from ten to twelve days
late, but otherwise is normal. Pastures and mowings up to the
present week have done finely, but now are very much in need of
rain; fall seeding wintered well. Bloom of all fruits quite pro-
fuse ; in some instaiices peaches have suffered from frost. Insects
have done very little damage thus far. Planting is progressing
with average promptness. Farm help is neither scarce nor plenty,
and half of it is good help. Wages average $20 per month with
board, and $35 to $40 without board.

West Brookfield (Myron A. Richardson). — There is no feed
in the pastures, and while mowings are looking well they need
rain. The fruit bloom was about the same as usual, but frosts
have done considerable injury in some places. Currant worms
appear to be more plentiful and to be doing more damage than
usual. Planting is progressing about as usual, though some is
later. Farm help is scarce and wages higher than usual, with one-
half of the supply good help. Wages average $25 per month with
board, and from $1 to $1.50 per day without board.

North Brookfield (John II. Lane). — The season is an average
one, but backward. The promise for pastures and mowings is
good if we can have rain. There was a full bloom on all kinds of
fruit. Very few insects have appeared. Planting is progressing
finely, and crops are mostly in. Farm help is about in the usual
supply, with 10 per cent of it good help. Wages average $20 per
month with board, and $1.50 per day without board.

21

Oakham (Jesse Allen). — The season compares favorably with
the normal. Pastures and mowings look well, but greatly need
rain ; fall seeding looks well. The fruit bloom is not large, and
frosts did much damage on low lands. There are a few tent cater-
pillars. Planting is nearly completed. Farm help is rather scarce,
and perhaps half of it is good help. Wages average $25 per month
with board, and $35 without board. There will be about the usual
acreage of farm crops.

Templeton (Lucien Gove). — The outlook is not very promis-
ing. Pastures are quite short and mowings poor ; fall seeding
wintered only fairly well. The apple bloom was below average
and uneven ; pears good ; plums scarcely any ; small fruits good ;
blueberries full ; no peaches. Tent caterpillars are doing some
damage, but are not plenty. Planting has progressed fairly well ;
seed slow in germinating ; some early vegetables cut down by
frost. Farm help is very scarce and unreliable. Wages range
from $14 to $30 per month with board, and from $1.50 to $1.75
per day without board. There is no material change in the acre-
age of farm crops.

Royalston (C. A. Stimson). — The season is cold and backward.
Pastures and mowings are getting dry, but are in fairly good con-
dition ; fall seeding did not winter well. There is a full bloom of
all fruits except plums, but it has suffered somewhat from frost.
No insects are doing damage. Planting is backward. Farm help
is scarce, but what can be procured is fair help. Wages average
$26 per month with board, and $1.50 per day without board.
There is no particular change in the acreage of farm crops.

Gardner (A. F. Johnson). — May 10 found leaves and blossoms
late, but I think that by June 1 they will be up to the average.
Pastures and mowings need rain very much. There was a full
fruit bloom, but two heavy frosts evidently injured it. No insects
have done damage as yet. Planting is progressing slowly. Farm
help is in about the usual 8U[)ply, at the usual wages. There are
no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.

Fitchburg (Dr. Jabez Fisher). — The season is not essentially
different from the normal. Pastures and mowings are looking
finely, but need rain. No general fruit bloom has surpassed the
present for abundance and favorable conditions for many years.
There are scai'cely any insects as yet. Planting is progressing
fairly well. Farm help is scarce, except the poorest. AVages
average $20 per month with board, and $1.50 per day without
board. There is nothing new to be noted in the acreage of crops.
The season, as indicated by the apple bloom, is two days earlier
than the average for fifty years.

22

Princeton (A. O. Tyler). — The season is about a normal one.
Pastures and mowings started well, and fall seeding wintered well.
There was a good fruit bloom, but it has suffered from frosts. No
insects are doing damage at present. The season is later than
usual, and not as much planting has been done. Farm help is
rather scarce, and about one-fourth only can be called good help.
Wages average $20 per month with board, and $1.50 per day with-
out board. There will be no marked changes in the acreage of
farm crops.

Harvard (John S. Preston). — The season is rather cold and
backward. Pastures and mowings have been looking very well,
but are beginning to suffer from want of rain ; fall seeding wintered
well. Fall apples, pears and small fruits bloomed well ; Baldwin
apples about half a bloom. No particular damage by insects as
yet. Planting is going along as well as usual. Help is rather
scarce, and about half of it can be called good help.. AVages aver-
age $20 per month with board, and about $1.75 per day without
board. I do not think there will be any particular change in acre-
age of farm crops this year.

Sterling (Henry S. Sawyer). — The season is colder and drier
than usual. Feed is not plentiful in pastures, but mowings are
looking fairly well. There was a very good bloom for all fruits,
and frost has done no damage. No insects are doing damage.
Planting is progressing fairly well, but cold weather and frosts
hold it back somewhat. Farm help is very scarce, and not one-
fourth of it good help. Wages average $20 per month with board,
and $1.80 per day without board. There will be about the usual
acreage of the various farm crops.

Worcester (Silas A. Burgess). — This is a favorable season.
Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall seeding wintered
well. The bloom of all fruits is superior and has not suffered from
frosts. Currant worms and tent caterpillars are doing some dam-
age. Planting is progressing well. Farm help is rather scarce,
and about one-half of it is good help. Wages average $22 per
month with board, and $1.50 per day without board. There is an
increased acreage of corn ; other crops about the same as usual.
Extremes of heat and cold during the month, with repeated frosts
doing damage in some low places.

Leicester (H. H. Kingsbury). — The season has been rather
cool, with a small amount of rain. Pastures and mowings are in
fine condition ; no fall seeding. There is a full bloom of all fruits
grown, as well as wild berries, with no injury from frost. Potato
planting is completed, and the ground is ready for corn. Farm
help is scarce, as usual at this season of the year. Wages average

23

$25 per month with board, and $1.50 to $2 per day without board.
Milk production for local and Worcester market is the leading
business of our farmers, and there is no disposition apparent to
make any change.

Sutton (C. P. King). — The season is later than usual and a
little too dry. Pastures are in good condition ; mowings need
rain ; fall seeding rather light. The fruit bloom was excellent,
but it suffered considerably from frost. Tent caterpillars are doing
some damage. Planting is progressing fairly well, and a large
amount is being done. Farm help is scarce, and about 20 per
cent of it good help. Wages average $20 per month with board,
and $1.50 per day without board. More corn and less potatoes
than usual are being planted. A large amount of forage crops
will be planted, farmers tending to raise crops more for the pro-
duction of milk than for the market.

Blackstone (O. F. Fuller). — The season is about an average
one. Pastures and mowings are looking fairly well, and fall seed-
ing looks good. The fruit bloom is very good compared with
former years. Cut worms are doing some damage. Planting is
progressing fairly well but is backward. Farm help is scarce.
Wages average $20 per month with board, and from $1.25 to $1.50
per day without board. Less potatoes will be planted than usual,
with acreage of other crops about as usual.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Sherborn (N. B. Douglas). — The season is a little late, but
otherwise very favorable. Pastures are slow in starting ; mowings
and fall seeding promise well. There was a full bloom on all
fruits, with very little damage from frost. No insects are very
troublesome as yet. More than tlie usual amount of planting has
been done to date. Farm help is scarce, and half of it good help.
Wages average $22 to $25 per month with board, and $1.50 to
$1.75 per day without board. There appears to be about the
usual acreage of farm crops.

Framingham (J. S. Williams). — The season started well, with
everything favorable at early seed time, but it has since been ex-
ceedingly dry and cold, with frosts on the 2l8t and 22d, and much
wind. Pastures, mowings and winter grain looked well, but the
drought is affecting grass badly. The bloom of apples and pears
was good ; damage to strawberries from frost, and probably to
peaches. No trouble from insects as yet. Planting has been
pushed with energy, and a large acreage is in. Farm help is
scarce, and one-third of that available is good help. Wages aver-

24

age $25 per month with board, and from $35 to $38 per month
without board. Potatoes will probably receive more than ordinary
attention.

Stoio (Geo. W. Bradley). — The season is not as forward as
usual. Uplands are not looking as well as a week ago ; fall seed-
ing fairly good. There is about an average fruit bloom, with
some strawberries damaged by frost. There have been but very
few insects as yet. Some are about through planting, some just
beginning, and some are waiting for rain. Farm help is scarce,
and about one-fourth of it good help. Wages range from $12 to
$25 per month with board, and from $1.50 to $2 per day without
board. There will be less corn and more potatoes planted than
usual.

Westford (J. W. Fletcher). — The season is about an average
one, except that it is very drj-. Fall seeding came through the
winter well, but is much in need of rain. The fruit bloom is
about an average one, but frost did some damage to small fruits.
The brown-tail moth is our most troublesome insect. Planting is
rather backward. Farm help is scarce. Wages range from $20
to $25 per month with board, and from $35 to $40 per month
without board. There are no marked changes in the acreage of
farm crops.

Chelmsford (P. P. Perham). — The present season is ten days
later than the average. Pastures and mowings are looking finely,
and fall seeding made a good start. The bloom of apples, pears,
peaches and small fruits compares well with former years, and has
not suffered from frosts. No insects are doing damage. Planting
is mostly completed. Good farm help is very scarce. Wages
average $20 per month with board, and $35 per month without
board. There will be a slightly larger acreage of corn and a
slightly smaller one of potatoes than formerly.

Billerica (Geo. P. Greenwood). — The season is about an aver-
age one. Grass looks well, and fall seeding wintered well. There
is a heavy bloom on apples, but rather less on small fruits. Brown-
tail moths are doing some damage. Planting is progressing fairly
well. Farm help is very scarce. Wages average $22 per month,
with board, and $35 per month without board. The acreage of
farm crops will be generally decreased in this vicinity.

Concord (Wim. H. Hunt). — The season is late, and the ground
could not be worked as early as usual. Fall seeding did well, and
pastures and mowings look well. The apple bloom was quite full ;
pears blossomed very full ; other fruits normal. Cut worms are
abundant, tent caterpillars few. Planting is nearly completed.
Good farm help is scarce. Wages average from $20 to $25 per

25

month with board, and from $35 to $45 per month without board.
The crops grown about here are about the same in acreage as
usual.

Wakefield (Charles Talbot) . — The season is about an average
one. Pastures and mowings are looking finely, arrd fall seeding
wintered well. There was a very heavy bloom on peaches ; pears
light ; apples very good ; cherries light ; late frosts hurt peaches.
Planting is a little later than usual, but is progressing well. Farm
help is scarce, and most of it poor help. Wages range from $16 to
$20 per month with board, and $35 to $40 per month without board.
There is about the usual acreage of the various farm crops, with
perhaps more attention paid to small vegetables. Late frosts have
done considerable damage.

Winchester (Samuel S. Symmes). — The season is much colder
than usual, with strong winds, making crops backward. Pastures
and mowings are getting very dry ; fall seeding wintered well.
No apple bloom ; pears and peaches full ; plums light. Cut
worms and gypsy and brown-tail moth caterpillars are doing some
damage. Planting is very nearly completed, as we have had much
fair weather. Help is scarce, and about half of it good help.
Wages range from $25 to $30 per month with board, and from
$1.50 to $1.75 per day without board.

Newton (G. L. Marcy). — The season is colder and at present
drier than usual. If we have rain immediately we will get an av-
erage hay crop ; pastures are dry ; fall seeding is doing well.
The fruit bloom is light, with no damage from frosts. ' Cut worms
are doing some damage. Planting is progressing well. Wages
range from $20 to $25 per month with board, and from $10 to
812 per week without board. There are no marked changes in the
acreage of farm crops.

ESSEX COUNTY.

Salisbury (Wesley Pettengill). — The season is about nor-
mal, but a little later than some seasons. Pastures and mowings
are looking well, and fall seeding wintered well. Apples light
bloom ; pears and peaches full ; plums fair ; small fruits full ;
no frost to do any damage. There are a few tent caterpillars and
brown-tail moth caterpillars doing damage. Planting is a little
late. Help is scarce, and about one-fourth of it good help.
Wages range from $20 to $25 per month, and average $1.50 per
day without board. There are no mai'ked changes in the acreage
of farm crops.

Haverhill (Eben Webster). — The season is a little late, but
we are having good working weather. Fall seeding is in fair con-

26

dition, and pastures and mowings in good condition. There was
a good bloom of pears, peaches, plums and small fruits ; apples
fair; peaches not so good; no damage from frost. Brown-tail
moths are doing some damage. Planting is almost completed.
Farm help is scarce, and about one-third of it is good help. Wages
range from ^20 to 825 per month with board, and average Si. 50
per day without board. There are no marked changes in the
acreage of farm crops, except that market-gardeners are doing
rather more than usual.

North Andover (Peter Holt). — The season is somewhat late.
Grass started well, but needs rain. There has been a good bloom
of all kinds of fruit, and there has been no frost to injure it.
Where the brown-tail moth nests were not destroyed the caterpil-
lars are working. Planting is nearly completed. There are plenty
of men to be had by the day, but no really good farm hands.
Wages average from $20 to $22 per month with board, and about
$1.50 per day without board. There will be about the usual acreage
of the various farm crops.

Hamilton (Geo. R. Dodge). — The season is later than the
normal. Pastures and mowings are short and thin ; early fall
seeding wintered well. Summer and fall apples, pears and peaches
bloomed full ; plums not up to previous years ; no damage from
frost. Tent caterpillars and brown-tail moths are doing some
damage. Planting is progressing slowly, and much is not yet
done. Farm help is scarce and quality poor. Wages average
$30 per month with board. There is about the usual acreage of
potatoes and corn.

Wenham (N. P. Perkins) . — Some crops may be a few days late,
but as a rule it is a normal season. Grass fields that were well
manured wintered well, but some others will have to be resown.
There was a small bloom of all kinds of fruit, but wild berries
bloomed full. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Early
planting is completed and late crops are being pushed forward.
There is plenty of poor help around, and about one-fourth the
supply is good help. Wages average $20 per month with board,
and $1.50 per day without board. About the usual line of crops
is being planted. Sweet corn came up very poorly, either owing
to poor seed or to the soil being too cold.

NORFOLK COUNTY.
Westtvood (Henry E. Wkatherbee). — The season is a little
late, but is now warm and dry. Pastures and mowings started
well, but need rain or there will be a short crop ; fall seeding win-
tered well. There was a full bloom of fruit and small fruits, and

27

but little damage from frosts. There is not much damage from
insects as yet. Most farmers are nearly through planting. Farm
help is very scarce, and it is very hard to get good help. Wages
average from $25 to $30 with board, and from $40 to $45 per
month without board. There will be about the usual acreage of
the various farm crops.

Norwood (Frank A. Fales). — The season is fully fifteen days
late, and is cold and dry. Pastures are poor, but mowings look
well, and fall seeding is in good condition. Apples, pears and
small fruit bloomed well ; some damage to strawberries from frost.
No insects are doing damage so far. Planting is rather late.
Farm help is scarce, and three-fourths of it good help. Wages
average $24 per month with board, and $1.75 per day without
board. There is no change in the acreage of farm crops. Jap-
anese millet is being raised more each year for forage, to help out
pastures.

Walpole (Edward L. Shepard). — The season is late, cold and
dry. Pastures and mowings are looking well, and fall seeding
fairly well. The apple bloom was above the average ; other fruits
a little below ; small fruits injured by frost. Have not noticed
any damage to speak of as yet from insects. Planting is more
than half done. Farm help is scarce, and only a small proportion
is good help. Wages range from $20 to $25 per month with
board, and from $1.50 to $2 per day without board. There is
about the usual acreage of farm crops.

Millis (E. F. Richardson). — The season is late. Pastures and
mowings are in good condition, and fall seeding wintered well.
There was an extra good fruit bloom, and no damage from frost.
No insects are doing damage as yet. Planting is a little late.
Farm help is scarce, and two-thirds of it good help. Wages
average from $20 to $28 per month with board, and from $35 to
$48 per month without board. More ^corn will be grown than
usual.

Franklin (C. M. Allen). — The season is an average one thus
far. Pastures and mowings are in poor condition, and fall seeding
wintered only fairly well. There has been no damage to the fruit
bloom from frost. Insects are only beginning business. Planting
is practically completed. Farm help is scarce, and a very small
proportion of it is good help. Wages average $25 per month with
board, and from $1.50 to $1.75 per day without board. More
intensive farming is practised every year. Rain is needed, espe-
cially for hay and pastures.

28

BRISTOL COUNTY.

Attleborough (Isaac Alger). — The season is a full average
one. Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall seeding is in
good condition. Apples had a small bloom ; pears a very full
bloom ; strawberries a full bloom. No insects have appeared as
yet. Planting is progressing well. Help is very scarce. Wages
average 625 per month with board, and Si -50 per day without
board. The acreage of potatoes will be decreased.

Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter). — In point of time the season is
about normal, but the ground is rather dry. Fall seeding wintered
well, but it has been too dry for pastures and mowings. Apples
and pears gave about a normal fruit bloom ; peaches above normal ;
plums light and somewhat injured by frosts. Currant worms and
curculios are doing some damage. Planting is progressing rather
slowly. Farm help is scarce, and there is very little good help to
be had. Wages range from $20 to $25 per month with board, and
from $1.50 to $1.75 per day without board. There will probably
be a decreased acreage of farm crops, owing to the scarcity of
help. Strawberries look unusually well, though slightly injured
by frosts.

Seekonk (John W. Peck). — The season compares very favor-
ably with a normal season. Grass and small crops need rain.
Fruit bloom must have suffered on low ground as we had a very
severe frost. No insects have appeared as yet. Planting is pro-
gressing finely, with a large acreage of crops put in. Farm help
is plenty, but is all Portuguese, and three-fourths of them are
good help. Wages average $20 per month with board, and $34
per month without board. The season has been a peculiar one,
and it is astonishing how well crops are advanced.

Dighton (James N. Paul). — The season is late and very dry.
Pastures are poor, and mowings promise to be very light because
of lack of rain ; fall seeding did not winter well. Apples made a
very poor bloom ; pears and plums poor ; no peaches ; no damage
from frost. Asparagus beetles, cut worms and potato bugs are
doing some damage. Planting is late. Farm help is scarce, and
is mostly poor help. Wages range from $15 to $30 per month with
board, and from $1.25 to $1.75 per day without board. There will
be more corn and less potatoes grown than usual, and a large
acreage of tomatoes will be set. The strawberry crop promises
well, but is suffering from want of rain at present.

DartmoxUh (L. T. Davis). — The season is not as forward at
this time as usual. Pastures and mowings are later than most
years ; fall seeding wintered very well. JNIany orchards have

29

hardly bloomed at all, others quite heavily. No damage from
insects as yet. Planting is progressing very slowly. Farm help
is scarce and poor, and not over one-third of it is reliable help.
Wages range from $20 to $25 per month with board, and from $9
to $12 per week without board. There may be more corn planted
than usual, otherwise no change in the acreage of farm crops.

PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Brockton (Davis Copeland). — The season is about an average
one. Pastures and mowings are in poor condition on account of
the dry weather ; fall seeding wintered well. There was a very full
fruit bloom, and not much injury from frost. Cut worms and
black cabbage flies are doing some damage. Planting is progress-
ing well. Farm help is scarce, and not over half of it good help.
There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.

Norwell (Henry A. Turner). — The season is about a normal
one. The promise is good for pastures, and fall seeding went
through the winter well. The apple bloom is light ; pears and
peaches blossomed well, and frost has not injured them. Currant
worms are plenty. Planting is well under way. Farm help is not
very plenty, but what there is is good help. Wages average 15
cents per hour without board. Corn seems to be raised more than
formerly.

^^awson (Flavel S. Thomas, M.D.). — The season is about
normal, but the nights have been quite cold. Pastures, mowings
and fall seeding are all in good condition. All fruits bloomed
well, except winter apples ; severe frost this week, but not much
damage. Insects are not doing any serious damage. Planting
is progressing well, though some are delaying on account of
frosts. Farm help is scarce, the best help being attracted to
other pursuits, with shorter hours and better pay. There is no
marked change in the acreage of farm crops. We sadly need
rain.

Halifax (G. W. Hayward) . — The season is late, but with
plenty of rain and sunshine it will catch up. Pastures started
well, but need rain ; mowings look finely and wintered well. All
kinds of fruit bloomed well, but late frosts may have injured them
somewhat. Cut worms are plenty. Nearly all planting is com-
pleted except corn, and most of that is in. Farm help is very
scarce, but is good help when it can be got. Wages range from
$20 to $25 per month with board, and average $1.75 per day for
good help. Cranberry bog to the amount of 200 acres is being
made in town. No change in the acreage of farm crops.

30

Carver (J. A. VAroHAN). — The season has been an average
one. Pastures and mowings have grown rapidly in the past ten
days, but now need rain. There is not a very full fruit bloom,
and frosts have destroyed many strawberry blossoms. But few
insects have appeared as yet. Planting is progressing as fast as
the ground is in good condition. Farm help is scarce, and mostly
foreigners, but few of whom understand our farm work. But few
board their help, and wages average 81.65 per day without board.
A large area of cranberry bog is being made.

Rochester (Geo. H. Randall). — The season is somewhat late.
Pastures and mowings started well, but need rain, and fall seeding
wintered well. There was generally a good fruit bloom ; frosts
may have done some damage. Cut worms and currant worms are
doing some damage. Planting is progressing slowly, and there is
much yet to be done. Farm help is scarce, and perhaps half of it
is good help. Wages range from $20 to $25 per month with
board, and average $1.50 per day without board. The acreage of
farm crops will be less than usual on account of scarcity of help.
Cold, drying winds have prevailed for a considerable proportion of
the month, causing poor germination of many seeds.

BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

Bourne (David D. Nye). — The season compares favorably
with the normal. Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall
seeding wintered well. The fruit bloom is looking very well, and
compares well with former years. Tent caterpillars are doing
some damage. Planting is progressing slowly, owing to cold
nights and not very high day temperatures. Farm help is very
scarce, and one-half to three-fourths of that available is good help.
Wages average $20 month with board, and $2 per day without
board. There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm
crops. There were severe frosts on the 21st and 22d, injuring
some early vegetables.

Dennis (Joshua Crowell) . — The season is about an average
one. Pastures and mowings look well, but are beginning to need
rain. All fruits have bloomed well, but there has been some
damage from frost. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage.
Planting is nearly completed. Farm help is scarce, and perhaps
half of it is good help. Very little help is boarded ; wages average
from $1.50 to $2 per day without board. A severe frost the morn-
ing of the 22d did some damage to cranberries and strawberries.

Harivich (Ambrose N. Doane). — The season is much cooler
than usual, and the crops are backward. Pastures and mowings

31

promise well. There was a good fruit bloom, and frost has done
some damage to small fruits. Tent caterpillars are doing some
damage ; no cranberry worms as yet. Planting is about all over.
Farm help is not plenty, and the quality is medium. Wages
average 820 per month with board, and about Si per day without
board. Acreage of farm crops about the same as usual, but more
small fruits are growing than usual.

Eastham (J. A. Clark). — The season is a few days later than
the normal. The promise for pastures and mowings is good. The
bloom of all kinds of fruit trees was full, and there has been no
damage from frost. Asparagus beetles are more plenty than usual
of late. Planting is progressing well. Farm help is scarce.
Wages average S25 per month with board, and range from $40 to
$45 per month without board. More corn than usual will be
planted.

Welljieet (E. S. Jacobs). — The season compares well with
former years. Pastures and mowings are in good condition, and
wintered very well indeed. Fruit trees of all kinds bloomed finely.
Cut worms are doing some damage. Planting is progressing well.
Help is hard to get, and what we do get is poor help. Wages
average about $1.25 per day without board. There are no changes
in the acreage of farm crops as far as I can see.

DUKES COUNTY.

West Tishury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — The season is about an
average one to date. The promise for pastures and mowings is
poor unless we have rain soon. The fruit bloom was average, and
although we have had some frosts they apparently did not injure it.
Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Planting is well ad-
vanced. Wages average $20 per month with board, and $1.50 to
$2 per day without board. There are no marked changes in the
acreage of farm crops.

NANTUCKET COUNTY.

Nantucket (H. G. Worth) . — The season is a little backward.
Mowings and pastures are looking well, but need rain. There is
no fruit in this county. Potato bugs are the only insect that has
appeared as yet. Planting is progressing about as usual. Farm
help is scarce, and very little of it is good help. Wages average
$25 per month with board, and range from $35 to $40 per month
without board. There is no marked change in the acreage of farm
crops. More people are interested in poultry than formerly.

32

BULLETIN OF

Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.

THE HOME GARDEN.

By Prof. F. VT. Rane, Department of Horticulture and Forestry, the Neio Hampshire

College.

Just how to handle, plan and arrange, select best varieties, and,
in a nutshell, get satisfactory results in caring for a home garden,
is not an easy thing to explain satisfactorily in a brief discussion.
A successful garden is the result of an apparent interest in the
undertaking by the owner himself. Let us first awaken this.

To get up an interest and to get best results I would say start
in early in winter, when the seedsmen's catalogues begin to appear
soon after Christmas, to study them and get out the seed order.
This of necessity must be preceded by a plan of the garden and
the area of each crop to be grown. It is a good practice to
consult a neighbor who has a reputation for having a successful
garden, and get all the points we can. The commercial men
who are growing on a large scale are also always of a generous
disposition, and ready to give any one the information he cares
most for. There is a mistaken impression, seemingly general, that
large growers do not select the better varieties for use, and there-
fore the varieties grown by them are not the best for the home
garden. From an extended experience and acquaintance with both
the average person making his own garden and the commercial
grower, I am convinced that the varieties grown by the latter are
far superior. The commercial man is constantly studying the
problem of varieties, and it is a part of his life's work to take
advantage of any improvements as soon as they are proven val-
uable. Neither is he led astray by the too frequent fake novelties
commonly grown by many novice gardeners. Some of the State
experiment stations make a very close study of vegetable growing
as a part of their horticultural work, and are ever ready to suggest
what they consider the best lists of varieties for planting, and to

33

pass judgment upon new things which they have tested. Bulletins
are available, either from the State experiment stations or from the
United States Department of Agriculture, that have been written
to assist such of us as care to make a garden. Without looking
the matter up, I can recall many bulletins that briefly and in a
practical way give just the information desired in growing certain
crops. Some of those sent free by the United States Department
of Agriculture, Washington, D. C, called Farmers' bulletins, are:
No. 94, " The Vegetable Garden ; " No. 61, " Asparagus Culture ; "
No. 148, " Celery Culture ; " No. 154, " The Home Fruit Garden ; "
No. 39, "Onion Culture;" and a,t the New Hampshire Station,
Durham : Bulletin No.
99, " A Selected List
of Vegetables for the
Garden;" No. 86,
" Growing Watermel-
ons in the North ; "
No. 74, "Growing
Strawberries in New
England ;" No. 52,
" Growing Muskmel-
ons in New England,"
etc. Many similar bul-
letins are likewise to
be had from the Mas-
sachusetts Experiment
Station of Amherst, for
the asking.

With this as a start,
we should be well forti-
fied for making a suc-
cess with our garden.

After reading, thinking over and digesting as much as we can,
we are prepared, with seed ordered and on hand, to proceed. In
order to cover the ground and touch on the more important matters,
let us discuss each step in order, as far as possible.

I. Fall Flowing. — After frost has come in the fall rake to-
gether and clean up all dead vines, cabbage stumps, etc., and
throw them upon the compost heap ; then plow up the ground
fairly deep, and allow the furrows to remain on edge over winter.
Freezing and thawing, with free access of air to the soil, are bene-
ficial, and assist in destroying insects. In the spring such soils dry
out early, and are more quickly put in condition for planting.

II. Flant Food. — The keynote for success with the home gar-

Lakge Bell Pepper.

34

den is this question of feeding the plants. We do not expect to get
results from unfed animals ; neither shall we get much pleasure in
gardening unless we make the conditions necessary for good results.
Let us take the time to visit some of the large gardeners about
Arlington, Belmont, etc., and get an idea of how they feed plants ;
and if we follow their example, the most essential problem in suc-

WINNINGSTADT CABBAGE ; EARLY SPRING CABBAGE.

ceeding in the home garden will have been solved. Stable and
barn manures are the best fertilizers at all times. Commercial
fertilizers are all right in their place and when used by persons
who are experienced in such use, but call upon them when you
are more experienced, and have your soil in a high degree of fer-
tility. If you haven't enough manure for one-half acre, better cut
your area down to one-fourth acre, for you will get better and
more satisfactory results.

35

In the fall plowing turn under a good heavy application of
manure, and then in the spring after preparing a good seed bed
use plenty of well-rotted manure in the farrows or hills. We can
just as well get two crops off the land as one, if the rotations are
properly planned. Failure to succeed with gardening is due more
to lack of plenty of good manure than any other one thing. We
cannot get something from nothing ; spend more money on manures.
After putting on what you think is enough, double the amount.

M

Varieties of Main Cuop Peas.

III. Cultivation. — The garden should be kept in a high state
of cultivation throughout the season. Cultivation keeps the soil
in ideal physical condition for plants to grow in, and it keeps the
weeds in check. Begin cultivation as early as possible in the
season, and persistently keep ahead of the weeds. The great
good, among other things, to come from transplanting crops like
cabbage, lettuce, onions, etc., is in being able to cultivate the
ground longer and have the weeds well under subjection by the
time these crops are set out. By germinating the weed seeds and

36

then quickly destroying them by frequent cultivation early in the
growing season, much labor in weed-killing can be saved later.

The old-fashioned method of growing vegetables in beds, thus
necessitating so much hand-weeding and back-aching work,
should be eliminated by planting in long rows, so that most of the
work can be done with the horse. Fencing the garden in is not
practised as often as formerly. It is a better policy to be
prepared to fence in the poultry and farm animals when they are
likely to be troublesome, and allow the garden freedom from the
grass and weedy condition almost always present in and about
a fence that surrounds the garden. Plant in long, straight rows,
and have plenty of room at either end to turn the horse around
with ease when cultivating, planting, etc. Less room is needed
where hand implements are used, but the same principles apply.

If you do not care to plant
the whole row to one kind of
vegetable, simply complete
it with auother requiring
similar culture and maturity.
Above all things, keep the
garden free from weeds. A
small garden well tilled is far
better than a large one given
less care.

IV. Garden Implements
( Tools) . — A good set of
garden tools makes the work
easier, and it is poor economy not to have the best. No matter
if the garden is only a quarter of an acre, to get best results the
following implements are suggested for use. Plow ; cutaway or
disk harrow ; Acme or steel-toothed harrow ; steel rake ; seed
drill ; cultivators ; combination hand wheel hoe ; also a good spade,
spading fork, hoes, dibbers, markers, wheel-barrow, garden line,
etc. The Iron Age or Planet Junior garden tools, both hand and
horse, for sale by most implement dealers, should be in almost
constant use.

The soil for a garden should be plowed deeply and evenly.
Either the cutaway or disk harrow, both deep-cutting implements,
is then put on, and in many instances either one can almost take
the place of a plow. Following these come the Acme or steel-
toothed harrow, which breaks up and mellows the soil, making a
fine seed bed. The garden is now raked over, marked out and
planted. From now on keep the surface of the soil light and all
weeds down. If the rows are indicated, cultivation may begin

The Gradus Pea.

COLD-FR.\ME
■ "Wr A T. Tg" :i^ 6 C 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 99101112121313

sm s

" Half row followed by 36, other half by 38

•yy-A-XiK:-

With 2

S

s

s

With 2

s

g

With 2

s

?s

"

"

'"

■"

ij a

-S — Si — S — S — 8! — S— *— S— Si— S— « — ® — S — S— «! — !g — S — ^Si — ^ — i

■Si— ffi-lS-S! —

■m —

e ^^ • ^^^^^^^^

' J ' ' '._ ' 1^ '

-Sis:==-:»s^5*

«yo-r»:a.-,2:a:o»i'a-

i- a ■ ^^^-^ ^^-

i^3 M^iJl^MJ^JA^J^ ^^J£^

■<

0}

Q

H

OQ

y

b

as .
1 peas
eas .

nt .

abbage

bbage

wer
s sprou

uniip

0}

3

3 2-3i:mu23^^S-=2

hjSkww-j^jmkj&ij

2«?:'HS3i?SSgS^<

f. ^^^ ^

oSSs o* o- =• a o. a a o. CO .a tr =.

^ ai „„„„„rt««_^..,-«

"3 ' ' ■ S

2e • ■ S 5 • .S

3%. s^:^i_^

ush 1
warf
ax
ory
lack
towe
(eac
elon
nelui
earl
late
)ea.s

n o kS^o, ecu

S2SfS5?!SaSSSSS

.JS8S8»SS?!S?iSaS!28

^'3

CQ

H

z

? -3

§
i

Blackberries .
Raspberries, black

red
Currants .
Gooseberries .
Rhubarb .
Mint . . .
Thyme . .
Sage . . .
Summer savory
Basil . . .
Parsley
Horseradish
Asparagus
New strawberry b
Old

-^..:^«-.c.-:cr.o-^.22«3|

37

even before the plants appear above ground. The modern wheel
hoe, with its various ingenious attachments, is a great labor saver.
The weeder attachments are very effective in combating small
weeds when the crop is just starting. The wheel hoe can be used
to hoe both sides of one row, or between the rows in level culture.
It will also throw the soil either to or from the row. This tool
alone cheapens garden making a great deal, especially lightening
the unpleasant task of weeding. Plant the rows far enough apart,
as shown in the accompanying garden plan, to do the cultivation
with horse power. The Horse-Hoe and Cultivator is a very good
cultivator. It can be adjusted to varying depths and widths, which
is an advantage at times. The Steel Diamond-toothed Cultivator
is a fine implement for level and fine culture.

It is not entirely the question of having all kinds of implements
so much as it is in having enough and using them judiciously.

Big Boston Lettuce.

Plan to go over the garden at least twice a week during the
growing season.

V. Planting. — After the garden has been well enriched and
made an ideal seed bed by thorough tillage and preparation, we are
ready to plant it. The plan has been well worked out, and all that
is necessary now is to plant each variety at the proper time and in
its place. Every garden maker will vary plans to suit his needs,
as no two will agree as to the amount and kinds of vegetables or
small fruits they will grow. A very good plan is the accompany-
ing one by Mr. Clarence Fowler, a former student at the New
Hampshire College. It is quite complete, perhaps more so than
many would care to follow, but has the good features desired in a
plan. The short rows at one end are utilized for those crops
requiring frequent plantings in order to have a succession, and not
desired in large quantities.

38

The time to plant varies with the locality. The experience of
those who have lived iu the community for some time will be of
value iu determining thi8 point. The dates differ more or less
with the seasons. As a rule, all of the hardy vegetables for the
vicinity of Boston should be planted by April 20, and the tender
varieties from May 10 to June 1. Tender plants, like tomatoes,
should be set by June 1. Egg plants had best be kept in the
frame or greenhouse a week later before transplanting.

As well as I can determine, the best time for planting various
vegetables in the vicinity of Boston is as follows : —

Warted Hubbakd Squash.

Asparagus, end of April ; Bush Beans, first week in May ; Pole
Beans, middle to last of May ; Lima Beans, June 1 ; Beets, middle
of April ; Cabbage, set out last week in April or first in May ;
Carrots, last of May ; Caulijlower, May 1 to July 1 ; Celery, early,
April 1, late, July; Siveet Corn, May 1 ; Cucumbers, May 10;
Egg Plants, iu hotbed, March 15 ; Peas, last of April to May 1 ;
^adis^es, April 1 to June 15; Sjnnach, September 1 ; Tomatoes,
plants out of doors. May 25 ; Turnips, for fall use, July 1 to
August 20; Melons, May 15; Squash, May 15; Potatoes, May 1.

VI. Rotations. — With the garden well enriched, it should be
our aim to produce all we can from it. By studying out the ap-
proximate time it takes various crops to mature, and thus planning
for other crops to take their places, two or more crops can be
raised upon the same ground. A few crops that require the whole

39

season to mature in are : Long Blood Beets, Egg Plants, Water-
melons, Onions, Pejypers, Winter Squash and Tomatoes. Other
vegetables mature more quickly; for example: String Beans, 50
to 60 days ; Lettuce, Turnip Beets, Summer Squash and XurnijJS,
in about 65 days. Corn, Early Cabbage and Caulifloicer require
somewhat more time, while Badishes can be grown in about one-
half the time. By starting many vegetables in the hotbed or cold
frame, and growing them in trays, pots, tin cans, old strawberry
boxes, etc., and thus beiug ready to set the partially grown plant
in its permanent quarters, much time can be saved and thus an

Green ^Iountain Potato.

extra crop obtained. Lettuce, Cabbages, Beets, Onions, Musk-
melons, Cauliflower and Celery, during a large portion of their
period of development can be confined to a limited space and
then finally transplanted to their permanent places to mature.
By so doing we not only get more crops off a given area, but we
are able to keep the soil in better condition for the plants them-
selves. As soon as one crop is taken out, the soil should be put
in fine condition for the next plants to go in. Weeds are largely
eliminated by this practice.

VII. Varieties. — It is not an easy matter to say just which one
or two varieties are the best vegetables to plant, when there are
upwards of a hundred or more varieties of each kind. In offering

40

the following list, therefore, it is given only as suggestive. No
one can make a mistake in growing at least the following varieties,
as they stand well up at the head of the list. These results are
from our experience in growing large numbers of vegetables at the
New Hampshire Experiment Station each year.

Bush Beans, — Giant Stringless Green Pod, Valentine, and
Wardwell's Kidney Wax ; Bush Lima Beans, — Henderson's or
Sieva ; Beets, — Eclipse or Crosby's Egyptian ; Early Cabbage, —
Early Spring and Winningstadt ; Late Cabbage, — Succession and
Lupton ; Carrots, — Danvers Half Long and Chantenay ; Cauli-
floioer, — Snowball and Erfurt ; Celery, — for early use. Golden
Self-blanching ; for fall and early winter, Boston Market ; for
winter, Pascal ; Sweet Corn, — for very early, Early Cory ; second
early, Crosby's Early ; medium or late. Potter's Excelsior or
Squantum ; Cucumbers, — White Spine ; Egg Plants, — New York
Improved Large Purple ; Lettuce, — Big Boston, New York, Grand
Rapids; Muskmeloyis, — Emerald Gem, Rocky Ford, Montreal;
Watermelons, — Cole's Early, Boss, Black-eyed Susan ; Onions, —
Yellow Danvers ; Parsnips, — Hollow Crown ; Peas, — early,
Gradus or Prosperity, Nott's Excelsior ; late, Telephone ; Strata-
gem, dwarf and tall ; Peppers, — Sweet Mountain, Large Bell,
Improved Thick Long Red; Potatoes, — Early Rose, Delaware,
Green Mountain, Washington ; Pumpkins, — Small Sugar, Golden
Oblong ; Radishes, — Early Scarlet Globe, French Breakfast,
Woods' Early Frame; Squash, — Early Prolific Marrow, Essex
Hybrid, Warren, Hubbard ; Tomatoes, — Earliana, Dwarf Cham-
pion, Stone ; Turnips, — Early Milan, Early Snowball, White
Egg, Red-top Globe ; Swedes or Ruta-bagas, — American Purple
Top Ruta-baga.

Series of 190G. Vol. U«. No. 2.

MASSACHUSETTS

CROP REPOET

FOR THE

Month of Juxe, 1906.

DAIRY PROFITS.

ISSUED MOXTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTOX, MASS.

J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary,

Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class Matter,
UNDER Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.

BOSTON :

WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,

18 Post Office Square.

1906.

Approved by
The State Board of Publication.

Crop Eeport for the Month of June, 1906.

Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., July 2, 1906.

Bulletin No. 2, Crop Report for the month of June, is
herewith presented. At the close of this bulletin is an
article on " Some Causes aliecting Dairy Profits," by Prof.
C. S. Cooley, professor of Animal Husbandry and Dairying
at the Massachusetts Agricultural College. This article
contains a great deal of valuable matter which should inter-
est every owner of dairy cows, regardless of the line of
dairying of which he makes a specialty, and we trust that it
will receive the careful attention on the part of our readers
which its merit deserves.

Progress of the Season.

Preliminary returns to the Crop Reporting Board of the
Bureau of Statistics of the Department of Agriculture (Crop
Reporter for June, IDOl)) on the acreage of spring wheat
sown, indicate an area of 17,9<S<),000 acres, an increase of
38,000 acres, or .2 per cent, as com})ared with the estimate
of the acreage sown last year. The average condition of
spring wheat on June 1 was 1)H, as compared with 94 last
year, 93 on June 1, 1904, and a ten-year average of 94.
The average condition of winter wheat on June 1 was 83, as
compared with 91 on May 1, 190(i, 8(-) on ,Iune 1, 190o, 78
on June 1, 1904, and a ten-^-ear average of SI.

The total reported area in oats Avas about 27,1)78,000
acres, a decrease of 3(!8,()00 acres, or 1.3 per cent, as com-
pared with the estimated area sown last year. The average
condition of outs on June 1 was 8(i, against 93 on June 1,
190.5, <si) in 1904, and a ten-year average of 91.

The acreage reported as under barley is more than that
estimated as sown last year by about 13;),()00 acres, or 2.7

per cent. The average condition of bade}' is 93.5, against
94 on June 1, 1905, 90 in 1904, and 90, the mean of the
corresponding averages of the last ten years.

The average condition of rve is 90, against 94 on June 1,
1905, SC^ on June 1, 1904, and 90, the mean of the corres-
ponding averages of the last ten yeai's.

The total area planted to cotton is estimated to be about
28,686,000 acres, an increase of 1,686,000 acres, or 6.2 per
cent. This increase is not, however, all of this 3^ear, last
year's acreage evidentlj^ having been considerably under-
estimated.

In Massachusetts the acreage of oats compared with that
sown last year was given as 99, and the average condition
June 1 as 97 ; the average condition of rye as 91 ; the acre-
age of clover compared with that of last year as 100, and
its average condition as 98 : the average condition of alfalfa
as 90 ; the average condition of spring pasture as 94 ; the
average condition of apples as 90 : the average condition of
peaches as 85 ; the average condition of blackberries as 95 ;
the average condition of raspberries as 90 ; the average
condition of cantaloupes as 90 ; the average production of
asparagus compared with a full crop as 90 ; the average
condition of cabbage as 95 ; and the average condition of
onions as 95.

Temperature and Rainfall for the Whole Country.

[From United States National Weekly Weather Bulletin.]

Week ending June 4. — In the Rocky Mountain region
and to the westward the week was cooler than usual, except
on the extreme north Pacific coast. The temperature was
also below the normal in the Missouri, central Mississippi
and Ohio valleys, over the greater part of the Lake region,
and in northern New England. In the Lake region, upper
Ohio, upper Mississippi, and central ^Missouri valleys, over
the greater part of the South Atlantic and east Gulf States,
and on the west Gulf coast, the rainfall was below the aver-
age. There Avas also less than the usual precipitation in
Colorado and the southern Plateau region. Unusually heavy
rains occurred in the upper Missouri valley, and there was

more than the average rainfall in the Atlantic coast districts
northward of Virginia.

Week endiiKj June 11. — In the northern Rocky Mountain
region, and the middle and northern Plateau and Pacific
coast districts the week avemged cooler than usual. Over
the southeastern Kooky Mountain slope, the Missouri val-
ley, west Gulf States, and in all districts east of the Missis-
sippi River, except extreme southern Florida, the week was
warmer than usual. In the lower jSIissouri, central Missis-
sippi, and upper Ohio valleys and over most of the Lake
reirion, Middle Atlantic States, and New England, the
rainfall exceeded the average and in portions of all districts
named was very heavy. In the central Missouri and lower
Ohio valleys and generally throughout the Southern States
the precipitation was below the average.

Week ending June 18. — The week averaged cooler than
usual over the interior of northern California, on the north
Pacitic coast, and in nearly all districts east of the Rocky
Mountains. The deficiency in temperature ranged from 3° to
6° per day, the most marked departures occurring in the cen-
tral Mississippi and lower Ohio valley's, the southern portion
of the Lake region, and the interior portions of the Middle
Atlantic States and New England. Generally throughout
the Atlantic coast districts, includinp; the upper Ohio valley
and the greater part ot the east (lulf States the rainfall was
much above the average. From the Gulf coast northward
to the Lake region the precipitation was much below the
average.

Week ending June 25. — The week averaged warmer than
usual along the south Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts.
Over the eastern portion of the lower Lake region the aver-
age daily temperature for the week was nearly normal.
Elsewhere the week averaged cooler than usual, being de-
cidedly cool on the northern New England coast and from
the upper Ohio valley westward to the central and northern
Plateau regions. Throug-hout the central vallevs the aver-

DO

age daily temperature deficiency amounted to (5° or more,
and in the northern Rocky Mountain region and upper Mis-
souri valley it ranged from It^ to 12°. The rainfall was

G

below the average in tlie southern portion of the Lake
region, the northern portions of Indiana and Illinois, and in
northwestern Ohio, also on the southern New Engfland
coast and generally throughout the Southern States. Ver}'^
heavy rains fell in the lower Missouri, central Mississippi,
and Ohio valleys. Middle Atlantic States, and over the
greater portion of New England.

Special Telegraphic Reports.

[Weather Bureau, Boston.]

Weel' endiin/ June 4. — New England. Boston: There
was much cloudy weather, with frequent showers. Thunder-
storms were general, and in })laces severe on the 0th and
9th. The sunshine was below the average. The tempera-
ture was seasonable.

Week ending June 11. — Xew England. Boston: The
temperature was low during the fore part of the week and
seasonable the latter part. The sunshine was normal. Hail
occurred in some places June 1. The rainfall was ample.

Week ending June 18. — New England . Boston : Showers
occurred Saturday, Sunday and JNIondav. The temperature
was moderately low at the beginning and close of the week,
light frosts occurring in the northern and interior parts on
the 13th and 14th.

Week ending June 25. — New England. Boston : Showers
occurred at the beginning and the close of the week, the
middle portion being fair. The rainfall in the northeast
and southeast portions was light, but ranged from 1 inch to
2 inches in southwest Maine, southern New Hampshire,
Vermont and central-western Massachusetts.

The Weather of Juxe, 1906.
The month opened with several days of generally fair and
seasonal temperatures, during which there was a normal
amount of sunshine. The weather became unsettled on the
5th, and a period of shoAvery conditions prevailed from the
6th to the 10th. The rainfall during this time was copious
though not excessive : it was wholly from thunderstorms

and local disturbances, and therefore somewhat unevenly
distributed. In coast sections the amounts of rainfall ranged
from .30 to .GO of an inch, while in northwestern parts of
the State they, in numerous instances, exceeded an inch.
The temperatures dm-ing the time were near the seasonal
average, the maxima ranging in the 80s and the minima in
the 50s. From the 11th to the 18th there was generally
fair weather with abundant sunshine. There was little chauije
in the temperatures, although the general tendency was to
moderately cooler weather. The sunshine coming after a
rather prolonged season of cloudiness was very beneficial.
During the closing decade of the month the weather condi-
tions were characteristic of the season. The rainftiU was light,
the result of local storms and showers and therefore irreofu-
lar in distribution. While no marked rise occurred in the
temperatures over the State, the average for this period was
nearer the normal for the season than during the preceding
ten days. The local storms during June were less violent
than usual, and there was probably less damage from this
source than often occurs in this month. The month as a
whole was quite pleasant, but at the close the season was
generally considered to be a week or ten days later than the
average.

In the circular to correspondents, returnable June 25, the
following questions were asked : —

1. What insects arc proving injurious in your locality?

2. How is Indian corn lookino-, and what is the acreaire
as compared with former years ?

3. How is haying progressing, and what is the prospect
for the crop ?

4. Will the acreage of forage crops be increased in your
locality?

5. How does the acreage of early potatoes compare with
previous years, and Avhat is the promise for the crop? .

6. How do early market-garden crops com})are in yield
and price with former years, and what is the prospect for
those not yet harvested ?

7. How do the quantity and quality of dairy products,

8

and the supply and price of dain-' cows, compare with for-
mer years ?

8. What is the condition of pasturage in your locality?

9. What is the outlook for such fruits and berries as are
grown for market, naming them ?

Returns were received from 158 correspondents, and from
these returns the following summary has been made up : —

Insects.
Insects appear to be unusually prevalent, although the
damage reported as done by them was not excessive in
any case. Potato bugs are the insects most commonly re-
ported, with cut worms a close second ; over a third of the
correspondents reporting damage from cut worms, — an
unusualh' large proportion. Rose bugs and squash bugs,
both the black and the striped varieties, also appear to be
more numerous than usual. Only 2 correspondents report
damage from canker worms and but 5 from tent caterpillars ;
while 9 speak of the brown-tail moth caterpillars and 5 of the
gypsy moth caterpillars. Other insects reported as doing
damage are currant worms, wire worms, white grubs, onion
maggots, elm leaf beetles, spittle insects, cabbage flies,
spiny elm caterpillars, cranberry vine worms, asparagus
beetles, Hessian flies, the San Jose scale, cattle flies, the
plum curculio and the army worm.

Indian Corn.
Indian corn was in the main planted rather later than usual,
owing to cold weather during May, and this, with cool
weather since its germination, makes the crop late, probably
from ten days to two weeks, at the time of making returns.
With seasonable weather it should soon make up for this
deficiency in growth, as the stand is reported to be good and
the crop thrifty, with good color. There would appear to
be a decrease in acreage over last year, due in a large
measure to the delay in planting.

The Hay Chop.
Haying had hardly begun at the time of making returns,
and the crop generally had not secured its full growth,
owing to cold weather and lack of rain in May, Avhich pre-
vented it starting early. The wet weather of the latter part
of May and of June has tended to improve the crop mate-
rially, but a few days of warm weather are needed to bring
it to maturity. Haying sliould be well under way by the
first week in July, and correspondents in general appear to
expect a good crop, although a few report injury from heavy
frosts and from the early dry weather, from which they do
not expect the crop to fully recover.

Acreage of Forage Crops.
There will not be a special increase in the acreage of
forage crops this year, judging from the returns, but there
is an undoubted tendency to raise more of these crops for
soiling purposes, as our New England pastures cannot be
depended upon for a steady supply of feed throughout the
season. A favorite combination for partial soiling in this
way is oats and peas for early feed, followed by Japanese
millet, fodder corn and barley in the order named.

Early Potatoes.
There is no material change in the acreage of early potatoes,
falling off of acreage in certain sections being balanced by
increases in others. The crop is somewhat later than usual,
owing to cool Avcather, but germinated well in most cases,
and the vines are now looking well. It is too early, how-
ever, to make any definite predictions as to yield.

Early Market-garden Crops,
Early market-garden crops were generally later than usual
in reaching the market, cool weather operating to hold them
in check, together with all other crops. Prices appear to
have been rather higher than for some 3'ears. Asparagus
and peas both yielded well and have brought good prices.
Later market-garden crops have made good growth and now
promise well.

10

Daiky Products and Dairy Cows.

The flow of milk has been well maintained, judging from
the reports, and daity products of all kinds are therefore in
good supply. Milk, butter and butter fat all appear to
bring about the same prices as in former 3'^ears, though but-
ter and butter fat are perhaps somewhat lower than the high
mark of last year. Dairy cows appear to be in fair supply,
and prices are somewhat easier than of late years. First-
class cows will always command first-class prices and find a
ready sale.

Pasturage.

Pastures were never in better condition the latter part of
June than they were at the time of making returns. The
frequent rains had kept them green and growing and feed
was abundant. There was some complaint as to quality of
feed, but this was by no means general.

Fruits and Berries.
Strawberries have been a good crop in all sections and
an unusually heavy one in some. Reports from southern
Bristol and Plymouth counties, the great commercial center
for this crop, indicate that the crop has been unusually
heavy and prices correspondingly low. From other sec-
tions prices are reported as higher than usual, and the
Boston markets by no means reflect the situation reported
above. Raspberries and blackberries generally wintered
well, bloomed freely and promise good yields. Currants
also generally promise well. There has been more or
less injury to cherries, plums and pears from late frosts,
and none of these crops promise to be unusually heavy in
any section, while in some cases one or more of them are
reported to be total failures. Peaches also suflTered from
frosts, but have set fairly well in most sections, and a fairly
good crop is promised, though nothing like that of last year.
Apples promise well in most sections, though there are some
reports of shy bearing on the part of Baldwins. The <' June
drop" was not completed at time of making returns, and
something will depend on its severity. Cranberries gener-
ally appear to have bloomed well.

11

NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.

(Returned to us June 25.)

BERKSHIRE COUNTY.

Tyringham (Edward H. Slater). — Potato bugs are doing the most
damage of anj^ insect. Indian corn is looking well, with acreage fully
up to previous years. No haying has been done as yet, but the pros-
pect for the crop is good. There will be no increase in the acreage of
forage crops in this locality. There is about the usual acreage of early
potatoes and the crop promises well. The quantity and price of dairy
products compare favorably with previous years. The recent rains
have helped out the pastures. There will be no plums; cherries and
small fruits are looking well.

Lee (A. Bradley). — Potato bugs were never more plenty. Indian
corn is looking finely with acreage fully up to the normal. Hajang will
not commence until July, but the crop promises to be fully normal.
The acreage of forage crops is considerably increased. There is a larger
acreage of early potatoes than usual and they never looked better.
Quantity and price of dairy products fully up to the average; dairy
cows a little higher than usual. Pasturage is in first-class condition.
Fruits and berries are little grown for market.

Washington (E. H. Eames). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is two or three weeks later than usual, with acreage about the
same as last year. No haying has been done, but the prospect is the
best for two or three years. The acreage of forage crops will be about
the same as usual. The acreage of early potatoes is the same as last
year and the crop promises to be good. The quantity and price of
dairy products and supply and price of dairy cows are about the same
as in former years. Pasturage is in splendid condition. Fruits and
berries are not grown for market.

Stockbridge (F. A. Palmer). — Indian corn is backward on account
of cold weather; acreage about normal. Verj' little hay has been cut
as yet and the prospect for the crop is only fair. The acreage of forage
crops will be slightly increased. The usual acreage of early potatoes
has been put in, and they look well but are late. Cows are high in price
and the market well supplied with dairy products at good prices.
Pastures are in fine condition. Berries are looking finely.

Hancock (B. H. Goodrich). — Insects have done no particular
damage. Acreage of Indian corn about the same as usual, but it is

12

rather backward. There will be no change in the acreage of forage
crops. There is about the same acreage of early potatoes as last year
and they are looking well. The quantity and price of dairy products
and price of dairy cows are rather better than usual. Pasturage is in
excellent condition. Fruits and berries are not grown for market.

Peru (F. G. Creamer). — Potato bugs are doing some damage. Corn
is looking well, with about the usual acreage. Grass looks finely, and
the prospects are that there will be a large crop of hay. The acreage
of forage crops will not be increased. There is more than an average
acreage of early potatoes and they are looking well. Butter fat is
selling for three cents a pound above the price last year; good cows
scarce. Pasturage is looking well.

Windsor (H. A. Ford). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is looking quite well and the acreage is increased one-
fourth. The prospect for the hay crop is good. The acreage of forage
crops will be increased in this locality. There is no change in the acre-
age of early potatoes and they are looking well. The quantity and price
of dairy products and supply and price of dairy cows are about normal.
Pasturage is in good condition. Strawberries are looking well.

Savoy (W. W. Burnett). — Potato bugs are very prevalent. Corn
looks fairly well, but was mostly late planted, and is consequently
small for the season. Haying has not begun, but it is expected that the
crop will be light. There is about the usual acreage of forage crops.
There is an increased acreage of early potatoes and they are now looking
fairly well. Quantity and price of dairy cows and supply and price of
dairy products fully average with former years. Pastures are in fine
condition and there is a surplus of feed. Not much is done here with
fruits and berries.

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Rowe (N. E. Adams). — Indian corn is looking poorly, with about the
usual acreage. No haying has been done as yet and the crop will be
below the average. The acreage of early potatoes is about the same as
last year, but promises to be a little later. The quantity and price of
dairy products and supply and price of dairy cows are about the same
as usual. Pastures are in good condition. Plums, pears and straw-
berries are in very good shape. Hay on new land is good, but old
mowings are very poor.

Leyden (U. T. Darlixg). — There is but Uttle damage from insects
as yet. Indian corn is looking well, but is small; acreage about the same
as usual. But little haying has been done. The acreage of forage crops
will not be much increased. Early market-garden crops are looking
well and bring good prices; prospect good for later ones. Cows are a
little lower in price, also dairy products. Pasturage is in good condi-
tion. Strawberries are doing well, and raspberries promise well.

BernardMon (R. H, Cushman). — Some complain of an unusual
number of small, black flies on potatoes. Acreage of Indian corn fully

13

average, and they are looking verj' well, though somewhat late. There
will not be a large crop of hay and it is very uneven in growth. The
acreage of forage crops will be increased. There is about the usual
acreage of early potatoes and they are looking well. Our farmers have
made a mistake in breeding out of the dairy type of cow. Pasturage
is looking well. Apples will be a very light crop; berries full yields.
Prices for butter and cream are low. Dairy cows sell at profitable
prices.

Ashfield (Charles Howes). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is very backward on account of cold weather, with about the usual
acreage. But very httle haying has been done. There will be about the
usual acreage of forage crops. Potatoes are looking finely, with a
slight increase in acreage. Dairj' products are fully up to the average;
good cows are not plenty, but prices are a little lower than usual.
Pastures are in very good condition. Baldwin apples are very hght,
but other varieties promise a fair vield; pears, peaches and plums
light.

Whately (Frank Dickinson). — Cut worms and wire worms are
doing some damage. Indian corn is backward with about the average
acreage. No haying has been done as yet, but a good crop is promised.
The acreage of forage crops will be slightly increased. There is about
an average acreage of early potatoes, but the outlook is good. Early
market-garden crops are rather below average in yield and price, but
later ones promise well. Dairy products are above average in price
and dairy cows bring full prices. Pasturage is short, but is green and
good. The outlook for fruits and berries is poor, they having suffered
from late frosts.

Montague (A. M. Lyman). — Cut worms and potato bugs are doing
some damage. Corn is not as forward as usual, but promises a good
crop; acreage larger than usual. No haying has been done as yet, but
there will be a fair crop. The acreage of forage crops will be consider-
ably increased. There is about the usual acreage of early potatoes and
they are looking well. Early market-garden crops are up to the average
in yield and price and the prospect is good for later ones. Dairy
products have held up well in yield and price. Pastures are in better
condition than usual. Strawberries were bliglited by frost in early
bloom; peaches are a failure; raspberries promise well; plums and
cherries partial crop; grapes in full bloom.

Wendell (N. D. Plumb). — Tent caterpillars, cut worms and potato
bugs are doing some damage. Corn is somewhat backward, and the
acreage is only about three-fourths that of last year. Haying will, not
begin until after July 4, but prospects are good for a large crop. The
acreage of forage crops will not be increased. Owing to the late spring,
but few early potatoes were planted, but they look promising. There
is no noticeable change in prices of dairy cows and dairy products
from former years. Pasturage is in good condition. Jilueberries
promise a large crop; strawberries winter-killed badly.

14

North field (T. R. Callender). — Potato bugs are numerous, and
striped bugs are doing some damage to cucumbers. Indian corn is
rather late, but is looking well ; acreage fully up to the average. Haying
has only just begun; prospects excellent. There is about the same
acreage of forage crops as last year. There is an average acreage of
early potatoes, and they are rather late but looking well. Prices are
high for both dairy cows and dairy products. Pastures never looked
better. Strawberries are looking well.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

Greenwich (Walter H. Glazier). — Cut worms have done consider-
able damage. Corn is a little backward, but has good color and stand ;
acreage about the same as usual. Haying has not yet commenced, but
there will be a fair crop. The acreage of forage crops will not be in-
creased. But few early potatoes are planted, but late ones are looking
fairly well. The quantity and price of dairy products and the supply
and price of dairy cows are about the same as usual. Pasturage is in
excellent condition. There will be but few apples, owing to late frosts.

Amherst (Wm. P. Brooks). — Cut worms, onion maggots and the
San Jos6 scale are doing some damage. Indian corn is looking well,
with acreage unchanged. Haying is just beginning and the crop is
unusually heavy. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased.
There is no substantial change in the acreage of early potatoes, and
they promise exceptionally well. Quantity and price of dairy products
and supply and price of dairy cows about as usual. Pastures are in
excellent condition. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and cur-
rants ai'e full average crojDS or better; apples uneven; peaches and
plums promise well.

North Hadley (H. C. PtUSSELL). — Wire worms, cut worms and elm
leaf beetles are present, but not doing serious damage. Acreage of
Indian corn normal and crop looking well. No haying has been done
as yet but the crop promises well. There will be no increase in the
acreage of forage crops. Early potatoes are average crops and looking
well. Early market-garden crops are about average in yield and price.
There is a full supply of cream, with prices about as usual. Pasturage
is in good condition. Strawberries are a good crop and are selling well;
few blackberries and raspberries. Tobacco setting is completed and
the rains have started the crop well.

South Hadley (W. F. Person). — Potato bugs and rose bugs are
doing some damage. Corn is late and does not look very well, owing to
wet and cold weather. No haying has been done as yet, but the crop
promises well. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased to any
great extent. More potatoes have been planted than in previous years,
and they are looking well though late. Market-garden crops look well
and prices are about the same as last year. Dairy products about
average in price and in good supply; prices average for dairy cows.

15

Pastures are in good condition. Cherries are plentiful; pears plenty;
apples a short crop.

Southampton (C. B. Lymax) . — Potato bugs are the only insect
doing damage. Indian corn is looking fairly well, and a few warm days
would make a great change in it. The hay crop promises to be good, but
cutting has not begun. The acreage of forage crops will not be in-
creased. The acreage of early potatoes is not more than normal and
they are looking well. There is no great change in the quantity or
price of dairy products; dairy cows are in good demand. Pastures
have improved and are looking fairly well.

Westhampton (H. A. Parsons). — Potato bugs and currant worms
are doing some damage. Indian corn is late, with about the usual acre-
age planted. Haying will commence next week and the crop promises
well. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased. The quantity
of dairy products is about the same as usual, but butter is from three to
five cents per pound higher than last year. Pasturage is in good condi-
tion. There are no strawberries here this year; blueberries and high-
bush blackberries promise well.

Chesterfield (Horatio Bisbee). — Potato bugs are very troublesome,
and cut worms are giving some trouble. Corn looks fairly well, less
being planted than usual for the silo and more for grain. Haying has
not yet commenced, but the prospect for the crop is good. The acreage
of forage crops will not be increased. Dairy cows and dairy products
are bringing good prices. Pastures are in good condition. Fruits and
berries are not grown here for market.

Cunimington (S. W. Clark). — Insects are doing little damage. Corn
is vigorous but a little late; acreage about the same as usual. Very
little haying has been done, but a heavy crop is hoped for. The acreage
of forage crops will not be increased. More potatoes have been planted
than usual, but it is too early to judge as to the yield. Quantity of
dairy products same as last year, prices lower, but above Boston's
highest quotations. Dairy cows sold a little lower this spring than last.
Pasturage was never better. No fruits or berries ready for market yet,
but outlook normal.

HAMPDEN COUNTY.

Tolland (Eugene M. Moore). — Potato bugs and squash bugs are
doing some damage. Indian corn is looking well though a little late
and about the usual acreage has been planted. The present prospects
indicate a good crop of hay. The acreage of forage crops will be
larger than usual. Early potatoes are looking finely. Dairy cows
are scarce and high in price. Feed in pastures is unusually good,
owing to recent rains. The api)le crop will be light.

Blandford (Enos W. Boise). — Potato beetles and cut worms are
doing damage and cattle flies are very numerous. Indian corn has a
very good color and stand, but is small owing to late planting; acreage
about normal. Hardly any haying has been tlone and an average

16

crop is in prospect. Acreage of early potatoes about the same as
usual. Dairy products are a little below last year in price, but about
average ; no call for cows and where sold they are low in price. Pastur-
age is in fair condition, but is not up to the average. No fruits and
berries are grown for market, but wild berries promise full crops.

Southwick (L. A. Fowler). — Cut worms and potato bugs are doing
some damage. Corn is looking well, with about the usual acreage.
Haying has not yet commenced, but a good crop is promised. The
acreage of forage croj^s will not be materially increased. Acreage of
early potatoes about the same as usual and they are looking well.
Early market-garden crops are average in yield and price. Dairy
products and daiwy cows are both a little higher than in former j-ears.
Pastures are in good condition. Apples plenty; blackberries, cherries
and all fruits good. Tobacco setting is finished and the crop looks
very well.

West Springfield (X. T. Smith). — Cut worms, wire worms and
onion maggots have all been unusually troublesome. Corn looks well
but is backward ; acreage average. But little grass has been cut as yet,
and there is prospect of an average crop. There will be httle change
in the acreage of forage crops. The acreage of early potatoes is slightly
increased, and they do not promise an average yield. Early market-
garden crops are about normal and later ones are growing well.
Dairy products are fully up to the last few years in quantity and
price. Pasturage is in very good condition. Apples light; pears
full; peaches below average; raspberries, blackberries and grapes
promise full crops; strawberries a good cro^D, with fair prices.

East Longmeadoiv (John L. Davis). — Potato bugs, wire worms and
cut worms are doing some damage. Indian corn is a little late but
came up well; acreage increased one-fourth. Haying is just com-
mencing with an average crop. The acreage of forage crops will not
be increased. Potatoes are about an average acreage, but came up
poorly and late. Price of early market-garden crops about the same
as last year; prospect good for later ones. Not much change from
last year in supply and price of dairy products and dairy cows. Pas-
tures are in very good condition. Strawberries excellent; peaches
good ; apples fair ; pears fair.

Hatnpden (John N. Isham). — Corn is looking well with a full
acreage. Haying has not commenced, but the prospect is generally
good. Forage crops are annually increasing in acreage. The usual
acreage of early potatoes has been planted, but they came up very
unevenly. Yield and prices of market-garden crops compare finely
with other years; later crops growing finely. Dairy products are
about average in quantity, but prices are a little better than last
year; cows in good demand at full prices. Pasturage is in fine condi-
tion. Strawberries are a prolific crop; apples, peaches and currants
promise well.

Palmer (0. P. Allen), — Cut worms have done some damage. In-

17

dian corn is very backward and some fields have been replanted;
about the usual acreage. Little haying has been done, but there is a
good crop in prospect. There is little change in the acreage of forage
crops. The acreage of early potatoes is about the same as usual, with
fair promise of a good crop. Early market-garden crops arc much
later than usual, so that harvest has hardly begun. There is very
little change in the quantity or price of dairy -products. Abundant
rains have brought pasturage into fine condition.

Holland (F. Wight). — Potato bugs are doing some damage. Corn
is looking fairly well, but is a little backward; acreage slightly in-
creased. No hay has been cut as yet, but some pieces will give good
crops. The acreage of forage crops will be about the same as in other
years. Early potatoes are looking well, with about the usual acreage.
Dairy products are the same as other )^ears in (juantitj^ and price, and
dairy cows are about the same in price. Pasturage is looking and
doing well.

WORCESTER COUNTY.

Warren (W. E. Patrick). — Potato bugs, rose bugs and cut worms
are doing some damage. Indian corn has good color, but is very small •
about the usual acreage. No haying done as yet, but prospect good
for an average crop. There will be about the usual acreage of forage
crops. There is no noticeable change in the acreage of potatoes and
they are looking well. Pasturage has improved much with recent
rains, but is not fully up to the average for the time of year. Straw-
berries are a full crop ; blackberries promise well ; currants fair ; apples
and peaches well set; plums poor.

New Braintree (C. D. Sag?:). — Some fields of grass are badly in-
fested with spittle insects. Corn is mostly grown for fodder or the silo ;
acreage fully as large as usual and looking well. Very little haying
was done June 25th, but the prospect is good for a large crop. The
acreage of forage crops is about the same as usual. There is about
the usual acreage of early potatoes and they are looking well. Very
little is done in market-gardening. ' Quantity of dairy products as
large as usual, price the same; cows not very plenty and prices fair.
Pastures are in excellent condition. There will be few Baldwin apples;
other varieties fair.

Dana (Lyman Randall). — Cut worms, potato bugs, currant
worms, rose bugs and cabbage flies are doing dainage. Indian corn is
backward, owing to late planting and cool nights; about the same
acreage as usual. Hut little haying done as yet, but the crop will be
good. The acreage of forages crops will not be nuich increased. The
acreage of early potatoes is not as large anil the vines arc not as thrifty
as usual. Market-garden crops are late, but with warm weather will
be fairly good. (Quantity and price of dairy products about as last
year; dairy cows higher in price. Pasturage is in good condit.ion. All
kinds of fruit will be liglit, owing to heavy frosts.

18

PcterHham (B. W. Spooner). — Cut worms and potato bugs are
doing some damage. Planting was delayed by wet weather, but c®rn is
doing well, with about the usual acreage. Hajnng will be late; none
cut as yet, but the crop looks finely. There will be about the usual
acreage of forage crops. Early potatoes are looking finely, especially
early planted ones. Early market-garden crops are about as usual in
yield and price. Price of dairy products the same as for the past
three years. Pastures were never in better condition at this time of
year. Fruits and berries are little grown for market, but the fruit
crop is not encouraging.

PhiUipston (A. D. Cliffokd). — Potato bugs and cut worms are
very jileiitiful this season. Indian corn is very backward in this section.
Haying has not begun but grass is looking well. There will be about the
usual amount of forage crops grown. The acreage of potatoes is less
than usual, but they are looking well. The yield and price of early
market-garden crops is average, but maggots are destroying early cab-
bages. Dairy butter is plentiful and lower in price than last year.
Pasturage is in perfect condition. Blueberries are going to be quite
plentiful ; there will be a fair crop of apples.

Ashburnham (E. D. Gibson). — • No insects are doing particular dam-
age. Corn looks well, but is not as forward as usual. Grass is ten
days late, but is growing finely. The acreage of forage crops will not be
increased. There is about an average acreage of early potatoes. Prices
of dairy products a little low, quantity about average; price of cows
about as usual. Pasturage is seldom in as good condition as now. No
fruits and Ijerries grown especially for market, but berries of all kinds
promise well.

Princeton (A. V. Tylrr). — Rose bugs and potato bugs are doing
some damage. Indian corn is looking well but is a little backward;
acreage aliout the same as usual. Haying not begun as yet, prospect
for crop l)est in years. The acreage of forage crops will probably not be
increased. Price of milk the same as formerly; dairy cows scarce and
high. Raspberries, blackberries, currants, good; pears and apples fair
outlook; some plums; no peaches.

Sterling (Henry S. Sawyer). — - Potato bugs are doing some damage.
The corn (;rop is late; acreage about the same as last year. Clover and
orchard grass are being hayed. Forage crops are increasing in acreage
fi'om year to year. There is about an average acreage of early potatoes
and they promise a good crop. Very few early market-garden crops
raised; prospect good for later ones. Milk, 2S cents per can; butter,
30 cents per pound; good dairy cows scarce, $50 to $05. Pastures are
looking well; feed good. Blackberries, raspberries and currants prom-
ise a good crop ; very few strawberries raised.

Bolton (H. F. Haynes). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is looking very poorly; acreage about normal. Haying
has not begun, but the crop looks well. The acreage of forage crops
will i>rol)al)l}' be increased, as corn is such a jioor crop. Acreage of

19

early potatoes about the same as last j-'ear, but they came up poorly
and do not look well now. There is not nuioh change in the (juantity
and price of dairy products or the supply and price of dairy cows. Pas-
turage is good now but was very poor before the rains. Frost damaged
strawberries one-third ; blacklierries promise a big crop.

Shrewsbury (Fred J. Reeh). — Cut worms, potato bugs and onion
maggots are doing some damage. Corn is looking very well; acreage
about the same as asual. No haying done as yet, but there is prospect
of a large crop. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased to
any extent. There is about the usual acreage of early potatoes and a
good crop is promised. Yield of market-garden crops extra good;
price about the same as u^ual; prospect good for later ones. Dairy
products are about the same as usual in quantity and price; price of
cows high. Pasturage is in very good condition. Outlook for fruits
and berries very good.

Southborough (Edward F. Collins). — Potato bugs are more
numerous than usual. There is about the usual acreage of Indian corn,
and there is a good stand, which is looking finely. Haying has just
begun with a large crop. The acreage of forage crops will be rather less
than usual. There is about the usual acreage of early potatoes and
they promise well. All early market-garden crops are looking well,
but are a little late. Dairy products and dairy cows about the same as
in former years in supply and price. Pastures are improving and feed
is very good now. Apples and peaches will be smaller yields than last
year.

Auburn (Wm. Gilbert). — Potato bugs and squash bugs are very
plentiful. Indian corn is looking well, but is rather backward. There
is about an average crop of hay. The acreage of forage crops will not
be increased. The acreage of potatoes is below normal, but promises
well. Garden truck is about normal in yield and price. Milk is flush
and the price is the same as for the last two years; milch cows scarce
and high. Pastures are in extra good condition. There will be about
half a crop of apples; pears and strawberries full yit^lds.

BlackMone (O. F. Fuller). — Cut worms have done considerable
damage. Corn is in fair condition, with about an average atrreage.
Haying is progressing slowly, but there will be an average crop. There
will not be an increase in the acreage of forage crops. The acreage of
early potatoes is about the .same as usual and the crop promises well.
Early market-garden crops promise well. Pasturage is in average
condition. Apples set well, with a good prospect of a good |)e.ir crop,
and a few plums; grajjes and small fruits looking well.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Sudbury (E. W. Goodnow). — Potato bugs and sr|uash bugs are
proving injurious. Indian corn is looking well and the acreage is about
normal. Xi'vy litlK; haying has been done, l)Ut Itic |)n»spt'cts are favor-

20

able for a p;ood prop. Tho acroag;o of forago crops will be increased in
this locality. The acreage of early potatoes is larger than usual and a
good crop is promised. Early market garden crops compare well with
former j^ears in yield and price. Quantity and price of dairy products
the same as in former years and dairy cows are more reasonable in
price. Pasturage is in good condition. Apples, peaches, pears and
plums are looking well.

Maynard (L. H. Maynard). — Potato bugs, rose bugs, cut worms
and a few bi"own-tail and gypsy moths are doing damage. Corn is
backward owing to the late season, but is looking well. Haying has
not commenced, but a good crop is in prospect. There will be about
an average acreage of forage crops. Potatoes are about a normal crop
and promise well, but are late and were slow in coming up. Market-
garden crops are looking well, and prices are a little better than for
some years. Dairy products are about average in quantity and price;
good cows bring good prices. Pastures are looking well, owing to recent
rains, and feed is abundant. Apples three-fourths of a full crop;
pears, grapes and nearly all fruits promise well.

Westford (J. W. Fletcher). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is looking ver}^ well for the season; acreage about the same as
usual. Haying has not begun ; prospect for a good crop. The acreage"
of forage crops will be about the same as usual. Acreage of early
potatoes about the same as usual and they promise a good crop. Con-
dition of pasturage good. The outlook for fruits and berries is good.

Townsend (G. A. Wilder). — Brown-tail moth caterjiillars and cut
worms are doing some damage. Indian corn is in fiiie condition; acre-
age about the same as usual. There will be a good crop of hay. The
acreage of forage croj^s will not be increased. There is about the
usual acreage of early potatoes and they promise a fair crop. Early
market-garden crops are about average in yield and price, with a good
prospect for later ones. Quantity and price of dairy products and
sui)ply and price of dairy cows about as usual. Pastures are in good
condition. Fruits and berries will give light yields, owing to late
frosts.

Dunstable (A. J. Gilson). — Potato bugs, rose bugs and wire worms
are very numerous and destructive. Corn is looking well and the
acreage is about the same as in previous years. Haying has not begun,
but the prospect is that there will be a heavy crop. There is no in-
crease in the acreage of forage crops. Early potatoes are raised for
home use in small quantity. Dairy products and dairy cows are about
the same as in previous years in supply and price. Pasturage is in
good condition. Apples are the prin('i])al fruit raised for market and
the outlook is for a light crop, anil also the same for strawberries.

Tewksbury (Geo. E. Crosby). — Potato bugs, cut worms and rose
bugs are doing some damage. Indian corn is not raised here. The
prospect seems good for the hay crop, but none has been cut as yet.
The acreage of forage crops will not lie nuich increased. The acreage

21

of early potatoes is smaller than usual. Early market-garden crops
are about average in yield and price. There is no material change in
the quantity and price of dairy products and the supply and price of
dairy cows. Pasturage is in first-class condition. Strawberries are an
abundant crop.

Carlisle (E. J. Carr). — Potato bugs and brown-tail moth cater-
pillars are very plentiful. All corn is backward with an increased
acreage. Not much hay has been cut, but there is the prospect of a
large crop. Early potatoes look well, with an increased acreage.
Asparagus has yielded well and later market-garden crops look well.
Quantity and price of dairy products about the same as for the last
two years. Pastures are in the best of condition. Strawberries and
«arly apples look well; blackberries blossomed well.

Lincoln (C. S. Wheeler). — Potato bugs, gjqjsy moth caterpillars
and cut worms are doing some damage. Indian corn is about average
in condition. Little grass has been cut as yet; prospect for less than
an average crop. There is an average acreage of early potatoes, with
fair prospects for the crop. Early market-garden crops are better
than average and prices good; strawberries less than average. Milk
average in quantity and price the same as last summer; good cows
scarce as usual. Pastures are in fair condition. Apples promise not
more than an average crop ; plums fair ; blackberries looking well.

Stoneham (J. E. Wiley). — Currant worms are doing some damage.
Haying has commenced with a good crop. There is about the usual
acreage of early potatoes and they promise well. Early market-
garden crops made average yields, with prices higher than usual,
asparagus being much higher, and later crops promise well. Pasturage
is in good condition. Grapes and strawberries good crops.

Arlington (W. W. Rawsox). — Market-garden crops are good and
bring good prices. It looks like a good market all the season.

Weston (Henry L. Brown). — Gypsy moths and cut worms are
doing damage. Indian corn is not much raised. Haying has just
commenced; new fields good, old ones very light. There is about the
usual acreage of forage crops. The acreage of early potatoes is much
less than usual and the}' are not looking well. Yield of early market-
garden crops average, also prices; later ones promise well. Price of
milk the same as last year; cows very high. Pasturage is in good con-
dition. Strawberries are rotting; other berries promise well.

ESSEX COUNTY.

Amesbury (F. W. Sargent). — Brown-tail moth caterpillars, tent
caterpillars and potato bugs are doing damage. Indian corn is back-
ward. No haj'ing has been done as yet, but the prospect is generally
good. The acreage of forage crops will probably be about the same as
usual. There is an average acreage of early potatoes, but it is too
<?arly to judge as to the yield. Yield of early market-garden crops not

22

equal to the average, and all are backward. Dairy products bring
fair prices; good cows high. Pasturage is making rapid growth, but
needs warmer weather for quality. Many strawberry blossoms failed
to set fruit, and the vines are rusting. Apples promise nearly a full
crop.

Andover (Milo H. Gould). — Cut worms and striped squash bugs
are doing some damage. Corn is quite small, acreage about the same
as usual. Little haying has been done, but the prospect is good for
the crop. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased. Acreage
of early potatoes about the same as usual, and they promise well.
There will be an average crop of market-garden crops, and prices are
good. Quantity and price of dairy products about the same as usual;
also of dairy cows. Pasturage is in good condition. Strawberries are
doing well where not destroyed by cut worms last fall.

Newbury (G. W. Adams). — Brown-tail moth caterpillars are doing
some damage. Indian corn is in average condition, except that it is
a few days late. The prospect is good for the hay crop, but cutting
has not begun as yet. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased.
There is about an average acreage of early potatoes, with possibly a
very slight increase, and they are in good condition. Market-garden
crops are very late. Quantity of dairy products excessive and prices
low. Pasturage is in excellent condition. Except for apples the
outlook for fruit is far from good.

Rowley (D. H. O'Brien). — Brown-tail moths, canker worms,
onion maggots, rose bugs and flea beetles are doing damage. Owing
to excessive rain, most of the corn has been planted but a short time,
and the acreage is smaller than in previous years. Haying has hardly
commenced, but the prospect for the crop is good. The acreage of
forage crops is to be increased. Acreage of early potatoes normal,
but a smaller crop than usual is looked for on account of heavy rains.
Early market-garden crops compare favorably with other years in
yield and price ; prospect good for later ones. There is little difference
in yield and price of dairy products with other years. Pastures are in
extra good condition. Apples medium, peaches good, pears scarce,
strawberries medium, blueberries good.

Tops-field (B. P. Pike). — There are more or less gypsy moth cater-
pillars doing damage. There is very little corn raised except for the
silo. There is every prospect of a good crop of hay. The acreage of
forage crops will not be increased. The acreage of early potatoes is
about average and they are looking well. No market-garden crops are
in the market as yet. Quantity of dairy products full average and
prices same as last year. Pasturage is in very good condition. Straw-
berries good; wild berries looking well.

23

NORFOLK COUNTY.

Randolph (Rufus A. Thayer). — Sciuash bugs and cut worms are
doing some damage. Indian corn is a little late, but is looking finely,
with about the usual acreage. Very little grass has been cut and it is
growing finely. There will be no increase in the acreage of forage
crops. Early potatoes are looking very thrifty, with about the usual
acreage. Market-garden crops show good yields, with fair prices.
Yield and price of dairy products normal; good cows high. Pasturage
is in very fine condition. Strawberries and raspberries good crops.

Canton (Edward V. Kinsley). — Corn is looking well, but is some-
what late; acreage about the same as usual. Haying is progressing
slowly, on account of broken weather, with a fair average crop. There
is no special increase in the acreage of forage crops. Acreage of early
potatoes about as usual and crop looking well but late. Market-garden
crops late and prices high. Milk plenty, price same as last year; full
supply of cows at fair but not high prices. Pastures are in fairly good
condition. Strawberries are grown to a considerable extent and the
outlook for the crop is good, with prices fair.

Stoughton (Chas. F. Curtis). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is slightly backward, due to cold nights; acreage up to
average. Haying has just commenced and there is prospect of a good
crop. Forage crops will be the same acreage as usual. Early potatoes
are growing finely and promise a good crop. Milk brings seven cents
per quart and dairy cows from $50 to .$65. Pasturage is in the best of
condition. Strawberries are yielding a good crop.

Norwood (F. A. Fales). — Potato bugs are doing considerable dam-
age to tomato plants. Indian corn is ten days late but is looking well;
acreage one-fourth less than usual. There has been no haying done
here as yet. The acreage of forage crops will be increased 25 per cent.
There is about an average acreage of early potatoes, but the crop will
be late. Early market-garden crops have given about average yields,
but have brought higher prices than usual. Price for milk same as
last year; dairy cows rather lower in price. Pastures are in good
condition. Strawberries are a good crop here and bring rather higher
prices than usual.

Bellhujham (John J. O'Sullivan). — Cut worms and potato bugs
are doing some damage. Corn is backwaril, with about the usual
acreage. Haying is just commencing, with a medium crop. The
acreage of forage crops will be very little increased. There is about
the usual acreage of early potatoes and they are looking very well. Both
yield anrl price of market-garden crops are and have been good. (Quan-
tity and price of dairy products is the same as for the last few years;
supply short and price higher on cows. Pastvu'age is in good condi-
tion. Strawberries are a good crop.

24

BRISTOL COUNTY.

Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter). — Currant worms, rose bugs, potato bugs
and plum curculios are doing some damage. Corn is backward, with
about the usual acreage, but it is not extensively grown. Very little
ha}'ing has been done as 5^et, but the crop is probably an average one.
The acreage of forage crops is about the same as usual. There is about
the usual acreage of early potatoes and they are looking fairly well
though backward. Verj- few market-garden crops have been marketed
as yet. Prices about the same as in past years for dairy products and
dairy cows. Pasturage is in good condition. Blackberries, currants
and raspberries look well ; pears medium ; apples poor ; peaches good ;
Japan plums fair; strawberries higher than last j'ear.

Seekonk (John W. Peck). — Potato bugs, striped cucumber beetles
cabbage worms are doing damage, ^'ery little corn is grown near here,
but what there is looks well. The prospects are very good for an extra
crop of hay. The milk producers grow considerable forage crops. The
acreage of early potatoes is slightly increased, and some fields are look-
ing finely, while on others the vines are small j'et. Early market-garden
crops are average in yield and prices received, and later ones promise
well. There is little change in the supply and price of dairy products
and dairy cows. Pasturage is in very good condition. Apples, pears
and plums bloomed heavily and promise well; strawberries plenty and
will nearly all mature.

Swansea (F. G. Arnold). — Potato bugs and rose bugs are doing
some damage. Indian corn is looking very well, with about the usual
acreage. Grass looks well on good meadows, old meadows light. The
acreage of forage crops will not be increased. The acreage of early
potatoes is increased and the vines now look well. Market-garden
crops are about average in yield and price. IMilk is plent}'^ and price
the same as last j'ear; good cows scarce and high. Pasturage is in
very good condition. Strawberries are plenty and prices low; peaches
promise well; pears light.

Berkley (Rollin H. Babbitt). — Cut worms are doing some damage.
There is about the usual acreage of corn, but it is rather backward
owing to cool weather. Haying is just commencing, with about an
average crop. The acreage of forage crops will be increased. The
acreage of early potatoes is smaller than for several years and the
crop bids fair to be a light one. Strawberries are very low in j^rice.
The prospect is not promising for market-garden crops. Quantity and
price of dairy products about the same as for several years past. Pas-
turage is in very good condition.

Acushnet (M. S. Dougl.^s). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is late, but the acreage is fully as large as usual. Haying
is not commencing, but there promises to be a large crop. The acreage
of forage crops will be increased to a small extent. There is a. 2.5 per
cent larger acreage of early potatoes than usual, and thej' promise to

25

give a large crop. Early market-garden crops are fully up to the
normal in yield and price, except that peas are a short crop, and the
prospect is good for later ones. Quantity and price of dairy products
and supply and price of dairy cows normal. Pastures are in good
condition. There is a big crop of strawberries, but prices are low; red
raspberries large crop; black raspberries scarce. Oats are rusting
badly on account of wet weather.

PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Marshfield (John H. Bourne). — Cut worms are abundant, also
canker worms, tent caterpillars, rose bugs, potato bugs and a few brown-
tail moth caterpillars. Indian corn is a little better than in most years,
with about the usual acreage. Haying is about to commence, and the
grass crop was never growing faster than just now. The acreage of
forage crops will not be increased. There is a little smaller acreage of
early potatoes than usual, but the promise for the crop is excellent-
Peas are now ready and are a good crop. There is a good demand for
milk ; cows are rather plenty, but extra good ones are always in demand.
Pasturage is in very good condition. Apples and pears abundant ; straw-
berries good where late frost was not heavy.

Pembroke (Nathaniel Morton). — Cut worms are doing some
damage. Indian corn is about a normal crop; very Uttle field corn
raised here. The hay crop is better than last year, but not up to the
normal. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased. There is
a smaller acreage of early potatoes than usual, but the prospect for
the crop is good at present. Yield of early market-garden crops less
than usual, but prices high; prospect good for later ones. Quantity
of dairy products less than usual, prices better, and price of cows much
higher. Pastures are in better condition than usual. Strawberries are
a good crop.

Bridgewater (R. Cass). — Potato bugs, rose bugs, squash bugs and
cut worms are doing some damage. Corn is later than usual, with the
acreage about as usual. Haying has hardly commenced, but there
promises to be a good crop. The acreage of forage crops will be about
as in former years. The acreage of early potatoes is about the same as
usual, with the promise of a good crop. Market-garden crops are a
fair average in yield, with prices about normal; prospect good for
those not yet harvested. Quantity and price of dairy products and
supply and price of dairy cows about as in former years. Pastures are
in good condition. Strawberries were injured by the late frosts.

Plympton (Wixthrop Fillehrown). — All common insects seem
to be abundant this year. The acreage of Indian corn is about as usual,
and it is looking finely. Haying has not begun, but grass is growing
rapidly and we look for a good crop. Forage crops will have about the
usual acreage. There is no increase in the acreage of potatoes, but
they are looking better than usual. Early market-garden crops gave

26

better yields and brought higher prices than usual. The supply and
price of dairy products are the same as formerly. Pasturage is in verj-
good condition. Fruits and berries are going to give large crops.

Kingston (George L. Churchill). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Corn is late and there is only a small acreage. Not much
haying has been done, but the crop looks very fair. There will be no
special increase in the acreage of forage crops. Early potatoes are look-
ing well. Prices for market-garden crops good and prospect for later
ones very fair. Dairy products and dairy cows are the same as usual
in supply and price. Pastures are in very good condition. Strawber-
ries are the principal fruit crop grown.

Rochester (Geo. H. Randall). — Onion maggots, cut worms, potato
bugs and Hessian flies are doing some damage. Corn is a week to ten
days late ; acreage less than last year. Very little hay has been cut as
yet, but there is a large crop in sight. The acreage of forage crops will
not be increased. Early potatoes look well, with about the same
acreage as last year. Early market-garden crops are growing well and
find ready sale; prospect good for later ones. Pasturage is in very
good condition. The strawberry crop is so large that prices hardly pay
expenses, many berries being left unpicked. Raspberries promise
well ; blackberries bloomed full.

BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

Falmouth (Daniel R. Wicks) . — Potato bugs and cucumber beetles
are becoming abundant. No field corn is grown here, but more and
more sweet corn is planted everj^ year. Haying has not commenced as
yet, but a large crop is in sight. The acreage of forage crops will not
be increased as very httle stock is kept here. Acreage of early potatoes
about normal, and they are looking fairly well. ^' erj- few market-
garden crops have been harvested ; prices normal. Price of cows about
normal ; milk the only product sold and prices as last year. Pasturage
is good, but there is more water than fibre in the grass. Strawberries
are a fair crop; raspberries and blackberries very promising; currants
good; plums good; peaches fair; apples and pears set well; grapes
blooming well.

Snndmch (R. F. Armstrong). — Potato bugs, tent caterpillars and
Hessian flies are doing damage. Corn is backward, and the acreage de-
creases every year. Haying has hardly begun, but there is prospect of
a good crop. There will be no increase in the acreage of forage crops.
The acreage of early potatoes is about the same as usual, and the pros-
pect for the crop is good. Dairy products are about the same as usual
in price and quantity; dairy cows out of sight. Pasturage was never in
better condition. Strawberries are plentiful, quality below the average ;
other small fruits not grown.

Mashpee (W. F. Hammond). — Potato bugs, cut worms, army worms
and Hessian flies are doing damage. Indian corn is looking well, but

27

the acreage is less than that of last year. Haying has not begun as
yet, but the prospect for the crop is good. The acreage of early potatoes
is above the average and a good crop is promised. Early market-
garden crops are about average in yield and price. Dairy products are
about average in quantity and price. Strawberries, raspberries, goose-
berries and currants all promise well.

Barnstable (John Bursley). — Tent caterpillars and potato bugs
are doing some damage. Corn is a little late and is small on cold
ground; acreage a full average, ^'ery little hay has been cut, and there
is a good crop in prospect. The acreage of forage crops will not be
increased. Acreage of early potatoes average, but they have come up
poorh'. Peas made a heavy yield, but prices were a little below the
average. Milk rules about as formerly in price, with a full supply;
cows high. Pastures are in good condition. The strawberry crop is
very hea^y and cranberries are blooming very freely.

Brewster (Thos. D. Sears). — Potato bugs and striped squash bugs
are doing some damage. Indian corn is looking well, with the acreage
about the same as last year. Haying has not commenced, but there is
prospect of a good crop. The acreage of forage crops will be increased
this year. There are no market gardens in this vicinity. There is about
the usual acreage of potatoes and the promise of a fair crop. Price and
supply of dairy products same as last year; price of cows above that
of last year. Pasturage looks well, but rain is needed. The strawberry
crop is good.

Eastham (J. A. Clark). — Potato bugs and asparagus beetles are the
worst insect pests. Haying has hardly begun, and the prospect for the
crop is good. The acreage of forage crops will not be increased. Acre-
age of early potatoes about as usual and they are looking well. Pas-
tures are in good condition. Apples and pears promise well. The
asparagus season is about over, with a rather better crop than last year
and very good prices.

DUKES COUNTY.

West Tisbury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is rather backward, with about the usual acre-
age. Haying has not begun, and the prospect for the crop is good.
There is about an average acreage of forage crops. Acreage of early
potatoes about as usual and they promise well. Early market-garden
crops have been average in yield and price. Dairy cows are quite
high, and dairy products bring average prices. Pasturage is in very
good condition. Strawberries are doing well.

28

BULLETIN OF

Massachusetts Boaed of Agriculture.

SOME CAUSES AFFECTING THE PROFITS OF DAIRYING.

By Prof. F. S. Cooley, Professor of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Massachusetts
Agricultural Colltge.

It is hardly necessary to assert that dairymen are deriving less profit
from their investments and lower wages for their labor than they would
like, or even than that which a good business should lead its patrons
to expect. The purpose of this paper is to notice briefly a few of the
things that stand in the way of the best success of dairy farmers. We
shall consider only those concerning the producing end of the business,
not because these are of greater importance than those affecting the
marketing end, but because the remedies are in the main simpler and
more under the control of dairymen.

It will be generally conceded that capital invested in agriculture
yields smaller returns, and that farm labor is poorer paid, than capital
and labor employed in manufacture or commerce. Is this disprojDor-
tion due to conditions inherent in husbandry, or is it the result of a
lack of intelligent efforts, poor business methods and failure of dairy-
men to master their business? Will not the same degree of skill and
intelligence expended in agriculture command equal compensation
here as in other pursuits? Occasional instances of marked success
appear to indicate that it will. Indeed, the speculative element is
more largely eliminated, values are more stable and dividends are more
certain than in the majority of business.

The Kind of Cows kept.
One of the most important factors in profitable dairying is good
cows. The.se should be adapted to the particular business and con-
ditions of each dairy farm. No single breed or tj'^pe meets all condi-
tions, else what need of such diversity of size, conformation and quality
of product. To be specific, for butter and cream production it is

29

probable that the cost of production will be less and the profits therefor
greater where cows yielding milk with a rather high percentage of fat
are kept. Such cows produce relatively less of the milk solids not fat,
and hence turn a larger proportion of their food and energy into the
particular product desired, than those 3'ielding a large quantity of milk
poor in fat. This accounts for the general popularity of Jersey and
Guernsey blood for butter-producing herds. Again, on a rugged New
England pasture, where feed does not grow luxuriantly, large areas
must be traversed and industrious efforts expended to secure the
necessary food. A big, coarse, slow-moving cow would be at a disad-
vantage, while a small, close-built, active animal would be in its
element. On the other hand, in rich meadows and in stables under
high pressure the tables would be turned. This suggests where the
Ayrshire and the Holstein types may be placed to the best advantage.
But, after all, mistakes in these particulars are less common than mis-
takes in selecting good individuals.

Some very interesting results have been obtained in a canvass of
certain creamery districts in the State of Vermont, and published as a
cow census of that State. These results have been very ably discussed
in recent pubhcations of the Vermont Experiment Station, and show
not only the wide difference in product between different herds, but
also some of the causes contributing to the variation. I have not the
figures before me as I write; but my memory tells me that the poorest
herds averaged about 80 pounds of butter fat per cow per year, worth
$20. The best herd averaged in the same time nearly 300 pounds of
fat, worth S75, nearly four times the product of the poorest cows. It
is easy to believe that cream production was more profitable to the
owner of the best herd.

Bulletin No. 20 of the Storrs Experiment Station illustrates the
principle and brings the truth home in a very convincing manner.
Twenty-five cows were observed for one year, the food consumed and
the products noted. The cost of feed varied between $32.36 and $48.80,
or one cow ate two-thirds as much as the other. The butter product
varied between 165 pounds and 509 pounds. It so happened that the
cow consuming the least food produced the smallest (juantity of butter.
If the smallest butteix product paid for the food consumed, the con-
sumption of $16.44 worth of additional food produced 344 pounds of
butter, which would make the cost per pound of the additional amount
4J cents. If the first cow paid for her keep the other yielded a profit
of $55. A herd of 20 cows like the latter would pay for all the farm
products and food consumed, and yield an ainiual profit of more than
$1,000. While it is the cows that eat the most, as a rule, that produce
the largest products and greatest profits, the difference in consumption
is much less than in production. Among this same herd of 25 cows
the third cow in butter product, with 3()0 pounds, consumed $40.60
worth of feed, and the twenty-third in butter product, with 276 pounds,
consumed $46.21 in feed, almost as much as the best butter producer.

30

The average cost of feed and amount of product of the best 5 and
poorest 5 are as follows : —

Cost of Feed Pounds of Butter
per Cow. per Cow.

Best 5 $42 57 410

Poorest 5, 38 72 221

Difference, 3 85 189

Difference per cent. ...... 9 46

Average profit, best 5, $31 30

Average profit, poorest 5, 97

Difference per cent between poorest and best, .... 32.22

In the Kansas Experiment Station Bulletin No. 125 it was observed
that the average cow produced a butter income of $9.62, this having
been computed from statistics of an average of 626,000 cows per year
for ten years. A study of results for 82 herds in the best creamery
section showed an average annual income per cow (generally including
a calf worth $S to $12) of $32.86. The best 5 herds, where calves were
valued at $8 a piece, averaged $4.5.13, while the poorest 5 herds, where
calves were valued at $12, averaged $23.59, — the best herds producing
twice as much as the poorest.

It is futile to continue the examination of CAadence in favor of better
cows. The owner of the best is constantly seeking to improve his herd.
He is alert to secure better animals and increase his profits. He reads
all the pubhshed information h^can get, and is alive to all his needs.
The owner of poor cows, on the contrary, is in ignorance of the fact,
doesn't believe other cows would "do better on his feed," and has no
ambition to inform himself in regard to his business or improve his
conditions.

The Way Discarded Cows are replaced.

We have submitted evidence of a truth which few people doubt,
that some cows are far more profitable than others. The problem is
how to get these better cows. Among those who make dairying an
important business, and pursue its practices intensively, the town and
city milk producers occupy a prominent position. It is a common con-
dition among these that their capacity to care for dairy animals is
limited to cows actually in milk, or at least to those milking during
the greater part of the year. Not possessing faciUties for rearing the
heifers to replenish their herds, they depend upon purchase for fresh
cows. The purchase of milch cows, even by those best qualified to
select, is attended by more or less risk of disappointment. Cows are
commonly sold for a reason. Among the reasons for sale may be
mentioned old age; lack of constitution or capacity to stand feed;
bad habits, such as kicking or restiveness, sucking or holding up milk;
garget, resulting in defective udders; short teats; hard milkers;
abortion or other disorders. The majority of cows offered for sale by
dairymen who are breeders are the culls of their herds. Dairymen who
depend upon purchase for their cows realize this to a certain extent, as

31

they very keenly realize the difference between good and poor dairy
animals, and are eager to secure the best, even at prices two or three
times greater than common stuff brings. It is unfortunate that
breeders do not realize this as fulh' as they should, and we are in-
clined to blame them for rearing so large a percentage of low-grade
stock; but the fault is not theirs alone. City dairymen do not buy
direct of the breeders, thus informing them of their needs; they depend
rather upon middlemen and dealers. The dealers have pursued a
short-sighted policy, keeping breeders in ignorance of the market value
of the best cows. Often they take three or four common ones to secure
one that is choice, paying a level price for the lot, or rating them at a
nominal difference. The breeder, therefore, does not know what the
best cows will sell for to the citj- milkman, and does not think how
much more profitable it would be to breed and rear that kind.

Again, realizing or not realizing the difference in value, he does not
employ methods calculated to jDroduce the best results in breeding.
Upon one farm heifer calves are nearly all reared, good, bad and in-
different alike; upon another thej' are all destro3-ed, without regard
to dairy promise. If some sort of an exchange could be arranged,
whereb}' the farmer with the taste and facilities for rearing heifers
could secure the best of his neighbors or the city dairyman in place of
the weedy ones born on his own farm, how much better results could
be obtained! This is an idea that has already taken root, and is
gaining favor among many engaged in the business.

More than this exchange is necessary, however, to satisfy the needs
of the trade, — a system of selection needs to be observed. The laws
of heredity control the dairy function as fully as they do other char-
acters. Beef habits do not predispose offspring to produce milk. To
secure superlative dairy heifers one must lay the foundations in an-
cestry excelling in the desired direction. The best success, therefore,
involves the careful study of the dairy qualities of the dams and
grand dams of the heifer calves we propose to rear. Superior excellence
of ancestry in the qualities sought is the best guarantee of the same
qualities in the progeny. In this connection, while I regard the actual
production of a cow as the best evidence of her own ability to produce
and transmit to her offspring, I do not disregard conformation, general
appearance and type. There have been cows with great records which
did not transmit the ability to come anywhere near these records in
their progeny. There have been cows, on the other hand, not great
milkers themselves, whose offspring have yielded large amounts. I
regard the type and conformation of a cow of ecjual value with' her
actual performance in determining the value of her heifer calves for
the dairy. I would not reject the progeny of a well-bred, typical cow
even though her own product was somewhat unsatisfactory, nor would
I certainly accept that of a large milker whose shape was so faulty as
to render transmission doubtful. The cow is of less consequence in
determining the dairy qualities of heifer calves than the bull. While

32

we may, by careful selection of cows, maintain a uniformly high stand-
ard of excellence in our herds, most of the real improvement must
come by mating them with the right kind of a sire. I have observed
over and over again the qualities of a cow, the shape of her udder, her
temperament, her conformation, and numerous little individual pecul-
iarities to be close reproductions of the same characters in the dam of
her sire. Breeders do not realize as they should the value of a superior
bull; they are often careless and indifferent in his selection. The
possibilities for improvement or injury do not occur to them. Or, if
in a general way farmers concede the advantage of a choice bull over
a common one, they tremendously underrate it. If this idea were
expressed in dollars and cents perhaps its reality would be more im-
pressive.

A common bull in four years' time in a 20-cow dairy begets 80 calves.
If of this number 2.5 are reared to maturity, possessing the common
qualities of their parentage, and are worth a common price, say .|32
each, they represent a value of $800. Without attempting to de-
termine at this time whether cows can be profitably reared to maturity
for .$32 each, let us observe what would be the value of the progeny
of a superior sire. On the same basis of reproduction, and with the
same number of heifers reared, but with the choice progeny of superior
stock, we may reasonably expect a value of $50 each. Instead of an
$800 aggregate we have $1,250, a difference of $450, without increasing
the cost of production a penny. If we go still further and produce a
grade of heifers worth $75 each at maturity; if we use our choice
prepotent sire more freely, and secure the best of his progeny from our
neighbors' cows, and rear not 25 but 50 or 100 heifers, his value be-
comes not $450 greater than that of the scrub, but $1,075, $2,150 or
$4,200. Not only will the use of a choice bull and the rearing of $75
cows be more profitable than common breeding, but it will reflect on
all our business. We shall be more interested, nay, even enthusiastic;
the drudgery of farming will disappear. Instead of teasing buyers
to take our common stuff off our hands at a loss, we shall see them
eagerly persuading us to part with them by tempting offers. How
easy it is to sell what people want! How hard to dispose of that for
which there is no demand!

Feeding.
The economical feeding of cows is a large subject in itself and can
barely be mentioned in a short paper of this kind. The two points of
kind and amount of foods to be used belong to the topic. As to kind
in general, feeds should be produced upon the farm as largely as
possible, and purchased feeds should be selected to supplement the
home-grown supply. Usually this means the purchase of feeds rich in
protein, paying little attention to the carbonaceous sorts on the market.
In buying, three factors are to be considered: the composition and
digestibility, the suitability to feeding milch cows, and the price.

33

The amounts fed depend upon conditions on the farm and should be
settled upon economic princijjles. The laws of increasing and dimin-
ishing returns are operative here as in most lines of agricultural pro-
duction. To state this principle in another way, it is evident that cows
fed on starvation rations j'ield no product, and therefore the little food
they do consume is wasted, with a minimum profit. On the other
hand, by greatly over-feeding with expensive fodders wastefulness and
loss are incurred. Somewhere between these two extremes is a point
where the food consumed yields the greatest product per unit, or
each unit of product is obtained at the lowest cost and therefore at the
greatest profit. It is the feeder's business to learn where this point is.
It would be nearer to the high limit in towns where products were
high priced, than in remote country districts, far from markets. In
general, feeding cows to half capacit}', like working mills and factories
on half time, is less profitable than when at full producing capacit}'.

Condi mental Feeds. — The general use of condimental feeds acts
adversely on the profits of the dairy. Considered as feeds, these prep-
arations are sold at prices out of all pro^^ortion to their value. !Mix-
tures of bran, middlings, corn, linseed, salt, etc., seUing at from 10 cents
to 25 cents per pound, when their feeding value is in no case more than
2 cents, is ridiculous. Considered as medicines, their use is pernicious.
The healthy animal needs no medicine; the sick animal needs to be
treated specifically and not with a general shot-gun mixture. — a
panacea for all the ills to which flesh is heir. The claims made by
manufacturers of these condiments would be quickly discredited as
preposterous if made by candid people of your acquaintance. It is
not expected that these words will deter any from the use of condi-
mental feeds or patent medicines. Men dearly "love to be hum-
bugged," and will scarcel}' forego the pleasure it gives for mere financial
reasons, which are the chief ones against the use of condimental feeds.

Variation's ix Quality of Milk.

It is well understood that milk varies in its percentage composition
as regards solids, particularly in the fat content. Many of the causes
of this variation are also well known.

Breed. — Jersey and Guernsej' cows yield richer milk than Holsteins
and Ayrshires.

Lactation Period. — Milk from cows soon after calving is poorer in
fat than in the middle of the lactation period. As cows approach the
time of freshening milk grows richer, and is generally richest in fat
just before they dry off, when the amount secreted is small.

Individual. — Each cow has a normal fat content in her milk which
she very persistently maintains, subject to the variation caused by
different stages of lactation. Between different individuals in the
same herd, the same breed and different broods is a variation amount-
ing sometimes to the difference between loss than three and more than

34

seven per cent fat. In general, the richest milk is produced in the
smallest cjuantity, and poor quality is compensated by a large flow.

Colostrum. — The first milk after parturition differs from true milk
in containing double the solids and ash, a large part of the former
being albumen. It is not, therefore, like true milk, nor adapted to the
same purposes of use; but is more like eggs, and particularly rich in
nutrients suited to the early feeding of the calf. It should be remem-
bered when feeding it in place of skim milk that one quart of colostrum
is about equal to four quarts of skim milk, and its use governed ac-
cordingly.

Feed. — The kind and amount of food consumed by cows exerts less
influence upon the fat content of milk than farmers are wont to sup-
pose. Thousands of actual determinations of fat have confirmed this
truth. A prominent reason why farmers do not accept this result is
that they observe things from a different point of view; they never
have determined actual fat, hence are not qualified to judge of its
variation; they have merely observed the color and the "amount of
cream." Scientific people never base their determinations of quality
upon cream, which is far more variable and elusive than milk itself.

First and Last Milk. — Determinations indicate that the fat content
of first or "fore" milk is about 2 per cent, while the "strippings" or
last milk tests 8 to 10 per cent. Farmers are generally aware that a
difference exists but do not appreciate its importance. It is right here
that the whole subject of quality, so far as this paper is concerned,
centres. j\Iany losses occur through ignorance of this point, which
may be best illustrated by concrete examples.

A. — A young man entered a fine Devon cow in a butter-fat pro-
ducing contest at a fair. The award was to be based upon the actual
fat found in twenty-four hours' milk weighed and determined by the
Babcock test. From appearances this Devon cow was a certain win-
ner. So confident was her owner that he milked her quickly each time,
and gave himself little apparent concern over the results. A com-
petitor with a good grade Jersey, not so confident but determined to
go the limit, milked his cow, and then kneaded her udder and stripped
and stripped, until he could get no more. He secured a $2.5 prize by
2 ounces of fat over the Devon. Had the owner of the latter put his
pride in his pocket and done about fifteen minutes stripping he would
probably have been repaid at the rate of $100 per hour for his time.

B. — Some people producing cream and veal from the same cows
were wont to milk the herd partially and let the calves finish. Had
they reversed the order both the veal and the cream products would
have been more satisfactory.

C. — Mr. Brown keeps a mixed farm, where his men do the field
work between 7 and 6 o'clock, and the chores, including milking,
before breakfast and after supper. Being eager to get to the village
in the evening they hurry through milking, leaving an average of 1
pound of milk in the udders of the 20 cows. Having been out the even-

35

Ing before they rise late in the morning, again leaving the strippings.
Forty pounds of milk with 8 per cent fat at 30 cents per pound would
be worth about $1, which will pay for six hours' labor. Two minutes
on each cow, or less than one hour, would have saved this amount;
carried through the year it would reduce the profits of the herd by
$350.

D. — The Chicago milk inspectors, in their zeal to perform their
duty to the city, not only tested the milk, but, to prevent any jobbery,
sent their own men to milk the cows and take the samples. As a
result nearly half the cows fell below the city standard, and the fact
was widely advertised by its jDress. The owners of these cows were not
slow to announce later that after the inspector's milkers had left they
milked out from 1 to 5 pounds from each cow. From the inexperience
of the milkers, or their unfamiliarity with the cows, the latter had
"held up" their milk. The milk they didn't get tested 6 to 8 per cent
fat. The net result was to leave the public in ignorance of the real
truth concerning the quality of these cows.

Anything which causes the cow to withhold the last milk reduces the
fat per cent. Flies, excitement, strange milkers, roughness, scamp
work, etc., which prevent the withdrawal of the whole secretion, re-
duce the amount, much more the quality, and therefore the profits of
dairying. The most important part of milking is to get it all. No
doubt the profits in many dairies are lessened hundreds of dollars a
year through failure to do this.

Know the Cows. — A breeder and cream producer found that 10
two-year-old heifers during their first year in milk had yielded a
profit over the cost of food consumed of $118. He would have been
well satisfied had not the individual records of these heifers been
kept. A computation of the daily weighings of milk and monthly
Babcock tests revealed the fact that 4 of these 10 heifers had been kept
at a loss of $29. This breeder was therefore chagrined to think that
two-fifths of his labor had been spent for nothing, for had he disposed
of the 4 and done only three-fifths th^e work his profit would have been
$157 on the 6. This incident illustrates the point that an account with
the whole herd is inadequate to the dairyman's needs. To prevent the
contingency of keeping one, two or more unprofitable cows he must
have information of the product of each member of the herd. I believe
that here is the most important factor in the profits of dairying, so far
as production is concerned. If dairymen would weed out one-third of
their herds by this plan, lightening their labors by that fraction, their
aggregate profits from the sale of dairy products would be greater.
They would have a surplus of forage to sell; and prices would advance,
thus favorably affecting the financial advantages in three ways at
once. But how can this be done?

36

Milk Test Associatioxs.

The weighing and recording of individual milk 5-ields is well within
the abilities of the dairymen. The expense for spring balances and
milk scores need not exceed S4 for an indefinite period, five or ten years.
If one would not weigh daily, results obtained by a three days' record
for each month, and the sum multiplied by ten, has been found to
approximate very closely to actual daily weighing.

But the use of the Babcock test on farms is less easy and practicable,
and the solution must be found in co-operation. First in Denmark,
then in Canada, and afterwards in the United States, communities of
dairj-men have clubbed together and employed an expert to test
their cow^s. Any bright young man with a dairj^ school training can
do this, and the expense would be insignificant as compared with the
benefits derived. One expert could test the cows of from 25 to 50
dairies, to the number of 300 to 500, once a month for a year at a cost
somewhat as follows : —

Wages of expert, 365 days at $2 S730

Team, 50 cents a day and feed, 183

Babcock tester, glass ware, balances, acid, etc., . . . 50

$963

This outlay would make the cost of monthly tests S2 to S3 per cow,
perhaps an average of $75 in a 20-cow dsLiry. I do not believe that
there is a 20-cow dairy in the State in which the judicious use of the
information so gained would not increase its profits three times the
outlay. Farmers, j^ou haven't many opportunities to make $3 in a
year by spending $1.

An expert is not limited to the number of herds and animals specified
to secure satisfactory results. By expanding so as to make a quarterly
instead of a monthly test, a man's capacity could be increased to 1,000
or 1,200 cows, which could thus be tested at SI a head.

Here is an opportunity for granges to take up a matter of much
economic interest to their patrons. If a subordinate grange is too
small to warrant the enterprise singly, let two or more combine, or
let a Pomona grange undertake it. As a grange, j'our work would be
to find the suitable person for the work. His part would be to secure
patronage. This would rapidl)' increase when once well started by
grange influence.

When dairymen once know the performance of each of their cows,
and what it means to them, they will wonder why they have remained
in ignorance so long.

Series of 1906. Vol. 19. No. 3.

MASSACHUSETTS

CEOP EEPOKT

_ FOR TOE

Month of July, 1906.

CLOVER.

ISSUED MOXTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTOX, MASS.

J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.

Entereo June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class Matter,
UNDER Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.

BOSTON :

WRIGHT & roTTER I*KINTIN(i CO., STATE PRINTERS,

18 Post Office Square.

1906.

^J>

Approved by
The State Board of Publication.

Chop Eeport for the Mokth of July, 1906.

Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., Aug. 1, 1906.

Bulletin No. 3, Crop Report for the month of July, is
presented herewith. Attention is called to the article on
"Clovers: their Value, Characteristics of Varieties and
Methods of production," at the close of the bulletin, by
Prof. Wm. P. Brooks, professor of agriculture at the Mas-
sachusetts Ao-ricultural Collecre and director of the Hatch
Experiment Station. Not enough attention is paid to the
growth of the various varieties of clover by our farmers, and
this article cannot l)ut be of assistance to any one engaged
in dairying. A greater production of these useful plants
would result in a decreased grain bill in ever}' case where
they were fed with a knowledge of their proper value in the
ration of the dairy cow.

Progress of the Season.

The Crop Reporting Board of the Bureau of Statistics of
the Department of Agriculture (Crop Reporter for July,
1906) finds that the preliminary returns show the acreage
of corn planted to be about 95,535,000 acres, an increase
of about 1,524,000 acres, or l.G per cent, as compared with
the estimate of the acreage planted last year. The average
condition of the growing crop July 1 was 87.5, as compared
with 87.3 on July 1, 1905, 80.4 at the corresponding date
in 1904, and a ten-year average of 8(3.4.

The average condition of winter wheat July 1 was 85.6,
as compared with 83 a month earlier, 82.7 on -luly 1, 1905,
78.7 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 79.1.

The average condition of spring wheat on July 1 was 91.4,
as compared with 93 a month earlier, 91 on July 1, 1905,
93.7 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 88.2. The average

condition on Juh' 1 on spring and winter wheat combined
was 87.8, as compared with 85.8 on July 1, 1905, and 84.5
at the corresponding date in 1904. The amount of wheat
remaining in farmers' hands on July 1 was estimated at
about 46,053,000 bushels, equivalent to about ij.(y per cent
of the crop of last year.

The average condition of the oat crop on July 1 was 84,
as compared with 86 a month earlier, 92.1 on July 1, 1905,
89.8 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 89.4.

The average condition of barley on July 1 was 92.5, against
93.5 a month earlier, 91.5 on July 1, 1905, 88.5 at the cor-
responding date in 1904, and a ten-year average of 88.2.

The average condition of winter rye on July 1, was 91.3,
as compared with 92.7 on July 1, 1905, 88 at the correspond-
ing date in 1904, and a ten-year average of 90.1.

The acreage for potatoes, excluding sweet potatoes, is less
than that of last year by about 38,000 acres, or 1.3 per cent.
The average condition on July 1 was 91.5, as compared with
91.2 on July 1, 1905, 93.9 in 1904, and a ten-j^ear average
of 92.1.

The acreage of tobacco is less than that of last year by
about 40,000 acres, or 5.2 per cent. The average condition
July 1 was 86.7 per cent., against 87.4 a year ago.

In Massachusetts the acreage of corn as compared with
that of last year is 100, and the condition July 1 was 90 ;
the averao:e condition of oats was 93 ; the average condition
of rye was 98 ; the acreage of tobacco, 105, and its average
condition, 100; the average condition of pasture, 98; the
average condition of clover, 91 ; the average condition of
timothy, 95 ; the average condition of hops, 90 ; the acreage
of potatoes and their average condition, 92; the condition
of Canadian peas, 95, and of cow peas 100; the average
condition of beans, 91 ; the average condition of cabbages,
91 ; the average condition of onions, 89 ; the average con-
dition of tomatoes, 90; the average condition of apples, 78;
the average condition of peaches, 70 ; the average condition
of grapes, 84 ; the average condition of blackberries, 95 ;
the average condition of raspberries, 89 : the average condi-
tion of strawberries, 95 ; the average condition of canta-
loupes, 81 ; the average condition of watermelons, 81.

Temperature and Rainfall for the Whole Country.

[From United States National Weekly Wkather Bulletin.]
Week endin(i July 2. — The week was warmer than usual
in the Lake region, central valleys, Atlantic coast districts
and over the southeastern Rocky ]\Iountain slope. The
week was cooler than usual on the north Pacific coast, over
the greater part of California, throughout the Plateau and
Rocky Mountain regions and in the upper Missouri valley.
The rainfall exceeded the average in the lower Missouri,
upper ^Mississippi and Red River of the North valleys, south-
ern New England, and over limited areas in the South
Atlantic and east Gulf States. In the central valleys and
the central Lake region the rainfall was below the average.

^yeek ending Juhj 9. — The week was warmer than usual
in the Pacific coast districts, and in the upper Missouri and
Red River of the North valleys. The temperature averaged
nearly normal on the central Gulf coast and over the northern
portion of the Middle Atlantic States. Elsewhere the week
averaged cooler than usual. Heavy rains occurred in the
lower Lake region and upper Ohio valley, and along the
Atlantic coast from southern New England to Florida.
Generally throughout the central valleys and upper Lake
region the rainfall was nmch below the average, and less
than the usual amount fell in the interior of the Middle
Atlantic States and northern New England.

Week ending Jidij 16. — In the Lake region and upper
Ohio valley and on the west (nilf coast the temperature
averaged slightly al)ove the normal. Elsewhere east of the
Rocky ^Mountains the Aveek averaged cooler than usual.
Over the western })ortions of the Plateau districts and gen-
erally in the Pacific coast States the week averaged warmer
than usual. Over most of the Gulf States the rainfall dur-
ing the week exceeded the average, and in many places was
excessively heavy. The Middle Atlantic States and portions
of the Mississippi and central Missouri valleys and upper
Lake region also received more than the average precipita-
tion, but there was, as a whole, less than the average in the
central valleys. Lake region and northern portion of the
Middle Atlantic States.

6

Week endinri July 23. — Generally throughout the Plateau
districts and in the Lake region, New England and the
Middle Atlantic States the temperature for the week was
above the normal. In the central Missouri valley and in
the central and west Gulf States the week was cooler than
usual, while elsewhere the temperature was nearly normal.
In the Middle Atlantic States, Ohio valley and Tennessee,
and over the greater portion of the Gulf States, the precipi-
tation was in excess of the average, being unusually heavy in
portions of the ^Middle and South Atlantic States. Over
the greater part of the Lake region and upper Mississippi
valley there was less than the average rainfall.

Special, Telegraphic Keports.

[Weather Bureau, Boston.]

Week ending July 2. — New England. Boston: The
temperature was much higher than in the preceding week,
the maximum ranging from 85 to 90, except on the first and
last days. The fore part of the week was fair, the latter
part being showery. The rainfall in Maine was light ; it
was above the normal in Massachusetts and near normal in
the other States. The sunshine was near the average.

Week ending July 9. — New England. Boston: There
was much cloudy weather. Showers and scattered thunder-
storms were general Tuesday and AA'ednesday, and in eastern
Mas.sachusetts, Rhode Island and eastern Connecticut the last
of the week. Precipitation for the week was near the nor-
mal in the northern portion and above the normal in the
southern section. The temperature was low. More sun-
shine and higher temperature are needed.

Week ending July 16. — New England. Boston : Showers
were general on the 9th and 10th. On the afternoon of the
10th severe thunderstorms in eastern ^Massachusetts and
southeastern ]\Iaine caused loss of life and property. The
remainder of the week was generally clear, the sunshine
being beneficial. The temperature was seasonable, and the
precipitation sufficient for all needs.

Week ending July 23. — New England. Boston : The
week was fair, Avith abundant sunshine, except on the 17th

and 21st, when the weather was showery. The rainfall was
light in eastern Maine, southern New Hampshire and parts
of eastern Massachusetts, and was normal or above else-
where. The temperature averaged 3^ to 5"^ above the nor-
mal. The weather was favorable, except where the rainfall
was excessive.

The Weather of July, 190().
The opening days of the mouth, the 1st to the 4th in-
clusive, were generally cloudy, with scattered showers and
occasional local storms. There was a prevalence of easterly
winds during this period, which, with the absence of sun-
shine, caused generally low temperatures for the season, the
daily means ranging from 2" to 4° below the seasonal aver-
age. A season of generally fair weather obtained from the
5th to the l()th. The temperatures during this time ranged
near normal, with the dail}- means from 3° to 5° above those
of the preceding days of July. There were, however, no
marked extremes in either maxima or minima; with slight
exceptions, the maxima on all days were above 80°, except
where influenced by local conditions. The clear Aveather
and abundant sunshine, with the higher temperatures, were
much needed and very beneficial. During the week from
the 17th to the 23d the temperatures ranged higher than dur-
ing any week heretofore this season . The maxima at nearly
all observation points were above 80^ each day, with the
minima ranging between (JO^ and 70°. Scattered showers
occurred during the 17th, 18th and 21st, but the rainfall,
with a few exceptions, was light. The weather of this por-
tion of the month was characterized by exceptionally high
moisture, and the nmggy, humid atmos})here, combined with
the high temperatures, produced unusually oppressive and
trying weather conditions. There was much complaint of
the heat, and numerous prostrations of persons and animals
occurred. For the remainder of the month the weather was
very unsettled, almost daily showers were of occurrence
over a large portion of the State, though with light rainfall.
Owing to easterly to northerly winds during nmch of the
time the temperatures ruled below the seasonal average. In
coast sections light to dense fogs were unusually prevalent.

8

The cool weather and absence of sunshine were unfavorable.
July, as a whole, was an unpleasant month for the mid-
summer season.

In the circular to correspondents, returnable July 23, the
following questions were asked : —

1. What insects are proving most troublesome in your
locality ?

2. What is the condition of Indian corn, and what pro-
portion of the crop will be put into the silo ?

3. AYhat is the quantity and quality of the hay crop as
compared with former years?

4. What forage crops are raised to supplement the hay
crop, for the silo, and to eke out the pastures, and what is
their condition ?

5. What is the condition of market-garden crops, includ-
ing potatoes, and how have those already harvested com-
pared in yield and price with former years ?

6. What is the prospect for apples, pears, peaches, plums,
quinces, grapes and cranberries.

7. What is the condition of pasturage in your locality?

8. How have rye, oats and barlc}^ compared with former
years, both as grain and forage crops?

Returns were received from 163 correspondents, and from
them the following summary has been made : —

Insects.
Potato bugs are reported as being more numerous than
usual and harder to keep in subjection. Elm leaf beetles
are also more than commonly prevalent, and reports of dam-
age from gypsy and brown-tail moth caterpillars continue
to come in from a wider area than formerl}'. Aside from
the insects mentioned above an unusually light amount of
insect damage is reported. Other insects mentioned by cor-
respondents are cut worms, squash bugs, both black and
striped, cabbage worms, rose bugs, currant worms, tent
caterpillars, horn and cattle flies, cranberry vine worms,
codling moths, curculios, grasshoppers, plant lice, white
grubs, pear tree psyllas, onion maggots and wire worms.

Indian Corn.
At the time of inakinir returns Indian corn was a little
backward for the time of year, but, owing to the warm
nights and days, with plenty of moisture, was making lux-
uriant growth, and gave promise of soon making up lost
ground and giving a good crop. Seasonable weather during
August seems to be all that is needed to give a good crop
of both grain and stover. Silos are coming more and more
into use with every year, and in the dairy sections the
larger part of the corn crop is destined for the silo.

The II ay Crop.
Haying was by no means completed at the time of making
returns, but correspondents were practically unanimous in
the statement that a crop considerably above the average in
quantity had been or was being secured. The quality of the
crop also was reported as excellent, l)ut there was consider-
able complaint of injury in the making, owing to frequent
showers and rain}' days. Where the first crop was removed
early more than an average crop of rowen may be expected
as it should have started well with the moist and cloudy
weather, but on the fields not cut at time of making returns
a second crop of any amount can hardly be looked for.

Forage Crops.
The acreage of forage crops is certainly not increased
over last year, owing to the excellent prospect for the hay
crop. Corn is the most popular crop for this purpose, with
the millets and oats coming closely together in second and
third places, and Hungarian grass and barley following, in
the order named. Oats and peas, sown together, are an
increasingly popular combination for forage purposes. Other
crops grown for forage are rye, cow })eas, cabbage, turnii)S
and clover. All these crops were reported as in excellent
condition, owing to the frequent showers and the warm,
growing weather.

MARKET-(iARI>EN CrOFS.

Market^garden crops were generally reported as yielding
well, and bringing prices fully up to the normal and possibly

10

a little above. Those yet to be marketed promised good
yields so far as reported on.

Early Potatoes.

Very few early potatoes had been dug at time of making
returns, but those harvested yielded well, and the general
condition of the vines promises a good crop for those yet to
come. Late potatoes also promise well, and but one com-
plaint of blight was noted.

Fruits.

Apples will apparently be rather a light crop in most
sections, the returns being decidedl}' less favorable than a
month ago, late frosts having apparently done more damage
than was then realized. There is also some complaint of a
twig blight on both apples and pears. Pears and plums will
be light crops, mainly because of injury from frosts. Peaches
will be a fair crop in most sections, though not nearly as
heavy as that of 1905. Quinces generally promise well.
Grapes have set unusually well in most sections, and barring
accidents should give a heavy yield. Cranberries also prom-
ise well, particularly in southeastern sections.

Pasturage.
The frequent i-ains have kept feed in pastures green and
growing, and it is probable that pastures were never in bet-
ter condition at this time of year than they are at time of
going to press. With anything like seasonable rains the
fall feed should be unusually abundant.

Small Grains.
There were numerous reports of rust on oats, and the crop
was rather below average, both for grain and forage. Rye
is reported to be a good crop, both for grain and forage,
being used for early spring feed to a considerable extent.
Barley is practically grown onl}^ for forage, being the favor-
ite forage crop for fall feeding, as it will withstand all but
the severest frosts, and where already sown is reported as
doing well.

11

NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.

(Returned to us June 23.)

BERKSHIRE COUNTY.

New Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades). — Grasshoppers are rather
numerous. Indian corn is looking well; very little is put into the silo.
Hay harvest is on with a heavy crop of good quality. Corn and millet
are the principal forage crops grown and are making good growth.
Garden crops are in fine condition and early potatoes yield well. Pears
and grapes promise full crops; no plums; apples only fair. Pasturage
is in excellent condition. Rye is a heaAy crop; oats good where not
rusted.

West Stockbridge (J. S. Moore). — Potato bugs are proving more
destructive than last year. Corn is looking well; only one silo in town.
The hay crop is much heavier and of better quality than for the past
three or four years. Pastures are unusually good and but little forage
crops have been put in. Potatoes look very promising, none dug as
yet. Late frosts affected apples; pears quite plenty. Rye, oats and
barley are about average crops.

Lee (A. Bradley) . — Potato bugs are the only insects doing damage.
Corn is above the average in condition and 10 per cent of the crop is
grown for ensilage. Hay is a large crop of first class quality. Corn is
our principal forage crop. Potatoes are promising unusually well.
Apples will not be more than half a crop. Pasturage is in fine condition.
Rye is a full crop and oats nearly so.

Becket (Wm. H. Snow). — Potato bugs are unusually plentJ^ Corn
is late and a large proportion of the crop will be put into the silo. Hay
is fully an average crop of good quality. Corn and millet are our princi-
pal forage crops. Garden crops are late, but potatoes look finely. The
prospect for the fruit crop is very poor, probably injured by frost.
Pastures are in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are full average
crops.

Dalton (Wesley B. Barton). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is in good condition and half the crop will be ensiled. The
hay crop is good in quantity, but has been somewhat injured in getting
by bad weather. Japanese millet and peas and oats are our principal
forage crops and have done well. Potatoes are not promising well and
show some blight. Apples will be a 25 per cent crop ; j^cars 20 per cent ;

12

no plums. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye good; oats and barley
100 per cent.

New Ashford (Elihu Ingraham). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good condition; none raised for silo. The
hay crop is above the average in quantity and quality. No forage crops
are raised here. Potatoes are looking finely. Apples will be a poor
crop; other fruits little grown. Pastures are in good condition. Rye,
oats and barley are good crops.

Williamstown (S. A. Hickox). — Potato bugs are doing some dam-
age. Indian corn shows a good stand. There is a normal crop of hay,
both in quantity and quaUty. Oats and peas and corn are our principal
forage crops. Market-garden crops are bringing good prices. The
prospect for the fruit crop is poor in this locality. Pasturage is in good
condition. Rye, oats and barley are good crops.

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Charlemont (J. M. J. Legate). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is looking nicely and from two-thirds to three-fourths of the crop
will be ensiled. The hay crop is above the average for quantity and the
quality is all that could be asked. Corn and millet are the principal
forage crops grown and are in fine condition. Potatoes are in fine condi-
tion, but none have been dug yet. There is going to be a very light
fruit crop, owing to late frosts. Pastures are holding out finely and
were never in better condition. Rye, oats and barley are little raised.

Shelburne (Geo. E. Taylor). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is backward and not in average condition ; about one-eighth of the
crop goes into the silo. Quantity and quality of the hay crop above the
average. Corn, oats and millet are the principal forage crops grown ;
corn is small, but oats are good. Potatoes look well ; none dug as yet.
Apples will be a short crop; pears plenty. Pasturage was never in
better condition. There is some hay to make yet.

Leyden (U. T. Darling). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is doing well; about one-third the crop will be ensiled.
Quantity and quahty of the hay crop is very good. Rye, millet, oats
and barley are the principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops
are in good condition, with prices comparing well with former years.
Apples will be three-fourths of an average crop ; pears, plums, quinces
and grapes full crops. Feed in pastures is good. Rye, oats and barley
are fully normal crops.

Gill (F. F. Stoughton). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is rather late, but is growing fast and is of good color ; only a small
part of the crop is grown for the silo. Hay is a Mttle above the average
in quantity and quality. Corn and oats are the principal forage crops
grown. Apples will give a good yield, except Baldwins. Pasturage is
in extra good condition.

13

Deerfield (H. A. Wells). — There is very little damage from insects.
Indian corn is in the very best condition; about one-fourth the crop
will be ensiled. Hay is a fine average crop in quantity and quality.
Oats and peas and millet are our principal forage crops, and show a
heav>' growth, but are lodged badly by wind and rain. Potatoes look
fairly well; none harvested. There will be a good crop of all fruits
except apples. The frequent showers keep feed in pastures in good
condition. Rye, oats and barley are little grown.

Sunderland (Geo. P. Smith). — There are no insects at present.
Indian corn is much improved and one-half he crop will go into the
silo. Hay is a normal crop of first quality. Corn and oats are the forage
crops grown. Potatoes have suffered from drought; onion sets now
ready and bringing good prices. All fruit will be light, less than half
a crop or none at all. Rye, oats and barley are very little grown.

Erving (Chas. F. Clark). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is looking well and fully three-fourths of the crop will be
put into the silo. The hay crop is above the average in quantity and
of good quality. Corn and Hungarian grass are the principal forage
crops grown, and are in good condition. Potatoes are about an average
crop The prospect for the fruit crop is good with the exception of
apples. Pasturage is in very good condition. There is no marked
change in the yield of rye, oats and barley.

Orange (A. C. White). — There is no special trouble from insects.
Corn is in normal condition and the normal amount will be put into the
silo. A large hay crop is being cut, with unfavorable weather for cur-
ing. Barley and Hungarian grass are the principal forage crops grown.
Potatoes appear finely at the present time. Apples and pears promise
fairly well on high land, where not injured by frosts. Pastures are in
very good condition.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

Prescott (W. F. Wendermuth) . — Potato bugs are doing some dam-
age. Indian corn is in good condition, but is a few days late ; about 5
per cent of the crop is grown for the silo. Hay is a full crop of good qual-
ity. Corn, oats, millet and barley are the principal forage crops grown;
all lodged badly from heavy showers. Late potatoes look well. Apples
promise to be three-fourths of a normal crop. Pasturage is excellent
for the time of year. Rye, oats and barley are good crops. Help for
haying is scarce and this work is not as far advanced as usual.

Ware (J. H. Fletcher). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
The acreage of Indian corn is less than in former years. There is about
an average crop of hay in both fiuantity and (juality. Oats, corn and
barley arc the principal forage crops grown. The fruit crop will be
lighter than usual. Pastures are looking well. Oats are not as good a
crop as usual.

Belchcrtoini (H. C. West). — Potato bugs are our most troublesome
insect. Corn never looked better; perhaps 20 per cciil of the crop is

14

raised for ensilage. Hay is about an average crop in both quantity and
quality. Millet, oats and corn are our forage crops, and all are looking
finely. Market-garden crops fair ; potatoes are looking finely, few dug
as yet. Apples are a fair crop; few pears and peaches; hardly any
plums and quinces; grape vines loaded. Pasturage is in better condi-
tion than usual. Rye, oats and barley are full average crops.

Hadley (L. W. West). — Potato bugs are doing some damage. Corn
is above the average in condition; not over one-fifth of the crop will be
ensiled. Quantity of hay crop 10 per cent above normal and in fine
condition. Japanese millet and corn are our principal forage crops.
Market-garden crops are in good condition; potatoes look well, few
harvested; yield and prices of all above average. Apples and pears
promise well; peaches few. Pastures are in good condition. Rye is
an average crop and oats below. Tobacco and onions are looking well.

Easthampton (Wm. C. Clapp). — Potato bugs and squash bugs are
doing some damage. Corn is backward, but is growing fast; perhaps
one-fourth the crop will go into the silo. There is a heavy yield of hay
of good quaUty. Millet looks well, but oats are somewhat rusted.
Potatoes are looking well and market-garden crops are up to the
normal. There will be a fair crop of apples and grapes; other fruits
little raised. Pasturage never looked better. Rye is a normal crop.
Tobacco is growing fast.

Northampton (H. C. Comins). — Potato bugs are very plenty and the
elm-tree beetle is doing some damage. Corn is a little late but is very
promising; from one-third to one-half the crop will be put into the silo.
There is a full crop of hay of excellent quality. Corn and millet are the
principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops are good and
potatoes are looking finely; potatoes fairly good. Apples are a light
crop and other fruits promise well. Pastures are in fine condition.
Rye, oats and barley are but little raised but are good crops.

Williamsburg (F. C. Richards). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage, but are not as numerous as usual. Indian corn is looking
w^ell ; about two-thirds of the crop goes into the silo. Hay is above the
average in both quantity and quality. Oats are the principal forage
crop, with some oats and peas and Hungarian grass, and are in good
condition. Apples promise half a crop; pears full; peaches three-
fourths. Pastures are looking well, but feed is deficient in sustenance.
There will not be above 20 per cent of a crop of Baldwin apples.

Goshen (Alvan Barrus). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn looks vigorous, but a week or two late ; most of it is grown
for ensilage or for the dry stover. Hay is fully up to the average in both
quantity and quality. Corn, oats, barley, millet and Hungarian grass
are the principal forage crops grown and are all in good condition.
Nearly all fruit is below par, except blackberries, which promise well.
Pasturage is in very good condition. Rye, oats and barley are average
crops.

15

HA]\IPDEN COUNTY.

Chester (C. Z. Inzell). — Potato bugs are doing some damage. Corn
is looking well and about one-third of the crop will go into the silo. Hay
is a better crop than last year. Potatoes have not been harvested yet.
Apples will be a small crop. Pasturage is in good condition.

Rv^sell (E. D. Parks). — Potato bugs are doing some damage. In-
dian corn is looking well and one-fourth of the crop will go into the silo.
Hay is an average crop and of good quality. Oats and millet are our
principal forage crops and are in good condition. But little is done in
market-gardening here. The fruit crop will be rather hght from the
present outlook. Pasturage is in very good condition. Rye, oats and
barley are average crops.

West Springfield (T. A. Rogers). — Potato bugs, elm-leaf beetles and
horn flies are doing some damage. Indian corn is a little late, but is
looking well; about half the crop will be ensiled. Quantity of hay
crop fully up to the average and quahty good. Corn, oats, millet and
Hungarian grass are the principal forage crops grown and are looking
finely. Market-garden crops are looking well; few potatoes dug, but
they are yielding well. Apples will be a light crop ; pears average ; few
peaches, plums or quinces ; grapes average ; no cranberries. Pasturage
is looking well though perhaps a little short. Rye and oats are good
crops.

Agawam (J. G. Burt). — Potato bugs are doing some damage. Corn
is looking finely and one-half the crop will be put into the silo. The hay
crop is good in quantity and quality. Corn is our principal forage crop
and all forage crops are in good condition. Condition of potatoes good,
yield good and prices a little better than usual. Apples will be a light
crop; prospect for others good. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye,
oats and barley are good crops. Tobacco is looking finely.

Lvdlow (C. B. Bennett). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is in very good condition and about one-fourth of the crop
will be put into the silo. There is a heavy crop of hay of fair quality.
Oats, corn, millet and barley are raised for forage. Potatoes came up
poorly, but promise a fair crop. The fruit crop is small, except grapes,
which are very abundant. Pastures are in first-class condition. Rye,
oats and barley are about average crops.

Wilbrahavi (H. M. Bliss). — Indian corn is in good condition and
about 10 per cent of the crop will go into the silo. Hay is a good crop
in both quantity and quality. Oats, barley, corn and rye are the princi-
pal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops, including ))otatoes, are
good crops and bring good prices. Apples 75 per cent of a full yield;
pears 85 ; peaches 95 ; plums SO ; quinces 70 ; grapes 90. Pastures are
in good condition. Rye and oats are good crops and barley a fair crop.

Monson (F. D. Rogers). — Currant worms have been very trouble-
some and potato bugs are now very plenty. Corn is late, but is growing

10

fast; probably half the crop will be ensiled. There is a good average
crop of hay of good quality. Hungarian grass, golden millet, barn-yard
millet, corn and barley are the forage crops grown. Potatoes are look-
ing well. Late frosts, twig blight and other funguos diseases will
combine to i)revent other than light crops of fruit. Pasturage is in
very good condition. Rye, oats and barley are not much grown for
grain.

Brimfield (C. S. Tarbell). — Corn has made a good growth in the
past two weeks and is looking well. There is a good yield of hay of
good quaUty. Japanese millet and fodder corn are the principal forage
crops grown. Potatoes are looking well. There will be no fruit on low
lands owing to frost; on high land very good. Pastures are in very
good condition. Rye, oats and barley are average crops, though oats
are inclined to rust.

WORCESTER COUNTY.

Dudley (J. J. Gilles). — Potato bugs and cut worms are doing some
damage. Indian corn is an average crop and three-fourths of the crop
will go into the silo. Haj' is a little above the average in quantity and
quaUty. Corn, millet, Hungarian grass and barley, and rye for early
feeding, are the principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops,
including potatoes, are in average condition. There will be a full crop
of fruit. Pastures are in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are
average crops.

Broobfield (Frank E. Prouty) . — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is a good crop and not over a fourth of it will be
ensiled. The hay crop is a third larger than usual and of good quality.
Corn, Japanese millet and oats and peas are the principal forage crops
grown and are in good condition. Condition of market-garden crops
good, prices about as usual. Apples will not be over half a crop ; also
pears; peaches little raised but look well. Pasturage is in good condi-
tion. Rye, oats and barley are fully average crops. Potatoes look
well, but none have been dug.

North Brook field (John H. Lane). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Corn is in good condition and three-fourths of the crop
goes into the silo. Hay is 10 per cent above the normal in quantity
and of good quality. Hungarian grass, millet and corn are the princi-
pal forage croj^s grown. Market-garden crops are in very good condi-
tion. Apples and pears are one-fourth of a full crop. Pasturage is in
fair condition. Rye, oats and barley are full crops.

Barre (John L. Smith). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is very good though a little late and nearly all will go into the
silo. Hay is an extra good crop of good quality. Peas and oats, corn
and millet are our principal forage crops. There was a good crop of
apples last year, so the trees are not bearing heavily this year, but the
fruit is smooth and of good size. Pastures are holding out well. Oats
are not as heavy a croj) as usual; other grains not grown.

17

Hubbardston (Chas. C. Colby). — Indian corn is looking well but is
very backward; nearly all will be ensiled. The hay crop is abo^e the
average in quantity and of good quality. There is a larger acreage
than usual of oats, Hungarian grass and millet for forage. Potatoes
are late but promise a large yield. Pastures are in excellent condition,
more pasturage than stock. The fruit crop will be below the average,
because of injury from late frosts.

Winchendon (Arthur Stockwell). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. There will be a good crop of corn. There is a large crop of
hay and it is being secured in fine condition. Market-garden crops,
including potatoes, are in good condition. There will be a good crop
of fruit. Pasturage is in fine condition.

Fitchburg (Jabez Fisher). — The pear psylla is doing some damage.
Indian corn is in fine condition. The hay crop is larger than usual and
of fair but not superior quality. Yield and prices for market-garden
crops fairly good. Applos and pears are showing quite well; peaches
not so good; no Japan plums and few others; grapes moderate. Pas-
turage is in very good condition.

Westminster (Alden J. Foskett). — No insects are troublesome.
Indian corn is very backward. There is a large quantity of hay and
it has been secured in good condition. Oats and barley are our princi-
pal forage crops and are in good condition; oats ripened earlier than
usual. Market-garden crops are little grown, but are in good condition.
There will be a fair crop of apples and pears. Pasturage is in A 1 con-
dition. Rye, oats and barley are good crops.

Bolton (H. F. Haynes). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is a good crop but is late ; probably 25 per cent of the crop goes
into the silo. There is about an average hay crop of good quality.
Japanese millet is the principal forage crop grown. Potatoes look
well, but none have been dug as yet. Pastures are in good condition.
Oats rusted badly; no barley sown except for fall feeding.

Worcester (H. R. Kinney). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn looks well, but is rather late; most of it will go into the
silo. The hay crop is large and of good quality. Corn and millet, with
some turnips, cabbages and barley, are grown for forage. Vegetables
have all been very late, yield fair, prices good. Apples look finely;
pears light; peaches and plums very light; grapes fair. Pasturage is
in better condition than usual. Rye was a good stand but oats rusted.
Potatoes do not promise a heavy crop.

Auburn (Wm. Gilbert). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is later than usual, but promises a good crop; about 90 per cent
will be put into the silo. Hungarian gra.ss and Japanese millet are our
principal forage crops. Hay is a good crop, both in quantity and
quality. Market-garden crops are little raised Potatoes look well,
none harvested as yet. Pastures were never better at this time of year.
Rye is a good crop; oats very poor.

Upton (B. A. Jourdan). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.

18

Corn is looking finely and only a small part will be ensiled. The hay
crop is good and of fine qualit}^ Clover and corn are our principal
forage crops. Garden crops are fine and potatoes look well. There
will be good crops of apples, pears, grapes and cranberries. Pasturage
is in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are fair crops.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Sherborn (N. B. Douglas). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn looks well and one-half or more of the crop will go into the
silo. There is not a full crop of hay. Oats, barley, Hungarian grass
and corn are the forage crops grown; oats rusted badlj^; other forage
crops promise well. Potatoes look well, but none dug as yet. Apples
half a crop; no plums; grapes a full crop. Pasturage is in good condi-
tion. Rye, oats and barley are average crops for forage.

Marlborough (E. D. Howe). — Brown-tail moths and potato bugs
have done some damage. Indian corn is a little backward ; fully half
the crop goes into the silo. Quantity of hay crop 110; quality 100.
Peas and oats are our principal forage crops and are in good condition.
Private gardens look well. Apples 60 per cent of a full crop ; pears 50
per cent; peaches 25 per cent; plums 100 per cent; quinces 75 per
cent; grapes 100 per cent. Frequent rains have kept the pastures in
prime condition. Rye, oats and barley are full average crops.

Stow (Geo. W. Bradley). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is backward, but is coming along rapidly at present; perhaps
one-fourth the crop will be ensiled. Quantity and quality of the hay
crop both better than for some years. Oats and Hungarian grass and
Japanese millet are our forage crops and all are looking well. No early
potatoes raised and very few market-garden crops. Apples and pears
about three-fourths crops; other fruits not very plenty. Pastures are
looking well for the season. Rye and oats are about average crops.
Squashes were planted quite freely this season and are looking finely
at present.

Littleton (Geo. W. Sanderson). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage and we have been troubled by the brown-tail moth. Indian
corn is in favorable condition and about three-fourths of the crop will
go into the silo. There is more than an average crop of hay, of
good quality. Millet, and Hungarian grass are the principal forage
crops and are in good condition. Market-garden crops are looking
well ; but few potatoes have been harvested. The apple crop does not
look so favorable as earlier in the season; pears are good; peaches,
plums, grapes and cranberries do not look favorable. Pasturage is in
good condition. Rye, oats and barley are average crops.

Groton (Chas. H. Berry). — Rose bugs and potato bugs are doing
some damage. About three-fourths of the corn crop is raised for en-
silage. There is a very heavy crop of hay of good quality. Oats,
barley and Hungarian grass are the forage crops grown and they are

19

looking finely. The condition of market-garden crops is very favorable,
but none have been harvested. Early apples will give a large crop;
late apples half a crop; some pears and peaches; grapes a small crop.
Pasturage is in very fine condition. Rj^e, oats and barley are about
average crops.

Pepperell (W. F. Dennen). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is looking very well considering the lateness of the season ;
two-thirds of the crop goes into the silo. There is a very good hay crop
of good cjuality. Millet and barley are the principal forage crops grown
and are looking well. We have few garden crops here, but potatoes
promise well. There will be very little fruit of any kind. Pastures are
in very good condition. Rye, oats and barley are raised principally for
forage.

Billerica (Geo. P. Greenwood). — Insect pests are not very active.
Corn IS raised only for silage and looks very well. There is about an
average hay crop of very good quality. Market-garden crops look well.
Apples are a very large and fair crop ; pears, peaches and plums light ;
cranberries good. Pastures are in good condition. Oats rusted badly.

Concord Wm. H. Hunt). — The elm-tree beetle is doing considerable
damage and the brown-tail and gypsy moths are about. Indian corn
is looking well and very little is put into the silo. The hay crop is excel-
lent in quantity and quality. Rye, barley and oats all look well. Gar-
den crops look well, including potatoes. The apple crop will be medium ;
pears good. Pasturage is looking well. Rye, oats and barley have done
well.

Stoneham (J. E. Wiley). — Gypsy moths are doing damage. Very
little Indian corn is raised. Ha}^ is above the average in quantitj' and
quahty. Market-garden crops are above the average in yield and
price and potatoes promise well. Apples poor crop and grapes good.
Pastures are in fine condition.

Newton (G. L. Marcy). — Elm-tree beetles are doing considerable
damage. Indian corn is not raised to any extent. The hay crop is
good in quality and average in quantity. Barley, oats, corn and millet
are the forage crops grown and are in good condition. Market-garden
crops are generally in good condition; wax beans spotted a good deal.
The prospect is good for all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is in good con-
dition.

ESSEX COUNTY

Salisbury (Wesley Pettenoill). — Potato bugs are doing damage;
very few other insects. Corn is looking finely, having made rapid
growth of late; very little goes into the silo. There is a record-breaking
hay crop; quality not as good as some years. Corn, millet and Hun-
garian are our principal forage crops, witli some rye, oats and barley,
and all are looking well. Market-garden crops normal and prices good ;
potatoes look well except on very low ground, .\pples poor; pears
good; peaches good; plums poor; grapes good; blueberries heavy

20

crop. Pastures were never better at this time of year. Rye, oats and
barley look well as forage crops.

Haverhill (Eben Webster). — Squash bugs and cucumber beetles
are doing some damage. Indian corn is in good condition and two-
thirds of the crop will go into the silo. The quantity of the hay crop
is not quite up to the normal, but the quality is good. Pastures are
in good condition. Corn, oats and peas are the principal forage crops
and are looking well. The yield of potatoes promises to be good.
Rye, oats and barley are about average crops.

Groveland (A. S. Longfellow). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is looking well; perhajjs one-third of the crop will
be ensiled. There is a full crop of hay, but the quaUty is inferior.
Corn is the principal forage crop raised, with some oats, and both are
in satisfactory condition. Potatoes are in good condition. A full crop
of apples is promised ; also of pears ; some peaches. Pasturage is good
owing to frequent rains. Rye, oats and barley are raised only for
forage and are fully up to the average.

Hamilton (Geo. R. Dodge). — Potato bugs seem more plentiful than
usual. Corn is backward though it has made good growth the past few
weeks; all of the crop is put into the silo. Hay is a good average crop
of good quality. Oats, millet and corn are the crops grown for forage
and all are in good condition. Market-garden crops look well, with
prices favorable. Apples and stone fruits are dropping badly and the
yield will fall short of last year. Pasturage is good, but cows are
shrinking some. Oats for forage were extra good.

Manchester {ioYL'n Baker). — Gypsy and brown-tail moths have
done some damage. Indian corn is a good crop and none is put into the
silo. The hay crop is good in quantity and quality, but the weather is
poor for getting it. Corn, oats and barley are the principal forage crops
grown and are in good condition. Market-garden crops are in good
condition, with prices better than usual. There will be about a medium
crop of fruit. Pastures are in first-rate condition. Rye, oats and barley
are about average crops.

Dnnvers (Chas. H. Preston). — Gypsy moths are doing some dam-
age. Corn is in good condition and a large part of the crop goes into the
silo. Quantity of hay crop above average and quality good. Oats and
peas, barley and corn are our principal forage crops. A great deal of
sweet corn is fed or put into the silo after marketing the ears. Market-
garden crops are in good condition and bring fair prices. Apples are
below an average crop; few pears or plums; some peaches and grapes.
Pasturage is in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are good crops.

NORFOLK COUNTY.

Cohnsftet (Philander Bates). — Potato bugs arc doing some damage.
Indian corn is not grown here. The hay crop is an average one in quan-
tity and quality. Corn and millet are the principal forage crops grown.

21

Market-garden crops are in good condition. The prospect for fruit of
all kinds is good. Pasturage is good, rains having kept the feed green.
Rye, oats and barley are not grown here. Onions are raised, but are
mostlj' sold near home during the summer.

Canton (E. V. Kinsley). — Cabbage worms and potato bugs are
doing some damage. Corn is looking better than usual; very few
farmers here have silos. Quantity of hay crop average, quality poor,
verj'' bad hay weather. Corn, Japanese millet, Hungarian grass, oats,
rye and peas are the principal forage crops and all are doing well.
Potatoes are looking unusually well, but a trifle late; other market-
garden crops good and prices good. A fair crop of fruit is promised.
Pastures are in very good condition. Oats are looking poorly where
sown for grain. The supply of milk has been full, but is falling off fast.

Wedwood (Henry E. We.\thekbee). — Potato bugs have been very
thick and cut worms have done considerable damage. Corn is looking
well, but is rather late. There is a good crop of hay of good quality,
but it is not going into the barns in very good condition, owing to bad
weather. Hungarian grass, Japanese millet and corn are raised for
forage and are looking well. Potatoes are looking very well, few being
dug as yet. Market-garden crops are yielding well. Apples, pears and
grapes will be good crops; peaches and plums light yields. Pastures
are holding out weU, owing to frequent rains. Oats were a light crop,
owing to rust; rye is a good crop; very little barley raised.

Millis (E. F. Richardson). — Rose bugs, potato bugs and the elm-
leaf beetle are doing some damage. Indian corn is in fair condition and
three-fourths of the crop will be ensiled. There is a large hay crop of
good ciuality. Oats and peas, Hungarian grass, millet and corn are the
forage crops grown. Market-garden crops yield well and bring fair
prices. Apples, pears, peaches and cranberries promise good crops;
quinces and grapes fair. Pastures are in fine condition. Oats rusted,
but rye and barley are fair crops.

Franklin (C. M. Allen). — The elm-leaf beetle is doing damage on a
few trees. Corn is a little late, but is making exceptional growth;
nearly all the crop is raised for the silo. The heavy crop of hay has been
somewhat damaged by wet weather. ^lillet and barley are the principal
forage crops grown and are looking finely. IMarket-garden crops have
done very well and brought fair prices. Fruit will be a medium to poor
crop. Pasturage has been fine this year. Rye, oats and barley are
more than average crops.

BRISTOL COUNTY.

Attleborough (Isaac Alger). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is in good condition and about half the crop will be ensiled.
The hay crop is about average in quantity and quality. Corn and millet
are the principal forage crops grown. Potatoes are not yet harvested,
but look finely. No apples; other fruits normal. Pastures are in good

22

condition. Rye, oats and barley are fairly good crops. The season so
far has been very favorable.

Seeko7ik (John W. Peck). — No serious damage from insects. In-
dian corn, where grown, is excellent ; two-thirds of the crop at least will
go into the silo. The hay crop is very good. Hungarian grass and bar-
ley are the leading forage crops grown. Market-garden crops are excel-
lent so far, with prices better than usual as a whole. All fruits except
cranberries are doing well. Pasturage was never better at this date.
Rye, oats and barley are average crops. The prospect is good for a
second crop of hay.

Dighton (James N. Paul). — Potato bugs are prevalent and elm-leaf
beetles are doing much damage to elm trees. Indian corn is in good
condition; very little grown for the silo. Quantity and quality of the
hay crop about normal, but injured by wet weather in making. Corn,
oats and barley are the principal forage crops grown and are in good
condition. Potatoes and onions are looking poorly; other market-
garden crops look well; those harvested have yielded well, but sold at
low prices. Apples, pears, plums and quinces look poorly and will be
very small crops. Pastures are in good condition. Strawberries
yielded the largest crop in years, but sold at very low prices, many
fields hardly paying for picking and marketing. There is a large acre-
age of tomatoes and squashes here and both are looking well at present.

Westport (Albert S. Sherman). — Potato bugs and grasshoppers
are doing some damage. Corn is looking exceedingly well ; no silos here.
The hay crop is very heavy, but the quality was injured by frequent
showers. Corn and oats are extensively raised for forage and are in fine
condition. All garden crops are doing well, including potatoes. Apples
not plenty ; pears and peaches promise good crops ; plums, quinces and
cranberries not much grown; grapes abundant. Pasturage never was
better at this season. Rye is very good, but late oats were injured by
rust.

Dartmouth (L. T. Davis). — Insects have caused very little trouble.
Corn seldom looked better, though a little late ; perhaps three-fourths
of the crop is grown for the silo and for fodder. There is a good average
yield of hay, but the quality is not of the best, as it has been hard to
make it owing to rain. Coi'n, oats and peas and barley are the forage
crops grown and are looking finely. Market-garden crops are in good
condition with average prices. The fruit crop is almost an entire failure.
Pastures still hold out fairly well. Rye, oats and barley are good crops.

PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Hanover (Harrison L. House). — Striped s(|uash bugs are doing
some damage. Indian corn is in fair condition; no silos in town.
Quantity of the hay crop medium and quality rather poor, owing to
bad weather for making. Oats and cow peas are the principal forage
crops grown and are in good condition. Market-garden crops are fair

23

yield with average prices. The prospect for fruit is poor, except for
cranberries. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are
normal crops.

West Bridgcwater (C. P. Howard). — Corn looks well and three-
fourths of the crop will go into the silo. An average crop of hay has
been .secured. Corn, oats and peas, millet and barley are the forage
crops grown. All garden crops look well. Insects have injured all kinds
of fruit badly. Pastures are in ^'ery good condition. All grain is yield-
ing well.

Duxbury (R. T. Randall). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is in very good condition; no silos here. Hay is better than an
average crop, but the weather has been poor for making. Oats and
millet are the principal forage crops grown. Early potatoes are a good
yield; prices about the same as usual. Apples will be a good crop;
grapes plenty; cranberries good. Pasturage is in good condition.
Rye, oats and barley are average crops.

Halifax (G. W. Hayward). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is improving and bids fair to be a good crop; no silos in town.
Quality of hay crop fine, but yield uneven. Corn and barley are the
principal forage crops and are in excellent condition. Potatoes are
looking finely. There will be very few apples and other fruits, except
cranberries. Feed in pastures is luxuriant. Rye and barley have
yielded finely.

Carver (J. A. Vaughan). — The cranberry vine worm is doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good condition; no silos here. There is a
good crop of hay, but the weather has been poor to make it. Condition
of pastures excellent, but some millet is raised for forage. Potatoes
and all garden crops are looking well. There is an average crop of
apples and pears. Pasturage is in excellent condition. Cranberries
have suffered from frost and insects, but an average crop is expected.

Lakeville (Nathaniel G. Staples). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good condition and possibly 10 per cent of
the crop will be ensiled. Quantity of the hay crop a little better than
the average and quality good. Corn is the principal forage crop grown
and is in good condition. Market-garden crops are good with prices
better than usual. The prospect for fruit of all kinds is good. Pastur-
age is in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are fair crops.

Mattapoiset (E. C. Stetson). — Potato bugs and cut worms are
doing some damage. Corn is in good condition; no silos here. There
is a very good hay crop of fair fjuality. Corn and millet are the i)rinri-
pal forage crops grown and are in good condition. Market-garden crops
are as good, or a little better than the average. Very few apples ; pears,
peaches, plums, quinces and grapes quite good; cranberries not very
promising. Pasturage is in very good condition. Rye, oats and barley
are about average crops.

24

BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

Bourne (David D. Nye). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn looks well, but is somewhat backward ; no silos in town. The hay
crop is fully up to last year in quantity and of fair quality. Corn, oats,
millet and some roots are raised for forage. Market-garden crops are
fair; few potatoes harvested but they promise very well. There will
be small crops of apples, pears, peaches, plums and quinces; grapes
and cranberries fair. Pasturage never looked as well as at present.

Barnstable (John Bursley). — Green-headed flies are annoying
domestic animals exceedingly. Indian corn is growing very rapidly;
very little for the silo. Quantity of the hay crop 15 per cent above the
average, but quality 15 per cent below. Oats as a forage crop have
done fairly well and some millet is sown. Peas have made a large yield;
potatoes very Hght ; prices fair. Apples and pears small crops ; peaches
fair; grapes and cranberries looking very well. Pastures are in good
condition. Rye, oats and barley are very good crops.

Chatham (E. Z. Ryder). — Potato bugs, codlin moths and squash
bugs are doing some damage. Corn is very good and only a small part
of the crop will be ensiled. Hay is a fair crop, but has been injured
very badly by wet weather. Corn, oats and millet are the principal
forage crops grown, and all are looking well. Market-garden crops are
backward, but prices rule higher than usual. Apples will give a small
crop; pears average; other fruits fair; good outlook for cranberries.
Pasturage is in very good condition. Rye, oats and barley are average
crops.

Orleans (Freeman E. Snow). — Potato bugs are the only insects
doing damage. Corn is looking well; no silos about here. There is a
good hay crop, both in quantity and quality. Millet, corn, etc., are
grown for forage and are looking well. Potatoes look well and the yield
bids fair to be good, prices good. All fruits are looking well ; cranber-
ries hardly out of bloom. Pasturage is getting rather short because of
lack of rain.

Truro (John B. Dyer). — Potato bugs and striped squash bugs are
doing some damage. Very little Indian corn is raised and none for the
silo. The hay crop is better than usual. Forage crops are little grown.
Market-garden crops are fairly good, better than average owing to wet
weather. Apples, pears, peaches and grapes are good, and cranberries
promise unusually well. Pastures are in good condition. Rye, oats and
barley are good crops, but are little grown.

DUKES COUNTY.

West Tishury (George Hunt Luce) . — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good condition; only a small portion of
the crop will be ensiled. Hay is above the average in quantity, but

25

the quality suffered for lack of good weather to harvest. Corn is the
principal forage crop grown. Potatoes promise to be a good crop.
There will be a fair yield of fruit. Pasturage is in very good condition.
Oats are somewhat rusty.

NANTUCKET COUNTY.

Nantucket (H. G. Worth). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is looking finely; no silos in this county. The hay crop is good,
but wet weather has injured the quality. Oats and fodder corn are the
principal forage crops grown. All market-garden crops are looking
finely and bringing good prices. Pastures were never in better condi-
tion. Oats are the only grain raised in any amount and have rusted
somewhat on account of so much wet weather.

26

BULLETIN OF

Massachusetts Board of Agricultuee.

CLOVERS : THEIR VALUE, CHARACTERISTICS OF VARIETIES
AND METHODS OF PRODUCTION.

Cy Prof. Wm. p. Bkooks, Professor of Agriculture, Massachusetts Agricultural

College.

Most farmers who keep stock appreciate the fact that the clovers are
among the most valuable of all the forage crops that can be produced
in Massachusetts. The reasons why the clovers are so important are not
always clearly understood. In this article the writer will attempt to
make these reasons clear. Not infrequently, in personal inter^^ews or
by letter, the writer's attention is called to the fact that in some lo-
calities farmers are meeting with poor success in their efforts to produce
this valuable class of forage crops. The reasons for comparative failure
in efforts to produce clover doubtless vary in different localities, and it
may not be possible iqr one unfamiliar with conditions to give direc-
tions which will always lead to success. Certain conditions, however,
which are well established, must be provided, or failure will be the
result. An eiTort will be made to make a clear statement as to what
these conditions are, for it is in many cases at least true that compara-
tive failure in the effort to produce clovers is due to a failure to observe
some one or more of these conditions.

Reasons why Clovers are Especially Valuable on the Farm.

It is the writer's opinion that on farms where stock is kept it w411
usually not be profitable to use clovers as green manures. They can
be better utilized on such farms by cutting and feeding to stock, or by
pasturing. On the other hand, where but little stock is kept, and
especially where the production of apples, peaches or other tree fruits
is an important part of the farm business, the clovers are among the
most valuable crops which can be used for cover, to supply humus, and
to enrich the soils in nitrogen. It is now generally understood that
under right conditions clovers are capable of taking the nitrogen which
they need from the air. In this respect the clovers and the other plants
of the clover family are superior to any other crops which can be used
for similar purposes. It is, then, this single fact, that the clovers can
take the nitrogen they need from the air while crops of other families
cannot do this, which renders them so much more valuable than most
other crops for cover and green manuring. It is the purpose of this

27

article to consider especially clovers as forage crops. A brief statement
of the jjrinripal reasons for their great value as such may be useful.

1. The cost of manures and fertilizers needed to produce them is low.
As has just been stated, the clovers under the right conditions take their
nitrogen from the air. They tlraw upon the soil simply for the mineral
constituents of plant food, such as lime, i)hosphoric acid, potash and
magnesia. These mineral elements of plant food are relatively abun-
dant and can be purchased at comparatively low prices. Nitrogen, on
the other hand, if purchased in the form of either manufe or fertilizers,
will usually cost from 16 to 18 cents per pound. Phosphoric acid and
potash cost only 3 to 5 cents per pound, the price varying according to
the material selected. Lime and magnesia cost still less. The latter, in-
deed, need seldom be purchased, for it as well as the other mineral con-
stituents found in plants is almost invariably sufficiently abundant in all
soils. Striking evidence that tlfe manurial cost of producing clovers
is low is afforded by the results in one of the fields of the Hatch Ex-
periment Station. A plot in this field was manured annually for fifteen
years at the following rates per acre: dissolved bone black 320 pounds
and muriate of potash 160 pounds. The crops raised on this field, in
the order of their production, were as follows: corn, corn, oats, hay,
hay, corn, rye, soy beans, white mustard, corn, corn, hay, hay, and
corn. The hay crops have consisted in all cases of mixed grass and
clovers. During the fifteen years referred to, the entire field has re-
ceived two applications of lime, at the rate in each case of 1 ton to the
acre. The annual cost of the dissolved boneblack and muriate of potash
applied to this plot has been at the rate of about So. 50 per acre, while
the cost of the two applications of lime has been sufficient, spread over
the fifteen years, to amount to about SI per acre annually. The total
cost of manuring this land, then, has been at the rate of about SO.oO
per acre annually. This plot has invariably produced good crops. Its
fertility does not appear to have decreased. In 1902 it produced shelled
corn at the rate of 56 bushels to the acre. Clover has always pre-
dominated in the hay crops. The yield of hay (two crops) in 1901 was
at the rate of 3,400 pounds to the acre. That portion of this field which
has not been manured during the fifteen years will at present yield
corn at the rate of about 7 bushels of shelled corn per acre and hay at
the rate of about 600 pounds.

Some of the fields of the Massachusetts Agricultural College farm
are kei)t j)ermanently in mowing. A number of acres have not been
broken up for about twenty-four years. In 1889, when the writer took
charge of these fields, they were producing rather light crojjs of Ken-
tucky blue grass, much mixed with the white daisy. For the last few
years these fields have been subdivided into plots, and various combi-
nations of fertilizers employed. To a considerable area, the annual
application per acre is at the rate of basic slag meal 500 pounds, and a
potash salt sufficient to furnish 75 pounds of actual potash per acre.
The areas thus manured have steadily improved unflcr the treatment
received. At the start there was but little clover. Under the system
of fertilizing followed, the pr()[)ortion of clover has steadily increased.
The daisi(!S have almost entirely disaj)po;ired, while the grass as well
as the clovers, though in less degree, has improved. The annual cost
of the fertilizers used amounts to about S7 per acre. The soil of these
fields is natural grass land and is fjuite well adapted for clovers as well.
The product under this sy.stem of manuring ranges from about 2 to
'2k tons per acre in two crops. Dining the present sea.son these fields
have given one of the best as well as one of the heaviest crops produced
since 1889.

28

2. Clovers are of especial value upon the farm as stock feed on
account of their exceptional richness in protein. Protein, as is well
understood, is the most valuable of the food constituents, being essen-
tial to the formation of flesh and undoubtedly influencing milk pro-
duction to a greater degree than any other food constituent. Hay
made from grasses is likely to contain only 6 to 8 per cent of protein.
Hay made from clovers, on the other hand, is likely to contain from
12 to 14 per cent. Every farmer, however, who has had experience
knows the superior results which can be obtained in feeding when
good clover hay is available. This point, therefore, needs no further
discussion.

3. The production of clovers under the right conditions enriches the
soil. This is true even when the crops produced are cut and removed.
Clover, as has been pointed out, is capable of taking its nitrogen from
the air. Not only does it take from the air under the right conditions
a large proportion of the nitrogen which becomes a part of its stems,
leaves and flowers, it takes also large amounts of nitrogen which become
a part of its roots. The 3 tons of clover hay which an acre of good
clover land will produce in a year will contain about 120 pounds of
nitrogen, and yet after the production of this crop the soil will contain
more nitrogen than it did at the start if conditions have been right,
for the roots and the stubble of the clover are very rich in this element,
and when these decay, the nitrogen they contain becomes a part of
the capital of the soil, and this nitrogen has been taken from the air and
thus brought within the reach of subsequent crops through the agency
of the growing clover.

In one other direction the growth of clovers is likely to result in soil
improvement. Most of them are very deep-rooted plants. They have
long, thick tap roots which run down into the soil. As a consequence,
the sub-soil is opened up and mellowed. The availability of the stores
of plant food in it as well as in the surface soil is increased. Crops
which follow clovers are likely to send their roots deeper into the soil
than when following grasses which are more shallow rooted. Under
these conditions crops are less likely to suffer from drought. They
gather food from a wider soil area, and are consequently more certain
and less dependent upon applied fertility. The fact that other crops
almost invariably do well when following a good crop of clover is gen-
erally understood among farmers of experience, and these points, there-
fore, do not appear to need further discussion.

4. The fact that when a clover sod is broken up the following crops
do exceptionally well has just been pointed out and is generally under-
stood. That the grasses growing in the field with clovers in permanent
mowings will ultimately derive great benefit from the clovers which
have grown with them is not so generally understood. That such is
case, however, cannot be doubted. European experience has demon-
strated it, and many observations in America confirm the results of
European experience. It will be of interest to consider how this effect
is produced. As has been pointed out, a suitable selection of fertilizers
will maintain a large proportion of clovers in permanent mowings. It
must be remembered, however, that the individual clover plants are
not long lived. Most of our clovers are short-lived perennials. The
single plant will not, as a rule, live more than two or three years.
Clover is permanent in the mowing simply because some of the seed
almost invariably ripens previous to the cutting of the crop. Con-
siderable numbers of individual plants undoubtedly die every year.
It is the decay of the roots and stubble of these j^lants which accounts
for the benefit to the grasses. Grasses thrive where nitrogen in avail-

29

able forms is abundant in the soil. The decay of the roots and stubble
of clovers brings this element within the reach of the grasses, and thus
the clovers, which first help themselves by drawing nitrogen from the
air, in their death and decay help the grasses as well. Any permanent
mowing which at the outset is brought into good condition to produce
clovers in a few years will also be in a condition to produce a strong
growth of grasses as well as clovers.

For four important reasons, then, the clovers are among the most
valuable of forage plants: First the manurial cost of their production
is exceptionally low. Second, they are richer in protein than most of
the forage crops; far richer than the grasses. Third, they enrich the
soil in nitrogen as well as sub-soil it, so that the following crops are
almost invariably good. Fourth, in permanent mowings they ulti-
mately so enrich the soil in nitrogen that the grasses as well as the
clovers make vigorous growth.

The Kinds of Clover.
Crimson Clover {Tr i folium I ncarnatum).

Crimson clover is an annual or a winter annual.* Whenever crimson
clover can be grown as a winter annual it is of much value, but the
peculiarities of our winters and especially of our springs are such that
crimson clover is not generally successful as a winter annual. In lo-
calities where it is hardy, its special value is due principally to the
fact that it starts into growth the following season much earlier than the
other clovers. Crimson clover may be grown in Massachusetts as a
spring-sown crop, but if it must be sown in the spring, it will not be
earlier than the other clovers, and is not likely to yield so heavily as
they. It does not appear likely, therefore, that crimson clover will
prove of much value in our agriculture.

Medium or Common Red Clover, and Mammoth Red Clover.

These two kinds of clover are best described together as the peculiar-
ities of each are best brought out when studied in contrast with those
of the other. These two kinds of clover resemble each other very
closely. Typical specimens of the two show well-defined differences,
but these two types of clover seem to run together, and there are many
forms intermediate between the types. The product of commercial
samples of seed sold under the two names is often indistinguisliable,
even by exjjerts. Typical specimens show the following differences.
The leaflet of the red clover is nearly round, comparatively smooth,
with a whitish approximately crescent-shaped mark on the upper
surface. The mammoth clover has a leaflet relatively narrow, ellip-
tical, more hairy than that of the conmion red clover and without the
whitish mark. The more important practical differences are that the
mammoth clover is somewhat coarser aiul taller than the connnon and
a little later. It is, therefore, somewhat better suited for sowing in
mixture with timothy and redto]) than the common red clover, for the
latter is usually overripe before the timothy and redtoj) are sufficiently
mature to cut. Both of these clovers are rather short-lived perennials,
but it is nevertheless possible, as has been indicated, to produce hay for
a long series of years in permanent mowings in which these clovers will

* Those plants are designateil winter annuals which, when sown in late sum-
mer or fall, make a moderate growth hut do not hloasoni that season ; but which
will pass througli the winter successfully, blossom and form seed the following
spring and then die. Winter rye is an example.

30

be fairly prominent. This is possible even without sowing the seed,
for when the rowen crop is usually harvested a portion of the heads
are commonly ripe. The seeds are scattered from these heads and
from these seeds each year come new plants. Accordingly, though
the older plants die, their place in the mowing is taken by the plants
which grow from these accidentally scattered seeds.

Alsike Clover.

Alsike clover was once supposed to be a hybrid between common red
clover and white clover. It is now known that this is not the case. It
is a distinct species. In characteristics, however, it is intermediate
between the common red and the white, showing a wonderful blending
of the qualities of the two. It has the upright habit of growth of the red
clover, though it is not so coarse. The head is shaped like the head of
the white clover, while the color of the flowers is pink. Alsike clover
is of much value in mowings, and seems to be especially adapted to
the stronger and moister soils, where it does better than the common
red. Being finer, it cures more easily than either the common red or
the mammoth clover, producing hay of very superior quality. It is,
moreover, of great value as a honey crop, for the honej^ bee can reach
the nectar in its flowers, which it can seldom do in the case of the red
and mammoth clovers. In a few respects, alsike clover appears to be
somewhat inferior to the red and mammoth varieties. In many cases
it does not persist so long, nor does it appear to yield so heavy a second
growth. The variety, however, is of such value that it should always
be included in mixtures of seeds for the stronger and moister soils,
where hay including clover is desired.

White Clover.

This plant is too well known to need description. Unlike the other
clovers it is perennial. Its ability to persist is due to the fact that its
stems creep upon the ground, rooting at the joints wherever they come
in contact with the soil. This clover is, therefore, constantly renewed as
a result of this habit of growth. This same habit renders this clover
less valuable in mowings than the others which have been spoken of.
In all permanent mowings, however, white clover will contribute greatly
to the yield and to the nutritive value of the product. In such mow-
ings, it appears invariably to come in naturally if the soils are adapted
to it and if the necessary mineral elements of plant food are abundantly
supplied. White clover is of great value in pastures. A turf in which
white clover is abundant is most highly relished by all classes of stock
and the feed is highly nutritious. The white clover, moreover, is much
the most valuable of all the clovers for bees. It secretes nectar abun-
dantly, and the honey made from it stands highest in our markets, being,
indeed, almost everywhere looked upon as the standard of excellence
among the different grades of honey.

Varieties of the Different Species.

Critical examination of either grasses or clovers in the field will reveal
the fact that the different plants exhibit considerable variation. In the
United States, wliile we have countless varieties of vegetables, grains
and fruits, we have thus far made little effors to produce select and
more perfect varieties of our different species of forage crops. We have
been satisfied to go on year after year sowing a mixed or average seed.

81

The tendency to vary among the different species of clovers is appar-
ently not less than it is in many other species of cultivated plants. It
cannot be doubted that by intelligent effort greatly improved types or
types suited to widely different purposes may be produced. Foreign
countries are ahead of us in this direction, and on the Experiment
Station farm at Amherst there is now a considerable collection of varie-
ties of clovers, of the red, alsike and white species respectively. The
different varieties exhibit wide differences one from the other, and some
of them have great apparent promise. These varieties of clovers have
not been under trial sufficiently long to justify sending out any of them
but it is among the possibilities of the near future that we shall have
highly improved types of the different leading species of clovers, types
which are suited to varying conditions or to different purposes. Mean-
while, in conclusion upon this topic, the intelligent clover grower is
urged to keep his eyes open for promising plants, and finding them,
either to propagate from them himself, or to send them to the Experi-
ment Station, where they will be given careful trial.

The Conditions Essential for the Most Successful and Profit-
able Growth of the Clovers.

1. Soil Conditions. — Successful clover growing is impossible unless
the soil conditions are right. These plants will thrive upon a consider-
able A'ariety of soils as regards texture and composition, but for the best
results a deep, mellow and fairly retentive soil which is well drained is
essential. Clovers will absolutely fail if there is any considerable pro-
portion of free acid in the soil, or, in farmers' language, if the soil be
"sour." If blue litmus paper in contact with moderately moist soil
turns red as it absorbs the moisture, this is an indication that the soil
is sour, but the farmer will be wise if before incurring any considerable
expense for the correction of acidity he makes a careful test for himself.
One of the best farmer's tests can be carried out as follows: take two
small plots of land in a field supposed to possess "sour" soil and plow
them both. Plots containing about one square rod each will be suffi-
cient. They should, of course, be located in a representative portion of
of the field. After plowing spread about 20 jiounds of builders' lime
or R-R agricultural lime on one of the plots. Work this lime in deeply
with the wheel harrow, then manure or fertilize both plots alike and
heavily, and plant table beets. If the soil is sour, these beets will grow
much better on the plot to which the, lime has been applied than on
the other, and it is safe to conclude that a heavy application of lime
will be essential before clovers will flourish. If the experiment indi-
cates that lime is essential, it will i)r()bably be needed at about the rate
of 1 ton to the acre; the weight referred to to be taken before slacking.
If air-slacked lime is used, H tons to the acre will not be too much.
The best season for applying lime is autumn or early sjiring. As a
rule, it should be spread upon the plowed land antl deeply worked in
with the disc harrow.

2. The Use of Much Manure inexpedient. — The writer is aware. that
splendid clover is often grown where the land is heavily dressed with
manure. He is not disposed to deny the possibility of |)r(>ducing fine
crops of clover on manure alone. He would, nevertheless, urge that
manure alone be not depended upon as a means of enriching clover
land. The leading and most valuable element of plant food in manures
is nitrogen. The api)lication of this for clovers in any considerable
amounts is unneces.sary. If clovers are grown on manures, they will
feed upon the nitrogen in the manure. They will not draw from the

32

air for that element. Growing clover upon manures, therefore, is not the
best economy. Moreover, it is important to point out that the grasses
with which clover is most generally grown are greatly invigorated by
heavy dressings of manure. A strong, rank growth of the timothy and
redtop will tend to crowd out the clover. Fine crops of hay maj'- be
produced, but it will not be clover hay, nor rich in clover. The writer
would not be understood as urging that manure should never be used
on land which is being prepared for clover, although he would strongly
advise against top-dressing clover with manure. On soil which is
naturally poor in nitrogen, manure may wisel)' be used in moderate
amounts for crops preceding clover. Heavy dressings would be a mis-
take. It is far better to use the manure in only moderate or small
amounts, and to use it in connection with materials which will supply
lime, phosphates and potash.

3. The Supply of the Mineral Elements of Plant Food should he Lib-
eral. — We should not forget in considering the best means of growing
clover that the stock of nitrogen in the air from which it is capable of
drawing is practically unlimited. The more of this nitrogen we can
gather in the crop and in its roots and stubble the better. In a certain
sense, this trapped atmospheric nitrogen is so much clear gain. In
considering this point it must be remembered that the clover plant
like other plants must take the different food elements in a certain
balanced proportion. Though the nitrogen the clovers need is practi-
cally unlimited in amount, they cannot make a heavy growth unless
provided with a great abundance of the elements which they must take
from the soil. It is clearly unwise to lessen our chances for gathering
the valuable element nitrogen from the air through failure to supply
the soil elements in adequate amounts. The rule, then, in preparing
for clover or in top-dressing for clover should be to supply the phos-
phates, potash salts, lime and possibly magnesia in great abundance.
With these present in abundance, and with a soil of such a character
that it will furnish suitable conditions and supply the needed moisture
at critical times, enormous crops of clover may be produced.

4. The Co-operation of Bacteria is essential. — One of the most im-
portant discoveries of recent times is the now generally known fact
that the presence of certain bacteria living in symbiotic relations with
the clovers and other members of the clover family, and found in
nodules on their roots, is essential in order that these plants may draw
upon the air for nitrogen. The nodules which in the case of clovers
indicate the presence of suitable bacteria are whitish, more or less ellip-
tical bodies of about the size of the head of a small pin. These grow
singly or in small clusters, mainly on the smaller roots. They can be
readily found by taking up clover plants grown under proper condi-
tions with care not to break off too many of the small roots. Bacteria,
as is generally understood, are plants. They are very minute. The
bacteria themselves are the veriest dust of the dust. As might be sup-
posed, therefore, they appear to be very widely and freely disseminated,
antl probably tlirough the air. The slightest currents of air must carry
them. The dust from a freshly turned clover sod must contain count-
less millions of them. In certain quarters it has been urged that fail-
ures to produce good clover are frequently due to the absence of suitable
bacteria, or to their presence in insufficient numbers. Certain experi-
ments with sterilized soils in Amherst indicate to the writer that clover
bacteria are everywhere, and it is not his belief that failures to produce
satisfactory croi)s of clover in this State can often, if indeed they can
ever, be attributed to the cause under consideration. The writer has
never seen a case where if a soil be brought into proper condition as to

33

drainage and freedom from acidity, and well stocked with phosphates
and potash, clovers have failed to grow, and he has never observed
clover plants in any locality and failed to find abundance of nodules
on their roots. It is, however, of course a possibility that there may
be localities where it will pay to inoculate the soil designed for clover
with suitable bacteria. This inoculation may be carried out in either
of two ways. First, soil from a locality where clover thrives and where
the nodules are known to be abmulant may be scattered over the field
where the clover is to be sown and immediately harrowed in. Five or
six hundred pounds of such soil per acre will be sufficient. Second, a
culture of the proper si)ecies of bacteria may be used in accordance
with directions which will be furnished with it. Such cultures may
now be procured either from the United States Department of Agri-
culture in Washington, or from private dealers. These cultures are
known by the name of nitro-cultures, but as each species of the clover
family must have its own species of bacteria, it is necessary in ordering
to name the plant for which the nitro-culture is needed as well as the
area.

The United States Department of Agriculture first sent out cultures
in dry form, in small packages containing tlried cotton and chemicals
to be dissolved in the water in which the cultures were to be started.
In very many cases the use of these cultures resulted in absolute fail-
ure. The desiccation to which the bacteria had been subjected appeared
to have destroyed their vitality. So far as the writer knows, all private
companies which are now offering commercial nitro-cultures prepare
them in accordance with the system first used by the government, and
the presumption is that in many cases these cultures will be found
valueless, and for the reason above indicated. The United States gov-
ermnent at the present time is preparing cultures in semi-fluid form.
These are sent out in sealed glass vials. They have not been sufficiently
tried to warrant an expression of opinion concerning their value, but
the method, at least judged from a scientific point of view, appears
better calculated to yield successful results than the earlier method.

It has been urgecl that the bacteria sent out in culture form are
setected and especially vigorous forms, and that accordingly, even in
cases where the soils contain the right species of bacteria, the clover
crop may be increased, or may be enabled to di-aw nitrogen in larger
ciuantity from the air through suitable inoculation with these improved
cultures. It does not appear to the writer that this point has been as
yet proved, and in conclusion lie would go on record as most emphati-
cally advising against the use of cultures for clover, unless, indeed, it is
found on ex|)eriment that clovers do not develop in any given locality
the characteristic nodules.

Fertilizers for Clovers.

In considering this tojjic we shall do well to consider separately
clovers grown in rotation with other crops and clovers in permanent
mowings.

For Clovers in Hotntion.

Where clovers are grown in rotation with other crops they will occupy
the land at most but two or three yc^ars. In such cases practically all
manure or fertilizer used will Ik- applied i)revious to .seeding. On most
farms wIkm'c stock is kept manure in larg(>r or smaller ([uantity will be
used for the crops which precede the clovers. It has been pointed out
that it is a mistake to use manure t(»o freely for the crops which precede

34

the clover. Application at the rate of 4 to 5 cords to the acre only is
desirable. In connection with such applications of manure, materials
which supply phosphates, potash and perhaps also lime should be em-
ployed. During; the past few years large (juantities of phosphatic or
basic slag meal have been employed on the college farm at Amherst,
and with results which are eminently satisfactory. This slag meal should
contain about IG to 20 per cent of actual phosphoric acid. This acid
is not in so highly available a form as in acid phosi)hate or dissolved
boneblack. On the other hand, it appears to be more available than
the phosphoric acid in any of the phosphatic rocks or even in most of
the forms of bone. Besides phosphoric acid, the slag meal contains a
large amount of lime, and this, while less effective in correcting the
faults of a sour soil than (juick lime, must prove valuable in helping to
prevent soils which have once been Ijrought into proper condition from
becoming sour again. On such soils as those at Amherst the applica-
tion of slag meal at the rate of some 500 or 600 pounds per acre in con-
nection with such dressings of manure as have been indicated appears
to be sufficient. In addition to the slag meal there will be needed on
most soils to bring them into suitable condition for producing clovers
a fairly liberal application of potash in some form, for this element the
4 or 5 cords of manure will not supply in sufficiently large quantities
for the best results with clover. Wood ashes furnish potash in ver}'-
desirable form, but they are becoming increasingly scarce, aird are held
at prices which make them a relatively expensive source of that ele-
ment. It is the practice on the college farm to depend mainly upon
some of the German potash salts, and, as has been pointed out in
earlier articles on the hay crop, sulfates of potash are found in the long
run to give much better results with cloA'er than muriate of potash or
kainite. Experiments now in progress in Amherst are furnishing an
interesting basis of comparison between the low-grade sulfate of potash
and the high-grade. The writer is not yet prepared to recommend the
low grade as superior to the high grade, and since the latter furnishes
actual potash at the lower cost, it is his belief that it should usually be
selected. Comparative observations, however, on crops grown on the
two potash salts this year lead me to wonder whether the magnesia
of the low-grade sulphate may not ultimately jjrove valuable. Cer-
tainly better clover is seldom seen than that produced on certain of the
fields of the college farm during the past year which have been during
the past few seasons top-dressed with basic slag meal and low-grade
sulfate of potash. If the high-grade sulfate of potash, however, is
selected for use in connection with manure in preparing for clover, it
is believed that an annual application at the rate of about 150 to 175
pounds per acre will supply the element potash in sufficient quantities
for clovers on most soils. These materials (basic slag meal and sulfate
of potash) should be mixed after the land has been plowed, spread
broadcast and harrowed in.

Fertilizers inthout Manures.

In some cases the farmer will desire to bring his soil into suitable
condition for clovers in rotation by application of fertilizers alone to
preceding crops. In such cases the materials which have just been
considered should constitute the main reliance, but they should be used
in connection with materials which will furnish nitrogen in sufficient
quantities for the preceding ci-ops. Both tlie slag and potash, how-
ever, must be used in somewhat larger (quantities, and the writer would
suggest as suitable for most cases basic slag meal 800 pounds anrl high-

35

grade sulfate of potash 200 pounds, though these amounts may, of
course, wisely be varied to some extent according to the crop which
precedes the clovers. What materials it will be best to use for the pur-
pose of supplying the needed nitrogen for the jjreceding crop, and in
what quantities, it is impossible to say without knowledge as to what
that preceding crop is to be. If corn, only moderate quantities of
nitrogen would be required, and this may wisely be furnished in mate-
rials furnisliing this element in forms varying in availability. .\s a
rule, the needed nitrogen may wisely be obtained by a combination of
nitrate of soda, tankage and possibly raw bone meal; and for corn, in
the proportion of about one part of nitrate to three of tankage and
two or three of bone meal. The total quantities of these materials
which it will be profitable to use for corn in connection with slag and
potash must vary widely with the condition of the soil. Six hundred
pounds of a mixture with the different materials in the proportions
indicated will ordinarily be sufficient. All these materials, nitrate,
tankage, bone, meal, slag meal and jjotash, may be mixed after the
land is plowtjd, spread broadcast and harrowed in.

Fertilizers for Clovers in Permanent Moioings.

To get permanent mowings to produce hay composed largely of
clovers, it will be wise to depend chiefly upon the fertilizers which have
been under consideration. Basic slag meal or bone meal should be
mainly depended upon as sources of phosphoric acid, and lime and
either the high-grade sulfate or low-grade sulfate of potash as the source
of potash. Excellent crops can be produced by a combination in suit-
able amounts of these materials alone, and the clover will comprise a
larger proportion of the product if they be used without materials which
will supply nitrogen. On the college farm at Amherst crops of hay
rich in clover have been produced year after year by an annual top-
dressing composed of a mi.xture of basic slag meal 500 pounds, and
either high-grade sulfate of potash 150 pounds, or low-grade sulfate of
potash 300 pounds per acre. The product under this annual system of
top-dressing shows fairly good grass, with a bottom full of white clover
which grows with remarkable luxuriance and attains unusual size. The
fields thus toi)-dressetl contain also many plants of the red clovers.
These in tlu; cro]i of the past year seem to be more abundant where the
high-giade sulfate of potash was used than where the low-grade had
been ai)pli<'d. Basic slag meal is not yet common in our markets. If
it be found difficult or impossible to obtain it, bone meal may b(> sub-
stituted for it, but it is not likely that it will permanently hold the
land in a condition so favorable for clover as the slag meal, for it does
not contain lime in so large proportion. The bone meal, however, fur-
nishes a small amount of nitrogen and this fact may render it somewhat
more favorable for grass than is the slag meal.

It seems j^robabh; that in most cases somewhat more pn)filablt» crops
of hay will be obtained if in connection with either the slag and bone
meal or the potash salts a moderate amount of nitrate of soda is em-
ployed, and experiments in Amherst indicate that frf)m 150 to 200
pounds per acre of this salt in cormection with the other materials seem
to be as large an amount as in seasons with abundant rainfall may
profitably be used on strong and retentive soils. On the light(>r soils
the nitrate may without doubt be more largely employed with jirofit.

In top-dressing permanent mowings, whether Avith the slag meal or
bone and potash alone, or with these materials in connection with
nitrate, it is the practice at Amherst to mix the materials and to apply

36

the mixture about the first of May. Th(M'e can bo little doulit that
the slag and the potash salt will do the croj) of the .succecdinjj; season
more good if applied in the autumn, but applying them at tbis time
would mean going over the ground twice, once with the mixture of
slag and potash, and once with the nitrate. It would, moreover, be
found difficult to apply the small quantity of nitrate evenly by itself,
and it seems doubtful, therefore, whether in the long run better results
will not be secured by applying the mixture of all the materials in the
spring.

Seeding to Glover.

As has been pointed out, it is almost invariably best in general farm-
ing to sow the clovers in mixture with grasses. Clovers growing alone
are not likely to stand up well. If sown in mixture with a stout grow-
ing grass, such as timothy or orchard grass, the clovers retain their
upright position much better than when growing alone. If, however,
for any pui'pose it is considered desirable to sow clovers alone, the
following fjuantities of seed per acre will usually be sufficient : — *

Red clover 15 pounds.

Mammoth clover, 20 pounds.

Alsike clover 12 pounds.

White clover, 8 pounds.

Spring Seediuy.

The clovers are sown in spring in either one of two systems. First,
it is common practice to scatter clover seed in very early spring on the
surface of fields which have been seeded the previous fall either with
grain or grasses. Under these conditions the soil cannot be freshly
prepared, nor can the seed be covered. As might be expected, there-
fore, germination is less perfect than under more favorable conditions.
When, however, the weather conditions are just right, a fair degree of
success is attained by seeding in this way. It is usually best to defer
sowing until the winter's frost is out of the ground. Results are most
satisfactory when the seed can be sown on a lightly frozen surface
which is somewhat honeycombed with the night's frost. If as this
frost comes out of the ground, or soon after it comes out, there should
chance to come a rain, the seed is much of it carried into the soil and
will usually germinate promptly and ([uite perfectly. Owing to the
fact, however, that we are by no means certain to experience these
ideal conditions, there is considerable risk in seeding with clover in
accordance with this plan. It should be recognized, moreover, that
even if the seed germinates well, the clover sown in this way on land
seeded to grass the previous fall makes but little showing in the crop
of the succeeding season.

Second, the land may be plowed as early in spring as it can be
worked and the clover sown either alone or in connection with grass
seeds, with or without grain as a nurse croj). Clovers sown in this way
usually start well, but whether they be sown with grain as a nurse crop
or not, they are subject to peculiar risk and injury during the summer.
If sown with grain as a nurse crop this must be harvested usually
during .luly. If sown alone, there will usually be a considerable growth
of weeds, and these also, in order to prevent ripening of seed, must be
cut at about the same time. The clover which has previously been

* For seed mixtures for various purposes see article on " Hay Crop in Massa-
chusetts" by the writer in the fifty-second annual report of the secretary of the
State Board of Agriculture.

37

shaded either by grain or weeds is in p<jor condition to stand full ex-
posure to the hot sun of niitlsuminer, and unless rains come within a
short time after it is thus exi)osed, much of it is often killed. This
method of seeding, then, leaves much to be desired.

Seeding in Summer or Early Autumn.

The best success in seeding to clovers can usually be counted upon
when the Avork is done in late summer or very early autumn. Dog
days furnish ideal conditions for germination and rapid growth. Clovers
may be sown at this time either alone or with grasses. If the field can
be cleared, plowed and thoroughly hai'rowed, it can be brought into
the very best possible condition, but where clo\er is to follow corn, it
is impossible to remove the corn in season to sow the clover. Under
these circumstances seeding in corn ai>i)ears to be the best plan. The
ensilage corn, since it is carried from the fiekl as soon as cut, furnishes
conditions on the whole more satisfactory than field corn, with which
the young grass and clover will be killed where the stooks of corn stand
while curing. In the seventeen years that the writer has had chaige of
the college farm in Amherst, a good many acres have been annually
seeded in corn, and during this entire period there has never been a
failure. The culture of the corn should be level. A si)ike-toothed cul-
tivator should be used at the last cultivation and the seed should be
immediately sown. It will not need covering. The best time for sow-
ing in this way is usually between July 20 and August 5. It is desirable
to sow the seed before the corn is so tall as to make it difficult to swing
the hand over it in sowing. Those who have not tried this method of
seeding appear usually to fear that the stubble of the corn will be in
the way in harvesting the hay crop, but if the field be rolled the spring
following the seeding, no such difficulty will be experienced. Clover
sown in this way in the corn becomes thoroughly established before
winter, it is very unlikely to winterkill and it will give a full crop the
following season.

Selection of the Seed.

The clover seeds upon our .\merican markets appear usually to be
of very good (|uality. European seed dealers have sometimes mixed
specially prepared sand of ai)proximately similar color and sizes with
clover seeds, but so far as the writer knows this fraud has never been
undertaken in this country. In purchasing clover seed, then, it seems
necessary only to use care to obtain tliat which is free from admixture
with weed seeds, and which shows good germination. Among the weed
seeds most likely to be found mixed with clover seeds are dock and
sorrel. These can easily be recognized. There is occasionally a sample
of clover seed containing the seeds of dodder, a thread-like parasite
which attaches itself to the stems of the clover plants. Where this is
abundant the crop is practically ruined. The stems of the dodder
straggling from stem to stem unite the different plants so that they can-
not be separated. It therefore becomes almost impossible to handle
and cure the hay. The presence of dodder, moreover, renders the hay
very unpalatable. The seed of the dodder is excessively fine, and in
cases where its presence is suspected a samjjle of the seed .should be
sent to the Experiment Station for identification.

38

Curing the Hay.

The first point to be considered in connection with this topic is the
proper degree of maturity. Clover is often allowed to stand too late.
If it be suffered to remain until a consideral)le proportion of the heads
are brown and the seed ripe, there will be but little rowen, while there
is much danger that the roots of the clover will die after the crop is
cut. Relatively eai'ly cutting, then, — before many of the heads are
brown, — is desirable, both because a better rowen crop will be secured
and because the clover will persist in the mowing longer.

Good weather is essential for the satisfactory making of clover hay,
as it is, indeed, for the satisfactory making of any hay, but it is far
more important in the case of the clovers than for timothy, on account
of the fact that the clovers need much more drying. The best hour
in the day for cutting, as it ai)pears to me, is late in the afternoon.
Whatever the hour, it is essential to keep in mind the fact that in the
curing of clover hay it should be handled but little after it begins to dry.
It is generally well understood that too much handling as the crop dries
results in the breaking off of the leaves and heads, which are the most
valuable portion of the crop. Whatever the hour of cutting, then, the
fact should be kept in mind that this crop should be tedded but little
in curing. If cut late in the afternoon, the crop may be tedded once
the following forenoon. If the weather is particularly fine, it will then
be ready to rake and put into cocks late in the afternoon of the same
day. If the clover is curing more slowly, it may be best to leave it in
windrows over one night and to turn these carefully with the fork the
next forenoon, and to cock on the afternoon of the second day after
cutting. The use of hay caps in curing clover hay should be more gen-
eral. It is desirable to leave the clover in the cock for a number of
days, sometimes as long as a week. The hay is coarse, and if exposed
to rain it is badly damaged unless the cocks are protected by caps.
When examination shows that the clover in the cock is apparently
cured, it should be slightly opened and turned up from the bottom
on the forenoon of a good day. It will then be ready to jjut in in the
afternoon. Clover hay cured in this manner should hold substantially
all its leaves and heads and should (^ure of a bright green color. Such
clover is one of the most valuable foi'age cro]is, whether for cattle,
sheep or horses. Well-cured clover hay, popular opinion to the con-
trary, notwithstanding, is a safe and valuable food for horses, which
will need much less grain when fed such hay than when timothy hay
is used.

Series of 190G. Vol. 19. No. 4.

MASSACHUSETTS

CHOP EEPOET

FOR THE

Month of August, 1906.

POULTRY FEEDING.

ISSUED MOXTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.

J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.

Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class Matter,
UNDEU Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.

BOSTON :

WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,

18 Post Office Square.

1906.

Afproved by
The State Board of Publication.

Crop Eeport for the Month of August. 1906.

Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., Sept. 1, 1906.

Bulletin No. 4, Crop Report for the month of August, is
herewith presented. Attention is called to the article at
the close of the bulletin, on "Some Practical Phases of
Poultry Feeding," by John H. Robinson, editor of "Farm
Poultry." Mr. Robinson's previous articles in the crop re-
ports of other years have excited a great deal of interest
among farmers and poultry raisers, and more particularly
among formers who keep some poultry, but do not make
it a specialt}^ both in this and other States ; and this article
will be found to be equally helpful with those which have
preceded it.

Progress of the Seasox.

1'he Bureau of Statistics of the Department of Agriculture
(Crop Reporter for August, 1906) reports the condition of
corn on August 1 as 88.1, as compared wdth 87.5 a month
earlier. 89 on Aug. 1, 1905, 87.3 in 1904, and a ten-year
average of 84.

Preliminary returns indicate a winter wheat crop of 493,-
434,000 bushels, or an average of 16.7 bushels per acre, as
compared with 14.3 bushels last year, as finally estimated.
The average condition of spring wheat on August 1 was
86.9, as compared with 91.4 a month earlier, 89.2 on Aug.
1, 1905, 87.5 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 82.6.

The average condition of the oat crop on August 1 was
82.8, as compared with 84 a month earlier, 90.8 on Aug. 1,
1905, 86.6 in 1904, and a ten-year August average of 84.3.

The average condition of barley on August 1 was 90.3,
against 92.5 a month earlier, 89.5 on Aug. 1, 1905, 89.1
in 1904, and a ten-year average of 85.3.

The average condition of rye on August 1 was 90.8, as
compared with 91.3 a month earlier, 92.6 on Aug. 1, 1905,
91.8 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 88.2.

The acreage of buckwheat is less than that of last year by
about 28,000 acres, or 3.7 per cent. The average condition
of buckwheat on August 1 was 93.2, as compared with 92.6
in 1905, 92.8 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 92.1.

The average condition of tobacco on August 1 was 87.2,
as compared with 86.7 a month earlier, 84.1 on Aug. 1,
1905, 83.9 in 1904, and a five-year average of 83.2.

The average condition of potatoes on August 1 was 89, as
compared with 91.5 a month earlier, 87.2 on Aug. 1, 1905,
94.1 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 86.3.

Preliminary returns indicate a decrease of 1 per cent in
the hay acreage.

In Massachusetts the average condition of corn was 96 ;
the average condition of oats, 95 ; the average condition of
rye, 95 ; the acreage of buckwheat, compared with last year,
98, and its average condition 95 ; the average condition of
tobacco, 98 ; the average condition of pasture, 98 ; the
acreage of hay, compared with last year, 101, and the
average condition of timothy, 98 ; the product of clover, 95,
and its average quality, 92 ; the average condition of pota-
toes, 92 ; the average condition of beans, 88 ; the average
condition of cabbages, 95 ; the average condition of onions,
91 ; the average condition of tomatoes, 92 ; the average
condition of apples, 70 ; the average condition of peaches,
70; the average condition of grapes, 88; the product of
blackberries, 98 ; the product of raspberries, 97 ; the average
condition of cantaloupes and muskmelons, 87 ; and the aver-
age condition of watermelons, 87.

Temperature and Rainfall for the Whole Country.

[From United States National Weekly Weather Bulletin.]

Week ending August 6. — In the central valleys. Lake
region and Middle Atlantic States the week was warmer
than usual, the excess ranging from 3° to 6° per day ; and
weekly mean temperatures slightly in excess of the normals
were reported from New England and the northern portion

of the South Atlantic and central Gulf States. In the Rocky
Mountain region, upper Missouri valley, Texas and the South
Atlantic States the week averaged cooler than usual. Else-
where nearly normal tempemtures prevailed. In the central
and east Gulf States, the Ohio and central Mississippi val-
leys, the greater part of the Lake region and northern New
England, the precipitation during the week was below the
avei-age. There was more than the average rainfall along:
the Atlantic coast from southern New Enjjland to the Caro-
linas, and very heavy rains fell in interior portions of the
country.

Week ending August 13. — In the central and lower
Missoiu'i valleys and over the middle and southern Rocky
Mountain slope and eastern portion of the southern Plateau
the week averaged cooler than usual. In all districts east
of the Mississippi River except southern Florida the week
averaged warmer than usual, the temperature excess gener-
ally ranging from 3° to 5° per day in the upper Ohio valley
and in the Atlantic coast districts from Georgia to southern
New England. In the central and east Gulf and South Atlan-
tic States, the central Missouri valley and in northern New
England the rainfall was below the average, although good
showers occurred in portions of these districts. Over most
of the central valleys and Middle Atlantic States the rainfall
was much above the average, heavy rains having occurred
in i)ortions of the upper Mississippi valley, upper Lake
region and Middle Atlantic States.

Week ending August 20. — The week was slightly cooler
than usual on the North Pacific coast and in extreme south-
ern Florida. Elsewhere the week was warmer than usual,
the mean temperature departure ])eiiig from 3° to 9° above
the normal throughout the northern districts east of the
Rocky Mountains. The Missouri valley, the lower Lake
region. New England, the northern part of the Middle
Atlantic States and the greater part of the (xulf States and
upper Lake region received less than the average rainfall,
no appreciable amount having occurred over the northern
part of the Middle Atlantic States and southern New Eng-
land. Heavy rains occurred in V^irginia, North Carolina,

6

portions of South Carolina, the interior of central and east
Gulf States, Ohio valley and portions of the upper Missis-
sippi valley.

Week ending August 27. — The Aveek was cooler than
usual in the lied River of the north and upper Missouri val-
leys, throughout the Rocky Mountain and Plateau regions
and in California. From the lower Missouri valley south-
ward to the west Gulf coast and in the districts east of the
Mississippi River, with the exception of Florida, the week
was warmer than usual, being decidedly warm in the upper
Mississippi and Ohio valleys and Lake region, and over the
interior portions of the Middle Atlantic States and New
England, where the average dailj^ temperature excess ranged
from 6° to 9°. There was less than the average precipita-
tion in New England, the lower lake region, portions of the
upper Lake region and upper Mississippi and central Mis-
souri valleys, and over a large part of the central and west
Gulf States, although limited areas in all these districts re-
ceived good rains. The Middle and South Atlantic States,
lower Ohio and central Mississippi vallej^s, lower and upper
portions of the Missouri valley and the northern portion of
the west Gulf States received more than the average rainfall.

Special Telegraphic Reports.

[Weather Bureau, Boston.]

Week ending August 6. — New England. Boston :
There was much cloudiness, except on Sunday and Monday.
Frequent and generally moderate rains, foggy nights and
sultry days prevailed. The temperature was near the nor-
mal. Warm, dry weather would be very beneficial.

Week ending August 13. — New England. Boston : The
weather was generally cloudy, with scattered rains, except
on Thursday and Sunday. The rainfall was below the
normal, except in parts of eastern Massachusetts, where it
was above. Fog continued in coast sections. The tempera-
ture was somewhat higher than in the preceding week,
and was slightly above the normal.

Week ending August 20. — New England. Boston : The
weather throughout the week was generally clear, no rain

falling, except ven' light local showers at a few points in
Maine and Vermont. Rain is much needed. The tempera-
ture was moderate and seasonable during the fore part of
the week, and was high the last two days, the maximum
being genei-ally above 90°. Light frost occurred in places
in Maine and New Hampshire.

Week ending August 27. — New England. Boston:
Scattered local showers and thunderstorms occurred, the
precipitation being light to moderate, except in small areas
in central Massachusetts, where it was hea\y. High tem-
perature and humidity prevailed during the fore part of the
week, and generally clear weather, with moderate tempera-
ture, during the latter part. The rainfall was sufficient to
moisten the surface of the ground, but more rain is needed.
Parts of Maine and New Hampshire are very dry.

The AVeather of August, 1906.
During the first twelve days of the month cloudy weather
prevailed, and on the coast there was an unusual amount of
fog. Showers and thunderstorms occurred frequently dur-
ing this period in nearly all parts of the State, which gen-
erally gave a copious rainfall, sufficient for all needs, and in
some places the rainfall was excessive. The high humidity
during this period, with the high temperature on the 5th,
fith, 7th, 11th and 12th, was favorable to an increased intens-
ity of thunderstorms, which in a number of instances were of
marked severity, with damage to property from lightning.
Follouing the 12th was a period of clear Aveather that con-
tinued until the 20th. The temperature during the early
portion of this period was near the normal, but on the 18th
and 19th it became extremely warm, with maxima above 90°.
The weather became generally cloudy on the 20th, and con-
tinued so through the 21st, 2 2d and 23d, clearing during
the morning of the 24th. The humidity and temperature
again became high during this period, which resulted in a
number of severe thunderstorms in the central and western
portion of the State, which caused some damage. At some
places the rainfall was heavy, the observer at Mt. Tom hav-
ing on the 21st 4.1(5 inches between 11 a.m., and 3 p.m.;

8

and in other places barns were burned and stock killed by
lightning. In the eastern portion of the State the moderate
showers that occurred from the 21st to 23d inclusive were
sufficient to well moisten the surface of the ground, which
was becoming dry and dusty. The 24th, 25th and 26th were
clear, cool and very pleasant, followed on the 27th by local
showers and somewhat higher temperature. The showery
conditions passed off during the night, followed on the 28th
by fair and generall}^ clear weather. For the month the
temperature was generally normal, except from the 18th to
23d, when it was much above the normal. The rainfall was
very unevenly distributed, some places having an excessive
quantity, and others hardly sufficient to keep vegetation in
good condition. The amount of sunshine received did not
differ greatly from the average, although during the first
twelve days there was a great deficiency.

In our circular to correspondents, returnable August 23,
the following questions were asked : —

1 . What is the condition of Indian corn ?

2. Is sweet corn raised for the market in your locality,,
and, if so, what is its condition and yield ?

3. What is the prospect for rowen as compared with a
normal crop.

4. What is the prospect for late potatoes, and have you
noticed blight or rot?

5. How do the acreage and condition of tobacco compare
with former years ?

6. What is the prospect for apples, pears, peaches, grapes
and cranberries?

7. What is the condition of pasturage in your vicinity?

8. How have oats and barley compared with former
years ?

Returns were received from 158 correspondents, from
which the following summary has been made : —

Indian Corn.
Indian corn came forward very rapidly with the hot,
clear weather of the month, and at time of making returns
was generally spoken of as a very fine crop, with a heavy

growth of stover, and earing and ripening nicely. Some
correspondents report that it is still backward, and will
need a long season to mature the crop ; but these reports
are the exception, and probably are due to local conditions.
Ensilage corn has made a fine growth of stover, and silos
should be well filled with a fine quality of ensilage, unless
there is a remarkably early killing frost.

Sweet Corn.
In Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden and west-
ern Worcester counties very little sweet corn is grown ex-
cept for home use, the only exceptions being a section in
northern Franklin County, where it is grown for a local
cannery, and a few towns near the cities of Springfield and
Northam})ton. In eastern Worcester County and in the
eastern counties of the State, including the Cape and the
islands, sweet corn is reported as being extensively grown
for the market. It is generally reported to be an excellent
crop, particularly the later varieties, yielding well, and of
fine quality. It is also extensively grown in all sections as
a late forage crop.

ROWEN.

The greater portion of the reports would indicate that
rowen will be an unusually heavy crop. This will un-
doubtedly be the case on all fields that were cut early ; but
there was such a large proportion of the first crop that was
not secured until Avell into August that the acreage cut over
for rowen will necessarily be considerably decreased. It is
to be feared that the correspondents underrate the eficct of
this on the bulk of the crop, and that their predictions as to
the bulk of the total crop must be discounted until later
advices.

Late Potatoes.

Late potatoes generally promised well, with a good
growth of vine and setting of tubers ; but have now been
generally struck with blight in all sections, and rot has
appeared in many localities. The usual history of these
fungous diseases is that they are worse in their eflects than
was at first anticipated, rather than otherwise; and it is to

10

be feared that another failure, more or less complete, will
be scored for the i)otato crop in Massachusetts. Not until
our farmers learn that they must spra}^, if the}'^ would save
the crop, will the result be otherwise, save in exceptional
years.

Tobacco.

There would appear to be another slight increase in the
acreage of tobacco this season. The crop is reported as
being in excellent condition, mau}^ correspondents say the
best for years. Harvesting was well begun at time of mak-
ing returns, and should be nearly completed by the close of
the month.

Pasturage.

Pastures are generall}^ reported as being in unusually
good condition for the time of year, though there were a
few reports that they were becoming dry and feed getting
scarce with the hot, dry weather just prior to the date of
making returns.

Fruits.

The apple crop will generally be a very small one, less
than half a crop in most sections, winter varieties in par-
ticular being reported as short in yield. Pears will also
be a light crop, though better than apples. Peaches will
be a light crop as compared with a full yield, but probably
more will be secured than in any year for some time, with
the exception of 1905. Grapes are said to be set unusually
full and to be developing well, promising an abundant crop.
Cranberries have apparently improved during the month,
and now promise to be a very good crop.

Oats and Barley.
Oats are a heavy crop where raised for grain, though
suffering somewhat in some sections from rust. Barley is
not raised for grain, but is extensively raised as a late forage
crop, and promises a fine yield for that purpose. Oats are
also largely used as a soiling crop and for hay.

11

:^rOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.

(Returned to us August 23.)

BERKSHIRE COUNTY.

Aljord (Lester T. Osborne). — Indian corn is much above the
average, conditions having been very favorable. Sweet corn is looking
finely, but is little raised for market. Rowen will be a better crop
than usual. There is some complaint of potato rot, but the crop is
about average in condition. Apples will be about an average crop.
Pasturage continues remarkably good. Oats and barley are about
average crops, but some oats are badly lodged. On the whole, the
year has been the most favorable for vegetation on record.

Tyringham (Edward H. Slater). — Indian corn is in good condi-
tion. Sweet corn is not raised for market. Rowen compares favorably
with the normal in condition. Blight has appeared on several fields
of late potatoes. Very little tobacco is raised in town. The apple crop
is hardly up to that of previous years. The recent rains have kept the
pastures in good condition. A good crop of oats has been harvested.

Washington (E. H. Eames). — Indian corn is a good crop, fully as
good as last year. Sweet corn is not raised for market. The prospect
for the rowen crop is as good as last year. Potatoes promise very well,
except for some rot and blight. Apples will be about an average crop
and pears half a crop. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats are a
full crop; barley not grown.

Richmond (T. B. Salmon). — Indian corn will be about an average
crop. Sweet corn is not raised for market. The prospect is good for
the rowen crop. Potatoes promise well, with very little blight or rot
as yet. There will be very few apples; pears good; peaches and
grapes average. Pastures are in very good condition. Oats and
barley are up to average crops. Early potatoes have been a good
crop, and brought a good price. Fall apples are an average crop, but
winter fruit will be very poor in quality and small in quantity.

Hancock (B. H. Goodrich). — Indian corn is a httle late, but is
making an excellent growth. Sweet corn is not grown for market.
Rowen will be less than a normal crop, as the first cutting was secured
late in the season. Potatoes promise well; blight has appeared, but
there is no rot worth mentioning. Apples are about half a crop for
the bearing year. Pasturage is in poor condition. There is about an
average crop of oats; barl(*y but little grown.

12

Hinsdale (Thomas F. Barker). — Indian corn is good, but late.
Sweet corn is not raised for the market. Rowen promises to be a good
crop. Potatoes look well, and the early varieties are good. There will
be no fruit of any kind worth mentioning. Pasturage is in very good
condition. Oats and barley have made a large growth. The late rains
have kept all crops growing finely.

Windsor (Harry A. Ford). — Indian corn is looking finely. Sweet
corn is not raised for the market. Rowen was never a better crop.
Blight has appeared on potatoes, and there will be a poor crop. There
is a very light crop of apples; no other fruits raised. Pastures are
dry, but about as usual for the time of year. Oats and barley are
normal crops.

Cheshire (L. J. Northup) . — Indian corn is a normal crop, and the
outlook is the best for several seasons. Sweet corn is raised to a certain
extent, and is yielding well. Rowen will be a normal crop where the
hay crop was secured early. Apples 25 per cent; pears 75 per cent;
grapes a fair crop. Pastures have dried up during the last ten days,
because of lack of rain. Oats are a first-class crop ; barley not much
raised.

Savoy (W. W. Burnett) . — Indian corn has made a good growth,
but is a httle backward. Sweet corn is not much raised for market.
Rowen will scarcely be up to the normal, as the first crop was cut too
late. The prospect for late potatoes is not good, as they are blighting
and rotting. The prospect is very poor for all fruits. Pasturage is in
fine condition. Oats and barley are full average crops.

New Ashford (Elihu Ingraham). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is not raised for market. Rowen promises a good crop.
Potatoes promise a fair crop, but bhght and rot are showing up quite
extensively. Apples will be a light crop. Pastures are in good con-
dition. Oats and barley are good crops.

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Monroe (David H. Sherman). — Indian corn is but little grown,
and is late. Sweet corn is raised to some extent, and is yielding well.
The greater part of the hay crop was cut too late for a normal crop
of rowen to follow. Potatoes will be a light crop, blight having ap-
peared about August 1, and some fields showing half the tubers rotted.
There will be very few apples; wild blackberries plenty. Pasturage
is in very fair condition, but needs rain now. Oats and barley are
about average crops.

Rowe (N. E. Adams). — Indian corn is about ten days late but has
made a strong growth. Sweet corn is not raised for market. The
rowen crop promises to be very large. The yield of late potatoes will
be small, blight having appeared, with some rot. The prospect is very
poor for fruit of all kinds. Pasturage is in very good condition. Oats

13

and barley are about normal crops. Rain is needed by the rowen crop
and feed in pastures.

Hawley (C. C. Fuller). — Indian corn is in good condition. Sweet
corn is not raised for market, but for home use, and is yielding well.
The prospect is good for rowen, if we do not have drought. There is
considerable bhght and rot on potatoes. Apples are scarce except in
a few cases; other fruits normal. Pastures are in fair condition. Oats
and barley are about normal crops.

Colrain (A. A. Smith). — Indian corn is in good condition. Sweet
corn is raised for market, and is a good crop. Late potatoes promise
well, but show some blight. Rowen promises a good yield. Less
tobacco is being raised than formerly, but it is in good condition. The
prospect is poor for all fruits. Pasturage is in fine condition. Oats
and barley are better than normal crops.

Bernardston (R. H. Cushman). — There is a large growth of fodder
on Indian corn and it is eared well. Sweet corn is raised for market,
and the yield will be heavy, picking beginning last week. Rowen will
be above an average crop, and some fields have been secured. There
is general complaint of bhght and rot, but the prospect for potatoes
is otherwise good. There will be a light yield of all fruits. Pastures
are in excellent condition. Oats and barley are nearly all cut for hay,
and have made a large growth, but weather conditions have not been
very favorable for securing the crops.

Ashfield (Charles Howes). — Indian corn has made up for lost
time, and is in fine condition. Sweet corn is not raised for market.
There is a good prospect for rowen, and there will be a fine crop. Po-
tatoes are looking well, with very little blight or rot. Probably there
will be about half a crop of apples ; but few pears or peaches. Pastures
hold out very well. There is a good growth of oats and barley, but
they are mostly grown as forage crops. All crops have made rapid
growth during the last six weeks.

Montague (A. M. Lyman). — Indian corn is in first-class condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in fine condition. The prospect
is good for the rowen crop. Late potatoes will be a poor crop, having
blighted and now rotting badly. The acreage of tobacco is large, and
the condition nearly perfect. There is generally a short crop of fruit.
Pasturage has held out well. Oats and barley are fair crops. There
is considerable Japanese millet raised about here, quite a number of
large fields being grown for the seed. Onions have generally blighted
more or less, and there will not be more than half a crop.

Noiihfielfl (Thos. R. Callender). — Indian corn is uniformly good,
with the promise of a heavy yield. Sweet corn for canning is extra
good; none harvested yet. Rowen will be above the average on
early cut fields. Potatoes promise poorly, with both blight and rot.
The acreage of tobacco is small, but there will be one of the best crops
€ver grown. All fruit will give a very light crop. Pastures were never

14

better for the time of year. Oats are below an average crop. Cucum-
bers for pickles have yielded an unprecedented crop, and growers have
had a hard time, with insufficient help, to keep them picked to re-
quired size.

Wendell (N. D. Plumb). — Prospects are favorable for a large yield
of Indian corn. Sweet corn is not raised for market. The rowen crop
promises to be the best for the past decade. Late potatoes are afflicted
by blight, and are rotting badly. There will be about one-fourth of a
normal crop of fruit. Pastures look as well as they usually do in the
month of June. Oats are above an average crop; no barley raised.

New Salem (Daniel Ballard). — Indian corn is looking well.
Sweet-corn is raised for market to a small extent, and has made a good
yield. Rowen is a full crop where the first crop was cut early. Po-
tatoes have made a good growth, but blight and rot have begun to
appear. There will be a medium crop of apples; pears plenty; very
few peaches; grapes more plenty. Pastures hold out well. Oats and
barley are good average crops.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

Greenwich (Walter H. Glazier). — Indian corn is excellent, but
perhaps a little late. Sweet corn is not grown for market to any ex-
tent. The first crop of hay was secured so late that the prospect for
rowen is not very good. Blight has appeared on potatoes, but no rot
as yet. There will be no fruit of any account. Pasturage is fine for
the season of the year. Oats are grown for fodder; barley not grown.
Many of our farmers are just finishing haying, owing to trying weather;
a good crop has been secured, but in some cases not in the best condi-
tion.

Pelham (John L. Brewer). — Indian corn is in excellent condition.
Sweet corn is but little raised for the market, but the family supply is
of good quahty. A fair crop of rowen is expected. A few fields of
potatoes have blighted, and are rotting badly. Apples will be a fair
crop; pears and grapes excellent. Pasturage was never better at this
time of year. Oats have not been very satisfactory. Crops look in
fine condition, with the exception of potatoes.

Amherst (Wm. P, Brooks). — Indian corn is in excellent condition.
Sweet corn is not raised for market to any extent, but condition
and yield are good. The rowen crop will be much above the normal.
Blight is general on potatoes, but there is little rot. Tobacco has made
a fine growth, and shows little damage to leaf; harvesting well begun.
Apples are very uneven; pears below average; peaches good; grapes
exceptionally good. Pastures are in excellent condition. Oats rusted
badly, and are below average.

Hadley (H. C. Russell). — Indian corn is in excellent condition.
Sweet corn is not grown for market. Rowen will be better than an

15

average crop. There is some blight and a little rot on potatoes, and
the prospect is not flattering. There is 10 per cent increase in the
acreage of tobacco, and the best crop for many years. There will be
but few apples ; no peaches ; plenty of grapes and pears. Pasturage is
in good condition. Oats and barley are normal crops.

South Hadley (W. F. Person). — Corn looks well, but not equal to
last year. Sweet corn is raised for home use, and looks well. The
prospect is good for rowen. Late potatoes will be a poor yield ; blight
but no rot. No tobacco grown in this town. Apples light; pears a
heavy crop, of good quality; no peaches. Pasturage is in very good
condition. Oats are a fair crop, but not up to the average; barley
good.

Hatfield (Thaddeus Graves). — Indian corn is unusually forward,
and is good. Sweet corn is good, but is not raised for market. Rowen
is forward, and promises finely. Late potatoes will be a poor crop,
with much blight, but no rot at present. There is a slight increase in
the acreage of tobacco, and a banner crop. Apples are about one-third
of a crop; pears and grapes about as usual. Pasturage is in good con-
dition. There is little if any oats or barley. Onions will be about
one-third of a normal crop, owing to bhght.

Southampton (C. B. Lyman). — Indian corn is of very good growth,
but rather late, and would suffer from early frosts. Sweet corn is but
little grown for market. The rowen crop started well. Late potatoes
are looking well, with no rot. The acreage of tobacco is fully up to
former years, and the crop never looked better. Apples will be a small
crop ; pears abundant ; peaches full crop ; grape vines loaded. Pastur-
age is good. As a whole, crops have made a large growth.

Huntington (Henry W. Stickney). — Indian corn has made a great
growth. Sweet corn is looking finely. There is a big growth of rowen,
seldom if ever equalled. Pears and grapes will be fine crops. Pastur-
age is about as usual, but a little rain would be very acceptable.

Cummington (S. W. Clark). — Indian corn shows a heavy growth,
but is a little late. Sweet corn is raised largely for silo and for forage,
and is looking well. The prospect. for the rowen crop is very good.
Late potatoes are beginning to rot, and some are digging them. Apples
may be half a crop; other fruits normal. Pasturage has been very
good all the season. Oats gave a very heavy growth of straw, and have
been cut for hay; barley normal. Where the first crop was cut, early
rowen is looking very fine; but owing to bad weather, haying was
much delayed, and the two crops were cut together on many fields.

Middlefiekl (J. T. Bryan). — Indian corn is in excellent condition.
Sweet corn is not raised for market, but yields well in the garden.
There will be more than an average crop of rowen. Late potatoes are
suffering from blight. Fruit is about half an average crop. Pastures
are in excellent condition. Oats and barley have made good crops,
but were nearly all cut for hay.

16

HAMPDEN COUNTY.

Chester (C. Z. Inzell). — Indian corn is looking well. Rowen will
be about a normal crop. There is some blight on late potatoes. Apples
will be a light crop. Pasturage is good, but is getting a little dry.

Tolland (Eugene M. Moore). — Indian corn has a large growth of
stalk, but is a little slow in earing out. There will be more than an
average crop of rowen. All potatoes are struck with bhght, and some
are rotting. Apples will be a light crop; pears about average; wild
berries more than average. Feed in pastures is getting short. Oats
have made a large growth, more than average.

Russell (E. D. Parks). — Indian corn is very good, up to the average
or better. Sweet corn is not raised for market. Rowen will be about
an average crop. Late potatoes are not doing well, and there is blight
on many fields and some rot. Tobacco is but httle raised, but the crop
is an excellent one. There is not an abundant crop of apples or peaches;
pears are above an average. Pastures were very good up to last week,
but are getting very dry now. Oats and barley are fully up to average
crops. Ensilage corn is looking finely.

Agawa77i (J. G. Burt). — The condition of Indian corn is good.
Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in good condition. The pros-
pect for rowen is good. The prospect is good for late potatoes, and
there is Uttle rot. There is a good acreage of tobacco, and a fine crop.
There are not many apples, but pears, peaches and grapes are good
crops. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and barley are about
average crops.

West Springfield (N. T. Smith). — Indian corn is above the average,
coming forward rapidly on account of hot weather. Sweet corn is
quite extensively raised for market, and is in good condition. The
rowen crop will be heavy where the first crop was taken off early, but
much grass was cut late, on account of bad weather. Late potatoes
are not quite up to the average, judging from those dug; some blight,
but no rot. The acreage of tobacco is slightly increased, and it is in
fine condition. Apples are not over 25 per cent of a crop; pears full;
peaches and grapes half crops. Pasturage is unusually good for the
time of year. Oats and barley are not raised, except for fodder; oats
suffered from rust.

Chicopee (E. L. Shaw). — Indian corn is maturing very fast, and is
an excellent crop. There is a small quantity of sweet corn raised, and
it is a good crop. Rowen is a little above the average. The prospect
for late potatoes is fairly good, but some fields show blight. Apples
are very poor; pears good; peaches little raised, but crop fair; grapes
plenty. Few pastures here, but they are in good condition. Oats are
about an average crop.

East Longmeadow (John L. Davis). — Indian corn is making a good

17

growth of fodder, and is earing well except on very moist land. Sweet
corn promises an excellent yield. The prospect for rowen is above the
normal, except that rains have delayed the getting of the first crop.
Blight is general on late potatoes, with some rot, and there will not be
over two-thirds of a normal crop. Apples are half a crop; pears half
a crop; peaches average. Pasturage is in excellent condition. Oats
are two-thirds of an average crop. Quite a large number of straw-
berries have been set out this season.

Hampden (John N. Isham). — The prospect is favorable for a good
crop of Indian corn. Rowen is better than usual, although many
fields were cut too late for rowen. Potatoes have grown finely the
past month, and there is very httle blight. Apples will be Uttle more
than half a crop; peaches and grapes good. Pasturage is better than
usual for this season of the year. Oats rusted somewhat, which
shortened the crop. Potatoes are remarkably free from potato beetles.

Wilbraham (H. M. Bliss). — Indian corn is a good crop. Rowen
will be 70 per cent of a normal crop, owing to late cutting of the
first crop. Late potatoes promise well, but show a little blight. Apples
80 per cent; pears 95 per cent; peaches 90 per cent; grapes 85 per
cent; cranberries 75 per cent. Pastures are in good condition. Oats
and barley have been good crops. It is estimated that there are 80
acres of peach trees in bearing condition in this town.

Holland (Francis Wight). — Indian corn is looking well. There is
not much sweet corn. raised here. Rowen is looking well, but needs
rain now to carry it through. The prospect is good for late potatoes.
There is a fair crop of apples; pears and peaches light; grapes and
cranberries fair. Pasturage is in good condition, although it is getting
dry. Oats and barley are about the same as in other years.

WORCESTER COUNTY.

Warren (W. E. Patrick). — Indian corn has made a good growth
lately, and promises a normal crop. Sweet corn is raised to some ex-
tent, and is making a fair yield. Rowen promises more than a normal
crop. Late potatoes show some blight, but are looking well. Apples
have fallen badly, but there still promises to be a large crop; pears
fair; peaches and grapes good. Pastures are in fine condition. Oats
and barley have made good yields.

West Brookfield (Myron A. Richardson). — Indian corn is back-
ward, but will be an extra crop if frost keeps off. Sweet corn is not
raised for market. The rowen crop thus far looks finely, and will be
larger than of late. Potatoes are looking well; no signs of blight as
yet. There will be a small yield of fruit of most kinds, on account of
spring frosts. Pastsares are looking well. Oats and barley have all
been cut for hay, but both made a large growth.

New Braintree (Chas. \). Sagk). — Indian corn is in v(>ry good con-

18

dition. Sweet corn is not raised for market. There will be a good crop
of rowen where the first crop was cut earlj'. Late potatoes promise
well, with no rot as yet. Apples will perhaps be half a crop; pears
good; no peaches; grapes fair. Pasturage was never better at this
time of year. Oats and barley are full average crops, but were mostly
cut for hay.

Oakham (Jesse Allen). — Indian corn is in fine condition. Sweet
corn is not raised for market. There is an average crop of rowen.
Many fields have blighted, and there is some complaint of rot. There
is a very light crop of fruit of all kinds. Pasturage is getting very
dry. Oats and barley compare well with former years.

Dana (Lyman Randall). — Indian corn is in fine condition, and
promises a hea\'y yield, both in grain and stover. Sweet corn raised
for the local market is a heavy yield, and of fine quahty. Where the
first crop was cut early, the rowen crop is very heavy. Late potatoes
do not promise a very hea\'y yield, owing to blight. Apples will not
be over one-fourth of an average crop, and are of poor quality; some
pears and peaches; grapes and cranberries good. Pastures are in ex-
cellent condition, owing to frequent showers. Oats and barley raised
mostly for fodder, and the yield is about average.

Royalston (C. A. Stimson). — Indian corn is in excellent condition.
Sweet corn is little raised for market, but is in fine condition. There
will be a full crop of rowen. BUght and rot have set in on potatoes,
and rot looks likely to be very prevalent. No peaches; fair crops of
all other fruits. Pasturage is in fair condition. Oats and barley are
full crops.

Templeton (Lucien Gove). — Indian corn has made a fine growth,
but is a few days late, and needs more sunshine. Sweet corn is raised
for market, and, though late, is promising. Rowen will be very good
on fields cut previous to July 15; late-cut fields not promising. Late
potatoes do not promise well, both blight and rot showing extensively.
Apples a very light crop; pears medium; peaches not raised; grapes
good; cranberries not raised. Pasturage is very good for the time of
year. Oats are rather below normal; barley quite good. Beans are
rusting badly.

Gardner (A. F. Johnson). — There will be a full crop of Indian corn,
of good qualit3^ There will be a heavy crop of rowen. Late potatoes
are looking well, with no blight. There will be a full crop of apples
and pears. Pastures are in need of rain.

Ashburnham (E. D. Gibson). — Indian corn is still backward, and,
though growing fast, needs rain. Sweet corn is not raised for market.
There will not be an average crop of rowen. Thei'e will not be a heavy
yield of late potatoes, blight having appeared. Apples light; pears
good ; no peaches ; grapes few ; cranberries few. Pastures have seldom
been as good, but now need rain. Oats and barley are below average
crops.

19

Westminster (Alden J. Foskett). — Indian corn is rather backward,
but growing well now. Sweet corn is in good condition, and will give a
fair yield. The prospect for the rowen crop is very good. There is
some rot on late potatoes. There will be a good yield of fall apples,
but the prospect for winter varieties is poor; some pears. Pasturage
is in first-class condition. Oats and barley are in very good con-
dition.

Harvard (John S. Preston). — Indian corn is a little backward,
but is growing fast. Sweet corn is raised (luite freely for market, and
is yielding well, with prices good. There is a prospect for a very large
crop of rowen. Late potatoes promise well, but are running to vine
more than usual. Fall apples are a good crop, winter apples light;
pears good, peaches light. Pasturage is much better than usual at
this time. Oats and barley arc very good, but those earl)^ sown are a
little lighter than usual.

Princeton (A. O. Tiler). — ^ Indian corn is in excellent condition.
Sweet corn is raised to some extent, and is of good quality. There will
be a fine crop of rowen. Late potatoes show a good yield, but are
rotting somewhat. There will be light crops of all fruits. Oats and
barley are about normal crops. Fruits on high lands, where they were
not affected by late frosts, are yielding well.

Sterling (H. S. Sawyer). — There is the prospect of a good crop of
Indian corn. Sweet corn is raised to some extent, and is yielding
fairly well. The prospect is good for more than a normal crop of
rowen. Late potatoes are looking well, and bhght has not been
noticed to any great extent. The prospect is good for apples, pears
and grapes. On account of copious rains, pastures are looking well.
There is very little barley; oats have turned out well; acreage normal.

Northborough (John K. Mills). — Indian corn is growing rapidly,
and gives promise of a good crop. Sweet corn is grown quite exten-
sively, and the crop is a good one. There is the prospect of a good
crop of rowen where the first crop was cut in good season. Potatoes
are yielding well, though there is some blight and rot. There will be
an average crop of apples, pears, peaches and grapes. Owing to the
he^vy rains, pastures are in excellent condition. The yield of oats
and barley has been fully up to the average.

Worcester (Silas A. Burgess). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in good condition and yielding
well. There will be more than an average crop of rowen. Late po-
tatoes are in fair condition, but blight has appeared. Apples 70 per
cent; pears GO per cent; peaches and grajjes 100 per cent. Pasturage
is in good condition. Oats and bailoy have made average yields.

Leicester (H. H. Kingsiiury). — Corn is growing rapidly, and is of
good color, although somewhat backward. Sweet corn is raised only
for home use. Weather conditions have favored the growth of a large
crop of rowen. Potatoes have turned black, and arc dead, i)robably

20

from blight; no rot as yet. The apple crop will be very large for the
even year; other fruits about average. Pasturage is in fair condition
for the time of year. There have been large amounts of fodder hayed
from oats and barley.

Oxford (D. M. Howe). — Indian corn started late, but there was
plenty of rain and hot weather, so that it now looks finely. Sweet
corn is raised for market, and is a fine crop. There will be a normal
crop of rowen. Late potatoes promise well, with no rot. Apples fair ;
pears good; peaches few. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats in
some sections have been hea\'y. The hay crop has been the heaviest
for years, but many farmers are not through haying yet.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Sherhorn (N. B. Douglas). — There is a good growth of stalk on
Indian corn, but it is not earing well. Sweet corn is in the same con-
dition as field corn. There will be more than an average crop of rowen.
There is considerable blight on potatoes, but no rot as yet. Apples are
half a crop ; pears good ; some peaches ; full crop of grapes. Pasturage
is getting short.

Hopkinton (W. V. Thompson). — Indian corn is in good condition,
but is a little late. Sweet corn is raised mostly for home use, and is in
very good condition. There will be more than an average crop of
rowen. Late potatoes look well, as a rule, but some blight has ap-
peared. There is a light crop of peaches and pears ; a fair crop of good
apples; a plentiful crop of grapes. There is very little pasturage, but
that is in good condition. Oats and barley are not much raised.

Marlborough (E. D. Howe). — Indian corn is about 90 per cent of a
full crop. Sweet corn is raised to some extent, and is in good condi-
tion and yielding well. Where the first crop was cut early, rowen is
heavy; but there is quite a little first crop still uncut. Blight is quite
prevalent, and the prospect for potatoes is not good; perhaps there
will be half a crop. Apples 60 per cent of a full crop; pears 75 per
cent; peaches 10 per cent; grapes 100 per cent. Pasturage is in good
condition for the time of year. Oats and barley are 85 per cent of a
full crop.

Maynard (L. H. Maynard). — Indian corn is in excellent condition,
and will yield well. Sweet corn is grown to some extent for market, and
is in good condition, but a little late. The rowen crop will be good on
early cut fields, but haying was much delayed by rainy weather. Po-
tatoes look well, and promise a large crop; no blight or rot as yet.
All fruits will be in full supply. Pastures look well, but a week of
clear, hot weather is drying them up. Oats and barley are about nor-
mal crops. Japanese millet and Hungarian grass have been good crops
this season.

Westford (J. W. Fletcher). — Indian corn is in good condition.

21

There will be a good rowen crop. Late potatoes promise well, with
no bUght as yet. Apples and pears will be plenty. Pastures are in
very good condition.

Tovmsend (G. A. Wilder). — Indian corn will be an average crop.
Sweet corn is raised for market to a certain extent, and is in good
condition and yielding well. There will be more than a normal crop of
rowen. The prospect for late potatoes is poor, as they are rotting
badly. Apples good; pears average; peaches below; grapes normal;
cranberries normal. Pastures are in good condition. Oats and barley
are about the same as usual.

Dunstable (A. J. Gilson). — Indian corn is somewhat late, but is
looking well otherwise. The yield and condition of sweet corn is good.
There is the prospect of more than a normal crop of rowen. Late
potatoes promise a good crop, but bUght and rot have appeared on
early varieties. Apples, pears, peaches and cranberries are Ught crops,
and cranberries medium. Pasturage is very good for the time of year.
Oats are a light crop; no barley raised for grain. Beans and cucum-
bers have blighted badly, and squash and melon vines are growing
much faster than the fruit.

Chelmsford (P. P. Perham). — Indian corn is more than an average
crop. Sweet corn is raised for market, and is a very large crop. Rowen
is away above a normal crop. Our people are about discouraged
trying to raise potatoes, and the few that were planted have blighted.
Not over half as many winter apples as last year; pears plenty;
peaches few ; grapes largely growth of vines, but little fruit. Pastures
never looked better at this time of year. Oats and barley were large
crops, and were mostly fed green.

Tewksbury (G. E. Crosby). — Indian corn is not grown in this vi-
cinity. Sweet corn has been very good, on the whole. The prospect
for the rowen crop is good. Some fields of potatoes show blight and a
tendency to rot. Apples about two-thirds crop; pears and peaches
about half crops. Pasturage is in better condition than usual at this
season. Oats and barley are very light as forage crops. Celery has
blighted, especially early celery; and some fields have been plowed
under.

Concord (Wm. H. Hunt). — Indian corn is in fine condition. Sweet
corn is raised for the market, and is doing very well. The prospect for
rowen is good on early cut pieces. There is no blight or rot so far on
potatoes, and they look well. Apples are a fair crop, and jiears and
grapes full crops. Pasturage is in very good condition. In this vi-
cinity most crops are looking finely. So far tlicrc is v(M-y little rust on
asparagus.

Lincoln (C. S. Wheeler). — Indian corn is al)out average for the
small amount raised. Sweet corn is extensively raised for market, and
is fine in condition and yield and ripening early. There will be more
than a normal crop of rowen. If rot does not ruin the crop, late po-

22

tatoes will yield well, but some rot has appeared. The prospect is
good for apples, peaches and grapes. Feed is very good in pastures
where the brush have been kept down. Oats and barley haVe been
good crops.

Wakefield (Charles Talbot). — Indian corn is the finest crop for
years. The yield of sweet corn is great with a great demand. The
yield of rowen will be 20 per cent better than last year. The prospect
for late potatoes is good, with no blight or rot to speak of. Pears
plenty; few apples; no peaches; grapes and cranberries in abun-
dance. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and barley are about
normal crops. All garden crops are of the finest with extra good
growth.

Winchester (S. S. Symmes). — Indian corn is not raised. Sweet
corn is raised for market, and is a fine crop. Rowen promises to be a
good crop, and is being cut already. A little rot has just started on
late potatoes. There are few apples, but pears and peaches are good
crops. Pastures are in fine condition. The quahty of the tomato crop
is not as good as usual, some vines having blighted.

Arlington (W. W. Rawsox). — The weather is very hot and dry,
and celerj^ has begun to blight. All other market-garden crops are
looking well, and the crops have all been better than on average years.

Newton (G. L. Marcy). — Indian corn is in good condition. Sweet
corn is in good condition, with an average yield. Rowen will be better
than an average crop. Late potatoes are not much grown. The pros-
pect is good for all kinds of fruits. Pasturage is in good condition.
Oats and barley have grown well, but wet weather at maturity greatly
injured crops.

ESSEX COUNTY.

Amesbury (F. W. Sargent). — The acreage of Indian corn is small,
but it is making rapid growth, though it will need a long season to
mature. Sweet corn is raised for market, and is yielding well.
Rowen never promised better where grass was cut early, but much of
the first crop was cut late. The yield of potatoes is apparently good,
with no bhght as yet. Apples are a fight crop; pears plenty; grapes
few. Pastures are in excellent condition. Late oats are rusting;
oats and barley otherwise good, but little raised for grain. Market
gardeners complain of nearly complete loss of cucumbers by blight,
and tomatoes are ripening badly.

Haverhill (Eben Webster). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market, and most of the early varieties are
past, with later ones looking well. Rowen will be about a normal crop.
There is some blight and rot on late potatoes, but not on early ones.
Early apples plenty, late varieties about a two-thirds crop. Pasturage
is in good condition. Oats and barley are about normal crops. The
ground is very dry now, there having been no rain for about two
weeks.

23

Andover (Milo H. Gould). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in unusually good condition,
but prices are low. There will be more than a normal crop of rowen.
The prospect is good for late potatoes, but rot is troubling somewhat.
Winter apples are a good crop; pears abundant; grapes eaten by rose
bugs; cranberries good. Pasturage is in very good condition. Oats
and barley are about normal crops. Cucumbers raised for pickles
have been hurt by blight.

Rouiey (D. H. O'Brien). — Indian corn will be very late, and
liable to injury from frost. Sweet corn is little raised for market.
Rowen promises better than an average crop. The present outlook
is for a hght crop of potatoes, as they have blighted badly. Apples are
a fair crop; pears medium; peaches and grapes good; cranberries
poor. Pastures are in extra good condition. Oats and barley com-
pared favorably with the normal.

Danvers (C. H. Pkeston). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is in good condition, and yielding well. Rowen will be an
average crop. There is some blight and rot on potatoes. Apples- will
be less than half a crop; pears fair; peaches fair; grapes good. Pas-
turage is in good condition.

Manchester (John Baker). — Indian corn is in fine condition.
Sweet corn is in first-class condition. Rowen promises a good yield.
Early potatoes blighted, but late ones promise well. There will be
medium crops of fruit. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and
barley are about normal crops. The season has been a good one for
all forage crops, but just now is getting a little dry.

NORFOLK COUNTY.

Randolph (RuFUS A. Thayer). — Indian corn promises a good
average crop. Sweet corn is a little late, but is growing finely. Rowen
is not an average crop. Late potatoes are looking well, but some rot
has appeared. Apples will be half a crop; pears half a crop; grapes
a full crop. Pasturage is very fine for the season. Oats and barley
are good crops, but are all used for fodder. On account of rainy
weather, the hay crop was not harvested as early as usual, and on
late cut fields there will be very little rowen.

Canton (E. V. Kinsley). — Indian corn is A No. I. Sweet corn is
raised to some extent for market, and is good in condition and yield.
Rowen will be very heavy on early cut mowings. Late potatoes
promise well; have heard of some blight, but have seen none. Apples
are a short crop; other fruits good. Pasturage is in very good condi-
tion, but will soon be short if the present weather rontiimes. Oats
are a very poor crop; barley raised for forage, and yielding well.
Milk is getting short, and fresh cows are in demand.

Norivood (F, A. Fales). — Indian corn is two weeks late, but is
looking well. Sweet corn is grown for market, and is in good condi-

24

tion, though rather late. Rowen will be an extra good crop. Most po-
tato fields are looking well, but some have blighted. There will be not
more than half crops of apples and pears; very few peaches, and a
small crop of cranberries. Pasturage is in very good condition. There
is a fair crop of both oats and barley, but a small acreage.

Walpole (Edward L. Shepard). — Indian corn is above the normal.
Sweet corn is not very extensively grown, but is in good condition.
Rowen will be above the normal on early cut fields. The prospect is
good for late potatoes, but there is some bhght and rot. There will be
about half a crop of fruit. Pasturage is above the normal in condi-
tion. Oats and barley are fair average crops.

Millis (E. F. Richardson). — Indian corn is in fine condition.
Sweet corn is slightly raised for market, and is in excellent condition.
Rowen promises to be an excellent crop. Blight has put in an ap-
pearance on potatoes. There will be a large crop of all kinds of fruit.
Pastures are in fine condition. Oats and barley have been about three-
fourths crops.

Franklin (C. M. Allen). — Indian corn is a Httle late, but looks
finely. Sweet corn is in good condition, and yielding finely. The
prospect for the rowen crop is the best for years. Late potatoes are
looking well, though there is some blight. There will be about an
average crop of fruit. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and
barley are good crops. This has been an exceptionally good season
for growing plants, and nearly all crops are very fine.

BRISTOL COUNTY.

Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter). — Indian corn is a little late, but is
looking finely. Sweet corn is not raised in large quantities; the early
crop was poor, but later varieties are in fine condition. The rowen
crop will be above average where hay was cut early, and fairly good
on later cut fields. The prospect for potatoes is good, with no rot.
Apples poor; pears fair; peaches and grapes poor. Pasturage is in
excellent condition. Oats and barley are above the average in yield.

Attleborough (Isaac Alger). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is a full average crop in yield and quaUty, Rowen will
be more than an average crop. There are no apples; pears a fair
crop; cranberries fair. Pastures are in very good condition. Oats
and barley are about average crops. The season thus far has been
very good.

Seekonk (John W. Peck). — Indian corn is httle raised, but is
looking finely. There is a large acreage of sweet corn, and it looks
finely. Rowen promises to be an excellent crop. Late potatoes are
looking well, though there is blight on some low fields. The fruit crop
will not be nearly up to that of last year. Pastures are in very good
condition, owing to abundance of rain. Oats and barley are good

25

crops. Celery is looking well, though if not sprayed I predict that it
will blight. All market-garden crops are looking well.

Dartmouth (L. T. Davis). — Indian corn is a fine crop, and earing
heavily. Sweet corn is in good condition, and yielding well. Early
cut fields will give a good crop of rowen. Late potatoes are not grown,
but early varieties show some rot. Apples 10 per cent; pears 50 per
cent ; peaches 30 per cent ; grapes 60 per cent. Pasturage still holds
very good. Oats and barley are little raised, but are good crops.

Acushnet (M. S. Douglas). — Indian corn is in fine condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in good condition, with more
than an average yield. Rowen will be above a normal crop. Late
potatoes are rotting quite badly. Apples and pears are scarce; few
peaches; grapes and cranberries good. Pasturage is in good condition.
Oats are not up to the average, and have rusted badly; barley looking
well for late forage crop.

PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Norwell (H. A. Turner). — Indian corn is in very fair condition.
Sweet corn is not much raised in this section. Rowen will be about
half a normal crop. Potatoes are blighted and rotting on many fields.
The apple crop will be light ; pears good, also grapes. Pasturage is in
very good condition. Oats and barley are about normal crops.

Marshfield (J. H. Bourne). — Indian corn is in excellent condition,
though a little late, so that frost must hold off until October. Sweet
corn is raised for market, and condition and yield are fairly good.
Rowen promises a fairly good crop, in spite of late cutting of first crop.
Late potatoes promise well, except for blight and some rot. Apples
and pears abundant ; cranberries better than last year. Pastures are
better than usual. Oats and barley are a little better than ordinarily,
as the rains carried them out.

Pembroke (Nathaniel Morton). — Indian corn is in very fair con-
dition. Sweet corn is not raised to any extent. Rowen is going to be
a very good crop, much larger than usual. There is an abundant yield
of potatoes, but some blight. Apples poor and scarce; no peaches
grown; no grapes; cranberries medium. Pasturage is in very good
condition. Oats and barley are about a\'erage crops.

Hanson (F. S. Thomas, M. D.). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market to a certain extent, and is in good con-
dition. Rowen never promised better than now. Potatoes have
blighted badly, but do not show rot. There will be few winter apples ;
some pears; no peaches; some grapes and cranberries. Pastures are
in fine condition. Oats and Ix'irley are little raised. We have had a
very wet season, but it has now been hot and dry for a week.

BriHgnvatcr (Rowland Cass). — Indian corn is a little late, but is
growing fast. Sweet corn for market is not much grown in this lo-

26

cality. Rowen will be a good crop on land on which the hay crop was
secured early. Late potatoes will be below the average, as they
blighted early. The prospect for pears is good; other fruits poor.
Pastures are in good condition. The oat crop is not as heavy as in
former years.

Plymplon (Winthrop Fillebrown). — Indian corn is looking the
best it has for years. Sweet corn is not raised very largely for market,
but that raised for local use is good. Where the first crop of hay was
secured early there will be a large crop of rowen. Late potatoes are
looking fairly well, but blight and rot are showing to some extent.
Grapes and cranberries give big promise. Pasturage is holding out
extremely well. Oats and barley are raised only for forage crops,
and are giving large yields. The weather for haying was very un-
favorable, and hundreds of tons of hay were spoiled, while very little
has been put in in first-class condition.

Kingston (George L. Churchill). — Indian corn is in very good
condition. There is not much sweet corn raised, but what there is is
in good condition. Rowen will be up to the normal in yield. There
will be a fair crop of potatoes; some blight, but no rot as yet. There
is a very good crop of apples, pears and peaches; cranberries fair.
Pastures are in very good condition. There have been average yields
of oats and barley. The weather conditions are now good for growing
crops, and there is no reason why there will not be very good crops of
everything of the vegetable kind.

Lakeville (Nathaniel G. Staples). — Indian corn is in very good
condition. Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in very good con-
dition. Rowen is about double the normal crop in yield. There will
be a good crop of potatoes, though there is some blight and rot. Fruit
promises a fair crop. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and barley
are about normal crops.

Wareham (A. B. Savary). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is raised to some extent, and is in good condition and
yielding well. There will be more than a normal crop of rowen on
mowings that were cut in good season. There is some blight on pota-
toes, but little rot as yet. There will be few apples, no peaches and
a fair crop of pears; cranberries average. Pasturage is still good,
but has dried up somewhat in the past week. Oats and barley are
not raised.

BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

Falmouth (D. R. Wicks). — Indian corn is doing finely, but is little
grown. Sweet corn is grown for market, and is a good yield, but poor
in quality. Rowen and weeds are more than normal crops. Potatoes
are a fair crop, with some rot now showing. Winter apples good;
pears and peaches poor; grapes good; cranberries good. I have never
seen so much feed in pastures as now. Japanese plums rotted badly;
peaches are doing the same; and pears crack and scab badly.

27

Mashpee (W. F. Hammond). — Indian corn is above the average.
Sweet corn is raised foi- market, and is above the average in conihtion
and j'ield. Kowen will be more than an average crop. There is blight
on a few fields of potatoes, but very little rot, and the outlook for the
crop is good. There will be half a crop of apples and pears; one-
fourth of a crop of peaches; three-fourths of a crop of cranberries.
Pasturage is above the average. Oats were above the average, but
were spoiled during the long wet spell both for grain and forage.

Barnstable (John Bursley). — Indian corn is in first-class condi-
tion. Sweet corn is raised for market, and is in good condition and
yielding well. There will be a large crop of rowen. Some blight has
appeared on potatoes, but there is little rot as yet. Apples will be a
fight crop; pears, peaches and grapes good; cranberries more than
average. Pasturage is drying up within the past few days. Oats
and barley are little grown.

Dennis (Joshua Crowell). — Indian corn is in fine condition.
Sweet corn is raised for market to some extent, and gives a fair yield,
the late varieties doing the best. Rowen will be rather under a nor-
mal yield, owing to late cutting of first crop. The prospect for pota-
toes is fair, with no rot or blight. Apples medium ; pears good; cran-
berries an average crop. Pasturage has been excellent, but is in need
of rain.

Brewster (Thomas D. Sears). — Indian corn is looking well. Sweet
corn is raised for the local market only, and the condition and yield
is good. The crop of rowen will be above the normal. The prospect
for late potatoes is not good, on account of insects, blight and rot.
There will be fair crops of apples, pears, peaches, grapes and cran-
berries. Pastures are in good condition. Oats and barley are little
raised.

Enstham (J. A. Clark). — Indian corn is in good condition. Sweet
corn is not raised for market. Rowen is now in need of rain. Mostly
early varieties of potatoes are raised, and the crop will be good. Ap-
ples good; pears and cranberries good. Pastures are in need of rain.
Crops are now all in need of rain, but aside from that everything looks
prosperous.

Wcllfleet (E. S. Jacobs). — What Indian corn is raised is in very
good condition. Sweet corn is raised for market, and is suffering
considerably from the corn worm. Rowen compares well with a nor-
mal {!rop. The prospect for late potatoes is gootl, and neither blight
nor rot have appeared. The prospect is very good for apples, pears,
grapes and cranberries, but there will not be many peaches. Pastur-
age is in very good condition. Oats and barley are very good crops,
but not much raised.

28

DUKES COUNTY.

West Tishury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — Indian corn is in very good
condition. Some sweet corn is raised here for market, and it is of
very fine quality and yielding well. Where grass was early cut the
prospect is good for rowen, but a large portion of the first crop stood
too long. Potatoes promise an average crop, but there is some com-
plaint of blight and rot. The prospect is fair for all kinds of fruit.
Pastures are in very good condition. Oats and barley are below aver-
age in yield.

NANTUCKET COUNTY.

Nantucket (H. G. Worth). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Sweet corn is grown for market, and is in good condition. Rowen
is a better crop than usual. Potatoes promise a good crop, with but
little trouble from blight and rot. The prospect for cranberries is
good. Pasturage was never in better condition. Oats rusted some-
what.

29

BULLETIN OF

Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.

SOME PRACTICAL PHASES OF POULTRY FEEDING.

By John H. Robinson, Editor of " Farm Poultry."

It is an almost universal human habit to regard every result as
brought about by a special cause, and in a single way. Most of us
grow out of this superficial view in regard to things to which we have
to give some thought; but it seems to require a decided effort to keep
out of it in deaUng with new matters or things which we do mechan-
ically, as we were taught to do them, or have always seen them done.
When we engage in something new, or seek to equal the accomplish-
ments of those who have surpassed us in any way, we are apt to look
for a key to success, or the secret of success, — for some one thing
which is at the same time essential to and a guarantee of success.
And when we have found out one thing that seems to be effective for
the result we seek to accomplish, we are apt to be satisfied and to
look no farther for causes, unless experience (as it often does) soon
indicates that there must be other points to consider.

In poultry culture such matters as the merits of breeds, of methods
of feeding, of systems of housing, etc., are commonly discussed as if
each were of utmost importance. To himself or to others a poultry-
man propounds such general questions as "Is breed of more impor-
tance than feed?" "What method of feeding will give best results
in egg production?" "How many square feet floor space must be
allowed per hen to keep hens healthy?" "How many hens to a male
to insure fertile eggs and vigorous chicks?" and so on through an
almost inexhaustible list. Authorities and experts devote much time
and space, and sometimes a little temper, to arguments intended to
prove favorite breeds, methods or features of prime importance and
indispensable; while those who arc looking for the truth are at the
same time confused by all this disagreement, and more confirmed
in the idea that success depends on the discovery of some secret, or
the adoption of some special method. Men with comniercial or am-

30

bitious ends to serve take advantage of the general unsettled state
of opinion to exploit, and sell at a premium, their special brands of
goods, or to get reputation and credit for their pet ideas. I mention
this not to find fault with them. Such things may be done, legiti-
mately and honestly; but in order that we may properly discount
statements from such sources, we must know what the conditions are,
and allow for personal bias and interest.

In no feature of poultry culture is there so great confusion of ideas
at present as in the problems of feeding. Poultry keepers were just
beginning to get well out of the mists which had been spread over
the whole subject by the advocates of scientifically balanced rations,
when their ideas were unsettled anew by the exploitation of "dry
feeding," and the projection of a new set of ideas into every discus-
sion of the question of feeding. I sometimes think that perhaps the
unsettled state of general knowledge and practice in the matter of
feeding is as much to blame as anything else for the poor results in
laying and hatching which have been so general in the last four years;
but that is a point difficult to prove, and getting its strongest con-
firmation by analogy from the fact that when the individual poultry-
man is in such uncertainty on any point, his average results in matters
on which it has any considerable influence are likely to be unsatis-
factory.

A poultry keeper who is interested in getting better results from
his poultry, who is interested in what others are doing, who is always
looking for improvement, could not fail to be interested in all these
various ideas about, and theories of, feeding, even if he could avoid
learning of them, which is practically impossible for such a man.
And, learning of these ideas and theories, few can escape being influ-
enced by them. They may not appeal strongly to one with whom
poultry affairs are progressing satisfactorily; but as soon as there is
occasion for dissatisfaction, as soon as things begin to go wrong, and
he can assign no satisfactory reason for it, the poultryman finds him-
self beginning to ask what there is in this or the other idea or theory
for which some claim so much.

In every case, even in those in which there are absurd develop-
ments of the foundation ideas or facts, there is a basis of truth and
reasonableness upon which to build. The difficulty is not with ideas
that are all wrong and theories that are all false, but with those that
offer good ideas and substantial facts so mixed with error or so dis-
torted in development and presentation that in the forms in which
they are finally set before the public they are of doubtful value, or
perhaps positively detrimental.

Thus in regard to the theory of balanced rations; it is an unques-
tionable fact that fowls need a variety of food; that they cannot,
except for comparatively short periods, be kept productive and thrifty
on a diet lacking in variety; but there is a great gulf between that

31

fact and the extreme developments of the "balanced ration" fad.
Thus, also, it is an unquestionable fact that mashes, as many poul-
try keepers make and feed them, are injurious to fowls; but there
are differences in mashes, differences in fowls and differences in people.
Thus, again, it is certain that many people have injured their fowls
by feeding too much corn, or feeding it too carelessly; but again it is
true that many others feed corn to advantage. The fault in most
exploitations of foods and methods is in claiming too much for them;
and in most condemnations of foods and methods, condemning their
use when it is the abuse of them that should be avoided.

The more the question of the feeding of poultry is studied, and the
more carefully one investigates the results of different methods and
follows equal results back along very dissimilar lines of feeding, the
more will he be impressed with two facts: —

First, that equally good results are obtained by many different
methods.

Second, that the same method does not invariably give the same
results.

The logical conclusions from these facts are, that there are many
equally good methods of feeding, and that there are other factors to
be considered besides quantity, cjuality and composition of the food.

These conclusions need cause no confusion of mind, and probably
would not, if it were not for that prevalent habit to which allusion
has been made, — of seeking always to establish a peculiar relation
between every result and some single agency or cause. That habit
makes people avoid the logical conclusions altogether, seek to find
some other solution of their difficulty; and in the mental confusion
which follows they imagine that the matter of feeding poultry is com-
pUcated and difficult, when the truth is that it is simple and easy if
the poultry keeper will only let it be so, and if he will also maintain
as near an approach to natural conditions as is necessary for the proper
exercise of natural functions.

It is a matter of common observation among poultrymen that
chicks hatched and reared by the natural method will usually thrive
on almost any kind of feeding, while those hatched and reared arti"
ficially will often fail to thrive on the same ration that naturally
hatched and reared chicks on the same premises are given with wholly
satisfactory results. Why is it? It is because in the case of the arti-
ficially hatched and reared chick the diet so often has to be adapted
to some unnatural and abnormal condition. This is usually a condi-
tion resulting from improper temperature or lack of ventilation, either
in the incubator or in the brooder.

To illustrate: we know that it is possible for an iiu'ul)a(or to make
a good hatch, and yet the chickens — through sonic undiscovered
WTOng condition during incubation — be incapable of living. The
most marked instance of this kind of which I know was called to mv

32

attention some years ago by an exceptionally expert, careful and in-
telligent poultryman. From two large machines set at the same time
he had taken remarkably good hatches, — about three hundred from
each machine. The eggs were the same, one lot of eggs having been
divided between the two machines. The conditions after the chicks
were put in the brooder house were the same. They were all fed alike.
When I saw them, between two and three months after the hatch,
hardly a chick had been lost from one lot, while of the other hardly
a chick remained. That the difference was due to something which
happened during incubation was plain, but what that was it was
impossible to say.

It has also often happened that when a lot of chicks from the same
incubator are placed in different brooders those in one brooder will
thrive, while those in another will not, — all conditions but brooding
conditions being the same. The facts plainly indicate something
wrong in one brooder. What is wrong it may not be easy to discover.

The bearing of such facts on the question of feeding is this. With-
out being so bad as to cause heavy losses of chicks, brooder or incubator
conditions may be such that the chicks are not in perfect condition.
Thus, as a result of wrong temperature in either machine there may be
a slight catarrhal condition of the digestive organs. To chicks in this
condition foods which cause no discomfort at all to perfectly healthy
chicks may be at first slightly, and at last highly, irritating, causing
serious, if not fatal, digestive disorders. There may be the same
difference between chicks hatched and reared by natural methods;
but opportunities for errors in hatching and brooding are much less
frequent, for hens cannot vary in temperature as incubators and
brooders may, and do, — especially in the hands of inexperienced
operators.

Now, when we find that an article of food or a system of feeding
which under natural conditions gives generally satisfactory results,
sometimes — either under natural or artificial conditions — does not
give satisfactory results, we should know that the fault is not in the
food, but in something else; and that, while we may avoid ill conse-
quences by a diet which will counteract the trouble, we do not remedy
it. If we think the fault was in the feeding, we may be entirely wrong.
And, if so, as long as we continue on the supposition that the feeding
was wrong, we are not likely to get at the real trouble.

When a poultry keeper finds that he cannot use a ration which in
the experience of others has been shown to be a good ration, he may be
sure that there is something else wrong in his flock or his methods.
Fowls that are healthy and rugged can use any ration that furnishes
approximately what they require, and may do well on such a ration
for a long time, though it may be in some respects objectionable, and
neither the best nor the most economical ration. But as soon as a
poultryman finds that it is only by keeping strictly to a certain ration

33

or system that he can command success, and that variations from it
are almost immediately followed by bad results either in health, growth
or egg production, he ought not to conclude that his system was so
absolutely perfect or his ration so exactly balanced that any variation
from it was at once seen to be wrong. He ought rather to conclude
that, if his fowls were so dependent upon an exact ration or system,
they were so either because so constitutionally weak that, like dys-
peptics, they required a diet adapted to their weaknesses, or that
there were wrong conditions which something in his ration or system
constantly operated to counteract.

So the rational way to look at the matter is that, if fowls or chicks
can eat and thrive on practically anything offered them in the line of
staple poultry foods, without regard to careful balancing of ingred-
ients of which they are composed, the stock is healthy and sound,
and the general conditions conducive to health; but if good results
are secured only by careful dieting and rigid adherence to a "balanced
ration," there is weakness or error somewhere that is as likely to cause
trouble when disturbed or aggravated by other means as when affected
by changes in diet. Healthy poultry, like healthy people, are not
"fussy" about their eating, but eat with rehsh all ordinary articles of
food, and are not over-particular about the relative proportions of
different kinds of food; for the normal digestive system easilj' takes
care of any ordinary surplus without discomfort to the fowl, and often
with decided benefit to it.

If the normal, healthy fowl or chick thrives as well on one ordinary
good ration as on another (and that it does so is readily demonstrated to
any one who compares results fairly), claims of general superiority for
any special article of food or mixture of foods are clearly mistaken.
The practical significance of this fact is that, understanding it, the
poultry keeper can use special foods or systems of feeding to correct
some wrong conditions, and can also use whatever available food or
system of feeding is most economical or most convenient.

While, as I have said, dependence upon a certain food or system
indicates something wrong outside qf the feeding, if we have conditions
that make us dependent on some food or system, we must continue to
use it until by locating the trouble and correcting it we can become
independent, and use any foods and methods we choose. I had at one
time some stock that had a constitutional tendency to cluoiiic loose-
ness of the bowels. To check and eradicate this I did two tilings: I
began by feeding both the breeding stock and the chicks on dry feed,
and by selecting for breeding purposes each year the fowls which
showed the least inclination to bowel trouble. In a very few years I
had the stock entirely free from the trouble, even when fed the same
ration on which the original stock had been always loose.

But it is in such matters as economy and convenience in feeding
that the knowledge of the general equality of results of foods and

34

feeding methods for healthy stock is of greatest benefit to those who
have it, and should be of most benefit to farmers and gardeners who
have at different seasons of the year so many different things which
may be used for poultry food, and who often find the method of feed-
ing which suits them at one season of the year inconvenient at another.

On most farms there are available during the fall, winter and some-
times well into the spring waste vegetables of various kinds, which,
with a little special preparation, are made more palatable to the fowls
than if fed in their raw state. Small potatoes, beets, turnips and
other vegetables, cooked and made the basis of a mash of meal and
shorts, can be used to good advantage and with less waste in that way
than in any other. It takes a little time to prepare them. Whether
it is best to use that time in that way must depend on how profit-
ably it would otherwise be employed, and the value of the food thus
utilized.

From the time farm or farm garden products begin to be marketed
there is on most farms considerable waste which may be fed to poultry
or other stock. Sometimes the articles and the amounts of them avail-
able for poultry are such that it is not only unnecessary but would be
detrimental to the fowls to feed them freely, and also to feed a wet
mash. At this season of the year, too, there is on most farms other
work more pressing and more profitable than keeping up through the
summer the system of feeding followed during the winter. So, with an
abundance of green food either supplied to the poultry in their yards
or ranges, or fed from the field or garden, there is no need of feeding
ground grains either wet or dry, and the work of feeding the poultry
may be reduced to occupy but a very short time. Possibly the gross
results may not be as good when the attention to feeding is reduced
to the minimum. I think the general experience of poultry keepers
shows that the best gross results are obtained when fowls get a great
deal of attention, — not fussy or annoying attention, but judicious
attention. It is so with all animals. By giving them a considerable
A'ariety of food, prepared in a variety of ways, we tempt the appetite
to take the largest possible quantities of food, we avoid in no small
degree the dangers of overeating of a single article, and we get in
poultry better growth and greater egg production; but whether we
get enough better results to pay for the extra trouble and food required
is something to determine each time the cjuestion arises, in accordance
with circumstances at that particular time and place.

Some poultry keepers on farms, or elsewhere, are so situated that
it is desirable to reduce the work of feeding the fowls as much as pos-
sible at all seasons of the year. To such the dry feeding methods so
much advocated of late years often presents the most satisfactory
solution of the feeding problem. It has become customarj- to describe
any system of feeding which omits the wet mash as "dry feeding."
The advocates of dry feeding generally have made sweeping condem-

35

nation of wet mashes, and have charged against their use all the ills
discoverable in any flock to which a wet mash happens to have been
fed. As would be expected, they have also gone to the extreme in
claiming all sorts of beneficial results from dry feeding. I think that
any fair general consideration of the facts will show the same diver-
sities in results that are found when we attempt to make out a case
for any method by attributing to it alone results in cases in which it is
a factor. It is impossible to prove the superiority of a method or a
breed by a comparison of individual instances. The surest test is the
test of time and general use. That test operates slowly, and leaves us
always with a measure of uncertainty as to the final result; but in
compensation it also gives us — if we heed it — caution in accepting
results of new methods prematurely.

The situation with regard to the dry feeding of poultry to-day is
that, without approaching a full demonstration of their claims for
that method, the advocates of dry feeding have materially benefited
many who were not successful in the use of the mash system, and have
emphasized a principle, which may well be termed a fundamental
principle in feeding, that had fallen into general disuse among those
trying to feed poultry for best results, — that is, the very elementary
principle that to lay well or grow well, fowls must be well fed.

A prominent feature of the teaching of the "balanced ration" ad-
vocates was the necessity of avoiding over-feeding. So insistently
were the evils of over-feeding proclaimed, and so much were poultry-
men impressed by this preaching, that among those trying to feed
right over-feeding had become extremely rare, while it was a common
thing to find poultrymen feeding rations just short enough of what
they should be to give good egg yields. So general have I found this,
that, beginning some years ago, in every case where a correspondent
wrote asking what was the matter with his hens, that would not lay,
in which I could find no special cause for failure, I have advised to
feed a httle more, and it is quite surprising how often this happens to
give the results wanted.

Now, the dry feeding system, as usually advocated and practised,
keeps food before the fowls all the time. They need never be hungry.
And in nearly all cases where dry feeding has given better results
than a system including a wet mash, and the wet mash used was of
good consistency, I think it will be found that the dry feeding system
owes its apparent superiority to the simple fact that by it the hens
get enough to eat.

And that, as a matter of fact, is the prime factor in successful feed-
ing. There are other points to consider. Hens must have exercise,
and there must be some variety in their food, but above all, if we wish
good development and good egg production, there must be abundance
of food. And, from what I have seen of results of many difTerent
methods of feeding, 1 would say give abundance with variety; but,

36

if there is a choice between variety without abundance and abundance
without variety, the latter is to be preferred. In abundance of food
without variety we may get results and wear the fowl out quickly;
in the other way we are more likelj'' to keep a fowl just short of profit-
able performance.

Some of the best results in winter egg production I have ever seen
have been obtained from flocks which were not handled in the best
way. There were faults in the management during the winter which
might have been avoided; but the poultrymen made their fowls pay
better, in spite of these faults, than most others did without them,
and they did this simply by working on the principle of giving their
fowls all they could eat. I went one day to visit a poultry farmer who
had the reputation of always getting good egg yields in winter. What
I saw in the nests in his houses in the dead of Avinter seemed to justify
his reputation. I asked him to what he attributed his success. He
replied, "The only difference I can see between my poultry keeping
and that of those poultrymen about here who complain that they can't
get eggs is that I keep food before my hens all the time." His hens
were inclined to get too fat toward the end of winter, and fall off in
egg production; but he made more than he lost by heavy feeding.

A Maine farmer whose farm I visited several years ago had about
five hundred hens, and kept cracked corn before them all the time.
They had the range of the farm in summer, but were not out of the
houses much in winter. He was said to be the onlj^ farmer in that
neighborhood who always had eggs to ship to Boston in December
and January.

I once asked one of the most successful poultry keepers of my ac-
quaintance, a man who combines poultry keeping and general farming,
what he thought was the principal thing in winter egg production.
He replied that it had been his observation that if pullets were ready
to begin laying about the beginning of winter thej^ would begin and
lay right through, provided they got enough to eat; and that he could
not see that it made much difference — within the range of usual
poultry foods — how or what they were fed ; the all-important thing
was to give them all they could eat. Of course he did not mean that
the kind and quality of food made no difference. In making such a
statement, it is understood that the reference is to rations such as good
poultrymen would use.

Good feeding sometimes consists more in using to advantage waste
products and cheap products than in getting large results. To do
this the poultry keeper must be in a measure independent of systems,
— not bound either by wrong conditions, or weak stock, or faults in
his methods, to follow carefully a delicately balanced system.

Series of 1906. Vol. Ui. No. f>.

MASSACHUSETTS

<

CHOP EEPOET

POR THE

Month of September, 1906.

CRANBERRY GROWING.

ISSUED MOXTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.

J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.

Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class Matter,
UNDER Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.

BOSTON :

WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,

18 Post Office Square.

1906.

Approved bt
The State Board of Publication.

Crop Eeport foe the Month of September, 1906.

Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., Oct. 1, lUOG.

Bulletin Xo. 5, Crop Report for September, is herewith
presented. The article in this month's bulletin is one that
should be of interest to many, as it touches an industry which
is apparently exciting much interest, and which is not gen-
erally well understood. It is on " Cranberry growing," by
Lucian J. Fosdick, whose exhibit on cranberry growing at
the St. Louis Exposition will be recalled by many visitors
to the fair. Mr. Fosdick has had an ample experience in
the growing of cranberries, and has studied the matter from
the side of distribution and handling of the crop, as well as
from that of producing the berries.

Pkogkess of the Season.

The monthly report of the Crop Reporting Board of the
Bureau of Statistics of the Department of Agriculture (Crop
Reporter for September, 1906), shows the condition of corn
on September 1 to have been 90.2, as compared with 88.1 a
month earlier, 89.5 on the corresponding date in 1905, 8-1.6
in 1904, and a ten-year average of 81.

The average condition of spring wheat when ham^estod
was 83.4, as against 86.9 a month earlier, 87.3 in 1905, and
06.2 in 1904. The condition in the five principal states is
reported as follows: Minnesota, 79; North Dakota, 84;
South Dakota, 88 ; Iowa, 93 ; and Washington, 75.

The average condition of the oat crop wlicn harvested was
81.9, against 82.8 a month earlier, 90.3 on Sept. 1, 1905,
85.6 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 81.9.

The average condition of barley when harvested was 89.4,
against 90.3 a month earlier, 87.8 on Sept. 1, 1905, 87.4 in
1904, and a ten-year average of 83.7.

The average condition of rye when harvested was 90.5,
against 90.8 on Sept. 1, 1905, 86.9 in 1904, and a ten-year
average of 8C.5.

The average condition of buckwheat on September 1 was

91.2, against 93.2 a month earlier, 91.8 on Sept. 1, 1905,

91.5 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 88.4.

The average condition of tobacco was 86.2, as against 87.2
a month earlier, 85.1 on Sept. 1, 1905, 83.7 in 1904, and a
five-year average of 81.8.

The average condition of potatoes on September 1 was

85.3, as against 89 a month earlier, 80 on Sept. 1, 1905,

91.6 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 79.2.

In Massachusetts the average condition of corn September
1 was given as 100 ; the average condition of oats when har-
vested as 95 ; the average condition of rye when harvested
as 92 ; the average condition of buckwheat when harvested as
88 ; the average condition of tobacco as 100 ; the average
condition of potatoes as 82; the average condition of beans
as 81 ; the average condition of cabbages as 90 ; the average
condition of onions as 80 ; the average condition of tomatoes
as 88; the average condition of apples as 64; the average
condition of peaches as 57; the average condition of grapes
as 85 ; the average condition of cranberries as 75 ; the average
condition of cantaloupes and muskmelons as 75 ; the aver-
age condition of watermelons as 80 ; the number of stock
hogs fattening, compared with last year, as 97, and their
average condition as to size and weight as 97.

Te:mperature and Rainfall for the Whole Country.

[Feom the National Weekly Weather Bulletins.]

Week ending September 3. — The week was warmer than
usual in the Atlantic and Gulf coast districts, Ohio and upper
Missouri valleys, and over the northern Plateau and middle
Pacific coast regions. In the northern Lake region, over an
area extending from northern Louisiana and northeastern
Texas to the lower Missouri valley, throughout the southern
Plateau region, over the greater part of California and on the
extreme north Pacific coast, the week averaged cooler than
usual. Tlie rainfall exceeded the average in the Middle At-

lantic States and over the greater part of the South Atlantic
States, very heavy rains having occurred over an area extend-
ing from northern Georgia to eastern Pennsylvania. A large
part of the west Gulf States received no appreciable amount
of rain. Much of the Lake region and a large part of the
Ohio valley and southern New England also received less
than the average rainfall.

Week ending September 10. — The week averaged warmer
than usual throughout nearly the whole country, the tem-
perature being below average only in central and southern
California, western Arizona, southwestern Texas, extreme
southern Florida and on the ]^ew England coast, where the
deficiency was very slight. In the upper Ohio valley and
Atlantic and Gulf coast districts the temperature excess was
less than 3° a day, but in the Lake region and from the
upper Mississippi valley westward it averaged from 6° to
12° per day. In the upper Mississippi and Red River of
the IsTorth valleys and Lake region, and over a large part of
the upper Mississippi and Ohio valleys and Middle Atlantic
States, there was either an entire absence of rain or inap-
preciable showers, and the rainfall was much below the
average over the greater part of the South Atlantic States
and much of the central Gulf districts. The rainfall ex-
ceeded the average over the greater part of Texas, in Ten-
nessee, portions of the central and east Gulf States, and over
limited areas in the central Mississippi and lower Ohio
valleys.

Week ending September 17.- — The week was cooler than
usual in the Rocky Mountain and Plateau regions, over the
greater part of the Pacific coast and in the upper !Missouri
valley. Throughout the central valleys, Lake region and
the Atlantic coast and Gulf districts the week was warmer
than usual, the temperature excess ranging from 6° to 9°
per day in the central valleys and Lake region, but being
less than 3° per day in New England. Over most of the
country east of the Mississippi River, as well as over the
greater part of the west Gulf States, the precipitation was
lighter than usual. Over a largo part of the lower Lake
region and in portions of tlie Southern States and Atlantic

6

coast districts there was no appreciable rainfall. From the
north Pacific coast eastward to the Missouri valley, including
Kansas, Oklahoma, Indian Territory, the northern portion
of the upper Mississippi valley and the upper Michigan
peninsula, the rainfall was much above the average.

Weeh ending September 2Jf: — The week was warmer than
usual in all parts of the United States, except over the middle
Rocky Mountain slope and portions of the middle Plateau
region, where the mean temperature was below the normal.
From Minnesota westward to the north Pacific coast, and
in the central valleys. Lake region and the Atlantic coast
and Gulf districts the week was exceptionally warm. From
the central Mississippi valley eastward to ISTew England the
temperature excess generally ranged from 6° to 10°. Dur-
ing the week heavy rains occurred in the east Gulf States,
in portions of the Carolinas, Tennessee and Kentucky, in
southern Xew England and over an area extending from
Oklahoma northward to eastern South Dakota. In the Middle
Atlantic States and Florida, and generally throughout the
Lake region, central valleys and west Gulf districts the rain-
fall was below the average, areas of considerable extent in
Texas and the central Mississippi valley receiving no appre-
ciable amount. There was a general absence of rain through-
out the Plateau regions and in southern California.

Special TELEGRAniic Repoets.

[Weather Bureau, Boston.]

WeeJc ending September 3. — New England. Boston:
Generally copious showers occurred throughout the section
on the 27th ; clear weather prevailed the remainder of the
week. The temperature was seasonable, except on Saturday
and Sunday, when it was cool, and light to killing frosts
occurred in parts of New Hampshire Sunday morning.
Copious rain is generally needed.

Weeh ending September 10. — New England. Boston:
Light showers were general on the 3d, and scattered light
showers occurred in parts of Maine and Vermont on the 9th.
The weather is now very dry. Rain is much needed, par-
ticularly in Maine, New Hampshire, eastern Massachusetts

and Rhode Island, to replenish wells and streams, which are
very low. The temperature was low during the first half
of the week, light frosts occurring in places on the 5th and
killing frosts in central New Hampshire. The mean tem-
perature was above the normal during the latter part of the
week. There was abundant sunshine.

Week ending September 17. — New England. Boston:
Scattered showers occurred in Maine and Vermont on the
9th and 10th, in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Con-
necticut on the 13th, and in parts of the sections on the 14th ;
on other dates there was abundant sutshine. Except in
eastern Rhode Island, where heavy rains occurred, rain is
badly needed. Some interior stations reported light frosts
on the 15th and 16th. Freezing temperature occurred in
northern Vermont on the 15th.

Week ending September 2^. — New England. Boston :
Copious showers occurred in Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, Vermont and southern New Hampshire, and
very light showers occurred in Maine on Friday and Satur-
day; otherwise, the weather was generally clear. Rain is
much needed in Maine and northern New Hampshire, where
the weather continues very dry; drought has been relieved
over the remainder of the section. The temperature was
much above the normal, and maximum temperatures above
90° occurred on the 19th in the southern portion of the
section.

The Weather for September, 1906.

The month opened with several days of rather cool weather,
and temperatures ranging from 2° to 6° below the seasonal
average. On the 3d light to moderate showers were quite
general. From this date to the 12th inclusive there was
almost an entire absence of rain, and there were few cloudy
days. The temperatures during this time were generally in
excess of the average, ranging as high as 90° during the
midday hours in many sections on several days. Showers,
mostly light, were prevalent on the 13th and the 14th, and
these were followed by fair weather, with seasonal tempera-
tures till the 19th inclusive. The 18th and the 19th were
warm days, the temperatures rising to or above 90° in nearly

8

all sections. Showery conditions obtained from the 20th to
the 23d inclnsive, during which period the rainfall was
copious in all, and quite hea\^ in some, sections. The rain
was very beneficial, as the droughty conditions were being
felt generally, and in some localities the ground was exceed-
ingly dry, and ponds and streams were becoming very low.
A cool wave passed over the district from the 24th to the
26th, during which time light to moderate frosts occurred in
favorable localities, and in some instances thin ice formed.
During the remainder of the month the temperatures ranged
near the seasonal average, w'ith fair weather, except on the
30th, when rains occurred. As a whole, the month was very
pleasant, and characteristic of the season.

In the circular to correspondents returnable to us Sep-
tember 25 the following questions were asked: —

1. How does the crop of Indian corn compare with a
normal crop ?

2. Are the rowen crop and fall feed up to the usual
average ?

3. Has the usual amount of fall seeding been done, and
what is its present condition?

4. How does the onion crop compare with a normal crop ?

5. How do potatoes compare with the normal in yield and
quality ?

6. What is the prospect for root crops, celery and other
late market-garden crops ?

7. How have apples, pears, peaches, grapes and cranber-
ries turned out?

Returns were received from 142 correspondents, from
which the following summary has been made : —

Indian Coen.
The corn crop would appear to be a bumper one in every
respect, and to have been secured in good condition, with
practically no damage from frost. Somewhat backward the
greater part of the season, it nevertheless made a fine, healtliy
growth ; and the hot, dry weather of the latter part of August

and the first of September proved to be just what was needed
to mature the crop in the best condition. There has seldom
been a better crop for grain than that of the present year,
wliile the stover was also generally luxuriant and well de-
veloped. There being no killing frosts until late in the
month, the crop was secured practically without damage,
both for grain and for the silo.

RowEN AND Faix Feed.
On early cut fields rowen was a luxuriant crop, while on
those where the first crop was not secured until the latter
part of July there was a comparatively light crop. The
general average was probably a little above that of a normal
year for the State as a whole, though particular localities
showed variations from the normal in either direction which
were sometimes quite marked. The weather of September
being generally fair and warm, the crop was in the main
secured in good condition. The feed in pastures suffered
considerably from the prolonged drought, turning brown in
some instances, and practically ceasing to be depended upon
for stock. With the rains of the latter part of the month a
considerable improvement is noted.

Fall Seeding.
Much less than the usual amount of fall seeding has been
done, owing to the dry weather, which made farmers re-
luctant to sow. That which has been put in appears to have
come forward very slowly, except on moist land; and it is
not now in as good condition as it normally would be, though
considerably improved by the recent rains. These rains also
have put the soil in excellent condition for such fall seeding
as remains to be done, and it will undoubtedly be rushed
from this out.

Onions.

Onions are considerably below a normal crop for the State

as a whole, blight being reported from most sections, and

apparently being most serious in its effect on the crop in the

regions of main production. Onions cured down small, owing

10

to blight, and the crop is thus much reduced. ISTo rot of any
amount has been reported. Harvesting progressed rapidly,
on account of the favorable weather; but the crop is reported
as moving slowly, and at not particularly favorable prices.

Potatoes.
The potato crop appears to be considerably above what
was predicted from the returns of last month, doubtless
owing to the fact that the dry, clear weather checked the
blight, and prevented it from developing into rot in many
cases. The crop, however, is considerably under normal,
there being many complaints of small size of tubers, and
some rot also appearing in various sections. The quality
otherwise appears to be excellent, with not much damage
from grubs or wire worms. Sprayed fields seem to have done
very well, as a rule, so that it is probable that the shortage
of the crop may be attributed almost entirely to the effects
of the early blight.

Root Ckops, Celery, etc.
Root crops generally suffered somewhat from drought in
September, but otherwise are reported as doing well. Celery
suffered severely from the same cause, especially the early
varieties, and a short crop of these is certain. Later sorts
may do well if there is the necessary amount of rain for the
rest of the season. Late market-garden crops other than
celery also suffered from drought, and will generally make
light yields. Squashes are reported as rather below the nor-
mal. Cabbages generally have done fairly well.

Fruit.
Apples dropped badly during the month, and a light crop
is all that can be expected, some localities reporting nearly
a total failure. Reports as to quality vary, but, on the whole,
a fairly good quality seems to be the rule. Pears are a fair
crop, but in some sections are reported as not selling well,
the cost of picking being so great as to make it inadvisable
to harvest the crop. Peaches have not yielded as well as
expected, on the whole, and but a light crop has been secured.

11

Prices have rnlcd high throughout the season. Grapes are
not yielding as well as was expected, considerable rot and
mildew being reported, in spite of the apparently favorable
weather conditions; nevertheless, a fair crop will be secured.
Cranberries have generally done well, and a good average
crop is expected. They have also been generally secured in
good condition, harvesting being nearly completed at the
time of making returns.

12

:n^otes of correspondents.

(Returned to us September 25.)

BERKSHIRE COUNTY.

Alford (Lester T. Osborne). — Indian corn is twenty per cent
above an average crop. Rowen and fall feed are both above the usual
average. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but the
dry weather retards its growth. Potatoes are twenty per cent above
a normal crop. Apples are half a crop, and pears above the average.

Tyringham (Edward H. Slater). — The corn crop is better than
usual. Rowen and fall feed are up to the normal in condition. The
usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and is looking well. Only
a few onions are raised in this town. Potatoes compare favorably
with the normal in yield and quality. The apple crop is not as large
as usual.

Becket (Wm. H. Snow) . — The crop of Indian corn is the best we
have had for years. Rowen and fall seed are fully up to the normal,
especially the rowen crop. The usual amount of fall seeding has been
done, and it is looking well. There are few onions raised, but what
there are, are a fine crop. Potatoes are fully a normal crop of good
quality. The prospect is good for root crops, celery and other late
market-garden crops. Apples are scarce; pears good; grapes and
cranberries good.

West Stockbridge (J. S. Moore). — There is about a normal crop of
Indian corn. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average, the
recent rains having improved them very much. The usual amount of
fall seeding has been done, and it is in fairly good condition. Potatoes
are better than an average crop so far as dug, though some rot is
reported. Apples looked well for a while, but seem to be dropping
badly. More attention than formerly is being paid to dairy farming
and poultry raising. Scarcity of farm help has delayed haying and
harvesting.

Richmond (Timothy B. Salmon). — The crop of Indian corn is one
of the best in years. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average.
The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in very good
condition. Onions are little raised. Potatoes are about an average
in yield and of good quality. There are very few apples ; pears a large
crop; no peaches; some grapes; no cranberries. No frost as yet to
do any damage.

13

Washington (E. H. Eames). — There is a full corn crop. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. No fall seeding has been
done as yet. Onions are not raised here. Potatoes are half a crop in
yield, but of good quality. Root crops, celery and late market-garden
crops are not raised here. Apples will be a very light yield, about
one-fourth of a normal crop.

Hinsdale (Thos. F. Barker). — Indian corn is above an average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition.
Onions are not raised here. Potatoes are below the normal in yield,
but of good quality. Root crops, celery and late market-garden crops
are but little raised. Fruit of all kinds is nearly a perfect failure.

Cheshire (L. J. Northup). — The corn crop compares favorably with
a normal yield. Fall feed and rowen are up to the usual average. No
fall seeding has been done as yet. The onion crop is a normal one,
but there are very few raised. The potato crop is good in quaUty,
but is 25 per cent below the normal in quantity. Root crops are up
to the normal. Apples are half a crop; pears a full crop; grapes a
normal yield.

New Ashford (Elihu Ingraham). — Indian corn is a full normal
crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in fine condition. Onions
are a very good crop, so far as raised. The yield of potatoes is poor,
but they are of good quality. Root crops, celery and late market-
garden crops are not raised here. Apples are a light crop.

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Roire (N. E. Adams) . — Corn is the best it has been for years. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual amount of fall
seeding has been done, but it is not an extra good catch. Onions are
not raised here. Potatoes are poor both in quantity and quaUty.
There is a poor yield of all fruits. All garden vegetables have been
better than normal.

Ashfield (Charles Howes). — Corn is the best crop for years.
Rowen is above an average crop, although grasshoppers have damaged
late rowen and fall feed. About the usual amount of seeding has been
done, and the late rains have given it a good start. But very few
onions are raised in this vicinity. Potatoes are yielding fairly well, but
with some complaint of rot. Root crops and celery are looking well.
Baldwins are not over 25 per cent of a crop, other apples about average
yields; pears, peaches, etc., light crops.

Lcxjden (U. T. Darling). — There is a good crop of corn. The
rowen crop is very good, but dry weather is seriously affecting fall
feed. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is looking
very well, considering the dry weather. Very few onions are raised
here. Potatoes are a very good crop in both yield and quality. The

14

prospect is fair for root crops, celery and other late market-garden
crops. There will not be over 30 per cent of an average crop of apples ;
pears good; but few peaches; grapes good.

Gill (F. F. Stoughton). — Indian corn is better than an average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. Onions are
not raised to any great extent. Potatoes are not yielding well. Root
crops, celery and other late market-garden crops are little raised. Late
apples are light in yield ; grapes good.

Deerfield (H. A. Wells). — Indian corn is above an average crop,
with ears mature and sound. The rowen crop is the best that has been
cut for several years. All seeding in this locality is done in corn, and
it is looking well. There is a light yield of potatoes, but they are of
good size and quality. Onions are not half a crop. Root crops, celery
and other late market-garden crops are not grown. There are very
few apples; pears a fair crop; grapes plenty.

Whately (Frank Dickinson). — Indian corn is a good crop, but is
late. Rowen is late and short; fall feed good. Owing to dry weather,
fall seeding is late, but it is now coming on fast. Onions are below
the average in yield. Potatoes are below the normal in yield, with
quite a little rot. The prospect is fair for root crops, celery and other
late market-garden crops. Apples are not over half a crop.

Sunderland (Geo. P. Smith). — The corn crop is one of the best,
normal or better. Rowen and fall feed are better than average, local
rains having kept them fresh. The usual amount of fall seeding has
been done, and it is in fair condition, being below the normal on dry
fields. There is 60 per cent of a normal crop of onions; they run
small in size, with the market dull. Not many potatoes have been
harvested, but they are apparently a fair crop. Root crops, celery and
other late market-garden crops are not much grown.

Montague (A. M. Lyman). — Indian corn compares well with a
normal crop. Rowen is better than usual, but fall feed is a Uttle short.
The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is showing
well. There will be a yield of 300 bushels of onions to the acre, as
compared with 500 bushels last year, which was an average year.
There will be a fair yield of potatoes. The prospect is very good for
root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples are
hardly more than a quarter crop; other fruits fair; grapes are an
excellent crop; melons have done well.

New Salem (Daniel Ballard). — Indian corn is a normal crop,
well ripened. There is a fine crop of rowen, and fall feed is fully average.
About the usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is looking
well. Onions are not much raised in this section. Potatoes appear
to be a fair yield of good quality. Root crops look well, and there
is not much celery raised. There will be a fair yield of apples on high
land ; pears and grapes abundant ; no peaches ; but few cranberries.

Orange (A. C. White) . — Corn is a good crop, well eared and matured.

15

Roweii and fall feed are up to the usual average, ^'ery little fall seed-
ing has been done, and it has been so dry that it has not germinated.
Yield of potatoes very good, but they are rotting very badly. There
will be a very light crop of fruit of all kinds.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

Ware (J. H. Fletcher). — Indian corn is a very good crop. Rowen
is more than an average crop, and fall feed is good. More than the
usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is looking well at
present. Onions are not much grown. Potatoes are about average
in yield and quality. The prospect is very good for root crops, celery
and other late market-garden crops. Apples are not as plenty as some
years ; peaches about 60 per cent ; wild grapes a good yield ; not many
cranberries.

Prescott (W. F. Wendermuth). — The corn crop is fully up to the
average. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition.
Onions are not grown for market. Potatoes are very uneven, some
fields good, others verj'- poor, and with considerable rot; probably not
over three-fourths of a full crop. Root crops, celery and late market-
garden crops are not grown for market; root crops for stock feeding
fairly good. Apples 60 per cent of a full crop; pears 100 per cent;
peaches a failure; grapes 90 per cent; cranberries not grown.

Enfield (D. O. Chickering). — Indian corn is better than usual.
Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. But few onions are
grown in this section. The yield of potatoes is light, and the quality
good. Root crops, celery and late market-garden crops are not raised
for market, but are good yields so far as noted. Very few winter
apples; pears, peaches and grapes abundant.

Amherst (Wm. P. Brooks). — The corn crop is rather above the
average. Rowen and fall feed are much above the average. Fall seed-
ing has mostly been done in corn; the average amount has been done,
and it has started well. Onions are rather uneven; there are a few
good crops, but many fields have suffered from lilight; on the whole,
there is about an average crop. Potatoes are rather above the average
both in jdeld and quality. Root crops are but little grown, but are
good yields; celery badly rusted on some fields, and not as good as
usual. Apples are very uneven, but a fair crop; pears little grown,
but a good crop ; peaches good ; grapes show poor foliage, and are not
ripening well; no cranberries grown.

Hatfield (Thaddeus Graves). — Indian corn is a fine crop, 20 per
cent above the average. Rowen and fall feed are rather better than
usual. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in
good condition. Onions are about 60 per cent of a normal crop. Pota-
toes show a small yield, but are of good quahty. The prospect for

16

root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops is at present
promising. There is about a third of a crop of fruit. Tobacco was a
fine crop, and has cured well.

Northampton (H. C. Comins). — The corn crop is above the average.
The rowen crop is very heavy, and fall feed fair. About the usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is looking well. The
onion crop is not up to the standard, not more than a three-fourths
crop. There is a fair yield of potatoes, of good quality. There is a
promise of good crops of all vegetables. There is a small crop of apples ;
pears and grapes good crops. All crops have been fairly good, and
many excellent.

Westhampton (H. A. Parsons). — Indian corn is a good crop. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. About the usual amount of
fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition. Onions are
not raised here. Potatoes are a good crop in yield and quality. The
prospect is good for root crops, celery and other late market-garden
crops. Apples are half a crop ; pears a good crop ; no peaches ; grapes
a two-thirds crop.

Chesterfield (Horatio Bisbee). — Corn is a very fine crop. Rowen
and fall feed are up to if not above the usual average. About the
usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it has not started
well. There is not a very large crop of potatoes, and the tubers are
small in size. The apple crop is very small; pears and grapes are
good. There has been no frost to injure vegetation as yet.

Cummington (S. W. Clark). — Indian corn is somewhat above a
normal crop. Rowen and fall feed are above the usual average. But
little fall seeding has been done. Only one man raises onions, and he
had a fair crop. The yield of potatoes is light, with some loss from
rot, but the quality is otherwise fair. The prospect is very good for
root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples half a
crop, or less; other fruit normal.

HAMPDEN COUNTY.

Tolland (Eugene M. Moore), — Indian corn is more than an average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are about the usual average. Potatoes are
of good quality, and about three-fourths of an average crop in yield.
Apples have dropped somewhat; pears, grapes and cranberries have
turned out good crops.

Blandjord (Enos W. Boise). — The warm weather has brought for-
ward corn to the extent that it will be 10 per cent above the normal.
Rowen and fall feed are extra good. No fall seeding has been done,
on account of dry, warm weather. Onions are not raised as a market
crop. Potatoes are not up to the normal in yield, but are of good
quality. Root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops promise
about normal yields. Apples are fully 80 per cent of a normal crop,

17

fair and coloring well; pears have been a full crop; other fruits not
raised to any amount.

Granville (Joseph Welch). — Corn is a very good crop, the best in
several years. Rowen is very good; fall feed suffered on account of
the dry weather. Very little fall seeding has been done. Potatoes
are about half a crop, and of small size. There will be about half a
crop of apples; pears a large crop; cranberries a good yield where
grown.

Agaicam (J. G. Burt). — Indian corn is better than a normal crop.
The rowen crop and fall feed are better than usual. About the usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and the condition is good. The
onion crop is a little better than usual. Potatoes are a good yield,
of fine quality. The prospect for root crops is fine. Apples are a light
crop; other fruits good. Tobacco growers are taking down the crop,
and it is in fine condition.

West Springfield (T. A. Rogers). — The corn crop shows the largest
acreage on record, and is fully up to the normal in quantity. Rowen
and fall feed are fully up to the usual average. The usual amount of
fall seeding has been done, and it is looking well. Onions have suf-
fered quite a little from blight, and there is hardly a normal crop.
Potatoes are rather below the normal in yield, but of good quality.
Hardly as many root crops as usual have been planted; celery is look-
ing rather poorly. Apples 60 per cent of a full crop ; pears a full crop ;
peaches good ; grapes short.

East Longmeadow (John L. Davis). — The corn crop is a bumper
one. Early mowed meadows show good rowen ; pastures are dry. The
weather has been too dry to put in fall seeding, and it is therefore
backward. Onions are not raised. Quality for potatoes good, except
for scab ; yield about 75 per cent of a full crop. The prospect for root
crops, celery and other late market-garden crops is poor; turnips and
cabbages almost a failure. Apples are half a crop; peaches a three-
fourths crop; grapes plenty; no cranberries raised for market.

Wilhruham (H. M. liuss). — Indian corn is a full crop. Rowen
and fall feed are nearly up to the usual average. The usual amount of
fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition. Onions are 85
per cent of a normal crop. Potatoes are but half a yield, of fair quality.
The prospect for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops
is fairly good. Apples half a crop; pears 8.5 per cent; peaches 90 per
cent; grapes 95 per cent; cranberries 70 per cent.

Ludlow (Chas. B. Bennett). — Indian corn is more than an average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. Very -little
fall seeding has been done, owing to dry weather. Potatoes are not
half an average crop. The prospect is very good for root crops, celery
and other late market-garden crops. Very few apples; pears plenty,
also grapes ; very few peaches.

Brirnficld (C. S. Tarbem>). — Corn is (luite up to or above the average.

18

We seldom see rowen and fall feed so good. Fall seeding has been held
back by the dry weather, especially on dry soil. The yield of potatoes
is rather a disappointment; early potatoes very light. The prospect
is good for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops.
Apples fair; pears good; peaches Mght; grapes good.

Holland (Francis Wight). — Indian corn is up to an average with
the yields of other years. Rowen and fall feed are up to a full average.
The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it has been too
dry for it to develop well. Potatoes are below the normal crop in
yield and quality. There is a light crop of apples, peaches, grapes
and cranberries.

WORCESTER COUNTY.

Dudley (J. J. Gilles). — The crop of Indian corn is fully equal to
a normal crop. Rowen and fall feed are somewhat above the usual
average. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in
fine condition. Onions are raised only in a small way. Potatoes are
light in yield, and hardly fair in cjuality. The prospect is good for root
crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. The apple crop is
very uneven, some orchards showing full yields, and others scarcely
any ; • grapes and cranberries have turned out well.

Brookjield (Frank E. Prouty). — Indian corn is a good crop. Rowen
is good; fall feed was getting dry, but the rain Sunday imj^roved it.
The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it is not up to the
average in condition. But few onions are raised here. Potatoes are
a good crop in yield and quality. The prospect is good for root crops,
celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples are about half a
crop; pears good; but few peaches raised, but a good yield; grapes
about average.

West Brookjield (Myron A. Richardson). — Corn is a fine crop, a
heavy growth of stover and well eared. Rowen and fall feed are extra
in quality and quantity. The usual amount of fall seeding has been
done, and thus far it is looking finely. Potatoes are not a normal crop,
but are of good quahty, with no rot. The apple crop will be below
the average, on account of late spring frosts, and good apples are scarce
and high.

North Brookficld (J. H. Lane). — The corn crop is fine as regards
grain, but the stover is badly rusted. Rowen and fall feed are above
the usual average. Very little seeding is done in the fall in this lo-
cality. Potatoes are a good crop in quantity and quality, with very
little rot. Apples 20 per cent of a full crop; pears 40 per cent; no
peaches ; grapes SO per cent ; cranberries 5 per cent.

Oakham (Jesse Allen). — Indian corn is an excellent crop. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual amount of fall
seeding has been done, and it looks well. Potatoes are not more than
two-thirds of a crop, of fair quality. Root crops, celery and late

19

market-garden crops are little raised. There is a very light yield of
all fruits.

Dana (Lym.\n R.\ndall). — Corn is fully an average crop. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. Very little fall seeding has
been done, but that which has been put in looks well. The potato crop
is light, not more than half a crop. Onions are not raised here. Root
crops promise very well; celery a fair crop; cabbages poor. Apj^les,
pears and peaches are very light crops; grapes and cranberries fair.

Petersham (B. W. Spooner). — Indian corn compares very favorably
with a normal crop, and is being harvested earlier than usual. More
rowen has been cut than for years. Very little fall seeding has been
done as yet, but it will be put in later. Onions are only raised for
family use. There is about half a crop of potatoes, of good quality.
All garden crops have done well. Apples, pears and grapes are normal
crops; very few peaches.

Royalston (C. A. Stimson). — There is a full crop of Indian corn.
Rowen and fall feed are not up to the usual average. The usual amount
of fall seeding has been done, but it has suffered from drought. There
is a full crop of potatoes, but they are rotting somewhat. The prospect
for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops is good.
There will be a short crop of all kinds of fruit.

Phillipston (A. D. Clifford). — Indian corn is about an average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are above the usual average. Not much
fall seeding has been done in this section. No onions are raised here.
Potatoes are below the average in yield, but of good quality. Root
crops have done well. Pears and grapes are average crops; very few
apples; no peaches.

Templcton (Lucien Gove). — Corn shows a good rank growth of
stover, but some fields have been slightly injured by frost. Rowen is
a hea^•y crf)p where the first croj) was cut early, and fall feed is better
than the average. Less than the usual amount of fall seeding has been
done, and it is in only fair condition. Potatoes are below the normal
in yield, but of good quality. The ])rospect for root crojw is good;
celery is not raisefl to any extent. •Api)les are a very poor crop; pears
good; no peaches; grapes good.

Fitchburg (Jabez Fisher). — Rowen is a light crop, except follow-
ing early cut hay; fall feed very short, from want of rain. The yield
of potatoes is ratlier small, and their (juality only fair. Apples and
pears have done unusually well; ])eaches less so; grapes only fair, with
considerable rot and mildew. lYuits are c|uite variable in size of crop,
but are mostly of good size and color, and unusually free from blemishes.

Princeio7i (A. O. Tvleu). — Indian corn is rather better than a nor-
mal crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. Th(> usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition. Pota-
toes are about an average crop in both (luantity and (juality. The
prospect is gf)od for root crops, celery and other late market-garden

20

crops. Apples are plenty on high land; no peaches; pears plenty;
grapes normal; no cranberries.

Sterling (Henry S. Sawyer). — Indian corn is much less than a nor-
mal crop. Rowcn and fall feed are above the usual average. The usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition. Very
few onions are raised. Potatoes are less than a normal crop, and are
of poor quality. Root crops are looking well, and there is the prospect
of a good crop. There are good yields of apples, pears and grapes; very
short crops of peaches, plums and cranberries.

Shrewsbury (Fred J. Reed). — The crop of Indian corn is about a
normal one. Rowen is above the average, and fall feed about average.
The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in fair condi-
tion. Onions are a little below a normal crop. Potatoes are a light
crop, and are rotting badly. The prospect is very good for root crops,
celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples and peaches are
very short crops; pears and grapes not up to the normal.

Worcester (H. R. Kinney). — Indian corn has done better than the
average of late years. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average.
The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it has been dam-
aged somewhat by the hot, dry weather. There is a fair crop of onions,
of good quality. Potatoes are a hght crop, of poor quality. Celery is
doing well; parsnips and carrots blighted. Apples are a good crop;
pears fair; peaches and plums poor. The recent dry spell damaged
cauliflower and celery on dry land.

Leicester (H. H. Kingsbury). — Favorable weather conditions have
developed a fine crop of corn. There is a large crop of rowen on early
cut fields ; pasturage has been shortened by hot, dry weather. No fall
seeding has been done as yet. Onions are not raised. There is a small
crop of potatoes, of very good quality. The weather at present appears
to favor the thrifty growth of all root croj^s which are not matured.
Apples are about 75 per cent of a full crop ; pears 80 per cent ; grapes
25* per cent; no peaches nor cranberries.

Mendon (J. J. Nutter). — Not much Indian corn is raised in this
vicinity, but it is looking well. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual
average. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is
looking well since the rain. Onions are not much grown. There is a
light crop of potatoes, with a smaller acreage than usual. The prospect
is good for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. There
is a small crop of apples, but good yields of peaches, pears and grapes.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Hopkinton (W. V. Thompson). — Corn has eared better than usual,
but the fodder is not quite as heavy as ordinarily. The rowen crop is
above the average, but fall feed is light. The usual amount of fall
seeding has been done, but dry weather has kept it a little backward.
Potatoes are about a normal crop; tubers a little smaller than usual,

21

but of good quality. Root crops are little raised; turnips look well.
Apples medium crop and good quality, with size above average ; pears
poor; peaches good quality, but not a heavy crop; grapes a good crop,
but with some blight.

Framingham (J. S. Williams). — There is a normal crop of Indian
corn. Rowen made a heavy growth, but the dry weather injured fall
feed. The usual acreage has been seeded, and it is looking as well as
could be expected, with weather conditions as they have been. Onions
blighted somewhat. The jiotato crop is 80 per cent of a normal crop.
All kinds of roots are very good, as a rule; celery has made good growth
and promises well. Apples turned out better than was expected; good
crops of peaches and grapes; pears not as good quality as usual.

Marlborough (E. D. Howe). — Indian corn is 90 per cent of a full
crop. Rowen and fall feed are better than usual. Not much fall seeding
has been done, because of dry weather. The onion crop is three-fourths
of a normal crop. Potatoes are 75 per cent in peld and quality, and are
rotting badly. Celery is rusting badly. Apples 60 per cent; pears 50
per cent ; peaches 25 per cent ; grapes 75 per cent.

Stow (Geo. W. Bradley). — Corn will average better than for some
years. Rowen is a good crop, but fall feed has suffered from drought.
On low ground fall seeding looks well, but not on high ground. Some
fields of potatoes are yielding well, and are of good quality. Root crops,
celery and late market-garden crops are not raised. Apples and pears
are very good crops.

Maynard (L. H. Maynard). — Indian corn is above the average in
yield and quality. The rowen crop is extra good on early cut fields.
About the average amount of fall seeding has been done, but it is some-
what backward, owing to nearly a month of dry weather. The onion
crop is above the average in this locality. Potatoes promise a good
crop, with quality excellent. Root crops are about average ; celery and
late market-garden crops will be above normal. Fruit of all kinds is
about an average crop; apples are a little earlier than usual, and of
extra good quality, yield much larger than expected, and selling well.

Littleton (Geo. W. Sanderson). -^Corn is mostly raised for the silo.
Rowen and fall feed are above the usual average. Fall seeding is
backward. But very few onions are raised as a market crop. Pota-
toes compare favorably with the normal in yield and ({uality. The
outlook is good for root crops, celery and other late market-garden
crops. Apples are a fair average crop in most localities; pears very
good; grapes and cranberries not average.

Townsend (G. A. Wilder). — There is a normal crop of Indian -corn.
Rowen antl fall feed are not up to the usual average, owing to ilry
weather. About the usual amount of fall seeding has been done. There
is a normal crop of onions. Potatoes are not up to the average in
yield, and are only fair in quality. The jirospect is good for root crops,
celery and other late market-garden crops. Ajjples are a full crop

22

in some sections, but as a whole below average in yield ; other fruits
about average.

Pepperell (W. F. Dennen). — The corn crop is light about here.
Rowen was shortened by dry weather. A good deal of fall seeding is
being done, but people are late about it. No onions are raised here.
Potatoes are about normal in yield, and of good quality. Root crops,
celery and other late market-garden crops are not raised for market.
There will be but few apples; other fruits not raised for market.

Dunstable (A. J. Gilson). — Indian corn is about a normal crop.
The rowen crop is above the normal, but fall feed has dried up badly.
The usual amount of fall seeding has not been done, but some of that
seeded early on low land is looking finely. The onion crop is below
the normal. Potatoes are about a normal crop, and of good quality.
Root crops are only raised for home use, but promise well. There
will be light yields of all kinds of fruit.

Concord (Wm. H. Hunt). — There is a good corn crop. There is a
good crop of rowen, and fall feed looks well. About the usual amount
of fall seeding has been done, and it is in fair condition. Potatoes
are of good quality, but not quite up to the normal in yield. Root
crops, celery and other late market-garden crops are looking well.
Apples will not be quite a full crop; pears good; other fruits fair.

Wakefield (Charles Talbot). — Indian corn is about an average
crop, as compared with former years. Rowen and fall feed are very
good. There has not been much fall seeding done this year. Onions
are fully up to the standard in quantity and (juality. Potatoes are a
much hea\'ier yield than in any former year. The prospect is good for
root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops, although lack
of rain has hurt them somewhat. No peaches; apples light; all other
fruits large yields; cranberries an immense yield.

Stoneham (J. E. Wiley). — Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual
average. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it is
backward, on account of dry weather. Potatoes are a good average
crop in yield and quality. Apples poor ; pears fair ; grapes fine ; cran-
berries poor.

Arlington (W. W. Rawson). — Onions are not a normal crop.
Potatoes are not up to the normal in yield and quality. The prospect
is very poor for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops.
The season has been a very peculiar one, and unless we have heavy
rains soon, all fall crops will be very light.

TFcs/on (Henry L. Brown). — There is a good crop of corn, well
ripened. Rowen is up to the usual average, but owing to dry weather,
feed is now short. Some fall seeding has been done, but it has been
so dry that it could not come up except on moist land. The yield of
potatoes is light, but they are of good quality. In some places root
crops are looking well, while in others they are small, owing to dry
weather. There is a light apple crop ; pears about normal; some good
peaches; not many grapes grown here, and no cranberries.

23

ESSEX COUNTY.

Salisbury (Wesley Pettengill). — There is more than a normal
crop of Indian corn, and it is extra large. There is perhaps less than
the usual average of fall feed, on account of drought. Not much fall
seeding has been done this season, and it is not looking well, on account
of dry weather. There is a good normal yield of potatoes, with no rot.
Root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops are about
average with other years. Apples very light; pears fair; peaches
good; grapes good; cranberries good; plums poor. On the whole,
rowen is a good average crop, heavy on early cut fields and light on
late.

Haverhill (Eben Websteu) . — The corn crop is fully up to the
normal. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. Less than
the usual amount of fall seeding has been done, owing to drought.
Onions are a good normal crop. Potatoes are good in both yield and
quaUty. Root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops are
looking well. Apples and pears are about normal crops; peaches light;
grapes fair.

Andover (Mild H. Gould). — Indian corn compares favorably with
the normal. Rowen and fall feed are above the average. Not as much
fall seeding has been done as usual, and the dry weather has hurt that
which was done. Onions are below the average, and are rotting some-
what. Potatoes are a good crop and of good quality. Celery is a poor
crop, on account of blight; other late market-garden crops promise
well. Apples are an average crop ; pears plenty ; peaches good ; grapes
good; cranberries below average.

Newbury (George W. Adams). — There is a good average crop of
corn. Rowen and fall feed are at least 10 per cent above the usual
average. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it is
backward. Onions are three-fourths of a normal crop. Potatoes are
a good crop in both yield and quality. Root crops, celery and other
late market-garden crops have suffered too severely from drought to
recover fully. There are very few apples; pears abundant and poor;
peaches 60 per cent of a full crop; grapes a failure; cranberries below
average.

Rowley (D. H. O'Brien). — Indian corn compares favorably with
a normal crop. Rowen and fall feed are al)()ve the average. The usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is in satisfactory condi-
tion. Onions are below an average crop. Potatoes have yielded fairly
well, and are of normal quality. The prospect for root crops is good;
celery poor. Apples fair; pears, peaches and grapes good ; cranberries
poor. Strawberry beds are looking extra well.

Wetiham (N. P. Perkins). — Not much corn is grown except for
the silo. There is more rowen than last year, but not as much as was
expected. Less than the usual amount of fall seeding has been done,

24

and what there is has been slow in coming up. Here and there a field
of onions is fairly well matured, but many are blighted and dried down
small. Potatoes are a fine crop, but are little raised hereabouts. Beets,
carrots and parsnips are below the average; celery not much raised.
There is a fair crop of apples; few pears and peaches; no cranberries;
apples are small, and not highly colored. There is not a great crop of
squash. Tomatoes are plenty and cheap, but the late crop may do
better.

NORFOLK COUNTY.

Walpole (Edward L. Shepard). — Indian corn is above the normal.
Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. Less than the usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, owing to dry weather. Onions
are not much raised in this locality. Potatoes are of good quality, but
are rather light in yield. Root crops, celery and other late market-
garden crops are not up to the normal. Apples, pears, peaches, grapes
and cranberries are about half crojDS.

Franklin (C. M. Allen). — There is a full average crop of Lidian
corn. Rowen and fall feed are better than for years. The usual amount
of fall seeding has been done, and it looks well. Onions are not raised.
Potatoes are a very good crop, both in yield and quahty. The prospect
is that root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops vAM give
average yields. Apples are a good crop; pears poor; jDeaches and
grapes few; cranberries light.

Bellingham (John J. O'Sullivan). — Indian corn is a good average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are about the same as usual. The usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, but it is backward, owing to dry
weather. Onions are little raised, but so far as grown will give an aver-
age crop. Potatoes have made a small yield, but are of fair quality.
Root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops are very little
raised about here. Apples are a good crop ; other fruits poor.

BRISTOL COUNTY.

Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter). — There is about a normal crop of corn.
The rowen crop is about the same as usual in amount, but was secured
in good shape, helping to make up for the poor quality of the hay crop;
fall feed has suffered from drought. The weather has been too dry for
fall seeding. Potatoes are not generally harvested, but the yield and
quality is expected to be normal. Root crops, celery and other late
market-garden crops are looking well. Apples, peaches and grapes are
failures; pears fair; cranberries an average crop.

Attleborough (Isaac Alger). — Indian corn is a full average crop.
Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual amount
of fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition. Potatoes are
about an average crop in both yield and quality. The prospect is good
for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. There will
be no apples; cranberries are a fair crop.

25

Seekonk (John W. Peck). — Indian corn is a very good crop, but is
not much grown in this section. Rowen is fully up to the average, but
dry weather has made feed in pastures poor. Less than the usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, owing to drought. Onions are
generally a very good crop. Potatoes are a good crop in both quantity
and quality. Celery seems to have suffered from blight. Pears plenty;
apples, peaches and grapes not up to last year.

Sicansea (F. G. Arnold). — Corn is fully up to the average on dry
land, but is below on wet land. Rowen and fall feed have been unusu-
ally good until the dry weather of the present month. About the usual
amount of fall seeding has been done, but much of it has not germinated
as yet, owing to dry weather. Blight struck onions, and the crop is
light. Potatoes are above the normal in yield, and of very good
quality. The present prospect is for light crops of roots, celery and
other late market-garden crops, as we have had a very dry September.
Apples light ; pears and peaches fair ; grapes good ; cranberries not
grown.

Westport (Albert S. Sherman). — Indian corn is very good, better
than an average crop. Rowen is good, but fall feed has been pinched
by dry weather. Fall seeding has been done later than usual, and some
farmers have not yet finished. There is a fair crop of onions, about
normal. Potatoes are a fair yield, but are generally rather small.
Turnips and cabbages are backward, and will not be a large crop.
Apples are about half a crop; pears plenty; peaches scarce; grapes
abundant ; no cranberries grown here.

Dartmouth (L. T. Davis). — Corn is a little above a normal crop.
Rowen and fall feed are hardly up to the usual average. Not as much
fall seeding has been done as in some years, and it has been too dry for
its best progress. Onions are little raised. Potatoes are hardly up to
the normal in jaeld, but are of fair quality. The prospect is fairh' good
for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. What few
apples there were have fallen badly, so that there is a very poor crop ;
pears much the same. Some late planted forage crops have done very
well, and are still growing.

Acushnet (M. S. Douglas). — Indian corn is more than a normal
crop. The rowen crop and fall feed are up to the usual average. Less
than the usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is not prom-
ising. There is a fair crop of onions. Potatoes made a good yield, but
have rotted badly. There is a good prospect for root crops, celery and
other late market-garden crops. There are few apples; pears not up to
the average; few peaches and grapes ; cranberries big crop.

PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Norivell (Henry A. Turner). — Indian corn is a good crop. Rowen
has been plentiful, and of excellent quality. There is about half a crop
of onions, they having blighted liadly. Potatoes are a very good crop,

20

both in yield and quality. The prospect is good for root crops, celery
and other late market-garden crops. Few apples, pears and peaches;
native grapes abundant.

Hanover (Harrison L. House). — Corn is a full normal crop.
Rowen and fall feed are fully up to the normal. The usual amount
of fall seeding has been done, and it is in good condition. Onions are
not raised here. Potatoes are a short crop, but of good quahty. The
prospect is good for root crops, celery and other late market-garden
crops. Apples are scarce ; pears fair ; peaches very few ; grapes a fail-
ure; cranberries good.

Marshfield (John H. Bourne). — Indian corn is 10 per cent above
the normal. Rowen and fall feed are much above the usual average.
Not quite as much fall seeding has been done as usual, and it is a little
backward, owing to the four weeks of dry weather. Onions are not
quite as large as usual, but they have ripened off well. Early potatoes
have made a larger yield than usual, and are above average in quality.
The long dry spell checked the growth of root crops, celery and other
late market-garden crops, but they are now growing again. Apples are
less than an average crop, and variable, some trees loaded, and others
near by with none; pears a full average; few peaches; grapes abun-
dant; cranberries a fuller crop than last year.

Pembroke (Nathaniel Morton). — The corn crop is small in quan-
tity, and about medium in quality. Rowen is very good, and fall feed
about as usual. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and
it is in normal condition. Onions are a very good crop. Potatoes are
a very good crop in both yield and quality. The prospect is good for
root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples are
scarce ; pears abundant ; peaches none ; grapes abundant ; cranberries
an average crop.

West Bridgewater (Clinton T. Howard). — Corn is more than a
normal crop. Rowen and fall feed are better than an average crop.
More than the usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it has
made a good start. An average crop of onions is being harvested.
Potatoes are of good quality, and three-fourths of a normal crop in
yield. There is a light crop of roots, celery and other late market-
garden crops, perhaps a three-fourths yield. Fruits of all kinds will
give light yield, perhaps not over a fourth of the normal.

Kingston (George L. Churchill). — Indian corn is a very good
crop, better than usual. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual
average. Not much fall seeding has been done in this vicinity as yet.
Onions are not much raised. The potato crop is very fair so far as har-
vested. Root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops are
not much raised about here. There will be a good crop of cranberries
and a small crop of apples.

Carver (J. A. Vaughan). — Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual
average. The usual amount of fall seeding has been done, and it is

27

in good condition. Xo onions are raised here. Potatoes are a small
yield, of good quality. The prospect is good for root crops, celery
and other late market-garden crops. But few apples will be harvested,
and no peaches. About two-thirds of the cranberry crop has been
gathered, and an average crop of berries of the best quality is assured.

Lakevilk (Nathaniel G. Staples). — Indian corn is not more than
an average crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average.
About the usual amount of fall seeding has been done, but it does not
look very well as yet, owing to dry weather. Onions are not up to
the normal. There will not be more than three-fourths of a normal
crop of potatoes, but they are of good c[uality. Early sown turnips
were hurt by drought, late sown better; other root crops fair. There
is about an average crop of fruit of all kinds.

Rochester (Geo. H. R.\ndall). — Corn is better than an average
crop. Early mown meadows had a large crop of rowen, while late mown
ones gave a small crop. About the usual amount of fall seeding has
been done, and it is looking finely. There is the smallest crop of onions
for many years. Potatoes are about half a crop, but of good quahty.
The prospect is generally good for root crops, celery and other late
market-garden crops, though not much celery is grown. Apples are
half a crop ; pears and peaches good ; grapes light ; cranberries good ;
no frost as yet.

BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

Bourne (David D. Nye). — Indian corn compares favorably with a
normal crop. Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. Very
little fall seeding, if any, has been done. Scarcely any onions are
grown here. Potatoes have made a very good yield, and are of fine
(juality. Very few root crops or late market-garden crops are grown.
Apples poor; pears cracking badly ; peaches scarce ; few grapes; cran-
berries about average.

Falmouth (D. R. Wicks). — Indian corn and sweet corn are fully
up to the normal. Rowen and fall feed are above the usual average.
Not much fall seeding has been done this fall. Onions have blighted
very badh^ on most fields. Potatoes compare well with the a\Trage in
yield and quality, but show some rot. Root crops are doing fairly
well, especially turnips. Apples are plenty on most orchards; pears
poor; peaches few; grapes good; cranberries plenty.

Ma.shpee (W. F. Hammond). — The croji of Indian corn is above the
average. The rowen crop and fall feed are about average. There has
been the usual amount of fall seeding done, and it looks well. The
onion crop is below the average. Potatoes are below the average in
yield and (juality. All root crops are about average. Apples, pears,
l)eaches, gra{)es and cranberries are about half crops.

Barnstable (John Buksley). — Indian corn is S,') per cent of a normal
crop, Rowen and fall feed are up to the usual average. The usual

28

amount of fall seeding has been done, and that sown early looks very
poorly; recent seeding may do a little better, as rain has just fallen.
There is a very good crop of onions. Potatoes are a three-fourths
crop in yield, but of good quality. Cape turnips suffered for want of
rain, but the showers of the 22d may help out somewhat. Apples
light; pears, peaches, grapes and cranberries very good. Probably
three-fourths of the cranberry crop has been harvested without any
frost ; crop very large in this locality.

Denjiis (Joshua Crowell). — Corn is fully up to the usual average.
Rowen and fall feed are not up to the usual average. Very little fall
seeding has been done. Onions are below a normal crop. Potatoes
compare favorably with the normal in both yield and quaUty. The
prospect is fair for root crops, celery and other late market-garden
crops. Apples are half a crop; cranberries about average.

Harwich (Ambrose N. Doane). — Indian corn is a very good crop.
The dry weather damaged rowen and fall feed very much. Very little
fall seeding is done here. Onions are a fair crop. Potatoes are of
good size but make a small yield. The prospect is about average for
root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples fair;
pears, peaches and grapes poor; cranberries fair.

Eastham (J. A. Clark). — Indian corn is an average crop. Rowen
and fall feed are below the usual average, owing to drought. Less
than the usual amount of fall seeding has been done, as the ground
has been too dry. Potatoes are a very good crop. The prospect for
root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops has improved
since the rain. Apples and cranberries average.

DUKES COUNTY.

West Tisbury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — Indian corn is an average crop.
Rowen and fall feed are below the usual average. Very Uttle fall
seeding is done here. Onions are less than an average crop. Potatoes
are of good quaUty, but below average in yield. The prospect is good
for root crops, celery and other late market-garden crops. Apples,
pears and grapes are below the average in yield.

29

BULLETIN OF

Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.

CRANBERRY CULTURE.

By LUCIAN J. FOSDICK, Author " French Blood in America.

The cultivation of cranberries began during the nineteenth century,
becoming an extensive industry in New England, New Jersey and
Wisconsin during the last thirty years; and it has become the leading
industry on Cape Cod, the soil there being particularly adapted to
their growth.

Few people appreciate, while enjoying their Thanksgiving dinner,
how much time, labor and money were spent in obtaining that small
but important part of the feast, — the cranberry sauce.

Until of recent date cranberries were considered a luxury, but to-day
they have become a staple necessity, and there is an ever- widening
market for them.

The berry derived its name from the appearance of the flower, be-
cause, just before expanding into the perfect flower, the stem, calyx and
petals resemble the neck, head and bill of the crane. Hence the name,
" craneberrj'-," which usage has shortened into the familiar " cranberry."
The sub-family name, Oxycoccus, is derived from Oxus, — sharp, or
acid, and Kokkus, — a berry.

Cranberries have been known to northern Europe for centuries, and
are grown in Russia, Sweden and Great Britain. The berry is a native
of Russia, Siberia, South America and North America. Its normal
latitude for cultivation is .39° to 42° north.

The cranberry known as the " Large American Cranberry " is suj)erior
to any known varieties, and is highly cultivated in New England, New
York, New Jersey, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Pacific
coast States.

Cranberries were first cultivated on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, nearly
a century ago; and of late years the harvested crop has netted the

30

growers of the Commonwealth tVom one million to one and a half
million dollars per annum.

According to statistics, cranberry culture occupies about 20,000
acres in the United States. The chief districts are located in Massa-
chusetts, New Jersey and Wisconsin, but the northwest coast line of
Oregon and Washington promises to become a great field for this
agricultural industry.

There is a constantly increasing market for this fruit in the United
States, and, without doubt, in the near future cranberries will be
exported in larger ciuantities. The acidity of the fruit is especially
healthful, jjarticularly for people living in warm climates.

Land. — The land upon which the cranberry is cultivated is reclaimed
swamps and bogs, which have formerly been considered of but little
value. The right kind of soil is low, moist land, suitably drained, con-
sisting of peat, muck and mould, or decayed vegetation, classified as
alluvial deposit. Clay soil is unfit for the cranberry, and loam will
grow weeds too readily. Brown or brush bog is best, because less labor
is required to bring it to a state of cultivation, and this kind of bog
land is usually free from grass roots. If wooded swamp land is used,
trees should be cut at the roots, to tip out the stumps in felling, which
can be burned or removed from the bog. Boulders will do no harm
on a cranberry bog, but they take up room.

We prefer a bog open to the sunshine and winds, to one surrounded
by high banks, as it is less liable to sun-scald and frost.

Sand. — Clear, sharp sand or gravel, free from clay or loam, is re-
quired, with which to cover the bog before setting \'ines.

Turfing. — After the removal of brush and trees, the surface of the
bog should be turfed by cutting, with a turf axe, into pieces 12 by 18
inches, and then with a pulling hook the turf should be turned upside
down. If there are bunches or tussocks they should be removed from
the bog, also all coarse roots of trees and brush; but the turf should
not be taken ofT, as it is the best feeder of the cranberry vine, being
superior to muck, for it is not so cold and wet, and is more spongy.
The turf should be cut with a turf hoe after it has been turned over,
and the high places should be levelled.

Drainage. — Good drainage must be obtained, else during the grow-
ing season the berries will rot and sun-scald badly. To obtain good
drainage, the bog should be ditched in sections adapted to its size and
shape, six to twelve sections to the acre being the average. A shore
ditch should be cut entirely around the bog. This is needed for two
reasons: first, to cut of! any underground water courses; and, second,
to prevent upland growth encroaching on the bog. If the bog is suffi-
ciently wide, a central ditch for the flow of water is desirable. The
central ditch should be 4 feet wide, and of sufficient depth to carry the
water from 12 to 18 inches below the surface of the bog. The shore and
cross ditches should be cut 3 feet wide, and of sufficient depth to give

31

proper drainage. After ditching, the sections should be graded and
sHghtly crowned at the centre, and the material thrown out in ditching
may be used to fill up holes, and to make the i)roper levels.

Water. — A good water supply is es.sential to the successful cultiva-
tion of the cranberry. The supply may be obtained from a pond,
reservoir or running brook, but must be under full control at all seasons
of the year.

Stop-ivaters. — Stop-waters, or gates, in the brook and ditches will
enable the grower to keep the water at the desired level, which should
be varied according to the time and season. Early in the season 4 to 8
inches from the lev^el of the bog, and later 10 to 15 inches, is a good
average.

Sanding. — The next process in the preparation of a cranberry
meadow is to cover the sections with clear, sharp sand or gravel, to
the depth of 3 to 6 inches, 6 inches being none too much on the portions
of the bog that are inclined to be soft and wet. The sand or gravel
must be free from clay or loam. Sand will make a cold bog warm, and
it will retain water while the surface is dry. It also retains the heat of
the sun, causing the bog to be less liable to be affected by frosts and
sun-scald than bogs not sanded. Sand also retards the growth of
weeds, and affords the cranberry vine a better opportunity for growing.

When selecting bog lands to build into cranberry meadow, don't
purchase when it is covered with snow or under water, unless you are
familiar with the tract. Know the nature and condition of the land,
and see that no one has a right of water flowage above or below your
bog.

Vine Setting. — We are now ready to set out our cranberry vines.
Care should be taken in the selection of varieties, there being over two
hundred known varieties at the present time, all of which have not
been cultivated sufficiently long to warrant their selection to any large
extent, ^'ines which yiekl large crops of good-sized berries, of uniform
dark color, are the ones to cultivate.

The "Early Black" is probably the most extensivcl}' cultivated. It
is pear-shaped, a prolific cropper, will keep well if picked before too
ripe, and will color well after picking.

The "McFarlin" is a native of Carver, Mass., a round, large berry,
ripening medium early, coloring uniformly. It is a good cropper, and
a good keeper when picked at the proper time.

The "Centerville" is a handsome, long berry, takes a high color,
crops well, and can be harvested late. These three varieties, ripening
successively, can be handled readily at harvest time.

Marked Varieties. — The marked varieties are distinguished in shape
as pear, pointed, bugle, oval and round. Berries vary in the time of
ripening, also in keeping qualities. Some berries will color well after
they are i)icke(l, while others will not change from white to red unless
left upon the vines to ripen. The cranberry is first green, then white,

32

then it turns to pink, then red ; and some varieties, when ripe, are so
dark a red as to be almost black.

Vines should be set out evenly, to produce an even and regular
growth; and, to accomplish this, a marker is used, made like a rake
with five or more teeth, set 12 to 18 inches apart. This is dragged at
right angles across the sanded bog. No care is needed to set the vines
right side up; they will grow as readily one way as the other. Two
inches above the sand is sufficient. More than three vines in a hill are
liable to heat; and if they all thrive, the vines are too thick in the hills
where over three are set. Hills should be 12 to 18 inches apart. Where
the lines cross each other those that were made by the marker will
indicate where to set the vines. The dibble is used in setting, to press
the vines down through the sand into the soil beneath, leaving the
vines just above the surface. Vines which do well will bear the second
year, the third year a good crop may be expected, and the fourth year
a full crop. With proper cultivation, they will do well for many years.

Cultivation. — Thorough weeding the first three or four years will
assure a fairly clean bog. Brakes, ferns and rushes will grow readily
in ditches and on the diich banks, and should be dug out by the roots.
If this part of the cultivation is neglected, they will grow so rank as to
prevent the vines from bearing, and what few berries there may be on
the ditch banks will be soft or green at harvesting. When the meadow
is in bearing condition, all weeds should be removed by the time the
vines are in bloom. On Cape Cod the blooming season is usually from
June 10 to 25, unless winter flowage is continued late.

Walking over the meadow, after the berries have set, will destroy
more or less of the fruit, and the weeding from this time to harvesting
should be discontinued, removing only such weeds as may be reached
by walking in the ditches.

Irrigation, — This is very essential to the successful cultivation of
the cranberry. Too much or too little water are both difficulties to be
avoided; or, in other words, water must be under control of the cran-
berry grower. The vine roots should be well fed with water up to the
blooming period, but when the berries are formed the water should be
kept lower.

Cranberry vines are fond of running water, and if the water supply
is limited, the brook and ditches may be flushed out during a rain.
Gravitation is the cheapest method of irrigating with water. But
sometimes the pond is lower than the bog. In these cases a steam
pump or windmill will overcome the difficulty.

Dikes. — In laying out cranberry meadows, in many instances it is
necessary to build dikes. In case a meadow or bog is long, it might be
economy to build a roadway dike across it, thus saving time and labor^
and also by the same means reducing the depth of water to be carried
at the time of flowing. This will be the case if the meadow has much
of a fall. Providing the meadow is long, and has a fall of 5 feet, to

33

cover properly the highest point of the bog, 7 feet of water will be
required at the lower dike, so that this lower dike will need to be 9 feet
high. By building one or more midway dikes, the volume of water may
be reduced very materially, which is desirable for ([uick flowage and
rapid drainage.

If dikes are to be built, they should ha\e a broad base, below the
center of which a 3-foot trench should be dug to hardpan. This
trench runs lengthwise of the dike, and is filled with sand or gravel.
The width at the bottom of the dike depends upon the depth of water
to be carried in the pond or on the meadow at the time of flowage.

When the dike is to be used as a drive or roadway, the height will
determine its width at the top. A dike 4 feet high, when constructed
for this purpose, should be 14 feet wide at the top, and at least IS feet
wide at the base. No heavy team should be allowed to drive over it
for at least six months after it is built, and then the wagon should have
wide tires.

A dike should be built amply strong to withstand the pressure of
water which it is intended to carry; and, if it is to be a reservoir dike,
sand should be dumped ofT its bank on the reservoir or water side, to
completely cover the turf. This sand covering will keep muskrats
from burrowing into the dike, as the sand fills in wherever they try to
burrow. The reservoir dike should be built at least 2 feet higher than
high-water mark, for strong winds will cause the water to wash and
slap against it. The outlet must be ample to admit of overflow in case
of heavy rains and melting snow. Pulhng plank should be set at the
reservoir flume at the height water is to be carried.

The outside of all dikes should be built up with turf cut 12 by 18
inches, and some 12 by 24 for binders. All turf should be laid longest
way crosswise on the dike, and all seams lapped, after the manner of lay-
ing bricks.

If the water is 6 feet deep at the flume, the dike should l)e not less
than 8 feet high, 18 feet wide at the base, and narrowed to 10 feet at the
top. This will allow 4 feet for the sloping of each side, which is none too
much, even when good, tough turf is used for its banks.

When a dike crosses a meadow, no ditch should be dug nearer than
10 feet to its sides, else the great weight of the dike will crowd, and fill
up the ditch, causing the dike itself to slump and cave. A crushed
down dike is an eyesore, and little better than no dike for holding back
water. If the dike crosses soft land, such as muck or mud, it should
be spiled to hardi)an lengthwise, in addition to the center filled trench.
A thoroughly built dike will pay in tiie long run.

The flume through the dike must be carefully and strongly built.
Some are built with stone, others with plank; but we prefer the Port-
land cement flume, built with a bulkhead so water can be handled at
the top rather than from the bottom of the Hume. \n experienced
man will be profitable to employ for this part of the work.

84

The Reservoir. — A pond or reservoir at the head of a cranberry
meadow is of great value, to hold a reserve water supply for irrigation
purposes during the dry months of summer, and also to enable the
grower to flood his meadows when occasion requires.

Harvesting. — The best method of harvesting or picking cranberries
is problematical, and must be determined by the individual grower.
Hand, picking and raking were the original methods, and hand picking
is still adhered to by many growers. On large bogs machine picking
solves the problem of securing the crop during the harvest season,
which on Cape Cod usually begins the last of August and continues
into October.

Overripe berries will not keep well, and it is a mistake to pick the
fruit when green, for, if marketed, it will bring a low price. If only
good, high-colored, sound bei'ries are marketed, the i-eturns will be
more satisfactory to the grower.

When the bog is to be picked by hand, a margin around the section
is picked first, usually by men and boys, in the morning before the bog
dries off sufficiently for regular picking. This is called ditch-row pick-
ing. These berries will be picked while the vines are wet with the
morning dew, and only a few of them should be put into each picking
box; when the berries are dry, the boxes may be filled up. Care must
be taken to have the berries dry when packed in the storehouse, to
insure their keeping qualities. Regular picking does not begin until
the vines are dry.

After the margin is picked, the section is ready to be lined off. This,
is done with a reel and line, two garden lines and a 3-inch ring. The
men who line out the sections walk only on the margin, — which has
previously been picked.

To harvest a 10-acre bog, yielding an average crop, about 50 hands
are needed, besides a foreman, 2 men helpers, a tally keeper and a
dumper.

Cranberries should be stored, dry, in a slatted bushel crate, with
cleats on each end, to insure good keeping qualities previous to their
being marketed; and while in the storehouse they should receive
ventilation, but not be subject to draughts.

Where native help is scarce, bunk houses are built to accommodate
the pickers during the harvesting season.

Bunk House. — Dimensions, 16 by 40 feet, with a partition through
the center, so that one chimney is sufficient for the two apartments.
In the extreme ends, in the center, are built two tiers of four bunks
each, separated by matched board partitions. Each bunk is 4 feet
wide, and is supposed to accommodate two persons. The space above
the bunks is floored over with matched boards. The boys occupy the
loft in one end of the bunk house, and the girls the loft in the opposite
end. A bunk house arranged on this plan will easily accommodate 60
to 75 men, women and children.

35

Screen House. — A building with ample capacity for packing boxes,
barrels, the harvested crop, and room to clean and pack berries, is
essential. A dry, properly ventilated cellar in this building is especially
desirable, in which to store the harvested berries previous to packing
and shipping to market.

Turkey strutting in thf lam-.

Thinks he's very fine;
Cranberries gleaming in the sun.

How like rubies shine.
Mince pies sitting in a row.

Oysters from the bay;
What a glorious feast we'll ha\'e

On Thanksgiving Day.

Fnll Work. — Previous to the ground freezing up for winter, all weeds
should be removed from the bog; dikes and flumes should be examined,
to see that all is secure before the bog is flowed.

A rank growth of vines will not yield a good crop of berries, and what
there arc will be late in ripening, and subject to rot if the season is hot
and wet. Under these conditions it is well to resand the vines with
1 to 2 inches of sand. Vine sanding is done on the same principle as the
sanding of new bog, with one exception. Instead of dumping the sand
on the bog, each wheeler brings his shovel on the wheelbarrow load,
and spreads the sand from his barrow. To accomplish this a plank
runway is laid from the sand pit to the bog. Upon this runway men
with wheelbarrows bring the sand as directed by the foreman, who
attends to moAang the runway as the sanding progresses. Sanding is
often done after ice forms on the bog. The only objections to this are,
that the vines needing sand cannot be so readily seen, and sometimes
when ice breaks up it drifts with the sand on it, carrying it to parts of
the bog where it is not needed, thus distributing the sand unevenly.

Winter Flowage. — For the protection of cranberry vines during the
cold months, flowage should take place just prior to the freezing up of
the ground. This prevents winter-killing of vines, which is liable to
occur during severe winters, the same as grass will winter-kill. It also
prevents the throwing of vines by the action of freezing and thawing.

Should any portion of the bog be less than 12 inches under water,
it will be well to keep a sharp lookout to the outlets after the ice forms,
and prevent any lifting of the ice by heavy rains or sudden thaws,
which will pull the vines, where frozen into the ice.

Late flowing in the spring will retard the growth of the cranberry
vine, and thus it can be carried beyond the usual fro.st-killing season.
Water is kept on by some growers on the Cai)e until early summer, to
avoid the late spring frosts; but this will shorten the growing season,
and cause the berries to ripen late in the fall. Seasons will vary, but
.on Cape Cod from the last of November to the last of April is a good
average period for bog flowing.

36

When there is an ample supply of water, the grower, to kill off in-
jurious insects, will resort to a twenty-four hours' flowing of his bog
during a rain or cloudy weather, as the sun will scald berries that are
under water. If a bog is seriously infested with worms or insects, to
the destruction of the fruit crop, it may be desirable to flood the meadow
all summer, and sacrifice one season's crop.

March winds are injurious to cranberry \anes, as this is usually a
thawing and freezing month, and a covering of water will protect them.

A fruit crop is sometimes saved from fall frosts by flowing. This
can be done when there is an ample supply of water and good drainage.
Water must be handled quickly, in order that the meadow may be dry
at time of picking; also, to prevent the berries from sun-scald.

Drawing Off. — When the winter flowage of water is drawn off, a
rainy spell should be chosen. More or less slime, etc., will form on the
bog and vines; and if the water is drawn off during a storm, the rain
will wash the vines, and the exposure to the air at this time, minus the
sun's rays, is very beneficial.

Packing and ^Shipping. — The packing season usually begins soon
after picking, following soon after the fall fruits are out of the market.
Small shipments are made during the picking season, the berries being
cleaned and packed in the morning, while the bog is drying off, and
also on rainy days.

Berries stored in the storehouse at a cool temperature, if brought to
a much warmer temperature in the packing room, will become wet.
This is often spoken of as the sweating process, which term is hardly
correct, for the cranberry skin is waterproof. To demonstrate this fact,
submerge cranberries in water for days, and they will be as fresh as
when picked. When berries are wet, under the conditions mentioned,
it is due to the process of condensation. Berries should never be packed
in a wet condition. To avoid this, the packing house should be kept
cool, and then, if berries become wet, it is best to discontinue packing
until the atmosphere becomes cool and dry.

Berries are poured from the picking or storage boxes into the hopper
of the separator, which blows out the vines and separates the greater
part of the poor from the good berries. From the separator the berries
go to the screens, and are carefully picked over by women, four or five
usually working at a screen.

The shipping package has been, to a great extent, the 100-quart
barrel, but the two-compartment crate (holding 32 quarts, dry measure)
is the proper shipping package for cranberries. In fact, many of the
commission houses manifest their preference for the crate package by
re-packing from barrels into crates. The crate package will keep the
berries in the best possible condition, it is easily handled, and it re-
quires for equal holding capacity less storage room than a barrel.

Cooking. — As cranberries contain such acute acids, there is no fruit
that will so quickly act upon tin, iron or brass, when brought into con-

37

tact. Hence, always cook cranberries in earthen-lined kettles, granite,
agate ware, or, still better, in aluminum kettles, which arc now reason-
able in price, are light to handle, will not tarnish or discolor the sauce,
and do not easily scorch it. Never allow any article of food containing
cranberries to stand in anything but earthen or glass dishes. Granu-
lated sugar should always be used, as the poorer qualities of sugar and
molasses destroy the flavor of this delectable berry.

God bless the man who sows the wheat,
Who finds us milk, and fruit, and meat;
May his purse be heavy, his heart be light,
His cattle, and corn, and all go right.
God bless the seeds his hands let fall,
For the farmer, he must feed them all.

Estimated Cost of building Cranberry Meadow.

Cost per acre for land, ....... $10 00

Turfing, grading, ditching and sanding, .... 200 OQ

Six barrels \-ines, at $5 per barrel, . . . 30 00

Setting out of \'ines, . . . . . . 16 00

S256 00

Nothing is allowed in this estimate for tools, building of dikes,
flumes, roadways, or for buildings. The cost wall to a great extent
depend on the conditions which exist naturally, the manner in which
the bog is built, and the foreman having charge of the building of the
bog. The estimate given is based upon labor at SI. 50 per day of 9
hours.

It is not unreasonable to expect that a good piece of bog, properly
built and vined with good varieties, receiving proper care, will give an
average yearly yield of 60 to 75 barrels of cranberries per acre. Esti-
mates, based upon statistics gathered from many bogs, for a term of
years, have been given by a large grower as about 32 barrels per acre.

In the cultivation of cranberries, there are many things which will
interest the thoughtful and diligent man. The author has made no
attempt to write a glowing account, but his purpose has been to en-
courage the intelligent cultivation of waste places possessing great
fertility, which, under right management, can be made to produce
paying crops.

Series of 1900. Vol. 1!1. No. fi.

MASSACHUSETTS

CHOP KEPOKT

MOXTH OF OCTOBEK, 1906.

PEACH CULTUEE.

ISSUED MONTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSfOX, MASS.

J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.

Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class Matter,
UNDER Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.

BOSTON :

WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,

18 Post Office Square.

1906.

Approved by
The State Board ok Publication.

Crop Eeport foe the Month of Octobee, 1906.

Office of State Board of Agricultueb,
Boston, Mass., Nov. 1, 1906.

Bulletin 'No. 6, Crop Report for the month of October, is
presented as the final issue of the season. We wish to thank
our correspondents for their faithful assistance, which has
been given freely and without reward, save for the sense
of duty done. We trust that they will all be in a position
to give us the same help when another growing season shall
have reached us.

The special articles printed this year have been : Bulletin
No. 1, " The home garden," by Prof. F. W. Kane ; Bulle-
tin No. 2, " Some causes affecting the profits of dairying,"
by Prof. F. S. Cooley; Bulletin No. 3, "Clovers; their
value, characteristics of varieties and methods of produc-
tion," by Prof. Wm. P. Brooks; Bulletin No. 4, "Some
practical phases of poultry feeding," by John 11. Robinson;
and Bulletin JSTo. 5, " Cranberry culture," by Lucian .T.
Fosdick. We have a limited number of Bulletins 2, 4 and .5
on hand, which we shall be glad to send to any one desiring
them. The supply of Bulletins Nos. 1 and 3 is entirely ex-
hausted, but we shall reprint the articles on the home garden
and on clovers later, and any requests for the same will be
placed on file and filled as soon as possible.

Particular attention is called to the article at the close
of this bulletin, on " Peach culture," by Prof. F. A. Waugh,
professor of horticulture at the Massachusetts Agricultural
College. It was originally intended to have an article on
stone fruits in this bulletin, but Professor Waugh felt that
there was enough interest in peach gromng and enough
subject-matter to make it the basis for a separate article.
Professor AVaugh has given this subject a great deal of
attention during his residence in New England, and is cer-
tainly a well-recognized authority upon all matters of horti-
culture.

Pkogress of the Season.
The Crop Reporting Board of the Bureau of Statistics of
the Department of Agriculture (Crop Reporter for October,
1906) finds the condition of corn on October 1 to have been

90.1, as compared vath 90.2 a month earlier, 89.2 in 1905,
83.9 the year previous, and a ten-year average of Y9.6.

The preliminary estimate of the average yield per acre
of spring wheat was 13.7 bushels. The average quality
October 1 was 88.5, as compared with 89 in 1905 and 75.7
in 1904.

The preliminary returns indicate an oat crop of about
863,352,000 bushels, or an average of 31.2 bushels per acre,
as compared with 34 bushels in 1905, 32.1 bushels in 1904,
and a ten-year average of 29.6 bushels. Average quality

88.2, against 92.4 in 1905 and 91.4 in 1904.

The preliminary estimate of the yield per acre of barley
is 28.3 bushels, against 26.8 bushels in 1905, 27.2 bushels
in 1904, and a ten-year average of 25.1 bushels. Average
quality 88.2, against 92.4 in 1905 and 91.4 in 1904.

The preliminary estimate of the yield per acre of rye is
17 bushels, against 16.5 bushels as finally estimated in 1905,
15.2 bushels in 1904, and a ten-year average of 15.4 bushels.
Average quality 94.1, against 92.6 in 1905 and 91.6 in
1904.

The average condition of buckwheat on October 1 was
84.9, as compared with 91.2 a month earlier, 91.6 in 1905,
88.7 in 1904, and a ten-year average of 83.

The average condition of tobacco on October 1 was 84.6,
as compared with 86.2 a month earlier, 85.8 in 1905^ 85.6
in 1904, and a five-year average of 80.2.

The average condition of potatoes on October 1 was 82.2,
as compared with 85.3 a month earlier, 74.3 in 1905, 89.5 in
1904, and a ten-year average of 74.7.

In Massachusetts the average condition of corn October 1
was 95 ; the average yield of oats 34 bushels, and the quality
91 ; the average yield of rye 15 bushels, and the quality 93;
the average condition of buckwheat 82 ; the average con-
dition of tobacco 97 ; the average condition of potatoes 76 ;

the average production of beans compared with a full crop
82 ; the average production of asparagus 22 ; the average
production of cabbages 89 ; the average production of onions
82 ; the average production of tomatoes 89 ; the average
condition of apples 62 ; the average condition of grapes 86 ;
the average condition of cranberries 73 ; and the average
production of watermelons 78.

Massachusetts Weather, 1906.

[Furnished by Wkather Bureau, Boston.]

The weather of January was generally unseasonable, with
few storms and high temperatures throughout the mouth.
The mild weather caused buds to start, and ice disappeared
on streams. The greater part of the precipitation occurred
as rain, and was fairly well distributed over the month. The
snowfall was light, and at the close of the month there was
little on the ground.

February weather was less severe than the normal. On
the 9th there was a general and quite heavy snowfall, except
on the immediate coast, where rain fell. The month closed
wnth a storm of moderate energy, both rain and snow fell,
followed by a decided fall in temperature, with high winds
and gales.

]\rarch was unseasonably cold as a whole, the temperature
ranging at or near zero to an unusually late date. The
snowfall was greatly in excess of the March average, gen-
erally exceeding the fall of the preceding three months.
After the 26th the temperature was decidedly higher, and
the snow rapidly disappeared, with rain on the closing days
of the month.

April was a seasonable month, no marked departures from
the normals occurring in any of the elements. The preci imi-
tation w^as well distributed through the period and over the
State. The month as a whole Avas pleasant, and the season
near the average at its close.

May was characterized with much ])loasant weather, there
being an average of thirteen clear days, eleven days when the
sky was partially obscured, and but ten days without sun-
shine. The total rainfall was, however, considerably in ex-

6

cess of the normal, more than half the monthly amount
occurring in the storm of the 27th and 28th. The mean
temperature of the month shows the weather to have been
somewhat warmer than the seasonal average, contrary to
popular opinion. Severe local storms were less frequent
than usual during the month.

During the first part of June the rainfall was copious,
though not excessive and somewhat unevenly distributed.
The temperatures were near the seasonal average. From
the 11th to the 18th there was generally fair weather, with
abundant sunshine and a general tendency to moderately
cooler weather. During the closing decade the rainfall was
light and irregular in distribution, and with no marked rise
in temperature. The local storms were less violent than
usual during the month. The month as a whole was quite
pleasant, hut at its close the season was a week or ten days
late.

The opening days of July were generally cloudy, with
scattered showers and occasional local storms, and generally
low temperature for the season. From the 5th to the 16th
generally fair weather prevailed, with temperatures near
the normal. On the 17th, 18th and 21st scattered showers
occurred, but the rainfall was light. The humidity and
high temperatures at this period produced unusually op-
pressive and trying weather conditions. For the remainder
of the month the weather was very unsettled, with almost
daily showers. July, as a whole, was an unpleasant month
for the midsummer season.

During the first twelve days of August cloudy weather
prevailed, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. The
humidity was also high during this period. From the 12th
to the 20th clear weather prevailed, with normal tempera-
tures, except on the 18th and 19th, when the maximas were
extremely high. The weather was cloudy from the 20th to
the 23d, with high temperature and humidity, resulting in a
number of severe thunderstorms. The remainder of the
month was clear, cool and pleasant. The rainfall of the month
was very unevenly distributed. There was an average
amount of sunshine.

September opened with several days of rather cool weather.
Light showers occurred on the 3d, but from that date to the
12th there was almost an entire absence of rain. The tem-
peratures during this period were generally in excess of
the average. There were light showers on the 13th and
14th, followed bj fair weather, with seasonal temperatures,
till the 19th. The 18th and 19th were very warm days.
Copious rains fell on the 20th to 23d, inclusive. There was
a cool wave on the 24th to 26th, with light frosts in some
sections. As a whole, the month was very pleasant, and
characteristic of the season.

Weather foe October.
The weather of October was generally characteristic of the
season. The month opened with several days of fair weather,
with temperatures somewhat below the average^ and the first
rain, moderate showers, occurred on the 6th. During the
9th and morning of the 10th a general storm passed over the
State that caused moderate to copious and excessive rains in
all sections. In some sections it was attended by high winds.
The much-needed rain was very beneficial, thoroughly wet-
ting the dry soil and filling streams and ponds. In some
localities more or less damage resulted from the overflowing
of streams, washing of roads and fields and the flooding of
cellars. A spell of fair and generally sunny weather ob-
tained from the 11th to the 19th, inclusive. During this
j^eriod the temperatures were somewhat below the seasonal
average, falling to freezing or below in many sections on
the 12th and 13tli. Moderate rains were prevalent on tlie
20th and 21st, followed by several days of generally fair
weather. The month closed with rains on the 30th and 31st,
with low temperatures. From the 18th to the 28th the
weather was very mild, with the daily mean tem])eratures
ranging from 1° to 10° above the seasonal average. October,
as a whole, was an exceptionally pleasant month, with the
monthly temperature slightly below the normal and a sub-
stantial dcficionc'v in tlie rainfall.

8

Crops of the Yeak.

The weather of May was cold but pleasant, with frosts
on the mornings of the 20th and 21st, which did considerable
damage to early vegetables. Pastures and mowings wintered
very well, but owing to cold weather grass started slowly,
and later its growth was checked by drought. There was a
good bloom of apples, but pears, plums, cherries and peaclies
showed a rather light bloom. Small fruits and berries gen-
erally bloomed full. Little damage from frost was reported.
Few insects appeared and did little damage. Planting was
somewhat backward, due largely to the late opening of the
season and cold weather. Farm help was unusually scarce ;
average wages, $20 per month with board, and $1.50 per
day without board. There was a slight increase in the
acreage of corn, potatoes, tobacco and onions, and a new
cranberry bog was reported as being made.

Insects were unusually prevalent in June, but not doing
excessive damage. Indian corn was late, but of good stand
and color. Haying had hardly begun at the close of the
month, and a good crop was generally expected. The acreage
of forage crops showed no special increase. Early potatoes
were somewhat later than usual, but looking well. Early
market-garden crops were later than usual, with prices higher
than for some years. The flow of milk was well maintained,
but prices for butter and butter fat were lower than the year
previous. Dairy cows were in fairly good supply, with
easier prices. Pastures were in first-class condition. Straw-
berries were a good crop; cherries light; plums and pears
promised to be light ; peaches fairly good ; apples promised
well.

Potato bugs were reported as more numerous than usual
in Tuly and harder to keep in subjection. Indian com was
a little backward, but making luxuriant growth. Haying
was not completed, but the crop was considerably above the
average. The acreage of forage crops was not increased,
and all were in excellent condition. Market-garden crops
were yielding well, with prices a little above normal. Pota-
toes promised well, though few had been dug. Apples prom-

9

ised only a light crop ; pears and plums light ; peaches fair
in most sections ; quinces good ; grapes and cranberries prom-
ised well. Pastures were green and growing, with abundant
feed. Oats rusted badly ; rye good ; barley grown only for
forage.

Indian com came forward rapidly during August and
promised a very fine crop. Sweet corn is extensively gro\vn
in eastern sections for the market, and in all sections as a
late forage crop. Rowen promised to be an unusually heavy
crop. Late potatoes were generally suffering from blight.
There was a slight increase in the acreage of tobacco, and an
excellent crop. Pastures were in unusually good condition.
Apples promised only a very small crop; pears also light;
peaches light, but better than usual; grapes set unusually
full, and developing well ; cranberries promised a very good
crop. Oats were a heavy crop, though suffering from rust;
barley good as a late forage crop.

At the close of September the com crop appeared to be a
bumper one, and to have been secured practically without
damage from frost or rain. The rowen crop was a little
above the normal in general, and in the main was secured in
good condition. Feed in pastures suffered from drought.
Much less than the usual amount of fall seeding was done,
owing to dry weather, and that put in came forward very
slowly. Onions were considerably less than a normal crop,
having blighted badly. Potatoes gave a better crop than
was expected, but still considerably below the normal. Root
crops suffered somewhat from' drought, and celery suffered
severely from the same cause. Late market-garden crops
generally promised light yields. Apples dropped badly, and
the crop will be very light ; peai*s a fair crop ; peaches did
not yield as well as was expected ; grapes show considerable
rot and mildew; cranberries promised a good average crop,
generally secured in good condition.

In the circular to correspondents returnable October 23
the following questions were asked : —

1. What is the value of the com crop as compared with a
normal crop ?

10

2. Have root crops proved to be normal crops ?

3. What is the condition of farm stock?

4. What is the condition of fall seeding?

5. How have prices for crops raised for market compared
with former years ?

6. Which of the leading crops in joiir locality do you
think have been most profitable ?

7. W^hich of the leading crops in your locality do you
think have been least profitable ?

8. Considered as a whole, has the season been a profitable
one for your farmers ?

Returns were received from 146 correspondents, from
which the following summary has been made : —

Value of the Coen Ceop.
The corn crop was considerably above the normal in value,
both for grain and stover. Fully up to the normal at the
first of September, the warm, dry weather at and after har-
vesting time was especially favorable to the ripening and
securing of the crop. Seldom, if ever, has there been a
better crop for grain, and the stover ripened and cured bright
and clean, so as to form excellent roughage for winter feed.
Where the crop is used for the silo it was secured in prime
condition, with no damage from frost.

Root Crops.
Root crops are probably a little below the average, owing
to drought during the latter part of August and the first of
September. Where raised for market they have generally
brought good prices. Potatoes did not rot as badly as was
expected, and a fair crop has been secured in most sections,
with good prices prevailing to date of making returns.

Farm Stock.

Pastures held out well throughout the year, and stock

accordingly goes to the barns in good flesh and health, both

milch cows and dry stock. The flow of milk appears to be

well maintained. Fall feed in mowings will be light, owing

11

to late cutting of rowen, and the practice is not being fol-
lowed to as great an extent as formerly, the opinion pre-
vailing that it is not especially good for the stock and a
positive injury to the mowings.

Fall Seeding.
Considerably less than the usual amount of fall seeding
has been done than usual, owing to dry w^eather. That put
in early is generally reported as doing well, though a little
backward, but the late sown is much in need of rain and a
period of warm, growing weather.

Peices.
Prices for crops raised for market, as indicated by the
returns, range rather higher than in former years, and this
is the more remarkable as there are no shortages in the
principal crops, with the exceptions of apples and onions.
Of 129 correspondents answering this question 11 speak of
prices as lower than usual, 74 as average or about average,
and 44 as higher than usual.

Most Profitable Chops.

Sixty-four correspondents, less than a majority, consider
hay to have been among the most profitable crops; 51, corn;
24, potatoes; 11, tobacco; 8, apples; 8, tomatoes; 7, cran-
berries; 6, sweet corn; 4, cabbages; 3, oats; 3, dairy pro-
ducts; 3, forage crops; 3, asparagus; 2, turnips; 2, cucum-
bers; 2, fruit; 2, celery; 2,' strawberries ; 1, buckwheat; 1,
market-garden crops; 1, peaches; 1, pears; 1, root crops; 1,
lettuce; 1, carrots; 1, parsnips; 1, onions; and 1, cauliflower.

Least Profitable Crops.
Sixty-six correspondents report that potatoes are among
the least profitable crops; 24, apples; 17, onions; 11, cab-
bages; 4, corn; 3, hay; 3, squashes; 3, sweet corn; 3, straw-
berries; 2, buckwheat; 2, barley; 2, celery; 2, beans; 2,
peas; 2, cucumbers; 1, pears; 1, oats; 1, grapes; 1, cranber-
ries; 1, turnips; 1, cauliflower; 1, tomatoes; 1, truck crops;
and 1, milk.

12

Profits of the Season.
The season appears to have generally been a profitable one
for our farmers. In the main, good crops have been secured,
while prices, as above noted, have ruled high. Of the 138
correspondents answering this question, 85 consider the season
to have been a profitable one, 21 an average season for profit,
11 that it was fairly profitable, while 12 think it was above
the average for profit and 9 that it has not been a profitable
one.

13

NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.

(Returned to us October 23.)

BERKSHIRE COUNTY.

Mount Washington (H, M. Weaver). — The corn crop is rather
above the average in value. Root crops have proved to be good aver-
age crops. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good
condition. Prices for crops raised for market are from 10 to 15 per
cent lower than in former years. Grass has been our most profitable
crop. All crops have done very well, except winter apples, which were
a complete failure. Considered as a whole, the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.

New Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades). — Indian corn is more than
an average crop, and well ripened. Some root crops are smaller than
usual. Farm stock is in fine condition. Fall seeding needs more rain
before winter sets in. Very good prices have been obtained for market
crops. Corn has been our most profitable crop. Considered as a whole,
the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Monterey (Wm. S. Bidwell). — Root crops are up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good
condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been higher than
usual. Cabbage and turnips have been our most profitable crops, and
potatoes our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season
has been a profitable one.

Stockbridge (F. A. Palmer). — Indian corn is a good average crop.
Root crops are about 80 per cent of the usual average. Farm stock
is in fine condition, pastures having been excellent. Fall seeding is
in good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been bet-
ter than average. Oats and corn have been our most profitable crops,
and potatoes our least profitable one. Most farmers have done unus-
ually well the past season. Farmers ought to keep more sheep to
supplement their income,

Windsor (Harry A. Ford). — Indian corn was never a better crop.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in general
looking finely. Fall seeding was never in better condition. Prices
for crops raised for market have been about the same as in former
years. Potatoes have been our most profitable crop. No inii)rofitablo
crops have been raised. Considered as a whole, the season has been
as profitable as usual.

Hancock (H. H. Goodrich). — Indian corn is above the nornial.

14

Root crops are about average. Farm stock is in good condition. But
little fall seeding has been done in this section. Prices for crops raised
for market have been above the average. Corn and hay have been
our most profitable crops, and potatoes our least profitable one. Con-
sidered as a whole, the season has been above an average one for profit.

Cheshire (L. J. Northup). — The corn crop is 25 per cent above
the normal. Root crops are above the average. Farm stock is look-
ing about as usual, compared with former years. Fall seeding is in
fine condition where sowed earl}'^, and the late will come on. Crops
have brought good prices. Hay has been the most profitable crop in
this section, and potatoes the least profitable. The season as a whole
has been a profitable one for all concerned.

Savoy (W. W. Burnett) . — Corn is from 20 to 25 per cent better
than an average crop. Root crops are full average crops. Fall seed-
ing is in fair condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been
fully up to the average of former years. The grass crop always leads
in profit, and this year corn comes next. Potatoes have been our
least profitable crop, omng to high price of seed, cost of growing and
light yield. We call the season on the whole a fair average one for
profit.

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Monroe (David H. Sherman). — Indian corn is an average crop.
Root crops are not up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good
condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition. Prices for crops raised
for market have been above the average. Hay has been our most
profitable crop, and apples our least profitable one. Considered as a
whole, the season has been about an average one for profit with our
farmers.

Hawley (C. C. Fuller). — The corn crop is above the usual aver-
age in value. Root crops give good average yields. Fall seeding is
looking well. Prices for crops raised for market are better than usual.
Apples have been our most profitable crop, and potatoes our least
profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profit-
able one for our farmers.

Leyden (Uriah T. Darling). — The corn crop is more valuable than
usual. Root crops have come up to the usual average. Farm stock
is looking well. Fall seeding is looking well, considering the dry
weather. Prices for crops raised for market have been about the same
as in former years. Hay has been our most profitable crop. In some
localities potatoes have been our least profitable crop, and in others
apples, on account of being very small. Considered as a whole, the
season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Shelburne (Geo. E. Taylor). — Indian corn is an average crop in
quantity, quality, and price. Root crops are not up to the usual aver-
age. Farm stock is in fine condition. Fall seeding is as good as possi-
ble. Prices for crops raised for market have been rather higher than
usual, as a whole. Hay and corn have been our most profitable crops.

15

and potatoes our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the
season has been an average one for our farmers.

Wendell (N. D. Plumb). — The corn crop compares favorably with
past years in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in extra good condition. Fall seeding is the best for years.
Prices for crops raised for market have been somewhat higher than
usual. Corn, oats, buckwheat and hay have been our most profitable
crops, and potatoes our least profitable ones. Considered as a whole,
the season has been a profitable one with our farmers, and all seem
well satisfied.

Erving (Chas. F. Clark). — The value of the corn crop is greater
than usual. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is not in
very good condition. Prices for crops raised for market are up to the
usual average. Corn has been our most profitable crop, and potatoes
our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been
a profitable one for our farmers.

North field (T. R. Callender). — The corn crop is above normal in
value. Root crops are a fair average. Farm stock is in prime con-
dition, young cattle looking well in pasture. Fall seeding is rather
late, but is usually an even stand. Prices for crops raised for market
are fully up to the usual average. Cucumbers and tobacco have been
our most profitable crop, and potatoes our least profitable one. Con-
sidered as a whole, the season has been more than an average one for
profit. Wells and springs are very low, and heavy rains are needed
to prevent a shortage of water this winter.

New Salem (Daniel Ballard). — There is a full average crop of
well-ripened Indian corn. Root crops have been about average in
yield. Farm stock is looking well, and is in good average condition.
Fall seeding is looking fairly well, but the weather has been rather
dry for some fields. Good prices have been maintained for crops raised
for market. Hay has been our most profitable crop, with apples quite
profitable on some farms, while potatoes have not been very profit-
able. Considered as a whole, the season has been somewhat above
the average for profit.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

Greenunch (Walter H. Glazier). — Indian corn is 10 per cent above
a normal crop in value. Root crops are little grown except in gardens,
but are about as usual. Farm stock is in good condition, as a rule, as
feed has been good in pastures all summer. Fall seeding is looking
finely. Potatoes have been our most profitable crop. Springfield is
beginning to call for milk from the south part of our town, and some
of our farmers are selling. Considered as a whole, I think the season
has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Amherst (Wm. P. Brooks). — Indian corn is considerably above
the normal; a large growth, and well ripened. Root crops are average
crops, but are not important. Farm stock is in excellent condition.

16

as pastures have been unusually good. Fall seeding is uncommonly
good. Onions are the lowest in price for many years; tobacco higher
than average; potatoes average ; other crops about average. Tobacco,
potatoes, haj'^ and corn have been our most profitable crops, and onions
our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been
more profitable than usual, except for onion growers.

Hadley (L. W. West). — Corn is a normal crop in value. Root
crops are very light. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding
done early in corn is in the best of condition. Prices for farm crops
have ruled a little above normal, except for onions. Tobacco has
been our most profitable crop, and onions our least profitable one.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for our
farmers.

South Hadley (W. F. Person). — The corn crop is about two-thirds
of the normal in value. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock looks well. Fall seeding is good, better than for years.
The hay crop is our most profitable crop, and potatoes our least profit-
able one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one
for our farmers.

Hatfield (Thaddeus Graves). — Corn is 20 per cent better than
usual. Root crops are good average crops. Stock in pastures is a
little thin, grass being less abundant than usual. Fall seeding is in
good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been about
the same as usual. Tobacco has been our most profitable crop, being
unusually fine. Onions are our least profitable crop, being affected
by blight. The season has been a profitable one where farmers had
both tobacco and onions, and very unprofitable where onions were
the only reliance.

Southam'pton (C. B. Lyman). — There is a very good crop of Indian
corn, rather better than the average. Root crops are fair, perhaps not
quite up to the average. Farm stock is looking well. Fall seeding has
done very well, the season being very favorable for it. Prices for farm
crops are fully up to former years. Tobacco, fruit and grass have been
our most profitable crops. Tobacco farmers are the only ones who
have been able to make any money this year, the others being unable
to get more than a comfortably good living.

Goshen ( Alvan B arrus) . — Indian corn is rather above a normal
crop. Root crops are nearly or quite up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in very good condition, as a rule. Fall seeding is in first-rate
condition. Prices for crops raised for market are about the same as
usual, but below the advanced price of labor. Hay has been our
most profitable crop. Apples are mainly a poor crop, but very un-
even, with a few fine ones. Owing to high price, poor quality and the
difficulty of securing any farm help when needed, the season has not
been a success, as a whole.

Middlefield (J. T. Bryan) . — There is the best crop of corn for many
years. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in

17

excellent condition. The weather has been pretty dry for fall seeding,
but it is looking fairly well. Prices of all products have been good.
Hay and corn have been our most profitable crops, and potatoes our
least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.

HAMPDEN COUNTY.

Tolland (Eugene M. Moore). — Indian corn is 2.5 per cent above
the normal in value. Root crops are more than average crops. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition. The hay
crop has been our most profitable crop, and potatoes our least profit-
able one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one
for farmers.

Blandjord (Ends W. Boise). — The corn crop is extra good, no soft
corn. All root crops are good normal crops of good quahty. Farm
stock comes to the barns in good average health and flesh. What
little fall seeding has been done is not looking well. All farm crops
have brought good prices. Grass has been the most profitable crop,
all things considered, although the apple crop is a clear second. Po-
tatoes have been the least profitable. As a whole, the season has been
one of profit to our farmers.

West Springfield (N. T. Smith). — The corn crop is fully average,
both in grain and stover. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in very good condition. Fall seeding is about aver-
age in condition, but below average in quantity. Prices for crops
raised for market have been fully up to the average, except for onions.
Corn and hay have been our most profitable crops, and apples and
onions our least profitable ones. Considered as a whole, the season is
slightly above the average year for profit.

Agawam (J. G. Burt). — The corn crop is a little better than the
normal. Root crops have proved to be average crops. Farm stock is
in good condition. Fall seeding is rather light, owing to dry weather.
Prices for market crops are a little. better than in former years. Corn,
potatoes and tobacco have been our most profitable crops, and onions
and celery have been our least profitable ones. The season has been a
profitable one for our farmers, the best for years.

East Longvieadow (John L. Davls). — Indian corn is a third above
an average crop in value. Root crops are not up to the usual average,
owing to dry weather. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding
is late, being delayed in starting by dry weather. Prices have been
very good for farm crops. Corn has been our most profitable crop,
and potatoes our least profitable one. Nature has done well for the
farmers, but the farm help has offset that. If a farmer has had good
help, he has prospered ; otherwise, he has not found the season better
than in other years.

Hampden (John N. Isham). — Indian corn compares well with any
crop of late years. Root crops are just a little below the average. Farm

18

stock is ill good coiulition. Fall seeding is a little backward, but is
starting finely. Prices of crops raised for market have compared well
with former years. Hay, corn and apples have been our most profit-
able crops, and potatoes and onions our least profitable ones. In spite
of some draw'backs, the season has been a fairly profitable one.

Palmer (O. P. Allen). — The corn crop is a little below the normal.
Root crops are very nearly up to the average. Farm stock is in ciuite
good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition, rather better than
usual. Prices for crops raised for market have been higher than
usual. The hay crop has been our most profitable crop, and potatoes
our least profitable one. 1 think that the season has been a profitable
one for our farmers.

Holland (Francis Wight). — The corn croj) is a full normal crop.
Root crops are good average yields. Farm stock is in fairly good
condition. Fall seeding has not been done to any extent. Prices for
crops have not changed much from other years. Corn has been our
most profitable crop, and apples our least profitable one. The season
has been a profitable one in a measure, but help has been very scarce
and ver)' high.

WORCESTER COUNTY.

Warren (W. E. Patrick). — The corn crop is a full normal crop.
Root crops have proved to be full\' up to the average. Farm stock is
in excellent condition. Fall seeding is looking finely. Prices for crops
raised for market have compared favorably with recent years. Grass,
corn and all forage crops have been among our most profitable crops,
while potatoes and apples have been our least profitable ones. Con-
sidered as a whole, the season has been a ^'ery profitable one for farmers
in this locality.

New Braintrec (Chas. D. Sage). — Indian corn is a good crop, but
little grown except for the silo or fodder. Root crops are little grown.
Farm stock of all kinds is looking finely. Very little if any fall seeding
has been done. Prices for crops raised for market are about average.
Hay, oats and corn are our most profitable crops, and potatoes our
least profitable one. The season has been a good one for making
milk, and has therefore been profitable in this dairy section.

Oakham (Jesse Allen). — Indian corn is a full average crop. Root
crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good condition.
Fall seeding looks well. Prices for crops raised for market have com-
pared well with other years. Hay has been our most profitable crop,
and potatoes our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the
season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Petersham (B. W. Spooner). — The corn crop is 20 i)er cent above
the normal in value. Root crops are above the average. All dry
stock is looking well. Less fall seeding than usual has been done, but
that put in is looking finely. Crops raised for market have brought
about the same prices as usual. Hay and corn are our most profitable
crops, and the potato crop the least profitable one, being very fight.

19

This is a dairy section, and faiiiu'is have iloiie better than usual, as
the feed has been good all summer.

Winchendon (Arthur Stockwell). — Farm stock is in hne condi-
tion. Fall seeding is looking finely. Prices for crops raised for market
liavo been about the same as usual. Potatoes have been our most
profitable crop, and corn our least profitable one. Considered as a
whole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Ashburnham (E. D. Gibson). — Indian corn is about normal hi
value. Root crops are hardly uj) to the average, as it has been too
dry for them. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is only
fair, and not as much has been done as usual. Prices of crops raised
for market have compared well with former years. Corn has done
well, also vine crops. Potatoes have been unprofitable with many.
The season has been fully an average one for profit.

Westminster (.Xi.den J. Foskett). — Indian corn is a full crop.
.\11 root crops have yielded well. Farm stock is in good condition.
Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops raised for market
have all been good. Hay has been our most profitable crop, and none
of our leading crops have been unprofitable. Considered as a whole,
the season has been a profitable one, and farmers are quite contented.

Lancaster (S. C. D.\mon). — Indian corn is 7o per cent of a normal
crop. Carrots, mangolds and turnips are very good. Farm stock is
in good condition. Fall seeding is well started. Prices for farm crops
have kept well up to the average. Potatoes have been our most
profitable croj). The apple crop has failed in many localities, and is
missed by the farmers.

Bolton (H. F. H.VYNES). — Corn is fully up to the normal in value.
Root crops are average crops. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall
seeding looks well. Apples are selling at $1.75 per barrel, and pota-
toes from GO to 65 cents per bushel. It is hard to say what crops
have been most profitable; everything has sold at fair prices. Hay,
corn and potatoes are all good crops, and apples are about 60 per cent
of a full crop; so, on the whole, the sea.son has been a profitable one.

Worcester (Sil.\s A. Bukgess). — Indian corn is fully up to the nor-
mal in value. Root crops have proved to be average crops. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall .seeding is good, but rather late.
Prices of crops raised for market have been well up to the average,
(irass, hay, corn, millet and other fodder crops have been i)rofitable.
while potatoes have been (hu- least {profitable crop, ('onsidered as a
whole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Auburn (Wm. (Iilbert). — Corn is about 25 per cent above the
normal. Turnips and carrots are good crops. There has been so much
feed in the |)astures that cattle are in good condition. Prices for early
crops were good, but those for late crops poor. Corn, cabbages and
celery have been our most profitable crops, and potatoes our least
profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a jiroHtablc
one for our farmers.

20

Oxford (D. M. Howe). —The corn crop is about normal in value.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good con-
dition. Fall seeding is in fine condition. Prices for crops raised for
market have been higher than usual. Apples have been our most
profitable crop, and onions our least profitable one. Considered as a
whole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Sutton (C. P. King). — The value of the corn crop is about the same
as usual. Root crops are good average crops. Farm stock is in good
condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Tomatoes and cabbages
have been our most profitable crops, and potatoes our least profitable
one. Considered as a whole, I do not think the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Hopkinton (W. V. Thompson) . — Indian corn is a httle better than
a normal crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock
is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market have been better than usual. The corn crop
has been our most profitable crop, both for grain and ensilage.
There have been crops in most everything, and they have brought
fair prices. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable
one for our farmers.

Sudbury (Edgar W. Goodnow). — Corn is above the normal in
value. Root crops are about normal. Farm stock is looking well.
Fall seeding is not looking well, owing to the dry weather. Crops
raised for market have sold low, compared with former years. Cu-
cumbers and tomatoes have been our most profitable crops, and
sweet corn and cabbages our least profitable ones. Considered as a
whole, the season has been an unprofitable one for farmers.

Stow (Geo. AV. Bradley). — Indian corn is a little above the aver-
age. There is about a normal yield of root crops. Farm stock is in
very good condition. Early seeding is looking well, but later pieces
are uneven. As a whole, prices for farm crops have been a little better
than usual. Hay has been our most profitable crop. No crop has
been especially unprofitable, as all sold fairly well at some part of the
season. I should say the season had been a profitable one for our
farmers.

Dunstable (A. J. Gilson). — The value of the corn crop is about
normal. Root crops have proved good in quality and quantity. Farm
stock as a whole is in good condition. What fall seeding has been
done is in good condition. Crops raised for market have averaged
about the same in price as in former years. Hay has been our most
profitable crop, and apples our least profitable one. The season has
been about an average one for our farmers.

Carlisle (Alvah Carr). — There was a good crop of corn, but sweet
corn brought very low prices. Root crops are good average crops.
Stock is in good condition, owing to the abundance of feed. Fall seed-

21

ing is in very fine condition. Hay has been our most profitable crop,
and sweet corn and apples our least profitable ones. On the whole,
the year has been a good one for our fanners, as we have had good
crops of most everything; but prices have been a little low.

Tewksbury (Geo. E. Crosby). — Root crops are up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in very good condition. It has been rather
too dry for the best development of fall seeding. Prices for crops
raised for market have averaged about the same as for the past five
years. Sweet corn, potatoes and tomatoes have been our most profit-
able crops, while celery is a failure and cauliflower not much better.
For general farmers the season has been a profitable one.

Concord (Wm. H. Hunt). — There was a very fair corn crop. Farm
stock is in average condition. Fall seeding is looking very well at
present. Truck crops have brought rather low prices. Asparagus has
been our most profitable crop, and market-garden crops other than
asparagus our least profitable ones. As a whole, the season has been
a i^rofitable one for our farmers.

Winchester (8. 8. Symmes). — No Indian corn is raised here. Root
crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in first-class condi-
tion. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops raised for
market have been just about the same as in former years. Cauli-
flowers are very late; they have sold high to date, but unless the
weather continues favorable one-half the crop will be lost. Most
celery is smaller than usual, but good celery is selUng at a good price.

Stoneham (J. E. Wiley). — Farm stock is in good condition. Fall
seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have
been a fan- average. Lettuce has been our most profitable crop, and
onions our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has
been a profitable one for our farmers.

Newton (G. L. Marcy). — Indian corn is not raised to any extent.
Root crops are average yields. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall
seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have
been average with other years. The season has been peculiar, and it
is hard to tell which crops have or have not been the most profitable ;
but I believe on the whole the season has been one of average profit.

ESSEX COUiNTY.

Salisbury (Wesley Pettengill). — Indian corn is 20 per cent above
the normal. Root crops have proved to be about average. Stock will
go to the barn in fine condition. Not as much fall seeding has been
sown as usual, and it is not looking very well. Prices for crops raised
for market have been fully up to the average. Hay has been our most
profitable crop, and potatoes our least profitable one, the labor and
fertilizer bills reducing the profit on this crop. The season is not as
profitable as some years, as our apple and squa.sh crops are light.

(iroveland (A. S. Longfellow). — There is a full crop of Indian
corn. Root crops have proved to be average crops. Farm stock is in

22

\'ery good condition. Much fall seeding was killed by the hot, dry
weather. Prices for crops raised for market have compared very well
with former years. Hay, corn and tomatoes have been our most prof-
itable crops, and cucumbers our least profitable ones. The season has
been i-ather better than the average, with no destructive droughts or
storms, no potato rot, plenty of feed in pastures, and fair crops of all
kinds with fair prices.

Neicbury (Geo. AV. Adams). — There is an average crop of corn.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Fall seeding is excellent, but
a little late. Prices for crops raised for market are about as last year.
Corn and potatoes have been our most profitable crops, and straw-
berries and pears our least profitable ones. As last year, hundreds of
bushels of apples will not be harvested, owing to excessive cost of
labor. The season has not been a profitable one, a short crop of apples
and constantly increasing cost of labor having destroyed profit.

Topsfield (B. P. Pike). — Xo corn is raised for grain in this vicinity.
Root crops are below the average owing to dry weather. Farm stock
is in fair condition. Fall seeding is not an average, owing to dry
weather. Prices have not been cjuite as good as usual, but crops have
been better. Hay and milk have been our most profitable products,
and corn our least profitable crop. Considered as a whole, the season
has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Wenhayn (N. P. Perkins). — Sweet corn has not paid as well as last
season, as prices have been low; not much field corn raised. Carrrots
and jiarsnips have been good, beets and onions uncertain. Stock is
generally looking well, but the milk production is not as good as usual.
There is an average catch on fall seeding, but it is rather backward.
Prices for farm crops have been rather low this fall, but better prices
are ho])cd for for the winter. Carrots, parsnips, milk, hay and cab-
bages have been our most profitable crops, while cabbages, squashes
cucumbers, apples and onions have been our least profitable ones.
Considering present prospects for crops not disposed of, the season
l>romi.ses to be a profitable one.

Dnnver.s (C. H. Preston). — Indian corn is better than an average
crop. Root crops are up to the usual average in yield. Farm stock
is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market have been average, or a little under. Con-
sidered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for our
farmers.

NORFOLK COUiXTY.

Uandolph (RuFUS A. Thayer). — Indian corn is a good average
crop in value. Root crops are about 80 per cent of an average yield.
Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good average con-
dition. All crops have brought full prices. Sweet corn has been our
mo.st profitable crop, and squashes our least profitable one. Consid-
ered as ;i whole, the season has been a profitable one. The hay croj)

28

was not up to the average. The uncertainty and cost of help is the
great drawback with most farmers.

Canton (Edwin V. Kinsley). — Corn is above the average in \alue.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good condi-
tion. Fall seeding is in very good condition. Prices for crops raised
for market have been rather under the a\eiage. Onions, bailey, pota-
toes and early sweet corn have been our most jirofitable crops, while
late potatoes and cabbages have been our least profitable ones. Stock
is thrifty and barns quite full, although much of the first crop of hay
is poor. The .season is a fair average one for profit.

Norwood (F. A. Fales). — Indian corn is about 80 per cent of an
average crop. Root crops have done well. Farm stock is in fine con-
dition. Fall seeding is rather late here, owing to the dry weather.
Prices for crops raised for market have not been as good as in 1905.
Sweet corn has been our most profitable crop, and i)()tatoes our least
profitable one. The season has been fairly profitable, but the sijuash
and potato crops have been short.

Walpolc (Edward L. Shepakd). — The corn crop is 80 per cent of
the normal in value. Root crops are not up to the average. Farm
stock is below the a\erage in condition. Prices for crops raised foi'
market have been higlier than usual. Hay has been our most profit-
able crop, and potatoes our lea.st profitable one. Considered as a
whole, the season has been about an average one for profit.

Bellingham (John J. O'Sullivan). — Indian corn is about an aver-
age crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in
good condition. Fall seeding is in very good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market have been a little higher than usual. Hay
has been our most profitable crop, and potatoes our least profitable
one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a pi'ofitable one for
our farmers.

BRISTOL COUNTY.

Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter). — Indian corn is al:)()ut a nornial crop.
Root crops are fully up to the average. \'ery little fall s(>eding has
been done, owing to dry weather. Farm stock is in good condition.
Hay and potatoes bring slightly higher prices than formerly; other
crops about the same as usual. Hay has been our most profitable
crop, and apples our lea.st j)rofitable one, having l)eeii generally de-
stroyed by a hail storm. All tilings considered, the season lias lieeii
an average one for profit.

Atlleborough (Isaac Alger). — The corn crop is above the normal
in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock never
was in better condition. Fall .seeding is in good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market are about the same as usual. Potatoes, straw-
berries and cranberries are our most profitable crops, and winter
apples are a total failure. The season, considered as a whole, has been
a remarkably good one.

24

Berkley (Rollin H. Babbitt). — Indian corn is much above a
normal crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock
is looking very well. Where seeded early, fall seeding looks well; but
where put in late, it is backward for want of rain. Prices have ruled
very well for crops raised for market. Sweet corn and potatoes are
our most profitable crops, and strawberries our least profitable one.
The season has been a fairly profitable one for our farmers, as a whole.

SivaJisea (F. G. Arnold). — The corn crop is about normal in
value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in very
good condition. Though late fall seeding looks well. Prices for crops
raised for market average about the same as usual. Potatoes have
been our most profitable crop, and cabbages our least profitable one.
I think the season has been above the average as to profits.

Westport (Albert S. Sherman). — The corn crop is 25 per cent
above the normal. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in very good condition, and milch cows are in fine condition.
Fall seeding is not good, owing to dry weather and late seeding. Prices
for crops raised for market have been rather better than in former
years. The corn crop has been our most profitable crop, and potatoes
our least profitable one, as they require a great deal of labor and
generally do not do well. Onions did not do well, but nevertheless
there is a fair crop. Apples are not plenty, but late pears are abun-
dant. The season has been a fairly profitable one.

Acushnet (Moses S. Douglas). — Indian corn is 25 per cent above
the normal in value. Root crops are up to the usual itverage. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is late, and has not got a
good start. Prices have been a little better than usual. Hay has been
our most profitable crop, and potatoes and apples our least profitable
one. The warm weather is holding on remarkably, and fall crops are
growing well. I should call the season a profitable one for our farmers.

PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Brockton (Davis Copeland). — Indian corn is better than an aver-
age crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in
good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops
raised for market have been about average. Corn has been our most
profitable crop, and potatoes our least profitable one. Considered as
a whole, the season has been a fairly prosperous one for our farmers.

Norwell (H. A. Turner). — The corn crop is about normal in value.
Root crops seem to be average yields. Farm stock is in good condi-
tion. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops raised for
market are about normal. Caulifiowers and tomatoes have been our
most profitable crops, and potatoes and cabbages our least profitable
ones. Considered as a whole, the season has been a very good one for
our farmers.

Duxbury (Robert Randall). — The corn crop is not as plentiful
as last year. Some root crops show average yields, while others do

25

not. Farm stock is looking nicely now. Not much fall seeding has
been done here. Prices for market crops are much advanced. Pota-
toes arc our most profitable crop. From early spring until late summer
peas and beans were plentiful, as was also sweet corn in its season.
The season has been profitable for some farmers, while for others it
has not been so good.

Halifax (G. W. Hayward). — Tlie corn crop is above the average in
yield and value. Root crops have given average yields. Farm stock
is in excellent condition. Fall seeding was late, owing to dry weather,
but it is beginning to look better since the rains. Prices for crops
raised for market have averaged as high as in former years. Hay has
been our most profitable crop, and potatoes and onions our least
profitable ones. The season has been fairly profitable, and we have no
reason to complain.

Plympton (Winthrop Fillebrown). — The corn crop is far above
the normal. Root crops have proved to be average crops. Farm stock
is looking very well. Fall seeding looks the best it has for years. The
prices of crops raised for market are about as usual. Cranberries and
hay are our most profitable crops, and corn has been unusually good.

Lakemlle (Nathaniel G. Staples). — Indian corn is about a normal
crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in fair
condition. Fall seeding not up to the average. Prices for crops raised
for market are better than usual. Sweet corn has been our most
profitable crop, and strawberries our least profitable one. Considered
as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Rochester (Geo. H. Randall). — Indian corn is fully up to the
average in value. Root crops have proved to be average crops. Farm
stock is in better condition than usual. Fall seeding shows the effects
of dry weather, and is not looking as well as two weeks ago. Prices
for crops raised for market have been up to the average. Corn and
hay have been our most profitable crops, and potatoes our least profit-
able one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one
for our farmers.

BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

FalmoiUh (Daniel R. Wicks). — The corn crop is fully up to the
normal. Most varieties of root crops are average crops and turnips
are above the normal. Farm stock is in fine condition. Fall seeding
is in good condition, and making fine growth. Prices for farm crops
have as a whole been a Uttle higher than usual. Potatoes have been
our most profitable crop, and hay our least profitable one, as much of
it is only fit to be used as bedding, owing to bad weather in haying
time. As a whole, the season has been a i)rofitable one for our farmers.

Barnstable (John Bursley). — The corn crop is 90 per cent of a
normal crop in value. Root crops are uj) to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in poor condition. The
prices of crops raised for market have been above the average. Cran-
berries have been our most profitable crop, and potatoes are possil)ly

2(3

our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.

Harwich (Ambkose N. Doane). — The corn crop is about normal
in value. Turnips and carrots are good crops. The condition of farm
stock is good. Fall seeding is in fair condition. Prices for crops
raised for market are much higher than usual. Cranberries, potatoes
and turnips have been our most profitable crops, and onions our least
profitable one. We are not a large farming town, but, on the whole,
this has been a good year for the farmers.

Brewster (Thos. D. Sears). — The corn crop is rather below the
average. Root crops are above the average. Farm stock is looking
well. The weather has been rather dry for the best development of
fall seeding. Prices for crops raised for market compare favorably
with former years. Cranbei'ries and potatoes have been our most
profitable crops, and corn our least profitable one. Considered as a
Avhole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.

Eastham (J. A. Clark). — There is a small acreage of corn, but a
fair crop. Root crops will give average yields. Farm stock is in good
condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition. Prices for crops raised
for market have been fully up to the average. Asparagus is our leading
early crop, and, while not as heavy as some years, brought good
prices. White Cape turnips are the leading late crops, and while they
looked like a failure at one time, they have improved lately and will
make a fair crop. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profit-
able one for our farmers.

Wellfleet (Everett S. Jacobs) . — The Indian corn crop is about
normal. Root crops are below the average. Farm stock is in good
condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops raised
for market are above the average. Cranberries, corn and potatoes
have been our most profitable crops, and beans our least profitable
one. Considered as a whole, the season has been about an average
one for profit.

DUKES COUNTY.

West Tisbury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — The corn crop is an average
one. Root crops are about average in yield. Farm stock is in very
good condition. Very little fall seeding is done here. Prices for crops
raised for market have been average with other years. Potatoes have
been our most profitable crop, and hay our least profitable one. The
season will compare favorably with past seasons in the matter of
profit to the farmers.

27

BULLETIN OF

Massachusetts Boakd of Agriculture.

PEACH CULTURE.

I?y F. A. Waugh, Profex.<or of Horticulture, Masxitchusetts At/riciiltunil College.

Interest in peach culture has evidently increased very greatly in New
England during the last few years. In spite of unusually severe freezes
during ^\•inters of 1902-03 and 1903-04, there have been several good
crops gathered during the last five years. In most cases reasonable
profits have been made, and in some instances the returns have been
so large as to be fairly remarkable.

There is every reason to believe that the peach business in New
England will continue to be an attractive commercial proposition.
The uncertainty of the winters is of course a draw"back, but aside from
this the situation is altogether favorable. We have directly at hand the
fine.st market on this continent. The difficult problems of long-distance
.shipment, refrigerator car service, icing charges, etc., which confront
the southern peach grower, are entirely eliminated from our calcula-
tion. Not only can our fruit be put into market much more cheaply
and quickly, but on that account it can be presented to the customers
in much better condition. For all these reasons the net prices realized
by New England peach growers are bound to be very much greater
than those received by the peach growers of the south. It thus seems
altogether probable that the investment in commercial peach growing
in New England will be substantially increased during the next few
years.

Peaches may be grown in all parts of Massachusetts. They may be
made commercially successful in the majority of towns in the State.
In the highest localities and in some of the towns along the coast
peach growing cannot be safely undertaken on a large scale. In. every
locality it is advisable to plant peach trees only on land specially suited
to this crop.

Soils .\ni) Exposuues.

There is a general understanding that peaches should be planted
on a north or northea.stern exposure; that is, upon land sloping towards
the north or northeast. This rule rests upon the fact tluit land sloi)ing

28

towards the south or southwest is necessarily warmer, and the trees
start into growth earUer in the spring. It depends also on the further
assumption that the trees will blossom enough earlier on the south-
eastern slope so that the crop will be caught by late frosts in certain
years. It must be said that, while this assumption may prove true in
a few cases, it will not hold good for the majority of locahties in Mas-
sachusetts, — at least not for Worcester County and the territory
from there to the western line of the State. Old peach growers who
have observed this matter closely assert that the peach buds in western
Massachusetts are never killed by late frosts. This observation agrees
entirely wdth the experience of the writer, although that experience
covers only four years of residence in the State. Peach buds are often
injured, and, indeed, entire crops are lost; but the injury is due to
heavy freezing during the winter, and not to the blossoms being caught
by late frosts in the spring.

These observations have an important bearing on the question of
exposure. If it is a fact that the crop never suffers from late frosts,
then the selection of a north or northeast slope is of much less conse-
quence. On the other hand, there are some real advantages in a warmer
exposure. We have none too much summer heat in most parts of Mas-
sachusetts for the proper ripening of the peach crop. The trees thrive
better in warm situations, while the crop of fruit ripens better, takes
a better color and reaches a higher quality.

The ideal soil for peaches is found on some of our warm, gravelly
hilltops and hillsides. The small drumlins, made up of loose glacial
deposit, found in the Connecticut valley region, are apt to be especially
good. Even sandy soils are excellent for growing peaches, unless the
sand is too fine or unless the drainage is bad. Heavy, cold clay soils
are entirely unsuited to the peach tree. In this connection it may be
well to point out that peach trees may be to some extent adapted to
clay soils of fairly heavy texture by being propagated on plum roots.
The plum is naturally adapted to a stiffer soil than the peach. The
peach tree may be readily budded on to the plum root, and, if the
proper variety of plum is chosen, the union is a good one and long-lived.
The Myrobalan plum — the one usually used in this country as a bud-
ding stock — is probably the poorest one of all for the propagation of
peaches. The old-fashioned "horse plum," which formerly was used
in some nurseries, is much better. The St. Julien plum, used in many
European nurseries, is satisfactory, and can always be secured com-
mercially, although it costs considerably more than the Myrobalan.
The native Americana plum, now extensively grown in western nur-
.series, makes an admirable stock for peaches, and is well adapted to
our Massachusetts soils. All these plum stocks have more or less of a
tendency to dwarf the peach tree, but this is an advantage rather than
a disadvantage. The fact that the peach trees are thereby brought
earlier into bearing increases the chances of securing a crop before

29

the tops are frozen back; and the fact that the smaller trees may be
planted more thickly on the ground is an economy of land.

There are no nurseries in the United States, so far as the writer
knows, where peach trees are being commercially propagated on plum
roots. There probably never will be until a strong demand arises for
that kind of peach trees, because it necessarily costs more than to
propagate them in the usual way. These suggestions, therefore, are
practically available only to those men who like to bud their own
trees. The majority of us, who are compelled to depend on the nursery-
men, will still be satisfied with peach trees on peach roots.

Planting the Orchard.

The soil must be in prime condition before the trees are set. This is
a rule which applies to all fruit trees, but more emphatically to the
peach than to any other. The land should be in prime cultivation,
deeply plowed, well drained and in good physical condition, and should
contain a reasonable amount of available fertility. Tile drainage,
always a safe undertaking on high-class agricultural land, is the means
of improvement advisable on many tracts designed for peach culture.

It is an open question whether fall planting or spring planting is
better. Under certain circumstances one will succeed better than the
other; but given other circumstances, and the other will have the
preference. As a general tiling, it may be said that fall planting is
better when all conditions are thoroughly favorable. If the soil is in
first-class condition, if the trees are fresh and sound, if the planting
is well done and if a favorable winter follows, then fall planting is likely
to show a positive advantage over spring planting. On the other hand,
if the soil is not well drained, if the trees are in poor condition, if the
planting is carelessly done or if it should be followed by a severe,
freezing winter, there is likely to be more or less damage, as a result.
On the whole, the writer is inchned to favor fall planting for the experts
who have everything their own way, and who are able to control con-
ditions in their favor; but to advise spring planting for men of less
experience, or for those less favorably situated.

(iood peach trees fit to plant must be one year old. Two-year-old
trees are seldom worth the trouble of planting out. The so-called
"June buds," which technically pass as one-year-old trees, but which
are really something less, are not to be recommended; they should
be l)Ought only as a last resort.

Good trees should be of medium to large size. Small, light trees are
inferior, while the very largest ones are difficult to handle, and are not
proportionately valuable. Amongst nurserymen trees are usually
gi'aded according to the size. One grade runs 4 to .') feet; the next
') to 0 feet, the next grade 6 to 7 feet. As a rule, the writer j^rcfers
trees of the 5 to G foot grade. Splendid peach trees can be grown in
Mas.sachusetts nurseries, but, as a matter of fact, very few of theni

30

are grown here, chiefly because they can be grown very much more
cheaply in States farther south. It has been the experience of the
writer that these southern-grown trees are just as good for planting
in Massachusetts as those grown in the neighborhood.

When the ground is all prepared and ready, the rows furrowed out
and the holes dug, the trees should be taken out of the soil where
they have been heeled in and prepared for planting. This prepara-
tion is made by cutting them back Avith the pruning shears. All
broken and stragghng roots should be first cut off. Some growers
now practise cutting all the main roots back to a length of 3 or 4
inches. Perhaps this is going a trifle too far, but at any rate one need
not take the trouble of digging wide holes in order to plant out very
long roots; it is just as well to cut them back a reasonable amount.

There is room for a greater difference of opinion concerning the
best pruning for the top of a peach tree about to be planted. Three
methods may be mentioned: (1) all the branches may be cut back
to a length of four or five inches; (2) all the branches may be cut
off close to the main stem, leaving a straight whip ; (3) all the branches
may be cut off, and the main stem cut back to any desired height^
from 8 inches and upward. The writer very much prefers the method
last described, and would cut back the main stem to a height of not
more than 20 inches, preferably not more than 16 or 18 inches. This
looks like very severe treatment, since in many cases it would leave
less than one-fourth or one-eighth of the tree as it originally comes
from the nursery. Nevertheless, the results, as shown in the first
year's growth of the tree after planting, are always gratifying. A
tree cut back in this way throws out a few side shoots, usually sym-
metrically placed abut the trunk, and these make a very strong growth
during the first year. There is thus formed a fine framework upon
which to build the future fruit-producing structure. Peach trees, on
the other hand, which are planted out mthout this severe cutting
back, push into growth from a larger number of buds. Dozens or
even hundreds of new shoots start out, all of which make a weak
growth. There are no strong, vigorous arms formed, which may
become the framework of a permanent tree. Of course a great deal
depends upon the future management of the peach tree top, but a
good deal also depends on beginning right.

Planting Distances.
The proper distance apart for planting peach trees depends more
or less on circumstances, especially on the system of culture and
pruning which is to be adopted. If the trees are to be rigorously
headed back, they may be safely planted at a distance of 12 feet apart,
or even 10 feet. If they are to be allowed to grow without heading
in, they should be planted 20 feet apart, especially if the soil is naturally
rich. There is often a good deal of unnecessary argument over this
question of planting distance. The question is really not one to be

31

decided by itself; it is altogether relative, and is to be settled only
with reference to the system of management which is to be adopted
in the orchard.

Cultivation.

There has been some argument in the last few years as to the best
systems of managing apple orchards, some respectable fruit growers
maintaining that the best practice recjuired the trees to be kept in
sod. Practically nobody recommends sod management for peach
orchards, however. While there are isolated instances of successful
peach trees standing in grass, they are so rare as to be negligible. The
peach tree is a gross feeder, a rank grower, and re(|uires large quanti-
ties of plant food and moisture to develop its fruit crop. These re-
cjuirements are best met by a system which introduces thorough cul-
tivation during the period of growth.

There are many systems of culture, differing more or less widely
from one another, but an ideal system presents about three stages,
as follows: (1) a reasonably thorough plowing of land early in the
spring; (2) frequent surface cultivation up until midsummer; (3)
the growing of a cover crop, which remains on over winter and is
plowed under the following spring.

The first cultivation in the spring has been spoken of as plowing.
It may, in fact, be accomplished with a good plow, a steady team
and a good driver. After the centers have been plowed out between
the rows, it is possible to get somewhat nearer the trees by the use
of a one-horse plow. However, on most lands and under most cir-
cumstances the best implement for the spring plowing is a good,
sharp spading harrow; even a disk harrow will do very well on light
.soils. If this implement has the convenient extension now provided
by most manufacturers, it becomes very easy to run up close to the
trunks of the trees. In using the disk or spading harrow, it is best
to go across the land in both directions. This may be necessary also
with the plow, although it is not so conveniently done.

The summer cultivation should be given with much lightcM- tools
ruiniing only on the surface of the soil. A light, sharj) smoothing
harrow is best of all where the ground is mellow and in good condi-
tion. The Acme harrow is also excellent for this kind of work. On
gravelly or somewhat stony soils the springtooth harrow is best of
all. Again, if the soil is inclined to bake or is naturally hard, the best
results can be secured with the disk harrow. This summer cultiva-
tion should be frequent; it should be gi\'en at intervals not greater
than ten days; once a week is still better. The drier the weather,
the more frequent should be the cultivation. It is a great mistake
to time this work by the growth of weeds. This summer cultivation
is not intended to keep down weeds, but to conserve moisture and
promote the liberation of plant food.

The vigorous growth of the trees ceases about .July 1; thereafter
the wood ripens and the fruit buds mature for the following year. If

32

there is a crop of fruit on the trees, of course it also has to be brought
forward to maturity. As a rule, however, the demands for moisture
on the part of the tree are not so great as during May and June. Long
experience and thorough scientific experiments agree that cultivation
may be profitably remitted after about July 1. Experience has shown,
however, rather emphatically, that it is unwise to allow the land to
stand bare for the remainder of the year. However, the requirements
are all reasonably well met by sowing a co^'er crop at the time of the
last cultivation.

A cover crop in an orchard performs several useful functions. It
holds the soil from washing during winter and spring months, it takes
up fertilizer and prevents leaching, it renders a certain amount of
plant food available storing it for future use, it may collect a consid-
erable amount of nitrogen from the atmosphere; but perhaps its
most important office is in keeping the soil suppUed with humus.
This last benefit is accomplished when the plants are plowed under
in the spring.

Various crops have been recommended for covers in peach orchards,
but some experience is required to select the one best adapted to a
given soil and chmate. As a rule, preference should be given to legumi-
nous croi^s which collect nitrogen from the atmosphere. The various
clovers, especially those of larger growth, make fairly good cover
crops. The vetches are excellent. The winter vetch is especially
good, its chief drawback being the high price of the seed. Cow-peas
are a favorite crop in southern latitudes, but are not generally satis-
factory in Massachusetts. Early maturing varieties of soy beans have
been found amongst the best of all cover crops in our experiments.
A very excellent cover can be secured by sowing a mixture of Canada
peas and barley. Buckwheat makes a first-class cover crop, and has
the advantage of germinating well. Winter rye is sometimes used,
and oats are better than nothing.

In planting any of these cover crops the seed should be sown in
large quantities, in order to make a thick mat. We have found it
best, in sowing such crops as soy beans, to drill them in, making the
rows about 2 feet apart. When this is done we plant the cover crop
two weeks earlier than we would otherwise, say about June 10 to 15.
The cultivator is then run once or twice, sometimes even three times,
between the rows of soy beans after they come up. In this way the
cover-crop period and the cultivation period overlap one another to
some extent, and this is found to be an advantage.

Fertilizers.

If a system of cover cropping is consistently followed, and if a good

growth of soy beans, clover or other leguminous crop is secured from

year to year, there will be no need of large applications of nitrogen;

at any rate, only small quantities of nitrogen will be required on

33

fairly rich soils. It is not difficult to estimate the need for nitrogen
by watching the growth of the peach trees. If the trees make an aver-
age growth of IS inches or more every year, and if the foliage is large,
dark colored and slightly wrinkled, one may feel satisfied that there
is nitrogen enough available for the trees. On the other hand, if the
growth is less than 1 foot annually, if the foliage is yellow and drops
early from the trees, it is plain that more nitrogen should be given.
The simplest and cheapest method of applying this element of plant
food is doubtless in the form of nitrate of soda. Our experience has
shown that this chemical is entirely acceptable to peach trees, and
that it produces excellent results. It should be applied in quantities
of 100 pounds to the acre, just after the leaves come out. In case the
trees are carrying a crop of fruit, and especially in case they are not
in most vigorous health, it will be well to make the apphcation of nitro-
gen a little heavier, and to put it on in two dressings. The first should
be given just after growth starts, and the second one when the peaches
sre a little larger than robins' eggs.

Dr. Van Slyke suggests the following formula for fertilizing peach
trees: nitrate of soda, 50 pounds; dried blood, 100 pounds; cotton-
seed meal, 200 pounds; acid phosphate, GOO pounds; muriate of pot-
ash, 240 pounds; this makes a total of 1,190 pounds, which should be
the maximum application for an acre. As a rule, about half that
amount would be a sufficient annual application for soils of reasonable
fertility.

There is a strong prejudice against the late application of fertilizers
on peach trees, and against late cultivation, on the ground that it
induces a strong, soft growth of wood in the latter part of the year.
The theory is that this w-ood is frozen back during the winter, and the
tree thereby injured. While no direct experiments have been made
on this point, it must be said that our rather extensive observations
at Massachusetts Agricultural College have strongly discounted this
theory. In our experience the trees which make the most vigorous
growth are the ones which best withstand the heavy winters.

Pruning.

The peach orchard requires more thorough and regular pruning
than the apple orchard, and this is saying a good deal. This matter
should have attention as often as once a year. In fact, the writer is
fully convinced that the best results in managing a peach orchard
cannot be secured with less than two general prunings anijually.
One of these should be given in early spring, about March 1, and the
other in midsummer, usually during the Ia.st half of June. Summer
])runing rightly conducted is very advantageous in controlling the
growth of peach trees.

If the top of the tree is rightly formed at the beginning, as explaii'.od
in the paragraph on planting, there will be no great difficulty in form-

34

ing a strong symmetrical head on every peach tree in the orchard. As
soon as the tree is formed and fruitage begins, some regular system
of management should be adopted and consistently pursued. There
are two general methods. According to the first, the tree is allowed
to grow in every direction as far as its natural habit leads it, pruning
being directed to the business of keeping the center opened and the
branches full. A tree well grown in this manner, the formation of
too many large low branches being prevented, takes on something
of a vase form. From this fact it has often been called the vase form
pruning. According to the other method, the tree is frequently and
sometimes vigorously headed back. Branches are cut off at the sides
and at the top. This heading-in requires some judgment. If care-
lessly and improperly done, the results are bad; if intelligently fol-
lowed, however, the method is all that could be desired.

Vigorous, healthy peach trees in full growth and well set with fruit
buds should be headed back at a spring pruning (if the heading-back
method is to be followed), leaving just enough one-year-old wood to
carry a reasonable crop of fruit. In any year when the fruit buds
have been killed by freezing, the heading back may be somewhat more
severe; at such times it is practicable to cut back to two-year-old
wood; in some places it is safe to cut even into three-year-old wood.
If trees are weak and unhealthy, vigorous heading back is still more
desirable. Vigorous heading back in this connection, however, does
not mean the removal of the entire top of the tree, as is sometimes
practised under other conditions for other purposes.

The summer pruning of the trees, already referred to, should be
directed to the removal of excessi^'e growth. Any tree which is gi"ow-
ing is apt to choke its head with strong shoots, which shut out the Hght
from the interior, prevent the proper coloring of the fruit and prevent
also the. formation of fruit buds for the succeeding crop. The slight
check which is given by the removal of green shoots during the summer
is advantageous also in promoting the formation of fruit buds.

The thinning of the fruit may be regarded as a sort of pruning. If
pruning is practised, as advised above, a certain amount of thinning
of the fruit results as an incidental benefit. Whether summer pruning
is given or not, considerable thinning of the fruit is advisable in any
year when the crop sets reasonably well. Experience everywhere has
shown that money expended on thinning pays a large profit.

Diseases and Difficulties.
The great danger which a peach orchard in Massachusetts always
runs is that of heavy winter freezing. The peach grower must take
this chance into account when he starts into business. In case a heavy
freeze occurs and the trees are injured, the damage can be repaired
somewhat by proper management. Extensive experiments on this
subject, conducted by the Hatch Experiment Station of the Massa-

35

chusetts Agricultural College, have shown that moderate heading in
of the trees after a heavy freeze gives best results. This should he fol-
lowed by thorough cultivation, and the appUcation of a small amount
of nitrate of soda. Trees once severely frozen, however, will never
fully recover.

The curcuUo is often spoken of as a serious pest in peach orchards.
Its ravages are easily overestimated. As a matter of fact, this insect
makes little impress on any good commercial crop. Those fruits which
are punctured come off in the June drop or are removed at thinning
time. The percentage of otherwise good peaches lost from this insect
is usually so small as to be entirely negligible. Where the insects are
really bad, it may be worth while to jai- them off the trees and burn
them.

In some years, especially when the crop is heavy and the ripening
season is warm and moist, there is serious loss from ripe rot of the
fruit. After this trouble makes its appearance there is very little to
do except to pick the fruit early, and get it into a cool room as quickly
as possible. The rot can be to some extent prevented with thorough
spraying with Bordeaux mixture. For this purpose spraying should
be done early, even before the buds open in the spring.

The peach yellows is still with us, although there is less said about
it than formerly. The best and safest practice is to dig up and burn
immediately every tree which is found infested with this disease.

The San Jose scale is unquestionably the most serious pest which
the peach grower has to deal with. This vile insect seems to have a
special preference for peach trees. Various methods of fighting the
San Jose scale have been tested and widely discussed during the last
few years. It would require an entire bulletin to set this matter forth
ill any detail. It may suffice for the present to say that the hme-
sulphur sj)ray has been found altogether the most efficient remedy
under New England conditions tlius far.

Handling- thp: Crop.
There are all sorts of ways of selling peaches. In our experience the
package in which the fruit is sold makes a great difference in the price.
For fancy, especially early, varieties, we find a two-quart basket with
bail the most successful. To some extent we have sold peaches locally
in the four-quart till-baskets, such as are shipped six in a crate from
Georgia. As a rule, this four-cjuarl l)asket does not give the best
satisfaction in local markets. For shij)ping, especially to consid.erable
distances, the four-quart basket packed six in a crate is very satis-
factory. For local markets and short shipments undoubtedly the
favorite basket is the half-bushel J(Msey form. As a rule, our markets
prefer the real half-bushol basket, liolding sixteen quarts; although in
some towns thr short basket, holding fourteen quarts, sells e(|ually
well. It is important lo socuie a good supj)ly of clean, well-made

36

baskets early in the season, when one has a crop of peaches in sight.
The price on baskets always goes up stiffly during the peach-picking
season, and it is very distressing to run out of baskets altogether.

Varieties.

There are a great many ^•arieties of peaches offered by the nursery-
men, but a small selection will answer for home use, and a still smaller
list will be better for market. Attention should be called to the fact
that good, white-fleshed peaches are becoming more popular. This is
partly due to the introduction of new white varieties of high quality,
such as Greensboro, Hiley, Waddell, Belle of Georgia. The yellow-
fleshed Elberta has come in with the other new introductions, and
has promptly taken its place as the most profitable of all peaches.

In planting for family use, every one should choose his own favorite
varieties. As a reasonably good selection for family use, however, we
may name the following: Greensboro, Early Crawford, Mountain Rose,
Foster, Belle of Georgia and Crosby. This will give a succession
throughout the season.

For market purposes the following varieties have been found profit-
able : Greensboro, Mountain Rose, Elberta, Crawford Early and Craw-
ford Late, Oldmixon.

The following list of varieties comprises the most popular old sorts
and the most promising new ones : —

Belle of Georgia. — A very profitable peach in the south, and fairly
successful in New England. To some extent this takes the place of
Oldmixon, coming in about the same season. The tree is hardy. The
fruit is white, freestone, of excellent quality.

Carman. — An excellent white peach for family use or local market.
Large, round, white with bright red cheek. Tree hardy.

Chair's Choice. — Tree hardy. Fruit oval, deep yellow, freestone.
Quite late, coming just after Late Crawford.

Champion. — Strong, upright tree, with hardy fruit buds. Prolific.
Fruit round, large, creamy white with pink cheek; flesh tender and
sweet. Of best quality.

Crawford Early. — Tree small, medium size, moderately productive.
Fruit large, oblong, yellow, freestone, good quality. Midseason. A
good peach, and worth planting.

Crawford Late. — Tree large, spreading, very hardy. Fruit very
large, yellow, freestone. Late. This has been the favorite peach in
Massachusetts for years, but as a market variety it is far less profitable
than Elberta.

Crosby. — Tree willowy, spreading and very hardy. Fruit round,
yellow, freestone, of high quality.

Elberta. — Tree strong, stocky, spreading. Very productive, — in
fact, the most productive peach grown. Fruit large when properly
thinned, oblong, yellow with red cheek, freestone. Quality rather poor.

37

This is one of the most profitable peaches grown, but the quality is
not all that can be desired.

Foster. — Fruit large, deep yellow, sometimes almost red, of high
quahty.

Fox. — Tree strong and hardy. Productive. Fruit oval, white
with blush, sweet antl high flavor.

Gteenbiboro. — This is a fine white peach with a red cheek, of good
size and quahty, and the earUest variety of any consequence to ripen
here. It has proved very satisfactory and profitable at the Massachu-
setts Agricultural College.

Hile.y. — Another excellent white peach of the modern style. Mid-
season, or a httle ahead of Mountain Rose.

Mountain Rose. — Strong, upright tree, fruit white fleshed with
rosy cheek. Best quahty. Excellent for home use or local market.

Oldmixon. — This has always been a favorite white peach in New
England, but is now largely superseded by Belle of Georgia and other
earlier and more reliable white varieties. Tree large, moderately
prolific. Fruit white, freestone, tender, rich. Good variety.

Stump. — An old-fashioned white peach, preferred by some. De-
sirable on account of its lateness, coming at the end of the season.

Triumph. — A very hardy tree, bearing abundantly. Fruit small,
yellow, of poor quality. Should not be planted.

Waddelt. — A good white freestone peach, moderately early, medium
size, good quality. Fruit buds hardy.