U/WASS/AMHERST — O "^ ^' ¥6 J^^/^^ LIBRARY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE /y'^ L Digitized by tine Internet Archive in 2010 witii funding from Boston Library Consortium IVIember Libraries littp://www.arcliive.org/details/proceedingsofses5458amer PROCEEDINGS THIRD SESSION [I.e. v. rj 3^nlmtan lontfikgkal |)0ci% FIFTH MEETIKG OF THIS HATIONAL ASSOCIATION, HELD IN %llt €xtu di i0St0tt, 13th, 14th, and 15th of September, 1854, REPORTED BY ALEXANDER C. FELTON, Phonoobaphio Eepoktbb. BOSTON: PRESS OP THE FRANKLIN PRINTING HOUSE, NO. 210 WASHINGTON STREET. 1854. ^3 4, 2.0(> , < > R5.1 WiA. L H.W, Smith, NT. PRESWENr OF nm MiEiac-m roMoiOGioiz society AND -PRESIDENT OF THE lINlTEa SWES ASRICVLTimAL S0CIE7T CIRCULAR imjtirau Unmnlflgital f AciEty. The Fifth Session of this National Association will be held at Horticultural Hall, in the City of Boston, Massa- chusetts, commencing on Wednesday, the thirteenth day of September next, at ten o'clock A. M. It is intended to make this assemblage one of the most interesting that has ever been held in this country, on the subject of Pomology. All Horticultural, Agricultural, and other kindred Association, of North America, are therefore requested to send such number of Delegates to this Conven- tion, as they may deem expedient. Pomologists, Nurserymen, and all others interested in the cultivation of good Fruit, are also invited to attend the com- ing session. Among the objects of this Society, are the following : To ascertain, from practical experience, the relative value of varieties in different parts of our widely extended country. 1 o hear the Reports of the various State Fruit Committees, and from a comparison of results, to learn what Fruits are a ^.apted to general cultivation ; what varieties are suitable for particular localities ; what new varieties give promise of being worthy of dissemination ; and especially, what varieties are generally inferior or worthless, in all parts of the Union. In order to facilitate these objects, and to collect and diffuse a knowledge of researches and discoveries in the science of Pomology, Members and Delegates are requested to contribute specimens of the Fruits of their respective districts ; also papers descriptive of their art of cultivation ; of diseases and insects injurious to vegetation ; of remedies for the same, and whatever may add to the iii!ter(^s|; and utility of the Association. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society has generously offered to provide accommodations for the Society, and also to publish its proceedings free of expense. All packages of Fruit intended for exhibition, may there- fore be addressed as follows :— " Fob the American Pom- OLOGiCAL Society, Horticultural Hall, School Street, Boston, Mass. ;" where a Committee will be in attendance to take charge of the same. All Societies to be represented, will please forward Certifi- cates of their several Delegations to the President of the American Pomological Society, at Boston. MARSHALL P. WILDER, Pkesident. H. W. S. CLEVELAND, Secretary. Boston, Mass., April 1, 1854. PROCEEDINGS In compliance with the preceding call, and before the appointed hour had arrived, the delegates began to collect in the hall in such numbers as to afford promise of an interesting and profitable convention. The preliminary arrangments were then made for the MORNING SESSION. This was opened, at ten o'clock, by the President, Hoisr. Marshall P. Wilder, of Massachusetts, who took the chair, and called the society to order. The Secretary, H. W. S. Cleveland, of New Jersey, was present, and took his seat. The delegates were then requested to hand in their credentials to the Secretary for examination. Col. Henry Little, of Maine, moved that when the delega- tions from the different States, should have presented their credentials, the President proceed to appoint a committee, consisting of one gentleman from each State, to nominate a list of officers for the next bi-ennial term ; and the motion was unanimously adopted. The President said there were other delegates in the city : but as the time was passing, it might be expedient to proceed at once to business. He then requested those present to answer to their names, as the list of dele- gates was called in congressional order. The gentlemen present responded : MAINE. SANGOR HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. J. "Wingate Carr, Henry Little^ Jolm S. Ayer, Walter Goodale, Albert Emerson. KENNEBEC COUNTY AGRICOLTURAL SOCIETY. Samuel P. Benson, Daniel A. Fairbanks. MASSACHUSETTS, MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Joseph S. Cabot, Samuel Walker, Benjamin V. Frencli, Cheever Newliall, E. M. Eichards, Eben Wight, Joseph Breck, C. M. Hovey, W. C. Strong, W. R. Austin, r. L. Winship, Robert Manning, E. W. Bull, J. F. Allen, S. Downer, W. R. Ames, Isaac Fay, J. S. Sleeper, John Kenrick, Frederick Tudor, A. W. Stetson, B. Harrington, J. Richardson, William Bacon, W. S. King. NORTH ESSEX HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. E. G. Kelley, E. S. Williams, C. M. Bayley, William Ashby. J. Osgood, HAMPDEN COUNTY. George M. Atwater, D. C. Brown, H. S» Chapin. 7 ESSEX AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. Moses Newell, Josiah Newell, John M. Ives. WORCESTER NORTH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. Moses Wood, Josliua T. Everett, Jabez Fisher, M. D. WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. John M. Earle, D. Waldo Lincoln, CONNECTICUT. NEW HAVEN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. George Gabriel, John E. Wylie, Thomas H. Totten, M. D. Oliver E. Winchester, B. Lines, Nathaniel A. Bacon, Alfred Smith. HARTFORD COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. John M, Niles, Daniel S. Dewey, P. D. StiUman, H. L. Bidwell, Joseph Winship, John S. Butler, M. D, NEW HAVEN COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Elizur E. Clarke, O. E. Winchester, John E. Wylie, Stephen D. Pardee, Charles Dickerman, E. H. Bishop, NEW YORK. NEW YORK STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, P. Barry, A. Saul, C. Downing, Herman Wendell, W. R. Coppock, Benjamin Hodge, C. Frost, P. B. Mead, Shepherd Knapp, Thomas Hogg, Jr, BROOKLYN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. A. J. S. Degrauw, J. E» Hauch, BUFFALO HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. John B. Eaton, Benjamin Hodge. NEW YORK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Thomas Hogg, Jr. R. G. Pardee, William Eeid, Samuel B. Parsons, William S. Carpenter, D. P. Manice. GENESSEE VALLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. P. Barry, James E. Watts, H. E. Hooker. Joseph Prost. NIAGARA COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. William P. Townsend. queen's county agricultural SOCIETY. William R. Prince. PENNSYLVANIA. PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Thomas McEuen, M. D. Thomas P. James, Isaac B. Baxter, W. D. BrinckU, M. D. John Thomas, Elhanan W. Keyser, J. E. Mitchell. CHESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. J. K. Eshleman, M. D. Josiah Hooper, Pierce Hooper, Jonathan C. Baldwin, Thomas Harvey. NEW JERSEY. BURLINGTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. Thomas Hancock, Benjamin Buckman, H. W. S. Cleveland, James Lippincott. J. W. Hayes, Newark, Mr. Hyde, Netvark, 9 Benjamin P. Hance, Red Bank P. O. Shrewsbury, L. E. Berckmans, Plainfield. MARYLAND. William C. Wilson, Baltimore. Samuel Feast, Baltimore. OHIO. John E.. Miller, Enon, ClarJc County. ILLINOIS. ALTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. E. S. Hull, M. D. Eev. W. D; Haley. I 0 WA. Homer vS; Finley, Davenports MISSOURI. Epliraim Abbotts, St. Louis. FLORIDA. William J. Wood, B. F. IS'ourse, Hiram W. Brooks. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Joshua Pierce, Washington. After the calling of the list of delegates^ an invitation was extended to all persons present, and feeling an interest in the objects of the association, to take part in its deliberations. Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, the President, gave notice that he should hold a Levee, on the evening of the next day, Thursday, at eight o'clock, at the Pevere House ; and extended a hearty invitation to all the members and delegates of the society, to be present on that occassion. The President then rose and delivered the following address. ADDRESS Members and Delegates of the Americajst Pomological SoCIETYi Gentlemen : It is my duty and privilege, at tliis fiftli meeting, and third session under the present organization of our National Associa- tion, to bid you Avelcome to this tri-mountain city, the home of the Pilgrims. Here the colonists of Massachusetts Bay first pastured their flocks and herds. ^Here and in the adjacent country are the grounds which they cultivated, the gardens which their horticultural taste adorned, and in wdiich they gathered some of the first fruits of American pomology. The seed of their planting has ripened, and reproduced itself in successive generations, and has' been widely dissemi- nated in other portions of our happy land. The spirit which animated our fathers and their coadjutors in other colo- nies, descended to their children ; and it led, near the close of the last century, to the formation of societies for the promo- tion of agriculture. These naturally developed the love of horticulture, and secured the establishment of associations for its advancement in different parts of the country, and in turn gave birth to this American Pomological Society. 11 Gentlemen, — In belialf of the Massacliusetts Horticultural Society, at whose kind invitation you have assembled in this place, and at the request of its worthy President, I bid you welcome to their hall and to their hospitalities. In behalf of the government of this association, and in my own behalf, I congratulate you upon the preservation of our lives and health, and upon other propitious circumstances under which we meet. To some of these, I will briefly advert when I have complied with that provision of our constitution, which requires your presiding oflicer "to deliver an address on some subject relating to pomology at every bi-ennial meeting." In fulfilment of this trust, you will not, I presume, expect from me at this time a scientific treatise. I shall only offer a few practical suggestions, Avhich personal experience and ob- servation have awakened, and which may serve as hints to subjects for your enquiry and discussion. If any of these should evolve topics which you deem of sufficient importance to justify their assignment to special committees, with author- ity to prosecute the same, I recommend that their results should be reported, from time to time, to the executive com- mittee, who may publish them in the form of ad interim reports. Here, however, I cannot refrain from alluding to the great importance of publishing, under the sanction of this Society, none but the most reliable results, and of recommending for general culture only such varieties of fruit as are approved by long, uniform and general experience — since your imprint will involve the integrity and honor of the Society both at home and abroad. One error may produce incalculable mis- chief. Eecommendations from you may induce the cultivation of an unworthy variety ; and when the mistake is once made, its correction will prove like the attempt to recall words cast upon the wings of the wind. Of this evil, a single illustration will suffice. Many of us remember the glowing representations given of the Monarch 12 Pear. Whatever specimens of tMs fruife there may have beeii originally in the possession of Mr. Knight, the variety prob-^ ably either never passed from his hands or was immediately lost to the world. Yet this has been disseminated and lauded as exceedingly valuable down almost to the present time, disappointing the expectations of cultivators both in Europe and America. Mr. Knight acknowledged that a false variety had been issued, and regretted the error more than the loss of ten thousand pounds sterling. After his death, scions of what purported to be the true sort were obtained from the London Horticultural Society, over which he so long pre- sided ; but strange to relate, both of these proved identical, and the Monarch Pear lost the supremacy which its name indicates. But who can calculate the loss of time, labor and money by these false issues, or erroneous representations ? Great evils have resulted, and still result, from undue haste or extravagance in recommending novelties in hor- ticulture. Hence great caution and reserve should be exercised by this Society, its auxiliaries, and all their oihcial authorities. My next suggestion relates to the production from seed of new varieties of fruits adapted to particular localities, or to general cultivation. The immense loss to American cultivators, from the impor- tation of foreign varieties, in many instances not well adapted to the countries from which they come, and often still less adapted to our soil and climate, suggests the importance of raising from seed, native sorts which, in most instances, pos- sess peculiar advantages. It is now generally conceded that the trees and plants of a given country, like its aboriginal in- habitants, will flourish better at hqme than in most foreign localities. We rejoice that public attention has been turned to this subject by some of our horticultural journalists, and that many cultivators and amateurs are engaged in this interesting 13 and promising department. The success which, has crowned their exertions affords great encouragement to perseverance. Witness, for instance, thirty or more varieties of the cherry, by Dr. Kirtland, of Ohio, which appear adapted to our eastern climate, and some of them of superior excellence. Witness the numerous varieties of the raspberry, by Dr. Brinckle, Ex-President of this Society, of which, some have endured, without covering, the severities of the last winter in the New England States, and which also promise to be valuable contributions to American pomology. In addition to these, how many new varieties of the apple, the pear, the plum, and the grape have recently been added to the list of American fruits. How many new and excellent varieties of the strawberry have ajDpeared since the introduction of Mr. Hovey's Seedlings. These are sure indications of the success which will reward future efforts to obtain valuable and native varieties of fruit ; and they point to the fulfilment of the prediction of the celebrated Van Mons, '^ that the time will come when our best fruits will be derived from seedlings." He gives the following sage counsel to his correspondents, to whom he had sent trees : " iSow your seed and persevere without in- terruption, and you will obtain even better fruit than mine." Among pioneers in this department, I am happy to notice a gentlemen, (now residing among us) the pupil and friend of Van Mons, one who has adopted our country as his future home, and who has already transplanted to our soil many thousands choice seedlings of the pear which have come into his possession from the collections of that gentleman and the celebrated Esperen. As to the best method of producing fine varieties from seed, the opinions of distinguished pomologists are not uniform. DuHAMEL, among the French, from causes which seem to us irreconcilable with nature and experience, entertained, serious doubts of the practicability of any method for obtain^: 14 ing new and valuable varieties from seed, especially of the pear, because lie bad tried various experiments witliout suc- cess, for fifty years. Dk. VajST Mons, of Belgium, instead of saving the seed of the finest varieties, selected those of inferior sorts, upon the principle that a kind having arrived at the highest state of perfection must deteriorate, while an inferior one would improve by successive reproductions. He also held that hybridization tended to degeneracy and imperfection. Thus he assumes the doctrine that a perfect variety necessarily dete- riorates, and also overlooks the fact observed by other distin- guished men, that the improvement or deterioration of which he speaks, may result from natural impregnation by the pollen of other varieties conveyed by the air or insects, and therefore that the seed of a good variety may produce either a better or a worse, and that of a bad either a worse or a better. Mr. Knight's system of obtaining new and improved varieties, depended entirely on hybridization or artificial impregnation so lightly esteemed by Dr. Yan Mens. This is somewhat difficult to practice on account of natural fertilization by insects and the wind ; but it has the merit of depending on a truly philosophical principle, and with very particular attention may yet prove as available for the improvement of our fruits as it has for the production of fine varieties in the vegetable and floral kingdom, or as the corresponding principle has in the crossing of the breeds of domestic animals. The results of Mr. Knight's experience disprove the tend- ency to degeneracy, inasmuch as many of his fruits, obtained by hybridization, are among the most durable and hardy varieties, as the Eyewood and Dunmore Pears ; the Black Eagle, and other Cherries. Many cultivators, as Esperen, Bivort, Berckmans, and others, both in this and foreign countries, have sown seeds in variety, and have obtained some valuable sorts. But I am confirmed in the opinion, that the best means of producing new and excellent varieties, suited either to general cul- 16 ; ^ tivation or to particular localities, is to ])lant the most mature and perfect seed of the most hardy, vigorous, and valuable sorts •; on tlie general pathological principle that like produces like, and upon the conviction that immature seed, although the embryo may be sufficiently formed to vegetate, yet not having all its elements in perfection, it will not produce a vigorous and healthy offspring. Dr. Lindley, comment- ing upon this practice, justly remarks — " All experience shows that in every kind of created thing, be it man or beast, or bird, the mysterious principle, called life, remains during the whole period of existence what it was at first. If vitaHty is feeble in the beginning, so it remains » Weak parents produce weak children, and their children's children are weaker still, as imperial dynasties have sadly shown." With liim we believe this theory as applicable to the vegetable as to the animal kingdom. Mav not a disre2:ard of this doctrine account for the great number of feeble, sickly, early defoliated trees often found in our grounds by the side of those that are vigorous, healthful, and persistent in foliage ? Is not the theory we advocate as important in the production of fruit trees, as in the raising of cereal grains ? The skilful .agriculturist saves the best seed of his various crops, and selects the best animals from his flocks and herds for breeders. Why should not this law of reproduction regulate the practice of the pomologist as well as of the farmer ? Has the All -wise and Infinite enacted several laws where one would subserve the purpose ? To the doctrine of Van Mons, and other distinguished writers, respecting deterioration by age, and after a variety has reached its perfection, there seem to be some exceptions. From the accounts of oriental travellers, may we not believe that the grapes of Eschol are as perfect now as when the chiefs of Israel plucked their rich clusters three thousand years ago ? — and that the same variety of the fig, the olive, and the pomegranate are as perfect in Syria to-day as in the period of David and Solomon ? It is worthy of enquiry 16 ■whether the native grapes^ on the banks of our riversj have deteriorated since the day when the red men of the forest refreshed themselves with fruit from those vines, and whether the orange, the lemon, the bananna, and the fruits of southern latitudes evince any more signs of decay than they did cen- turies ago ? In a word, whether this doctrine of deterioration is as applicable to the native as to the foreign fruit of a country ? Why may we not expect to obtain natural varieties of the apple and other fruit as durable and far more valuable than those which have passed their second centennial, as the Endi- cott and Stuyvesant Pears ? From meteorological or other causes, which we do not at present understand^, particular varieties may deteriorate in a given locality, for a season, and afterwards revive ; or, they may show signs of decay in one locality and flourish well in others not very remote, as the White Doyenne which has been considered, for many years, by some in this vicinity, on the decline, while it is perfect in several places in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and other States. Fruit -bearing may exhaust the vital energy of the tree, and hasten decay, but still the variety may remain. We have, among fruit trees, no example of longevity equal to that of the new Taxodium, found in California, suj)posed to be three thousand years old. Our object is not to contro- vert the opinions of those who believe in the running out of varieties, whether their duration be limited to one hundred or one thousand years, but to enforce the importance of raising new varieties from seed, especially adapted to our own location. We pass, in the next place, to the arts of cultivation. In the presence of so many scientific and practical culti- vators, I need sa^ on this topic nothing more, and surely can say nothing better;, than to announce the principles of your practice and the results of your experience, as promul- gated by the press. 17 The absokite necessity of propei- preparation, and deep and tlioroiTgh cultivation of the soil, especially for certain fruits, is now generally admitted, though regard must always be had to the natural activity in the sap of the species, and to the degree of fertility of the soil. Surely it would be unwise to apply the same cultivation to the peach and the cherry, as to the apple and the pear, or to treat any of these on new and fertile grounds as in old and exha^isted lands. The influence of soils is remarkable. But by these we do not mean the identical spot, the artificial bed in which the tree stands ; for, in time, the roots take a wide range in search of food. Some fruits are good in nearly all places ; others, only in their original locality. Some succeed best on light, loamy, or sandy soils ; others, in stiff clayey soils. In the latter, many pears, for instance, the Beurre Bosc and Napoleon, are astringent, while in the former they are entirely free from this quality. The Beurre Ranee, in Eng^ land and in some parts of France, is the best late pear. So it is, also, in some of the soils of Belgium ; while with others, and with us, it is generally inferior. The flavor of fruit is much influenced not only by soil but also by climatic and meteorological agents. Thus, in a cold, wet and imclrained soil, disease commences in the root ; and, as a natural consequence, the juices of the tree are imperfect^ ly elaborated, and unable to supply the exigency of the fruit. Even injurious substances are taken up. A plum tree has been known to absorb oxide of iron, so as not only to color the foliaare, but also to exude and form incrustations on the bark, and finally to kill the tree. As an instance of climatic agency, it is sufficient to report the fact, that out of fifty varieties of American peaches grown in the gardens at Chis- wick, England, only two Avere adapted to the climate. In relation to appropriate fertilizers for fruit trees, a diver- sity of opinion prevails. All agree that certain substances exist in plants and trees, and that these must be contained in the soil to produce growth, elaboration and perfection. Tq 18 supply these, some advocate the use of what are termed special manures ; others ridicule the idea. We submit whether this is not a difference in lang'uage, rather than in princij)Ie ; for by special fertilizers the first mean simply those which correspond with the constituents of the crop. But are not the second careful to select and apply manures which contain those elements ? and do they not, in practice, affix the seal of their approbation to the theory which they oppose ? Explode this doctrine and do you not destroy the j)rinciple of man- uring, and the necessity of a rotation of crops ? Trees exhaust the soil of certain ingredients, and, like animals, must have their appropriate food. All know how difficult it is to make a fruit tree flourish on the spot from which an old tree of the same species has been removed. The great practical question now agitating the community is : How shall we ascertain what fertilizing elements are appropriate to a particular species of vegetation? To this, two replies are rendered. Some say, analyse the crop ; others, the soil. Each, we think, maintains a truth; and both to- gether, nearly the whole truth. We need the analysis of the crop to teach us its ingredients, and that of the soil to ascer- tain whether it contains those ingredients ; and if it does not, what fertilizers must be applied to supply them. Thus, by analysis, we learn that nearly one quarter part of the con- stituents of the pear, the grape, and the strawberry consists of potash. This abounds in new soils, and peculiarly adapts them to the productions of these fruits, but having been extracted from soils long under cultivation it is supplied by wood-ashes or potash, the value of which has of late greatly increased in the estimation of cultivators. Among the arts of modern cultivation, universal experience attests to the great advantage of mulching the soil around fruit trees, as a means of fertilization and of preservation from drought in heat so common with us in midsummer. In illus- tration of this, experiment has proved that on dry soils, where the earth has been strown with straw, the crops have 19 been as large without manure, as with it, where evaporation has disengaged the fertihzing elements of the soil. On the various systems oi pruning, upon which so much has been written, I cannot enlarge. But when I consider the profound philosophy involved in this branch of our subject, I freely confess my inability justly to represent my own impressions, or faithfully to report yours. I shall only men- tion a few general principles. It is a doctrine of physiology, applicable alike to animals and plants, that the power of production depends upon vital energy; and this again, on sustenance. Hence, a tree can support only a given amount of perfect fruit. If from a superabundance of fruit spurs there be a deficiency of organizable matter to sustain inflorescence and perfect fructification, the fruit will be either imperfectly formed or prematurely drop from the tree. Of this, we have many forcible illustrations of varieties which bloom abundantly without setting their fruit ; or which bear full crops only in alternate years. The remedy for these evils, provided the soil is properly fertilized, and other circumstances are propi- tious, is judicious pruning. In such instances, it is important to remove a part of the fruit spurs ; or if there be a redun- dancy of fruit, to thin it out by picking off the inferior speci- mens. This latter practice is as important in fruit groAving as in the cultivation of vegetables. All concede the importance of maintaining the co-relation of the different parts of the tree and of preserving the equilibrium between the top and the root. Cultivators of great celebrity remark that "it is easy to perceive what division of the root is suffering by the appearance of the branches ; if the top dies, the tap or taps are sickly ; if the lateral branches die, then the lateral subdivisions of the roots are dead." In relation to summer pruning, I will only add that as the roots and leaves are the principal organs of the tree, the only ones, in fact, of which the functions are active, it is necessary to preserve great caution, and to exercise much scientific skill. 20 There is one other subject to whicli I can only allude ; the necessity of regarding the affinities between different varieties in the arts of multiplication. All perceive the importance of this in the different species and genera of fruit trees. Why is it not reasonable to regard it in some measure in the varieties ? It is surprising how varieties are affected in their growth by a congeniality or incongeniality between the stock and the graft. May not these affinities or non-affinities affect the quality of the fruit as well as the growth and longevity of the tree ? We suggest whether in the arts of multiplication there should not be a more careful regard to the various families ; for instance, in the pear, whether the Doyennes should not be grafted or budded on the Doyennes, the Bergamots on the Bergamots, and the like. We believe that much of the degeneracy which has been attributed to natural deterioration, or the running out of varieties, may have resulted from an injudicious selection of scions. Experience prefers those from a vigorous shoot near the top of a healthy tree, " of good, strong, healthy kinds, Avith a sound constitution ; " since, as a distinguished cultivator remarks, there vitality is strongest, and light and free air exert their most salutary influence. The same writer cautions us against taking them from decayed or unhealthy trees, or from those impaired in vitality or growing in bad soil, or in an unfavorable location, " as such are likely to produce sickly successors, themselves to become prematurely decrepid." In regard to the various maladies of trees, and in respect to insects injurious to vegetation, we have no time to enlarge. On these subjects, we requested a commrinication from Dr. Harris, Professor of Entomology, which I have the pleasure to submit with this address, a gentleman from whose researches and publications the public have already derived inestimable advantages. [See Appendix.] The diseases of fruit trees may be resolved into two classes, the natural or spontaneous, and the accidental or contagious. 21 These should be carefully distinguished, and their symptoms considered, to ascertain their primary cause, and to determine whether they are local or general, whether they affect the whole tree or a part of it, as the root, the branches, or the fruit. Researches in this department should be encouraged by the general belief that there are few, if any, diseases of vegetation, for which there is no remedy. There is but one other topic to which I will advert, — the preservation and ripening oj fruit. Much progress has been made in this art within a few years, and important resvilts have been attained. The principle has been settled that the ripening process can be controlled. Autumnal fruits have been kept and exhibited the succeeding spring. We have seen the Seckel, Bartlett, and Louise bonne de Jersey pears, in perfection in January, and even later. The maturity of fruits depends on saccharine fer- mentation. This is followed by other fermentations, as the vinous and ascetous. To prevent these, and preserve fruit in all its beauty, freshness, and flavor, the temperature must be uniform and kept below the degree at which the fermentation or the ripening process commences. Our remarks, like our experience, have special regard to the apple and the pear, though the principle is doubtless susceptible of a more exten- sive application. Fruits, designed to be kept for a considerable time, shoidd be gathered with great care some clays before the ripening process commences, especially summer pears. A summer pear ripened on the tree is generally inferior. In respect to the latter, Mr. Barry, Editor of the Horticulturist, has so aptly expressed my own sentiments, that I use his language. "The process of ripening on the tree, which is the natural one, seems to act iipon the fruit for the benefit of the seed, as it tends to the formation of woody fibre and farina. "When the fruit is removed from the tree, at the very com- mencement of ripening, and placed in a still atmosphere, the natural process seems to be counteracted, and sugar and juice are elaborated instead of fibre and farina. Thus, pears which 22 become mealy and rot at tlie core when left on the tree to ripen, become juicy, melting, and delicious when ripened in the house." Various fruit houses have been built both in this country and in Europe ; and experience shows that their object can be attained only by a perfect control of the temperature, moisture, and light. Hence, they must be cool, with non- conducting walls, or with exterior and interior walls, or a room within a room. Thus the external atmosphere, which either starts the saccharine fermentation or conveys the agents which produce it, can be admitted or excluded at pleasure. It is possible, however, to preserve the temperature at so low a degree and for so long a time as to destroy, especially Avith some varieties of the pear, the vitality, and therefore all power, ever to resume the ripening process. Experience proves that for the common varieties of the apple and pear, about forty degrees of Earenheit is the temperature best suited to hold this process in equilibrium. The proper maturing of fruit thus preserved, demands skill and science. Different varieties require different degrees of moisture and heat, according to the firmness of the skin, the texture of the flesh, and the natural activity of the juices. Thus, some varieties of the pear will ripen at a low tempera- ture and in a comparatively dry atmosphere, while others, as the Eastern beurre, are improved by a warm and humid air. Some varieties of the pear, ripening with difficulty, and formerly esteemed only second rate, are now pronounced of excellent quality, because the art of maturing them is better understood. But so many experiments have been tried, or are in pro- gress, and so much has been written on this branch of our subject, that I need not enlarge except to say that the art of preserving and ripening fruit in perfection, involves so much scientific knowledge as to require great attention and care ; and, until its laws are more fully developed, must be attended with considerable difficulty. I therefore commend it to your special attention, as second in importance only to the raising of new varieties. 2; But I will not prolong these remarks. Your own observa- tions and experience will readily suggest other felicitous illustrations of the principles to which I have adverted. I will merely re-affirm what our Friend Thomas has so justly asserted, "that fruit and fruit trees in all stages of their existence need care and attention." I will add, also, that here, as in every other department of cultivation, eternal vigilance is an indispensable condition of success. Gentlemen: The facilities afforded us for the promotion of pomological science, should animate our exertions and encourage our hopes. Never before have cultivators of the soil enjoyed equal opportunities for the acquisition of know- ledge, for its rapid and extensive diffusion, and for the advancement of those arts which contribute so much to the refinement and social happiness of mankind. The age in which it is our good fortune to live, is indeed eventful — so infinitely superior to all that have preceded it, that we seem to have issued from relative darkness into the dawn of a brighter day. We begin to see where we are, what cheering prospects are before us, and to anticipate the glorious destiny that awaits us. I congratulate you upon the opportunity the present occa- sion affords for the interchange of cordial salutations, and of that personal experience which makes the knowledge of one the property of all, — upon the variety of our soil and climate, which enables us to produce nearly all the fruits of the civilized world, — upon the progress of the arts of cultivation, and of a knowledge of the principles upon which those arts depend, — upon the increasing interest of all classes of society in the growth of fruits, and the number of fine varieties which have recently been added to our lists, — upon the skill displayed in rural architecture and landscape gardening ui the suburbs of our cities and throughout our land, — and upon the multiplication of societies and periodicals, which invite the lovers of nature to participate in the blessings which flow from rural life and cultivated taste. 24 If our present exhibition of fruits is less extensive than it would have been but for the remarkable drought, yet could our Puritan sires examine it, with what astonishment would they be filled ! For instance, could Governors Endicott and Stuyvesant inspect our collection of pears, with what pleasure would they look back to the planting of the trees that still live and bear their names. And with what eloquence would they exhort us to perseverance, that our names also may go down to posterity honorably associated with the fruits of our labors ! z"^' But much remains to be accomplished. Improvements / may hereafter be made more remarkable than any which have ^- hitherto astonished mankind. Implements of industry may yet be invented still further to facilitate our labor, and to relieve its severity. Natural laws may be discovered, upon which arts of a more successful cultivation may be founded. Remedies and agents may hereafter be discovered and applied for the cure of the diseases and for the destruction of the insects at present so injurious to vegetation. All these are not only possible, but probable ; for in the very constitution of our minds and of the material world, our beneficent Creator has provided for endless progress, and for a continual approach toward his own unapproachable perfection. / But how much study and experiment are requisite before / we can touch the magic spring which shall reveal these won- / ders to our perception ! We have no prophetic eye to look down the vista of ages and to discover the future ; but judg- ing from the past, what incentives encourage our perseverance ! Gentlemen, Go on. Prosecute the work you have so hon- orably commenced. Sow the seeds of your best fruits, — raise new. varieties, — ply the arts of judicious cultivation, — study the laws of nature, and extend your researches and 1 labors, till our beloved land shall be adorned with orchards, \ . . . '. vineyards and gardens ; and man shall realize the poet's idea ""-of Paradise regained ! 26 The President's address was received with enthusiastic applause. The President then appointed the following gentlemen to serve as nominating committee. Henry Little, Maine. B. F. Cutter, New Hampshire. J. S. Cabot, Massachusetts. C. B. Lines, Connecticut. P. Barry, New York. J. M. Hayes, New Jersey. W. D. Brinckle, Pennsylvania. Samuel Feast, Maryland. E. S. Hull, niinois. Ephraim Abbot, Missouri. B. F. Nourse, Florida. Joshua Peirce, Dist. Columbia. The President : For the facilitation of business the chair would suggest that it may be expedient, at this time, to appoint a committee, to report business for the convention. The following gentlemen will constitute that committee : Samuel "Walker, Mass. B. F. Nourse, Florida. P. Barry/N. Y. J. B. Eaton, N. Y. E. W. Keyser, Penn. The nomination was unanimously sustained. The President invited all editors and reporters of papers to take seats at the board, and requested gentlemen having lists of fruits, which they might have contributed, to pass them into the Secretary's hands, and they would then be disposed of by the Committee on Fruits. Mr. Little, Chairman of the Nominating Committee, reported the following list of officers, who were unanimously elected. 26 PRESIDENT. Hon. Marshall P. Wilder o£ Massachusetts. VICE PRESIDENTS S. L. Gooclale, Maine. H. J. French., jSTew Hampshire. Samuel Walker, Massachusetts. Frederick Holbrook, Vermont. Stephen H. Smith, E-hode Island. A. S, Munson, Connecticut. Benj. Hodge, New York. Thomas Hancock, New Jersey. Caleb Cope, Pennsylvania. E. Tatnall, Jr., Delaware. Wm. C. Wilson, Maryland. Yardley Taylor, Virginia. Joshua Lindley, North Carolina. E.obert Chishohn, South Carolina. Richard Peters, Georgia. C. A. Peabody, Alabama. Thomas Affleck, Mississippi. Henry E. Lawrence. Louisiana. D. W. Yandell, Tennessee. Lawrence Young, Kentucky. A. H. Ernst, Ohio. Henry L. Ellsworth, Indiana. W. D. Haylay, IlHnois. Thomas Allen, Missouri. Eev. C. H. Byington, Arkansas. B. F. Nourse, Florida. James Grant, Iowa. N. P. Talmadge, Wisconsin. Henry Gibbons, California. Joshua Peirce, ■ District of Columbia, 27 Edward Hunter, Utah. Hugh Allen. Canada East. James Dougal, Canada West. SECRETAE Y. H. W. S. Cleveland of Massachusetts. TREASURER. Thomas P. James, Pennsylvania. Mr. Wilder, on accepting the office of President, made the following remarks : Gentlemen : I tender you my grateful acknowledgements for this renewed mark of distinction. I am not of the num- ber who, having put hand to plow, am disposed to look back, but I freely confess that it has been my desire and inclination to retire finally, not only from the chair of this society, but from every other official position with which I am honored. Having held the office of President of this Association for two bi-ennial terms, I did deem it expedient that I should vacate the chair, and allow others to fill it. But, gentlemen, I have waived my objections, mv private comfort, and my personal convenience, to the judgment of those whom I am bound to respect ; and I will accept of the appointment ; and with such abilities as I possess, will discharge the duties of the office faithfully, and impartially. (Applause). On motion of Mr. Hancock of New Jersey, after consid- erable discussion, it was voted that the word " represented," be stricken out of that part of the fifth article of the Consti- ution, Avhich provides as follows : " The officers shall con- sist of a President, one Vice-President from every State, Territory and Province (represented), a Treasurer, and a Secretary." In compliance with the requirements of the Constitution, the President then appointed the following committees : 28 STATE FRUIT COMMITTEES. GENERAL CHAIRMAN. Hon. Samuel Walker of Massaclmsetts. Henry Little, Chairman. , Maine. H. F. French, (C New Hampshire, Eben Wight, a Massachusetts. Stephen H. Smith, a Phode Island. George Gabriel, a Connecticut. C. Goodrich, i( Vermont. P. Barry, a New York. William Reicl, i( New Jersey. T. P. James, a Pennsylvania. Lewis P. Bush, M. D., (C Delaware. Samuel Feast, ii Maryland. Yardley Taylor, a Virginia. Henry K. Burgwyn, a North Carolina. William Sumner, a South Carolina. Pt. Pev. Stephen Elliott, Jr. i( Georgia. Charles A. Peabody, ii Alabama. Thomas Affleck, es Mississippi. D. W. Yandell, (( Tennessee. E. D. Hobbs, i( Kentucky. P. Buchanan, (( Ohio. J. D. G. Nelson, Si Indiana. S. S. Connett, (I Indiana. J. A. Kennicott, M. D., ii Illinois. Thomas Allen, a Missouri. A. G. Sems, ii Florida. James Grant, a Iowa. N. P. Talmadge, a Wisconsin. F. W. Macondry, ii California. Henry Gibbors, M. D., ii California. Joshua Peirce, a Dist. Columbia. Edward Hunter, ii Utah. James Dou^al, ii Canada West. Huo-h Allen. ii Canada East. 29 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The President and Vice-Presidents ex-officio. W. D. Brinclde, M. D. Pennsylvania. B. V. French, Massachusetts. J. A. Warder, M. D. Ohio. Pichard Peters, Georgia. Benjamin Hodge, New York. COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN FRUITS. C. M. Hovey, Massachusetts. Charles Downing, New York C. B. Lines, Connecticut. S. L. Goodale, Maine. H. E. Hooker, New York. J. M. Hayes, New Jersey. E. S. Hull, Illinois. COMMITTEE ON NATIVE FRUITS. Wm. D. Brinckle, M. D. Pennsylvania. P. Barry, New York. Henry Little, Maine. Pobert Manning, Massachusetts. Thomas Hancock, New Jersey. J. B. Eaton, New York. B. F. Cutter, New Hampshire, COMMITTEE ON SYNONYMS. J. S. Cabot, Massachusetts. Wm. P. Prince, New York. L. E. Berckmans, New Jersey. A. H. Ernst, Ohio. J. J. Thomas, New York. Robert Buist, Pennsylvania. F. Pv. Elliott, Ohio. 30 Mr. Walker, Chairman of the Business Committee, submit- ted the following report, which was imanimonsly accepted : Presuming that the session of the convention will be continued during three days, they recommend that the order of business shall be for the FIRST DAY, The discussion of the pear : 1. The rejection of unworthy varieties, 2. Varieties for general cultivation. 3. Varieties which promise well. 4. Varieties on quince. For the SECOND DAY, Apples ; and after that, peaches, plums, and other fruits. The President next called for the reports of State Fruit Committees. Mr. Walker, General Chairman, submitted the following : Boston, September 13, 1854. The undersigned, in behalf of the Fruit Committees of the several States, begs leave to submit the accompaning reports, and respectfully recommends that these documents, together with such others as may be received, be referred to the Secretary of the Society for publication ; and that the lists of fruits recommended by the several State Committees for adoption or rejection, (with such others as may be proposed by the members of the society,) be in order for discussion. SAMUEL WALKER, Chairman. tpxts. REPOUT FROM MAINE. The committee do not think it advisable, at this time, to make a lengthy report, but rather briefly to notice the seasons in Maine, since their last was made, with a very few remarks on varieties. Last year the fruit crop was generally good. Of apples, moderate ; pears and plums beyond an average. The winter succeeding surpassed in severity any previous one for twenty years or more, and serious losses were sustained. A degree of cold equal to 31° below zero, coming upon an autumn, warm and unusually late, and consequently acting upon much imperfectly ripened v/ood, and in too many cases upon trees weakened by overbearing, might well be feared. To show that the disasters of the ]3ast winter were not wholly owing to the severity of the cold, it may be well to mention the fact, that of about eighty pear trees planted by one of your committee, about the fifteenth of October last, and to which the leaves adhered firmly, and were removed by hand to check the farther flow of sap, not one tree was lost ; while in the nursery rows, from which the trees were taken, a considerable proportion were killed. In consequence of the severe drought of the past summer, which was more severe than since 1841, no rain having fallen for seventy-five days previous to the first week in Sep- 32 tember, the fruit crop of the present year has consequently been very light, and less opportunity has been afforded than was desired, for testing many new varieties, and the more so, as on many trees not apparently otherwise injured, the blossom buds were so much injured as to fall without opening. Yet they are not the less confident, in regard to the ultimate profit and general success of fruit culture in Maine, if judi- ciously managed in the matter of the selecting of suitable varieties, and of subsequent cultivation. As to the adaptation of varieties to soil and climate we know something ; but much remains to be learned. Of the necessity of thorough cultivation, we already know more than we practice. Allow us to press this point, and urge all who propose to plant trees, to invest in the operation some money, care, and labor, say one dollars' worth in all for each young tree, to purchase, plant and care for it the first year, and fifty cents for each year afterwards. This would suffice, and would not be ex- travagant. Should this be faithfully done, it would be reasonable to anticipate a- good profit on the investment. In a few years each tree would probably yield as much as the interest of one or two hundred dollars, and will continue to do it for many years. The committee are confident that there is no way by which the lands of Maine can be used that will pay a greater per cent, per acre, than by the cultivation of the finer varieties of fruits which are suited to the climate of the State. They therefore recommend the extensive cultivation of the choicest and long keeping varieties. That the winter apples of Maine possess a sharper and a higher flavor, and a more crispy and finer texture than those of the same varieties grown in other States, in a Avarmer climate, and a longer season. They also decidedly possess better keeping qualities. This gives our cultivators an advantage when large quantities are grown for exportation. The fact that our long-keeping fruits may be successfully carried to nearly all parts of the world, is calcu- lated to allay the fears of any who may apprehend that the extensive planting of fruit trees would result in overstocking the market, for that is out of the question. Maine is largely interested in shipping ; our ice crop never fails, and immense quantities are annually shijDped to foreign countries ; and our fruit and ice can go well together. Bald- win and other long -keeping apples have been carried with ice to Calcutta, and there sold at high prices, weeks and even months after our stock of apples at home has been exhausted. Of the varieties not mentioned in our last report, to which we would refer, we would name, of APPLES, Aunt Hannah, Beefsteak, Mexico and Northern Sweet, as having proved of fine quality. Norton's Melon, Wagner, Hawley, St. Lawrence, and other new varieties are on trial, and promise well. PEAKS. The Tyson, St. Ghislain, and Beurre Giifard, are among the best early varieties. Buifum and Dunmore are profitable late varieties. Lawrence, Beurre St. Nicolas, Doyenne Bous- sock, Stevens' Genessee, and Beurre d'Anjou promise well. Other new varieties are on trial, among Avhich are Buerre Clairgeau and Buerre Superfin. PLUMS. This fruit is cultivated with success in this State. Heine Claude de Bavay and St. Martin's Quetsche have proved very desirable late plums. Washington Seedling, (Ives',) thus far has proved very beautiful, and a fine flavored plum. We still think favorably of the several fruits named in our last report. All which is respectfully submitted. HENRY LITTLE, Bangor. S. L. GOODALE, Saco. EZEKIEL HOLMES, Winthrop. ALEX. JOHNSON, Jr., Wiscassett. DANIEL TABOR, Vassalboro. Maine, September, 1854. REPORT FROM NEW HAMPSHIRE. The undersigned, one of the committee from New Hamp- shire, begs leave to submit the following report : New Hampshire, as a State, in former years, has not been celebrated for culture of fruit of any kind ; but since our State and County Fairs have been in operation, a new era has commenced in the business, and an impetus given to it that, in some places, almost amounts to a mania. Information is sought for, and orchards containing the most choice collections, are being set in the most approved manner, that in a few years will work an entire revolution in the business. The nursery business remains good, and the nursery men are becoming more experienced, and paying more attention to making choice collections of fruit ; yet Ave have many varieties of fruit cultivated of a local character, and many of them entirely worthless, which makes one of the most serious drawbacks in fruit culture. APPLES. The crop of apples, the present year, though not large, gave promise of being very good until the severe drougth in August caused them to ripen and fall prematurely, wliich will reduce the crop very much. The curculio, which in former years has been very destructive, has this year almost entirely disappeared ; and the apples have been freer from worms than almost ever before, until within about three weeks — at which time the apple Avorm made its appearance in great numbers, and are becoming very destructive. The Baldwin apple is, and probably will be for yeai's to come, the most popular market fruit for its season ; but the trees growing on low, sandy loam, are very liable to die prematurely ; whole nurseries, in some instances, having been entirely killed, probably on account of sudden changes in the weather during the winter season ; Avhile others, Avithin a short distance, and located on high gravelly land, have not been injured. 35 For a small collection of apples besides the Baldwin, I would recommend the following, taking them in the order in which they ripen. Viz : Early Harvest, Early Bough, Red Astracan, William's Favorite^ Foundling, Gravenstein, Porter, Orange Sweet, Jewett's fine Bed, Esopus Spitzenburg, Hunt, or Golden Busset, and the John Sweet. The latter, a new fruit, originated in this county, and the best late keeping sweet apple I have yet seen. THE PEACH. The peach crop is very uncertain in our State, especially on low land, and the present year is almost an entire failure. From several years' experience in the culture of this fruit, I am satisfied that seedling trees planted where they are wanted to grow, would be the most profitable for a crop, and that by planting the stones from good fruit, there is no trouble in obtaining it. I should recommend to head in thrifty trees, by cutting oif from one-fourth to one-half of the last years growth, as they are much less liable to be broken by Avind, snow, ice, or heavy crops of fruit. The borer, the greatest enemy to the peach tree, may be destroyed by piling ashes about the tree, and digging the worm out. PEARS. Pears are being cultivated within a few years to a consider- able extent, especially in the large towns and cities, and very good specimens have been exhibited at all our late fairs ; and, if we may judge by the sale of trees in the State, we shall soon have an abundance of delicious fruit. The crop of fruit the present season, so far as my knowledge extends, is very light ; the bloom having been killed by a severe frost in May. Having but little experience in the culture of the pear, I furnish no list. CHERRIES. In the cultivation of cherries, but little has been done as yet, except with an old variety of the Morello or Kentish, which 36 is a very hardy kind, and thrives very well all over the State. Many of the new varieties are being set in the State of late, and some of the more hardy kinds are doing very well. Almost every person who buys a cherry tree, wants Black Tartarian ; but I would not recommend it for our climate, as the bark cracks, and the gum oozes out, which eventually destroys the tree. The rose bug is the greatest enemy to the cherry that we have to contend with ; and not less than eight or ten kinds of birds eat the fruit, Avhich makes the cultivation of this kind of fruit rather a discouraging business. The crop of cherries the present season was very light, the frost having killed the bloom in May. I would recommend the following as among the best for my vicinity, being in the south part of the State, viz. : May Duke, Black Eagle, Hyde's Ked Heart, Hyde's Black Heart, White Bigarreau, Downers Late, Yellow Spanish. PLUMS. Plums are cultivated to a considerable extent, and succeed well in all parts of the State ; but the curculio, and black warts are a great drawback on their cultivation, for which no remedy has been found. Out of a collection of thirty varieties on my ground, the following have borne more than any others. White Gage, Lombard, Washington, Bingham, Smith's Orleans, and Yellow Magnum Bonum ; the two former much the best, and the latter fit only for cooking purposes. GRAPES. Of this fruit we have nothing that v/e can depend upon for out-door culture, but the native varieties some of which are being sold in large numbers, and ripen almost anywhere. From Avhat experience I have had in the cultivation of this, I am satisfied that they produce better when trained on trees, than on a wall or trellis. Good specimens of the Isabella 37 and Catawba are frequently ripened on buildings and walls, especially in the cities and villages, but they are too late for any but warm, protected locations. Wine, of a very good quality, has been made from the native wild grape in this vicinity ; and I know no good reason why it might not be made a profitable business. QUINCES. Quinces of different kinds have been cultivated to some extent, and fine specimens have been exhibited at all our late fairs ; but within a few years there has been a blight, or an insect, that has nearly destroyed them. CURRANTS. Currants grow, but are not cultivated, on almost every farm in the State. They might well be termed the neglected fruit, so far as the out-of-town cultivation is concerned. There are, however, many exceptions in the cities and villages, where the better varieties are obtained and well cultivated. The White and Red Dutch are very good varieties. aOOSEBERRIES. Gooseberries, of the native varieties, have been cultivated by many persons, and they have succeeded well, but the imported varieties are very apt to blight. Some of the native varieties grow to a good size, and yield abundantly. Houghton's Seed- ling, a native of Massachusetts, is the most popular kind, and probably worth more than all other kinds we have. RASPBERRIES. Raspberries are not much cultivated, there being an abundance of the wild ones, growing almost all over the State. They succeeded very well on my ground, but need protection in winter. I have cultivated several kinds ; but the Franconia is worth more than others which I have proved. They succeed best on wet land where they are partly shaded. 38 STRAWBERRIES. Strawberries, like raspberries, grow wild, and are not much, cultivated, with the exception of a few small patches in some of the large towns, etc. Hovey's Seedling, for a pistillate sort, is the most popular kind here. The Boston Pine, Early Virginia, and the Wood or Alpine, are the next in order. They might be raised in any quantity on some of our new lands, and carried to market by railroad with very great profit. B. F. CUTTER. REPORT FROM VERMONT. I regret that our little Mountain State, has so poor an account to give of her pomological advance this season. Our committee intended to have met, compared specimens, and agreed on a full report ; and some of us, if not all, have been at the present meeting of the Pomological Congress, but being ashamed to show our extreme poverty, we have very reluctantly abandoned it ; for the same reason, our valley society holds no exhibition this fall. The past season has been such, that no reliable notes can be made useful to fruit growers. The past winter was a cold one, with but little snow, and July and August dry beyond any former precedent. The thermometer fell to 17° last winter, which was below an average. For December, average, 23° 05"; January, 19° 67" ; February, 16° 57" ; March, 30° 52". Omitting deci- mals, this has been the average for sixteen years, excepting February, which was 4° 33" colder than average. The season since March has been: Average sixteen years. Therm. Kain. 43.25 - 2.09 55.42 - 2.78 3.57 Therm. Eain. April, 40.04 ■ - 3.60 May, 60 - 1.62 June, ~^ July, . August, J - 2.88 69.61 ■ - 1.60 61 I 67.73 ^ 3.95 J 2.40 ;9 Having six inches less rain than an average during four months. Three-fourths of the rain in August, was on the last day of the month. Fruit trees generally wintered well ; straw- berries alone suffered by winter, killing when not covered, which is generally here not necessary. Trees of all kinds made a rapid growth in June, since which they have been stationary. Not having reports from other members of the committee, (except complaints of extreme failures this season) and being last year confined during the whole season for ripen- ing fruits, with a broken leg, my report must be very meagre. APPLES. Last year about two-thirds an average crop. This season the prospect in May was good ; but the cold winds about the first of June caused an almost total failure in many places, excepting where protected by hills or forests. Orchards so protected are well filled with small apples. Had July and August been favorable, the product would have been about one-fourth an average. The Spitzenburgh and Baldwin produce more than other varieties ; the last named are about one -half the usual size. Of new varieties attracting attention, little can be said. The Northern Spy has not yet answered our expectations. It is a hardy and good grower, but a very shy bearer. It was first propagated by scions, purchased of a Rochester nursery- man at the modest price of six dollars per hundred, which had been cut from the nursery trees. (Was this fair ?) Old bearing trees, grafted in 1846, have yet produced little fruit ; while in the same orchard, and like trees as those grafted at the same time with the Baldwin, cut from bearing trees in Cambridge, Massachusetts, produced full crops the fourth season, and have continued to do so in alternate years, at the same time making a large growth. The Gravenstein sustains its high character ; fair, very hardy, good grower and bearer, and in every respect I must mark it best. 40 The Red Shopshirevine (of Cole) is, in this State, an old variety ; is the most hardy of any early apple ; is admirably adapted to liigh latitudes and cold localities, though inferior in quality to many others. The Fameuse, Pomme de Neige, or Snow Apple, was the first apple grown in the valley of Lake Champlain, being planted by the Erench some forty years or more before any English settlement. This is a fine variety for heavy rich soils or high latitudes. It grows better in our hill towns than in warm gravelly soils near the Lake, though in damp, heavy, and deep soils it fiourishes well here ; requires high culture. This apple was planted by all the early Erench settlers, either in Canada or the States, and I have no doubt was brought from Erance. There is not the slightest reason shown for calling- it a Canadian seedling. We have hundreds of varieties, and from all parts of our country and Canada, in course of trial, but must wait for a more favorable season before reporting on them. Some seed- lings on trial in diiferent localities, we think may prove best ; and to be fashionable occasionally, a nursery-man's humbug is started, for which we shall decline standing as endorsers. PEARS. Of pears, little can be said in addition to former reports ; the season has been such that no fair comparison can be made of the merits of such as have been lately introduced. Were I to be confined to one variety, it should be the Elemish Beauty — ^very hardy, a great grower, bears early and abund- antly, and, for a large pear, best. Blight is little known, but have seen more of it this season than any one prior to it. PLUMS. Of plums, in gardens protected by buildings, and in all places sheltered from winds, there is an abundant product. In exposed situations, the more hardy sorts, of which the Lombard may be taken as a type, bear abundantly, while of the 41 Washington and like tender sorts, there is ahnost a failure. Very little trouble Avith the curculio. Trees, where the fruit heretofore has been entirely destroyed, have this year produced abundantly with no attention. What has become of them ? Were they destroyed by the extreme hard freezing of the ground last winter, or have they departed fearing the new remedy ? CHERRIES. A failure, excepting the common Kentish, which were abundant. GRAPES. The early native soiis suffered from mildew early in the season ; about half the usual quantity. The Isabella, Miller's, Burgundy, Sweet-water, and all late varieties, have not mil- dewed, but have suffered for want of rain. Since September 2d, we have had a share of cloudy weather, and frequent rains — in all about two inches — which has greatly improved them ; also late apples and pears, which have enlarged rapidly. We have no new sorts to recommend as substitutes for well tried ones. Some, with great recommendations, have proved decided failures, while others promise well. Some wine from grapes is made in families ; and the time is not distant when it will not be uncommon even in Vermont. CURRANTS. Of currants, few are known except the old red and white. I have at different times procured from nursery- men, May's Victoria ; Knights Large Red ; White and Red Dutch, etc., etc., which have all proved to be the old red and white, or I am too stupid to discover the difference. The Cherry Currant has been an exception, and answers the des- cription " in the books." A white currant without a name was presented Rev. Dr. Wheeler of this town, a few years since, by a gentleman of Boston, which is quite an acquisition ; slow growth, short branches, medium size, transparent, very sweet, and a great bearer, a very distinct and marked variety. 42 A small black currant, very musky, bushes resembling mountain gooseberries, is found on our mountains ; and On our lake shores is found another whose growth resembles the Missouri, which produces a large black variety, very distinct from any other, late, quite sweet, but of no great value. GOOSEBERRIES. Many of the English varieties are always fair, producing abundantly, while others, with the same culture and even mixed in the same rows, are some seasons worthless from mildew. I have no notes of them to give a detailed statement, but am satisfied that by careful observation, a selection of the best English sorts may be made, nearly as free from it, as Houghton's Seedling. R A SPBERRIES. Of raspberries, the Franconia is the best for general cul- ture ; fully proved, very hardy — always producing abundantly, with no attention to covering in winter. PEACHES AND QUINCES. Little is done in Vermont with peaches and quinces, though some very fine ones may be found in favored localities. On these, nothing can be said of general interest. The interest in fruit culture is yearly increasing ; but as I have already written quite too much, with no time to make a shorter report, shall say nothing of it. C. GOODRICH. Burlington, Vermont, September 11, 1854. 43 MASSACHUSETTS FRUIT REPORT, FOR 1854. In common with the whole country, the State of Massachu- setts has severely suffered from the long continued drought that has prevailed during the summer, materially affecting both the quantity and the quality of the fruit crop. In consequence, the Fruit Committee for this State have not been able to perform their duty in a manner at all satisfactory to themselves ; for, while a few fruits may have withstood the trial, or even improved under it, a large majority — and among them many of our new varieties — are more or less injured in size or flavor. The committee, however, have availed themselves of all accessible facilities to prepare a report, that may add — though it be but little — to the common stock of pomological knoAv- ledge ; and they feel bound to acknowledge their especial obligations to the President of this Society (Col. Wilder) for the information derived from the examination of the unequalled collection of pears contained in his gardens, and for the many detailed results of his experience, which he generously placed at the disposal of the committee. From the Chairman of the General Fruit Committee, we are indebted for constant assistance and advice, which has materially aided our deliberations. The committee would call the attention of the society to the following fruits : PEARS. Rostiezer, Tyson, Brandywine — always good. Until we can get as good a summer pear as these, no other ought to be recommended for general cultivation. Beurre d'Anjou — sustains its previous good reputation. On the pear stock it proves a thrifty, hardy variety. We pro- nounce it best. Buffum — a most valuable old sort, from its vigorous growth 44 and prolific character ; if the fruit is gathered early, nearly first rate — very good. Alpha — hardy, and a great bearer. Col. Wilder pro- nounces it to be among the most desirable. Very good. Howell and Dallas — these pears are uniformly fair and handsome, and of excellent quality. Very good. Nouveau Poiteau — a remarkable tree for vigor and beauty of growth. Fruit large, but rather too buttery. This variety possesses all the characteristics of a perfect tree, and perfect fruit, (except the fault alluded to,) which, it is hoped, may be overcome by early gathering and proper ripening. Zephirine Gregoire, Pie IX., Alexandre Lambre, General Dutilleul and Comte de Flanders — promise well as autumn pears. Fondante de Noel, — A seedling of Passe Colmar, ripening earlier than the latter, and of similar flavor, proves to be an excellent late autumn sort. Grosse Calebasse of Langlier — proves identical with Beurre Van Marum, (of the Belgiaris?) Triomphe de Hasselt, Tri- omphe de Nord, and Boutielle. A fruit of monstrous size, but poor quality, rots badly. Charles Van Hooghten — large, prolific, possessing good characteristics. Beurre Sterkman — maintains its excellent character. Fondante de Malines — improves, and will probably be a fine sort for general cultivation. Beurre Superfin. — Col. "Wilder says of this variety : " Very handsome, if not the best imported for years ; it will take a high rank." Theodore Van Mons — ^hardy, profuse bearer, persistent foliage. Very good. Jalouise de Fontenay Vendee — pretty good. St. Michael Archange — tree remarkable for vigor and hardiness, and beautiful in form. Soldat Laboureur — a splendid tree, fruit large, not fully proved. 45 Sterling — a fine grower, good early sort. Lawrence — a general favorite. Kinsessing — recommended for further trial. Grand Soleil — -is a moderate grower, but a great bearer ; its quality is good ; fruit fair ; for orchard cultivation, a desirable variety. Promises well. De Spoelberg — -seems most successful in a dry season. Walker — very good. Epine Dumas. — "This pear," Mr. Walker says, "improves in my estimation." Ananas or Henry IV., — This pear is pronounced by many to be nearly equal to the Seckel in quality. Columbia — not uniformly good. Abbott — -of this handsome pear we have not had enough experience. Duchesse d'Orleans — there are various opinions as to its merits. By some it is considered very good. Elise d'Heyst — has j)roved poor. CHERRIES. Of Dr. Kirtland's cherries, of which several kinds have been fruited by Col. Wilder, Gov. Wood, Kirtland's Mary, and Black Hawk, have proved very fine ; and most of the sorts seem hardy here. Walsh's Seedlings — No's. 1 and 2 have proved uniformly good. Hovey Cherry — has proved uniformly good. Coes Transparent — is a fruit of great beauty and excellence. A cherry raised by Messrs. Hyde of Newton, called Pierce's Late, as a very late cherry, promises to be valuable. RASPBERRIES. Of the several new varieties raised by Dr. Brinckle, which promise to be valuable acquisitions, we may name the Orange, Erench, and Walker. 46 STRAWBERRIES. Walker's Seedling — (staniinate) is a great acquisition; higli flavored ; bears well. Jenny Lind Seedling — in the hands of the originator, (Mr. Fay,) has proved good, as a very early variety. EBEN WIGHT, Chairman. REPORT FROM CONNECTICUT. Hardly any season is exactly right, according to our notions. In the middle region of our State, the two past have been remarkably dissimilar. The one now closing has been very dry, while that of 1853 was very wet ; the two extremes nearly alike unfavorable to the cultivation of good fruits, with perhaps the exception of grapes (both foreign and native) cultivated in the open air. These stand severe droughts, ripen earlier, are superior in flavor, and at the same time are less liable to mildew and the rot. The early part of the season of 1853 was made remarkable, also, by the appearance of the Palmer worm, so called, in great numbers, which destroyed the foliage of apple trees, as well as that of some others, and, of course, injured the fruit more or less. This insect eats the leaves as voraciously as the canker worm, and at about the same season, viz., June. They did not appear again this year. Very much fruit, it is believed, was destroyed this year by a severe frost that occurred on the first Saturday night in May, the effects of which, were more noticed than the cause ; which fact can only be accounted for, by the habit people have in these parts, of lying late Sunday mornings. The morning was bright and clear, and the ground where it had been broken up, frozen hard enough to bear up a man of common size. 47 Plum trees, cherry, and perhaps some others, were in profuse bloom at the time, but failed almost entirely of producing fruit. Apple and pear buds generally were also much injured. One fact, in this connection, is worthy of notice : many pear trees, on quince roots, were at this time entirely killed, as appeared afterwards, while those on their own roots, were not injured beyond the destruction of the fruit About one dozen vigorous looking trees were killed in my own garden, many of them having borne fruit several seasons ; showing very conclusively that pear trees, on quince roots, are liable to a calamity which those, on their own roots, are not. The trees, in this instance, were forward, the buds nearly ready to open, and the' sap, of course, in free circulation, making it most probable that the sap vessels were destroyed by freezing of the sap. If this be true, there is one objection to trees thus worked, which we have not seen noticed. In a former report, we adopted the plan of remarking on fruits in the order in which they appear in their season. STKAW BERRIES. At New Haven, most of the strawberries that have come into notice have been or are on trial, to the number of some forty or more varieties. Boston Pine and Hovey's Seedling are classed as best. There are others, such as Burr's New Pine, Peruvian, McAvoy's No. 1 and Superior, Long- worth's Prolific, Schneicke's Pistillate, Princess Alice Maud, Crescent Seedling, British Queen, Gushing, Jenny, Willey, Lizzie Randolph, etc., some of which will doubtless prove to be as good, and rank as high, as the first named. RASPBERRIES. The common or American Red, Pranconia Fastolff, True Red Antwerp, Knevet's Giant, Red Antwerp, rank as best. Several other varieties are cultivated here, some of which, perhaps, belong in the same rank. All these, except the first named, are supposed to need protection during the winter. 48 We have learned, liowever, by experience, that several of them, if planted under apple or other trees, on the northward and westward sides, need no other protection ; direct rays of the sun being broken off. GOOSEBEERIES. Gooseberries are less cultivated than formerly, and are not thought much of at present. CHERRIES. May Duke, best ; Black Eagle, Black Tartarian, Coe's Seedling, best ; White Bigarreau, Napoleon ditto, Holland ditto. Flesh Colored ditto, of the hard fleshed, are best ; Elkhorn, very good ; Kentish Morrello, for preserves, best. Other varieties are cultivated here, but the above are among the best. CURRANTS. This excellent fruit does not generally receive the attention its merits entitle it to. None is more wholesome and better adapted to our wants during the warm summer months. By thorough pruning and suitable culture, it can be raised of much larger size and better quality than is commonly found in our gardens. The Red and White Dutch are as good as any. I have raised them for a number of years about double the usual size. PLUMS. Green Gage, Imperial ditto, Jefferson and Washington, rank among the best. Many other varieties are cultivated in and around New Haven, some of which may be equal to the above, such as Huling's Superb Buel, Goliah, Smith's Orleans, Frost's Gage, Blocker's Gage, Coe's Golden Drop, etc. PEACHES. The difficulties attending the raising of this fruit still con- tinue in this I'egion, and also generally throughout the State ; and yet in so\ne places good success has attended its culture. Mr. Davis of Derby, Mr. Rossiter of Guilford, and Mr. 49 Meggatt of Farmington, have raised, for several years past, as handsome and good peaches as could be desired, and large crops. PEARS. ' The following list of pears are regarded at New Haven and vicinity as follows, viz. : Summer Pears. Doyenne d'Ete, Rostiezer Tyson, Dear- born's Seedling, Buerre GifFart, Van Mon's Elizabeth, Souve- raine d'Ete, and Bloodgood. Best. Fall Pears. Bartlett, Belle Lucrative, Buerre Die], Flemish Beauty, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Andrews, Howell, Doyenne Boussock, Urbaniste, Dix, Paradise d'Automne, Capiaumont, Tea, White Doyenne, Buerre Bosc. Best. Duchesse d'Angouleme, Duchesse d'Orleans, Marie Louise, Bezi de la Motte, Brown Buerre, St. Ghislain, Onondaga, Buerre d'Amalis, Golden Buerre, Gushing, Buerre Gobault, Gansel's Bergamot, Yan Mons Leon le Clerc, INIansfield., Heathcote, Wilkinson, Punderson, Dow, Sterling, Elizabeth, Henrietta. Very good. Winter Pears. Buerre d'Aremburg, Winter Nelis, Glout Morceau, Passe Colmar, Columbia, Easter Buerre, Dallas. Best. There are many other A^arieties cultivated in this region, both foreign and native, which your committee have not thought proper to add until further experience. AVe may have erred in regard to some already noted in the above list. APPLES. It is hoped that our associate committee at Hartford and Stonington will report on this fruit, as the soil and other cir- cumstances are better suited to the raising of this A^aluable fruit in other parts of the State than about here. QUINCES. Quince trees bear abundantly, in our sandy soil, large and handsome fruit. The benefit of top pruning, root pruning^ 50 and manuring, are as manifest in the cultivation of this fruit as any other. The orange, or apple, is considered the best here. GRAPES. Isabella, Catawba, and Diana are the best hardy varieties. The Zinfindal (a foreign variety) is cultivated here very considerably, and does nearly, if not quite, as well as under glass. It needs some protection during winter. FOREIGN GRAPES UNDER GLASS. The first cold house grapery in New Haven was built in 1847. There are now about one dozen, some of them of large size span roof; others, curvelinear form ; others, lean to. Many others have also been erected throughout the State, all of which we believe have given great satisfaction. We happen to know of one up among the hills of Norfolk, on the north-west line of the State, where snow squalls prevail some time after we on the seaboard have opened our houses to the influences of spring, in which the Rev. Mr. Eldridge, the proprietor, has succeeded to his entire satisfaction. It seems hardly worth while to name the thirty or forty varieties cultivated here. Although they all do well, yet there is a choice for a house of a dozen varieties, and still, no two would hardly agree in recommending any one dozen that might be named. An analysis of our New Haven soil might have been added here, agreeably to the request of the Chairman of the General Fruit Committee, but it will appear obviously to have been of no use where it is known that our soil in its native state, is composed of more than eighty per cent, clear sand. Our gar- dens and other cultivated grounds ai"e very much artificial, and composed of materials according to the judgment or convenience of the proprietors, so that any two lots not con- tiguous, or not having been cultivated by the same proprietor, would afibrd the same analysis. This condition of things, some may think, would offer a good opportunity to investigate 51 the success of various fruits on various soils. The enquiry may "be further pursued at a future time. GEORGE GABRIEL. T. H. TOTTEN, New Haven. H. W. TERRY, Hartford. WM. CLIFT, Stonington. T. R. BUTTON, Hartford. REPORT FROM STONINGTON. Geo. Gabriel, Esq. Dear Sir : I am in receipt of your favor, and have to say in reply, that I have no desire to make a separate report, and not much material to make one out of. I have mislaid the circular, and cannot therefore speak to its questions. In its absence, I will mention a few fruits which I have tried in my garden, and which you can use in your report if you find occasion. BLACKBERRIES. The Lawton Blackberry has fruited with me, for the first time, this season. It fulfils all its promise, which is all that needs to be said about it. Coming in just after raspberries, it prolongs the season of small fruits a month or more, and is a great acquisition. It deserves a place in every garden. STRAWBERRIES. Walker's Seedling StraAvberry, after several years trial, proves a first rate fruit. It is not so large as some, but is second to none in flavor. It is hardy, and a good bearer. MELONS. The Green Bay Melon I have tried for the first time this season. It is the richest of all the green- fleshed melons I have seen ; thick meated, and very juicy. It is of good size, and the vines are prolific, even in this dry season. The only 52 objection to it as a market fruit is, that it cracks and rots quick ; but it is the perfection of melon eating. Mr. Peabocly's Orange Melon I have eaten for the first time to day. It is a rather small water melon, not so different from other water melons as I expected to find it. The red part of the flesh cleaves partly from the rind, but the division of the lobes is hardly perceptible. In quality it is very sweet, I think more so than any I ever tasted. Yours truly, Stonington, Connecticut, September 7, 1854. W. CLIFT. REPORT FROM NEW YORK. I find myself unable to -make my report as full or interest- ing as I had hoped to do, in consequence of having, as yet, received no replies from several of the cultivators of this vicinity, to whom I have addressed letters on the subject. I am constrained, therefore, to rely more upon my own obser- vations than I had expected. Fruit culture in the vicinity has rapidly advanced within the past ten years. Up to that period it had attracted compar- atively little attention, and (except in the nurseries) the varieties cultivated were few, and many of them such as would now be considered worthless. The apple was almost the only Iruit I cultivated for market, except a few of the most common pears and cherries. There were several pretty large apple orchards, composed chiefly of Rhode Island Greenings, Spitz- enburg, the various Russets, and a few others, which at that time comprised the bulk of the varieties under cultivation. Many thousands of trees have since been planted, and nearly all the finest apples, pears, cherries, plums, etc., have fruited. The smaller fruits have also largely increased, both in number 53 of varieties and quantity. The strawberry, in particular, has of late received much attention, and a considerable extent of land is devoted to its cultivation. Several experienced cultivators have planted large orchards on Grand Island, in the Niagara river, a few miles below the city, which being somewhat removed from the violence of the lake winds, is a more favorable situation for the culture of the less hardy fruits than the more exposed lands near the lake. The majority of fruits are, however, cultivated with great success in our vicinity, and many of them grow and produce with great luxuriance. Our winters are variable and frequently mild, being, by the alternations of severe and open weather, unfavorable to the safety of both the buds and the trees themselves. The springs are generally cold, backward, and windy ,• and sometimes a late frost causes great damage to the fruit crop. When the season is, however, fairly opened, vegetation advances with great rapidity, and the long continuance of fine weather in the autumn, permits the wood to become well ripened, and pre- pared to sustain the return of cold. The soil varies much. On the same lot can be frequently found sand, gravel, and clay, in greater or less proportions ; a strong clayey loam and a light sandy soil being the two most commonly found. Great confusion has existed in nomenclature, which is not even now fully cleared up. Many fruits have been received and cultivated under names to which they had not the slight- est claim ; and much disappointment necessarily resulted. APPLES. Apples are, of course, the fruit in most general use. There are no remarkably extensive orchards in the immediate vicinity, but nu.merous small ones, numbering from a dozen trees to a hundred. The older plantations, as has been stated, are chiefly composed of the ordinary sorts, among which there are some seedlings of little or no value. The later ones contain nearly all 54 the best varieties, both old and new, among which the Baldwin * and Northern Spy are in large proportion. Dwarf culture has not obtained to any extent ; but a few trees are scattered through several gardens, more as matters of curiosity than anything else. For table fruits, Baldwin, Esopus Spitzenburg, Early Har- vest, Early Strawberry, Fameuse, Fall Pippin, Northern Spy, Porter, Ribston Pippin, Pomme Gris, Pambo and Swaar, are nearly all general favorites ; and for market, Rhode Island Greening, Northern Spy, Poxbury Pusset, Baldwin, and Eso- pus Spitzenburg, have been pretty largely planted. I would discard the following : Cobashea, Early Lustre, Red and Green Sweeting, Black GillyiloAver, Pound Sweeting, Dodges's Black, and Coates' Red Winter. The Northern Spy is universally considered the best late keeping apple. We have had them exhibited before the Hor- ticultural Society on the first of June as sound, fresh, juicy, and aromatic as a summer apple. It is much benefited by severe pruning, as its natural tendency to form a close, upright head, is prejudicial to the growth of fine specimens. The Ribston Pippin is, in my opinion, a much abused fruit. With us it is one of the best fall apples, commencing to ripen about the first week in October. It is, on sandy soil, (on clay, I have not observed it so particularly) a rich, juicy, crisp, and high-flavored fruit, just about the proper size for the dessert. It will keep until Christmas, but if kept too long, is apt to become dry. A variety, known as the Pownal Spitzenburgh, is grown in several collections, which I have not seen elsewhere. It is, in general appearance, somewhat like a large specimen of the Esopus, being, however, more oblong in form, and having a little coarser grain. Its color is, in the shade, yellow, striped, and overspread with red in the sun, and dotted with large russet specks. In flavor it is nearly equal to the Esopus, generally bears well, and forms a handsome conical head. An apple which, although evidently a grafted tree, has never Ob yet been recognised as any known variety, was found growing at the residence of my father, when purchased by him sixteen years since. ISTo information can be obtained of its origin, and it is known by the name (Eaton) which was given to it by the Buffalo Horticultural Society, some years since. It is now quite a large tree, and measures nearly a foot in diameter, with a spreading conical head. In appearance, the fruit bears some resemblarLce to the Minister, but is generally larger, and is more oblong, not so highly colored, and a higher and better flavored fruit. I annex a description, hoping that it may be identified. EATON APPLE. Fruit large, generally oblong conical, but varying at times to conical ; skin dull green, striped with dull red ; becoming, when fully ripe, greenish yellow and rich dark red, wliich pre- dominates on the sunny side. Stalk moderately long, rather 56 slender, inserted in a regular, well-defined cavity ; calyx rather large, set in rather deep basin ; flesh white, tender and juicy ; flavor subacid, rich and very good. In eating from the first week in November to the last of December. Bears well, and will rank as ve7"y good, at least. The varieties generally cultivated, have been mostly de- scribed, and do not require a special notice. I have observed the Rhode Island Greening to change its character much when worked on a sweet stock. It becomes more highly colored, being often a beautiful yellow, with a red cheek, and loses much of its acidity ; becoming, however, more tasteless when kept late, than is usual. The difference is so marked, that it has been considered a distinct variety. It is, however, beyond a doubt, occasioned by the influence of the stock, as has been proved by experiment. The Apple is usually pretty free from disease. I have seen it it in a few cases affected by a blight, similar to that of the pear. In one instance, a graft of two years growth, on the top of a young tree, (on sandy soil,) showed all the symptoms of a virulent attack of the disease, but by severe amputation a part was preserved, which has since made a fine head, and is now in good health. The caterpillar is the worst enemy of the tree, and, in past years, nearly defoliated entire orchards. It is, however, easily extirpated, and by perseverance for two or three seasons in hand picking, ceases to be troublesome. The borer has been the cause of some loss in a few collections, but is not commonly productive of much dainage. PEARS. Pears are largely cultivated, both as standards and dwarfs. Until within a few years they have been much neglected, and none but the most common sorts were much known. The Orange Bergamot, Summer Bell, and a few others, and occa- sionally a "White Doyenne, were the sorts generally to be found. In two years, however, a great change has been made. Now, 57 all the best standard varieties are well known, and every year increases the number, by the introduction of the new ones. In the autumn of 1844, my father commenced the culti- vation of dwarfs, at which time there was but one solitary specimen in the vicinity. Now — notwithstanding the pre- dictions of many cultivators, that they would be short-lived and unprofitable — there are large plantations of them. Standards have also been largely planted. The tree has, in general, succeeded admirably, both on clayey and loamy soils, but not at all well on gravelly or very light ones. The blight has made terrible ravages within a few years ; and such was the mortality among the trees, that some cultiva- tors were about giving up their cultivation in despair. Its cessation has encouraged them, however, to re-plant. It appeared first as an epidemic in 1850, and destroyed many trees. In 1851, it was still more fatal, and perhaps not more than half the trees, which were attacked, recovered ; and even they were so mutilated as to be nearly ruined in many cases. In 1852, it commenced to decrease in violence, and in 1853, it had nearly disappeared, the few cases which occurred, being almost invariably the re-appearance of the disease, in trees before affected, and but partially cured. The present season I have seen very little of it, and then in similar cases. The form of the disease was most usually that which appears at the extremities of the shoots, and, striking with great rapidity downwards, almost invariably, if left to itself, kills the tree outright. A few instances occurred of the stem being first attacked ; but these bore but a small proportion to the whole, and were generally readily checked, by cutting out the diseased part while yet small. In the other form, immediate and severe amputation was the only remedy which had much success, and even that was by no means sure, the disease extending downwards so much more rapidly in the inner bark or sap, than it appeared on the surface, it required a close examination and considerable determination to cut sufficiently low, persons naturally disliking to mutilate their 58 trees where it seems so entirely unnecessary. The Colmar d'Aremberg and Passe Colmar, seemed particularly liable to its attacks. The quince was also much afFected, by a somewhat similar disease ; rarely, however, destroying the tree, but causing the death of the shoots, for one or two feet over the entire surface of the head, and causing the tree to appear as if burnt. Of insects we have few troublesome ones, with the exception of the cherry slug, which sometimes defoliates young trees, if neglected. A sort of leaf roller is apt to kill the points of the shoots, when they are but a few inches long, and thereby check the growth ; but by a little care in picking them off, they are easily kept in check. A strong apple borer will occasionally find its Way into a pear tree, but rarely do much mischief. Some disappointment and loss has been caused by the use of the common quince for stocks, the trees usually dying without any apparent cause, (while, upon examination, the stock will be found perfectly black and dead,) within two or three years, or else breaking off at the bud. The cracking and spotting of the White Doyenne do not prevail to any great extent, but is sometimes troublesome in individual trees. I do not think that the cause is wholly in the soil, from the fact of trees in the same row, but a few feet distant, of the same age, from the same nursery, and upon the same soil, some will produce fine fruit, while others only cracked and imperfect specimens. 1 have experimented on a large tree, by pruning the roots and top, digging out the old soil, and supplying its place with a compost rich in manure, lime, ashes, and iron, (somewhat after the method recom- mended in one of the former volumes of the Horticulturist,) with some advantage, but not to the entire renovation of the fruit. While speaking of experiments, I will mention one made by a successful cultivator in our vicinity, upon a pear which was blighted to such an extent in the stem, that it appeared 59 to be entirely dead. A barrel was placed around it, and filled with tan-bark, whiclr had the effect of quite restoring the tree, and it is now in apparently good health. The inner bark could not have been, of course, destroyed, (as the outer bark was,) or the tree would not have survived, I have seen an experi- ment of the same kind, made by another gentleman on a yearling tree, which was about to die after being transplanted. He surrounded it with tan, in a similar manner, and it soon sent out shoots into the tan, which eventually formed a head. Whether this would prove a restorative, in all cases, I am un- able to say, but in the two instances above quoted it was certainly quite successful. The varieties most extensively cultivated, are Seckel, White Doyenne, Bloodgood, Bartlett, Beurre d'Aremberg, Beurre Diel, Easter Beurre, Winter Nelis, Gray Doyenne, Flemish Beauty, Glout Morceau, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Stevens' Genessee, Beurre d'Amalis, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Le Cure, and a few others. Some of the newer sorts are, however, coming into general cultivation, among which, are Eostiezer, Tyson, Lawrence, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre Langelier, Duchesse d'Orleans, etc. For a small collection for market only, I would recommend Bartlett, Stevens' Genessee, White Doyenne, Beurre d'Amalis, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Duchesse d'Angouleme, (the two latter on quince,) Le Cure, Easter Beurre, and perhaps Lawrence. Windsor, or Summer Bell, Pound, Catillac, and Colmar d'Aremberg, I would discard, as unworthy farther attention, although some of them are large, showy fruits. I am not a believer in the practice of cultivating fruits exclusively for cooking, as is frequently done, as I am satisfied that many pears which are good to eat are also good to cook. The former quality, being one to which most of the so-called cooking pears have not the slightest claim to. We have been annoyed with some misnomers in pears, as well as other fruits. Among other instances, I recollect 60 Gansel's Bergamot being received under the name of Large Seckel, (a synonym of Bleecker's Meadow,) and the Summer Bell, as Stevens' Genessee. Souveraine de Printemps is, I think, synonymous with Colmar d'Aremberg, and Beurre de Louvain with Catillac. CHERRIES. Next to apples, cherries are our most common fruit. The Late Kentish, or common red cherry, is in nearly every gar- den in greater or less numbers, and many of the finer varieties widely disseminated. This locality seems well adapted to their cultivation, and they grow luxuriantly and produce abundantly with but little care. Some cases of bursting have occurred ; and in one orchard, where the trees had made a very large growth, on a gravelly soil, (which seems well adapted to this tree,) many of the trees were badly injured, and several killed. As a preventive, the orchard was laid down to grass, which operated as a slight check to the growth, (although not injuriously so, as the trees had become well established,) and since then but few cases have occurred. Elsewhere, the disease has not caused any extensive injury. Another disease (if it may be so called) is occasionally seen, which I have never seen described ; a shoot, generally from a branch of moderate size, will make an enormous growth, exceeding, by many times, the size of the branch from which it springs, and tlrrowing up in a closely compacted, fastigiate form, an abundance of stout shoots, the foliage of which is of an unhealthy reddish color, and somewhat curled. After growing in this manner for one, two, or more years, the branch suddenly dies, not unfrequently causing the death of the parent limb. This disorder usually appears on the outer branches, but sometimea in the interior of the head ; and I have seen nearly the entire top of a small tree affected by it. I have tried amputation as a remedy, but always without success, the disease sometimes breaking out again. It is not, however, very common. 61 Aside from the slug and the brown caterpillar, ttie cherry is annoyed by but few insects ; but of late the curculio has, in some localities, committed ravages upon the fruit, a great part of the crop on some trees being wormy. I have observed that the Elton is a favorite with this insect, and that a far greater number of this variety were punctured than of most others. More confusion has existed in the nomenclature of cherries than of any other fruit, both among trees grown in the vicinity and those received from the eastward. Some of these I will notice. May Duke has been received for Early Richmond, Bleeding Heart, and White Heart. And Holman's Duke is apparently not distinct. Griotte de Choux were partly Downer's Late, and the remainder, a worthless Duke. Montmorency was Flemish and Double Elowering. Saxony was American, Amber, and Downer's Late. New Honey was Black Heart ; and some E-eine Hortense are probably the same. Belle de Choisy proved to be a very late Duke, (a fine fruit, by the way,) and Fellows' Seedling is the Bigarreau. The variety cultivated by some, under the names of Water- loo, White Waterloo, and Carnation, is probably the Downton. The varieties most generally cultivated for market, are Black Tartarian, Elton, White Bigarreau, Black Heart, Bigarreau, and Late Kentish, — ^with May Duke, Napoleon Bigarreau, Downer's Late, Tradescants' Black Heart, (or Elkhorn as usually known here,) Knight's Early Black, to a less extent. I would plant for market, largely of the Bigarreau, Down- er's Late, Downton, Elton, Florence, Black Tartarian and Bigarreau de Lyon; and for the table, I would prefer Black Eagle, Downton, Downer's Late, Early Purple Guigne, May Duke, May Bigarreau, Late Duke, Black Tartarian, and Bigarreau de Lyon. I should not cultivate Late Kentish, White Tartarian, Rem- ington's White Heart, Tradescant's Black Heart, or English 62 Gaskin, considering tliem nearly or quite worthless, while we have so many better sorts. The variety referred to above as Bigarreau de Lyon, was among a lot of imported French trees, planted by my father, Lewis Eaton, in the fall of 1841 and spring of 1842. Whether the name by which it is known is the correct one I am unable to say, as the trees lost their labels, and this name was selected from the invoice as probably belonging to it. It is a remarkably fine fruit, quite as large as the Black Tartarian, and equal to it in flavor, while it ripens with or before Knights Early Black, to which it is superior in size and beauty, and fully equal in flavor. I annex an outline of the fruit, with a description. BI&ARKEAU DE LYON. Fruit very large, obtuse heart-shaped ; skin thick. Before fully ripe, dark bright red, beautifully mottled and striped with light red, and becoming nearly black at maturity. Stalk from one and three-fourths to two inches in length, pretty deeply inserted in an irregular hollow ,• texture indistinct ; stone large and elongated ; flesh dull red, firm and juicy ; flavor sweet and rich — very good. Bipe from the 20th to the 25th of June, and lasts for some time. Tree a remarkably luxuriant grower, resembling, in its spreading, straggling habit, the Elton, but far more vigorous. Leaves very large, dark green, somewhat wavy; footstalks rather long and very stout, dark red; glands reniform. The trees, while young, have not borne remarkably well, but as they advance in age and increase in size, they show indications of being a good bearer. Plums have not been largely planted for market. The 63 common Blue Plum and the several Magnum Bonums are most abundant ; and the latter is almost the only sort which appears to any extent in market. But some finer varieties, such as Washington, Smith's Orleans, the Green, Yellow, and Imperial Gages, etc., are pretty generally disseminated, — and many of the newer varieties are under cultivation, to a greater or less extent. The trees succeed well with us, unless upon our lightest soils, when they are liable to lose their foliage in summer. The black wart has appeared within a few years, and, if not watched, soon overspreads a tree ; but it is easily kept in check by amputating when it first appears, and has not, as yet, prevailed to any injurious extent. The curculio is the worst enemy to plum culture, and generally destroys the greater part, if not the whole, of the crop. Various remedies have been unsuccessfully tried. Chickens, lime-nets, spading, etc., have usually failed. Shaking the trees is the most effectual remedy, when on a small scale. Occasionally, individual trees bear fine crops, (even in the midst of those on which every fruit is destroyed,) without any apparent cause. And the common blue sorts, which are profuse bearers, sometimes mature a pretty large crop, whether from the very abundance of the fruit, rendering it dif&cult for the insect to puncture all the specimens, or because it is scarcely worth the trouble, on account of the thick, tough skin Until there is found a more effectual remedy than any wliich we now possess, it is decidedly unprofitable to plant plums either for the market or table. For the latter use, however, those who are fond of the fruit will not be deterred from planting a few trees of the Green Gage, McLaughlin, Lawrence's Favorite, Bleecker's Gage, or Jefferson. Virginale Blanche is a fine variety, which I have never seen noticed. It was obtained several years since from Mantel of New York, and was also received under the name of Peach, from which it is widely distinct. It is a medium sized greenish fruitj about the size of the Green Gage, but more oval in form. 64 It is rich, juicy, and iinely flavored, very nearly equal to the Green Gage in quality, and generally bears a small crop (and sometimes a large one) in spite of the curculio. It certainly promises well, and I think will rank among the best. Among the mistakes in names which have been detected, are those of Imperial Gage, received for Cooper's Large ; and Green Gage, for Damas' Violette. APRICOTS. Apricots are but little cultivated. They flourish well, but axe occasionally overtaken, when in blossom, by a late frost; aad the curculio claims any fruit which sets. Sometimes a tree^ will apparently ripen a good crop, but a great part of the ffilit will be found to be inhabited by the worm. The Large Early — which has also been cultivated under the names of Peach and Early French, Breda and Moorpark — are the sorts usually planted. PEACHES. Peaches are a failure with us. Our changeable winters and cold windy springs almost invariably cause the death of the trees after the first few years. In some sheltered situations they do pretty well, and sometimes produce fine fruit ; but their culture is nearly abandoned, and many trees have been rooted out and replaced by pears and cherries. The borer has been somewhat troublesome, when not guarded against by lime or ashes ; and the curl in the leaf is an almost certain annual visitor. All these various enemies of the peach have nearly exterminated the fruit in the imme- diate vicinity of the city. Large orchards have, however, been planted on Grand Island, which are said to be doing finely, and are now just coming into bearing. The greater part of the peaches sold in our market come from Cleveland and Rochester ; but some are' also sent from Erie, Cincinnati, and other places. NECTARINES. Nectarines are but rarely grown. Being attacked alike by 65 the enemies of the peach and plum, generally lead a short life. GRAPES. Grapes are cultivated in the open air, and with but indif- ferent success. The Isabella is grown in almost every garden ; but it i-arely perfectly ripens its fruit, unless much sheltered. The other hardy varieties are but seldom grown. The Diana is under trial, and may prove valuable. Culture under glass, without fire heat, is extending rapidly. Many houses have been erected within three years, both span- roofecl and cants, the vines in many of which are promising fine crops. STRAWBEllRIES. Straw^berries have been pretty largely planted for market. The sorts mostly cultivated are Hovey's Seedling, Large Early Scarlet, Burr's New Pine, Boston Pine, with a small proportion of other varieties. Some growlers have been very successful both in producing large crops and large fruit. Mulching with tan has been largely tried, and usually Avith advantage to the crop. RASPBERRIES. Raspberries have been much neglected, and not as largely grown as they deserve to be. The Red and Yellow Antw^erp, Fastollf, Franconia, Knevet's Giant, and some others are under cultivation, of which I consider the Red Antwerp, Fastollf, and Knevet's the best. CURRANTS. Currants are grown more for family use than for sale, yet the market is generally pretty well supplied with them. The old Red and White still hold their place, notwithstanding the superiority of the Red and White Dutch, w^hich I consider much the finest sorts for the table, even in comparison with the larger varieties, Victoria, Cherry, Grape, etc. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOHN B. EATON. 6Q REPORT FROM NEW JERSEY. In maMng out the foUoAving report, it is intended to apply to the eastern and northern part of the State. From the great diversity of soil in different parts of the State, I thought it best to appoint a committee, from different localities, and pro- cure a report from each, separate, to be abridged in whatever form may be thought best. The soil in this immediate neighborhood, particularly my own grounds, are what is termed a clay loam. To make this land productive, it is a very essential point to have it well under-drained, subsoiled, or trenched, using plenty of barn yard manure, which will tend to lighten the soil, making it more open, and increasing the vegetable mould, which all soils of this kind are deficient of when first brought into cultivation ; but if these are all properly attended to, there is no land that is more productive, or will repay the labor better. The following selections, of the different fruits, are taken from those which have been well tested, and such as would be profitable and suitable for general cultivation, leaving out many new varieties that are considered promising, and Avhich will be added, no doubt, hereafter, to those already well known, APPLES. Early Harvest, Red Juneating, Summer Rose — three of the best early varieties for general cultivation. Sweet Bough, Maiden Blush, Fall Pippin, Orange Pippin, Gravenstein, Fameuse — ^fall varieties. Hubbardson Nonesuch, Rhode Island Greening, Wine Apple, Monmouth Pippin, Baldwin, Roxbury Russet, Newtown Pippin, Northern Spy, Yellow Bell Flower — winter varieties. There are several other varieties, cultivated to a considerable extent in Essex and adjoining counties, on account of being productive, although not of the best quality, viz : NeAvark King, Westfield Long Green, Red Gillyflower ; and for cider, Harrison, Campfield, and Grannwinkle. 67 In Warren, Hunterdon, and several other counties bordering on the Delaware, the Yellow Bell Flower, Swaar, Newtown Pippin, and Spitzenburg, grow well, particularly on the lime- stone regions, nearly equal to those grown on the banks of the Hudson river. Apples have not been quite as fair and line for the last two or three years as they formerly were ; and this season the crop will be far short of. the usual quantity. The unfavorable weather at the time the trees were in blossom, prevented the setting of the fruit. The orchards are, however, looking better then they have been for some years, being more free from aphides and other insects that injure the foliage.* The demand for apples, for several years past, has greatly increased, particularly early varieties, such as Early Harvest, Fall Pippin, etc., and frequently bring much higher prices than those that are later and attended with a great deal more expense. PEAK. The pear, from the great increase of new varieties introduced within a few years, has made it rather a difficult task to say what varieties are best suited for general cultivation — their habits of growth, hardiness, bearing qualities, etc., which is a very essential thing to be attended to, when planting orchards for market. EARLY PEARS. Amire Johannot — this variety is only worthy of being cultivated on account of its early maturity — ^I'ipe the first week in July. It is, however, much superior to Petit Muscat, and well flavored when taken from the tree before it gets over ripe. Madeleine is the next variety that ripens — makes a good orchard tree, producing good crops, the best at this season : * The apple borer — one of the worst enemies that the orchardist has to guard against — prevails to a great extent, and is increasing rapidly all over the county. They are easily got rid of, if taken in time, by getting a wire and destroying them by running it into the holes. The finest orchards in the country will quickly get destroyed if not attended to in time. and ripening in succession are the follo^ving : Early Catha- rine, Bloodgood, and Dearborn's Seedling ; also Beurre Giff'ard, Doyenne d'Ete, Beurre, Gobault, E-osteizer, and Tyson are varieties that promise Avell ; Beurre Giffard I con- sider one of the best flavored pears of its season ; grows well on pear stock with me, — moderate on the quince, FALL PEARS. Bartlett. — This is decidedly the best pear of its season, ripening here from the twentieth of August to the twentieth of September ; and farther north, keeping until October. It rarely fails in producing a regular crop of good fair sized fruit; and we have no doubt that an acre of ground planted with this variety, will yield a larger income than any other variety yet fairly tested, ripening at that season. We consider it better adapted for ]3ear stock than quince ; on the latter it requires very high cultivation, and care in thinning the fruit when young, otherwise it will over-bear and stop growing. The union with the quince is not so perfect with this variety as many others, in consequence of its early prolific bearing. Bell Lucrative — an excellent variety, on either pear o^- quince. Andrews — another fine variety, and, like the preceding, grows on either pear or quince. Washington — not quite as profitable as some of those enumerated, but when grown on a soil of rather light texture, it has few superiors. Beuerre Bosc — very hardy, the fruit fair, ripe in October ; a desirable variety. Seckel — succeeds well on all soils, if not too wet; but to have them in perfection, the trees want high cultivation, and the ground kept in the best of order, otherwise the fruit becomes small and unsaleable. Without this precaution, this fine pear is scarcely worth cultivating ; but with a high state of cultivation, this variety has no superior. Duchesse d' Augouleme — one of the laigest sized table pears. 69 Althoxigh not yet added to the list by the Pomological Society, is valuable for market purposes ; and, when properly ripened in the house, is very often of fine quality — keeps well after gathering, and generally produces good crops, although it is represented not to bear so well, nor as fine flavored to the north of this. On heavy soils, this variety is best on quince stock ; ripe in October, and will keep until November. St. Ghislain- — a very superior high flavored pear, makes a large tree, and bears abundantly. White Doyenne, also the Gray — both varieties are liable to crack ; they produce, however, fine specimens on quince stocks, but doubtful whether they will do so when the trees get older. Flemish Beauty — is cultivated to some extent, and is gen- erally well spoken of. With us it has been quite large, but liable to rot very soon at the core, and in consequence not so well adapted for market purposes. Urbaniste — a fine hardy orchard pear, producing fruit of a good uniform size, well flavored, and keeps some time after gathering. Louis Bonne de Jersey. — This well known and popular variety we think will succeed here better on the quince than pear stock. It is a valuable market pear, producing large and vefy handsome fruit. Marie Louise. — With me this variety has always borne good crops, of good uniform size ; and the present season, when so many kinds failed in setting fruit, it has a fine crop, not always, but frequently, of the best quality. Beurre d'Anjou. — We think, from what we have seen of this variety, having come partially into bearing, will be equally as good here as it is in the neighborhood of Boston ; and if it proves as good a bearer as it is a grower, we hardly think it will be necessary to look for any thing better. It is high flavored, of a large size, keeping well, and very suitable for market purposes. Those grown with us have been on quince stocks ; but it grows also well on the pear. 70 WINTER PEAES. Vicar of Winkfield — a fine looking pear, and a great bearer. It is, however, of very ordinary quality, and may be classed among steAving or baking, rather than melting pears — a profit" able kind for market. Beurre Diel — a large sized pear, bearing rather sparingly when young. On strong soils, sometimes of the very best quality ; but on light sandy soils, frequently worthless ; grows well on the quince. Winter Nelis — one of the best of early winter pears, ripe here in December. The trees are slender growers when young, but when more advanced grow better, and make good orchard trees ; succeed on either pear or quince. Beurre d'Aremberg — is considered by some one of our finest pears. It has not, however, done quite as well with us; but on lighter soils we find it does much better. The trees are rather poor growers when young. The fruit is sometimes of the best quality. Glout Morceau — we have found to be one of the best winter pears, bearing freely, and ripens without any trouble. It also makes a strong, vigorous orchard tree. Trees planted on our grounds eight years, produce now about a bushel of fruit. Easter Beurre. — This is probably the most valuable late pear that is at present in general cultivation, keeping until April, very productive, and makes a fine strong orchard tree on the pear. This variety has not done quite so Avell with us on the quince. There are a number of new pears at present under culti- vation, which promise well, and we have no doubt that we will be able to select some from the number that Avill prove valuable, particularly winter varieties, which we stand more in need of than early ones. CHERRIES. The cherry crop, this year, has been almost an entire fail- ure here from the effects of the cold, frosty and changeable 71 weather at the tmie they were in blossom, — a thing that rarely happens, except when the weather is wet at the time of ripening. The following varieties are suitable for general cultivation : Early Purple — one of the earliest, ripening the early part of June. This cherry is very liable to be destroyed by birds, . and is only worthy of cultivation for its earliness. May Dukes — a valuable class of cherries ; the old original variety is one of the best, and well worthy of cultivation. Very hardy, and good bearers. Knight's Early Black — ripens about a week before Tarta- rian; a valuable sort, and a regular bearer. Black Tartarian, Bigarreau, Elton, Napoleon Bigarreau, Downer's Late Ked, Coe's Transparent, Belle de Choisey, are among the best. For Cooking, Early Kentish, English and Plumstone Mor- rillo, and common late Pie. PLUMS. Plums have not been cultivated in this part of the State with any success for a number of years, the curculio seeming, so far, to baffle all the efforts yet made to stop its progress. Excepting a few grown in poultry yards and in the imme- diate neighborhood of dwelling houses, we may say that we have no plums worthy of notice. Imperial Gage, Green Gage, Washington, Coe's Golden Drop, Jefferson, Purple Gage, Ped and White Magnum Bo- num. Blue Damson, etc., are varieties for preserving. PEACHES. A great deal of the soil in the state of New Jersey being well adapted for the peach, a good deal of attention has been given to raising for market ; and in planting for that purpose, only those varieties have been selected that bear well and produce large fruit, even if not of as good flavor. The fol- lowing are a few of the varieties in general cultivation for that purpose. 72 Early Newington, (or Honest John) Crawford's Early and Late, Old Mixon Free Stone, Morris' White, Late Heath Cling. The following are well adapted for family use, but not quite as productive as the aforesaid, viz : Noblesse, Grosse, Mignonne, George IV., E-ed Rare Ripe, Royal George, Acton Scot, etc. NECTARINES. Unless cultivated under glass, are liable to be destroyed by the curculio, the same as the plum, and seldom or ever per- fects its fruit. Violet Hatif, Elruge, and Pitmaston Orange, are among the best. APRICOT Is another very uncertain fruit here, bearing only occa- sionally. Moorpark, Breda, Hemskirk, Turkey, are good hardy varieties. QUINCES. Apple and pear shaped are both cultivated. The apple shaped we think best for general cultivation, and with ordinary care produces fine crops. GRAPES. Isabella and Catawba are the two best varieties for general cultivation. Raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries, currents, and other small fruits, produce abundantly under ordinary cultivation ; and from the numerous facilities of sending them to market, generally remunerate well those engaged in their cultivation. The annexed report is respectfully submitted. WM. REID, J. W. HAYES. September 11, 1854. REPORT FROM BURLINGTON, N. J. APPLES. The following fruits do well at Burlington, N. J. : Lady Apple, Autumn Pearmain, Bough, Smiths' Cider, Early Harvest, Fall Pippin, Hagloe, Red June-eating, Maiden's Blush, Morgan, Monstrous Pippin, Monmouth Pippin, Cooper's Redling, Rhode Island Greening, Roman Stem, Sheepnose, Summer Rose or Woolman's Harvest, Summer Pearmain, Tewksbury "Winter Blush, White Seek -no-further, and Wine sap. PEACHES. Alberge, Yellow Rareripe, Columbia, Early Melacoton, Crawford's Late Melacoton, Crawford's Early, Imperial, Large Early York, Honest John or George IV., Late Free (Ward's,) Late Heath, New York Rareripe, Nonpariel, Scott, Old Mixon Free and Cling, Red Cheek Melacoton, Red Rareripe, Stump the World, Tippecannoe Cling, White Melacoton (Cole's.) PEARS. Early Catharine, Doyenne d'Ete, Limon, Elizabeth (Man- ning's,) Henrietta (Edward's) Bloodgood, Rostiezer, Stevens's Genesse, Fondante d'Automne, Washington, Bartlett, St. Ghislain, Oswego, Muscadine, Seckle, Urbaniste, Osband's Summer, Trimble, Beurre Bosc, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre Easter, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Echassery, Flemish Beauty, and Lawrence. All of which is most respectfully submitted. Yours truly THOMAS HANCOCK. Ashton Nurseries, Burlington, New Jersey, ) Sept. 11th, 1854. \ 10 74 REPORT FROM PENNSYLVANIA. The State Fruit Committee of Pennsylvania present a report upon the fruits and fruit culture of the State, from such sources of information as to them became available. The chairman selected his associates from residents of dif- ferent portions of the Commonwealth, so that the whole might be canvassed, and a full expose of fruit culture might be made ; appointing one in each of the counties of Chester, Cumber- land, Centre and Alleghany. Dk. J. K. EsHLEMAN of Chester County, in a communica- tion, dated August 12th, remarks, that "the almost total failure of fruit in our part of the State, will give us but little experience in new varieties. " The early spring, and subsequent cold — thick ice was formed in the last of April and first of May — destroying most of the fruit, and in many instances the trees. Cherry trees have suffered most. Again, the long drought in June, and subse- quent extreme heat, caused pears to ripen prematurely, and many to rot on the trees. Madeline, Maynard, Bloodgood, Dearborn's, Peche and Skinless, are already gone. Ott, Tyson, and Brandywine are ripe ; in passing, let me say that with these last, (natives), the Bartlett and St. Ghislain, we have a succession, for near two months, that leaves little to be desired. The lists issued in the last report, as worthy of gen- eral cultivation and promising well, contain everything that a general cultivator in this section need experiment upon. " The experience of two years, I regret to say, has added nothing worthy of remark to the knowledge of blight in fruit trees, nor failures of varieties. Unless we have gained some interesting additions, it is entirely unnecessary to trouble you with a repetition of long catalogue lists." From a letter, under date August 22d, received from Wm. G. Warring Esq. of Centre County, the following extracts are given; 75 "I hope that the Pomological Society may continue to flourish and be active. So long as time is required to fully determine the true merits of any sort of fruit, the work of the society will increase, instead of diminish upon its hands. There will be a great many re-considerations. The same fruit varies from indifferent to very good, and from being grafted on a different stock. The variations in different seasons is considerable ; and another frequent and important cause of uncertainty, is the grafting of various sorts upon one tree. In this case, the weaker go to the wall, and cannot possibly show their qualities. We have had but few curcu- lios or apple worms, this season. It is to be accounted for, I suppose, by the severe freezing of the latter part of March, after a week or two of warm growing weather. But we have extraordinary swarms of grasshoppers, which have, in many places, stripped large orchards of every leaf. Perhaps they would not have been so numerous, but that the heavy snows in March killed off" the birds. The borer has not yet pene- trated the mountain ranges so far as to reach our valleys, but is near us on the east. The slug, which eats the parenchyma of the leaf of the pear and cherry, is also approaching us on different sides. The cherry knots are here, or rather were, for they have killed off" most of their subjects. The plum knots are close on our borders, in Union and Mifflin counties. They have appeared at intervals during many years, but so far, cutting out has checked their progress. APPLES. Of apples. Summer Pose, Summer Queen, Blush, Rambo, Palenwalder, BellfloAver, Phode Island Greening, and Spitzen- bui-g, are more admired than any other, yet generally known. PEARS. Pears generally do well, and bear very uniformly. We have blight occasionally, but mostly appearing in the spring, as the effects of winter. It is most frequent on trees grown 76 from sprouts which have lateral roots, but most destructive on seedlings, when they happen to make a very late and lux- uriant September growth. The large quince trees are affected by fire-blight this season. It seldom appears on the pear or apple. Madeline, Bloodgood, Dearborn, Julienne, Bartlett, Butter, Seckle, and Nelis are always ready ; Avhen the season comes, always fine ; but we have many kinds to prove here yet. CHERKIES. Cherries of all kinds grow and bear here admirably, and answer the description generally given, excepting that the Elton is as hardy as any, and a first rate fruit. Black Eagle is, in some seasons, the richest of cherries, in others not so fine. Among new sorts, Beine Hortense, and Belle Magnifique, are very fine and valuable ; the former is a large, light colored cherry, cotemporary with Black Eagle ; the latter ripens in wheat harvest, and has just the quality of acidity and slight astringency that are especially refreshing at that season. It is of the largest size though a Duke. PLUMS. The larger plums rot very badly. When the showy crop is just ready to mature, the rot comes, and takes nearly all, and that both in wet and dry seasons. The Galbraith Plum, (native,) is decidedly the finest, and very productive. The Early Yellow Prune comes somewhat later, and is the most productive of all. Prune Damson is worthy ; Green Gage does not rot, but sometimes fails to mature, yet it is a sine qua non. Lawrence does very well, but rots to some extent. A large, late purple plum that we have here, and of which I wish to send you specimens if I can procure them, (our trees are not bearing this season) is in all respects decidedly the finest and most profitable late plum we have. It is not described in the books, but is much such a fruit as Domine Dull is represented to be in Downing's Fruit Trees, but much larger, of excellent flavor, very rich and a free stone. 77 The lists of pears and plums that I make here would by no means content me ; there are many sorts, with some fine quali- ties, that I could not find in others, and could not voluntarily surrender. I am a believer in having plenty of good fruit and ample variety. PEACHES. Of peaches, we can occasionally raise crops of such sorts as Crawford's Early, Yellow Rareripe, Morris' White, Early York, Crawfords Late, etc., but they are all much more uncer- tain than seedling trees. When the trees are unaffected by the yellows, or other diseases, or severe injury from worms, they live to acquire a very large size, and an age of fifteen to thirty years, and the size and quality of the fruit, are superior sorts, as hardy as our common peaches, and of superior quality are much wanted, and Avould be of immense value to us. I had prepared to send you specimens of our Summer Bell- fiower, an excellent apple, just succeeding Summer Rose, and of a Summer Queening, a handsome, high-flavored apple, f somewhat earlier. Also a very large, fair, hand- r~\ some pear, of this shape, perhaps the fairest and ) I handsomest of green pears, ripens with Jargonelle, / \ and like it, rots very quickly ; leaves very thick and V,_/&\^ concave, shoots extremely thick, upright, season of Bloodgood, but much handsomer, very productive on pear and quince, and good, but not best flavor. I cannot identify any of them from descriptions, yet they are very distinct and valuable," SEEDLING FRUITS OF PENNSYLVANIA, ORIGIN EXAMINED AND REPORTED UPON BY THE COMMITTEE ON FRUITS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. APPLES. The William Penn — a native of Columbia, Lancaster County, from J. W. Houston — description, rather large. 78 roundish, oblate, slightly conical ; color grayish, delicately mottled, and striped with red on a yellowish ground, with numerous white specks, in the center of which is a minute russet dot ; stem short, not very stout, sometimes fleshy, inserted in an open, rather deep, russetted cavity ; basin sometimes wide and shallow, usually narrow, rather deep and furrowed ; flesh greenish yellow, juicy with a delicious Spitzenburg aroma ; quality very good, if not best, repre- sented as being an abundant bearer. Tested in Febriiary. The Boalsburg — from William G. Waring of Boalsburg, Centre County — a large oblong apple inclining to conical, del- icately mottled, and striped with red on a yellow ground ; stem short, thick, inserted in a deep, acuminate, russeted cavity ; basin deep, moderately wide ; flesh yellowish, juicy, sprightly, and refreshing ; quality very good, ripe in February. The Hector — a native of Chester County — large, oblong, conical, striped, and mottled with red on a yellow ground ; stem three-quarters of an inch long, slender, inserted in a deep, open, russetted cavity ; basin narrow, deep, furrowed ; flesh crisp ; texture fine ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good. The Hess — a native of Conestoga, Lancaster County — size medium ; form variable, sometimes roundish, often conical ; red in stripes of diflerent hues ; stem short, rather stout ; cavity narrow, moderately deep, slightly russetted ; basin deep, narrow ; flesh greenish white, tender ; flavor agree- ably aromatic ; quality very good ; eaten in March. The Adams — originated with James Adams of White Deer Township, Union County — large, roundish oblate ; faintly mottled, and striped with red on a greenish yellow ground ; stem half an inch long, and one-ninth to one-sixth of an inch thick ; cavity broad, acute, calyx rather large, segments closed ; basin wide, moderately deep plaited ; flesh greenish white, of flne texture, rather juicy ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good — tested in April. The Major — originated with Major Samuel McMahan, Northumberland County — size large ; roundish ; red, some- 79 times blended with yellow in the shaded side ; stem variable in lengthy of medium thickness ; cavity rather wide, moder- ately deep basin uneven, shallow ; flesh yellowish, crisp ; flavor pleasant, agreeably saccharine, and resembles, in some measure that of the Carthouse, to which, however, it is superior ; quality very good ; tested in April. The Neversick — was found growing among the brush on the side of the Neversick Mountain, in Berks County. Although not five feet high when discovered, its branches contained two bushels of fruit, of most attractive appearance. Large ; roundish, exterior of an exceedingly beautiful waxen yellow color, with a few russet dots and a delicately striped and richly mottled carmine cheek ; stem very short and rather stout ; cavity narrow, acuminate, shallow ; caylx large ; basin deep, rather wide, furrowed ; seed greyish yellow, acute ovat ; flesh yellowish, somewhat tough, owing, probably, to the fruit being much shrivelled ; flavor approaching that of the pine apple ; quality very good ,• eaten in April. The Marks — from the premises of Mr. Marks, Berks County — size medium ; roundish, tapering slightly to the crown, and somewhat angular ; yellowish white, with a few russet dots, and nearly covered with a faint orange blush ; stem half an inch long, a twelfth of an inch thick ; cavity nar- row, deep, acuminate ; caylx small, closed ; basin narrow, tender, fine slightly russeted ; seed yellowish grey ; flesh whitish, rather deep, texture ; flavor delicately perfumed ; quality very good, if not best. The Jenkins — a native of Montgomery County — originating with John M. Jenkins of Hatfield Township ; fruit small ; roundish ovate ; red interspersed with numerous large white dots, on a yellowish ground ; stem more than half an inch long, slender ; cavity deep, rather wide, sometimes russeted ; calyx closed ; basin deep, open, furrowed ; core above medium ; seed greyish brown, acute ovate ; flesh white, tender, fine texture, juicy ; flavor agreeably saccharine, exceedingly pleasant and aromatic ; quality very good, if not best. 80 The York Imperial, or Jolmsoh's Fine Winter — very suitable for the table at evening entertainments, said to be a native of York County — size rather below medium ; trunc- ated, oval, angular ; the unexposed side is mottled and striped, so as to prevent a grayish red aspect on a greenish yellow ground, and on the sunny side the color is a dull crimson ; stem short and moderately stout ; cavity wide and rather deep ; calyx small and closed, and set in a deep wide plaited basin ; flesh greenish white, tender, crisp, juicy ; flavor pleasant and agreeably saccharine ; quality at least good, to many tastes very good. The Red Apple — originated with Mr. Haines of Prince- town, Berks County — below medium size ; roundish oblate ; skin thin, striped and marbled with bright red, and marked with numerous whitish dots near the crown ; stem long, rather slender, inserted in an open, deep cavity ; calyx large, set in a wide, rather deep, slightly plaited basin ; the bright red stripes remain imprinted on the fruit after the delicate skin has been removed ; the coloring matter penetrating and par- tially staining the otherwise whitish flesh, which is exceedingly tender, and of a fine texture ; flavor agreeable ; quality very good ; eaten in April. The Boas Apple — from Exter Township, Berks County, taken to Oley fifty years since, by Rev. Mr. Boas — size medium ; roundish oblate ; deep crimson in stripes of different hues, with one or more whitish yellow blotches near the base ; sometimes only faintly striped with red on a greenish yellow ground ; stem very short and thick, inserted in a moderately deep, not very wide cavity ; calyx set in a plaited basin varia- ble in size and form, sometimes superficial and wide, sometimes rather deep and narrow ; core small ; seed very small, plump, acuminate, greyish brown ; flesh yellowish white, crisp ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good ; said to be a long keeper. The Bush — a native on the farm of Christian Dale, near Boalsburg, Centre County — found growing in the woods. Mr. 81 Waring says : " This variety is an excellent bearer, and a great favorite in an orchard of choice sorts." Size two and three- quarters by three inches ; oblate, inclining to conical ; greenish yellow with many russet dots near the crown and occasionally a faint blush ; stem seven-eighths of an inch by one-ninth, inserted in a deep, open, furrowed cavity ; calyx very small, set in a deep, narrow, plaited basin ; seed brown, broad, short ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good. Tested in September. The Eitter — a native of Exeter Township, Berks County; size two and one-half inches long by two and seven-eighths broad ; roundish oblong ; red in stripes of various hues, with many large white dots ; stem short and moderately stout, inserted in a deep, narrow cavity ; calyx medium, closed, set in a deep, rather wide basin ; seed very short, plump, light cinnamon ; flesh tender ; flavor fine ; quality very good — October. A Seedling grown near Reading, Berks County — -size below medium, two and one-half inches long by two and three- fourths broad ; form roundish ; color greenish yellow, with a brown blush ; stem variable, from five-sixteenths to five- eighths of an inch long, and one-twelfth thick, inserted in a deep, narrow, acuminate cavity ; calyx large, closed, set in a deep, rather wide, obscurely plaited basin ; seed light brown, broad, flat ; flesh flne texture ; flavor delicately aromatic ; quality very good — ^December. The Water — originated in Pleasant valley, Berks County, from Charles B. Ott — ^-represented to be a very productive variety. Size medium, two and one-half inches long, by two and five-eighths broad ; form oblong, inclining to conical ; color red on the greater part of the surface, interspersed with one or more white spaces, and a number of green blotches, greenish yellow about the crown and on the unexposed portion ; stem half an inch long, and one-twelfth thick, inserted into a rather narrow, deep, acuminate cavity ; calyx medium, closed, set in a moderately wide, plaited, sometimes shallow, occa- sionally deep, basin ; seed medium, brown, ovate ; flesh 82 greenish white, fine texture, remarkably tender, juicy ; flavor sprightly, with an agreeable aroma ; quality very good ; sun in January. Cocldin's Favorite — from Jacob Cocklin of York, a native of Allen Township, Cumberland County — a small roundish truncated apple ; quality very good. People's Choice — a native of Chester County, from J. M. Thorne — a small red apple, with peculiar markings — quality very good ; a November fruit. The Yost — ^from Charles Kessler of Reading, Berks County — size rather large, two and three-quarters to three inches long, by three and three-eighths to three and three-quarters wide ; roundish, oblate ; beautifully striped and delicately mottled, with crimson on a yellow ground ; stem short, less than one-quarter inch by one-seventh thick, inserted in a wide deep cavity ; flesh yellowish, tender, juicy; pleasant flavor ; quality very good — ^December. Long Stem — from same source — size below medium, roundish, oblong, sometimes angular ; skin red in faint stripes, with a number of grey russet dots ; stem long, thin ; cavity medium, acuminate ; basin small, shallow plaited ; flesh greenish white, tender ; agreeable sub-acid flavor, with Spit- zenburg aroma ; quality very good ; not the long stem of Cole. The Yacht — ^from Peter Kuser, Boyntown, Montgomery County — size medium, roundish, striped with red of various hues on yellowish ground ; stem one-half an inch long, one- eighth thick ; cavity open, obtuse, basin very shallow, plaited ; flesh fine texture, tender, pleasant flavor — quality very good. Housum's Ked — from Mr. Housum of Reading, Berks County — size large, oblong, compressed at the sides, red in stripes, yellow at the base, stem short, thick ; cavity narrow, not deep, slightly russeted, basin moderately deep, plaited, flesh fine texture, tender, with delightful aroma ; quality very good, at least — October to February. Backs County Pippin — size large, roundish, oblate, inclining 83 to conical ; greenish, yellow, with sometimes a faint brown cheek ; stem short, not stout, inserted in a deep open cavity ; basin wide, deep, slightly plaited ; seed small, short; flesh tender ; texture fine ; flavor excellent ; quality very good. Evening Party — from Charles Kessler, Reading, Berks Coimty — size small, roundish oblate, nearly covered with red in stripes on a whitish yellow ground ; stem short, inserted in a wide deep cavity ; calyx small, closed ; basin wide, moder- ately deep ; flesh yellowish white, tender, with a spicy saccharine flavor ; quality very good, well adapted for the table at evening parties. The following list embraces seedlings which are considered good : White Spitzenburg — a native of Chester County — a constant and prolific bearer. The fruit will keep until March. Bechtold's Seedling — from Berks County — in season from October to March. The Keim — a native of Berks County — held in estimation. The Krowser — from the same county. The Sink — from Centre County — ^remarkable for its constant and abundunt yield of fruit ; in great demand for cooking purposes, and in constant use from July to October. The Summer Bell Flower — from Centre County — excellent for baking. The Mauch, the Lecher, the Long Keeping, the Giant — originated with Peter Kuser, Montgomery County — in some repute. The Hepler, the Zeiber — originating in Beading, Berks County. The Kurr — a native of Bethel Township, Berks County. The Orange — originating with N. Lott of Beading, Berks County. The Ohiinger — from Mr. Ohlinger, Alsace Township, Berks County. The Alsace, the Dumpling, the PfufFer, the Speckled Oley — originating in Berks County. 84 The Freeze and Thaw — grown by Mr. Gorgas, E.oxbury, Philadelphia County. The Buyer's Seedling — from Union County. The Crawford — 'from Montgomery County. SEEDLING PEAKS. The Reading — believed to be a native of Reading, Berks County — size medium, pyriform, tapering to the crown ; skin greenish yellow, with numerous russet dots ; stem an inch long, slender ; basin narrow and superficial ; flesh green- ish white, abounding in juice ; of a mild and agreeable flavor ; quality at least good — tested in January. The Diller — from Dr. I. K. Eshleman, Lancaster County — size below medium ; roundish ovate, with one or more of the longitudinal depressions or sutures seen in Dearborn's Seedling; skin cinnamon russet ; stem an inch to an inch and one-half long, by one-seventh thick, inserted by fleshy rings without depressions ; calyx open, set in a shallow, rather wide basin ; seed small, dark, with an angle at the blunt extremity ; flesh somewhat granular, buttery ; possessing a fine perfumed flavor; quality very good — period of maturity last of August. A supposed Seedling — from Robert Buist — bearing some resemblance in form and flavor to Henry IV. — rather small, two and one-eighth inches long by one and one-eighth broad; obovate pyriform ; yellowish green with large green russet spots and blotches, and a brownish red cheek ; calyx closed, set in a shallow, furrowed basin ; seed small, black ; flesh melting, buttery, of fine texture ; flavor vinous ; quality very good. The Eeaster — originated about seventy years ago, with Aaron Feaster of Northampton Township, Bucks County — having sprvmg up on a piece of ground used as a meadow, Mr. Feaster designated it the Meadow Pear ; it is known as the Bleecker's Meadow in horticultural works ; but its merits have not been properly appreciated. (By some called the Heidel- burg Pear). It is known in Philadelphia market as the Spice 85 or Spice Butter. No published history or record of its origin has been given. It Avill be here described. The original tree is still standing and continues to bear most abundantly ; some seasons it has yielded five bushels of fruit, which have sold for forty dollars. Although rather coarse in texture, and some- what gritty at the core, yet when properly house-ripened, it is rich, melting, delicious, and in quality very good ; judging from its flavor, its parents are probably the Seckel and Bergamot. October is its period of maturity. PEACHES. Several fine varieties have originated in Lancaster County, by Dr. H. A. Muhlenberg, called Early White, a free of large size and remarkably fine flavor. Early Rareripe, more acid, a free also. Lancaster Yellow Rareripe ; large, free, very juicy and of good flavor. Isaac B. Baxter of Philadelphia, has raised a good variety called Jane — very large, and of delicious flavor ,• quality very good. Mr. Lott of Beading has originated one of merit ,• size large, three inches long by three and one-eighth broad ; roundish ; dark red on a greenish white ground ; suture distinct, extend- ing more than half round ; cavity moderately deep ; flesh white, red around the stone, juicy, unadherent*; delightful flavor, qualities very good if not best. The Gorgas — originated with Benjamin GuUip, in Phila- delphia, from a stone of the Morris White ; size two and one- half inches by two and three-quarters ; roundish, with a slight prominence at the apex ; dull greenish white, clouded and blotched with red on the exposed side ; cavity wide, rather deep ; stone free ; flesh whitish, slightly stained at the stone, juicy ; flavor saccharine and exceedingly lucious ; quality best — period September. PLUMS. Thomas's October — a native of Upper Dublin Township, Montgomery County — size medium, pale red ; quality good. 86 Early Yellow Prune — originated in Bedford County — size one and five-eighths inches, by one and one-quarter ; oval, pointed at each end ; stem five-eighths of an inch long, by one-twentieth thick ; flesh free from the stone ; flavor de- licious ; quality very good ; a free grower, prodigious bearer, and not apt to rot. Red Prune — from Bedford County — ^known in Lancaster under the name of Bottle Plum — size two inches long by one and one-eighth broad ; pyriform with a long slender neck ; suture extending on one side from the base, to the apex ; pale red ; stem one inch long, by one sixteenth thick ; a handsome plum of peculiar form and good quality ; indifferent bearer. The Galbraith — an early plum, said to have originated with the late Mr. Galbraith, near Boalsburg, Centre County — is represented as being a straggling grower, but the early plum cultivated in that vicinity ; size an inch and one-half by one and five-sixteenths broad ; oval ; purple ; stem five-eighths of an inch by one fourteenth ; flesh tender, juicy, adherent to the stone ; flavor luscious ; quality very good, if not best. Prune Damson Plum — from Centre County — size one and a half inches long, one and three-sixteenths wide, one and one-sixteenth thick ; flattened oval ; blue ; stem one and one- half inches long, by one-eighteenth thick ; flesh rather dry, entirely free from the stone ; flavor agreeable ; quality good. Peach Plum — cultivated at Boalsburg as that variety, but differs from it in several particulars ; size large, one and three- quarter inches by one and nine-sixteenths ; oblong ; salmon color ; stem three-eighths of an inch by one-fourteenth ; stone adherent ; long obovate, one and one-sixteenth inches long, five-eighths wide, and seven-sixteenths thick ; of pleasant flavor ,- quality between good and very good. Cleavinger — a native of Philadelphia County — is a purple variety of the largest size, and of good flavor. Cope's Seedling — raised by John Cope of Southwark, Phil- adelphia ; size large, an inch and three-quarters long by one and one-half broad ; long oval ; dark purple ; stem three- 87 fourths of an incli long, slender ; flesh not very juicy, free from the stone, flavor acid ; quality good for culinary purposes. A cling variety of the Red Magnum Bonum ; from Samuel Ott, Montgomery County — size very large ; oval ; purple ; stem five-eighths of an inch long by one-twelfth thick ; quality good. Bingham Plum — from Alexander Parker, Philadelphia — size large ; truncated oval ; greenish yellow, occasionally with carmine dots on the exposed side ; suture on one side extend- ing from the base to the apex ; stem three-quarters of an inch long by one-twelfth thick, inserted in a deep narrow depres- sion ; stone adherent ; flesh yellowish, juicy ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good. CHEERIES. The Conestoga — originated in Conestoga Township, Lan- caster County — size large ; obtuse heart-shaped, slightly indented at the apex ; dark purple ; stem from an inch and three-quarters to two and one-quarter long, slender, inserted in an open cavity ; flesh purplish, firm ; flavor sugary and very pleasant ; quality best. aKAPES. Several fine grapes have been raised by Peter Paabe of Philadelphia, from seed obtained from Germany, which have proved hardy, and are varieties of merit, viz. : The Brinckle. — Bunch large, rather compact, sometimes shouldered ; berry five-eighths of an inch in diameter, round, black ; flesh soKd, not pulpy ; flavor rich, vinous and saccha- rine ; quality, best. The Emily. — Bunch large, not very compact, occasionally shouldered ; berry below medium, from three-eighths to one- half of an inch in diameter ; round ; pale red ; flesh very juicy, with little or no pulp ; flavor saccharine and delicious ; quality best, for an out-door grape. The Clara. — Bunch medium ; not compact ; berry medium ; round ; green, faintly tinged witli salmon when exposed to the snn ; flesh tender, juicy ; flavor rich, sweet, and delicious ; quality best. The Raabe. — Bunch small, compact, rarely shouldered ; berry below medium ; round ; dark red, thickly covered with bloom ; flesh very juicy, with scarcely any pulp ; flavor saccharine, with a good deal of the Catawba aroma; quality best. This is doubtless a seedling from the Catawba, as Mr. Raabe had that variety in fruit at the time he sowed his bed. William Graham of Philadelphia, has cultivated an acci- dental seedling of excellent qualities. It is called the Graham. — Bunch medium, shouldered, not compact ; berry half an inch in diameter, round, purple, thickly covered Avith blue bloom ; contains little or no pulp, and abounds in a saccharine juice of agreeable flavor ; quality best. Supposed to be a cross between the Bland and Elsinborough. The Cassady. — An accidental seedling, wliite variety, with native leaf and dark purplish wood, that sprung up in Mr. Cassady's yard, Philadelphia, in 1847, and fruited in 1852. Bunch medium, tolerably compact, and sometimes shouldered ; berry below medium, five-eighths of an inch in diameter ; form round ; color greenish white, with occasionally a faint salmon tint, and thickly covered with white bloom; flesh juicy, with but little pulp ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good. The Kilvington. — Mr. Cassady bought this seven years ago for the Isabella, from which it difiers materially. Bunch medium, compact ; berry below medium, five-eighths of an inch in diameter ; form round ; color red, a shade deeper than the Catawba, with much bloom ; seed unusually large ; flesh contains some pulp, which is not tough, but half tender, and melting ; flavor vinous and saccharine, without any Catawba aroma ; quality best. STRAW BEERIES. There have been a few seedlings brought into notice ; those possessing greatest merit have been originated by Gerhard Schinitz of Philadelphia, which he has called the Moyamen- sing and the Pennsylvania, which have proved well worthy of cultivation, being prolific and of excellent flavor. Respectfully submitted. THOMAS P. JAMES, Chairman. REPORT FROM MARYLAND. As my colleagues are from home, and perhaps will not return in season to attend the Pomological Convention on the 12th, I submit the following report, and beg to preface it by some remarks on the season. Easter Sunday morning, April 16th, 1854. — From appear- ances, this morning, of the weather, Maryland will make but a poor show in the pomological exhibition next fall. The climate of Maryland often proves very unfavorable to the cultivation of choice fruit, being located, as it were, between two extremes. A few warm days, as we frequently have during the winter and early spring, starts the sap of the trees so much that the buds become so far developed as to be easily destroyed by a slight frost. I have paid some slight attention to the seasons here for thirty-eight years, and have never experienced a more vari- able winter than this last one has been. "We have never had any extreme cold, but changeable. In the latter part of November, and first week of December, we had very warm weather. The peach buds developed so much that I was apprehensive they would all be destroyed during the winter. I discovered that a great portion were injured. The latter part of February and first two Aveeks in March were warm. Vegetation was ready to break forth. Apricots were in full bloom. Some few peaches, pears, and nectarines were open. It 90 commenced blowing from the north-west, and continued so for nearly ten or twelve days, the atmosphere at the time dry and frosty ; it ctit every thing that was exposed to it. Some of the early blooming varieties of jDears, such as Doyenne d'Alencon, Doyenne Blanc, Doyenne Gris, Easter Beurre, Beurre Ranee, Maria Louise, Triomphe de Jodoigne, and several others were entirely destroyed ; likewise the branches of several of the trees were so much injured that I had to prune them severely. The last season's wood appeared, in many cases, as if it had passed through a fire. This, I suppose, would be called frozen sap. Some of the varieties of the peach I found to be nearly destroyed, particularly the C. Late Malacaton. The peach, nectarine, many of the plums, damsons, and pears, are at present in full bloom, (Easter Sun'day.) The last two days have been very dis- agreeable, with rain and cold winds. At sunset, last night, it commenced freezing, with rain, sleet, hail, etc. ; this morning the ground is well coated over with snow ; the trees, branches, young green leaves, and flowers, are covered over with icicles ; it is also snowing, and the wind blowing almost a gale from due north. I am thus particular, as I want to ascertain what degree of cold the fruit trees will bear when in bloom, and when charged with moisture. It continued snowing all day, until six o'clock Monday morning. Monday night a very hard frost. Tuesday morning every thing was locked up fast like midwinter, and we could not enter the ground with a spade. The apples were not in bloom, still the greater part were destroyed. Peach, plum, nectarine, gooseberry, currant, all gone. The flowers and young pears remained on the trees, and appeared not to be injured ; but as they began to swell they became deformed and crooked in the foot stalk, and finally dropped from the tree. This was on one of the most elevated and exposed locations ; besides, there had never been knoAvn a failure of the fruit crop on the place before. 91 The following report and remarks will be confined to the varieties in each class that have proved their worth and adaptation to the soil and climate of Maryland. Many of the varieties of the apple and pear, inserted in the catalogues of fruit, as winter fruit, ripen here in early autumn, when peaches are generally plentiful, which makes other fruit of little or no value. The soil of Maryland, like all other portions of the States, varies in its formations ; but many sections are well adapted to the production of fruit of every description. The shores of the Chesapeake Bay and its various inlets, give a large surface of country. These lands being sandy and alluvions, besides being generally a level surface, together with the water communication, induces the fruit growers to select these lands in preference to more elevated regions, particularly for the peach and strawberry. The life of the peach trees is but of short duration on these soils ; the orchardist calculating on but three or four crops before the fruit becomes small, bitter, and worthless. The best apple orchards are found on the elevated and dry ground where the subsoil is of a porous and open nature, composed of mica, hornblend, or rotten rock, slate, etc. The trees in these sections attain a larger size, and the fruit attains greater perfection, on such soils, than when planted on stiff, wet clays. The climate of Maryland equals any portion of this Union for ripening of fruit, and it can be brought to as great perfec- tion, provided proper knowledge and care be made use of in the selection of proper varieties. Unfortunately for us, the landed proprietors are fond of things far-fetched, many of them thinking they can be better supplied at the North than at home. On passing through one of the best orchards in the State, the first of this month, there was not one tree in ten with fruit on it. Had the owner consulted some man of experience as to varieties suitable for this section, instead of sending abroad for his trees, the present worth of his orchard 92 would have been ten-fold. I never was more convinced of this fact than when passing through this orchard, as no expense had been spared in cultivation ; the ground has been contin- ually under the plough since the trees were planted, ten years ago, and the soil the best adapted for fruit culture in the State, being composed of a sort of brown rotten stone, (that dissolves with the winter frost into a fine friable loam,) mixed with white fiint and a bluish green stone. This orchard is located on the southern end of an irregular ridge of land, extending round the city of Baltimore, from five to seven miles distance. On land of this descrijDtion the roots pene- trate to a great depth out of the way of the droughts, such as we frequently have at this season of the year. The peach crop has been an entire failure this year ; so much so, that the Pennsylvanians consider it for their interest to send to Baltimore market. The cause of the failure was owing to the cold spell on the seventeenth of April. We have one great drawback here to fruit culture, which is becoming more formidable every year — the various insects that sting the fruit. I was in hopes that, after the cold spell we had, there would be no fruit left for them to carry on their depredations ; but, unluckily, we had sufiicient for their purpose, and well they have taken advantage of it. These depredators can never be eradicated so long as the present course of neglectful practice is continued by the owners of orchards through the State. The greater part of the fruit ripening at a season when fruit is of little or no value, it is suffered to decay under the trees in place of being fed to the stock. In every part of the State large orchards are visible, where the fruit is suffered to decay, and form a nursery for their increase ; so destructive have they become, that last season, 1853, the crop of apples was plentiful, but many owners of orchards were scarce able to pick a barrel of sound fruit in the month of October. The plum, apricot, and nectarine have received but little attention, owing to the curculio. In the vicinity of Annap- olis, on the bay shore, they ripen well without any trouble, 93 More attention, of late years, has been paid to the planting of the pear, particularly on the quince root, than formerly. The borer will prevent an extensive planting on this stock, owing to the care required to keep them free. Of the old varieties, the following ought to be in every collection : Jargo- nelle on pear stock. Julienne, Madeline, Brown Beurre, Seckel, Doyenne Blanc. The two last are the heau ideal of pears, and no collection can be complete without them. They both require generous treatment, and cannot be encouraged too much. APPLES. The apples that attain the greatest perfection here are Early Harvest, Yellow Bough, Summer Queen, Maiden's Blush, Rambo, Yellow Bell Flower, French Beneitte, Bhode Island Greening, Holland or Belvidere Pippin, English Bed Streak as sold here, Kentish Fillbasket, Yellow and Green Newtown Pippin. This last one I have always been led to believe is incorrect, according to a list of an orchard planted in 1793. This apple was sent out from Prince's nursery as the New York Greening. There can be no comparison between the fruits when grown on the same ground and with the same culti- vation. The trees and growth resemble each other, but not in shape of fruit or flavor. Pomme d'Api, Boxbury Busset, James Biver, Vandevere, Smoke House, "White Bobinson, and Hughs' Virginia Crab. For cider there are many more varie- ties, but none to surpass those ripening in like season. PEARS. Of the new varieties of pears that have proved superior, the following may be set down as the best : Doyenne d'Ete, Beurre Giffard. This last will become one of the greatest favorites for this part, when known. Bartlett, Bostezier, Fon- dante d'Automne, Bon Chretien Fondante, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Duchesse d'Angouleme. This, on a generous soil, and on quince stock, is certainly a splendid fruit. Beurre 94 Bosc, Glout Morceau, Lawrence, Winter Nelis,* Easter Beurre, St. Michael Archangel, witli Vicar of Winkfield. On planting out my pear orcliarcl, in order to continue the ground square, one corner encroached on the site of an old orchard and garden. The soil was rich and would grow good vegetables ; the other part very poor, but had not been in trees for many years. The fruit of the same varieties, taken from the two portions, cannot be recognized as the same variety; the trees, likewise, are stunted and of a starved appearance. I have not been able to remedy it even with deep trenching, liming, ashes, and peat. It is to this cause I attribute the cracking of fruit, a deficiency of something in the sub-soil of some material necessary to its perfection. CHERRIES. The high lands are well adapted to the cultivation of cher- ries. The trees, when sufficiently large, produce enormous crops. I picked from one tree, in the season of 1853, three hundred and fifty quarts of the Kentish cherry. Many of the new varieties have not been tried sufficiently to speak of them correctly. Of the old ones. Black Tartarian, May Duke, Bigarreau, Bed Bigarreau, Kentish, Yellow Spanish, Halifax, Belle de Choisy, Carnation, are all of them of good quality. GOOSEBERRIES. These cannot be cultivated in the country to advantage, owing to the mildew. In the city they do well, and come to great perfection. PEACHES. This fruit is one of the great staples of the State, and I think it may be said, with confidence, that in no part of the world is it produced in greater perfection. The sandy or light soils are preferred for planting the peach tree, but imless * This pear, in my estimation, excels any other in its season, even equai to the Seckel. The tree is a straggling grower, but with proper care can be made into a good shape. 95 the sub-soil contains a certain something that is wanted to perfect the fruit, the trees soon have the appearance of the "yellows. On other soils, in elevated districts, where the sub- soil is composed of mica, rotten rock, slate, etc., old trees can be found of healthy appearance, from thirty to forty years of age, and producing good fruit every year. Many fine seedlings have originated in this vicinity, which, I think, when fairly tested, may prove worth cultivation. One or two can be recommended as being superior, and ripening at a season when good peaches are scarce. The Dulany, a seedling from Heath, we think superior. The Hunter, shape and size of large Early York, last of September, equal in flavor to George IV. Best. GRAPES. All the foreign varieties do well in the city lots, where proper care is taken to prune close and attend to them when growing. There have been several vineyards planted in the State, but none, that I know of, are in a flourishing condition, (unless it be Judge Brewer's, of Annapolis.) The cause of this is not that they will not succeed here as well as any other part, provided proper soil, location, and proper attention be paid to them — no better soil and location need be wanted than can be found on the Gunpowder Kiver for thirty miles from the city. The fox and chicken grapes are growing in the greatest abundance, and running over the tallest trees. NECT AEIN ES. The Hoifman Nectarine. — This is a seedling raised from the seed of a peach stone, with yellow meat, cling and large size. The owner was entirely ignorant of its merits. He is in the habit of planting the stone of any superior fruit he may eat. Size of large Early York peach. STRAWBEREIES. For market, with me, none have excelled Hovey's Seedling. Kean's Seedling, Alice Maud, Boston Pine, Elton, McAvoy's, 96 Superior, and Myatt's Eliza, all produce good crops, and are good fruit. Iowa, Black Prince, Longwortli's Prolific, and Sneicke's Pistillate, may do for fancy varieties. Dr. Edmon- son has raised two of great merit, the Harlem Orange and Marylander. List of pears proved to be good and worthy of cultivation : Triomphe de Jodoigne, Beurre Giffard, Beurre Quetelet, Bonne de Zees, Bezy d'Esperin, Belle de Thouars, Beurre Beaumont, Colmar Souveraine, Comtesse d'Alost, Delices d'Hardenpont, Figue d'Alencon, Juvardiel, La Porte, Louise de Prusse, Peine d'Hiver, O'Ken d'Hiver, Ghislain, Suzette de Bavay, and Catinka. The blight on the pear I have found to be caused by high culture, causing the tree to grow late in the fall, thereby preventing the wood from being well matured. Eire blight proceeds from the same cause, also by lightning during the month of June, on days when we have light drizzling showers of rain and flashes of lightning without thunder. In 1821 I had forty -three trees, more or less, injured on the third day of June, Yellows in the peach. — This disease can be easily accounted for, viz. : selecting improper soil not congenial to the tree. Over-bearing and the worm. — I let the worm this season have full scope on ten of my trees, in order to observe the effect in comparison with the others of the same variety. Erom appearance of the trees, at present, I am satisfied the malady proceeds from nothing else. SAMUEL FEAST. Baltimore, September 4tli, 1854. 97 REPORT FROM VIRGINIA. Hespected Fkiend, Samuel Walicee : — I received thy circular, and feel interested in the subject to comply with the request, at least in part. Our State is very extensive, as thou knowest ; and as but little attention has hitherto been paid to fruit growing, renders it difhcidt to obtain that amount of information that would be desirable. But public attention is beginning to be turned into the right channel ; and fruit culture here is destined to go far beyond what its most ardent advocates at present anticipate. The railroads that are now being built through different parts of our vState will give access to markets, to parts hitherto denied such access for such articles as green fruits, and which can be raised in abundance. Delaware and New Jersey cannot ex- ceed us in the quality of our peaches ; and we have hills and mountains here where they are seldom injured by spring frosts, and may be considered a certain crop. One of my sons, who is engaged with me in the nursery business, has purchased a piece of land on the Blue Ridge bordering this county, at an elevation of about five hundred feet above the surrounding country, where fruit trees grow finely, and are seldom injured with frosts, and where he has planted near two thousand trees, about one-half peach, — and we exjoect that in about two years we shall have access by railroad to Wash- ington, Alexandria, Richmond, etc., and we propose to try at least what may be done in this line. The members of the Fruit Committe for this State live far apart ; and as their coming together would be attended with considerable expense and inconvenience, I propose, for the present at least, to request them to furnish me with written communications on the subject of the circular, and from these to prepare a report for the meeting of the convention this fall. The comparison of fruits and the examination of new varieties may become a proper subject for our State Agricul- 98 tural Society, and by tliat means, in time, something valuable in aid of pomology may be obtained; bnt the subject is too new here yet to induce persons to give that attention to it that is given where it has been a study for years. The past winter and spring here have been remarkable. Last fall before the leaves of trees were shed, we had a heavy and wet snow, that loaded them to such a degree that much timber was broken down in our forest and orchards. The winter was generally clear of snow, with open weather, until the 20th of second month (February) when we had a tremen- dous storm from north-east, the snow two and one-half feet deep, and di'ifted much. Spring came in very pleasant for two weeks, when it turned colder, and for near two months following we had a mixture of snow, sleet, and cold rain, with occasional pleasant weather. The consequence was, that the fruit trees were later coming into bloom than usual ; we had snow and sleet while the cherries and peaches were in bloom, and were it not that the idea of a loss of fruit must prevail, when such scenes take place, it would be considered beautiful to behold the coloring of the blossom, showing themselves through the sleet. But as it was, the cherries and peaches are generally killed as well as pears. Of apples we hope to have a fair supply ; and we shall try and furnish some samples for the convention, and I shall try to make an effort to attend it. Whether I shall succeed or not remains to be seen. In the mean time I may say it has my best wishes. I shall be pleased to see any of my Boston friends here in old Loudon. Most travelers through Virginia pass along the tide-water region ; if they would see the range of country on either side of the Blue Bidge, they would report more favorably on the agricul- ture of the State. A finer region is seldom to be met with any where, and that is saying a good deal. Sincerely thy friend, YARDLEY TAYLOR. Loudon County, Va., 6th month, > 10th day, 1854. 5 99 REPORT FROM MISSISSIPPI. A report upon the subject of fruit growing in the State of Mississippi, should properly be prefaced with a few remarks upon the soil and climate. Soil. — My locality is six miles south of the city of Natchez, between the thirty -first and thirty-second degrees of north latitude. The surface soil is a rich, black, vegetable mould, about eighteen inches in depth, resting upon a strata of hard clay, underlaying which is a yellow loam filled with fresh water shells. This great loamy formation, elevated about two hundred and fifty feet above the level of the sea, extends along the right bank (ascending) of the Mississippi River, from the thiity-first degree of north latitude, as far up as Vicksburg, (thirty-two and one-half degrees north latitude,) and runs horizontally eastward from the river, a distance of twelve to fifteen miles, at which point a marine and fresh water deposit, with recent sea shells, crops out, followed by the eocene formation of geologists. Upon the first belt of soil next the river, (the richest upland in our State,) porous in its texture, abounding in phosphate, and the underlaying strata of loam in the carbon- ate of lime, the native forest trees grow luxuriantly, and attain a majestic size. The magnolia, the tulip tree, the sassafras, the black walnut, and several species of the oak, are found eighty to one hundred feet in height, and having a diameter of from thi-ee to five feet near their base.* In so rich a soil, the groAvth of all fruit trees is much more rapid and vigorous than upon the Atlantic slope, and consequently the trees are a longer time in coming into a bearing state. Climate. — Our winters are generally mild and open — snow seldom falls, or if so, melts away under sunshine in a few houi's. We never experience so great a degree of cold as to * See Additional Notes, 100 kill fruit trees. The thermometer has been known to fall as low as fourteen degrees above zero, but this is very unusual. Our winters are cold enough to give deciduous fruit trees a sufficient period of rest to recruit for another summer's fruit bearing ; and this, followed by a spring and summer of so high a temperature as to mature the latest kinds of fruit early in the fall, is all that is wanted, as regards climate, to bring fruits to perfection. The temperature during the months of May, June, July, August, and September, is almost torrid. The thermometer rarely falling under eighty degrees, and often rising to ninety and ninety-five degrees. Spring frosts occur, but rarely destroy the fruit crop. Long droughts are prevalent during our summer and fall months. Before noticing the varieties of fruits which follow, I must premise that aspect is of high importance with us, and that the best exposure for an orchard is a northern one. I would also state that my ground was well prepared before I planted out the trees — that the specific mineral manures, especially for the apple and the pear, were incorporated in a well decom- posed compost, and this spread over the surface of the orchard two inches in depth. The ground was then trench ploughed, followed by a sub-soil plough ; and after planting, the trees kept well mulched during the summer months, and the soil every year cultivated in root crops. STK AWBEERIES. This fruit is indigenous to our State. I cultivate the wild variety for its early maturity ; ripening first week in April. I also cultivate the Black Prince, Crescent City Seedling, Hovey's Seedling, and Large Early Scarlet. All these varieties bear well, and are deliciously flavored. They continue in bearing during two months. May and June. RASPBERRIES. I cultivate the Red Antwerp, Yellow Magnum Bonum, and PastolfF. Our climate and soil is favorable to the growth and 101 maturity of tliis fruit. They continue with me in bearing two months. May and June. The plants require heavy mulching during our hot months. C H E R K I E S . It is rare to find this fruit in our southern States ; and the prevalent opinion is, the cherry will not fruit in this climate. As this fruit (it is well known) was raised in perfection by the ancient Romans in Italy, and as several varieties are at the present day successfully cultivated in the south of Spain and Italy, I see no valid reason why it should not succeed with us. I cultivate the following varieties : Heart Cherries. — Bauman's May, Downers late. Early Pur- ple Guigne, Graffion, Sparhawk's Honey, Black Tartarian. Dukes. — Belle de Choisy, Late Duke, May Duke. Bigarreaw's. — Monstrouse de Mezel, Bigarreau Napoleon, White Bigarreau. Morello's — Butner's Morello, Humsey's Late. My trees in bearing are all iipon the Mahaleb stock, and six years old from the bud. They bore abundant crops the spring of 1853 ; the fruit perfect in size, and luscious in taste. The Early Purple Guigne, was especially noted for its large size and delicious flavor. This variety excelled all the others in quality, the Late Duke and May Duke ranking next. This year the cherry crop was cut short by a frost when trees were in bloom. I had less fruit, and that of inferior size, to the preceding year. I would wish a longer experience before speaking confi- dently of success with this fruit. PEACHES AND NECTARINES. No region of country upon the globe, can exceed ours in the perfection to which these delicious fruits attain, our burn- ing sun developing the saccharine qualities of the peach to the highest degree. Even the yellow fleshed varieties are with us, sweet and sugary, with only so much acid as to be grateful 102 to the taste. I cultivate about one hundred varieties of the peach, and six of the nectarine. Although the northern vari- eties are sometimes cut short by frosts, from their habit of late blooming, still the peach may be considered a sure crop in this region. In a period of ten years past, I have never failed in securing a crop. Our State exports largely of this fruit to the New Orleans market. All northern varieties ripen with me in June and July. APRICOTS. I cultivate the Moorpark, the Large Early, the Peach Apricot, and the Breda. Since planting the trees upon the north side of buildings, I have not failed in securing fair crops of fruit. Ripens here latter end of May. The ground under my trees is well paved, and the curculio, so far, has never attacked the fruit. PEARS. This fruit has only been recently cultivated to any extent in our State. I learn there are trees yet growing, (supposed to have been planted by the early French and Spanish colonists,) upon the Bluffs, south of Natchez — and known as the Cliffs pear — an indifferent table fruit, and only suitable for cooking ; although in times past it -was so rare a sight to see a pear tree in the fruit orchards of this region, now that southern nur- series have been successfully established, thousands and tens of thousands of pear trees are being annually planted, and our State will, without doubt, in ten to fifteen years from this . date, export largely of this fruit to the West Indies and the northern cities. The intense heat of our summers, maturing the pear fully two months earlier than ten degrees north of us, it will enable our fruit growers to supply northern markets with finest varieties during months of July and August. I cultivate over one hundred varieties of the pear. The greater number dwarfed upon the quince on this stock, trees six and seven years from the bud, have grown from twelve to twenty 103 feet in height, and have a diameter in trunk of six to eight inches. Native or acclimated trees are greatly to be preferred over imported ones. Madeleine or Citron deCarmes — on quince. — Trees six years old from bud ; fifteen feet high ; bore heavy crops for first time this year ; fruit double the size figured by Downing ; flavor juicy, and sprightly ; quality second rate ; ripe fifteenth of May, and continues in eating one week. Doyenne d'Ete. — The few specimens I had of this fruit from grafts in standard promise well ; higher flavored than Madeleine, and ripens same date ; grows vigorously on quince, but trees three years old from bud have not yet fruited. Bloodgood — on standard — one of the best early pears ; flesh melting, and flavor aromatic ; quality best ; ripens early in June ; on quince is a slow grower. Belle de Bruxelles — on quince — fruit much smaller in size than figured by Mr. Barry in the Horticulturist ; flavor only tolerable ; quality simply good ; ripens early in June. Beurre Giflard. — The few specimens I had from grafts in standard, give promise of the highest excellence. A vigor- ous and rapid grower on quince ; trees four years from bud have not yet fruited ; ripe in June. Bostiezer — on quince — ^fruit small, but abundant bearer on trees five years from bud ; flesh melting, buttery, and of highest flavor ; quality best ; ripens early in June. Tyson — from grafts on standard — fruit medium size ; very sugary and juicy, and having a rich aromatic perfume ; slow grower on quince ; ripens with me middle of June ; quality best. Passans du Portugal — ^from grafts on standard — fruit small and very round ; but having a delicate and agreeable flavor ; quality good ; ripens here last of June. Summer Franc Real — on quince stock — fruit large ; flesh melting and sugary ; quality best ; ripe last of June. JuHenne. — This pear I think the most desirable for general cultivation in this State of all the summer varieties ; has 104 fruited with me both on standard and quince. On quince stock, my trees, six and seven years from bud, have a trunk eight inches in diameter and fifteen feet high ; vigorous and healtliy wood. Trees this year loaded down with fruit ; had to thin out, leaving about three hundred specimens on each tree ; will ripen in fruit cellar, if taken from the tree, from middle of June to end of July, and continue in eating to 20th August : fruit large size ; most of my specimens weighed half a pound, and not unlike Bartlett in shape ; ripen in fruit cellar beautifully, turning from green to a rich lemon yellow ; surface shining, waxy, and looking as if varnished ; fiesh melting, buttery, and rich, and having a most delicate perfume ; quality best. Fearing I might be over-estimating this variety, I invited to my house a number of gentlemen who were familiar with best fruits north and south. I had in eating, at the same time. White Doyenne, Bartlett, Beurre Bosc, Beurre Diel, Golden Beurre of Bilboa, Duchesse d'Angouleme, and some other varieties, but the Julienne bore off the palm, without a dissenting voice, for beauty in color, for its melting qualities, and for delicacy of flavor. Bartlett — on quince and standard — fruit large, many spe- cimens weighing fully one pound ; ripens admirably in fruit cellar, long before ripe on trees ; is in eating during all July and August ; quality best. This pear and the Julienne I consider best varieties for market culture in our State. AUTUMN VARIETIES. Beurre Diel — on quince and standard — my trees on quince stock, seven years from bud, large and vigorous growers ; bears heavy crops ; trees this year thined out, leaving one hundred and fifty specimens on each tree ; fruit attains to a much larger size than at the north. Some of my specimens weighing one and one-half pounds, and few less than one pound ; ripens finely in cellai* ; turning from green to ricli golden yellow ; flesh rich, sugary, buttery, and melting ; quality best ; ripe all July and August. 105 Golden Beurre of Bilboa — on quince and standard. — ^Trees on quince, seven years from bud, have grown vigorously and bear heavily ; fruit large, buttery and melting in flesh, and having rich vinous flavor ; quality best ; ripens in July and August. Beurre d'Amalis — on quince and standard — fruit very large, not unlike Beurre Diel in size and shape ; flesh rather coarse, but buttery and melting ; quality very good ,• ripens in July and August. Beurre Bosc — doubled worked on quince — trees seven years from bud; sparse bearer, so far ; fruit large in size ; flesh melting and buttery, with rich perfumed flavor ; quality best ; ripe in August. Maria Louise — on quince — trees six years from bud, and bushy in habit of growth ; so far sparse bearer ; fruit large ; flesh very saccharine, and having high vinous flavor ; quality very good ; ripens in August. Duchesse d'Angouleme — on quince. — This noble pear, in our rich warm soil and burning climate, attains its highest perfection. Trees on quince vigorous and rapid growers, six years from bud, twenty feet and over in height ; with me a prolific bearer ; had this year to thin out fruit, leaving about one hundred specimens on each tree. Fruit very large, but few specimens under one pound in weight, and many one and one-half; ripens admirably in cellar, and is in eating during all July and August ; flesh buttery and very juicy, with a rich agreeable flavor ; quality, very good to best. This variety is a desirable one for market culture in our State, I have taken specimens unripe from trees latter part of July, and carried them by steamer to New York, where they opened sound and ripe tenth of August. Beurre Goubault — on quince four years from bud — bore this year about one dozen specimens each ; fruit medium sized ; flesh melting and deliciously flavored Avith agreeable perfume. I consider it one of the best of the recent Flemish pears ; the specimens ail sound, handsome, very round in shape and green 106 colored when ripe ; ripen liere last week in July. Quality best. Leecli's Kingsessing — on standard — fruit large in size ; deep sea green color when ripe ; flesh very buttery and melting, and delicate flavor. Quality best, and ripens here last of July. Doyenne White— on quince and standard — -trees healthy and vigorous growers ; on quince, six years from bud, has borne well ; fruit medium sized — not so large as I have seen at the north ; specimens fair and beautiful, without any defect ; with me has never cracked ; flesh buttery and melting, but not so highly flavored as the Julienne; quality very good; ripens all August. Doyenne Gray.- — The few specimens I have had this year from standard were smaller in size than same variety at the north. Fruit medium size ; flesh melting and buttery, and delicious flavor ; skin a lively cinnamon russet ; quality very good to best ; ripens middle of August. Dix — ^double worked on quince — so far a sparse bearer ; the few specimens I had were large in size, rich, sugary, and melting in flavor ; quality very good, and ripens in August. Brandywine^-on standard — a vigorous growing tree ; fruit large, finely formed and uniform size ; flesh very melting, with a sweet and rich juice ; quality best, and ripens middle of July. Bezi de la Motte— on standard — ^fruit large in size, but. defective in flavor, and rots at the core ; ripe last of August. Flemish Beauty — on standard — fruit large in size, and fair and beautiful in appearance ; unless taken from the tree before ripe, rots at the core ; otherwise a desirable variety with us ; ripe in August. Vert Longue — on standard — fruit large in size, very long, pyriform in shape, and bluish green at maturity ; flesh very juicy, with sprightly flavor ; quality very good ; ripe last of July. Beurre d'Anjou — on grafts in standard — fruit large in size. 107 flesh buttery, melting, and delicately perfumed ; quality best ; and ripens early in August. Louise Bonne de Jersey — on standard — fruit large ; fiesb juicy and melting, and highly flavored ; quality very good to best ; ripens in August. Seckel — on quince and standard — sustains here fully its high reputation. Fondante d'Automne, or Belle Lucrative-— on quince stan- dard— not so large in size as at the north, but is with us a delicious pear, not exceeded by the Seckel for high aromatic flavor ; quality best ; ripens last of August. Vicomte de Spoelberg — on standard — fruit large size ; color, when ripe, a rich lemon yellow ; flesh melting and buttery, and sprightly flavor, with a delicate perfume ; quality best ; ripe in August. Autumn Bergamot — on standard — a most prolific bearer ; but fruit rots at the core, and not a desirable variety, so far, with me. St. Andre. — The few specimens I have had from grafts in standard, give promise of highest excellence. WINTER VARIETIES. Winter Xelis— -on quince and standard — -a prolific bearer ; fruit large ; flesh buttery and very melting, abounding in rich aromatic juice ; quality best, and in eating with ns in October and November. Chaumontel^on standard.^This capital old variety, in our rich warm soil, is a highly desirable pear ; fruit very large, some specimens weighing one pound ; flesh buttery, sugary, and melting, with slight perfume ; ripe in October and November. Glout Morceau— ^on standard — heavy bearer ; fruit large ; flesh buttery, and exceeedingly sugary; on the quince,, my trees ten years from bud, have not yet borne fruit ; the trees large and growing yet vigorously ; ripe in October. Knight's Monarch — on quince.— -The few specimens I had. 108 last November, of this pear, gave promise of highest excellence. Beurre d'Aremberg — on quince. — So far, this variety has rotted badly with me ; I have not yet tasted a ripe specimen. Passe Colmar — on standard — heavy bearer, and with me one of the most desirable of late varieties. I have had a few specimens of some of the recently intro- duced Flemish winter pears, but desire a longer experience before noticing their good or bad qualities in this climate. I would remark^ in closing the subject of pears, that the early and summer ripening varieties are more successfully grown in this climate than the winter varieties. The liability of the pear to rot here, as it approaches maturity, may have been one reason why this fruit has been so long neglected in this State. This defect I have, in a great measure, obviated by gathering the different varieties so soon as they have grown to full size, and before they soften on the tree, and ripening them in a cool cellar. My cellar is an inside one ; dark, but Avell ventilated, and having double walls. The fruit should be suspended by the stem, and not rest on shelves. Another difficulty : the larger and heaviest pears are apt to drop from the trees before maturity, and especially during a period of drought. I have this year remedied this by placing barrels filled with soap-suds over the roots of the trees, and allowing the liquid to escape by drops through a small orifice near the lower end of the barrel. I have no doubt, too, that the soap- suds and a handful of guano being put into the barrel has add^d to the size of the fruit, and kept the tree in high health during the hot months. APPLES. This fruit has been generally planted in laying out orchards in this State, for some twenty to thirty years past. The early and summer varieties succeed well ; the trees growing vigor- ously, and the fruit without defect, and Avell flavored. The late or winter kinds, are apt to rot and fall from the tree 109 before maturity. I cultivate about one hundred varieties, and have only time and space to notice a variety which I think surpasses all others in size and flavor. It is the White Spanish lleinette. — My trees were planted twenty- five years ago, are yet vigorous and healthy, and bear every year heavy crops of this excellent fruit. This variety is the Camaesar of Spain, where it is said to have been cultivated from the highest antiquity. The early Spanish colonists intro- duced it to this region of our State. It has become thoroughly acclimated with us. Fruit large, some specimens monstrous in size ; roundish oblong in shape ; skin smooth, oily, yellowish green on shaded side to clear yellow ; on some specimens a blush of brownish red next the sun ; flesh yellowish, crisp tender, with a sugary and highly aromatic juice ; ripens in August and is in eating a month. INSECTS INJURIOUS TO FRUITS AND PRUIT TREES. In a country where there are few, if any, old orchards, insects injurious to the trees are not likely to abound. I have never seen the apple borer with us, and never had a tree to sustain any injury from this insect, or the canker worm. The peach borer (jEgeria Exitiosa) is abundunt, but its depredations are easily checked. We have, however, an insect which is terribly destructive to our fruit ; this is a small brown beetle, known as the carpoxagus or fruit eater. _ It is especially destructive to the peach and nectarine, boring into the fruit so soon as it approaches maturity, and thus causing it to rot. It also attacks the pear and apple, if these fruits are allowed to remain upon the tree until maturity. This insect has appeared in the last few years, and is becoming every season more numerous and destructive. I believe it to be the insect which causes the rot in the cotton pod, of late so prevalent. I neither know nor have I heard of any successful plan for its extirpation. I have checked its ravages to some degree in my orchards by burning small torches at night, when many 110 fly into the light and are thus destroyed. I find, too, it avoids the poultry yard, where my fruits have, in a great measure, escaped their attacks. All which is respectfully submitted. JOHN C. JENKINS. Elgin, near Natehez, August 31, 1854. ADDITIONAL NOTES. I cannot doubt that the cause of the gigantic vegetable growth upon the formation alluded to in the foregoing report, is due, in great measure, to the lime in the loamy formation, the strata being filled with shells partly decomposed, and containing, also, in many places, the bones of extinct orders of the mammalia. I had occasion, a few years ago, to dig off six to eight feet from a few acres of ground in front of my dwelling hotise, in order to make a level lawn. This exposed the loamy formation, (the strata of black mould and clay above not averaging over four feet in depth.) Upon this loam I planted the live oak, the magnolia, and other of our forest trees. They have groAvn rapidly, and have all a most healthy foliage. Deodar cedars, set out in the spring of 1851, when small, say one foot high, are, to-day, by measurement just made, ten and eleven feet in height ; and cryptomeria japonicas, planted at the same date, do not fall much, if any, below them. I wished to have said something, in my report, upon the acclimation of the varieties of temperate latitudes to a region so far south as this ; but I feared it might be misplaced and uncalled for. The pear, introduced here more than one hun- dred years ago, by the French, is a late variety, vigorous in growth, and the specimens sound and healthy, hanging Avell on the tree until approach of winter. The White Spanish Reinette apple, also a long time since introduced, is marked Ill by many excellent qualities. I am, therefore, induced to believe, that these fruits, being thoroughly acclimated or re- habituated to our climate, is one cause of their high health. I am now grafting standard pears with two varieties, upon each tree, and from the seeds of these fruits hope to obtain new. and improved varieties, better adapted to the climate than exotic sorts. In regard to the Julienne pear, from the high rank as to quality I have given it in my report, you may be led to think I am deceived in the variety. I am confident I cannot be mistaken. The source from which I originally procured the variety, and my familiarity with the wood and fruit of the pear, (recognising them as readily as I would the faces of my children,) convince me I have the Julienne of the books. Corroborative of my opinion as to the quality of Julienne, I enclose a letter I received 20th August last, from Hon. G. W. Sargent, one of my neighbors, and a zealous pomologist, whose long residence at the north, (Boston and Philadelphia,) enabled him to judge of the merits of fruits here. J. C. J. REPORT FROM OHIO. The committee from Ohio presents the following report : The climate and soil of our State are so varied, and the fruits in culture so numerous, that a report to embrace cata- logues to suit each locality would be too voluminous. From Cleveland, on Lake Erie in the north-east, to Cincinnati, on the Ohio in the south-west, a distance of two hundred and fifty miles, there is a difference of near three degrees in lati- tude, and a great diversity of soil. It is, therefore, difficult to fix a uniform standard of excellence in fruits for the whole State. Loam and clay, intermixed with lime and sand, are the 112 principal components of our soils, often underlaid by a sub- stratum of gravel, and the greater portion of our State is well adapted to the culture of most of the fruits grown in the Middle States of our Union. The present report will be confined to the south-western and central parts of our State — the north-eastern section hav- ing been embraced in previous reports to your Congress. APPLES. Average bearing, or fruit years, four out of five. Many varieties that are highly esteemed further north, do not suit the climate and warm limestone soils of southern Ohio. The Rhode Island Greening, for instance, ripens and casts its fruit so early here as to become a fall apple, and but few are gathered from the trees for winter. The Alexander, with us, is an early fall apple, and the far-famed Esopus Spitzenberg is here a shy bearer and an unprofitable variety to cultivate. Even the Baldwin and the Roxbury E-usset mature too early, and do not keep so well as when cultivated further north, and in cooler soils. The Belmont, a favorite apple in northern and eastern Ohio, with us is subject to crack open and rot upon the tree, in some seasons. With ordinary care and culture, the apple thrives well in all parts of our State, and, with the exception of the grape, is the most certain bearer of any of our fruits. The follow- ing list comprises the most favorite varieties cultivated in this section of the State. A list of rejected varieties is omitted, as the committee find a delicacy in pronouncing on a very large number of apples, the merits of which are unknown to them, bearing a fair character in other parts of the State. Summer Varieties — Early Harvest, Strawberry, Gravenstein. Best. Red Astracan, Early Bough, Bohman, Summer Rose, Benoni, Drap d'Or, Summer Pearmain. Very good. Summer Queen, Maiden's Blush, Carolina Sweet. Good. Fall Varieties — Fall Pippin, Rambo, Golden Russet. Best. 118 Rhode Island Greening, Belmont, Wine, Cooper, Jersey SAveeting. Very good. Alexander, Monmouth Pippin, Porter, Fakenwalder. Good. Winter Varieties — Ortley, Rambo, Yellow Newtown Pip- pin, German Pippin, Jonathan, Swaar. Best. Yellow Belle Flower, Wine Sap, Danver's W. Sweet, White Winter Pearmain, Newtown Spitzenburg, Rome Beauty, Pryor's Red, Baldwin. Very good. London Sweet, Cannon Pearmain, Black Apple, Lady Apple, Michael Henry Pippin. Good. The Northern Spy, and a few other celebrated varieties, give fair promise of doing well here. PEACHES. Average bearing every other year, or one out of two or three, in favorable positions. Nearly every variety succeeds here, and our warm suns and soils have provided some splendid specimens in favorable seasons. The worm is kept from destroying the trees by the usual methods ; picking out, and placing ashes, lime, or warm manures around the stem of the tree at the root. The latter is preferred, as the peach tree is a great feeder, and requires manure and good culture. With these requisites, no yel- lows need be feared in this region. It is only necessary to give a list of a few varieties in general culture. George IV., Gros Mignonne, Rodman's Cling, Late Heath Cling, President. Best. Cooledge's Favorite, Jaques' Rareripe, Morris' Red, Balti- more Rose, Late Admirable, Old Mixon. Very Good. Crawford's Early, Crawford's Late, Early York, Morris' White, New York Rareripe. Good. PEARS. Average bearing, — some varieties as certain as the apple, viz. : the Bartlett, Seckel, etc. Others^ one year in two or three. 114 The Committee is largely indebted to one of its members, Mr. Ernst, for valuable notes on this fruit, carefully prepared during a number of years, from his own experience in its culture. Many varieties, particularly those of American origin, thrive well as standards ; but, as a general rule, the foreign sorts do best on the quince stock. The cultivation is principally in the hands of amateurs, but the high prices obtained for the pear in our markets, will soon cause a more general culture, which is invited by our favorable soil and climate. Seckel, Washington, Tyson, White Doyenne. Best. Bartlett, Bloodgood, Dearborn's Seedling, Julienne, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Beurre Benoist, Saint Ghislan, Onondaga, Dix, Lawrence. Fery good. Doyenne d'Ete, Madelaine, Maria Louise, Flemish Beauty, Steven's Genessee, Van Assene, Zoar, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Beurre Deil, Stone, Osborn, Beurre d'Aremberg, Easter Beurre, Beurre Spence, Pratt, Heathcote. Good. Rejected, as unsuited to this region, or for inferior size and quality : Bearre d'Amalis, Petit Muscat, Amire Joanet, Early Catherine, Musk Summer Bonchretien, Beurre Figue, Valle Franche, Colmar Neil, Beurre Capiamont, Jargonelle, Windsor, Chelmsford, Bed Bergamot, Orange Bergamot, Sum- mer Francreal, Gross Calabasse, Moor's Pound, Rondelet. PLUMS. Average bearing, three out of four years. Most varieties of this fruit bear well here, when protected from the curculio ; and in some seasons, when all fruits are abundant, even without protection. The curculio is destroyed by shaking it off in the morning and evening on sheets, or by syringing the tree several times with sulphur and lime water, (five pounds of flour sulphur and one-half barrel of lime to a barrel of water,) or by planting the trees in pavements or in a well protected chicken yard, apart from other fruits. The varieties most generally cultivated ar(? 115 Green Gage, Washington, Coe's Golden Drop, Jefferson, Peach. Best. Early Orleans, Prince's Imperial, Nectarine, Huling's Superb, Yellow Gage, Duane's Purple, Smith's Orleans, Bleeker's Gage. Very good. Purple Damson, Horse Plume, Old Orleans, German Prune Blue Gage, Flushing Gage, Purple Egg, Yellow Egg, Good. CHERKIES. Average bearing, one out of three years. The climate of southern Ohio is too warm for this fruit, and but few varieties succeed well here. The best cherry region in our State is the southern shore of Lake Erie, where fine crops are produced almost every year. The rose bug and the slug, there complained of, do not annoy us here, but the trees of the finer varieties often crack open in winter, after warm wet autumns, and are either destroyed or greatly disfigured. The western country is largely indebted to Dr. J. P. Kirtland of Cleveland, for the production of some very fine seedling cherries, better adapted to the climate than those of foreign origin. The hardiest varieties with us are of the INIorello family, next are the Dukes, and least of all the Bigarreaus. Belle de Choisy, Black Tartarian, Mottled Bigarreau, Black Hawk, Governor Wood, Kirtland's Mary. Best. Napoleon, Downer's Late Red, Elton, Yellow Spanish, May Duke, Early Prolific, Pockport. Very good. Early May, White Bigarreau, Kirtand's Mammoth, Pontiac, Ped Jacket. Good. APRICOTS. Bearing, in sheltered situations, one out of three years. The apricot flowers too early for this climate, but on walls and sheltered situations succeeds pretty well. The Breda, Large Early, and the Moorpark are the favorite 116 varieties. But this fruit is only cultivated in amateur gardens. The same may be said of the NECTAKINE, Which, with us, is less hardy than the peach, and liable to be destroyed by the curculio. The varieties most in esteem are Lewis, Golden, Elruge, and Early Violet. GRAPES. Bearing every year, more or less. This appears to be a favorable region for the cultivation of the grape in vineyards. Within twenty miles around Cincinnati, some fourteen hundred acres are planted with the Catawba, our great wine grape. About eight hundred acres were in bearing last year, producing on an average four hundred gallons to the acre, or three hundred and twenty thousand gallons of wine. The average price of the best wine is one dollar to one dollar and twenty-five cents per gallon. The cost of labor in producing the crop, sixty to eighty dollars per acre. The acre planted as usual, three by six feet in the rows, will contain two thousand four hundred and twenty vines. The average yield for a series of years from vineyards favor- ably situated and well cultivated, is estimated at three hundred gallons to the acre. Some of our best vineyards last year made eight hundred to nine hundred gallons per acre, but that is unusual. This culture is profitable, and vineyards are largely on the increase in the valley of the Ohio. For Wine. — Catawba. Best. Herbemont, Schuylkill. Very good. Isabella, Missouri, Ohio. Good. Under Glass. — Grapes under glass are raised by a few amateurs, with about the same success as around the eastern cities, and of the same varieties ; but not to supply the market. QUINCES. Three varieties are cultivated here, and bear about as well as the apple. The Orange, the Pear, and Portugal Lemon. 117 GOOSEBEERIES. The fine English varieties are subject to mildew, unless closely pruned, and planted in ground well drained and highly manured. A small American variety is generally cultivated here. RASPBERRIES Are a certain crop. The Eed Antwerp and the Ohio Ever- bearing are the favorite hardy varieties. The Fastolff and Knevet's Giant are the best of those requiring protection. CURRANTS. Of this fruit but few varieties are in general cultivation. The White and E.ed Dutch, and the old Black, are the principal kinds grown. STRAWBERRIES. The strawberry is cultivated here with very great success, and immense quantities of this fruit are annually sold in our markets, — five thousand to six thousand bushels in some seasons. The most popular varieties, at present, are the following, and in the order named : McAvoy's Superior, Longworth's Prolific Hermaphrodite, Extra Ked, Hovey's Seedling, Hudson, Jenney's Seedling, Burr's New Pine, Necked Pine, and No. 1. In closing this report the Committee regrets that two of its most able members. Dr. J. P. Kirtland and F. R. Elliott, were unable to be present at its adoption, and to add much valuable information which they possess in relation to fruits in the north-eastern portion of our State. R. BUCHANAN, ) A. H. ERNST, V Committee. J. A. WARDER, ) Cincinnati, Sept. 9, 1854. 118 REPORT FROM MISSOURI The Fruit Committee for the State of Missouri have had little encouragement during the present season to make pomological observations. The year 1853 was one of the best fruit seasons we have ever known in the valley of the Mississippi, while the year 1854 will long be remembered for its nipping frosts and severe hail storms in spring ; and its long, dreary, and disastrous drought of summer. Scarcely half a crop of any kind of fruit has been produced. Those orchards which partially escaped the frosts which killed the fruit in the bud or flower, gave us but stinted specimens of half-famished fruit, which have been to a great extent finished by the worm and permaturely cast. Since the report of 1849 was made, Iruit culture has made considerable progress in this State. Many of the best fruits have been introduced ; new orchards planted * and the culti- vation of the vine, and the manufacture of wine, largely extended. Apples, pears, peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, grapes, cherries, strawberries, and melons, find a congenial soil in Missouri, and a climate sufiiciently warm. All sorts of fruit trees naturally grow with rather a luxuriant tendency. We have three quite distinct localities for orchards, to wit : the river bottoms with deep alluvial soil ; the prairies with their thick sod and vegetable mould ; and the timbered uplands with their strong loams and clayey sub-soils, underlaid by bluish white limestone. The earths and the waters contain a considerable lime. Of these soils and localities the rich up- lands are proved the best for the success of orchards. The trees make wood rapidly in the bottoms, but small fruit, both in size and crop, and of indifferent flavor. There are some good orchards upon the prairies, but the fruit is inferior to that produced upon the uplands. Fruits attain large size ; and in propitious seasons, the crops are bountiful. 119 The principal difficulties which the fruit grower has to contend with, are late frosts in the spring ; the borer, the worm, the scolytus pyri, and sometimes blight in the apple ; the blight in the pear, (very destructive about five years ago,) the worm and the curculio in the peach, (the curl also some- times injures the appearance of the tree, but the yellows are not seen,) the curculio in the plum, apricot, and nectarine ; the bursting of the bark of the cherry tree, and the destruction of the fruit by the wax -wing or cedar bird ; the mildew and rot in the grape, and the mildew in the gooseberry, rendering the cultivation of the gooseberry, so far, impracticable. No practical and adequate remedy has yet been found to overcome these difficulties. Old apple orchards are improved in growth and productiveness by the application of lime ; the worm in the peach is partially excluded by the use of lime and ashes around the crown of the root, but when they get into the body and limbs of the tree, the knife is required to remove them, and the application of hot lye is beneficial. The luxuriant growth of the peach tree renders the shortening in method of pruning indispensable for its healthiness and longevity. AVe annex a list of such fruits as are knoAvn to the commit- tee as having been tried here, and with some remarks inter- vening, classified as we think they deserve. There are many other sorts cultivated, some of them best, and some of them worthless ; and, as observed in a former report, some fruits deemed best where they originated, change their character so much by transplanting them here, that they nearly lose their identity. This is more generally the case with fruits from the higher latitudes, and applies principally to the apple. Some of the most celebrated Eastern and European varieties, will, we fear, be found trnworthy of cultivation here. This fact makes experiments necessary to ascertain what sorts are adapted to this climate ; and it is confidently anticipated that new native sorts, of a superior character, Avill ultimately be developed from the seed. The great majority of our people are emi- grants from the older States and from Europe ; and the 120 popular fruits of their native land are in many instances brought with them, while those who are more cosmopolitan, and take the Horticultural Journals, and read the doings of experienced pomologists, exercise a more comprehensive and enlightened taste, and seek the best new varieties wherever they can find them. But it is probably true that in most of the apple orchards of Missouri, Rawles' Janet, or Janeting, as it is universally called, is given the precedence — the first selected and the most extensively planted. This is, in fact, owing to its invariable productiveness, hardiness, and the long keep- ing and very good quality of the fruit. There are cultivated tastes however, which would select the Newtown Pippin in preference ; but for the general uses of the farmer, we believe the Janeting would receive the highest number of votes in this State. It is estimated that there are about one thousand five hun- dred acres planted in grapes in this State, and the manufacture of hock and champagne is increasing. Some of the wine pro- duced here, as taken from the press, has been sometimes bought up by Cincinnati manufacturers. But a home demand is spring- ing up, and one firm in the city of St. Louis, we are informed, manufactured last season fifteen thousand bottles of champagne from the Catawba, and this was their beginning. The most extensive vineyards are found, at present, at Hermann, a German settlement, about eighty miles up the Missouri river. The Catawba is the favorite grape as yet, and fiourishes best upon the uplands and hill sides. The crop, when fair, is found very profitable, but the mildew and rot are often very destructive ; and vine dressers who have little other dependance then suffer, and feel nearly discouraged. A remedy or preventative for the mildew and rot in the grape is a very great desideratum, and eminently worthy of the attention of the American Pomological Society. 121 CLASSIFIED LIST OF SOME OF THE FRUITS CULTIVATED IN MISSOURI. APPLES. Summer Varieties. — Summer Redstreak, Summer RosCj Early Harvest, Golden Sweet, Smith's Summer. Best. Early Ked Margaret, Carolina June, Maiden's Blush, Peck's Pleasant, Summer Calville. Very Good. E,ed Astrachan. Good. Summer Calville — timber thrifty ; top not very regular ; subject to blight; fruit large, oblate; greenish yellow, reddish on one side near the stem ; cavity russet. Smith's Summer — best for drying, timber very thrifty ; top regular, a good amiual bearer ; fruit large, oblate, regular, sweet, juicy. Fall Varieties. — Rambo, Newark Pippin. Best. Milam, Fall Pippin, Cooper, White Bellflower. Very Good. Matson, Reinette of Normandy, Baldwin, Roxbury Russet, Jonathan, Spotted Pippin. Good. Matson — a large, red streaked, showy, acid, and juicy apple ; good bearer ; good for cooking, and very marketable. Milam — a regular shaped red Apple, of medium size and excellent taste ; timber thrifty ; top well shaped ; regular bearer. Winter Varieties. — Rawle's Janet, Newtown Pippin, Esopus Spitzenburg, Father Abraham, Vandervere. Best. Lady Apple, Gilpin, Golden Reinette. Very Good. Kohl Apple, Yellow Bellflower, Red Seek-no-further, Newtown Spitzenberg, Flushing Spitzenberg. Good. Kohl Apple — a variety imported from Germany. The tree is thrifty ; regular top ; good and regular bearer ; fruit small, regularly shaped ; crisp, juicy, and well flavored ; good keeper. Father Abraham — timber thrifty, but thorny ; fruit good ; size conical ; yellow with a red side ; high flavor and good keeper. The committee are inclined to reject the Newtown, Flushing 122 Spitzenberg, and the Khode Island Greening, as unworthy of cultivation here. For several of the above descriptions^ the chairman is indebted to Mr. Julius Malinkrodt, an intel- ligent member of the committee from Augusta, St. Charles County. PEARS. Mitchell's Russet, Bartlett, Madeline, White Doyenne. Best. Duchesse d'Angouleme, Napoleon, Beurre Deil, Urbaniste. Very Good. Mitchell's Russet — a seedling from the Seckel, resembling it in every respect, but of larger size ; origin, Belleville, Illinois. The blight not having been so destructive as formerly, a great many imported varieties of the pear are now planted, but not sufficiently tried. PEACHES. Admirable, Brevoort, Heath, Clark's Early, Pourpree Hative, Grosse Mignonne, Walters' Early, Troth's Early, Morris's White, Early Newington. Best. Incomparable, Lemon Cling, Washington Cling, Soulard Cling, (a native,) Crawford's Early, Early York. Very good. Smock Freestone, La Grange. Good. Clark's Early — a small native red peach, of good appear- ance, and of lively and decided peach flavor ; the earliest on the list ; tree of rather slow growth ; productive ; fruit ripe about 28th of July. Originated in St. Louis, and named by the chairman in honor of Mr. Lewis Clark, who raised it. St. Louis — so called by the chairman. A large yellow peach, native of this county. Chiefly valuable for its large size and marketable qualities. GRAPES IN OPEN AIR. Catawba. Best. Isabella, Lenoir, Ohio. Very good. A German grape, called the Rulander, gives good promise 123 of success in the open air. The Muscadine, or Scuppernong, scarcely succeeds. CHEKRIES. Napoleon Bigarreau, Bigarreau Couleur de Chair, Bigarreau, American Amber. Sest. Bowyer's Early, Elton, Black Tartarian, Black Eagle, Black Heart. Very good. Archduke, Morello. Good. During the present season, from a dozen trees in full bear- ing, not a " bite of a cherry " was obtained by the proprietor, every vestige of them being appropriated by the birds. They are also attacked by the curculio. STRAWBERRIES. The Early Scarlet seems to be one of the most popular varieties. Hovey's Seedling, the Iowa Male, and Burr's New Pine, are deemed very good. Many of the newer sorts have been recently introduced. The Alpines, we fear, will not succeed here. RASPBERRIES. Raspberries cannot be said to flourish well in this vicinity. The wants of families, who have gardens of their own, may be supplied by careful attention and cultivation. The rasp- berry is not often found growing wild here as is the blackberry. APRICOTS, NECTARINES, AND PLUMS. The apricot, nectarine, and plum are so generally destroyed by the curculio, that they cannot be recommended for general cultivation until some remedy is discovered. Last year, however, a sufficient crop of a number of varieties were pro- duced to exhibit their characteristics and value. But the most perfect products known to the committee were of the Quetsche or German Prune, of the Magnum Bonum, of the Damson, and of the common Chickasaw plum. We have never been able to get even a fair crop of the better sorts. The Boston Nectarine and the Moorpark Apricot partially escaped 124 the curculio, last year, and were very fine. During the present season, not a perfect specimen of an apricot or necta- rine has been heard of in the more cultivated parts of the country. There are some localities, however, comparatively new, which the curculio seems not yet to have reached, and in such, very fair crops of the more common sorts of plums and nectarines are annually produced, without much care. The chairman regrets very much that he cannot conven- iently attend the meeting of the society, as he had greatly hoped to do. Mr. Abbott, however, one of the members of the committee, it is understood, will be present. Respectfully submitted. THOMAS ALLEN, Chaieman. St. Louis, September 5, 1854. REPORT FROM THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Your committee, with great satisfaction, renew the assurance given in their last report, of the continued and increasing spirit of pomological improvement ; and though the past and present seasons have both been quite unpropitious, baffling the efforts and disappointing the hopes of many, still we see every- where a display of persevering energy and a devotion to the cause ; the demand for trees, both from domestic and foreign nurseries, is still on the increase ; new and improved varieties are sought for Avith earnestness ; every one seems to display a spirit of competition and a disposition to be possessed of what will be equal, if not superior, to that of his neighbor. APPLES AND PEACHES. The apple and peach crop of both the past and present years have been comparatively very short, and your committee have to observe that last year it was only in some few particular 125 localities that the apple reached even an average degree of perfection, and the peach, though in some places decidedly- fine, might be regarded as almost a failure. For the present season scarcely a cherry escaped the destructive frost and winds, prevailing with unusual severity during the blooming season. S T R A W B E R E I E S . As regards the strawberry, though not abundant, it has, nevertheless, been a fair and remunerating crop ; this fruit is here cultivated with much care, and, Ave may add, with much success. Of the many varieties of high reputation that have been introduced here, with a view of testing their intrinsic value, your committee have been able to designate four which they consider well worthy of the high reputation they have acquired in other places, and do not hesitate to recommend them for trial where they have not yet been tested. Your committee, a portion of them constituting a part of the Executive Committee of the Washington Horticultural Association, deeming it a favorable opportunity of testing the relative qualities of the different strawberries attending the spring exhibition of that society, participated in the examin- ation with the committee that awarded premiums for this fruit. Among the different varieties presented, the Alice Maud, the Hovey's Seedling, and the British Queen, stood decidedly the most prominent, and the only competitors for the prizes. After having taken a superficial view, and expressed opinions as to the general appearance, it was decided to test, by weight, eighteen specimens selected from each basket, or dish, as well as to pronounce, from actual tasting, the superiority of richness and flavor. The result of this test was as follows : 18 Berries from the best basket of Alice Maud, weighed just . 8 oz. 18 Ditto, from the second best basket, 7 1-16 oz. 18 Berries from the best basket of the British Queen, . . . . 8 oz. 18 Ditto, from the second best basket, 7 3-16 oz. 18 Berries from the best basket of Hovey's Seedling, . . 7 3-16 oz. As to the weight of the British Queen, your committee must here observe, that it had decidedly the advantage over either 126 the Alice Maud or Hovey's Seedling, being just gathered, while both of the others had been gathered about two days, and must, of course, have undergone considerable evaporation; allowing for this, she was ranked behind Alice Maud in weight. The season for perfection of Hovey's Seedling was just at hand, whilst that of the Alice Maud might be said to have passed by, it being on an average a fruit of about eight days earher maturity, and the British Queen six or eight days later. In point of appearance, Hovey's Seedling stood first, the British Queen second, and Alice Maud third. In weight, Alice Maud first, British Queen second, and Hovey's Seedling third. In richness and flavor, Alice Maud first, Hovey's Seedling second, and British Queen third. The want of rich- ness and flavor in the British Queen might have been owing, in some degree, to its being later and as yet scarcely reached its maturity. Your committee also notice another decided advantage in favor of the Alice Maud ; after being kept three days, they were in good eating condition, while all the others had spoiled. Your committee cannot pass over two other strawberries that came under their observation. First, the Elton Pine, which, though not to compare with either of the above three for size, still has a merit peculiar to itself; that is, a firmness and solidity of flesh which renders it truly desirable as a preserving strawberry ; for this quality, your committee are informed, it is preferred to all others, both in this country and in England. The other variety, the Myatt's Eleanor, probably not inferior to either of the above in size, has the quality of ripening later than either of them ; perhaps three or four weeks later than the Alice Maud, in some situations, thus enabling the cultivator to prolong the season of this fruit, always considered too short, and always parted with with great regret. Your committee now feel satisfied in repeating what they said in their last report : that, '' for its particular time of ripening, the Alice Maud is the strawberry ; " next in s\ic- 12: cession the Hovey's Seedling, then the British Queen, and to finish the season, Myatt's Eleanor. It must be understood that your committee only speak as regards the varieties that have come under their particular notice, expressing no opinion detrimental to the numerous varieties so highly distinguished in many parts of this widely extended country. They are well satisfied that the above recommended varieties are suffi- ciently prolific to satisfy the most avaricious cultivators. RASPBERRIES. In regard to the raspberry culture, the scarcity of the supply, for' the three past seasons, has awakened the attention of many to this important fruit, and soon we shall find it abundant and in perfection. Amongst the new varieties here introduced, we have seen the fruit of the FastoliF, the Fran- conia, the North River Giant, E-iver's Everbearing, Large Orange, Gushing, the Wilder, the General Patterson, the Nissahichen, and several other varieties : but having no opportunity yet of comparing their relative qualities, abstain, for the present, from any further remarks in regard to them. PEACHES. Whilst the peach is everywhere increasing in new and val- uable accessions to its varieties, we too have some that promise to be great acquisitions. For the present we will only bring to your notice one — the Potomac Heath. The Heath peach, when properly matured, is everywhere highly esteemed. Here on the Potomac, the season being more congenial to a full development of its excellent qualities than in the States further north, it has been extensively cultivated, particularly in the adjoining county of Fairfax, Va. They there have generally been produced from the seed instead of by inocula- tion, which has given some variety to its form, shape, and quality. That which has been named the Potomac Heath, has been brought into notice by that venerable and highly respectable fruit-grower, John Dowling, of Fairfax. This, 128 for size, lateness, and quality, bids fair to become a general favorite wherever the summer is sufficiently long to afford it time to mature. PLUMS AND NECTARINES. The plum and nectarine still seem destined to be the vic- tims of that mischievous insect, the curculio ; it is rarely we are afforded an opportunity of sharing with it in the enjoy- ment of those luscious fruits. GRAPES. The grape culture here, in houses, seems to be fast increas- ing. Some are attempting it extensively in open grounds, and in some localities with much promise of success. PEARS. The cultivation of the pear, so long suffering from the destructive effects of the fire-blight, now seems to be rapidly reviving. The success attending the introduction of dwarfs, has given to it an astonishing stimulus, and though the pres- ent season presents a general failure, owing to prevalence of blighting north-eastern winds, for two or three days, just as they were in full bloom,' (a thing rarely known to us at this season,) still we are not discouraged ; we hope in a fcAv years to find the pear amongst the most abundant of our fruits. Already we have in cultivation here, in one collection, more than three hundred varieties of select kinds. Many of them have borne in great perfection. BLACKBERRIES. The blackberry is yet too numerous in our fields to become an object of cultivation. No fruit is more eagerly sought for in our market, or is more largely consumed ; and during its season it affords employment to hundreds in gathering and marketing it ; and even though growing so abundant sponta- neously, no doubt might be advantageously cultivated. Your committee have witnessed, with great satisfaction, the 129 interest recently taken by the National Legislature in the encouragement due to Agriculture, and its kindred sciences of Horticulture and Pomology. The appropriation made at the last session of Congress of twenty-five thousand dollars, for the use of the bureau of the Patent Office, in collecting and publishing agricultural statistics, and in the distribution of valuable seeds and cuttings, will afford greatly increased facilities for the introduction and dissemination of new and valuable fruits. The collections of models or representations of fruits in composition, by the ingenious and industrious artist, Townsend Glover, Esq., has been offered by him for sale to the Govern- ment, and strong hopes are entertained that an appropriation for its purchase will be made at the coming session of Congress. Such a collection, added to that of the Mechanic Arts, now in the possession of the Patent Office, would add greatly to the utility of that department, as well as to its importance, and the benefit of this public exhibition of these models would be universally felt. Mr. Glover has been for some time past employed in pre- paring, for the Patent Office, agricultural reports, descriptions of such insects as prove destructive to the fruits, firuit trees, and other agricultural products of the country, and he is pursuing his occupation with commendable zeal and perseve- rance. Much good must undoubtedly result therefrom to the practical agriculturist and fruit grower, by the reliable inform- ation he will be enabled to disseminate amongst them. JOSHUA PEIRCE, Chajeman. xstumns. The President tlien said : We have thus far proceeded with our business in the order prescribed by the constitution ; and the next, in course, is new business. The subject assigned for discussion to-day, is the Pear. The order prescribed by your Business Committee is, first, the rejection of unworthy varieties. If no objection is made, you will at once enter upon this discussion. The chah'man of the committee has placed in my hands the report for the State of Massachusetts. That report recommends that the following varieties be rejected : — PE Autumn Superb, Apple Pear (American), Armudi, Brougham, Beurre Kenrick, Beurre Adam, Beurre Colmar of Autumn, Beurre Colomar, Bon Chretien d'Ete, Bon Chretien d'Hiver, Bergamot d'Automne, Bergamot Zappa, Bishop's Thumb, ARS. Belmont, Brugman's Birne, Columb's d'Hiver, Crawford, Dumortier of Manning, Dubossary, English Warden, Figue cle Naples, Eigne Extra, Poster's St. Michael, Elemish Bon Chretien, Girardin, Gros Rousselet, 131 Gendeseim, Great Citron of Boliemia, Hericart, Hunt's Connecticut, Huguenot, Hacon's Incomparable, Jacob, Jubin, Jolin Monteitb, Locke, March Bergamot, Mabille, Monarch, Orange Rouge, Oak Leaf (Imperiale), Pomme Poire, Belle Lament, Swan's Pine, Pailleau, Pope's Kusset, Quilletette of Manning, Pameau, Pouville, Pushmore's Bon Chretien, Shobden Court, Sapianski, Superfondante, Styrian, Sabine (Flemish), Tucker's Bon Chi'etien, Tillington, Winter Crassane, Wellington, Winter Quince. APPLE S. Norfolk Beaufin, Lyman's Yellow Sumlner. On motion of Me. Hovey, it was voted, that if three gen- tlemen object to the rejection of any variety, it shall not be entered upon the list of rejected fruits. Under the operation of this rule, all the above were rejected, except the following : Dumortier of Manning, Duchesse de Mars, Figue de Naples^ Flemish Bon Chretien, Hacon's Incomparable, IMarch Berga- mot, Knight's Monarch, and Styrian. In regard to the Belmont Pear, Mr. Wilder, the President, said it was a good bearer and good cooking pear. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have cultivated the Belmont for some years. There are many that ripen at a much later period, and I think are better baking pears. In reference to the Knight's Monarch, Mr. Walker, of Massachusetts, said : I did hope that this pear would have been rejected. There has been more money spent in its cultivation than for any other variety in the country. I have tasted it 132 once or twice, when I considered it very good j but have never raised a good one. It is not only very uncertain, but it cracks very badly. It bears very abundantly, but I have never been able to ripen it : and I doubt whether one specimen in a thousand can be ripened. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I think we had better leave the rejection of diflFerent varieties for the next two years ; and now commence the discussion of such kinds as we may recommend. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. If there are any gentlemen here, who are prepared to suggest further names to be rejected, it seems to me that we may do the public as much service in rejecting unworthy pears as in recommending new sorts. I think the manner of retaining these Varieties is wrong, and that it is a regular imposition to retain the Knight's Monarch. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. There are some pears that are worthless in some localities, and good in other situations. I think it would be well to have such set aside for the present, but still subject to future consideration. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I move a reconsideration of the vote passing the Knight's Monarch. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I think it would be well to have that pear remain longer for trial. I know that some gentlemen have spoken highly of it. The tree is thrifty, and a good bearer. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I think the Monarch pear has not been tried sufficiently. If gentlemen here will say that it has, and found worthless, I would reject it. But within a very short time, Mr. Thompson recommends to a correspon- dent in the " Gardeners' Chronicle, " a list of pears for cultiva- tion, and this is one of them. Let us give it every chance in this country. In some localities it may not be just the thing ; but there are some States where it has not yet been tried. The Monarch pear is, at the worst, a capital baking pear. The motion for a reconsideration of the vote refusing to reject the Knight's Monarch was carried ; but the pear was finally retained upon the list for further trial. 133 It was then voted to close the discussions on the rejection of fruits. On motion of Mr. HovEY, it was further voted to take up the discussion of those varieties recommended by the Massa- chusetts Committee for general cultivation. Mr. Walker, in behalf of that committee, submitted the following list : — Lawrence, Howell, Beurre Superfin, and Beurre d'Anjou. The President then announced for discussion. The Lawrence Pear. Mr. "Walker of Massachusetts. This pear, in my esti- mation, is one of the greatest acquisitions to the list of pears. I know of no winter pear, taking all in all, that is equal to the Lawrence. I think it will not be going too far, when I say that the time will come when the Lawrence pear will be as eagerly sought after in the markets as the old St. Michael was. There are other qualifications, also, to be borne in mind. In the first place, the tree is a thrifty one ; it has an abundance of foliage, and holds it until the frost comes. There is another property peculiar to the Lawrence. The fruit clings to the branches as though it had been tied on, reminding one of the Urbaniste in that particular. He desired that an expression may go out from this society that the Lawrence pear is among the very best ; and, probably, the best of the late varieties of pears. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I would remark that it is one of the most vigorous trees ; it is invaluable on that ac- count ; is always perfect, and is long keeping. I think it so invaluable a fruit, that the time will arrive when it will hold the same position for exportation that the Baldwin apple does. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. Before the question is put on the Lawrence pear, I wish to say that I have known it for some twelve years, and from my own experience consider it the most valuable late pear that has been introduced within 134 that time. It is hardy ; its flavor is excellent ; and I scarcely know of any point in which it is deficient. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. It originated on a light sandy loam I and I should like to know if it will grow on a heavy clay soil. The Peesident. It will ; and I wish to confirm the favor- able opinion that has been expressed concerning it. It is one of the most valuable that has been cultivated. It is so valuable that Mr. Gushing, of Waterton, has grafted over a great number of trees with it, — -so many that he found it difficult to obtain scions to do the work with. The Lawrence pear was unanimously recommended for general cultivation. It was here voted, on motion of Mr. Hancock, that it should require a vote of two-thirds of the members present, to place any fruit on the list for general cultivation ; and where much difference of opinion existed, that the number of votes for and against the recommendation, be registered in the records of the society The Howell Pear was next considered. Mr. Manice of New York. I think it is premature to place it on the list for general cultivation. Mr. P AEKY of New York. I regard it as a very fine variety, and should be in favor of its adoption on the list for general cultivation. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. It has been in cultivation for a number of years, and is regarded as a very superior pear ; has all the desirable qualities of a good fruit, large in size, and is a good and uniform bearer. I do not think there would be any hazard in putting it on the list for general cultivation. Mr. Perckmans of New Jersey. In my opinion, it is one of the best of pears. I can compare it favorably with any other in my garden. The tree is vigorous enough, and the fruit possesses excellent properties. Mr. Clark of Connecticut. I have paid considerable ion attention to the cultivation of this pear for a few years. I find it to grow admirably on the quince, as well as any on my grounds. It is a very early bearer. I have found the trees, two years from the graft, to produce fruit on small stocks. I consider it a very valuable variety ; not, perhaps, so good as some others, but think it well worthy of being put upon the list for general cultivation. The President. I entertain a very favorable opinion of the Howell. "We esteem it one of the very best we have ; having all the characteristics of an excellent, hardy tree, the fruit adhering well, and, when properly ripened, a very fine variety. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have a very favorable opinion of it. But it strikes me that it had better go ujjon the trial list. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. So far as that is concerned, I believe no one will say it is not one of our finest pears. But I would not adopt the rule of putting pears on the list for general cultivation which have been but a few years cultivated. I can say, however, that this pear is unexceptionable in regard to its general qualities ; but I am not prepared to say that it is as good as the Lawrence. It comes in September, in a season Avhen we have an abundance of pears : that is the only objection I know of. Mr. Reid of New Jersey. I would second Mr. Hancock's motion to put it on the trial list. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have tested it, and have a high opinion of it. I think it rather premature to place it on the list for general cultivation ; but should be glad to see it on the list of those that promise well. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I do not feel anxious to put pears on the list for general cultivation, unless they have been well tried ; but was ready to sustain the committee who reported that as being one of the pears for general cultivation, and at the recommendation of persons well acquainted with it, put it on the list, that it might come before the convention in 1B6 due form. I should feel rather better pleased to have it placed on the list of those that promise well, than to have it^ at once, on the other list. As I am up, it may be well to say that it is one of those varieties that produce the fruit uniformly, and of a fair size. There are no small ones on the tree — all are large, and apparently cast in one mould ; and the more I have seen of the pear, the more I am disposed to think it will be advanced among the best pears in the country. It was unanimously voted to place this variety of pear on the list of those that promise well. The next one taken up for discussion was. The Beurre Superfin. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I have a tree, and think it a pear of very great excellence — one of the best that I have eaten. It is hardy, and I think can be kept as late as Novem- ber or December. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is one of the finest pears we have yet received from Europe. The President. My opinion corresponds with that of Mr. Cabot. It seems to have all the good qualities of an original Brown Beurre, with a higher flavor — hardy, good tree, and very fine fruit. I think, however, it is not well enough known to be entered upon the list for general cultivation. Mr. Barry of New York. I think it one of the very finest pears — ^large and handsome. The tree bears very young, and abundantly, and is hardy. As far as my own experience goes, I would recommend it for general cultivation. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. It has been cultivated but a few years. In my opinion it is unexcelled ; but I doubt whether any of us could say that it has been tried enough for general cultivation. I think most of the specimens we have had at our exhibition have been grown upon the quince stock. Its quality is first rate ; but we have not had the test of its growth on various soils. Col. Little of Maine. I move it be put on the list of those that promise well. 137 Mr. Saul of New York. I would say that I have it on the pear stalk, recently planted, and it is as good with me as has been represented by others. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. Although I find it to be all that has been represented, still I do not consider it suffi- ciently tested to be added at once to the list for general cultivation. It was unanimously voted to place it on the list of those that promise well. On motion of Mr, Walker, it was voted that the Conven- tion hold its sessions each day from nine o'clock until two ; and from four o'clock until such time as may be convenient to adjourn. It was then voted, on motion of Mr. Hancock, that the Convention proceed to the consideration of those pears recom- mended as promising well two years ago ; and the discussion was opened as follows : — The Brandyv^ine Pear. Mr, Walker of Massachusetts. I think it one of the very best summer pears. On the pear stock I know of no better grower. It is full of foliage, gives an abundance of fruit, and is hardy. I am under the impression that there are three summer pears which will not be directly superseded. I would put at the very head of the list the Rostiezer ; and know of no pear that will meet such a hearty response from the community as the Tyson. These and the Brandywine, I think, are three of the best summer pears at present. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. I should rank it only as very good. Mr. Hovey of Massachusetts. I have thought it to be one of the very best pears in the country ; though I would not change its position on the list. Carried. Mr. Hovey moved that the Doyenne Boussock be added to the list for general cultivation. Mr. Barry of New York. I think it too soon to put that 138 pear on the list for general cultivation ; it is not sufficiently known. Its foliage falls early, and the fruit drops. E. G. Kelly of Massachusetts. I should like some dis- tinction made between the different kinds of ground. About two years since I became quite in love with the Lawrence pear. Learning that Mr. Parsons, of Long Island, had planted it, I called on him, and learned from him that it was consid- ered rather a failure ; but I understood it to be owing entirely to the character of the ground. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I think it too early to place the Doyenne Boussock on the list for general cultivation. It is deficient in flavor, and I doubt whether it would meet the expectation of amateurs. Mr. Barry of New York. I think it ripens too early, and will not keep so long as some other summer fruits. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I think it is now eleven years since it has been fruited ; and it has been uniformly of a fine quality. I should put it down as among the best ; uni- formly large, and fair. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. There is no pear in the catalogue that I thought more highly of at one time than this ; its size and color were all that could be desired. When picked early it will occasionally prove to be a very excellent pear. After cultivating it, however, a few years, I have come to the conclusion that it is not deserving of general cultiva- tion. It has not that uniform high fiavor, which I think a pear should possess to take such a stand. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. I know it is the same pear we have in Belgium, where it is the standard pear of the markets ; there is scarcely any variety that is thought better of. It is a very old pear ; is very good if taken early from the tree ; not a very high flavored pear, but fresh and full of juice. In Belgium I have seen many trees six feet in cir- cumference. Mr. Hovey of Massachusetts. My opinion of this pear corresponds with that of Mr. Berckmans. It has been known 139 sufficiently long for gentlemen to become acquainted -with it. I think it possesses all the qualities that a pear ought to possess to be generally cultivated, and if picked in season, is always good. It also comes in at a season when we are a little short of other pears. "When we can get as large showy pears as this, I think we should at once recommend them for general cultivation. The Doyenne Boussock was passed without further action. The convention adjourned until four o'clock P. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. The President took the chair, and called the meeting to order at four o'clock, and then announced, as the next pear on the list, for discussion : Brande's St. Germain. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. That pear has not continued to be as good every year as it first appeared to be ; but it is very good some years, and I would recommend that it be allowed to remain on the list that promise well. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. The tree is not of hand- some growth. It is much like a brush ; some years the fruit is very indiiferent. The President. With me the fruit is too small. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I think it is entirely worth- less. When good it is very high flavored ; but I never had half a dozen good specimens on a tree of decent size. Mr. Manice of New York. It is very bad every other year. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. I move that it be left on the list of those that promise well, in certain locations. Mr. Barry of New York. There are a great many pears on the list that promise better. The President. That is my opinion. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. It would seem important to let it remain where it is, after the expressions of opinion we have had. 140 Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have known this pear for some fifteen years. The first thne I saw it I thought it was very good. Now, if Brande's St. Germain had been worthy of cultivation, after twelve or fifteen years' trial, we shoiild find it in the market. If my trees are a fair criterion, then it has a very poor, small, weeping growth. I think it the duty of the Society to remove it from its present position. Passed without action. The Beuree Giffakd Pear was next for discussion. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have fruited that pear, and think there are about the same objections to it as to the Brande's St. Germain. Mr. Barry of New York. It has always been very fine , with us — trees rather slender in growth, but healthy. Wm. Beid of New Jersey. It is very good. Mr. Ames of Massachusetts. I have fruited it two years. It has been good with me. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I have fruited it, and have thought it a summer pear of very fine quality indeed. The only objection I have is that the wood is very slender. It was unanimously voted to retain it on the list of those that promise well. The discussion was then continued by taking up the Doyenne Goubatjlt. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. It has not ripened with me at all. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have fruited it several years, but have never succeeded in getting one at all melting. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have fruited it two years. It is a very handsome pear, and it came so near ripening well last year, that I came to the conclusion to give it further trial. It was very good, but hardly what you would call melting. The growth of the tree is poor. The President. This pear has ripened well two years out of three, since I have tried it, but it is a crisp flesh, and requires care and experience to ripen it in perfection. 141 Mr. Barry of New York. I am inclined to think that when the trees are older, it will ripen better. We had better leave it where it is. My objection to it is that it makes a very bad tree. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. I have found it a bad pear to ripen in this country. In France it is esteemed as first rate. But it is a long time before it becomes a stout tree. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I move we pass it without giving any further opinion. The motion was unanimously carried. On motion of Dr. Brinckle, the Chancellor was also retained on the list that promise well. Mr. Prince of New York. I move that the Duchesse d'Orleans be restored to its proper name, Beurre St. Nicholas. Carried. The President. This pear came to Mr. Manning, under its present name, from a nursery in France, which, I am sorry to say, has not the best reputation ; and it is not known in any other country in Europe under that title. It was voted to change the name to Beurre St. Nicholas, and also to leave it on the list that promise well. The Duchesse de Berri was next taken up. Mr. Barry of New York. It is not large, but sufficiently so, and good enough to stand on the list of pears that promise well. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I think very favorably of it. It is small, but large enough for a dessert pear. Mr. Hogg of New York. I think it a very nice summer pear ; but would not recommend it for general cultivation. Voted to leave it on the list of those that promise well. The Diller Pear was next discussed. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. It has not sustained the reputation it formerly had. It is much less in size, and apparently quite different. The branches are disposed to be blighted in spots. I have my doubts about its success in 142 general culture. It has uniformly sustained a higli reputation in its own neighborhood. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have the pear. The tree cankers very much in the wood ; occasionally it is very good. It was voted to strike it from the list. The Jalousie de Fontenay Vendee was then taken up. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I have seen it when I thought it of the first quality. It is universally good with me, and a great bearer. Mr. Manice of New York. Some years it is exceedingly good with me. I think it will make a good market pear. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. It is first rate in Belgium. Mr. Hooker of New York. I never considered it first rate, though I think it worthy of cultivation. It was voted to retain it on the list th.a.t jprotnise well. The KiRTLAND Pear. The President said he thought we had not sufficient information to act upon it. Mr. Hooker of New York, did not believe it would ever prove a first-rate pear ; still, he thought it had better not be rejected. No further action had. The LiMON Pear was then discussed. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I consider the Limon to be one of the finest summer pears, worthy of being ranked with the best. It has a very sprightly flavor. I do not know of a better pear of its size. It is identical with the Beurre Haggerston. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I would endorse all that Mr. Manning has said in its praise. It is a little below the Dearborn Seedling ; but it has a ver)'" smart flavor ; and I would recommend it to be advanced to the list for general cultivation. It is a first-rate pear. 143 Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have been acquainted with it for several years ; it has uniformly been about one-third larger than the Dearborn Seedling. It was finally voted to retain it on the list of those that promise well. Manning's Elizabeth was next discussed. H. W. S. Cleveland of New Jersey. I desire to give my testimony in favor of this pear. I have fruited it for six or seven years, and have always found it of very fine flavor ; always selling very readily, and a very hardy, vigorous tree. I recommend it, without hesitation, for general cultivation. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I recommend it for general cultivation. It is a very good pear, and a good bearer, though it is rather small. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have had it about ten years, and have universally found it good. For the last two years I have considered it the best pear of the season we have in New Jersey. Mr. Manice of New York. It is very fine, very productive, and very handsome. It was unanimously voted to place this pear on the list for general cultivation. The Nouveau Poiteau. The President. It is one of the most hardy and vigorous trees that I possess in my collection. The tree bears enormous quantities of large fruit, which adheres firmly through the gales and storms. It is melting, very buttery — a little too much so ; but that difiiculty may be remedied by gathering it quite early. I have no tree that possesses more good qualities. It has great size, beauty, strength, hardiness, and persistency of foliage and fruit ; but is rather too soft. I do not know that we shall ever be able to correct that evil. Mr. Hooker of New York. The only specimens raised in my vicinity are most superb in appearance ; but the person who raised them was unable to ripen them well, and was very much disappointed in them. 144 It was voted unanimously to retain it on the list of new varieties which promise well. The Onondaga was next discussed. Mr. Hooker of New York. It is very good, and highly esteemed in our neighborhood. It has productiveness, vigor, and beauty, and is large in size ; but still it is very apt to blight. It is always deficient in fine fiavor, and sometimes quite insipid. I should be sorry to see it recommended for general cultivation. Mr. Barry of New York. I think it rather a valuable pear. It is a very hardy and productive tree ; bears early and abundantly ; is a good pear, though not uniformly first rate. It is sometimes acid, but generally ripens well ; sometimes falls from the tree, but I do not think that a permanent fault. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I think it a valuable pear for the market. The tree is very handsome and vigorous, and the fruit large and handsome ; but I have never seen it when I considered first rate. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. Of three very vigorous trees on my grounds, two have been killed by blight. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have fruited it for three years. I should think it was pretty uniformly a fair second rate pear. It is a very good bearer, and the wood appears healthy in our vicinity. Mr. Hull of Illinois. The fruit is about second rate ; bears very well, and is very shoAvy. The President. I have never seen a specimen which was first rate in quality. Have fruited it several years, and made every attempt to entertain a favorable opinion, but have never seen it better than a tolerable second rate pear. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I think it seldom that we can produce one so splendid in size. It is about second rate in quality. In regard to blight, that is merely local. Mr. Watts of New York. The second year I saw it, it was first rate, but not quite as good after that. I should be very sorry to see it stricken from its present position. 145 It was retained on the list of those that promise well. The Ott was taken up for discussion. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. I have fruited the Ott the past season for the first time, and should rank it among the best. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I have eaten it several times, and pronounce it a first-rate pear. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have not fruited it myself, but have tasted specimens grown in Salem ; and so far as flavor goes, there is nothing better. But it struck me that its size was rather too small for general cultivation. Mr. Hogg of New York. I have fruited that pear for two years. It grows very nicely, and is an early pear ; of small size, rather too much so. The flesh is a little gritty, but very beautiful, and of excellent flavor. Petained on the list that promise well. The Pratt Pear. Dr. EsHLEMAN said he had fruited this pear twice, and found it to crack badly both seasons. The experience of Mr. TowNSEND of New York had been the same. It was, how- ever, allowed to stand for the present on the list. The Paradise d'Automne was next in order for discussion. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I am of opinion that it should be advanced one step. I have grown it for a number of years. It is a great grower. Very few pears make so much wood in a year. It is very much like the Beurre Bosc. I think it should be put among the list for general cultivation. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I should object to that. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have fruited it some foxu' or five years. It is a free grower and enormous bearer, and I consider it one of the best pears in cultivation; but I should not think of comparing it with the Buerre Bosc. I compare it with the Marie Louise in its best state. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. I have seen the Paradise 146 d'Automne and Beurre Bosc mixed together, and I could not tell the difference. Mr. Wilder of Massachusetts. They differ materially with me. The Beurre Bosc is uniformly astringent in my soils ; but in jSTew Bedford, and on light land, it is free from this objection. It is later than the Paradise d'Automne, which succeeds well with me, and is an excellent pear. Mr. Manice of New York. The Beurre Bosc is very astringent, while this is a very fine pear in every respect. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. It is a great grower and bearer. I have several trees of it, in different places and soi].s. I never raised a good one in my life. It does not seem^'^^jme there is any comparison between this and the Beurre Bosc. I must go against recommending it for general cultivation. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. It is now ten years since I fruited the Paradise d'Automne, and during that time it has been uniformly of high flavor. No pear equals it for its peculiar mingling of acidity and sweetness. When well ripened, I know of nothing better. I think I may set the tree down as one of the greatest growers. When young, the shoots are very flexible, but the trees are commonly upright and strong. At present it bears very abundantly. Mr. Saul of New York. Of a plot of pears we grafted last year, this grew one foot higher than any other pear in the whole patch. It was the greatest growth I ever saw. Some of them were nine feet high. Mr. Wilder of Massachusetts. I found it to do very well the first year, on the quince. The second year its growth was not as good. Mr. Town SEND of New York. With me it has done nothing after the first year. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I differ from my friend, Mr. Cabot, as to the quality of tliis pear. It has done very well with me. In relation to its growth on the quince, I have put it down as an established fact, that when you do not 147 get a French, variety, or one that is raised in Europe, on the quince, nine times out of ten it does not do well when culti- vated on the quince in this country. Some gentlemen say it has done very well on the quince with them. I have no doubt on that point. But I have mvich doubt whether, in the course of three or four years, it will continue to do well. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. It has not been uniformly good with us. We have occasionally had very fine specimens ; but I think much oftener very imperfect, and bad in various ways. That remark applies to the flavor. The President. I am of opinion that many varieties which are called bad, would prove good if picked early from the trees. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I should like to know the quality of the soil on which certain pears are grown, which prove astringent. I have never found the Beurre Bosc or Paradise d'Aiitomne so in my experience. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. Our soil is a light, sandy loam. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. I have no doubt the Paradise d'Automne will come into general cultivation. Mr. Hogg of New York. I would move that it be recom- mended as an excellent pear, if gathered in season. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. In reference to the ripening of pears, I prefer a Seckel pear that has fallen off during the night. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. There are a few pears which ripen better on the tree, but I think they are exceptions to the general rule. Generally they are better when gathered before fully ripe. It was unanimously voted to let the Paradise d'Automne remain where it is, and to continue the discussion by taking up The St. Michael Archange. Mr. Cleveland of New Jersey. As I spoke very favor- 148 ably in regard to this pear, two years ago, I feel it incumbent upon me to state, that I cannot now speak so well of it. Last year the flavor was decidedly inferior to what it had previously been ; and for the first time in my life, one of my finest St. Michael Archange trees was killed by the blight. Some varieties of mine were much more attacked by the blight than others. I have still so high an opinion of this pear, that I should be very sorry to see it among the rejected list. I wish further trial to be had. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. I have fruited it this year from scions imported from France. The pears are nOt so large as those exhibited by Mr. Cleveland at the Pennsylvania Society. It is only a good variety. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have been acquainted with this pear for about ten years, under the name of Plomb- gastel, and consider it a very good pear. But from my acquaintance with it, I should not recommend it to be advanced further on the list than promising well. Mr. Wilder of Massachusetts. I have been acquainted with this variety a number of years. The fruit has frequently been very good. At New Bedford it has been pronounced as one of the best pears they possessed. I deem it expedient however, to let it remain where it is. It was retained on the list of those promising well. The Stevens' Genesse was taken up for discussion. Mr. Saul of New York. That pear was advanced at the meeting in Cincinnati, but has never been put on the list for general cultivation. It was the only one put on that list, but it does not appear there in the report. I think it a very good pear. I have never seen it spot at all. Mr. TowNSEND of New York. It is a native of New York. With me it grows to a large size, and unusually fair and free from blemish ; but its quality is very uncertain. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have a pretty large tree which produces a good many pears ; and I always think myself fortunate to find one among them free from blight. 149 Mr. Manice of New York. It cracks very badly with me. It is so poor that I have abandoned its cultivation. The President. I have done the same. Mr. Hull of Illinois. With me it is very good, except that it is likely to drop its leaves. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. With me it is very fair. Mr. Barry of New York. It is considerably cultivated with us. The tree is a very fine grower, and good bearer, with large fruit. If left long on the tree, it rots at the core. Farther west I am informed that it succeeds admirably. Mr. Eaton of New York. It bears very abundantly, and is very good. I would recommend it for special locations. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I named this pear, and have the original tree about twenty -five or thirty feet high ; and I never saw the fruit crack. It is sometimes second quality but always very fair. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. This pear was introduced some years since, and ought to be well known. So far as I have seen it, I think it a very large, handsome, showy pear, and a very good bearer. I have had no personal experience in its cultivation. Mr. Hooker of New York. I have known it almost as long as I have known any pear. I always esteemed it one of our best, but it is not adapted to general cultivation. The well grown specimens are as fine as anything can be ; but we have always found that the last part has been very poor. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have cultivated it on the pear and quince, and have not been able to get anything good. I can do nothing with it. Mr Hooker of New York. The tree bhghts badly. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have cultivated it for some years, and have had some very fair specimens. So far as my experience goes, I should think it was a pear better suited to Western New York and Pennsylvania, than it is for the locahty of Boston. I think it would be well to let it remain on the list where it is. I have no doubt it is a pear 150 worthy of cultivation in the State of New York. The speci- mens that I have eaten have not been so fine grained as the White Doyenne. There is something lacking about it. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. Mr. Vandyne of Cambridge raises this pear as fine as any that grow in Western New York. He has repeatedly shown it in very great perfection. Stevens' Genesse remains on the list of those that jpromise well. The Striped Madeleine was discussed. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I consider all striped pears the result of a malady. The Striped Rousellet is the only striped pear that is remarkably vigorous in its growth. Mr. Hovey of Massachusetts. I move that it be stricken from the list. I agree with Mr. Prince in regard to the diseased character of striped pears. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I wish to enter my objection. I think it may be free from the blight, which is liable to trouble the common varieties of Madeleine. The motion of Mr. Hovey was carried, and the Striped Madeleine was accordingly rejected. The Yan Assene, or Yan Assche, was in order, but was passed over without discussion. Mr. Prince then presented a list of thirty-three varieties of the pear which he proposed to have placed on the list of rejected fruits. He said they had been rejected by his father and himself for twenty years. The list was laid on the table for further action. The President next proposed The Alpha Pear for discussion. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. In point of flavor I reo"ard it as one of the finest, and of remarkably fine texture. It is a good bearer, but is very liable to blow from the tree. The President. Within the last two or three years this pear has improved in quality in my estimation, it is of the first class. If it proves as well for the next three or four years as it has already done, it will be one of the very best. 151 Mr. Berckmans of New York. I never tasted a better pear in my life. It was unanimously agreed to place the Alpha on the list as 'promising well. At six o'clock P. M. the convention adjourned. SECOND DAY. MORNING SESSION. The society re-assembled at the appointed hour. The President, on taking the chair and calling the meet- ing to order, said : When the convention closed last evening, the subject under discussion was the list of pears which promise well. We have gone through with the list adopted at the session in 1852, and it will be in order now to add to that list such varieties as may be agreed on. The last pear disposed of previous to the adjournment, was the Alpha. I will name for this morning The Beurre Clairgeau, The fruit is large, and promises to be one of the best acqui- sitions of late years. Mr. Eivers, of England, states that it is apt to be of rather too hard texture, but I have not found it so. I should be ready to place it among the very best of those that promise well. Mr. Baxter of Pennsylvania. There can be no doubt that it is an extraordinary acquisition to our present stock. Last year I raised five pears on a single stem that weighed twelve or fourteen ounces each. One such specimen I have brought to this meeting. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. In Belgium and France it is considered of very high value indeed. Mr. French of Massachusetts. It recommends itself. With me it has borne well on the quince. I think it is among those of which every one ought to have a few trees. It was unanimously placed among those that promise well. The Sheldon Pear was next proposed. Mr. Barry of New York. I think very liighly of it. It 152 is one of the very best, though, it does not succeed well on the quince. It is from Wayne County, New York. Its size is from medium to large, and truly a fine pear. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have not fruited it. This year some of the grafts set very late have grown from forty- two to forty-seven inches. Mr. Watts of New York. It is of the very best quality. It was voted unanimously to add the Sheldon to the list that promise well. The Epine Dumas was then proposed. Mr. Wilder of Massachusetts. It has hitherto been con- sidered only second rate, but on being properly ripened it possesses the characteristics of an excellent fruit. Mr. Barry of New York. I have fruited it five or six years. It has always been a very good pear ; ripens very well, and can be kept until January ; not highly flavored, but very fair ; and is a fine tree. Mr. Ives of Massachusetts. What kind of soil is it culti- vated upon ? The President. The custom of the convention has been, that where the uniform opinion was favorable, then the pear might be adopted as one that promises well ; inferring of course, that the soils must differ in difierent localities. Mr. Barry of New York. In our grounds we have trees on two different kinds of soil ; one a somewhat light sandy loam, and the other a very stiff piece of clay soil — and they seem to do equally well on both. Mr. Beid of New Jersey. I have cultivated it some ten years and have found it a very good pear. Mr. Manice of New York. I have cultivated it eight or ten years on a sandy loam. It is a very good pear, but it is poor about one year in four. It is a very strong tree. The President proposed, as one thvX promises well, the Lodge of Pennsylvania, otherwise called Smith's Bordenave. Dr. Brinckle of Pennsylvania. I consider it a pear of the very first quality ; fully equal to the Brown Beurre, and 153 very similar to it in its qualities. In the vicinity of Phila- delphia it grows to a very fine size. Mr, Reid of ISTew Jersey. I have cultivated it for a number of years. It has not proved good with me. My soil is heavy. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I grow it under the name of Bordenave. My opinion is that it is one of the highest flavored pears that we have cultivated, of a Brown Beurre class. If it is a good grower, it must be as highly esteemed as the Brown Beurre. Dr. Brinckle of Pennsylvania. I have seen it on both the pear and quince trees of large size, and it is a fine grower on both, — has succeeded admirably. The President. The opinion in New England is quite favorable to that pear. It was voted to place it on the list of those that promise well. The Collins was next taken up for discussion. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. It is a seedling raised in Watertown, Massachusetts. I think it a very good Novem- ber pear. It seems adapted to our climate. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. It has proved with me a first-rate pear. Mr Stickney of Massachusetts. I have fruited it two years, and have tasted the fruit from the original tree a num- ber of times. It is a very beautiful growing tree, and bears every year very large crops. My impression is that it is a valuable pear. It is rather large. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I have seen a branch of that fruit. I do not know of anything that looked more promising. I should consider it first rate. It was placed, by a unanimous vote, upon the list of those that promise well. The President. The chair would now propose the Adams Pear, exhibited by Mr. Hovey the last year or two. 154 Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I am not well acquainted with it, but have seen and eaten the fruit, which very much resembles the Bartlett pear. The tree is a fine grower, but I never have fruited it. It ranks in the same class with the Bartlett. My impression is that it is very little known. Mr. French of Massachusetts. That pear originated in Waltham, in the grounds of Mr. Adams ; and I hear from him a very favorable account of it. I tasted the pear, and found it very good. I think so well of it that I have grafted several trees with it. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have tasted it some five or six years in succession, and I think it is as handsome in appearance as the Bartlett, though not quite so large. It is a good grower, and I think well worthy of extensive cultiva- tion. There is but one thing I would name as an objection, and that is, that it comes in at the same time with the Bartlett, and is so much like it, that strangers would not designate the difference. But on the other side of the question, I think it may prove a better grower than the Bartlett. It is a seedling of some twenty years standing, while the Bartlett is an old tree. If varieties run out, the latter must now be ranked among the old ones ; and if the Adams pear is coming in to take the place of that, I should recommend it for general cultivation. Voted unanimously to place it on the list that promise well. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. This morning we had the pleasure of tasting a pear presented by Mr. Baxter of Pennsylvania, called the Hampton pear. I propose it for discussion. Mr. Barry of New York. In the year that our conven- tion was held in New York, Mr. Parsons of Long Island presented a pear there, under the name of Hagerman, which looked very much like the BufFum, and this reminds me of it. I believe the Hampton is the same pear. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. There is a pear raised in 155 the eastern part of Connecticut, called the Hampton, and I wish to enquire whether this is the same. Mr. Baxter of Pennsylvania. Some fifteen years ago this tree was found on the grounds of Mr. Parsons in Long Island, in a hedge. It promised so well, that it was taken out and placed in his garden. Since that time I have grafted it, and have produced the sample brought here. I think well of it. It is a good grower, and the fruit is beautiful. Mr. Clark of Connecticut. I recollect very well the circumstance of Mr. Parsons presenting the pear at the con- vention in New York, and tasted of it at the time. I do not make any comparison between this and the Buifum. I should think this was a different pear, and that it is rather premature to place it on the list with the others. Dr. Brinckle of Pennsylvania. I think we know too little about it. I have seen it twice, but in both of those instances the specimens were double the size of these, but they were too far gone to enable me to judge of the quality. I think we had better let it pass. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I should be pleased to have it go into the hands of the committee, and therefore withdraw all I have said on the subject. It was referred to the Committee on Native Fruits. The President proposed the Pocahontas, Dallas, Ster- ling, and Boston Pears. Of the Dallas, he remarked: It was introduced by Governor Edwards of Connecticut. The tree is fine, hardy, and persistent in its foliage Formerly the fruit seemed to want a little more juice and flavor. For the last two or three years it has improved in my estimation, and I am now of the opinion that it is really a fine native pear. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. I think it is one of the best pears in our collections. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have tested that pear for a number of years, and although I agree with the chair in regard to its hardiness, and persistency in holding its foliage, I cannot regard the quality to be such as to recommend it for general cultivation. 156 Mr. Lines of Connecticut. The Dallas stands very well indeed with the pomologists in New Haven, although it has never made so strong an impression on the minds of gentlemen there, as seems to have made on the mind of the President. I should rather question the propriety of putting it on the list quite yet. Passed without further action. The Sterling Pear. The President said he had found the tree to be beautiful, the fruit handsome, and promising well ; ripening early in September. Mr. Lines of Connecticut said he had a few specimens, but should hardly think it worth while to adopt it yet. Mr. Barry of jSTew York remarked that Mr. Downing had spoken very highly of it. Passed. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I move we take up the Boston Pear. It has been so extensively known in this vicinity that I have expected we should get some information concerning it here. Mr. "Walker of Massachusetts. Some few years ago five or six samples of the Boston Pear were presented to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, for the first time, by Mr. Hovey. When I saw it, I had some misgivings whether my friend, Mr. Hovey, had not been mistaken. I thought it had the appearance at this time of a premature specimen of the Golden Beurre. Others thought so too ; but some of its characteristics did not exactly correspond. It was more juicy, and on the whole it was pronounced by all present to be a very good pear. The next two years we saw other specimens, and they proved to be very indifferent. The third or fovurth year we visited the nurseries of the Messrs. Hovey, and then thought it also a very indifierent pear, and one that we should not cultivate. The present year it has again been presented to the society and they have awarded to it the premium for the best summer pear. What the standard of the committee has been, I do not know. It should have been tested with such pears as the Rostiezer, Tyson, or Brandywine. 157 Mr Cabot of Massachusetts. The first time I saw this pear, it resembled the Golden Beurre, except that it had a bright red cheek, and all who tasted it thought it was very excellent. I afterwards saw it when I should not have thought it the same pear. The next time I saw it, it was still inferior. Last year I saw it in the nursery of Mr. Hovey, and then thought it inferior, but Mr. Hovey has informed me that they were not fair specimens. This year the pear has been presented again, and has nearly come up to the quality as when presented the first year ; a very good summer pear, and to my palate, a pleasanter pear than the T5^son. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have eaten it for three years. The first time was with the committee of the society here. It was then very good ; I thought a little better than the Muskingum, similar to that pear. It was pronounced by those present to be equal to the Urbaniste. If it is uniformly of the quality of those that I have eaten, I should consider it a very good pear — better than the Tyson. The President, being called on, remarked — I can but reiterate what has been said by my friends before me. I did not taste it the first year, but heard the recommendations given of it, and felt confident that it must be a very good pear. The second year it was not quite up to my expectations. I have not seen it this year. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I should think it hardly proper to give it the position of those that promise well. I move it be passed. Carried. The Easter Beurre was then proposed for discussion by Mr. Barry of New York. Mr. Richardson of Maryland. It does very well in Maryland — ripens well, and is a fine pear. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. I think well of it, though the general opinion of it is rather low. Last year I imported some fifty or sixty trees, under the impression that it is one of the best late pears we have ; and I think it will stand as such many years hence. 158 Mr. Barry of New York. As I introduced the discus- sion, I will give my opinion of it. We have cultivated it at Rochester for some fourteen or fifteen years, and have always had a fine crop. I am satisfied that it is by far the best late winter pear in existence. It succeeds well at Lockport — ^is large, beautiful, and ripens well in a common cellar. I have always had very fine ones in the month of April. If I had the ground, I would plant twenty acres with it, for the markets. It commands great prices, and the tree is so healthy and fine, that it is altogether desirable. Mr. Eaton of New York. I have seen them on the 22d of April, as good as any pear we have. Mr. Hull of Illinois. It is a good grower, and the best late winter pear we have. I am so favorably impressed with it, that I am planting a thousand trees. The first tree I planted bore the second year of its growth. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have fruited it ten years, and have been, and am, of opinion, that it is one of the best fruits we have. It does well on quince or pear ; bears pro- fusely, and is not as hkely to be killed by late frosts as some pears. Mr. Eeid of New Jersey. I have cultivated it for a num- ber of years, and have found it a very excellent orchard pear on the pear root. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. This pear has proved itself a good one. I have seen trees on the pear graft which bore very profusely. The difficulty is, that it will not grow on a very wet soil. We find it a little gritty Belgum. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. This is an old favorite of mine ; and what we eat when we are boys, we generally recollect when we are men. I learn from my friend, Mr. Berckmans of Belgium, that in Europe the monks always reserve this pear for their especial palate, which I consider a pretty sure indication that it is good. It is a well known fact, that when it was the fashion to drink, the best quality of wine was always found in the monasteries ; and I think 159 the same rule will apply now as well as ever, and as a general thing, to fine fruit and good wine. I shall personally make no objection to this pear. In England, when I was a hoy, it was grown on the wall of a dwelling house, and trained with great care. Pears, large and fine, were stored away in the autumn, to be eaten or sent to market in the spring, during the months of March and April. Finer specimens never were produced. In this section of our country it is not quite so. Here, only one side of the fruit — about one third part of it — ^is sure to be very good ; the other two-thirds have a loose, corky texture. I shall move to class it among the pears for cultivation in particular localities ; that is, on the list with the White and Grey Doyenne. Dr. Brinckle of Pennsylvania. We have heard of this pear as grown in the North, East, and West, but I have heard nothing how it succeeds in the South. I have never seen larger specimens than were shown me two weeks ago from Georgia. Mr. Barry of New York. I am informed that it grows very finely in Norfolk. The demand for the tree is already so great that it can neither be found in Europe or America. I do not know of any place where the stock is to be had. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I am perfectly satisfied, from having eaten the pear in Connecticut, that it is all that has been claimed for it ; but we cannot get a good specimen in New Haven. The difficulty seems to be in ripening. A gentleman in New York told me that all he could get could be sold for six dollars a dozen. I am further satisfied that my friend, Mr. Barry, is right in regard to the scarcity of the trees. Mr. Manice of New York. I have raised that pear for about ten years. It grows rather slowly. The fruit is large, very handsome, and will ripen very finely about half the time. The President. I coincide with the suggestion that the pear had better be placed on the list of those that promise 160 well for certain localities, rather than for general cultivation. I entertain tlie opinion that it requires great fertility of soil. When the pear is large, it is always very fine. We have had specimens exhibited at the Massachusetts Horticultural Soci- ety weighing fourteen ounces, and they have sold as high as one dollar for a single specimen. When properly ripened, fifty cents each have been readily paid for them. I have- kept the pear as late as the 18th of June. It has a hard, indu- rated side in the shade ; but I am of opinion that my soil is not favorable for its cultivation. Mr. Stickney's soil is rich and deep, and that is what is wanted for the Easter Beurre. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I am under the impres- ion that this pear is a little too old to be put down among the promising young men. I think we had better withdraw it altogether, than put it on that list ; and place there only such as we are partially acquainted with. Mr. Saul of New York. I think that this pear should not be put upon the list of those varieties that promise well. I suppose it to be a fruit with which every pear grower has always been acquainted ; and I presume the experience of all has been uniform. I think it would not be letting the pear down at all, to put it on the list for certain localities ; and it would be well enough to leave the matter where it now stands. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. We have ascertained that we can grow this fruit without difficulty, and that the pears will sell for about three dollars per dozen. I discard the small ones, and have nothing but the best specimens ; and usually bring them in not quite fully ripe, and ripen them here. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I move it be placed upon the list for general cultivation, that we may know what the opinion is upon its real merits. Mr. Bakry of New York. I consider this pear of very great importance, and think the time is coming when it will be of the greatest value to agriculture in tliis country. I find it much larger, and more easily grown on the quince stock. 161 It is so prolific that all tlie pears do not ripen well on the pear stock, and if grown on that stock, the smaller specimens should be picked off. On the quince it grows moderately, and is a very permanent tree. Mr. French of Massachusetts. My trees improve as they grow older. Mr. Eakle of Massachusetts. I have known them grafted upon the pear, and upon old trees, and they were considered as the best of all winter pears. I have found that the young trees have been almost uniformly condemned. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. I have fruited it for six or eight years. The trees grow finely every year, and there are a great many fine pears ; but I have tried in vain to get a fair proportion of those fit to eat. I think we should be careful how we recommend such pears for general cultivation. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I have raised it fifteen or eighteen years. It has been a variable pear. Some would rot in November, and some keep good until April. It is also sometimes poor on one side. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. The Easter Buerre has been in Salem, perhaps, as long as anywhere. I have fruited it a good many years, and have sometimes had fine large specimens. Such have rarely failed to ripen well. At other times the specimens have been green, hard, and impossible to ripen. Under such circumstances I do not feel justified in re- commending it for general cultivation. Dr. Kelly of Massachusetts. I consider this a first-rate winter pear. The propriety of recommending the Easter Beurre was further discussed, at considerable length, when Mr. Lines moved that its further consideration be laid on the table. This motion prevailed by a vote of twenty-four in the afiirmative to seventeen in the negative. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. There are two pears which seem to me worthy of notice — the Grande Soleil, and the Jeanne de Witte. I have seen the former for two or three 162 years in succession, and it seems to me to be one of the best November pears. The flavor is very fine ; the wood some- what slender, but the pear itself one of the best. The President. It is a very fine pear ; an excellent grower, and never drops from the tree. It was passed without further action, and the Jeanne de WiTTE next discussed. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I think it an excellent pear and good grower ; and of good size, and keeps till January. Last year 1 thought it one of the very best winter pears. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have probably had more experience with that pear than any other person here. It is described in the London catalogue, as having affinity to the Glout Morceau Pear. The affinity is quite striking. I con- sider it superior. The tree is always healthy, though a small grower ; has very much such a growth as the Seckel. I think the size may be brought up so as to render it a very valuable pear indeed. It has not been sufficiently tested, to recom- mend it even for the list that promise well, and I move that it be passed. The motion was unanimously adopted. The Walker Pear was then named by Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts, as worthy of some consideration. He said the fruit was large and handsome ; and the tree was one of the very best growers we have. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. My opinion of the Walker Pear is expressed in the name which I should not have applied to any pear unless I consider it of the very best quality. It is of large size, fine quality, and a very liberal growing tree. I think I should recommend it to the favor- able attention of cultivators, although it is rather premature to place it on the list that promise well. It ripens the latter part of September, between the Bartlett and Flemish Beauty. It does not adhere to the tree quite so well as some, though I have no very great fault to find with it in that respect. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I have grown it on the tops 163 of trees, and it has been no more liable to blow off than pears generally. The President. The tree has all the characteristics just named ; fine growth, persistency in foliage, with a pear, large, beautiful, and always fair. It possesses but one objec- tional quality, which is its peculiar flavor. I still think, however, it will take its place among the very best pears for general cultivation. We have not tried it on the quince. It was unanimously voted to place the Walker pear among the varieties which promise well. The KiNGSESSING. Dr. Beinckle of Pennsylvania. I move that this pear be placed on the list as "promising well. This is one of the very best pears we have, in every respect. It does equally well on the pear as on the quince. On the latter its form is altered — it becomes more obtuse and of a fairer appearance. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have fruited it, and think so highly of it that I feel bound to second the motion to add it to the list. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I endorse what has been said : the tree is a thrifty one and bears well. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. It has made a very favorable impression with us. Mr. Baxter of Pennsylvania. I have specimens qf the quince, and it is a very fine pear. Carried. The Belle Apres Noel was then proposed. Mr Reid of New Jersey. I have had it two years. It is of fair size and of very fine quality. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. I named this pear the Fondante de Noel, in Belgium. The President. I am acquainted with this pear. It is an improvement, in some respects, on the Passe Colmar, and is a very good pear. Those who have seen it entertain a high opinion of it. 164 It was voted unanimously, that this pear be placed on the list of those varieties which promise well, and also that it he called the Fondante de Noel. The Doyenne Sieulle was then proposed by Mr. Barry of New York. He said — It is a very distinct, well known variety, and is uniformly good with us. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I do not think the fruit will be good above one year in three. Mr. Townsend of New York. This is one of the most vigorous in Western New York. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have seen some of them very much cracked. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. I have been acquainted with this pear several years, but have never seen a cracked speci- men. When the tree is over loaded it does not ripen well ; but otherAvise it is very handsome, and a profitable market pear. The Doyenne Sieulle was passed by. The Pius IX., — proposed by the President, — was then discussed. Mr. Berckmans said — This is a very good pear and does very well in Belgium. The quality of the fruit is first rate in this country ; and ripens about the latter part of October. The President. It has fruited with me, and is a pear of good promise. It was then placed on the list of those which promise well. The President, by request of the society, then proposed the Fondante de Malinos, Beurre Sterckman, Bousslette d'E^^perine, Zepherin Gregoire, Theodore Van Mons, Charles Van Hooghten, and Comte de Flanders ; all of which were added to the list of pears which promise well. In regard to the first, — Fondante de Malines, — 165 Mr. Manning of Massachusetts said — I think it a very good pear, and keeps into mid winter. Mr. Saul of New York. I tliink it will be quite a great acquisition to the list of pears. Mr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. I have fruited it twice, and consider it first rate. Of the merits of the Buerre Sterckman, Mr. Saul said — It is one of the best of pears. The President. One of the best pears introduced for a long time. It was also approved by several other gentlemen, who all pronounced it a very fine pear. Mr. Wilder said the Eouselette d'Esperen was a very good pear ; hardy and of good growth. Of the Charles Van Hooghten, he remarked that it possessed some excellent quahties, was very vigorous, and would probably be a good acquisition for orchards. ]\Ir. Walker of Massachusetts. I find it mentioned as being as large as the Onondaga, and probably of equal quality. Mr. Wilder said the Comte de Flanders was something like the Marie Louise, though somewhat smoother. The time of ripening is October or ISTovember. Dr. Brinckle exhibited to the Convention specimens of the Latch pear (anew native), the Regnier pear, and the Graham Grape. [See report of Committee on Native Fruits.] Mr. Prince said that the Hagerman pear was considered in Flushing a very great acquisition. There it had always been considered first rate — a beautiful pear, of good size. Here this discussion closed. It was voted that the list of pears proposed by Mr. Wm. R. Prince for rejection be taken up and disposed of. Many of these varieties Mr. Prince stated to have been published by his father and liimself in rejected lists from twelve to fifteen years ago. 166 Of the entire list of thirty-three varieties the following "were rejected : Belle de Bruxelles^ Martin Sec, Beurre Audusson, Beurre Van Mons, Bonaquia, Calebasse or Pitt's Prolific, Jalousie, Marie Louise Nova, March Bergamot, Moorfowl Egg, Passans du Portugal, Pope's Quaker, Queen Caroline, Queen of the Low Countries, Keine d'Hiver, Peine des Poires, Pousselet d'Hiver, Sugar Pear of Hoyerswerda, Summer Bergamot, Summer Thorn or Epine d'Ete, Swan's Egg, and Verte Longue Panachee. The following were retained at the suggestion of several members for further trial : Belle et Boune, Echasserie, Chelmsford, Colmar d'Arem- berg, Gilogil, Hampden's Bergamot, Leon le Clerc, Messire Jean, Muscat AUemand, Windsor and Winter Bon Chretien. Mr. Peince of Long Island. There are two pears under the name of Winter Crassane — one simply the Winter Cras- sane, and the other the Winter Crassane de Nova. We have rejected the former, which, I think, should not have been done, as it is a very good pear. I move that it be called the Winter Crassane (of Knight.) The motion was carried. Mr. Baxter of Pennsylvania. I should like to know what is thought of the Bezi de la Motte. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is a very good pear. Mr. Saul of New York. I think, as a general thing, it is a very fair pear, very juicy and sweet, and worthy of being kept in collections. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. A very good grower and Very productive. Mr. Manice of New York. It is very productive, but sometimes rots. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I think the gentleman could not have that pear in mind. I never knew it to rot save in a general decay. It is a pear which retains its soundness 167 as long as any in the catalogue ; and tliere has been a time "when I classed it among the very good pears, though not the very best. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. It rots with me worse than any pear I know of, though it produces very finely. Mr. Prince. There are two pears in this country by that name — the erroneous one was imported. Mr. Earle. The true Bezi de la Motte is covered with coarse dots. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I have found it a very worthless insipid thing — not worth cultivating. Whether it was the true one I do not know. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. I wish to call the atten- tion of the Convention to The Beurre Diel Pear. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is a very good pear, only it is liable to blow off. On the quince it is excellent. Mr. Hull of Illinois. It is a good pear — bears abundantly, and is very large. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. In some places it is beautiful ; and very high prices are paid for it. With me it is apt to crack, and sometimes blows off. Mr. Town SEND of New York. In Western New York we consider it one of our very best pears — it grows abundantly. Mr. Earle of Massachusetts. At Worcester it is a very popular pear indeed, and is grown a great deal. It does well on the quince ; not quite so well on the pear ; and is some- times a little apt to crack. Last year it took the first prize at our exhibition. Mr. Manice of New York. With me the Beurre Diel generally succeeds very well. It sometimes cracks a little. Mr. Cleveland of New Jersey. It grows very well indeed on both the quince and the pear ; but on the latter its quality is so inferior that I have grafted the trees with other varieties. On the Cjuince I esteem it one of the very best of pears. The growth of the tree isr very vigorous. 168 Mr. Ayres of Maine. We think very highly of it in Maine. It ranks among onr very best pears. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. We have no pear in New Haven which we think more highly of, all things considered, than this. I have had it in October, November, and December, and have had very fine specimens from old pear trees ; but it generally succeeds best on the quince. It is constantly in- creasing in favor with us. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. I move it be admitted for general cultivation. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. Would it not be well to say, in the published account of our proceedings, that it cracks in some locations ? Mr. Lines. It strikes me that would be doing the pear great injustice, because there is scarcely any pear that does not sometimes crack. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I would remark, that the splendid specimens of this pear, which were sent to the Llorti- cultural Society, were from the pear stock. In regard to the cracking of pears most varieties have this fault, and the reason probably is, that they originated in the South of Europe. There are localities in the United States where every pear will be found to crack under certain circumstances ; but that is not to be considered an objection to so splendid a pear as this. Mr. Earle. I would inquire whether any one has found this to crack so bad as to reject it from cultivation ? , Mr. Hayes. It is so with me. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. With me it has blown off very badly. Mr. Cleveland of New Jersey. It appears to me that the Beurre Diel is worthy of general cultivation. I have found mulching an effectual preventative against cracking in those two varieties. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have cultivated the Beurre Diel largely, and am sorry to say that it has cracked 169 badly some seasons, both on the quince and on its own stock ; and in some locations on its own stock it loses its foliage early. But I would set aside all objections, and say that a pear of so large a size and of so fine a quality should be put on the general list. It was voted unanimously to place the Beurre Diel pear on the list for general cultivation. SECOND DAY. ArTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order at the appointed hour, when Mr. Prince said he wished to introduce a single resolu- tion on the pear, as follows : Resolved : That this convention recommend to all the Pomological and Horticultural Societies of our Country, that they refuse future admission to their exhibitions of fruits all such varieties as have been or may be rejected as worthless by this convention, and by those which have preceded it. Laid on the table. THE APPLE. The President anounced the Apple to be the subject for discussion this afternoon. Mr. Baldwin moved that the convention should first take up those varieties which promise well. The motion was adopted, and the discussion commenced upon The Autumn Bough. Mr. Downing of New York. I consider it one of the finest fall sweet apples that we have, but eannot say how it succeeds generally. I would recommend it to stand on the list that promise well. Carried. The LIawley Apple. Mr. Hooker of New York. In some collections which 170 I have known this year, it has been knotty ; but last year the finest apple we had was the Hawley. I move that it remain on the list that promise well. Adopted. The Melon Apple was next taken up. The President. Mr. Stickney of Watertown has grafts of that variety which produce abundant crops of fine fruit. Mr. Hooker of New York. I hope we shall see the Melon universally disseminated. I have heard of it from several localities ; but do not know that it has been cultivated long anywhere. It is always good, and ripens with us in October and November. Mr. Pardee of New York. I have eaten it in March very good, and consider it, without exception, the best apple I ever ate. It is a little too soft for a market fruit. Mr. Watts of New York. It is a tree that has not yet been very much cultivated in the vicinity of Rochester. I understand it is a very slow-growing tree. Mr. Prince of Long Island. Perhaps it might be well to say that it is one which, with the experience we have had, promises remarkably well. It is a very valuable fruit. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I think it might safely be advanced to the list for general cultivation. The President. In my opinion it should be placed on the list for general cultivation. Its appearance is beautiful, and its character excellent in every respect. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I move it be placed on that list. Mr. Hayes of New Jersey. Where did it originate ? Mr. Hooker of New York. It was first brought into notice in Western New York, from some old, badly culti- vated trees, but very highly esteemed by the owner ; and wherever it has been grafted upon new trees, has shown a very surprising superiority. It is not really known whether the original trees were seedlings, or brought from the East. 171 It was unanimously voted to place the Melon Apple on the list for general cultivation. The Mother Apple was then named. The President said it was pretty well known in the East as a very handsome, fair-looking, and good fruit. It was left among the varieties which promise well. The Northern Spy, by vote, stands on the list for culti- vation in particular localities. The Smoke House Apple. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I move that this be placed on our list for general cultivation. I know of no better apple. Dr. Eshleman of Pennsylvania. It is one of the best apples we cultivate. Last winter I saw barrels of it brought from Ohio, quite equal to any we raise in Pennsylvania. Mr. Hooker of New York. I have not seen it, and should be unwilling to have it on that list. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is sometimes called the Smoke House Vandevere. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I know of no apple of its season that excels it for culinary purposes and for the table. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have seen that apple for a number of years, and consider it very good ; but think it is not well enough known to put on the list for general cultiva- tion. I move it remain where it is. This motion was sustained. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I would mention three early apples, which I will undertake to say, are the best to be found in this Union, and which are very widely disseminated : one is the Blink Bonnie Seedling. Some three or four years ago I brought home this apple from Montreal. It was exceed- ingly fine ; and I have never seen a person who did not ap- prove it. It ripens the same time as the Yellow Harvest. 172 The next is called Gaekickson's Early. When first sent to me I called it the Somerset Harvest. It is almost identical in quality to the Yellow Harvest ; but it is fully twice as large, remarkably fair, and of the same delicate texture — it is twice as valuable, on accovmt of its size. The third one is the Sine qua Non. It is an apple of the highest flavor — very spicy. The tree has this defect, that it grows very curling and twisting. The President thought the above remarks should be re- corded for the purpose of bringing the apples into notice. Mr. Little of Maine. "When I was in Montreal, the Blink Bonnie Seedling was very highly spoken of. I saw and tasted it, and it is a very good apple. Mr. Hooker of New York. I would suggest two varieties which, I think, are of the very finest — the Primate and the Early Joe. The Sine qua Non is so small, in our vicinity, that it is not a favorite. The President. I have seen specimens of the Primate as good as anything we have. Mr. Hooker of New York. It begins ripening quite early, and will last for a long time, like the Early Bough. Mr. TowNSEND of New York. It commences to ri]3en about the last of July ; is a first-rate apple — one of the best of the season ; decidedly an acquisition. Mr. Downing of New York. In Westchester and Pock- land Counties it is known as the Summer Pippin. The President. The Early Joe has not succeeded so well here as was anticipated. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. It does not come up to other apples at that time of year, and ripens much later than I had anticipated ; is not so good in flavor. I was very favorably impressed with the apple in Buflalo, but think it not quite so good for our climate. The PiBSTONE Pippin. Colonel Little of Maine. I move that the Pibstone Pip- pin be placed on the list for cultivation in northern localities. 173 I am aware, sir, that this apple is not considered best at the South, but with us in Maine it is one of the best we cuhivate. It is so in New Hampshire, Vermont, and other northern locahties. I have seen it in great perfection in Montreal. It is so popular in the British Provinces that one gentleman in New Brunswick now has two thousand eight hundred trees of this variety on his farm. I therefore hope it will receive the favorable notice of this society. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I have tried it over and over again, and it always drops its fruit before tlie fall is over ; be- fore the 1st of October there is scarcely an apple on the tree. I have seen it do remarkably well in a more northern locality, but in Loi'jg Island it is utterly worthless. Mr. Feast of Maryland. I have seen a specimen of this apple — as fine as anything I have seen anywhere. Mr. FekiLey of Iowa. With me it universally rots on the tree. I consider it entirely worthless in our country. It was adopted for northern localities. The Genesee Chief. Mr. Frost of New York. This apple was presented this morning to the Committee on Native Fruits, and pronounced hest. It was placed on the list as promising well. The Jeffries. Dr. EsHLEMAN of Pennsylvania. I would recommend that the Jeffries be put on the list for trial. I have eaten it at our Society's Exhibition for three successive years, and consider it the best apple of its season that I have ever seen. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I have seen it for several years. It has always been considered the finest apple of its season, which we have had at our society. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. It is the best seedling apple I have seen for a number of years. I consider it No. 1. It is ripe during the latter part of this month and the early part of October. 174 Mr. Hooker of New York. That apple has been shown at the exhibitions of Chester County for three or four years, and has universally been pronounced best. It was unanimously voted to place it on the list of those varieties which promise well. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. We have an apple called the Hagloe, which has done very well with us. It is a profuse bearer, and bears on the ends of the shoots. I know of no person who has ever succeeded in getting it from Europe. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I think Mr. Coxe expresses his astonishment at its proving so different from what he had expected from the name. In his catalogue it is called the Hao-loe Crab. I struck out the last of that name and called it the Hagloe Summer. Mr. Baldwin of Pennsylvania. I have been acquainted with that apple several years. It has always been somewhat extensively cultivated in Pennsylvania, is a very beautiful apple and very tender, of large size, but it is apt to rot on the tree. Mr. Prench of Massachusetts. It is a large apple, and worth cultivating. Mr. Downing of New York. It is a poor grower. Passed. The Minister Apple. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I brought this apple to the notice of the Fruit Committee of the Pomological Con- vention at New York five years ago, and it was recommended to be placed on the list for general cultivation. I regard it as the best of all early winter apples, and the most productive of any season. I consider it to surpass every other late apple in the melting texture of its taste. It flourishes best on a strong soil. The President. I concur with Mr. Manning in opinion. I have trees with the branches almost breaking down with this apjDle. Mr. GooDALE of Maine. I move that it be placed on the 175 list for general cultivation. It is a very good apple indeed — one of the very best. The motion of Mr. Goodale was adopted. The Murphy. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I would enquire of Mr. Manning what he thinks of the Murphy. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. It is a very handsome apple, but a poor bearer, and the branches are very apt to die at the extremities. No action. Mr. Prince of Long Island. Is the Monmouth Pippin on the catalogue of the society ? It is found plentifully in the orchards of Monmouth County, Virginia ; is a beautiful, high-flavored, juicy apple, and I deem it a very great acquisi- tion. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I think very well of it. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have known it fourteen years, and fruited it ten or eleven. It is a good grower ; above the medium size ; comes to perfection in January and February, and is certainly a very good apple. I think it would be desirable to place it on the list. It was placed among those which promise ivell. The Herefordshire Pearmain was recommended as a noble apple, by Mr. Prince of Long Island. The Coggswell Apple. Mr. Saul of New York. I wish some one would describe the Coggswell Apple. The President. It is really a most beautiful apple, and also of excellent quality — the very best of all apples that exist in Connecticut. It keeps along till December ; is about the size of the Baldwin, of similar color, melting, juicy, delicious, and a vigorous grower. Mr. Hovey of Massachusetts. The apple has attracted universal attention in Massachusetts. It originated in Con- 176 nectlcut ; is a good early winter apple, as handsome as the Nonesuch, and possesses all the qualities for a good apple. It bears young, and is universally fair and handsome. It was unanimously voted to place it on the list of those varieties which promise well. At this point the report of the Committee on Native Fruits was taken up. Mr. Peince of New York said, that so far as grapes were concerned, the two most important qualities attached to the grape has been omitted in that report. The first question, in reference to an American grape is m regard to its pulp ; the second, in regard to its juice — -both being qualities on Avhich it is necessary to decide, in order to adopt them for use, either for the table or for wine. If this land is to become, what, by nature, it is entitled to become, " the land of the vine," it is necessary to know the juicy qualities of the grape. Dr. Brinckle of Pennsylvania. The pulpiness of the grape has nothing to do y/ith. its qualities for vfine. With regard to the merits for the table, the character we have given them in the report will show what they are. The wine qual- ities do not depend on the juiciness, but rather on the saccha- rine matter. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I think there should be a more universal expression of the opinion of the convention upon the grape, than is furnished by the committee in their report, and therefore move a reconsideration of the vote accepting that report. The motion prevailed. Mr Lines continued : I have a vote in my hand, which I Avish to have the con- vention consider, as follows : Voted — That the Concord grape, which we have had the opportunity to examine, is evidently earlier by several weeks than the Isabella ; is very large, handsome, and juicy ; but in quality not equal to either the Isabella, Catawba, or Diana. Mr. E.EID of New Jersey. What evidence have we that the Concord grape is three weeks earlier than the Isabella? 177 Mr. Prince of Long Island. I have tested that grape, and think it a decided acquisition to the New England States — though not so much so as before I had seen it. Mr. Bull of Massachusetts. Our friend from New Jersey, Mr. Reid, asks upon what evidence the Concord is earlier than the Isabella ? This I have been told, upon houses having a south-east aspect it is now in eatable condition. But in order to arrive at a fair comparison between grapes, they should be grown in the same situation. I have the Isabella grown upon the west aspect of my house, wliich is sheltered by a hill, and some portion of the grapes ripen the first week in October, and the remainder are left until there is imminent danger of the frost. It is protected from the weather by all possible means. I had many kinds of grapes growing upon my ground, but none of them ripened ; and in despair of ever getting one fit to eat, I turned to our native grape, and found it with all the good qualities desirable. I found many seedlings on my ground, one of which looked very promising. I nursed it, and found it to ripen in August. This is the Concord grape. Upon the same ground, a dry sandy loam, I grow the Isabella, Diana, Catawba, and many foreign grapes. The Isabella ripens the first week in October, while the Concord ripens the tenth of September, yet it improves in quality by hanging upon the trelhs until the winter frosts come. It is three weeks earlier than the Isabella. My friend from New York, Mr. Prince, has spoken of it as a juicy grape. Last autumn I pressed from a heaped bushel basket, in the usual way, twenty bottles of juice, to which I put four pounds of sugar. The wine is now in bottles, and is too sweet. I have no doubt it will be sweet enough in all New England without any sugar. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I regard the Concord grape most unquestionably as an acquisition ; but what I am afraid of, is that persons may suppose it a desirable one, where the Isabella may be matured, I think it is desirable only in a northern climate where the Isabella cannot be ripened. 178 Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I never picked the Isabella ripe enough in twenty-four years. It never attains maturity, except on an east or south-east exposiu-e. I think the Concord grape an acquisition everywhere, and it acquires additional value from the fact that it ripens so much earlier than the Isabella. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I have not tested the pulp in this grape, but it is redundant in juice. I regard it as objectionable on account of its foxiness ; it is very foxy, and not of so fine a flavor as I have been led to suppose. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I would not recommend the Concord grape for the people of New Haven, because I do not consider it good enough. If I had a place for only two vines, I would rather plant them both with the Isabella, than one with the Concord. I now withdraw the vote which I offered on this subject. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have an opinion in this matter, which I shall express as clearly as possible. I am glad that this grape is an acquisition. I rejoice when one can advance, but I hope we may go on steadily and cautiously, and not say what we shall wish we had left unsaid. I had supposed it to be the object of the society to recommend no fruit unless it should be decidedly a superior variety. Tliis grape may prove to be of that character ; but we have tried it hardly long enough to be able to say with certainty. Let us be sure we are right before we give an opinion. Mr. Hovey says it is the only good grape that is ripe so early. Isabellas, grown within ten miles of Boston, are upon our tables fully ripe ; the specimens have been compared with the Concord, and pronounced less foxy. What proof have we, then, that the Concord is earliest by three weeks ? Mr. Bull of Massachusetts. I have known the Isabella more than twenty years, in all situations, and must say that I think the grape alluded to is not the Isabella, but the Concord. Dr. Brinckle of Pennsylvania. There Avere two grapes exhibited ; the one round, the other oval. The committee were unanimous in the opinion that the oval was the Isabella. 179 Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I have known the Isabella for many years, and the oval grape alluded to has all the characteristics which I have known that grape to possess. There is a marked difference between the two ; the Concord has much the most acidity and foxiness. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. The Isabella is never known with the bloom which we see on this. The Concord is one month earlier than the Isabella, when the comparison is made in the same place. If that grape is an Isabella, then I do not know an Isabella. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. A new issue then comes up ; that it was not the Isabella which was upon the table this morning. Does any gentleman know what it is ? We have been testing it against one of the known varieties as the very best grape of the kind that was introduced. Now it is supposed that we do not know the Isabella ; a grape with which we have been acquainted for twenty years. In regard to the Concord grape itself, the committee have said what it is. They have spoken of it in terms of approbation. I hope it will prove to be all that its friends have anticipated. Our experience with this grape has been but three years ; five years are certainly none too much ; and what have we to compare it with ? If we have not compared it with the Isa- bella, then we have with some new variety which has sprung up just at this time. Now let the Concord grape remain as it is in the report of the committee, and say nothing about it, except to express our views upon its merits. At six o'clock P. M. the society adjourned to attend THE PRESIDENT'S LEVEE. The Levee was held at the Revere Hotjse. It was an exceedingly pleasant and brilliant affair. Besides the delegates in attendance upon the convention of the society, there were present many promment citizens and official personages, among whom were His Excellency the Honorable Emory Washburn, Hon. Robert C. "Winthrop, Hon. N. P. Banks, Jr., Hon. Benjamin Seaver, Mayor J. V. C. Smith, Brig. Gen. Andrews, Prof. H, "W. Longfellow, and other persons of distinction. 180 After an hour of social intercourse, the company marched with music into the dining hall, where a splendid repast was spread. The tables were loaded with the most luscious fruit, and ornamented with magnificent flowers. From the chandeliers clusters of superb grapes were suspended, and added a crowning decoration to the festival. When the company had partaken of the elegant repast, Mr. Wilder made a brief address, and gave utterance to the pleasure which this visit of the members of the American Pomological Society afforded him. He said it was not his purpose to call upon his friends for formal speeches, nor to summon "spirits from the vasty deep," — nor to invoke the presence of the "rapping spirits," — nor should he, in these days of temperance and of the Maine law, before the Governor and Mayor, offer "ardent spirits," — but it was his purpose to place before the guests a specimen of American fruit — the berry and the juice. For some rich specimens of the juice of the grape, he expressed his indebtedness to generous friends in Ohio, who desu-ed to have it tasted and tested by the members of the Pomological Society. And for the purpose of tasting and testing this Ohio vintage, Mr. Wildek proposed that the company resolve itself into a "Tasting Committee of the Whole," upon the Ohio vintage, and he would propose — "T/je Vintners of Ohio — By never allowing the juice of the grape to be distilled or adiilterated, may they prove to the true promoters of temperance that it can produce joy without sorrow, and health without detriment to the public weal." (Great applause.) This sentiment was followed by testing samples of "Longworth's Catawba," — " Werks's Isabella," — and other juice of the grape. The host also gave as a sentiment — "Massachusetts — The good seed planted by the Pilgrim Fathers more than two centuries ago. It has borne fruit for her children in each succeeding generation." His Excellency Governor Washburn responded : ' ' Mr. President — I feel myself honored in being permitted to be present here this evening at this hospitable board. I am aware that I OAve to it the circum- stance that I have been honored with that post to which you have alluded, and I feel myself honored that I may welcome those who have honored you and the State by being here to-night. (Cheers.) I wish I could say something that might be suited to the sparkling of that beverage here before us. We have nothing of the kind here in Massachusetts. I Avas impressed this evening with the consideration of what a pleasant affair it would be if we only un- derstood each other in the different parts of the United States — if we could meet at hospitable boards as friends, instead of being always engaged in angry discussions ; and if we could feel that we have a common country — the rich fruits of which we are here to enjoy. Let me say that there is no spot on God's earth where the people, the whole people, the common people — the high and the low — enjoy so much of the fruits of the earth as we do in 181 America, (Applause.) In Europe the rich only enjoy the luxury of a peacli, a pear or an apple. The truth is, the people there are obliged to devote the entire soil to that wliich will support life." The Governor pursued this point a Httle further, and concluded by giving as a sentiment : "OUR HOST — Wherever he steps, floAvers bloom around him; and whenever we meet Mm, his hands are full of richest fruits." Mr. Wilder then gave : "His Honor the Mayor of Boston — By native talents and untiring industry, he has attained to the highest honors of the city." Mayor Smith responded in a very neat and pleasing speech. He spoke of the pleasure it gave him to meet so many gentlemen of different States, and paid fitting and deserved compliment to Mr. Wilder, the host. He also spoke of the fine hotel (the Revere,) saying that there is no hotel in Europe like it. He alluded to his travels in Europe and Aftica in corroboration of the remarks of his Excellency the Governor. He closed by giving — "TAe best fruits of Neio England — Those which every man and woman may cultivate, the fruits of Industry." The President then gave — "Our Guests — We give them a cordial welcome to the city, and extend to them the right hand of fellowship." Hon. Mr. Bexson, M. C, of Maine, was then introduced, and made a very excellent speech. He alluded to the host, speaking of his success as President of the United States Agricultural and other Societies, and of his ability to preside over this "fusion" society. He expressed the hope that if his other offices were not pei-petual, that this would be. Hon. Benj. Seaver, in response to a sentiment, made a good speech. He expressed his thanks as an American citizen, for the advancement of the objects of the society, which possessed so much interest to the whole country. He had not had much experience as a traveller, but he was satisfied that there is no country so blessed with fruits and flowers as our own. He be- lieved that these gatherings were productive of great good, and closed by ' proposing — " Prosperity to the American Pomological Society." , Mr. Pkince of Long Island and Mr. Barry made some brief and appro- priate remarks. Hon. Samuel Walker of Hoxbury being called upon, said if he had influence in sending out missionaries to foreign countries, he would encourage them to take good seeds with them, so that while they teach the heathen they may also instruct them how to till the soil and to cultivate the fruits of the earth. It is no mean occupation to be an agriculturist. He spoke of his visits to various parts of the Union, and to Western New York particularly, and closed by giving as a sentiment — 182 •' Our Friends — I rejoice to meet them here." The oldest Horticultural Editor in the State, Mr. Hovey, having left, the youngest, Mr. King, was called upon, and responded La a brief but sen- sible speech. He spoke of the favorable influence of the occupation of agriculture upon men, ia giving them ideas of equality. He closed by giving a sentiment complimentary to the host of the evening. Hon. Seth Spbague of Duxbiiry made an excellent speech, and was followed by Mr. Flint, Secretary of the Board of Agriculttire, who gave in closing : " The American Pomological Society — The Farmers look to you as the highest authority in this pleasant and useful branch of agricultmre. " Hon. Mr. Keyes of Dedham, Secretary of the Norfolk County Agricul- tural Society, made an elegant speech, closing with the sentiment : "TAe Pomologist — While our mouths are filled with his golden sweets, and while our lips are moistened with nectar juice, our voices camiot help sound- ing and celebrating his praise." Hon. Mr. Proctek of Essex, being called upon, gave — "The memory of John Endicott." To which the President added : " And Peter Stuyvesant, who planted pear trees in Massachusetts and in New York, two hundred years ago, which are still living." The President also gave as a closing sentiment : «< To all our friends frem every section of the country, horticulturists, pomologists, and tillers of the soil, prosperity, health, and happiness." Many other excellent things were said, expressive of the enjoyment of the company, and their appreciation of the character of theii- host. The Levee passed off in the happiest manner, and was in the highest degree creditable to the taste and Hberality of Mr. Wilder. THIRD DAY. • Tlie convention was called to order at the usual hour ; and the discussion continued on the Concord grape. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I am sorry the motion adopting the report was reconsidered ; but, as the question has been opened, and the Concord grape has been discussed at so much length by other members, it may not be out of the way for me to make a few remarks concerning it. I have no 183 knowledge of the grape myself, though I think that I once tasted it ; but as it did not, at that time, impress itself on my memory, I feel that I am in entire ignorance of its qualities. This, I suppose, is the case with nearly every member of the convention. How then can we intelligently discuss its merits? Mr. Bull has not offered the grape to the conven- tion, and does not, as I understand it, request the expression of any opinion concerning it. With respect to its earliness, a point somewhat labored, it does seem to me that it is fair to compare it only with other varieties grown under similar cir- cumstances, and as no one has grown the Concord but Mr. Bull, it seems to me that it should be compared with respect to its earliness, ^^th other varieties grown by that gentleman. Subjected to this comparison, the Concord is earlier than the Isabella. Whether the grapes on the table in the tent are Isabella or not, I do not know ; but if they are, they may have been grown under peculiarly favorable circumstances, and thus afford no subject for comparison. I saw Isabellas ripe this year on September 7th, but they were grown in a peculiarly favorable position, and it would not be fair to com- pare the Concord with such. The Concord grape, from its appearance, and from that only can we judge of it, seems to me an acquisition. It is certainly very handsome, and if it is as foxy as a fox, would be worth cultivating for ornament. It seems to me that the best and only thing for the conven- tion to do is to adopt the report of the committee. Mr. Bull of Massachusetts. I did not mean, in my re- marks yesterday, to intimate any dissatisfaction with the opinion of the committee. I merely meant to state all the facts of interest relating to it, with which I was acquainted. I do not offer my opinion as to its qualities, but leave that matter wholly to the committee. Mr. Breck of Massachusetts. When I first saw the grapes from Mr. Cutter, yesterday morning, I was very confident it was the Concord, and so expressed my opinion. It certainly resembles it very much. It has the same fine blue bloom that 184 the Concord usually has ; while the Isabella commonly has a more pui-ple bloom : but I was afterwards satisfied that it Avas the Isabella. It grew in the most favorable location on our rocky soil, which is very early, and the best situation possible for ripening the grape, and on which these grapes were pro- duced at least three weeks before the Isabella is usually ripened. I think it is well that the Concord should remain to be proved hereafter. I believe gentlemen will be satisfied when they come to test that fruit fully ripe. I have seen but one bunch of it in that condition, and thought it c[uite equal to the Isabella. The Report on Native Fruits was finally accepted. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NATIVE FRUITS. CONCOED GRAPE. From Mr. Bull, Concord, Mass. Large, round, heavy bloom, dark color, flavor more foxy than the Isabella, bunch in size and form similar to Isabella, quality good. BRECK GRAPE. From Joseph Breck, Boston, Mass. Size medium, round, dark color, bunch large, compact, flavor good. WINSHIP GRAPE. From A. W. Stetson, Braintree, Mass. Seedling from Grizzly Frontignan. Medium, round, purple, quality very good. WIGHT. From A, W. Stetson, Mass. Medium, round, green, quality very good. TOMATO FIGS. From Mrs. Eliza Marsh, Dedham, Mass. One year old, very superior, prepared according to annexed recipe : 185 Recipe pok Tomato Figs. — Pour boiling water over the tomatoes, in order to remove the skin ; then weigh them, and place iii a stone jar with the same amount of sugar as tomatoes. Let them stand two days, and then pour off syrup, and boil and skim it until no scum rises ; pour this syrup over the tomatoes and let them stand tAvo days as before ; then boil and skim again ; after the third time they are fit to dry, if the weather is good, if not let them stand in the syrup until drjong Aveather ; then place on large earthen dishes or plates, and put them in the sun to dry, which will take about a week ; after which pack them down in small wooden boxes, with fine white sugar between every layer. Tomatoes prepared in this way will keep for years. A few apples cut up and boiled in the remainder of the sjTup, make a very nice sauce. ORANGE WATEE MELON. From Stanley E. Hart^ Connecticut. Rather large, round, striped, flesh separates freely from the rind. GRAHAM GRAPE. From Philadelphia. Early, saccharine, juicy, less pulpy than Catawba, very good. PHILADELPHIA PEAR. From Mr. Latch, Pennsylvania. Large, roundish ovate, green, becoming yellow, higlily perfumed, quality very good. REGNIER PEAR. From Pennsylvania. Above medium, ovate, yellow with usually colored cheek, quality very good. APPLE. From Peter Lamson. Is considered by a majority of the committee to be Gravenstein. WINE. From Lebanon, N. Y. Shaker Seedling — Northern Mus- cadine, sweet, perfumed, quality good. ZIMMERMAN'S CATAWBA BRANDY. From Longworth & Zimmerman, Cincinnati, Ohio. Not the means of testing it properly. DRY CATAWBA. From N. Longworth, Cincinnati, Ohio. Fine fruity bou- quet,— sustains its reputation. 186 SPARKLING CATAWBA. From N. Longwortli, Cincinnati, Ohio. Very superiol*, highly perfumed, and similar in character to the Sparkling Moselle. AMES' SEEDLING GRAPE. From Roxbury, Mass. Oval, large, blue, bunch loose, flavor vinous, quality very good. HARTFORD PROLIFIC GRAPE. Bunch medium size, loose, berry medium size, round or nearly so, black, pulp large, sweet, juicy, with a strong foxy perfume scarcely good. (Very early.) Other native grapes were exhibited, among which were the Curtis, by A. W. Stetson, and Seedling grapes from James Blood of Newburyport, which escaped the attention of the comniittee W. D. RRINCKLE, Chairman. DISCUSSION OF APPLES RESUMED. Mr. Benson of Maine. I believe, when the subject of apples Avas laid aside yesterday, the convention were consider- ing new varieties to be brought before the public. I wish to mention a variety which originated in my native town witliin half a mile of my birth place — the parent tree still standing there on the spot of its origin — and which we call the Win- throp Greening. It has been exhibited in the rooms of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society under the name of Lincoln Pippin ; ripens in our climate, the County of Ken- nebeck, the latter part of October ; is larger than the Rhode Island Greening ; and for flavor, and beauty, and taste, is con- sidered by those acquainted with it as ranking among the very best. It certainly suits my taste better than almost any apple that I eat. I suppose it is not sufhcieiitly known, to take its place among those for general cultivation. I simply wish to call attention to it, and propose that it be placed on the list of those which promise well. 187 Mr. Prince of Long Island. I have no knowledge of it under this name, but about eight years ago I received some specimens of the Lincoln Pippin from Hallowell, in Maine ; the apples were so fine that I engrafted them, and placed the name on the catalogue. I have no doubt in regard to the quality of the apple. Mr. GooDALE of Maine. I have taken a good deal of pains to examine the apple and obtain scions, and have obtained no less than three distinct apples of that name from the towns of Winthi'op and Hallowell. From my research I came to the conclusion that the old tree in Winthrop was a graft from an original stock in England. This apple has turned up in other localities where it came from that orchard. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. I move that it be placed on the list for trial. The motion was unanimously adopted. The Hekefokd SHIRE Pearmain was named by Mr. Prince of ISTew York. This apple is much larger than the one now usually known under that name, which is a moderately oval apple ; while this is much more oblong. It has the same delightful aromatic flavor, but is a much better keeping apple. The Benoni Apple. Mr. Barry of New York. This is one that I think a great deal of; is a New England variety, and a beautiful grower. The fruit is crisp, large, and fine-flavored. I think it a very desirable apple and worthy of cultivation. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. My experience of the Benoni is very much in its favor. It is a very excellent table fruit. I think it originated some years ago in the vicinity of Dedham ; have no hesitation in saying it is a very good variety. Mr. Prince of Long Island. Mr. Robert Manning sent it to me as the best apple of the season ; and I think the apple deserving of that commendation. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I agree that it is a very 188 fine apple : but it appears to me that its season is an objection to it for the market. Mr. Good ALE of Maine. We have no superior for its season. Mr. Barry of New York. The size of the apple with us is above medium — what I should call large. I move it be placed among those which promise well. The motion was adopted. On motion of Mr. Walker of Massachusetts, it was voted that the morning session be extended until three o'clock P. M., and that the convention then close its sittings. The William's Favorite. Col. Little of Maine. I would call the attention of this society to the William's Favorite apple. No apple com- mands a higher price in our market in Bangor than this. It rec[uires a strong rich soil^ and as it is, I believe, universally popular, I move it be placed on the list for general cultivation. Its color and great beauty, I think, will contribute much to render it a favorite fruit with the public generally. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. The Fruit Committee of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society say, unqualifiedly, that is the best apple of its season in the market. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. It does not flourish well on light soils. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. We have been much dis- appointed in regard to the quality of that appls, its productive- ness, and its time of ripening, which, with us, is not until some time m August. Mr. Benson of Maine. It succeeds very Avell in Maine ; is a high-priced apple, and a great favorite ; is very highly esteemed indeed. Mr. Cutter of New Hampshire. It succeeds very well with us. It was placed on the list for general cultivation, with this qualification — it does not flourish on light soils. 189 Mr. Town SEND of New York desii-ed the opinion of the convention as to the best winter sweet apple for cooking. Danver's Winter Sweet was recoinmended by several gentlemen. Mr. Barry of New York. I am inclined to thmk this apple is watery. I would name another which I consider far better, more generally good, though not so fine an apple, and that is the Lyman Pumpkin Sweet. Mr. Prince of ISTew York. The Lyman is a fall apple. Mr. Hull of Illinois. The Danver's Winter Sweet is excellent for cooking ; but, as a general thing, it is watery. Mr. Eaton of New York. It is always watery as far as my knowledge extends. Mr. Saul of New York. I wish to say that the Ladies' Winter Sweet is the best. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. My experience with the Ladies' Winter Sweeting induces me to place it in the very highest rank of sweet apples for the winter. I consider the fruit number one. The President. I have seen it growing with the limbs loaded very heavily. It is fair, keeps until May, and is an excellent apple. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I should be glad to see it placed on the list of those wliich promise well, although it is a weak grower. In regard to taste, I think it somewhat superior to the Danver's Sweet, which is rather apt to be water cored. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. I have an old tree that I grafted some three or four years ago, which is perfectly loaded with fruit. It keeps very well indeed. Dr. Wight of Massachusetts. The apples hang on the tree like ropes of onions. I have no doubt it will prove a very desirable fruit. It was voted, as the unanimous opinion of the convention, that the Ladies' Winter Sweet is the best winter sweet apple in cultivation. 190 The John Sweet. Mr. Cutter of New HampsMre said this was an apple raised in Hillsboro' County, and is the best winter sweet apple for cooking I have ever seen. The size is the same as that of the Baldwin, and it is a very good keeping apple. The tree is very hardy, but grows very badly in the nursery ; it is difficult to produce a handsome tree. I have seen the apple exhibited in the county fair for several years. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I would call attention to the New^town Pippin. There are two distinct and very dissimilar varieties cultivated under this name — the Green Newtown and the Yellow Newtown. The latter has a smooth bark and is very thrifty, while the other has rough bark and is unthrifty. I)r. Wight of Massachusetts. I will call attention to the Ledge Sweeting, a seedling from Portsmouth, which will undoubtedly jji'ove as desirable a fruit as the Ladies' Sweet. It is very handsome, and has been exhibited here as late as June. The President. It is a most remarkable apple, and a very great favorite in the East. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. After the remarks that have been made in regard to the Ladies' Winter Sweet, it appears to me we should place it on some list. Mr. Barry of New York. I move it be placed on the list of those which promise well. The motion passed unanimously. The Belmont. Mr. Barry of New York. This is a large, beautiful, and excellent apple in Western New York, considered worthy of very extensive cultivation. It is an early winter apple. Mr. Hull of Illinois. That apple succeeds admirably north of Illinois, but fails there. Mr. Miller of Ohio. With us it has proved itself to be a very desirable fruit. 191 Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have had specimens of that apple which, I think, were rather imperfect, but they promised well for a good apple. Mr. Saul of New York. I saw specimens of it in Cincin- nati, in 1850, which were very fine indeed. I think it is a very excellent apple. Mr. jSIillee. of Ohio. I hold in my hand an apple which I wish to bring to the notice of the Society, called the Long Apple. In our section it is a very great bearer, and an excellent market apple, beginnmg to ripen in August and continuing till October. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. There is another variety which no amateur should be without, — I mean the Gakden KoYAL, It excels in fine spicy flavor, perhaps, any other apple of the season. As it is a very small grower I would not recommend it for the orchard, but for the garden it is a very desirable apple. It ripens in the latter part of August. The Peesident. I entirely coincide in that opinion. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I think that apple more delicious to my taste than most pears. It ranks among the best, stands at the head of the list of apples as to flavor, in its time. But on account of its small size I could not consent to its being put on the list for general cultivation. It should be in the hands of every amateur. The President. It is apt to drop from the tree, and is so tender and delicate that it is liable to crack in dropping. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I find those that drop the best. Mr. Downing of New York. It is one of the finest amateur apples I know of. The Garden KoyaL was recommended as good for gardens. It was here voted to close the discussion of the apple. Mr. Wm. p. Prince of Flushing, Long Island, offered the following resolutions : Resolved — That we appreciate the wisdom and beneficence of the Creator in placing within the boundaries of our country eight distinct species of the 192 grape, and innumerable varieties ; thus providing means for the resuscitation of the human system, by the most delicious fruits and gently exhilerating beverages. Resolved — That whilst we deprecate the use of all alcoholic liquids, and of the adulterated wines that are poured upon our shores from the Eastern Hemisphere, we cannot refrain from urging upon Americans the general culture of the grape, and the formation of extensive vineyards, in order' thereby to diminish importations, increase the national wealth, and, above all, to furnish an ample supply of ptu'e American wines as the most sovereign preventive of intemperance. The resolutions were laid on tlie table. Mr. King of Massacliusetts then offered the foUoAving resolution : Resolved — That the models of fruit prepared by Mr. Townsend Glover of Fishkill, N.Y., excel all others of the kind that have come under our notice ; — that they are calculated to serve a very important purpose, in presenting perfect specimens for examination at all seasons, and from all sections of the country ; and that we respectfully recommend to the Congress of the United States to employ Mr. Glover to prepare (under the direction of a committee to be appointed by this society) a full collection of the fruits of the country, to be deposited in the Agricultural Department of the Patent Office at Washington. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I wish to make a single remark in regard to that resolution. I have seen Mr. Glover's models, and it seemed to me that they were more perfect than anything else of the kind in existence. They furnish the best representation of the different fruits that I have ever seen. I am decidedly in favor of the adoption of that resolution. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. It gives me great pleasure to bear testimony to the faithful execution of the fruits of the country by Mr. Glover. I can endorse all that Mr. Cabot has said in regard to the correctness of the models. Mr. Saul of New York. I can add nothing in support of the resolution : but as the neighbor of Mr. Glover, and as one perfectly acquainted with the history of this enterprise, I can not let the matter pass without giving my hearty concurrence in all that has been said in favor of his models. Mr. Manice of New York. I was called upon to examine a large collection of the fruits, modelled by Mr. Glover, and 193 found them remarkably correct, so far as I was acquainted with the varieties. I should like to have the resolution pass. The President and Mr. Benson also bore flattering testi- mony to the fidelity of Mr. Glover's models, and the great value of the contemplated collection. The resolution was unanimously adopted. On the suggestion of Mr. Walker it was determined to decide, at this point in the proceedings, upon the place where the next convention should be held. Mr. Barry of New York. I have been firequently asked whether the fruit cultivators of Western New York were de- sirous of having the next convention held there. He said they would be glad to have it there, if it should be thought desii'able by the gentlemen present, and assured the members of the society that they would receive a kind greeting and a hearty welcome from the people in that vicinity. It was then unanimously voted, on motion of Mr. Saul of New York, that the American Pomological Society hold its next session in Rochester, New York, in the month of Sep- tember, A.D. 1856. Mr. Barry of New York. In the order of business pre- pared by the committee, there was to be a portion of time devoted to the discussion of pears suitable for cultivation on the quince stock. I am anxious that some action should be taken upon the matter at our present convention, and there- fore call up the subject now. There have lately appeared several articles in the newspapers, stating that the cultivation of pears on the quince stock must be given up as a failure. I have regretted to see such statements, for I felt that they were incorrect, and were doing a vast amount of harm in the country. I look upon the cultivation of the pear on the quince stock as a great blessing, because it enables the people to en- joy the pear years and years before they could otherwise have it. To be sure, the cultivation has not always been judicious, and the results have sometimes been deplorable ; but even with these results before us, I should be sorry to see the cultivation 194 on the quince abandoned. Perhaps the shortest way to get through with this business now, will be to present a list of some varieties which are unquestionably good for cultivation on the quince stock. We receive two kinds of stock from France, the Anglers and the Fontenay or Paris stock. The latter is not so rapid a grower as the other, but I would not give a straw for the difference between the tAvo. In some respects the first is better, but I do not think a union -with that is better than with the Fontenay. The common apple or orange quince of this country is not a suitable stock for bud- ding. It may grow well for one or two years, but will ultimately fail. I have drawn off the following list of pears, which I think will do well on the quince stock : — Belle Lucrative, Rostiezer, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre Diel, Duchess d'Angou- leme. White Doyenne, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Figue d'Alen- con, Urbaniste, Easter Beurre Glout Morceau, Pound, Cat- tilac. Vicar of Winkfield, Napoleon, Beurre d'Amalis, Beurre d'Aremberg, Soldat Laboreur, Beurre Langelier, Long Green of Cox, Nouveau, Poiteau, and St. Michael Archange. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. The Belle Lucrative has not done well on the quince with me. Mr. Saul of New York. It has done well with me. Mr. Good ALE of Maine. It is a first-rate grower for a few years, but I think not longer, which is an important matter on the quince. I think the Urbaniste is not excelled by any on the quince stock, while the Beurre d'Aremberg does very well for a few years and then fails. Mr. Saul of New York. I would add the Stevens' Genesse. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I would make a single re- mark in regard to the longevity of the pear on the quince stock. Some twenty-eight years ago the London Horticultu- ral Society imported from France some pears on the quince stock, and those trees are flourishing now. I think they may be cultivated to endure for a great length of time. On motion of Mr. Saul of New York, the list presented by Mr. Barry was unanimously adopted by the convention. 195 It was then voted to choose the discussion of the pear on quince stock ; and to take up the subject of — CHEERIES. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I propose the American Amber, which is one of the most pleasant honey cherries there are, and the tree one of the strongest growing trees of that family. Mr. Barry of New York. I would mention the Belle D'Orleans. It has been introduced in a great many places ; and I regard it as a very valuable cherry, on account of its earliness. It is a white cherry, not taken by the birds so much as others, and a great grower. I would recommend it for trial. I would also name a native cherry, the Governor Wood, which I consider the finest of all cherries. It is a beautiful grower, and a most abundant bearer, — a light colored cherry, handsome, and of fair size. The President. I have fruited the Governor Wood, Black Hawk, and Kirtland's Mary, all of which are of very high character with me. I would recommend them to the list for trial. I wish also to add the Hovey and the Ohio Beauty. All the cherries discussed above were placed on the list of those varieties 'which promise well. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I wish to mention the old Black Heart Cherry. If I could have but one tree, it would be of this variety. It is not so sweet as the Black Eagle, but it has a very rich flavor, and, I think, is very much superior to the Black Tartarian. It is very long in season ; I think a tree would keep a family in cherries longer than any other variety. It is the most desirable cherry I know, and I recommend it for general cultivation. There are a great many erroneous varieties under this name. Mr. Clark of Connecticut, I concur with Mr. Manning. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I also concur — with the 196 same special remark — that there is not one specimen of five grown under that name, which is the true Black Heart cherry. Mr. Hull of Illinois. I must enter my protest against Black Heart cherries ; they are all liable to crack in the bark. Mr. French of Massachusetts. This cherry is covered by so long a leaf that the birds are not aware of its existence, and do not pick it. Mr. Eaton of New York. The cherry is so small that the birds cannot see it. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I think it is not a very remarkable fruit ; and there is so much doubt about the true variety, that I think we had better not put it on the list. Mr. Prince of Long Island. Where there is one cherry of any other kind carried to the New York market, there are at least fifty of the Black Heart. It was voted to pass by the Black Heart without further action. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. "We have a cherry seedling in this neighborhood raised by George Walsh of Charlestown. He states that there are three difierent seedlings ripening at intervals of about one week from each other ; but they are so much alike that it is difficult to tell them apart, except by the time of ripening. It is a very valuable large sized black cherry. I propose that we call it Walsh's Seedling. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I have been acquainted with this cherry some fourteen or fifteen years. When it was first exhibited at the tables of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, there was some doubt as to its being a seedling, from the fact that a Mr. Brown of Danvers had presented a cherry very much like it, which he called the Black Bigai'reau of Savoy. I happened to be upon a committee which was sent out to examine the tree. We did not make a very thorough examination, but satisfied ourselves that the trees were not budded. We afterwards came to the conclusion that it was a seedling of Mr. Walsh, as some years elapsed and no such 1&7 cherry was brought in by any other person. I think Mr. Walsh called it No. 1. It is well known as being a large black cherry, equal in size to the Black Tartarian ; a very firm fleshed and excellent cherry ; I should say of the best quality. Mr. Prince of Long Island. Some years ago Mr. Walsh sent me grafts of these cherries, I inserted them, and called them Walsh No. 1 and No. 2 ; but was afterwards satisfied that they were the same as the Black Bigarreau of Savoy. The cherry is large, round, and jet black. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I introduced the Black Bigarreau of Savoy to the public here ; and think it an entirely different cherry from Mr. Walsh's, which was put into the catalogue as the New Black Bigarreau, and is known to the Massachusetts Society as such. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. Does the gentleman consider Mr. Walsh's cherry a seedling ? Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I cannot say. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. Mr. AValsh presented two varieties of cherry here, which he stated to be seedlings, and I do not now see that the gentleman denies them to be so. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. If Mr. Walsh's cherry is not a seedling, why have we not, in fifteen or twenty years, found it imported from Europe ? When a gentleman presents a fruit as a seedling, and that length of time is given for con- tradicting him, the chances are that he will be contradicted. But there is nothing against the claim of Mr. Walsh here, except the statement of Mr. Prince, which can undoubtedly be explained. I think Mr. Walsh, who raised the seedling, is entitled to give it a name. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I move that it be placed on the list of those varieties which promise well, under the name of Walsh's Seedling. The motion of Mr. Lines prevailed. Mr. Saul of New York. I would name the Great Bigar- reau as described by Mr. Downing. This is not a black 198 cherry, and consequently cannot be synonymous with, the variety just spoken of. It is a beautiful bright-red cherry. The tree is very large, and bears a beautiful crop of very fine cherries. It is one of the most desirable varieties ; and I would wish to have it put on the list for general cultivation, if it were more generally known. Mr. French of Massachusetts. Mr. Downing has prefer- red it above all others. It is a very fine large cherry. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. I think it one of the best of cherries. It was placed on the list which promise well. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I will now name the largest cherry ever introduced into this country — ^the large Red Prool Cherry, Gros rouge de Prool, of the South of France. I have a tree thirty-five feet in height. It is much larger than any cherry under cultivation in the United States or Europe. I Avill here add that the three largest cherries known are Large Red Prool, Black Bigarreau of Savoy, and the Gros Coeuret. On motion of Mr. Saul it was voted to leave the subject of cherries, and begin the discussion of STRAWBERRIES. Mr. Hooker of New York. I move that Burr's New Pine be advanced to general cultivation. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is a valuable strawberry, of secondary size, a very prolific bearer, and of high flavor. But at the present time there are many others which are lar- ger, more productive, and of higher flavor. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. Its only value with us is its exceedingly high flavor. It is so difficult to get a pint of the fruit, that its cultivation has been abandoned. Mr. Hooker of New York. It is extremely productive with us ; very handsome and very early. Mr. Prince of Long Island. There are two varieties dis- seminated throughout the Union under that name. 199 Mr, Clark of Connecticut. It has completely run out of cultivation with us. Mr. HovEY of Massachusetts. It has not been on the tables of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society for five years. Mr. Barry of New York. It is one of the very finest fruits with us. On motion of Mr. Lines it was recommended for certain locations. "Walker's Seedling was proposed by the President. Mr. Hooker of New York. It is valuable, but not very productive. Mr. Barry of New York. I consider it very valuable. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I tliink it very valuable, very hardy, handsome fruit, of good quality, and a fine grower. It was placed on the list as promising well. Mr. Hooker of New York. There is no one strawberry that can be adopted for general cultivation. The President. Few varieties succeed equally well in every place. The Early Scarlet was then taken up for discussion. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. I think this should not remain on the catalogue of this society. Mr. Barry of New York. I think the Early Scarlet was adopted with more unanimity than any other variety. I have tested a great many varieties, and I say that for an early market strawberry this is without a rival. Mr. Hooker of New York. We have no prospect of a strawberry that will supersede this with us. Mr. Saul of New York. I believe if we were confined to one variety we should select the Large Early Scarlet. Mr. Prince of Long Island. At the present day, to those who have a knowledge of other strawberries, it is repulsive to the feelings even to have this mentioned. It is a weak straw- berry, of very moderate size, and half a crop is seldom pro- duced. It does very well if you can get nothing better. 200 Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. It is in universal culti- vation about Boston for the market. Mr, Manning of Massachusetts. I think the people of Salem would protest against striking out the Early Scarlet. Mr. French of Massachusetts. We may vote as we please, but the gardeners in this vicinity would certainly grow the Early Scarlet. This was passed, as also were the Imperial Scarlet and Scarlet Magnate, without action. Jenney's Seedling was recommended for certain locations. It was then voted, on motion of Mr. Walker of Massa- chusetts, to take up the discussion of PLUMS. Colonel Little of Maine. I move the McLaughlin Plum be taken from the list that promise well, and be placed on the catalogue for general cultivation. This plum originated in Bangor, and so far as it is known I believe it gives general satisfaction, although it is a clingstone. The fruit commands the highest price in the market, and it is one of the handsomest in the plum catalogue, and one also of the highest flavor. It has promised well for five years, and so far as I can learn, it has, without exception, fulfilled its promise. Trees and scions of this variety are in great demand from various States in the Union. Mr. French of Massachusetts. It comes very nearly up to the Green Gage, if not quite. It grows well. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. There is one objection — ^it is a clingstone. Mr. Barry of New York. It is a fine plum. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. I move to put on the Smith's Orleans for general cultivation. Mr. Barry of New York. A fine plum. Mr. Hooker of New York. One of the best. Mr. Barry of New York. I would mention the Eeine Claude de Bavay. It is a very fine plum. 201 The PRESIDENT. It is an enormous bearer, and one of the best late plums. These three varieties were put on the list for general cultivation. Mr. Barry of New York. I would also mention the Italian Prune, or Fellenberg. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is a tree of remarkable vigor. Mr. Hull of Illinois. It has done very well with me. It was passed for the present. Mr. Hooker of New York. I would introduce to the society, for trial, a plum which I think is not much known, except with us — the Munroe Egg. It is a fine grower, and is never infested with gnats. The President. I coincide in opinion with Mr. Hooker. Col. Little of Maine. I move that Ives' Washington Seedling be placed on the list that promise well. This new plum originated in Salem, Mass., by John M. Ives, Esq. It is a plum above the medium size, yellow, with a pink colored blush, and is one of the handsomest of plums. It obtained a gratuity at the Bangor Horticultural Exhibition last year. The Committee on Eruits ranked this plum among the best. Mr. Manning of Salem. It originated in a garden ad- joining mine. I should think it a valuable plum where plums will grow. It resembles the Jefferson plum very much. I would add it to the list which promise well. The last two varieties discussed were placed on the list of those which promise well. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. In this section we have all been more or less troubled with the wart. It has been stated that some varieties are never troubled with it ; biit I have no plum that is free from the difficulty. I think, how- ever, that the McLaughlin has been less diseased than any other variety. Early last spring I tried the experiment of cutting out some of those warts with a sharp knife, and then 202 cutting along the stem as far down as the main stem. I found that where these incisions were made, the warts did not appear. I then made these incisions on the McLaughlin down to the ground, and there have been no warts on it since. The same treatment has been successful with the English Damson — a plum more subject to this disease than any other variety. I have no theory about this matter, but mention the fact as one that may be useful. KASPBERRIES. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I move we strike out from our list of raspberries the Red Antwerp. I believe it to be a good variety, but there are so many other sorts better, it is not worth while to retain it. Mr. Lines of Connecticut. It is one of the very best with us. There is some little doubt whether that or the Franconia is the best. Both are very fine. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is one of the most splendid fruits that has ever been placed on any table. With us it is one of the most vigorous of growers. Mr, Downing desig- nated it as the True Red Antwerp. Mr. Saul of New York. It is well known that this is the great raspberry of New York. In the neighborhood of Milton there are acres and acres covered with it, and the people can not supply half the orders they receive for the plants ; they sell them for fifty dollars per thousand. I am astonished to hear Mr. Cabot say it is a failure here. Mr. Hooker of New York. I hope it will not be stricken out ; but I wish we could come to an understanding as to what the Red Antwerp is. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. As there may be some mistake about the true name, I withdraw my motion. Mr. "Walker of Massachusetts. I move that Knevet's Giant be taken from the list which promise well, and ad- vanced for general cultivation. 203 Mr. Newhall of Massachusetts. I have cultivated it for twelve years alongside of the Franconia. It is far ahead of all others in quality ; a good bearer, and very hardy ; it has not been killed by the frost in seven years. The President. I coincide with Mr. Newhall. It is a very fine raspberry. It was introduced by me ten years since, but I believe it does not now exist in England. Mr. Stickney of Massachusetts. I think it promises ex- ceedingly well, and will probably come into general cultivation. It was placed on the list for general cultivation. The President. I will propose the Orange, the French, and the Walker raspberries — ^varieties raised by Dr. Brinckle. I think the Orange the most beautiful fruit I have seen in that family. Mr. Goodale of Maine. I have knoAvn it but a feAv years, but have had it exposed to the weather entirely uninjured. It is by far the best raspberry we have. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I have not fruited the Orange, but have seen it, and set it down as among the best. The President. The French has stood well with me, and last winter unprotected. It is a fine, large, plump fruit, like the gentleman for whom it is named. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I esteem it on account of its lateness. I think it is really an acquisition. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey. I think it one of the best flavored raspberries I have ever seen. The President. The Walker stood remarkably well — quite as hardy as either of the others, though the crop was not so promising, and it did not carry out its strength through the season quite so well as the French. The Orange, French, and Walker were placed on the list as 'promising well, and the discussion of the raspberry closed. 204 BL ACKBEKKIES. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I wish to enquire about Lawson's New Rochelle Blackberry. I have seen some- thing of it, and it seems to me a very good one. Mr. Prii^ce of New York. It is the most remarkable acquisition of the blackberry kind ; very sweet and delicious indeed, a great bearer, and the hardiest plant possible. They are planting it extensively. Mr. Manice of New York. It is very large, tender, and delicious. I think it the greatest acquisition we have had. Mr. Saul of New York. I can corroborate what others have said. Mr. Charles Downing made a special journey to New Eochelle to see this blackberry, and found three acres covered with it. He said it was the greatest sight he ever beheld, and entirely exceeded his expectations. The bushes were completely loaded with fruit, and he thought it a great acquisition. Mr. Clark of Connecticut. I never saw any thing more productive. Adopted as promising well. Mr. PriJjCE of Long Island. I wish to ask whether gen- tlemen know any thing of Needham's White Blackberry. Mr. Manning of Massachusetts. I have had it on my grounds, and think it a very valuable variety, though not so much so as the Black. Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts. I have seen it repeatedly, and supposed it an accidental seedling. I should hardly think it worth notice. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is found plentifully in Vermont and Ohio. I have tried it, and found it very unproductive. Mr. Cutter of New Hampshire. With me it is perfectly worthless. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. This White Blackberry is a very miserable affair, and I think the less we say of it in our publication the better. I move we close the discussion on this subject. The motion was adopted. 205 Mr. W. S. King of Massachusetts, offered the following resolution : Resolved — That "vve cordially invite our sister association — the North "Western Fruit Grower's Association — to meet the American Pomological Society in council at the next biennial meeting, appointed to be held at Rochester, N. Y, The resolution passed unanimously, and, on motion of Mr. King, it was voted that it be forwarded to the North- Western Fruit Grower's Association to be acted upon by them. On motion of Mr. Walker, it was voted that the convention next consider the subject of NECTARINES. Mr. Hancock of New Jersey. We have the Vermash, a large and very fine nectarine. Mr. Prince of Long Island. It is an old nectarine, and widely disseminated, and is a very fine thing. Mr. Hooker of New York. It has sometimes been doubted whether nectarines can be produced from peach stones. I would say that I once planted a quantity of peach stones of the Early York variety, and the produce from them were more than half nectarines. I saved the peaches myself, plant- ed them with my own hands, and have eaten the fruit. I have picked the Early York peach as free from down and as perfectly smooth as the nectarine itself. The Pbesident. The late S. G. Perkins, Esq., raised the Boston Nectarine from a peach stone. Mr. Walker of Massachusetts. Some enquiry has been made about the Boston Nectarine, a fruit pretty well known, one of the largest nectarines raised in the country, and, I suppose, about as worthless as any other. It was recommended because people are apt to judge of fruits by their size rather than their good qualities. Mr. Hull of Illinois. The tree is a very fine grower, produces moderate crops annually, but only of a second or third-rate quality. 206 The discussion on nectarines Avas closed, when the conven- tion briefly considered the subject of GRAPES. The President presented a sample of the Hartford Prolific, acompanied by the following letter, which was read by the secretary : Haktfokd, September 12, 1854. Specimens of the Hartford Prolific Grape are herewith sent for the consideration of the Pomological Convention. This grape is an accidental seedling raised in West Hartford, by Raphio Steele & Son, and has never failed to fruit for five years. The Hartford County Horticultural Society have thoroughly examined it during that time, and have named it as above. It is, perhaps, a cross of the Isabella with the common Fox, for these vines came up together, and two of them found to be similar to the Fox. It is, we think, a very good grape, and is especially to be recommended where the Isabella does not ripen. Well ripened bunches have repeatedly been exhibited during the first week in September. The bunches are large, rather loose, berries round, skin thin, black, very sweet, rather more pulp than the Isabella, but much less than our common native grapes ; wood pretty stout, long jointed. I furnished a short description of this, which was published in Hovey's Magazine of Horticulture for March 1852 ; and the experience of every season has confii-med the favorable opinions then expressed. Its chief merit is this, that for certain localities, where the Isabella does not ripen, it is a very desirable grape. GURDEN W. RUSSELL, Rec. Sec. Hartford Co. Hort. Society. Mr. French of Massachusetts. I move the Diana be adopted for general cultivation. Mr. Hooker of New York. It is a very fine gx'ape — a very great acquisition. Mr. Prince of Long Island. I regard it as a great acquisition. Mr. "Walker. Is it a good bearer. Mr. French. My vines are perfectly loaded with fruit. Mr. Manice of New York. I have fruited it this year, and find it very fine. Although a very slow grower for the first two or three years, it does very well after that ; a very fair grape. 207 Mr, Clark of Connecticut. In our locality it has been a good grower and a very early bearer. The Diana was adopted for general cultivation. Mr. Lines of Connecticut said he had met with very great success in cultivating the Zinfindal grape; it was rather tender, but a fine grape. Mr. Prince presented a sample of a grape from W. N. White, of Athens, Ga., together with a letter, but said the grape was utterly worthless. The time having arrived for adjournment, the discussion of the various kinds of fruits was closed. Hon. Mr. Benson of Maine then addressed the chair as follows : I have some resolutions which I desire to present while we have a full meeting. I believe we all appreciate the kind- ness and hospitality of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society in making such excellent arrangements for the accom- modation of this society, and in their generous invitation to attend their public exhibition in this city. I believe, also, that I express the feelings of this society when I tender to the President our heartiest thanks for the promptness, urbanity, dignity, and impartiality which have distinguished him in pre- siding over our deliberations, and for the pleasure we enjoyed at the munificent Levee with which he complimented us last evening. The first resolution is in these words : Resolved — That the thanks of the society are hereby tendered to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society for the excellent arrangements made to receive and accommodate the members of this society, and for the kind invitation to their beautiful annual exhibition of fruits, flowers, and other products of the earth. Mr. Barry of New York. I am unwilling to have the vote taken without making a few remarks on that resolution. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society is entitled to our most cordial thanks for their bountiful hospitality, and for the excellent exhibition to which they have invited us. I have visited a great many exhibitions of the kind, both in this 208 country and in Europe, but in tastefulness of arrangement, in interest and instruction, this surpasses all I have ever seen. The display of fruits on its tables was hardly ever equalled in the world. I must say, also, that the Massachusetts Horticul- tural Society is not only entitled to the thanks of the dele- gates for their kindness, as citizens, to us on this occasion, but as poniologists, for what they are doing to promote the interests of pomology. Nowhere have I seen equalled the enterprise of the members of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. The resolution passed unanimously, the delegates rising in their seats. Mr. Benson then presented the following : Resolved — That the thanks of the Society are most cordially presented to the President, Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, for the prompt, able, and impar- tial manner in which he has presided over its deliberations ; and we hereby assure him that the members will long cherish a lively recollection of the pleasure enjoyed at his bountiful and brilliant festive entertainment with which he complimented the society, Mr. Lines of Connecticut sustained the resolution in the following remark. I wish to say before the passage of this resolution, that I feel unwilling to give it a silent vote. I feel that it is due to the honorable gentleman who has presided over the delibera- tions of the society with so much dignity and propriety, and who has furnished us with an entertainment from which we have all derived so high a degree of pleasure. But further than this, I regard the position which that gentleman occupies in relation to pomology, as conferring more honor upon him than the presidency of the United States. I think any gentleman who confers such immense benefit, not only upon this part of the States, but upon the whole country — and I may say the world — as the Hon. Mr. "Wilder does, is entitled to distinguished honors. (Applause). I hope this resolution, too, will be passed by a standing vote. The resolution was unanimously adopted. 209 President Wilder made the following happy response to the last resolution : Gentlemen : The resolution which you have just adopted, together with the kind expressions of my friend from Con- necticut, awakens in me peculiar sensations of gratitude and affection. The interest which I have ever felt in the prosperity of this association has been my only inducement to accept of your suffrages, and to occupy the chair for another biennial term. I beg to tender you my grateful acknowledgments for your co-operation and support, and to assure you of my unabated interest in the objects of the society and in your personal welfare. May you go on prospering and to prosper ; and Avhen we have done cultivating the fruits of earth, may we have the unspeakable felicity to meet in celestial fields, and gather ambrosial fruits from the Tree of Life. (Enthusiastic ap- plause.) On motion of Mr. Lines, at a quarter past two o'clock, the convention adjourned, to meet in Rochester, New York, in September, 1856. REPORT ON SOME OF THE DISEASES AND INSECTS AFFECTING FRUIT TREES AND VINES. By THADDEUS WILLIAM HARRIS, PROFESSOR OF ENTOMOLOGY OF THE MASSS. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. SWOLLEN" BRANCHES OF THE APPLE TREE. On the 31st of May, the Hon. M. P. Wilder sent to me some pieces of the limbs of an apple tree, which were singularly enlarged in diameter to the extent of several inches. He found the disease to prevail on the north side of the tree, while the south side was almost entirely free from it. The specimens were carefully examined by Prof. Asa Gray and myself, without insects, their punctures, or their tracks being found therein. One of the branches, measuring two and a half inches in cii'cumference immediately below the swollen part, was enlarged above this spot to four inches in circumference, and the enlarged portion was eleven inches in length. The outer bark seemed perfectly healthy. When sawn transversely, the pith was not found in the centre of the piece, but nearer to one side than the other, where the layers of wood were thicker, and looser in texture. It was also evident that the thicker layers followed a spiral direction around the limb. AVhen the bark was raised, the wood presented a singularly irregular surface, caused by numerous depressions and furrows, which were filled by corresponding eleva- tions of the inner bark. The disease was evidently a diseased formation and irregular deposit of woody matter. It belongs to the province of the vegetable physiologist to explain the cause of this preternatural and diseased formation. WARTS OR EXCRESCENCES ON PLUM TREES. These have been attributed by many persons to the punctures or to the presence of insects therein. I have not been able to find either the one or the other in the incipient warts, or in their immediate vicinity. It was only when these excrescences were well grown and were approaching to maturity, that insects were discovered in them, and not always even in this stage. Some of the twigs, containing incipient warts, were enclosed in a tight vessel in May, and were examined in August, when they were entirely free from the vestiges of insects, although the tumors when cut open, presented the porous and cancellated structure peculiar to them when dry. The insects to be found in the warts in the course of the summer are of sundry kinds ; such 211 as the gi-ubs of the plum- weevil, borers similar to those that attack peach and cheny trees, and the worm-like caterpillars of minute moths. The last seem to be the most abundant and the most common. Their presence is made known by the castings or grain-like fragments thrown out of their bm-rows upon the surface of the warts. These tumors also afford nourish- ment to certain vegetable parasites, the little black grains, half immersed in the surface, to which, when mature, they give a deep black color. These little grains are fungi, which have been described under the name of S^^hceria morbosa. But neither to them, nor to the various insects before named, is the origin of the warts to be ascribed. The incipient warts can be detected, before the outer bark is ruptured, by the swollen appearance and spongy feeling of the sm-face. They seem to be the result of diseased action in the inner bark and new wood, while these parts are in a state of rapid formation. Upon examination, the cells of the tissues are found to be surcharged with fluid, and distorted in shape and arrangement. The plum tree has been called a gross feeder. It may imbibe fluids by its roots faster than it can exhale the superfluous moistiure from its leaves ; or the function of the latter may be checked by such sudden changes in temperature and in the hygro- metric state of the atmosphere as are common in the spring. In either case, there would be likely to ensue an accumulation of fluid in the branches, and particularly in the tender tissues of the new wood, where warts are most commonly developed. From experiments made upon my own trees, I have reason to believe that the growth of these tumors may, in great measure, be prevented by severe root-pruning, stimulating the bark in the spring, or before the buds expand, by washing it with soft soap, and by cutting off the warts as soon as formed, and applying salt or brine to the wounds. CURL OF THE LEAVES OF THE PEACH TREE. This affection, to which the tree is subject during the month of May, and by which it often loses all its first leaves, has been commonly attributed to the punctures of insects, such as aphides and the thrips. It is, however, very doubtful whether these insects are the real cause of that diseased change in the texture and form of the leaf which is called the curl, becavise the insects in qiiestion are rarely seen on the affected leaves, and never in such numbers as sufficiently to account for the extensive injury sustained. The surface of these leaves is swollen into irregular and crisp tumors, often of a reddish color, and of a spongy texture, formed of thickened and succulent cellular tissue. These tumefactions present some analogy to the warts of the plum tree, and may have a similar origin. The affection has often been observed to follow a cold storm in May, whether connected therewith or not. If sudden cold and moisture have a tendency to check evaporation fi-om the leaves, fluids will accumulate therein, and may thus bring about the changes by which they become blasted. It is confidently stated that soaping the the limbs of the trees early in sprmg, or washing them with a solution of sulphur and potash, Avill prevent them from suffering from the curl. Peach trees on plum stocks seem to be nearly exempt from this affection, perhaps 212 because the supply of nourishment from the roots and the exhalation from the leaves are more nearly balanced in them; for the plum stock makes fewer or smaller roots than the peach on its own stock. THE YELLOWS. For the first time in eleven years the symptoms of this disease have appeared in my garden. It is confined to two branches on the north side of one peach tree, the fruit on which is becoming red some three or four weeks too soon, while a few wiry shoots, clothed with diminutive and pale leaves, have sprouted upon these branches. Neither borers nor the Tomicus liminaris have been discovered in the tree ; and the cause of the disease remains as much a mystery to me as to other cultivators. I propose cutting off" the diseased branches, and dressing the soil around the tree with ashes and urine, as an experiment towards checking the further development of the disease. In former years peach trees have rarely suff"ered from the yellows in this neighborhood, where now many trees are aff'ected with it. Has the severe drought of the present season had any influence in producing the disease ? INSECTS OE THE APPLE THEE. My remarks will necessarily be confined to a very few of the numerous insects infesting fruit trees and vines ; there being nothing new or particularly interesting to be stated concerning the greater part of them. Cankeu-wokms. — There are some parts of the country in which these insects have never appeared : in other parts their visitations occur several years in succession, are then suspended for an uncertain term of years, after which they recur again as before. Thus, in the vicinty of Boston, these insects prevailed from 1831 to 1840, increasing yearly in numbers till the last date, after which they disappeared almost entirely till 1847, when they began again to attract attention, and have become more numerous every year till the present time. Their ravages dming the past summer, in Cambridge and in some of the adjacent towns, have been very serious, but have not yet reached the height they attained in 1839 and 1840. Canker-worms are generally foiind upon the buds and leaves of the trees before or about the middle of May, and disappear before or about the middle of June, their depredations lasting nearly or quite four weeks. The parent insects, consisting of winged males and wingless females, ascend from their burrows in the ground in the latter part of October, and during the month of November, and again in the spring from the middle of March to about the tenth of April. Their spring rising is sometimes retarded and prolonged a week or more by the backwardness of the season. In mild winters a few of the insects may ascend at various times between the periods for the ordinary avitumnal and spring risings. It is during these same periods that our trees require to be protected against the ascent of the females. Soft tar, seasonably applied around the trunks of the trees, and frequently renewed, is the remedy which has been longest and most relied upon for this purpose. Various other expedients have been tried to prevent the insects from ascending the trees and depositing their eggs upon the branches. Those most worthy of confidence 213 are circular leaden troughs, containing cheap oil or gas-tar, secured in a horizontal position around the trunks of the trees, and the glass rings, lately invented by Mr. George Everett, of Roxbury, the efficacy of which, however, has not yet been sufficiently tested. Canker-worms are very injurious to cherry and plum trees, and to elms and maples, all of which will have to be secured from their anticipated depredations in the same way as apple trees. Palmer-wohms. — In the second edition of Dr. Deane's "New England Farmer and Georgical Dictionary," published in 1797, there will be found the following account, under the article Insect : " Tlie Palmer worm, a wanderer, as its name signifies, is a small worm, about half an inch in length, with many legs, and extremely nimble. It appears at different times in different parts of the comitry. I have seen them only on apple trees and oak trees, in any great abundance. They give the trees the same appearance that the canker-worm does. They appeared in the county of Cumberland [Maine] in the year 1791, about the middle of June, eating off the covering of the leaves on both sides, and leaving the mem- branous part entu-e. The following year there were none to be seen, and I have not known them in any place two years in succession. The seeds of them may be constant, wanting only a particular state of the weather to produce them. The spring which preceded their appearance had been remarkably dry, both in April and May. The history of this insect is so httle known, that I will not undertake to say how they may be successfully opposed. I made smokes under the fruit trees, without any apparent effect. As they let themselves down by threads, they may be thinned by shaking the trees and striking off the threads. Their ravages had not any lasting effects, for the orchards, that had been visited by them, bore plentifully the following year." During the month of June, 1853, a small worm, or naked caterpillar, whose history accords, in every particular, with the foregoing account, was observed in great numbers on apple, cherry, and plum trees, and on oaks, throughout the greater part of New England and in the valley of the Hudson in New York. In some places, orchards suffered from these insects as much as from the ravages of canker-worms ; and not only the leaves, but also the fruit Avas injured or destroyed by them. By many persons they were mistaken for canker-worms. The latter disappeared here about the tenth of June, at which time the palmer- worms were just beginning their depredations. These worms differed from the former in having sixteen legs, in being much more active in their motions, and in creeping without looping or arching up their backs at every step. They were also smaller and differently colored. Towards the end of June, they came to their growth and left the trees, their disappear- ance, in many places, coinciding with the heavy showers which fell about the same date. Some of the insects which were secured, covered themselves with little transparent silken webs or cocoons, in which they took the chrysalis form immediately, and came forth as moths between the 8th and 25th of July. About the same time they were seen in the moth state in orchards, and iii great numbers among the grass under fruit and forest trees. They soon entirely disappeared, nor have they been observed under any form 214 since that time. In an article printed in the "Cambridge Chronicle," for July 23d, 1853, 1 gave to this insect the scientific name of Rhinosia pometella, the little Rhinosia or snout-moth of the orchard, with a scientific description of it in all its stages. That article, and another in the " Journal of the New York State Agricultural Society," for October, 1853, and also Dr. Fitch's account in the same Journal for September, 1853, may be consulted for further particulars. The New Yokk Weevil. — In some of the Western States, apple trees, and occasionally pear, plum, and cherry trees, have been injured by a large weevil, specimens of which, taken from these trees in Michigan and Wisconsin, have been sent to me. This is the biggest weevil known in the United States, measuring half an inch or more in length. It is of a grey color, striped with white, and dotted with black spots on the back. The celebrated naturalist and voyager, John Eeinhold Forster, first described it in 1771, under the name of Curculio Noveboracensis, the New York weevil. It belongs to the modern genus Ithycerus, and has also been described by Mr. Kirby under the name of PachyrhyncJms Schonherri. According to Mr. A. H. Hanford, of Waukesha, AVisconsin, and Mr. Tw E. Wetmore, of North Cannon, Michigan, this weevil attacks the buds and young shoots of the trees, gnawing them to the very pith, so that they break off", or wither and die. Mr. Wetmore informs me that their numbers are greater this year than heretofore, and apprehends great injury from them should they continue to increase. They are found on the trees in May and June ; appear to be active dui-ing the night, and drop off" by day when the trees are suddenly jarred. I have taken them in June and July on oaks and maples, but never met with them on fruit trees. Though not a very abundant species in Massachusetts, it is by no means rare, and has a wide range through the coimtry, being found in most of the New England, Middle, and Western States, in Canada, and in Newfoundland. There is an account and figure of it in the "Horticulturist," for August, 1853, page 386. The " Journal of the New York State Agricul- tural Society," for September, 1853, naay also be consulted for notices of it by Dr. Fitch and myself. Apate bicaudatus. — This is the scientific name given by Mr. Say to a little beetle, whose injurious habits have lately been observed in Michigan and Wisconsin. Professor S. P. Lathrop, of Wisconsin University, and Mr. T. E, Wetmore have sent specimens to me, with accounts of the depredations of the insects, which are found burrowing in the pith of the young branches of the apple tree, during the spring. The branches above the seat of attack soon die. These beetles are from one-quarter to more than thi"ee-tenths of an inch long, cylindrical, dark chestnut brown, roughened like a grater, on the fore part of the thorax, with short spines pointing backAvards, and armed, in the males, with an incurved spine, near the tip of each wing-cover. Besides those sent to me from Michigan and Wisconsin, I have specimens from Ohio, Peirnsylvania, and North Carolina; but have not met Avith any in New England. The Oak-pruner (Stenocorus putator) occasionally attacks the small branches of the apple-tree ; and the blight beetle, Hcolytus, or Tomicus Pi/ri, 215 whose perforations blast and kill tlie branches of the pear tree, has also been found equally injurious to those of the apple tree. Dr, William Le Baron, of Geneva, Illinois, has contributed some interest- ing observations on the Bark-Lice, or scale insects of the apple-tree, to the •'Prairie Farmer," for June, 1854. He finds that there is only one annual brood of these insects, that they are hatched in May, and that the females often produce from seventy to one hundred eggs. He thinks that remedies for the destruction of the insects should be apphed soon after the hatching season. PEAR-TREE INSECTS. Those most injurious to this tree are the Shig-iooi^ns, which destroy the leaves, the ScoUjtus or To?nicus, referred to in a preceding paragraph, and borers, which make their attacks on the stocks of dwarf trees that are grafted upon the quince. Pear trees likewise suffer occasionally from bark-lice. "Within a fev/ years, a new and probably introduced insect has made its appearance in great numbers on pear trees in the western parts of Connecticut and of Massachusetts, particularly in the valley of the Housatonic, and in the adjacent counties of Duchess and Columbia in New York. This is The Psylla, or jumping louse, which is probably identical with the same species that infests the pear tree in Europe. Some account of it has been given in the second edition of my " Treatise ; " but the history is confessedly incomplete, and further particulars have been hoped for from Mr. T. Glover, of Fishkill Landing, whose opportunities for observing the habits of the insect are greater than mine have been. In some of its forms it is found on pear trees from May to October ; and probably two or more broods are produced every year. These little insects live by suction, and obtain their food by puncturing the bark of the young shoots, mostly in the vicinity of the buds. They defile the shoots with the fluid which they discharge in large quantities, and which soon forms a blackish crust on the bark. The best remedy that occurs to me is a wash of strong soap suds and sulphur, applied with a brush to the branches in the sjjring, before the buds expand. A solution of whale-oil soap, thrown upon the trees, will kill the insects, but will have to be repeated at intervals through the summer. PLUM TREE INSECTS. The Plttm Weevil, Cukculio, or Conotrachelus Nenuphar, continues to baffle all attempts to exterminate it. Cherries, apples, pears, and peaches, and even the succulent warts of the plum tree provide for it abundant resources, in default of plums, its more appropriate food. We may save a crop of plums by covering the trees with fine netting, or perhaps by coating the fruit with whitewash ; but the other fruits above named will suff'er all the more for our pains, and will furnish a numerous brood of depredators for the foUowmg year. Nothing short of killing the insects, in some of their forms, will ever prove an effectual remedy. The Slug-icorm, Tenthredo, or Selandria (Blennocamj)a) Cerasi, which destroys the leaves of the cherry and of the pear, is also injurious to those of the plum. It is easily killed by dusting ashes or lime upon it, or by throwing upon the leaves a solution of whale-oil soap, 216 CHERRY TREE INSECTS. Those which attack the leaves are chiefly canker-worms and slug-worms, already referred to, and rose-bugs, which in some seasons are very injurious to them. The latter, as well as May-bugs or Melolonthce, may be gathered by hand on small trees, or may be beaten off with poles and caught in sheets spread beneath the trees. The best time for doing this is in the evening or very early in the morning, when the insects are sluggish, and readily fall if disturbed. A large proportion of the fruit is spoiled every year by the grubs of the plum-weevil. The incautious eater doubtless does something towards checking the increase of the insects ; but a remedy less repugnant to good taste remams to be discovered. PEACH TREE INSECTS. The Tomicus liminakis, which lives under the bark of diseased peach trees, and has been supposed by Miss Morris to be the cause of the yellows, has not appeared in my own trees, nor do I hear of its being found in others in this vicinity. Miss Morris's communication upon it may be seen in Downing's Horticulturist, Vol. IV., page 502. The Peach tree Borer, (^geria ExmosiE,) an entirely different insect from the apple tree borer, and operating in a different manner, namely, between the bark and the wood, is more injurious to this tree than any other insect. Great care is necessary to prevent the tree from being fatally girdled at the root by these pernicious borers. Frequent applications of urine and ashes, and of hot soap-suds, around the trunk, seem to have a good effect, being not only offensive to the fly when about to deposit her eggs, but also destruc- tive to the young borers. After any lurking borers and the earth adjacent to the trunk have been carefully removed, a covering of strong paper around the base of the tree, tied above with a string, and secui-ed at the bottom with a bed of mortar, has proved an effectual preventive against the attacks of the insects. I believe that peach trees on plum stocks are never injured by tllGSG borGTS INSECTS OF THE GRAPE VINE. The vine is subject to the attacks of a very great variety of insects, differ- ing also from each other in their operations, and in the amount of injury done by them. Most of them have been noticed in my <' Treatise" on inju- rious insects ; but there are others claiming the attention of the cultivator and of the naturalist. Grape Vine Borer. — The roots of cultivated grape vines in the South- ern States have been observed, by Dr. F. J. Kron, of Albermarle, North Carolma, to be so much injured by borers as to prevent the ripening of the fruit, and finally to cause the decay and death of the vines. The insects do not spare even the native varieties, all of which, except only the scuppernong or muscadine, are found to be attacked by them. Taking advantage of the foregoing exemption, Dr. Kron has been successfully engrafting and culti- vating the best foreign and native grapes on stocks of the wild muscadine, probably the true Vitis vulpina of Linnseus, and of Sir J. E. Smith, in Abbot's "Insects of Georgia," and identical with the Vitis rotundifoUa of Michaux and of Elliott. He has also favored me with samples of injured 217 viiie-roots, and specimens of the insects in all their stages, together with an accomit of his observations and experiments upon them. This account, and a scientific description of the insects, written by me at the request of Dr. Kron, have been pubhshed ia the Raleigh Register for the 5th of April, 1854. The insects belong to the genus JEgeria, and are allied to the borers of the peach tree, and to those that destroy the roots of pumpkin and squash vines. In their winged form they strikingly resendble certain wasps called Polistes ; hence I have given to this species the name of ^geria polisti- formis. According to Dr. Kron, they are found about the vines and on the wing from the middle of June to the middle of September, diu-ing which time they couple and lay their eggs. These winged insects are of a dark brown color, more or less tinged with a tawny orange on the sides, and banded with bright yellow upon the edge of the second ring of the hind- body. The thorax and shoulder-covers, and the fourth ring, are more faintly edged with yellow or with tawny orange. The feelers, antennae beneath, and legs are also orange-colored. The fore-Avings are dusky; the hind- wings transparent, but veined and edged with black. The female has a little orange- colored tuft on each side of the tail, and the males have two tufts on each side, the middle pair longer than the others. The males are more numerous, more active, and smaller than the females ; they measure from five to six-tenths of an inch in length, and their wings expand from one inch to one inch and three-twentieths. The body of the female varies from six to nine-tenths of an inch in length, and her wings expand from one inch to one inch and a half. These insects lay their eggs near the roots of the vines, and the whitish grubs, hatched therefrom, of various sizes, will be found boring into the bark and wood of the roots during the sum- mer. When fully grown, these grubs measure from one inch to one inch and three-quarters in length. They undergo their transformations in oblong oval pods, formed of a gummy kind of silk, covered with fragments of wood, bark, and dirt, which will be found within or adjacent to the injiired roots. The insects take the chrysalis form at various times during the summer. The rings of the chrysalis are surrounded with minute teeth, which assist the insect in coming forth from its pod or cocoon when about to be changed to a moth. Eight-spotted Sphinx, ob, Alypia octomaculata. — There are two insects, occasionally found on the grape vine, which in their caterpillar state closely resemble each other in form, size, color, and habits. One of these is the beautiful Eudryas, described in my " Treatise ; " the other is the Sphinx or Alypia, above named. This Alypia, though common and occasionally so numerous as to be quite hui-tful to the vine in some parts of the United States, is very rare in New England. I never saw it in Massachusetts until the smnmer of 1853, when a few specimens were discovered on my grape vines ; and during the past summer they have appeared in greater numbers on the same vines. At first they were mistaken for the caterpillars of the Eudryas, from which, however, they are to be distinguished by having a conspicuous white spot on each side of the hinder part of the body. These caterpillars are white, passing into blue, transversely banded with narrow 218 black lines, with a broader orange colored band, dotted with black, on the middle of each ring. The head and feet are also orange, dotted with black. The black dots on the body produce a few short whitish hairs. They were found eating the leaves of the vine in the latter part of June and beginning of July. Full grown specimens measui-ed one inch and a quarter, or more, in length. Before the 16th of July, they left the vines, and concealed themselves in a loose web upon the sm-face of the ground, and soon took the clirysalis form. One of them was transformed to a moth on the 10th of August ; others remained in the chrysalis state tlirough the winter, and came forth winged in May and June. The v/inged insects are black, with two large yellow spots on each of the fore-Avings, and two white ones on the hind- wings. Their shanks are clothed with orange- colored hairs. Their wings expand from one inch to one inch and a half. Abbot has figured this insect in his "Insects of Georgia;" but has colored the caterpillar incorrectly. GpvApe-vine Flea-beetle or Haltica. — The depredations of this insect upon the grape vine seem first to have been observed in the year 1831, by the late Judge Darling, in Connecticut, and by Mr. David Thomas, in New York. An account of them by the latter gentleman was published in 1834, in the 26th volume of Silliman's "American Journal of Science," The beetles were found to destroy the fruit buds in the spring, and their young, in the form of chestnut- colored grubs, destroyed the leaves in summer. These grubs have never been fully described. In a recent excursion to New Ham]3shire, I was struck by the condition of the leaves of the black alders (Alnus serrulata), which, through a long extent of country, were destroyed in the same way as the leaves of fruit trees are by canker-worms. Upon examination, the authors of all this mischief Avere found to be certain dark colored grubs, great numbers of Avhich were still remaining on the leaves on the second of August, while others had already completed their ti'ansform- ations, and had come forth in the beetle form. The beetles were identical with the above-named depredators of the grape vine, and were feeding upon the few green leaves still remaining on the alders. The grubs, when fully grown, measured about half an inch in length. They were of a livid brown color above, and paler beneath, with a black head, black feet, and a double row of minute acuminated black warts, each producing a very short hair, on every ring. The body was nearly cylindi'ical ; the feet were six in number, situated beneath the fore part of the body ; and there was a little fleshy propleg beneath the last segment. It may be added that the beetles were rather more than three-twentieths of an inch in length, of a brilliant greenish blue color above, and that they leaped with the agility of fleas. The discovery of these insects in such immense numbers on the alder, and the extensive ravages committed by them on this shrub, seem to indicate that the natural food of this species is obtained from the alder, rather than from the vine ; and that its resorting occasionally to the latter, may be owing to the want of the former, or to the extraordinary multiplication of the insects, in certain seasons, in the vicinity of the grape vine. Cambridge, Mass., Sept. 5, 1854. [^Hteal frait leprt?. REPORT FROM VIRGINIA. Respected Friend, Samuel Walker : Perhaps I owe an apology for not writing sooner, particu- larly as I was requested to occupy a prominent position in the plan designed to bring before the late Pomological Society information from most of the States, relative to the fruit cul- ture within their limits. This plan, if properly carried out, would be of great value to the cause, and be the means of disseminating a mass of information that could, perhaps, be obtained in no other way. But in a State like Virginia, with so extensive and varied a surface, with a climate on one side, where cotton is a staple, and on the other where an early var- iety of corn has to be planted to ensure a crop of that grain, with every variety of soil from river alluvion to an unproduc- tive clay, and an altitude from half a mile in height to the level of tide water, it must be evident that to give all the details re- lating to fruit culture and its prospects, would requhe a great deal of labor and time. In the present state of the science amongst us, this can hardly be obtained. There are in many places persons who are actively engaged in fruit culture, and that upon the right plan of experiment, in their own grounds ; but as yet, there has been but little effort to bring them to the notice of each other. Our State Agricultural Society, lately established, may be the means of beginning this thing ; 220 but it can hardly be expected to do muck towards carrying it out to wlia;t ought to be done. Fruit culture is, of itself, important enough to engage its friends in efforts for its im- provement, though it will require time to convince many of our citizens of this fact. That part of the circular forwarded to me, that recommends State Fruit Committees to bring to notice valuable local varieties, is worthy of attention. I am strongly of the mind that we had better look more to the South for late keeping varieties than to the North. We have made some efforts in this way, and shall probably continue them, and time alone will test their value. After receiving thy circular, I made some efforts to organize a Committee ; but being on the border of the State, and having a very limited acquaintance in other parts of the State, I could not effect it in time to be of any advantage at the late meeting of the Society in Boston. I wished to engage those in the cause who felt a real interest in the subject ; and in this I partially succeeded. When I learned, two years ago, that the Society would meet this year in Boston, I pleased myself with the idea of a visit to that place at that time ; and this design was not fully abandoned, until the frosts of last spring and the unparalleled drought of last summer made it apparent that we could present no specimens worthy of an effort; and to go there without specimens, at such a time, was what I did not wish to do, however pleasant a visit in other respects might have been. The past summer has certainly no parallel in the recollection of any now living here. The three entire summer months so little rain fell, except in a few neighbor- hoods where partial showers benefitted the corn crop, at the needed time, and made moderate crops ; but in many places not half or one-third of the usual crop. One of my neigh- bors who has as good a farm, perhaps, as this county can boast, and that is saying a good deal for it, told me, a few days ago, that he had planted a sod-field last spring, where he had wintered his cattle for two winters before, and was highly manured thereby, and now he had a heavy growth of stalk 221 with large cobs thereon, and seldom more than twelve or fif- teen grains of corn on each cob, the drought being so severe the grain could not form. Your farmers may consider this feeding cattle out in the fields in winter bad economy, but with our milder winters this is much practised here. We had next to no peaches, plums, or cherries ; and though there appeared in the spring a tolerable supply of apples, yet with the attacks of insects and the drought, there are but few left. I have never seen apples so defective. It seems as if the whole host of insects that usually prey on other fruits, have all concentrated their forces on the apple this year. Very few specimens but what were injured by them, more or less, and then the exceeding hot and dry summer caused them to ripen prematurely, — the Bellflower, Paradise, and other early winter apples ripening and falling ofi" at the same time with the Rambo and fall varieties. These were nearly all gone a month ago ; and our latest keeping kinds, but little later this fall, and these are rotting very fast since they were gathered, and soon will be all gone. Potatoes, turnips, and fall vegetables, almost a failure. Our wheat crop was good ; hay and oats pretty fair ; pastures exceedingly short, and our stock suffering for the want of it. An ardent fruit cultivator in an adjoining county writes me that he wanted to attend the meeting of the Society at Boston, but being somewhat indisposed he could not. This he did not so much regret, as he could not present specimens as desired ; but he adds, if they will give us an opportunity to meet them at some more convenient place of a good fruit year, we will present specimens that will satisfy any one that Virginia can raise as fine fruit as any other State. He says he has never seen as fine Newtown Pippins grown in New York as he has here ; and as to peaches, we can excel even far-famed New Jersey and Delaware. If convenient, I should like to receive a copy of your proceedings. A friend who was there sent me a copy of the President's Addi'ess, which I was pleased with, its matter of fact character is valuable. 222 Virginia, thougli late, is waking up to internal improve- ments. Among other railroads building, we have one now commenced here, to connect us with Alexandria and Wash- ington, and will enable our distant friends to see some of the finest parts of Virginia, if not the finest of most any other State, without so much inconvenience. A visit from Boston folks would particularly gratify their sincere friend. YARDLEY TAYLOR. Loudon County, Va., 10th month, i 14th day, 1854. 5 REPORT FROM INDIANA. Hon. Samuel Walker. Dear Sib, : Owing to different causes, we have been unable to get a meeting of fruit growers together in our State, for the pur- pose of making a report. Sickness has prevailed throughout the West during the season to an alarming extent, and no committee, at any time, could be got together. Up to the 8th inst., I expected to have been present at the Pomologi- cal Convention, in company with a full committee ; but all efforts failed, and we can only express our regrets, whilst we indulge the hope and belief, that the meeting has been one o± great interest. The following circular attached, is one I circulated thi'ough our State, which was responded to very promptly. I have filled up the blanks in accordance with those returned by a large majority of those to whom the circular was sent. The information is perhaps not important, at least after the ad- journment of the convention ; but I send it for yovu- perusal. Very respectfully, I. D. G. NELSON. 223 POMOLOGICAL CIKOULAR. FoBT Wayne, Indiana, Sept., 1854. Dear Sir : At the last Annual Meeting of the American Pomologi- CAL Society, the undersigned was appointed Chairman of the Fruit Committee for Indiana, whose duty it is to collect all the information he can obtain in regard to the fruit of this State, and compile the same, to be presented in a report at the next meeting of the society, to be held in Boston the ensuing autumn. The information sought to be obtained is mainly for the purpose of ascertaining what varieties succeed best, locally and generally, and to correct the nomenclature of fruit, a thing so much needed in the West. In view of this, a few interrogatories are subjoined, to assist in the arrangement of the report. Any and all information and suggestions, aside from this, that may be considered useful, it is hoped will be freely communicated, that a report may be made which will do credit to the pomological interest of our fruit-growing State. 1st. How do fruits of different kinds succeed in your State ? Exceedingly well, except cherries, in the central and southern portions of the State. 2d. What is the general character of your soil ? Various. 3d. What ten varieties of apples would you recommend for general cultivation ? Early Harvest, Summer Queen, Fall Pippin, Rambo, R. I. Greening, Baldwin, Yellow Bellilower, White Bellflower, Newtown Pippin, and Roxbury Russet. 4th. What twenty varieties of apples would you recom- mend for general cultivation ? To the above add, Rawles's Janette or Juneating, Golden Russet, Golden Sweet, ^sopus Spitzenburg, Michael Henry Pippin, Wine Apple, Wine Sap, Swaar, Summer Bough, and Newtown Spitzenburg. 224 5th. What other varieties would you add ? None. 6th. "What the best single variety for summer ? Early Harvest, or Summer Queen. 7th. What the best single variety for fall ? Fall Pippin. 8th. What the best single variety for winter ? Newtown Pippin. 9th. What the best single variety for all purposes ? Rambo. 10th. How do pears succeed ? What varieties have been fruited in your vicinity ? How long, and with what success ? What varieties do you recommend for general cultivation ? Pears appear to succeed well. Not extensively cultivated as yet, or rather not generally in bearing. 1 1th. Are pear trees subject to the blight ? If so, have you discovered the cause, or a remedy ? No blight to any extent. 12th. How do pears on the quince root succeed? How long have they been tested, and with what success ? About ten years. Not very satisfactory. loth. How do cherries succeed, and what varieties do you recommend for general cultivation ? Answered sufficiently in reply to first question. 14th. How do plums, apricots, and nectarines succeed ? and what varieties, especially of the former, do you recom- mend for general cultivation ? The curculio destroys the crop. 15th. Does the curculio attack the fruit, and have you discovered a preventative against its depredations ? No remedy except killing. 16th. How does the peach succeed ? Is the tree injured by winter freezing, or the fruit by fall, winter, or spring frosts ? Fruit very fine about one-fourth of the time. 225 17th. What varieties of strawberries, gooseberries, cur- rants, and raspberries ? with what success, and what varieties do you recommend for cultivation ? All do well. Varieties numerous. 18th. Have you discovered any difference between the common Red and White Currant, and the kind sold under the more imposing name of " Red and White Dutch Currant." If so, in what does the difference consist ? jSTo difference. Also, add anything that may give interest ; and if there are any varieties of apples that are new, and of peculiar excel- lence, especially winter varieties, that are not described in the books, a description of each would be important ; but any variety falling under the Roxbury Russet in quality, should not be considered as an acquisition to our already large list of fine fruits. A reply to the above at your earliest convenience, so as to enable a report to be completed by the 1st of October, at the latest, is anxiously desired. Very respectfully. Your obedient servant, I. D. a. NELSON, Chairman Com. for Indiana. REPORT FROM OREGON. Hon. Samukl Walker. Deab, Sir : Your circular of April was received in good time, and the Committee for Oregon appointed at an early day. But I am sorry to say that the committee have not met, and consequently nothing has been done upon this interesting and higlily im- portant subject. But little could have been done, however, as yet, since fruit growing is in its infancy with us. 226 The first grafted fruits were brought across the plains to Oregon in 1847. Since that time several importations have been made by different individuals ; and Oregon has now a good variety of fruit. But many of the kinds have not been tasted in this climate, while others have not been sufficiently tested to establish their character in a new climate. The prospect for fruit growing is very good, and I hope that we may hereafter be able to render some assistance to your society. Very truly yours, P. W. GELLETT, Chairman Fruit Committee, Oregon. Astoria, October 19, 1854. ©fliitriliiitci'^ ij! fruits. The following List comprises the number of varieties of Frtiits exhibited by the Delegates and Members of the Society at its session in Boston, in September, 1854. MASSACHUSETTS. Marshall P. Wilder, Dorchester, 273 varieties of pears. Joseph S. Cabot, Salem, 145 varieties of pears. B. V. French, Braintree, 150 varieties of apples. Samuel Walker, Roxbary, 125 varieties of pears. Robert Manning, Salem, 117 varieties of pears. Hovey & Co., Cambridge, 40 varieties of pears. Josiah Stickney, Watertown, 34 varieties of pears ; 16 varieties of apples. W. E.. Austin, Dorchester, 31 varieties of pears. Samuel Downer, Dorchester, 38 varieties of pears. Eben Wight, Dedham, 15 varieties of pears ; 53 varieties of apples. Edward M. Richards, Dedham, 10 varieties of pears, 20 varieties of apples. Cheever Newhall, Dorchester, 20 varieties of pears ; 14 varieties of apples. Winship & Co., Brighton, 65 varieties of pears. A. W. Stetson, Braintree, 12 varieties of pears ; 2 varieties of apples ; 4 varieties of native grapes. W. C. Strong, Brighton, 17 varieties of grapes. Joseph Breck, Brighton, 12 varieties of grapes. E. W. Bull, 30 clusters of the Concord grape. E,. W. Ames, Roxbury, native grapes. John S. Sleeper, Roxbury, 32 varieties of pears. 228 John A. Kenrick, Newton, 7 varieties of pears ; 6 varieties of apples. Bowen Harrington, Lexington, 20 varieties of apples; 8 varieties of pears ; 2 varieties of grapes. Josiah Richardson, Cambridge, 20 varieties of pears. James Blood, Newbmyport, 2 varieties of grapes, ripening last of August. NEW YORK. EUwanger and Barry, Rochester, 195 varieties of pears ; 40 varieties of plums. W. P. Townsend, Lockport, 60 varieties of pears, Bissell and Hooker, Rochester, 40 varieties of pears ; peaches — a fine yellow seedling weighing 12 ounces — a fine white seedling weighing 10 ounces. J. B. Eaton, Bufialo, a fine collection of pears. James H. Watts, Rochester, apples — Norton's Melon, North- ern Spy ; pears — Swan's Orange, or Onondago : Clinton grape. A. Frost & Co., Rochester, an extensive and fine collection of pears. Philemon Stewart, New Lebanon, Shaker Village, grapes, — Northern Muscadine. PENNSYLVANIA. W. D. Brinckle, M.D., Philadelphia, fine specimens of the new American pears — Philadelphia, (or Latch,) Reigner Seedling. Isaac B. Baxter, Philadelpliia, 45 varieties of pears, among which were the Hampton, an American seedling from Long Island, near Lakeville in New York; also a fine specimen of Beurre Clairgeau, weighing 14 ounces ; also a fine collection of grapes from open cultivation as follows : Native — Isabella, Ohio, Catawba. Foreign grapes, grown in open air — Tokay, Miller's Burgundy, Frankenthal, Chasselas de Fontainbleau, Muscat Blanc Hatif. 229 J. K, Eshleman, M. T>., Downington, Chester County, 28 varieties of pears ; 1 variety of Smokehouse Apples. Jonathan Baldwin, Westchester, Smokehouse and Holland Pippin Apples, NEW JERSEY. William Heid, Elizabethtown, a fine collection of pears. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. A. Jardin, 26 varieties of pears. fruit ©atalflguf AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETTY. FOR GENERAL CULTIVATION. APPLES. American Slimmer Pearmain, Melon, Baldwin, Bullock's Pippin, Danver's Winter Sweet, Early Harvest, Early Strawberry, Eall Pippin, Eameuse, Gravenstein, Hubbardston Nonesuch, Lady Apple, Ladies' Sweet, Large Yellow Bough, Minister, Porter, Red Astrachan, Rhode Island Greening. Roxbury Russet, Summer Rose, Swaar, Vandervere, White Seek-no-Further, . William's Favorite (except for light soils,) Wine Apple, or Hays, Winesap. Ananas d'Ete, Andrews, PEARS. Lawrence, Louise Bonne de Jersey, 231 Belle Lucrative, or Fondante d'Automne, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre d'Aremburg, Beurre Diel. Beurre Bosc, Bloodgood, Buffum, Dearborn's Seedling, Doyenne d'Ete Flemish. Beauty, Fulton, Golden Beurre of Bilboa, Madeline, Manning's Elizabeth, Paradise d'Automne, Bostiezer, . Seckel, Tyson, Urbaniste, XJvedale's St. Germain (for baking). Vicar of Winkfield, "Williams's Bon Chretien or Bartlett, Winter Nelis. FOR CULTIVATION PE Belle Lucrative, Beurre cl'Amalis, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre d'Aremberg, Beurre Diel. Catillac, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Easter Beurre, Figue d'Alencon, Glout Morceau, Long Green of Cox, Louise Bonne de Jersey. ON QUINCE STOCKS. ARS. Napoleon, Nouveau Poiteau, Eostiezer, Beurre Langelier, Soldat Laboreur, St. Michael Archange, Triomphe de Jododigne, Urbaniste, Uvedales St. Germain, or Belle Angevine, for Baking, Vicar of "Winkfield. White Doyenne. Bleecker's Gage, Coe's Golden Drop, Frost Gage, Green Gage, Jefferson, Lawrence's Favorite, PLUMS. McLaughlin, Purple Gage, Purple Favorite, Beine Claude de Bavay, Smith's Orleans, Washington. 232 CHERRIES. Belle Magnifique, Elton, Black Eagle, Early Bichmond, for cooking. Black Tartarian, Graffion, or Bigarreau, Downer's Late, Knigkt's Early Black, Downton, May Duke. APRICOTS. Breda, Large Early, Moorpark. NECTARINES. Downton, Early Violet, Elruge. PEACHES. Bergen's Yellow, Early York, large. Cooledge's Favorite, George IV., Ci'awford's Late, Grosse Mignonne, Early York, serrated. , Morris White, Old Mixon Free. UNDER GLASS. GRAPES. Black Hamburg, Chasselas de Fontainebleau, Black Frontignan, Grizzley Frontignan, Black Prince, "White Frontignan, White Muscat of Alexandria. OPEN CULTURE. Cawtaba, Diana, Isabella. RASPBERRIES. Fastolf, Knevet's Giant, Franconia, Red Antwerp, Yellow Antwerp. STRAWBERRIES. Boston Pine, Hovey's Seedling, Large Early Scarlet. Black Naples, May's Victoria, Crown Bob, Early Sulpliur, Green Gage, Green "Walnut, CURRANTS. Red Dutch, Wliite Dutch, White Grape. GOOSEBERRIES. Iron-Monger, Laurel, Bed Champagne, Warrington, Houghton's Seedling, Woodward's White Smith. BLACKBERRIES. Lawson's New Bochelle. 234 NEW VARIETIES WHICH PROMISE WELL. Autumn Bough, Benoni, Coggswell, Genesee Chief, Hawley, Jeffries, Adams, Alpha, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre Giffard, Beurre Sterkman, Beurre Superfin, Brande's St. Germain, Brandywine, Chancellor, Charles Van Hooghten, Collins, Comte de Flanders, Doyenne Boussock, Doyenne Goubault Duchesse d'Orleans, Beurre St Nicholas, Duchesse de Berri, Epine Dumas, Fondante de Malines, Fondante de Noel, APPLES. Ladies' Winter Sweet. Monmouth Pippin, Mother, Primate, Smoke House, Winthrop Greening, or Lin- coln Pippin, PEARS. Howell, Jalousie de Fontenay Vendee, Kingsessing, Kirtland, Limon, Lodge (of Penn.), Nouveau Poiteau, Onondaga, Ott, Pius IX. Pratt, Rouselette d'Esperin, Sheldon, St. Michel Archange, Steven's Genesee, Striped Madeleine, Theodore Van Mons, Van Assene, or Van Assche, Walker, Zepherin Gregoire, 235 PLUMS. Ive's Washington Seedling, Prince's Yellow Gage Munroe Egg, River'sFavorite, St. Martin's Quetclie. CHERRIES. American Amber, Governor Wood, Belle d'Orleans, Great Bigarreau of Downing, Bigarreau Monstreuse de Hovey, Bavay, Kirtland's Mary, Black Hawk, Ohio Beauty, Coe's Transparent, Reine Hortense, Early Purple Guigne, Walsh's Seedling. OR APES. Concord. RASPBERRIES. French, Orange, Walker. STRAWBERRIES. Walker's SeedHng, 236 FOR PARTICULAR LOCALITIES. APPLES. Canada Red, Newtown Pippin, Esopus Spitzenburg, Northern Spy, Yellow Bellflower. PEARS. Grey Doyenne, "White Doyenne. PEACHES. Heath Cling. PLUMS. Imperial Gage. STR AWBEERIES. Burr's New Pine. Jenney's Seedling. FOR NORTHERN LOCALITES. APPLES. Ribstone Pippin. FOR GARDENS. APPLES. Garden Royal. 237 REJECTED FRUITS. APPLES, Beacliainwell, Caroline (English), Cathead, Cheeseboro' Russet, Dodge's Early Red, Egg Topp, Fenouillet Rouge, Gloucester Wliite, Golden Reinette Grand Sachem, Gray French Reinette, Henry's Weeping Pippin, Hoary Morning, Irish Peach, "VVoolston's Kirke's Lord Nelson, Large Red Sweeting, Marmalade Pippin, Muscovia, Pennock, Pigeonette, Priestly, Red Doctor, Red Ingestrie, Red or Royal Russet, Rowland's Red Streak, Salina, White Ingestrie, Woolston's Red Streak, White Sweet. Admiral, Ah! MonDieu, Alexander of Russia, Angers, Apple Pear, Armudi, Autumn Bergamot, .Autumn Superb, Aston Town, Beauty of Winter, Belle d'Aout, Belle de Bruxelles, Belmont, Bergamotte d'Automne, Bergamotte Fortunee PEAES. Bergamotte Sylvange, Bergamotte Zappa, Beurre Adam, Beurre Aiidusson, Beurre d'Anglaterre, Beurre of Bolwiller, Beurre Colmar of Autumn, Beurre Coloma, Beurre Kenrick, Beiirre Knox, Beurre Seutin, Beurre Van Mons, Bezi Vaet, Bishop's Thumb, Blanquet a Longue Queue, Z6l Bleeker's Meadow, Bon Chretien d'Ete, Bon Chretien d'Hiver, Bon Chretien Bruxelles, Bon Chretien Spanish, Boncquia, Bouquet, Brougham, Bruno de Bosco, Brugman's Birne, Burgomaster, Caillot Bosat, Calebasse, or Pitt's Prolific, Cassolette, Chair a Dame, Charles Van Mens (old). Chat Brule, Citron of Bohemia, Citron de Sierenz, Clapp, Clara, Clinton, Columbus d'Hiver, Comte de Fresnel, Copea, Crassane, Crawford, Croft Castle, Cuvelier, D'Amour, Dearborn of Van Mons. Deschamps (new late), Downton, Doyenne Dore, Doyenne Mons, Dubossury, Dumbarton, Duquesne d'Ete, Elton, Endicott, English Warden, Famenga, Eantasie Van Mons, Figue Extra, Forme des Delices, Forme Urbaniste, Foster's St. Michael, Frederic of Prussia, Franc Ileal d'EEiver, French Iron, Garnstone, Gendeseim, Girardin, Great Citron of Bohemia, Green Catherine, Green Chisel, Green Sugar, Green Yair, Grise Bonne, Gros Blanquet, Gros Eousselet, Hativeau, Hawthorne's Seedling, Hays, Hericart, Hessel, Horticulture, Huguenot, Hunt's Connecticut, Ipswich Holland, Jacob, Jalousie. 239 Jargonelle (of the French), John Monteith, Jubin, Kramelsbirne, Lansac, Lavalle, Lederbirue, Lincoln, Locke, Louise Bonne, Louise of Bologne, Mabille, Madame Vert, Madotte, Marcellis, March Berganiot, Marie Louise Nova, Martin Sec, Marquise, Michaux, Miller's Seedling, Moorfowl Egg, ISTavet, Oak Leaf, (Imperial,) Orange, Orange Hogue, Orange Tulipee, Pailleau, -Passans de Portugal, Passe Long Bras, Petit Muscat, Phillips, Pitfour, Pitt's Marie Louise, Piatt's Bergamotte, Pomme Poire, Pope's Quaker, Pope's Russet, Pope's Scarlet Major, Prince's Portugal, Princess of Orange, Queen Caroline, Queen of the Low Countries, Quilletette of Manning, Bameau, E-eine d'Hiver, Beine des Poii'es, Bousselet d'Hiver, Rousselette de Rheims, Rousselette St. Vincent Royale d'Hiver, Rushmore's Bon Chretien, Sabine (Flemish), Sans Pepins, Sapianski, Shobden Court, Souveraine, St. Bruno, Striped Madeleine, Sugar Pear of Hoyerswerda, Summer Bergamotte, Summer Rose, Summer Thorn, or Epine d'Ete, Superfondante, Supasse Meuris, Swan's Egg, Swiss Bergamotte, Tillington, Thompson (of New Hamp- shire), Trucherdy DuUe, True Gold of Summer, 240 Tucker's Bon Chretien, Tucker's Seedling, Verte Longue Panache, Wellington, Whitfield, Winter Crassane, Winter Orange, Winter Quince, Wurzur d'Automne, Yutte. VARIETIES ALLUDED TO IN DISCUSSION BUT NOT CLASSED. APPLES. Belmont, Blink Bonnie Seedling, Danver's Winter Sweet, Early Joe, Garrickson's Early, Hagloe, Herefordshire Pearmain, PE Belle et Bonne, Bezi de La Motte, Boston, Chelmsford, Colmar d'Aremberg, Doyenne SieuUe, Duchesse de Mars, Du Mortier, (of Manning,) Easter Beurre, Echasserie, Eigne de Naples, Elemish Bon Chretien, Gilogil, Grande Soleil, John Sweet, Ledge Sweeting, Lymon Pumpkin Sweet, Long, Murphy, Newton Pippin, Sine Qua Non. ARS. Hacon's Incomparable, Hagerman, Hampden's Bergamotte, LLimpton, Jeanne de Witte, Knight's Monarch, Latch, Leon le Clerc, Messire Jean, Muscat Allemand, Sterling, Styrian, Windsor, Winter Bon Chretien. 241 NECTARINES. Boston, Vermash. PLUMS. Italian Prune, or Fellenberg. CHERRIES. Black Heart, (old.) GRAPES. Hartford Prolific. STRAWBERRIES. Imperial Scarlet, Scarlet Magnate. BLACKBERRIES. Needham's White. CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS OF THE AMER- ICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. CONSTITUTION. Article 1. The name of this association shall be the American Pomologtcal Society. 2. Its object shall be the advancement of the science of Pomology. 3. It shall consist of Delegates appointed by Horticultural, Agricultural, and kindred Societies in the United States and British America, and of such other persons as take an interest in the welfare of the association, and are desirous of promot- ing its aims. 4. The meetings shall be held biennially, at such time and place as may be designated by the society ; and special meet- ings may be convened at any time on the call of the President. 5. The officers shall consist of a President, one Vice-Presi- dent from every State, Territory and Province, a Treasurer and a Secretary ; and shall be elected by ballot or otherwise at every biennial meeting. BY-LAWS. 1. The President shall have a general superintendence of the affairs of the society during its vacation ; give due public notice of the time and place of meeting ; preside at its delib- erations ; deliver an address on some subject relating to Pomology, at every biennial meeting ; and appoint all com- mitteeSj unless otheiAvise directed. 243 2. In case of the death, sickness, or inability of the President, his official duties shall devolve on one of the Vice-Presidents, according to the order in which they stand on the minutes. 3. The Treasurer shall receive all moneys belonging to the society, and pay over the same on the written orders of the President. 4. The Secretary shall, with the assistance of a reporter appointed by him, keep a record of the transactions of the society for publication. 5. There shall be an Executive Committee, consisting of five members, together with the President and Vice-Presidents ex-offi,cio, five of whom shall constitute a quorum, who shall manage the affairs of the society during its vacation. 6. State Pruit Committees, consisting of five members each, for every State, Territory, and Province, and a general chair- man over all shall be appointed biennially ; it shall be the duty of the several State Fruit Committees to forward to the general chairman, one month before every biennial meeting. State Pomological Reports, to be condensed by him for pub- lication. 7. A Standing Committee on Native Pruits, consisting of seven members, shall be appointed by the President immediately after his election. It shall be the duty of this committee to report annually on native fruits, and also to examine, and, before the close of the session, report on all new seedling varieties that may be exhibited ; and to make an ad interim report on those that were exhibited in an unripe condition at the meeting of the society, but had subsequently attained a state of maturity ; and on such other seedlings as may have been submitted to their inspection during the society's vacation. 8. A Standing Committee on Poreign Pruits, consisting of seven members, shall be appointed, whose duties shall be similar to those of the committee in By-Law seven. 244 9. A Standing Committee on Synonyms, consisting of seven members, shall be appointed biennially. 10. Vacancies occurring in committees, sball be filled by the chairman of each, and in case of liis death, or inability to serve, his place shall be supplied by the President of the society. 11. The members of this society shall pay two dollars biennially, and twenty dollars j)aid at one time shall constitute one life-membership. 12 — Order of Business : 1. Credentials of Delegates presented. 3. Address of the President. 3. Election of Officers. 4. Reports of State Fruit Committees. 5. New business. 13. The Constitution and By-Laws may be altered or amended, at any regular biennial meetuig, by a vote of two- thirds of the members present. f ! ! i t J i; g O F THE AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. PRESIDENT. Hon. Marshall P. Wilder of Massacliusetts. VICE PRESIDENTS. S. L. Goodale, H. J. Frencli, Samuel Walker, Prederick Holbrook, Stephen H. Smith, A. S. Monson, Benj. Hodge, Thomas Hancock, Caleb Cope, E. Tatnall, Jr., Wm. C. Wilson, Yardley Taylor, Joshua Lindley, Robert Chisholm, Richard Peters, C. A. Peabody, Thomas Affleck, Henry E. Lawrence, D. W. Yandell, Maine. New Hampshire. Massachusetts. Vermont. Rhode Island. Connecticut. New York. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Delaware. Maryland. Vii'ginia. North Carolina. South Carolina. Georgia. Alabama. Mississippi. Louisiana. Tennessee. 246 Lawrence Yoimg, A. H. Ernst, Henry L. Ellsworth, W. D. Haylay, Tlionias Allen, Rev. C. H. Byington, B. F. JSTonrse, James Grant, N. P. Talmaclge, Henry Gibbons, Josbua Peirce, Edward Hunter, Hugb Allen, James Dougal, Kentucky. Ohio. Indiana. Illinois. Missouri. Arkansas. Florida. Iowa. Wisconsin. California. District of Columbia. Utab. Canada East. Canada West. SECEETARY. H. W. S. Cleveland of Massachusetts. TEEASUEER. Thomas P. James of Pennsylvania. STATE FEUIT COMMITTEES. general chairman. Hon. Samuel Walker of Massachusetts. Henry Little, H. F. French, Eben Wight, Stephen H. Smith, George Gabriel, C. Goodrich, P. Barry, William Peid, T. P. James, Lewis P. Bush, M. D. Samuel Feast, Yardley Taylor, Chairman, Maine. " New Hampshire. " Massachusetts. " Rhode Island. " Connecticut. "^ Vermont. '' New York. '' New Jersey. " Pennsylvania. '' Delaware. " Maryland. " Virginia. 247 Henry K. Bm-gwyn, William Summer, E.t. Rev. Stephen Elliot, Jr., Charles A. Peabocly, Thomas Affleck, D. W. Yanclell, E. D. Hobbs, R. Buchanan, J. D. G. Nelson, S- S. Connett, J. A. Kennicott, M. D. Thomas Allen, A. G. Sems, James Grant, K. P. Talmadge, F. W. Macoudry, Henry Gibbons, M. D. Joshua Peirce, Edward Hunter, James Dougal, Hugh Allen, Chairman, North Carolina. South Carolina. Georgia. Alabama. Mississippi. Tennessee. Kentucky. Ohio. Indiana. Indiana. Illinois. Missouri. Florida. Iowa. Wisconsin. California. California. Dist. Columbia. Utah. Canada West. Canada East. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The President and Vice-Presidents ex-officio. W. D. Brinckle, M. D. B. V. French, J. A. Warder, M. D. Richard Peters, Benjamin Hodge, Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. Ohio. Georgia. New York. COMMITTEE ON FOKEIGN FRUITS. C. M, Hovey, Massachusetts. Charles Downing, C. B. Lines, S. L. Goodale, H. E. Hooker, New York. Connecticut. Maine. New York. 248 J. M. Hayes, New Jersey. E. S. Hull, Illinois. COMMITTEE ON NATIVE FEUITS Wm. D. Brinckle, M. D. Pennsylvania. P. Barry, New York. Henry Little, Maine. Robert Manning, Massaclmsetts. Thomas Hancock, New Jersey. J. B. Eaton, New York. B. F. Cutter, New Hampshire. COMMITTEE ON SYNONYMS. J. S. Cabot, Massachusetts. "Wm. R. Prince, New York. L. E. Berckmans, New Jersey. A. H. Ernst, Ohio. J. J. Thomas, New York. Robert Buist, Pennsylvania. P. R. Elliott, Ohio. i^t flf Mtm'htv^. The following list POMOLOGICAL SoCIETY, session, 1854 to 1856. Ephraim Abbott, Thomas Affleck, William Ashby, William R. Austin, Nathaniel A. Bacon, William Gr. Baker, Patrick Barry, Isaac B. Baxter, C. M. Bayley, L. E. Berckmans, Thomas Blagden, George Blight, Thomas Bond, Joseph Breck, William D. Brinckle, Francis Briel, Alfred Bridgeman, Azell Bowditch, E. W. Bull, Zera Burr, Robert Buist, Joseph S. Cabot, Elizur E. Clark, Ira Cleveland, comprises the Members of the American who have paid their Contribution for the St. Louis, Natches, Newburyport, Dorchester, New Haven, Baltimore, Rochester, Philadelphia, Newburyport, Plainfield, Washington, Germantown, North Brookfield, Brighton, M.D., Philadelphia, Astoria, L. I., New York, Roxbury, Concord, Perrineton, Philadelphia, Salem, New Haven, Dedham, Missouri. Mississippi. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. Connecticut. Maryland. New York. Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. New Jersey. Dist. Columbia. Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. Pennsylvania. New York. New York. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. New York. Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. Connecticut. Massachusetts. 250 H. W. S. Cleveland, William Clift, Asa Clement, Jacob Cocklin, Caleb Cope, Alan W. Corson, A. P. Cummings, B. F. Cutter, A. J. S. Degraw, George B. Deacon, Jobn Dick, Charles Downing, Timothy Eaton, J. B. Eaton, Albert Emerson, F. R. Elliott, A. H. Ernst, Dr. J. K. Eshleman, Samuel Feast, H. S. Finley, Jacob Frantz, B. V. French, life, A. Frost & Co., Samuel J. Grustin, S. L. Goodale, Thomas Hancock, Thomas Hogg, H. E. Hooker, E. G. Hyde, B. Hodge, C. M. Hovey, E. S.Hull, M.D., John S. Haines, Jabez M. Hayes, Thomas P. James, J. C. Jenkins, R. G. Jones, E. G. Kelly, M. D., William H. Keim, S. Kerby, Boston, Stonington, Dracut, Sheppardstown, Philadelphia, Plymouth, New York, Lowell, New York, Burlington, Philadelphia, Newburgh, West Cambridge, Buffalo, Bangor, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Downington, Baltimore, Davenport, Paradise, Braintree, Rochester, Newark, Saco, Burlington, New York, Rochester, Camptown, Buifalo, Cambridge, Alton, Germantown, Newark, Philadelphia, Natches, Columbus, Newburyport, Reading, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts. Connecticut. Massachusetts. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. New York. Massachusetts. New York. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. New York. Massachusetts. New York. Maine. Ohio. Ohio. Pennsylvania. Maryland. Iowa. Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. New York. New Jersey. Maine. New Jersey. New York. New York. New Jersey. New York. Massachusetts. Illinois. Pennsylvania. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Mississippi. Ohio. Massachusetts. Pennsylvania. Maiden Creek. 251 W. S. King, Henry Little, life, C. B. Lines, David Landreth, D. F. Manice, B. B. Mance, James S. McCalla, Thomas McEwen, M. D., J. R. Miller, David Miller, Jr., B. F, Nourse, Cheever Newhall, Anthony F. Newbold, Frederick Law Olmstead, William R. Prince, John Perkins, Daniel Petit, R. B. Parsons, S. B. Parsons, Thomas Penrose, Joshua Peirce, R. Peters, H. R. Robey, J. E, Ranch, William Reid, Edward M. Richards, J. D. Richardson, Daniel Rhodes, R. Robinson Scott, A. Saul, A. W. Stetson, Josiah Stickney, W. C. Strong, William P. Townsend, Edward Tatnall, Jr., Oliver Taylor, J. J. Thomas, James H. Watts, Marshall P. Wilder, life, Eben Wight, Roxbury, Bangor, New Haven, Philadelphia, Queen's Co., L. I., Shrewsbury, Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Enon, Carlisle, Apalachicola, Dorchester, Philadelphia, Staten Island, Flushing, L. I. Moorestown, Salem, Flushing, L. I., Flushing, L. L, Maiden Creek, Linnean Hill, Atalanta, Fredericksburg, New York, Elizabethtown, Dedham, Frederick City, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Newburgh, Braintree, Watertown, Brighton, Lockport, Wilmington, London Valley, Macedon, Rochester, Boston, Roxbury, Massachusetts. Maine. Connecticut. Pennsylvania. New York. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. Ohio. Pennsylvania. Florida. Massachusetts. Pennsylvania. New York. New York. New Jersey. New Jersey. New York. New York. Pennsylvania. Dist, Columbia. Greorgia. Virginia. New York. New Jersey. Massachusetts. Maryland. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. New York. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. New York. Delaware. Virginia, New York. New York. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. 252 E. S. Williams, W. C. Wilson, W. T. Wood, Aaron D. Williams, R. J. Wilcox, Samuel Walker, O.F. Winchester, C. P. Williams, J. A. Warder, M. D., John Zimmerman, Newburyport, Baltimore, Apalachicola, Roxbury, Sheffield, Roxbury, New Haven, Albany, Cincinnati, Lancaster, Massachusetts. Maryland. Florida. Massachusetts. Illinois. Massachusetts. Connecticut. New York. Ohio. Pennsylvania. (^nnttnU. Address, President's, 10 American Pomological Society, next Session, 193 Apples, Discussion of, 169, 186 Autumn Bough, 159 Belmont, 190 Benoni, 187 Blink Bonnie Seedling, 171 Coggswell, 175 Danver's Winter Sweet, 189 Early Joe, 172 Garden Royal, 191 Garrickson's Early, 172 Genesee Chief, 173 Hagloe, 174 Hawley, 169 Herefordshire Pearmain, 175, 187 Jeffries, 173 John Sweet, 190 Ladies' Winter Sweet, 189 Ledge Sweeting, 190 Long, 191 Lyman Pumpkin Sweet, 189 Melon, 170 Minister, 174 Mother, 171 Murphy, 175 Newtown Pippin, 190 Northern Spy, 171 Primate, or Summer Pippin, 172 Ribstone Pippin, 172 Sine Qua Non, 172 Smoke House, 171 Williams' Favorite, 188 Winthrop Greening, .... 186 254 Apples, List of, for Particular Localities, 236 Not Classed, 240 Eejeoted, 237 Which Promise Well, 234 Worthy of General Cultivation, 230 Apricots, 232 Blackberries, Discussion of, 204 Lawson's New Roehelle, 204 Needham's White, 204 List of 233 Business, Order of, 30 Cherries, Discussion of, 195 American Amber, 195 Belle d'Orleans, 195 Black Hawk, 195 Black Heart, 195 Governor Wood, 195 Great Bigarreau, 197 Hovey, 195 Kirtland's Mary, 195 Large Red Prool, 198 Ohio Beauty, 195 Walsh's Seedling, 196 List of 232 Not Classed, 241 Which Promise Well, 235 Worthy of General Cultivation, 232 Circular, 3 Committees, Business, 25 Executive, 29, 247 Nominating, 25 On Foreign Pruits, 29, 247 Native Fruits, 29, 248 Synonyms, 29, 248 State Fruit, 28, 246 Contributors of Fruits, List of, 227 Constitution, 242 Change of, 27 Convention, Time of holding Next Session of, 193 Currants, List of, 233 Delegates, List of, 6 Discussions, 130 Figs, Tomato, Receipt for, 185 Fruits, Catalogue of, 230 For Particular Localities, 236 Not Classed, 240 Rejected, 237 ' Which Promise Well, , 234 Worthy of General Cultivation, 230 Gooseberries, List of, 233 255 Grapes, Discussion of, 176, 182, 200 Concord, 176, 182 Diana, 206 Hartford Prolific, 206 Isabella, 176, 182 Zinfindel , 207 List of, 232 Not Classed, 241 Which Promise "Well, 235 Worthy of General Cultivation, 232 Letter of G. W. Russell, on Hartford Prolific Grape, 206 Levee, President's, 179 Invitation to attend, 9 Members, Names of, 249 Models of Fruit, by Mr. Glover, Resolution on, 192 Discussion of, , 192 Motion, Hancock's, to change Constitution, 27 Concei'ning List for Genei'al Cultivation, 134 Hovey's, concerning Rejection of Pruits, 131 Little's, to appoint Nominating Committee, 5 Walker's, Length of Sessions, 137 Nectarines, Discussion of, 205 Vermash, 205 List of 232 Not Classed 241 Officers, List of, 26 Peaches, List of, 23 2 For Particular Localities, 23 6 Pears, Discussion of, 130 Adams, 153 Alpha, 150 Belle Apres Noel, 163 Belmont, 131 Beurre Clairgeau, 151 Beurre Diel, 167 Beurre Gififard, 140 Beurre Sterckman, 165 Beurre St. Nicholas, 141 ' Beurre Superfin, 136 Bezi de la Motte, 166 Boston, 156 Brando's St. Germain, 139 Brandywine, 137 Charles Van Hooghten, 165 Chancellor, 141 Collins, 153 Compte de Flanders, 1 65 Dallas, 155 Diller, 141 Doyenne Boussock, 137 256 Pears, Doyenne Groubault, 140 Doyenne Sieulle, 164 Duchesse de Berri, 141 Duchesse d'Orleans, 141 Easter Beurrd, 157 Epine Dumas, 152 Pondante de Malines, 164 Pondante de Noel 164 Grande Soleil 161 Hagerman, 165 Hampton, 154 Howell, 134 Jalousie de Fontenay Vendee, 142 Jeanne de "Witte, ■ 162 Kingsessing, 163 Kirtland, 142 Knight's Monarch, 131 Latch, 165 Lawrence, 133 Limon, 142 Lodge, or Smith's Bordenave, 152 Manning's Elizabeth, 143 Nouveau Poiteau, 143 Onondaga, 144 Ott, 145 Paradise d'Automne, 145 Pius IX, 164 Pocahontas, 155 Pratt, 145 Regnier, 165 Rouselette d'Esperen, 165 Sheldon, 151 Sterling, 156 St. Michael Archange, 147 Striped Madeline, 150 Stevens' Genessee, 148 Theodore Van Mons, 164 Van Assene, or Van Assche, 150 Walker, 162 Winter Crassane, (of Knight,) 166 Zepherin Gregoire, 164 List of, for Particular Localities, 236 Not Classed, 240 Rejected, 237 Which Promise Well, 234 Worthy of General Cultivation, 230 Prince's Rejected, 166 Prince's Retained for Trial, 166 On Quince Stocks, Discussion of, 193 On Quince Stocks, List of, 194 257 List, Rejection of, Recommended, 130 Rejection of, Refused, 131 Plums, Discussion of, 200 Italian Prune, or Fellenberg, 201 Ives' Washington Seedling, 201 McLaughlin, 200 Munroe Egg, 201 Reine Claude de Bavay, 200 Smith's Orleans, 200 List of, for Particular Localities, 236 Not Classed, 241 AVhich Promise Well, 235 Worthy of General Cultivation, 231 Proceedings, 5 Raspberries, Discussion of, 202 French, 203 Knevet's Giant, 202 Orange, 203 Red Antwerp, 202 Walker, 203 List of, which Promise Well, 235 Worthy of General Cultivation, 232 Remarks, Barry's, 207 Benson's, 181, 207 King's, 182 Lines', 208 Seaver's, 181 Smith's, 181 Walker's, 181 Washburn's, 180 Wilder's, 27, 180, 209 Reports, Harris', on Diseases and Insects, 210 Of Business Committee, 30 Of Nominating Committee, 25 On Native Fruits, 184 On Native Fruits, Discussion of, , 176 State Fruit, 30, 219 Connecticut, - 46 Connecticut, 51 District of Columbia, 124 Indiana, 222 Maine, 31 Maryland, 89 Massachusetts, 43 Mississippi, 99 Missouri, 118 New Hampshire, , 34 New Jersey, 66 New Jersey, 73 New York, 52 258 Reports, Ohio, Ill Oregon, 225 Pennsylvania, 74 Vermont, 38 Virginia, 97, 219 Resolutions, Benson's, of Thanks to Massachusetts Horticultural Society, 207 Benson's, of Thanks to President, 20S King's, of Invitation to N. W. F. G. Association, 205 King's, on Models of Mr. Glover, 192 Lines', on Concord Grape, 176 Prince's, on the Grape and Wines, 191 Prince's, of Recommendation to other Societies, 160 Sentiments, Flint's, -. 182 Keyes', 182 Procter's, 182 Seaver's, 181 Smith's, 181 Walker's 182 Washburn's, ■ 181 Wilder's, 180, 181, 185 Sessions, Length of, 137 First day. Morning, 5 Afternoon, w 149 Second day. Morning, 151 Afternoon, 169 Third day, .182 Strawberries, Discussion of, 198 Burr's New Pine, 198 Early Scarlet, 199 Imperial Scarlet, 200 Jenny's Seedling, 200 Scarlet Magnate, 200 Walker's Seedling, 199 List of, for Particular Localities, 236 Not Glassed, 241 Which Promise Well, 235 Worthy of General Cultivation, 232 Wart, on Plums, 201 ^"^ /i #e-f^ / ^ PLAN FOB A SUMMER FRUIT ROOM AND ICE HOUSE, BY J. C. SCHOOLEY, CINCINNATI, OHIO. Explanation of Plate .A.. Fig. 1. Scale 10 feet to 1 inch. Fia. ].— Kepresenta a sectional side view of summer fruit, ice, and artificial spring house, located on A —Ice house, 20 x 25 feet, (outside.) a— door into ice house to admitice. e— inlet for outside air, 2 1^ feet lonff and on'e'foot wide, to be covered with a slide so as to close and open at will; if it is more con- venient, it can be made in the door, a. B.— Fruit room, 20x25 feet outside. ,. , „ ,. ^ „ . , . j • u. ■ i. .k- i. C — Sprins house or ante-room, p— mclined floor of ice house, well insulated, eighteen inches tniekj well caulked or covered with zinc, b— mouth of descending flue, twelve inches hijch, and to extend taa entire ImRtli of ice room, as in Fig. 2. d— descending flue, c— moutli of same in fruit rooin. f— open- ing for the escape of air from fruit room into spring house, 1 foot and 1 1-2 feet, g— outlet opening— 1 foot and 2 feet, m— door from spring house, or ante-room, into fruit room, n— door from outside into spring house, h— mouth of lead pipe to leadoff theice meltings down into spring house, i— escape chan- nel for the water lo run out and down side liill. o— are the partitions to be made eighteen inches thiek and filled with dry sawdust, or dry tan, etc. The light-colored partitions are to be made of wood, welllinedwith close boards. The dark part is for a stone wall, being against and in the earth. 1II8 stone wall should be Uned with rough, dry boards, on the inside. The fruit room, B, can be citliar lathed and plastered, or lined with dry pine flooring. Fig. 2. Fig. 2. — Is a perpendicular sectional view of the side next to the hill, a— ice house door, correspond* ing with a, in Fig. 1. b— mouth of descending flue, showing entire length of same, with bars over it to prevent ihe ice from falling down tlie flue, c— mouth of same in fruit house, with sliding valve to regu- late the draft. See fig. 1. Kg 3. Fio. 3.— Isa horizontal sectional view of the ground plan, h— h— is place of entrance of descending pipe or pipes for the ice meltings. 1 — 1— is temporary floor over channel, k— is a channel around the bottom of spring house, two feet wide and one foot deep, bricked or cemented up, to contain always a sufficient quantity of the water from meltings to escape out under door, m, as represented by letter i, in Fig. 1- This escape opening must be so constructed as to always permit a certain depth of water to always remain in channel, k; yet continually escaping, this being fresh water at all times. The stj'le of the building may conform to the taste of individuals. It may be ornamental like the design, fig. 1, or be attached to other structures, or, in place of artificial spring house, there may be ui ante-room, or protection porch, so as lo keep outside atmosphere from penetrating into fruit room. SUMMER PRTJIT, AND ICE HOUSE, FROM PLANS BY J. C. SCHOOLET, CINCINNATI, OHIO. Explanation of Plate IB . , rig. 1. Scale, 10 feet to 1 inch. Fig. 1.— View of an ice and fruit house under one roof, built entirely above ground, -witli dormanS TPindows in roof, tliree of whieli are counterfeit; the other one ia a door to admit ice, witli lattice trast- wm, made eo a« to admit outside atmosphere,on to the ice. Fig. 2. FiO. 2.— A perpendicular sectional view of same. B. — Ice room — over and at the sides of the fruit room. A. — Fruit room, c — inner door to same. c. c c — small round openings for the egress of the air iVoDi fruit room. a. a.— flues from ice house to fruit room, g — partition between ice and fruit room, twelve inches thick; (should be eighteen inches, and well insulated.) b— door in dormant window to admit ice. d— lattice worJ£, to admit air on to ice. Fig. 3. Fio. 3.— Horizontal sectional view of ground plan of the otrnctQr©. A. — Fruit room. B — B. — Ice house. C— Vestibule or Protection Porch, so as to keep the outside atmosphere from penetrating into A. f- outside door of same, well insulated, e— inside door and entrance to fruit room, well insulated. !»— *— Rx openings for the admission of cold, dry air from ice— each opening one foot square, with alidea over the mouth so as to open and close at will, g— partition, well insulated. This house can be built either with brick or wood— the latter the best. The fruit and ice honses cam be constructed within another building. N. B.- Particular care should be taken in all cases to have the bottoms of these houses thojoughty a^ned, and well insulated fVoni the natural heat of the earth. This is abBOlutely neCBS»ary, as fiMt •Sects the earth to the depth of forty feet or more. PROCEEDINGS SIXTH SESSION imjcjtan ||nmi[l»gical ^ati^tg, THE CITY OP EOCHESTER, SEPTEMBER 24, 25, AND 26, 1856. PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIETY. BOSTON PRESS OF THE PRANKLIN PRINTING HOUSE, COENEB FRANKLIIT AND HAWLET SIBEETS. 1857 C I EC TJL A R 'ranicau llflmttlugital §nitlv„ In conformity wltli a resolution passed at the last meeting of this National Association, the Sixth Session will be held in Corinthian Hall, in the City of Rochester, New York, commencing on Wednesday, the twenty-fourth day of Sep- tember next, at ten o'clock, A. M., and will continue for several days. Among the objects of this meeting are the following : To bring together the most distinguished Pomologists of our land, and, by a free interchange of experience, to collect and diffuse such researches and discoveries as have been recently made ia the science of Pomology — to hear the Reports of the various State Committees and other District Associations — to revise and enlarge the Society's Catalogue of Fruits — to assist in determining the synonymes by which the same fruit is known in America or Europe — to ascertain the relative value of varieties in different parts of our country — what are suitable for particular localities — what new sorts give promise of being worthy of dissemination — and, especially, what are adapted to general cultivation. The remarkable and gratifying progress which has been attained, of late years, in this branch of rural industry, is, in no small degree, attributable to the establishment and sal- utary influences of Horticultural and Pomologieal Societies. It is, therefore, desirable that every state and territory of the Union should be represented in this Convention, so that the advantages resulting from this meeting may be generally and widely diffused. Held, as it will be, at a convenient point between the Eastern States and the Western, easily accessi- ble from the South, and also from the Canadas, it is anticipa- ted that the attendance will be larger than on any former occasion, and the beneficial results to the American farmer and gardener proportionably increased. All Pomologieal, Horticultural, Agricultural, and other kindred associations of the United States, and of the British Provinces, are requested to send such number of delegates as they may deem expedient ; and nurserymen, and all other persons interested in the cultivation of fruit, are invited to be present, and to participate in the deliberations of the Con- vention. In order to increase as much as possible the utility of the occasion, and to facilitate business, members and delegates are requested to forward specimens of fruits grown in their respective districts, and esteemed worthy of notice; also, papers descriptive of their mode of cultivation — of diseases and insects injurious to vegetation — of remedies for the same, and also to communicate whatever may aid in promo- ting the objects of the meeting. Each contributor is re- quested to make out a complete list of his specimens, and present the same with his fruits, that a report of all the vari- eties entered may be submitted to the meeting as soon as practicable after its organization. Packages of fruits and communications may be addressed as follows : " For the American Pomological Society, care of W. A. Reynolds, Esq., Chairman Com. of Arrange- ments, Rochester, N. Y." Delegations will please forward certificates of their ap- pointment, either to the above, or to the undersigned at Boston. Gentlemen desirous of becoming members of the Society, and of receiving its Transactions, may do so by remitting to the Treasure!-, Thomas P. James, Esq., Philadelphia, Penn., the admission fee of two dollars, for hie7inial, or twenty dol- lars for life membership. MARSHALL P. WILDER, Pkesident. H. W. S. CLEVELAND, Seceetabt. Boston, Mass., March 15, 1856. PROCEEDINGS. %nnitzt f'omiilogital Sutietj. Official Abstract of tlie Proceedings and Discussions of the Sixth Session, held in Rochester, September 24th to 27th, 1856. The Society met at the City Hall, in Rochester, on the 24th of September, 1856, at eleven, A. M., Hon. Marshall P. "Wilder, of Massachusetts, President, in the Chair. Hon. S. G. Andrews, Mayor of Rochester, delivered a brief address, welcoming the Society in behalf of the city. The Secretary, H. W. S. Cleveland, having sent a letter declining a re-election, Messrs. Jas. Vick of Rochester, and John B. Eaton of Buffalo, were appointed Secretaries pro tern. The first business in order being the reception of creden- tials of delegates those gentlemen present who desired to take part in the proceedings were also invited to report them- selves. fist 0f gdepte. MAINE. John W. Adams, Portland. Calvin Chamberlain, Foxcraft. NEW HAMPSHIKE. Henry J. French, Laconia. MASSACHUSETTS. MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Marshall P. Wilder, J. S. Cabot, C. M. Hovey, Saml. Walker. CONNECTICUT. John J. Howe, New Haven. Austin Pinney, Joseph Frost, Alonzo Frost, E. A. Frost, NEW YORK. Clarhson. Rochester. GENNESSEE VALLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY P. Barry, E. EUwanger, H. E. Hooker, T. Boardman, A. Saul, Godfrey Zimmerman, W. E. Prince, Thos. A. Smith, Wm. Howe, J. A. Nash, Chas. Downing, Thos. W. Field, Louis E. Berkmans, Wm. P. Townsend, Benj. Hodge, John B. Eaton, Robt. Donelson, J. H. Watts, H. Hooker. Trumenesburg. Newhurg. Buffalo. Flushing. Syracuse. Westchester. N. YorJc. Del. N. Y. S. A. S. BrooMyn (Am. Inst. N. Y. ) N. Y. Hon. Soc. LocJciwrt. Buffalo. 9 Alvah Corey, Pcnfield. C. W. Grant, Newburgh. Augustus 0. Moore, Neiv Yorfc, (Am. Inst. J Wm. Lawton, Neiv Rochelle, (Am. Inst.) N. y, HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Peter B. Mead, Wm. Keid, N. J. Thos. Hogg, Dr. Eignbroght, L. E. Berckmans, N. J. John Grashon, Samuel J. Gustin, A^. /. NEW JEESEY. Wm. Reid, EUzabethtoivn. L. E. Berckmans, Flairijield. PENNSYLVANIA. CHESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. J. C. Baldwin, Josiah. Hoopes, J. K. Eshleman, Joseph. B. Gray, Thomas M. Harvey, John Rutter, Pierce Hoopes. Robt. Buist, Philadelphia. Dr. W. D. Brinckl6, Wm. G. Waring, Boalsburg. DELAWARE. Edward Tatnall, Wilmington. NORTH CAROLINA. Samuel W. Westbrook, Greensboro*. SOUTH CAROLINA. A. G. Summer, Laurensville. 10 KENTUCKY. KENTUCKY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, LOUISVILLE. Ed. D. Hobbs, S. L. Gaar, Jas. W. Walker. KENTUCKY STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. H. P. Byram. ' ' OHIO. A. H. Ernst, Cincinnati. J. M. McCuUough, " M. B. Bateham, Columbus. INDIANA. Jolin C. Teas, Raijsville. ILLINOIS. D. E. Kinney, RocTc Island. F. K. Phoenix, Bloomington. IOWA. M. L. Comstock. Burlington. WISCONSIN. O. S. "Willis, Janesville. MINNESOTA. Amasa Stewart, Le Seuir. CALIFORNIA. Simpson Thompson, State Ag. Society. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Joshua Pierce, Washington. The Annual Address was then delivered by the President, Hon. Marshall P. Wilder. ADDRESS. Gentlemen of the American Pomological Society: The official position in whicli your suffrages have placed me, renders it my duty to address you at this time. Were I to consult my own inclination, I should listen with great pleasure to some of the distinguished cultivators whom I see around me, and whose scientific attainments and practical knowledge well qualify them for this service. But in the discharge of this trust, I am inspired with the hope that you will indulge me in the privilege of sharing in your discus- sions, and in the treasures of your ripe experience. . Amidst the rapid strides of the arts and sciences in our time, j it is gratifying to know that Pomology has not been stationary. Few subjects exhibit so remarkably the progress of civiliza- , tion and improvement as the cultivation of fruit. It is now \ only about a quarter of a century since the establishment of the oldest horticultural society in America. Then, these associations were few and feeble ; now they are numerous and influential, extending from the British Provinces to the Gulf I of Mexico, and from ocean to ocean, — all working together in harmony with each other, and aiding our association, whose field is our national domain. Then the fruit crop of the country was not deemed worthy of a place in our national statistics ; now it exceeds thirty millions of dollars annually, and is rapidly becoming one of the most valuable and indispensable products of our Republic. Then the sales of fruit trees were numbered by hundreds, now by hundreds of thousands. Then choice fruit was a luxury to be found 12 only in the palace of the opulent ; iiovr it helps to furnish the table of the humble cottager, and comparatively few are the hamlets which are without their fruit tree or grape vine. It is only eight years since the organization of this Pomo- logical Society; now kindred associations exist in various districts and States, and are exerting a powerful and salutary influence. Their delegates and representatives I am most happy to welcome to a participation in the privileges of this occasion. This improvement is full of promise, and encourages us to greater perseverance. "When we look back to the days of Duhamel, Miller and Forsyth, we perceive that we have made laudable progress. When we compare those numerous splendid varieties which we have obtained with the limited catalogues of the first part of the present century, we may well be proud of our actual knowledge. From the days of Henry Fourth of France, when his favorite Bon Chretien was almost the only good pear ; from the time of Queen Elizabeth, who sent to Holland to obtain lettuce for her royal table, down to the present century, there has been a gradual advance, but in our day it has indeed been astonishing, and still our course is onward and upward. y We have long since discarded the inferior fruits of La ' Quintinye, the skilful gardener of Louis the XlVth. We have few pears left of the celebrated catalogue of the Eoyal Garden of Versailles, and by the action of our own associa- tion we have rejected more than one hundred varieties as unworthy of perpetuation. At present, who would give a place in his garden to such pears as the Chatbrule, the Martin Sec, the Messire Jean, the Bourdon, the Lansac, the Cassolette, and a host of other worthless sorts ? Some good fruits have survived, as the White Doyenne, Madeleine, Jargonelle, and others, but a part of these only are suited to general cultivation ; — yet how limited their number, and how inferior their quality, when compared with our choice modern seed- lings, and the royal profusion of fruits which now crown our tables ! lo When Van ^lons, the patient and skilful observer, was suc- cessfully experimenting in Europe, our Coxe, Prince, Lowell, Dearborn, Manning, and others, had commenced their course, and obtained some good results. Then most of our pears were propagated on suckers taken from the forest ; now we see millions of young vigorous trees cultivated, sold, and planted j in all parts of the Union, and where twenty years since not a / single specimen of the Pyrus was to be found. The public \ no longer ridicule the man who plants a tree with the hope "'- of gathering its fruit with his own hands, or the saving of seeds to improve the quality of his fruits. True, Van Mons i was ridiculed all his life, and only appreciated by such f pioneers as Davy, Poiteau, Diel and Drapiez. His nurseries \ were thrice destroyed, as wild, worthless thorn bushes, under the false pretence of " public utility." This was an irrepara- ble loss, for however much his system be discussed and dis- trusted, it is still true that the results of his experience have been most beneficial to the world. An honorable member of this association and myself have in trust many of the seedlings of that great master of pomol- ogy, which have not yet fruited. We have those of the eighth generation, which, from vigor, beauty and signs of refinement, give promise of superior character, and seem to confirm his doctrine of improvement by successive repro- duction. And while we are anxiously awaiting the further and ultimate results of his theory, others on this side of the Atlantic are zealously engaged in hybridization and experi- ments which cannot fail to be of immense advantage to the scientific and practical cultivator. f] This progress should cheer us onward. jSTo other country, ''s^ in extent and variety of soil and climate, is so well adapted, \ or oifers so great advantages to the pomologist. Not only does our correspondence from abroad testify to the truth of this statement, but our rapidly extending domain continually developes new facts in confirmation of this sentiment. By the reports from individual fruit growers, and from associations, it appears that some varieties of the pear succeed 14 equally as well in tlie extreme south, part of our Union as in the north. A gentleman from Oregon Territory recently informed me that settlers there had already provided themselves with extensive orchards, and from which they gather fruits of great size and excellence. He also makes a similar report in relation to Washington Territory, and instances among others an orchard of one hundred acres, which is now yielding a large annual income to its proprietor. A letter from the Vice President of this Society for Utah, on the borders of the Great Salt Lake, expresses the hope that it will not be long before that region shall be a successful rival of other parts of the Union in variety and excellence of its fruits. Similar accounts are received from the district of Santa Clara. Another coramunication, from an officer of this Society in California, assures me of the great progress in our cause in that State, and pledges a full report of its Horticultru:al Exhi- bition for our Transactions. One of my neighbors who went to California in 1854, and now residing in Napa city, writes : " Such is the rapid growth of vegetation in that district, that apple trees, from seed planted in the spring of 1853, and bud- ded the same year, yielded fruit in the autumn of 1855." He says, " I wish you could take a look at our peach orchard, loaded with three to four thousand baskets of fruit. You could hardly believe that the trees had made all their growth, and were most of them raised from seed, since I came to California, February 1, 1854. The crop from this orchard is now (July 18, 1856,) going to market, and we expect will amount to between ten and twenty thousand dollars," The proprietor of that crop has called on me within a few days, confirms these statements, and reports that the crop and prices fully realized all anticipations. Such is the zeal now manifested in the cause of Pomology, and such are the facilities for intercommunication, that we are continually receiving valuable contributions from all parts of the country and the world. When we consider the progress of the grape culture in the single State oi Ohio, and its great increase in other 15 States, amounting now to more than two millions of dollars annually — the immense quantities of peaches and strawber- ries brought to our markets, the rapid multiplication of the apple, the pear, and other fruits throughout our land, and the millions of trees annually sent out from this vicinity and other parts, it is not easy to calculate the future importance of fruit culture, whether viewed as a means of furnishing luxui'ies for our table, or articles of domestic and foreign commerce. In my last address, I called your attention to the import- ance of raising new and improved varieties from seed as the best method of increasing and preserving our supply of choice fruits. Whether the theory of the running out of varieties be true or false, so thoroughly am I convinced of the great practical utility of this recommendation, that I feel especially desirous, while I have the opportunity, of encouraging you to perseverance, and of guarding your minds against expo- sure to failures. A false doctrine prevails among some, although founded on the theory of Van Mons, " that scions taken from seedlings, and grafted into stocks, however strong and healthy, will not yield fruit earlier than it may he obtained from the mother •plant." Adopting this theory as true, many cultivators have been dis- couraged on account of the length of the process. Whatever may have been the experience which called forth this theory from its learned author, in the localities where it originated, or where it has been advocated, my reading and personal observation constrain me to question its truthfulness ; certainly its application to our own country. For instance, the fact is familiar to you all, that scions of the pear come into bearing, when grafted on the quince, earlier than on the pear stock. This is believed to result from the early maturity of the quince, which, while it does not change the variety of the pear, im- parts its own precocity thereto. We realize a corresponding hastening to maturity when the scion is grafted into a pear tree which has also arrived at maturity ; especially is this to 16 be expected when the stock is in itself one of a precocious character. If any facts seem to oppose this doctrine, they may be regarded either as exceptions to the general law, or as the results of locality and cultivation. The physiological principle of the vegetable kingdom under which this doctrine obtains is, that the bud contains the em- bryo tree, and that the strong or precocious stock constrains it to elaborate more material into wood and foliage, and thus promotes both growth and fruitfulness. Common sense, as well as common observation, confirm this statement. Witness the pear, which we have known to fruit the fourth year from seed, when grafted on the quince. We know a seedling from the Seckel pear, grafted on the Bartlett, which bore the present season, and is only four years from the seed. The Catharine Gardette, raised by Dr. Brinckle, was brought into bearing by grafting on the quince in five years, while the original seedlings, in all these instances, are only three to five feet in height, and will require several additional years to bring them into bearing. Is it reasonable to suppose that a seedling pear, which, in two years, in a given location, attains the height of one or two feet with but few branches, will fruit as early as a scion from the same seedling, when grafted on a strong tree, which elaborates and assimilates through its abundant branches and luxuriant foli- age, ten times the amount of all the elements constituting growth and maturity ? Hence, enforcing a former siiggestion, in respect to raising new varieties, I respectfully urge you to continue and increase your efibrts, and, in order to hasten maturity, and to multiply the chances of success, I confidently recommend the grafting of seedling fruits at the earliest possible moment. In respect to the best method of obtaining choice varieties from seed, I urged you " to plajit the most mature and per- fect seed of the most hardy and vigorous sorts." Additional experience has confirmed my faith in this doc- trine ; for, where seeds have been obtained from cross fertili- zation of healthy and strong groAvers, the progeny has par- 17 taken of the same character ; but, where the parents have been of slender habit, or slow growth, the offspring have exhib- ited corresponding qualities. If this fact may be relied upon, though the process of artificial impregnation be difficult and tedious, yet, pursued with skill and perseverance, it will ulti- mately secure a rich reward. We should not be disheartened by the poor success of Duhamel, or of Mr. Knight, with his hybridized pears ; for the failure of the latter is attributable to the selection of inferior varieties, from which his seedlings were raised. In reHance upon natural fertilization, I would still encourage the continual planting of the seeds of choice varieties of all kinds of fruit, in the behef that new and val- uable varieties may thus be obtained. By these various proc- esses, we shall have continual accessions to our collections of such choice fruits as the Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre d'Anjou, and Doyenne Boussock pears. Let nothing discourage you in this most hopeful department of pomology. Go on, persevere ; " Give new endeavors to the mystic art, Try every scheme, and riper views impart ; Who knows what meed thy labors may await ? What glorious fruits thy conquests may create ? " These are triumphs worthy of the highest ambition, con- quests which leave no wound on the heart of memory, no stain on the wing of time. He who only adds one really valuable variety to our list of fruits is a public benefactor. I had rather be the man who planted that umbrageous tree, from whose bending branches future generations shall pluck the luscious fruit, when I am sleeping beneath the clods of the valley, than he who has conquered armies. I would pre- fer the honor of introducing the Baldwin apple, the Seckel pear, Hovey's Seedling strawberry, aye, or the Black Tarta- rian cherry from the Crimea, to the proudest victory which has been won upon that blood-stained soil. . 18 But the production of new and choice varieties of fruit is not the only labor of the pomologist. The great annual loss from decay constrains me to say a word more on the preser- vation of fruits. Probably twenty-five per cent, of our sum- mer and early autumn firuits either rot, or, to prevent loss, are forced upon the market at very low prices. In the hot season of the year, and with certain species of fruit, this evil cannot be entirely overcome ; but that it may, in a great meas- ure, be controlled by suitable fruit -rooms and other expedi- ents ; and that we may thus prolong the season of fruits beyond their usual duration, we entertain no reasonable doubt. What we especially need, is valuable late autumn and winter sorts. These, however, will not supersede the necessity of suitable storehouses, without which the heat of our warm autumnal months is liable to start the ripening process, and compel us to dispose of them. The proper construction and management of these is, there- fore, commanding the attention of pomologists, both in tliis country and in Europe. Their success is found to depend on a perfect control of the temperature, moisture and light. After having built and managed four fruit -rooms, upon dif- ferent plans, I am of opinion that a proper equilibrium of temperature and moisture cannot ordinarily be obtained with- out the use of ice. The preservation of the apple is less difficult than that of most other fruits, and is tolerably well understood by our farmers. Still, how few specimens, even of this fruit, are brought to our spring market in a fresh and perfect condition ! The art of keeping the pear, and fruits of delicate texture, is much more difficult ; and it is to these I particularly refer. Having heard of the great success of Mr. Schooley, of Cincinnati, Ohio, by his celebrated discovery for the pre- servation of meats, I opened a correspondence with him with respect to the application of the same process to the preservation of fruits. He subsequently visited me at Bos- ton, and advised as to the construction of a fruit -room upon his principle. This I have found, during the last winter and 19 the present summer, to operate in accordance with his state- • ment, as illnstratecl by Professor Locke, in his " Monograph upon the Preservation of Organic Substances." By his plan, the temperature and moisture of the firuit-room, and conse- quently the ripening of the fruit, may be perfectly controlled. One gentleman informs me that he kept strawberries in a . firuit-room constructed on this plan ffom June 1st to the 20th, in perfect condition for the table ; and he entertains no doubt of its complete success in the preservation of apples and pears indefinitely. Mr. Schooley writes me that, in the month of June, he received several barrels of Bellflower apples, which had been kept for eight months, that were sold in that mar- ket, at two dollars and twenty-five cents per bushel. The remainder out of eight hundred bushels was sold at home at three dollars per bushel. These apples were purchased at random from the strolling wagons passing through the streets of Dayton, and were more or less bruised by careless pick- ing and transportation. My own experience corresponds „ •% with these statements. ' ^ The construction of these rooms is simple. All that is recLuired are walls made of non-conducting materials, with an apartment for the ice above the fruit-room, and with Mr. Schooley's descending flues for the cold air, so as to preserve an equable temperature and moisture, and to hold the ripen- ing process in suspense. The air, by passing over the ice, is deprived of its moisture, and, being cold, and specifically heavier than the surrounding atmosphere, falls through his .. ^ descending flues, and, by a ventilator, escapes on one side '^**-<^ of the room, thus creating a temperature not only cool, but ?% dry. This principle, I am informed by a distinguished mem- ber of the medical faculty, may be applied to the construe- .^^ -^ tion of hospitals with great advantage, so that the air may \ ^^ be kept at a uniform temperature and degree of humidity. ;; % For a more particular account of this process, I refer you / V% to Professor Locke's Monograph, and to the inventor's Idt'S' ter, herewith submitted. In these remarks, our object has been to provide against 20 the maturing of fruits until the season when they are wanted for use. Care should, however, be exercised, especially with the pear, and more delicate fruits, not to reduce the tempera- ture mLich below 40 degrees of Fahrenheit, lest the vital prin- ciple of the fruit be destroyed, and the flavor lost. / Time admonishes me to be brief, but I cannot refrain from /alluding to the appropriate location, soil and treatment of fruit trees. These are subjects surrounded with mystery, and which can be relieved only by study and personal experience. The importance of thorough draining, and perfect prepara- tion of the soil, have not received the consideration they de- serve ; especially where its silicious character does not furnish a ready natural conductor to superfluous moisture. Thorough draining lies at the foundation of all successful cultivation. In cold, wet, undrained grounds, the disease of trees com- mences at the root, which absorbs injurious substances, and the tree ceases properly to elaborate its nutritious matter. Wherever there is an excess of water, and consequently too low a temperature, and the soil is not properly drained and thoroughly worked, the vital energies of the plant are soon .impaired, and its functions deranged. I am inclined to think that death by drowning is quite as common in the vegetable as ill the animal kingdom, with this difference, that it is not so sudden. How many of the diseases, such as the spotting of the leaf and fruit, the cancer, fungi and decomposition of the bark, are attributable to this cause, it is not easy to determine. Perfect drainage, which should always be accompanied with subsoiling or trenching, permits the air and light to penetrate and sweeten the soil, warms it, and prepares its latent fertiliz- ing properties for the nourishment of the plant. A writer in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society of England says : " I have frequently found the soil of a well- drained field liigher in temperature from 10 to 15 degrees than that of another field, not so drained, though in every other respect the soils were similar." Another advantage is, that 21 vegetation seldom or never suffers from the drought, where the soil has been properly di'ained and worked. The necessity of thorough di-ainage and perfect pulveriza- tion of the soil, is not less for fruits in open cultivation, than for the grape under glass, where one of the pre-requisites has ever been the perfect drainage of the border. In relation to locality, some succeed best in one place, while others flouiish well in several districts, and are else- where nearly worthless, and a few are adapted to general cultivation. The affinity of the stock to the graft, is of immense impor- tance to the happy union and success of both. Some unite as though ordained by Heaven to be joined, while others resist all the appliances of art. We have seen trees made sick by the insertion of an uncongenial scion, and finally destroyed. "Well does a writer remark, that "it is from the analogy of the stock and graft that healthy vigor results, and unless this analogy is sufficiently close, it is impossible to obtain fruits in perfection. Not only does this influence manifest itself in the vigor and hardiness of the tree, but also in the quality of the fruit and the time of ripening." We must, therefore, learn on what kind of stock, in what soil and aspect, and with what treatment each variety will flourish best. As I have before remarked, every tree, plant and herb, from the cedar of Lebanon to the flag of the Nile, from the loftiest oak of the forest to the humblest daisy of the meadow, from the fantastic parasite luxuriating in solstitial air to the little flower that peeps from Alpine snows, every thing endowed with vegetable life, requires its own peculiar element and treat- ment to sustain its vigor, and secure its highest possible per- fection. However varied this sustenance may be, and whether derived from earth, air or water, if it be uncongenial, deteri- oration and decay are inevitable. Every branch, twig and bud, every leaf that flutters in the breeze, is an organized and living body. Each has its correlative part, and any injury done to the one will be felt in the other. 22 Under these general laws, each variety requires a particular treatment, and should be nuitured with a wise reference to its peculiarities and habits. I am inclined to believe that the most valuable treatise on pomology would be one descriptive of the wants of each sort. The pomologist must, therefore study the constitution and natural tendencies of each variety as a father would those of his children : — "Each tree a child, your aid their weakness rears, Directs their youth, and tends their droopmg years, Their different bents you mark with studious eye, ' Their laws you give, their naanners you supply ; Directing thus their iiowrets, fruits and leaves, Your potent hand Creation's work achieves." My experience has so often been solicited by private com- munication in relation to the 'pear wifjon the quince stock that, I deem it proper to introduce it in this connection, with the reasons on which it is founded. Many varieties of the pear thus grafted grow vigorously, and bear abundantly. I am aware that an impression has prevailed in the minds of some unfavorable to the cultivation of the pear on the quince stock, an impression which must have arisen from an injudicious selection of varieties, or improper cultivation. In this opinion, I am happy to know that I am sustained by Mr. Barry, in his address before the North Western Association of Fruit Growers in Iowa, and by other distinguished pomol- ogists.. Pears upon the quince should be planted in a luxu- riant deep soil, and be abundantly supplied Avith nutriment and good cultivation. They should always be planted deep enough to cover the place where they were grafted, so that the point of junction may be three or four inches below the surface. The pear will then frequently form roots inde- pendently of the quince, and thus we combine in the tree, both early fruiting from the quince, and the strength and longevity of the pear stock. For instance, of trees of the same variety, standing side by side in my OAvn grounds for ten years, and enjoying the same treatment, those on the 23 quince stock have attained a larger size, and have home for seven years abundant crops, while those upon the pear stock have scarcely yielded a fruit. We have, also, others on the quince, which twenty-five years since were obtained at the nui'sery of Mr. Parmenter, where now is the most populous part of the city of Brooklyn, N. Y., and which have borne good crops for more than twenty years, and are still produc- tive and healthy. That the introduction and cultivation of the pear upon the quince has been a great blessing, I entertain no doubt, espe- cially in gardens, and in the subiu'bs of large towns and cities. And as to its adaptation to the orchard, I see no reason why it should not succeed well, if the soil, selection and cultivation be appropriate. A gentleman in the eastern part of Massa-\ chusetts planted in the years 1848 and '49 as many dwarf! pear trees as he could set on an acre of land at the distance 1 of eight by twelve feet, and between these rows he planted \ quince bushes. In the fifth year from planting he gathered one hundred and twenty bushels of pears, and sixty bushels ) of quinces. Of the former he sold seventy bushels at five to / six dollars per bushel, and he now informs me that he has lost I only three per cent, of the original trees, and that the re- mainder are in healthful conditioiL Gentlemen of the Society: — These suggestions relative to the progress of pomology, and the means of its additional advancement, together with the motives to futui-e improvement, present a cheering pros- pect to American fruit-growers. Wonders have been achieved by private enterprise ; but still greater wonders are to be realized fi'om associated efibrt. How great the advantages which have resulted to our country from the action of pomo- logical societies, especially firom their lists of fruits ! Look, for example, to that prepared by this society. Who can esti- mate the amount of labor and treasui'e already saved to nurse- rymen and fruit-growers, by its list of rejected varieties, by 24 preventing the* purchase and cultivation of wortliless sorts ! Its other lists are equally useful. It should therefore be one great object of these biennial meetings, to revise and perfect the Society's Catalogue of Fruits, and to render it as reliable as possible, that it may embody and transmit to posterity the ripest experience of the present generation, and become a standard in pomology with those who shall come after us. I anticipate that^ at no remote period, we shall feel the necessity of a National Pomological Institute, with an Exper- imental Garden, where all the varieties true to name may be obtaip^,d, where all sorts may be thoroughly tested, and dis- tributed to the members of the society, and thus relieve the pioneers in American pomology from large expenditures and much personal inconvenience. But I must not trespass further upon your indulgence. Yet I should not do justice to my own sense of propriety did I not signify to you my earnest desire to be relieved from the responsibilities devolving upon me as yom* presiding officer. These, by the aid of your fraternal counsel and cooperation, I have cheerfully sustained for six years, yielding my own convenience to your expressed wishes. I beg, however, to assure you that, whatever may be my future relation to you, it will ever be my endeavor to promote your individual hap- piness, and the welfare of this association. Gentlemen of Eochester and Vicinity : — We have come up here not merely to gratify our curios- ity, or to share your hospitality, but to witness your improve- ment, and to be instructed by your experience. How aston- ishing your progress ! Within the recollection of some who now hear me, this thriving city had scarcely a beginning. The surrounding territory was then what we of New Eng- land regarded as the Great West, which has since journeyed on, and is stayed only by the rolling waters of the Pacific. From a reliable source, I learn that the first nursery in this 25 vicinity was begun in the year 1833. As late as 1840, there were only two small nurseries in Rochester, of about ten acres each, with here and there a few patches of apple trees in other parts of the country. Now pomology is here gathering some of her choicest fruits, and witnessing some of her most extensive operations. It is estimated that, in the nurseries of Munroe county, there are thirty millions of trees, and that, in the whole of the nui'series of western New York, commencing at Onondaga county, there cannot be less than fifty millions, beside the great number which have already been sent out to adorn your valleys and crown your hill-tops. These are the prec- ious fruits which have been gathered in this locality. Add to them the progress of this science in various other sections of our Union, and what a charming prospect does our fair land present ! Fellow Associates : In view of this auspicious progress, let us compare our experience and results ; let us stimulate each other to still greater exertions for the advancement of our common cause. Let us endeavor to disseminate the knowledge of the few among the many, that we may improve the public taste, add to the wealth of our republic, and confer on our countrymen the blessings of our favorite art. Thus shall we make other men happy, and keep them so, — render our own homes the abodes of comfort and contentment, and hasten the time when the garden shall feel no blight, the fruitful field laugh with abundance, and rivers of gladness water the earth. The following Committees were then appointed by the President, 26 ON NOMINATIONS. Dr. W. D. Brinckle, J. W. Adams, H. J. French, J. S. Cabot, J. r. Howe, B. Hodge, L. E. Berckmans, E. Tatnall, R. Johnson, A. G. Summer, S. Redmond, E. D.Hobbs, A. H. Ernst, J. C. Teas, M. L. Comstock, O. S. Miller, S. Thompson, J. Pierce, A. Stewart, Pennsylvania. Maine. New Hampshire. Massachusetts. Connecticut. New York. New Jersey. Delaware. North Carolina. South Carolina. Georgia. Kentucky. Ohio. Indiana. Iowa. Wisconsin. California. Dist. Columbia. Minnesota. ON NATIYE FRUITS Dr. W. D. Brinckle, Samuel Walker, C. M. Hovey, L. E. Berckmans, P. Barry, Jno. B. Eaton, A. H. Ernst, Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. New Jersey. New York. (( Ohio. The Society then adjourned to three, P. M. The Society met at three, P. M., the President in the Chair. The Nominating Committee reported the following list of officers for the ensuing year, all of whom were unani- mously elected : 27 pkesidj:nt. Hon. Makshall P. Wilder, of Massachusetts. VICE PRESIDENTS. S. L. Goodale, H. J. French, Samuel Walker, Fred. Holbrook, Stephen H. Smith, A. S. Monson, Charles Downing, William Reid, Hartman Kuhn, Jr., E. Tatnall, William C. Wilson, Yardley Taylor, Joshua Lindley, A. G. Sumner, Richard Peters, C. A. Peabody, Thomas Affleck, D. W. Yandell, Lawrence Young, A. H. Ernst, J. C. Holmes, E.. L. Ellsworth, C. R. Overman, Thomas Allen, Rev. C. H. Byington, B. F. Nourse, Robert Avery, J. C. Brayton, Simpson Thompson, Joshua Pierce, Edward Hunter, Amasa Stewart, Maine. New Hampshire. Massachusetts. Vermont. Rhode Island. Connecticut. New York. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Delaware. Maryland. Virginia. North Carolina. South Carolina. Georgia. Alabama. Mississippi. Tennessee. Kentucky. Ohio. Michigan. Indiana. Illinois. Missouri. Arkansas. Florida. Iowa. Wisconsin. California. Dist. Columbia. Utah. Minnesota. 28 C. B. LineSj Kansas. Henderson Lewellyn, Oregon. Hugh Allen, Canada East. James Dougal, Canada West. SECRETARY. P. Barry, Rochester, N. Y. TREASURER. Thomas P. James, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Wilder thanked the Society for the honor conferred on him, and for the repeated testimonials of confidence shown him by its members. In view of other ofiicial duties, he had fully determined not again to accept the ofiice. He acknowledged, however, that this field of labor was, perhaps, the more legitimate sphere for him. Believing this to be the sentiment expressed in re-electing him as President, and having been most cordially sustained in his efforts to advance the cause of the Society, he could not find it in his heart to decline the trust imposed upon him by the unani- mous voice of his friends. The next business in order was the reception of reports. The President, Chairman of the Committee on the Downing Monument, made the following interesting report, which was accepted and ordered to be published with the pro- ceedings. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON THE DOWlslNG MONUMENT. The committee to whom was referred the subject of ob- taining funds for a monument to perpetuate the memory of Andrew^ Jackson Downing, respectfully submit the follow- ing report : 29 In pursuance of resolutions of the American Pomologi- cal Society, passed at its session held in Philadelphia in the year 1852, the committee issued a circular soliciting contri-, butions from individuals to accomplish the object. In response to this call, the sum of sixteen hundred and seventy-six dollars and fifty cents was collected. The cost of the monument, including incidental expenses, was fifteen hundred and eighty-fixe dollars and sixty -four cents, leaving a balance in the hands of your committee of ninety dollars and eighty-six cents, which sum it is proposed to increase to an amount sufficient to build an appropriate iron fence around the same. These means having been provided, your committee, after consultation and examination, contracted with Mr, Robert E. Launitz, an eminent sculptor of the city of New York, to execute the design agreed upon, which is herewith described, and a fac-simile of the monument submitted. The work was executed in a satisfactory manner and agree- able to contract, and the monument was erected by permis- sion, in the grounds of the Smithsonian Institution, at Wash- ington, the field of Mr. Downing's labors at the time of his death. The funds obtained were subscribed in the following places : In Philadelphia, .... $651.50 Newburgh, N. Y., . . . 400.00 Boston, Mass., .... 303.00 Washington, D. C, ... 130.00 Louisville, Ky., . . . 100.00 Buffalo, N. Y., .... 40.00 Rochester, N. Y., . . . 26.00 By other individuals, .... 26.00 $1,676.50 , *»«^ !)»> HtJ'EBALD, THE DOWNING MONUMENT. 31 The principal design of the monument consists in a large vase resting on a pedestal, the whole executed of the finest Italian marble. The pattern of the vase is taken from the antique of the chastest school. The vase is four feet in ' ' . and measures three feet diameter on its upper rim. : V body is ornamented with rich arabesque ; acanthus (y.\v^s surround the lower part. The handles rest on heads yt - ' ^; le tutelar gods of groves and woods.) The -;^AJW.#y^iM^ ':v -g on a carved base, and being surmounted with -W '^^^^''^ ^ce, has on each side deep panels, relieved by ings. The inscriptions in the panels are as NORTHERN FRONT. THIS VASE . Was Erected by his Friends IN MEMORY or iEW JACKSON DOWNING i^ho died July 28, 1852, aged 37 years. He was born, and lived. And died upon the Hudson River. Llia life was devoted to the improvement of the national taste in rui-al art, or which his genius and the natural beauty amidst which he lived had fully endowed him. was as great as his genius, and for the death of few public men, was public grief ever more sincere, n these grounds were proposed, he was at once called to design them ; were completed he perished in the wreck of the steamer Henry Clay. His mind was singularly just, penetrating, and original. His manners were calm, reserved, and courteous. His personal memory belongs to the friends who loved him ; his fame to the country which honors and laments him. ■'%^" 31 The principal design of the monument consists in a large vase resting on a pedestal, the whole executed of the finest Italian marble. The pattern of the vase is taken from the antique of the chastest school. The vase is four feet in height, and measures three feet diameter on its upper rim. The body is ornamented with rich arabesque ; acanthus leaves surround the lower part. The handles rest on heads of satyrs, (the tutelar gods of groves and woods.) The pedestal, resting on a carved base, and being surmounted with a carved cornice, has on each side deep panels, relieved by carved mouldings. The inscriptions in the panels are as follows : N 0 RTHERN FRONT. THIS VASE . Was Erected by his Friends IN MEMORY or ANDREW JACKSON DOWNING, Who died July 28, 1852, aged 37 years. He was born, and liyed, And died upon the Hudson River. His life was devoted to the improvement of the national taste in rural art, an office for which his genius and the natural beauty amidst which he lived had fully endowed him. His success was as great as his genius, and for the death of few public men, was public grief ever more sincere. When these grounds were proposed, he was at once called to design them ; but before they were completed he perished in the wreck of the steamer Henry Clay. His mind was singularly just, penetrating, and original. His manners were calm, reserved, and courteous. His personal memory belongs to the friends who loved him ; his fame to the country which honors and laments him. 32 UPON THE SOUTHERN FRONT: The taste of an individual, .as well as that of a nation, will be in direct proportion to the profound sensibility ■with which he perceives the beautiful in natural scenery. Open wide, therefore, the doors of your libraries and picture galleries, all ye true republicans ! Build halls where knowledge shall be freely diffused among men, and not shut up within the narrow walls of narrower institutions. Plant spacious parks in your cities, and unclose their gates as wide as the gates of morning to the whole people. [Downing's Rural Essays. UPON THE EASTERN FRONT IS INSCRIBED : " ' Weep no more,' For Lycidus your sorrow is not dead. Sunk though he be beneath the wat'ry floor, So sinks the day-star in the ocean bed. And yet, anon, repairs his drooping head. And tricks his beams, and with new spangled ore Flames in the forehead of the morning sky ; So Lycidus sunk low, but moimted high Through the dear might of Him that walked the waves." AND UPON THE WESTERN FRONT I climb the hill from end to end, Of all the landscape underneath I find no place that does not breathe Some gracious memory of my friend. ' Tis held that sorrow makes us wise, Yet how much wisdom sleeps with thee. Which not alone had guided me, But served the seasons that may rise. And doubtless unto thee is given, A life that bears immortal fruit, In such great oifices as suit The full grown energies of Heaven, And love will last as pure and whole As when he loved me here in time, And at the spiritual prime Re- awaken with the dawning soul. 33 (©n i^z §as£ of t^t '^thtstul u lljt foHofoing: THIS MEMORIAL Was erected under a resolution passed at Philadelphia, in Sept., 1852, by the AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY, of which Mr. Downing was one of the original founders. Makshall p. Wilder, President. The whole monument with its granite plinth is nine feet four inches in height. It is with peculiar emotions that your committee discharge this last duty toward our lamented friend and brother. Long may this monument stand to proclaim to future generations his great worth and valuable services, and of whom it has been truly said, "On every side we see the effects of his labors. Cottages, whose simple yet elegant adornings teach how truly taste may be independent of wealth ; windows tempt- ing the eye from loveliness within to the glorious prospect without ; stately trees that seem to guard like sentinels the sacred precincts of home; village churches, whose very spires and walls speak of religion to the heart — these, with the designs uncompleted at his death, which may yet cheer the desert that surrounds our national capitol, and all the unnumbered charms which his inspired genius has scattered over our land, will long preserve the memory of Downing fresh and fragrant as his own flowers, in the hearts of thous- ands, whose taste has been gratified and cultivated by his instructions. All of which is respectfully submitted by MAE3HALL P. WILDER, Chairman. 34 A discussion on the proper sort of fence to siirround tlie monument then ensued, in which Messrs. Pierce of the Dis- trict of Columbia, Buist of Penn., and Ernst of Ohio par- ticipated. The Society then proceeded to revise the Catalogue of Fruits. The Chairman of the Committee on Native Fruits re- quested that seedling fruits not now in a mature state, should be sent to the committee, vs^ho would make an ad interim report of the same. The reports of the State Fruit Committees were then called for, and Hon. Samuel Walker of Massachusetts, General Chairman, made the following report : In behalf of the several States, the undersigned respect- fully recommends that the reports and documents that may be received, be referred to the Secretary of the Society for publication, and that the varieties of fruits recommended by the several State Committees for adoption or rejection, to- gether with any other that may be proposed by the members of the Society, be in order for discussion. SAMUEL WALKER, Chaikman. ^hit '§tpxts KEPOUT FROM MAINE. The season of 185 5 was a favorable one for fruits gener- ally ; and, at the exhibitions of the local societies, fruits in variety were shown in as great abundance and perfection as is usually the case in the other New England States. The winter of 1855—6, so disastrous in many sections of the country to Horticulturists, though steadily cold, was at no time severely so, the lowest point at which the mercury stood, being 17 degrees. From about Christmas, for three months, there was little change — not even a January thaw. Snow fell in great abundance, and passed away in spring easily, quickly, and doing no harm. Fruit trees wintered in safety, the only harm being by mice ; nor was this extensive, and strong hopes were entertained of another fruitful season, which have not been ful- filled. PEARS AND APPLES. About the time of blossoming of the pear and apple, cold winds prevailed, and from this, or some other cause, the bloom did not set so well as usual, and the little which did grow, was mostly imperfect and stung by insects. Pears have cracked more extensively than has ever been noticed before. 36 Consequently, there are few varieties which, can be said to be more fully proved than heretofore. Of these we may mention Belle de Noel and Beurre Clairgeau as growing fair, ripening well, and proving of fine quality, besides others which have hitherto succeeded quite as well as these, but failed to do so the present season. GRAPES. Of the newer grapes which have been proved, the Concord is found to ripen with the Diana, about ten or twelve days before the Isabella, and is of good quality, but by no means equal to Diana in flavor. The Hartford Prolific ripens a week or more earlier still, and proves fully equal to Concord in size and quality, a rapid grower, good bearer, hardy and valuable for our short seasons, and would probably prove a valuable market grape for the South. S. L. GOODALE, Chairman. Maine, November, 1856. REPORT OF THE MASSACHUSETTS POMO- LOCICAL COMMITTEE. On the 5th September, the Committee of the American Pomological Society, desirous of reporting upon some of the numerous varieties of Pears, cultivated in the extensive garden of Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, of Dorchester, made him a visit, and, as usual, were very cordially received. The comments which follow, are the opinions gathered from the remarks of Col. Wilder, upon the varieties fruited upon his grounds : 37 PEARS. Beurre de Wael — large, promises well, resembling in fruit and tree the Napoleon, ripe in October. Beurre Sterkman — known in France as Beurre Hardy, sustains its liigh reputation. Lodge — maintains its high character, bearing abundantly. Beurre Clairgeau — promises to be one of the best of our late acquisitions, and from its beauty and size is becoming a gen- eral favorite. Buerre d' Anjou — still considered one of the very best autumn pears, always large, fair and delicious. Col. Wilder remarked, that, if he had introduced the Beurre d' Anjou only, he should feel that he was a benefactor to the Pomo- logical world, and nearly repaid for the twenty -five years of labor he had S23ent in the cause. Betour d' Borne — a handsome yellow pear of fine flavor, promises to be very good. Is a strong grower, and bears abundantly, ripe in September. Charles Van Hooghten — equal in size and beauty to the Onondaga, of similar quality ; suited for orchard culture. Comte de Flandre — -a. handsome variety, resembling in form the Marie Louise, long, promises well, ripe in October. Sterling — promises to be a good market variety, Gedeon Paridant — a russet pear, great bearer ; as an orchard variety, quite equal to B. Capiamont, ripe in Oct. Abbott — improves on acquaintance, is always fair, very handsome, and of good quality, season October. Beurre Superfin — equal to Brown Beurre in its best state ; never known to crack, ripe in October, high delicious flavor. Doyerme Boussock — a magnificent pyramid tree on the pear stock, where it succeeds better than on the quince ; when picked early, will prove a great acquisition as a market pear. ' Comtesse d' Alost — a new sort, equal in beauty and qual- ity to Louise Bonne de Jersey, v/hich it resembles, but is later. 38 Pratt — ^maintains its liigli cliaxacter as a delicious fruit, ripe in October, Beurre Kennes — ^a russet pear of excellent quality ; ripens about last of September ; is wonderfully productive. Size medium, ricb flavor, ripens in October. Rouselette de Meester — (synonymous with Comte de Lamy, Beurre Curtet, Dingier, etc.) B. Scheid wilier — a late autumn fruit, new with Mr. Wilder^, but is considered by Mr. Berckmans, who inows the variety as excellent ; its appearance is promising. Nouveau Poiteau— magnificent trees, unsurpassed for vigor, hardiness and growth ; fruit very large, and the crops enorm- ous ; does not rot at the core, but the flesh is rather too* buttery ; desirable for the orchard. Conseiller Eanwez — -a large, handsome pear, desirable for orchard culture ; very hardy and productive ; quality medium^ Fondante de Malines — maintains its character in full. One of the best late autumn sorts. Kirtland's Seckel — excellent ; quality nearly equal to Doyenne Gris. Beurre Langelier — this variety has flowered with him for six years abundantly, but does not fruit until trees are mature ; an old ti-ee does well An excellent winter variety. Emile d'Heyst — a large, excellent fruit, with rich piquant flavor ; ripe in October ; promises to be a great acquisition. Calebasse Delvigne — a very large, handsome and excellent fruit. Pipe in October. Pie IX — ^handsome,, large as Glout Morceau,^ and some- what resembling the latter in color and skin ; flesh melting and juicy, with pleasant sub-acid flavor. The tree is very vigorous and hardy„ and promises to be a valuable autumn Iruit. The Lawrence is a universal favorite. Col. W. considers it next to his favorite d'"Aremberg, and a much better grower. The fruit is always fine. Shepherd's Seedling — a new pear raised in Dorchester^ nea-r Mr. Wilder's ; is attracting much notice. The fruit is. 39 very large and handsome, ripening in October. The tree is hardy, and produces abundantly. APPLES. Washington — in all respects equalling, and immediately follows, the Gravenstein. Polish — of medium size, handsome, "well-flavored, ripening through mid-winter. . NECTAEINES. Stanwick — in flavor and appearance surpasses all other varieties. STR AWBEREIES . Brighton Pine — a new variety, which possesses all the qualifications of a good strawberry for general culture. Jenny Lind — fully sustains its previous reputation. Of the foreign varieties, which have succeeded well the past season, may be named Sir Harry, Admiral Dundas, Sir Chas. Napier and Omar Pacha. GRAPES . OUT -DOOR CULTURE. Eebecca — originated by Mrs. Eebecca Peak, Hudson, N. Y. A white grape ; when fully ripened, is shaded with am- ber, and strongly marked with a strawberry flavor. A valu- able acquisition. Delaware — a small berry, much resembling the Rose Chas- selas. Commences coloring August 17th, fully ripened September 5th. Union, or Union Village — equal in size to the Black Ham- burg ; well flavored ; ripening ten or fifteen days previous to the Isabella. The above three varieties were grown by Mr. Bracket, Winchester Mass., an amateur in grape culture, in the immediate vicinity of Boston. The Rebecca's, which were 40 tested by the committee, at the Annual Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, September 16th, 1856, were from Mr. Wm. Brookbank, Hudson, N. Y. The Dela- ware and Union were grown by Mr, Bracket, who has ripened all three varieties upon his grounds, which fully sustains the fact, that all can be relied on as ripening season- ably in this section. EBEN WIGHT, Chairman, Dedham, Norfolk County, Mass. REPORT FROM NEW YORK. P. Barry, Esq. Dear Sir : I most cheerfully comply with your request to write an article on fruits. But my remarks must neces- sarily be brief and off-hand ; as I have but little time to write, and of course shall not attempt to go over the whole fruit department. PEACHES. Having of late turned my attention to the growing of the more choice varieties of fruit, and having a large farm at Peach-Haven, mostly devoted to this purpose, I therefore shall confine my remarks, mostly, to fruits grown at that place. Peach-Haven lays at the foot of Grand Island, in the Niagara River, and about five miles above the Falls of Niag- ara. The soil is mostly a black, sandy loam, with a clay-loam subsoil ; easily worked and made mellow and friable. A good strong soil, producing fine crops, famous for the grow- ing of the peach and the melon. The land lays rather flat, and only some four to eight feet above the level of the river, and hence rarely suffered from drought. The dense forests on 41 the soutli and west completely shelter it from the blasting effects of the cold west winds. Grand Island is about twelve miles long and six broad. Buckhorn Island lays just below, and contains about one hundred and fifty acres. Farther towards the Canada shore, and a little below Buckhorn, is " Navy Island," so noted in the " Patriot War." Very near the American shore, and opposite the foot of Grand Island, lays Cayuga Island, the residence of John Burdett, Esq. Mr. B. has a large peach orchard, kept in superior order, and the most extensive strawberry plantation in the vicinity of Buf- falo. Perhaps I may as well say, in passing, that, in the cultiva- tion of fruit, my attention has been more particularly called to notice such varieties, as can be grown successfully for mar- ket purposes ; not forgetting, however, that none should be grown, falling short of good flavor. A large proportion of the peaches sold in the Buffalo market, are not only of inferior flavor, but also of inferior size. "■ Public opinion needs correcting," says a fruit dealer, " every body calls for the ' Early Crawfords,' and ' BLonest Johns.' " Says I, " the Early Yorks, and the George the Fourths, are far superior." " No matter for that," says the grocer, " the large, high-colored peaches, bring the highest price ; fools are not all dead yet." In my judgment the peach cannot be successfully cultivated unless the ground is well prepared, and mostly kept free from weeds and grass. And no grain crop whatever should ever be grown among the trees. The cutting back system is al- most indispensable ; and when the trees are in full vigor and healthy, nearly the whole top of the tree may be cut off at once. In two years after, the tree will have again formed a fine compact head. In a word, the life of the tree will be renewed, and will then hold on for several years. The Early Ann Peach, is an old variety, only valuable for its earliness. Fruit of very small size, and perhaps may be called good. Tree a fair grower, and often productive. But with us this has been superseded by Fay's Early Ann. This is a seedling from the old Early 42 Ann, originated by Lincoln Fay, Esq., of Chetauque county. Fruit of nearly medium size, round, of a creamy white, some- times faintly tinged with red on the sunny side, and when fully ripe, beautiful in appearance. Flesh white, juicy, rich, and fine. The tree, hardy and productive, ripens nearly two. weeks before Crawford's Early. Flesh very tender, too ten- der to be transported to market. Very good. Noblesse. This fruit is well described by Thomas. Fruit of superior flavor. Best. The tree a close, compact grower, of moderate size. Its unproductiveness with me, is a bar to its cultivation. Rarely yielding one-fourth of a crop. Rather better, however, this year than usual, perhaps producing one half a crop. Serrate Early York. This invaluable peach succeeds well, and has proved more hardy than almost any other of the more choice varieties. Indeed^ we often obtain a crop from this, where many others fail. Fruit of medium size, flesh white, tender, juicy, and rich. Has few superiors, and ranks as best. Ripens last week in August. Tree a fine, close, compact grower, never attaining as large size as many other sorts. Early Tillotson. I fancy the " books " have led fruit growers far astray in regard to this fruit. It is here quite out of its latitude. I have never found a fruit-grower that was satis- fied with it. Tree a very slow grower, and requires a very rich soil. A very poor bearer, rarely producing one fourth of a crop. One side of the peach often ripe, while the other is quite hard. Said to do better when the trees become old. But after trying them for eight years, my patience has be- come quite exhausted, and the mandate has gone forth "cut them down." George the Fourth. The tree and fruit is well described by Downing, batyig the " productiveness," which I have looked for, but never found. The fruit is par excellence, first-rate, superior, rich, and fine, best. The tree is a fair, upright grower, and much of the outer branches often die out. With me it has rarely produced over one fourth of a crop. Crawford's Early. Tliis is regarded by all, as the peach for "Western New York, — ^tlie great market peacTi. Tree a strong, vigorous grower, very hardy, and, for productiveness, has few equals. Comes early into bearing, and is almost a constant bearer. Matures its fruit well, and when kept in a high state of cultivation, rarely overbears so as to exhaust the tree. Fruit of the largest size, often of enormous size. Its great size and high color, makes it a very salable fruit. Many baskets of this peach, with many*single specimens measuring from eight to twelve inches in circumference, were sold in our market this season, at three dollars and a half per basket, when other choice sorts, like George the Fourth, were selling for one-half the money. No peach with us is so extensively grown as this. Good to vei'y good. Ripens early in Septem- ber. Crawford's Late — a valuable peach of the largest size, almost equal to the one last named, Ripens nearly three weeks later than Crawford's Early. Fruit of good flavor, rather tender, and does not very well withstand distant trans- portation to market. Should be gathered early. Tree a fine upright grower, somewhat tardy in coming into full bearing. But on the whole a fair bearer, and the fruit always com- mands the highest price in the market. Extensively grown in Western New York. Grosse Mignonne — with synonyms " too numerous to men- tion." Fruit " far-fetched and dear bought." Many spuri- ous sorts are said to be sold under this name ; and I have not only had these, but, as I suppose, the real article itself. Fruit very fine, superior, has few equals, ranks as hest. The " books " say it is productive. I have never found it so, but far otherwise. There is some mistake somewhere ; either the tree is not productive, or, if it is productive, I have not the true sort, — that 's a fact. "Walter's Early, Well described in the books. A strong, rampant, upright grower. The nurseryman who sold it to me, said it had no superior. But he Avas mistaken ; it was all in his eye. For six years it has never produced more than one-fourth of a cro23. The mice ate nearly the whole of the 44 trees up last winter, and so we have most fortunately got rid of them. Royal George. A large, fine fruit, but, with me, it has proved quite unproductive ; a shy bearer. Fruit of superior flavor, best. Tree an indifferent grower. Large Early York. This variety is a good deal confounded with others. Indeed the Honest Johns, and Large Early Yorks, are, just now, about as much mixed up, as our politi- cal matters. However, in Western In ew York, despite what the books say to the contrary. Honest Johns are not Early Yorks, and Early Yorks are not Honest Johns. The Large Early York, as described by Thomas, is a fine peach, of over medium size, white flesh, juicy, rich, and fine, very , good to best. Ripens first of September. So far, however, it has not proved productive, or as much so as some other sorts. Honest John. A well-known, yellow-fleshed peach, which probably originated in Western New York. Fruit of full me- dium size, skin yellow, with dark red cheek, ranks in flavor not above good, and generally not as high. Kij^ens early in Sep- tember. Tuee a most vigorous grower, and very productive, often yielding very large crops. Fruit requires thinning, otherwise the fruit will be small, and of quite inferior flavor. Morris Red Rareripe. Tree a moderate grower, rather dwarfish in its habit. Can hardly be called a good bearer, yet sometimes quite fail'. Fruit of medium size, and of good flavor. Morris White. Fruit of medium size, and of a most beau- tiful creamy white, and, when fully ripe, seems almost trans- parent. Flesh melting, juicy, and fine. Ripens about the middle of September. May be called good, if not very good. A great favorite among the ladies ; as, when gathered early, it has no supea-ior for preserving purposes, and withal very beautiful, which, with our good wives and daughters, has much influence. Tree a close, compact grower, of rather small size. Red Cheek Melacaton. An old variety, well known in the market. Succeeds well here, very hardy, and a most profuse 45 bearer. Overbears, and, unless thinned out, the fruit will be small and inferior. Fruit of medium size, and ranks no higher than good. Recommended as a hardy variety, and a constant bearer, and valuable where many other choice sorts fail. Emperor of Russia. Unique, cut-leaved, quite different from anything else in the peach line. Fruit necessarily grows pretty large, for a dozen specimens rarely grow on a tree, flavor very good. Very unproductive, and a bad grower. The Emperor of Russia is not chargeable with the delinquencies of this tree, as it is said to have originated in New York. Red Rareripe. We have a uTunber of varieties of the peach, under this name, — some, no doubt, propagated from seedlings grown in Western New York, and others from something else. But the names among nurserymen and others have become so confounded and mixed up, that it has become a most difficult matter to define them. We have one or two sorts that are productive, and rank as high as good. Old Mixon Freestone. A fruit of superior excellence, of lai'ge size, and most beautiful appearance. Its bright red cheek, on a clear, yellowish- white ground, gives it a striking appearance. Flesh white, and of a sweet, vinous, rich flavor. Ripens about the middle of September. I am not as yet fully satisfied with its productiveness. But, if on further trial its productiveness shall eqiral its other good quahties, I should write it down hest. In addition to the foregoing, I would say that I have fruited many other varieties of the peach, but am quite of the opinion, that, like many other things, the least that is said about them the better. In summing up, as the lawyers would say, I have found five sorts of first-rate market peaches, viz : Fay's Early Ann, Serrate Early York, Crawford's Early, Crawford's Late, Morris White, and also two others, nearly as fine, viz : Large Early York, Old Mixon Freestone. 46 PEARS. In former reports tliat I have- read to the Society, I have named many varieties of the pear, good, bad, and indifferent. As a fruit grower, and one that is planting out somewhat ex- tensive orchards, I confine my remarks mostly to such sorts as I have heretofore supposed were worthy of extensive culti- vation. Bartlett. A famous old fruit ; and, take it all in all, in my opinion, has no superiors. The tree comes early into bear- ing, and is very productive. Fruit of large size, and of fine appearance. Flavor very good. Ilipens during the first half of September. The tree is a fair, upright grower ; and as it comes very early into bearing, I prefer it on the pear stock. Rostiezer. This pear seems to be but little knoMai ; at all events, fruit growers and nurserymen have made but little noise about it. With me it has proved uncommonly produc- tive, on both pear and quince stock, and an annual bearer. Fruit of rather small size, growing in clusters. Sweet, juicy, and of a rich perfumed flavor, almost or quite equal to the Seckel in flavor. Best. Ilipens last of August. Tree throws out but few limbs, and those often grow to an immoderate length ; requires cutting back. With a little care, the tree may be made to form a fine compact head. Tyson — another late summer pear of fair size, productive, and of fine flavor, from very good to best. Tree a fine, upright grower, and worthy of a place in every good col- lection. Madeleine — a fine fruit when gathered early, but rots too soon at the core, to make it valuable as a market fruit. Very good. Ripens early in August. Tree a fine, upright grower, limbs slender, and requires cutting back. Summer Doyenne. This with me has not proved as fine as I had anticipated. It is too small for profit. Soon decays, and fiavor not above good. Ripens early in August. I have fruited it on both pear and quince stocks. Dearborn's Seedling — a fine little pear, valuable for its ear- 47 liness, but not a profitable sort, or not near as much, so as tbe three first named. Flemish Beauty — an old, well-known variety, that has feAv superiors. Fruit of large size, ranks as high as very good. Tree a good strong grower, and very productive, succeeds well on almost any soil. Ripens late in SeiDtember. Should be gathered early, and house-ripened. Otherwise it soon rots at the core. Louise Bonne de Jersey. I have found no pear that suc- ceeds so well on the quince as this. Fruit always large and fine, very handsome, and of good flavor, often very good. Tree a fine, upright grower, producing large crops annually. Ripens in October. Onondaga, or Swan's Orange. Have fruited this on the quince stock only, and that with rather indifferent success. The tree makes a fine pyramid, and produces very fair crops. Fruit large, and fine in appearance, but generally coarse, and ranks no higher than o-ood. Paradise d' Automne. A fine fruit, of superior merit, full medium size, juicy, rich, and truly fine. Has few equals, and ranks as best. Tree a fine grower, and yields fair crops. Ripens in October. Gray Doyenne. I have, as yet, only fruited this on the quince. So far, I am well pleased with it. Fruit of over medium size, fine in appearance, and of very good flavor. Tree a fine grower, and productive. Ripens in October. Stevens's Genesee. Originated in Western New York, where it has always been a favorite. Fruit of large size, of fine ap- pearance, very juicy, and of very good flavor. Ripens last of September. Tree a good grower, and very productive. Some have thought this variety to be more subject to the fire-blight than most others. I have not found it so. Manning's Elizabeth. Fruit of small size, growing in clus- ters, of fine apjDearance, and of good flavor, sometimes very- good. Ripens last of August. Very productive, and an an- nual bearer. Have fruited it on the quince only. It makes a fine pyramid. 48 Seclcel. The standard of excellence ; lias no superior ; a beautiful fruit, of small size. Always commands the highest price in the market. Tree a slow, but compact grower, and productive. September and October. White Doyenne. Alas ! and what shall we say about this ova- old favorite ? Verily, its glory has departed. It is no longer fair and fine, as formerly, but spotted, gnarly, bitter and unsightly. Must we write it an outcast, or shall we rather dig about it and try to renovate it ? On the rich, vir- gin soil of Grand Island, we yet hope and expect to see it fair and fine as formerly. Beurre Diel. Fruit of the largest size, and of very fine appearance. Flesh sometimes rather coarse, but generally, juicy, rich, and fine. Succeeds well either on the quince or pear stock ; a strong grower. Kipens late in October or No- vember. Buffam. A fine, upright grower, and very productive. Fruit of medium size, and of good flavor. I have found the fruit much larger and finer, when grown in a rich, clay-loam soil. When grown on a dry gravelly, sandy soil, the fruit sometimes cracks and becomes worthless. I at first fruited it on such a soil, and thought it a worthless fruit. I now regard it as a valuable sort. Ripens late in September. Winter Nelis. A very fine, late autumn, or early winter pear. Tree a crooked, straggling grower, but, with judicious training, a fine head may be formed. Fruit of hardly medium size, of fine, delicious fiavor, inferior to no other pear of its season. A very fair, but not a profuse, bearer. Glout Morceau. Fruit varies very much in size, from small to large. Produces the largest and finest fruit when worked on the quince. Juicy, rich, sweet, and excellent ; always fine. Ripens in November. Rarely keeps as late as Christmas. Tree a strong, upright grower, and productive. Buerre d' Aremberg, is a fine, productive sort. Fruit of full medium, or rather large size, of a fine, rich, vinous flavor. Will keep until mid-winter. Lawrence. So far, this has proved very fine. Tree a 49 ratlier tardy grower, but very productive. Fruit of medium size, and of very good flavor. The same tree has produced fruit three years in succession, and we may say it " 'promises well." Beurre Easter. An old, well-known variety. Keeps till spring ; " the best late winter pear." Fruit of rather large size, flavor good to very good. A hardy, vigorous grower, and productive. Yery valuable for its good keeping quali- ties. In the foregoing, I have confined my remarks mostly to such varieties only as I am growing somewhat extensively at Peach-Haven, and which I have fruited sufficiently long to speak advisably on the subject. In addition to the above, I have growing in my orchards, many of the newer varieties, such as the Beurre d'Anjou, Oswego Beurre, Beurre Lange- lier, Urbaniste, Duchesse d' Orleans, Vicar of Winkfield, etc., etc., some of which now ''promise well." Others promise the reverse. One, two, or even three years, I have found, by experience, is too short a time, to fully determine the quali- ties or merits of many varieties of the pear. No other fruit is so capricious. Apples, plums and cherries, I must pass over for this time. STRAWBERRIES. Of the strawberry, I must briefly comment. This fruit is most successfully grown in the vicinity of Buffalo. Mr. Burdett, of Cayuga Island, is, perhaps, the most extensive cultivator. Soil, a sandy loam, lying but a few feet above the level of the river. The soil is not rich, and produces but a meagre crop of corn, without manure. His largest and finest crops of the strawberry are grown on land without any manure ; and where no manure has ever been applied. This seems to be contrary to the books ; nevertheless, it is a fact, and my own personal observation on my own ground, and also on the grounds of others, have fully convinced me that the 4 50 books are in error on this point. Manure higUy, and you get rank, rampant vines, and but little fruit. Much, very much, depends on the adaptation of the soiL Hovey*s Seedling — is extensively grown, and Mr. Burdett grows but little else ; and in his plantation of several acres, he assures us that there is not one plant of any other sort, to a thousand of the Hovey's. He is quite of the opinion that the Hovey is perfect in itself, and needs nothing else to im- pregnate it. I disagree with him on this point. In passing over the grounds, we see but here and there any other variety ; and yet in my judgment there are enough to impreg- nate the crop. At all events, Mr. B. rarely feils of getting a bountiful crop. Fruit from the Hovey, large and fine, and, if not of the highest flavor, yet, by some means, it always com- mands the highest price. " Size is every thing." Large Early. Scarlet — is also largely grown for market purposes. Grenerally productive, and when grown in a good soil and widi nmners clipt off, so as to give ample space, and kept free from grass and weeds, the fruit is generally of good size. Iowa — in my opinion, is the next best for a ftdl crop. A strong grower, sending out a strong number of runners, and, unless ample space is given, or the runners kept down, the beds will soon become matted and unproductive. Burr's New Pine^ Boston Pine, Hudson, Crimson Cone, etc., etc., 'together with the Cincinnati varieties, are all grown here with various success. In closing this subject, I would merely say, that it has been found, by experience, better and more portable, not to gather more than two crops from the same planting. It has been found less labor to prepare the ground anew, and plant out new vines, then to keep out the grass and weeds from an old plot. Nothing but young, vigorous plants should be used. " The foregoing off-hand remarks have been penned in great haste, in the midst of other engagements. lam aware that they are in themselves quite imperfect, and I have almost 51 regretted tliat I had consented, at your req[uest, to prepare an article on the subject of finiits. But, such as they are, you have them. I am, sir, yours, very truly, BENJ. HODGE. Btiffalo, September, 1856. REPORT FROM NEW JERSEY. The Committee, in making out the following report, have endeavored to avail themselves of all the information in rela- tion to fruits and their culture, that could be procured from the* different parts of the state. We also regret to state that, since our last report, the loss of one of our able and intelli- gent cultivators, and one of our associates by death, Mr. Thomas Hancock, of Burlington, who represented that part of the state, which has been the means of depriving us of his valuable knowledge of the fruits cultivated in that section. The committee, on account of the great diversity of the soil, has endeavored to get separate reports from different parts of the state, which would include the lighter soils of West Jersey, as well as those in this neighborhood, to which the: present report has been principally confined. STRAWBEEEIES. Nothing particularly new has been brought into notice since the last report. The present year has been very fevor- able here for ripening the fruit, and generally a fair crop has been produced where ordinary care has been given to their cultivation. The usual way of cultivating for market,, is in beds two or three feet wide. This method is attended with a great deal of trouble in keeping the grounds clean ;. and from the crowded state the vines are in, greatly diminishes- the- 52 size of the fruit. . If the following plan was adopted, that is, planting in rows, three feet apart between the rows, and fifteen inches in the rows, and not allowing any runners to grow, which can be easily done by cutting them off once or twice in the course of the season, they can be kept as clean as any other crop, by hoeing, or by using the ordinary cultivator, where grown extensively for market, and labor-saving is an object. This way of cultivating has two decided advantages. In the first place, the cutting of all the runners, as they make their appearance, increases and strengthens the crowns of the plants for next year's bearing, which will cause them to form large trusses of flowers, and the fruit will be nearly twice the size of those cultivated in the ordinary way. The expense in gathering will also be much reduced, as a person will gather double the quantity, when grown in this way, than they would when grown in thick beds ; at the same time they will com- mand an extra price in the market. The ground for strawberries ought to be well prepared be- fore planting, by trenching or sub-soiling fifteen to eighteen inches deep, and mixing plenty of stable yard manure with the soil when performing the operation. A plantation of straw- berries, in this way treated, will last good three or four years without renewing. The list of strawberries having been greatly increased lately by numerous seedlings, each raiser claiming some supe- riority to his favorite seedling, makes it difficult to select the best, and, no doubt, there are certain kinds that suit difierent kinds of soil better than others. The following kinds have produced good crops here, viz. ; for Early, Iowa Scarlet, and Large Early; and in succession, Hovey's Seedlings, Long- worth's Prolific, Extra Red, Wilson's Seedling, Scotch Pine, etc. RASPBERRIES. From the ready sale of the raspberry, in all the principal markets, a good deal of attention has been given to its culti- 53 vation. Like the strawberry, they require good rich ground, with a dry bottom, to produce strong canes. The Antwerp and its varieties being generally cultivated, and all of them being rather tender, they require to be covered, in the winter, by bending the canes and covering with earth. The crop has not generally been as good this year as they were the previous season, the canes, in some instances, having suffered from the severity of the winter where they were not securely covered. It is to be hoped, ere long, that we will be able to produce varieties from seed that will be hardy, and equal in size and quality to those we now cultivate, it being easy to raise from seed. If as much attention were given to them as there is to the strawberry, no doubt good results would follow. The varieties in general cultivation are, Fastolff, Old Eed Ant- werp, Franconia, and the North River Antwerp. Brinckle's Orange has produced well, and is by far the best of the white varieties. The common red and purple -fruited are still culti- vated to a considerable extent for market, on account of their hardiness. CURRANTS. Currants well repay a little extra care, in the increased size of the fruit. They require a rich, deep, well-manured soil, and by pruning out the shoots where they are thick, and moderately shortening the tops of those left, the size of the fruit very much increases. There is nothing yet that is much better for general cultivation than the Red and White Dutch Currant. White and Red Grape are also good. The Cherry Currant is a very distinct kind, with large foliage and extra-sized berries, and promises to be valuable for general cultivation. The different kinds of Black Cur- rants, that have been imported lately, have not been distinct, and seem to have no superior claim to merit over the old variety. 54 GOOSEBERKIES, For the two last years, have been attacked by mildew, and have not done as well as nsual. In lighter soils they have been exempt, and fine crops have been produced. Gooseber- ries, like the currant, require a rich soil and dry bottom. Salt hay, if put over the groimd six inches deep before the bushes begin to push in the spring, will, in a great measiu:e, prevent mildew; covering well imder the branches and adding a little sulphur to the bushes when they are beginning to come into leaf, mildew will seldom make much progress. To ripen gooseberries, they require to be shaded with a piece of cloth or mat from the heat of the midday sun, otherwise they are liable to be injured. They are more valuable for tarts in a green state than they are for the table. BLACKBERRIES. The variety called the Lawton, or New Eochelle variety, has only been introduced two or three years in this neighbor- hood, but, from appearances, will, no doubt, be planted exten- sively for the market. It has fridted here, and fully sustains the reputation it has received from other cultivators. The berries are large, very productive, and when thoroughly ripened very rich and melting ; and, from its long continuance in bearing, we think it will be quite an acquisition as well as profitable to cultivators, CHERRIES. Since last report, nothing particular has been brought to notice. Some new varieties have been introduced, and are now beginning to bear, viz : Belle d'Orleans, Augustine d* Vigney and Belle Agathe. The former promises to be a valuable early cherry, soft-fleshed, and has some resemblance to Belle de Choisey, but belongs to the class of Heart Cherries. The following varieties have been noted as being the best, viz : BeUe de Choisey, ripening here about the time of the May Duke, and belonging to the May Duke family, although 55 it •would not be advisable to plant tbis variety for marl; et pur- poses to any great extent, being soft-flesbed and not as suita- ble for carrying, and some seasons only an ordinary bearer j but, for a family cberry, tbere is certainly notbing superior grown bere. Coe's Transparent is anotber tbat we consider a very superior cberry, also May Duke, tbe old original variety, (Holman's, and Late May I^uke, and otber varieties, are all inferior kinds to tbe old sort, and scarcely wortby of cidtiva- tion wben tbe original variety can be bad.) Tbere is no cberry equal to tbe latter for pies and tarts, and, wben ripened, is a good table fruit. Kentisb, or Early Ricbmond, ripe about tbe same time as tbe May Duke, is also a valuable sour cberry for market. The following varieties, in ordinary seasons, generally pro- duce good crops, and are among tbe best for growing for market purposes, and general cultivators, viz. : Knigbt*s Early Black, Black Tartarian, Napoleon Bigarreau, Old Black Heart, Downer's Late Eed, Black Eagle, Bigarreau, and Black Bigarreau of Savoy. For cooking purposes. Early Kentisb, Common Pie, Eng- lisb Morillo, Carnation, and Reine Hortense. Tbe latter variety is very prolific, belonging to tbe May Duke class, large, and one of tbe bandsomest cherries in cultivation. This cberry ought to be cultivated extensively for tbe market. It has not, however, proved to be a fine desert fruit, as recommended by some cultivators, being rather acid ; but very valuable for culinary purposes. The early varieties of white cherries have been, this season, bere, almost an entire failure ; a very uncertain crop in the best of seasons, and not worth planting, while we have so many others ripening at the same time. The question is often asked. Is tbe cherry a profitable fiinit to cultivate for the market ? This depends altogether on the varieties selected, and the value of the ground- If ground is cheap, and a proper selection made for the purpose ; not as is usually made ; tbat is, planting one hundred trees, and very often nearly as many varieties ; in this way, there is nothing 56 to be made by cherries. But let those planting for profit select ten or a dozen of the best kinds that grow strong and are hardy trees, and plant, say, five hundred or a thousand trees, and twenty-five or fifty of each variety, there is no doubt a very handsome income would be derived. PEARS. The great increase of native varieties of this fruit, as well as foreign, within these few years past, has been the means of creating a desire to do away with many of the old varieties, and substitute those that are superior in quality, and better adapted to our climate. In this good work, we are progress- ing ; for which the community are greatly indebted to a few amateur -cultivators, as well as to different societies, and we may well congratulate ourselves on the progress we are making, when we look back to what our exhibitions were twenty years ago, and what they are at the present time ; such tables and such a variety of fine pears as we see exhibited from year to year, we may safely say, are not to be seen in any other part of the world. Since our last meeting, in 1854, although we have not had a great many new kinds in bearing, we have had an oppor- tunity of fruiting and testing again those varieties already noticed in our last report, to which is added a few brief remarks on the quality, etc., as we have found them for the two past years, EARLY PEARS. Petit Muscat and Amire Joannet are the two first pears of the season, and, being both small, are hardly worthy of cultiva- tion, and are only suitable for an amateur collection ; not for market. Madeleine being the next to succeed the above, and the first good early pear at this season, ripe here from the 15th to the 20th of July, is a valuable orchard tree, producing large 57 crops, and sells very readily in tlie markets. TMs variety is better on the pear stock than on quince. Early Catherine^ (Rousselete Hatif, of the French,) is another productive pear, coming in a few days after the Madeleine. Large quantities of this are grown in this State, and sent to both the New York and Philadelphia markets. Like most of the Eousselets, it is best to eat when gathered from the tree. Beurre Giffard — ripening here about the end of July, the two past years has borne fair crops ; this has been of excellent quality, and quite melting. This tree on the pear root grows tolerably well. A tree planted ten years ago is as large as the average size of fifty other varieties planted at the same time. On the quince, it does not seem to grow as well, but on this stock produces fine specimens. The only objection to this fine pear is, it does not keep any length of time ; perhaps this may not be generally the case. Bloodgood — has produced, for the last two years, on the pear stock, tolerable crops, ripening here from the 1st to the 10th of August ; a good melting pear, not very prepossessing in appearance, but well worthy of cultivation in amateur col- lections. (These remarks apply to it on the pear root.) Trees planted 1843, are about twelve to fifteen feet high, bushy, hardy, round-headed trees ; have not seen it bearing on the quince. Dearborn Seedling — the two past seasons, has been of the very best quality, very melting, and of a larger size than usual. This pear is very liable to overbear ; when this is allowed, the fruit is often worthless ; but if ordinary crops are left to ripen, they have always been of the first quality. This tree, if left without pruning, makes long branches, which ought to be shortened back ; if this is done, the fruit will be double the size that they are when left with large crops of fruit, and the branches left their full length ; this applies to trees on the pear root. This pear has other advantages over many of early fruits for market ; it will keep for a consider- able length of time after gathering, and also ripens gradually, from the 10th of August, and continues in season into Sep- 68 tember. The only fault that has been found with this tree here is^ in wet seasons it is liable to lose its folis^e early ; . when this happens^ the firuit is not so good. Eostiezer — ^proves to be a very productive variety, growing well on either pear or quince stock, although not a handsome growing tree, being of a loose, straggling habit, yet of con- siderable vigor. This pear has a high reputation from several fruit growers here. It has not been in bearing in our grounds any length of time, but, from specimens seen, promises well for a market fruit. Beurr6 Goubault, Tyson, and limon, have all borne good crops, and may be planted with safety. The two former do weU on quince stock; the latter best on pear root. The Limon pear is deserving of particular notice. It was received from the late Robert Manning, under the name of Beurr6 Haggerston, a number of years ago, which proves to be the same as the limon. It ripen^ here about the middle of August. We have no better pear in cultivation at this season than this, and very few better at any season of the year ; it bears abundantly, and is well worthy of cultivation. Beurre Benoist, Dazalonia, and Chenille, (this is supposed the same as Passans du Portugal,) early varieties, have been very good the past season, and promise welL FALL PEARS. Bartlett — being so well known, it is almost superfluous to say any thing about its many good properties. Without doubt, it is the most valuable market pear that we have for orchard culture, ripening at that season. • Trees of this variety seldom fail to bear a fair crop of fruit ; this, as well as many other kinds, are frequently injured by allowing them to bear too many without thinning ; the consequence is, the fruit is not more than half its usual size. It would be well for those . growing for market to remember, that one bushel of good sized fruit will command as high price as two of inferior size, also much readier of sale. This variety is cultivated generally on pear stock, but recently there has been a great demand for 69 them on the quince stock ; some of the largest and finest specimens of fruit have been grown in tiiis way, although this variety is sometimes short-lived on the quince ; yet, when the stock is well covered at planting, they will frequently make fine trees. This is caused, no doubt, by the tree making roots when covered below the ground at planting, which makes it after a time independent of the quince root. If this could always be relied on, they would be perfectly safe to work on the quince. Belle Lucrative. This variety is very popular here, and produces fine crops, both on quince and pear stocks. The finest specimens, however, have been grown on the quince. This makes a good market pear, ripe from the middle of Sep- tember to the middle of October. Andrews — has produced fine crops the last two years, both on quince and pear stocks. This peax does not keep very long after gathering, unless retarded by keeping in a low temperature, but is of the best quality and very handsome. Flemish Beauty. This large, and showy pear, produces fine crops, both on quince and pear stocks, although rather slow to get up on the quince, for two or three years, yet makes a very good growth afterwards, and produces fine speci- mens. This pear sells well in the market, its worst fault is its liability to rot at the core. St. Ghislain. This fiine pear has again, the two past sea- sons, produced fine crops. Ripe here in September. Very meltingj and high-flavored ; grows best on pear stock. Duchesse d'Angouleme, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Heathcot, Seckle, Gushing, Beurre d*Anjou, Beurr6 Bosc, XJrbaniste, Onondaga, and Beurr6 Clairgeau, are all varieties well wor- thy of general cultivation, and bear well, filling up the sea- son from the first of October, to the first of December. For a more frill account of most of these, see the last published reports for 1854. Also the following have been in bearing and promise welL Beurr6 Kirtland. This very superior pear, which has . some resemblance to the Gray Doyenne, but free from crack- 60 mg, which, the latter variety is subject to more or less, is well worthy of trial everywhere, a tree of vigorous growth, growing freely either on pear or quince stock, and quite melt- ing. Ripe in September. This is one of the seedlings raised a few years ago by Prof. Kirtland, of Clevela:^d, Ohio. Chan- cellor, Henry Fourth, Stevens's Genesee, Doyenne Boussock, Ananas d' Etc., and Beurre Superfin, are all fine. The following varieties are valuable as well as profitable for stewing. Windsor, English Jargonelle, Chelmsford, Hericart, and Hessel, being all very productive, vigorous growers, filling up the season from July to October. WINTER PEARS. Of this class we are yet deficient of a good assortment to enable us to keep up a good supply of table pears from the first of December to the first of May. The following kinds are among the best that we have in general cultivation at pres- ent. Beurre Diel — one of the finest of the early winter varie- ties, in season about the first of December. For the two last seasons, this pear has been of the finest quality, very melting and juicy, and, as the trees increase in age, the fruit seems to improve, requiring from eight to ten years on the pear stock, before they are in a fine bearing state. On the quince, they bear much earlier, and succeed well, holding their foliage better, which they are liable sometimes, in wet seasons, to lose on the pear, before the fruit gets matured. Winter Nelis — comes in after the former, and fills up the season to the first of January. This pear is one of the best at this season, melting, and very high-flavored. This variety grows rather slow when young, but increases in vigor with age, making a fine, healthy tree, and bears profusely. It also grows on the quince, but not with the same vigor as on the pear. Beurre d'Aremberg — ^ripe about the first of January, is also a very excellent pear. The tree is, however, a poor 61 grower, particularly on lieavy soils, and difficult to get up of a good size ; tliis is a great objection to this fine pear. Glout Morceau — one of the best of our winter pears, in season from the first of January to the beginning of February, a tree of great vigor and hardiness, well adapted to general cultivation, does well on pear root, also grows very strong on quince, which prevents it from bearing on this stock as early as some other kinds, but, with a few years' growth, will begin to bear. It will then produce fine specimens of large size. Easter Beurre — makes a fine, vigorous tree, on the pear stock, and produces large crops. Ripening from January until April. Some seasons, this pear is of the best quality, there is, however, a considerable loss sometimes in ripening. The following varieties have also been in bearing the two last years, viz. : Beui-re Langelier, Bergamotte d'Esperin, and Doyenne d'Alencon. These have been very fine, keeping well. The latter variety has kept until May. These trees are all hardy and vigorous, growing well on either pear or quince stock. Lawrence — is very promising this season, both on pear and quince, the pear stock, however, we think will prove the best for this variety. APPLES. The crop for the last two years has not been very abund- ant in this state ; in some localities, however, although not very abundant, the fruit is fair, and of a good size. There is nothing that has been b'ought into notice the two past sea- sons, particularly new, or worthy of special notice. The fol- lowing early varieties have done well here, viz : Early Har- vest, Summer Rose, Red Astrachan, Hagloe, Maiden's Blash, and Sweet Bough. Early Harvest proves here, one of the best for early cultivation, and commands always a high price in our markets. Red Astrachan — one of the most beautiful early apples in cultivation, sells for a high price, but does not keep very long before getting meally and dry. 62 Hagloe — ^13 very productive, and large, and a very good cooking apple. Ripens through the month of August. Sells •well in the market. Summer Rose— does not always bear very abundantly, but is of excellent quality, both for cooking and table. Maiden*s Blush— -is a very popular apple in the New York Market, and sells for a high price. This apple is generally gathered about the middle of August, and kept in barrels un- til the end of the month ; it is then colored beautifully. FALL AND EARLY WINTER APPLES. The following varieties are in cultivation here, viz : Alex- ander, Drap d'Or, (of Cox,) Fall Pippin, Gravenstein, Hub- bardston Nonesuch, Fameuse, Pumpkin Sweet, (Lyman*s,) Porter. Alexander. This is one of the largest apples grown, does not bear very abundantly. Ripe in September. An excel- lent cooking apple. Drap d'Or. This apple succeeds remarkably ■well in this neighborhood, the trees are very vigorous, the fruit of large size, and colors a fine golden yellow ; in season all through September ; good for table or cooking. Fall Pippin. There is nothing better in cultivation than this, "where it grows well; they do not seem to bear as well as formerly, and drop frequently from the tree before maturity. Gravenstein. A fine, vigorous growing tree, and an excel- lent apple, well worthy of general cultivation. Porter — bears well, and is an excellent cooking apple, grows £ur and handsome, we think quite as good as they are in the neighborhood of Boston. The following varieties of sweet apples grow well, and are suitable for orchard cultivation, viz : Jersey Sweet, Lyman's Pumpkin Sweet, for fall ; and Danvers, Tolman's, and Hart- ford Sweets for winter. 63 The following late winter apples succeed well here, and are suitable for general cultivation, viz : Bhode Island Greening, bears very abundantly, and pro- duces fine, fair fiodt, one of the most valuable and profitable apples grown here. Hubbardston's Nonesuch. This variety bears well, and produces fine specimens, quite equal to those grown in the Eastern States. ' Baldwin. Another eastern apple which bears well, and seems to be as well adapted for this climate as it is in the neighborhood of Boston ; it does not, however, keep quite as late. Monmouth Pippin. This apple grows weU in this neigh- borhood, Mr, and smooth, and keeps well through the win- ter ; an excellent market apple. YeUow Bellflower. Where this variety succeeds, there is very few apples that surpass it ; a great bearer, and on young, vigorous trees, the present season, in this neighborhood, they are equal in size, to what they ever were in the best condi-* tion. Roxbury Kusset — is one of the best for late keeping. The Newtown Pippin produces fair crops and well-flavored, but not as profitable for market as some of those enumerated above. In planting orchards formerly, the early varieties of apples have been neglected, and late winter sorts have been generally planted, as being more conveniently attended to, at the season they ripen ; but, at the present time, Jfrom the great increase of our seaboard towns, the supply of early apples is not near adequate to the demand ; they are worlii more than the best winter varieties, and not attended with half the expense. What could be purchased for twenty-five to thirty-seven and a half cents a basket, ten or fifteen years ago, sell now readily at seventy-five cents or a dollar per basket, and are likely to command high prices for years to come. 64 PLUMS. In 1855, we liad the best plum crop that we have had, in this neighborhood, for the last ten years. The present season very little fruit has set. It seems unless some remedy can be . found for destroying the curculio, we shall have to abandon their cultivation to a few trees near houses and out-buildings, where the ground is walked on freC[uently ; they are seldom so destructive as in cultivated grounds distant from buildings. The only thing that can be applied at a moderate cost, is air- slacked lime and sulphur dusted on the trees when wet with dew, in the morning as soon as they are in leaf. If this is done frequently, a moderate crop may be secured. NECTARINES. Nectarines can only be cultivated here with any success under glass, the curculio seems even more destructive to this fruit, than they are to the plum. APRICOTS. Apricots trained as espaliers, on trellises, and on houses, produce tolerably fair crops, but seldom set their fruit well, trained as standards. PEACHES. Peaches, this season, are almost an entire failure all tlirough the state ; the severity of the last winter injured the flower buds as well as the trees, so that very few have set, and what have is of inferior quality. The young trees are looking, in general, tolerably well, but all those that have arrived at a bearing state, have been so much injured, that it will require two years to get up again a good stock of bearing trees. The previous year the crop was very abundant, but of inferior quality, and, in consequence of the two past seasons being un- favorable, nothing particularly new or valuable has been brought into notice. Varieties in general cultivation for mar- 65 ket : — Early York^ Crawford's Early, and Late, Old Mixon Freestone, Morris White, Late Heath Cling, Early Newing- ton, or Large Early York, Cole's Early Eed, Rodman's Cling, and the following for family use : — Druid Hill, Grosse Mignonne, Noblesse, George Fourth, Royal George, Belle- garde, and Coolidge's Favorite. The soil best adapted for peach trees, il a sandy loam. No grass or grain crop ought to be grown amongst them, and the ground kept cultivated with light, rooting crops, such as potatoes, etc. The best age to plant, is one year old from the bud, thrifty and well . grown, and cut back to form low heads at the time of planting. The peach worm, which attacks the roots, is the only insect that is to be guarded against. This is easily kept clear by examining the trees about the beginning of September, and cut them out with a small-pointed knife ; they generally attack them by the surface of the ground, and where they have commenced, the gum will generally be found at the spot. The worm is gener- ally small at this season, but, if neglected until spring, will sometimes completely girdle the tree. QUINCES. The quince is cultivated to a considerable extent through the State ; they grow well, and bear abundantly. The apple or orange quince is generally cultivated. The Portugal and pear-shaped, are also grown in limited quantities. The quince is a very profitable crop, and sells always readily in market. An acre of quinces, planted ten feet apart, would yield a very handsome income. This plant, however, seldom receives much attention, and is generally planted in neglected places. Many suppose that quinces ought to be planted in wet ground. This is not the case ; they will grow and flourish better, if planted on good, loose, well cultivated soil, with a dry bottom. GEAPES. The Isabella and Catawba, are two of the best that we have in general cultivation, and sell the best in our markets. The 6 66 •Diana and Concord liave not yet got fairly introduced, but are beginning to be cultivated in small quantities. For this climate, they are not likely to be of as muck value as they will be for the North, where they are represented to ripen earlier. The Concord is a very vigorous, hardy grape ; and, if not quite equal to the Isabella, is well worthy of cultiva- tion. « The annexed report is respectfully submitted. WM. REID, Elizabethtown. L. E. BERCKMANS, Plainfield. New Jersey. REPORT FROM BURLINGTON, N. J. Respected Ffiend : As requested, I send a list of pears that do well in our vicinity, viz. : Andrews, Bartlett, Beurre Diel, Beurre Easter, Beurre Langelier, Beurre Golden of Bilboa, Bloodgood, Crassane, Dearborn's Seedling, Dix, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Early Catharine, Flemish Beauty, Heathcot, Hericart, Julienne, Lawrence, Limon, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Muscat AUemande, Napoleon, Passe Colmar, St. Ghislain, Seckel, Tyson, Urban- iste. Vicar of Winkfield, Wasliington, Gansel's Bergamot. There are many others that promise well, but have not been fruited a sufficient length of time to decide upon their merits. Very respectfully, thy friend, GEORGE B. DEACON. 67 REPORT FROM PLAINFIELD, N. J. BY L. E. BBECKMANS, ESQ. PEARS. The severe winter of 1856, from January to April, together with the unusually high temperature of June, July, and part of August, and also the protracted drought of the mid-sum- mer, have proved a severe trial, not only for the pear, but for all other fruit trees. Those pear trees which have with- stood these trials, may be called hardy indeed. The quince trees have suffered, and their extremities have been blighted soon after blossoming. Many pear varieties have been affected by a more severe blight ; killing, in some instances, the whole tree ; in others, from five to eight or ten feet of the top. Those varieties which have suffered the most, have been the Glout Morceau, Vicar of Winkfield, and some weak, fancy varieties. It is a strange fact, that some pear trees, growing in the immediate vicinity of some affected quince trees, have been all more or less injured, while, in other parts of my grounds, I have not seen a single blight, and chiefly, no blight of the extremities ; showing that the same disease did work in the same manner, upon some pear trees, as if by con- tagion. "Weak or diseased trees have been either altogether or par- tially killed ; and, far from considering that as an evil, I deem it rather a benefit, as such trees cannot be removed too soon, and replaced by sound trees ; there being little benefit to be expected fi-om a tree, struck by some internal disease, which, sooner or later, must come out. PEACHES. Peach trees, especially, in a sickly condition, have been killed off by the score and the hundred. One of my orchards, containing vigorous peach trees, of different varieties, all about 68 four years old^ did not suffer in the least ; wliile some stray peach trees, not under as good cultivation, are in a condition to make their removal, and replacing by sound ones, necessary. CHERRIES. ,, 'Oh'erriet?' have blossomed profusely, but the fruit has rot- ted badly ; among these, the greatest sufferers have been the Dukes, (May and Late, etc.,) the Ambers, and the Spanish White or Yellow. The severe winter, and the not less severe drought, have injured a great many newly planted trees. If these show signs of disease down to the base, and all over 'body and limbs, I think it the safest to take them up, and plant new, healthy trees in their places. They will suffer for a long time, and some will never recover. Many seedlings of weak habits, and perhaps not "fitted for the climate, have given up, of which I do not complain ; such trials being the best and surest tests of hardiness and fitness for this country. APPLES. The apple trees have not materially suffered, but the blos- soms have not set well ; which, perhaps, is to be ascribed to the rainy and damp weather prevailing just at that time. "Worms have never before destroyed so many crops. Three apples out of five are stung, and unfit for keeping. STRAWBERRIES, GOOSEBERRIES, AND CURRANTS. Strawberries, Gooseberries, and Currants, have been in fine condition, and yielded immense crops, although the c)UTant was much affected by the drought, or rather by the hot weather, the thermometer for three weeks, or twenty-five days, having been constantly between eighty-five and a hundred, in the shade. The currants, being a product of the Northern lati- 69 tude, we should not be surprised to See tlieni suffer, even under best cultivation and in deep soils, by such a normal condi- tion of the temperature. Among my best seedlings of the pear, on trial, those of Van Mons, seventh and eighth genera- tion, have proved the most hardy, as they are the best in appearance. PLUM . Plums, as usual, have most all been destroyed, by the cur- culio. Till we shall find more convenient, more easy, gene- ral, and less costly means to prevent the destruction of the firuit, by that unconquerable insect, I shall give u^ the plum culture. An isolated orchard of plum trees, watched, cleaned, and swept every day, after repeated shakings, during at least fomteen or twenty days, will no doubt yield fine crops, but it requires special attention, and should be a special business. Plainfield, New Jersey, July 26, 1856. REPORT FROM PENNSYLVANIA. The State Fruit Committee beg leave to submit, a report on the culture of fruits, mostly in the eastern portion of the State, not so general as desirable, owing to the difficulty of obtaining one willing to furnish data from the western division. An increasing interest in the cultivation of fruits, especially in and about Philadelphia, is manifest. Many gentlemen of means are dii-ecting their attention to, and are engaged in, the propagation of fruit trees. The time is not distant, when our citizens will be abundantly supplied with these luxuries, — the choicest of fruits. This interest is extending throughout the State. 70 From the County of Chester, an accurate observer and exten- sive cultivator, selected as a member of the committee, writes : " That it would be desirable to ascertain the causes of failxa-e of certain good varieties of fruits, and to be able to state the dif- ferences of growth in distinct sections of the country. He resides in the southern portion of the county, and the soil is a clayey, and, in some places, a micaceous loam. Another gen- tleman of the committee, residing in the county where the soil is of a limestone formation, says : " In these two divisions, a great diversity is apparent in the growth of the same varieties of fruits ; for instance, the Osband's Summer Pear, with him, is very poor ; and, with the other, it is very fine, better than Bloodgood ; the B. Capiamont cracks all over, and into the centre, and is worthless. With the latter, it is large, smooth, and fine. The Urbaniste, with him, is poor, coarse, and gritty at the core ; and, with the other, fine. The Flemish Beauty is excellent with him, and fails with the latter. It would be manifestly improper for the one or the other of these gentlemen to condemn popular varieties, until the cause of failure be known. In no better way could this desirable object be attained, than in the establishment of a National Pomological Garden, where experiments could be conducted properly and scientifically. In such a garden, too, fruits could be tested, qualities determined, and names established, and scions, true to name, be disseminated." In that portion of Chester County, in the neighborhood where this gentleman resides, the newer fruits have not been much grown as yet. The following comprise those in cultivation : APPLES. Bough, Queen, Early Red Streak, Rambo, Carthouse, Grayhouse, Newtown Pippin, Grindstone, and Pennock. Of these, the Bough is good enough ; so, also, the Rambo and Carthouse ; but, for some reason, of late, the trees are becoming short-lived, and the fi-uit knotty. Green New- 71 town Pippin is a fine, sprightly firuit, but the old trees are disappearing, and young ones are not supplying their places ; something wrong — the soil possibly does not suit this kind. Such of the new sorts as are introduced, are not in bearing to any extent. Knowles' Early, Prince's Early Harvest, Summer E-ose, Townsend, American Summer Pearmain, Jef- fries and Maiden's Blush, are now the best tried summer apples. The Townsend, in particular, deserves to be elevated ; it is a native of the State, a healthy, handsome grower, regu- lar bearer, and fruit of fine size, smooth and valuable for eating or for baking, and makes excellent dried fruit ; its season and size are favorable for such purposes. Pew apples excel the Jeifries (a native of the county,) for dessert, but have it not in sufficient quantity for a full trial. Oi Autumn Apples are the Smokehouse, Pe publican Pippin, Holland Pippin, Gravenstein, and Hayes, which are well tried. The Smokehouse is the most valuable for all purposes ; it is a sure bearer, smooth, good-sized, rich and substantial, good for cooking in autumn, continuing in use until spring ; keeps well, and was eaten this year in May ; it is good for eating, but its richness surfeits, and cannot be eaten to the extent of the Pambo, and those more watery kinds. Republican is equally good, but i« not a good bearer. Holland Pippin is a good kitchen fruit, but does not remain long on the tree. The Hayes seems to be on the decline, like the Carthouse ; trees do not live long, and the fruit is frequently knotty. The best Winter Apples grown in that section, are the American Golden Russet, Yellow Bellflower, Smith's Cider, Fallenwalder, R. I. Greening, Long Island Russet (of Mass.), Baldmn and Ailes. The American Golden Russet is superb. Yellow Bellflower is pretty good, but is so uncertain in crop, that it will have to be abandoned. Smith'fe Cider is pro- ductive to a fault, but its juice is not rich. Fallenwalder does well in fruiting, and hanging on for a large fruit. R. I. Green- . ing has done well, but of late it is less productive. Baldwin promises well. Ailes is a seedling of that section ; is ,a long keeper and rich ; is very firm and fine in texture. It, with 72 many others, may be superseded by the Northern Spy, King, and others, and so little may be said of it abroad. It may be well here to remark, that many- farmers, in plant- ing orchards, desire one-fourth of their- trees to be of the Smokehouse, The writer, if planting for market purposes,, would set out seven-eighths, if not all of that kind. Apart from its productiveness, it will command one-fourth to one- third more in market than other kinds. PEARS . In this part of the country, one hundred and fifty varieties were tasted, many of which were very poor. Of the new varieties from abroad, ten worthless ones are received to one really good. A list of those entirely worthy, is short, viz. : Bloodgood, Kostiezer, Tyson, Ott, Washington, Bartlett,. Belle Lucrative, St. Ghislain, Seckel, and Lawrence ; several others approach the above, but have some defects, viz. : Dear- born's Seedling, Osband's Summer, Madeleine, Be-urre Giffard, Beurre St. Nicholas, Beurre Haggerston, Camerling, De Bavay, Marie Louise, BufFam, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Flem- ish Beauty, Dunmore, and Stevens's Genesee. Beurre Giffard did finely for two years, and was looked upon as a great acquisition among the early pears ; but, last year and the present, it has cracked badly, and cannot be recommended. Beurre Clairgeau has turned out much the same. It would not be proper to condemn these, but record such observations, for the benefit of others. Beurre Oudinot is promising very well. Judgment on the others, it would be well to suspend,, until further trial. % No pear blight has made its appearance as yet, this year,, which, on former years, frequently has occurred. Pear trees, live and grow on the quince stock, but are less early fruitful than was anticipated, for substantiali durable trees^ the peair stock is preferable. 73 CHERRIES. The writer lias over one liimdred varietiesii on trial, but, this year, the crop was a failure. The best are the May Duke, Bauman's May, Early Richmond, Yellow Spanish, Carnation, Elton, Downton, Slack Eagle, and Napoleon. The best cherries tasted by the writer, were Belle d'Orleans, Coe's Transparent, Reine Hortense, Governor Wood, and Belle de Choisey. Of Plums, Nectarines, and Apricots, no opportunities are permitted for testing, they are so monopolized by the Little Turk, except the few grown under glass, ' QUINCES. The Orange and Portugal do well ; the latter is not so large, but in quality very superior. RASPBERRIES. Of fifteen varieties fruited — Orange, rates first in value, and next to Franconia. Erench, is said to be proving very satis- factory, but it has not fruited here yet. It may be remarked, that, in this section, (Chester County), we have (native) perpetual bearing raspberries, equal, if not superior, to Longworth's Ohio ; they yield fruit throughout the summer. Seedlings from them are raised in gardens, and the fruit some- what improved, but still, they are the Black Cap class, and not very good — ^hardiness and productivness for a long time, is their chief merit. In a little town, in passing through the coal regions and mountains, this summer, the writer found a wild raspberry, with which he was much pleased ; in its appearance much like an Antwerp, but of higher flavor than those in cul- tivation ; observed and tasted fr'om Pittstown to Bear Creek, and White Haven. CURRANTS. Of twenty varieties — White and Red Grape, White and Red Dutch, still prove the most valuable for all purposes. 74 Cherry is fine in size, and Knight's Sweet Eed the most palatable. aOOSEBERRIES. No gooseberries do in this section but the Cluster ; it is valuable, very productive, and free from mildew. Houghton's Seedling does not escape mildew. GRAPES. Catawba is decidedly the most valuable kind yet tested. The Diana is smaller fruited, bunches less, and no earlier than the Catawba, nor better in quality ; of the two grapes, the first week in September, the Catawba was more ripe, and nearly twice as large. About the middle of August, a variety was ripe, (Canby's August), which may prove an acquisition for earliness ; it is not yet sufficiently tested, but appears consider- ably like Isabella in color and taste. Chnton does well, is productive, and valued for culinary purposes. Ohio seems too tender and gets winter -killed. STRAWBERRIES Have been too much neglected. For quality. Burr's New Pine is the best. The most productive are Longworth's Pro- lific, Schmitz's Pistillate, McAvoy's No. 1, and Crimson Cone, but all a little too acid. Hooker promises well. In a letter from William G. Waring, Esq., of Centre County, we extract as follows : " I have principally to remark, that we have had the same experience of the destruc- tive effect of last winter's severity, as is reported from all quarters, and that destructive insects are steadily increasing and advancing. The borer, the cherry, and pear slug, and a species of caterpillar that is very destructive to the foliage of plum trees, have just reached us. *^ Some mazzard cherry and plum trees and old peach trees have been killed outright from the roots. Pear and peach trees throw up strong branches from the roots, so do grape vines. Where the Isabella and Catawba were sheltered 75 by walls, they produced well, but opened out later than usual. The only bearing plum tree that I know of, stands sheltered on three sides by walls, otherwise in a cold place. Grafts from the same tree grew well, while others mostly failed. '' We have no peaches, but had a fair crop of cherries, and hare many pears and apples. '' The thermometer was as low as 23°, and was below zero constantly for three days at one time, and four at another, and frec[uently for shorter periods. We had a deep snow through the winter, or the cold would have been much more de- structive. " I think one lesson of importance may be derived from late experience, which relates to the favorite fi'uit of our climate, the peach. Any means that can be devised to secure greater regularity and certainty of crops of this universally admired fruit, must be welcomed by everybody, especially since the process of preserving it in cans has extended its season, and, consequently, availability so greatly, making it now second to no other fruit in value, unless some would still except the apple. " The wood of the peach suffered injury last winter to an extent that induced everybody to apply the knife ; and this application disclosed a condition of things under the bark, that alarmed all who had never observed it before. '' But in our ordinary winters the wood is discolored, the sap-vessels ruptured, and the first leaves formed fr-om the winter stock of sap, come forth distorted and blistered. As soon as the sping flow of sap finds channels through which it can course upward, new leaves are formed, which are healthy, and a layer of new, healthy wood, begins to be deposited under the bark, but, beneath, it is rottenness and decay. The first leaves fall, and the tree soon begins to wear outwards a healthy, thriving appearance. " That the curled leaf and the decayed heartwood are pro- duced by the severity of our winters acting on a half-acclimated tree, is evident on examination of the wood at the surface or 76 below tlie snow line. The knife displays white, clear, and healthy wood ; and the leaves and shoots that issue from this portion are healthy too ; and unaffected by the curl. " Now, what I should like to have discussed and determined, if possible, is, whether we can have peaches of the best quality on their own roots, either by seeds which can be relied upon, to produce their like, which I much doubt, in regard to any, especially in a mixed orchard — or by layering, which seems sure, and which I hope may be feasible. "^ We could then apply the removal system to the peach, cutting to the ground. The branchlets would lie over like untrained raspberry canes, and might even be covered with pine branches or the like, or would receive protection from snows. The permanence of the trees or stocks would be greatly increased, and the size, and flavor, and facility of gathering the fruit, would be in proportion to the abundant supply of sap, and the health of the foliage, and these are as the proximity to the sap supplying roots, and the soundness of the channels which convey that sap. " Among the hardiest of the cultivated varieties, as I have found them, are the Crawford's Early, Yellow Kareripe or Alberge, and a later yellow peach, superior to either, for which I have no name. " Of White Peaches — Large Early York, Snow, and Hill's Madeira, (of Kenrick, not of Elliot,) have been the most uni- formly and abundantly fruitful ; but of these the Snow Peach is the only freestone, and though handsome, is deficient in flavor, as compared with the others. " A very extensive and complete plantation of all the fruit of our climate, is in the course of establishment on the large experimental farm of the Farmer's High School of Pennsyl- vania, and will soon become a source of accurate and extensive .knowledge of the habits and values in this limestone region, of all varieties now in cultivation." 77 PENNSYLVANIA SEEDLINGS. SUBMITTED TO THE INSPECTION OF THE COMMITTEE SINCE THE LAST SESSION OF THE SOCIETY FROM THE MEMORANDA KEPT BY "W. D. BRINKLE. M.D. APPLES. The Phillippi — grown by Wm. Fisher, Berne Township, Berks County. Description : size large, two and a half inches by three five-eighths ; form oblate-conical ; skin greenish yellow, with numerous blotches and grey dots, and a blush on the exposed side ; stem short and slender, three-eighths by one-tenth inches, inserted in a wide, moderately deep cavity ; calyx small, closed, set in a narrow, superficial basin ; core small ; seed grey, small, narrow, acute, one-third, one- sixth, one-eighth ; flesh tender, fine texture, juicy, fragrant ; flavor delicate and fine ; quality vei-y good, or best ; maturity eaten middle of January. The White Spitzenberg — from Edmund Reckseeker of Nazareth. Size mecUum, two five-eighth inches by three ; form roundish, oblong ; skin yellow, interspersed with large grey dots, becoming smaller and more numerous towards the crown, with a blush on the exposed side ; stem nine-six-;, teenths by one-tenth inches, inserted in a moderately deep, open cavity, lined with green russet ; calyx small, closed, set in a shallow, narrow basin ; core medium ; seed grey brown, short, broad, acute, one-quarter, one-fifth, one-eighth ; flesh breaking, sufficiently juicy ; flavor sub-acid, with agreeable aroma ; quality very good ; maturity, eaten January 27th. The Quaker Apple — from the same source. Size small, two three -sixteenths inches by two five-eighths -, form roundish ; skin striped and mottled with red carmine, interspersed with light-colored dots, more numerous and larger towards the crown ', stem long, very slender, nine-sixteenths by one-seven- teenth of an inch, inserted in a very narrow cavity ; calyx large, set on a plain plaited sui'face ; no basin ; core medium ; seed brown, rather laxge, acute, three-eighths, two-eighths. 78 one-eightli ; flesh tender, fine texture, and juicy ; flavor pleas- ant ; quality good, if not ve^'y good ; maturity, eaten Janu- ary 28tli. The Hughes Apple — from Thomas Hughes, of Moores- town, who found the tree growing in the woods in Mid- dletown Township, Berks County, some years ago, and transplanted it on his sister's premises ; said to be an abundant bearer. Size large, two five-eighths inches by three one- quarter ; form roundish ; skin greenish yellow, with a blush ; sometimes quite a high-colored cheek on the exposed side, a few green blotches, some scarlet spots, and numerous grey dots, which, as they approach the basin, become more numer- ous, but lose their roundish character, and assume the form of short, interrupted lines parallel to the basin, like those in the Fall Pippin. Stem variable in length, and slender, five-six- teenths to five-eighths by one-twelfth, inserted in a moderately deep, open cavity ; calyx large, open, set in a wide, deep, some- times plaited basin, very similar to that of the Fall Pippin; core under medium ; seed grey brown, medium, oval, acute, variable in size and form ; fiesh fine texture, tender, juicy ; flavor very agreeable, saccharine, without being sweet, with a delicate and delicious aroma ; quality very good, if not hest ; maturity, eaten March 4th, April 15th. The Kelsey — ^fifteen years old, and stands on the premises of John Kelsey, Lower Makefield Township, Bucks Co. ; size two and' one-eighth inches, by two and five-eighths, roundish- oblate, sometimes inclining to conical ; skin greenish yellow, with occasionally a faint blush, and numerous gray dots, a few of which have a red margin ; stem one half by one-twelfth inches, inserted in a deep, moderately open cavity ; calyx closed, set in a very shallow, plaited basin ; core small ; seed grey-brown, long, acuminate, three-eighths, one-sixth, one- eighth ; flesh tender, fine texture, greenish white ; flavor mild, and exceedingly pleasant, fragrant aroma ; quality very good ; maturity, eaten March 28. The Baer Apple — ^from Charles Kessler, Reading, Berks County ; size under medium, two five-sixteenth inches, by 79 two five-eightlis ; form roundish-oblong ; skin mottled ■with, red, and striped with dark crimson on a greenish yellow ground, and marked with numerous grey dots ; stem one inch by one- twelfth, inserted in a wide, deep cavity ; calyx closed, set in a moderately wide, shallow plaited basin ; seed grey brown, short, broad acute ; flesh tender, fine texture ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good ; maturity, eaten April 15. The Ewalt Apple — from E. A. Vickroy, Johnstown, who says this variety originated more than sixty years ago, on John Ewalt's farm, three miles west of Bradford, on the Glade Road, and Pittsburg turnpike. Size full medium, two and a half inches by three ; form truncated, and somewhat angular ; color greenish yellow, with a bright red cheek, and many greenish russet spots, especially about the base ; stem very short, rather stout, inserted in a narrow, not very deep cavity ; calyx closed, set in a narrow, moderately deep, slightly plaited basin ; core medium ; seed small, short, plump, pointed, greyish brown ; flesh fine texture, tender ; flavor sprightly and pleasant, with an exceedingly fragrant odor ; quality very good; maturity, eaten April. The Jackson Apple. Original tree on the premises of James M. Jackson, Quakertown, Richland Township, Bucks County. Size medium, two one-half inches by three one-fourth ; form roundish ; skin greenish yellow, with many dark green blotches, and grey dots, a few very faint red stripes, scarcely perceptible, and, on the exposed side, a warm, mottled brown blush, containing numerous white dots, with a central grey speck in each ; stem variable, from three-eighths to seven- eighths long, one-sixteenth thick, inserted in a deep, narrow cavity ; calyx closed, set in a moderately wide and deep, sometimes slightly plaited basin ; core medium ; seed grey, five-sixteenths, three-sixteenths, two-sixteenths ; flesh green- ish, fine texture, tender, juicy ; flavor deliciously aromatic ; quality very good, perhaps best ; maturity, October to May, eaten April 4th, and May 9th. Specimens presented and grown by Wilson Dennis, Applebackville, Bucks County. The Barbour Apple — originated with J. Barbour, of Colum- 80 bia, Lancaster County. Size medium, two five-sixteenths by two eleven-sixteenths ; form roundish oBlate, inclining to conical ; slcin mottled and striped, with red of different hues, on a greyish ground, with numerous grey specks, each con-^ taining a russet dot ; these specks diminish in size, but increase in numbers as they approach the calyx ; stem one-half inch long by one-tenth ; fleshy at its junction, with the wood inserted in a moderately deep, rather narrow cavity ; calyx small, closed, set in a shallow, plaited basin ; core large ; seed greyish brown, three-eighths, one-fifth, one-eighth ; flesh yel- lowish white, tender texture, juicy ; flavor pleasant ; quality v'&nj good. The Dick's Seedling — originated with Mr. E.ichard Down- ing, near Downingtown, West Whiteland Township, Chester County. Size medium, two one-half inches by three ; form truncated, ovate ; skin striped, and mottled with crimson, on a greenish yellow ground ; stem somewhat variable, from one by one-eleventh, to three-fourths by one-eighth, inserted in a deep, narrow, sometimes wide cavity ; calyx closed, rather small, set in a wide, moderately deep, sometimes shallow plaited basin ; flesh fine texture ; flavor sub-acid ; quality good; maturity, August. The Reist — from a large tree on the premises of Mr. Simon S. Reist, within a few miles of the city of Lancaster ; the tree is believed to be a seedling ; the specimens were sent by Mr. Casper Hiller. Size large, three one-eighth by three five- eighths ; form roundish, ribbed at the apex ; skin fair, yellow ; stem five-eighths by one-eighth, inserted in a narrow, moder- ately deep cavity, with some stellate russet rays ; calyx small, closed, set in a narrow, contracted, ribbed basin ; core medium ; seed small, brown, acuminate, defective ; flesh fine texture ; flavor pleasant ; quality very good; maturity, eaten August 15. The Gewiss Good — from Charles Kessler, Reading. Size below medium, from two one-fourth inches by two five-eighths, to two one-fourth by two seven-eighths; form roundish-oblate ; skin yellow, with a carmine cheek, which sometimes termi- nates abruptly, and occasionally one or more white blotches in 81 the red ; stem one-iialf to tliree-foiirtlis, by ■one-eleventh, inserted in a deep cavity ; calyx small, closed, set in a con- tracted, plaited basin ; core rather large ; seed large, short, plump, ovate, brown ; flesh fine texture, tender ; flavor sprightly, with pleasant aroma; quality very good; eaten November 1. The Chester Apple — originated on the farm of "William Harding, Londonderry Township, Chester County. The tree stands in a large orchard of seedlings, from the woods and fence rows, planted by a person whose name was Cook. Specimens from Thomas Harvey, through Josiah Hoopes. Size above medium, two nine-sixteenths by three one-half; form roundish oblate ; skin yellow, with a crimson blush, numerous carmine dots, and a warty excrescence near the basin ; stem short and slender, three-eighths by one-tenth, inserted in a wide, not very deep cavity ; calyx medium, set in a very wide, deep basin ; core small ; seed grey brown, broad, obtuse ; flesh tender, white ; flavor agreeable aroma ; quality very good ; maturity, eaten November 21. 'the Madison Red— from Washington, Pennsylvania. Size three by three three-fourths ; form roundish ; skin striped with red of different hues, with many russet spots and dots ; stem inserted in a deep, moderately wide, russeted cavity; calyx small, set in a medium-sized bazin ; core medium ; seed destroyed; flesh tender, fine texture, juicy ; flavor pleas- ant ; quality good, if not very good ; maturity, eaten Novem- ber 21. The Seedling Paul — ^from Washington, Pennsylvania. Size two five- eighths by three three-fourths ; form roundish oblate, compressed at the sides ; skin striped with red on a yellow ground ; stem short, slender, inserted in a narrow, not very deep cavity ; calyx small, set in a narrow, shallow basin ; core small ; seed grey brown, small, slender, acuminate ; flesh tender, fine texture, juicy ; flavor agreeably sub-acid ; quality very good; maturity, eaten November 21. The Old House Apple — ^from the premises of John Cauff- man, Mosalem Creek, Richmond Township, Bucks County, 6 82 sent by Mr. Kessler. Size two one-fourth by three ; form oblate, inclining to obconic ; skin yellow, with a blush on the exposed side ; stem one-half inch by one-tenth, inserted in a moderately wide, not very deep cavity ; calyx medium, closed, set in a wide, deep basin ; core medium ; seed brown, large, short, broad obtuse, three-eighths, two-eighths, one-seventh j flesh tender, fine texture, juicy ; flavor agreeable aroma ; quality very good) if not best; maturity, eaten December 11. The Staudt Apple — ^from Mr. Kessler, grows on the prem- ises of Mr. Staudt, Berne Township, Berks County, is believed to be a seedling. Size large, two seven-eighths inches by three three-fourths ; form roundish, inclining to conical ; skin deep crimson, with stripes of paler red, and numerous light dots ; stem one-half inch long, one-eighth thick, inserted in a wide, deep, russeted cavity, the russet extending in rays some distance beyond the cavity ; calyx small, closed, set in a narrow, shallow, furrowed basin ; core small ; seed light brown, short, broad, plump ; flesh fine-grained, tender, white ; flavor sub-acid, and pleasant ; quality very good ; maturity, eaten December 26th, overripe mature in November. PEARS. The Mather Pear — originated with John Mather, near Jen- kintown, Abington Township, Montgomery County, from seed planted by him thirty-five or forty years ago. Size below medium, two one-fourth by two ; form obovate ; skin yellow, with occasionally a mottled red cheek, and russeted at the insertion of the stem ; stem three-fourths by one-sixth, inserted obliquely by fleshy rings without depression ; calyx medium, set in a narrow, very shallow basin ; seed black, ovate ; flesh a little coarse, but buttery ; flavor delicate, and pleasant ; quality perhaps very good ; maturity, eaten August 9. EespectfuUy submitted. THOMAS P. JAMES, Chairman. 83 FRUITS FOR EXHIBITION AT THE AMERICAN POMO- LOGIOAL SOCIETY, SEPTEMBER, 1856, BY WM. G. WARING, BOALSBUEG, CENTRE COUNTY, PENN. Injured by a severe hail storm, and by grasshoppers, and severe drought. GRAPES. York Madeira Grape. Very hardy and prolific, preferred to Isabella or Catawba when fully ripe, colors with Isabella ; but two weeks later in ripening. Native of York Co., Penn. Jelly Grape. Extremely productive, good, especially valu- able for culinary use. Very good when dried. APPLES. September Apple, (Pride of Sept.) Superior to Hawley in flavor, and productiveness, and hardy growth. Good specimens weigh a full pound. Native of Centre Co., Penn. Jeffries — a new apple of great celebrity in Pennsylvania ; native of Chester County. French Pippin of Central Pennsylvania — a fine, fair autumn apple, a great favorite, fine grower. Specimens very inferior. Fallawater, or Pound. The most popular winter apple in central and lower Pennsylvania. A great grower, and bearer of uniform, fair and handsome fruit ; very pleasantly flavored, tender, juicy. Some trees ripen their fruit in October ; becomes yellow and very handsome. Smokehouse, Gibbon's Vandevere. On ridge and alluvial soils this, and the Vandeveres, and their relation the Repub- lican Pippin, are rich, and preferred to the Rambo. On lime- stone, they are not so fine. Strong, dark shoots bearing on their ends. Native of Pennsylvania. Yellow Vandevere — poor on limestone, rots ; bears on the ends of the light-colored ; numerous flexible shoots. Red Vandevere. Valuable ; does not rot ; shoots reddish, bearing on the ends. Butter Apple. A superior variety for making Pennsylvania 84 apple butter. Bears as well as Jersey Sweet, but not quite so early; always fair, looking as if moulded from rich, waxy butter. Growth upright, free ; shoots rather slender, reddish yellow. Very valuable ; four to ten trees required in every orchard. Fall Wine. A good bearer, handsome and excellent des- sert fruit ; becomes rather dry. Autumn Strawberry — ^handsome, but not much valued here. American Summer Pearmain. An excellent apple here ; a regular bearer of fair fruit ; rich, not surpassed, i/ equalled, during its season. Maiden's Blush — ^very popular here, and preferred for culinary use ; almost first-rate for dessert. Holland Pippin. This, and the four last-named, are shown by way of comparison with the newer sorts, all having grown. in the same orchard. Hayes Apple — a very productive and popular fall apple, on the West Branch, Pennsylvania. Blenheim Pippin Apple — received at different times from England, as one of the most popular apples there ; rich, crisp, acid ; the acidity too much aggravated by our hot sun. REPORT FROM DELAWARE. Wilmington, Del., Oct., 1856. The duty devolved upon me by the American Pomologi- cal Society, of preparing a Report from the State of Delaware, I find myself unable to perform satisfactorily, except so far as New Castle County, the northern county of the State, is con- cerned. I had hoped for interesting information from the two lower counties, but want of time on the part of those addressed to give full replies, has prevented my receiving it. 85 I may remark, that the northern county of Delaware, (N. Castle,) is favorable to most fruits of a temperate climate, which require a good loam, and a heavy substratum. Pears, apples, and cherries, among arboreous fruits, are very pro- ductive and long-lived ; while peaches and apricots, though productive, are uncertain bearers and short-lived. This State has, however, within a few years, obtained a wide reputation for its peaches ; which, nevertheless, require constant atten- tion and renewing ; and then have well repaid the energy and care of the cultivator. Nectarines become a prey to the curculio, and are not worth culture in the open air ; and plums are not at all reli- able for the same reason. Planted in a pavement, plums are believed to be free from the depredations of this insect. Besides, we are not far enough south to secure us from the extreme changes of the climate, which ranged from eight degrees below zero to one-hundred above that point. The lower counties have a temperature somewhat modified by the proximity of the ocean, and have a lighter soil ; in Sussex county becoming quite sandy. This county anticipates N. Castle in the spring, about one week. No considerable atten- tion has, however, been paid to fruit culture, in its -highest character, until quite recently ; but market facilities will, in a few years, bring reports of a very different kind from those of the past ; showing, I have no doubt, the value of their climate and soil in the cultivation of the peach, grape, apple, pear, str9,wberry and other fruits of this zone. Mr. Edward Tatnall, of Brandywine, has kindly aided me by furnishing the following critical and valuable Report, which forms an appendix to his own Eeport made to this Society in 1852, and which, together, contain some of the results of his experience for fifteen years, as an indefatigable amateur fruit culturist. * * In his Report will be foiiiid incorporated the description of several of Delawaxe fnlits furnished by the kiridness of Dr. W. D. Brinckle, of Philadelphia. 86 MR. TATNALL'S REPORT. Dr. L. p. Bush, Chairman of State Fruit Committee. In compliance with your request, I send you the following notes, as my limited experience on the cultivation and varieties of pears. I will endeavor to be brief in the remarks I have to make. SUMMEE PEARS. Of the Summer Pear, I consider the Bartlett as by far the most valuable, on account of its large size, uniform produc- tiveness, hardiness, and thrifty growth, although not of the highest flavor. Dearborn's Seedling — is also valuable for its profuse yield, rapid, strong growth, fine flavor, and is particularly adapted to the wants of the million, (who know little of the process of house-ripening,) on account of its never rotting at the core, howe-visr ripe, and its persistence, resisting the strongest wind. Tyson — is a pear which will rank as best ; an upright, strong grower, but late coming into bearing. Doyenne d' Ete — is a beautiful early variety, of excellent quality, a profuse bearer, very desirable. Manning's Elizabeth — a very handsome, small pear, nearly round ; clear yellow, with a red cheek ; saccharine ; admired by lovers of sweet pears. Ott — though small, is delicious. Fruit larger and better on quince stock. Brandywine — nearly equal in its best state to Tyson ; slightly more acid, and lacking the bouquet of the latter. A strong, upright grower on pear and quince, and productive. Souvraine d' Ete — a rapid grower on quince ; making a handsome pyramid, but of rather poor quality. Fruit medium 87 size, watery, gritty at the core. Reported by me in 1852 as a poor grower, which I presume was accidental. Osband's Summer — has disappointed jne more than all others. The grafts were obtained through the kindness of Mr. Barry, and having fruited this year prove true. It is very handsome, but perfectly worthless and insipid. This pear has a high character in Western New York, which I had supposed would be improved in our southern latitude. I may have reasons in the future for reversing the judgment given above. Belle de Bruxelles — a large, fine-looking, and productive pear ; devoid of flavor. Bloodgood — fully maintains its former character. Bonne d'Ezee — the first year of firuiting with me (1852,) was small and insipid ; since that time it has borne large, fine fruit, of excellent quality, but a little disposed to crack. Bark rough. Madeleine — is the earliest good pear ; is tolerably fair in size and appearance ; quality very good. Strong grower on pear, poor on quince. Kirtland Beurre — a good grower, productive, fruit hand- some russet, with a red cheek. Quality very good; but does not maintain its northern reputation. Canandaigua — which is with me a late summer variety, is very fair in quality, though inferior to Bartlett. It grows vigorously on quince. Fruit rots badly before mature. Beurre Goubault — ^fine flavor and buttery, but gritty at the core ; very productive. Doyenne Boussock — with me a late summer or early autumn variety ; is large and flne, nearly equalling Doyenne Blanc in quality. It, however, falls prematurely. A fair groAver on quince, but cracks in the bark. Several of the earlier varieties of what are commonly con- sidered as Autumn pears, mature late in Summer ; some of them with or before the Bartlett. Ananas — proves identical with Henry Fourth. Beurre Bosc — mantains the high reputation given it by 88 authors,, and is well wortliy of general eultivacion. Does no€ succeed on quince. One tree thus worked, is but a foot and a half high,, and . struggling for an existence ; whilst other free growing sorts have attained ten feet. Fulton — is yery productive and hardy ; of good medium size, but deficient in flavor. Hewes — a seedling of this place> is worthtless. Jalousie de Eontenay Vendee — productive ; a moderate grower on quince. Fruit above medium, more or less russeted ; quality very good. Epine Dumas — on first fruiting, was utterly worthless, watery and insipid. Subsequent fruitiags have proved it an excellent pear ; comparing in most respects with Beurre d'Anjou. Pie IX — a vigorous grower on pear and quince ; fruit fell before mature ; not tested. Beurre Benoist — grows well on quince, and makes a good pyramid. Fruit medium, size, roundish ; of very good quality. Johonnot — a pear under medium ; j^ellowish green, with knobby processes' at stem. Very good ; growth moderate. Lodge — ^ripens late in summer ; fully equals Brown Beurre. Vigorous and productive on pear stock, not tried on quince. Its large size and excellent quality recommend it to all lovers of sprightly pears. Vezouziere — an irregular ridged pear. FerT/g-oofZ, nearly hest. Very productive and thrifty on the pear Onondaga — first fruited the present season ; is very vigor- ous and productive on pear.. Young shoots subject to blight on quince. Fruit not mature. Brown Beurre — is too' well knovfn to need description, and is highly esteemed for its rich vinous flavor. Paradise d' Automne — a vigorous, straggling grower, moderately productive ; very good only. Buffam is a strong, vigorous, upright grower, on quince. Fruit nearly equal to Doyenne Blanc, but subject to speck ob. the tree before maturity.. 89 Baronne de Mello — perhaps Millot. Productive and vig"- orous on quince. First fruited this season ; quality good ; may be very good, with more age. Dix — a very tardy bearer, and rapid grower ; with slender, upright shoots ; reports progress, and has continued to grow ; no fruit. Long Green — appears to be a meaningless title ; there being at least two varieties under that name ; one of very good quality, the other worthless. I unfortunately possess the latter. Inconnue Cheneau — proves to be Beurre d'Anjou. Urbaniste — ^like Dix, reports progress. Growth vigorous, making a fine pyramid, without extra care. No fruit. Jersey Gratioli — ^is a pear of much merit. Fruit above medium ; juicy, melting, rich ; moderately productive. Bark rough and cracked. Belle Lucrative — is variable on good soils, mostly iest ; sometimes poor. Young shoots subject to blight on quince. Doyenne Robin — a bergamot-shaped pear, medium size ; quality very good ; very productive, and tolerably thrifty on quince. Noveau Poiteau — a most robust grower on quince ^ shoots remarkably strong and upright. Tolerably productive, bear- ing in clusters on the old wood. Fruit quite large, some- what russeted ; not yet mature. Oswego Beurre — a strong, upright grower, on quince. Productive, but nearly valueless with us ; shedding its fruit before fully grown. Rodney — is a seedling from Sussex County, and is only valuable, on account of its remarkable affinity for the quince, on which it makes a monstrous growth. Desirable for double working. Many other Autumn varieties have been mentioned in the Report submitted in 1852. WINTER PEARS. Of Winter pears it may be well to say that Beurre d'Aremberg, has entirely failed on quince. 90 Beurre Easter and Beurre Gris d' Hiver Noveau, may be placed in the same category, as shy bearers and good growers on the quince. St. Germain — may be ripened finely, by leaving it in a bed of leaves under the tree until early winter. Soldat Laboureur — ^has disappointed all of its admirers ; although large and promising, it never performs ; but invari- ably falls before mature. It makes one of the handsomest pyramids in the fruit garden, though the bark is rough and unsightly. "WoUaston — has proved to be Glout Morceau, as suspected by several cultivators, to whom scions had been sent. Susette de Bavay— although a fine, thrifty grower on quince, at first, is not durable with me. I never succeeded in keep- ing it more than five years. Catillae — ^is valuable as a cooking pear, on account of its large size, productiveness, and long quality. Columbia — ^is productive and thrifty, but the fruit has a tendency to rot on the tree. Echassery, better known with us as the Walnut Pear — ^is a very productive variety, easily ripened, and of good quality. Prince's St. Germain — ^is a thrifty grower on quince, a tardy bearer, not having yet fruited, although over seven years planted. Many of the newer sorts are fruiting this season, for the first time ; among which, I esteem the Graslin, as one that bears marks of excellence. It is not yet mature. It gives me much pleasure to be able to bring to your notice three seedling pears, all of decided excellence ; they are the Richards, and Wilmington, and the Catharine Gar- dette. The first was originated by Mary Eichards, and takes its name from the originator. The accompanying description is by Dr. W. D. Brinckle, of Philadelphia. " Richards Pear. This fine pear originated on the premises of the late Nathaniel Richards, northwest corner of 4th and Shipley streets, Wilmington, Delaware. Eruited in 1852 for 91 the first time. Size medium, three inches long by two five- eighths broad ; form roundish, pyriform ; skin yellow, with many minute russet dots, and slightly russeted at the base ; stem seven-eighths of an inch long, by one-sixth thick, inserted oblicLuely by a fleshy termination, without depression ; calyx small, open, set in a contracted, narrow, shallow basin ; core medium ; seed brown, ovate, with an angle at the obtuse end, three-eighths of an inch long, one-fifth wide, one-eighth thick ; flesh greenish- white, granular around the core, but- tery, melting, and juicy; flavor vinous; quality very good; maturity, last of September." The others were grown from seed by Dr. Brinckle, who is, perhaps, the most successful amateur propagator in the world. The annexed descriptions are from him. Catharine Gardette Pear. At the Pennsylvania Horticul- tural Society's Exhibition in September, 1845, the seed of the best pears cut by the Fruit Committee were saved and planted in the spring of 1846. Thp Catharine Gardette origin- ated from one of these seeds. The original tree will not fruit for many years to come ; but a graft taken from it was marked on quince in 1850, and fruited in 1855, for the first time. " The foliage is characterized by being much waved ; young shoots, short-jointed, yellow-olive on the shaded side, brown- olive on the side exposed to the sun, with many minute white dots ; buds pointed. Size above medium, two three-quarters inches long, by two five-eighths broad ; form roundish, obovate ; skin fair, yellow, with numerous small carmine dots on the exposed side ; stem one inch by one-seventh ; curved, inserted by a fieshy termination into a slight depression; calyx small, set in a rather deep, regular basin ; core medium ; seed dark, flat, large, seven-sixteenths of an inch long, one- quarter wide, one-eighth thick, with an angle at the obtuse end ; flesh fine texture, buttery ; flavor delicious, with a deli- cate aroma ; quality best ; maturity beginning of September." Wilmington Pear. This is a seedling of the Passe Colmar, from seed planted in the spring of 1847. Like the Catharine Gardette, the original tree will not fruit for several years. A 92 graft was worked on quince in 1850^ and fruited in 1855. A specimen was examined by the Committee on Native Fruits of the American Pomological Society, during the late session at Rochester. Size medium, tv-^o eleven-sixteenth inches long by two one-half broad: form obtuse, pyriform, somewhat compressed at the sides ; skin cinnamon russet, with patches of greenish yellow on the shaded side, and faint traces of car- mine on the exposed part, with sometimes a number of black dots surrounded by a carmine margin ; stem somewhat vari- able, one one-quarter inches to one one-half, by one-eighth to one-sixth, of a cinnamon color, curved, inserted obliquely in a small cavity ; calyx medium, with short, erect segments, set in, a wide, rather deep basing core medium; seed dark- brown, acuminate, with an angle at the obtuse end, three- eighths of an inch long, three-sixteenths wide, one-eighth thick ; • flesh of fine texture, melting, and buttery ; flavor exceedingly saccharine, with the delicious aroma of the Passe Colmar ; quality best ; maturity middle of September." Although not strictly within my province, I will mention a few seedlings of other fruits which have originated in the vicinity of Wilmington within a few years. APKICOT. The Holden was grown from a seed of the Moorpark, by Mrs. Eliza Holden, at the northwest corner of 5th and Tat- nall streets, Wilmington, and called after her. Dr. Brinckle, to whom specimens of the fruit were sent, has kindly furnished the following description : " Size one five-eighth inches long, one seven-sixteenth broad, one one- half thick ; form roundish, with a suture extending from the apex to the base ; skin yellowish, with a few red points, and some r asset blotches ,• cavity medium ', stone seven-eighths of inch long, three-quarters wide, one-half thick, perforated ; flesh yellow ; flavor fine, saccharine ; quality hest ; maturity, eaten August 2d, 1852." The original tree is now dead, and so far as I at present 93 know, the yariety is not now in existence. A number of trees were distributed by me ; and many cuttings and scions \f ere also taken by Mablon Moon, and inserted near Trenton, N. J. ; but, soon after disposing of tbe property, he lost all traces of his buds. My object in mentioning it at this time, is, in the hope that it may turn up in the vicinity of Trenton, and be recognized as our seedling. APPLES. ^ The Rebecca Apple originated about two miles northeast of "Wilmington, Delaware, and was first brought into notice by J. P. Jeffries, in that vicinity, and was named after his kind lady, Mrs. E-ebecca Jeffries. The description which follows, is from the pen of the same distinguished Pomologist, as the preceding; " The Eebecca Apple originated with J. P. Jeffries, of Honeycomb, near Wilmington, Delaware, and is probably an accidental seedling of the Maiden's Blush. Size large, two three-quarter inches long, by three one-quarter broad ; form roundish, oblate ; skin greenish-yellow, sometimes a faint, mottled orange and red blush, occasionally a deep crimson blush on the exposed side ; stem very short, thick, and fleshy at its connection with the branch; cavity deep, narrow; calyx large, closed, set in a wide, deep, regular basin ; core medium ; flesh fine texture, and sufficiently juicy ; flavor very agreeable ; quahty very good ; maturity, eaten middle of September, 1856." The cultivation of the apple, as in most other sections, has been much neglected. It is true, trees innumerable have been planted, but they have been put in, much in the same way as posts in a fence ; the main object being to place them in line. There is this difference, however, the holes in which the trees are intended to be planted, are scooped out in the form of a wash-basin, whilst the post has a hole with perpen- dicular sides. The post, too, is entirely buried at the bottom. 94 whilst the ends of the roots in the tree are left peering above ground, like pickets around a garden. The planting over, all is done ; no stakes are driven, for, surely, the tree is strong enough to support itself. The next thing is to lay the orchard down in grass, and after the first mowing, it makes an excellent run for the calves. After this . . ... ^ extra cultivation, those varieties which do not succeed, are condemned as worthless, and the nurseryman who sold the trees is little better than a pickpocket. Notwithstanding this mode of culture, quite a number do succeed. Such as, among SUMMER APPLES. Early Harvest, Sweet Bough, American Summer Pearmain, Summer Rose, Early Strawberry. AUTUMN APPLES. Kane, Rambo, Smokehouse, Fall Pippin, and Maiden's Blush. And among WINTER APPLES. Baldwin, Carthouse, or Gilpin, in some localities ; New- town Spitzenberg, Hay's Apple, Wine Sap, Bullock's Pippin, or Sheepnose, Cumberland Spice, Lady Apple, Green and Yellow Newtown Pippin, and Smith's Cider. Rhode Island Greening rots on the tree. Yellow Bellflower drops pre- maturely. The Smokehouse — ^is a very valuable late fall fruit, keeping into early winter. Cooks well when half grown. APRICOTS. The best in cultivation is the Moorpark, which is generally known. The Peach nearly resembles the last, and is considered by some to be identical. Hemskirke — is smaller than the preceding, softer in flesh, and a few days earlier. 95 Red Masculine — is much inferior to the above, bears large crops, which are less subject to attack by the curculio. Burlington — ^is a hardy, free grower. It is but recently introduced, and has not yet fruited. The apricot requires a northern exposure, to retard the bloom, and will seldom perfect any fruit, unless set in a pavement. GRAPES. The Catawba and Isabella are the two varieties most gen- erably cultivated, and usually yield abundant crops, ripening well. The Bland, or Powell — has a higher flavor than either of the above, but is neglected on account of the thin bunches, and many imperfect berries. The Elsinboro' — ^is also widely distributed, and is generally regarded as a superior grape. The objection is to its size. The Ohio, Missouri, Herbemont, Diana, and Clinton, are being introduced, as yet, sparingly. The last-named matures about the 1st September, and is in some localities quite sweet, and very good. The Ohio is less hardy than any of the others named, being sometimes entirely winter -killed in this latitude. A variety of the common summer grape, (Vitis -/Estivalis), is occasionally found wild along the Brandywine Creek, which compares favorably, (except in size) with Isabella. Attempts have been recently made to improve it by cultivation, with what success, has not transpired. RASPBERRIES. The American Red, native of the Pokone Mountain, and the ISTorthern and Eastern States, is the market raspberry of this vicinity. None other is shown for sale, except an occasional lot of the common Black Cap, or the White Cap of the woods. The Red and Yellow Antwerp, Franconia, Pastolff, and Catawissa, are sparingly cultivated by amateurs, some of whom have secured most of the new and valuable seedlings origin- ated by Dr. Brinckle. QUINCES. The Orange, or xlpple, is the only variety known, and even that is neglected, on account of the depredations of the borer. PEACHES, Serrate Early York, Large Early York, E-ed Eareripe, George IV., Old Mixon, Free and Cling, Ware, Late Free, Rodman Cling, Smock Free, LaGrange, Early and Late Crawford, Cole's White Melocoton, Yellow Rareripe, and Heath Cling, are very generally cultivated and are all more or less esteemed. Morris White is usually bitter and unpalatable. Early Tillotson — .is so affected by mildew, as to prevent growth, and seldom perfects its fruit. It seems to require a very light soiL PLUMS, Are scarcely cultivated. An occasional year gives us a small return from the Washington, (which, however, rots on the tree) Green Gage, Coe's Golden Drop, and Hulings, The newer varieties have been very little planted. Having written much more than I had anticipated, I hope you will excuse the length, as well as the matter. EDWARD TATNALL. Mr. John Diehl, of Delaware city, has furnished a brief, but excellent Report upon Apples. It is the result of his own. «9bservation, and is very satisfactory. * ME. DIEHL'S REPORT. OCTOBEB, 2, 1856. APPLES. Heretofore, the renewing of old orchards, by planting new ones to take their place, has been very much neglected in this region. But a change has infused itself into the spirit of the 97 people ; we now have a great many young orchards coming on^ and some of them of large extent, so that in a few years we may flatter ourselves with having apples in abundance. This region is as well adapted to the growth of the apple, as any other, perhaps, in the United States. One objection to a great many of the winter varieties intro- duced from the North, is, that they mature too soon with us ; some of them being nothing more than late fall apples. My remarks upon apples will be confined nearly altogether to varieties grown upon my own farm, and upon young trees of my own planting, the soil being a rather light loam, with a dry sub-soil underlaid, at some depth, with gravel. SUMMER VARIETIES. Early Harvest, is considered our best summer apple, a long time in cultivation in this part of the country. The Early Lippincott we consider our next best summer apple, ripening gradually on the tree, and being a long time in use. The Summer Pearmain is the best apple of its season, being a late summer variety. The Large Bough, Early Eed Margaret, Early Red Streak, White Juneating, and Summer Queen, are all good summer varieties, but we deem the three preceding the best. The Caleb Apple — ^is a fine, sweet, late summer variety, a good deal on the order of the Early Bough, but an apple I prefer to that variety. FALL VARIETIES. The Smoke House is growing more into* favor, as it becomes known; a straggling grower, but fine for either dessert or kitchen. The preceding, with the Fall Pippin, and Rambo, we con- sider the three best fall varieties. The Porter has borne with us this season, for the first time j it is a straw-colored variety, of attractive appearance and fine quality, ripening about the first of September. The Cumberland Spice — ^with me, is a first-rate fruit. The Bellefleur — requires to be planted on a light, dry- soil, or it will not give satisfaction. The Northern Spy — has now fruited with me, for two years ; so far, it has proved a fine, large, fair variety, and not liable to the objections I have heard urged against it. The Jonathan — I have had in bearing for several years ; it is hardly distinguishable from the Winesap in appearance ; but I think will prove a better apple. Turn of Lane — a native of New Jersey, is an apple that I see very little said about, but one we esteem highly ; it is a rather small, red-striped apple, very perfect, tender, and of fine flavor. The Carthouse, for the two past years, has been more perfect ; it is an apple of fine quality where it does well. The Roman Stem — I should pronounce a first-rate apple in our soil. WINTER VARIETIES. The Paradise Winter Sweet — a native of Pennsylvania, a very perfect apple, and a good keeper, of fair quality. The Newtown Pippin does fine in this part of the State ; it is without an equal in its season ; that is, late winter and spring. The borer is not so troublesome with us, as it is in other sections. Yours, respectfully, JOHN DIEHL. In a brief reply to my interrogatories, by Mr. John C. Clark, of the neighborhood of Delaware city, he says : " Our soil, (which is that of most of the county,) is a strong loam, and when well limed or marled, always produces, with good culture, liberally of all standard fruits. " The most profitable fruits, as yet cultivated, are peaches, apples, pears and quinces." 99 APPLES. " Among the condemned apples are the Long Pippin, Yan- dervere, Romanite, Eedstreak, Gregg, Rusticoat, Greyhouse, and Grindstone. " Of the superior kinds of apples, are Hays Apple, Lady's Blush, Lippincott's Early, Sweet Bough, Roman Stem, Cum- berland Spice, Grigson, Newtown Pippin, Green Newtown Pippin, Ohio Pippin, and Bellefleur." PEACHES. " Of the peaches, are Early York, Troth's Early, Meloco- ton, Ward's Free, Crawford's Late, Rodman, Smock, and Heath. All fine and reliable here. " The blight or the yellows in peaches, is the most trouble- some ; excepting this, the above-named fruits are but little liable to disease." GRAPES. The only satisfactory experiment in this State, as far as I know, with foreign grapes, under glass, has been made by Joseph Shipley, Esq., in the northern part of this county. He has grown, with abundant success, the White Muscat of Alexandria, Black Hamburg, and Grizzly Frontignac, — ^his fruit having matured perfectly without injury from mildew. He uses culinary heat, and his vines have the careful attention of an experienced gardener. In another house, situated in Wilmington, the same exper- iment has been tried, but with less success, as is believed, from two causes, the want of a well ventilated location, and of experience. The mildew attacked the fruit annually, the Muscats especially, which cracked open, and rotted. The Chasselas varieties, and the Black Hamburg, were less liable to this disease, under the same deficient culture. In the same house, where artificial heat was formerly used, it has been laid aside for two years, and ventilation kept up in a slight degree at night, which was not formerly the case. The vines now 100 produce fi-eely, and are free from mildew. It is true, that sulphur is sprinkled over the floor several times during the summer, but this was also the fact, when the forcing process was followed, and without effect. Last winter, the vines were caught on their rods by the thermometer at zero ; but they lost but little matured wood, and are bearing freely this year ; an unexpected result, truly. It is evident, from this trial, that out-door culture of these varieties of grapes fail, from the mildew ; and it is also equally evident, that, with a very moderate amount of atten- tion, and without artificial heat, the Black Hambui-g, Alicant, White Buel, Rose Chasselas, Golden Chasselas, Muscat Blanc Hatif, and probably the White Muscat of Alexandria, could be succes^sfully cultivated ; so as to repay the care of an amateur, or of a horticulturist. Within a few days, I have met with a white native grape, introduced into Wilmington from Chester County, Pennsyl- vania, which I consider well worth notice. It is a good bearer, the bunches, in general appearance, resemble the Catawba, but more shouldered, full, but not crowded with berries, which are nearly as large as the Catawba, globular, green, and when the bloom is off, somewhat bronzed ; with musky flavor, rather greater than Isabella, rather more pulp, and nearly equal to it in sweetness. The berry is translucent, the seeds being distinctly seen. The vine is hardy ; its leaves resembling the Catawba, being large, cordate, coarsely ser- rate, approaching trilobate, downy on the under side. I have not yet the history of the grape, but will give it on another occasion. In addition to the above grape, there are two other varieties of seedlings indigenous to this State or neighborhood, which have respectively received the appellation of Delaware Bur- gundy, and Canby Grape ; the former a seedling from Miller's Burgundy ; the latter, most probably from the Isabella. It was intended to have furnished descriptions of them, but they have been mislaid. 101 An excellent variety of peach, raised from a seed planted by the son of Capt. H. B. Nones, will be barely noticed for the same reason. It has been called Nones's Seedling. L. P. BUSH, Chairman of State Fruit Committee for Delaware, REPORT FROM MICHIGAN. To Hon. Samuel Walker, Chairman of the General Fruit Committee of the American Pomological Society. The undersigned. Committee for the State of Michigan, "would respectfully report, that having given to the sub- ject assigned to them, such attention as time and circum- stances have permitted, they have embodied the result of their labors in the schedule accompanying ; and, as the character of a country, its mountains, lakes, and plains, its soil, and peculiarities of climate, have an important re- lation to its pomology, we beg permission to offer a few words, in connection herewith, upon the physical features of that part of the State upon whose pomology we re- port. That portion of Michigan in which the cultivation of fruit has made any considerable progress, is embraced between forty-one degrees, forty minutes, and forty-three degrees, thirty minutes, north latitude, and bounded east by Lakes St. Clair, and Erie, and Detroit river, and west by Lake Michigan. This territory consists of two slopes, the eastern, whose waters pass into Lakes Erie and St. Clair, and the western, (which is much the largest,) whose streams flow into Lake Michigan. On the eastern border, the country is flat for several miles in width. Going westward, the sur- face is more and more undulating, until the dividing ridge or water-shed is reached, where an altitude of five hundred feet above Lake Erie is attained ; thence the land slopes gently 102 westward to Lake Michigan. There is great diversity of soil in the territory just described, varying from a stiff, tenacious clay, through clayey loam, gravelly loam, sandy loam, to light sand, and frequently nearly all these varieties may be found on a single farm of moderate dimensions. Prairies (limited in extent, compared with those in the more western States,) are frequently met with, -particularly in the western part of the State. But the greater portion of this part of Michigan was either heavily timbered, or consisted of what is known in the West as " Oak Openings." The climate of that portion lying adjacent to Lake Michigan, is believed to be favorably modified for fruit-growing by the vicinity of that large body of water ; and perhaps the same may be true of that portion near Lakes Erie and St. Clair. The changes of temperature in this territory, are believed to be more sudden and extreme than in the same latitudes on the Atlantic coast. Lime is abundant in all our soils, except, perhaps, the light sand ; deposits of marl are very common. From the newness of our soils, it can hardly be supposed they are deficient in potash. Although fruit trees grow well in all our soils, that are not too wet, yet if one were to select a soil the best adapted to all varieties of fruit, taking into consideration, healthiness of the trees, size and quality of the fruit, productiveness, and immu- nity from insects, I should choose a gravelly, clay loam. This variety of soil, with its clay subsoil, is largely supplied with lime. In the warm, sandy soils, the apple tree grows very fast, but with the exception of a few varieties, the fruit is inferior in flavor, if not in size, to that grown on heavier soils. On the warm soils, pears come into bearing sooner, and ripen the fruit earlier than on clay ; but the fruit is gen- erally inferior in size and quality, and the trees less vigorous. Plums are very short-lived on sandy soils, and it is next to impossible to save any of the fruit from the curculio. Cher- ries, especially the Hearts and Bigarreaus, grow very fast in sandy soils, but they are more liable to " bursting of the bark," than on dry clay loams. Peaches are more liable to the ravages of the borer, and shorter-lived in light soils, than 103 in heavy, provided the last is sufficiently dry ; the fruit may be larger in the former, but is higher flavored in the latter. In the vicinity of Detroit and Monroe, are many old orchards of apple and pear trees, planted by the early French settlers, which are still, at the age of a century or more, vigorous and productive, and show unmistakably the strength of the soil, as they have received little or no attention from their owners, — ^the French Canadians being the most careless cultivators. With the exception of them, our oldest orchards are not much above thirty years old. Planted in a virgin soil, rich in min- eral matter, and the accumulated vegetable deposits of centu- ries, our fruit trees are generally in the most vigorous condi- tion, and have neither needed, nor received, an extensive application of manures. The superior quality of our apples, thus far, is due more to the soil and climate, than to any care- ful cultivation. We are pleased to be able to say, there is, among all classes of our people, an increased attention to fruit culture, and a careful inquiry for the best varieties. We believe Michigan is destined to be one of the great fruit-grow- ing States ; and we shall rejoice if our labors shall contribute, in the smallest degree, to further the objects of the Society, from which we have received our commission. All which is respectfully submitted. DANIEL K. UNDEHWOOD. Committee for Michigan. SCHEDULE OF FRUITS. SUMMER APPLES. American Summer Pearmain — -rare, not properly tested ; best* Carolina June — rare, not properly tested ; good. Early Harvest — sometimes small from overbearing ; Tart Bough, a sub- variety ; very good. Early Joe — best. * The terms ffood, very good, and best, apply to the character of the fruit, and not to the tree. 104 Early Strawberry — very beautiful, but small, juicy, but not rich. ; very good. Golden Sweet — valuable for domestic animals ; good. Maiden's Blush — little disseminated ; a beautiful fruit ; good. Red Astraclian — rather acid, tree vigorous, good bearer, fruit excellent for cooking ; very good. Sweet Bough — moderate bearer ; very good. Sine Qua Non — not much disseminated ; very good. Summer Queen — on warm soils is an excellent fruit ; hest. Summer Rose — very good. AUTUMN APPLES. Alexander — large and beautiful, moderately productive, not valuable ; good. Daniel — not much disseminated, tree a slender grower ; very good. Duchess of Oldenburg — ^requires farther trial ; good. Dyer — rather tart ; very good. Fall Pippin — hest. Fameuse — very good. Gravenstein — hest. Hawley — has not been extensively tested in this State ; hest. Jersey Sweet — richest sweet apple of its season ; hest. Keswick Codlin — valuable for cooking, and a great bearer. Late Strawberry — one of the best autumn apples | hest. Porter — universally valued ; hest. Rambo. Very good. Spiced Sweeting. Good. Twenty Ounce — valuable only for culinary purposes, moder- ately productive ; good. Wine — ^large and showy, excellent for cooking ; good. WINTER APPLES. Baldwin — cannot be said to have been established in this State ; promises well ; hest. Belmont— best early winter apple ; hest. 105 Black Detroit — has been known in Detroit a long time, much prized by some persons ; good. Blue Pearmain — flesh, dry ; good. Bourassa — not much cultivated ; very good. Cornish Gilliflower. Very good. Domine — ^but little known ; good or very good. English Russet — small, tree short-lived from overbearing; good. Esopus Spitzenburg — ^large and fair, the highest flavored winter apple ; best. Green Newtown Pippin — fruit usually fair on young trees, but on light soils soon becomes scabby, nearly worthless. Golden Pusset — liability to shrivel injures this fruit for market ; very good. Herefordshire Pearmain — overbears, and fruit becomes small ; very good. Hubbardston Nonesuch — has not been extensively tried in this State ; hest. Jonathan — not sufficiently tested to establish its character ; hest. Ladies' Sweeting. Very good. Lady Apple — good keeper, tree requires high culture and thorough pruning ; very good. Northern Spy — comparatively new, requires farther trial; ve7-y good. Peck's Pleasant — ^not fairly tested, fruit large ; very good. Red Canada — ^bears large crops of fine fruit every other year ; very good. Pawle's Jeanet — not much known here ; good. Koxbury Russet. Very good. Swaar — with good culture and careful pruning, maintains the high character acquired on the Hudson ; hest. Stone — valuable as a late keeper ; good. Twenty Ounce Pippin. Good. Talman Sweeting. Good. Rhode Island Greening — ^yields to none but Red Canada as a market apple ; very good. Vandervere. Very good. 106 Westfield Seek-No-Furtlier. Very good. Yellow Bellflower — requires careful pruning ; very good. The following varieties are rejected, viz. : Black Gilliflower, Komanite Gloria Mundi, Pennock, Falla- water, and CLeeseboro' Russet. PEARS. Ananas — ^too small for market ; very good. Bartlett — ^fruit uniformly good ; very good. Belle Lucrative — fruit large, sometimes ten inches in circum- ference, generally of the very highest flavor ; best. Bloodgood. Very good. Beurre Diel. Very good. Beurre d'Aremberg. Best. BuiFam — ^tree grows vigorously ; very good. Colmar. Good. Dearborn's Seedling — very productive, fruit uniformly fair ; very good. Dix. Very good. Doyenne White — ^very productive, have never seen the fruit crack here ; best. Duchesse d'Angouleme — should be cultivated on quince stocks only ; very good. Dunmore — sometimes very good ; good. Flemish Beauty — ^large and splendid ; very good. Frederick of Wirtemberg — sometimes very good, often poor ; good. Glout Morceau. Very Good. Johannot. Very Good. Julienne. Good. Lenawee — a pear which appears to be known only in Lenawee County, Michigan, and so named by the Adrian Horticultural Society, supposed to have been introduced from Western New York, twenty-five years ago or more. Tree a very rapid grower, hardiest of all pear trees, fruit medium to large size, high-flavored and juicy ; when house- 107 ripened, very productive ; ripens about 10th August, extensively disseminated in tlie vicinity of Adrian, Michi- gan, and worthy of cultivation ; very good. Louise Bonne de Jersey — this, and Duchesse d'Angouleme, are the only varieties I should attempt to cultivate on quince stocks, with the expectation of profit, Madeleine — this variety and Glout Morceau are most liable to bhght ; very good. Osband's Summer — decays very soon, is not equal to Lenawee, which ripens about the same time ; good or very good. Passe Colmar — greatly liable to overbear, fruit needs thinning severly, or it will be worthless ; very good. Pound — valuable for baking ; good. Seckel — uniformly of the highest flavor ; lest. Sheldon — sometimes coarse-grained and deficient in flavor ; new, not sufiiciently tested here. Sterling — ^this variety was introduced into Wayne County, Michigan, from Lima, New York, about twenty-five years ago ; very good or best. Stevens's Genesee -, very good. Swan's Orange, Onondaga — an early and constant bearer. Summer Bon Chretien — liable to crack and mildew. Summer Rose — sometimes very good, fruit small ; good. Tyson — ^has not been sufficiently tested to fix its character ; hest. Urbaniste — needs farther trial. Vicar of Winkfield. Good or very good. Winter Nelis — ^has the same rank among winter pears that the Seckel has among the fall varieties, have known specimens three inches in diameter ; hest. CHERRIES. American Amber. Good. American Heart. Good. Baumann's May — fruit small, ripens 1st June ; good. Bigarreau — Kable to rot before ripening ; very good. 108 Belle d'Orleans ; very good. Bell de Choisey — not a good bearer ; very good. Black Tartarian. Very good. Black Eagle. Best. Black Heart — a great and constant bearer ; good. Burr's Seedling. Ve7y good. Belle Magnifique. Ve7~y good. China Bigarreau, Good or very good. Downer's Late. Best. Early Purple Guigne — one of tbe best early cherries ; very good. Elkhorn — ^flesh very solid, tree productive ; good. Elton — tree hardy, very productive, one of the most valuable varieties ; very good or best. Florence — ^moderately productive ; very good. Governor Wood — bears young, the richest cherry known here ; best. Kentish — valuable for culinary purposes ; ve7'y good. Large Heart-shaped Bigarreau — large and splendid, produc- tive tree, rather tender ; very good. Louis Philippe. Good. May Duke — our most valuable cherry, probably ; very good. Merveille de Septembre. Good. Napoleon Bigarreau — large, showy, tree productive, fruit liable to rot ; good. Ohio Beauty — ^beautiful ; very good. Plumstone Morello — valuable for its lateness ; good. Reine Hortense — ^not sufficiently tested to speak with cer- tainty. Sparhawk's Honey — a particular favorite with the birds ; good. Transparent Guigne — fruit somewhat bitter ; good. PEACHES. Alberge — a good bearer ; good. Bergen's Yellow — a shy bearer ; very good. Coolidge's Favorite. Best. 109 Crawford's Early. Ve7-y good. Crawford's Late. Vei'y Good. Early Tillotson. Best. Early York Large — not a great bearer ;. best. Early York Serrate. Best. George IV. — a valuable bearer ; best. Incomparable — a clingstone, poor bearer ; good. Jacque's Eareripe. Very good. Lemon Cling. Good. Large White Cling — Clings are little sought in market ; very good. Grosse Mignonne. Best. Old Mixon Free. Best. Red Rareripe. Vei~y good. Redcheek Melocoton — Kable to rot before ripening ; good. Sweetwater — poor bearer ; very good. Snow — valuable only for preserving ; good. Tippecanoe Cling — very late, a moderate but constant bearer, flavor fine ; very good. Walter's Early. Very good. White Imperial — a good bearer ; very good. Van Zandt's Superb. Very good. Yellow Rareripe. Very good. PLUMS. Bingham— not much known here ; best. Bleeker's Gage. Very good. Cherry. Good. Columbia — tree tender ; very good. « Coe's Golden Drop. Very good. Duane's Purple — large and showy ; good. Huling's Superb — a large and showy fruit, not very produc- tive ; very good. Imperial Gage — very productive ; very good. Green Gage — unequalled in flavor ; best. Jefierson. Best. no Lawrence Favorite — somewhat liable to rot before ripening ; hest. Lombard — ^tree hardy, very productive, fruit less liable to attacks of curculio than most other varieties ; good. Mediterranean — a good plum, but more liable than most varieties to the ravages of the curculio ; very good. Red Magnum Bonum. Good. Red Gage. Very good. ^ EiOyal Hative — so far, has proved worthless. Eeine Claude de Bavay — nearly equal to Green Gage ; hest. Yellow Magnum Bonum. Good. Yellow Gage — best on light soils ; very good. Washington. Very good. QUINCES. Anger's — used for stocks for dwarf pears. Orange. This is the only variety cultivated here for fruit, so far as known. APRIC OTS. Black — ^hardy ; good. Breda — more hardy than most varieties ; very good. Early Golden ; very good. Large Early. Best. Moorpark. Best. These are the only varieties known to your committee as being cultivated in Michigan. The destruction of the fruit by spring frosts and the curculio, is so general, that apricots are rarely seen, and few persons attempt to raise them. CURRANTS. Black Naples. This variety is preferred by some intelligent cultivators to any other for making wine. Black English. Cherry — under high cultivation, produces a small crop of very large currants of second or third quality. Ill May's Victoria — a poor grower, fruit harsli in flavor, ripens late, which is its only good q[uality ; unworthy of cultivation. Red Dutch and "White Dutch. These two varieties will not be supplanted by any others now known to us ; best. White Grape — no larger than White Dutch, and flavor not so good ; very good. RASPBERRIES. Brinckle's Orange. From an experience of two years, should rank it as most productive of all raspberries ; best. Colonel Wilder. A light-colored fruit, superior in flavor to White Antwerp ; very good. Franconia — productive, more hardy than most of the large varieties ; best. Fastolif — not so productive nor hardy as Franconia ; best. Knevet's Giant — very large and productive ; very good. Large-Fruited Monthly — moderately productive, has shown no disposition to fruit monthly ; good. Red Antwerp — very tender ; best. White Antwerp — tender ; very good. BLACKBERRIES. The improved High Bush from the neighborhood of Boston has been introduced, but some disappointment has been experienced with the fruit thus far. The New Rochelle has been extensively introduced into Lenawee County, and, from a limited trial, it bids fair to become one of our most valuable summer fruits. STRAWBERRIES. Bicton Pine — does not grow vigorously, quite tender ; good. Black Prince — sometimes very good, large and productive ; good. Boston Pine — unproductive ; very good. Burr's New Pine — a fruit of the highest flavor, usually bears good crops ; best. 112 Crimson Cone — productive ; good. Cincinnati Hudson — very productive ; good. Dundee — very productive ; good. Hovey's Seedling — some seasons bears large crops, fruit very unequal in size ; very good. Longwortli's Prolific. It is believed we have not the genuine, McAvoy's Superior — fruit almost all large, bears enormous crops, continues a long time in bearing, ratlier acid ; good. McAvoy's No. 1 — much less productive than the preceding, and not so good. Large Early Scarlet — usually bears a good crop ; very good. GOOSEBERKIES. Houghton's Seedling — does not mildew ; good. Of the Enghsh varieties, the following are best, in the order named, viz. : Red Champagne, Ironmonger, Parkinson's Laurel, Whitesmith, Red Warrington, Early Sulphur, Crown Bob ; the last named being most subject to mildew. GRAPES. Alexander — hardy, very productive. In Southern Michigan it usually ripens its fruit in sunny situations ; is not recommended for general cultivation. Catawba — does not always ripen its fruit ; should be planted near a wall, or in a sunny place ; best native grape ; hest. Clinton — ripens a little earlier than the Isabella, acid and harsh, of little worth as a table grape, said to be valuable for wine making ; good. Concord — not yet tested sufficiently. Diana — new in this State, needs farther trial. Elsinburgh — same may be said as of the Diana. Isabella — uniformly ripens its fruit ; productive, not so hardy as the Catawba or Alexander ; vines not unfrequently killed by a bright sun succeeding an intense cold. 113. The culture of foreign grapes under glass has not been attempted much, except in Detroit. A few varieties are cul- tivated in open air, the vines being laid down in winter ; of these the Wliite Sweetwater is most common ; but Royal Muscadine is best. REPORT FROM INDIANA. BY W. T. S. CORNETT, M, B. Such are the diversities of soil and climate in our great country, that I am inclined to regard the idea of our being able to make out a list of fruit, suited to general cultivation! as, in a great degree, fallacious. Yet, we should never cease to study it in all its localities, until we know what is most appropriate to every portion of it. The intelligent nursery- man should be able, so soon as informed of the locality of the purchaser, to furnish trees well suited to his wants, and which would give, in the fruiting, entire satisfaction. This ■knowledge can, in the end, be furnished through the trans- actions of the American Pomological Society, and in no other way. I will now proceed to contribute my mite to the ulti- mate accomplishment of this great result. The State of Indiana presents a great diversity of soil as well as climate. The central and northern portions of it has its soil in most places made up of the diluv'mm, or drift from the north, which varies so much in its constituent elements, in localities in close proximity, that an apple which succeeds well on one ferm, is sometimes found to be of no value on the next adjoining. (Rhode Island Greening, for example.) The character of the underlying rock affords no index to the composition of the soil. The south-eastern part of the State 114 has more uniformity in the constituent elements of its soil, hav- ing been chiefly made of the limestone, which lies beneath it. My orchard is in the south-east part of the State, on high, rolKng land, near Versailles, E-ipley County, and fifty miles due west of Cincinnati. Its geological position is near the western terminus of the blue limestone region of the West, Cincinnati being near its centre. The soil, after a few inches of vegetable mould, is a stiiF, yellow clay, containing some sili- cious matter. The original growth of timber was beach, inter- mixed with sugar-tree, oak, poplar, and dogwood. The crops which succeed well here, are Indian corn, wheat, oats, pota- toes, and the grasses generally. APPLES. I have tested the following varieties of apples sufficiently to form a tolerably reliable opinion concerning them, viz : Yellow June, Prince's Harvest, Carolina Red June, Sweet June, Red Astrachan, Summer Queen, American Summer Pearmain, Summer Pearmain of Mount Bohannan, Kirkbridge White, Maiden's Blush, Daniel Apple, Porter, Hoss, Fall Wine, Fall Pippin, Alexander, Gravenstein, Wing Sweeting, Cooper, Rambo, Black Pippin, Golden Russet, Prior's Red, White Bellefleur, Yellow Bellefleur, Rawle's Janet, Newtown Pippin, Belmont, Vandervere, Michael Henry, Rhode Island Greening, Roxbury Russet, Broadwell, Winesap, President, Gloria Mundi, Pennock, Northern Spy, Tewksbury Blush, Woolverton, Limbertwig, Willow Switch, Red Sweet Pippin, Newark King, Red Baldwin, Minister. From the foregoing, I would recommend, as well suited to the blue limestone region referred to, the following, viz : For July, Prince's Harvest, and Carolina Red June. For August, Bohannon, and American Summer Pearmain. For Septem- ber, October, and November, Fall Wine, Fall Pippin, Cooper, and Rambo. For Winter, Rambo, Golden Russet, the Belle- fleurs, and Prior's Red. For long keeping, Rawle's Janet, Newtown Pippin, and Winesap. This latter deserves more attention than it receives. The fruit is not first-rate, but the 115 tree is hardy, bears nearly every year. The fruit does not fall from the tree, is sound, keeps long, and brings a good price in spring, when fruit gets scarce. PEARS. The pear tree is short-lived in this country, owing to blight and winter. He who plants a pear orchard, and fails to keep planting, will soon find that he has run ashore in the busi- ness : hence, there will not soon be a full supply of this fruit to accommodate the masses, at moderate prices. I have tested many varieties, and experienced disappointment in many instances. Fruit of the following varieties has given satis- faction thus far, viz : Madeleine, Bloodgood, Julienne, Dear- born's Seedling, Washington, Bartlett, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, White Doyenne, Beurre Piquery, Diel, Passe Colmar, Nelis, Jjawrence. My experience goes in favor of training fruit trees low, for many reasons. They resist storms better, protect their roots from the effects of drought, the bark on the trunk is not dam- aged by the action of the western sun, and the fruit is gath- ered easier and cheaper. Apple and pear trees, budded or grafted above ground, are worth more than those grafted on the root, from the fact, that they will pay for themselves, by reason of their earlier fruitfulness, long in advance of the root- grafted trees. The root-grafted tree sends out more or less roots above the insertion of the graft, and consequently there is no hindrance to a free return of sap from branch to root. But, in the tree worked above ground, the point of union between the graft or bud and the stock has a cicatrix, with a tortuous anii irregular arrangement of vessels, which acts on the principle of a ligature, in hindering the free return of sap from the branches. The consequence is, an earlier and greater development of fruit spurs. This fact is still more clearly demonstrated, by working the pear on to the quince stock. The union is reluctant, the cicatrix frequently assum- ing the appearance of an unsightly knot, with very tortuous 116 arrangement of vessels, and the consequences, early fruitful- ness, and often increased size of fruit. PEACHES. The peach, with us, is a short-lived tree. Owing to the worm at the root, and the severity of the past Avinter, we have but few trees left in this vicinity. The fruit is often destroyed in the bud, by the severe breezes of winter. Budded trees are more tender in this respect than seedlings. Something is due to difference in varieties, but there is more due to the budding. In the budded trees, the sap does not find its way from branch to root as readily as in the seedling, and the consequence is, that the fruit bud on the former has a larger growth, is not so compactly done up, and therefore cannot so well resist the action of the frost. This difficulty might, per- haps, be obviated to some extent, by propagating by layers. Should any one be sceptical with regard to the soundness of my position, as to the effects of the cicatrix, let him dissect carefully a few young trees, at the point where the bud or graft is inserted. PLUMS. The plum is not worth planting here to any extent, on account of the curculio. He argues, like some others, that the world owes him a living, but I have made up my mind that he shall not have it in future at my expense. CHEKRIES. Cherry trees of the Heart family, cannot abide our winters long. They are not worth planting. The Morello and Duke cherries are hardier, and sometimes bring remunerating crops. RASPBEKRIES. The native black raspberry, (Rubus Occidentalis,) does bet- ter here, than any other variety. 117 STRAWBERRIES. Strawberries do well on our soil, when properly cared for. Tlie common people in tlie country will never be well sup- plied with this fruit, so long as they have to keep up the dis- tinction in the beds between staminate and pistillate plants. The former soon overrun the latter, and the bed becomes unfruitful. I have tried many varieties, with good success, but can better afford to cultivate, for family use, a plant which I have under the name of Keen's Staminate, than any other. It is a strong grower, and can sustain itself better against weeds, grass, and drought, than any other variety. It has both stamen and pistil sufficiently perfect to ensure a fair crop of large, fine-flavored fruit. I have not tried Longworth's Pro- lific, but suppose, from what I read of it, that it will prove valuable for the common people. I will call the attention of the Society to a cheap and expeditious mode of destroying caterpillars, invented by myself Take a piece of machine card, such as wool-carders use, and wrap it round the end of an old broom-stick, and nail fast with tacks. Lash this to the end of a pole of neces- sary length, made of any light wood. Go through the orchard early in the morning, before the worms have left their nests, and by thrusting the card-covered end of your pole in the nest, and giving it a few turns in the right direction, you will bring down the entire nest, with all its contents, handsomely wrapped up ii\ it. I have now, perhaps, made this report wearisome, by its length. I will close, by saying that I have received but two letters from fruit-growers in our State, in answer to inquiries. Qne from Mr. Tinbrook, of Park County, which I condense, and herewith submit ; the other from Mr. Reagan, of Putnam County, which I beg leave to herewith submit entire. I am, Mr. President, and gentlemen, very truly, a well wisher to the great cause in which you are engaged. W. T. S. CORNETT. Mt. Jeimer, near Versailles, Indiana, September 10, 1856. 118 MR. TINBROOK'S REPORT. Mr. John W. Tinbeook, of Park County, writes me sub- stantially, as follows, viz : APPLES. The soil there is a dry loam, with very little sand, based on a yellowish clay, to the depth of ten or fifteen feet ; under that, blue clay. The out-cropping stone in bluffs and beds of streams in neighborhood is sandstone, at from fifty to one bundred feet below the general surface. Surface of country rolling. Original growth of timber sugar-tree, beach, white and black walnut, poplar, oak, etc. He thinks it improper to manure trees on the rich soils of the West, except to apply leached ashes to such as are subject to spot, as is the case with Newtown Pippin, McAfee's Nonesuch, and some others. The efiects of the past winter have been severe in the western part of the State. It is estimated, he says, that one third of the apple trees in timbered land, and tAvo thirds in prairies, are killed, or damaged past recovery. His young pear orchard all killed to the snow line, except two trees. White Doyenne, and Knight's Monarch. He has cultivated one hundred and forty varieties of the apple, and speaks more or less favorably of the following varieties, viz : Early Harvest, Red Astrachan, Red Juneating, Blush June, Early Pennock, Sine Qua Non, Early Joe, Williams's Favorite, Golden Sweeting, Rambo, Fall Pippin, Fall Wine, Golden Russet, Baldwin, Milam, Rawle's Janet, Yellow Bellefleur, Northern Spy, Michael Henry Pip- pin, Winesap, Belmont, Hoops, Chronicle ^sopus Spitzen- berg, and Newark Pippin. His Baldwin trees are nearly all winter-killed. Golden Russet and Rambo trees very tender, also Rawle's Janet, and Belmont. Winesap, is represented as very hardy, and keeps long. 119 PLUMS AND CHERRIES. Mr. Tinbrook considers plums and Heart cherries unwor- thy of cultivation ; the first, on account of the curculio, the latter, because they are winter-killed. GRAPES. " Grapes," he says, " carefully pruned, and planted where their roots had access to water, have done well with me, and scarcely showed the rot, while those planted in good dry bor- ders from the same stock, and varieties have all rotted. RASPBERRIES AND STRAWBERRIES. Native raspberries do better than others. The following varieties of strawberries do well with him, viz. : Burr's New Pine, Hovey, McAvoy, and Longworth's Prolific. PEACHES. Park County is represented as a good county for the peach, and seedlings are hardier and surer bearers than budded trees. Trees are recommended to be trained with low heads, and root-grafting is preferred to stock-grafting or budding, but no reasons given for the preference. MR. RAGAN'S UEPORT. Nicholson, Ind., June 16, 1856. Mr. Cornett. Dear Sir : Yours of the 20th uit. has been duly received, but business and indisposition have caused my tardy response. I am' pleased to learn that our State will, through you, be represented in the next National Pomological Society, at Rochester ; and with emotions of the deepest interest I con- 120 tribute my mite of experience to a cause that I liave much clierished. The ground on which my orchard stands, was originally timbered with large sugar-trees, large beach, walnut, poplar, etc., with pepper and spice under-growth. The soil is brown, with a clay sub-soil, based on gray limestone, at the depth of from four to ten feet from the sur- face ; it is upland, and slightly undulating. My first trees were set in the spring of 1828, and others in succession for several years, till now my apple orchard covers six acres, set out in hexagon form, at thirty-three feet apart, which I find on my ground is much too close for large growing varieties ; I would much prefer forty feet. APPLES. My orchard is composed of many varieties ; some not wor- thy of description, and others very fine. The Rawle's Janet is the most profitable. Tree half-hardy ; friiit, when care- fully picked and kept in a cool cellar, keeps over till mid- summer. Newtown Pippin very salable ; keeps well till spring ; trees hardy and fruitfid ; (apple a little subject to bitter rot.) Rhode Island Greening, tender in the nursery, but thrifty and. very fruitful in the orchard ; tree large and branching, bearing large crops of very salable fruit ; ripe mid-winter. Baldwin — tree tender in the nursery, and the last winter has proved it to be so in the orchard ; out of ten trees that I had in my orchard, nine are dead, and the other badly dam- aged ; and everywhere that I see it in orchards it is killed. I reOTet that such is the fate of the Baldwin, for it is a ffreat bearer, a fine, showy fruit, and one of our best mid-winter apples ; fruit highly flavored, and clear of bitter rot. Golden Russet — bnst ; tree tender, and killed last winter. Yellow Bellflower — hardy, thrifty, fruitful and salable. White Bellflower — half-hardy, thrifty, and fruitful. Pryor's Red — tender in the nursery, but thrifty in the 121 orchard ; slow coming into bearing, then hardy and a good bearer ; fruit always clear of bitter rot ; fine, and keeping well through the winter. Esopus Spitzenberg — half-hardy, moderate bearer ; hest, for mid-Avinter. Michael Henry Pippin — (in many places called White Winter Pearmain,) half-hardy, fruitful ; early winter, hesL Pennock — hardy and fruitful. Holland Pippin — half-hardy, good bearer ; very good. ^ Ranibo — half-hardy, fruitful, hcst. McAfee's Nonesuch — hardy, fruitful, good, mid-winter. Osceola — hardy, thrifty, mid- winter good. President — hardy, thrifty, fruitful and salable, but a little coarse ; mid-winter good. Danvers Winter Sweet — hardy, slow in bearing, falls from the tree before ripe ; therefore not worthy of cultivation. Wine Sap — hardy, fruitful, good all winter. Vandevere Pippin — hardy, rapid grower, bearing light crops every year ; fruit large and showy, but coarse mid- winter. Gravenstein — slow coming into bearing ; killed everywhere here last winter : not worthy of cultivation i sometimes called (Haglo Crab) erroneously. Failey's Red — hardy, thrifty, and fruitful ; fruit medium sized, red, crisp, and juicy all winter ; good. Lewis — this is from seed of the Pryor's Red ; tree hardy and fruitful, early in bearing ; eaily winter ; very good. Fall Wine — hardy, early in bearing, best. Rome Beauty — hardy and very fruitful ; mid-winter, good. Northern Spy — tree thrifty and hardy ; slow coming into bearing ; apples large and showy, incline to fall from the tree before ripe ; quality best. Bellflower Pippin — tree hardy, but sprawling in the nur- sery ; a good bearer, fruit yellow, above medium size ; juicy, tender and high-flavored ; ripe November ; very good. Newtown Spitzenberg — half-hardy, fruitful mid-winter ; very good. 122 Ragan's Red — from seed of E-awle's Janet ; hardy, thrifty, and fruitful ; November ; good. Roxbury Russet — tree lacks wood, buds look old and un- thrifty ; but the fruit is large, sound, and keeps well till late in the spring ; bears every other year ; good. Chronical — hardy, thrifty and fruitful ; fruit above medium, greenish ground, with red stripes ; very firm, and keeps till the next summer with but little care ; good. Big Red — thrifty, hardy, and very fruitful ; mid- winter ; good. Cannon Pearmain — half-hardy, great bearer, keeps all winter ; good. Transport — tree hardy, sprawling, and very fruitful ; yellow, late winter ; good. Fall Queen — ^hardy, very fruitful, red, large, tender, juicy, and fine ; October to March ; good. Monstrous Pippin — hardy, slow coming into bearing ; good bearer, very large, mid-winter ; good. Hannah Apple — hardy, very fruitful at an early age ; red, large, winter ; very good. Priestly — hardy, upright, fine bearer ; large, red, late winter ; good. Prince's Harvest — ^half-hardy, slow grower ; will not do in grass, but needs annual cultivation ; the best of early apples j July ; good. Yellow Juneating — hardy, fruitful ; ripe here in June. Red Juneating — hardy, slow in bearing ; small, ripe in August ; good. Carolina June — hardy, early in bearing, fruitful ; small to medium, oval, striped, tender, juicy ; good July. Carolina Red June — also called Blush June ; hardy, fruit- ful, small to medium, oval crimson red when ripe ; tender and juicy, but lacks richness ; the trees cannot be told from the foregoing variety. Eai'ly Red — hardy, thrifty, and a constant bearer ; medium size, red, with a white bloom, flatted at the base, nearly sweet, firm, and rather dry ; July. 123 Summer Queen — half-hardy, good grower, moderate bearer, fruit from medium to large ; highly flavored, August, hest. Red Astrachan — hardy, thrifty, and fruitful; tender and juicy, but rather tart ; falls before well ripened ; good. Sine Qua Non — hardy and fruitful ; hest. Yellow Hoss — hardy and fruitful ; large and very salable ; August ; good. Hoops — ^hardy, thrifty, fruitful ; medium, flatted, inclined^ nearly sweet ; late winter ; good. Summer Pearmain — hardy, slow grower, moderate bearer ; August, best. Sweet Meat — ^hardy and thrifty ; a new seedling from the Pryor's Red ; seed medium to large ; russeted, tender, juicy, and very sweet ; ripe from January to March, hest. The blight in pear trees, like cholera in tjie human system, will ever remain a mystery to some extent. No one can anti- cipate its approach with certainty, but from long observa- tion I have been led to believe that the cause of blight is vitiated sap, or in other words that the descent of the autum- nal flow of sap is intercepted by a sudden freeze, which closes the bark, and binds it firmly to the wood, the ropy parts becoming rigidly fixed. In this condition the roots, which are not yet sensible of the cold, continue to send up through the alburnum a copious supply of sap, which is received by the leaves, and thrown back under the bark of the tender twigs and succulent branches, whose bark, from the warmth of the atmosphere, is made to yield to its downward flow ; but not so with the rigid bark at the forks and crotchets of the limbs ; here the current of sap is arrested, becomes embedded, and remains through the winter, freezing and thawing, till by next spring-time it is converted into a perfect pear virus. Many of these deposits become dry through the winter, and act only as a girdle, causing the limb to be larger above, and its fruit much larger than the fruit on its neighboring limbs, while other deposits remain viscid or sticky, and lay dormant till long after the sap begins to flow in the spring, during which time the sap passes up through the white wood and 124 feeds the buds, tlie growth starts, and all looks well for an indefinite time, (some earlier and some later,) till at length the virus sinks through the outer surface of the white wood, and is taken up by the ascending sap, and is thrown into the ten- der buds and leaves. It is now perhaps mid-summer, and the gardener applies his knife below the visible sign of blight ; he shortens back till he thinks all looks well, but in a short time it is resumed on the same stump limb. In the mean time, perhaps, there has been a thunder-storm and some hot sun, and he charges it to them ;- but the blight goes on ; he cuts again, and finds the seat of the disease far below, where he had not expected to find it, at the juncture of some forks, or at the insertion of the inoculate, where the baik had been closed down the previous fall before the autumnal fiow of sap was completely at rest. By the time the seat of the disease is found it is very rare that a case is arrested, and a tree reclaimed. PEARS. I have tried eighty-eight varieties of pears, — some of the best. All have blighted more or less. The Seckel, White Doyenne, and Bartlett, are here worth all others. I do not think the pear does well on a rich loamy soil. I think it would have a greater longevity on a mulatto or white oak ridge land where it would be stinted for nourishment. CHERRIES. The Heart Cherry tree does not do well here. We have none which live more than fifteen years. Their bodies are subjected to winter-killing on the south-west side, and last winter has killed all varieties of the Heart except the Gov- ernor Wood. I had three of the variety all remain unhurt. The ]\Iay Duke and May Cherry, here, are worth all other varieties put together, especially for common people, who can- not bear disappointment ; those two are hardy ; the May Cherry a great bearer, and the May Duke moderate. 125 PEACHES. Native peaches have done well here, bearing well every two or three years, and the trees living to the age of twenty -five or thirty years old. Nothing appeared to hurt them but break- ing with their immense loads of fruit, till the last winter, which has killed all in this part of the country. The culti- vated varieties, as far as I have tried, are subject to being killed in the bud, and we but seldom have full crops of them, though they are much finer than any of our natives. QUINCES. The quince tree does well here on the north side of a fence, where the shade keeps the ground moist and cool ; in the sun it dies in a few years. Last winter killed all, little or big. The cold of last winter, 29° below zero; 21st of January, 1852, 24*^ below zero, did not kill our peach trees nor quince trees, but killed the Heart Cherry trees, on the south and west sides. The Golden Russet is our best apple, and tenderest tree. The Baldwin, one of the next best, tender tree. The Graven- stein, Sweet Bough and Milan, tender trees ; Yellow Bell- flower, hardy and most showy of all ; Newtown Pippin, hardy, most salable ; Bawle's Janet, half-hardy, most profit- able ; Chronical, hardy, longest keeper ; Carolina Striped June, best early apple. GOOSEBERRIES. The Ne Plus Ultra gooseberry does well here, if renewed every third year from suckers, and- well mulched in the spring. GRAPES. Cultivated grape vines are all winter-killed to the ground in these parts. I had Isabella, Catawba, and Bland ; all are 126 killed to tlie ground; the like has not been in the last thirty- three years- Mr. John W. Tinbrook of Rockville, Indiana, is an expe- rienced nurseryman, and well qualified to give you an interest- ing communication. Yours, with much respect, REUBEN EAGAN. REPORT FROM ILLINOIS. BY SAMUEL JACOB WALLACE. Prairie Garden and Nursery, near Carthage, Hancock County, Illinois. I should have been very happy to have attended the session of the Pomological Congress, but circumstances preventing, I shall send a few specimens of fruits, etc., and write a few notes and impressions, etc. Last summer we had no fruit in this immediate vicinity, owing to the frost, the 8th of May, which froze the most of garden vegetables, sweet potato plants, of which I had a fine lot, and all the young fruit and blossoms, though there was a better promise of fruit than common. There was fruit both north of here, at Nauvoo, and at Pontoosac, and north-east in McDonough County, and south of here, at Mr. John Slater's, St. Albans Township, and south and south-west of there. Last fall was late and warm into November, and trees did not ripen very well, and the very severe winter injured them much ; some bursting, and most, or nearly all, being dis- colored in the wood, and more or less injured. This last spring being backward and dry, many orchards looked very bad ; and young trees set out did not do well generally. Peach trees killed to the ground, with a few sickly-looking branches trying to be green. Wild raspberries and blackberries 127 not bearing this year; but apples, Morello cherries, wild grapes, service berries, plums, crab apples, cherries, black haws, gooseberries, strawberries, and wild fruit, generally, bore well, and the wheat crop was very good. Fruit is not so fine as common, rather small, and ripens early, owing to the cool- ness of the month of August. APPLES . The Early Harvest is generally accused of being a poor bearer by western fruit-growers. Both this year and three years ago, (1854,) when other apples bore, it bore very well ; this year, rather small. E,ed June — good beater. Several apples, of which I do not yet know the name, have done well. Spice Sweet, Rhode Island Greening, Vandervere, Virginia Crab, Wine Sap, Juneating (not heavy,) Eambo, White and Yellow Bellflower, Maiden's Blush, bearing well. One of my neighbors recommends the Limbertwig, and says he wants over half of his orchard of it. He says he knows six trees of Limbertwig, about five miles from here, that have not missed bearing for eight or nine years ; and that a few years ago he rented the farm, and made from the six trees half enough to pay the rent of the whole farm, at one dollar a bushel, — over one hundred and twenty dollars, — and the best late spring apple he knows. Hardy, productive, fruit easy kept ; he kept some in a granary, where they froze and thawed through the winter, and were not so much injured but that they used them for cooking, etc. GRAPES. I learn that there is a good crop of grapes raised this year at Nauvoo, in this county, where there are several acres in vineyards. PLUMS. Wild plums were very good this year. Out of a great number of varieties, I picked some ten to fifteen of the 128 best varieties, ripening for seven weeks in succession, and intend to propagate from seed and grafting from the original trees, as I think many of them will prove valuable. If " Pears grow in Paradise," then " Nature's Sweet," " GoVlen Nectar," and " Belle , Prairie " plums must be from seed grown there. WATEKMELONS Were very good here this year ; though, from the dry weather and cold nights in August, they were very stirall, but none the less fine-grained and delicious. Pruning. I think the best way to prune, by all meai:s, is to prune when the tree is growing, pinchiug in, bending down, tying up, etc. ; for, as I think, the pores run through the whole length of the wood, and when the end of part of them are cut off, then the whole length of it is almost useless, the sap can pass up to nowhere, and the new branches are con- nected with the new wood ; while that cut off in pruning is in perhaps a decaying state, and of course the tiee is not so vigorous and long-lived as if it had all the wood, each fibre being connected with a growing portion of leaves. Trees generally, when growing in the forest, lose all the branches they have when small, when they get old, they have their inner portions more or less in a state of decay, which I should expect to be the case in all trees heavily pruned up, especially in the case of large trees transplanted ; having the roots cut, leaving but a thin shell of wood of any value in vegetation. In case large trees are wanted, and tlie vigor, and vitality, and value, are of no importance, then large trees may ^be transplanted Avith impunity. I send two apples, the Ribston Pippin, and Lady Apple, found under those names. I would like to know if they are genuine. The Pibston Pippin bears well this year ; also the Greyhouse, similar to, and said to be, the Maiden's Blush, but I think a little more grey and transparent, and less blushed. Most of the apples I send are just numbered by figures, as I 129 did not know, or was not certain, as to the names. I would like very well to have all the good or common kinds named. I have the trees numbered. Yours, for Ceres, Flora and Pomona, SAMUEL JACOB WALLACE. REPORT FROM IOWA. Iowa, considering its age, has made praiseworthy advance- ment ia the cultivation of fruit. Notwithstanding the diffi- culties which inevitably attend the settlement of a new country, and the want of experience respecting both climate and soil, fruits have been produced in such quantities, and of such a size and quality, as to excite the astonishment of fruit- growers from older States. We have, in this State, every variety of soil ; the rich alluvion deposited by annual floods ; the sandy ridge furnishing little but silica; limestone cliffs affording along their sides the richest of all fruit soils ; high clay ridges, requiring thorough tilth to subdue their refractory nature ; and finally, broad, rolling prairies, with a black, deep, fertile soil, destined to be unsurpassed, when experience shall have overcome the difficulties which now well-nigh discourage the orchardist. The apple is the principal fruit yet cultivated, probably, because it is more easily obtained than other fruits, and is not so impatient of moisture in undrained soils. APPLES. Our most popular summer apples, which prove perfectly hardy, are Red June, Sweet June, (known as Hightop Sweet- ing), and Red Astrachan. Early Harvest and Early Bough are popular, but prove rather tender ; American Summer 130 Pearmain and Early Joe are fine^ but have not been exten- sively cultivated. The varieties most cultivated for fall use are Rarabo, Maiden's Blush, Fall Pijjpin, and Fall Wine. .The Rambo, the most popular of all fall apples, was universally injured last winter, in some instances trees over fifteen years old being entirely killed. The Cooper, Hawley, Dyer, and Orange are excellent, but not much known. WINTER APPLES. Our standard winter apples are Rawle's Janet, White Winter Pearmain, Yellow Bellilower, White Bellflower, Golden Russet, Roxbury Russet, Rhode Island Greening, Wine Sap and Swaar ; of these the Russet, Rhode Island Greening, and White Bellflower are rather tender. The Fame use, Pomme Gris, Peck's Pleasant, Jonathan, and Red Canada, are coming into favor as they become known. Of apples, recommended for general cultivation by the American Pomological Society, at its session in 1854, the following may be noted as having been seriously injured last winter : Baldwin, Fall Pippin, Gravenstein, Hubbardston Nonesuch, Ladies' Sweet, and Rhode Island Greening ; of those for particular localities, Esopus Spitzenberg, and New- town Pippin. The Baldwin and Newtown Pippin are proba- bly unworthy of cultivation here. The Newark Pippin will prove valuable In general, through this State, no pains are spared to obtain the best varieties, though some are popular which are condemned by pomological societies, showing that the taste of the multitude will not yield to a dictum of the few. PEARS. A great many pears have been planted, but the product has not been large, scarcely remunerative, except upon the driest clay and limestone ridges. The blight has been destructive to standard trees, but the cold of last winter destroyed all upon the prairies, both dwarf and standard. If there is any difference in respect to hardiness, it is probably in favor of the Baitlett and White Doyenne. Upon wood- lands the injury was not so great. 131 PLUMS. The plum has been cultivated to some extent, and has borne fine fruit in spite of the curculio ; but except in some well-drained fruit gardens, has now gone the way of the pear, PEACHES. Fine crops of peaches have been produced about every third year, not oftener, owing to late frosts in the spring, or to the open winters, marked by sudden changes. Now, there are no" trees over two years old, and, of course, no fruit this year. CHEREIES. The finer cherries have been planted ; but as yet little fruit has been produced, and from present indications all that has been done is a failure ; and, unless under draining, or some other expedient should remedy the evils of tenderness and early decay, such must be the final result. CURRANTS, GOOSEBERRIES, RASP- BERRIES, STRAWBERRIES. The smaller fruits, such as currants, gooseberries, rasp- berries, strawberries, etc., are produced in perfection, subject only to the accidents common to them in the older States. There was not a full crop of fruit last year, owing to frosts on the 8th, 9th, and 10th of May, and there is not this year, from the effects of last winter. Were it not from such causes of failure, portions of our State would already produce more than enough fruit for home consumption. Yet, the watch- word is "onward," and no doubt every difficulty will be overcome, and Iowa take the proudest position assigned to her in the predictions of her most sanguine friends. M„ L. COMSTOCK. xstmmM. The Society then proceeded to revise its Catalogue of Fruits. PEARS FOR GENERAL CULTIVATION. Ananas d'Ete. Mr. Downing of New York, stated tliat it had proved varia- ble, and wished that it be struck from the list. Mr. Buist of Pennsylvania, considered it one of the best early pears. Mr. Saul of Newburgh, would be sorry to have it struck off; found it very good — ^better than Bartlett. The President stated that it usually fell from the tree, and was indifferent ; had not had a dozen good specimens in several years. Passed over. Andrews. Mr. Reid of New Jersey, had found it to rot at the core, and to keep but a few weeks ; but it was generally approved of. Lawrence. Mr Field of New York, stated it to be one of the best on Long Island. Mr. Hodge of New York, considered it one of the best ; had not been better pleased with any pear. 133 Belle Lucrative. Mr. Hobbs of Kentucky, considered it one of the best. Mr. Berckmans of New Jersey, bad received it from Europe as Napoleon. It was very excellent. Beurre d'Anjou. Mr. Hodge had found it universally fine. Beurre d'Aremberg. Mr. Ernst had never ripened a specimen worth eating ; looks well on the tree ; perhaps changed by diiferent soils. Mr. Hobbs could not grow it. Mr, Walker of Massachusetts, stated that it should be worked on large, thrifty trees, in order to obtain fine fruit. Mr. Eeid stated it to be good, but a poor grower. Mr. Berckmans thought it would probably not prove so good at the south as at the north ; that such was the case in France, — not a lasting tree, especially in the south. Mr. Prince of New York, thought Mr. Berckmans must refer to the Glout Morceau, that being known as Beurre d'Aremberg in France. Mr. Berckmans explained that the original name was Beurre Deschamps — ^that it had been afterwards called Orphe- line d'Enghein, and Beurre des Orphelines. The French gave the name of Beurre d'Aremberg to the Glout Morceau, raised by M. d'Hardenpont, and afterwards discovered the mistake. This variety is now known in France by its true name of Beurre d'Aremberg. Mr. Hodge was surprised to hear the remarks made in regard to this pear : it always ripens well with him, and was fine when not too heavily cropped, when it should be thinned. The President stated that it was very much disposed to overbear; fruit should be thinned, and tree requires high culture. He could scarcely survive a winter without this variety. * Mr. Townsend of New York, had fruited it for four or 134 five years, but never yet ripened one. Had kept in boxes in a dry cellar, and placed in a warmer room to ripen. The President thought that, if kept in close boxes, its ripen- ing could not be prevented. Mr. Barry thought that it was not in its proper place on the list for general cultivation ; was fine, and easily ripened, but better for gardens and amateurs than for orchards. De- cided that it should have " high cultivation " attached to it on the list. BUFFUM. Mr. Hodge said that, at the meeting of Society held in the city of New York several years since, he had opposed its being placed on the list for general cultivation. Then he had only grown it on a dry, gravel soil ; the fruit had proved inferior, and cracked badly. Since then, on a better soil, the fruit had been quite fair, and very good. Deakborn's Seedling. Mr. Waring of Pennsylvania, objected to the position of this pear on the list for general cultivation. It is very small, and quite insipid in wet seasons, though usually of best flavor. Its growth is better with him than is sometimes attributed to it. Mr. Ernst thought that Mr. Waring's fruit had been ripened on the tree ; had found it good when house-ripened. Fulton. Mr. Saul thought it should not be on the list ; not of uni- form good size ; a good pear, but poor grower. Mr. Peid had the same objection. Mr. Walker said that it bore large crops, and the fruit, though small, was very good ; tree a poor grower. The President had found it to bear very large crops. Mr. Barry thought it should never have been placed on the list. The fruit was good at the north, but too small, and the tree a poor grower. Mr. Buist considered it a very inferior pear, and especially so at the South. 135 Mr. Hovey thought that he had not a single objection to it ; not a rapid grower, but has more admirers at Boston than ahnost any other pear. Is much sought for in market, and will sometimes bring ten dollars per barrel. Mr. Cabot thought that, if the Fulton was struck off, half those on the list might, with equal propriety, be stricken off. It was very hardy, a handsome, good pear, and better adapted for the orchard than almost any other. Mr. Prince stated that the tree grew well, the fruit of medium size, twice the size of Dearborn's Seedling ; of inviting appearance, very productive and reliable, bearing regular crops. Mr. Hovey thought that there were many smaller pears on the list, and that, for general purposes, they were pref- erable to very large ones. Mr. Reid said that it had borne fine crops, but with him was smaller than the Seckel. Mr. Barry knew several larger and better pears in sea- son at the same time. Mr. Ernst said that, at their last exhibition, it was one of the finest pears shown. Mr. Hodge remarked that it was not a favorite with him, as there were so many better. Mr. Cabot had seen it on the tables ; larger than Winter Nelis. Mr. Hovey had recently planted several treesj as of one of the choicest varieties, and considered it one of the very first American pears. Mr. Buist suggested that it should be recommended for cultivation about Boston. Mr. Hovey was aware that it was little cultivated at the South, and had no objection to append to some varieties the condition " around Boston," or " around Cincinnati," etc. After some discussion between Messrs. Cabot, Hovey, Field, Be'd, and Walker, upon the propriety of revising the list, as occupying much time, the Society took up the list of 136 PEARS WHICH PROMISE WELL. The Adams. The President observed that it was fair and handsome at Boston. Beurre Clairgeau. Mr. Saul wished that it be placed upon the list for general cultivation. Mr. Ernst objected ; his specimens last year were hand- some, but deficient in flavor. • Mr. Walker wished that it should remain where it was. Mr. Hovey remarked that it was a slow grower on the quince, and had not, he thought, been fruited on the pear, as it had only been introduced in 1852 ; he had a high opinion of it, but did not think it sufficiently disseminated to be recommended for general cultivation. The President was of opinion that it was of a higher promise than any pear which had been introduced for many years. It grew well, and fruited abundantly on the pear stock. Mr. Cabot stated that it was introduced in 1847. He had tasted specimens which were very good, but on his own trees were not so good until 1855, and had never seen any quite first-rate ; none of his imported dwarf trees had made any growth ; had been injured when others had escaped — perhaps accidentally. Mr. Barry remarked that it would not grow on the quince, but bears well and early on pear stock ; had known it to ft'uit at two years old. Mr. Buist had found it a vigorous, stout-growing tree. Mr. Hovey thought it would grow on quince, but not well ; was vigorous on pear, and resembled Beurre Capiaumont in habit and character. The President had found that it rooted freely from the pear stock when worked on quince, showing a strong antipathy to that stock. Mr. Field remarked that it was the only one of the French pears which had come up to its foreign reputation. 137 Mr. Cabot was inclined to distrust its hardiness. Mr. E.eid had found it as good as the Bartlett. Beukre Giffard. Mr. Walker considered it the best pear of its season. Mr. Buist esteemed it one of the best early sorts. Mr. Ernst found it last year good ; this year not so fine. Mr. Cabot thought it one of the best summer pears, but a feeble grower, making long, slender shoots. Mr. Hovey thought it a good fruit, but an indifferent grower and shy bearer. Mr. Reid found it excellent, but not a good keeper ; bears pretty well. Mr. Barry thought it large, beautiful, and of first excellence, indispensable to the amateur, but not likely to be a popular orchard fruit. Mr. "Warren of New York, thought it the best early pear ■ that he grew, but it should be picked early. Mr. Berckmans remarked that it should be picked early, when it was excellent — equal to Rostiezer and larger. The President thought that, when its qualities were known, it would take a high rank. Beurre Sterckman. The President remarked that the Beurre Hardy was identical. Mr. Cabot said that the Beurre Sterckman and Doyenne Sterckman were synonymous. Mr. Berckmans said there never was any Doyenne Sterckman. Mr. Hovey entertained a high opinion of it. Beurre Superfin. Messrs. Barry, Berckmans, and Saul, were in favor of recommending it for general cultivation. Mr. Ernst objected, as he knew nothing of it, and it had not been much tried west. Mr. Hovey remarked that his trees on pear stock were ten 138 years old ; had flowered well for tliree years, but had not ripened three pears ; he thought it must be a shy bearer. The President had found it a shy bearer^ but had eaten no better pear. Mr. Cabot thought it too soon to recommend it for general, cultivation. Chancellor. Mr. Reid considered it better than Brown Beurre and a good grower. The President remarked that it was one of the poorest in his collection. Mr. Berckmans had found it one of the best in Philadelphia. Doyenne Boussock. Mr. Walker would recommend it for general cultivation, and referred to his remarks made at the last meeting, which applied to specimens grown on the quince ; he had found it uniformly good on the pear, and a good bearer. Mr. Cabot had found it to do well on the pear, but poorly on the quince. Mr. Hovey also referred to remarks made by him at the last session, and stated that his opinion was unchanged ; would recommend it for general cultivation. The President^said, on its own root, it was one of the most beautiful trees in his grounds ; pear and tree were alike beautiful. Mr. Barry thought favorably of the pear ; it ripened with the Bartlett. Mr. Ernst should object to recommending it for general cultivation ; it had not been sufficiently tried at the West. Mr. Buist found it invariably good. Mr. Walker said this fruit had been cultivated for about twenty years, and if oiu- friends at the West are so slow in obtaining new varieties of pears that this has not yet reached Cincinnati, they must not expect us to wait for them, in these days of railroads and telegraphs. Mr. Ernst was willing gentlemen should recommend this 139 for general cultivation^ but was not willing liimself to share in the responsibility. Dr. Brinckle thought highly of this pear, and the best specimens he had ever seen were grown in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Adopted for general cultivation. Beurre St. Nicholas. Mr. Walker had long known this pear ; it is one of the very highest order ; would recommend it for general cultiva- tion. E. C. Frost and H. E. Hooker also spoke favorably of this pear, and thought it should be recommended for general cul- tivation. It was unanimously recommended for general cultivation. DUCHESSE DE BeRUI. « Mr. Walker . suggested the propriety of adding d^Ete, to denote its early ripening, as there is another pear cultivated in France of this name. The President stated that Souvraine d'Ete was identical. The suggestion of Mr. Walker was agreed to, and d'Ete added to the name. The Howell. At the suggestion of Messrs. Ernst, Barry, Buist, and others, this pear was recommended for general cultivation. The Kingsessing. Dr. Brinckle said this pear is better of late years than when first he became acquainted with it. It is fine, particularly so on the quince ; it is also of a little different shape on the quince, being shorter and broader. Mr. Walker had cultivated this pear about five years ; it is excellent, if not one of the very best ; it keeps well, after becoming ripe ; had kept specimens thirty days in excellent condition. Mr. Buist said it never rotted at the core, but commenced rotting on the outside. 140 The KiRTLAND. The President said with him it was fine. Dr. Brinckle recommended it for general cultivation. Mr. Hodge had fruited it three years ; was well pleased with it, but was not yet prepared to recommend it for general cultivation. Mr. E-eid had it in bearing three or four years ; it is good if gathered in season, but if allowed to remain on the tree a little too long, it becomes mealy. Mr. Hovey thought it was not yet sufficiently known to warrant us in recommending it for general cultivation. Mr. Ernst agreed with Mr. Hovey. Mr. H. E. Hooker said it was uniformly handsome, either on the pear or quince, but liable to rot at the core. Dr. Brinckle withdrew his motion to recommend for gen- eral cultivation. The Lodge. Mr. Walker thought there was no better pear — equal, if not superior to the Brown Beurre. It possesses abundance of juice, and all the qualifications of a first-rate pear. Wished it was better known and more generally cultivated. It should be spread over the length and breadth of our land. If the Erench had produced this pear, we would pay any price to procure it. Let us not neglect so good a pear because it is a native. Mr. Heid. thought it good as to quality, but very liable to rot at the core ; it commences rotting at the core as soon as ripe. Mr. J. J. Thomas said in Western New York it is not as good as in Philadelphia; did not think it was adapted to Western New York. Mr. Berckmans said it was of excellent quality, but rots badly. * The President said many varieties of pear rot in New Jersey, that in Boston, where they ripen later, are not subject to this fault. 141 Mr. Eeid thouglit the Cabot was far superior to it. The Onondaga. Mr. Field thought this pear should be recommended for general cultivation. Mr. Ernst stated that at a previous session he had spoken well of this pear ; he had changed his opinion, and would now strike it from the list altogether ; owing to a change of season, or from, some other cause, it has become entirely worthless. ' Mr. Hodge had fruited it several years ; would not rank it higher than good, — coarse, although large and handsome ; thought it had deteriorated of late year. Mr. Saul had fruited it for several years, and had yet to pick the first good specimen. Mr. Keid thought, with him, it was improving ; thought much better of it than he did a few years since. Mr. Field said that on poor soil it was small, coarse, and woody, but on strong soil it was good. Mr. Ernst stated that his soil was not poor ; it was a strong, vegetable mould on a clay bottom, and the trees were well cultivated. Mr. Saul said his soil was good, and his neighbors did not think him a very poor cultivator. Mr. Downing said it was very variable. The Ott. Mr. Reid had fruited it, and considered it a very good pear. Mr. Townsend of Lockport, said-it was fair and good. The President considered it a pear of very high quality, but too small. Mr. "Walker said it was not attractive to the eye, but a good grower ; size somewhat variable, and the small specimens apt to crack ; not a good market pear. The Sheldon. Mr. Hooker said — we think this one of the best pears grown, but, as it originated in this neighborhood, we would like to have the opinion of our friends from the East. 142 Mr. Hovey said that he had fruited this pear six years ; one of the best ; at the head of our native pears. Thinks no foreign pear superior to it. It bears young, produces large crops, and the tree is a good grower. Considers it the best pear in America. Mr. H, E. Hooker said he knew of no pear equal to it. Mr. Barry said it was a pear of the highest excellence in every respect. Mr. J. J. Thomas had the very highest opinion of this pear. Adopted for general cultivation. St. Michael Archange. Mr. Hovey stated this to be one of the best pears we have. AdjOurned to half-past 7 P. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention assembled at half-past 7 P. M. The President announced as the subject for discussion, the consideration of *' Varieties of the Pear which pro7nises well " — continued from afternoon session. Stevens's Genesee. Mr. Hodge had cultivated it for many years ; it succeeds well, and, is a very fair pear. Mr. Eaton of Buffalo, said that it had formerly succeeded with him, but hist season it rotted badly at the core ; on inquiry, found the complaint to be pretty general in his neighborhood. The President stated that Louise de Prusse was identical ; he did not consider it very good ; it always cracks with him. ViCAE OF WlNKFIELD. Mr. Field inquired if it was true, as he had heard, that the Vicar of Winkfield had been recommended by several eminent pomologists as the best pear groAvn. The President explained that he had many years since expressed the opinion publicly that if he was restricted to one tree, it should be of this vaiiety — not for its quality alone, 143 but for its general good character. It is a beautiful tree, and very productive. Mr. Field said he fully agreed with Mr. Wilder in this opinion. Mr. Walker said the President had expressed his views also. On its own stock it made a beautiful tree. If he had a farm, he would plant them even for shade. He had one tree from which he should get the present season five barrels. They should be barrelled like apples, and when wanted for use brought up and ripened in a warm room at a high tem- perature ; if ripened in a cool room, there will be but few high-flavored. The small specimens are only good for cook- ing. They are excellent for that purpose. He had them in eating from October until April, and could truly say, with the President, that, considering the beauty of the tree, their value for cooking, and their long keeping q[ualities, he should prefer this to any other variety, if unfortunately restricted to one. It bears well every year, but every alternate year produces a very large crop, worth ^1.50 per dozen. Mr. Hovey considered the large specimens very valuable. Put in the cellar like apples in barrels, we usually find them in January fine. An exceedingly beautiful tree. At least two-thirds of the specimens are large and fine. Brought in Boston 1^10.00 per barrel. No pear so certain to bear a large crop, but the tree must have some age to produce :6.ne speci- mens. On young trees they are generally small. Mr. Reid could never soften it ; can grow them very well, but never got one soft enough to eat.* Judge Miller of Rochester, had experienced the same diffi- culty as Mr. Reid. It seemed to him like a piece of wood in the shape of a pear. [Note to the President, received from Mr. Reid since the meeting.] * =• I should now be willing to retract all that T said in relation to the Vicar of Winkfield pear. I have eaten it to-day, and have found it quite equal to what you and others said ; perfectly melting, more than good, almost first- rate. Mr. Bcrcknians and myself thought it equal to lieurre LangeKer. Probcblj' my Fruit Room has enabled me to ripen it properly." 144 Mr. Prince said this pear was peculiar about ripening. It requires a good deal of heat to bring out its quality. Is always vigorous — always reliable. ^ Mr. Berckmans had seen this variety sell in New York for thirty cents each. Mr. Field had received one from Oregon that weighed twenty-six ounces. » Mr. Hodge found great difficulty in ripening it. HOSENSCHENCK. Dr. Brinckle said the Hosenschenck has been known some years. It is a native of Pennsylvania, and was described by Downing as the Schenck. It was also under the name of Hawthorn. I recently received specimens of this pear from Frederick County, Maryland, where it has been cultivated for forty years. The quality of these specimens was even supe- rior to those grown in Pennsylvania. Would recommend it as a pear worthy of trial. Mr. "Waring, of Pennsylvania, said it was one of the finest and very best pears shown and tested at the Pennsylvania State Fair of September, 1856. Mr. Barry considered it worthy of trial. Mr. Hoops of Pennsylvania, said Dr. Eshleman of Chester County, Penn., had cultivated it for many years ; it cracks very badly with him. Dr. Brinckle thought that the cracking of this pear was a recent fault, and might be only temporary, or confined to cer- tain localities. My attention was first directed to the Hosen- schenck, a few years since, by Dr. Eshleman. And at that time he remarked to me that it succeeded well in localities where the White Doyenne was utterly worthless. Mr. Downing found it rather coarse in texture, and very liable to crack. J. J. Thomas had been favored with specimens from Phila- delphia, very fine and good texture, but not highly flavored ; thought it valuable. Recommended as promising well. 145 Philadelphia. Dr. Brinckle would like to see this pear put on the list that promises well. It is as large as the Duchesse d'Angou- leme. It sometimes cracks a Httle, but is a good pear. Adopted. RlCHAEDS. Dr. Brinckle said this was a good pear ; is a seedling of Wilmington, Delaware. Mr. Reid thought this a very promising variety. The tree resembles Glout Morceau. Mr. Berckmans thought favorably of this pear. About the size of Bartlett. Mr. Downing saw one specimen — very good. Messrs. Saul and Hovey thought it rather premature to put a pear so little known on the list as promising well. Passed. FONDANTE DE CoMICE. Mr. E,eid recommended this pear as worthy of trial. Mr. Cabot had tasted specimens that he considered very good. Mr. Hovey thought it a fine pear. E,ecommended for trial, as promising well. NiLES. Mr. Berckmans thought this one of the best winter pears. It was received from Prance, without a name. Had sent specimens to the Poyal Commissioner of Belgium. Mr. Wilder considered it a valuable acquisition. Mr. Beid thought it a valuable winter pear ; kept it until February. Becommended as promising well. Dr. Brinckle wished to call attention to the General Tayloe pear of Maryland, and the Taylor of Virginia, as being two distinct varieties worthy of attention. Mr. Hobbs of Kentucky, said that a pear called the Tay- lor had been cultivated in Kentucky for many years, and esteemed one of the best. Emile d' Heyst. The President wished to recommend the Emile d' Heyst 10 146 as promising well. It is a seedling of Mr. Berckmans, and dedicated to his son. It is above medium size, ripening in November, and of a peculiar rich, piquant flavor. Mr. Berckmans stated that it was a fine, large pear, ripen- ing in November ; fair, and as good as can be desired. Adopted. Beurre Kennes. Eecommended by the President, who entertained a high opinion of its qualities ; a russet pear of medium size, and a great bearer. Mr. Hovey liked its appearance ; thought it worthy of being recommended as promising well. Adopted. CONSEILLER DE LA CoUR. The President stated that this pear was nearly as large and handsome as the Beurre d'Anjou. Mr. Cabot said it was handsome, of good size, and good quality. The President said it was a little acid, melting, and keeps late. It would be a valuable acquisition. Recommended as promising ivell. Marechal de la Cour, and Due d'Orleans, were stated by Mr. Berckmans to be identical. The Conseiller de la Cour, he thought might be a distinct variety. Comtesse d'Alost. The President said this variety was, in character and ap- pearance, much like the Louise Bonne de Jersey. Mr. Barry remarked that the Delices d'Alost and the Comtesse d'Alost are identical. It is a fine pear, and bears well. The President said that Lamarie was a synonym also. Recommended as promising well. Calebasse Delavigne. Mr. Berckmans stated that the fruit came from Van Mon's collection. It is a handsome, fine pear, and bears well ; not a strong grower. Mr. Wilder concurred. 147 Mr. H. E. Hooker was afraid we were recommending too many varieties as 'promising well — many of which the majority of members are unacquainted with. Mr. Walker was of the same opinion, and thought it would be well to appoint a Committee to report varieties they deem worthy of cultivation. After some discussion, it was resolved that every member have the privilege of recommending any variety that he may deem worthy of trial, and that their remarks be recorded. Bergen. Recommended by Mr. Prince, who stated it to be as large as Louise Bonne de Jersey, and excellent. Dr. Brinckle said he was much pleased with the Bergen ; it was a beautiful, large pear. Hagerman. Was proposed by Mr. Prince, who stated it to be a fine pear — a seedling of the Seckel. Beurre Langelier, Was recommended by Mr. Cabot, who considered it one of the best winter pears. Mr. Prince and the President thought favorably of this variety. The latter stated that it was late in coming into bearing on its own root. Mr. Eeid said it bore when three or four years old, on the quince stock. The fruit is fair, and the crop abuifdant ; rather astringent. Mr. Hodge found it fair and good, but not productive. Becommended as 'promising well. Osband's Summer Was recommended by H. E. Hooker. Mr. Barry thought it a good pear. It required to be picked early. Mr. Prince considered it one of the most delicious summer pears. Bergamotte d'Esperen. Mr. Eeid thought it promised well. Fine, late, melting pear ; as large as Gansel's Bergamotte. 148 Mr. Townsend said it was a fine tree, but the fruit was small. The President was not much pleased with it. Doyenne d'Alencon. Mr. Reid recommended this pear as worthy the attention of cultivators ; it keeps well until May. Mr. Prince said it was of excellent quality, and remarkably productive. Mr. Barry thought it a very promising fruit, equal to Easter Beurre. Mr. Buist had tried it on quince, and found it an excellent pear, and a good bearer. Mr. Walker thought well of this pear. Recommended as promising well. Beurre d'Albert. Mr. Hovey thought this variety well worthy of notice ; it was a fine fruit, good bearer, and hardy ; of a russety color. Mr. Berckmans said it was a fine fruit, with a very thin skin, and on this account much exposed to the attacks of insects. Mr. Cabot would rank it among the best pears. Mr. Eeid ranked it with the Lodge, which it resembled. Rather astringent. Mr. Hooker considered it very fair, but did not consider it first-rate. Recommended as promising well. Bonne d'Ezee Mr. Hovey introduced this as worthy of notice. Mr. Hodge had fruited it some years ; uniformly produc- tive— exceedingly so. Fruit always fair in appearance ; but very inferior and insipid, and had never raised one that could rank as high as good. Mr. Prince thought the correct name was Bonne d'Ezee. The President said it was a fine pear, but the tree cracks badly, like Van Mons' Leon le Clerc. Mr. Berckmans said the tree cracks more in Boston than in New Jersey. 149 Mr. Hovey said witli him. the tree had not cracked much, and had never known the tree injured from this cause. Delices de Hardenpont de Belgique Was introduced by Mr. Hovey ; esteemed it very highly. Mr. Prince said it was a pear of large size and excellent quality. Tree very vigorous. Mr. Berckmans stated this to be an old pear, as old as the Glout Morceau. It is a fine, large pear. The tree is sickly in Belgium, but in this country it is more healthy. Mr. Hooker had not found this variety very productive, and it was not healthy with him. The fruit is melting and juicy, but not of high flavor. Recommended as promising well. Delices de Hardenpont d'Angers "Was proposed by Mr. Hovey, who esteemed it as a deli- cious fruit. The President had cultivated this pear for ten years. It is of medium size, juicy fruit, and productive. Not a free grower on quince. Mr. Townsend said it was smaller than the Delices de Hard- enpont de Belgique, and the tree less vigorous. Mr. Cabot pronounced it a good pear — almost as good as White Doyenne. Recommended as promising well. Fondante de Charneuse, Mr. Cabot would like to call attention of cultivators to this pear. Thought it worthy of general cultivation. It is a juicy, good pear, and a healthy tree. The Due de Brabant, Desire Van Mons, Waterloo, and Excellentissirae are all synonyms of this fruit- Mr. Barry had a high opinion of this fruit. It is of first quality, and never cracks. Mr. Ernst thought it well worthy of cultivation. It is fine, and uniform in size. Mr. Buist considered it first-rate in quality, size, and pro- ductiveness. In eating in October and November. Eecommended as promising well. 150 Osband's Summer Was introduced by Mr. J. H. Watts of Rochester. Mr. Hoag of Lockport, said this variety was fine on oH trees, but rather small on young. Mr. J. J. Thomas found this tree finely adapted for light, gravelly soils. It is more vigorous on such soils than any tree he was acquainted with except the Skinless. Mr. Hodge had fruited it three or four years. It has not equalled its reputation. Mr. Townsend said it was one of the most vigorous trees he cultivated on the quince. Finely adapted for light soils ; an excellent pear, beautifully colored ; one of the best. Recommended as promising well. Beuree Nantais. Mr. Barry called attention to this pear. It was a beautiful, delicate fruit, resembling Belle Lucrative. Just now passing out of season. The President considered this a charming pear. It had a great many good quahties. Recommended as 'promising well. The Graslin. This pear was introduced for discussion by Dr. Brinckle. He had seen fine specimens grown in Philadelphia and also from France. Mr. Ernst had tried this variety. It promises well. It is valuable, following immediately after the Bartlett. Mr. Walker expressed a good opinion of it. Mr. Buist thought Mr. Ernst must be mistaken as to the variety, as the Graslin is a winter pear. Mr. Walker and the President stated that it ripened in November and kept through December in Massachusetts. Mr. Buist said with him it ripened in November and December, and was excellent. Difference in soil and climate may change its character somewhat in Ohio. Mr. E. C. Erost of New York^^ fruited it for three yeaars» Was well plea.sed with it. 151 TheDix, Introduced by Mr. "Walker, who thouglit it a fine pear. Messrs. Barry and Downing considered it very fine. Mr. Hodge had cultivated it twelve years, and had not yet produced the first fruit. Mr. Ernst found it a shy bearer. Mr. Hoag put two grafts on an apple tree, and the second year gathered two bushels of fruit. The President had trees of this variety on his ground nine- teen years, and had not yet grown a peck. It is a fine pear, however, — one of the best American varieties. It badly carcks with him. Mr. Buist found it a shy bearer ; it would not grow on quince. M. Hovey thought it one of the best ; had no objection to recommend it for general cultivation. Mr. Paul of Massachusetts, said he found it slow in bearing when grafted on young trees, but when grafted on old trees had seen it bearing in two years. The President remarked that Mr. French of Massachusetts, had a tree grafted nineteen years since, and it had not yet borne any fruit. Mr. "Walker had fruited it in six years from the bud on seedling trees. Mr. Eeid planted the Dix in 1845. It now bears a good crop, but spots and cracks. Mr. Prince found it rather slow in coming into bearing, but it makes up for it afterward. It does not crack much^ and is a very important pear. Mr. Field said the testimony of his friends was not very flattering. Slow growth, late in coming into bearing, and cracks. Mr. Hanford of Indiana, had known it in Indiana, on gravelly soil, fruit four years after grafting, on a tree five years old. Recommended as promising well. 152 Bellissime d'Ete, At the suggestion of Mr. Walker, was placed upon the rejected list as unworthy of cultivation. Adjourned to 10 A. M. MORNING SESSION. Society met Thursday, September 25th, at 10 A. M. The President announced that the discussion on pears would be resumed. Bleeker's Meadow. Dr. Brinckle stated that there was one pear on the rejected list (Bleeker's Meadow) which he would like to have removed from this position. It was called F easier in Pennsylvania, and he thought this the proper name. It was good when house-ripened — altogether too good to be on the rejected list. Mr. Prince said it was a seedling of the Seckel, of fine flavor, and very productive. Mr. Ernst hoped it would remain on the rejected list. It was a vigorous tree, and a great bearer, but the fruit was entirely worthless. He had not house-ripened it. Mr. Hovey said, with him, it did not require house-ripening. It ripened as easily as Russet apples. Mr. Cabot had sometimes seen fair specimens, but did not think it worthy of cultivation. Removed from rejected list. Passans du Portugal. Mr. Hovey wished to have it stricken from the rejected list. Mr. Reid said the Cheneille was a synonym of this variety. Mr. Prince considered it a very good pear, but too small. Should be retained where it is. Mr. Hovey said it was as large as Bleeker's Meadow. Removed from rejected list. At this stage of the proceedings, a Committee was appointed to report a list of Rejected Fruits — the report to be submitted at the next session of the Convention. The Committee was constituted as follows : 153 Mr. Cabot of Massachusetts, Chairman ; Prince of New York, Berckmans of New Jersey, Ernst of Ohio, Thomus of New York, Buist of Pennsylvania, and Hovey of Massa- chusetts. The Convention then proceeded to revise the list of PEARS FOR CULTURE ON THE QUINCE STOCK. Belle Lucrative. Mr. Hovey objected to it, as it did not succeed. Mr. Reid said it made a good tree, often in three or four years on the quince, although not one of the best growers when young. Mr. Hooker raised it admirably on quince. Mr. Barry said it succeeded fairly on quince, not so well as Louise Bonne de Jersey ; but he had trees ten years old bearing full crops and bearing every year. It may be safely left on the list as it now stands. Mr. Hovey had trees twelve years old, and, as compared with Louise Bonne de Jersey, and Duchesse de Angouleme, it does not succeed ; could not recommend it as growing well on quince. Allowed to remain. Beure,e d'Amalis. The President stated this to be a fine summer fruit — one of the most profitable, but required picking early. Mr. Hovey agreed with the President. It was one of the most reliable. Messrs. Reid and Ernst said it rotted at the core as soon as ripe. Mr Buist thought it one of the best pears in cold and high latitudes, but it did not succeed well at the South. Betje.be d'Aremberg. Mr. Prince said this was a contemptible grower on the quince, and a disgrace to any nurseryman who sent it out. M. Barry concurred with Mr. Prince. 154 Mr. Eeid said it was a poor grower on either pear or quince, and did not see much difference. E-emoved from the list. Long Green of Coxe. Mr. Saul urged that this be stricken from the list. Mr. Prince thought Mr Saul referred to the old Verte Longue of the French, which is distinct, and the same as Mouille Bouche. The Long Green of Coxe is a large and fine pear. Mr. Hovey said the Long Green of Coxe was a very distinct and very fine pear, and should be left on the list. Mr. Cabot did not think as well of the Long Green as Mr. Hovey. It rotted soon. Mr. Saul was acquainted with the Verte d'Ete, and the Verte Longue d'Automne. Referred to neither of these. Meant the Long Green of Coxe, an older pear. Mr. Barry said these varieties were easily distinguished — no trees more unlike. The Long of Coxe is a very vigorous growing, magnificent tree, with stiflf, thick shoots ; the other a slow-growing tree. Mr. Berckmans said the true name of this pear is the Verte Longue de la Moyenne. i Napoleon. Mr. Hodge had grown it many years. A fine grower, making a beautiful pyramid. Productive, but not even good in quality. Mr. Ernst found the tree a fine grower, but the fruit worthless. Mr. E-eed had seen fine specimens in the garden of Pro- fessor Mapes, but considers it unworthy of cultivation in New Jersey. The President stated that formerly it was fine in Boston, but it was rarely so now. SOLDAT LaBOUREUR. Mr. H. E. Hooker considered it a good bearer, but not fit for the table. 155 The President and Mr. Reid stated that the fruit was apt to fall from the tree about midsummer. J. J. Thomas said with him it was a fine tree, but not good fruit. Mr. Field saw it very fine in Mr. Berckmans' garden. Mr. Cabot sometimes had it large and first-rate. Mr. Berckmans said the tree required high cultivation, and then the fruit is not so likely to drop. In Belgium, it is called a fine orchard tree. Some of the fruit drops, but that which remains is delicious. Triomphe de Jodoigne was removed from the list. liirRBAisriSTE. Mr. Cabot said no tree grows more beautifully on the quince ; it makes a fine pyramid. The President had two trees of the same age, one on pear root, the other on quince. That on the quince bore a bar- rel of fr'uit ; that on the pear not two dozen. Mr. Phoenix of Illinois, found this tree to be one of the hardiest for the West. White Doyenne. Mr. Field had ascertained that the fruit was not so liable to crack on the quince as on the pear. Mr. Hodge said this pear had been a great favorite with him ; a fruit of superior excellence ; but of late years it had become so much specked and spotted as to be almost worth- less. Thought it required a very strong soil, and high culture. Mr. Hoag stated that, at Lockport, New York, it was as fine as need be on a light soil, or on any soil. Mr. Reid thought the cracking was a local disease, not dependent on soil. Mr. Warren of New York, said he had seen it cracked on the pear worse than on the quince. It succeeds finely in Genesee County, in this State. Mr. Cabot thought we should have to abandon its culture on the pear root, but on the quince it is freqently as good as ever. 156 J. J. Thomas stated that Mr. Yeomans, of Wayne County, had planted an orchard of two thousand three hundred trees of the White Doyenne on quince root. The fruit was almost entirely destroyed by cracking and mildew. The soil is gravelly and well drained, but somewhat springy. Mr. Ernst had twenty years' experience with this pear. For many years the fruit was so worthless on pear stock from cracking, that he grafted them with other varieties. Of late years, the few branches that escaped have borne fine speci- mens, with no appearance of cracking. It should not, there- fore, be rejected too suddenly. Winter Nelis, Was proposed by Mr. Frost, as good for cultivation on quince, and he proposed to add it to the list. Objected to. KiNGSESSING, Was proposed by Dr. Brinckle, as worthy to be added to the list for culture on the quince. Messrs. Bateham of Ohio, and Saul of New York, pro- nounced it a fine grower on the quince. Mr. Hovey had not found it a good grower on the quince. Mr. Barry thought only those varieties that have been tried for some years should be recommended, as some varieties, like Belle Lucrative, succeed for a few years, and then fail. Brandywine. Mr. Townsend recommended this variety. Had them seven years old, which were vigorous, and, bore good crops. Mr. Reid also had this variety seven years old — free, vig- orous grower. Mr. Hooker was in favor of its adoption. Grows well, and makes a fine pyramid. Beurre Superfin. Mr. Berckmans recommended this variety as growing admi- rably on the quince, and as promising well for general culti- vation ; had known it in France for fifteen or twenty years ; one of the very best growers. Mr. Keid found it a vigorous grower on quince. 157 EODNEY. Dr. Brinckle recommended this as an excellent grower on the quince — ^not excelled by any. First-rate as a stock for double working. Jalousie de Fontenay Vendee. Mr. E.eid could recommend this variety as growing well on the quince, but gave no opinion as to the quality of fruit. Mr. Ernst stated that with him it grows well, and bears large crops. Doyenne Gris. Mr. Hovey called the attention of members of the Associ- ation to this variety, as being well adapted to the quince. Messrs. Hooker and Townsend had found it rather a poor grower on the quince. Mr. Hodge said it grew finely with him. Mr. E. Frost of New York, said it was one of the best pears, bearing large crops, but making rather poor growth. Mr. Waring could not succeed with it on the quince, but found it a remarkably early and good bearer on pear root, — a natural dwarf. Flemish Beauty. Mr. Reid said it made a poor growth for the first two years, but afterwards the growth was good. Mr. Frost, like Mr. Reid, had found it good after the first year. Mr. Hodge thought it a poor grower on the quince ; but very fine on the pear stock. Mr. Maxwell of Geneva, found it a very strong grower after the first year — ^none better. The present year it has made as good growth as Easter Beurre. Mr. Eeid thought it an unprofitable tree for nurserymen to raise. Mr. Hooker found it a very difficult tree to raise, and if there should be any demand for it, it could not be supplied, as it was very difficult to make it grow. 158 Mr. Saul said not one-third of the trees started will ever be fit for sale. Beurre Gris d' Hivee Nouveau. Mr. Frost proposed this variety, as one that would grow finely on the quince after the first year — ^the fruit being excellent. Doyenne d'Alencon. Messrs. Barry, Reid, and the President, recommended this variety as doing well on the quince. . Belle Epine Dumas. Messrs. Hovey, Saul, Reid, Berckmans, and Prince, recom- mended this variety as succeeding well. Passe Colmar. Messrs. Beid and Saul found this a moderate grower. Mr. Hooker considered it one of the best growers he culti- vated. Mr. Frost found it to grow well after the second year. BUFFAM. Messrs. Barry, Berckmans, Saul, Dr. Grant of Newburgh, and several others, spoke in the highest terms of this pear, and its fine growth on the quince. Seckel. Mr. Smith of Syracuse, recommended the Seckel. Mr. Prince objected, as it grew so slowly, and comes so early into bearing on the pear stock ; there was very little necessity of growing it on the quince. Mr. Buist did not think it durable on quince. Mr. Ernst found it to do well on quince, the fruit being much increased in size. Mr. Hooker thought well of it on quince. Mr. Townsend said it grew on quince as well as "White Doyenne. Mr. Hovey and Mr. Waring could not make it grow on quince. 159 Mr. Pierce, Washington, D. C, found it to do well for a year or two only. Mr. Field thought it very variable on quince. Mr. Hodge could see no necessity of growing it on quince, as the tree is naturally dwarfish, and conies early into bearing. Tyson. Eecommended by Messrs. Barry, Townsend, Reid, and Hoag, as making a good tree on the quince. Beurre Sterckman. Recommended by Messrs. Hovey and Buist. Mr. Barry had trees five or six years old ; they showed signs of decline. Theodore Van Mon's. Mr. Berckmans thought when this variety became better known, it would be added to the list of pears that do well on the quince. KiRTLAND. Messrs. Reid, Berckmans, Waring, Ernst, and Hooker, recommended the Kirtland as a good variety for cultivation on quince. The discussion of varieties being closed, Mr. Field called attention to a series of articles published lately in the Hor- ticulturist, condemning the culture of pears on the quince stock. He thought people were likely to be misled by them, and wished the facts to be known. Had examined the pear trees in the grounds of the author of those articles, and found that he knew little about their cultivation. The point of union between the quince and pear was three inches above ground, and, although they were receiving care now, it was evident that, until lately, they had not been pruned or cared for in any way. Mr. Hovey thought we were giving too much importance to this matter. It would not influence the action of a dozen sensible men. Mr. Hodge said it was quite useless to disguise the fact. 160 that there is a strong and growing prejudice in the minds of many, against the cultivation of the pear on the quince. Very much of this predjudice, in his opinion, had arisen in consequence of nurserymen sending out many varieties that do not succeed well on the quince. He said there are some sorts, like the Bartlett, which grow very well for two or three years, and then dwindle and die. He thought nurserymen were doing themselves an injury, in sending out so many sorts so illy adapted. Nurserymen should confine themselves, for the present, to twelve or fifteen varieties, like the Glout Mor- ceau, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Vicar of Winkfield, etc., and which are always fine, when grown on the quince. Mr. Phoenix thought too little attention had been paid to pruning, and this was the great cause of the difficulty. Mr. Barry wished the fact to be generally known, that a regular annual pruning is necessary to the success of the pear on the quince. The President said, twenty years' experience and observa- tion had convinced him that many varieties succeeded well, and were as durable on the quince root as on the pear. Have seen* trees from twenty to twenty-five years old, healthy and fine, and Mr. Berckmans, now present, has seen them in Europe over threescore years of age in health and vigor. It is probable, however, that in these cases roots were thrown out above the graft. Mr. Prince said, in the London Horticultural Society's Garden, at Chiswick, are dwarf trees thirty-five years of age. Mr. Peid said the quince was a long-lived tree, and he could not understand how grafting the pear on it could shorten its life, when grafted with suitable varieties which unite well with the stock. The Society then took up the discussion of NATIVE GRAPES. Delaware. Mr. Prince was of opinion that this would prove to be the 161 most delicious native grape, except, perhaps, the Scuppernong, of the South. Dr. Grant had grown it for three years, and found it per- fectly hardy. Mr. Downing considered it one of the finest native grapes, and said that it was very hardy with him. Dr. Brinckle saw it first in 1850, and thought it finer than any native grape that he knew, but had doubts of its being a native. Mr. Longworth said it was not. Mr. Ernst stated that Mr. Longworth had been mistaken in regard to this grape, supposing it identical with the Tramener, but was now satisfied of its American origin. Mr. Hovey esteemed it as an excellent fi-uit, and wished it placed upon the list of varieties that 'promise well. Dr. Grant remarked that it was first discovered in New Jersey, and was introduced into Ohio twenty-five or thirty years since. It was recommended as 'promising well. LETTER FROM ME. THOMSON. Delaware, Ohio, Sept. 20, 1856. Pres. Amer. Pom. Society. Dear Sir : Herewith please find specimens of the Dela- ware Grape — a fruit that has attracted considerable attention the last three or four years. The specimens sent were picked some three weeks ago, and are, consequently, much shrivelled, and some of the berries have fallen from the bunches. By the time they reach youy- they will probably be in a still worse condition. They ripened here this season, which has been quite dry, though not very hot, about the 15th of August. The vine from which they were taken stands against an eastern wall of brick and stone, to which the vine was nailed, and remained up, without any injury, all last winter, while Isabella and Catawba vines, with like exposure, were killed to the ground ; and in the 11 162 same garden and yard, peach, plum, cherry, quince, and apri- cot trees, were all killed ; more than half of the pear, and a few of the apple trees. The history of this vine, as far as known, has heretofore been given in several of our horticultural publications. When first brought to notice, it was supposed to be a foreign variety — was by some pronounced the Red Eesling, by others the Traminer — and having originally come from a garden in which a large number of foreign vines were growing, the conclusion was thought to be correct, and generally acquiesced in. But subsequent investigations have clearly shown that it is not either of those varieties ; and, if a foreign variety at all, its perfect hardiness and entire freedom from mildew, render it an exception to any known European variety. It has been examined by many of the. most competent judges in the coun- try, (including J. Fisk Allen, Thesus Hovey, Wm. R. Prince, Barry, etc.,) and none of them have been able to fix its identity with any variety, either native or imported, that has come under their observation. I believe it to be an acci- dental seedling from some foreign variety, and in this opinion many intelligent horticulturists concur with me. If any member of your Association can enlighten us as to its origin or fix its identity, he will confer an especial favor. Yours truly, A. THOMSON. Rebecca. [See Report of Committee on ISTative Fruits.] Mr. Prince had no doubt that this was a variety of the Chasselas family, and thought that no such grape could be perfectly hardy. Mr. Reid said that it showed no indication of an origin from the Chasselas, except some resemblance in the foliage. Dr. Grant stated that it had been exposed at Hudson for the past three years, remaining on an open trellis during the winter, and had not suffered in the least, while many other things, which were usually hardy, had been destroyed. 163 Mr. Downing had seen it for three years past, and consid- ered it perfectly hardy, though not a very strong grower. ' Mr. Reid said that it was the only good white native variety within his knowledge, and thought it desirable, if only for that reason. Mr. Prince knew of another white variety in Pennsyl- vania. Recommended as promising well. To Kalon. Dr. Grant had known this grape for some years, and esteemed it highly. Mr. Prince had found it as hardy as the Catawba, and very similar to it. He considered it very good. Dr. Grant could see no resemblance between it and the Catawba. The To Kalon was black, and quite distinct in wood and foliage. Mr. Hovey agreed with Mr. Prince. He could not easily distinguish it firom the Catawba, and there was so little differ- ence between them, that he had sometimes thought them identical. Mr. Prince said that Mr. Hovey was quite correct, and that it was not a black grape. Mr. Downing observed that it was distinct from the Catawba, and darker, but not black. It was ripe with the Isabella, but not quite so dark, and with less bloom — better than either. Mr. Grant said that his fruit was quite as black as the Isabella. ^ Mr. Saul had cultivated it for seventeen or eighteen years, and had always found it black. His vines were from the same stock as Messrs. Grant and Downing's. He esteemed it as better than either the Catawba or Isabella, and it was a week earlier than the former. Mr. Grant also said it ripened a week before the Isabella. The President wished to direct attention to the several seedlings lately originated at Philadelphia, and called upon 164 Dr. Brinckle for information in regard to them, who made some remarks upon five sorts, viz : Emily, Clara, Beinckle, Graham, and Raabe. Dr. Brinckle stated that these were all Philadelphia seed- lings, and superior to the Catawba in quality. The three first and last were raised by Mr. Raabe, in a bed where seeds pro- cured from Germany were planted. The Baabe, however, presents strong indications of being an accidental Catawba seedling, that sprung up in the same bed. The Clara is a white grape. Mr. Buist observed that the Graham and Baabe were evi- dently natives, but that the others were purely foreign in their characteristics. Dr. Brinckle was of opinion that all grapes originating in this country should be considered natives, whether raised from native or foreign seed. This rule governed us in pears, and why should it not in grapes ? Mr. Beid considered grapes, from foreign seed, more liable to the attacks of mildew than those of native origin. Mr. Hovey thought that seedlings, from foreign grapes, would not prove hardy without some " native blood." Dr. Brinckle stated that neither of these varieties had ever been protected — ^had not suffered in the least from the effects of winter, but that of many other seedlings, originated at the same time, the remainder had all been destroyed. The President thought that the Emily must have some infusion of " native blood," as he had found it perfectly hardy. Mr. Prince remarked at some length, upon the natural adaptability of this country to the culture of the grape — that it was exemplified by the fact, that there were seven or eight indigenous species, and one only in the whole of Europe, and that he had been at a large expenditure of time and money in order to acclimate the foreign grape, but that he had never succeeded in a single instance. He concluded by expressing his opinion that we must rely chiefly upon our native sorts, and that America was, by nature, destined to 166 become more renowned for grapes and wine culture than any other country in the world — that it was the '' natural home of the grape, and the land of the vine." Union Village. Dr. Brinckle had heard from Mr. Longworth, that this variety was as large as the Black Hamburgh, and quite hardy, but that there had been a mistake made in the cuttings which had been sent him, and he had had no fi'uit. Mr. Grant observed that it was a monstrous grower, the bunches quite large, the flavor sweet, and as good as the Isabella. Mr. Ernst remarked that it was probably an accidental seedling, and he had seen it exhibited before the Cincinnati Horticultural Society, when it was so fine as to be by many persons mistaken for the Black Hamburgh. He had not had much experience with it, but considered it a fine table grape. It was vigorous, and a little earlier than the Catawba, but he thought probably not well adapted for making wine. Mr. Grant said it was a little earlier than the Isabella. The President had seen specimens which were exhibited at Boston, and considered it very promising. Mr. Cabot thought it earlier than Isabella, but not so early as the Delaware. He had eaten it from a vine under glass, and considered the flavor very fine. The cane was very stout. Mr. Ernst made some remarks upon the injury which grapes had received from the extreme cold of the past winter. Mr. Hanford of Indiana, observed that in his vicinity grapes had sustained a temperature of thirty-one degrees below zero without injury. Hab-tford Pkolific, Mr. Hovey entertained a favorable opinion. Mr. Downing was much pleased with it the first year, but he had since come to the conclusion that it was not so good as the Isabella. It was, however, ten days earher than that sort, and not much diflerent in quality from the Concord. 166 Mr. Prince condemned it in strong terms, as being misera- bly foxy, and considered tbe Concord infinitely superior to it. Mr. Reid considered it utterly unworthy of cultivation, except in a cold climate, where the Isabella and others could not be ripened. Mr. Barry concurred. He thought it entirely unfit for the table, except in cases of absolute necessity. Mr. Horey had never esteemed it as any thing remarkable, but was disposed to think it valuable for cold localities, where better sorts could not be grown. Mr. Grant thought its earliness its chief merit ; he had found it to ripen a week before the Concord. Mr. H. E. Hooker considered it more foxy than the Con- cord, but quite as good. Mr. Eeid thought the Concord much superior to it. Northern Muscadine. Mr. Prince considered it as belonging to the same class as the variety last discussed. Mr. Buist observed that it had been brought before a com- mittee, of which he was a member, and that it was greatly against his will that he remained in the room with it. The President made some humorous remarks, on the dispo- sition shown by some persons to esteem their own produc- tions too highly, and to recommend them so frequently to others as to become at length themselves convinced that they really were what they had represented them. Mr. Thomas had been much surprised at the pertinacity of the Shakers in recommending this grape so highly. It was, as he had frequently told them, no other than the common Brown Fox. Concord. Mr. Downing had found it a little larger, and ten days earlier than the Isabella, but of not so good quality. Mr. E. C. Frost had firuited it for the first time this year, and it had ripened six days before the Isabella. Mr. Reid had also fruited it but once. He considered it 167 very hardy, a free grower, nearly as good as tiie Isabella, and a week earlier. Mr. H. E. Hooker said that it had ripened with him at the same time as the Isabella, and was nearly as good. The Society then adjourned to three o'clock, P. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. Met at three o'clock, P. M. — the President in the chair. APPLES FOE, GENERAL CULTIVATION. Baldwin. Mr. Ernst stated that it ripened in the fall at Cincinnati, and was not of the first quality. Mr. Comstock of Iowa, considered it worthless for that locality, as the tree was quite tender, and the fruit very liable to spot, which might be owing to soil. Messrs. Dwire of Iowa, and Kinney of Illinois, stated that, so far as their observation extended, the Baldwin trees at the "West were nearly all dead. Mr. Hanford remarked that the fruit spotted badly on various soils, and that the trees were nearly all destroyed, the bark being killed at the forks of the branches. Mr. Peid, of New Jersey, considered it remarkably hardy. It succeeded very well with him, and fruited abundantly. Mr. Paul testified to its being a fine apple in Massachu- setts, and one of the most profitable in cultivation. Mr. Stone of New York, observed that there was no variety to compare with it in Oswego County, for productiveness and value, arid he considered it one of the best varieties. He had seen some trees killed by extreme cold. Mr. Prince stated that it succeeded admirably on Long Island. Mr. Hodge was planting it extensively, and had found none to succeed better. His soil was a rich, sandy loam, on a clay subsoil, and his fruit was almost universally fair and fine. 168 Early Harvest. Mr. Ernst remarked that this was one of tlie few apples that he had received from the East which retained their character with him. He considered it a fine fruit. Fall Pippin. Mr. Stone said that his trees were badly injured two years since by cold, and that this season he had no crop. Mr. Comstock found the tree quite tender, and a very shy bearer. Thought the blossoms were generally injured by the late spring frosts in Iowa. Gravenstein. Mr. Comstock thought that there was not a liviilg tree of this variety in Iowa ; and, being asked what degree of cold they had experienced, stated that the mercury had fallen to 34'^ below zero. Mr. Kinney of Eock Island, Illinois, observed that his trees had not been injured, and that small trees in nursery rows had wholly escaped, although there was but little snow to protect them. HUBBARDSTON NoNESUCH. Mr. Dwire of Iowa, and Mr. Comstock had not found it to succeed. Trees all winter-killed. Mr. Hodge observed that all the foregoing sorts were perfectly hardy with him. Mr. Field inquired of Western members whether all their trees were not destroyed ? Mr. Dwire stated that the Fameuse did well. Mr. Comstock named the Yellow Bellflower and some others as being hardy. If desired, they could prepare a list of varieties that had proved hardy the past winter. , Ladies' Sweet. Mr. Dwire considered it quite a tender tree, Mr. Hovey remarked that the past two winters were not ordinary ones, and should not be considered fair tests of the hardiness of trees ; and said that in parts of New England the hardy grapes had been completely destroyed. 169 Porter and Eed Astrachan, "Were stated by Mr. Dwire to have proved quite hardy in Illinois. Ehode Island Greening. Mr. Dwyre said it succeeded no better with him than the Baldwin. Mr. Carlow of New York, had observed that in Michigan almost all the trees were killed last winter. Mr. Bateham of Ohio, had found it of no use to cultivate it in Southern and Central Ohio. The tree was not too tender, and succeeded best on sandy, elevated land, but the fruit fell off before attaining maturity. Mr. Westbrook of North Carolina, remarked that it was the same in North and South Carolina — ^the fruit all fell from the tree. Mr. Hodge considered it one of the very best sorts, and ranked it with the Baldwin for productiveness and hardiness. Mr. "Waring stated that it was a great favorite in Penn- sylvania. Mr. Hooker thought that there should be a subdivision in the list for general cultivation. The country was so extensive, and climate so various, and the North, South, East, and West, required different fruits. Mr. Paul had heard less complaint of it in Massachusetts than of any other variety. Mr. Waring remarked, that many winter apples ripened earlier now than formerly ; that there was a difference in this respect between individual trees ; some trees of Pallawater, Bellflower, etc., ripening in Pennsylvania in autumn, while others retained their character as winter sorts. That all our longest keepers are of Southern origin, but the best sorts are too fev/ in number, and as we must look southward for an increase of the list, the collections of native Southern vari- eties now exhibited here,^have special interest to Northern fruit-growers. 170 EoxBURY Russet. Mr. Hodge liad seen it very fine in Ohio, under the name of Putnam Russet. He considered it as more emphatically a national apple than any other. It always succeeded well with him, and bore large and fine fruit. Mr. Comstock observed, that this tree had been somewhat injured last winter, but that the fruit was generally good. Mr. Ernst had found it to vary much in (quality on different soils. On clay soil it rarely succeeded, but on alluvial it was very fine. Mr. Kinney ranked it far before the Rhode Island Green- ing. He considered it a rather shy bearer, but his trees had been but little injured by cold. Have not quite as good as in "Western New York. . Mr. Bateham stated that it was formerly very fine in parts of Ohio, where it is now becoming worthless. It had usually succeeded better than most other varieties, but of late years it is generally failing, except on high, sandy land. Vandervere. Mr. Downing desired to know what variety was meant, as there were several varieties cultivated under that name. Mr. Barry remarked that the subject had been discussed before, and that the fruit in question was a red apple, which had been cultivated in Ohio under the name of Ox Eye and Newtown Spitzenberg. White Seek-No-Further. Mr. Bateham wished information in regard to this variety, as he was not acquainted with it. Mr. Prince remarked that it was the same as the Green Seek-No-Purther. Mr. Cabot said that the White Seek-No-Further was synonymous with the Ortley Pippin. Messrs. Bateham, Ernst, and Hovey, discussed the propriety of adjourning to the Exhibition Hall, in order to discuss apples more intelligently with the specimens before them, and 171 it was finally determined that specimens should be brought from the exhibition and placed upon the table before the Society. The President appointed Messrs. Bateham, Hovey, Hooker, and Barry, a committee to procure such specimens, and have them in readiness for discussion at the evening session. The President appointed Messrs. Comstock of Iowa, Kin- ney of Illinois, and Hanford of Indiana, a Committee on Western Apples. Benoni. Mr. Ernst thought it should be recommended for general cultivation. Mr. Prince considered it one of the best early sorts. Mr. Barry also entertained a good opinion of it. Mr. Comstock and Mr. Negus spoke of it as being hardy and a good bearer. Recommended for general cultivation. Hawley. Mr. Hovey wished to have this variety recommended for general cultivation. The President had heard that it was apt to spot and rot. Mr. E. C. Frost said that E. R. Elliott had said so, and thought that his specimens had been obtained fi:om exhibi- tions where they had sustained unfair usage. Mr. Townsend inquired if it was not known at the east- ward under the name of Bearburden. Mr. Downing stated that to be a synonym of the Pomme Royale. Messrs. Hovey and Hooker spoke higher of the Hawley, and the latter remarked that it was sometimes a little watery. Recommended for general cultivation. Ladies' Winter Sweet, Was decided to be a misnomer for Ladies' Sweet, by an error on the part of the reporter, and ordered to be corrected. Primate. Mr. Hooker thought it would be safe to recommend this variety for general cultivation. 172 The President expressed a favorable opinion of it. Mr. Ernst would not yet recommend it, as it was not sufficiently known. Messrs. Barry, Saul, Frost, and Reid, were in favor of placing it upon the list. Recommended for general cultivation. Smokehouse. Mr, Ernst wished for information in regard to this variety, as that he had received from Dr. Brinckle seemed identical with the Vandevere. Dr. Brinckle stated that it was probably a seedling from the Vandevere, and much superior to it. Mr. Pierce said that it was well known in Pennsylvania, but it was such a crooked grower that he doubted whether there had ever been a straight tree of it grown. Mr. Hoopes considered it the best apple in Pennsylvania. Rambo, Introduced by Mr. "Waring, who said that the Smokehouse rivalled it only on soils not calcareous. Mr. Bateham remarked that it was a fine apple in Ohio, and more sought for than most others. Mr. Ernst said it was a very superior fruit, and extremely popular ; but that, on clay soil, it was apt to di'op its fruit. Mr. Teas of Indiana, thought there was no better apple in that State. Mr. Phoenix observed that it was a very valuable fruit at the "West, but that he had found it somewhat tender last winter. Mr. Barry thought that it was justly entitled to a place in the list for general cultivation, and knew no sort which was more so. He had seen it bearing large, fine crops, where other sorts were totally killed. Mr. Thompson of California, had similar experience. Mr. Stone considered it one of the most tender varieties. Dr. Brinckle remarked that it was undoubtedly originated near the Atlantic coast, probably in New Jersey. It was 173 formerly a common fruit in the Philadelphia markets, but of late years it had almost entirely disappeared, and the fruit had much deteriorated in quality. Mr. Pierce considered it a fine fruit. The Washington Market is well supplied. Mr. Hobbs said it was a universal favorite in Kentucky, and he had known it to sustain a temperature of twenty-six degrees below zero without injury. Mr. Negus of Iowa, had found it apt to overbear, but con- sidered it one of the best sorts, although it had been destroyed by the cold on the prairies. Mr. Hanford observed that it was more sought for in his vicinity than any other variety. He had found it liable to be watery at the core on small trees, and had noticed that large trees were apt to overbear. The fruit was more frequently wormy than some other sorts, which he attributed to its hav- ing a large, open calyx, which afforded a convenient place for the insect to deposit eggs. Mr. Hodge had found it a great bearer, but it did not succeed so well with him as at the West, and was not a particular favorite of his. Recommended for general cultivation. Tompkins' County King. Mr. E. C. Frost considered this the most valuable winter sort that he cultivated. It kept till April, and he would be glad to see it placed upon the list for general cultivation. Mr. Ernst wished to have it recommended as promising well. Mr. Hovey thought that it was not much known out of its locality, and that it was too soon to recommend it. Mr. Mattison of New York, stated that it had been in cul- tivation for fifty years, and was a general favorite wherever known. It usually sold at double the price that could be obtained for any other sort, and had been sold in New York for $5.00 per barrel. It usually bore every year. There was, this season, a half crop, and of other varieties scarcely any. 174 It had the peculiarity of making a fine growth while bearing a heavy crop, and should be gathered early, when it would sometimes keep till July. Mr. Sylvester of New York, had found it a good grower, a large, fair fruit, and well adapted to market. It kept well, but was not so fine-grained as some varieties. He ranked it one of the best, but remarked that it was quite a rare fruit, and that there were several spurious sorts, known as the E-ibstone Pippin, sold for it. Mr. E. C. Frost observed, that it took a prize as the best winter apple at the New York State Agricultural Society's winter meeting this year, when the Northern Spy and other fine sorts were on exhibition. Mr. Hooker considered it first-rate, but not best, and would like to see it tested. Mr. Thomas remarked that his father had told him that after removing the skin from this apple, he could scarcely distinguish it from the Swaar. Mr. Saul had heard the same remark made. Mr. Reid expressed a good opinion of the fruit. Mr. E. C. Frost remarked that the Newark King was a distinct variety, ripening in the fall. Kecommended as promising well, under the name of King (of Tompkins County.) "Wagener, Mr. E. C. Frost moved that this variety be added to the list that promise well. Adopted. June Sweeting. Mr. Phoenix, of Illinois, proposed the June Sweeting as worthy of being placed on the list that promise well, it being highly esteemed at the West. Mr. Teas did not think very highly of it. Mr. Comstock said it was a fine apple with him. Ripens about the middle of July ; farther South it ripens in June. Mr. Negus, " Best sweet apple we have." 175 Mr. Hanford said it was the very best. Mr. Bateham hoped it would not be adopted under the name of June Sweeting, as it does not ripen in June. Mr. Summer said it ripened in South Carolina in June, and had been known under the name for fifty years. Adjourned. EVENING SESSION. The Society met at seven and a half P. M., the President in the chair. Mr. Prince made some remarks upon the Child's Superb Grape mentioned in the report. He had not seen it, but sup- posed it, from the description which had been given him, to be the Chasselas de Bar Sur Aube, which had been sent to that vicinity by his father some years since. Mr. Hovey said that the variety in question was twice the size of the Bar Sur Aube, and quite distinct. The discussion of apples was then resumed. Yellow Sweet June, or High Top Sweeting. Mr. Hovey remarked that High Top Sweeting was the correct name. He had seen trees one hundred and fifty years old, and considered it one of the best sweet apples. It took its name from the extreme height at which the branches spring from the stem, and which was peculiar to this variety. Recommended for general cultivation as High Top Sweeting. Carolina June. Mr. Phoenix, of Illinois, observed that it was widely known at the West and South, and was a fine fruit. Mr. Ernst considered it worthy of trial. Mr. Hodge had found it to succeed very well. It was fair, of good quality, and a little later than the Early Harvest. Dr. Brinckle had seen it the past season, and considered it very fine, and worthy of cultivation. Mr. Downing did not think it nearly so fine as the Early Harvest, and it was, with him, ttwo weeks later in ripening. 176 Mr. Negus of Iowa, observed that it kept through the months of August and September, and was more handsome and salable than any other variety in his vicinity. Recommended as promising well. Jonathan. Mr. Ernst had seen, last winter, at the Ohio Pomological Society's meeting, specimens of this variety from many local- ities, all of which were fine, but that those from farthest West were the best. He considered it worthy of general cultiva- tion. Mr. Thomas had seen specimens from Iowa as large as the Esopus Spitzenberg, and the handsomest apples that he ever saw. Mr. Prince had found it very productive and reliable. Mr. Eeid thought it too small. The Esopus Spitzenberg was considerably larger. Mr. Ernst remarked that the Esopus Spitzenberg was good for nothing at Cincinnati. Mr. Comstock had found it tender, while the Jonathan was perfectly hardy. Mr. Hodge did not consider it as fine or large as the Spitzenberg, but it was fair, and a good grower. Mr. Kinney had found it quite tender. Mr. Phoenix stated that it was esteemed at the West as better on the whole than the Esopus Spitzenberg, although not among the most hardy. Mr. E. C. Frost thought that it should be recommended " for cultivation at the West." Mr. Hovey thought that there were no apples on the list which had more good qualities. It was esteemed one of the best of all apples in Massachusetts, and succeeded well throughout New England, in some localities where the Spit- zenberg did not generally prove good. He would recom- mend it '' for cultivation at the East." Mr. Thomas had known a tree five years old to bear a bushel of fruit. 177 Mr. "Whitney of Rocliester^ had two trees which produced more fruit than any other ten trees in his orchard. Mr. Waring esteemed it one of the best and handsomest varieties. Recommended for general cultivation. Mr. Bateham, Chairman of the Committee on Specimens of Fruits, brought forward specimens of the following apples for discussion : White Seek-No-Further, and Ortley, which were by some considered identical. Mr. Barry remarked that the trees were quite distinct. The Ortley was an erect, but not strong grower, while the White Seek-No-Further was stouter and more spreading. Mr. Hovey said that the White Seek-No-Further, cultivated by Mr. B. V. French, was the Ortley without doubt. Mr. Barry did not consider the Ortley adapted to general, cultivation. It was fine at the West, but not in this locality,. Mr. Ernst said that it was a great favorite at the West, where it is cultivated mostly under the name of White Bellefleur. He had detected it under various names, viz. : Detroit, White Detroit, Detroit of the West, Ohio Favorite, Hollow Core Pippin, Golden Pippin, Yellow Pippin, Marrow Pippin, White Pippin, Melting Pippin, Inman, Cran's Pippin, Ortley Apple, Greasy Pippin, Woolman's Long, Welton Leaf Pip- pin, Tom Woodward Pippin, Cumberland Spice, Monstrous Bellflower, Jersey Greening, Green Bellflower, Van Dyne, etc. The most of which I furnished to the late A. J. Downing. Mr. C. Downing remarked that the apple which he had. received from Mr. French was the White Seek -No-Further. Mr. Prince considered the varieties distinct. He thought the Ortley the more oval of the two. Mr. Downing considered it the genuine Green or White Seek-No-Further. Mr. Saul wished it expunged from the list. He did not think it good enough for general cultivation. It was a miser^ ably mean tree and a poor bearer. Struck from the list for general cultivation. 12 178 "Wells and Dominie. Supposed to be identical. Decided so. (Dominie being tbe correct name.) Mr. Phoenix said it was highly esteemed at the "West, but he had found it tender last winter. Mr. Dwire said that it was hardy with him last winter. Mr. Kinney had found it hardy, productive, and fair. Mr. Barry had seen very fine specimens at the "West, nearly double the usual size. "Willow Twig and Limber Twig Mr. Kinney observed that there were two distinct varieties at the "West, and both fine fruits. Mr. Bateham said that they were considered identical in Ohio, and not of high quality, although profitable. Mr. Comstock remarked that they were quite different, as exhibited before the North-Western Fruit Growers' Asso- ciation. Mr. Phoenix considered them as distinct as any that could be found. The Limber Twig was the smaller fruitf by half, and a more hardy tree and larger bearer. Neither of them were of fine fiavor. There were several sorts cultivated at the West under the name of Limber Twig. Eawle's Janet. Mr. Westbrook had known it under the names of Never- ifail and Rockrimmon. Mr. Ernst stated that it was known in Ohio as Janet, Gennetting, Eawle's Janette, Neverfail, Indian's Junetting, Rock Remman, Rock Remain, Yellow Janet ; but that Rawle's Janet is the correct name. Mr. Hobbs remarked that it was a favorite apple in Ken- tucky. It was more extensively planted and Esteemed than almost any other variety. Mr. Bateham thought it not adapted to the North. It was too small, and not profitable. Mr. Comstock said that it was largely planted in his State, and bore abundantly. 179 Mr. Pierce remai'ked tliat it had a peculiar habit of bloom- ing quite late in the season, after most other sorts were out of flower, and it was, therefore, not liable to sustain injury from spring ixosts, to which he attributed its uniformly abundant crops. Pryor's Red. Mr. Bateham considered this a good apple, but a shy bearer. Mr. Hobbs had found the color of this sort to vary much, and the leaves to be subject to a peculiar sort of bhght which he had not observed on any other variety. He thought that the variety was running out, but it was still a fair bearer. The specimens exhibited were smaller than usually seen in Kentucky. Mr. Hodge had cultivated it for ten years, but had not yet fruited it. Rome Beauty. Mr. Bateham stated this to be in great demand in Ohio. It was a fine bearer ; bore carriage well. Mr. Phoenix of Illinois, had found it to bear profusely at six or seven years old, but not one of the most hardy while young. Mr. Comstock had found large trees tender. Mr. Ernst observed that it was fine in Ohio. Mr. Bateham did not consider it of first quality. Mr. Hodge made some remarks relative to very fine speci- mens which he had seen in Cincinnati, in 1850. Liberty. Mr. Bateham stated this to be a valuable new seedling apple, keeping without difficulty to June, and named from Liberty Township, Delaware County, where it originated. Winter Sweet Paradise. Mr. Bateham considered this the best winter sweet apple for the table, and much better than the Ladies' Sweet. It was much sought for in market. Mr. Negus remarked that it resembled, in its growth, the Northern Spy, and he considered it as promising well. Mr. Ernst said that it was excellent in Ohio. Recommended as promising well. 180 White Pippin. Mr. Bateham stated that this sort was known by some as the Yellow Newtown Pippin, although inferior to it, and also as the Canada Reinette. Mr. Phoenix observed that it was quite distinct from the Newto'wn Pippin, and although not perfectly hardy, a fine bearer, and a valuable sort. Mr. Ernst stated that the growth was upright and pecu- liar, and the leaves very dark. Mr. Prince inquired if it was identical with the "White French E-einette, which he had received from Ohio ten years since ? Mr. Bateham said that it was so considered by Mr. F. E.. Elliott, but was not so established. Cooper. Mr. Bateham remarked that this variety was much esteemed at the West, and largely grown. Mr. Comstock spoke of its being a good fruit, and possess- ing a peculiar flavor. Mr. Phoenix had found the wood to canker in Wisconsin, and heard the same complaint of it elsewhere. Mr. Bateham observed that the wood was rough and knotty on young trees, and that it had been brought from New Jersey. Mr. Ernst thought that the fruit was so fine it should be tried at the East. Smith's Cider. Mr. Bateham considered this a good apple, and one of the most profitable in Ohio. He was in favor of dropping Cider from its name, as tending to give a false impression in regard to the fruit. It was not exclusively a cider fruit, but fine for the table. Mr. Pierce had found it an uncommonly abundant bearer. Mr. Thompson stated that it originated in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, in the orchard adjacent to his father's residence, and was much grown in that vicinity. He had seen it in 181 California, ■where it was brought from Oregon, under the name of the Oregon Spitzenberg. Mr. Ernst remarked that it was very popular about Cin- cinnati, and commanded a ready sale. Recommended as promising well. Newtown Pippin. Mr. Bateham said that there was much confusion between the green and yellow varieties of this apple. Mr. Westbrook of North Carolina, explained that some of the specimens were higher colored, in consequence of having been packed in a trunk for some time. Mr. Prince said that the two were considered by some as synonymous, but that they were quite distinct, particularly in the tree, and that the green had a very peculiar roughness of the bark, by which it was easily distinguished. Mr. Ernst remarked upon the points of difference. He said the yellow is a hardier and firmer fruit, a longer keeper, and differing in shape. The green comes into use earlier, is more juicy, crisp, not so elongated, but flatter, and never attains the same amount of yellow on the surface that the other does ; is rather superior as an eating fruit, though inferior in its external appearance. Mr. Reid could never distinguish any difference between them. Mr. Phoenix stated that Peck's Pleasant was, in some parts of the West, known as Yellow Newtown Pippin. Rhode Island Greening, "Was exhibited by Mr. Bateham, to show the peculiar spot which attacks this sort in the West. Fallaw^ater. Mr. Waring named this apple as a most generally popular and reliable sort in Pennsylvania ; a remarkably strong grower, early and constant bearer ; fruit very large and always fair, juicy, not coarse, very agreeable to all palates. It originated near Tulpehocken Creek, and is often called Tulpehocken. He said that it was the Tulpehocken of the West. 182 Dr. Brinckle stated that it was much, cultivated in Pennsyl- vania. It "was known under several names, but Fornwalder was the correct one. He considered it a fine apple. Mr. Ernst wished to know why it was called Faldwalder. Dr. Brinckle explained that it took the name j&rom Mr. Fornwald, the reputed originator. Mr. Hovey was opposed to changing the name unless Dr. Brinckle was sure of his authority. Recommended as 'promising well, by the name of Forn- walder. Blink Bonny Seedling Was spoken of by Mr. Prince as a being a fine fruit bearer. Eev. J. Knox of Pittsburg, Penn., made some remarks upon a Sweet Eusset which he had intended for exhibition, but had not yet arrived. The Society then adjourned to 10 A. M., on the 26th. MORNING SESSION. Sept. 26th. The Society was called to order by the Presi- dent at 10 A. M. PEACHES. Bergen's Yellow. Mr. Hooker of New York had found it unproductive and unprofitable, and not very hardy. Mr. Westbrook of North Carolina, said it was not pro- ductive with him. Mr. Hanford of Indiana, stated that it was very productive in Indiana. Early York. Mr. Westbrook remarked that it was apt to bhght at the South. George the Fourth. Mr. Hodge of New York, had found this a very shy bearer. 183 Mr. Berckmans said that, in some places in New Jersey, the Early York was synonymous with this variety. Several gen- tlemen stated it to be distinct. Mr. Sylvester remarked that there was a Yellow Honest John in Western New York. Mr. Saul did not wish this fruit removed from the list. Geosse Mignonne. Mr. Hodge considered this a poor bearer. Mr. Prince said that this was the most scarce sort in the country. Most of the trees in cultivation were spurious. The true sort had large flowers and was the most excellent of peaches. Morris White^ Mr. Hanford had found this tender, but, being interrogated as to the temperature it had been subjected to, named 31* below zero. Mr. Pinney considered it a poor bearer. Mr. Hodge said that with him it was a very fair bearer, and would always command the highest price for preserving. Mr. Sylvester considered it as hardy as most sorts, and spoke of the great demand for it that existed. Old Mixon Freestone. Mr. Pinney recommended it as one of the best sorts in cultivation. Agreed to. Crawford's Early. Mr. Hodge thought that this sort should be recommended for general cultivation. He considered it one of the most valuable varieties in Western New York, and one of the most productive. It was also of very good quality, and if restricted to one sort, he would at once niake choice of this. Mr. Prince thought it inferior to the Bergen's Yellow, which was larger and less acid. Mr. Pinney esteemed it the largest and most productive of all the varieties in his collection. Recommended for general cultivation. 184 SUSQUEHANJSTAH. Mr Waring pronounced this to be one of the best peaches in Pennsylvania. Dr. Brinckle ageed with him, and remarked that it was one of the largest. He had seen specimens measuring nearly twelves inches in circumference. Mr. Saul would recommend it as promising well. It being too little known to go upon the list for general cultivation. Recommended as promising well. Hill's Chili. Mr. Sylvester of New York, recommended this as being a good bearer every year, a moderate grower, hardy, and about the same quahty as Crawford's .Early. Ml". Prince remarked that nearly all yellow-fleshed peaches were acid. He only knew of two sweet ones. Mr. Pinney observed that it ripened between the Old Mixon and Crawford's Late. Mr. H. E, Hooker said that it was well known and much esteemed. He would recommend it for trial. Recommended as promising well. Old Mixon Clingstone. Mr. H. E. Hooker expressed a high opinion of this variety, and said that it kept well for a week or two after being gathered. Recommended for general cultivation. Large White Cling. Mr. Prince observed that this variety had been in cultiva- tion forty years, and should be well known. It was very handsome and always excellent. Mr. C. M. Hooker had found it very productive. Mr. Downing considered it one of the best of the cling- stones. Mr. Barry said that it was very fine, and worthy of general cultivation. Mr. Waring remarked that it bore sufficiently, and was of fine quality. 185 GoKGAS. Dr. Brinckle stated this to be a seedling from the Morris White, twice the size of that sort, and very promising. Recommended as •promising well. Madeleine de Courson. Mr. Saul recommended it for trial as one of the very best. Mr. Prince said that it was most delicious, and a celebrated sort in France. Mr. Berckmans had known the crop from one tree sold for eight hundred francs in France, and said that it was a fine variety. Recommended as 'promising well. Teton de Yenus. Mr. Saul considered this as of the very highest character. It was a prodigious bearer. Recommended as promising well. Excelsior. Mr. Prince stated this to be a very large, yellow variety, very sweet and juicy, and one that had no superior. It was well suited to the South, but ripened too late to succeed well at the North. Early Tillotson. Mr. Hanford had found it hardy, and not subject to mildew, and considered it the best early peach. Mr. Westbrook esteemed it as one of the very best, and had known it sold for fifteen dollars per bushel, in New York. Mr. Hodge had found it a bad grower, and an unproduc- tive tree. It mildewed badly with him, and was rarely very good. Mr. Sylvester had had similar experience. It was a poor bearer. He had had but three bushels from one hundred trees ; and although very good, it was, if anything, later than the Early York, and not suited to orchard culture. Mr. Prince considered it " stamped by nature with disease." Its leaves had no glands, and it should be rejected. 186 Mr. Westbrook had never found it to mildew, although the Early York did. He did not consider. the glands a neces- sary appendage at all. Strawberry. Mr. Thompson considered this one of the best. It was of good size, and a good bearer. Mr. Prince said that it was a very fine early sort. CHERRIES. Black Eagle. Mr. Westbrook of North Carolina, had found it unpro- ductive. The fruit blasted with him. Mr. Reid of New Jersey, did not think it quite equal to the Black Tartarian, but a hardier tree. Mr. Miller of New York, said that it was a great favorite in his vicinity, and a most abundant bearer. Mr. Prince observed that it was very productive, and the fruit of honeyed sweetness. It was a substantial grower. The President said that it was considered the very best at the Massachusetts Horticultural Society's Exhibitions, and all through New England. Mr. Miller did not consider it hest. He thought the Black Tartarian, Transparent Guigne, and Yellow Spanish, better. DOWNTON. Mr. H. E. Hooker remarked that this was not a good bearer, nor of very good quality. He thought that it should be removed from the list for general cultivation. Mr. Barry did not think it entitled to remain. Mr. Hodge had not found it as hardy as many others, but a good fruit and a fair bearer. Removed from the list. Early Richmond. Mr. Prince stated this to be a synonym of the Kentish of England. Mr. Phoenix said it was known as Early May at the West. Established as Kentish or Early Richmond. 187 Napoleon Bigareeau. Dr. Brinckle had found this a most abundant bearer. The President had never had a quart of fruit, and there was very rarely any fruit in Massachusetts ; a great bearer, but uniformly cracks and rots on the tree. Messrs. Townsend and Sylvester of Western New York, had no fruit. Mr. Berckmans said that it was very productive and rich at Wilmington, Delaware, and good at the South. Dr. Brinckle considered it one of the best sorts in Pennsyl- vania and Delaware. Mr. Burtis of Rochester, had seen it fine at the West. His trees bore well. Dr. Grant of New York, had tested it for four years. It was most productive, and neither rotted nor cracked. Mr. Barry considered it very fine. It never rotted except in case of rainy weather at the time of ripening. It was the most valuable for market of all that he had cultivated. Mr. Hanford of Indiana, had found it hardy, and a profuse bearer. Mr. Hodge had cultivated it twenty years. The fruit was very large, but liable to crack and sometimes to rot. The tree was tender and not a very good bearer. Mr. Hooker considered the Holland Bigarreau synonymous. Mr. Barry had generally received it for Holland Bigarreau. He did not beheve that the latter was cultivated in this country. Mr. Prince stated the Holland Bigarreau of Prance to be distinct. Mr. Downing considered it doubtful. He had for two years been of opinion that they were synonymous. Mr. Berckmans concurred with Mr. Prince, and said that the Bigarreau d'Esperen was identical. Mr. Barry said that the Bigarreau d'Esperen and Bigarreau Wellington had both proved to be identical with the Napo- leon Bigarreau. Recommended for special cultivation. 188 Mr. Miller remarked upon a fine black cherry in his vicinity, of which he did not know the name. Mr. Barry was of opinion that it was the Tradescant's Black Heart. Mr. Hooker thought it distinct. Mr. Prince said that the Tradescant's Black Heart, Bigar- reau of Savoy, and Black Bigarreau were all distinct sorts. American Amber. Mr. Berckmans and others considered it a poor fruit. Mr. Prince stated it to be one of the best sorts and greatest bearers. Messrs. Barry and EUwanger had both found it one of the most productive. Belle d'Orleans Recommended for general cultivation. Monstreuse de Mezel. The President stated that the Bigarreau Gabaulis and a tree which he received from the late Mr. Downing as "Waterloo had proved synonymous with this variety [Mon- streuse de Bavay was decided to be a misprint for Monstreuse de Mezel.] Coe's Transparent Recommended for general cultivation. Early Purple Guigne. Mr. Teas of Indiana, had found this one of the hardiest sorts. Recommended for general cultivation. Governor Wood Recommended for general cultivation. Great Bigarreau. Mr. Prince considered it synonymous with the large Red Prool or Gros Rouge de Prool of France. Reine Hortense Recommended for general cultivation. 189 Walsh's Seedling Mr. Prince wished to change the name. Tkansparent Guigne. Mr. Miller considered it one of the best sorts. Mr. Townsend agreed with him. Mr. Prince said that it was small, but an abundant bearer. Mr. Hanford had found it hardy and productive. Dr. Sylvester and C. M. Hooker thought it small and not very good. Mr. Hodge had found it very productive, but small, and there were many better sorts. Belle de Choisy. Mr. Reid had a high opinion of this variety. Mr. Hooker had a fine crop this year. Mr. Barry and others said that it was a poor bearer. ROCKPORT BiGAREEAU Recommended as promising well. PLUMS. Frost Gage. Mr. Prince remarked that it was very subject to be afiected by the black knot. Removed from the list. McLaughlin. The President stated this to be as hardy as an oak, and even in Maine, where it had sustained extreme cold, the fruit was nearly, if not quite equal to the Green Gage. Mr. Barry considered it of the highest excellence He had found it to bear fine crops, and was a large, beautiful fruit. Mr? Reid stated it to be a fine grower. Monroe Egg. Mr. Barry thought it should be Monroe Gage. Established as Monroe. Prince's Yellow Gage Recommended for general cultivation. 190 RivERs's Favoeite "Was spoken of by Messrs. Barry, Saul, and Berckmans, as being very good. "White Damson. Mr. Miller considered this an invaluable sort for cooking. It was an immense bearer, and of high flavor. Mr. Prince said it was very late and very good, but small. Mr. Pierce concurred with Mr. Prince. Mr. Grant had never found it troubled by the curculio. Recommended as promising well. Fellemberg. Mr. Barry considered it very large and fine. Mr. Prince said that it was very productive and vigorous in spite of the curculio. Recommended as promising well. General Hand. Dr. Brinckle wished it to be recommended for trial, and expressed a high opinion of it. Mr. Prince stated it to be the largest plum in cultivation — larger and coarser than the Washington, very valuable, but of second quality. Mr. Barry had found the Montgomery to be synonymous. Recommended as promising well. Lombard. Mr. Stone remarked that it was not of first quality, but was rarely attacked by the curculio. Mr. Phoenix said that there was a great demand for it at the West, where it was much esteemed. Mr. Barry considered it very good. Mr. Hanford had found it to be hardy, and to withst«id the curcuHo. Recommended for general cultivation. Bradshavst. Mr. Barry remarked that it was of fine size and much beauty. He wished it to be tried. 191 Mr. Prince had found it very fine and vigorous. The Large Black Imperial was synonymous. Recommended as promising well. Duane's Pueple. Mr. Prince considered this a "great plum." It was a great bearer, and commanded a high price in market. Messrs. Barry and Dwire stated it to be a fine bearer. Mr. Sylvester considered it very good. Mr. Phoenix had found it a little uncertain. It was some- times tender and subject to leaf blight. Mr. Hodge said that it was very productive with him, and of the largest size, but coarse, and had never been better than good. Mr. Waring had found it to rot badly. Recommended as promising well. German Prune. Mr. Waring recommended this as hardy and a great bearer. Recommended as promising well. Pond's Seedling. Mr. Barry had found this to bear immense crops of large, beautiful fruit, resembling the Red Magnum Bonum. He thought it promised to be one of the most valuable sorts in cultivation. Recommended as promising well. RASPBERRIES. French. The President observed that this was very late and valu- able. Recommended for general cultivation. Ctjshing. Dr. Grant had found it very productive, large, late, and excellent. Dr. Brinckle remarked that it generally, at Philadelphia, 192 bore a second crop, and unless the weather was unfavorable, the second crop was the best. Wilder. The President's experience had been unfavorable. Dr. Brinckle stated that the first year of bearing, the fruit was so handsome that two hundred dollars was offered for the plant, which he refused. Cope. Mr. Berckmans recommended this variety. B,ecommended as promising well. Thunderer. Dr. Grant had found this to be very large, productive, and vigorous, and of high flavor. Mr. Prince had seen no European varieties which were hardy except the Pranconia. Recommended as promising well. American Eed, or Red Prolific. Mr. Prince had a high opinion of this sort. Mr. Carpenter of New York, had found it attacked by a fungus of the leaves, which had almost destroyed his plants. Mr. Lawton expressed a high opinion of the fruit, and that the fungus was the result of want of cultivation, as it had not appeared on his plants until they had been neglected, and they bore good crops notwithstanding. Recommended as promising well. Ohio Everbearing. Dr. Grant remarked that it was a black, perpetually bear- ing, fruit. Mr. Prince had found Longworth's Prolific synonymous. It was a perpetual Black Cap. Mr. Reid said that with him it had proved poor and small. Mr. Sylvester thought it very good. Mr. Downing observed that it was larger than the Black Cap. Recommended as promising well. 193 The Orange Easpberry was then announced for discussion. It was esteemed by all who had grown it as a beautiful and fine variety, and was adopted for general cultivation. Catawissa. Dr. Brinckle said that this was the most abundant bearer he had ever seen, and would recommend it for trial. Mr. Prince said it was a variety of the American Eed. The President was much pleased with its high, wild flavor. Mr. Pierce stated that it had originated at Catawissa, Penn- sylvania, where it was accidentally discovered in mowing, and removed to a garden. It is an astonishing bearer, and a great acquisition. Ripens on the 20th of August, and bears until killed by frosts. Recommended as 'promising well. APRICOTS. Lafayette. Mr. Prince stated this to be a seedling originating in New York, twice the size of any which had been received from Europe, very vigorous and excellent. ' BLACKBERRIES. Improved High Bush. Mr. Prince spoke of it as a very good variety, not so large as the Imperial and Lawton. The President observed that it was a native of New England, and generally very large. He regarded it as an acquisition. Mr. Lawton had been astonished to find it such a fine fruit. It was very large, fine, and superior. Mr. Hooker had found it no better than the common wild varieties. It was not always very large, and not very hardy last winter. He considered it inferior to the Lawton, and thought that it should not be very highly recommended. The President had never heard of its being injured in the least, by the cold in New England. It was extremely popu- lar, but needed high cultivation. 13 194 Dr. Brinckle had found it very large. He wished to have it called the Boston, and that it and the Lawton should be recommended for general cultivation. Mr. Ernst would prefer to call it Dorchester, as that was the residence of Col. Wilder, the President, who was acquainted with its original locality, and purchased the first plants taken therefrom. The President suggested that it be named the New Eng- land. He stated that it had been exhibited at the Massachu- setts Horticultural Society, fifteen years since, by a neighbor of his, from whom he obtained twenty-five plants, which he divided with Capt. Lovett, who cultivated it highly, and sold it under the name of Improved High Bush. Mr. Ernst would prefer Dorchester. Mr. Barry was of opinion that it was too widely known as High Bush, to change the name at this time. Dr. Brinckle said that all blackberries were High Bush ones. He withdrew the proposed name, Boston, for that of Dorchester, in consequence of its having been introduced by Col. "Wilder, whose residence was in that town. Dr. Grant had known it called Dorchester in some cata- logues. He remarked that all blackberries could not be improved by cultivation. Recommended for general cultivation, as The Dorchester Blackberry. Lawton. Mr. Carpenter of New York, stated that this sort was known by many, for twenty years, as the New Eochelle. It had been found growing by a fence, and introduced by Mr. Secor, who had made great efibrts to disseminate it. He wished that it might retain the name of New Rochelle. Mr. Lawton regretted that the subject had been introduced, but would state the facts in the case. The fruit did not exist in New Rochelle, nor never did. It was not discovered there or in the vicinity. The variety which had been sold as New Eochelle was worthless. He had introduced the fruit 195 in question into his garden, gave many of the plants to his friends, and exhibited the fruit before the Farmers Club of New York, by whom it was named Lawton. Mr. Sylvester was of opinion that Mr. Lawton was correct, and wished the name to be retained. He thought that Mr. Lawton deserved the honor. The subject was then laid upon the table. STRAWBERRIES. The following sorts were recommended as promising well ; McAvoy's Superior, Hooker, Scarlet Magnate, TroUope's Victoria, Genesee, Le Baron, Longworth's Prolific. The Broadwell apple, at the instance of Mr. Ernst, was recommended as 'promising well. The discussions on fruits were here closed. tptl fltt |!ati&B fniU. Mr. Hovey, firom tlie Committee on Native Fruits, pre- sented the following Report : PEARS. Philadelphia Pear, Philadelphia Pear, presented by Dr. W. D, Brinckle. Very large specimens. The same variety was exhibited at 197 the session in Boston, in 1854, under the name of Latch pear. It ripens at Philadelphia from the first to the middle of September. Requires further trial. Seedling, 1847, E. 1., now called the Wilmington ; from Dr. W. D. Brinckle. Raised from Passe Colmar ; like it in quality, but ripe in September. ./ V. ^- %:- *- Huntington Pear. Huntington, by Dr. C. W. Grant ; from S. P. Carpenter, New Rochelle. Medium size, handsome, melting, juicy, buttery, and with a delicate flavor ; very good. Ripens from middle to last of September. 198 Parsonage Pear. The pear was presented by S. P. Cai-penter of New Ro- chelle, New York. Large size, yellow, russeted at the stem ; much speckled ; flesh coarse, buttery, and very good. Ripe in September. 199 Churcli Peax. The ChurcL. Pear is a seedling fi:om New Rochelle, New York. Presented by S. P, Carpenter. Medium size, green, somewhat russeted ; flesh fine, buttery, juicy, and melting, very good, may be hest. Ripens in August, but keeps to September. 200 Ontario Pear. Ontario Pear. Seedling of the Canandaigua ; from W. T. Smith, Geneva. Similar in shape and appearance to the Washington, but rather larger ; good. September. 201 Woodstock Pear ; from H. Hooker, New York. A Seedling of medium size, yellow skin, not in good con- dition ; requires further trial. September. Collins ; from Hovey & Co., Boston. Very good, and many of the Committee consider it " best." September, and October. Adams ; from Hovey & Co. Very good. September. APPLES. SiGLUs Seedling ; from Morgan County, Ohio. Good size, handsome, and very good. Gabriel ; firom Ohio. Fair, may be good. Richmond ; from Ohio. Large, sweet ; from J. R. Miller, New York. Unripe. A dish of Seedling Apples, irom Wm. Dwire, Davenport, Iowa. On account of their not being named, no opinion could be given. If Mr. Dwire would send specimens, under num- bers, to any of the Committee, they will report upon them. GRAPES. Seedling, from Utica, N. Y. ; a white grape called Child's Superb, said to be a seedling ; resembling strongly a well known foreign grape — the Deccans Superb. Seedling, from Oneida Lake ; unripe, resembling an Isabella. Rebecca Grape; from Wm. Brookbanks, Hudson. The Rebecca originated in the garden of Mr. E. M. Peake, Hudson, New York, about eight years ago. Mr. Peake's gSirden is in one of the thickly settled streets of the city, and nearly the usual size of a lot, perhaps one hundred by one hundred and fifty feet deep. Between the house and the street, there is a small flower garden. It was here that the 202 Rebecca Grape. 203 original vine grew. Mrs. Peake was about making some alterations in her flower beds, and this vine being in the way, her gardener advised her to dig it up, as it was only an "ol dwild grape." But disliking to destroy it, she removed it with her own hands, and planted it very care- lessly in the garden, back of the house, in a very poor and cold clay soil. Here the vine made slow progress, but continued to increase in size until the third or fourth year, when it produced a few clusters of small white grapes. These appeared to possess so much merit, and were so much better than had been expected, that pains were then taken to feed and nourish it, and prune it into shape, and it soon well repaid all the labor bestowed upon it. It grew vigor- ously^ making shoots ten or fifteen feet long, and bore abun- dant crops of the most delicious grapes, until at the present time it has reached the top of the house, and covers a trellis ten feet wide and twenty-five feet high, loaded with fruit. Bunches medium size, about six inches long, very com- pact, without shoulders ; berries medium size, obovate, about three-quarters of an inch in diameter ; skin thin, greenish white, becoming of a pale amber color at full matur- ity, covered with a thin white bloom ; flesh very juicy, soft, and melting, and free from pulp ; flavor rich, sugary, vinous, and brisk, with a peculiar musky and luscious aroma., distinct from any other grape ; seeds small, two to four in each berry ; leaves scarcely of medium size, about seven inches long and seven in width, very deeply lobed and coarsely and sharply serrated ; upper surface light green, slighly rough ; under surface covered with a thin, whitish down ; nerves promi- nent ; petioles rather slender. W. D. BRINCKLE, Chairman. Mr. Barry presented some specimens of labels for fi'uit trees which he had received from Mr. Leroy of France, for the Society. 204 . Mr. Pierce of the District of Columbia, presented the fol- lowing Resolutions : The American Pomological Society learn with pleasure that Congress has appropriated means, at the last session, for the purchase and extension of the models of American Fruits, executed by Mr. Townsend Glover, which are to be deposited in some suitable place, in the City of "Washington, for the use and inspection of the public. Therefore, Resolved — That we hail with interest this beneficent act on the part of our National Legislators, and trust that the Secretary of the Interior, and the Commissioner of Patents will lose no time in procuring said models and causing them to be arranged and multiplied in such a manner as will best serve the interests of the country. Resolved — That the interests of the country would be greatly promoted by having copies of these models increased by the same authorities for dis- tribution in different sections of the United States, to such Agricultural, or other kindred Associations, as may provide satisfactory means for then- arrangement and preservation. Resolved — That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to the Secretary of the Interior, and the Commissioner of Patents. The President then appointed the following Committees : [See list of officers.] Executive Committee, General Fruit Committee, Com- mittee on Foreign Fruits, Committee on Native Fruits, Committee on Synonyms and Rejected Fruits. Mr. Prince moved that the thanks of the Society be voted to the President, for the able manner in which he had pre- sided at the present and former meetings of the Society. Passed by acclamation. The President returned thanks for the kind manner with which his services had been appreciated. He remarked that he was willing to work zealously for the advancement of rural art, for which he had always felt a deep interest. He wished that he had more time and ability to devote to it. He had thought it just, that the duties as well as the honors of the Society should be more distributed, and that others should share them with him. He did not intend to have again accepted office, but he was induced by the kind solicitations of friends not to withdraw from the chair. He had, therefore. 205 accepted of the honor so cordially tendered him, and he would express his warmest thanks to the members, for their uniform courtesy and kindness toward him. He trusted that they would all return to their homes in peace and safety, and meet again to continue the work in which they were engaged. Mr. Prince moved a vote of thanks to the Secretary and Reporters, also to the Mayor of Rochester, for his kindness in tendering to the Society the City Hall ; and to the Presi- dent and Members of the Genesee Valley Horticultural Society, for their excellent arrangements for the accommoda- tion of the Society, and their efforts to render pleasant the stay of the members in the city. Passed unanimously. Mr. Saul moved that the next session of the Society be held in New York. Adopted. The Society then adjourned, to meet at New York, in 1858, at such time and place as the President might appoint. ^xmsiixn's Icprt Statement of the Treasurer of the American Pomological Society, for the years 1852-1854, biennial, terminating September, 1854. RECEIPTS. . Cash received on account of Contributions of Members, viz. : From Marshall P. Wilder, Life Membership, " Henry Little, » " - - " B. V. French, " " " Members, biennial contributions of $2.00 each EXPENDITURES. By cash paid for Treasurer's book . . - Leaving a balance in the Treasury of ... $197.50 September 10th, 1854. THOMAS P. JAMES, Treasurer. $20.00 20.00 20.00 142.00 $202.00 $4.50 Statement of the Treasurer of the American Pomological Society for the years 1854-1856, terminating with Sep- tember, 1856. RECEIPTS. Balance in hand, per statement of account in 1854, - $197.50 Cash received for biennial contributions of members, of $2.00 each, for 1856 to 1858 .... 143.50 $341.00 EXPENDITURES. Cash paid postages, refunded to the Secretary . - .48 Leaving in the Treasury the sum of ... $340.52 September, 1856. THOMAS P. JAMES, Treasurer. (^JiuU\^uHv» fl! ^tnlH. The following List comprises most of the varieties of Fruits exhibited by the Delegates and Members of the Society at its session in Rochester, New York, September, 1856. MASSACHUSETTS. Hovey & Co., Boston, 200 kinds of pears. Marshall P. Wilder, Dorchester, 110 varieties of pears. NEW YORK. A. Saul & Co., Newburg, 80 varieties of pears. J. C. Maxwell & Bros., Geneva, 36 varieties of pears ; 24 varieties of apples. Lewis Eaton, Buffalo, 12 varieties of pears; 14 varieties of apples. Austin Pinney, Clarkson, 12 varieties of pears ; 7 varieties of peaches ; 6 varieties of grapes. W. P. Townsend, Lockport, 35 varieties of pears ; 20 varie- ties of apples. Hooker, Farley & Co., Rochester, 18 varieties of pears ; 22 varieties of apples. EUwanger & Barry, Rochester, 170 varieties of pears ; 30 varieties of apples ; 14 varieties of foreign grapes ; 14 varieties of plums ; 2 varieties of strawberries ; 1 variety of raspberries. H. E. Hooker & Co., Rochester, 50 varieties of pears ; 6 varieties of apples ; 4 varieties of peaches ; 1 variety of plums ; 5 varieties of native grapes ; 1 variety of melons. 208 A. Frost & Co., Rochester, 40 varieties of pears; 41 varieties of apples ; 4 varieties of native grapes. E. "W. Sylvester, Lyons, 4 varieties of grapes ; 1 variety of peaches ; 1 variety of currants ; 1 variety of pears. NEW JERSEY. William Reid, Elizabethtown, 100 varieties of pears. PENNSYLVANIA. Robert Buist, Philadelphia, 12 varieties of pears. Joseph Hoopes, Westchester, 1 variety of pears ; 7 varieties of apples ; 1 variety of grapes. OHIO. James Edgerton, Barnsville, 17 varieties of apples. W. B. Bateham, Columbus, 18 varieties of apples. IOWA. Foster & Ifegus, Muscatine, 63 varieties of apples. M. S. Comstock, Burlington, 52 varieties of apples. W. G. Dwire, Davenport, S6 varieties of apples. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Joshua Pierce, Washington, 8 varieties of pears; and the Catawissa raspberry. ^xnit €RhU^ut AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. FOR GENERAL CULTIVATION. APPLES. American Summer Pearmain, Baldwin, Benoni, Bullock's Pippin, Danvers Winter Sweet, Early Harvest, Early Strawberry, Eall Pippin, Eameuse, Gravenstein, Hawley, High Top Sweeting, Hubbardston Nonesuch, Lady Apple, Ladies' Sweet, Large Yellow Bough, Melon, Minister, Porter, Primate, Eambo, Red Astrachan, Rhode Island Greening, Roxbury Russet, Summer Rose, Swaar, Vandervere, Williams's Favorite, (except for light soils,) Wine Apple, or Hays, Winesap. PEARS. Ananas d'Ete, Beurre d'Anjou, Andrews, Beurre d'Aremberg, Belle Lucrative, or Fondante Beurre Diel, d'Automne, Beurre Bosc, li 210 Beurre St. Nicholas, Bloodgood, Bu£fum, Dearborn's Seedling, Doyenne d'Ete, Doyenne Boussock, Flemish Beauty, Fulton, Golden Beurre of Bilboa, Howell, Lawrence, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Madeleine, FOR CULTIVATION PE Belle Lucrative, Beurre d'Amalis, Beurre d'Anjou, Beurre Diel, Catillac, Duchesse dAngouleme, Easter Beurre, Figue dAlencon, Glout Morceau, . Long Green of Cox, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Manning's Elizabeth, Paradise d'Automne, Rostiezer, Seckel, Sheldon, Tyson, Urbaniste, Uvedale's St. Germain (for baking). Vicar of Winkfield, Williams's Bon Chretien or Bartlett, Winter Nelis. ON QUINCE STOCKS. ARS. Napoleon, Nouveau Poiteau, Rostiezer, Beurre Langelier, Soldat Laboureur, St. Michael Archange, Urbaniste, Uvedale's St. Germain, or Belle Angevine, (for baking.) Vicar of Winkfield, White Doyenne. Bleeker's Gage, Coe's Golden Drop, Green Gage, Jefferson, Lawrence's Favorite, Lombard, Munroe, PLUMS. Purple Favorite, Prince's Yellow Gage, ■ Purple Gage, Reine Claude de Bavay, Smith's Orleans, Washington, McLaughlin. 211 CHERRIES. Belle d'Orleans, Governor Wood, Belle Magnifique, Elton, Black Eagle, Early Riclimond, for cooking, Black Tartarian, Graffion, or Bigarreau, Downer's Late, Knight's Early Black, Coe's Transparent, May Duke. Early Purple Guigne, Reine Hortense, APRICOTS. Breda. Large Early, Moorpark. NECTARINES. Downton, Early Violet, Elruge. PEACHES. Bergen's Yellow, Early York, large. Crawford's Early, Hill's Chili, Coolidge's Favoritej Large White Cling, Crawford's Late, Madeleine de Courson, Early York, serrated, Teton de Venus, George IV., Old Mixon Free. Grosse Mignonne, Old Mixon, Cling. Morris "White, UNDER GLASS. GRAPES. Black Hamburg, Grizzly Frontignan, Black Frontignan, White Frontignan, Black Prince, White Muscat of Alexandria. Chasselas de Fontainebleau, Catawba, OPEN CULTURE. Diana, Isabella. 212 KASPBEKRIES. Fastolff, Franconia^ French, Kiievet's Giant, Orange, Red Antwerp^ Yellow Antwerp. STRAWBEEEIES. Boston Piae, Large Early Scarlet. Hovey's Seedling, CURRANTS. Black Naples, White Dutch, May's Victoria, "White Grape. Red Dutch, Crown Bob, Early Sulphur, Green Gage, Green Walnut, Houghton's Seedling, aOOSEBERRIES. Iron-Monger, Laurel, Red Champagne, Warrington, Woodward's White Smith. BLACKBERRIES. Lawton's New Rochelle, The Dorchester Blackberry. NEW VARIETIES WHICH PROMISE WELL. APPLES. Autumn Bough, Broadwell Apple, Coggswell, Carolina June, Fornwalder, Genesee Chief, 213 Jonathan, Jeffries, King of Tompkins County, Ladies' Sweet, Monmouth Pippin, Mother, Primate, Smith's Cider, Smoke House, Wagener, "Winter Sweet Paradise, Winthrop Greening, or Lin- coln Pippin. PEARS. Adams, Alpha, Beurre d'Albret, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre Giffard, Beurre Kennes, Beurre J^anglier, Beurre Nantais, Beurre Sterckman, Beurre Superfin, Brande's St. Germain, Brandywine, Chancellor, Charles Van Hooghten, Collins, Comte de Planders, Conseillier de la Cour, Comptesse d'Alost, Delices d' Hardenpont de Bel- gique, Delices d' Hardenpont d' An- gers, Doyenne d'Alencon, Dix, Doyenne Goubault, Duchesse de Berri d'Ete, Emile d'Heyst, Epine Dumas, Pondante de Comice, Pondante de Charneuse, Fondante de Malines, Pondante de Noel, Hosen Schenk, Jalousie de Pontenay Yendee, Kingsessing, Kirtland, Limon, Lodge (of Penn.), Niles, Nouveau Poiteau, Onondaga, Osband's Summer, Ott, Philadelphia, Pius IX. Pratt, Pouselette d'Esperen, St. Michel Archange, Stevens's Genesee, Striped Madeleine, Theodore Van Mons, Van Assene, or Van Assche, Walker, Zepherine Gregoire. 214 Teton de Venus, Gorgas, HiU's Chili, Bradshaw, Duane's Purple, Fellenberg, General Hand, German Prune, PEACHES. Madeleine de Courson^ Susquehanna, PLUMS. Munroe, Pond's Seedling, Eivers's Favorite, St. Martin's Quetche. White Damson, Ives's Washington Seedling, CBEKRIES. American Amber, E-ockport Bigarreau Bigarreau Manstreuse de Hovey, Mezel, Kirtland^s Mary, Black Hawk, Ohio Beauty, Great Bigarreau of Downing, Walsh's Seedling. GRAPES. Delaware, Concord, EASPBERRIES. American Bed,. Orange, Cope, Thunderer, Catawissa, Walker. Ohio Everbearing, STRAWBERRIES. Genesee, McAvoy's Superior. Hooker, Scarlet Magnate, LeBaron, TroUope's Victoria, Longworth's Prolific, Walker^s Seedling. Rebecca. FOR PARTICULAR LOCALITIES. APPLES. Canada Red, Northern Spy, ^sopus Spitzenberg, Yellow Bellflower. Newton Pippin, 215 PEARS. Grey Doyenne, White Doyenne. PEACHES. Heath Cling. PLUMS. Imperial Gage. STRAWBERRIES. Burr's New Pine, Jenney's Seedling. * FOU NORTHERN LOCALITIES. APPLES. Ribstone Pippin. FOR GARDENS. APPLES. Garden Royal. CHERRIES. Napoleon Bigarreau. — For Special Cultivation. REJECTED FRUITS. APPLES. Beachamwell, Gloucester White, Caroline, (English), Golden Reinette, Cathead, Grand Sachem, Cheeseboro' Russet, Grey French Reinette, Dodge's Early Red, Henry's Weeping Pippin, Egg Top, Hoary Morning, Fenouillet Rouge, Irish Peach, 216 Kirke's Lord Nelson, Large Eed Sweeting, Marmalade Pippin, Muscovia, Pennock, Pigeonette, Priestly, Eed Doctor, Eed Ingestrie, Eed or Eoyal Eusset, Eowland's Eed Streak, Salina, White Ingestrie, Woolston's Eed Streak, Woolston's White Sweet. PEARS. Admiral, Ah! MonDieu, Alexander of Eussia, Angers, Apple Pear, Armudi, Autumn Bergamot, Autumn Superb, Aston Town, Beauty of Winter, Belle d'Aout, Belle de Bruxelles, Belmont, Bergamotte d'Automne, Bergamotte Fortunee, Bergamotte Sylvange, Bergamotte ZapM,, Beurre Adam, Beurre Audusson, / Beurre d'Angleterre, Beurre of Bolwiller, Beurre Colmar of Auttimn, Beurre Coloma, Beurre Kenrick, Beurre Knox, Beurre Seutin, / -e^y' Beurre Van Mons, Bezi Yaet, Bishop's Thumb, Blanquet a Longue Queue, Bon Chretien d'Ete, Bon Chretien d'Hiver, Bon Chretien Bruxelles, Bon Chretien Spanish, Boncquia, Bouquet, Brougham, Bruno de Bosco, Brugman's Birne, Burgomaster, Caillot Eosat, Calebasse, or Pitt's Prolific, Cassolette, Chair a Dame, Charles Van Mons (old). Chat Brule, Citron of Bohemia, Citron de Sierentz, Clapp, Clara, Clinton, Columbus d'Hiver, Comte de Fresnel, ITj^-M^ 217 Copea, Hativeau, Crassane, Ha|p:horne's Seedling, /j Crawford, Hays, "■"^' Croft Castle, Hericart, Cuvelier, Hessel, , D'Amour, Horticulture, Dearborn of Van Mons, Huguenot, Deschamps (new late), Hunt's Connecticut. Downton, Ipswich Holland, Doyenne dore. Jacob, Doyenne Mons, Jalousie, Dubossj^y, (^k^ Jargonelle (of the French)^ Dumbarton, John Monteith, Duquesne d'Ete, Jubin, Elton, Kramelsbirne, Endicott, Lansac, English Warden, Lavalle, Famenga, Lederbirne, Fantasie Van Mons, Lincoln, Eigne Extra, Locke, V'Eornie des Delices, Louise Bonne, / Eorme Urbaniste, Louise of Bologne, / Foster's St. Michael, Mabille, Frederic of Prussia, Madame Vert, Franc Eeal d'Hiver, Madotte, French Iron, Marcellis, |^- March Bergamot, Garnstone, Gendesheim, Marie Louise Nova, ' 1 Girardin, Martin Sec, 1 Great Citron of Bohemia, Marquise, / Green Catharine, Michaux, / Green Chisel, Miller's Seedling, Green Sugar, Moorfowl Egg, Green Yair, Navet, Grise Bonne, Oak Leaf, (Imperial,) \ Gros Blanquet, Orange, \ Gros E-ousselet, Orange Rouge, ^--^C^m^ .:^l>-^^.-^:- ^-^^^ 218 Orange Tulipee, Pailleau, Passe Long Bras, Petit Muscat, Phillips, Pitfour, Pitt's Marie Louise, Piatt's Bergamotte, Pomme Poire, Pope's Quaker, Pope's Russet, Pope's Scarlet Major, Prince's Portugal, Princess of Orange, Queen Caroline, Queen of the Low Countries, Quilletette of Manning, E-ameau, Reine d'Hiver, | Beine des Poires, f Bousselette d'Hiver, | Bousselette de Rheims, Rousselette St. Vincent, | Royale d'Hiver, | Rushmore's Bon Chretien, Sabine (Flemish), Sans Pepins, Sapianski, Shobden Court, Souveraine, St. Bruno, Striped Madeleine, Sugar Pear of Hoyerswerda, Summer Bergamot, Summer Rose, Summer Thorn, or Epine d'Ete, Superfondante, Surpasse Meuris, Swan's Egg, Swiss Bergamotte, Tillington, Thompson (of New Hamp- shire), ywwjimiwty Dulle, ^^BiilB„(jold of Summer, 'Tucker's Bon Chretien, Tucker's Seedling, Verte Longue Panache, WelHngton, Whitfield, Winter Crassane, Winter Orange, Winter Quince, Wurzur d'Autcmne, Yutte. -ZS' .O 219 VARIETIES ALLUDED TO IN DISCUSSIONS, BUT NOT CLASSED. AP Belmont, Cooper, Dominie, Blink Bonnie Seedling, Danvers "Winter Sweet, Early Joe, Gabriel Riclimond, Garrickson's Early, Hagloe, Herefordshire Pearmain, June Sweeting, John Sweet, Limber Twig, Lyman Pumpkin Sweet, PLES. Ledge Sweeting, Liberty, Murphy, Newtown Pippin, Peck's Pleasant, Pryor's Ked, Siglus Seedling, Sine Qua Non, Borne Beauty, Bawle's Janet, Wells, Willow Twig, White Pippin. Belle et Bonne, Bezi de La Motte, Boston, Buffum, Chelmsford, Colmar d'Aremberg, Church, PEARS. Du Mortier, (of Manning,) Due d'Orleans, Echasserie, Flemish Bon Chretien, Figue de Naples, General Taylor, Graslin, Beurre Gris d'Hiver Nouveau, Gilogil, Blocker's Meadow, Bellissime d'Ete, Bonne d'Ezee, Bergamotte d'Esperen, Bergen, Calebasse Delvigne, Doyenne Sieulle, Duchesse de Mars, Grande Soleil, Hagerman, Hacon's Incomparable, Hampden's Bergamotte, Hampton, Huntington, Jalousie de Fontenay Yendee, Jeanne de Witte, 220 Knight's Monarch, Eichards, Lamarie, Eodney, Latch, Sterling, Leon le Clerc, Styrian, Messire Jean, Triomphe de Jodoigne, Muscat Allemand, Verte Longue de la Moyenne, Marechal de la Cour, Wilmington, Ontario, Windsor, Parsonage, Winter Bon Chretien, Passe Colmar, Woodstock. Passans du Portugal, NECTAKINES. Boston, Vermash. PLUMS. Eivers's Favorite, Italian Prune, or Pellenberg. CHERRIES. Belle de Choisy, Transparent Guigne, Black Heart, (old,) GRAPES. Brinckle, Northern Muscadine, Child's Superb, Raabe, Clara, Seedling from Oneida Lake, Emily, T. Kalon, Graham, Union Village. Hartford Prolific, STRAWBERRIES. Imperial Scarlet. BLACKBERRIES. Needham's White. 221 PEACHES. Excelsior, " Large WMte Cling, Early Tillotson, Strawberry. RASPBERRIES. Cusliing, Wilder. APRICOTS. Lafayette. CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS OF THE AMEKI- CAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. CONSTITUTION. Article 1. The name of this Association shall be the American Pomologica.l Society. 2. Its object shall be the advancement of the science of Pomology. 3. It shall consist of Delegates appointed by Horticultural, Agricultural, and kindred Societies in the United States and British America, and of such other persons as take an interest in the welfare of the Association, and are desirous of promot- ing its aims. 4. The meetings shall be held biennially, at such time and place as may be designated by the Society ; and special meetings may be convened at any time on the call of the President. 5. The officers shall consist of a President, one Vice-Pres- ident from every State, Territory, and Province, a Treasurer and a Secretary ; and shall be elected by ballot or otherwise at every biennial meeting. BY-LAWS. 1. The President shall have a general superintendence of the affairs of the Society during its vacation ; give due public notice of the time and place of meeting ; preside at its delib- erations ; deliver an Address on some subject relating to Pomology, at every biennial meeting ; and appoint all Com- mittees, unless otherwise directed. 223 2. In case of the death, sickness, or inability of the President, his official duties shall devolve on one of the Vice-Presidents, according to the order in which they stand on the minutes. 3. The Treasurer shall receive all moneys belonging to the Society, and pay over the same on the written orders of the President. 4. The Secretary shall, with the assistance of a reporter appointed by him, keep a record of the transactions of the society for publication. 5. There shall be an Executive Committee, consisting of five members, together with the President and Vice-Presi- dents ex-officio, five of whom shall constitute a quorum, who shall manage the affairs of the Society during its vacation. 6. State Fruit Committees, consisting of five members each, for every State, Territory, and Province, and a general chairman over all shall be appointed biennially ; it shall be the duty of the several State Fruit Committees to forward to the general chairman, one month before every biennial meeting, State Pomological Reports, to be condensed by him for publication. 7. A Standing Committee on Native Fruits, consisting of seven members, shall be appointed by the President immedi- diately after his election. It shall be the duty of this committee to report annually on native fruits, and also to examine, and, before the close of the session, report on all new seedling varieties that may be exhibited ; and to make an ad interim report on those that were exhibited in an unripe condition at the meeting of the Society, but had sub- sequently attained a state of maturity ', and on such other seedlings as may have been submitted to their inspection during the Society's vacation. 8. A Standing Committee on Foreign Fruits, consisting of seven members, shall be appointed, whose duties shall be similar to those of the committee in By-Law seven. 9. A Standing Committee on Synonyms, consisting of seven members, shall be appointed biennally. 224 10. Yacancies occurring in committees, shall be filled by the chairman of each, and in case of his death, or inability to serve, his place shall be supplied by the President of the Society. 11. The members of this Society shall pay two dollars biennially ; and twenty dollars paid at one time shall consti- tute one life-membership. 12 — Order of Business : 1. Credentials of Delegates presented. 2. Address of the President. 3. Election of Officers. 4. Reports of State Fruit Committees. 5. New business. 13. The Constitution and By-Laws may be altered or amended, at any regular biennial meeting, by a vote of two- thirds of the members present. §Uuns AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Hon. PRESIDENT. Marshall P. Wilder, of Massacliuset^s. VICE PRESIDENTS. S. L. Goodale, H. J. French, Samuel Walker, Fred. Holbrook, Stephen H. Smith, A. S. Monson, Charles Downing, William Eeid, Hartman Kuhn, Jr., E. Tatnall, WilHam C. Wilson, Yardley Taylor, Joshua Lindley, A. G. Summer, Richard Peters, C. A. Peabody, Thomas Affleck, D. W. Yandell, Lawrence Young, A. H. Ernst, J. C. Holmes, R. L. Ellsworth, 15 Maine. New Hampshire. Massachusetts. Vermont. Rhode Island. Connecticut. New York. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Delaware. Maryland. Virginia. North Carolina. South Carolina^ Georgia. Alabama. Mississippi. Tennessee. Kentucky. Ohio. Michigan. Indiana. 226 C E. Overman, Illinois. Thomas Allen, Missouri. Eev. C. H. Bjdngton, Arkansas. B. F. Nourse. Florida. Robert Avery, Iowa. J. C. Brayton, Wisconsin. Simpson Thompson, California. Joshua Pierce, Dist. Columbia. Edward Hunter, ' Utah. Amasa Stewart, Minnesota. C. B. Lines, Kansas. Henderson Lewellyn, Oregon. Hugh Allen, Canada East. James Dougal, Canada West. SECEETARY. P. Barry, Rochester, New York. TREASURER. 'Thomas P. James, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The President and Vice-Presidents ex-officio. W. D. Brinckle, M. D., Philadelphia, Pa. J. S. Field, Brooklyn, New York. M. B. Bctteham, Columbus, Ohio. L. E, Berckmans, Plalnfield, New Jersey. F. K. Phoenix, " Bloomington, Illinois. GENERAL FRUIT COMMITTEE. Samuel Walker, Massachusetts, General Chairman. Stephen S. Goodale, Saco, Me. Henry J. French, Laconia, N. H. Eben Wight, Dedham, Mass. Stephen H. Smith, Lonsdale, E. I. Nathaniel A. Bacon, New Haven, Conn. 227 Chauncey Goodrich, Patrick Barry, William Reid, Thomas P. James, Eev. Samuel C, Brinckle, Samuel Feast, Yardly Taylor, S. W.' Westbrooks, A. G. Summer, B,t. Rev. Stephen Elliot, Jr.. Thomas Affleck, D. W. Yandell, Edwai-a D. Hobbs, Robe:-; Buchanan, W. T S. Cornett, F. K PVioeuix, Thorn ,: Allen, Benj I'i'ji F. Nourse, M. L Comstock, Dani*::! K. Underwood, J. C. :; :vton, Simp.u!. Thompson, Joshua Pierce, Amas I S re wart, Edwnrd Hunter, James Dougall, Hugh Allen, Burlington, Vt. Rochester, N. Y. Elizabethtown, N. J. Philadelphia, Penn. Wilmington, Del. Baltimore, Md. Loudon County, Va. Greensboro', North Carolina. Laurens ville, S. C. Acalenta, Ga, Mississippi. Tennessee. Louisville, Ky. Cincinnati, O. ^'ersailles, Lidiana. Bloomingdale, 111. vSt. Louis, Mo. A palachicola, Fla. Burlington, Iowa. Michigan. Aztalan, Wis. Napa City, Cal. Washington, D. C. iMiiinesota Territo'- " vSalt Lake, Utah Tc itory. Amherstburgh, C. W. Montreal, C. E, COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN FRUIT.. C. M. Hovey, Charles Downing, S. L. Goodale, H. E. 1 looker, E. S. Hale, Andrew Saul, D. Redmond, Boston, Mass. Newburgh, New T- . f^. Saco, Maine. Rochester, New Yo '. Alton, Illinois. Newburgh, New Yu;;k. Augusta, Georgia. 228 COMMITTEE ON NATIVE FRUITS. W. D. Brinckle, M. D. Samuel Walker, L. E, Berckmans, C. M. Hovey, P. Barry, J. B. Eaton, A H. Ernst, Philadelphia, Pa. Boxbury, Mass. Plainfield, New Jersey. Boston, Mass. Bochester, New York. Buifalo, New York. Cincinnati, Ohio. COMMITTEE ON SYNONYMS AND REJECTED FRUITS. J. S. Cabot, W. E. Prince, L. E. Berckmans, A. H. Ernst, J. J. Thomas, Robert Buist, C. M. Hovey, Salem, Mass. Flushing, New York. Plainfield, New Jersey. Cincinnati, Ohio. Union Springs, New York. Philadelphia, Pa. Boston, Mass. fist of IXmkrs. The following list comprises the names of the Members of the American Pomological Society, who have paid their contribution for the term 1856 to 1858. John W. Adams, Isaac B. Baxter, Ndthaniel A Bacon, M. B. Bateham, Patrick Barry, L. E. Berckmans, Emile Berckmans, B. J. Black, W. D. Brinckle, M. D., H. P, Byram, Robert Buist, Zera Burr, L. P. Bush, M. D., Isaac Buchanan, Albert Bresee, Joseph S. Cabot, L. C. Carlow, S. P. Carpenter, Calvin Chamberlain, M. L. Comstock, Wm. F. Cook, Robert Cornelius, Lewis Cox, George Gr. Curtis, John Biehl, Charles Downing, J. B. Eaton, James Edgarton, Portland, Philadelphia, New Haven, Columbus, Rochester, Plainfield, Plainfield, Bremen, Philadelphia, Louisville, Philadelphia, Perrineton, Wilmington, New York, Hubbardston, Salem, Johnson's Creek, New Rochelle, Foxcroft, Burlington, Geneva, Philadelphia, Mount Morris, Maysville, Wilmington, Newburgh, Buffalo, Barnsville, Maine. Pennsylvania. Connecticut. Ohio. New York. New Jersey. New Jersey. Ohio. Pennsylvania. Kentucky. Pennsylvania. New York. Delaware. New York. Vermont. Massachusetts. New York. New York. Maine. Iowa. New York. Pennsylvania. New York. Kentucky. Delaware. New York. New York. Ohio. 230 George Ellwanger, Lewis Ellsworth, A. H. Ernst, J. Farley, T. W. Field, S. Foster, B. V. French, life^ Alonzo Frost, E. C. Frost, Edward Frost, Joseph Frost, C. W. Grant,' John GroshoQ, John C, Hanchett, H., P. Hanford, A. H, HavenS; C. S. Hoag," E. D. Hobbs, C. M. Hovey, B. Hodge, E. 3. Holmes, G. M. Hooker, H. Hooker, H. E. Hooker, J. W. Hooker, Josiah Hoopes, John J. Howe, Thomas P. James, S. T. Kelsey, D. F. Kinney, Rev. J. Knox, Hartman Kuhn, Jr., William Lawton, Henry Little, /i/e, Matthew Mackie, T. C. Maxwell, J. M. Mathewson, James McCalia, J. M. IVIcCullock, Samuel Miller, Augustus C. Moore, Rochester, NapiersTJlle, Cincinnati, Rochester, New York, Muscatine, Braintree, Rochester, Catharine, Rochester, Rochester, Newburgh, New York, Syracuse, Bristol, Cass, Lockport, Louisville, Boston, Buffalo, Lockport, Rochester, Rochester, Rochester, Rochester, West Chester, Birmingham, Philadelphia, Great Valley, Rock Island, Pittsburg, Philadelphia, New Rocheile, Bangor, Clyde, Geneva, Jacksonville, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, Rochester, Orange, New York. Illinois. Ohio. New York. New York. Iowa. Massachusetts. ' New York. New York. New York. New York. New York. New York. New York. Indiana. Illinois. New York. Kentucky. Massachusetts. New York. New York, New York. New York. New York. New York Pennsylvania. Connecticut. Pennsylvania. New York. . Illinois. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. !New York. Maine. New York. New York. New York. Pennsylvania. Ohio. New York. New efersey. 231 Edward Mills, E. Ordway, F. K. Phoenix, Joshua Pierce, Austin Piuney, William E,. Prince, William Reid, Andrew Saul, R, R. Scott, Edward Smith, William Brown Smith, Amasa Stewart, Z. B. Stewart, Josiah Stickney, Archibald Stone, E. W. Sylvester, Jacob Senneif, Edward Tatnall, J, J. Thomas, Simpson Thompson, W. P. Townsend, H. J. French, J. C. Teas, Samuel Walker, life, L. F. Warner, William G. Waring, James H. Watts, S. W. Weslbrook, H. R. Wheeler, R. J. Wilcox, Marshall P. Wilder, life, Eben Wight, Cincinnati, Freeport, Bloomington, Linneaa Hill, Clarkson, Flushing, ElizabethtowB, Newburgh, Rochester, Geneva, Syracuse, Laceur, Johnson's Creek, Watertown, Hinmansville, Lyons, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Union Springs, Napa City, Lockport, Laconia, Raysvilie, Roxbury; Syracuse, Boalsburg, Rochester. Greensboro', Freeport, Sheffield,, Boston, Dedham, Ohio. Illinois. Illinois. Dist. Columbia. New York. New York, New Jersey, New York. New York. New York. New York. Minnesota, New York. Massachusetts, New York. New York. Pennsylvania. Delaware. New York. California. New York.. New Hampshire. Indiana. Massachusetts. New York. PenDsylvania, New York, North Carolina. Illinois. Illinois. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. €onttnts. Address, President's, 11 American Pomological Society, next Session, 205 Apples, Discussion of, 167 Baldwin, 167 Benoni, 171 Blink Bonnie Seedling, 182 Carolina June, 176 Cooper, 180 Early Harvest, 168 Fall Pippin 168 Fallawater, 181 Fornwalder 182 Gravenstein, 16^ Hawley, 171 Eubbardston Nonesuch, 168 Jonathan, 176 Jtme Sweeting 174 Ladies' Sweet, 168 Ladies' Winter Sweet, 171 Liberty, 179 Newtown Pippin, 181 Porter and Eed Astrachan 169 Primate, or Summer Pippin, 171 Pryor's Red, 179 Eambo, 172 Rawle's Janet, 178 Rhode Island Greening, 169, 181 Rome Beauty 179 Roxbury Russet, 170 Smith's Cider, 180 Smoke House, 172 Tomkins County King, 173 Vandervere 170 Wagener 174 Wells and Dominie, 178 234 Apples, White Pippin,.. e ...» ..o...., ....180 White Seek-No-Fuxther,. . c 170, 177 Willow Twig , 178 Winter Sweet Paradise, = 179 Yellow Sweet June, ...., o ..... . 175 List of, for Particular Localities, 211 For Northern Localities, , 215 For Gardens, = » 215 Not Classed,. 219 Eejected, ......' .215 Which Promise Well, 212 Worthy of General Cultivation, ... = ........ 209 Apricots, Lafayette, i ................. . 193 Blackberries, Discussion of, 193 Improved High Bush, 193 Lawton, 194 List of, 212 Cherries, Discussion of, 186 American Amber, ...................... o 188 Belle d' Orleans, , 188. Belle de Choisy, 189 Black Eagle, ............... 186 Coe's Transparent, 188 Downton, 186 ♦ Early Richmond, 186 Early Pm-ple Guigne, 188 Governor Wood, 188 Great Bigarrea^.!, ^ ..,...,...,.,.... , „ . 188 Monstreuse de Mezel, 188 Napoleon Bigarieau, 187 Heine Hortense, 188 Rockport Bigarreau, 189 Transparent Guigne, 189 Walsh's Seedling 189 List of, .211 Not Classed, 220 Which Promise Well, 214 Worthy of General Cultivation...... ......211 Circular, 3 Committees, Business, 26 Nominating, ........ 26 On Native Fruits, 26 On Rejected Fruits « • 152 Contributors of Fruits, List of, ... ; 207 Constitution, • • • • • 222 Currants, List of, Worthy of General Cultivation, 212 Delegates, List of • • 7 Discussions, • = « • • • 132 235 Downing Monument, . , , .„,,., go Report of Committee ...,,, , 28 Inscription of, ...„.....,,, , 31 Exhibition of, September, 1856, 83 Fruits, Catalogue of, ........ , , , , . . , 209 For Particular Localities, , . , 214 Not Classed, . , . . , „ , , , 219 E,ejected, , , . . . , 215 Which Promise Well, , , . . , . 212 Worthy of General Cultivation, ,...,,••.».. 209 Gooseberries, List of, .......... , 212 Grapes, Discussion of, , . , ..,....„. 160 Concord, , , ,.....,,, ,....<,. 166 Delaware, ,......,,. 160 Emily, Clara, Brincklc, Graham, and Raabe, 164 Hartford ProHfie, .,,... 165 Rebecca, o ... . 162 To Kalon, 163 Union Village, 165 List of, , 211 Not Classed, • , 220 Which Promise Well, 214' Worthyof General Cultivation, 211 Letter from Mr. Thomson, 161 Members, List of, ■ . , 229 Nectarines, List of, , .211 Not Classed, . .% ,......,,, 220 Worthy of General Cultivation ......211 Officers, List of, . ^ , . , 27 Peaches, Discussion of, 182 Bergen's Yellow, 182 Crawford's Early, , , , 183 Early Tillotson, . . o 185 Early York, 182 Excelsior, 186 George The' Fourth, , ....... 182 Gorgas, 185 Grosse Mignonne, . . 183 Hill's Chili, 184 Large White Cling, , 184 Madeleine de Conrson, 185 Morris ^\Tiite, 183 Old Mixon Clingstone, 184 Old Alixon Freestone, , 183 Strawberry, ... 186 Susquehanna, 184 Teton de Venus, 185 List of, - 211 236 Peaches, wliich promise well, 214 For general c-ultivation, 211 Pears, Discussion of, 132 Adams, 136 Ananas d'Ete, _ 132 Andrews 132 Belle Lucrative, 133, 153 Eelle Epiue Dumas, 158 Bellissime d'Ete, 152 Bergamotte d'Esperen, . . • 147 Bergen, 147 Beurre d'Anjou, 133 Beurre d'Aremberg, 138 Beurre d' Albert, 148 Beurre d' Amalis, 153 Beurre Clairgeau, . . • 136 Beurre Gifford, 137 Beun-e Qris d'Hiver Nouveau 158 Beurr6 Kennes, 146 Beurre Langlier, 147 Beurre Nantais, 150 Beurre Sterckman, 137, 159 Beurre Superfiii 137, 156 Beurre St. Nicholas 139 Bleeker's Meadow, • 152 Bonne d'Ezee, 148 BufFum 134 BufFam 158 Brandywine, 156 Calebasse Delvigne, 146 Chancellor, 138 Comtesse d' Alost, • 146 Conseillier de la Cour, 146 Dearborn's Seedling, 134 Delices d'Hardenpont de Belgique, 148 Delices d'Hardenport d' Angers, 148 Dix 151 Doyenne Boussock, 138 Doyenne d'Alencon, 148, 158 Doyenne Gris. • • • 157 Duchesse de Berri d'ete, 139 Emile d'Heyst, 145 Flemish Beauty 157 Fondairte de Charneuse, 148 Fondante de Comice, 145 Fulton 134 Graslin, 150 Hagerman 147 237 Pears, Hosen Sclienk 144 Howell, 139 Jalousie de Pontenay Vendee, 157 Kingsessing, 139, 156 Kirtland, 140, 159 Lawrence, 132 Lodge, - 140 Long Green of Coxa, « 154 Marechal de la Cour, 146 Napoleon, 154 Niles, .145 Onondaga, ..141 Osband's Summer, 147, 1-3 0 Ott, c ... 14 1 Passans du Portugal, . - 152 Passe Colmar ... 158 Philadelpliia, 145 Richards, 145 Rodney 715 Seekel, 158 Sheldon, 141 Soldat Laboureur, 154 Stevens's Genessee, • 142 gt. Michael Archange, 142 Theodore Van Mons, 159 Triomphe de Jodoigne, 155 XJrbaniste, 155 Vicar of Winkfield, 142 "White Doyenne, 155 Winter Nelis, 156 List of, for Particular Localities, 215 Not Classed, 219 Rejected, 216 Which promise well • 213 Worthy of General Cultivation, 209 On Quince Stocks, Discussion of, 153, 159 On Quince Stocks, List of, 210 Plums, Discussion of, 189 Bradshaw, 190 Duane's Purple, 191 Pellenberg 190 Prost Gage 189 General Hand, 190 German Prune, .191 Lombard, 190 McLaughlin, 189 Monroe Egg, 189 Pond's Seedling, 191 238 Plums, Prince's Yellow Gage, 189 Rivcrs's Favorite, 190 White Damson, 190 List of, for Particular Localities, 215 Not classed, 220 Which promise well, 214 Worthy of general cultivation, 210 Proceedings, 7 Raspberries, Discussion of, 191 American Red 192 Catawissa, 193 Cope , , 192 Cushing, 191 French, . , 191 Ohio Everbearing, 192 Orange, 193 Thunderer, 192 Wilder, 192 List of, which promise well, 214 Worthy of general cultivation, 212 Reports, Downing Monument Committee, 28 Delaware, 84 Illinois, -. 126 Lidiana, 113 Iowa, • - 129 Maine, - • 35 Massachusetts ^. - 36 Michigan,.... 101 New Jersey, • ■ 51 jS ew York 40 Pennsylvania, 69 On Native Fruits, . . . 3 ) , 196 Treasurer's, 206 Resolutions Mr. Pierce's ii: regard to Townend Glover's Fruits, 204 Sessions, First Day, Morning, 7 Afternoon 26 Second Da}-^, Morning, 152 Afternoon, • • . 167 Evening, 175 Third Day, Morning 182 Strawberries, Dis-cussion of, 195 List of, for Particular Localities, 215 Not Classed, 220 Worthy of general cultivation, 212 Which promise well, 14 Treasurer's Report,. 206 PROCEEDINGS SEVENTH SESSION mtxuM Inmnbgkal ^atittv, THE CITY OF NEW YORK, SEPTEMBEli U, 15 & 16, 1858. PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIETY. BROOKLYN, N. Y. GEORGE C. BENNETT, PKINTER, 12 & 14 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET. 1858. CIRCULAR %mtXHKU f omohgial SonetB, The Seventh Session of this National Institution will commence at Mozart Hall, 663 Broadway, in the City of New York, on Tuesday, the 14th day of September next, at 10 o'clock A. M., and will be continued for several successive days. Among the objects of this meeting are the following : — To bring together the most distinguished Pomologists of our land, and, by a free interchange of experience, to collect and diffuse such researches and discoveries as have been recently made in the science of Pomology ; to hear reports of the various State Committees and other district associations ; to revise and enlarge the Society's catalogue of Fruits ; to assist in determining the synonyms by which the same Fruit is known in America or Europe ; to ascertain the relative value of varieties in different parts of our country ; what are suit- able for particular localities ; what new sorts give promise of being worthy of dissemination ; what are adapted to general cultivation ; and, especially to concert measures for the further advancement of the art and science of Pomology. The remarkable and gratifying progress which has re- cently been made in this branch of rural industry, is in no small degree attributable to the establishment and salutary iBfiuences of our Horticultural and Pomological Societies, the proceedings of which have been widely promulgated by the Press. A great work has been already performed, but a greater still remains to be accomplished. It is, therefore, desirable that erery State and Territory of the Union and the Provinces of British America should be ably and fully represented in this Convention ; and the Pomological, Horti- cultural and Agricultural Societies, within these limits, are hereby requested to send such a number of delegates as they may deem expedient. Nurserymen, Fruit growers, and all others especially interested in Pomology, are also invited to be present, and to participate in the deliberations of the meeting. Held, as this Assembly will be, in the great commercial emporium of our country, easily accessible from all parts of this continent, and at the same time when the Convention of the Editors of the Agricultural Press will be in session, it is anticipated that the attendance will be larger than on any former occasion, and the beneficial results proportionably increased. In order to increase as much as possible the utility of the occasion, and to facilitate business, members and delegates are requested to forward specimens of fruits grown in their respective districts, and esteemed worthy of notice ; also, papers descriptive of their mode of cultivation — of diseases and insects injurious to vegetation — of remedies for the same ; and to communicate whatever may aid in promoting the objects of the meeting. Each contributor is requested to make out a complete list of his specimens, and present the game with his fruits, that a report of all the varieties entered may be submitted to the meeting as soon as practicable after its organization. For the purpose of eliciting the most reliable informa- tion, the several Fruit Committees of States, and other local associations, are requested to forward to Hon. Samuel Walker, General Chairman of the Fruit Committee, Rox- bury, Mass., or to P. Barry, Esq., Secretary of the Society, Rochester N. Y,, a definite answer to each of the following questions, at an early date, and prior to September 1st : What six, twelve and twenty varieties of the Apple are best adapted to a family orchard of one hundred trees, and how many of each sort should it contain ? What varieties, and how many of each are best for an orchard of one thou- sand trees, designed to bear fruit for the market? What six and twelve varieties of the Pear are best for family use on the Pear stock ? What varieties on the Quince stock? What varieties, and how many of each of these, are best adapted to a pear orchard of one hundred or of one thou- sand trees ? What are the six and twelve best varieties of the Peach for a family orchard ? What are the best varieties, and how many of each, are best adapted to a Peach orchard of one hundred or of one thousand trees ? Answers to these questions should be made from reliable experience, and with reference to the proximity or remote- ness of the market. Societies will please transmit to the Secretary, at an early day, a list of the Delegates they have appointed. Gentlemen desirous of becoming members can remit the admission fee to Thomas P. James, Esq., Treasurer, Phila- delphia, who will furnish them with the Transactions of the Society. Life Membership, twenty dollars ; Biennial, two dollars. Packages of Fruits may be addressed to Wm. S. Car- penter, Esq., 468 Pearl street, N. Y. MARSHALL P. WILDER, President. p. BARRY, Esq., Seoretart. PROCEEDINGS. AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Official Abstract of the Proceedings and Discussions of the Seventh Session, held in New York, September 14th to 16th, 1858. The Seventh Session of the American Pomological So- ciety was held at Mozart Hall, in the City of New York, on the 14th, 15th and 16th of September, 1858. Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, President of the Society, opened the Session at 11 o'clock, A. M., at which time over one hundred delegates were present. The first business of the Society was the reception of the credentials of Delegates. LIST OF DELEGATES. MASSACHUSETTS. Marshall P. Wilder Boston. C. M. Hovey Cambridge. Jonathan Grant Worcester. J. S. Cabot Salem. W. R. Austin Dorchester. Cheever Newhall " Edward Norton .Framingham. Charles 0. Whitmore Boston. A. D.Weld " A. D. Williams .... Roxbury. B. H. Warren Chelmsford. James M. Paul North Adams. B. V. French Boston. Samuel Walker Roxbury. \ 8 C. M. Bay ley , Newburyport. B. F. Cutter Lowell. Asa Clement " Wm. C. Strong Brighton. COITNECTICUT F. Trowbridge New Haven. Stephen Hoyt .New Canaan. G. W. Russell Hartford. Daniel Wadsworth East Norwich. Elizur C. Clark .New "Haven. William Clift Stonington. J. J. Howe Derby. Charles Dickerson New Haven. T. S. Gould West Cornwall. N. A. Bacon New Haven. Norman Porter Berlin. NEW YOEK. Wm. F. Ferris Throg's Neck. Charles Downing Newburgh. Jas. Knight, M. D New York. D. F. Manice .Hempstead, L. I. J. F. Boynton, M. D Syracuse. C. W. Grant, M. D lona Island. A. P. Cumings New York. William Lawton New Rochelle. Wm. Brooksbank Hudson. H. E. Hooker Rochester. W. P. Townshend Lockport. W. R. Prince Flushing. Samuel B. Parsons " Robert B. Parsons " John G. Bergen Brooklyn. Thos. W. Field " Orange Judd New York. Thos. Hogg. E. A. Frost Rochester. W. S. Carpenter New York. 9 Geo. Elwanger Rochester. P. Barry Jolm Groshen, Pres. Hor. Soc.New York. Wm. Howe North Salem. 0. M. Hooper Rochester. John C. Hanchett Syracuse. J. J. Maxwell Geneva. A. Saul Newburg. John D. Wolfe New York, J. Buchanan " Wm. Bryce " James Bryce " Clarence T. Barrett Staten Island. Peter B. Mead Manhassett, L. I. Henry 0. Freeman Ravenswood, L. I. H. E. Boardman Rochester. C. L. Hoag Lockport. James Johnston, M. D Rochester. Robert L. Stuart New York. Wm. Davidson " Daniel Higgins Flushing. Chas. T. Schmidt Pallisades. Geo. H. Hansen New York. E. Newberry Brooklyn. Wm. B. Smith Syracuse. N. F. Arms Albany. E. W. Sylvester Lyons. P. B. Bristol, M. D Dansville. Chas. Reeve , . Southold. J. B. Mantel Astoria. John B. Eaton Buffalo. S. P. Carpenter New Rochelle. S. T. Kelsey Great Yalley. Wm. Emerson New York. Andrew Merrill Geneva. NEW JERSEY. Wm. Reid Elizabeth. Emile Berckmans Plain I 119 have had no mildew. There is no trouble in nsing it, or very little — excepting in the first preparation — as it is only applied where water would otherwise be used, in the same way, for moistening the house. It is cleanly, and prevents the necessity of covering the fruit with sulphur, as I have some times seen it, on exhibition at Horticultural and Agri- cultural Fairs. The natural bloom of the fruit is certainly more agreeable to the eye. Passing over other fruits, named in your letter, I will only add a few words respecting the English Gooseberry, to communicate a fact which I think may be worthy of recording. I believe this fruit is seldom culti- vated with success in our climate, on account of its liability to be affected by mildew. One of my neighbors has about a dozen bushes, of the Whitesmith variety, I believe, which stand near the edge of a terrace facing the south, and raised up two or three feet above the level of his garden, which lies adjoining. The ground about the bushes is kept clear of weeds and in good cultiva- tion. These bushes have borne abundant crops of perfectly fine fruit for several years, and have never been attacked by mildew. The same variety, in the garden adjoining, is as badly affected with mildew as it is in any other situation. This case seems to show that the English Gooseberry requires exposure and ventilation instead of protection or shelter. Very respectfully yours, JOHN J. HOWE. REPORT FROM NEW HAVEN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. At a meeting of the Pomological Society, (in New Haven) regularly warned and held on Friday evening, Sept. 3d, 1858, the request of the American Pomological Society for an opinion as to the six and twelve best varieties of Pears on Pear Stocks ; and the same number on Quince Stocks, /or family use, was considered, and after due deliberation, it was 120 Voted, That the Secretary furnish the General Chairman of the American Pomological Society with two lists of Pears containing twelve varieties each, one on Pear Stock and one on Quince Stock, as follows, viz : First six best varieties on Pear Stocks. Winter Nelis, Lawrence, Beurre Deil, ' Vicar of Winkfield, Seckel, Bartlett. Second six best. Belle Lucrative, Buffum, Doyenne Boussouck, Flemish Beauty, Onondaga, Urbaniste. First six best varieties on Quince Stocks. Beurre Diel, Vicar of Winkfield, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Belle Lucrative, Duchess d'Angouleme, Glout Morceau. Second six best. Winter Nelis, Figue, Beurre Superfine, Urbaniste, Doyenne Boussouck, Easter Beurre, as containing the opinion of this Society, asked for of them. Pursuant to instructions above recited, I herewith for- ward the opinions asked for, to be compared with those w^hich you may receive from other sources. With much respect, NATH. A. BACON, Sec'y. New Haven, Sept. 4th. Hon. Sam'l Walker, Chairman General Fruit Com. : I send you enclosed, from the Pomological Society in this city, their expressed opinion in relation to Pears for family use. Col. Wilder saw fit to ask me at Rochester, in 1856, if I would furnish a report from Connecticut in 1858, to your Society. I was inconsiderate enough to reply that I would, or would see that it was done. 121 On the 9th of July last I sent circulars to every county in the State, and in some counties, to two or three towns in each — wherever enterprising and persevering fruit growers were located. Responses to these circulars have been re- ceived, containing the experience of the writers ; which, as I find myself unable to do, I have engaged Doct. Thos. H. Tot- ten, of this city, to embody into a report, and hand the same to you. Delegates to the biennial meeting of the American Pomo- logical Society in New York, Sept. I4th, have been appoint- ed by the Connecticut State Agricultural Society, the Hart- ford County, Windham County, Fairfield County, New Lon- don County and New Haven County Agricultural Societies, the New Haven County Horticultural Society, and the Pomo- logical Society in this city. I think I shall be excused from writing out the report from Connecticut, when it is made known that for five weeks past I have been constantly employed on a Committee to ex- amine into the affairs of a mismanaged Bank in this City, with the prospect of similar occupation for weeks yet to come. I do hope, however, to get a respite of a day or two, after September 13th, Should you see Col. Wilder, please state to him my operations and limitations. Yery respect- fully, NATH. A. BACON. REPOET FROM NORWICH. Nath. a. Bacon, Esq. : Sir — I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 9th inst., wherein you request information in regard to my proceedings and of their results in the matter of cultivating various fruits during the two years last past, and also a statement of the doings, with their results of other fruit growers in this vicinity. To give an intelligent reply as to my own proceedings, I 16 122 must premise that the place I occupy has been in the family about 75 years, when my father purchased and built here, and stocked his grounds with most of the desirable fruits of that period, and numbers of the old apple and cherry trees are still remaining and yielding abundantly very fine fruits. Since the place has been in my possession (some fifteen or sixteen years), I have been engaged in adding to the old stock a large collection of nearly all the well-proved fruits cultivated in our region of country, the selections made on the judgment of the leading and most experienced Horticul- turalists in this and the neighboring States. My orchards and nurseries occupy about four acres of ground, and the garden proper, upwards of an acre ; the soil is well adapted for fruit, a large proportion being of a strong loam retentive of moisture, underlaid in general with a light yellow loam^ with occasional clay, &c. ; the inclination is for the most part to the west, with a portion to the South. The following list embraces the different varieties of fruit in cultivation, a part, however, in nursery rows, and not yet in bearing : 120 varieties of Pears. 10 varieties of Grapes, open Apples. culture mostly, not yet in Cherries. bearing. Plums. 8 varieties of Strawberries. Peaches. Apricots. Nectarines. Grapes under glass. Now as to the result of my labors, and here is a wide field open to remark. I must of necessity be brief, and can only touch upon a few leading topics. It will be seen that I have gone somewhat largely into the cultivation of pears, of dwarfs, about 800 trees, mostly from five to seven or eight years from the bud (a few of twice the age), and of standards as many more, from seed planted some twelve years ago by myself, and budded and grafted at various times, together with some thirty of a larger class^ perhaps twenty years old, mostly in full bearing. 75 do. 20 do. 15 do. 14 do. 6 do. 6 do. 10 do. 3 do. Raspberries. 5 do. Blackberries. 4 do. Currants. 6 or 8 do. Gooseberries, 123 There has been much discussion, as you know, as to the advantage of cultivating the dwarf pear at all ; some persons it would appear have been unsuccessful, and indulge in a sweep- ing condemnation 5 now my experience leads me to think that their failure may have been owing to some defect of management ; I too in the beginning made some sad mistakes in soil and in localities, by which many trees were injured and not a few lost (particularly in the trying winters of '56 and '57), sufl&cient indeed to have discouraged one not over sanguine. I persevered, however, and have now a lot of trees, the larger proportion of which from their vigor, form , and healthfulness, give me entire satisfaction. It is to be considered that in some soils heavy and moist, where the ap- ple and even the standard pear would thrive, the pear on quince would not, and indeed is liable to be killed outright. Again in soil quite the opposite, high and dry, but exposed to the north and west winds of winter, where the roots are liable to freezing and thawing, while a standard pear might survive, a dwarf would be much exposed to be killed. Certain conditions are indispensable to entire success in growing dwarf pears, and although these have been repeat- edly stated in the horticultural works of the day, yet I will again name them in this connection : First, a suitable locality and soil should be chosen, next well-grown thrifty trees should be selected from a reliable nursery (two years from the bud is best), and only of such kinds as are known to thrive on the quince, and that the Anjero quince ; then the holes should be properly prepared, and the tree so set as to bury the entire quince stock, two or three inches under ground ; this last precaution I consider very important, as it conduces much to the increase of the quince root and stock in propor- tion with the pear, and further to emission of roots from the pear stock itself, thus adding to the vigor and growth of the tree, without destroying its dwarf habit. I instituted an ex- amination the past week on twenty-one dwarf trees in three different localities, mostly Glout Morceau stocks, three and four years set out (six years from the bud), and double- worked, and found no less than twelve of the number had made roots from the pear, some of them quite strong, and all 124 but three or four very strong-rooted at the junction between pear and quince and within an inch below ; these trees had generally made shoots this season from eighteen to thirty inches, more or less, and were as firm in the ground as oaks. While trees are growing so thriftily as this, they will not for the first three or four years (with exceptions, however,) pro- duce much fruit, generally none ; but this is decidedly for the permanent advantage of the tree ; it is a great mistake to let small, feeble trees, just from the nursery, ripen the fruit they incline to produce by the check in growth they get by trans- planting, to their permanent injury. I have double worked the dwarf pear extensively, and have found much difference in the stock for the purpose ; the Glout Merceau being by far the best I have tried, and the Duchesse d' Angouleme the poorest. The Flemish Beauty and Bartlett (and many others), which do not thrive as a gen- eral rule on quince, grow admirably double-worked on Glout Morceau. Apples, as our most valuable fruit, have also had my at- tention somewhat extensively. I have a young orchard of an acre or more, but six years set out, which I think would compare favorably, in size, form and fruitfulness with any other of similar age in the country ; though from my old trees, consisting of about twenty standard varieties, I have a great deal more fruit than my own wants require the year round. I say the year round, for by means of fruit rooms, constructed with a view to a proper atmosphere as to damp- ness and dryness, with an entire control of the temperature, I can double the value of the greater part of the fruit I pro- duce, by keeping them twice the period of their duration under ordinary treatment. As to the varieties of stone fruits, there are so many diffi- culties attending their successful cultivation in this neighbor- hood, that by most persons who would not regard cost or trouble to insure success, they have been abandoned. The curculio is the only serious obstacle to raising the plum. I have many standard trees of this fruit, and when I have in earnest set about protecting them, I have been successful, and I know others who do give this attention year after year and 125 save their fruit. The attack of the curculio is equally des- tructive to both Apricot and Nectarine. Then Peaches have their difficulties, all of which could be got along with, I think, were it not for the "yellows," which disease is here, at least, unmanageable. Not having been successful in my attempts at raising these last three named in the ordinary way of out- door open culture, I am engaged in the attempt to raise them in large pots to be kept under cover of glass through the winter and early spring and then to be brought out into the open air to ripen and acquire their proper flavor. I have no time to go into the detail of this method, and indeed I have already wandered too far from the gist of your letter ; but if your curiosity be excited to learn it, a little work publish- ed in England by Rivers, Nurseryman at Sawbridgeshire, will give you particulars ; this work can be had at Moore's Ag. Book store, Fulton street, New York. I have some 80 of these pots referred to, 14 in. at top, perforated with large holes at bottom, by which the roots strike deep into the earth in a single season, and give great vigor to the trees ; nine trees, two years established, are pictures of health and fruitfulness, being full of fruit buds. Now, a word as to the " doings and their results" of "other fruit growers" in this vicinity and in this town in particular. A great advance has been made " within the last two years" in the cultivation of nearly all the fruits you have named. Every house-holder, with but a small garden, appears to feel it indispensable to have not his apples only but his pears, cherries, and grapes, with the smaller fruits ; and larger es- tablishments are not thought complete without having in ad- dition the cold grapery, or the forcing house. I can count of these six new ones in the process of erection or about being built ; it is further gratifying to perceive the smaller towns in the county awakening to the importance of fruit growing. Our County fair, recently established, has conduced greatly . to this result. We have 10,000 persons brought together at the annual exhibition, in which the show of fruit has been one of the most interesting features, such as would have been creditable to larger communities. While the disposition to cultivate apples by our farmers 126 is increasing, it is to be regretted that the difficulties in the way of their successful cultivation is increasing in a still greater ratio. I refer to the attack of insects, which for several years past have destroyed or greatly injured a'large part of the crop. The most destructive of these is the apple worm moth, which deposits its egg in the eye or blossom end of the young fruit, commencing its depredations about the middle of June and continuing it for several weeks. Yery little effort has as yet been made to destroy this pest, but un- less there be, we may make up our minds to abandon sooner or later the cultivation of this most valuable of fruits. Flame fires kept up in the orchard at night, at the time the moth is most active : broad-mouthed bottles, suspended in numbers with sweetened water to entrap them ; and if these be ne- glected, at least the daily removal of all the wormy falling fruit (for the worm leaves the apple soon after its fall). I say, these precautions, if generally attended to, could not fail to be of infinite importance, both as to the quantity and quality of the fruit produced. It now simply remains for me to complete the series of your inquiries, by giving a list or number of varieties of the apple and the pear, such as I would recommend for cultiva- tion for a given number of trees. My answer must be con- sidered as specially intended for this neighborhood, i. e. for consumption here or for sale here. Were I making out a list for New York, for instance, it would be entirely different. In that case I should leave out the Russet and a portion or all of other kinds, and insert in their place, Newtown Pippin and Bsopus Spitzenburgh — both vastly superior to the Russet in quality, but which do not grow to advantage here. The same course of remark may hold good, for ought I know, to your own town, or other parts of the State. First, you ask , what are the six varieties of the apple best adapted to a family orchard of one hundred trees, and how many of each sort should it contain ? The word " family " here has rather puzzled me in connection with so large a number as 100 trees. These, in full bearing, would be sufficient for a dozen families , and one person owning them, would consider nine-tenths the quantity for market, and would thus grow those kinds that, 127 taking all things in view, promised to be most profitable with a view to sale. My answer is with this consideration : APPLES. Best six varieties of one hundred trees : Gravenstein 5 Baldwin 25 E. I. Greening 20 Ladies' sweeting. 10 Eox. Russets ,30 Cogswell pearmain 10 Best twelve varieties for one hundred trees : Red Astracan 3 Ladies' sweeting 6 Sweet bough 3 Baldwin 20 Fall pippin 5 Gravenstein 5 R. I. Greening .10 Yellow Belle fleur . . 6 Rox. Russets 20 Hubbartson's Nonsuch. . . 6 Cogswell pearmain 10 Danvers W. Sweet 6 Best twenty varieties for one hundred trees : Early Harvest 2 Ladies' sweeting 4 Red Astracan 3 Danvers winter Sweet. . . 2 Gravenstein 3 Yellow Belle fleur 3 Porter 3 Cogswell Pearmain 8 Fall pippin 5 Dutch Mignonne 3 Early sweet bough 2 Peck's pleasant 5 Golden sweeting 2 Hubbartson's Nonsuch. . . 5 Rox. Russet. 15 Swaar 5 Greening 10 Summer Sweet Paradise . . 2 Baldwin 15 William's favorite 3 PEARS Best six sorts on pear stock : Doyenne d'Ete, or Ott. Louise Bonne de 'Jersey, or, Flemish Beauty. rather. Belle Lucrative. Bartlett. Lawrence, or Winter Nelis. Beurre d'Anjou. Best twelve sorts on pear stock : Doyenne d'Ete. Muskingum. Flemish Beauty. Beurre Diel. Belle Lucrative. Winter Nelis. Rostiezer. Bartlett. Doyenne Boussock. Beurre d'Anjou. " \ Seckel. Lawrence. 128 Best six sorts on quince stock : Rostiezei% Ducliesse d'Angouleme. Beurre DieL Beurre d'Anjou. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Lawrence, or Beurre Langelier Best twelve sorts on quince : Doyenne d'Ete. Beurre Diel. Beurre d'Anjou. Beurre Langelier. Vicar of Winkfield. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Olout Morceau. Belle Lucrative. Rostiezer. Lawrence. Duchesse d'Angouleme. Urbaniste. The Roxbury Russet, although considered by most in- ferior as to quality, has so many good qualities for produc- tiveness every year, long keeping without decay, &c., that I ■consider it one of the most desirable here for profit. I am, dear sir, Your very obd't serv't, DANIEL W. COIT. REPORT OP THE MASSACHUSETTS POMO- LOaiCAL COMMITTEE. BY DR. EBEN WIGHT, OF DEDHAM. On the 3d of September, the Committee of the American Pomological Society visited the extensive pear gardens of Col. Marshall P. Wilder, of Dorchester, and Messrs. Hovey,. Cambridge, in whose hands are to be found all the new kinds for testing and the older varieties worth retaining, and by each gentleman every facility was afforded the Committee,, and much valuable information was gleaned from Messrs. W. & C. M. H., who are unsurpassed for all information relative to the culture of the pear. And the Committee were glad to find no difference of opinion between the two gentlemen rela- tive to a single variety, when questioned as to promise or quality of fruit, productiveness in bearing, &c. 129 The remarks which follow upon the varieties which fol- low, were gathered as we passed from tree to tree : Beurre-Hardi — The favorable opinion heretofore expressed of this variety holds good. Buffum — Though not strictly first in quality, yet, taken for all in all, it is one of the most desirable, and worthy of general cultivation. Of this fact, the Committee were con- firmed in their recent visit to Col. Wilder's, where was found marshaled on either side of the long avenue, drawn up as it were in true military style, with heads erect— the Buffum acting the duty of sentinel for those of lesser growth or those on quince within the square. This variety, considering its growth, hardiness, &c., might in a measure act as a barrier in the place of evergreens, planted as screens to protect fruit trees in blossom. These Buffums were some twelve feet apart, are prodigious bearers, and still maintain an erect head, giving a crop of about three barrels for trees, which had been planted about fifteen years. Doyenne Boussock — ^This is a large pear, and when picked early, cannot fail of giving satisfaction. It is a magnificent grower and very hardy. Buerre Superfin — Of the first quality, not yet a prolific bearer, but cannot well be dispensed with. Equal to the old Brown Beurre in its best condition. Abbott — A good grower, good bearer, very handsome and always proves good. Season, October. Louise Bonne de Jer^e^/— This has proved good, not only in the hands of Messrs. W. & H., but in every other garden visited during the season. Each and all speak of it as one of the most productive and best paying varieties. Of one hun- dred trees in the grounds of Col. Wilder, and a like number at Messrs. Hoveys, on the quince, both have afforded a hand- some return. Shepherd — A seedling raised in Dorchester, giving promise of being one of our best varieties for the season — ripening the first of October — size large. Sterling — This has proved uniformly handsome, and a good variety for market — coming early in September, and is productive- It 130 Charles Van Hooghten — This is a very large pear, an abundant bearer, and must pay well as a market fruit. Sea- son, September — quality, medium. Beurre d^Anjou — On all sides the same good opinion is expressed as heretofore. Col. Wilder has two or three hun- dred trees, and he intends to increase the number still fur- ther. Madame Eliza — Here we have another which promises well for the market. A large fruit, and very prolific. Ripen' ing in December. JBmile d'Heyst — Continue to prove fine and fair, resembling in flavor and quality the Beurre d'Aremberg, and of same texture ; a much better grower, , Season, November to De- cember. St. Michel Jirchange — Succeeds well, both on quince and on its own root, and proves fine. Henri Bivort — Is a great bearer, sweet and high flavored : but is of short duration. Ripens September first. C7r5a7iw^e— This very desirable pear does better on the quince than on its own root. Trees of this variety in Col. Wilder's grounds twelve years from the planting, are bearing from one to two bushels each. Dallas — On the pear stock is some fifteen years in coming into bearing, though, for hardiness, it rivals the oak, a hand- some, well flavored fruit. Ripening in November. Meriam — This, as well as the Shepherd, originated in Norfolk County, and is sufficient honor for any one county without naming its other seedling varieties, when considered for the market, where it proves one of the most attractive of its season. Ripens about the twentieth of September. Theodore Van Mons — Proves well, forming a fine pyra midal tree. The fruit rich, and has uniformly been good- Season, October. Nouveau Poiteau — Makes a very handsome, hardy and thrifty tree — fruit large and abundant— keeping till November, but rather too buttery. Doyen Dillen — A large winter variety of high flavor — ripening in December. In warm rich soil gives promise of being valuable. 131 tJonsellier de la Cour — A new pear of large size, excel- lent quality — a hardy tree, promising to be a compeer of the Beurre d'Anjou, but more vinous and spirited in flavor- Ripens in October and November. Antoinettes—Makes a handsome pyramidal tree, promis- ing well ; fruit periform, handsome and medium size. Season, October and November. Gros Rousselet dfAoid — Handsome, and as an early sort may prove desirable. Season, last of August. Beurre Keujies — Is a superior pear, a great bearer, hang- ing in clusters of a handsome russet color — size, medium. Season, October. Beurre Nanfais— In quality is very fine, and is equally desirable on the quince or its own root. Season; October. Howell — Still holds its place foremost among the many, always fine and keeping well. Season, November. Sheldon — This, and the following three varieties, the Messrs. Hovey grow in abundance, as paying well for the market. Swanks Orajige — Proves a good bearer, is handsome and hardy — a fine market fruit. Adams — ^For general cultivation, repays handsomely — as does the Boston — Which the Committee tested in quantities, and from the abundance consumed, must have spoken well for their opinion. The Committee were unanimous in deciding on the fol- lowing named varieties for pears on their own roots, viz., twelve varieties : Bartlett. Rosteizer. Urbaniste. Meriam. Vicar of Winkfield, Flemish Beauty. Buffum. Belle Lucrative. Beurre d'Anjou. Doyenne Boussock. Lawrence. Swan's Orange. On Quince, six varieties. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Vicar of Winkfield. Urbaniste. Beurre d'Anjou. Duchesse d'Angouleme. Glout Morceau. 132 Apples for six varieties. Williams. Fameuse. Early Bough. HubbardstoDo Gravenstein. Baldwin. For twelve varieties add Red Astrachan. Roxbury Russet. R. I. Greening. Smith's Cider. Ladies' Sweet. Talmans' Sweet. STRAWBERRIES. " The only varieties cultivated to any extent are the Early Scarlet, Hovey, Boston Pine, Jenny Lind and Brighton Pine, and these have uniformly done well. Peabody's Seedling has failed of giving satisfaction. GRAPES (OUT-DOOR CULTURE). The Delaware, has_,been found to increase in the size of the berry as the vines become more fully matured, and merits the first place for out-door culture. The Diana, can always be relied on, as ripening seasona- bly for gathering before our early frosts. The Concord, is well spoken of for the Middle States where it ripens better than with us. Mr. Bull's entire crop was this year cut off by the late Spring frosts — his location is peculiarly unfortunate for the culture of grapes, though this is the first year of his failing to ripen this grape since he originated it. It seems to be acknowledged on all sides that it ripens where the Isabella fails. The Rebecca, in the hands of some, has proved hardy enough to withstand our winters without protection, while with others it has been killed to the ground. The Hartford Prolific, while a few condemn it for its quality, all agree that it ripens seasonably for the North, and before the approach of frosts. Some of our cultivators who once discarded it, are now favorably impressed with its early maturity and adaptation to our cold latitude. This has been a season of the greatest abundance with the apple throughout the State, and serves most opportunely for testing the apple as a paying crop. We are all embarked 133 in the same bottom, whether in small craft or in vessels of greater magnitude, still bearing in mind that while " the small craft must keep near shore, the larger vessels may venture more," and it was with this in view that our President sent out his circulars, broad-cast over the land, into the hands of all, growing lesser or larger quantities, asking for information as to which are " the best six, twelve and twenty varieties of the apple and pear grown in your vicinity or State." The Committee of Massachusetts are particularly fortunate in having the opportunity of drawing for informa- tion on a bank which is always ready to discount and was never known to repudiate, and never will, while it has for its directors such men as "Wilder, Walker, Cabot, Stickney, Ho- vey, Austin and Manning, and availing themselves of the occasion, the Committee would take this opportunity of thank- ing them for all the valuable information they have afforded in the examination of their trees, and specimens, and their assistance contributed in making perfect a list in accordance with the above named circular. In our visit to the various grounds of private individuals, we have found all the varieties of soils, culture, &c., yet un- der all and every circumstance, the Baldwin, Williams, Gra- venstien, Fameuse, Hubbardston and R. I. Greening, for apples, were always good — alike was the result with the Bart- lett, Beurre Superfin, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Doyenne Boussock and Beurre d'Anjou pears- While the Bloodgood, in rich grounds highly cultivated, or even with a clay sub- soil, was destitute of flavor and a poor bearer — yet in a gravelly soil (which had been subsoiled) it was of a juicy, de- licious flavor, and one of the most abundant bearers. Such instances as this should warn us not to condemn too hastily a variety of apple or pear till we shall have looked about our ■own neighborhood and learned what has been the result of the experience of others with soil dissimilar to our own. 134 NEW YORKe EEPORT OF GENESEE VALLEY HORTICUL- TURAL SOCIETY. {In Reply to the Questions in the Circular the American Pomological Society.) Best six varieties of apples for family : Red Astracan ....... 10 Baldwin 24 Fall Pippin 12 Talman Sweet 20 R. I. Greening 24 Roxbury Russet 10 This is a very incomplete assortment, not affording a full succession. Best twelve varieties for family : Early Harvest 4 20 Oz. Apple 8 Red Astrachan 4 R. I. Greening 24 Sweet Bough 4 Primate 4 Gravenstein 4 Fall Pippin 6 King of Tompkins Co ... . 4 Talman Sweet 10 Baldwin 18 Roxbury Russet 10 Best twenty varieties for family : Early Harvest 4 Red Astrachan 4 Early Joe 2 Primate 2 Sweet Bough 2 Jersey Sweet 2 Porter 2 Fall Pippin 4 Gravenstein 4 Belmont 4 Best varieties for market : Red Astrachan 60 Golden Sweet 60 Duchess of Aldenburgh. 80 20 Oz. Apple 200 20 Oz. Apple 8 R. I. Greening 12 King of Tompkins Co ... . 6 Fameuse 4 Mother .... 4 Talman Sweet 8 Ladies' Sweet. 4 Baldwin .....10 Northern Spy 4 Roxbury Russet 10 R. L Greening 200 Talman Sweet 100 Baldwin 200 Roxbury Russet 100 135 The proportion to be varied according to the location of the orchard, in regard to marketing. Best six varieties on pear for family : Beurre Gifford. Seckel. Bartlett. Sheldon. Tyson. Lawrence. For twelve add to the above : Bloodgood. Beurre Clairgeau. Flemish Beauty. Winter Nelis. Duchess d'Orleans. Yicar of Winkfield. Best six varieties pears on quince for family : Beurre G-ifford. Duchesse d'Angouleme. Brandywine. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Belle Lucrative. Vicar of Winkfield. For twelve add to the above : Beurre Langlier. Easter Beurre. Beurre Diel. Glout Morceau. Urbaniste. , Beurre d'Anjou. For market orchard on pear : Bartlett. Flemish Beauty. Sheldon. Vicar of Winkfield. Lawrence. On quince : Duchesse d'Angouleme. Easter Beurre. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Vicar of Winkfield. ] Glout Morceau . Best six varieties of peaches for family : Early York Serrate. Oldmixon Freestone. Early Newington. Oldmixon Cling. Crawford's Early. Eed Cheek Melocoton. For twelve add : Cooledge's Favorite. George Fourth. Walter's Early. Crawford's Late. Morris White. Langworthy's Late E. Ripe. 18G Peach orchard of one hundred trees : Early York Serrate 25 Oldmixon Cling 10 Crawford's Early 20 Red Cheek Melocoton 15 Oldmixon Freestone 20 Langworthy's Late 10 H. E. HOOKER, CKm of Fruit Committee, REPORT FROM THE STATE OE NEW JERSEY. The Committee in making out a report for the two past years, have endeavored to get the most reliable information, in regard to fruits, that could be procured from the different parts of the State, but from the great diversity of soil in dif- ferent sections, there may be some kinds recommended that will not succeed equally well in all parts. The present report is confined principally to the northern division of the State, where the soil is of a heavier texture and more inclined to clay. Although the two past seasons have not been as favorable for some kinds of fruit on account of the very se- vere winters we have experienced of late, nevertheless small fruits have generally produced remunerating crops. The apple and peach crops have been very light, throughout the State for the last two years, the former from the effects of the apple worm, the latter from the severity of the weather ; the young orchards are looking finely, however, and we still hope for good crops. Respectfully submitted, WILLIAM REID, Ch'n. STEAWBEEKCES. This season, and the previous one, have both been favor- able for the Strawberry, and good crops have generally been secured, where any attention has been bestowed on their cul- tivation; without this many of our finest strawberries will be little better than the poorest in cultivation. To have straw- berries in the highest perfection, they must have room to grow 137 and the runners cut off several times in the course of the season. If this is done the fruit will be twice the size that it would be under ordinary cultivation : much less trouble and expense to gather, and will command in our markets double the price of ordinary grown fruit. Having in the last re- port given ample directions for the cultivation of this fruit, it would be superfluous to occupy room in going into details. All that is necessary is, to put the ground in good order by trenching, or, when they are to be cultivated extensively for market, the ground may be prepared by using the subsoil plough, with plenty of manure. Plant the rows three feet apart, and fifteen to eighteen inches in the row ; at this width the cultivator may be used in keeping clean. The following varieties have proved good the past season here and have borne abundantly. WilsorCs Seedling — This variety is very popular here, be- ing an abundant bearer, and large size. This is a staminate variety. Longworth's Prolific, and Extra Red, are the best Cincinnati varieties, yielding large crops. Early Scarlet, and Iowa, are generally planted as early varieties. Among the English varieties, Trollope's Victoria has done the best, producing berries of a large size, and is good for a late crop. Hovey's Seedling is also cultivated extensively, and where good cultivation is given, produces good crops. A number of new seedlings have been grown within the last two or three years. A late variety raised by Mr. Boyden, of New- ark, and named by him "Late Mammoth," valuable on account of its lateness, continuing a week after all others are gone, a large fine berry, and of a good uniform size. Peabody's Seedling has also been in bearing, but does not prove as good here as it does in the South, Wilson's, Hovey's and others being superior, both in size and quantity. It must not be forgotten, however, that some kinds of strawberries, like many other fruits, succeed in some soils better than others ; this can only be known by making a trial. Let every person that grows strawberries raise a few seedlings every year, from the best varieties ; this can be done without loss of ground or time, and if the seeds are sown immediately after the fruit is ripe, in the shade, they 18 138 will frequently produce fruit the following year, and Lear abundantly the second. Many of these will be equal to kinds that frequently have a reputation, and a few may be superior in size and bearing qualities, but great care ought to be taken to distribute nothing for cultivation unless they really pos- sess some merit over varieties already named. RASPBERRIES. For market culture, the great desideratum is to procure hardy varieties, that will stand without covering in winter. This we have not yet been enabled to obtain, except what have been raised from the common red or English Raspberry. By raising seedlings we frequently get superior sorts, and some of them will be almost as large as the Antwerp varie- ties. A little more attention to the raising of seedlings from the best sorts, both Antwerp and common kinds, will no doubt enable us to get them of superior size, as well as hardy. There is nothing so easy to raise from seed as Raspberries. Save some of the best berries, wash the seed out and sow at the time of gathering, or in the spring, in hot-beds, transplant the beginning of summer in rows, when they will bear abun- dantly the second year. The following varieties are culti- vated here : Franconia ; this variety although not hardy, re- quiring protection, is cultivated to some extent for market, being rather firmer and not so liable to get injured in mar- keting as the Fastolf. Fastolf ; this is one of the best of the Antwerp varieties, but requires protection in winter. For marketing it is rather soft, and not as well adapted as some others. North River Antwerp ; a variety cultivated exten- sively in the vicinity of Newburgh ; canes light gray color and rather smoother than some of the Antwerps ; this is also tender, requiring covering, but a very good bearer, and ber- ries of medium size. Brinckle's Orange is beginning to be cultivated to some extent and has proved of excellent quality, one of the best of the white or yellow varieties. The common red and purple- fruited, are also cultivated extensively, but do not command the price of the Antwerp varieties. The twice, or perpetual bearing: varieties, have been neglected, by most cultivators. 139 w^i being profitable, or rather in at a season when the de- mand is limited. Raspberries are found to be profitable for marketing, being much less expensive in gathering than other small fruits, and when good canes have been preserved, yield very a^bundantly. BLACKBERRIES. The severe winters of 1856 and '57, injured the tops of all the Blackberries in this neighborhood, so that little fruit was produced. The past winter, however, was much milder and the plants have stood without the least injury, producing ex- traordinary crops of fine sized berries. There is nothing produces so abundantly, in the way of small fruits, continuing to bear for several weeks, filling up the season after Rasp- berries and Currants, until the larger fruits are in season. The variety called New Rochelle, or Lawton, is the kind in general cultivation here. Dorchester, or Hi^h Bush, is also in cultivation, both varieties promise to be very productive. The New Rochelle is considered the best of the two ; acres of ground are being planted as fast as the plants can be fur- nished, the price now being reduced to very reasonable rates. At the last meeting of the Pomological Society at Rochester considerable discussion took place in relation to the proper name of the New Rochelle Blackberry. For the information of those who may not be familiar with its history, I would state, that more than twenty years ago this Blackberry was introduced, and known as Secor's Blackberry, and afterwards called New Rochelle • this variety is now in general cultiva- tion. They were sold at that time at $3 per dozen, but being little known it was some years before they were cultivated to any extent. Shortly after being known, however, they were advanced to the fabulous price of six and nine dollars per dozen. This same variety afterwards had Lawton added to it, and is now sold by Nurserymen as the New Rochelle or Lawton Blackberry. CURRANTS. Many new kinds are being added from year to year and being easily raised from seed, no doubt improvements will 140 be attained. The Red and White Dutch, White Grape, and Cherry, are the varieties in general cultivation, and for a main crop can be relied on. The Cherry Currant is one of the largest at present in cultivation, the fruit frequently being as large as a niazzard cherry. The following kinds have done well : Victoria, Knight's Sweet Red, Red Grape; also two or three French varieties promise well. Currants being a fruit that seldom or ever fails to bear fine crops, even with ordinary care, but when the ground is well prepared by trenching and manuring before planting, the difference in the size is astonishing, so that they are frequently taken for distinct varieties ; they require pruning, that is thinning out the branches and shortening moderately ; they are also im- proved by a slight thinning of the young shoots in May. GOOSEBERRIES, On light soils, have produced excellent crops free from mildew. On heavy soils, although considered the best for the Gooseberry, they have been for several years lost entire- ly from this cause. White and yellow varieties seem to suc- ceed the best. The Houghton gooseberry is free from mil- dew and although of small size bears very abundantly and is valuable for making tarts ; this variety seems to succeed on any soil. CHERRIES. For the last two years, in this section of the country, cherries have not been as fine as usual. In 1857 we had a tolerably fair crop of some kinds ; this season has been almost a failure, particularly of the white varieties, which, with very few exceptions, have rotted before getting ripe. Napoleon Bigarreau, and the old Bigarreau, or Graffion, which are generally large and fine, have also entirely failed. May Dukes and Morellos have done better and produced good crops. The following varieties have been the best and are recommended for general cultivation. Purple Guigne — ^If it were possible to get the fruit, is one of the earliest by ten or twelve days, but unless a great num- 141 ber are planted or some way of protection provided, tlie birds are sure to take them as fast as they get ripe. Cue's Transparent — Is one of the first good cherries that ripens here, being a few days earlier than Knight's Early Black, and quite equal to any Cherry grown, hardy and a good bearer, and worthy of general cultivation. Knighfs Early Black — Is also an excellent early cherry, nearly or quite equal to Black Tartarian, ripening a few dayS earlier. Black Tartarian, Black Eagle, Downer's Late Red and Black Heart (the old original variety) are all popular kinds for general cultivation. The old Black Heart produces larger crops, and more sound cherries than any variety that we have in cultivation, ripening a week after Black Tarta- rian, and, although not quite as large as this variety, yet of excellent quality : all those who cultivate to sell, ought to plant this variety extensively. Bigarreau and Napoleon Bigarreau are two of the best light cherries ; in ordinary sea- sons, they produce large crops. All of the early White Hearts are worthless and not worth room, compared to other early kinds. May Duke and Morello varieties — These two classes of cherries ought to be extensively cultivated ; when taken into consideration they are of more value than the Heart or sweet varieties of cherries 5 they are not only very hardy, but sel- dom fail to produce large crops, beginning with the May Duke and Early Richmond (or Kentish) ; the former is also an excellent table cherry when perfectly ripe and one of the best for culinary purposes. The Early Richmond, or Kentish, ripens about the same time as the May Duke and continues in season for some time. This variety is used altogether for tarts or pies and is always saleable in our markets and prof- itable to cultivate. Later again are, Reine Hortense, a fine hardy cherry of the May Duke tribe, excellent for cooking ■and one of the handsomest cherries grown ; this variety suc- ceeds remarkably well. After this the common Morello comes in season, a great bearer, but liable for the last few years to become knotty. Two of the latest cherries are the English Morello and Carnation ; the former a sure bearer, fruit grow = 142 ing to a large size and hanging on the tree, without rotting, longer than anj^ cherry known. This variet}^ is very acid and requires a large quantity of sugar to preserve it. The Eng- lish Carnation is also a very valuable cherry, when well ri- pened, excellent for table use as well as cooking. Tliis vari- ety has a great resemblance to Belle Magnifique, a French cherry, and is supposed to be identical with this variety. PEAKS. When we take into consideration the length of the season, from the middle of July to the first of May, that pears may be had for dessert and cooking purposes, and their great cer- tainty of bearing, with very few exceptions, makes them one of the most desirable and valuable fruits in cultivation. We have peaches to be sure, which no fruit surpasses, but these are only for a short time ; also the plum, but the great uncer- tainty of this fruit makes it of little value; the apple, although the most valuable in a commercial point of view, yet it can- not be compared to the pear as a dessert fruit. Occasionally some little difficulty attends the cultivation of the pear, in some localities, from getting improper kinds, that are tender and not suited to the climate, or careless cultivation, for it must be borne in mind that the pear requires good cultiva- tion, particularly for a few years when first planted ; when this is given we have no fruit here that gives better satisfac- tion. The following varieties are considered well adapted and of the best quality for this section of country : EARLY SUMMER PEiVRS. Madeline— This variety still retains its superiority over all others as the first really good pear of the season, which improves in quality as the tree gets age. This remark applies to all pears cultivated on the pear root, although they fre- quently bear when, five or six years planted, tolerable crops, yet they seldom attain perfection under ten or twelve years : when worked on the quince, however, five or six years will frequently enable a person to judge of their quality. Beurre Gifard— This fine early pear for the two past seas- ons has produced fine crops, ripe about the first of August, 143 succeeding Madeline, promises to be one of the best at this season, well worthy of cultivation. Doyenne d'Ete — This beautiful early pear has just come into bearing here and promises to be an acquisition to our list of summer varieties ; when gathered from the tree and ripened in the house it is of good quality, ripe about the first of August, grows well on either pear or quince stocks. Beurre Benoist — This for the past two or three years has produced well and promises to be worthy of cultivation, pro- ducing fair, smooth specimens ; ripe the first week in August. Cultivated on the quince. Dearborn's Seedling, Bloodgood, Rostiezer and Ti/son— Are all of good quality and succeed well, the two former are best on the pear root ; Rostiezer grows vigorous on either pear or quince ; Tyson seems to be rather slow in coming into bearing on heavy soils ; this, we believe, is not the case, how- ever, on light soils. English Jargonelle and Windsor — Are two of the best early pears for cooking purposes, being vigorous and produc- ing large crops. AUTUMN PEAKS. Bartlett — For the first early autumn pear we have noth- ing here that equals this, taking into consideration its large size and productiveness, seldom or ever failing, even in unfa- vorable seasons, to produce good crops, makes it one of the most valuable varieties yet introduced for general cultivation ripening at this season of the year. The demand for this pear for the last ten years has been greater than any other kind in cultivation ; a sure evidence of its valuable properties. This variety although generally cultivated on the pear stocky may be cultivated very successfully on the quince, producing on this stock very often the finest specimens. It must be ob- served, however, when planting this variety, as well as all others on the quince, to plant deep enough to cover the stock three inches below the surface of the ground ; without this precaution they seldom succeed well. Beurre d'Amalis — For the past two or three years, is more favorably thought of than formerly, having borne extra- 144 ordinary fine crops of large fruit, and, some seasons, of excel- lent quality, although one of the kinds that do not keep so long as the Bartlett and some others after gathering, yet a very good orchard pear, making a large, yigorous tree. Grows well on either pear or quince. Heathcot—ln this locality grows vigorous and makes an excellent orchard pear and a very regular hearer ; fruit fre- quently equal to a fine White Doyenne ; comes into use after the Bartlett. This variety is best on the pear stock. Andrews — Few better pears are grown than the Andrews, always fair and smooth, of uniform size ; makes a very good orchard tree. Succeeds well in this neighborhood. Duchess (T Angouleme — For the last few years this pear has been extensively planted in this section for marketing. With the exception of the Bartlett we have no pear more sought after, commanding in our markets the highest price, its extraordinary size and good keeping qualities adding greatly to its value; continuing in season frequently six weeks after gathering. This variety is decidedly best on the quince stock in heavy soils, but on light soils it produces well on the pear. Doyenne Boussock — Although not yet in general culti- vation, ought to be in every collection of fruit ; always fair and large, of fine uniform size, frequently as large as the Bartlett ; one of our best pears ; grows on either pear or quince stock, making a vigorous tree. Flemish Beauty — Is another pear that is grown to some extent ; sells well in our markets and at present is very pop- ular, ripening rather after the Bartlett, which makes it more valuable for a market fruit. The quality of this pear, although liable to rot at the core some seasons, is generally considered good. It may be planted with safety on either the pear or quince, although rather slow of growth on the latter stock for a few years, will in time make a vigorous tree. Belle Lucrative — Still retains its popularity as one of our best autumn pears, although not quite so large as those previously mentioned, but of a very fair size when under good cultivation and may be classed as one of the best. May be grown on either pear or quince stock. 145 Louise Bonne de Jersey — This pear on light soils produ- ces remarkably fine specimens and bears abundantly and is one of the most valuable varieties ; grows either on pear or quince ; on heavy soils it is best cultivated on the quince. Beurre Bosc, coming into use after the earlier Autumn Pears are gone, is one of the most valuable we have in culti- vation, keeping remarkably well for several weeks after gathering, and of excellent quality, well adapted for market- ing. Although trees of this variety are rather slow of growth when young, it is perfectly hardy, and makes with age a fine orchard tree — grows only on the pear stock. Urhaniste, is one of those varieties that does not come into bearing very early, but is certainly one of the best orchard trees grown, being of great vigor and hardiness, one of our most valuable varieties for general cultivation. On the quince stock it bears sooner, and makes also a fine tree, but rather slow of growth the first few years. Beurre d'' Anjou, has been for the last two or three years of the very best quality, and will no doubt prove one of our most valuable late autumn pears. Tree hardy and vigorous, grows well on either pear or quince stocks. All of the aforesaid autumn pears may be considered among the best, being suitable either for orchard cultivation or for the amateur; are all of the best quality and vigorous growth. The following kinds of autumn pears have also been in bearing, and many of them promise to be well adapted to general cultivation : Henkill, Cabot, St. Gishlain, Wash- ington, Ananas d'Ete, Stevens Genesee, Beurre Montgeron, Beurre St. Nicholas, Kingsessing,Chancellor,Kirtland Beurre, Brandy wine. Bonne d'Ezee, Buffum, Gushing, Fulton and Henry 4th. WINTER PEARS. Beurre Did, one of our early winter pears, ripe about the first of December, is considered one of the best we have here, of a large size and of the best quality — it grows well either on pear or quince. Vicar of Winkfield, this pear is very productive, and is planted extensively for marketing, one of the largest and finest 19 146 looking pears grown; not quite as melting as some other kinds, but occasionally of very good quality; one of the most profitable in cultivation, and grows well on pear or quince. Winter Nelis, one of the best winter pears, ripening in December ; this variety will not be as profitable for orchard culture as those of a larger size, but ought to be in every col- lection, Glout Morceau, one of our best winter pears; when young it is liable sometimes to produce imperfectly-shaped fruit, but when once it comes into bearing freely, the specimens are fine^ perfectly melting to the core — grows well either on pear or quince. Bergamotte d'Esperen, has been for the two last seasons excellent, keeping until March; one of our best late pears, ripening in the house without any loss; grows well on either pear or quince; on heavy soils produces fine specimens on the quince. Doyenne d'Mencon and Easter Beurre, are two of the latest keeping, pears, will keep sometimes until May; two of the best for this season, and both succeed well in this part of the State. For the sake of abridging these remarks into as little space as possible, many pears of the very best quality have been omitted to be noticed, and ought to be in every amateur's collection. There are also many other kinds which have only borne fruit for the first or second time, that promise well, and some of them, will no doubt be added to our lists for general cultivation on further trial. APPLES. Apples, so long celebrated for their superior quality in this part of the State, have been generally, for the last four or five years, unsound and not fair, from the effects of the apple worm. This season in some sections they are more promising, but generally the crop will be light. It does not seem to be necessary to discard those varieties that have done well, although their fruit has not been fair, as the trees are still vigorous and grow as well as they ever did. The great object seems to be to find some remedy that would pre- 147 yent the depredations of the worm on the fruit. The only- remedy as yet known that would tend to make their number less, would be to gather up all the fallen fruit and feed them out, or when it is convenient to let hogs run in the orchards; this, no doubt, would in some measure reduce their number. From this cause no valuable information has been attained in regard to new varieties for the last few years. The fol- lowing early varieties are among the most valuable for this section : Early Harvest^ for the first of the season has no superior, being one of the best cooking apples known, also an excellent variety for table use. When a fair crop of this can be grown, it always commands a good price, frequently bringing from seventy-five cents to a dollar per bushel. Red Juneating or Strawberry, is also cultivated, but does not in this section produce such fine specimens as the Yellow Harvest, and not as valuable for the orchard. Summer Hagloe — This variety is now in general cultivation, through many parts of the State; succeeds the Yellow Har- vest, a very abundant bearer, of a large size, an excellent market apple, and one of the best cooking apples of the season. Keswick Codling, another excellent early cooking apple, an abundant bearer, valuable for use through the months of August and September. Maiden Blush, Nyack, or Summer Pippin, Orange Pippin, Drap d'Or, Sweet Bough, Red Astra- chan and Summer Rose, are all valuable early varieties. FALL AND WENTER APPLEa Fall Pippin, Gravenstein, Porter, Rhode Island Greening, Hubbardston's Nonesuch, Seek-no-Further, Ramboa, Mon- mouth Pippin, Baldwin, Yellow Bell Flower, Roxbury Rus- set, Newtown Pippin and Smith's Cider are among the best in cultivation here. Sweet Apples for Fall and Winter — Jersey Sweet, Lymans', Pumpkin, Danvers, Tolman's and Hartford Sweet ; and for cider, Campfield and Harrison. 148 PLUMS. We have had no encouragement, since the last report, to speak any more favorably of the cultivation of this fine fruit in this section of country, and, until some change takes place in regard to the curculio, it seems almost useless to attempt its cultivation here ; nothing but disappointment attends it. NECTARINES Can only be cultivated with any certainty under glass, the curculio invariably destroys them when cultivated in open ground. APRICOTS This fruit when trained against buildings and on a trellis sometimes produces good crops, but is very uncertain when cultivated as standards in exposed situations. For the two past seasons have been of very inferior qual- ity. The trees that were in a bearing state having nearly all been injured by the severity of two past winters. Tlie young orchards are again promising and will in the course of another year be in a good bearing condition, when we hope to have peaches again equal to those that have been celebrated all over the country. QUINCES. The crop this season is very promising and will be one of the best that has been produced here for some years. To have fine trees, budded plants are the best for that purpose, being free from sprouts and superior to those grown from cuttings ; they are also, when grown with single stems, much easier cultivated and kept clean. To have fine speci- mens of quinces they ought to be well cultivated, in good ground, and not in wet and uncultivated places as is gener- ally the case. The Pear, Portugal and Apple-shaped varie- ties are cultivated but the Apple-shaped variety is generally preferred. 149 The great attention that is now being paid to this most valuable fruit has been the means of bringing into cultiva- tion many new varieties, and some of them promise to be of great excellence j and, ere long, we are likely to have in place of some ten or twelve kinds as many as are to be found in European collections, and no doubt varieties will be found amongst them suitable for all the different soils and localities in the United States, so that every large city and town through all parts of the country, will be as abundantly sup- plied with fine grapes as they are with apples, peaches, &c. This will require some time and experience to select those kinds best adapted for certain localities, for there is little doubt some of them that succeed well in some places will be unsuitable in others. Let every person that has grapes save some of the seeds, put them in sand or earth and let them be exposed through the winter to the rain and frost and sown in the Spring — they will vegetate without any difiiculty. Isabella and Catawba — Are the only varieties yet in gene- ral cultivation ; here both of these succeed well in favorable seasons, when the foliage keeps free from mildew, which has been rather troublesome for the last two or three years. A deep soil, well drained and not over rich, is considered the best for grape culture, not being so liable to produce such rank growth, which is more liable to take mildew ; and what- ever system may be adapted to training, the wood ought to be extended with plenty of room, the young shoots well selected and all the superflous shoots and fruit rubbed ofi" in the first dressing ; afterwards it will be safer to let them retain nearly all their foliage through the summer ; stopping the young shoots, a few joints above the fruit, will be all they require. When close summer pruning is practiced with frequent pinching of the young growth, it makes the leaves very large, but frequently these will get rust and drop long before the fruit arrives at its maturity, leaving nothing to sustain the fruit except the small watery shoots. This is almost invariably the case in wet seasons. Concord — This variety has been in bearing only to a limited extent. So far it seems to promise well and is likely to be 150 cultivated extensively. It has several good properties, being perfectly hardy, seldom or ever mildews ; a remarkably free grower and a week or ten days earlier than the Isabella, and in quality nearly if not quite equal to this variety. Diana — Although not so well known as the Catawba, has been cultivated for some time. So far, it does not seem to give very good satisfaction ; the bunches, also the berries, are small compared to this variety. It seems to be a few days earlier, but not enough to make it an object to cultivate it in preference to Catawba, this variety being much larger both in bunch and berry, and quite equal to Diana in quality. Rebecca and Delaware — Have not yet got fairly into bearing here. It is to be hoped, however, that they will both succeed, as they will prove a great acquisition to our table varieties. They have been, so far, rather inclined to take mildew when young, but with age, it is hoped, will be free from this calamity. Canby's August, To Kalon, Clinton, Norton's Seedling and several other native sorts are on trial here, but have not yet got fairly established, so that no opin- ion can yet be given in regard to their suitability for culti- vation. Elizabethtown, N. J., ) August 16, 1858. ) Dear Sir — I received a circular last month from the Presi- dent of the Pomological Society, requesting a list of apples, pears and peaches suitable for orchard culture in this State, which I herewith enclose. Yours, very respectfully, WM. REID. To Samuel Walker, Esq., Chairman of Fruit Committee. Best six varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Yellow Harvest 5 R.I. Greening 25 Maiden Blush 10 Baldwin 25 Eall Pippin 10 Roxbury Russet 25 151 Best twelve varieties : Yellow Harvest 5 Maiden Blush 8 Hubbardson's Nonesuch . 8 Sweet Bough 5 Fall Pippin 8 R. I. Greening 10 Best twenty varieties : Yellow Harvest 3 Sweet Bough 2 Summer Hagloe 3 Maiden Blush .......... 5 Fall Pippin 5 Gravenstein 5 Jersey Sweet 2 Hubbardson's Nonesuch . , 5 R. I. Greening 10 Baldwin 8 Baldwin W Yellow Bellefleur 10 Monmouth Pippin 10 Esopus Spitzenburgh 10 Newtown Pippin 8 Roxbury Russet 8 Monmouth Pippin. ....... 8 Yellow Bellefleur 5 Newtown Pippin 5 Talman Sweet 5 Domine 5 Seeknofurther (Westfield) 5 Esopus Spitzenburgh .... 5 Roman Stem 5 Roxbury Russet 5 Lady Apple 4 Varieties of apples for an orchard of one thousand trees : Yellow Harvest 30 Sweet Bough 25 Maiden Blush 50 Fall Pippin.. 50 Gravenstein 50 Jersey Sweet 25 Hubbardson's Nonesuch. . 50 R. I. Greening 100 Baldwin 60 Yellow Bellefleur 60 Esopus Spitzenburgh 50 Newtown Pippin 50 Monmouth Pippin 75 Roxbury Russet 75 Domine 50 Lady Apple 25 Smith's Cider 50 Seeknofurther 50 Roman Stem 25 Wine 25 Talman Sweet 25 Best six varieties of pears on the pear stock : Beurre Giffard. Beurre d'Anjou. Bartlett. Winter Nelis. Seckle. Glout Morceau. • Best twelve varieties of pears : Madeline. Belle Lucrative. Beurre Giffard. St. Geshlain. Bartlett. Seckle. 152 Beurre d'Anjou. Winter Nelis, Vicar of Winkfield. Glout Morceau. Beurre Diel. Easter Beurre. Best six varieties of pears on the quince : Rostiezer. Beurre d'Anjou: Belle Lucrative. Beurre Diel. Duchess d'Angouleme. Glout Morceau. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Best twelve varieties of pears on the quince : Doyenne d'Ete. Vicar of Winkfield. Rostiezer. Beurre Diel. Belle Lucrative. Glout Morceau. Duchess d'Angouleme. Bergamotte d'Esperen. Louise Bonne de Jersey. Doyenne d'Alencon. Beurre d'Anjou. Easter Beurre. For an orchard of one hundred trees on the quince stock : Doyenne d'Ete . . .3 Louise Bonne de Jersey. . 10 Rostiezer 3 Urbaniste 5 Bartlett 3 Beurre d'Anjou 10 Duchess d'Angouleme 5 Vicar of Winkfield 5 Bonne d'Ezee 2 Beurre Diel 5 Belle Lucrative 5 Columbia 3 Beurre Superfin 2 Glout Morceau 5 Andrews 2 Beurre Langelier 3 Stevens Genesee 2 Bergamotte d'Esperen. . . 3 Henri 4th 2 Doyenne d'Alencon 2 Doyenne Boussock 3 Easter Beurre 1 Kirtland Beurre .2 Catilac , 2 Buffum 2 Uvedale's St. Germaine. . 2 Kingsessing 2 Epine du Mas 2 Flemish Beauty 2 For an orchard of one thousand trees on the quince stock. Doyenne d'Ete 10 Louise Bonne de Jersey.lOO Rostiezer 10 Urbaniste 50 Bartlett 25 Beurre d'Anjou 50 Duchess d'Angouleme 100 Vicar of Winkfield 75 Bonne d'Zeer 25 Beurre Diel 65 Belle Lucrative 25 Columbia 50 153 Beurre Superfin 25 Glout Morceau 75 Andrews 25 Beurre Langelier 25 Stevens' Genesee 25 Bergamotte d'Esperen. , 30 Henry IV 5 Doyenne d'Alencon 25 Doyenne Boussock 25 Easter Beurre 10 Kirtland Beurre 10 Catillac 10 Buffum 25 Uvedale's St. Germain.. 10 Kingsessing 10 Epine du Mas 20 Flemish Beauty 25 For an orchard of one hundred trees on the pear stock. Madeline 1 Urbaniste 5 Beurre Giffard 1 Beurre Clairgeau 3 Bloodgood 1 Sheldon 5 Dearborn's Seedling 1 Vicar of Winkfield 5 Hostiezer • I Beurre Diel 5 Tyson 1 Winter Nelis ... 5 Bartlett 5 Lawrence 2 Heathcot 2 Glout Morceau 5 Belle Lucrative 5 Bergamotte d'Esperen .... 3 St. Ghislain , 2 Doyenne d'Alencon 5 Flemish Beauty 5 Easter Beurre 2 Beurre Bosc 5 Windsor, for cooking 2 Andrews 3 Jargonelle " 1 Louise Bonne de Jersey 5 Hericart, " 1 Seckel 5 Hessel, " 1 Duchess d'Angouleme. ...... 2 Uvedale's St. Germain, for Beurre d'Anjou 5 cooking 1 For an orchard of one thousand trees on the pear stock : Madeline 5 Urbaniste 50 Beurre Giflfard 10 Beurre Clairgeau 25 Bloodgood 5 Sheldon 30 Dearborn's Seedling 5 Vicar of Winkfield 50 Rostiezer 5 Beurre Diel 50 Tyson 5 Winter Nelis 30 "Bartlett 100 Lawrence 30 Heathcot 25 Glout Morceau 50 Belle Lucrative 25 Bergamotte d'Esperen .... 50 St. Ghislain 20 Doyenne d'Alencon 50 20 154 Flemisli Beauty 50 Columbia 25 Beurre Bosc 50 Easter Beurre . 50 Andrews 20 Windsor 5 Louise Bonne de Jersey. . . 50 Jargonelle 5 Seckle 50 Hericart 5 Duchess d'Angouleme. ... 10 Hessel 5 Beurre d'Anjou 50 Uvedales St. Germain 5 Best six varieties of peach for a family orchard : Early Newington. George 4th. Early Crawford's Melocoton. Oldmixon Freestone. Late " " Morris White. Best twelve varieties of peach for an orchard : Early Newington. Morris White. George 4th. Oldmixon Freestone. Early York. " Cling. " Crawford's Melocoton. Noblesse. Late " " Grass Mignonne. George 4th. Late Heath Cling. EEPORT FEOM SALEM, N. J. BY D. PETIT. The failure of fruit in this section has been general this year, but the following list is such as ordinarily succeed best with us. APPLES. Early Harvest, Summer Rose, Sweet Bough, Summer Queen, Bevan, Hagioe, Summer Pearmaiu, Well, Blush, Fall Pippin, Cabbagehead, Vandyne, Hay's or Wine, Morgan, Fall Brown, White Seeknofurther, Roman Stem, Turn-of- lane, Winter Queen, Lady, Lambert, Smith's Cider, Sweet Can, Wine Sop, Jersey Russet, Grayhouse, Rhode Island Greening, Cooper's Redling, and Lippincott Sweet. The Newtown and Green Pippins, Spitzenburgs, Baldwins, Bellefleurs, and some other kinds, which succeed further 155 north, fall from tlie trees too early except in cold seasons to make good winter fruit with us. I had intended to present to your notice specimens of some of the above-named varie- ties, which I do not find described in any of the works on fruits, but the failure is such that I cannot find fair specimens. PEACHES. Troth's Early, Early York, George TV, Red Rareripe, Oldmixon Free and Cling, Malocoton, Mignonne, Ward's Late Free, Cook, Crawford's Late Free, Petit Imperial Mam- moth White, Smock and Late Heath. PEAES. Madeline, Catharine, Bartlett, Seckel, Bon Louise, Flem- ish Beauty, Beurre Bosc, Doyenne Boussock, Belle Lucrative, Beurre Gobault, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Figue d'Naples, Ur, baniste. Napoleon, Epine Dumas, Graslin, Duchesse d'Mars, Knight's Monarch, Gratioli de Jersey, GloutMorceau, Passe Colmar, Beurre Easter. CHERRnS, May Duke, Belle d'Choisy, White Heart, Bleeding Heart, Bullock Heart, Carnation, White Bigarreau, Napoleon, Big- arreau, English Elack Heart, Early Richmond and Kentish. REPORT FROM PENNSYLVANIA. The State Fruit Committee respectfully report that, dur- ing the two past seasons, the crops of fruit throughout Penn- sylvania have been utter failures — the present season even more disastrous than the preceding — owing to which the Committee will not be able to exhibit, satisfactorily, any suc- cess in the culture of old fruits or in testing new varieties. The chairman submits the following observationa .from members of the Committee. 156 FROM THOMAS M. HARVEY, JENNERSVILLE, CHESTER CO, To the Chairman of the State Fruit Committee : Two unpropitious fruit seasons give very little new matter, to report from this section. The writer has many or most of the new popular fruit trees in cultivation, but is not able to see the fruit. This season the trees were well set with buds and blossoms, uninjured by the winter ; but, unfortunately, when they were in bloom, cold storms of rain prevailed from the north-east, which so washed away the pollen that little or no fruit set ; and a failure so general has not been known here for thirty years. Under the circumstances we cannot do more on the large fruits, at this time, than to reply to queries propounded in the call for the meeting of the American Pomological Society. In doing this, we must acknowledge that our winter-keeping apples are not all satisfactory. Many varieties, so popular at the North, ripen here prematurely, and do not hold well to the trees. We have on trial many Southern keeping varie- ties, which we trust will be more valuable. At present, the selection for establishing orchards in this section would be about as follows. First, For one hundred trees of sis varieties : Early Harvest 5 Smoke House 25 Fallenwalder 20 Golden Russet, of Massa- Townsend 10 chusetts (sometimes Baldwin 20 called L, I. Eusset) . . 20 For an orchard of one hundred trees, twelve varieties : Early Harvest 2 Baldwin 10 Jeffries 3 Lady 10 R. I. Greening 10 Summer Rose 2 Roman Stem 10 Smoke House 20 Townsend 4 Amer. Golden Russet. . . .10 Holland Pippin 4 Golden Russet of Mass. . 10 For an orchard of one hundred trees, twenty varieties : Knowles' Early 1 Fallenwalder Iq Summer Rose 1 Am. Golden Russet 5 Maiden's Blush. 4 Smith's Cider 5 Rambo 5 Golden Russet of Mass . . 10 157 Baldwin 6 Wine Sap 5 Pennoch 5 Early Harvest 2 Am. Summer Pearmaiu. ... 2 Holland Pippin 4 Townsend 3 Jeffries 2 Smoke House 15 Paradise .... 5 Roman Stem 5 Ailes 5 For an orchard of one thousand trees for market : Lady 100 Am. Summer Pearmain . 25 Fallenwalder 100 Golden Russet of Mass. .100 Duchesse de Brabant. .. 25 Tyson 50 Bartlett 500 Beurre Bosc 25 Lawrence. LOO Early Redstreak 25 Maiden's Blush 25 Smith's Cider 100 Townsend 25 Smoke House 500 One hundred pear trees on pear roots, six varieties : Beurre Gififard 5 Seckel 15 Bartlett 10 Belle Lucrative. 10 Tyson 10 Lawrence 10 One thousand trees on pear root, twelve varieties : Doyenne d'Ete 25 Belle Lucrative 50 Rostiezer 25 Washington . 25 Seckel 100 Buerre Giffard 50 St. Ghislan 25 Six kinds of pears that do well on quince : Rostiezer, Duchess d'Angouleme, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Belle Lucrative, Brandywine, Glout Morceau, For an orchard of one hundred peach trees, six varieties: Troth's Early Red 15 Ward's Late Free 20 George the Fourth 15 Coolidge's Favorite 10 Large Early York 20 Molden's White 20 For an orchard of one thousand peach trees, twelve vari- eties : Troth's Early Red 150 Coolidge's Favorite 50 Old Mixon Free 25 Molden's White 100 Large Early York .200 George the Fourth, 50 Crawf'd's late Molocot'n. 1 00 Ward's Late Free 100 Red Rareripe 50 Morris' White 25 Druid Hill 50 Late Heath 100 158 STRAWBERRIES. The writer has tested about one hundred varieties of strawberries this season. The list ofreal acquisitions is short. Wilson's Albany— Is decidedly the most valuable : for pro- ductiveness we know of no equal. A neighbor counted on one hill, second year from planting (runners kept off), two hundred and eighty berries. For size and firmness, about equal to any, and quality very good. We look with interest to some of its progeny, inheriting the present good properties, improved some in quality. Mc Jivoy's Superior. — Next in order we prefer Mc Avoy's Superior. Triomphe de Grande. — For size and quality Triomphe de G-rande is very fine, but we have yet to learn of its produc- tiveness. Readers JYo. 1 and Black Pine— Yrom Canada, are deserving of further trial. Peabody — In quality is good enough, but in size and pro- ductiveness it does not come up to recommendation. The GermantoiDn — Sent out as a new variety, proves to be Hovey's Seedling, improved by a special manure. The new varieties that are so fine on Long Island do not any of them do so well here, in our soil and culture. These remarks might be prolonged considerably, but it is thought not best to condemn hastily. We need but few vari eties, and they should be the very best. The strawberry blossom I consider, in its normal condi- tion, a perfect flower, furnished with pistils and stamens, but for different varieties a peculiarity of climate and soil is re- quisite for the full development of both sets of organs. So, by submitting a variety of kinds to the same culture, we have some with pistils only, well-developed, others have stamens only, and some have both in perfection. The practical gar- dener knows that varieties having only pistils developed must have plants with stamens planted near by, in order to perfect a crop. It is a fact not generally known, but should be more diffused, that the pistils of the Hautbois species will not be fertilized by the pollen of another species, hence, in practice, there are many unproductive beds of that variety. 159 There are plants of the Hautbois species, with stamens only well developed. A few of these should be planted in proximity to the beds of pistilates to secure a crop of fruit. Considerable attention is being paid in this neighborhood to the cultivation of native grapes. We have now about one hundred named varieties on trial, and know of hundreds of seedlings coming on to claim our attention. This is a lauda- ble enterprise, and deserves to be fostered. Foreign grapes we know are not adapted to our climate. Had our ancestors turned their attention to natives, by this time many of our hills might have been covered with jflourishing vineyards. Catawba and Isabella have been the grapes chiefly cultiva- ted ; very satisfactory sometimes, but not always reliable. Some seasons they are nearly destroyed by mildew, scab and rot. We aim at overcoming some of these imperfections by the new seedlings adapted to our climate. It requires time to test them, and there is prudence in not attempting to re- port until better prepared. FROM WM. G. WARING, OF CENTRE COUNTY. Farmer's High School, op Fenn'a., \ Near Boulsburg, Pa., Aug. 1858. [ To the Chairman of the State Fruit Committee : We have almost no fruit. This is generally attributed to the wet weather in May and June ; but I observe that along our open streams, which, being fed by large springs, do not freeze — there is something of a crop, so that frost, at some period, seems to have done the mischief. Tender trees, shrubs and vines suffered greatly last win- ter ; although it has the reputation of having been very mild. But last November, when every thing was yet watery and tender, a severe freezing occurred — the mercury going down to zero. I think this accounts for the ill-appearance of things in May. • Peach trees continue declining. If I could be present at the meeting in Mozart Hall I should press for a discussion of the condition and culture of peach trees. The question is now, not so much whether we shall plant most trees of Craw- 160 ford or of Yellow Rareripe, as it is whether we can by any means preserve the trees of any sort at all, and render them healthy and productive. I believe the curl of the leaf to be caused by severe injury by frost. The effect is, secondarily, to occasion a late unsea- sonable growth, which, in the next winter, is still less able to resist the destructive influences of early and severe freezing, and thus the evil perpetuates and increases itself. The peach tree naturally requires a longer season than we have. The curl cuts off at least three weeks of the best of it. Every tree-grower knows how deadly the effect is of cutting or stripping the first leaves off from a young tree of any kind. When the young leaves in a forest are cut by hail in May the trees do not recover for some seasons, and some- times never. Every farmer knows that a similar injury to growing corn stops the growth and ruins the crop for that season, be the subsequent weather ever so favorable. That the curl is produced by severe freezing, is proved by trees being free from it, which are kept in cellars or forcing- houses, and by its absence on the south, while when severe frost occurs it is universal. Also, by the fact that shoots is- suing from the clear, white, healthy wood, below the surface, are free from it ; and by the additional reputed fact, that trees trimmed up to long stems are the first and the surest to suffer. I should like to ask the meeting of pomologists whether we cannot devise means of having good peach trees on their own roots, so that all sprouts shall produce the same variety as the original stem. See proceedings of sixth session, p. 76, but read in tenth line from the top renewal for removal. We have a remarkable scarcity of injurious insects this season as well as of fruit. This, I suppose to be owing to the wet weather. The few that we have with us have little fruit to pray upon, and we may entertain great hopes of fine crops of fair fruit next season, from strong, well-recuperated trees. A remarkably heavy blight or rust occurred, however, in the first week of July. The grape vines suffered here as I never saw them before, and have made no growth since. 161 Damson plum trees have leaf-bliglited badly, after a few- years of exemption. Our plantations are doing well at this institution ; and our collections, thanks to very many horticultural friends, are already very large. I make no remarks on varieties, having few specimens this season. But, if I were on a committee to revise the adopted and passed lists, I should move for a number of chansres. From correspondents in the western portions of the State we have the same disastrous effects upon the fruit crop sta- ted. Fewer seedlings have been brought out since last session, which no doubt is attributable to the same cause. THOS. P. JAMES, Chairman. REPORT PROM VIRGINIA. The subscriber in submitting his report to the American Pomological Society, giving a list of the fruits best adapted to his latitude, would state that it is founded on the experi- ence of fruit growers in Maryland, Virginia and North Caro- lina, and farther South. The Society will perceive that but few of the Northern varieties of apples are included ; at best, they are uncertain, and the Winter sorts ripen too early. For an orchard of one hundred apple trees, he would give the following lists : White Juneating — or May Brookes' Pippin, Jan. to Apple 5 April 10 Stripe June, (not Red June) 5 Holady's Seedling, Feb. Carter, Ya., a handsome to April 10 white 5 Rawle's Jannetting, Jan. Summer Golden Pippin. ... 5 to March 10 Porter Apple. b Northern Spy, Jan. to Red Cathead, Va 5 March 5 21 162 Baltimore Pippin. .,...,,. 5 Wine Sap, Jan. to Mar, . 10 Robey's Seedling 6 Limber Twig, January to Winter Cheese, ripe in Dec. 5 May 10 For an orchard of one thousand apple trees, he would give the following list : White Juneating, or May Apple 20 Stripe June 20 Carter, Ya 20 Summer Golden Pippin .... 20 Summer Rose .20 Spice, Ya 20 Porter Apple. 20 Red Cathead, Ya 20 Baltimore Pippin 20 Robey's Seedling ......... 20 Robertson's White ........ 20 Yellow Belle Flower 20 Bowling's Sweet ... 10 Winter Cheese ........... 50 This list contains none but what have been thoroughly proved and known to be good. Nearly all of this list is des- cribed in Downing's late work on fruits. For an orchard of one hundred pear trees, standards, twenty varieties : Brookes' Pippin, ....... 50 Holady's Seedling 50 Rawle's Jannetting. ... .50 Northern Spy. 50 Wine Sap 50 Limber Twig. 50 Waugh's Crab 50 Strawn's Seedling 50 Wellford's Yellow. .... .50 Oglesby ............... 50 Milam 50 Long Island Russett 50 Nicker Jack. 50 Calasaga .............. 50 Bartlett, Juliene, Beurre d'Amanlis, White Doyenne, Nouveau Poiteau, Seckel, Yicar of Winkfield, Hawes Winter, Ya., Taylor's Winter, Ya., Lawrence, Catinka, Madeleine, Fondante d'Automne, Tyson, Beurre Diel, Beurre Oswego, Urbaniste, Flemish Beauty, Winter Nelis, Buffum. Pears on quince stock, twenty varieties. Madeleine, White Doyenne, Juliene, Fondante d'Automne, 16S Bartlett, Beurre Easter, Rouselet de Stutgart, Glout Morceau, Beurre Diel, Lawrence, Ducliess d'Angouleme, Taylor's Virginia, Oswego Beurre, Winter Nelis, Louis Bonne de Jersey, Yan Mons Leon Leclerc, Seckel, Besi de La Motte, Vicar of Winkfield, Beurre Clairgeau. In giving this list, I would state that I have the most of them in bearing from five to twenty-two years — standard and dwarf. The oldest dwarf, now twenty-five years old, are as thrifty as the day they were planted. The trees were set in the ground from one to five inches below the graft ; the soil is a strong loam ; the ground is cultivated with vegetables, and manured alternate years. I have a great many varieties that promise well, perhaps may prove as good as the best in this list. PEACHES. Nearly all varieties succeed here, but the Southern sorts are hardier and surer bearers. H. R. ROBEY* Fredericksbueg, Virginia. REPORT FROM THE DIST. OF COLUMBIA. The undersigned, " the Committee of the American Pom- ological Society for. the District of Columbia," respectfully submit the following report. Much attention has been given to pomology in the Dis- tri-ct of Columbia, but owing to the unfavorable seasons, for this and the two preceding summers, no opportunity has been afforded for your Committee to acquire from actual ob- servation that knowledge which would justify them in attempt- 164 ing to make the important selections which have been called for by the circular of your Secretary, of varieties to be recom- mended for cultivation for amateurs, or for profitable mar- ket purposes. Your committee purpose taking a limited view of some of the most prominent fruits and to enumerate some of the difficul- ties that the practical cultivator has to encounter in soil, cli- mate, insects and diseases ; rather with a view to call the attention of others to these difficulties, to elicit such facts as have come under their notice and awaken a spirit of close observation and practical experiments, that may lead to some useful developments. We have but little to teach and are desirous rather to learn of others. Foremost in point of general utility stands the APPLE. In this latitude, in our dry atmosphere and general grav- elly and sandy soil, and with our long, scorching summer heat, our apples are too apt to ripen too soon to be calculated to keep for winter use : most of the highly esteemed varieties have been obtained from the north, and seem to mature much earlier than desirable. It has been thought that the late ripening southern sorts would be far preferable and obviate this great fault. With this view, some public spirited individuals are doing much towards experiuienting, but time will be required before the result will be known to satisfaction. The JYewtown Pippin — The most extensively cultivated variety ; some seasons, in favorable localities, is little infe- rior to those of more northern growth, but it ripens too soon to be kept without much artificial help. The Baldwin and Belle Fleur — Are great favorites and often very fine, but for abundant crops and long-keeping the Smith's Cider apple and the Wine Sap stand in the first rank. The Cart House and Rollen's Juneating—ln some soils are fine, but do not seem to be such favorites here as they are on the waters of the Ohio, where they are so extensively cultivated for shipping to the Southern market. 165 For early Summer use, the Early Harvest, the Summer Hose and the Bough apple ; then in succession, the Queen Apple, for culinary purposes, followed by the Swain or Cel- lar apple and the Pall Pippin, both good for the table and the kitchen ; and after these, for later use, the Wine or Hayse apple, sometimes known as English E,edstreak, and the ever popular Rambo and Fall Catlen. The Eambo brought to our market from the section bordering on the Potomac near the mountain regions, has decided preference over those grown here, and are great favorites for fall and early winter use. The peach, next to the apple in importance here, has been quite a short crop for this and the past two seasons, owing principally to the intense cold of winter or the late frosts of the spring. It has been our boast, heretofore, that in quality we have not been behind other sections, but this season they have not equalled what they have formerly been. We will here suggest that cultivating the ground and thinning the fruit, both by aid of the knife in February or March and by pinching with the hand in Mayor June, will greatly add to the size and value of the fruit, PEAKS. The pear, for a few years past had promised much; many went into its cultivation, both as a standard and a dwarf, with great hopes of success, but their hopes of success have been baffled by quite discouraging results. The fire-blight during the summer of 1857 exceeded anything known here for twenty or thirty years past ; we think we can safely say that the destruction of that one season was equal to that of the whole thirty previous years. Our principal cultivators though much discouraged, are still determined to persevere, koping for better success and looking for the discovery of some preventive or cure. Great hopes had been indulged that from change of climate or some other cause this disas- trous disease had passed away. 166 We are not able to say from our observation whetlier it has been less destructive to tbose on pear bottoms or on dwarf trees, but many sorts seem to have escaped while oth- ers alongside, with equal chances of soil, cultivation, &c., have been entirely swept away. In one case, in the grounds of one of this Committee, a row of dwarfs, planted alternate- ly with the La Cure and other kinds, presents the curious spectacle of an alternate dead and living tree ; and in the nurser}^ grounds, whole rows of some sorts with scarcely a living tree are to be seen, and other sorts have almost entire- ly escaped. And, though your Committee think the American Seedlings are less liable to be attacked than those of foreign origin, still they are not entirely exempt. The ravages of the borer on the quince stock, when exposed above ground, has been such as to preclude a hope that it will be possible to have dwarfs without protecting them by planting the whole of the stock, up to the graft, under ground. PLUMS. The Plum, always difficult to protect from the curculio, has for a few years past, to contend with the knot or excrescence on the limbs, which seems to increase annually and bids fair to end in extermination. NECTARINES. The Nectarine, owing to the curculio, is seldom found in perfection. CHERRIES. Many of our cherry trees have been destroyed by the in- tense cold of the two winters preceding the last, and the spring frost has been so fatal to the bloom, that this fruit has been almost a total failure, except the Morello. STRAWBERRIES. The strawberry culture here has received great attention. Our markets have been well supplied, though the crop was 167 far from equaling the expectation of the cultivators for the last two seasons. Many of the new kinds have been introduced that prom- ise well, and some of them no doubt will displace the two kinds that have principally been relied on as the most remu- nerative crops — the Hovey's Seedling and the Alice Maud. The foliage of the latter, like most of the foreign varieties, was so much injured by the scorching suns of 1856 and 1858. that some are disposed to abandon it on that account, but the Hovey's Seedling still continues to be a favorite. RASPBERRIES. The Raspberry for several years has been almost a total failure, from the destruction of the canes by the cold of win- ter. The mildness of the last winter had led to a hope that for once they had escaped, but it is a fact that the destruction was greater than usual. So fatal has been the destruction that no opportunity has been afforded of comparing the rela- tive merit of the newly introduced kinds. The Cataivissa seems to gain much favor as a market fruit, for the fall season, and is justly regarded as a great acquisition. Strong hopes are entertained that much im- provement may be gained by hybridism with other Rasp- berries. BLACKBERRIES. The Blackberry is here beginning to come in for a share of cultivation. The Lawton, from the great abundance and size of its fruit, has been much planted, but as among our native sorts, such is the size and excellence of many, that no doubt some will be found better adapted for cultivating for market purposes, as the acidity of the Lawton forms an objection with some. The two winters previous to the last the bushes were almost all killed down to ground. This had rarely occurred before, but it will not be wondered at, when it is known that the thermometer sank to thirty-three degrees below zero, in some localities. 168 GOOSEBERRIES. In Gooseberry culture but little has been done, as tlie well-known difficulty with the mildew or mould in the fruit, has prevented planting to any extent. But the Currant cul- tivation, easy and remunerative, has much increased. Grapes are grown in houses with much success, but not to that extent which the demand for the fruit might justify ; but in open grown several vineyards are planted to the ex- tent of five or six acres, and the success of this season warrants a belief that much may be done, both in fruit for the table and for wine. The new buds are finding their way here and promise well. CRANBERRIES. The Cranberry is found in some localities in such perfec- tion as to leave no doubt that it might be cultivated as a source of profit, though no attempt has yet been made, that has come under the observation of your committee. We will now proceed to enumerate the diseases and in- sects that seem most to prevent successful cultivation of fruits, to the preventives of which the attention of the so- ciety should be particularly called : The borer in the apple and quince, has caused des- truction to both and to the pear trees (as dwarfed by grafting on bottoms), that it is suggested that other stocks be sought for as substitutes to graft on. It is thought that both the quince and the apple might be successfully grown on pear bottoms, as it is near to ground that the attacks are always made. The insect or disease known as the American blight is also a great enemy to the apple tree, both in the nursery and the orchard. But the black-rot, or bitter-rot, should claim attention as a growing evil ; it is unknown in some regions, but in others it is a serious inconvenience, and should be looked to in time, to guard against its introduction and spread. In the pear the fire blight. In the peach the worm at the root, the grub or curculio in the fruit, and the yellows, Avorse 169 than either. In the plum the curculio and the knot. In the grape the worm, and the rot or mildew ; and mould or mil- dew on the gooseberry. These are a few among the many subjects of like nature that should claim the serious attention of the society. Your Committee regret that they have nothing more use- ful or interesting to communicate, and would have been silent altogether, had they not felt it to be a duty to con- tribute their mite in the cause to which they feel, at least, an earnest zeal. Eespectfully, JOSHUA PIERCE, Chairman of the Com. for Dist. of Columbia. REPORT EROM OHIO, 1858. Hon. Sam'l Walkee, GenH Ch'm, ^c. : Sir. — The following selections of fruits, in reply to your enquiries, comprise only such varieties as are well known, and extensively cultivated ; such as from their size, beauty and fair qualities, command the highest price in the market during their season. They may be classed from " good " to " best." Several other varieties may be esteemed higher by many persons, but they are neither so productive or profita- ble as those named in this list. Many new seedlings give fair promise of excellence, but are not yet sufficiently tested to recommend them for general cultivation ; and some of the most popular eastern varieties were rejected as unsuited to our climate. These lists were intended for central and south- ern Ohio. In the northern part of the State, a few of the varieties named, might not succeed so well and would have to be rejected for others more suitable to that region. It is impossible for any committee to make a selection of fruits that shall succeed in any considerable portion of this State, with its diversified soil and climate ; but, in obedience to the request of your Society, these lists are presented as an approximation to accuracy, more especially to Southern Ohio. 22 170 They are also intended to comprise the most valuable varie- ties in the market, where the surplus has to be disposed of, and a good selection for family use. The intelligent cultiva- tor in each neighborhood, can soon find out what kind suits his locality best, and cover with grafts, when young, any tree here recommended, that may on trial prove to be unsuitable, or reject them at first, for those known by his neighborhood to do better. With these remarks, the Committee consider its duties discharged. Information respecting the soil and climate of our State, and other matters relating to its Pomology, will be found in our Report to the Rochester meeting, Sept. 1856, which reached its destination too late to be read at that session, but is enclosed herewith. Very Respectfully, R.BUCHANAN, ChJnA A. H.ERNST, k. r^ nr.' J. A. WARDER, \ Com, for Ohio. M. R. BATEHAM, J Cincinnati, August 28, 1858. N. B. — The Cincinnati Horticultural Society will also furnish lists of selections of fruits for the vicinity of Cincin- nati. For an orchard of one hundred apple trees, best six vari- eties : Red Astrachan 10 White Pippin .25 Benoni 10 Wine Sap 25 Maiden's Blush 10 Rawle's Janet 20 Best twelve varieties for an orchard of one hundred ap- ple trees. Red Astrachan. .......... 6 Fallenwalder 10 Early Harvest, 4 Wine Sap 10 Benoni 6 Rome Beauty 10 Rambo 6 Smith's Cider 15 Fall Pippin 5 White Pippin 12 Maiden's Blush 6 Rawle's Janet 10 171 Best twenty varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees. Red Astrachan 3 Newtown Spitzenburgh ... 5 Early Harvest 2 Fallenwalder 5 Early Strawberry 2 White Pippin 8 Benoni 3 Bradwell 3 Summer Queen 3 Smith's Cider 7 Maiden's Blush 6 Prior's Red 5 Porter 2 Rome Beauty 10 Fall Pippin. 3 Yellow Belle flower 8 Wine Sap 8 Bellmont 5 Rambo 4 Rawle's Janet 6 For an orchard of one thousand trees annex a cypher to the number of each selection as above. Six best varieties of pears for an orchard of one hundred trees. Bartlett 45 Seckel 7 Louise Bonne de Jersey .... 18 White Doyenne 10 Flemish Beauty 13 Fondante d'Automne 7 Best twelve varieties of pears for an orchard of one hun- dred trees. Bartlett 35 Dearborn's Seedling 3 Louise Bonne de Jersey. . . .15 Doyenne d'Ete 2 Flemish Beauty 12 Madeline 2 Seckel 6 Dix 4 White Doyenne 7 Urbaniste 4 Fondante d'Automne 5 Glout Morceau 5 Best six varieties for an orchard of one hundred peach trees. Large Early York 20 Old Mixon, free 20 Crawford's Early 20 White Heath, free 15 George the Fourth 10 Old Mixon, cling 15 Best twelve varieties of peaches for an orchard of one hundred trees. Large Early York 15 Ward's Late, free 8 Crawford's Early 10 Morris White 4 George the Fourth 7 Old Mixon, free 10 172 Coolidge's Favorite 8 Old Mixon, cling 8 White 'Heath,free 7 Druid Hill 7 Heath Cling 8 Columbia, free 8 For one thousand trees annex a cipher to the numbers selected above. REPORT FROM THE STATE OF OHIO. Samuel Walker, Chairmari General Fruit Committee : Dear Sir— In our endeavors to answer your circular, we shall be obliged to make general replies to some of the queries propounded. They are very judicious questions, and if properly and thoroughly answered by the different State Committees, you vf ould be put in possession of a vast amount of most valuable information. Our answers must be general, because our information is not suf&ciently thorough. Answer I. — Most fruits do well in this State. Our soils are generally fertile, and composed of transported material, chiefly independent of the rock formations on which they lie, but sometimes commingled with the detritus of our own rocks, more or less distant from the places where the deposits are found. The clays and sands in the north part of the State appear to have been transported from a great distance; so of the gravels ; but we often find the shales, sandstones and limestones of our own limits mingled with these deposits. Hence we are favored with a varied soil, containing a rich variety of materials for the food of plants. In some cases the soil is characterized by the rocks upon which it rests and from which it has evidently been derived. Lime abounds almost everywhere, but potash, though in sufficient quantity, does not appear to abound in the soil or subsoil ; so also the phosphates appear in sufficient quantity. (1.) — Little attention has been paid to the application of manures, and we are not prepared to report any definite results, though many experiments have been attempted with special manures^ Thorough culture, wherever applied, has al- 173 ways been found serviceable, and followed by good results ; tWs applies to the trenching of the soil as performed in our vine- yards. The strawberry has also proved superior in product- iveness when upon trenched soil. The majority of the soil in the neighborhood of Cincinnati, where these two crops are largely and profitably grown, is a rather stiff limestone clay and clayey loam ; but both of these plants appear to do best on soils in which the loam predominates, being made up in larger proportion of the heterogeneous materials of the diluvium, better than on the stiffer clays derived from our own blue limestones. (2.) — This has already been partially answered as to the grape. The Catawba grape and the Hudson, Hovey, Iowa and Black Pine Strawberries have been grown for many years, nor do they evince any signs of decrepitude or wearing out ; some old varieties of fruit, indeed, appear to have been rejuvenated in our soils. APPLES, II.— For Market, For Table— The Wine Sap, Yellow Belle- fleur. Gate, Rawle's Janet, Rome Beauty, White Winter, Pearmain, Smith's Cider, Ortley, Milam, White Pippin, Red Canada, Peck's Pheasant, Prince's Harvest, Strawberry, Maid- en's Blush, Cooper, Red Astrachan, have proved among the most profitable for market, in different parts of this State. Those most admired for the table are Yellow Bellefleur, Ort- ley, Newtown Spitzenberg, Newtown Pippin, Red Canada, Rambo, American Golden Russet, Summer Pearmain, Prince's Harvest, Fall Pippin. PEARS. White Doyenne, Flemish Beauty, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Beze de la Motte, Clion, Bartlett, Napoleon and some quite inferior sorts are profitable market varieties. For table use we would name first, Seckel, Washington, White Doyenne, Bartlett, Doyenne d'Ete, St. Ghislain, Belle Lucrative, Glout Morceau, Easter Beurre, Winter Nelis, among those sufficiently well known. Many new Tarieties, but partially tested, promiee to become faroriteB. 174 PEACHES AND CPffiRRIES. Peaclies and cherries, except in favored localities, are not found profitable, and are a cause of disappointment in nume- rous instances. The former are most sure on elevated ridges of thin soil ; the latter, appear to enjoy immunity from harm on the shore of Lake Erie. In other places, _the Morellos only, seem to repay the planter and prove profitable for mar- ket. Among these the Early May (Early Richmond ?) has proved itself everywhere the most profitable variety. We believe that the grafting of other and finer sorts on the Ma- hal eb stock, may prove to some extent a safeguard, especially if low pyramidal heads are formed in growing the trees, and that this mode of forming the head is the best prevention of the bursting of the bark. PLUMS Have not succeeded well, but sometimes escape the ravages of the curculio. For Market — Washington, Deane's Purple, Yellow Gage, Prince's Imperial, Bleecker's, Smith's Orleans, and Damson are profitable. For Table— Green Gage, Coe's Golden, Imperial, Wash- ington, Smith's Orleans, &c., are preferred. Shaking the trees and sprinkling with the lime and sul- phur wash are the best antidotes to the curculio. PEAES. (1.) — We suppose the number of pears profitably cultiva- ted on quince stock to be limited to ten or a dozen, but we need more extended observations. For the cherry we have already answered in favor of dwarf stocks ; the Morelos are also preferred for many kinds of small and inferior growth. For the plum the wild stock has been recommended, but we think neither it nor the peach should ever be used, unless when worked so low as to force the scion to take root for itself. We have also seen very fine growth of pears on apple stocks, treated in this way, but of course, the trees were as grown from cut- tings ; the cells of the pear do not assimilate with those of 175 the apple, and tlie root of the latter dies away so soon as the graft has formed its own fibers. (2.) — Apples Rejected — Pennock, Cheeseboro Russet, Fen- ouillet Rouge, Priestly, Summer Redstreak, American Pip- pin, Beauty of the West, Api Noir, Black Gilliflower (except for keeping). Winter Chandler, Cathead, Black Detroit, Caas, Cornish Gilliflower, Dumpling, Egg Top, Gable Russet, Belle et Bonne, Golden Harvey, English Golden Pippin, Grand Sachem, Hawthornden, Hoary Morning, Peach, Killam Hill, King of Pippins, Lady Finger (green). Long Island Russet, Monk's Codlin, White Margil, May Apple, Gloria Mundi, Butler (red). Murphy, Old Nonesuch, Old Nonpareil, Redln- gestrie. Yellow Ingestrie (?), Red Calville, Red Bellefleur (in every variety), Brabanti'sBellefleur, Winter Redstreak (Scu- damous Crab), Roseau (of Illinois), Shippen's Russet, Skunk, Summer Golden Pippin, Yandevere, Yandevere Pippin, sweet and sour, and Sweet Yandevere, Summer Pennock, Twenty Ounce,Pompey, White Calville, Astrachan (white), and many others that have only a local reputation, among which should be mentioned Hoop or Black Yandevere, Rich Pippin, Early White June. (3.) — We beg to be excused from writing a voluminous chapter on Synonymy. — See Ohio Reports. (4.) — The chapter on Nosology demands more time and research than we have at our command : it is an important enquiry. GRAPES. (5.) — Extensive vineyards have been planted in the south- western portion of the State, where the grape culture may be considered as fairly established. The want of knowledge upon the subject, caused the expenditure of much money, labor and time in experimenting with various kinds of grapes. Large numbers have been imported from those portions of the grape region of Europe which were supposed to be most like our own country in soil and climate ; all foreign grapes have yielded, however, to the native Catawba, which is now admitted to be the grape for this region. The Isabella and Schuylkill are rapidly disappearing. The 176 Missouri is not profitable. The Ohio, or Cigar-box, like the Herbemont and Lenoir, is a free grower, but apt to suffer from frost. The Minor or Yenango, may prove valuable to flavor other wines, but will not be largely prop- agated. The Diana, Clinton, Concord, " Delaware," Shaker, and several others, are cultivated to a limited extent, and have their admirers. A new grape which originated as an accidental seedling, in the city lot of H. Ives, some years ago, and which bears his name, is now beginning to attract atten- tion, since its diffusion in the country, where it grows freely, bears abundantly, and appears to be quite free from the dis- ease which affects the Catawba and some other grapes, and is known as " the rot." This variety may be a seedling from the Isabella, being a dark blue or black ; and like many seed- ling from this and the Catawba, it shows a tendency to " run back " towards the Fox grape— this is manifested especially in the foliage. This is no recommendation with us, among whom the " Charter Oaks," Northern Muscadines, and the whole Pox family are in great disfavor, though praised by some " wise men of the East." Before leaving this topic, we should mention that although the grape region is chiefly confined to the vicinity of the Ohio river, it has been extending into the interior to some extent, and, in a few instances, with a resonable prospect of success. Even in the northern margin of the State, in those favored situations where the influence of the lacustrine atmosphere prevails, the grape is cultivated with remarkable success. This is particularly the case at Kelly's Island, in Lake Erie, off Sandusky Bay. The soil there planted is chiefly a black peaty loam of moderate depth, resting upon a thick stratum of stiff' clay abounding in boulder stones, many of which are of granitic character, but also abounding in limestone upon which the diluvium rests and which has been much worn and broken by the diluvial agency. Grapes also grow and ripen pretty well at Cleveland, near the shore of the lake, upon a sandy soil, resting on shale and limestone, but near the sand- stone outliers of the coal field. Upon this soil are found the chestnut, magnolia acuminata, the baptisia indigofera, and other plants that are quite unknown in our southern grape region. 177 Resting in the hope that you -will find some data in our report worthy your attention, though we regret that we can- not, make it more deserving, we remain yours in the cause. E.BUCHANAN, Ch\ A. H. ERNST, JOHN A. WARDER, M. R. BATEHAM, Cincinnati, Sept. 23d, 1856. Ohio State Pom. Committee. UEPORT FROM MICHIGAN. Adrian, Mich., Aug. 26, 1858. P. Barry, Esq. : — Bear Sir : — I notice in the transactions of the American Pomological Society for 1856, my name as Chairman of the Society's Fruit Committee for Michigan. I have had no other notice of this appointment, nor have I re- ceived any circular or other document, specifying the subject on which the several committees would be expected to report, except the publication in the Horticulturalist, Cultivator, and other journals, of certain questions, with a request that answers be sent by the 1st proximo, either to Mr. Walker or yourself. I have seen nothing to indicate that I was to appoint other members of the Committee. I now send you my answer to the questions propounded. I regret that they could not be answered by some person possessing more accu- rate knowledge of these subjects than myself, and, that I have had so little time at my command in making these answers. Respectfully yours, D. K. UNDERWOOD. Best six varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees for family use : Early Harvest 10 Belmont 15 Late Strawberry. 10 Yellow Belleflower 30 Gravenstein 15 Esopus Spitzenberg 20 Best twelve varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees ; 23 178 Early Haryest 6 Belmont .10 Am. Summer Pearmain 6 Ladies' Sweeting. ........ 6 Late Strawberry 6 Yellow Belleflower ....... 20 Gravenstein 8 Swaar 6 Fall Pippin 6 Esopus Spitzenburgh 12 Eambo 6 Northern Spy 8 Best twenty varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Early Harvest. 6 Ladies' Sweeting , , 6 Am. Summer Pearmain 3 Belmont 6 Eed Astrachan 3 R. I. Greening 4 Bough 3 Yellow BelleJBiower 12 Summer Queen 3 Esopus Spitzenburgh. .... 6 Late Strawberry 4 Swaar 6 Gravenstein 5 Jonathan . 4 Fall Pippin 5 Hubbardston Nonesuch ... 4 Eameuse 4 Roxbury Russet 6 Rambo 4 Northern Spy 6 Best varieties of apples for an orchard of one thousand trees, for the market : Early Harvest 50 Belmont Y5 Red Astrachan 50 tVandevere 50 Early Strawberry .25 Baldwin 25 *Am. Summer Pearmain ... 25 Red Canada 75 Early Joe 25 R.I. Greening 75 Late Strawberry 25 Jonathan 50 Gravenstein 50 Yellow Belleflower 75 Fameuse 50 Hubbardston Nonesuch. . . .25 Porter 25 Westfield Seek no Further. 25 Rambo 50 Roxbury Russet 50 Talman Sweet .25 Northern Spy 50 Ladies' Sweet 25 Best six varieties of pears for a pear orchard for family use : Bartlett, White Doyenne, Flemish Beauty, Seckel, Belle Lucrative, Winter Nelis. o On light, warm soils substitute the Summer Queen, f On stony, calcareous soils substitute Newtown Pippin. 179 Best twelve varieties, for family use, of pears : Bloodgood, Belle Lucrative, Tyson, White Doyenne, Dearborn's Seedling, Sheldon, Bartlett, Seckel, Flemish Beauty, Lawrence, Beurre d'Anjou, Winter Nelis. Best six on quince stock : Tyson, Duchess d'Angouleme, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Beurre Diel, Belle Lucrative, Beurre Easter. Best twelve on quince stock : • Tyson, White Doyenne, Rostiezer, Urbaniste, Belle Lucrative, Beurre Diel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Glout Morceau, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Vicar of Winkfield, Stevens' Genesee, Beurre Easter. Best varieties of pears on pear stock for an orchard of one hundred trees : Madeline 3 Belle Lucrative 5 Bloodgood 3 Oswego Beurre 5 Dearborn's Seedling 3 Sheldon 5 Tyson 3 Buffum 5 Rostiezer . . 3 Seckel 10 Bartlett 10 Lawrence 5 Flemish Beauty 10 Winter Nelis 5 Beurre d'Anjou 5 Beurre d'Aremburg 5 White Doyenne 15 Best on quince stock for an orchard of one hundred trees : Tyson 5 Duchess d'Angouleme 20 Rostiezer 5 Glout Morceau , 5 Belle Lucrative 10 Beurre Diel 10 Stevens' Genesee 5 Vicar of Winkfield 5 Louise Bonne de Jersey — 25 Beurre Eastijr. . * . » .10 180 Best six varieties of peaches for a family orchard : Early York Serrate Grosse Mignonne, Coolidge's Favorite Old Mixon, free, Crawford's Early, Crawford's Late. Best twelve varieties of peaches for a family orchard : Early York Serrate, George lY, Early York, large, Large Red Rareripe, Coolidge's Favorite, White' Imperial, Crawford's Early, Old Mixon, free, Jacques' Rareripe, Bergen's Yellow, Grosse Mignonne, Crawford's Late. Best varieties of peaches for an orchard of one hundred trees : Crawford's Early 20 Old Mixon, free, .. ^ 1.0 Early York 10 Large Red Rareripe 10 Coolidge's Favorite .10 White Lnperial 5 Jacques Rareripe 5 Crawford's Late 20 Grosse Mignonne 10 In the same proportion for an orchard of one thousand trees. D. C. UNDERWOOD. REPORT FROM ILLINOIS. Below will be found a list of apples best adapted for this locality and most profitable for family use or market, all har- dy and productive. Best six varieties of apples for an orchard of one hun- dred trees : Red June, Summer 10 Domine, Winter 20 Summer Pennock, do 10 Wagner, do 20 Snow, Fall. .....15 Willow Twig 25 181 Best twelve varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Red June, Summer 10 Domine, Winter 15 Sops of Wine, do 5 Waner, do 15 Summer Pennock, do 10 Willow Twig, do, ...... .15 Tompkins, Fall 5 White Bellefleur, do 5 Snow, do 5 Yellow Bellefleur, do 5 Cloth of Gold, do 5 New York Pippin, do ... . 5 Best twenty varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Red Jnne, Summer 5 Sweet Wine, do 2 Sops of Wine, do 2 Cloth of Gold, do 2 Summer Pennock, do 5 Domine, Winter 10 Red Astrachan, do 3 Wagner, do 10 (Cooper's) Early White, do. 2 Willow Twig, do 10 Leicester Sweeting, do 2 White Bellefleur, do 2 Tompkins, Fall 3 Yellow Bellefleur, do 2 Snow, do 5 New York Pippin, do .... 10 Fall Wine, do 2 Red Seek no Further, do. . 10 Hawley, do 3 Swaar, do . „ 10 Best varieties for an orchard of one thousand trees for market : (The varieties selected will depend a good deal upon how near and large the market is. When the orchard is located too far away to market summer fruit, diminish the summer and add more winter.) Red June, Summer 200 Wagner, do 150 Summer Pennock, do 100 Willow Twig, keeps long.200 Snow, Fall 50 New York Pippin, do . . . 200 Domine, Winter 1 00 We have not had experience enough yet, nor varieties sufiicient to make out a list. Among what J have, the Onon- daga, Flemish Beauty, White Doyenne, Louise Bonne de Jer- sey, Dearborn's Seedling, Buffum, Heathcot and Stevens' Gen- esee all promise well, both as standard and dwarf, Onon- daga excepted. VERRY ALDRICH. Aeispb, Bureau Co. Ill^ 182 REPORT FROM GEOROIA. To THE American Pomological Society : — Gents : — Having been appointed with several others, all members of the Georgia Pomological Society, to answer the questions propounded through the Horticulturist of the month of August, emanating from the American Pomologi- cal Society, in relation to the most reliable and desirable varieties of fruit for cultivation under certain circumstances, I take pleasure in recording our experience and recommend- ing the following for cultivation in the Southern States, to- gether with our individual opinion, that they will be found well adapted to the soil and climate of the Northern States. For an orchard of one hundred trees we would recom- mend the following, comprising seventeen varieties of apples : Red June, Summer 2 Buff, do 3 Cane Creek Sweet, do 2 Camak's Winter Sweet. . .10 Julien, do 2 Cullasaga, do 5 Sweet Paradise, do 2 Cullawkee 3 Bachelor, Autumn 8 Equinetley, do 20 Disharoon, do 4 Hoover, do 10 Chistalee, do. (for cooking) 2 Maverick's Sweet, do 10 Rome Beauty, do 2 Nickajack, do 9 Berry, Winter 6 Best twelve varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Red June, Summer 2 Nickajack, Winter 10 Julien, do 2 Equinetley, do 20 Cane Creek Sweet, do 2 Camak's Winter Sweet, do. 20 Bachelor, Autumn 10 Cullasaga, do 10 Disharoon, do 5 Junaluskee, do 10 Rome Beauty, do 5 Winter Queen, do 4 Best six varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Julien 6 Equinetely 26 Bachelor 6 Camak's Sweet 26 Nickajack 28 Hoover ■. 9 183 Best twelve varieties of pears on pear stock for an or- chard of one hundred trees : Madeline 4 Paradise d'Automne 10 St. Ghislain 4 Seckle. 10 Bartlett 4 Sterling 10 Beurre Clairgeau 10 Van Assche 10 Belle Lucrative 10 Winter Nelis 10 Beurre d'Anjou 10 Easter Beurre 8 On quince stocks none. J. VAN BUREN. Claeksville, Ga., Aug. 18th, 1858. To THE American Pomological Society : Gents : — Being requested by the Pomological Society of Georgia to answer the questions proposed by your Society, I would state that the following varieties, from those already tested here, appear to me to be best adapted for the purposes specified. Best six varieties of apples for a family orchard of one hundred trees, to furnish a succession : Eed June 3 Am. Summer Pearmain. . . 3 Horse 4 Bachelor 10 Meigs 30 Nickajack 5 Best twelve varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : Early Harvest, Summer .... 2 Bachelor, do 10 Red June, do 2 Nickajack, Winter 15 Am. Summer Pearmain, do . 3 Equinetly, do 15 Julien, do 2 Oconee Greening, do 10 Horse, do 4 Green Crank, do 15 Meigs, Autumn 12 Shockley, do 10 Best twenty varieties of apples for an orchard of one hundred trees : May, Summer 1 Horse, do 3 Early Harvest, do 2 Gravenstein, do 5 Red June, do 2 Meigs, Autumn 10 Am. Summer Pearmain,do. 3 Taunton, do 6 Julien, do 2 Bachelor, do 6 184 Mongum, Winter 9 Green Crank, do 9 Maverick Sweet, do 4 Berry, do .... 4 Nickajack, do 10 Camak's Winter Sweet, do. 5 Equinetly, do ' 9 Bradford's Best 4 Oconee Greening, do 4 Sliockley, do .... .6 For an orchard of one thousand trees for market : (The following selection of varieties are adapted for the lower part of the State near Eail Roads, to be shipped to Northern markets.) Early Harvest 400 Am. Summer Pearmain. . 200 Red June 400 In the upper part of the State the following would be a good list : Camak's Sweet 100 Shockley 200 Green Crank 200 Equinetley 200 Mongum 50 Nickajack 250 Best six varieties on pear stock for a succession : Doyenne d'Ete, Seckle, Beurre Bosc, Beurre Suis d'Hiver Nou- Bartlett, veau. Winter Nelis, Best twelve varieties for a succession, add : Bloodgood, White Doyenne, Sterling, Lawrence, Belle Lucrative, Compte de Flanders. Best six varieties of pears on quince stock : Doyenne d'Ete, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Duchesse de Berri d'Ete, Glout Morceau, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Easter Beurre. For the twelve best varieties, add : Beurre Diel, Lawrence, Rostiezer, White Doyenne, Soldat Laboreur, Belle Epine Damon, In this climate, if the quince stock is set entirely beneath the earth, it is sure to perish, as the quince throws out its roots near the surface. I have lost more pear trees on quince root by the root decaying up to the point of junction with 185 the graft, tliau I have ever lost by blight on both pear and quince stocks. In an orchard of one hundred or one thousand trees, with the above I should also include, Buffum, Manning's Elizabeth, Camoks, Neighbors, Van Asche, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre d'Anjou, Henry IV, Delices d'Hardenpont Belgic, Columbia, Tyson, Heathcote, Kirtland, Flemish Beauty, Rivers' Winter Beurre, Beurre Langelier and Sheldon at least, and several others of which I am not satisfied that I have the true names. For market I would confine myself to Doyenne d'Ete, Duchesse de Berri d'Ete, Sterling, Bartlett, White Doyenne, and Flemish Beauty. With these varieties the Northern markets could be fully supplied during the months of June, July and a part of August, from this State and South Caro- lina. PEACHES. The best six kinds are below, but no six or twelve kinds can keep up a succession from the 20th of June, until the 20th of November in this^climate during which we may have peaches. Early Tillotson, Large Early York, Stump the World, La Grange, Heath Cling, Bough, For the twelve best varieties, add to the above Serrate Ispahan, Washington Rareripe (of Washington Cling, Parsons), Chinese Cling, Edwards' Late White, Hull's Athenian. A complete collection would require in addition to the above, of Clings : Georgia Cling, Tippecanoe, Large White Cling, Donohue, Old Mixon Cling, Horton's Delicious, Blonton, Of freestone varieties : Serrate Early York, Druid Hill, Van Zandt's Superb, Smock Free, 24 186 Fay's Early Ann, Montgomery's Late^ Coolidge's Favorite, Barker's Seedling, Crawford's Early, Camok's Serrate, . Crawford's Late, Lady Parham, Late Admirable, Baldwin's Late. With much less than the above number of varieties, a constant succession could hardly be kept up for five months. For one hundred or one thousand trees for market pur- poses, I would confine myself to Early Tillotson, Fay's Early Ann, Columbus June, Early Chelmsford, and Crawford's Early and ship all the fruit to the Northern Cities. For drying, the best fruit tried here is the Heath Cling. Very Respectfully, WM. N. WHITE. Athens, Ga. PAPERS Mead at the Meeting of the Society and Ordered to he Published in ii.s proceedings. FRUIT GROWING, IN A GENERAL POINT OE VIEW. BY L- E. BERCKMANa Of late a great deal has been written about the cultiva- tion of fruit trees, and especially in regard to the pear. Discouraged by partial or local failures, some have con- tended that it was impossible to grow pears with any pros- pect of certain profits. Some have said as much against the peach and grape-vine. We have no reason to stand up in defence of any species of fruits : but, taking a general and unprejudiced view of the matter, we may express our sur- prise in witnessing these efforts to restrain the cultivation of useful products and that from the part of gentlemen who are willing to try every experiment, every remedy to promote the raising of field or garden crops, often more uncertain than those of fruit trees. If those writers would only cast a glance over the pro- ducts destined to the sustenance of men and animals, or to the dainties and luxuries of our tables, how much more reserved they would be in their attacks ! The main question is this : " Can or shall we dispense with fruit and confine ourselves to corn, wheat, rice, 203 Green Horse, Nantelialee, Summer Sweet, Farrar's Summer, etc. Autumn Varieiies: J^orthern — Rome Beauty, Smoke Housfc Talpahocking, etc. Southern — Batclielor, Carolina Greening, Disharoon, Taunton, World's Wonder, Yopp's Favorite, Black Warrior, Kennedy, Rhode's Orange, Autumn, Wine Apple, etc. Winter Varieties : all Southern — Abram, Augustine, Berry, Blackshear, Buff, Bryar's Red, Boatman's, Battlefield, Bun- combe, Carolina Russett, Cherokee Red, Cloud, Cook's Red, Carter, Camok's Sweet, Chestatee, CuUawhee, Cullasaga, Davis, Equineteley, Elgin, Epting's Winter, Epting's Pre- mium, Elarkee, Foust, Ferdinand, Firkin, Frey, Gore, Gow- die Gully, Green Crank, Gordon's Seedling, Golden Pippin, Greening (Southern), Greening (Pomaria), Hoover, Hall, Hammond, Hametor's Late, Holly, Henlej', Holladay's Seed- ling, Junaluskee, King Tom, Kittageskee, Lexington, Lorick's Cluster, Lever, Late Striped (Summer's), Limber Twig, Mill's, Mead's Keeper, Meadow Woods, McDowell's Winter, Mangum, Myers,' Maverick's Sweet, Moultrie's Winter, Mat- tarausket, Nickajack, Neverfail, Nonpareil, Nix's Green, Ne- quassa, Oblong Crab, Oconee Greening, Perkins, Pearmain (Clark's), Carolina Pippin, Pippin (Albemarle), Abranis Pip- pin, Brock's Pippin, Peake's Red, Peake's Yellow, Price, Pound, Red Warrior, Rabun, Residence, Rhyne, Salem, Shockley, Stevenson's Winter, Santa, Strother, Selma, San- touchee, Tryon, Tenderskin, Thurmond, Wall, Wateree, Wil- fong, Walker's Yellow, Yellovf Crank, Yahoola, Yates. From the foregoing list, embracing nearly one hundred varieties of native Southern Winter apples, of superior excel- lence, it will be seen that our pomologists have not been wholly idle, and that we have, at least, inaugurated something like a nomenclature and classification of apples adapted to our section. At a late meeting of the Georjiia Poinological Soci- ety ,held at Athens, there were exhibited five hundred and sixty- eight lots of fruit, including seventy-four varieties of apples, one hundred and forty-four of pears, ninety-nine of peaches, thirty-four of plums, eleven of grapes, and other fruits in proportion — all of which we cannot but regard as highly en* 204 coura^ing, when we consider the very brief existence of the Society, and the little interest heretofore manifested, in the culture of the finer varieties of fruit. The apple, so far as our observation extends, is liable to no diseases of any consequence ; and may be considered a safe- and profitable tree for extensive planting, especially if the na- tive (Southern) Winter varieties are selected. The Summer varieties ripening at the same time with the strawberry and the peach, have the superior flavor of these fruits to contend with, and are not, therefore, as desirable, or as much sought after. PEARS. The same feeling of dependence upon other sections and distrust of our ownresources, which has heretofore preventod the extensive culture of the apple, has retarded the planting of the pear, though wherever this delicious fruit has been fairly tried, it has attained a size and flavor no where else known. Indeed, we have much reason to believe that in the South only is the pear destined to arrive at its highest devel- opment and perfection ; and that it can here be grown with that certainty and profit which alone justify the care and at- tention which this somewhat fastidious and exacting tree de- mands. Most of the leading varieties known and cultivated at the North, succeed well in the South, either as dwarfs or standards, the principle requisites being deep, mellow and careful culture, and the training of the top of the tree very low and spreading for the purpose of shading the trunk of the tree, and the earth over the roots, fi-om the scorching and blistering rays of the sun. With tliis system and a liberal enrichment of the soil by proper fertilizers, the pear with us does not seem to be liable to any diseases of sufficient conse- quence to deserve mention. We have not, as yet, succeeded in producing many Southern seedling pears of marked excel- lence, though we doubt not that we shall be as fortunate as we have been with the apple, when the attention of our po- mologists is more fully directed toward the production of fine new sorts from seeds. The example of our distinguished friend, Dr. L. E. Berckraans, and many others, in raising from seem and planting large pear orchards, of all the 205 established varieties, in various parts of the South, will, we trust, give quite an impetus to the culture of this magnfi- cent fruit. PEACHES, The South is the true home of the Peach ; and it attains with us, undoubtedl}^ its very highest degree of perfection. It has long been, and is yet, i/ie favorite fruit of the people, no less for its intrinsic excellence, than for the ease with which it may be propagated from seed, and the early period at which it comes into bearing. Thousands of the very finest seedling peaches, unnamed and comparatively unknown, are scattered throughout the South, along the roadsides, in the open fields ; and in the remote corners of fences and hedges. The tree will sometimes bear fruit the second year from the seed, and always the third year ; and when " worked,'"' succeeds well either grafted or budded. Our nurserymen have many very superior sorts, almost unknown at the North or elsewhere, a few of the best of which I will mention : Amelia, Early Co- lumbia, Baldwin's Late, Canary, Exquisite, Golden Ball, Lady ParhanijPocahontas, Eltnira, Tecumsa, Julia, Bourdeaux Cling, Eaton's Golden, Ficwellen, Mitchell's Mammoth, Griswold, Henrietta, O'Gwynne, White Globe, and many others. But perhaps the most attractive and valuable of our late additions to the list of fine peaches, is the " Honey Peach," of China, one of the most delicious of all fruits, and which cannot fail to become popular wherever it is known, and will succeed. The peach, however, even in our favored clime, has many enemies, and is liable to numerous disasters. Among the first is the b:)rer (jegeria exitiosa), wiiich is gonerallj' very de- structive. The use of boiling water, poured freely into a basin shaped cavity at the ''collar" of the tree (to destroy grubs already formed), and the planting of clumps of the common tansy (T. vulgare) immediately around the (I'unk, as a pre- ventive, have been found very efficacious in many cases. But the most practicable and easy plan of destroying the borer, where the Peach is largely cultivated, will be found to be the removal, in the fall, of the earth for the ppace of a foot, and the depth of from three to bix inches, espoeing the stem and 206 " collar" of the tree to the action of the frosts of winter ; this cavity to be refilled in the spring with fresh earth, heap- ing it up into a conical mound, to the heighth of a ten or twelve inches arcund the trunk, and allowing it to remain so until fall again. We have tested this method for some years past, and cordially recommend it to the public. Upon the first removal of the earth, if any borers are found in the tree they can be destroyed with the point of a sharp, slender knife- blade ; and if the system above indicated is regularly kept up, it will seldom be necessary to resort to that somewhat dangerous tool afterwards. The berries of the " Pride of India" or " China Tree" (Melia Azedarach) placed in the cavity around the bole or trunk of the tree, are also said to act as a preventive of the borer. When the peach tree receives anything like proper culture or attention, in our climate, it is liable to no diseases ; and is far more thrifty and long-lived than in Northern latitudes. We have no " yellows," nor similar malady ; and all that is necessary to keep the tree in perfect health, is judicious prun- ing (" shortening in ") and frequent stirring of the surface soil around it. We generally find it no disadvantage to raise crops of field peas, melons or sweet potatoes in our peach orchards, provided the refuse of the crop (stalk, leaves, &c.), is left on the ground, and the growth of foul grasses and weeds prevented by constant culture. The greatest draw- back on peach raising in the South, is the liability of the fruit to be cut off by the late Spring fi'osts. The warm weather of February and early March, generally forces our peach trees into blossoip ; and it too often happens that the succeed- ing frosts destroy the crop utterly, and blast the hopes of the the cultivator. The fruit is seldom destroyed in the blossom, and never while the buds are dormant during the winter. The most trying and critical period, with us, is during the early part of April, after the blossom has dropped, and the fruit is abou': the size of a pea, though we have seen the crop destroyed at a much later period. We are not aware that any economical and practicable plan of saving our peach crop from Spring frosts has yet been discovered, though partial Bucceea has attended the building of emouldcring firee in Iho 207 orcliard, the retarding of the time of blooming, by pruning (" shortening in") just as the buds begin to swell, covering the ground around the tree with a heavy mulch of leaves, straw, &c. We cannot consider the peach crop as generally certain oftener than three years in five ; and yet, with this serious drawback, it has been found very profitable, by those who have railroad and other easy access to our prominent seaports, to plant very largely for the New York market, which has been supplied to a considerable extent during the past four or five years, with early peaches from Georgia and South Carolina. We have in the South, for home consump- tion, a constant succession of peaches (mostly native seed- lings) from the middle of June to the first of November — from four to five mouths — and, were there sufficient demand, could readily ship this fruit to the North during the greater part of that time. NECTARINPS. The nectarine is quite extensively cultivated among us, as an open air " standard," or orchard tree, and is equally as hardy as the peach. It bears as well and regularly as the peach, also ; and is liable to the same enemies and disasters, with the addition of being far more attractive to the curcu- lio, which finds easy access through its smooth and tender skin. We know of only one or two native nectarines, of which the " Southern Queen" (white) is the best. , APRICOTS. The Apricot grows vigorously, and is quite free from dis- ease as a tree ; but its extreme earliness of blooming and the almost certain liability of the fruit being killed by spring frosts, renders it rather undesirable for orchard culture. We occasionally, however, gather very fine crops, and feel assured that if the trees were trained en espalier, so that they could be slightly protected, we should be much oftener gratified. A few samples of Southern Apricots have been sold in the New York market at from $1,50 to $2,25 per dozen ; which pri- ces would justify far more care and attention than this deli- cate and rare fruit generally receives. A few native seed- 208 lings have been produced ; but the " Oglethorpe " is the only one of particular merit that we are acquainted with. PLUMS. The plum grows vigorously everywhere in the South, and is not at all liable to the " black knot," or other serious mal- adies. It is, also, for some inexplicable reason, less subject to the attacks of the curculio than at the North ; and, when pigs or fowls are confined within the plum orchard, and al- lowed a free range, we generally find no difficulty in raising fair crops. We have a few new seedlings of decided merit ; and have growing everywhere, in the borders of our woods, along water courses, and in old fields, several wild varieties of " Chickasaw" and "Cherokee" plums, scarcely inferior to many of the cultivated sorts. CHERRIES. The Cherry can liardly be said to succeed well with us, generally. The Morellos often bear good crops, and some of the finer varieties have partially succeeded, when worked on Mahaleb stocks, planted in rather moist soil, and trained with low, spreading heads. But we most cheerfully yield the palm of superiority in Cherries to the North, which also pos- sesses a climate more favorable than ours for the production of the currant, the Gooseberry, the Raspberry, and, perhaps, the improved varieties of the Blackberry — though, with this latter fruit, farther experience is necessary. All the wild varieties of the Bramble (including the Blackberry, Dew- berry, &c.,) grow luxuriantly and bear profusely in our woods and fields ; and this fact would seem to promise success with the Lawton, Dorchester, &c. GOOSEBERRIES AND CURRANTS. The Gooseberry and Currant — 'two fine garden fruits of the North and of Europe — cannot be profitably cultivated in the South, and have been long since reluctantly discarded — nor have we had very encouraging success, thus far, with the improved varieties of the Raspberry. One or two varieties of native Raspberries give us regular and good crops ; but 209 shade, mulching and a damp locality, are essential for even these. STRAWBERRIES. The Strawberry is one of the most profitable and easily cultivated fruits of the South — beginning to ripen early in April, and continuing, if freely watered, to give us a constant supply of fruit during 4 or 5 months. We have had Straw- berries at Augusta, Ga., nearly four months in succession, without artificial watering — though the average season is only about two to three months. Our native American varie- ties succeed best — the climate being too hot for the English and other foreign sorts, so far as tested. THE JUJUBE AND THE OLIVE. The Jujube and the Olive may also be ranked among our fruit trees, and are worthy of attention. The Jujube is just now beginning to be freely introduced into our nurseries and gardens, and deserves a place in all careful collections. It forms a medium sized tree, with very singular, tortuous branches, covered with long and formidable recurved thorns, and most beautiful, shining, dark green foliage. The fruit is about an inch in length, oblong, of a brownish color, and having a flesh or pulp of the consistency and flavor of the dried dates of commerce, or a pleasantly sub-acid baked apple. The seed is also similar to that of the Date — by which name the Jujube {Zisiphus Sativa) has sometimes been erroneously called. It grows freely from suckers, or pieces of roots ; is very ornamental, and would make a defensive hedge of the most formidable description. The Olive has been successfully, though not extensively, cultivated on the sea coast of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida, for many years ; and fine samples of the pure oil have been exhibited at our Agricultural Fairs, by Robert Chisolm,Esq., of South Carolina ; Col. P. M. Nightingale, of Georgia, and other gentlemen. POMEGRANATE. The Pomegranate is a very beautiful and certain fruit with us, but the shrub itself is a little tender north of 32 "^ . 27 210 The fruit is never killed, as it does not come into Lloom Tm- til all possibility of late Spring frost is over. Like the Orange and other tropical plants, it is a continuous bloomer, during its season — though not an evergreen- — often display- ing ripe fruit and expanding blossoms at the same time. The fruit has hitherto been of no commercial importance, and is scarcely known in the market; but its gratefully acid and cooling juice has been found most useful and refreshing in fevers 5 and the beautiful and inviting appearance of the fruit, renders it an attractive and desirable object for the dessert. The rind or skin of the fruit is very bitter ; and possessing tonic properties somewhat analagous to Peruvian Bark, has sometimes been used as a substitute for that arti- cle by druggists. The Pomegranate grows readily from cut- tings planted in the winter ; and, in addition to its other uses, is capable of making a very neat and defensive hedge. Three varieties — the sweet, sub-acid and sour — are in com- mon cultivation. THE FIG, Of all fruits cultivated in the South, the Fig requires the least care, and is one of the most productive and useful. We have in common culture, only four or five varieties, though the lists of Nurserymen and amateurs embrace five or six times that number. South of 32 ° , the tig tree produces ^Are3 crops a year, commencing in May, and bearing until Novem- ber, butin Central Georgia, we generally gather but two crops per year, unless the season is peculiarly favorable — the first, or early crop, being often killed by Spring frosts. The Figs are mostly eaten directly from the tree, as soon as ripe, and may be found in abundance upon the breakfast tables of all lovers of fine fruit. When ripe, the Fig is mild, rich and luscious, without being at all cloying ; and can be eaten to almost any extent, even by those of the most delicate appe- tite. The fruit has little or no value for any other than the home market, being very perishable, when fully ripe ; but preserved in syrup, dried, after the foreign mode, or pickled, it might easily be made a crop of great commercial impor-- tance to the South. The Fig tree grows very freely from I 211 cuttings, planted early in the Spring, and will sometimes bear the first jesiY — generally the second. The trees are sometimes cat down entirely to the ground by severe frosts ; but they seldoai or never fail to sprout again from the roots, and some varieties (like the Alicante) ripen a crop of fruit on shoots of the same year. It has ever been a source of surprise to us that the Fig is not extensively cultivated, and turned to more profitable account ; but this is not the only instance in which the prodigal and generous gifts of Nature are lavished upon man in vain. We hear of gentlemen near Mobile, upon the Gulf, who have planted the Fig largely, with the intention of using the fruit as Northern farmers use apples — for the purpose of fattening hogs ; and though, as poraologists, we cannot but deprecate the bringing of this delicious fruit to such" base uses," still, if at all inclined for the " flesh pots," we should prefer eating Fig fattened pork, to that fed on the offal of distilleries, or the filth and garbage of city streets. The Fig tree grows and produces best on a jnoist, alluvial soil ; but readily adapts itself to all varieties of land, altitude and exposure. It is much inclined to sucker, but should be trained to one clean, strong stem, with a low, branching head. QUINCES. The Quince is not cultivated among us to any consider- able extent, and can only be said to do moderately well — except on heavy and retentive soils, where it seems to suc- ceed nearly as well as at the North. MULBERRIES. The Mulberry grows wild, and the cultivated varieties succeed everywhere. One of these (''Hicks,") produces con- tinuous crops during three months in the year. ALMONDS. The Almond grows thriftily, but the fruit is almost inva- riably killed, North of 32 ® , by the late Spring frosts. Tho Chestnut, Madeira, and Pecan Nuts are more certain 5 but, as yet, hare not received much attention. 212 GRAPES. In reference to the Grape, we can only repeat the remark previously made in regard to the Peach, viz : that the South is its "true home ;" and that here it grows with a luxuriance, and produces fruit in such an abundance as is seen in no other portion of the Union. We are just now getting into a "grape mania" at the South — planting vineyards largely on our hill-sides and in our old fields — forming Vine Growing Associations, and organizing Joint Stock Companies for the culture of the Vine and Wine making,* &c. And this is not to be wondered at, when we see old and (so called) " worn out" land (unfit for cotton or corn) producing plants which, at 2| years from the cutting, average 30 or 40 clusters to the vine ; each cluster weighing an average of half a pound, and each acre of vines capable, at this rate, of producing from 800 to 1000 gallons of wine ! Quite a considerable quantity of this wine has already been made, and the most experienced connoisseurs do not hesitate to rank it at least equal to the very best product of the American wine press, and far supe- rior, in all respects, to the adulterated and poisonous trash which we import at a high price, from abroad. All the native varieties of Grapes, such as Catawba, Isabella, War- ren Pauline, Lenoir, Scuppernong, &c.. succeed admirably ; and we have seen, the present season, the Black Hamburg, Golden Chasselas, Sweetwater, Black Chasselas and White Muscat, produce large clusters, and ripen perfectly in the open air in August. Though only at the beginning, as it were, of this enterprize, we hazard little in predicting that the time is not very far distant, when the culture of Grapes and Wine making will be second in importance only to the growth of cotton, at the South — and that the day is near at hand when every man among us may, literally, "sit under his own vine and fig tree," and drink his own wine, to the utter exclusion of those maddening mixtures which are the prolific causes of so much social and moral misery. Had we not already too severely taxed the patience of our hearers, we might easily expand and amplify our delight- *Ab reoently near Mobile) at Citronelld. 213 ful theme — but we close hj assuring the Society that the study and pursuit of Pomology are beginning to be duly ap- preciated at the South, and that it shall be our constant en- deavor to co-operate cordially with our brethren in all other portions of the Union, for its advancement and success. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON SYNONYMS AND REJECTED FRUITS. By a vote of tlie Society passed at its Session of 1 856, the " Committee on Synonyms and Rejected Fruits " were instructed to prepare and report at the present meeting a far- ther list of varieties to be rejected as unworthy of general cultivation. To the presentation of such a list, an expres- sion of the sentiments of the Committee in relation to the subject, seems a not inappropriate introduction. The public announcement, authoritatively, of a list of va- rieties that should be rejected, is a matter of some delicacy, as private interests may feel themselves to be thereby injuri- ously affected. The cultivation of fruit trees for sale has now become an interest of no mean importance, and no inter- ference, even indirectly, therewith is warrantable unless im- peratively demanded by public necessity. But, great as is this interest, there is another still more important, that of the culti- vation of fruit, an interest comprising, in fact, as producers or consumers, all the community, and any measure calculated to promote its views, seems to be especially demanded at the hands of this Society, originated for the purpose of advanc- ing its objects. To make known, so far as experience will authorize it, those varieties that are unsuited to cultivation, will be, it is believed, an efficient mode of subserving the ob- jects of this last, without (for so intimately are they united that what operates to the benefit of the one cannot fail to have a favorable effect on the other) compromising in any degree tlie former interest. The preparation of a list of varieties to be rg'ected is at- tended with eeriouB difficulties^ and calls for the exercise of 215 much caution and discretion. So great are the difficulties in the puccessful carrying out of this purpose, as at first to seem almost insurmountable, unless a selection is confined to the old and long-established varieties with which all growers are familiar, 3-et with care and labor they can be in a great meas- ure overcome. At the outset it is met with an obstacle that grows out of the circumstance that trees are not always sent out true to their names ; that through inadvertence or design, from acci- dent or a culpable cupidity, under the name of a new and val- uable fruit, a worthless sort has sometimes been transmitted, and the supposed variety being propagated and disseminated from this impure source, the error becomes widely diffused and difficult of detection. An instance of this, though of an exactly opposite character, where a good fruit was sent out under the name of one of indifferent quality, is afforded in the case of Beurre Hardi. This variety was originally re- ceived in this country under the name of Beurre Sterckman, and until recently, when the error was detected, no doubt was entertained of the correctness of the nomenclature, which even now is scarcely restored. Another difficulty to be overcome in a satisfactory per- formance of the duty assigned your Committee, arises from the fact that, particularly with some varieties of pears, the fruit does not always develop its qualities until the tree has attained a certain degree of maturity ; to hastily decide, then, upon the qualit}'' of a fruit may be to commit a deplorable error. Years, many years, of patient observation are often necessary before a reliable estimate can be formed of the adaptation or non-adaptation of a new fruit to general cul tivation. For some years after its introduction one of the best and most esteemed of our winter pears, the Glout Mor- ceau, gave such unsatisfactory results as to induce the neglect of its cultivation, and, in some instances, to the engrafting the trees, and it was not until recently, when time had been afforded for the trees to attain maturity and the fruit to devel- op its qualities, that it assumed the rank to which, for its excellence, it is so justly entitled, and that is now so gener- ally accorded it. 216 The preparation for the whole country of a list of varie- ties to be rejected is attended, too, with this difficulty, that sometimes a fruit unsuited to one part of the country is found to be well adapted to another, that a variety that fails in New York may succeed in Georgia, and that one worthless in Massachusetts may be of great excellence in Kentucky. The Dearborn Seedling pear is now so little esteemed in Mas- sachuetts, where, too, it originated, as to be scarcely cultiva- ted, while in other parts of the country it is held in the high- est estimation. And also, because that a variety generally inferior is found sometimes in a particular place or under pe- culiar circumstances to be of great merit. This is an inhe- rent difficulty and one that cannot wholly be obviated, though practically it will not, as is believed, lead to the commission of any serious error ; for so wide is now the range of selec- tion, that the rejection of a variety from general cultivation that only succeeds in particular sections and places or under particular circumstances cannot produce any injurious conse- quences, and it is a difficulty common alike to the preparation of a list of varieties to be recommended as well as one to be rejected. The principal value of a "rejected list" consists in this, that it makes known to beginners in the cultivation of fruits and to those not familiar with the subject, those va- rieties that, from the experience of others, should be avoided ; and, so far as it limits the range of selection, assists such in making choice of varieties that will more probably produce desirable results. The long list of varieties, each designated by an attractive name, often no index of its true quality, that are yearly distributed, often serves but to bewilder the choice. A reduction of these, judiciously and carefully performed, by casting out the worthless and indifferent, cannot but be ben- eficial alike to the raisers and growers of Fruit trees. A list of varieties to be rejected, limited to the older va- rieties, would be deprived of most of its value, for the char- acter of such is already generally known. Your Committee have therefore extended the range to those of more recent origin, where there has been sufficient experience to justify the formation of an opinion. In the list of varieties to be rejected, it is intended to in- »^ I PRESIDENT. Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, of Massachusetts. VICE PRESIDENTS. S. L. Goodale Maine. H. J. French New Hampshire. Samuel Walker Massachusetts. Fred. Holbrook Vermont. Stephen H. Smith Rhode Island. A. S. Monson Connecticut. Charles Downing New York. William Reid New Jersey. Hartman Kuhn, Jr Pennsylvania. E. Tatnall Delaware. Chas B. Calvert Maryland. Yardley Taylor Virginia. Walter L. Steele North Carolina. A. G. Summer South Carolina. Richard Peters Georgia. Jos. L. Moultrie Alabama. Dr. M. W. Philips Mississippi. J. S. Downer Tennessee. Lawrence Young Kentucky. A. H. Ernst Ohio. J. C. Holmes Michigan. J. A. D. Nelson Indiana. 251 T. W. Felt Louisiana. C. R. Overman Illinois. N. J. Coleman Missouri. Geo. Worthin Arkansas. B. F. Nourse Florida. Robert Avery Iowa. J. C. Brayton Wisconsin. Simpson Thomson California. Joshua Pierce Dist. Columbia. Edward Hunter Utah. Amasa Stewart. Minnesota. C. B. Lines Kansas. Wm. Davenport Oregon. Thos. Affleck Texas. Hugh Allen Canada East. James Dougal Canada West. TREASURER. Thomas P. James, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. SECRETARY. Thomas W. Field, 140 Fulton St., New York. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. President and Vice-Presidents, ex-oficio. W. D. Brinckle .Philadelphia, Penn. Rich. Peters Atlanta, Ga. B. V. French Boston, Mass. W. L. Steele Rockingham, N. C. Thos. Hogg New York, N. Y.. GENERAL FRUIT COMMITTEE. Hon. Samuel Walker Roxbury, Mass. Chair. J. W. Adams Portland, Maine. H. J. French Laconia, N. H. Eben Wight Dedham, Mass. Josiah Chapin Providence, R. I. Nath. A. Bacon New Haven, Conn* / E. C. Worcester ."T^heTford, ^«5ft; /'^-vt-t^firi*--/"- 252 P. Barry Rochester, N. Y. William Raid Elizabeth, N. J. Thos. P. James Philadelphia, Penn. Rev. Samuel C. Brinckle. Wilmington, Del. Charles B. Calvert Maryland. Yardley Taylor Loudon Co., Ya. S. W. Westbrooke. ............ Greensboro, N. C. A. G. Summer, Lawrensville, S. C. D. Redmond . .Augusta, Ga. M. W. Philips Wilmington, Miss. Jas. S. Downer (P. 0. Ellerton Ky.,) Tenn. Edw. D. Hobbs Louisville, Ky. Robert Buchanan Cincinnati, 0. Wm. D. Loomis Indianapolis, Lidiana. M. L. Dunlap Urbana, Illinois. Thos. R Elliot .St. Louis, Mo. M. L. Comstock Burlington, Iowa. Wm. Loomis Michigan. Jos. L. Moultrie Alabama. T. W. Felt Bayou Sara, La. George Worthen Little Rock, Ark. Thomas Affleck Texas. J. C Brayton Wisconsin. S. Thompson Nassau City, Cal. Joshua Pierce Washington, D. C Amasa Stewart ..Minnesota. Edward Hunter Salt Lake, Utah. James Dougall Amstherburgh, Can. W. Hugh Allen Montreal, Can. E. C. B. Lines Kansas. COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN FRUITS. C. M. Hovey Cambridge, Mass. M. B. Bateham Columbus, Ohio. R. R. Scott Philadelphia, Pa. D. Redmond Augusta, Ga. L. E. Berckmans Plainfield, N. J- Andrew Saul Newburgh, N. Y. 253 COMMITTEE ON NATIVE FRIHTS. Dr. Brinckle Philadelphia, Penn. Samuel Walker Roxbury, Mass. D. Redmond Augusta, Ga. P. Barry Rochester, N. Y. €. M. Hovey Cambridge, Mass. Dr. Warder Ohio, S. W. Westbrooke North Carolina. COMMITTEE ON SYNONYMS AND REJECTED FRUITS. J. S. Cabot Salem, Mass. W. R. Prince Flushing, N. Y. L. E. Berckmans. Plainfield, N. J. J. A. Warder, M. D Cincinnati, Ohio. J. J. Thomas Albany, N. Y. Robert Buist Philadelphia, Pa. C. M. Hovey. Cambridge, Mass. fid 0f Pmhrs. The following list comprises the names of those Members of the American Pomological Society, who have paid their subscriptions, for the term 1858 to 1860. John W. Adams, Edwin Allen, M. D., N. T. Arms, Nathaniel A. Bacon, Jonathan C. Baldwin, Clarence T. Barret, Patrick Barry, M. B. Baleham, C. M. Bagley, Isaac B. Baxter, John G. Bergen, L. E. Berckmans, Emile Berckmans, R. J. Black, H. E. Boardman, J. F. Boynton, M. D., Alfred Bridgeman, Wm. D. Brinckle, M. D, P. B. Bristol, M. D., H. P. Bryan, James Bryce, "William Bryce, William Brocksbank, Robert Buist, Isaac Buchanan, C. C. Covington, M. D., Asa Clement, Joseph S. Cabot, Portland, Maine. New Brunswick, New Jersey. Albany, New York. New Haven, Connecticut. Westchester, Pennsylvania. Staten Island, New York. Rochester, New York. Columbus, Ohio. Newburyport, Massachusetts. Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Brooklyn, New York. Plainfield, New Jersey, Plainfield, New Jersey. Bremen, Ohio. Rochester, New York. Syracuse, New York. New York, New York. , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dansville, New York. Louisville, Kentucky. New York, New York. New York, New York. Hudson, New York. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. New York, New York. Rockingham, N. Carolina. Lowell, Massachusetts. Salem, Massachusetts. 255 S. P. Carpenter, Wm. S. Carpenter, Elizur E. Clark, William Clift, C. C. Cooley, A. P. Cumings, George G. Curtis, B. F. Cutter, Alan W. Corson. William Davidson, Charles Davis, Jr., John Dick, Charles Dickerson, Edward Doughty, Charles Downing, John B. Eaton, George Ellwanger, William Emerson, A. H. Ernst, Edward J. Evans, J. Farley, Samuel Feast, Suel Foster, William L. Ferris, B. V. French, Life, Henry C. Freeman, Alonzo Frost, E. O. Frost, Joseph Frost, Thos. W. Field, E. B. Gardette, M. D., T. S. Gold, S. L. Goodale, C. W. Grant, M. D., John Groshen, Jonathan Grout, John S. Haines, John C. Hanchett, H. P. Hanford, New Rochelle, New York, New Haven, Stonington, Manchester, New York, Maysville, Lowell, Plymouth Meetin New York, Phillipsburgh, Philadelphia, New Haven, Newark, Newburgh, Buffalo, Rochester, New York, Cincinnati, York, Rochester, Baltimore, Muscatine, Throg's Neck, Boston, Ravenswood, Rochester, Rochester, Rochester, New York, Philadelphia, West Cornwall, Saco, Newburgh, New York, Worcester, Germantown, Syracuse, Bristol, New York. New York. Connecticut. Connecticut. Ohio. New York. Kentucky. Massachusetts, g, Pennsylvania. New York. New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Connecticut. New Jersey. New York. New York. New York. New York. Ohio. Pennsylvania. New York. Maryland. Iowa. New York. Massachusetts. New York. New York. New York. New York. New York. Pennsylvania. Connecticut. Maine. New York. New York. Massachusetts. Pennsylvania. New York. Indiana. 256 Benjamin B. Hance, George H. Hansell, Thomas M. Harvey, C. S. Hoag, Thomas Hogg, C. M. Hooker, H. Hooker, H. E. Hooker, Daniel Higgins, Abner Hoopes, Josiah Hoopes, John J. Howe, William Howe, Stephen Hoyt, Thomas P. James, Isaac Jackson, James Johnston, M. D., Orange Judd, S. T. Kelsey, S. O. Knapp, James Knight, M. D., Rev. J. Knox, David Landreth, William Lawton, Willis Lee, M. D., Henry Little, Life, T. T. Lyon, David Macferron, Mathew Mackie, D. F. Manice, S. B. Marshall, J. B. Mantell, J. J. Maxwell, P. B. Mead, Thos. M'Ewen, M. D., Andrew Merrell, Dr. Edgar, Miles, Edward Mills, David Miller, Jr., Red Bank, New York, Jennerville, Lockport, Yorkville, Rochester^ Rochester, Rochester, Flushing, Westchester, Westchester, Derby, North Salem, New Canaan, Philadelphia, Avondale, Rochester, New York, Great Yalley, Jackson New York, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New Rochelle, Holly Springs, Bangor, Plymouth, Alleghany City, Clyde, Q,ueens Co., Massilon, Astoria, Geneva, Manhasset, Philadelphia, Geneva, Sag Harbor, Cincinuati, Carlisle, New Jersey. New York. Pennsylvania. New York. New York, New York. New York, New York. New York. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. Connecticut. New York. Connecticut. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania, New York. New York. New York. Michigan. New York. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. New York. Mississippi. Maine. Michigan. Pennsylvania. New York. New York. Ohio. New York. New York. New York. Pennsylvania. New York. New York. Ohio. Pennsylvania. 257 James S. M'Calla, Cheever Newhall, E. Newbury, Edward Norton, B. F. Nourse. Robert B. Parsons, S. B. Parsons, James M. Paul, Thomas Pinrose, R. Peters, Life, David Pettit, Joshua Pierce, William R. Prince, Norman Porter, D. Redmond, M. D., Charles Reeve, William Reid, J. D. Richardson, H. R. Roby, Gurdon W. Russel, A. Saul, William Saunders, Chas. T. Schmidt, R. R. Scott, Thomas L. Shields, J. R. Shotwell, William H. Starr, Walter L. Steele, William Brown Smith, Josiah Stickney, W. C. Strong, Robert L. Stuart, E. W. Sylvester, Jacob Senneff, Amasa Stewart, J. C. Teas, E. Tatnall, EUwood Thomas, Yardley Taylor, 33 Philadelphia, Dorchester, Brooklyn, Framingham, Boston, Flushing, Flushing, North Adams, Maiden's Creek, Atalanta, Salem, Linnean Hill, Flushing, Berlin, Augusta, Southold, Elizabeth, Buckeytown, Fredericksburgh, Hartford, Newburgh, Germantown, Pallisades, Philadelphia, Sewickley, Rahway, New London, Rockingham, Syracuse, Boston, Brighton, New York, . Lyons, Philadelphia, Lesuer, Raysville, Wilmington, King of Prussia, Loudon Yalley, Pennsylvania. Massachusetts. Conn. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. New York. _New York. Massachusetts. Pennsylvania. Georgia. New Jersey. Dist. Columbia. New York. Connecticut. Georgia. New York. New Jersey. Maryland. Yirginia. Connecticut. New York. Pennsylvania. New York. Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. New Jersey. Connecticut. North Carolina. New York. Massachusetts. Massachusetts. New York. New York. Pennsylvania. Minnesota. Indiana. Delaware. Pennsylvania. Virginia. 258 A. Thompson, Delaware, Ohio. F.Trowbridge, New Haven, Connecticut. W. P. Townsend, Lockport, New York. W. G. Waring, Pennsylvania. Daniel Wadsworth, Norwich, Connecticut. Samuel Walker, Life, Roxbury, Massachusetts. J. A. Warder, M. D., Cincinnati, Ohio. E. H. Warren. Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Aaron D. Weld, Boston, Massachusetts. S. W. Westbrook, Greensboro, North Carolina. Chs. O. Whitraore, Boston, Massachusetts. John Wieland, Farmersville, Ohio. Marshall P, Wilder, Li/'e,Boston, Massachusetts. W. C, Wilson, Baltimore, Maryland. O. F. Winchester, New Haven, Connecticut. John David Wolfe, Life,New York, New York. A. D. Williams, Roxbury, Massachusetts. E. A. Vickroy, Johnston, Connecticut. Lawrence Youug, Louisville, Kentucky. 0 n I e n t s Address — President's 11 Apples 73 and 85 " Autumn Bough 86 " Buckingham . . , 86 " Beauty of Kent 73 " Broadwell 85 " Carolina June 85 " Fornwalder 86 " Smith's Cider 86 ' ' Ladies' Sweet 42 *' Wagoner , 87 " Glory of Kent 73 * ' Lists of for Particular Localities 236 ■" " " Gardens 236 *' *' " Northern Localities 236 *' *' Kejected 237 " " Which Promise Well 234 " " Worthy of General Cultivation 230 " " Reported by Committee for Rejection 218 Apricots, List of for General Cultivation 232 " Rejected 343 Blackberries for General Cultivation 233 Cherries, Catalogue of 232 '« For General Cultivation 232 •' WhichPromise Well 235 " Rejected 243 " Reported by Committee for Rejection 221 Currants, Discussion of , 84 " Cherry Currant, 84 " Versaillaise , ........ 85 " Red Grape 85 " Fertile de Pallua 85 " La Caucasse 85 " Catalogue of for General Cultivation 233 Which Promise Well 236 Constitution and By-Laws 240 Circular 4c Committee on Nominations 27 " Native Fruita 30 & 253 " Business 27 " General Fruits , 251 Executive 29 & 251 " Foreign Fruits 252 " Synonyms and Rejected Fruits 253 Delegates T Discussions 33 Exhibitors of Fruits 227 Fruits, Catalogue for General Cultivation 230 " New Varieties whicli Promise Well 234 " For Particular Localities 235 " For Northern Localities 236 " Eejected 237 " Eecommended by Committee for Rejection 218 " Referred to during discussion 24& Grapes, Discussion of 65 ' ' Amber Catawba , 71 " Anna 71 " Black Damascus, 73 " Bow-wood Muscat 73 '• Concord 66 " Clara 71 " Canadian Chief. 72 " Carter 72 " Child's Superb 72 " Canon Hall Muscat 73 " Delaware 66 ' ' Decken Superb 72 " Golden Hamburgh 73 " Graham 71 " Herbemont. 69 " Hartford Prolific 70 " Logan 69 " Ladies' Down 73 " Manhattan , .. 71 " Norton's Virginia Seedling 68 " Rebecca 67 " Red Chasselas 73 " To Kalon 72 " Union Village 69 " West's St. Peters 73 " West's Nice 73 " Zinfindal 73 " Catalogue of, for General Cultivation 233 " " •' Promise Well 236 261 Grapes, Catalogue of, for Eejected , ..244 Members, List of 254 Officers 28 & 250 Paper, read by L. E. Berckmans 187 " " T. W. Field 193 " " J. J. Thomas 198 " " D. Eedmond 201 Pears, Discussion of 42 " Adams 43 ' ' Alpha. 43 ' ' Belle Epine Dumas 63 " Belle Escellente 47 " Bergen 56 " Buerre d'Aremberg 68 " Beurre d' Albert 43 " Beurre Clairgeau 43 " Beurre Giiiard 44 ' ' Beurre Hardy 44 & 62 ' ' Beurre Kennes 4^ " Beurre Nantais , 44 ' ' Beurre Sterckman 44 " Beurre Superfin ._ 45 & 62 " Beurre Gris d'Hiver Nouveau 57 " Buffum (52 ' ' Bonne d' Ezee 5g " Boston .' 5^ " Brande's St. Germain 45 " Brandywine 45 & 60 " Canandaigua 57 " Chancellor 45 " Charles Van Hooghten 4q, Clark. 58 Collins 4g Compte de' Flandre 4g Conseilleur de la Cour 45, Comptesse d'Alost 4g Cabot 53 Church 5g Corn well 59. Gushing 54 Delices d'Hardempont de Belgique 46 Delices d'Hardempont d'Angers 46 Doynene d'Alencon 46 & 62 Doyenne Sieulle 63 Dix 47 Duchesse d' Orleans. 47 Duchesse d' Angouleme gi^ Duchesse d'Berry d'Ete 4y Doyenne Qoubault 41^ 262 Pears, Due de Brabant , . . 47 " Desiree Van Mons 47 ' ' Emile de Heyst 47 ' ' Epine Dumas 47 ' ' Excellentisshna , 47 " Fondante de Cornice 47 " Fondante de Charneuse 47 " Fondante de Malines 48 " Fondante de Noel 48 ' ' Frederick of Wurtembei'g 54 ' • Gansels Bergamotte 58 " Glout Morceau 43 ' ' Hagerman 56 " Heathcote 54 " Henkel 59 ' ' Hosen Schenk 48 " Howel 62 " Hull 53 " Jalousie de Fontenay 48 ' ' Kingsessing 48 " Kirtland 48 " Lawrence 59 ' ' Limon 49 ' ' Lodge 49 ' ' Long Green of Cox 60 " Meriam 54 " Napoleon 60 " Niles 49 " Onondaga 50 " Osband's Summer 52 " Ott 52 " Philadelphia 52 " Pius IX 52 " Pratt 52 " Pinneo 54 ' ' Piatt' s Bergamotte 58 *' Queen of August 55 " Eouselette d"Esperen 52 ' ' Soldat Laboreur 60 " Selleck 59 ' ' Stevens' Genesee 52 " St. Michael's Archange 53 " Striped Madeleine 53 " Tea Pear 67 " Theodore Van Mons 53 ' ' Van Assene, or Van Assche 53 " Walker 53 ' ' Zepherine Gregoire 53 " Catalogue for General Cultivation 231 263 Pears, Catalogue for Cultivation on Quince 231 " " of, which Promise well 234 " "for particular Localities 234 " " of, Kejected 229 " " of, Keferred to 246 " »' Kecommended by Committee for Rejection 219 Peaches, Discussion of 8^ " Carpenter's White 86 «• China Cling 87 " Catalogue of, for General Cultivation 232 " " which promise well 235 " " Rejected 237 Plums, Catalogue of, for General Cultivation 232 " " " which Promise Well 235 " " " Particular Localities 236 " " "Rejected -244 " " " reported by Committee for Rejection 222 Pear Culture, Discussion of ^° " Mulching of ^^ " Training of ^^ Easpberries, Discussion of 82 " Allen's 82 " American Red 83 " Thunderer 83 " Bagley's Everbearing 83 " Doolittle's Black Cap 84 " Catalogue of for General Cultivation 233 " " Which Promise Well 235 " " Rejected 244 " " Referred to during Discussions 245 Report, District Columbia 163 ' ' Connecticut > 89 " New Jersey 1^7 " New York 134 " Massachusetts 128 •' Michigan 1'^'' a Ohio 172 and 169 " Pennsylvania 15^ " Georgia 182 " Illinois 180 " Virginia 161 " Of Committee on Rejected fruits 215 " Native Fruits 224 '• Treasurer's • 226 Strawberries, Discussion of '^ " British Queen 74 " Crescent Seedling '^^ *• Monroe Scarlet '^ «' Hooker's Seedling 76 264 strawberries, Wilson's Albany , f6 " Walker's Seedling 76 " Burr's New Pine 76 " Triomphe de Grand 76 " Boston Pine 76 " Peabody's Hautbois 77 " Longwortb's Prolific 78 " Trollope's Victoria 78 " McAvoy's Extra Pied 79 ** Le Baron 80 •' Scott's Seedling 80 ' ' McAvoy's Superior 81 " Catalogue for General Cultivation 233 " " Wbich Promise Wei! 235 " " Particular Localities 236 * " " Eejected 244 Session, first day, morning 7 " " afternoon 28 " " evening 33 " second day, morning 42 " " afternoon 55 " " evening 64 ' ' third day, morning 73