* UMASS/AMHERST *
312066 0333 2597 3
CV^-
.^t y \'
r J.
t
*■
%,3i.
*'
.^,
1
tl •
■^>-.,
>.tjr4i
w^
^m>
s^ ..^
r^
»
Z;"**^
.. - '4^'
^:.j->^;i^
^*i'^
V ^'-
i >'^..it^-
J .'■ «)
LIBRARY
OF THE
MASSACHUSETTS
AGRICULTURAL
COLLEGE
No.--?-4>.L5:o____ DATE.4 -.LT05.
SOURCE -^^c'u ci_^ .State.
•"Per
Series of 1904. Vol. 17. No. 1.
MASSACHUSETTS
CEOP EEPOKT
Month of May, 1904.
GRASS CULTURE.
ISSUED MONTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.
3. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.
Application for entry as second-class matter pending.
BOSTON :
WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
18 Post Office Square.
1904.
Ttr
Approved by
The State Board of Publication
Crop Eeport foe the Month of Mat, 1904.
Office of State Boakd of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., June 1, l!i04.
Bulletin No. 1, Crop Eeport for the month of May, our
first monthly crop bulletin for the year, is presented here-
with. These bulletins will follow the usual lines for this
year, so far as at present arranged for, with statistics re-
garding the crops of the countr}^ followed by notes on the
weather conditions in Xew Enoland and the United States
at large, a summary of crop conditions compiled from the
reports received from our numerous correspondents, selected
reports of correspondents, and finally an article on some
subject of interest to our farmers by a recognized expert in
the line treated on. Suggestions for improvement in form
and substance matter will be gratefully received. An article
on " The hay crop in Massachusetts," by Prof. Wm. P.
Brooks, professor of agriculture at the Massachusetts Agri-
cultural College, will be found printed at the close of this
bulletin. Professor Brooks has given this subject very care-
ful consideration, and it is one that should appeal to all
thoughtful farmers. Intensive cultivation is the secret of
success on our New England farms, and applies as well to
grass culture and the care of mowings as to the management
of market gardens.
Progress of the Season.
The May returns to the Bureau of Statistics of the United
States Department of Agriculture (Crop Reporter for May,
1904) show the area under winter wheat in cultivation on
May 1 to have been about 27,083,550 acres. This is
4,932,700 acres, or about 15.4 per cent, less than the area
sown last fall, and 5,247,000 acres, or 16.7 per cent, less
than the area of winter wheat harvested last year. The
averao-e condition for that remaining under cultivation was
76.5, precisely the same condition as that reported for the
total area sown on April 1, against 92.6 on May 1, 1902,
76.4 the year previous, and 84.2, the mean of the May
averages of the last ten years.
The average condition of winter rye was 81.2, as com-
pared with 82.3 on April 1, 93.3 on May 1, 1903, 83.4 the
year previous, and 89.5, the mean of the May averages of
the last ten years.
The average condition of meadow mowing lands was 85,
against 92.8 on May 1, 1903, 86.6 the year previous, and
90.7, the mean of the May averages of the last ten years.
The average condition of spring pastures was 80.5, against
92 on May 1, 1903, 84.9 the previous year, and 90.3, the
mean of the May averages of the last ten years.
Of the total acreage of spring plowing contemplated, 57.3
per cent was reported as actually done May 1, as compared
with 57.9 per cent on May 1, 1903, and a ten-year average
of 70.3.
The available records of the department show for no pre-
ceding year such uniformity of unfavorable conditions as is
reported on jNIay 1 of this year.
In Massachusetts the average condition of meadow mow-
ing lands was given as 87, the average condition of spring
pastures as 86, and the proportion of spring plowing actually
done as 19.
Weather Summary, Jan. 1 to May 1, 1904.
[Furnished by Weather Bureau, Boston.]
The weather of January will long be remembered for its
unusual severity, the cold waves being of marked intensity,
the storms heavy and frequent, with gales of great force
along the coast, and snowfall of unusual depth throughout
all sections. The monthly mean temperature was decidedly
below the normal in parts of the State, the departures rang-
ing from 3° on the islands along; the southern coast to 8° in
interior portions of the State. The minimum temperatures
ranged from 2° above zero at Martha's Vineyard to 25° to 30°
below in interior localities. The snowfall of the month Avas
far in excess of the amounts usually experienced in January,
and in some instances the amounts were equal to the normal
for an entire winter. The total depth for the month ranged
from 4 inches on the immediate coast to about 50 inches in
some of the interior sections. January as a whole may be
considered one of the most severe months that has occurred
during the last century.
February was a fitting climax to a winter that, so far as
temperatures are concerned, is unprecedented in the official
records. The monthly means were again below the normal
at all stations, the departures ranging from 3° on the coast
to 8*^ in the interior and west portions. The snowfall was
in excess of the average, although the monthly amounts were
much below those of the preceding month. The month was
also characterized b}^ severe and persistent storms along the
coast, during which the wind blew with great violence.
Shipping was greatly inconvenienced and delayed, although
few casualties resulted. This month will also go on record
as one of great severity.
The meteorological conditions of March presented features
at little variance from those usually experienced at this time
of the year. While the temperature at the major portion of
the points of observation was below the average for March,
the deficiencies were not so marked as in the preceding
months. The same may be said of the precipitation, which
was chiefly in the form of snow. The storms of the month
were less severe and fewer in number than usual for March.
The month closed with moderate weather, during which
the snow disappeared, except in protected places, giving
conditions favorable to the beginning of farming opera-
tions.
April as a whole was very unpleasant, the weather being
unusually cold and wet. With slight exceptions the month
was the coldest of its name within official records. The
temperatures, entire month, were below normal at all
stations, with the monthly departures ranging from 1° to 4°.
The precipitation of the month was remarka1)ly heavy, al-
though well distributed through the period and over the
territory. The monthly amounts were among the largest of
record for April. At the close of April it was generally
estimated that the season was from ten to fifteen days behind
the average.
6
Temperature and Rainfall for the ^YHOLE Country.
[From United States Cluiate and Crop Bulletins.]
Week ending May 9. — The week Avas colder than usual
on the north Pacific coast, in the central and southern
Eocky ]\Iountain districts and west Gulf States, and along
the middle and south Atlantic coasts. In central California,
the central valleys, Lake region, New England and the
northern portion of the Middle Atlantic States the week was
warmer than usual, the most marked excess occurring in
the Lake region and southern New England. In the lower
Lake region and Ohio valley and over much the greater part
of the Atlantic coast and east Gulf districts the rainfall was
below the average, a considerable part of the Middle At-
lantic States, New England and the east Gulf States receiv-
ing no measurable amount. Over the Eocky Mountain
slope and from the west Gulf coast northward to the upper
Lake region and Eed Eiver of the North valley the rainfall
was unusually heav3\
Weeh ending May 16. — The week was warmer than
usual in the Pacific coast States, middle and southern
Plateau districts, New England, the northern portion of
the Middle Atlantic States and in southern Florida.
Throughout the central valleys and Gulf States and over
the greater part of the Lake region the week was colder
than usual, the deficiency ranging from 3° to 9° per day.
The Middle Atlantic States, the greater part of New Eng-
land, the eastern portion of the lower Lake region, and an
area extending from northern Texas over Oklahoma, and
the eastern portions of Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota,
received more than the average rainfall. Generally tlirough-
out the southern States and in the Ohio and upper Missis-
sippi valleys and the central portion of the Lake region the
rainfall was less than usual. The rainfall of the Pacific
coast was also below the average.
Week ending May 23. — In the lower Lake region, Ohio
and lower Mississippi valleys, east Gulf States, and on the At-
lantic coast south of New England the week averaged cooler
than usual. The week was also slightl}' cooler than usual
in southern Texas and on the immediate coast of Washing-
ton. In all other districts the temperature was above the
normal, the excess being very slight in New England, over
the south-eastern Rock}^ Mountain slope and in the southern
Plateau and Pacific coast regions. Over very much the
greater part of the United States the rainfall was below the
average, no appreciable amount being reported from large
areas in the southern States and central valleys, but over a
considerable part of the upper Lake region and portions of
the New England and South Atlantic States the rainfall was
excessive.
Special Telegraphic Reports.
[Weather Bureau, Boston.]
Week ending May 9. — New England. Boston: "Week
exceptionally favorable for gi-owth of all crops, especially
grass and fall grain ; peas, beets, onions and a few potatoes
up in south ; tobacco plants improving, condition fair ;
light frost 3d, slight damage.
Week ending May 16. — New England. Boston: Too
wet in central western Maine, otherwise weather season-
able ; crops made good growth, much planting and plowing
done ; grass and grain in excellent condition ; all fruit trees
blooming profusely except peaches, latter not promising;
cranberries wintered well; tobacco outlook good, some
setting.
Week ending May 23. — New England. Boston :
Weather generally unfavorable except for fall grain and
grass, growth of latter very rapid ; fruit of all kinds bloom-
ing full ; apples exceptionall}' promising ; all berries
promise well ; rain north retarded potato planting ; tobacco
setting delayed, many beds backward.
The Weather of May, 1904.
The opening week of the month was marked by an un-
usual prevalence of sunshine and almost an entire absence
of rainfall. The temperature during the period was gener-
ally above the seasonal average, the days being quite warm
and the nights somewhat cooler than usual tor the season.
The first rain of consequence in amount and territory covered
fell on the 9tli-10th. This was followed by several days of
unsettled but generally fair weather, and the next storm
of importance was on the 19th, during which the rainfall,
largely from showers, was quite copious. The temperature
during the second decade, when taken from day to day,
was uneven, but when considered as a whole it varied but
little from the normal. The weather for the remainder of
the month was characteristic of the season ; clear to partly
cloudy skies, interspersed with well-distributed showers,
during which the rainfall was generally in small amounts.
The temperature of the last decade was continuously above
the average of the time of year, although there were no un-
usual excesses. Throughout the month the days were warm
and the nights moderately cool, resulting in a monthlj^ tem-
perature considerabl}^ above the average, and a daily excess
of from 2° to 4°. Thunderstorms were fully as frequent as
the average, and in some localities there was damage from
lightning and high winds. Hail accompanied the storms in
some sections, but was of little importance, as crops were not
sufficiently advanced to be materially injured thereb}^ May
as a whole was a very pleasant month, the weather being
well suited to outdoor recreation and to farm operations.
In the circular to correspondents, returnable May 24, the
following questions were asked : —
1. How does the present season compare, agriculturally
speaking, with a normal season ?
2. What is the promise for pastures and mowings, and did
fall seeding winter well ?
3. How did the bloom of apples, pears, peaches, plums
and small fruits compare with the bloom of former years,
and has it sujffered from frosts?
4. AYhat insects appear to be doing the most damage in
your locality ?
5. To what extent is spraying practised against insects
attacking fruit, and is it on the increase in your locality ?
6. Is farm help scarce, or i)lenty; and what proportion
can be called good help ?
7. What are the average wages paid farm help in your
vicinity, with board? Without board?
8. Will there be any marked change in the acreage of the
9
usual farm crops, and do you note any new enterprises in
the line of agriculture ?
Returns were received from 127 correspondents, and from
them the following summarj^ has been compiled : —
The Season.
April was a cold month, and May opened from a week to
ten days late. The wet weather of the month operated
to delay farm work still further, and it is still somewhat in
arrears. Vegetation, however, advanced very rapidly, and
at time of making returns was well up to the normal. The
warm weather and frequent showers of the last ten days of
the month were also very favorable to vegetation, to the
germination of seeds and to early planted crops, so that the
season was probably as far advanced as usual at the close
of the month. The fruit bloom occurred very close to the
average date in all parts of the State.
Pastuees and Mowings.
Pastures and mowings wintered well, as a rule, although
ice lay on the ground in some low situations during the late
winter and early spring, badly winter-killing grass in those
places. The first part of the month was very favorable to
grass, owing to frequent rains, and gave pastures and mow-
ings a splendid start. The warm Aveather and showers of
the latter part of the month were also beneficial, and at time
of going to press the prospect for the grass crop was never
better at the same time of year. Fall seeding wintered
well, with the exception of occasional winter-killing from
ice, and, like all grass, got a good start and made good
progress during May.
Fruit Bloom.
The apple bloom was generally reported to have been
unusually heavy, though there are a few complaints of light
bloom on Baldwins, but probably sufficient for a good crop
with good future development. Peach trees were badly
injured ])y the cold winter in many localities, and many trees
were entirely destroyed ; the bloom was therefore very light
for the State as a whole, although a few localities report a
10
fair to good bloom. Cherries and plums made a full bloom,
but there are some complaints that the pear bloom was
light. Small fruits winter-killed in many sections, but
where they came through the winter well made a full bloom.
Wild berries also blossomed well. Up to time of going to
press there was al^solutely no damage from spring frosts,
and no prospect of future injury from that source.
Insects.
At the time of making returns but few insects had ap-
peared, and they were doing very little damage. Tent
caterpillars were less prevalent than usual, but still the
insect most commonly reported. Very few correspondents
reported the potato bug as having appeared at time of mak-
ing returns. Other insects mentioned are canker worms,
currant worms, cut worms, the horn Ay, the elm-leaf lieetle
and the San Jose scale.
Spraying.
Those farmers who make fruit raising a specialty generally
spray their trees, and find the practice profitable. Other
farmers are probably deterred from spraying in a large
measure by the first cost of the necessary outfit, though an
increasing number adopt the practice from j^ear to year.
This being the bearing year for apples, there should be more
spraying by farmers than for a number of years past.
Farm Help and Wages.
Farm help appears to be fairly plentj^ and most of it is
fairly good, although the supply of first-class help is, as
always, limited. The ideal man, like the ideal master, is
not often found. Twenty dollars per month with board
is apparently a fair average of the wages paid, and |35 per
month without board, though little help is employed in this
way. For work by the day, $1.50 per day seems to be the
price commonly paid, and even higher in some sections.
Acreage of Farm Crops.
A slight increase in the acreage of potatoes is indicated
l)y the returns; otherwise, the acreage of the various farm
crops raised will not vary much from former years.
11
NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.
(Returned to us May 24.)
BERKSHIRE COUNTY.
New Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades). — The season compares
favorably with the normal. Grass is looking well except where
winter-killed by ice. Fruit trees, with the exception of pears, are
blossoming full. Not much spraying is done in this locality.
There seems to be enough farm help, but three-fourths of it or
more is poor help. Wages average S25 per month with board,
and S25 to $30 per month without board. There will probably be
an increased acreage of potatoes, though many are compelled to
use poor seed.
Alford (L. T. Osborne). — On the whole, the season is more
favorable than the average. Pastures and mowings were never
more promising, and fall seeding wintered well. Full bloom of
apples; peach trees nearly killed ; pears not looking well. Tent
caterpillars are the only insect as yet, and they^ are not as plentiful
as usual. Spraying is not largely practised, but is on the increase.
Farm help is very scarce, and there is but little good help to be
had. Wages average $20 per month with board, and from $25 to
$35 per month without board. Dairying is our main line, and
there are no changes in our usual system.
Tyringham (E. H. Slater). — The present season compares
favorably with a normal season. Pastures and mowiugs are look-
ing well ; fall seeding badly winter-killed. The bloom of apples,
pears and jieaches compares favorably with former years, and has
not suffered from frosts. Insects are not doing much damage.
Farm help is scarce, about one-half of it being good help. Wages
average $20 per month with board and $1.50 per day without
board. The acreage of potatoes will be somewhat increased this
year.
Washijigton (E. H. Fames). — The season is about the same as
in former years. Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall
seeding wintered well. The fruit bloom is full, and has not suf-
fered from frosts. No insects have appeared as yet. Spraying is
12
not practised in this locality. Farm help is scarce, and the avail-
able supply not good. Wages average from $15 to $18 per
month with board and about $1.50 per day without board. The
acreage of farm crops will not be materially changed.
Richmond (T. B. Salmon). — The season is well up to the
normal in promise. Pastures look well and mowings are in good
condition ; no fall seeding done here. There was a good bloom
of all kinds of fruit, and it has not suffered from frosts. Tent
caterpillars are doing some damage. Spraying is little practised,
and is not increasing. Farm help is scarce, and two-thirds of it
is good help. Wages average from $16 to $20 per month with
board and $1.50 for a day of nine hours without board. There
will be no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Dalton (Wesley B. Barton) . — The present season is fully
up to the normal. Pastures and mowings are in excellent con-
dition, and all fall seeding looks finely. Apples and pears
bloomed well ; plums and peaches winter-killed badly. One-
fourth of our farmers spray their fruit trees, and the practice is
increasing. Farm help is more plenty than of late years, and half
of it is good help. Wages average $22 per month with board and
$1.50 per day without board. There will be no material change
in the acreage of farm crops.
Savoy (W. W. Burnett). — We anticipate fully a normal sea-
son. Pastures and mowings are in good average condition, and
fall seeding wintered well. Fruit trees are not yet in bloom, but
the outlook is good for a full bloom, though late, with no damage
from frosts. Spraying is little practised, and is not on the increase.
Farm help is scarce, so that any help is called good. Wages
average $20 per month with board and $1.50 per day without
board. Planting has been delayed by wet weather, so that it is
impossible to determine the acreage of the various farm crops.
Williamstowii (S. A. Hickox). — The season is a normal one.
Pastures and mowings are in good condition, and fall seeding
wintered well. The fruit bloom is not as full as some years, but
is enough for practical purposes. Tent caterpillars are doing
some damage. Spraying is not extensively practised. Farm help
is plenty, but not over one-fourth of it is good help. Wages
average $20 per month with board and from $30 to $35 per month
without board. There will be no marked changes in the acreage
of farm crops.
FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Roive (F. W. Woffenden). — The season compares favorably
with the normal. Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall
seeding wintered well. There is about an average fruit bloom,
13
■with no damage from frosts. Canker worms and potato bugs are
doing some damage. There is but little spraying done, but the
practise is rather increasing. Farm help is scarce, and one-half
of it is good help. Wages average $22 per month with board and
635 per month without board. There will be about the usual
acreage of the various farm crops.
Hawley (C. C. Fuller). — The season compares well with the
normal. Pastures and mowings are in fine condition, and fall
seeding looks well. The fruit bloom is late, but is coming out
well ; no frosts as yet. Insects are not doing any damage as yet.
Spraying is very little practised. Farm help is very scarce, but
nearly all is good help. Wages average from S'20 to S25 per
month with board and §1.50 per day without board.
Colrain (A. A. Smith). — The season is a full average one,
agriculturally speaking. The grass crop gives promise of a
bounteous harvest. The fruit bloom is fully up to the normal.
No insects have appeared as yet. Spraying is practised to a
large extent, and is on the increase. Farm help is scarce, and
not over half of it is good help. Wages average $25 per month
with boai'd and Si. 50 per day without board. Possibly there will
be more forage crops raised for soiling purposes than in former
years.
Shelbv.rne (Geo. E. Taylor). — Cold weather kept vegetation
back until May, when it came forward with surprising rapidity,
and all things are now up to the normal condition. Pastures
good; upland mowings good, low lands winter-killed. All fruit
shows a very full bloom. No insects are doing damage of any
account. Spraying is but little practised. Farm help is not very
plenty, and not much of it is good help. Wages average $20 per
month with board and $1.25 to 81-50 per day without board.
There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Sunderland (J. M. J. Legate). — Planting is two weeks later
than some years. Mowings are looking finely, and fall seeding
never looked better, except on low lands where ice lay. The fruit
bloom of all kinds is away above the average, and we have had
no frosts as yet. No insects except a few tent caterpillars. Farm
help is plenty, and most of it is good. Wages average from $18
to $22 per month with board and $1.50 per day without board.
There may be a slight increase in the acreage of tobacco.
Moidague (C. S. Raymond). — The season is perhaps a little
later than the normal. Pastures and mowings promise well, but
grass winter-killed in some low places. All kinds of fruit show a
fine bloom. Very little damage from insects. Spraying is but
little practised. Farm help is very scarce, and only a very small
14
proportion of it can be called good help. Wages average from
$20 to $25 per month with board and from $35 to $40 per month
without board. No changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Erving (C. F. Clark). — The season compares favorably with
the normal. Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall seeding
wintered well. There is about an average fruit bloom, and no
damage from frosts. Very little damage is being done by insects.
Spraying is but little practised, but is increasing somewhat.
Farm help is not very plenty ; one-half of it is good. Wages
average $17 per month with board and $1.25 per day without
board. There will be no marked changes in the acreage of farm
crops.
North Orange (A. C. White). — Wet and cool weather have
pushed the grass crop, but delayed planting. Pastures and mowing
look finely, and fall seeding wintered well. Fruit trees of all
kinds are white with blossoms, A few tent caterpillars are the
only insects that have appeared. Spraying is but little practised,
but is rather increasing. Farm help is scarce, and is mostly local
help. Wages average 15 cents per hour with board and 20 cents
per hour without board. There will be about the usual acreage of
farm crops, though continued cool weather would result in a de-
creased acreage of corn.
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.
Prescott (W. F. Wendermdth). — The season is two or three
weeks late. Pastures and mowings promise well ; fall seeding
winter-killed somewhat. There is a heavy bloom of all fruits
except peaches, with no damage as yet from frosts. No insect
pests have appeared as yet. Spraying is not practised. Farm
help is scarce, and perhaps half of it is good help. Wages average
$22 per month with board, and $1.25 to $1.50 per day without
board. There will be the usual acreage of farm crops.
Amherst (Wm. P. Brooks). — The season is still somewhat
late, and work is generally behind because of frequent rains.
Pastures and mowings promise much better than usual ; fall
seeding wintered well, except in spots where ice formed on the
ground. Apples, except Baldwins, blooming full ; peaches prac-
tically no bloom ; plums and pears full ; currants very full ; black-
berries and raspberries badly winter-killed and not yet in bloom.
No insects are especially noticeable. Spraying is practised only
by those who make fruit a specialty, and is increasing but slowly.
Wages average from $20 to $25 per month with board and from
$35 to $45 per month without board. There are few changes in
15
the acreage of crops. Keeping bens in open movable coops for
summer egg-production is increasingly practised, with good results.
Hadley (L. W. West). — The season to date looks very favor-
able. Pastures and mowings promise well ; very little fall seeding
winter-killed. Quince bushes winter-killed ; no bloom on peaches ;
other fruits show average bloom ; no frosts. Tent caterpillars are
doing some damage. Spraying is not extensively practised, and
is not on the increase. Farm help is neither scarce nor plenty,
and one-half of it is good help. Wages average $20 per month
with board and Si. 50 per day without board. There will be a
larger acreage of onions than usual.
South Hadley (H. W. Gatlord). — The season is about a week
late on everything except grass and fall-sown grain. Fall seeding
wintered well ; mowings that were fertilized look finely ; pastures
not up to the average. All fruits show average bloom except
peaches ; 50 per cent of peach trees dead, and half the remainder
badly injured. Not much damage from insects as yet. Very
little spraying is done. Farm help is plenty, such as it is. Wages
average 818 to $20 per month with board and $1.50 per day with-
out board. There is a disposition to grow more corn than usual,
but much of that already planted has failed to come up.
Easthampton (W. E. Clapp). — The season is a favorable one.
Pastures are in good condition, and fall seeding wintered well.
With the exception of peaches, there is a good fruit bloom and no
damage from frosts. The currant worm is doing some damage.
Spraying is not much practised. Farm help asks from $20 to $25
per month and board and $1.50 per day without board. There are
no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Williamsburg (F. C. Richards). — The season is backward.
Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall seeding wintered
well. All varieties of apples blossomed full except Baldwins,
which are backward and not as full as some years, but enough for
a heavy crop. Peaches made a very full bloom ; other fruits
promise well. No insects are very injurious as yet. Spraying is
not much practised, and is not increasing. Farm help is very
scarce, and practically none can be called good help. Wages
average $18 to $20 per month with board and from $30 to $35 per
month without board. There will be an increased acreage of
potatoes.
Huntington (H. W. Stickney). — Most of our land is so wet
that little planting has been done. Pastures and mowings never
looked better ; fall seeding winter-killed on low land. There is
a very full bloom of all kinds of fruits, and no frosts as yet. No
insects have appeared. There is but little spraying done here.
16
Farm help is very scarce, and it is hard to find a good man. Wages
average $1.25 per day with board.
Plaiiifield (S. W. Clark). — The land is so wet that very little
plowing has been done. Grass is looking finely, and fall seeding
wintered well. No peaches here, other fruits about an average
bloom, with no damage from frosts. No insects have appeared as
yet. Farm help is rather scarce, mainly Polish, and fairly good.
"Wages average $20 per month with board for English-speaking
help, green men $15 per month and board. I hear that more
potatoes will be planted than usual, and very little corn, as good
seed is scarce.
HAMPDEN COUNTY.
Blandford (E. W. Boise). — The season is thus far cold, wet
and backward. Pastures and mowings look well, but many are
badly winter-killed ; fall seeding wintered well. All fruits and
berries show an extra full bloom. Tent caterpillars are appearing,
and promise to be plenty. Ver^- little spraying is done here.
Farm help is scarce, and not over half of it good help. Wages
average from $20 to $25 per month with board and from $35 to
$40 per month without board. There will be an increased acreage
of potatoes.
Eiissell (E. D. Parks). — The season is favorable, but a little
late. Pastures and mowings are above the average in condition
at this time, and fall seeding wintered well. The fruit bloom was
up to the average, with no frosts. Tent caterpillars and currant
worms are doing some damage. Spraying is but little practised.
P^arm help is scarce, and not over one-fourth of it is good help.
Wages average $1 per day with board and $1.50 per day without
board. There are no marked changes in the acreage of crops.
West Springfield (T. A. Rogers). — April was very cold, and
the season is two or three weeks late. Pastures look well, but
mowings were winter-killed by ice ; fall seeding wintered fairly
well. There is a nearly full bloom of apples, pears and plums;
no peaches ; strawberries winter-killed somewhat, but show a fair
bloom. Tent caterpillars and currant worms are doing some
damage. Very little spraying is done, and it is not on the in-
crease. Farm help is not very plenty, and perhaps half of it can
be called good. Wages average from $20 to $25 per month with
board and $1 to $1.75 per day without board.
Wilbraham (H. M. Bliss). — The season is a fair average one.
Pastures and mowings look well, and fall seeding wintered well.
Apples and plums made a good bloom, but peaches are a failure.
Spraying is but little practised. Farm help is scarce, and 20 per
17
cent of it is good help. Wages average from $15 to $20 per
month with board and Si. 50 per day without board. Planting is
ten days late.
Monson (F. D. Rogers). — The season is later than the normal.
The promise for pastures and mowings is better than usual. There
was a full bloom of apples, pears and plums ; peaches, 5 per cent.
Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Farm help is scarce.
Wages average $20 per month with board and $1.50 per day with-
out board. More corn and fodder crops will be grown than usual.
Palmer (0. P. Allen). — The season has been cold and back-
ward, but is now nearly up to the normal. Pastures and mowings
promise well. The bloom of all fruits has been exceptionally fine,
with the exception of peaches. Few insects have appeared as yet.
Spraying is not practised to any great extent. Farm help is rather
scarce, and about half of it is good. Wages average about $18
per month with board and $1.50 per day without board. There
are no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Holland (Francis Wight). — The season is rather backward.
Pastures and mowings are looking well ; fall seeding winter-killed
in spots. There is more than an average bloom of apples, pears,
peaches, plums and small fruits ; no frosts as yet. Insects have
not appeared as yet. Spraying is not much practised, and is not
increasing materially. Farm help is very scarce. Wages average
$1 per day with board and $1.50 per day without board. There
are no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
WORCESTER COUNTY.
Warren ( W. E. Patrick) . — The season compares favorably
with a normal one. Pastures and mowings promise well where not
winter-killed, but much was killed on low land ; fall seeding
wintered well. The fruit bloom is very full, and not injured by
frosts. No damage from insects worth mentioning. Very little
spraying is done, but I think the practice is increasing. Farm help
is more plenty than for several years, and possibly one-third of it
might be called good help. Wages average $20 per month with
board and $1.50 per day without board. There will be no change
in the usual acreage of farm crops.
Spencer (H. H. Kingsbury). — The season is backward at
present. Pastures and mowings now promise liberal yields this
season. Fruits of all kinds show a very full bloom. Weather
conditions have thus far been unfavorable to insect life. There
has been very little spraying done in this vicinity. Help is
obtained at the agencies, and is not plenty. Wages average from
18
$15 to 820 per month with board and from $1.50 to $1.75 per day
without board.
Oakham (Jesse Allen) . — The season is better than an aver-
age one at present. Pastures and mowings are looking well, and
fall seeding wintered well. There is an abundant bloom of all
fruits, with no damage from frost. Tent caterpillars are doing
some damage. Very little spraying is done in this region. Farm
help is scarce, and perhaps half of it is good help. Wages average
about $20 per month with board and $30 per month without board.
There will be no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Petersham (D. F. Bigelow). — The prospect for the season is
much better than last year at this time. Pastures and mowings
were never better, and fall seeding wintered well. Apples, pears,
peaches, plums and small fruits here blossomed well; no damage
from frost. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Not much
spraying is done here. Farm help is scarce. Wages average $18
to $22 per month with board and $35 to $50 per month without
board. There will be an increased acreage of potatoes.
Royalston (C. A. Stimson). — The season is better than for the
last two years. Pastures and mowings promise excellently, and
fall seeding wintered well. There is a full bloom of all kinds of
fruit, and no damage from frost. No insects have appeared as
yet. Spraying is not practised here against insects attacking
fruit. Farm help is scarce, and one-eighth of it is good. Wages
average $25 per month with board and $1.50 per day without
board. There will be no marked changes in the acreage of the
usual farm crops.
Templeton (Lucien Gove) . — Spring opened late, and with
stormy weather farm work has been delayed to an unusual degree ;
climatic conditions better than usual. Mowings look finely, but
pastures are rather backward ; fall seeding wintered well. Apples,
pears, plums, cherries and strawberries gave a full bloom. There
is no damage from insects as yet. Very little spraying is done,
and the practice is not increasing. Farm help is rather more easy
to get than for several years, and about 20 per cent of it is good
help. Wages average from $12 to $25 per month with board and
$1.50 per day without board.
Fitchburg (Dr. Jabez Fisher). — The season does not vary
essentially from the normal. Pastures and mowings promise first-
class results, and fall seeding wintered well. The bloom is heavier
than the average for nearly all fruits, and there is as yet no injury
from frost. The full bloom of the Baldwin apple occurred on the
2l8t, which is the average date of bloom for forty-eight years. Cut
worms and tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Spraying is
19
not very much practised, but is increasing somewhat. Good help
is scarce. Wages average $20 per month with board and Si. 50
per day without board.
Princeton (A. 0. Tyler). — The season is backward. The
prospect for pastures and mowings is good, and fall seeding
wintered well. Apples and pears made a good bloom ; peaches
poor ; small fruits good. No insects have appeared as yet. Very
little spraying is done, and I do not think it is increasing. Farm
help is scarce, and only a small proportion of it good help. Wages
average $18 to $25 per month with board and $1.50 to $2 per day
without board. There will be an increased acreage of potatoes
this year.
Bolton (H. F. Hatnes) . — Pastures and mowings look well.
Full bloom of apples and plums ; no peaches ; no frosts to injure.
No insects have appeared as yet. Some few spray, but there is
no appreciable increase. Farm help is scarce. Wages average
$20 to $25 per month with board and $1.50 per day without board.
Planting is so late that it is impossible to estimate as to the acreage
of farm crops.
Worcester (S. A. Burgess). — The present season is a good
average one. The promise for pastures and mowings is very good.
There is quite a full bloom for all fruits, and no damage from frosts.
Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Spraying seems to be
on the increase. Some kinds of help are plenty, and about one-
fourth of it is good. Wages average $25 per month with board
and $1.50 per day without board. There are no marked changes
in the acreage of farm crops.
Hopedale (Delano Patrick). — The season is about average,
but the cold, wet weather has delayed planting. Pastures and
mowings are promising, and fall seeding looks well. There is a
bountiful supply of fruit blossoms, and no frosts to injure them.
No insects are doing much damage. Spraying is but little prac-
tised, and I think is not on the increase. Farm help is very scarce,
and but little good help. Wages average $1.75 per day without
board. There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm
crops.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
Hopkinton (W. V. Thompson). — The season is a favorable one.
Pastures and mowings promise well. There is a full bloom for all
kinds of fruits except peaches, and no damage from frost. No
insects have shown up as yet. Spraying is not practised in this
locality. There is about the usual acreage of all farm crops.
Sherhorn (N. B. Douglas). — The season is a trifle later than
20
the average. Pastures and mowings never looked better, and fall
seeding wintered well. Apples, pears and plums made a full
bloom ; no peach bloom ; no injury from frosts thus far. No in-
sects have done damage as yet. Spraying does not seem to be as
general as ten years ago. Farm help is not plenty, but three-
fourths of it is good help. Wages average $20 to $25 per month
with board and $1.50 per day without board.
Maynard (L. H. Maynard). — The season is about two weeks
late, but will compare favorably with the normal in other respects.
Pastures and mowings look uncommonly well, and fall seeding
wintered well. There have been no frosts to do any damage to
fruit ; apple bloom about 75 per cent of that of two years ago ;
pears, plums and nearly all small fruits bloomed full ; peaches a
failure. Potato bugs have made their appearance. Spraying is
practised to some extent, but it is not on the increase. Farm help
is scarce and a very small proportion of it can be called good help.
Wages average $20 to $30 per month with board and $1.50 to $2
per day without board.
Townsend (G. A. Wilder) . — The season is about an average
one. Pastures and mowings promise better than usual, and fall
seeding wintered well. The fruit bloom is very good, but was
injured by frost on low land. Some of our best fruit growers are
spraying, and the practice is increasing. Farm help is scarce, and
not over 10 per cent of it is good help. Wages average from $15
to $20 per month with board and $1.50 per day without board.
There will be no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Dunstable (A. J. Gilson). — The season is fully up to a normal
one. Pastures and mowings are in fine condition, and fall seeding
wintered well. There is a full bloom of all kinds of fruit except
peaches, and it has not suffered from frost. No injurious insects
have appeared. Spraying is not practised to any extent. Farm
help is very scarce, and only a small proportion of it can be classed
as good help. Wages average from $20 to $25 per month with
board and from $35 to $40 per month without board.
Carlisle (E. J. Carr). — The season is above the average, and
all conditions are favorable. Pastures and mowings are looking
finely, and fall seeding wintered well. All fruit trees have blos-
somed well, and there have been no injuries from frost. There are
very few insects at present, and they are not doing much damage.
Very few farmers spray, and the increase is slow. There seems
to be plenty of help of a cheap grade. Wages average $23 per
month with board and $1,75 per day without board. More corn is
planted every year for the silo.
Lincoln (C. S. Wheeler). — The season is about two weeks late.
21
Pastures and mowings promise well, and fall seeding wintered
well. There is a full bloom of fall apples, Baldwins not over half
a full bloom ; peaches light. The San Jose scale is doing some
damage to orchards ; other insects not in evidence thus far this
season. Perhaps a tenth of our farmers spray, and the practice is
increasing. Farm help is scarce, and perhaps half of it is good
help. Wages average $22 per month with board and from S35 to
$40 per month without board. There are no marked changes in
the acreage of farm crops.
Stoneham (J. E. Wiley). — The season is backward. The
promise for pastures and mowings is good, and fall seeding
wintered well. Apples made a good bloom and pears a fair one,
with no damage as yet from frosts. Currant worms are doing
some damage. One-half of our farmers spray, and the practice is
increasing. Farm help is scarce, and half of it is good help.
Wages average $23 per month with board and $1.75 per day with-
out board. There will be no especial changes in the acreage of
farm crops.
Weston (H. L. Brown). — Wet weather has delayed planting,
but vegetation is up to the normal. Pastures and mowings are
in good condition, and fall seeding wintered well. Apples, pears
and plums show a good bloom, also some peach orchards, but trees
winter-killed in others. A few tent caterpillars have appeared.
But little spraying is done, and the practice is not increasing.
Good help is scarce, not one in ten being good help. Wages
average $20 per month with board and $1.75 per day without board.
ESSEX COUNTY.
Salisbury (Wesley Pettengill). — The season has been cold,
wet and backward, and planting has been much delayed. Pas-
tures and mowings are looking well, and fall seeding wintered well.
There was a large bloom on apple and pear trees ; a fair bloom of
peaches, enough, if they set well ; plums and small fruits a large
bloom. There are a few tent caterpillars. There is not much
spraying done except for canker worms. Farm help is scarce, and
about 25 per cent of it is good help. Wages average from $20 to
$25 per month with board and $1 .50 per day without board. There
will be a smaller acreage of farm crops than usual.
Haverhill (Eben Webster). — The season has been late, wet
and cold for planting. Fall seeding wintered fairly well, and
pastures and mowings are in good condition. There are few
peach blooms, other fruits about normal. Canker worms and tent
caterpillars are doing some damage. Spraying is on the increase.
22
Farm help is plenty, and but a small proportion of it is good help.
Wages average from S18 to $20 per month with board and $30
per month without board. There will be about the usual acreage
of farm crops.
Newbury (Geo. W. Adams). — The season is very late, wet and
cold. The prospect for pastures and mowings is good, and fall
seeding wintered fairly well. There is an average fruit bloom,
with no damage from frosts. Tent caterpillars are the only insects
present as yet. Perhaps one-tenth of our farmers spray, with a
slight increase from year to year. Farm help is very scarce and
poor. Wages average $18 to $30 per month with board and from
$1.50 to $2 per day without board. There will be no changes in
the acreage of the usual farm crops.
Tojjsfield (B. P.Pike). — The season is now very promising.
Mowings and pastures were never in better condition. Apples
made a very full bloom, other fruits fair; peaches winter-killed.
No insects have appeared as yet. Spraying is not much practised,
and is not increasing. Farm help is scarce, and very little of it is
first class. Wages average from $18 to $25 per month with board
and from $1.50 to $1.80 per day without board. The acreage of
farm crops is not as large as in former years.
Danvers (C. H. Preston). — The season is late. Pastures and
mowings promise well, and fall seeding wintered well. Apples
made a fair bloom, pears fair, peaches few, plums good ; small
fruits winter-killed. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage.
Farm help is scarce. Wages average from $35 to $40 per month
without board. There will be no marked changes in the acreage
of the usual farm crops.
NORFOLK COUNTY.
Canton (E. V. Kinsley) . — Spring work is backward, but vege-
tation is advanced to the normal. Pastures and mowings are
above average in condition ; fall seeding winter-killed in spots.
Apples and plums made a very full bloom ; peaches and pears very
light : no damage from frost as yet. No damage by insects at
this time. There is very little spraying done in this section, and
no increase. Farm help is scarce, and not 10 per cent of it is
good help. Wages average about $20 per month with board and
$1.50 per day of nine hours without board. There are no changes
in the acreage of farm crops to be noted at this time. Prices of
milk about the same as last summer, and supply at this writing
ample.
Walpole (E. L. Shepard). — The season is late, cold and wet,
23
but looks favorable for good crops. Pastures are looking well,
and mowings extra well ; fall seeding wintered about as usual.
Apples, except Baldwins, show a full bloom ; pears small ; peaches
and plums poor ; small fruits average ; no frosts as yet. Tent
caterpillars are doing some damage. Very little spraying is done
in this locality, and it is not on the increase. Farm help is scarce,
and very little of it is good help. Wages average $20 per month
with board and $2 per day without board. There are no marked
changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Millis (E. F. Richardson). — The season is late. Pastures
and mowings promise well, and fall seeding wintered finely. There
is a good bloom of apples and pears ; peaches much below the
average, and many trees winter-killed. No insects are doing
damage at present. Spraying is practised but little. Farm help
is scarce, and about half of it good help. Wages average $20 to
625 per day with board and $1.50 per day or §10 per week without
board. There will be no marked changes in the acreage of the
usual farm crops.
BRISTOL COUNTY.
Attleborough (Isaac Alger). — The season is well up to the
normal. Pastures and mowings are above the average in condi-
tion, and fall seeding wintered well. Apples and pears made an
average bloom, except Baldwin apples; no peach bloom; plums
and small fruits fair. No insects are doing damage. Spraying
is but little practised. Farm help is fairly plenty. Wages average
$20 per month with board and $1 .50 per day without board. There
will be no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Norton (Wm. A. Lane). — The season is about a normal one.
Pastures are looking well, and fall seeding is in good, fair condi-
tion. Apples had a very heavy bloom, pears fair ; peach trees are
all dead in this locality. Tent caterpillars are the only insects that
have appeared. Spraying is increasing in this locality. Farm help
is not plenty, and what there is is not very good. Wages average
$24 per month with board and §1.50 per day without board. There
will be an increase in the acreage of potatoes.
Westport (A. S. Sherman). — No crop is up to the average ex-
cept grass, and planting is delayed. Pastures and mowings promise
well, and fall seeding is in good condition. Apple trees have
bloomed full, pears medium ; peaches will be scarce, being badly
winter-killed. A few tent caterpillars are the only insects as yet.
Very little spraying is done, and the practice is not increasing.
Farm help is very scarce, and not over 25 per cent of it can be
called good help. Wages average from $22 to $26 per month with
24
board and $1.50 per day without board. Potatoes are planted more
extensively this year than usual.
Dartmouth (L. T. Davis). — The season is nearly or quite two
weeks late. Pastures and mowings are coming along quite well,
and fall seeding looks very well. Apples made a fair bloom, pears
medium, plums and small fruits a fair average. Only tent cater-
pillars are doing any damage as yet. Spraying is very little prac-
tised in this section. Farm help is not at all plenty, and the
greater part of it is rather poor. Wages average from $20 to $25
per month with board and from $1.25 to $1.75 per day without
board. There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm
crops.
PLYMOUTH COUNTY.
Brockton (Davis Copeland). — The season is about an average
one. Grass looks well except where ice killed it, and fall seeding
also. There was a very full bloom of apples ; no peach bloom,
trees badly killed by frost. Farm help is plenty, and about 5 per
cent of it is good help. Wages average from $15 to $25 per
month with board and from $6 to $10 per week without board.
There are no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Marshfield (J. H. Bourne). — The season is rather unfavorable
for everything but grass. Pastures and mowings are in good con-
dition, and fall seeding looks well except in low places, where it
winter-killed. The fruit bloom was good, except for peaches and
Baldwin apples. Tent caterpillars are the only insect that has
appeared. Spraying is little practised, but is slightly on the in-
crease. Farm help is plenty, and about one-third of it is good
help. Wages average from $18 to $20 per month with board and
$1.50 per day without board. There will be an increased acreage
of potatoes.
Hanson (F. S. Thomas, M.D.). — The season promises much
better than last year at this time. Grass is growing very rapidly
and luxuriantly. The fruit bloom was never better, and has not
suffered from frosts. There is no special trouble with insects.
Spraying is but very little practised by our farmers. There is a
fair supply of fair help. There are no marked changes in the
acreage of the usual farm crops.
Plymjytoyi (Winthrop Fillebrown). — The season is very wet,
with less frost than for years, and planting is backward. Mowings
and pastures are in first-class condition, and fall seeding the best
for years. Apples and small fruits promise very well ; pears had
a small bloom ; peaches and plums winter-killed badly. There are
fewer insects this year than usual. Spraying is practised more
25
each year. Farm help is scarce, but what there is is good.
Wages average $20 to $25 per month with board and from $1.50
to $1.75 per day without board. There will be a slight increase in
field crops this year.
Carver (J. A. Vaughan). — The season compares well with a
normal season. Grass in both pastures and mowings is looking
well, and growing very fast. There is a full bloom, of all fruits
except peaches. But few insects have appeared as yet. Spraying
is practised to a small extent, but is increasing. Farm help is
scarce, and mostly foreign. Wages average $20 per month with
board and $1.50 per day without board. A large acreage of cran-
berry bog has been made.
Wareham (A. B. Savart). — The season is very backward,
but promises well with warm weather. Pastures and mowings
promise well, and fall seeding wintered well. The season is so
backward that few fruit trees have blossomed ; most peach trees
winter-killed. There are few insects as yet. Spraying is but little
practised, but is increasing slowly. Farm help is very scarce, and
about half of it is good help. Wages average from $15 to $20 per
month with board and $1.50 per day without board. There are
no marked changes in the acreage of farm crops.
BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Bourne (D. D. Nye). — The season compares favorably with
the normal. The promise for pastures and mowings is fine, and
fall seeding wintered well. The fruit bloom compared favorably
with former years, and has not suffered from frost. Tent cater-
pillars are doing some damage. Spraying is but little practised,
and is not increasing. Farm help is scarce, and half of it is good
help. Wages average $20 per month with board and $1.50 per
day without board. Planting is about two-thirds completed.
Mashpee (W. F. Hammond). — The season is below the normal.
Pastures and mowings are above the average in condition. All
fruit trees and small fruits have bloomed very full, and have not
suffered from frost. Tent caterpillars and cut worms are doing
some damage. There is very little spraying done here. Wages
average $1 per day with board and $1.50 per day without board.
There is no marked change in the acreage of the usual crops.
Harioich (A. N. Doane). — The season is very favorable. The
prospect is good for a large hay crop. Fruit trees are looking
much better than usual, but peach trees suffered from the cold of
winter. Tent caterpillars are doing some damage. Not much
spraying is done except on cranberry vines. Farm help is scarce,
26
and but a little of it is first class. Wages average 820 to $25 per
month with board and $1.50 per day without board. Cranberry
culture is on the increase.
Orleans (F. E. Snow). — The season more nearly approaches
a normal season than has been the case for years. Mowings and
pastures are quite promising, and fall seeding wintered well.
Most fruits are blooming profusely ; peaches somewhat injured by
cold weather. No insects except tent caterpillars have appeared
as yet. Spraying is not much practised. Farm help is very
scarce, and good help still more so. Most help is hired by the
hour, at the rate of 17 cents per hour. There are no marked
changes in the acreage of farm crops.
Eastham (J. A. Clark). — The season is rather later than last
year, but is catching up rapidly. Pastures and mowings never
promised better. There was a very full bloom of all kinds of fruit
except peaches. There is no especial damage from insects.
Spraying is on the increase. Farm help is scarce, and not of first
quality. Wages average from $15 to $25 per month with board
and 20 cents per hour without board. Perhaps more potatoes than
usual will be planted.
Truro (D. E. Paine). — The season compares favorably with
the normal. Pastures and mowings are better than usual, and fall
seeding wintered well. There is about an average bloom of all
kinds of fruit. No insects in particular are doing any damage.
Spraying is not very extensively practised. Help is scarce.
Wages average $20 per month with board and $30 per month
without board. There are no particular changes in the acreage of
crops.
NANTUCKET COUNTY.
Nantucket (Wallace Gardner). — The season so far has been
backward, bringing planting on with a rush, but I look for good
crops ; we have the moisture, now we want the sun. Pastures and
mowings are in good condition, and fall seeding wintered well.
The bloom of fruit trees is fully up to the average. No insects
have appeared as yet. Spraying is little practised here. Farm
help is very scarce, and as a rule very poor. Wages average from
$20 to $25 per month with board and from $1.50 to $1.75 per day
without board. There are no marked changes in the acreage of
farm crops.
27
BULLETIN OF
Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.
THE HAY CROP IN MASSACHUSETTS.
By Prof. Wsi. P. Brooks, Professor of Agriculture, Massachusetts Agricultural College.
In Massachusetts the relative importance of the hay crop is much
greater than in the United States as a whole. This crop occupies nearly
three-fourths of the improved area of our farms. The last State census
reports the total improved area in farms as 902.000 acres. The hay
crop occupies 660,000 acres. Large as is this proportion, the tremen-
dously preponderating importance of grass as a crop becomes yet more
evident when we consider the area devoted to pasturage, which the last
State census reports to have been 1,119,000 acres. There is, of course,
little doubt that much of this so-called pasture was occupied to a con-
siderable extent with trees, bushes, ferns and numerous other forms of
vegetation other than grass. The total annual value of the farm prod-
ucts of Massachusetts, according to the last State census, was 152,880,000.
The hay crop is reported by the same census to have been worth •?12,-
491,000. The value of this crop, therefore, amounted to nearly one-
fourth of the value of all our agricultural products combined. A large
portion of our dairy products is derived from the pastures, and dairy
products are reported by the last census to have amounted to ^16,234,000,
or nearly 31 per cent of the total value of our agricultural products.
The facts to which attention has been called make it perfectly evident
that the grass crop is one deserving careful consideration. It occupies
an exceedingly large proportion of our total area, and anything which
can be done to increase the product will do much to increase the pros-
perity of our farmers. Great as is the relative importance of the grass
crop at the present time, its relative prominence shows a tendency to
increase. This tendency is due in considerable measure to the laot that
the production of the grass crop involves relatively little labor ; and, in
periods of general prosperity especially, it seems to be increasingly
difficult for the farmers to secure satisfactory help. Many of them,
therefore, are increasing the already large proportion of their farms
devoted to grass.
Our numerous cities and villages, while using considerable hay im-
ported from the west and Canada, furnish good markets for the surplus
28
hay crop in most sections of the State. It does not seem probable,
therefore, that the relative importance of the grass crop in Massachu-
setts' agriculture will decrease in the near future.
Our survey of the facts pertaining to the aggregate production and
value, while interesting, does not throw light upon the question as to
whether the results now attained by our farmers can be regarded as
satisfactory. To determine this point we must know, not the aggre-
gates, but the returns per acre. The last United States census reports the
average product of hay per acre in the entire country to be 1.1 tons.
The average product in Massachusetts is reported to be exactly the
same. Such a product is far below the possibilities, as all good farmers
will at once admit. If the average returns from the area devoted to the
production of hay in Massachusetts could be increased to the extent of 1
ton per acre, the value of our agricultural products would be raised fully
f 8,000,000 i^er annum. Such an increase must mean greatly increased
prosperity among our farmers, provided the increase can be produced
at a figure materially below its value. That it can be so produced it
will be my effort to show in this article.
Argument is not needed to convince the better farmers of the State
that this is possible, for few of them are satisfied with crops of less than
from 2 to 3 tons jier acre, while many of them doubtless make much of
their grass land yield annual crops averaging fully 3 tons per acre. Mr.
George M. Clark of Higganum, Conn., has in recent years written a
great deal concerning the hay crop and methods of increasing it. It
may be doubted whether his methods can be in all respects recom-
mended ; but thorough tillage of some sort in preparation for grass and
careful fertilization are essentials, and Clark's influence and example
have been vastly useful in stimulating improvement. He claims to
produce from 5 to 6 tons of hay per acre annually in two crops. Under
his system of management the profits have doubtless been large. His
investment in labor and fertilizers is heavy ; but the tremendous crops
obtained prove profitable, in spite of the heavy outlay.
Upon the college farm at Amherst we have not upon the average
equalled the crops reported by Clark. We have not, however, as a rule,
expended more than a small proportion of as much in labor and in
fertilizers as he reports. Our profits are perhaps not inferior to those
which he has obtained. The area devoted to hay on the college farm
averages about 75 acres, and the average product per acre is often equal
to 24 tons. This result is obtained under the following conditions :
About 30 acres out of the 75 are kept permanently in grass. Most of this
area has not been plowed for about twenty years. It is managed in
part as a park, ])ut is mown twice annually. During a great part of the
time it has received an annual dressing with fertilizers at an average
cost of perhaps 16 per acre. The portion of the college farm managed
in rotation is usually left in grass three years, and receives no top-dressing
of any kind during the time it is in grass, the crop of grass being pro-
duced on the residual fertility remaining after the hoed crops, which
usually occupy the ground two or three years out of every five or six
years. The average crop on the old mowings amounts to about 2 tons
29
per acre ; on the rotation mowings the average must be close to 3
tons.
We possess the most exact records concerning one of the fields of the
experiment station. This field has an area of a little more than 9
acres. Most of it was seeded about 1898, and none of it was reseeded
until the summer of 1902. Between 1893 and 1902 the average yield
for the entire area was 6,619 pounds. In 1902 the average was less, for
a part of the land was plowed after the first crop and reseeded in August.
This portion of the land, however, gave us in 1903 the heaviest crop we
have ever obtained, the average per acre for the entire area for that year
amounting to 8,104: pounds. The average j-ield for the entire period, 1893
to 1903 inclusive, has amounted to almost exactly 6,600 pounds per acre.
The average cost of the manure or fertilizer applied to this land annually
amounts to about $12 per acre ; the annual cost of securing the crop to a
little over f 8 ; the annual profit on the crop to about $20 per acre. The
figures given, which are verified by the most accurate records, make it
sufficiently evident that land of the right character devoted to the i)ro-
duction of hay may be made exceedingly profitable. It appears to me
evident that the 9 acres under discussion must have an actual value to
an intelligent farmer of at least $350 per acre. The average profit,
whatever we may hold concerning the value of the land, amounts to
more than 5 per cent annual return on the figure which has been named.
The facts which have been cited make it perfectly evident that the
possibilities of the hay crop are vastly beyond the actual results obtained
by the average farmer. It may be objected that the land of the college
farm at Amherst is especially adapted to grass ; that it is better than
the average land of the State. Both of these statements are undoubtedly
true ; but, on the other hand, the value of the hay crop in Amherst is
lower than in the average town of the State, and the chances for profit
on the crop in most sections must under intelligent management be
nearly equal to the chances for profit in Amherst, for the crops to which
reference has been made have not been produced by extravagant use
of manure or fertilizer, nor under any system of management not prac-
ticable for the average farmer of the State. The average mowings of
the State are sadly neglected. Their owners practise, at least, as if
they expected "out of nothing to get something." Ev6ry season when-
ever rainfall is deficient and the weather hot we read in the crop reports
that " grass in the old mowings is suffering, and will be a vei^ short
crop."' These old mowings are neglected mowings. They have not
been manured or fertilized, or they have not been reseeded ; and it is
unreasonable to expect they will give good crops, unless the conditions
are unusually favorable.
The character of soil which best suits grass is pretty generally
understood. The strong, retentive soils which hold moisture well are
the natural grass lands. The production of hay upon these can be made
most easily profitable ; but l)y suitable selection of varieties of grasses
and clovers even some of the lighter soils may be made to yield profit-
able crops. On the other hand, the State contains large areas of low
lands which 8i;fi"er at the present time from excess of water, and which
30
are prodncino- an inferior quality of hay for this reason. In many cases
such areas can be converted into very profitable mowings if they be first
drained. A considerable portion of the 9-aere field in Amherst to which
reference has been made was of this character, and the methods of
improvement adopted here will be first discussed.
Drainage of Land to be used for Moiving. — Partial drainage by means
of open ditches will in many cases greatly improve the character of the
herbage produced in land which is natui'ally wet, but the only thoroughly
satisfactory method of imjirovement is tile drainage. Many no doubt
hesitate to undertake tile drainage through fear of inability to carry out
the work properly ; others are detei'red from undertaking it because of
the cost. The limits of this article will not permit a full description
of the methods to be followed in underdrainage ; but the operation,
unless the location is such as to ofter unusual difficulties, is not very
difficult, and no farmer of ordinary capacity need hesitate to undertake
it ; and the cost, while considerable, will prove a profitable investment,
provided the work is carefully done. Many a tract of land in the State,
at present producing a crop of swale hay, and which for the production
of such hay is worth possibly f 20 to if25 an acre, can at an expenditure
of 15' » to $60 per acre be made to return a good income on a valuation of
from .$150 to $200.
Prejiaralion of the Soil for Grass. — The fact that very thorough and
careful tillage in preparation for crops of all kinds is usually profitable
is increasingly appreciated in recent years ; and Mr. Clark must be
credited with having done much good in emphasizing the desirability
and profitableness of thorough preparation of the soil for grass. When
practicable, it seems to be best to plow land which is to be seeded to grass
some weeks previous to sowing the seed and to give sufiicient shallow
tillage by means of harrows to bring the surface into a thoroughly fine
and mellow condition. If seeding is to be done in the spring, it will in
most cases be best to plow in the fall and to complete the pre])aration in
the spring by the use of such harrows as are adapted to the conditions.
The disc harrows are very valuable in sod land and in working strawy
manures under, but the final preparation should be given by the use of
harrows which do not work as deep, and whic^h leave the soil smooth.
The Acme harrow is a good implement to follow the disc, while the
smoothing harrow is almost always best for the final preparation of the
soil for seed. The best condition for the growth of the grass in most
soils is obtained by plowing sufficiently long before seeding to permit
the soil to settle somewhat, so that when the seed is sown the soil shall
be moderately compact underneath, and light and mellow to the depth
of a few inches only. "When breaking up an old mowing and reseeding
without the introduction of a hoed crop, it is best to plow the land as
soon as convenient after the first crop of hay is harvested, and then har-
row sufficiently often to keep down all weeds and to maintain the surface
in mellow condition until the proper time for sowing the seed arrives.
In the case of the experiment station mowing, to which reference has
already been made and which is referred to again later in this article,
the first crop of hay was harvested Jiine 25. The land was plowed on
31
July 1(5. Between that date and the date of seeding, which was August
14, the land Avas harrowed with a disc harrow eight times, and final
preparation given with the Acme and smoothing harrow just previous to
sowing the seed. The crop of the following year, concerning which
particulars are given later, was an exceedingly large one. The season
of 1903, it is true, was exceptionally favorable for grass, but the very
satisfactory results obtained are believed to have been due in no small
degree to the very thorough preparatory tillage which the land received.
Whenever seed is sown in soil which is imperfectly prepared, a con-
siderable proportion of it must fail to germinate, and the result is an
imperfect sod. There are frequent bare spots in which weeds will later
start, and even if this were not the case, it would be found impossible to
secure the largest crops of which the land is capable unless the surface is
completely covered with grass.
The Selection of the Seeds. — For the past dozen years we have grown
in the experiment station in Amherst something like 60 or 65 species
of grass annually, each occupying a plot of about one square rod. During
all this time these species have been underdose observation, and records
of their yield in some years and of their general condition have been kept.
During this time, moreover, a considerable number of different mixtures
of grass seeds have been tried on the different fields of the college farm.
As a result of the observation of all these species and the trials of differ-
ent mixtures above referred to, the conclusion has been reached that in
ordinary rotation farming, where the land is left in mowing only some
three or four 3 ears, to be followed ])y hoed crops for two or three years,
there is no mixture of seeds which will prove more widely adapted to
the conditions than the usual mixture of timothy, redtop and clovers. It
is the Ijeliet of the writer, however, that these seeds should be sown in
somewhat larger quantities than are usually advised. The necessity for
a close turf, covering every inch of the ground, has been referred to.
Such turf is more certainly secured with heavy seeding. It is the belief
of the writer, further, that the mammoth red clover should usually be
used in this mixture rather than the common red clover, as the former
matures more nearly at the same time with timothy and redtop. Most
of the soils upon the college farm are retentive of moisture, and on these
soils some alsike clover is invariably included in the mixtui'e. Alsike
is finer than the red and mammoth clovers, and is especially adapted to
moist soils. The mixture of seeds which we usually use is as follows : —
Pounds.
Timothy, 18
Redtop, 8
Mammoth clover, . ' . . . . . . . 5
Alsike clover, ........ 4
If a more permanent mowing is desired, it is believed to be best to
include other species, for under most conditions timothy does not prove
permanent. It gradually gives place to species which are less wiluable
for hay, — in the eastern })art of the State and on the lighter soil in many
cases to sweet vernal, farther inland and on the stronger soils to Ken-
32
tucky blue-grass. The last, although a splendid pasture grass, produces
too little top to prove altogether satisfactory in mowings. There is, it
is true, no variety of hay which sells so readily in most sections as tim-
othy : but for the reasons stated it seems best to reduce the quantity of
timothy, and to introduce species which are more persistent in all cases
where the mowing is to be permanent. Among such species the fescues
promise to prove the most valuable ; and a mixture of seeds in which I
have considerable confidence for permanent mowings is as follows : —
rounds.
Timothy, (5
Redtop, 8
Red clover, o
Alsike clover, ........ 4
Kentvicky blue-grass, 4
Meadow fescue, 6
Tall fescue, 4
The two mixtures of seeds which have been given were sown on the
experiment station grounds in Amherst in the summer of 1902, under
conditions which make comparison of the results for the first year possi-
ble. The mixture including the larger amount of timothy gave a yield
in two crops at the rate of about 5 tons to the acre, while the mixture
including the fescues gave a yield at the rate of about 4|^ tons per acre.
The timothy mixture is in the first year clearly superior to the other;
but it is expected that the fescue mixture will maintain its quality better,
since the fescues which have underground stems similar to those of
witch grass are not likely to be displaced by Kentucky blue-grass to
the same extent as the timothy.
On soils which incline to be light, orchard grass proves to be one of
the most valuable and persistent grasses, and the following mixture
of seeds is recommended : —
Pounds.
Orchard grass, 15
Tall oat grass, 5
Italian rye grass, 3
Perennial rye grass, ....... 3
Awnless brome grass, 5
Red clover, 6
White clover, 2
The number of seed mixtures, each of which under some circum.
stances may prove adapted to the situation, might be almost indefinitely
extended, but space forbids further discussion of this branch of the
subject.
Methods of Seeding. — The three principal methods of seeding land to
grass which will be discussed in this article ai-e : First, spring seeding
with a nurse crop ; second, late summer or fall seeding ; third, seeding
in corn.
Spring Seeding tvith a Nurse Crojj. — This system of seeding land to
grass is, according to the writer's observation, still one of the most
common followed by our farmers. It is of course oftentimes attended
with satisfactory results. Grass can usually be depended upon to make
33
a good start if sown early in spring with a suitable nurse crop ; but it
far too frequently happens that when the nurse crop is removed (which
must usually be late in June or during the month of July) the exposure
of the young grass to the hot sun seriously weakens if it does not
destroy a considerable i^roportion of it. At the season of the year when
the nurse crop is removed we have our hottest weather, and not infre-
quently at the same time a marked deficiencsy of rainfall. With hot and
persistently dry weather following the removal of the nurse crop damage
to the young grass is certain to be serious on all except the naturally
moist and the richer soils. For the reasons which have been indicated,
the writer regards this method of seeding as one of the least desirable.
Ijiite Summer or Fall Seeding. — C4rass which is sown in suitably pre-
pared soil during the latter ])art of summer without a nurse crop seldom
fails to do well, and where the system of rotation xuakes it possible to
have the land clear at the right time, or in cases where mowings are to
be broken up and immediately reseeded, this seems to the writer to be
the best time. In many cases seeding is delayed until the middle of
September or later, but if this be the case the clover seed is usually left
out to be sown the following spring. With suitable weather in spring
clover often makes a good start if sown in this way, but a full crop can-
not of course be expected the same season. Better results are obtained
if the land can be seeded sufficiently early to make it safe to include the
clover with the grass seeds. The reseeding of the mowing in the ex-
periment station, which has been already several times referred to, was
eminently successful. The clover passed through the winter perfectly,
and constituted a large proportion of the crop of hay produced. The
month of August is, in the writer's opinion, the best month for seeding
to mixed grass and clover ; and the most satisfactory results are likely
to be obtained if the seed can be got in not later than about the middle
of that month.
Seeding in Corn.* — " Among the various methods which the writer has
tried for seeding to grass and clover, he has found the system of sowing
in growing corn at the time of the last cultivation, usually from July 20
to August 5, to give most satisfactory results. The culture of the corn
must be level, and it must be kept free from weeds. Just previous to
sowing the seed a spiketooth cultivator should be used, which will leave
the surface fine and mellow. The quantity of seed used should be rather
larger than may be required when it is sown alone, as a part of it fails
to reach the ground, being cauglit and retained by the broad leaves of
the corn. Dog-day weather should be selected for sowing the seed ; and
if it can be scattered upon the freshly cultivated surface just before
the heavy showers which occur so frequently during dog-days, the seed
will need no (covering, and will often have germinated within forty-eight
hours from the time of sowing. The shade of the corn crop is favora-
ble to the retention of moisture, and on all except the driest soils there
\yill be moisture enough to keep the young plants growing. The corn
protects from the sun, but does not crowd. It is not likely to lodge and
* Brooks's Agriculture, Vol. II., p. 426,
34
stifle the young grass, as a crop of small grain so often does. It is
preferable that the seeding be done in a crop of corn destined for the
silo. This being carried from the field at once, the grass has the most
favorable time of the year to spread and gather strength for the winter.
If the coi'n is grown for grain and must be stooked, there is no great
difficulty, but the young plants will be killed where the stooks stand,
and these spots must be reseeded either late in autumn or early the
following spring. Grass and clover sown in accordance with the
method just described become fully established before winter, and are
less liable to injury than when sown later. They become sufficiently
strong to give a full crop the following year. It is best that the corn be
cut low, and the field should be rolled the following spring as soon as it
becomes sufficiently firm not to be cut up by horses. Rolling at this
time breaks down the corn stubble, which is at that time brittle, and it
will be noticed in the hay to a less extent even than is the stubble of a
small grain."
"When land is seeded in corn the work must be done by hand, but if
the field be clear there are a number of machines which will do satis-
factory work. Machines of the type of Gaboon's broadcast seed sower
will put in any of the seed mixtures which have been given. One
objection to machines of this class is the fact that the seed is thrown
high into the air, so that satisfactory work can be done only when the
weather is relatively calm. The wheelbarrow seed sowers will do
somewhat more even and satisfactory work, but these will handle only
the relatively small and heavy seeds ; the long or chafiy seeds cannot be
satisfactorily distributed by the use of these machines. A mixture of
timothy, redtop and clovers can be sown with a machine of this type in
a thoroughly satisfactory manner.
Manuring Grass Lands. — The question of the proper selection and
use of maiuxres and fertilizers for grass lands may be best considered
under two general heads : First, manuring in preparation for the crop ;
and second, top-dressing.
First, Manuring in Preparation for the Crop. — It seems best at the
outset under this topic to state as briefly as may be possible some of the
facts which seem to be best established as regards the general eff'ects of
manures and fertilizers. Some of these facts are equally important in
considering the selection of manures and fertilizers for top-dressing.
Our mowings almost always contain two classes of plants, — grasses
and clovers. The manurial requirements of these two classes of plants
are, in one important respect, wholly diff'erent. Both grasses and clovers
require a considerable amount of nitrogen, clovers more than grasses ;
but the grasses must take all the nitrogen which they require from the
soil, while the clovers, if conditions be right, can get most if not all of
the nitrogen they require from the air. Whenever land is occupied by
two or more specdes of plants there is a struggle between the different
kinds for its possession. If we make the conditions favorable to clovers
and less favorable for grasses, the former will predominate. Whether
the mowing will produce chiefly grasses or largely clover depends,
then, not alone upon the seed sown, but upon the condition of the soil as
35
regards available nitrogen and available mineral elements of plant food,
such as phosphoric acid, potash and lime. If available nitrogen is rela-
tively abundant, then grasses will predominate ; if the other elements
are relatively abundant, while nitrogen is present only in small amounts,
the clovers are likely to predominate. If this is to be the case, however,
it is important that all the other conditions required by clover shall be
right. Good drainage, thorough tillage and freedom from free acid are
essential. From many parts of the State come reports that clover does
not thrive. This in many cases is doubtless due to the fact that the soil
contains free acid. Under such circvimstances a heavy application of
lime spread on the rough furrow and deeply worked in with a disc har-
Effect op Lime on I'uopohtion op Clovek.
row will be likely to prove effective. The cut which is here presented
shows the effect of liming in a striking manner. Both cylinders were
tilled with carefully mixed soil, taken froiii one of the fields of the col-
lege farm. Both received an application of the same amounts of nitrate
of soda, dissolved bone-black and muriate of potash, and in addition one
cylinder received an application of lime at the rate of 1 ton per acre.
After the application of the fertilizers and the lime, the same kinds and
quantities of mixed grass and clover seeds were sown. The result is a
most striking demonstration of the eflScacy of lime in bringing a sour
soil into condition for the production of clover.
In order that the clover may have the capacity to take the nitrogen it
needs from the air, it must have the assistance of the bacteria which live
in nodules (which are about as large as the head of a pin) on its roots.
These bacteria can be supplied either by the application of a few hun-
36
dred poiinds per acre of soil from a field where the nodules are found
to be abundant on the clover, or by the use of a special culture prepared
in the United States Department of Agriculture It is not believed, how-
ever, that it will often be found essential to supply these bacteria.
Clover has been so long and so generally grown in this section that
these bacteria are practically everywhere abundant ; and the nodules
will develop upon the roots of clover in practically all situations, pro-
vided the conditions essential to the life and activity of the bacteria
(which are, in brief good drainage, thorough tillage and aeration and
freedom from free acid) exist. The supply of nitrogen in the air which
the clover bacteria under the right conditions bring within the reach of
the crop is practically unlimited. It pays, therefore, to make the supply
of the elements which clover must take from the soil exceedingly abun-
dant, and among the elements needed potash is one of the most impor-
tant. In preparation for clover it is believed that the ajjplication of
from 200 to 300 poiiuds of a high-grade potash salt, or double that
quantity of the low-grade sulfate of potash, will in most cases be use-
ful.
If manure is carefully saved and applied in moderate amounts, clover
often does well ; but if any considerable proportion of the urine of the
manure has been suffered to waste, or if the manure has been exposed
to the leaching action of rainfall, there will be a deficiency of potash,
which is found chiefiy in the urine, and which, being soluble, is easily
washed out. If, then, it be desired to bring land on which manure is
used for previous crops into good condition for producing a hay crop
rich in clover, it will usually be best to supplement the manure by
means of an application of potash. From 125 to 150 pounds of a high-
grade potash salt per acre, applied in connection with manure to the
previous crop, will ahuost invariably largely increase the proportion of
clover in the hay crop when the land is seeded. If fertilizers alone are
used for the preceding hoed crops, these must be rich in potash if clover
is to thrive when the land is seeded.
Upon the college farm at Amherst we have for about thirteen years
applied potash to two plots of one-quarter acre each at the rate of about
250 230unds per acre of a high-grade potash salt. To two other plots
the same salt has been applied at the rate of about 150 pounds per acre.
When this land is seeded, the hay crop where the larger amount of
potash is used is considerably larger and contains a much greater pro-
portion of clover than where the smaller quantity of potash is used. In
191 '2 the larger application of i^otash gave a yield at the rate of 6,772
pounds per acre ; the smaller application of potash yielded at the rate
of 6,252 ])Ounds per acre. For a full understanding of the conditions in
this experiment it should be further stated that the quantity of nitrogen
applied to the two sets of plots is substantially the same, while the plots
receiving the lighter application of potash annually receive an applica^
tion of acid phosphate at the rate of about 1,100 pounds per acre, and the
plots receiving the larger amount of potash acid phosphate at the rate
of about 200 pounds per acre. The fertilizer applied where the lesser
amount of potash is used is substantially the same in its composition as
37
average corn fertilizers ; while the other, as will have l^een noted, con-
tains far less phosphoric acid and much more potash.
The kind of potash salt to be selected for clover is a matter of much
importance, and experimental results at Amherst have indicated again
and again that the sulfate is likely to prove decidedly superior to muri-
ate or to kainit. The cuts presented herewith illustrate the difference
in the growth of clovers on the two salts in a striking manner. These
two plots were side by side, and both had been manured with equal
quantities of fine-ground bone and potash for some eight or ten years.
The growth on the sulfate of potash, it will at onre be seen, is most
decidedly superior to the growth on the muriate. The persistent use
C'LOTER ON Muriate op Potash makes a Poor Growth.
of the latter, as indicated by the investigations of Dr GoeSsmann,
appears to cause the loss through leaching of a large amount of lime,
and it is perhaps this effect which makes it impossible for the clover
to thrive. The difference in the growth of clover on these two salts of
potash is invariably greater in relatively wet than in dry seasons.
Conditions affecting the Gronih of Timothy and Eedtop — Whenever
the soil is abundantly supplied with manure or fertilizers which supply
nitrogen in relatively large amounts, timothy will be found relatively
abundant in the mowing, imless the soil be sour. If it be sour, the red-
top will pi-edominate, while, as already stated, there will be little or no
clover. If, then, it be desired to produce first-class timothy hay lor sale,
the farmer should make sure that his soil is not sour ; and if found to
be so, he must apply lime, as already advised for clover. On soils
which are not sour, heavy applications of barnyard manure bring the
38
land into good condition for timothy ; and if it be desired to produce
market hay, it will usually be best not to use potash largely in connec-
tion with the manure for the crops preceding the grass. For market
hay heavy applications of nitrogen manures or fertilizers and relatively
light applications of materials containing either potash or phosphoric
acid should be the rule.
Second, Toiy-dressing Orass Lands. — Throughout the State manure
is quite largely used for top-dressing grass lands, and every good farmer
knows that fine crops of hay can be produced through its use. It may
be doubted, however, whether the manure on most of our farms might
not be more advantageously used in most cases upon the plowed lands.
Clover on Sulphate of Potash makes a Fine Growth.
The elements of value contained in the manure are most certainly con-
served for the use of the following crop when the manure can be
incorporated with the soil. When it must lie upon the surface it is
subject to some loss, chiefly in two ways : First, by the escape of
ammonia into the air; and second, by wash over the surface. Further,
the manure, unless fine, tends to kill the grass to some extent. The
necessity for a close turf for the production of maximum hay crops has
been alluded to. If niunerous little areas are jDrevented from full devel-
opment because covered by lumps of manure, the result must be a not
unimportant decrease in the crop. For all these reasons, it is the belief
of the writer that under average farm conditions manures should be
mainly used on the plowed land, and fertilizers depended upon for top-
dressing grass lands. Whenever manure is chiefly depended upon for
top-dressing, the grasses will be found to be relatively prominent, for
39
manure is relatively rich in nitrogen. The use of manure, therefore, is
likely to lead to the production of a good grade of hay for market.
Manure, if to be used for top-dressing, should be at least partially
rotted. It is best to put on in the fall, and a manure spreader is a very
desirable implement for the work.
The selection of fertilizers for top-dressing grass lands must be deter-
mined largely by the character of hay which it is desired to i^roduce,
and it should also be varied according as the mowing is permanent or
used in rotation for hoed crops. On mowings which are used in
rotation for hoed crops, and where the production of market hay is the
object, nitrate of soda should be the most prominent among the fer-
tilizers used ; and, while the quantities which it will pay to apply must
of course vary with the conditions, the following mixture is suggested : —
Pounds.
Nitrate of soda, 175 to 200
Acid phosphate, 50 to 100
High-grade sulfate of potash, . . . 50 to 100
These materials should be mixed and applied about May 1. For similar
mowings, where a large proportion of clover in the hay is desired, the
following mixture of materials is suggested : —
Pounds.
Acid phosphate, 100
Basic slag meal, " . 400
High-grade sulfate of potash, . . . 150 to 200
These materials should be mixed and applied either late in the fall or
very early in the spring.
For permanent mowings, as well as for those used in rotation, nitrate
of soda should be prominent if the production of market hay is the
object. The quantity of this fertilizer which may be used must be
determined largely by experience. An application which may be safely
used on some soils or in some localities will cause the grass to lodge
seriously in others. The usual range in quantity which may be profit-
ably used is from about 150 to 250 pounds per acre. The following
mixture of materials, although not yet tested for a long period of time
on the college grounds at Amherst, is recomxuended with much confi-
dence : —
Pounds.
Nitrate of soda, . . . . . . 150 to 250
Basic slag meal, 300 to 400
High-grade sulfate of potash, . . . . 75 to 100
For the permanent mowings, where hay rich in clover is desired, an
annual application of basic slag meal 400 to 600 pounds, and high-grade
sulfate of potash 125 to 200 pounds, will, it is believed, give good crops.
The mixture of materials containing nitrate of soda should be put on
about May 1, the other mi.xture late in the fall or early in spring.
It will be readily understood that the mixtures suggested by no means
exhaust the possibilities, and they may not under all conditions prove
the most desirable. Thus, for example, wood ashes may in many local-
ities give the most profitable returns when used on mowings in which
40
clover is desired. These may take the place of the slag meal and potash
mixtures which have been suggested. The ashes will supply a large
amount of lime as well as potash and phosphoric acid. Fine-ground
bone is also under many conditions a useful fertilizer, especially in
mixture with potash, for permanent mowings where clover is desired.
The experiment station plots have been several times referred to. The
9-acre field is divided into three nearly equal plots. Each of these is
treated as follows : fiirst year, barnyard manure at the rate of 16,000
pounds per acre, applied in the fall ; second year, wood ashes at the
rate of 1 ton per acre, applied in early spring; the third year, fine-
ground bone 400 pounds per acre, and muriate of potash 200 })ounds,
mixed and applied in early spring. Each year all three systems of
manuring are re]i)resented. Our average crops under this system have
been heavy, having amounted, as has already been stated, to 6,600
pounds jJer acre.
Reseeding Permanent Mowings. — That it pays occasionally to reseed
permanent mowings is made very evident b}- the results obtained in
Amherst in the season of 1903. A portion of each of two plots in the
station mowings was plowed and reseeded in the summer of 1902, as
already described One of these jjlots was the one top-dressed in 1903
with wood ashes. The yield on the portion not reseeded was at the rate
of 6,243 pounds per acre; on the reseeded portion the yield was at the
rate of 8,546 j^ounds. On the plot manured with barnyard manure the
yield on the portion not reseeded was at the rate of 5,642 pounds per
acre; on the reseeded portion it was at the rate of 10,(t02 pounds per
acre. The manure used on the reseeded portion of this plot was har-
rowed in at the time the seed was sown. The balance of the plot was
top-dressed late in the fall, as usual.
Top-dressing for Rowen. — Experiments extending over several years
in Amherst indicate a probable profit from the ajjplication of a moderate
top-dressing of nitrate of soda immediately after the removal of the first
crop. This should of course be made only on mowings where the prod-
uct is almost exclusively grasses. Top-dressing with nitrate of soda
for clover would be a mistake, as this, as already stated, should get its
nitrogen from the air The quantity of nitrate likely to prove useful
will usually vary between about 150 and 200 pounds per acre.
Series of 1904. Vol. 17. No. 2.
MASSACHUSETTS
CEOP EEPOKT
FOB THE
Month of June, 1901.
MUSHROOM GROWING.
ISSUED MONTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.
J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.
Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class
Matter, under Act ok Congress of June 6, 1900.
BOSTON :
VVllIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
18 Post Office Square.
1904.
Approved by
The State Board of Ppbltcation.
Ceop Eeport for the Month of June, 1904.
Office of State Board of Agricclture,
Boston, Mass., July 1, 1904.
Bulletin No. 2, Crop Report for the month of June, is
presented herewith. At the close of this bulletin is an
article on " The growing of mushrooms," by Dr. George E.
Stone, professor of botany at the Massachusetts Agricul-
tural College. This is a subject in regard to which Ave have
had many inquiries, and Professor Stone's article is designed
to meet the general desire which evidently exists for informa-
tion in regard to mushrooms. It is illustrated with cuts
showing the structure of the mushroom, the spawn and the
kinds of houses in use for their culture. The article is
especially commendable, in that it does not hold out too
bright prospects, but points out the difficulties in the way
of success, as well as describes the methods to be emploj^ed.
Progress of the Season.
Preliminary returns to the Chief of the Bureau of Sta-
tistics of the United States Department of Agriculture (Crop
Reporter for June, 1904) on the acreage of spring wheat
sown indicate an area of about 17,140,800 acres, a decrease
of IK), 100 acres, or .7 per cent, from the revised estimate
of the acreage sown last year. The average condition of
spring wheat June 1 was 93.4, as compared with 95.9 at the
corresponding date last year, 95.4 on June 1, 1902, and a
ten-year average of 93.8. The average condition of winter
wheat was 77.7, as compared with 76.5 on May 1, 82.2 on
June 1, 1903, 76.1 at the corresponding date in 1902, and
a ten-year average of 79.8.
The total reported area in oats is about 27,646,000 acres,
a reduction of 86,300 acres, or .3 per cent from the area
sown last year. The average condition of oats on June 1
was 89.2, against 85.5 on June 1, 1908, 90.6 at the corre-
sponding date in 1902, and a ten-j^ear average of 89.9.
The acreage reported as under barley exceeds that har-
vested last year by about 153,000 acres, or 3.1 per cent.
The average condition of barley was 90.5 against 91.5 on
June 1, 1903, 93.6 at the corresponding date in 1902, and
a ten-year average of S9.
The acreage under rye shows a reduction of 6 per cent
from that harvested last year. The average condition of
rye was 86.3, against 90.6 on June 1, 1903, 88.1 at the
corresponding date in 1902, and 89.6, the mean of the cor-
responding averages of the last ten years.
The total area planted in cotton is estimated at 31,730,371
acres, an increase of 2,823,016 acres, or 9.8 per cent, upon
the acreage planted last year. The average condition of the
growing crop May 26 Avas 83, as compared with 74.1 on
May 26, 1903, 95.1 at the corresponding date in 1902, and
a ten-year average of 85.8.
In Massachusetts the acreage of oats compared with that
sown last year was given as 97, and the average condition
June 1 as 95 ; the acreage of rye as 93, and the condition
as 93 : the acreage of clover as 98, and the condition as 100 ;
the average condition of spring pasture as 99 ; the average
condition of apples as 95 ; and the average condition of
peaches as 31.
Tejviperature axd Rainfall for the Whole Country.
[From United States Climate and Crop Bulletins.]
Week ending May 30. — With the exception of extreme
southern Florida, the week was warmer than usual in the
Atlantic and Gulf coast districts, and also in the Ohio valley
and over the greater portion of the Lake region. The week
averaged slightly warmer than usual over the central portion
of the southern Plateau region and on the middle Pacific
coast. Over the northern portion of the upper Mississippi
valley and in the Missouri and central and northern Rocky
Mountain districts the temperature averaged below normal.
Heavy rains occurred from east-central Texas northward to
the Missouri and upper Mississippi valleys, and also in the
Ohio valley and over portions of the upper Lake region and
middle and northern Rocky Mountain districts. In the At-
lantic coast and east Gulf States the rainfall was generally
much below the averaije, an extensive area reachino- from
southern Xew England to Florida for the most part receiv-
ing very light showers or no ap})reciable amount.
Week endirKj June 6. — The temperature averaged nearly
normal on the Pacific coast and over a considerable portion
of the upper Lake region, upper Mississippi and lower Ohio
vallej's. The Aveek was warmer than usual in California,
throughout the southern States, in the upper Ohio valley
and in portions of the lower Lake region and Middle At-
lantic States. The temperature averaged below the normal
in the central and northern Rocky Mountain districts, Mis-
souri valley, in portions of the Lake region and ^Middle
Atlantic coast districts and in New England. Excessively
heavy rains occurred during the week from central and
northern Texas northward to the Missouri valley and in
portions of the central Mississippi and lower Ohio valleys
and Middle Atlantic States, while more than the average
fell over much of the Atlantic districts and lower Lake re-
gion and in the northern Rocky Mountain districts. Along
the Gulf coast and over a large part of the upper Lake region
and New England the weekly rainfall was below the average.
Week ending June 13. — The week was cooler than usual
over much the greater part of the country, being decidedly
cool over the north-eastern Rocky Mountain slope and in
the central Mississippi and Ohio valleys, New England and
the interior portions of the Middle and South Atlantic
States. The Aveek was decidedly warm over most of Cali-
fornia, and warmer than usual on the north Pacitic coast.
Generally throughout the central valleys and Lake region the
rainfall was very light, a large part of these districts receiA-
ing no appreciable amount. General and abundant rains
occurred in the Atlantic coast districts south of northern
New England. In central Florida, Oklahoma, Indian Ter-
ritory and portions of western Nebraska and western Kansas
the rainfall was unusually heavy. Very light showers oc-
curred in the northern Rocky Mountain region and on the
north Pacific coast, but as a whole the rainfall in these dis-
tricts was below the average.
6
JVeek ending June 20. — The week averaged warmer
than usual in the upper Missouri valley and over most of
the Plateau and Pacific coast States. Nearly normal con-
ditions prevailed over the middle Rocky Mountain slopes
and the northern portions of the Lake region and Gulf
States and in eastern Maine. Elsewhere the week was
cooler than usual, the deficiency ranging from 3° to 6° per
day from southern New Englaind to Florida. Heavy rains
occurred over a comparatively narrow area, extending from
central Kansas and south-eastern Nebraska through Missouri
and the southern portions of Illinois, Indiana and Ohio.
Elsewhere, except in local areas, the weekly precipitation
was below the average, only light showers occurring in the
Lake region and Middle Atlantic States, while over a large
part of the southern States and throughout the Plateau dis-
tricts and California there was total absence of i-ain.
Week ending June 27. — The week was warmer than
usual in New England and portions of the lower Lake region
and Middle Atlantic States and over the interior of the east
Gulf States and lower Ohio valley, but the excess was very
slight except in south New England. In the South Atlantic
States and over much of the Lake region the temperature
averaged nearly normal, but from the Mississippi valley
westward to the Pacific coast the week was cooler than
usual. From the west Gulf coast and Rio Grande valley
northward to and including the lower Missouri valley, and
also in Minnesota and portions of the Dakotas and Wiscon-
sin, the rainfall was generally in excess of the average.
East of the Mississippi River the rainfall, as a whole, was
largely deficient, although numerous small areas received
more than the average.
Special Telegraphic Reports.
[Weather Bureau, Boston.]
Week ending May 30. — New England. Boston :
"Weather exceptionally favorable for all crops ; much plant-
ing done ; all early vegetables up and growing well ; grass
very vigorous ; all fruits setting well, with favorable pros-
pects ; much tobacco set.
Week ending June 6. — New England. Boston : Weather
favorable for crop growth, but unfavorable for farm work ;
grass very promising ; all vegetables doing well ; corn back-
ward ; tobacco transplanting well under way, prospect favor-
able ; all fruits setting exceptionally well ; strawberries
fruiting in south; ground too wet in some localities.
Week ending June 13. — New England. Boston : Weather
generally unfavorable, being too cold ; ground in some local-
ities too wet ; grass and gi'ain making rank growth ; peas
ripe ; potatoes blooming in south ; much tobacco set, some
portions the whole crop ; fruit promises excellent ; cut
worms damaging some crops.
Week ending June 20. — New England. Boston : Weather
favorable for planting and cultivating, but too cool for crop
gi'owth ; rain much needed in Maine ; grass and potatoes
very good ; grain fairly satisfactory ; worms greatly damag-
ing onions and cabbages ; other vegetables good ; all fruits
excellent, except apples blighting in Maine ; tobacco about
all set, outlook satisfactor3\
Week ending June 27. — New England. Boston : Weather
warmer, with abundant sunshine ; favomble for all crops ;
showers of 22d of much benefit, but more rain now much
needed ; haying begun, average crop of good quality prom-
ised ; potatoes excellent ; cranberries in Bristol and Plym-
outh counties, Mass., much damaged by hail on 22d;
strawberries excellent ; tobacco hoed and growing well.
The Weather of June, 1904.
The weather of the month was marked by an abundance
of sunny days, and, except in scattered localities, a deficiency
in the rainfall. In a few sections violent local storms caused
heavy down-pours of rainfall, but over the major portion of
the State there was need of rain, and the soil was becoming
quite dry during the last halt of the month. General showers
on the 21st and 2 2d and on the 25th gave temporary' relief
to the droughty conditions, and general light rains on the
29th and 30th practically broke the drought. A con-
spicuous feature of the weather was the rather low tem-
perature during the days and uniformly and exceptionally
cool nights. The daily mean temperatures were below the
seasonal average continuously, the 5th excepted, until the
17th, but during the closing decade they were near or some-
Avhat above the normal. At Boston, according to the gov-
ernment records, the mercury did not reach 90° until the
25th, which is an exceptional record for June, and at the
close, the same records showed an average daily deticiency
in temperature of about one and a half degrees. Generally
speaking, the monthly rainfall was little more than half the
usual monthly amount, but it was, however, well distributed
through the period, and the effect of the deficiency was less
marked than if it had been otherwise. Again, the low tem-
peratures were unfavorable to evaporation, and the lack of
moisture was chiefly on high lands and at the surface of the
ground. Excepting the low temperatures, the weather of
June was very pleasant.
In the circular to correspondents, returnable June 24, the
following (juestions were asked : —
1. What insects are proving injurious in your locality?
2. How is Indian corn looking, and what is the acreage,
as compared with previous years?
3. Has haying begun, and what is the prospect for the
crop ?
4. How does the acreage of early potatoes compare with
with previous years, and what is the promise for the crop?
5. How do early market-garden crops compare in yield
and price with former years, and what is the prospect for
those not yet harvested ?
6. How do the quantity and price of dairy products and
the supply and price of dairy cows compare with formfer
years ?
7. What is the condition of pasturage in your locality?
8. What is the outlook for such fruits and berries as are
grown for market, naming them ?
Returns were received from 142 correspondents, and from
them the following summary has been made : —
Insects.
Less damage from insects is reported than is customary
at this time of year. Cut worms are considerably more
plenty than usual, and enough reports have been received
from onion-gTOwing sections of more than ordinary damage
from the onion maggot to indicate that this insect is much
more prevalent than common. Potato bugs are the insect
most frequently spoken of, but are doing very little damage
at present. Tent caterpillars and canker worms are reported
as much less prevalent than usual. Other insects mentioned
are currant worms, wu*e worms, squash bugs, cabl^age mag-
gots, rose bugs, white grubs, spittle insects, gypsy and
brown-tail moth caterpillars, the horn fly, the curculio, plant
lice, the cranberry vine worm and the San Jose scale.
IxDiAX Corn.
Indian corn was reported as small and backward at the
time of making returns, but generally of good color and
otherwise thi'ifty. The wet weather at the time of planting,
together with poor seed in some instances, prevented good
germination, and as a consequence the stand is uneven and
ragged, many fields having been replanted to a considerable
degree. The cold nights of the first tAvo decades of June
kept corn from making satisfactory progress, but the warm
days and nights at the close of the month must have given
it a start, and with warm weather during July and August a
fair crop should be secured. Unfavorable weather for farm
work at the time of corn planting and the poor crops of the
last two years have led to a considerable decrease in acreage,
the decrease being distributed through all sections of the
State.
The Hay Crop.
At the time of making returns haying was just begin-
ning in some localities, but not in most sections of the
State. By the fifth of July it should be well under way in
all sections. Present indications are that the crop will not
be more than an average one for the State as a whole, the
damaae from winterkillino^ beino- more serious than was ex-
10
pected, and the crop generally not promising to fulfil the
expectations of a month ago. The quality should be excel-
lent, according to present indications, and those beginning
early should secure the crop in good condition. Pressure
of other farm work will tend to delay haying beyond the
point where best results in f^uantit}^ and quality of crop
could be secured.
Early Potatoes.
The acreage of early potatoes is considerably increased
for the State as a whole, reports of increased acreage coming
from all sections. The crop was somewhat backward at the
time of making returns, but generally looked well and gave
promise of a good yield. Rain was needed in some sections,
and continued dry weather at this time would certainly seri-
ousl}' shorten the early crop. There was some complaint of
poor germination, caused by poor seed and wet weather, but
it was by no means general, nor sufficient to shorten the crop
to any marked degree.
Early Market-garden Crops.
Early market-garden crops are perhaps not as far advanced
as usual at this time of year, but those harvested have gen-
erally made good yields and brought prices fully up to the
average. Later crops show good promise, and with season-
able rains should make good yields.
Dairy Products.
The flow of milk has been well maintained, and the amount
of dairy products secured up to time of making returns is
perhaps slightly in excess of the average for the time of
year. Prices show a tendency to seek a lower level, but
not sufficiently so to warrant the statement that there had
been any general falling otf. Dairy cows seem to be some-
what more plentiful than for several years past, with prices
correspondingly easier, although really first-class milk pro-
ducers continue to bring high prices.
Pasturage.
Pastures have generally been in first-class condition and
given an abundance of feed, but there were indications at
11
the time of making returns that they were beginning to feel
the continued dry weather of the latter half of the month.
Rains were certainly needed to keep them up to the high
standard of the spring and early summer.
Fruits and Berries.
Strawberries have given a good crop in some sections and a
light one in others, with the result that a fair crop has been
secured for the State as a whole. Ripening unusually late
they have generally brought good prices. Raspberries and
blackberries winterkilled badly in some sections, but else-
where promise good yields. At the time of making returns
they, in common with other small fruits and berries, were
beginning to show the need of rain. Currants generall}'
promise well. Plums and cherries set well and promise
good crops. Pears will not give as good a yield, the bloom
having been light in some sections. Apples appear to have
set well and promise a good yield at present, though later
reports are needed to allow us to speak with certainty as to
the prospect. Peaches will give a good yield in some sec-
tions, but will generally be light throughout the State.
Wild berries promise well as far as reported on. Cranberries
appear to be unusually late in blooming, and in some locali-
ties suffered considerable injury from a severe hail storm.
12
NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.
(Returned to us June 24.)
BERKSHIRE COUNTY.
Neil) Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades) . — Indian corn is very good
color, but much seed failed to germinate. Haying will begin about
July 5, with fair prospects of a full crop, although old meadows are
poor in places. There is a largely increased acreage of early pota-
toes and they promise well. A large quantity of milk has been
produced ; native beef is called for at good prices. Pastures are
in good condition, but rain is needed to keep them so. Cherries
are a full crop, but the birds get large quantities of the best of
them ; plums growing finely.
■Alford (L. T. Osborne). — There are very few insects and
potato bugs were never so scarce. Corn is rather late, but on the
whole is looking well, with acreage rather larger than last year.
Haying has just begun, with a full average crop, but rather more
winterkilled than was at first supposed. The acreage of early
potatoes is larger than usual and the crop is very promising.
Quantity and price of dairy products and supply and price of dairy
cows are about as in the past two 3'ears. Pastures are in very fine
condition and seem to have been less injured by the cold winter
than meadows. Apples promise a large crop and pears a poor one.
Richmond (T. B. Salmon). — Potato and squash bugs are doing
some damage. Indian corn is in very good condition ; acreage
about average. Haying has not begun and the prospect for the
crop is very good. There is about the usual acreage of early pota-
toes and there is good promise of a crop. Early market-garden
crops are little raised, but what there are look very well. More
than the average quantity of dairy products produced at good
prices ; cows are high and good ones scarce. Pasturage is in very
good condition. Strawberries good ; raspberries dying of some
disease of the canes ; currants looking well ; cherries good and
blackberries average.
Becket (Wm. H. Snow). — Potato bugs, currant worms and tent
caterpillars are doing some damage. Indian corn is late and less
than the usual acreage has been planted. Haying has hardly
13
begun, but there is the prospect of a good crop. There is about
the usual acreage of early potatoes and they are generally looking
well. Early market-garden crops compare well with former years
in yield and price. Dairy cows are a full average in supply and
price. Pastures are in good condition. Strawberries, raspberries,
blackberries and huckleberries promise well. The season has been
late, but crops look well and are growing fast.
Hinsdale (T. F. Barker). — There is no complaint of insects
doing damage. Indian corn is looking well and the acreage is
about an average one. Haying has not begun, but there will be a
fair crop except where killed by, ice. There is a full average acre-
age of early potatoes and they are looking well. Early market-
garden crops are fully up to the average. There is no change
worthy of notice in the quantity and price of dairy products or the
supply and price of dairy cows ; , wooden truss;
li, half-inch iron tie rod. The house is fifteen feet wide, and four feet high at ends to
iron roof, and is heated from boiler.
Houses. — Where special attention is given to commercial nuishroom
growing, houses are constructed which are adapted to the growth of this
crop. The style of houses shown in figs. 4 and 5 represent types that
have been utilized for some time by various commercial growers of
mushrooms. The houses usually set two or three feet below the level
38
of the ground, and dirt is piled up on either side to the level of the
plates which support the roof. These types of houses have usually
been built of wood, and the roof is covered with hay or marsh grass.
The beds are either built on the ground or slightly raised. In the latter
case they are provided with board sides, thus leaving room for a path,
as shown in fig. 4. Some improvement has been made in recent years
in the style of houses for mushroom culture. One of the i^rincipal
objections to houses such as shown in figs. 4 and 5 is that they are very
likely to I'ot out quickly, and it is expensive to renew them An ex-
perienced mushroom grower informed me that such a house would only
last about three years. On account of the dampness arising from the
heat of the manure and the unfavorable situation of material constructed
Fig. 7. — Section of a cellar bed covered with boards and matting and banked up with earth.
of wood, rotting occurs very quickly. The conditions in a mushroom
house are exceedingly favoi-able for timber-destroying fnngi, thus
causing premature decay. The house shown in fig. 6 in a more recent
model, used by Wyman Bros., market gardeners, Arlington, Mass. It
is an even-span house, fifteen feet wide and about four feet high at the
sides. The length of such a house is of course immaterial. The side
walls are built of cement, and there is a truss roof constructed out of
wood and corrugated iron. The corrugated iron roof and cement sides
furnish construction material which will not readily decay ; and, while
a house of this description may cost more at tiie outset, it is far cheaper
in the end tor a commercial grower who intends to follow that line of
work. Cellar benches can be constructed singly or in series, one or
more above the ground bed. A single bed is shown in fig. 7. The
construction of cellar beds would depend materially upon the space and
the conditions available. '
39
Gatheking the Crop.
It is necessary with a ci'op like mushrooms, as it is with many others,
to go over the beds each day and gather the mature specimens. These
are gathered in trays, care being taken not to have them become soiled
in handling.
In picking mushrooms it is recommended that they should not be cut
off at the base, but gently twisted and removed from the soil. When it
is necessary to cut, as is sometimes the case when they come up in large
numbers, it is recommended that the butts be subsequently removed and
the holes filled with soil, in order to prevent decay. Mushrooms can be
kept in a cool, dark place for two or three days after picking, with little
detriment.
Pkice of Mushrooms.
Mushrooms, like other crops, are usually assorted into grades which
bring different prices. The price of mushrooms usually varies from
one season to anothei', and also during the same season. A No. 1
jjroduct will bring f 1 per pound during certain seasons, while at other
seasons thej' will sell from 25 cents to 50 cents per pound. During the
past winter mushrooms were as low as 25 cents per pound at one time
in the Boston market.
Diseases of Mushrooms.
There are a few troubles caused by fungi, insects, etc., which occa-
sionally give rise to loss of mushrooms. Among some of the troubles
experienced the following may be mentioned. Dark-colored spots
coming on the cap of the mushroom, which induce decay and render
them unfit for the market. These are caused by eel worms, which are
minute microscopic worms similar to those frequently giving trouble to
tomatoes, cucumbers and various other jjlants. Various animals, such
as maggots, wood lice and sow bugs, occasionall}' give rise to trouble,
and there are cei'tain rots caused by fungous growths which sometimes
damage the crop.
On account of very little attention having been given to the diseases
of mushrooms, no definite specific remedies have been suggested for
many of these troubles. No doubt there are, however, cultural methods
which could be applied that would prove of some value in exterminating
or conti'olling the ravages of these various organisms.
Series of 1904. Vol. 17. No. 3.
MASSACHUSETTS
CEOP KEPOKT
FOR TUE
Month of July, 190i.
GYPSY a:^d brown-tail moths.
ISSUED MONTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.
J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.
Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class
Matter, under Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.
BOSTON :
VVlllGH'i' & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
18 Post Office Square.
1904.
Approved by
The State Board of Publication.
Crop Report for the MOx\th of July, 1904.
Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., Aug. 1, 1904.
Bulletin Xo. 3, Crop Report for the month of Juh', is
herewith presented. Attention is called to the article at the
close of the report on "The Gyps}^ and Brown-tail ]\Ioths,"
by A. H. Kirkland, M.S., formerly assistant entomologist to
this Board, and, at the close of the work against the gypsy
moth, acting field director. These pests have secured such a
foothold in this Commonwealth, and are spread over so wide
an area, that many recjuests for instruction as to their life
history, habits and the means of destroying them have been
received at this office. We have an excellent report on the
brown-tail moth, giving full details on these points, but
nothing on the gypsy moth giving methods of combating it,
so it has been thought best to put out this information
through the agency of the Crop Report. Mr. Kirkland has
been in close touch with the conditions in the infested terri-
tor}^ since the gypsy moth work of this Board came to an
end, and for that reason is in a position to give more infor-
mation in regard to these particular pests than any other
person.
Proghess of the Season.
Preliminary returns to the Chief of the Bureau of Statistics
of the United States Department of Agriculture (Crop
Reporter for July, 1904) show the acreage of corn planted
to be about 91,930,000 acres, an increase of about 2,130,000
acres, or 2.4 per cent, on the area planted last year, as re-
vised in December. The average condition of the growing-
crop July 1 was 8(1.4, as compared with 79.4 on July 1,
1903, 87.5 at the corres})onding date in 1902, and a ten-year
average of 88.4.
The avei-age condition of winter Avlieat was 78.7, as com-
pared Avith 77.7 a month earlier, 7'S.8 in 1903, 77 at the
corresponding date in 1902, and a ten-year averao-e of 78.3.
The average condition of spring wheat was 93.7, as com-
pared with 93.4 last month, 82.5 in 1903, 92.4 in 1902, and
a ten-year average of 86.8. The average condition on July
1 of spring and winter wheat combined was 84.5, as com-
pared with 80 on July 1, 1903, and 82.9 at the correspond-
in o- date in 1902. The amount of wheat remaining in the
hands of farmers at that date was estimated to be about
36,630,000 bushels, equivalent to about 5.7 per cent of the
last crop.
The average condition of the oat crop on July 1 was 89.8,
as compared with 89.2 a month earlier, 84.3 in 1903, 92.1
in 1902, and a ten-year average of 87.3.
The average condition of barley was 88.5, against 90.5 a
month earlier, 86.8 on July 1, 1903, 93.7 in 1902, and a
ten-vear averao;e of 87.1.
The average condition of Avinter rye on July 1 was 88, as
compared with 90.2 on July 1, 1903, 91.2 at the correspond-
ing date in 1902, and a ten-year average of 89.7. The aver-
age condition of spring rye was 90.8, as compared with 88.3
on July 1, 1903, 89.3 at the corresponding date in 1902, and
a ten-vear averaae of S7.4.
The acreage of flax is less than that of last year by al)0ut
826,000 acres, or 25.6 per cent, and the condition on July
1 was 86.6.
The averaofe condition of rice on July 1 was S^.2, ao^ainst
94.9 a month earlier and 93.5 a year ago.
The acreage of })otatoes, excluding sweet potatoes, is
greater than that of last year by about 99,000 acres, or 3.4
})er cent. The average condition July 1 was 93.9, as com-
pared with 88.1 in 1903, 92.9 at the corresponding date in
1902, and a ten-year averaoe of 92.
The acreage of tobacco is less than that of last year by
about 231,000, or 22.3 i)er cent. The average condition on
July 1 was 85.3, against .S5.1 a year ago.
Temperature and Rainfall for the Whole Country.
[From Uxited States Climate and Crop Billetixs.]
Weeh ending Jul;/ 4. — With the exception of portions
of the South Atlantic and east Gulf States, the week was
cooler than usual in all districts east of the Rocky Mountains,
and also over the southern Plateau region and the greater
part of California. In the central valleys and over portions
of the Lake region, Middle Atlantic States and New Eng-
land the week averaged decidedly cool, the temperature
deficiencies i-anging from (.P to 1)*^ a day. On the north Pacific
coast the week averaged warmer than usual. Over the
greater part of the Lake region, Atlantic coast and west Gulf
districts the rainfall exceeded the average, from 1 to more
than 3 inches being generally reported from these districts.
There was less than the average over the greater part of the
central valleys, over a considerable area of the east Gulf
States and alono- the immediate coast from North Carolina
to southern XeAv England.
Week ending Jidy 11. — In the States bordering on the
Atlantic the week averaged slightly warmer than usual.
Over the western part of the Lake region and from the
upper Mississippi valley westward to the middle and south
Pacific coasts the week was cooler than usual. The tem-
perature was slightly below normal in the central Gulf States
and nearly normal in the lower Lake region and Ohio valley.
The rainfall during the week was largely in excess of the
average from the central and west Gulf coasts northward
to Minnesota and South Dakota. There was also more
than the average rainfall generally through the Middle
Atlantic States and over portions of the Lake region, Ohio
valley and South Atlantic States. In New England and in
portions of the up})er Lake region, Ohio valley, South
Atlantic States and east (iulf States the rainfall was below
the average.
Weeh ending July IS. — The week was decidedly cool in
the Pacific coast States and Plateau regions, but elsewhere
there were no very marked departures from normal conditions.
There was a general but slight excess over the eastern slope
G
of the Rocky Mountains, in the Missouri and upper Mississippi
valleys, and over portions of the Lake region and southern
Xcw England, while from the Ohio valley southward to the
Gulf and Atlantic coasts, in northern New England and
along the west Gulf coast the temperature averaged slightly
below normal. From the central Gulf coast northward to
the Lake region, over portions ef the Middle and South
Atlantic States, in the Red River of the North valley and on
the north Pacific coast the rainfall was in excess of the aver-
age, while from the west Gulf coast northward to the Missouri
valley, over the northern portion of the Lake region, in the
up})er Ohio valley and in portions of New England and the
Middle Atlantic States the rainfall was below the average.
Week ending Jnlj 25. — Over the greater part of the
countr}' east of the Mississippi the temperature differed but
slightly from the normal, some stations showing a slight
excess and others a corresponding deficiency. In the cen-
tral Gulf districts and from the west Gulf coast and Rio
Grande valley northward to the upper Lake region and
n})per Mississii)pi and Red River of the North valleys the
week averao-ed cooler than usual. Heavy rains fell in the
west Gulf States, the central Missouri valley, on the Atlan-
tic coast from New Jersey southward to the Carolinas, and
over local areas in the east Gulf States, lower Ohio valley
and Lake region. Over most of the central vallevs, a larg-e
l)art of the Lake region, northern New England and on the
north Pacific coast the rainfall was below the avera2:e, a con-
siderable part of the central Mississippi and Ohio valley
receiving no appreciable amount.
Special Telegraphic Reports.
[Weather Bureau, Boston.]
Weeh ending Jnh/4. — New P^ngland. Boston : Weather
very favorable for ra})id growth of all crops, but rain delayed
having : onions much damao-ed bv maooot : corn late but
nuich improved ; other crops very promising ; potato bugs
and cut worms abundant, but doing no great damage.
Week ending July 11. — New England. Boston : Weather
very favorable : showers, however, delayed haying in south;
all crops made good growth ; (.'orn much improved and near
average ; potatoes and tomatoes excellent, other vegetables
good, except onions ; apples set full and growing rapidh%
but dropping in some sections ; pears and plums below aver-
age and dropping; other fruits and all l)erries very good;
tobacco good and growing well.
W^eA' endiiKj July 18. — New England. Boston : Weather
favorable lor crop growth and fairly good for hay harvesting ;
rain needed in Elaine and Vermont and would be beneficial
in all sections ; potatoes and other vegetables and grain good
crops; apples dropping badly, but promise good cro^) ; all
berries fairly good, other fruits uneven ; tobacco satisfactory,
some has received last hoeing.
Wet'l' eitdinr/ July 25. — New England. Boston : AVeather
verv favorable for harvesting and fairly good for growing
crops ; rain needed in north ; potatoes promise large yield,
other vegetables very good except onions, which arc much
below average ; corn very promising, but suffering for
moisture in some northern sections ; rye and oats good and
being harvested ; apples good crop, though some dropping;
berries plentiful : other fruit uneven ; tobacco excellent,
being topped.
Weatiip:!; of Jily, 1904,
I'he weather of the month was notable for conditions near
the seasonal in the several elements of precipitation, tem-
perature and sunshine. The preci})itation, while consider-
ably below the normal, was so well distributed through the
period and over the territory that the deficiency was hardlj^
noticeable and not sufficient to retard crops. The showery
periods were interspersed with several days of sunshine,
which afforded excellent conditions for hay making. Gen-
erally speaking, thunderstorms were less frequent than usual
for July, although in some sections they were unusually
violent, being attended by heavy squalls and hail, with
vivid lightning which in a good number of instances resulted
in loss of life, shocks and injury to numerous persons, fires
in buildings and loss of stock. The temperature was rather
remarkable for e([uable distribution and a unifoi-nily high
range of the maxima and the minima, with an absence of
extremes in both. Some quite warm weather was expe-
rienced in the inner sections of the State, 'the temperature
ranging in the 90.s on several days ; but in coast sections
the maximum, according to oiiicial tigures, did not reach 90
degrees. There \vere, however, several days during which
the moisture was excessive, and this, combined with the
very light winds, caused muggy, oppressive weather. The
Aveather very favorable to growth of crops and to farm
operations. Viewed as a whole, tluly was a very pleasant
month.
In the circular to correspondents, returnable July 28, the
following questions were asked : —
1. What insects are proving most troublesome in your
locality ?
2. What is the condition of Indian corn, and what propor-
tion of the cro}) will be put into the silo ?
3. What is the quantity and (|uality of the hay crop as
compared with former years ?
4. What foi-age crops are being raised to supplement the
hay crop, for the silo and to eke out the pastures, and what
is their condition ?
5. What is the condition of market-garden crops, includ-
ing potatoes, and how have those already harvested com-
pared in yield and price with former years V
6. AYhat is the prospect for apples, pears, peaches, plums,
quinces, grapes and cranl>erries ?
7. What is the condition of pasturage in your locality?
8. How have rye, oats and barley compared with former
3' ears, both as grain and forage crops?
Returns were received from 162 correspondents, and from
them the following sunmiar}' has been made : —
Insects.
It is not often that as little damage from insects is reported
at this time of year as was indicated by the returns of our
corresi)ondents this month. Potato bugs are the insect most
common, but are apparently much less injurious than usual.
Other insects reported as doing damage are squasli bugs,
currant worms, onion maggots, cabljage root maggots, cab-
bage worms, tent caterpillars, elm leaf beetles, rose bugs,
9
rJP^y "lotli caterpillars, brown-tail moth.'?, plant lice, white
irrubs, oranbeiTy vine worms, squash vine borers and the
curculio.
Indian Corn.
Indian corn is reported as being still backward in some
sections, but the warm weather of the month brought it for-
ward very rapidly, and the prospect for the crop is now very
promising. While the stand is not of the best, owing to
poor germination of seed, the crop is of good color and
otherwise thrifty. With normal weather during August an
average crop of both grain and stover should be secured.
The proportion of the crop used for ensilage varies in differ-
ent localities, being greatest in the dairy regions of the cen-
tral and western counties, but even in these counties some
correspondents report that there are very few silos in their
vicinity. Nevertheless, the use of ensilage appears to be
gaining steadily if slowly in all sections.
The Hay Crop.
At the time of making returns the hay crop was practi-
cally secured in all sections of the State. In quantity the
crop exceeded expectations and was above the average, taken
as a whole, while the quality was excellent and it was gener-
all}" secured in good condition. The recent light rains Avill
operate to give the second crop a good start, but more
moisture will be needed soon for its development.
Forage Crops.
The amount of forage crops planted was jirobably slightly
less than usual, because of the good outlook for the hay crop
and the good feed in pastures. Corn is the favorite, and is
used both for the silo and to feed green, followed by the
millets, oats, Hungarian grass and barley, in the order
named. Other forage crops reported are oats and peas, oats
and barley, peas, rye, soy beans, beets and turnips. Oats
and i^eas api)ears to be a combination that is gaining in
popularity. Corn is well up to the normal in point of
growth as a forage crop, and the others arc also reported to
be in ffood condition.
10
Makket-gardex Crops.
Market-garden crops are generally in prime condition and
unusually good yields are reported for those already har-
vested. Prices on the other hand are at a lower level than
usual, but, taken with the good crops secured, not too low
for profit.
Early Potatoes.
At the time of making returns very few earl}- potatoes
had been dug, but a tine growth of vines was reported and
excellent promise for the crop when mature. Prices have
been good, so far as noted, but cannot be considered as estab-
lished for the crop of the year.
Fruits.
It is perhaps too early to make a definite forecast as to the
apple crop, but present indications are that the crop will not
be up to the average of a ])earing year for the State as a
whole. The midsummer drop is reported as severe in some
sections, while others report poor setting of the fruit, par-
ticularly for winter varieties. On the other hand, numer-
ous correspondents report that a good crop is in prospect.
Pears are uneven and a light crop is in prospect. Plums are
also reported as uneven and hardly up to the average, taken
as a whole. Peaches will give a good yield in some sec-
tions, but are generally a light crop. Grapes promise a good
yield at present. Cranberries suftered from late frosts and
from hail, and the crop will be much beloAv average in the
section of commercial production.
Pasturage.
Feed in pastures has been good through the season, but
at the time of making returns Avas reported as becoming
short and dry in some sections, because of the hot weather.
The rains of the last few days should correct this condition,
at least temporarily .
Small Graixs.
Kve, oats and barley are reported to be unusually good
crops, both for grain and forage, having headed out well
and produced a fine growth of stalk, and have been largely
secured in o;ood condition.
u
NOTES OF COKRESPONDENTS.
(Returned to us July 23.)
BERKSHIRE COUNTY.
Neio Marlborough (E. "NY. Rhoades). — Insects are not as
troublesome as in former years. Corn is growing well ; not much
of the crop used for ensilage. The hay crop was average in
quantity and of very good quality. Corn and millet are the prin-
cipal forage crops and are growing very fast. Early potatoes
are a little late but promise well. There is prospect of large
yields of apples and plums; other fruits not so good. Pastures
are holding out remarkably well. Full yields of rye, oats and
barley are being harvested.
West Stockbridge (J. S. Mooke). — Currant worms and potato
bugs are the only insects guarded against, though we have a few
elm leaf beetles. ^Yhat corn came up is looking finely ; not a silo
in town. The hay crop is heavier than last year and is being
harvested in much better condition. No forage crops have been
raised, as pastures are in good condition. No potatoes have been
dug, but there is every promise of a good crop. There will be a
fair apple crop ; few pears ; no peaches, quinces or cranberries ;
very few grapes. Rye, oats and barley have done well.
Tyringham (E. H. Slater). — The potato bugs have not been
as troublesome this year as in previous years. Indian corn is
somewhat backward ; about one-fourth of the crop will be put into
the silo. Japanese millet is raised to some extent to eke out the
pastures, and corn is raised to supplement the hay crop and for
the silo. Potatoes are looking well, but very few have been dug
as yet. There will be a good crop of apples. Feed is holding out
well in the pastures. Oats and barley compare favorably with
former years, both as grain and forage crops.
Lee (Alonzo Bradley). — Potato bugs are our most trouble-
some insect. Indian corn is looking well but is two weeks late ;
10 per cent of the crop will go into the silo. Grass as a whole
was not quite an average crop, but the quality was excellent.
Potatoes promise a large crop. The apple crop is somewhat
doubtful, but promises fairly well. Pastures are in good condi-
12
tion. Rye, oats and barley are full crops, both as grain and
forage.
Washingtoyi (E. H. Eames). — Insects are causing little trouble.
Indian corn is the best for three years ; one-fourth of the crop
will go into the silo. Quality of the hay crop good and quantity
about three-fourths of a full crop. Forage crops are not raised.
Potatoes promise well ; no market-garden crops raised. Apples
promise a good crop ; other fruits not raised. Pastures were
never in better condition. Rye, oats and barley are in good con-
dition and compare well with former years.
Peru (F. G. Creamer). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is in fair condition ; three-fourths of the crop will go
into the silo. Hay is a light crop. Oats are the principal forage
crop grown here. Nearly all garden crops look well and potatoes
never looked better. The prospect is good for apples, pears,
plums and quinces. Pastures are in fair condition. Rye, oats
and barley are good crops, both for grain and forage.
Cheshire (L. J. Northup). — Insects are not doing any particu-
lar injury. Indian corn although late has made rapid progress in
the past ten days. The hay crop will not be up to the normal on
old meadows. Corn, millet and oats are the principal forage crops
grown. Market-garden crops are yielding well and prices are well
sustained. Apples promise a fair yield ; plums and pears not
plenty. Pasturage is short but is in fair condition. The grain
crops, more especially oats, are good.
JVew Ashford (Elihu Ingraham) . — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in fine condition ; one-tenth of the crop
will be used for ensilage. There is a fine hay crop of excellent
quality. Forage crops are not raised. Potatoes look finely, but
none have been harvested as yet. There is a fair crop of apples ;
other fruits not grown. Pasturage is in fair condition.
Savoy (W. W. Burnett). — There is very little damage from
insects, potato bugs being the only ones present. Nearly the entire
corn crop will go into the silo, as it seems impossible for it to mature.
The hay crop is less than the average in quantity and of fair quality.
Corn is the principal forage crop grown. Garden crops are back-
ward ; potatoes look finely but are not ready to dig. Fruit of all
kinds is not up to the average. Pasturage is and has been better
than average. Rye, oats and barley are about average crops, but
are little raised.
FRANKLIN COUNTY.
lioioe {¥. W. Woffenden). — Potato bugs are causing some
trouble. Corn is rather poor ; about one-half the crop will be put
into the silo. The hay crop is above the average both as to quan-
10
O
tity and quality, Oats, millet and sweet corn are tbe forage
crops grown and are in fair condition. Market-garden crops, in-
cluding potatoes, are in good condition, but little harvested as yet.
Apples promise a good crop ; small fruits about average, though
not grown to any extent. Some pastures are getting short owing
to dry weather. Rye, oats and barley are about average crops,
but are little grown.
Colrain (A. A. Smith). — Potato bugs and cabbage worms are
doing some damage. Indian corn is in fine condition and half the
crop will be used for ensilage. The hay crop is about normal in
quantity and quality. Hungarian grass and the millets are the
principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops, including
potatoes, are in good condition, and those already harvested have
yielded well. The prospect is good for all kinds of fruits. Pas-
turage is in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are fully up to
the normal.
Gill (F. F. Stoughton). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Corn is of very good color ; not more than one-fourth of the crop
goes into the silo. Hay was a good average crop in quantity and
quality. Corn is raised for ensilage and barley, oats and corn for
soiling purposes. Potatoes promise well. There will be a large
crop of apples. Pastures are in very good condition. Rye, oats
and barley compare well with former years.
Deerfield (H. A. Wells). — Potato bugs are the only insect
doing damage and they but little. Indian corn is above the aver-
age ; not over 350 tons of ensilage are put into the silo in this
vicinity. Hay was a good average crop in both quantity and
quality. Corn, oats and peas are the principal forage crops and
are looking well. Potatoes promise an exceptionally good crop,
but few dug, 50 cents a barrel cheaper than in former years. But
little fruit is raised here, but there will be plenty for family use.
Pasturage is in good condition. Rye and oats are heavily headed,
but oats are lodging badly. Tobacco has made rapid growth.
Many fields of onions not well stocked.
Whalely (Frank, Dickinson). — There are few insects of any
kind. Corn is a week late ; one-third of the crop goes into the
silo. The quality of the hay crop is good and it is above average
in quantity. Corn is the principal forage crop raised to sup{)le-
ment tbe hay crop. Potatoes promise a heavy crop ; other market-
garden crops normal. There will be less than an average crop of
all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye, oats and
barley are very little grown.
Sunderland (J. M. J. Legate). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Corn is a little late but the hot weather is bringing it
14
forward rapidly; fully half the crop will be used for ensilage.
Hay is more than an average crop in quantity and has been secured
in fine condition. Corn and oats are the principal forage crops
grown and they are looking finely. Early cabbages are a good
crop, but prices have been much lower than last year. Potatoes
are looking well and promise a heavy crop. Apples are a heavy
crop, also plums ; very few other fruits raised. Pastures could
not be in better condition. Rye, oats and barley are little raised.
Northfield (T. R. Callender). — There is very little complaint
of insects, and potato bugs are less numerous than usual. Condi-
tion of Indian corn good ; less than one-fourth of the crop used for
ensilage. Hay is fully up to the average in quantity, being heavy
on new seeded fields. Corn is the principal forage crop raised,
with some oats and barley. All garden crops are in fine condition,
potatoes especially so, but none dug as yet. Apples are uneven,
some orchards being loaded with fruit and others bare. Pasturage
is in prime condition. Rye winterkilled in places; other grains
above average. Cucumbers for pickling give promise of the best
crop for years. Crops are generally above the average.
Wendell (N. D. Plumb). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is about a normal crop and half of it will be put into
the silo. Haying is only about half completed, with a large yield.
Corn, millet and Hungarian grass are the principal forage crops
grown and all look well. Potatoes bring higher prices than in
former years. There will be about half of a normal crop of fruit.
Pastures are in good condition. Oats and rye are more than
average crops.
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.
Ware (J. H. Fletcher) . — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is late with a smaller acreage than usual. The hay
crop is very good on all land that is properly cared for. Corn,
oats and Japanese millet are the forage crops grown, and they are
looking well. Market-garden crops are in good condition, with
prices about as usual. Apples promise a very good crop ; other
fruits little raised. Pastures are holding out well.
Greenivich (\Vm. L. Douglas). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Corn is in good condition ; but little of the crop goes
into the silo. Hay is more than an average crop of good quality.
Corn is the principal forage crop grown. Garden crops are rather
late. The prospect is good for fruit of all kinds. Pastures are
suffering from lack of rain. Rye, oats and barley are full average
crops.
Pelham (John L. Brewer). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Corn of all varieties is of excellent color and fair growth ;
15
but little used for ensilage. Hay was a fair crop of excellent
quality. Sweet corn, oats and barley are the principal forage
crops and are looking nicely ; late millet did not get a good catch.
Potatoes have not yet been harvested. Apples, pears, plums and
cranberries promise well ; peaches a minus quantity. Pasturage
is in excellent condition for the time of year. Most crops look
finel}', although some that were planted on wet land are uneven.
Belchertoivn (H. C. West). — Potato bugs are our most trouble-
some insect, but none are especially bad. Corn is growing fast
now and bids fair to give a full average crop ; perhaps one-fifth of
it goes into the silo, not more. Corn, oats, millet and barley are
the principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops are some-
what late, but are coming on well now. Apples good, pears fair,
no peaches, plums good, very few quinces, lots of grapes. Pas-
turage is in fair condition. Rye is above an average crop ; oats
and barley not yet harvested but promise full crops.
Hadley (H. C. Russell). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is below the average in condition. Hay is about an
average crop of good quality. Millet, Hungarian grass and corn
are the principal forage crops raised. Garden crops are good
with fair prices. There will be a heavy yield of pears ; apples
few ; peaches none. Pastures are in good condition. Rye, oats
and barley are average crops. Tobacco has made a good growth
in the last three weeks and conditions are favorable for an excel-
lent crop. Onions are doing well and the crop bids fair to be
better than predictions earlier in the season.
Hatfield (Thaddeus Graves). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. There is fine promise of a good crop of corn ; no silos
in town. Hay is about five per cent above an average crop, of
good quality. Forage crops are not raised, as there is little dairy,
ing here, tobacco being our principal crop. Potatoes promise a
fine yield, although none have been dug for market. There will
be small yields of most fruits. Pastures are getting a little dry.
Rye, oats and barley are about average crops.
Easthampton (Wm. E. Clapp). — Indian corn is very backward,
but is of good color. The hay crop is above the average in quan-
tity and of good quality. Millet is the principal forage crop
grown and looks well. Market-garden crops are backward, espe-
cially potatoes. The prospect for apples, plums and grapes is
very good. Pasturage is in excellent condition. Rye is less than
an average crop, but oats look well.
Goshen (Alvan Baruus). — Potato bugs are doing some damage,
but are less troublesome than usual. Indian corn is late and four-
fifths of the crop will probably go into the silo or be fed green.
16
Hay compares very favorably with former years in quantity and
quality. Corn is the principal forage crop, but oats, barley and
roots are raised to a limited extent. Potatoes are not yet fully
matured for market ; price 30 cents per peck. Apples abundant ;
otherwise a shortage of all fruits except grapes, which being late
may not ripen well. Pasturage is in No. 1 condition. Less grain
crops were planted than usual owing to the cold, wet spring.
Chesterfield (Horatio Bisbee). — Potato bugs are present, but
give no serious trouble. Corn is fairly good ; perhaps one-third
of the crop will be used for ensilage. There was an average
hay crop of fair quality. Corn is the principal forage crop grown,
with some oats and Hungarian grass. There will be a fair crop
of apples ; other fruit not much raised. Rye, oats and barley are
good crops. Potatoes look finely.
HAMPDEN COUNTY.
Chester (C. Z. Inzell). — Indian corn is backward; about half
the crop goes into the silo. Hay is not quite as heavy a crop as
that of last year. Corn, oats and barley are the principal forage
crops grown to supplement the hay crop and for the silo. Potatoes
are looking well, but not many have been dug as yet. Apples
promise to be a good crop. Pastures are in good condition.
Tolland (Eugene M. Moore). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Where good seed was used the corn crop is about up to
the average. There will be about the usual quantity of hay of
good quality. Corn is the forage crop in this locality and is
generally in fine condition. Potatoes are looking fine with a
heavy growth of tops ; not many dug as yet. Apples are dropping
badly ;, there will be quite a quantity of grapes and cranberries
this j'ear. Pastures are in average condition. Rye is extra good
and oats and barley above the average.
Granville (Joseph Welch). — Potato bugs and tent caterpillars
are doing some damage. Corn is looking very well ; about 20 per
cent of the crop used for ensilage. Hay is not more than a two-
thirds crop, having winterkilled badly. Oats, barley and corn
are the principal forage crops grown. Potatoes are looking finely,
but are late, none having been dug as yet. The apple crop is
better than last year, but will not be as large as that of 1902.
Pastures are in very good condition. Rye, oats and barley are
little raised for grain.
West Springfield (T. A. Rogers). — Indian corn is looking well
but is a little late ; about one-third of the crop is grown for en-
silage. Hay is a good crop as regards both quantity and quality.
Corn, oats and peas, Hungarian grass and cow peas are the princi-
17
pal forage crops grown. Potatoes show a fine growth of tops, but
none have been dug for market ; market-garden crops look well.
Apples, pears, plums and grapes will give full average crops ;
no peaches ; but few quinces. Pasturage was good early in the
season, but is a little short now. Rye and oats have done well.
Chicopee (R. W. Bemis). — No insects are doing any damage
this year. Indian corn is looking well. There is quite a good
crop of hay this year. Corn and oats are the principal forage
crops raised and they are looking well. Market-garden crops are
looking well, as are also potatoes. Apples now promise a fair
crop. Pasturage has been good, but is now in need of rain. Rye,
oats and barley are about average crops.
Ludloio (Chas. B, Bennett) . — Potato bugs are doing the most
damage of any insect. Corn looks well but is late ; about one-
tenth of the crop is put into the silo. The hay crop is much larger
than usual and of fine quality. Corn and the millets are the
principal forage crops raised. Market-garden crops are about
average and potatoes look excellently. Apples fair, pears light,
peaches none, plums light and grapes fair. Pasturage is in very
good condition.
Wilbraham (H. M. Bliss). — Indian corn is backward; one-
fourth of 'the crop will be used for ensilage. Hay was an average
ci'op of good quality. Hungarian grass and turnips are the princi-
pal crops grown for forage purposes. Market-garden crops are in
good condition ; potatoes are a good average crop and now bring
$1 per bushel. Apples promise a good yield; pears 40 per cent;
no peaches or plums; quinces 20 per cent; grapes 95 per cent.
Pasturage is in fair condition. Rye and oats are good crops.
Hampden (John N. Isham). — There is comparatively little
trouble from insects, and potato bugs are kept under control.
Corn is growing rapidly, that replanted looking well ; about a
third of the crop will be used for ensilage. The hay crop is
smaller than last year but of good quality. Corn is our principal
forage crop, with some peas and oats, and both are in good con-
dition. Garden crops good ; growth of potatoes checked on dry
land, prices good. Apples promise fairly well ; pears and peaches
light ; plums heavy ; quinces and grapes good. Pastures are short
from lack of rain. Rye is less than an average crop, but oats
made a good growth.
Palmer (0. P. Allen). — Insects are not as much in evidence
as usual. Indian corn is in fair condition for a late season ; not
as much as formerly will be used in the silo. Hay is below the
normal in quantity, but of good quality. Corn and rye are the
principal forage crops raised. Market-garden crops, including
18
potatoes, are in good condition and tliose already harvested have
brought good prices. All fruits promise well, except peaches.
The recent dry weather has affected pasturage considerably. Rye,
oats and barley are not quite up to the normal.
WORCESTER COUNTY.
Dudley (J. J. Gilles). — Squash bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is in fair condition ; three-fourths of the crop will go
into the silo. There was an average hay crop in quantity and
quality. Corn and millet are the principal forage crops grown.
Market-garden crops are in average condition and prices have
ruled high. There will be a full fruit crop. Pasturage is rather
slim just at present. Rye, oats and barley are fair crops.
North BrooTxfield (John H. Lane). — There are few insects of
any kind at present. Corn is looking finely ; three-fourths of the
crop is used for ensilage. Hay was a three-fourths crop of good
quality. Very few potatoes have been dug as yet. Apples 25
per cent of a full crop ; pears 10 per cent ; plums 20 per cent ;
grapes 100 per cent. Pastures are in good coudition. Rye, oats
and barley are late and little grain has been harvested.
Oakham (Jesse Allen) . — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn looks very well ; perhaps one-fourth of the crop will
go into the silo. Hay is more than an average crop of excellent
quality. Corn and Japanese millet are the principal forage crops
grown. Potatoes look well. Apples, pears and grapes will be
abundant. Pasturage is in excellent condition. Rye, oats and
barley are full average crops.
PhilUpston (A. D. Clifford). — Cabbage root maggots and
potato bugs are doing some damage. Indian corn is backward but
is looking well ; probably half the crop will be used for ensilage.
The hay crop is a good average one both in quantity and quality.
Corn for the silo, oats and Canada peas, also Hungarian grass for
hay, are the principal forage crops grown, and are in good condi-
tion. Market-garden crops are in good condition, with fair prices
so far ; early potatoes show a fine growth of tops but a small yield
of tubers. Apples promise a good crop ; other fruits not much
grown. Pasturage has been good, but is now in need of rain.
Oats and barley are good crops, raised mostly for fodder.
Hubbardston (Chas. C. Colby). — Tent caterpillars, squash
bugs and potato bugs are the insects doing the most damage.
Corn is unusually backward but is making good growth ; nearly all
of it will be put into the silo. Hay is about an average crop with
the quality above the average. We notice quite a large acreage of
19
forage crops, oats, Hungarian grass, millet and barley being most
raised. Potatoes are looking well, with prospect of an excellent
yield. The prospect for fruit, especially apples, is the best for
years. Pastures are holding out well and stock is looking ex-
cellently.
Westmmstej' (A. J. Foskett). — There is no serious trouble
from insects. Indian corn is in good condition. There was more
than an average yield of hay and it was of good quality. Peas and
oats are our principal forage crop and are in good condition. Con-
dition of market-garden crops good and those already harvested
have yielded well and brought good prices. The prospect is good
for a fair yield of apples, pears, plums and grapes. Pasturage is
in good condition for the time of year. Rye, oats and barley have
yielded well as forage crops. *
Fitchhurg ( Jabez Fisher) . — Plant lice are doing some damage
on the young shoots of apples and pears. Corn is looking well.
The hay crop is fully up to the average in quantity and of good
quality. Apples promise 80 per cent of a full crop ; pears 50 per
cent ; peaches 60 per cent; plums 100 per cent and grapes 60 per
cent. Fruits are smooth and fair. Pasturage is in good condition.
Harvard (John S. Preston). — Indian corn is looking very
well ; none raised for the silo. The hay crop is large and was got
in in good shape though a little late. Corn, oats and Hungarian
are the principal forage crops grown, and some Japanese millet
is being raised. Market-garden crops, including potatoes, are
about as usual as regards yields and prices. The prospect is good
for a large crop of all fruits except peaches, which will be light.
Pasturage is better than usual at this time of year. Rye, oats and
barley are about average crops, but are little raised for grain.
Holden (G. S. Graham). — Insects of all kinds are in about the
usual numbers. Corn though late is looking well ; three-fourths
of the crop will go into the silo. Hay is a good average crop of
good quality. Japanese millet, oats and corn are the principal
forage crops grown and all are looking well. Potatoes look finely,
but none have been dug as yet. Baldwin apples seem ratlier
scarce ; peaches, pears, plums and grapes looking well. Pasturage
is fully up to the average. Rye, oats and barley not raised for
grain ; all looking well.
Worcester (H. R. Kinney). — The potato bug is causing some
trouble. Corn as a whole is late and uneven, and will largely go
into the silo. The hay crop has been good and of fair quality.
Oats and millet are sown for hay and liarley for fall feeding.
Potatoes are late, but look well ; vegetables have been plenty and
cheap. Apples, peaches and plums look well ; other fruits only
20
fair. Pastures are in good condition for the time of year. Crops
are late, but as a whole look well.
Aubu7-n (Wm. Gilbert). — Potato bugs and tent caterpillars
are doing some damage. Indian corn is looking finely ; about 90
per cent of the crop is used for ensilage. Hay is considerably
above a normal crop. Barley and peas and Japanese millet are
the principal forage crops raised and they promise large yields.
All market-garden crops are doing well, but prices are rather low.
Apples and grapes promise full crops. Pastures are beginning to
dry up. Rye, oats and barley are about normal, both in grain and
forage.
Millbury (Herbert McCracken). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn looks promising ; perhaps half the crop will
be used for ensilage. There is a large quantity of hay and the
quality is excellent. Millet, barley, corn and Hungarian grass
are the principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops have
yielded well and prices for peas and other vegetables have been
good ; potatoes not yet harvested. Apples will be a light crop ;
other fruits a fair yield. Pasturage is good, frequent rains keep-
ing the grass along. Rye, oats and barley compare favorably
with former years.
Mendon (J. J. Nutter). — Potato bugs and striped squash bugs
are doing some damage. Corn is little raised except for ensilage.
There is a fair crop of hay of good quality. Corn, oats, Hunga-
rian grass and millet are the principal forage crops grown. Mar-
ket-garden crops are doing very well ; prospect good for potatoes.
There will be a small crop of all kinds of fruits. Pasturage is in
very good condition. Oats and rye are very good crops.
Blackstone (O. F. Fuller). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good condition ; but one silo in town.
The hay crop was fully up to the standard in both quantity and
quality. Considerable Hungarian grass, golden millet and Japan-
ese millet have been sown. Market-garden crops are looking well.
There will be a fair crop of apples, very few pears, no peaches,
and few plums and grapes. Pastures are not in very good con-
dition on account of dry weather. Rye, oats and barley are about
normal crops.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
Sherborn (N. B. Douglas). — Potato bugs and squash vine
borers are doing some damage. Corn is looking well and of good
color ; one-third of the crop will go into the silo. The hay crop was
of average quantity and mostly secured in good order. Oats, oats
and peas, barley, Hungarian grass, Japanese millet and soy beans
in limited amount are the forage crops grown, and their general
21
condition is good. Garden crops promise well ; few potatoes dug
as yet. Apples are a full crop ; pears medium ; no peaches ;
grapes promise well. Pasturage is very short. Rye, oats and
barley are not raised except for forage and made good yields for
that purpose.
Framingham (J. S. Williams). — Onion and cabbage maggots
have been very destructive and potato bugs are plenty. Indian
corn is looking finely, although here and there a piece was planted
over, but is growing fast ; four-fifths of the crop will go into the
silo. Haying is about over in this vicinity, the crop being unu-
sually heavy and of excellent quality. Corn, oats, Hungarian
grass and Japanese millet are the principal forage crops grown ;
all are looking well and oats are very heavy. Market-garden
crops are very promising and low prices will probably prevail ;
potatoes are looking well. The summer and fall apple crops will
be better than that of the winter varieties ; pears and grapes fair ;
other fruits light. Pastures have been good, but are now feeling
the effects of dry weather. Rye winterkilled somewhat, but gen-
erally gave good results ; oats have been a very good crop.
Sudbury (E. "NY. Goodnow). — The potato bug is the most
troublesome insect in this locality. Indian corn is looking well
and about half the crop will be put into the silo. The hay crop is
large and of excellent quality. Oats and corn are being raised as
forage crops. Market-garden crops of all kinds are looking well,
with prices about normal. Fruit of all kinds except peaches is
looking well. Pasturage is not in good condition.
Littleton (Geo. W. Sanderson). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Corn is in good condition ; about half the crop will
probably go into the silo. Quantity of the hay crop one-third
more than last year, and quality good. Corn is raised for the
silo and Hungarian grass and millet to supplement the hay crop,
and all are looking well. Market-garden crops are in good condi-
tion and prices compare favorably with those of former years.
The prospect is good for apples ; other fruits appear to be light
crops. Pastures have been good until recently, but the dry
weather has lessened the feed. Very little rye, oats and barley
are raised for grain.
Oroton (Geo. S. Knapp). — Plant lice on young apple shoots
and borers are our most troublesome insects. Corn is in good
condition ; about half the crop goes into the silo. Hungarian
grass and millet are the principal forage crops. Market-garden
crops, including potatoes, are in good condition. Early apples
are a good crop, fall and winter varieties fair ; pears fair ; peaches
short. Pastures are dry at present and feed is getting poor.
22
Chelmsford (P. P, Perham). — Potato bugs are our most
troublesome insect. Indian corn is very backward, but is grow-
ing well now ; half the crop will be used for ensilage. The hay
crop is large and of good quality. Oats and barley sown together
are used for feeding green and for the silo. Market-garden crops
are about normal, but are now suffering somewhat from drought.
Apples are a good crop ; very few pears ; no peaches ; grapes
promise well. Pastures are in poor condition at present. Rye,
oats and barley are large crops, but are little grown for grain.
Billerica (Geo. P, Greenwood). — There is little injury from
insects in this locality. There is a very heavy crop of hay of good
quality. Corn is the principal forage crop raised and is looking
very well. Market-garden crops, including potatoes, are in good
condition ; beans, peas, etc., are selling rather low. Apples have
dropped considerably, but those remaining are very large and fair ;
some peaches ; other fruits fair. Pasturage is in good condition.
Rye, oats and barley are good crops. Sweet corn is raised to a
considerable extent and is looking well.
Tewksbury (G. S. Crosby). — Potato bugs are doing some dam-
age. What little Indian corn there is in this locality is in good
condition ; not much will be put into the silo. The hay crop is
nearly a third heavier than usual and of good quality. Hunga-
rian grass and millet are the principal forage crops grown, with
some oats and barley. The yield of market-garden crops is gener-
ally good, with prices lower than usual. All fruits except peaches
will give fairly good yields. Pasturage is beginning to dry up
somewhat, but the present rain will improve it. Rye is an unusu-
ally heavy crop and oats for fodder are also good.
Lexington (Cornelius Wellington). — Brown-tail moths are
under subjection ; gypsy moths are troubling us somewhat, but
there is little defoliation. Indian corn is doing well ; little is
raised except for ensilage. Quantity and quality of hay crop ex-
cellent. Corn and various kinds of millet are raised as forage
crops and all are doing well. Pasturage was good until recently,
but is now suffering from drought. Rye, oats and barley are little
raised, except for forage.
Lincoln (C. S. Wheeler). — Potato bugs are doing some dam-
age. Indian corn is very backward ; very little will be put into
the silo. Quantity of hay crop one-third above the average and
quality good. Japanese millet, Hungarian grass and fodder corn
are the principal forage crops, though some barley is going in for
late feed. Market-garden crops are about average, except sweet
corn, which is backward. There will be about an average crop of
23
fruit. Pasturage is iu fair condition. Rye, oats and barley are
above average crops.
Weston (Henry L,. Broavn). — Just now there is not much
trouble from insects. Corn is looking well ; more is planted for
the silo than for ripening. There was about an average quantity
of hay and the crop is of good quality. Millet and barley are the
principal forage crops and are in good condition. Market-garden
crops are looking well and those harvested have given good yields,
but prices have been very low. There is a fair quantity of apples
and pears ; no peaches to speak of ; plums very full and grapes
an average crop. Pastures are dry and short. Rye, oats and
barley were good crops for forage, but are not raised for grain.
ESSEX COUNTY.
Salisbury (Wesley Pettengill) . — Potato bugs are quite numer-
ous and the only insect doing much damage. Corn is looking well
but is a little backward ; none used for ensilage. The hay crop
is heavier than usual and secured in fine condition. Fodder corn
and millet are the principal forage crops, with some oats, barley
and Hungarian grass. Market-garden crops and potatoes are
looking well. Fall apples will give a large yield, winter apples
light ; pears fair ; peaches rather light, though some trees are
bearing full ; plums fair ; grapes plenty. Pastures are looking as
well as usual for the time of year, but high ground is getting dry
and short. Rye, oats and barley are looking well for forage.
Amesbury (F. W. Sargent). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage, but there appears to be a scarcity of common insects this
season. Indian corn is making rapid growth, although late in
starting ; half the crop will go into the silo. Hay was an average
crop of excellent quality. Oats, corn, barley, Hungarian grass
and Japanese millet are the principal forage crops grown. Mar-
ket-garden crops are in good condition though late. Apples and
pears are good ; other fruits light. Pasturage is in good condition
and the recent rain will keep it so. Rye, oats and barley are
average crops.
Groveland (A. S. Longfellow). — Potato bugs and onion
maggots are doing some damage. Indian corn is looking well ;
perhaps one-fifth of the crop will be put into the silo. Hay is bet-
ter than an average crop, of excellent quality. Oats and corn are
raised as forage crop and are in good condition. Market-garden
crops are looking well and so far have yielded well. Apples have
dropped badly ; pears promise a good crop and there will be some
peaches and plums. Rye, oats and barley are fully up to average
crops.
24
Roxoley (Daniel H. O'Buien). — Potato bugs and onion
maggots are doing some damage. Indian corn is in fair condition ;
none raised for the silo. Hay was better than an average crop in
quantity and quality. Hungarian grass and sweet corn are the
principal forage crops raised and are in good condition. Condition
and yield of market-garden crops medium and prices lower than
usual. Apples and pears are fair crops ; other fruits poor. Pas-
tures are in very good condition. Rye, oats and barley are average
crops. Apples dropped badly.
Wenham (N. P. Perkins). — With the exception of the onion
maggot insects have done less damage than usual. There is but
little Indian corn in this vicinity, but there is a large acreage of
sweet corn, of which part will go into the silo. As a whole the
crop of hay will somewhat exceed last year. Corn is the principal
forage crop grown, but Hungarian grass, Japanese millet, oats
and barley are also raised for that purpose. No potatoes have
been dug as yet and the prospect is not very good. There will be
but few apples and pears, no peaches, but some plums and grapes.
Pastures are now getting short and milch cows must be fed at the
barn. Rye, oats and barley are not much grown but are fair crops.
Danvers (C. H. Preston). — Corn is in good condition and a
large part of the crop will be used for ensilage. There was a large
hay crop of good quality. Oats and peas, barley, corn and Jap-
anese millet are the principal forage crops raised. Market-garden
crops are in good condition, and those already harvested have
yielded well, but have brought low prices. Apples fair, pears
good, plums and grapes good. Pasturage is in good condition.
Rye, oats and barley are good as forage crops.
NORFOLK COUNTY.
Randolph (Rufus A. Thayer) . — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good average condition ; nine-tenths
of the crop will go into the silo. Hay was more than an average
crop and of good quality. Corn, millet, oats and barley are the
principal forage crops grown and all are in fair condition. Mar-
ket-garden crops have made good average yields with low prices.
Apples and pears will give half crops ; no peaches or plums ;
grapes half a crop. Pastures are about as usual at this season.
Rye, oats and barley are good average crops and all used for
forage.
Canton (E. V. Kinsley). — Indian corn is backward and nine-
tenths of the crop will be fed to stock. Quantity of hay crop
above average and quality good. Indian corn, the millets, espe--
cially Japanese millet, oats, barley and spring rye and peas are the
25
principal forage crops. Market-garden crops are in good condi-
tion, with varying yields and fair prices; some signs of blight on
potatoes. Apples are a light crop ; other fruits almost a failure.
Pastures are getting very dry. Rye, oats and barley are good
average crops. The milk supply is getting a little short.
Nonoood (F. A. Fales). — Potato bugs and rose bugs are doing
some damage. Indian corn is rather late ; about 25 per cent of the
crop goes into the silo. Hay is more than an average crop in
quantity and of good quality. Oats and Japanese millet are the
principal forage crops raised. Market-garden crops are looking
well ; but few potatoes have been dug. There will be a light crop
of all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is in poor condition and much in
need of rain. Rye, oats and barley are about average crops.
Westioood (Henry E. Weatherbee) . — Potato bugs and squash
bugs are doing some damage, and cut worms did considerable the
first of the season. Corn is backward, but is looking finely. Hay
is above the average in quantity and quality. Hungarian grass,
Japanese millet and fodder corn are the principal forage crops
raised and all are looking well. Market-garden crops have yielded
well and brought good prices ; potatoes are looking well. Apples
will not be up to the average for apple years ; pears and peaches
will be below the average ; plums and grapes good crops. Pastures
are now short owing to the hot, dry weather. Oats are rather
light this year.
Walpole (Edward L. Shepard). — Fire worms on cranberry
bogs and potato bugs are doing some damage. Corn is late ; very
little is raised for the silo. Hay is more than an average crop in
quantity and better than usual in quality. Corn, barle}^ Hun-
garian grass and millet are the principal forage crops grown ; corn
is late, but the others are in fairly good condition. Potatoes are
looking finely ; market-garden crops are about as usual in yield
and price. Apples will be half a crop ; pears, peaches and plums
light crops ; others average. Pasturage has been good but is badly
in need of rain at present. Rye, oats and barley are about aver-
age crops.
Franklin (C. M. Allen). — There are few insects of any kind.
Corn looks well but is backward ; half the crop goes into the silo.
Hay is an average crop in quantity and quality. Millet and bar-
ley are the principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops,
including potatoes, are in better than average condition. Apples
will give a good crop ; pears light ; no peaches ; plums good ;
quinces fair; grapes light. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye,
oats and barley are hardly average crops.
26
BRISTOL COUNTY.
Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter), — Cut worms have been very
troublesome this season. Indian corn is late but is coming on
finely now ; little or none used for ensilage in this vicinity.
Quantity of the hay above average and quality excellent. Oats
and Hungarian grass are the principal forage crops ; oats excel-
lent and Hungarian rather backward. Market-garden crops are
generally very uneven, coming up poorly ; peas have been good ;
prices lower than usual. Potatoes promise well, but have not
been dug as yet. Apples good ; pears fair ; no peaches ; Japan
plums fair ; quinces fair ; grapes and cranberries small crops.
Pastures are in good condition as yet, but need rain. Rye, oats
and barley are up to the usual average.
Attlehorough (Isaac Alger) . — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in good condition ; 25 per cent of the
crop will go into the silo. Hay is a good average crop in both
quantity and quality. Millet, Hungarian grass and barley are
the principal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops have
yielded fairly well and promise equally well for the future. All
kinds of fruit will be a small crop, except grapes. Pasturage is
in good condition. Rye, oats and barley are aboftt average crops.
Norton (Wm. A. Lane). — Potato bugs are doing some damage.
Indian corn is looking well, though backward. The hay crop was
not as large as in former years, but was of good quality. Millet
and Hungarian grass are the principal forage crops grown. Pota-
toes are looking well, but blight has appeared on some fields.
There will be a small crop of fruit of all kinds. Pasturage is in
good condition for the time of year. Rye, oats and barley are
average crops.
Seekonk (Fred A. Howe). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is looking very well ; very little used for
ensilage. Hay was hardly an average crop in quantity, but was
of good quality. Barley is the principal forage crop grown.
Market-garden crops are looking well, with prices lower than
usual. Potatoes promise a fair crop. The fruit crop looks to be
a very poor one. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye, oats and
barley are about average crops.
Westjyort (Albert S. Sherman) . — Potato bugs are the greatest
pest we have. Indian corn is doing well and is of good color ;
none will be put into the silo in this vicinity. We have a good
crop of excellent hay. Corn and oats are quite extensively grown
for forage crops ; also some millet, and all are looking well.
Potatoes promise well, but very few have been harvested as yet.
27
Apples quite plenty ; pears rather scarce ; peaches and plums
none ; few quinces ; grapes abundant ; cranberries not grown.
Pastures are getting dry and feed short. Rye, oats and barley
are very good crops. Cabbages look well and turnips have a good
start.
Dartmouth (F. H. Mosher). — Fall web worms are very plen-
tiful. Corn is in good condition, better than the average ; a small
proportion of the crop will go into the silo. Hay was a much bet-
ter crop than last year and of better quality. Corn, oats and
millet are the principal forage crops grown, in the order given.
Market-garden crops are in good condition. There are not many
late apples, early ones better but not good ; but few pears and
peaches. Pastures are not holding out well. Rye, oats and bar-
ley are good crops, but little raised for grain. Onions are nearly
a complete failure in this section. Raspberries are turning out an
average crop.
PLYMOUTH COUNTY.
Brockton (Davis Copeland). — Potato bugs and squash bugs
are doing some damage. Indian corn is looking well, although it
is a little late ; about forty per cent of the crop will go into the
silo. Hay is on the whole about an average crop as regards both
quantity and quality. Corn for the silo and oats and peas to feed
green are the principal forage crops raised aud are in fairly good
condition. Market-garden crops are fairly good with prices low;
not many potatoes harvested as yet. All fruits are poor except
grapes, which look to be plenty. Pastures are dry. Rye, oats
and barley are about average crops.
Hanover (Harrison L. House). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage. Indian corn is in fair condition, but later than usual;
no silos in this vicinity. Hay is fully up to the average in quan-
tity and quality. Some corn and oats are raised as forage crops
and are in good condition. Market-garden crops are good but
later than usual, with prices rather lower than for the last few
years. Apples good ; pears scarce ; no peaches ; plums and
grapes plentiful ; cranberries plenty and good. Pasturage is fairly
good, but is now rather dry. Rye, oats and barley are very little
raised.
Hanson (F. S. Thomas, M.D.). — Potato bugs are doing some
damage and something, probably the elm leaf beetle, is working
on the elms. Corn is in good condition ; but little of it will be
used for ensilage. Hay is a superior crop in both quantity and
quality. Corn, oats and Hungarian grass are the principal forage
crops grown. Market-garden crops, including potatoes, are in
good condition and bring the usual prices. Early apples good,
28
winter varieties poor ; no peaches ; few plums ; grapes fair ; liail
destroyed cranberries. Pastures are in fine condition.
Marslifield (John H. Bourne). — Cut worms and white gi-ubs
are doing some damage. Corn is rather late but is making good
growth, and the prospect for the crop is much better than last year
at this time ; one-tenth of the crop will go into the silo. The hay
crop was a little better than that of last year and of fairly good
quality. Corn, oats and peas are the principal forage crops, but
are not very extensively raised. Market-garden crops are in good
condition ; more potatoes than usual and the early ones now dug
were never better. Apples and pears are average crops ; plums
few; some grapes looking well, others not; hail destroyed many
cranberries. Pastures are in good condition. Rye, oats and bar-
ley are good crops and the heads of rye and oats are long and well
filled out.
Plympton (Winthrop Fillebrown). — Potato bugs and cut
worms are our most troublesome insects. Corn has improved
greatly the past two weeks ; we have no silos. On high land hay
is excellent, but low laud did not do as well. Rye, corn, peas, Hun-
garian grass and oats are used extensively for fodder. Potatoes
are in fine condition ; garden crops in general have made rapid
growth the past three weeks. Apples promise a good yield ; pears,
peaches and plums light ; quinces, grapes and cranberries excel-
lent. Pasturage is in about the usual condition and the present
rain is doing it much good. Rye, oats and barley are about aver-
age crops.
Carver (J. A. Vaughan). — There have been but few insects,
potato bugs and currant worms being the most destructive. Hay
was a good crop and all secured in fine order. Corn is the princi-
pal forage crop and is looking well. Market-garden crops have
made good yields and brought good prices. There is a fair crop
of apples, but few pears and no peaches. Pasturage is in fair
condition. A few cranberry bogs were partly winterkilled, but
most of them started well to be injured by the June frost, while a
severe hailstorm destroyed the crop on many bogs.
Mattapoisett (E. C. Stetson). — Indian corn is in good condi-
tion ; no silos in this vicinity. There was a large hay crop of fair
quality. Corn, barley and cow peas are the principal forage crops
grown and are in good condition. Market-garden crops, including
potatoes, are in good condition and those already harvested have
been about average in yield and price. Apples promise a good
yield ; pears and peaches poor ; plums and grapes good ; cranber-
ries poor. Pasturage is in good condition. Rye, oats and barley
are as good as the average, or a little better.
29
BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Bourne (David D. Nye). — Potato bugs are doing some dam-
age, but less than last year. The condition of Indian corn is very
encouraging; no silos in this vicinity. Quantity and quality of
hay crop far ahead of last year. Corn, peas and oats are the prin-
cipal forage crops grown. Market-garden crops are in fine condi-
tion, especially potatoes, and those harvested compared favorably
with former years in yield and price. Fruit appears to be a smaller
crop than last year, although there is some of all kinds. Pastur-
age is looking very well, though two weeks of dry weather has some-
what affected it. Root crops are doing well.
Mashpee (W. F. Hammond), — Potato bugs and cut worms are
doing some damage. Indian corn is above the average in condi-
tion ; none used for ensilage. The hay crop is above the average
in quantity and quality. Corn and oats are our principal forage
crops. Market garden crops are about average in yield and price.
Apples promise to be half a crop ; no pears, peaches, plums or
quinces; grapes half a crop; cranberries average. Pasturage is
above the average in condition. Hye and oats are about average
crops.
Deyinis (Joshua Crowell). — There are very few insects just
at present, potato bugs being the most troublesome. Corn is in
very good condition ; none is used for ensilage. The hay crop
was fully up to the average in both quantity and quality. Corn is
the principal forage crop grown, with a little Hungarian grass, and
both are in good condition. Market-garden crops are in good
condition and those already harvested have compared favorably
•with other years in both yield and price. Apples a medium crop
or less ; pears good ; cranberries rather below the average. Pas-
turage is excellent for this season of the year.
Harwich (Ambrose N. Doane). — Cranberry vine worms and
potato bugs are doing some damage. The corn crop is in fair
condition ; but one silo in town. The hay crop is better than last
year in quantity and quality. Corn is the principal forage crop
grown and is looking remarkably well. Potatoes are much higher
than usual in price, but of poor quality. Apples promise a fine
crop ; grapes average ; cranberries very much damaged by worms
eating the blossoms. Pastures are in good condition. Rye and
oats are good crops. The cranberry crop will be half that of 1903,
having suffered from frost, hail and insects.
Easthavi (J. A. Clark). — No insects are very troublesome.
Indian corn is but little raised. The hay crop is good both in
quantity and quality. Market-garden crops are in good condition
30
and those already harvested have compared well with former years
in yield and price. The prospect is poor for fruit of all kinds.
Pasturage is in fair condition. Rye, oats and barley are very
little raised.
DUKES COUNTY.
West Tisbury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — Potato bugs are doing
some damage. Corn is in good condition ; a small part of the
crop will be put into the silo. Hay is above the average in quan-
tity and quality. Corn and millet are raised to eke out the pas-
tures. Market-garden crops are in good average condition.
There is the prospect of a fair crop of apples. Pasturage is in
good condition. Oats are below the average in yield. Hop fields
are doing well.
NANTUCKET COUNTY.
Nantucket (H. G. Worth) . — Insects are less troublesome than
usual. Indian corn has improved very much in the last two weeks ;
no silos in this county. The hay crop was about a third above
last year in quantity and of average quality. Corn is the prin-
cipal forage crop grown and is looking well. Market-garden
crops are in good condition, and the yield and price of those har-
vested has been up to the average. Cranberries are looking fairly
well ; grapes good ; no other fruit raised in this county. Pas-
turage is in good condition. More oats are raised than all other
grain, some farmers having over thirty acres. A large number
cut their oats in the milk and use them for hay.
31
BULLETIN OF
Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.
THE GYPSY AND BROWN-TAIL MOTHS.
By A. H. KiUKLAND, M.S., Boston, Mass.
Westward the course of insect damage takes its way. Civilization,
after all, has hard work to escape from some of its drawbacks. It is
unfortunate that in the westward march of mankind certain foes which
levy a constant and heavy tax on the products of the soil could not have
been left behind ; yet the agencies of commerce are subject to natural
laws, and in bringing to a new land the plants, trees and seeds of other
climes, have naturally brought also many of the insect pests of foreign
lands. Recently a nurseryman brought to Boston by accident a serious
scale insect of stone fruits. The elm leaf beetle was introduced at Bal-
timore in the early part of the nineteenth century in packings surround-
ing a lot of European elms. Within a few years a grower of Dutch roses
at Somerville, Mass., imported with his bushes the serious and annoying
brown-tail moth pest. These instances, tiiken at random, show the dan-
ger to which we are continually exposed by unrestricted commercial
activity. On the other hand, we have abundant evidence that nowhere
in the world has the subject of economic entomology received the atten-
tion or reached such a state of development as in our own land. This
potential knowledge has been particularly valuable in the case of warfare
against imported insect pests.
Foes of this class are usually on a difterent basis than native species.
In its native environment a species is subjected to the balancing process
of nature. In other words, it feeds and is fed upon. It destroys the
foliage, perhaps, of some staple crop, and in turn is attacked by para-
sites, predaceous insects and birds. Its numbers may vary from year to
year, Vivit when it becomes over-abundant it immediately oftex's a larger
food supply for its natural enemies. They soon gain ascendency, the
host insect is reduced in point of numbers and its ravages may even
cease to be noteworthy. A knowledge of this shifting relationship, this
" balance of nature," is of importance since it underlies the problem of
dealing with all insect pests, jjarticularly those of foreign origin.
Take the case of the gypsy moth for example. This creature was
brought here free from the controlling influence exerted by half a hun-
32
dred parasites and a score or more insectivorous birds. In other words,
the natural cheeks on its increase were left behind, and for years it has
occupied a rank of first magnitude as an insect pest in Massachusetts.
Its ravages the past year in the metropolitan district have been most
severe, causing an immense amount of damage in park and woodland
areas, and even depreciating the value of real estate in the worst
afflicted sections.
The Gypsy Moth.
Now that the damage by the moth has again reached such magnitude,
a little ancient, but hitherto uu])ublished, history will be of interest.
Soon after the civil war, as is well known, there lived in the Glenwood
district of Medford Prof. Leopold Trouvelot, a French astronomer and
naturalist. In connection with his experiments on various silkworms
he introduced the notorious gypsy moth,
and the same accidentally escaped from
his care. Professor Trouvelot could never
be induced, after his return to France, to
commit himself in writing as to the man-
ner in which the moth escaped. Some
years ago, however, the late Alvin Clark of
Cambridge visited him at the observatory
at Meudoii, France, and learned from him
that the gypsy moth caterpillars were con-
fined by netting on shrubs in his yard, that
the nettings became broken by a wind
storm and the caterpillars thus scattered
and commenced their sjiread. This un-
doubtedly happened in the early summer
of 1868, for an obscure note by Walsh-
Riley in volume 1, number 3, " American
Entomologist," November, 1868, gives an
account of the event Other notes by Riley
in his Missouri report for 1870 and in volume 2, "American Entomolo-
gist," 1870, show that Trouvelot must have directly or indirectlj- com-
municated to him the fact of the moth's escape. In other words,
Trouvelot, recognizing the possible danger from the moth, did his duty in
calling public attention to it How unfortunate that this warning was
ignored !
The gradual spread of the moth up to the caterpillar plague of 1888-89
is a matter of record. Equally well known is the work of the gypsy
moth committee of the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture, which linally
succeeded in reducing the numbers of the insect to a minimum and thor-
oughly controlling the pest Since the abandonment of the State work
in the early part of the year 1900 the moth has had ample opportunity
to increase to a point where it is to-day more numerous, and occupying
a larger area in this State, than ever before. Such severe outbreaks of
this insect as we have witnessed during the past two years are inevitably
accompanied by a great s])reading of the moth into non-infested territory.
Fig. 1. Egg cluster of gypsy moth.
33
This makes it important that property owners should be on the lookout
for the insect and jjromptly stamp out infestations as soon as discovered.
Life Histo7'y.
The* life histoiy of the gypsy nioth follows along lines common to
our principal caterpillar pests. The eggs, smaller than a pin head, are
laid in masses of five hundred or more on trunks of trees, stone walls,
fences, etc. At the time of earticularly difficult insect to com-
bat, since it seldom lacks for suitable food.
Fig. 4. Male gypsy moth.
Remedies.
The remedies most useful against the gypsy moth are governed largely
by the season at which the moth colony is found and the size and extent
of the same. Certain wholesale methods are very eflective but can only
be applied by municipalities or property ow^ners of large means.
Cutting and Burning. — This process includes the cutting out of in-
fested woodland, destroying the under])rush and thinning the trees.
Fig. 5. Female gypsy moth.
This work is done to best advantage in the winter season, and should be
preceded by destroying the eggs so as to prevent scattering of the same.
The eff'ect is to limit the foliage on which the insects can feed, and to pre-
pare the woodland for thorough work during the following cateri)illar
season. The brush and other refuse should l^e burned early in May,
after the caterpillars have hatched. At this time a large number of in-
sects will be on the ground and will thus be destroyed.
Burning ivith Oil. — Where caterpillar colonies are found late in the
summer it is often desirable to burn over the ground with oil, particu-
36
larly where there is much underbrush to harbor the insects. This work
is accomplished by means of a small tank, to which is connected a light
suction pump. Crude oil is used and is forced out of the spra^- pole
attached to the outfit, and makes a flaming torch which instantly con-
sumes all forms of insect life. In using this outfit due care must be
taken not to injure trunks of the trees.
The method applicable to private estates or available for parties of
small means would include first of all the important work of egg-
destruction.
Egu Bcstrnclion. — This is best accomplished by searching out the egg
clusters in the fall or winter and soaking them with creosote mixture.
This mixture consists of crude creosote oil charged with varying ])er-
eentages of coloring matter and carbolic acid. It is now offered in the
market by several firms at prices ranging from seventy-five cents to one
dollar per gallon, depending upon quantity. It is well to use a mixture
containing considerable coloring matter, so that nests which have been
treated shall show a distinct color. Where plain creosote oil is used the
coloring soon fades out, and by the following spring it is difficult to
distinguish treated from untreated nests.
Btirlapping. — This consists of tying a burlap band ai'ound the tree
trunks, thus affording the insects an artificial shelter during the day.
The burlap strips should be about six inches wide and tied around the
tree by means of a cord in the middle Later both edges of the strip are
pulled down. After the caterpillars are half grown they feed by night
and will hide under the burlap during the day. The burlaps should be
examined every day and the insects under them destroyed by hand.
Spraying. — The use of arsenical poisons, particularly some form of
arsenate of lead, applied as a spray to the foliage is very effective, and
alone is often depended upon to hold the insect in check. Some form of
arsenate of lead paste should be used at the rate of about ten jjounds
to one hundred gallons of water. The spraying solution should be
kept well stirred and applied on a clear, dry day.
For the work of spraying, a simple hand outfit will sufiice where
shrubljery alone is to be treated. For work on fruit trees or shade trees
of any size the barrel pump is necessary, while for use in woodlands or
parks one of the larger park outfits would be found economical. Thus
the cost of a sprayer will vary from one dollar and twenty-five cents for
the simple cheap hand sprayers to twenty- five dollars for a barrel outfit,,
and so on to sixty dollars or more for a park outfit. Many parties in the
business of spraying use power outfits costing as high as five hundred
dollars or more
In fighting the gypsy moth it should be borne in mind that the process
must be a continuous one ; in other words, the insects must be dealt with
every j-ear. There is no case in applied entomology known to the
writer where constant and thorough work will yield greater returns. It
is much cheaper and easier to suppress the moth before it gets a foot-
hold than to attempt to wipe out a large colony. A little patient work
every winter and spring in the matter of Qgg destruction and burlapping
will hold the pest in check, provided, of course, that there can be coop-
eration throughout the community.
37
Where such mutual help cannot be obtained, and the moth is allowed
to increase on neighboring estates, there is availa!)le for use the tinal
method of banding the trees with some sticky material, such as raupen-
leim, or its American substitute, bodlime. Tar or printer's ink or even
sticky fly paper are also used for this purpose. These bands should be
l^ut on as soon as the eggs hatch in the spring, and should be kept fresh
and sticky throughout the summer. Their eiiect is to preserve the trees
from damage by migrating hordes of caterpillars.
The Bkown-tail Moth.
The European brown-tail moth was first found in Massachusetts in
May, 1897. In Europe it has been known as a common pest of fruit
trees for generations. In fact, the earliest works on fruit-tree insects
Fig. 6. Winter web
of browD-tail moth
caterpillars.
Fig. 7. Brown-tail moth
caterpillar, enlarged.
mention this pest as being one of the most common. When one consid-
ers the strange habits of the caterpillars in wintering in the webs at the
tips of the twigs, coupled with the fact that large quantities of orna-
mental shrubs are annually imported from Europe to this country, the
wonder is not so much that the pest finally found its way here but that it
did not reach us much sooner. It is, however, reiuai'kal)le that two such
notorious pests as the gypsy and brown-tail moths should have been
transported thousands of miles across the sea, one purposely and the
other accidentally, and both become colonized in eastern Massachusetts,
and within five miles of each other.
The first outbreak of the Ijrown-tail moth covered only a i'ew square
miles in Somerville and Cambridge. It was sufficient, however, to yield
an immense swarm of moths, which flew or were drifted by a high wind
throughout the whole north-eastern section of the State. In the case of
38
this insect the female moth flies readily, and being caught by the Avind is
often transported great distances. The caterpillars do not spin down
from trees to the same extent as those of the gypsy moth but are no doubt
more or less transported by vehicles. However, the main and important
distribution of the moth takes place during the flying season. In addition
to the eftect of the wind, these insects are also strongly attracted to light.
It results, therefore, that a swarm of moths arising from any infested spot
and being drifted by the wind out of their immediate environment fly to
the nearest mass of lights Thus the centres of cities and towns become
first infested, and here are established the colonies from which a more
general infestation takes place. Electric ears, railroad trains and even
steam-boats serve to transport the moths The writer has repeatedly
seen them, attracted by the lights, enter into the street or steam cars and
be carried for many miles.
A reliable observer, Mr. A. M. Cobb, Maiden, Mass., reports that when
the Bangor boat of the Eastern Steamship line was passing some miles
oft' Marblehead, early in July of the pres-
ent year, a large swarm of the brown-
tail moths came aboard and completely
covered parts of the vessel. Dr. James
Fletcher, entomologist. Central Experi-
ment Farms, Ottawa, Can., has recently
reported finding brown-tail moths near
the wharves of St. John, N. B. We know
that in seven years' time the small colony
at Somerville has spread throughout the
whole eastern part of ^Massachusetts, through southern New Hampshire
and well into Maine. This rapid spreading of the insect indicates that
within a few years it will be well distributed throughout New England..
Life History.
The brown-tail moth lays from two hundred to four hundred small'
globular eggs, thickly covered with a mass of brown hairs from the tip
of the abdomen of the moth. The typical egg mass is about two-thirds
of an inch long and about one-quarter of an inch wide. While the eggs
are occasionally deposited on branches or trunks of trees, or even on
lamp posts or house walls, a very large majority are laid on the under
surfaces of the leaves of fruit and shade trees. The moths show a strong
liking for pear trees, and will apparently seek out trees of this species in
preference to any others. At the same time the apple, wild cherry and
white oak are very commonly infested by the insect, while other trees
sutt'er to some extent.
The eggs, laid in July, hatch the following month, and the young cater-
pillars, feeding in a mass, soon commence their work of spinning their
winter webs. In making this web a number of leaves in the vicinity of
the egg clusters are drawn together and are carefully spun in with a
tenacious silken web. From this web the caterpillars go foi'th to feed
on warm days, returning at night, and with the approach of cold weather
enter the web and close with exit holes. We then have the strange phe-
39
nomenon of a caterpillar wintering over when only one-quarter grown
and emerging the following spring to complete its life histor3^ What-
ever extremes of cold we have in Massachxasetts do not seem to affect
these insects adversely. They emei'ge early in the spring, eat first the
buds, then the blossoms, and attack the foliage of fruit trees as soon as it
develops. Their appetite seems to be in proportion to their winter's fast-
ing period. Certainly no insect could be more voracious for the time
spent in the caterpillar stage. The full grown caterpillar is light brown
with a white stripe on either side and about two inches in length.
Stripping the foliage of one tree they march to another, and so continue
until full grown, when the cocoons are spun within the leaves at the
ends of the branches, or sometimes on the tree trunks. The pupation
usiially takes place the latter part of June, and the moths emerge from
the first to the twentieth of July. The snow
white female moth is conspicuously marked ^^^^^^D^i^-ViXl^
with an enlarged tuft of brown hair, wiiich ^V/ jf^^M,$'fl^.-
ffives to the insect its common name.
Nettling by the Caterpillars.
The damage by the caterpillars to the fruit
trees is only a part of the story. "Whenever
these insects come in contact with human
flesh they produce a most severe and painful
nettling. This is apparently not due to any
poisonous material in the hairs but rather
to the finely barbed and brittle hairs them-
selves. So severe is this affection that in
many cases people have lieen made seriously
ill by it. The best remedy tor it is the liberal
use of cooling lotions, or, what is moi'e satisfactory, even if less pi
the free use of common vaseline.
Fig 9. I'luniDs; sheiirs
for removal of wiiuer
easant.
Remedies.
The habit of the caterpillar in wintering over in webs at the tips of the
leaves gives a key to the simplest and cheapest remedy, which is merely
to cut off and burn the w'ebs during the fall, winter or spring. This
preventive means is most effective, and gives such excellent results that
in Germany, France and Belgium there is a law making it obligatory
on property owners to destroy the webs during the winter season.
Where citizens neglect to carry out this work it is done for them, and
the sum thus expended added to their tax levy.
Winter Work.
The work of removing the webs is best done by the use of a long-
handled tree pruner or similar device. Particular jxiins should be given
to gathering the webs and burning them, as any lett on the ground will
yield caterpillars and continue the infestation locally. As showing how
cheaply the webs may be gathered where a general campaign is made
the figures of work done by employees of the gypsy moth committee in
40
1899 are of interest. At that time over nine hundred thousand webs
were destroyed at the total outlay of nine thousand seven hundred
dollars.
Sjrraying. — Spraying is very effective against these insects ; in fact
they are much less resistant to the action of poison than is the gypsy
moth or elm leaf beetle. To secure best results spraying should be
done as soon as the foliage develops in the spring. Five pounds
of the arsenate of lead paste to one hundred gallons of water is suffi-
cient, or, if preferred, one pound of good Paris green kept well stirred
may be applied in one hundred and fifty gallons of water.
Where the caterpillars swarm from trees along fences or on house
walls the use of kerosene emulsion or strong soap suds is advisable.
Fall spraying with arsenate of lead is also effective, but the feeding of
the caterpillars at that time of the year is usually of minor importance.
Little good can be done in the way of collecting the eggs or trapping
the moths by light, although many of the mature insects are destroyed
by arc lamps. There is no method of combating the brown-tail moths
that will give better results for the outlay than the destruction of the
Avebs in the winter season, and this if thoroughlv carried out will be a
sufficient protection against damage by the insect. Cases will arise
where the caterpillars swarm from adjoining estates, and where this
occurs banding the trees with some sticky material as heretofore de-
scribed will protect the foliage from harm.
Systema/ic Control.
' Both the gypsy and brown-tail moths can be conti'olled by a thorough
campaign over the infested municipalities. The work of the former
gypsy moth committee has shown that the damage and annoyance from
these pests can be practically eliminated hj the application of thorough
remedial measures over the entire infested districts. It is greatly to
be hoped that some effort to systematically control the spread of these
pests may be instituted, to the end that property owners may be sj^ared
the annual visitation of the caterpillar scourge.
Until then, however, eternal vigilance is the price we must pay if our
trees are to be preserved.
Series of 1904. Vol. 17. No. 4.
MASSACHUSETTS
CEOP EEPOKT
FOR THE
Month of August, 1904.
HARVESTING AND MARKETING APPLES.
ISSUED MONTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.
J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.
Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class
Matter, under Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.
BOSTON :
WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
18 Post Office Square.
1904.
Approved by
The State Board of Publication.
Ceop Report for the Month of August, 1904.
Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., Sept. 1, l'J04.
Bulletin Xo. 4, Crop Report for the month of August, is
presented herewith. Attention is called to the article at the
close of the Bulletin on "Harvesting and Marketing Apples, "
by Prof. F. A. Waugh, professor of hortieultiu"e at the Mas-
sachusetts Agricultural College. As this is the ' ' apple year "
in Massachusetts something on this subject was thought to
be desirable, and this crop report, appearing just before apple
harvest commences, a desirable medium for oivino- it out.
Professor Waugh does not attempt to go into the details of
all processes in harvesting, handling and marketing the
apple crop, the space allotted him not being sufficient, but
he covers the principal points in an illuminating manner
and the article should contain many new ideas for those who
do not make orcharding their princi})al business, but with
whom the apple crop is nevertheless of considerable impor-
tance. His suggestions in regard to the selling of the crop
and as to the crop of the present year should be of especial
value.
Proc4ress of the Season.
The monthly report of the Chief of the Bureau of Sta-
tistics of the United States Department of x\griculture (Crop
Reporter for August, 1904) shows the condition of corn on
August 1 to have been 87.3, as compared with 86.4 a month
earlier, 78.7 on August 1, 1903, 86.5 at the corresponding
date in 1902, and a ten-year August average of 83.5.
Preliminary returns indicate a winter wheat crop of about
333,400,000 bushels, or an average of 12.3 bushels per acre,
as compared with 12.3 bushels last year, as finally estimated.
The average condition of spring wheat on August 1 was
87.5, as compared with 93.7, a month earlier, 77.1 (m the
corresponding date in 1903, 89.7 in 1902, and a ten-A^ear
August averao-e of 81.2. Rust liad made its appearance in
some counties, but it was too early to estimate definitely the
extent of damage from it.
The average condition of the oat crop on August 1 was
86.6, as compared with 89.8 a month earlier, 79.5 in 1903,
89.4 in 1902, and a ten-year August average of 82.7. The
proportion of the oat cro}) of last year still in the hands
of farmers was estimated at 5.4 per cent, as compared with
7.4 per cent of the crop of 1902 in farmers' hands at the
corresponding date in 1903, 4.2 per cent of the crop of
1901 in farmers' hands two years ago, and a nine-year aver-
age of 7.4 per cent.
The average condition of barley was 91.8, as compared
with 90.8 a month earlier, 87.2 in 1903, 90.5 in 1902, and
a ten-3'ear average of 86.2.
The acreage of buckwheat is less than that of last year by
about 10,800 acres, or 1.3 per cent. The average condi-
tion of buckwheat on August 1 was 92.8, as compared with
93.9 in 1903, 91.4 in 1902, and a ten-year average of 90.3.
The average condition of flax on August 1 was 78.9, as
compared with 86.6 a month earlier, and 80.3 on August 1,
1903.
The average condition of tobacco was 83.9, as compared
with 85.3 a month earher, 82.9 on August 1, 1903, and a
five-year average of 81.1.
The average condition of potatoes was 94.1, as compared
with 93.9 a month earlier, 87.2 on August 1, 1903, 94,8 at
the corresponding date in 1902, and a ten-year average of
84.6.
Preliminary returns indicated an increase of 0.2 per cent
in the hay acreage. The average condition of timothy hay
on August 1 was 94, as compared Avith 92.2 in 1903, 90 in
1902, and a nine-year average of 85. Reports as to the
production of clover indicated that nearly a full crop will be
harvested. In point of quality the crop of clover is well up
to highest medium grade.
The average condition of pasture August 1 was 95.5, as
compared with 95.8 a month earlier, 94.9 on August 1,
1903, 97.1 at the corresponding date in 1902, and an eight-
year average of 84.5.
The average condition of rice on August 1 was 90.2, as
compared with 88.2 a niontli earlier and 92 in 1903.
In Massachusetts the average condition of corn was 92 ;
the average condition of oats 98, and the proportion of the
crop of 1903 still in farmers' hands 3.5 per cent ; the average
condition of spring rye 98 ; the acreage of buckwheat as
compared with last year 115, and the average condition 97 ;
the average condition of tobacco 97 ; the average condition
of potatoes 101 ; the acreage of hay compared with last year
101 ; the average condition of timothy hay 100 ; the pro-
duction of clover as compared with a full crop 96, and the
quality, 100 standing for high, 99 ; the average condition of
pasture as 100 ; the average condition of apples as 97 ; and
the average condition of grapes as 92.
Tesiperature axd Rainfall for the Whole Country.
[Fkom United States Climate and Chop Bulletins.]
Week ending August 1. — The week was slightly warmer
than usual over the greater part of New England and in
portions of the northern and southern Pacific coast districts,
the average daily departures from normal temperatures being
less than 3°. Nearly normal temperatures prevailed in the
middle Pacific coast districts and over the Rocky Mountain
slope and much of the Lake region. From the upper Lake
region westward to central Montana and south-eastern Idaho
and generally throughout the Southern States, the week
averaged cooler than usual, the deficiency ranging from 3°
to (P per day over the greater part of the South Atlantic
and Gulf States. The rainfall of the week was verv un-
equally distributed in the districts east of the Rocky Moun-
tains, but for the most part was ample for the needs of grow-
ing crops, being excessive in portions of the central valleys
and the Southern States. In the northern portion of the
central Gulf States, along the immediate Atlantic coast
northward of the Carolinas, and over a considerable part of
the Ohio and Missouri valleys and the lower Lake region
the rainfall \vas below the average. The southern Plateau
G
region experienced a Aveek of showery weather to its great
relief. There was no rain on tlie Pacific coast except very
liolit showers in A\"ashinoton and uortliern Oregon,
O o o
Week ending August 8. — The A\eek was warmer tlian
usual over the western Plateau districts and on the Pacific
coast. A slight excess in temperature was also shown over
the northern portion of the Middle Atlantic States and the
greater part of New England, the departures from the nor-
mal in these districts being generally below 3°. Over most
of the lower Lake region, Ohio valley, Tennessee and the
northern portion of the South Atlantic States the tempera-
ture difiered but little from the normal, slight deficiencies
being generally reported. In the western portion of the
upper Lake region, the upper Mississippi and Missouri val-
leys, and over the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains
and Gulf States the week averaged cooler than usual. In
the Southern States the rainfall was very heavy and gener-
ally largely in excess of the average. Through the Gulf
States and on the South Atlantic coast the total fall ranged
from 2 to 6 inches, while amounts ranging from 2 to 4 inches
were reported from the coast districts from the Carolinas
northward to southern New England. In northern New
England and generally throughout the Lake region and cen-
tral vallej's the week was drier than usual, large areas being
entirely rainless. There was a continued absence of rain
over a large part of the Plateau and Pacific coast regions.
WeeJi ending August 15. — The week was generally
cooler than usual in the districts east of the Mississippi and
in the west Gulf States, In the lower Ohio Valley and in
the south Atlantic coast districts the temperature differed
very slightly from the normal. The week \vas also slightly
cooler than usual over the central portion of the southern
Plateau region and along the immediate middle and north
Pacific coasts. Over most of the northern Pacific coast
region, and generally throughout the middle and northern
Plateau districts and the north-eastern Rocky Mountain slope
the week averaged warmer than usual. Much of the At-
lantic and Gulf coast districts and a considerable part of the
central Missouri and upper Mississippi valleys and the Lake
region received more than the average rainfall during the
week, while less than the average amount fell over most of
the Ohio, central Mississippi, and lower Missouri \allevs,
and over the northern portion of the Gulf States. Over a
large area extending from western Texas north-eastward to
southern Missouri there was little or no rainfall, and like
conditions prevailed over a considerable part of the Ohio
valley.
Week ending August 22. — The week was cooler than
usual in the northern districts from the upper Lake re-
gion westward to the eastern portions of Washington and
Oregon, including the greater part of the central Plateau
region. A very slight deficiency was also shown over the
upper Mississippi Valley and in portions of the lower Lake
region and Middle Atlantic States. Over the greater part
of the central valleys and New England the temperature
averao-ed nearly normal. In the Southern States and i>en-
erally throughout the Pacific coast districts the week was
warmer than usual. The rainfall was very heavy from the
eastern portions of Nebraska, Kansas and Oklahoma to New
England, from 1 to 3 inches falling over portions of the Lake
region and New England. There was also more than the
average rainfall over the southern Plateau region, but over
the middle Plateau and Pacific coast districts there was little
or no rain. Throughout the Southern States, with the ex-
ception of a few limited areas, the rainfall was below the
average, very little falling in the districts to the west of the
Mississippi.
Special Telegraphic Reports.
[Weather Bureau, Boston.]
Week ending August 1. — New England. Boston:
AVeather favorable for crop growth, but unfavorable for
harvesting: ha}^ crop large, over half secured; potatoes
and tomatoes promise hirge yields ; garden vegetables and
truck plentiful : aj^ples developing well, good crop prom-
ised : plums and pears uneven ; berries plentiful, except
cranberries uncertain; tobacco good, topping progressing;
corn making rapid growth, large crop.
8
Week ending August 8. — New England. Boston:
Weather favorable for crop growth, but unfavorable for
harvesting ; rain greatly needed in Maine and parts of New
Hampshire ; corn and small grain good ; rj^e secured : oats
being harvested ; hay good, much still outstanding : apples
average or above, making good growth ; berries abundant,
other fruit uneven ; potatoes promising ; gardens and truck
abundant; tobacco very good, topping about finished, cut-
ting will begin in ten days.
Week ending August 15. — New England. Boston :
Weather favorable for growth, but unfavorable for harvest-
ing ; rain needed in some northern sections ; much hay yet
uncut in north, crop generally large and quality good ; corn
small, grain good ; potatoes very good, also other vege-
tables, except onions, which are much below average ; apples
good, except in parts of Rhode Island and Connecticut, less
dropping reported ; pears, plums and peaches uneven : ber-
ries plentiful ; excellent outlook for tobacco.
Week ending August 22. — New England. Boston :
Weather favorable for crop growth and harvesting ; corn
good ; oats, rye and grass harvested, good crops : buck-
wheat in good condition ; high winds damaged apples some-
what, but crop will be good and of excellent quality ; other
fruits uneven and below average ; potatoes and vine crops
good ; tobacco excellent, cutting progressing well.
Weatiiek of August, 1904.
The month o})ened with several days of warm, showery
weather with muggy, oppressive atmosphere, the conditions
that are frequently experienced during August, popularly
known as " dog-day " weather. A week of cool weather,
with scattered showers followed, prevailing from the 8th to
the 14th, during which the da}^ temperatures rose but little
above the 80s and the minima fell to the oOs. During the
remainder of the month the weather was marked by periods
of a few warm days, with temperatures near the seasonal
alternating with like periods of cool weather with the mer-
cury considerably below the average. The general outcome
as regards the temperature was a monthly mean considerably
9
below the normal for August. The most noticeable cool
spells were those of the 19th and 20th and the 23d and 24th,
during which light frosts occiured in many localities. The
precipitation during August was below the average, the de-
ficiency ranging from 20 to 30 per cent below the monthly
normal. It was, however, quite equably distril)uted, in the
form of showers, through the period and over the territory,
and the results were that there was little complaint of the
dry weather. The sunshine and cloudiness were also well
distributed and there was little out of the usual in these ele-
ments. Local storms were somxcwhat less fre({uent than
usual and with slight exceptions they were less violent than
many that have occurred in August of other years. View-
ing the weather of the month as a whole it was very pleasant,
and it was notable for a marked deficiency in hot, humid
days such as are frequently characteristic of August.
In our circular to correspondents returnable August ^'2
the following questions were asked : —
1. What is the condition of Indian corn?
2. What is the prospect for rowen, as compared with a
normal crop ?
3. What is the prospect for late potatoes, and have you
noticed blight or rot?
4. How do the acreage and condition of tobacco compare
with former years ?
5. What is the prospect for apples, pears, peaches, grapes
and cranberries?
6. What is the condition of pasturage in your vicinity?
7. How have oats and barley compared with former years ?
Returns were received from 164 correspondents, from
which the following summary has been made : —
Indian Corn.
Indian corn is still reported to be somewhat backward and
uneven, but is earing well and unless killing frosts come at
an unusually early date it should mature a good cro}). Were
it not for the somewhat uneven stand, caused by poor ger-
mination of the seed, and in some cases damage by excessive
10
moisture during tlie growing season, the crop would be an
unusually heavy one. The growth of stover is reported
as luxuriant, even where there are complaints that it is not
earing out well. Corn planted for the silo promises an
unusually heavy yield.
ROWEN.
Frequent rains have kept rowen growing well and if it
were not that the first crop on manj^ fields was secured un-
usually late the yield of rowen would be one of the largest
ever secured. As it is more than an average crop will be
secured. Cutting has begun in some sections, particularly
on fields where the first crop was secured early, but is by no
means general as yet.
Late Potatoes.
Late potatoes are somewhat backward, and but few had
been harvested at the time of making returns. The vines
were generall}^ reported as very heavy, but some fears were
expressed that tubers would be few in the hill and the crop
not as large as previously indicated. Blight had appeared
in the western and central sections of the State, though not
generally, and there were a few complaints of rot in these
sections. In the counties of Bristol, Plymouth and Barn-
stable, blight may be said to have been reported to be gen-
eral, with numerous reports of rot. Should these diseases
develop with their usual severit}^ only a light crop can be
looked for in these counties.
Tobacco.
There is little chang-e in the acreag-e of tobacco from the
past few years. At time of making returns cutting was
beginning and by the close of the month the bulk of the crop
will be secured. It is reported to be a heavy crop, with a
broad, fine leaf, very free from insect damage, and in short
one of the finest crops at time of going to the barns that
has ever been secured.
11
Pasturage.
The lre(|ueiit rains have kept feed in pastures green and
growing in almost all sections and seldom have they been
reported in such good condition at this season of the year.
Fruits.
Apples will hardly give a crop up to the average of the
"apple year," as it is in most sections, but the qualit}^ of
the fruit, as indicated by present reports, promises to be
excellent. Pears are giving only a light crop, less perhaps
than has been previously indicated. Plums have generally
}lelded well, particularly the Japanese varieties. Peaches
are almost a failure, taking the State as a whole, few sections
reporting even fair yields. Grapes promise a fair to good
crop if frost does not come earlier than usual. Cranberries
suffered from late spring frosts, hail, and insect damage and
l)romise but a light crop in the sections of principal produc-
tion.
Oats and Barley.
Oats are a very good crop, but there are some reports of
damage from rains at time of harvesting. Barley is little
raised except as a forage crop, to feed green or for the silo.
Oats are used for hay to a considerable extent. In these
latter capacities both crops have done unusually well.
12
NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.
(Returned to us August 22.)
BERKSHIRE COUNTY.
Mount Washington (H. M. Weaver) . — Indian corn is above the
average in condition. The prospect for rowen is good, as com-
pared with a normal crop. Late potatoes are very promising; no
blight or rot. Tobacco is not raised in this vicinity. Early ap-
ples are a good crop, also cranberries ; no peaches or grapes.
Pasturage is in excellent condition. Oats are above an average
crop ; no barley raised.
Monterey ( Wm. S. Bidwell) . — Indian corn is in good condition
but is backward. The rowen crop will be below the normal. The
prospect for late potatoes is good and I have seen no blight or rot.
Apples are very plenty ; other fruits scarce. Pastures are in good
condition. Oats are a good crop ; no barley raised.
Becket (Wm. H. Snow). — Indian corn shows a good growth of
fodder, but the grain is late in maturing. The prospect for the
rowen crop is very good. Late potatoes look well, but there is
some complaint of rot. No tobacco raised of any amount. There
is a good crop of fruit. Pasturage is in very good condition.
Oats and barley are average crops.
Stockbridge (F. A. Palmer). — Corn is growing fast, but is
mostly late with poor spots in all Qelds, owing in part to poor
seed. Rowen is up to a full normal crop. There is a fine pros-
pect for potatoes, with no blight or rot as yet. Apples are an
extra crop and pears a fair crop. Pasturage is in extra good con-
dition. Oats are more than an average crop. Buckwheat looks
finely. All crops are doing nicely, stock has plenty of feed and
fruits are maturing well.
Washington (E. H. Snow). — Indian corn is a full crop, better
than for the last two years. There will be an average crop of
rowen. Late potatoes are a good crop and there is no blight.
Apples promise about an average yield ; no other fruits raised for
market. Pastures are in good condition, owing to the wet weather.
Oats and barley are about average crops.
Hancock (C. H. Wells). — There will be a fine crop of Indian
corn. The weather has been almost too dry for a good crop of
13
rowen. Potatoes are looking fairly well, with very little blight at
present. Apples and pears promise well ; no peaches or cran-
berries. Pastures have been rather short, but recent rains have
improved them considerably. Oats are a better crop than last
year; barley little raised.
Dalton (Wesley B. Barton). — Corn is a fair crop, though
some of that planted late failed to come up well. There will be a
good crop of rowen. Potatoes promise well ; some blight but no
rot reported. Apples are 70 per cent of a full crop and pears 40
per cent. Pasturage is in very good condition. Oats and barley
are full average crops. Taken as a whole the season has been a
favorable one.
Windsor (H. A. Ford). — There will be a good crop of corn if
frost holds off for three weeks longer. The prospect is good for
the rowen crop, better than in former years. Blight has appeared
on potatoes and some rot. There will be a great crop of apples.
Pasturage is in extra good condition. Oats and barley are fully
equal to the crops of former years.
Savoy (W. W. Burnett). — Indian corn is very backward and
in poor condition, with a small acreage. The prospect now is for
much less than an average crop of rowen. The prospect for pota-
toes is now very good, with no blight as yet. Apples are about a
normal crop ; other fruits not much grown. The continued drought
has dried up pasturage. Oats and barley are full average crops as
compared with former years.
Williamstoimi (S. A. Hickox). — Corn is a good crop, but is ten
days late at present. Potatoes look well ; blight begins to appear,
but no rot as yet. Rowen is about 70 per cent of a normal crop.
Apples are a full crop in some orchards, below in others ; pears
half a crop. Pastures are in good condition, late rains having
much improved them. Oats are a full crop.
FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Haioley (C. C. Fuller.) — Indian corn is a good crop. The
prospect is good for the rowen crop. Late potatoes promise well
with no blight or rot. Apples are a good crop in quantity and
quality ; pears and grapes fair ; no peaches and cranberries grown.
Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and barley are only raised
for fodder, but are heavier than usual.
Ashfield (Charles Howes). — Indian corn has made a good
growth, but is ten days late. Rowen will give more than an aver-
age crop. Potatoes promise well and the tops are looking all
right, with no blight or rot. Apples are about an average crop ;
14
plums in abundance ; pears and peaches few. Pasturage is in
very good condition for the time of year. Oats and barley have
made a good average yield. The frequent showers have kept
crops growing well.
Shelburne (Geo. E. Taylor). — Corn is looking finely, but is
perhaps a little backward. More than an average crop of rowen
may be expected. A large yield of potatoes is promised ; a little
rot has appeared. Apples are less than a normal crop ; pears and
peaches light. Pasturage is in good condition with plenty of feed.
Oats and barley are not raised to any amount.
Leyden (U. T. Darling). — Corn is looking well, but is a little
late. The prospect for rowen is good and more than a normal
crop will be secured. The prospect for potatoes is good, with no
blight or rot as yet. There is an average crop of apples, pears
and grapes ; no peaches or cranberries. Pastures are in good
condition. Oats and barley are fully up to the average of former
years.
Deerfield (H. A. Wells) . — Corn is earing out heavily. Rowen
will be less than a normal crop, though early cut fields look well,
— less clover than usual. Late potatoes look well and the vines
are keeping green ; no rot noticed. There is a -slightly decreased
acreage of tobacco, but the condition of the crop is above the
average. The prospect is good for the apple crop ; pears and
grapes plenty ; no peaches. Local rains have kept feed in pas-
tures good. Oats are a heavy crop ; no barley raised for grain.
Some few growers have commenced tobacco harvest.
Wliately (Frank Dickinson). — Indian corn is in good condi-
tion. Rowen is less than an average crop and most of it is late.
Potatoes should give an average crop, with no blight or rot as yet.
Acreage of tobacco large and quality of the crop fine. There will
be a light crop of apples. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats
are a heavy crop but badly lodged.
Sunderland (J. M. J. Legate). — Corn is late but is looking
splendidly, and if frost holds off there will be a heavy yield. The
rowen crop promises to be far above the average. Potatoes appear
to be few in the hill, but no blight or rot has appeared, so the crop
should be an average one. There is about the usual acreage of
tobacco and at this time as good a crop as has been grown in
years, a perfect leaf with no damage from insects. Apples will
be an average crop; few other fruits grown. Pasturage was
never better at this season of the year. All crops are far above
the average in quantity and quality at this date.
Leverett (W. L. Boutwell). — Indian corn is in good condition.
There will be a normal crop of rowen. The prospect for late pota-
15
toes is very good ; have noticed neitlier blight nor rot. The tobacco
crop is the best for three years. There will be excellent yields of
all fruits. Pastures are in good condition. Oats and barley are
about average crops as compared with former years.
Erving (Chas. F. Clark). — Corn is in good condition. There
will be a good crop of rowen. Late potatoes promise a good crop,
but there is some rot. There is scarcely any tobacco raised here.
There will be an average yield of all fruits except peaches ; cran-
berries little raised. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and
barley are about average crops as compared with former years.
New Salem (Daniel Ballard). — Indian corn is making a fine
growth but is backward. I think the rowen crop will be above the
normal. Late potatoes are looking finely, with but little blight or
rot. There will be a good crop of apples on high ground ; grapes
and pears plenty. Pasturage is in quite good condition. Oats
and barley are fully up to the normal in yield.
North Orange (A. C. White) . — A large part of the corn raised
in this section is used for ensilage ; prospect for the crop normal.
Rowen will be more than a normal crop. There is a fair yield of
potatoes of good quality with no blight or rot. Apples, pears and
plums will give good yields. Oats and barley are about average
crops.
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.
Ware (J. H. Fletcher). — Indian corn did not germinate well,
but looks well now. The prospect is that rowen will be a normal
crop. The prospect for late potatoes is good and I have noticed
neither blight nor rot. There will be a good crop of all kinds of
fruit. Pasturage is in fair condition. There will be a normal
crop of oats and barley, compared with former years.
Greenwich (Wm. S. Douglas). — Corn is rather backward.
There will be a good crop of rowen. Late potatoes promise well
and there is neither blight nor rot. There will be a good crop of
all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is getting dry. Oats and barley are
fair crops as compared with former years.
Enfield (D. O. Chickering). — Indian corn is in fair condition
but is somewhat late. There is good promise of more than a nor-
mal crop of rowen. The prospect for late potatoes is very good,
with no blight or rot as yet. There will be a heavy crop of apples
of all kinds except Baldwins ; pears and grapes good ; no peaches.
Pasturage is in fine condition for the time of year. Oats and bar-
ley are about average crops so far as noted.
Northampton (H. C. Comins). — Indian corn is in excellent
condition. The rowen crop is looking finely. The outlook for
16
potatoes is good, with very little blight. The acreage of tobacco
is about the same as in former years and there is an excellent crop.
There is about 75 per cent of the normal crop of apples ; 50 per
cent of pears ; no peaches or cranberries ; grapes good. Pastures
are in very good condition, and late rains have kept the feed good.
Oats are a very good crop ; little barley raised. There has been
no damage by wind, rain or drought thus far during the season.
Tobacco and onions, the leading crops, are unusually good.
Southampton (C. B. Lyman). — Corn has made a good growth
of stalk and is fairly well eared out, and though a little late and
thin will come out all right. Rowen promises to be the largest
crop for several years. Acreage of tobacco about the same as
usual and condition never better. Apples and grapes will give
fair crops of good fruit; very few pears ; no peaches. The yield
of late potatoes promises to be good and there is little blight and
no rot. The frequent rains have kept the pastures in good con-
dition. Oats are cut for fodder and barley not much grown.
Westhampton (H. A. Parsons). — Indian corn is in good con-
dition. There will be a full normal crop of rowen. Potatoes
promise to give an average yield. Apples will give about a three-
fourths crop ; no peaches ; pears half a crop. Pasturage is in
good condition. Oats and barley are not grown hereabouts.
Williamsburg (F. C. Richards). — Corn has developed rapidly
the last three weeks and is now looking well. Rowen promises to
give a heavy yield. Late potatoes are looking well and there is
but little blight as yet. The acreage of tobacco is about the same
as usual, and it is above the average in condition. Apples, peaches
and grapes will give good crops of fine quality ; but few peaches.
Pasturage is holding out well. Oats are a good crop ; but little
barley raised. ^
Chesterfield (Horatio Bisbee). — Indian corn is backward but
shows a good growth. There will be a good crop of rowen. The
potato crop bids fair to be a good one ; have noticed neither blight
nor rot. Apples are looking well and are very forward in size and
color. There is plenty of feed in the pastures and stock is looking
well. All sowed grains have made good growth and are mostly
cut for fodder. We have had such frequent rains that the country
never looked better than at the present time.
Worthington (C. K. Brewster). — Indian corn is looking fairly
well though rather backward. There will be more than a normal
crop of rowen. Late potatoes promise a good crop and no blight
or rot has yet appeared. There will be a good crop of apples and
pears ; but few grapes and cranberries raised. Pastures are in
very good condition. Oats and barley are about average crops.
17
HAMPDEN COUNTY.
Chester (C. Z. Inzell). — Indian corn \% late and backward.
There will be a good crop of rowen. Potatoes promise a good
crop ; have noticed neither blight nor rot. Apples will give a good
crop, as will also other fruits so far as grown. Pastures are in
good condition. Oats and barley are about average crops, as com-
pared with former years.
Tolland (Eugene M. Moore). — Corn is about ten days late.
The prospect for rowen is better than usual, as we have had plenty
of rain. There is some blight on potatoes and they have also
commenced to rot. Apples, grapes and cranberries are abundant.
Feed in pastures is about up to the average. Oats and barley are
about normal crops.
Westfield (C. F. Fowler). — Corn has made heavy growth, but
is rather late and an early frost would be disastrous. The pros-
pect for rowen is fairly good. Potatoes run heavily to vines and
the yield is above the average, with but little blight and no rot
at present. The acreage of tobacco is ten per cent or more less
than last year, but its condition the best for years. Apples are a
full crop ; pears light ; no peaches ; grapes good. Pasturage is hold-
ing out well and cattle are in good condition. Oats were a heavy
crop. Hail damaged quite a section of the tobacco acreage, cut-
ting a well defined strip several miles wide through a part of South-
wick, Sutfield, Ct., Agawam and Westfield, entailing heavy loss
to the growers that were hit.
Agawam (J. G. Burt). — Indian corn is in good condition.
There will be a good crop of rowen. The prospect for the potato
crop is good and there is no blight or rot as yet. Tobacco is about
normal in both acreage and condition. There is a good prospect
for all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and
barley are better crops than those of former years.
West Springfield (N. T. Smith). — Corn gives promise of an
average crop if the season is long enough to ripen it. Rowen will
give a good crop on early mown fields. Potatoes give a good
yield of fine quality ; some blight but no rot. Tobacco has made
a fine growth and promises a crop of good quality. Apples are a
smaller crop than last year ; some pears ; no peaches ; grapes good.
Pasturage is above normal in condition for the time of year. Oats
and barley show a good growth of straw, but are raised for hay
and much of it was injured by unfavorable weather. Timely rains
have kept all vegetables in fine growing condition. Chestnut
trees were never as heavily loaded with burrs as this year.
Ghicopee (R. W. Bemis). — Indian corn is in good condition.
18
Rowen will be a good normal crop this year. The prospect for
late potatoes is quite good, with no blight or rot as yet. Tobacco
promises to be a full average crop. Apples are plenty this year.
Pasturage has been good, but is now a little short. Oats are
looking well.
East Longmeadow (John L. Davis). — Corn promises well
except that a good many fields are uneven on account of having
been planted over. Rowen is only a fair crop as most farmers
were late in securing the first crop. Late potatoes have set very
poorly on dry ground. Apples are a fair crop ; no peaches ;
grapes plenty. Pastures are now in need of rain. Oats and bar-
ley are average crops. Grain is so high that farmers find little
profit from cows.
Wilbraham (Henry M. Bliss). — The late rains have been
very beneficial to corn and grass, and both Indian corn and rowen
promise normal crops. Potatoes make but a small yield and show
some blight. The apple crop is good ; peaches very light ; plums
a full average ; pears fair ; grapes and cranberries average.
Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and barley are about aver-
age crops, as compared with other years.
Palmer (O. P. Allen). — Indian corn is in good condition for a
backward season. The prospect for rowen is favorable on account
of recent rains. The prospect is good for late potatoes and neither
blight nor rot have appeared. Tobacco is not raised in this part
of the county. The yield of fruit will be better than usual, ex-
cepting peaches, of which there are none. Pastures are in good
condition for the time of year. Oats and barley are quite up to
average crops.
Brimfield (C. S. Tarbell). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Rowen will give a good crop on early cut fields. There is a good
yield of late potatoes, but some indications of rot. The prospect
is good for apples, pears, peaches and grapes. Pasturage is in
very good condition.
WORCESTER COUNTY.
Spencer (H. H. Kingsbury). — Indian corn is making a fine
growth and is in seasonable condition. Favorable weather has
produced a crop of rowen well up to the average. Potato vines
are in unusually thrifty condition with no signs of either blight or
rot. Fruits, with the exception of peaches, promise abundant
yields. The many cloudy days and showers have kept pasturage
in fine condition. Oats and barley are generally cut for hay and
were up to the average.
19
North BrooTcJield (John H. Lane). — Corn has made a strong
growth, but it is feared that the grain will be short. There will
be a good crop of rowen. There is little blight and no rot on
potatoes and the prospect for the crop is good. Apples and pears
will give less than half crops ; grapes and cranberries full crops.
Pasturage is in extra good condition. Oats and barley are mostly
cut for fodder and have done very well.
Barre (John L. Smith). — Indian corn is in very good condi-
tion. The rowen crop will be above the normal and would have
been even heavier if the first crop had not been cut late. The
prospect is good for late potatoes with no signs of blight or rot.
Apples are a good crop of good sized and smooth fruit. Pastur-
age is in extra good condition. Oats are a heavy crop ; no barley
raised.
Petersham (D. F. Bigelow). — Corn never looked better. The
rowen crop is good on early cut fields. Potatoes promise a good
crop with no blight as yet. Apples are a two-thirds crop ; pears
and grapes full crops. Pastures are in good condition for the
time of year. Oats and barley are good crops.
Dana (Lyman Randall). — Corn is looking well and is well
eared. The rowen crop is good where the first crop was cut in
season. The prospect for late potatoes is good ; have noticed
neither blight nor rot. Apples will be a fair crop with the excep-
tion of Baldwins ; pears and grapes large crops. Pastures are in
better condition than is usual at this time. Oats and barley are
fully up to the average of former years. Where corn had to be
replanted it still needs two or three weeks of good weather to ma-
ture it.
Royalston (C. A. Stimson). — Indian corn is late but looks to
be a full crop. Rowen promises to be a fine crop. The prospect
for potatoes is good save that blight has appeared. There will be
good yields of all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is in fine condition.
Oats and barley are full average crops.
Gardner (A. F. Johnson). — Corn is late but is growing nicely
and indicates a good crop. There will be an average crop of
rowen. Late potatoes are looking well with no blight. There
will be 60 per cent of a full crop of apples ; pears promise well.
Pasturage is short and in need of rain. There was a slight frost
here on the morning of August 19.
Ashburnham (E. D. Gibson). — Indian corn is very backward
and needs a great deal of warm, sunshiny weather. Rowen will
be about an average crop. It is too early to judge the yield of
potatoes ; vines have made a great growth, but many think the
yield of tubers will not be in proportion; blight begins to show,
20
but not badly. There are few winter apples ; pears a fair crop ;
peaches and grapes good ; cranberries few. Pasturage is in fair
condition. Oats and barley are in good condition. Japanese
millet has proved a grand crop this year, although some did not
put in any because it was such a failure last year.
Lancaster (S. C. Damon). — Indian corn is a good crop but
late. The prospect for the rowen crop is good. Late potatoes
promise well with no blight as yet. There will be a large crop of
apples, pears and grapes. Pastures are in good condition. Oats
and barley are good crops.
Bolton (H. F. Hatnes). — Corn is a good crop but there is little
of it, as it came up so poorly that it was replanted to fodder crops.
Rowen will be a full crop. Potatoes are very backward, but show
no rot as yet. Apples are a good crop ; pears scarce ; no peaches ;
grapes good. Pastures are in good condition. Oats and barley
are full crops. All crops run to vine and potatoes cover the
ground, but I think the crop will be light. The hay crop was
very heavy, 25 per cent above the average.
Northborough (John K. Mills). — Corn is coming along nicely.
There will be a good crop of rowen. The prospect for late pota-
toes is good, but there is some blight. There will be good yields
of apples, pears and grapes. Pasturage is very good for this time
of year. Oats and barley have been average crops.
Worcester (Silas A. Burgess). — Indian corn is in good con-
dition. The prospect for rowen is good, as compared with a nor-
mal crop. There will be a fair crop of potatoes and neither blight
nor rot have appeared. Winter apples are not so large a crop as
was expected ; other fruits fair. Pasturage is in fair condition.
Oats and barley are good crops.
SJireiosbury (Fred J. Reed). — There is prospect of a large
yield of corn. Rowen is a very good crop. Late potatoes are
looking well, with no rot as yet. Fall apples are a good crop,
but winter apples are light ; pears and peaches not very plentiful ;
grapes and cranberries not raised. Pasturage is in very good con-
dition. Oats and barley look very well.
Southborough (E. F, Collins). — Indian corn is very good,
though somewhat late. Rowen will be 50 per cent more than an
average crop. There is a good crop of potatoes, with the vines
nearly all dried down and no rot. There will be half a crop of
apples ; pears good ; few peaches. Pasturage is in excellent con-
dition for the time of year.
Sutl07i (C. P. King). — Indian corn is backward but is looking
well. The prospect is that rowen will be a light crop. Some blight
and rot has been noticed on potatoes. There will be a light crop
21
of all kinds of fruit. Pasturage is in good condition in this vi-
cinity. Oats and barley are better crops than are usually obtained.
Milford (John J. O'Sdllivan). — Corn is in good condition.
Rowen promises to be an average crop. The prospect is good for
late potatoes, though blight is beginning to appear. Apples and
pears are good crops ; peaches poor ; grapes and cranberries fair.
Pasturage is in average condition for the time of year. Oats and
barley are about average crops, as compared with former years.
Blackstone (O. F. Fuller). — Indian corn is in good condition.
There will not be as large a crop of rowen as last year. Potatoes
are not yielding as well as usual. There is a fair crop of apples ;
no peaches ; few grapes ; cranberries a good crop. Pasturage is
getting very short in this vicinity. Oats and barley are not up to
the average of former years in yield.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
Framingham (J. S. Williams). — The weather conditions have
been very satisfactory for the growth of corn and a good crop will
be put into the silos. The rowen crop will be above the average,
but good hay weather is needed to secure it. Potatoes give large
tubers but are few in the hill ; no blight or rot as yet. The pros-
pect for winter apples is good ; pears and grapes fair ; peaches a
failure. Pasturage has improved during the month and promises
good feed. Oats and barley are raised for forage, barley princi-
pally as a soiling crop, and have given good results.
Marlborough (E. D. Howe). — Indian corn is fully up to the
average in condition. Rowen promises to give a good crop. The
prospect for late potatoes is good, with no blight or rot as yet.
Apples promise three-fourths of an average crop ; pears half a
crop; peaches 10 per cent of a crop ; grapes 100 per cent. Pas-
turage is as good as ever at this time of the year. Oats and barley
are not grown except for fodder.
Stow (Geo. W. Bradley). Indian corn is in about the usual
condition for the time of year. Rowen looks well on fields where
the first crop was cut early. Late potatoes are looking well, with
no signs of blight or rot. Apples promise a heavy crop ; pears
good ; other fruits scarce. Pasturage is not in as good condition
as a month ago. Oats and barley are about average crops.
Squashes are looking finely.
Maynard (L. H. Maynard). — Indian corn is little raised for
grain, being mostly put into the silo and fed green. The rowen
crop promises to be heavy, far above the normal. Potatoes prom-
ise well, the vines never looking better; no blight nor rot reported
22
as yet. Early apples are plenty, but Baldwins will be short ; no
peaches; pears, grapes and cranberries in abundance. Pasturage
is in very good condition, above the normal. Oats and barley
are grown for fodder and were good crops. Hungarian grass and
millet are grown as forage crops and were exceptionally good.
Westfo7-d (J. W. Fletcher). — Indian corn is in good condi-
tion, but is mostly used for silage. Rowen is rather better than
an average crop. Late potatoes promise well, with no blight or
rot as yet. Fall and early apples are very plentiful, but winter
apples are a little shy in yield. Pasturage is in very good con-
dition.
Townsend (G. A. Wilder). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Rowen will be above a normal crop. There is a good yield of
potatoes and they are very free from blight and rot. Apples
promise a good crop ; pears fair ; peaches light ; grapes fair ;
cranberries good. Pasturage is in very good condition. Oats and
barley are about normal crops.
Pepperell (Frank W. Ames). — Corn is looking well but is
about two weeks late. The prospect is that rowen will be more
than an average crop. Late potatoes are looking finely ; have
noticed neither blight nor rot. Apples and pears are full crops ;
peaches half a crop ; grapes a full crop. Pastures have held out
well and are in good condition at present. Oats and barley are
very heavy crops and will mostly be used for fodder.
Tewksbury (G. E. Crosby) . — Indian corn is in good condition.
The prospect is that rowen will be better than a normal crop.
Blight and rot are badly in evidence on some fields of potatoes.
Apples and pears are abundant, but there are no peaches. Pas-
turage is in good condition for the time of year. Oats and barley
have been good as fodder crops.
Billerica (Geo. P. Greenwood). — Indian corn is in good con-
dition. There will be a heavy crop of rowen. The yield of pota-
toes seems to be rather light, but as yet there are no signs of
blight. Apples are half a crop and pears one-third of a full crop ;
some peaches ; grapes plenty ; cranberries a fair crop. Pasturage
is in good condition.
Concord (Wm. H. Hunt) . — Corn is looking very well now. The
prospect now is for a fine crop of rowen. The potato crop is
good and I have not seen blight or rot so far. Apples are not a
full crop; pears light; grapes average. Pasturage is in good
condition owing to frequent showers. Oats and barley are average
crops.
Wakefield (Charles Talbot). — Corn has made a very good
growth, but is about two weeks later than usual. Rowen is ten
23
per cent ahead of last year in yield. The promise is good for late
potatoes, with no blight or rot as yet. In some sections apples are
abundant ; pears plenty ; peaches a failure ; cranberries an abun-
dant crop. Pasturage is in very good condition. Oats and barley
are about average crops as compared with former years. Cab-
bages never looked better and there is a large acreage. All crops
are a little later than usual.
Winchester (S. S. Stmmes). — Indian corn is not raised. Rowen
will be better than an average crop. The prospect for late pota-
toes is good, with no blight or rot. Apples and pears are about
half crops. Pasturage is in fine condition. Recent rains have
given the grass a good start for the second crop. Some peaches
are rough and small and will be good for nothing ; parts of some
orchards are fair and will make a good crop. Pears are not nearly
as heavy a crop as usual.
Arlington (W. W. Rawson). — The condition of the onion crop
is very poor and not over half a crop will be secured. Celery
looks finely, but is not large for the time of year, continued rains
will improve it very much. Tomatoes look well.
Weston (H. L. Brown). — Not much Indian corn is raised in
this locality. The prospect is that rowen will be much less than a
normal crop, owing to dry weather. Late potatoes promise a good
yield and I have not noticed blight or rot. There will be a fair
crop of apples and pears ; no peaches ; few grapes ; no cranber-
ries. Pasturage is getting dry and short. Oats and barley are
used as forage crops only and have been good.
ESSEX COUNTY.
Amesbury (F. W. Sargent) . — Indian corn is in fair to good
condition. Rowen will give a good crop where the first crop was
cut early. There is a good prospect for late potatoes and no
blight is noticeable. Apples and pears are full crops ; no peaches ;
plenty of grapes. Pasturage is in very good condition. Oats
and barley are little grown except for cutting green. The season
is a generally productive one, with less of the usual drawbacks to
the farmer than we generally have.
Haverhill (Eben Webster). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Rowen will be about a normal crop. The prospect for late pota-
toes is good and I have noticed neither blight nor rot. Apples are
a good crop ; pears medium ; peaches none ; grapes plenty. Pas-
turage is in as good condition as is usual at the time of year.
North Andover (Peter Holt). — Corn is in good condition
and bids fair to be a heavy crop. Rowen is light except on very
24
early cut fields. Potatoes are a good crop, but blight and rot have
both appeared. There will be a large crop of all early apples and
a fair crop of winter varieties ; pears and grapes plenty. Fall
seeding has begun and the seed comes well. There was a large
crop of hay, but much of it was secured in a damaged condition
on account of so much dull weather.
Andover (Milo H. Gould). — Indian corn is rather backward.
Rowen will be considerably above an average crop. The prospect
is good for late potatoes and neither blight nor rot have appeared.
Apples are abundant ; pears good ; peaches very few ; grapes and
cranberries good. Pasturage is above the average in condition.
Oats and barley compare favorably with the crops of other years.
Roioley (Daniel H. O'Brien). — Corn is in quite good condi-
tion and promises well. Rowen will be below an average crop.
Late potatoes promise well, but blight is showing in a few places.
Apples are a medium crop ; pears fair ; no peaches ; grapes and
cranberries light crops. Pastures are in rather poor condition.
Oats and barley are about normal crops, when compared with
other years.
Topsfield (B. P. Pike). — Indian corn is looking well, but the
acreage is very small. There will be a full average crop of rowen.
Late potatoes are looking well and there is no blight as yet.
Apples will give a medium crop of good quality. Pastures are in
good condition. Oats and barley are only raised for hay and as
forage crops. Pears are below an average yield ; very few
peaches ; few grapes and cranberries.
Manchester (John Baker) . — Indian corn is in good condition.
Rowen promises to be a good crop. There is some blight on late
potatoes, but the prospect for the crop seems good nevertheless.
There are fair crops of apples, pears, grapes and cranberries, but
no peaches. Pasturage is in good condition. Oats and barley
are about average crops as compared with those of former years.
NORFOLK COUNTY.
Stoughton (Chas. F. Curtis). — Indian corn has grown very un-
evenly and is not quite up to the average. Rowen will be a full
average crop. Blight has struck some fields of potatoes and
the prospect for the late crop is poor unless the Bordeau mixture
has been used. Apples will be half a crop; pears very poor; no
peaches; grapes three-fourths crop; cranberries almost a failure.
Pasturage is as good as any year at this time. Oats and barley
are full average crops.
Norwood (F. A. Fales). — Corn is rather late but is looking
25
well. Rowen is about 50 per cent of a normal crop, as it has been
very dry here. Late potatoes are looking well, with no blight or
rot as yet. There will be a small crop of apples, pears, peaches,
grapes and cranberries. Pastures are drying up rapidly. Oats
are about a three-fourths crop and barley an average crop.
Walpole (Edward L. Shepard). — Indian corn is late, but if
frosts hold off there will be a fair crop. Rowen will be less than
a normal crop. The prospect is that the yield of potatoes will be
below the average, as there is some blight and rot. Apples, pears
and grapes are fair crops ; no peaches ; cranberries a light crop.
Pastures are in fair condition considering the dry weather. Oats
and barley are a little above the average of former years.
Millis (E. F. Richardson). — Corn is a little backward and suf-
fering from drought. There will be a very fair crop of rowen.
Late potatoes promise a good crop, with no blight or rot as yet.
Apples are a good crop ; pears and grapes fair ; peaches and cran-
berries poor. Feed in pastures is becoming rather short. Oats
and barley are good crops this year.
Franklin (C. M. Allen). — Indian corn is late but promises a
good normal crop. Rowen will be fully a normal crop. Potatoes
promise a good crop, with neither blight nor rot as yet. Apples
are a good crop ; pears few ; peaches none ; grapes few ; cranber-
ries light. Pasturage is in very good condition, better than usual.
Oats and barley are average crops, as compared with former years.
BRISTOL COUNTY.
Easton (H. M. Thompson). — Indian corn is in very good con-
dition. Rowen is looking unusually well. Blight has struck and
damaged potatoes to some extent. Apples, pears and peaches are
not large crops ; grapes and cranberries promise well. Pasturage
is in fair condition. Oats and barley compare favorably with other
years. Squab raising appears to be on the increase.
Mansfield (Wm. C. Winter). — Indian corn is somewhat late
and uneven but promises a fair crop. The rowen crop will be
above the average, from present indications. The prospect for
potatoes is excellent and no blight has been reported thus far.
Apples are a poor crop, winter varieties having been damaged by
high winds ; pears and grapes medium ; no peaches ; cranberries
a small crop. Pasturage is in excellent condition. Oats and
barley are little grown, but are excellent crops.
Norton (Wm. A. Lane). — Corn is in very good condition. The
prospect is that rowen will be about an average crop. Blight is
general on potatoes, but I have noticed no rot. There will be
26
about half a crop of apples. Pasturage is in very good condition.
Oats and barley are about average crops, compared with former
years.
Dicjhton (James N. Paul). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Rowen will be a good crop. Not many potatoes are grown here,
but they have blighted and show some rot. No apples ; pears
poor; no peaches ; grapes good ; cranberries not grown. Pastur-
age is in good condition. Oats and barley are not grown here.
Strawberry plants have made a good growth for another year and
the acreage is somewhat increased. Tomatoes promise to be a
large crop, but need plenty of sunshine.
Swansea (F. G. Arnold). — Indian corn is in very good con-
dition. There is prospect of a good crop of rowen, one above the
average. Late potatoes promised a heavy crop, but blight and
rot set in on the 13th to 15th. No apples, pears or peaches;
grapes plenty ; cranberries not grown. Pastures are in very good
condition. Oats and barley are grown principally for feed and
cut green.
Dartmouth {L. T. Davis). — Corn is gaining very rapidly in
condition. Some fields of rowen promise very well, but those late
cut do not promise as well. Apples are a two-thirds crop ; pears
less than half a crop ; grapes fair. Pasturage continues in very
fair condition. Oats and barley are perhaps slightly above average
crops. Potatoes have made a fine growth, but some fields show
signs of blight and there is complaint of rot.
Westport (Albert S. Sherman). — Indian corn is a good crop
and on most fields very heavy. Rowen promises to be a very good
crop. Potatoes promise a large yield, but there is some rot. Ap-
ples and pears are fair crops ; no peaches ; grapes abundant ; not
many cranberries grown. Pasturage never was better, plenty of
rain makes good feed. Oats are not an average crop and many
fields have rusted. Cabbages and turnips are doing well. Grain
has been injured by rain and harvesting has been delayed. Apples
and pears have fallen badly.
PLYMOUTH COUNTY.
Norwell (H. A.Turner). — Indian corn is in good condition
but is a little late. Rowen is about a normal crop. The prospect
for late potatoes is good and I have noticed very little blight. The
prospect is good for apples, grapes and cranberries. Pastures are
in very good condition, but the high lands need rain. Oats and
barley are about normal crops.
West Bridgewater (Clinton T. Howard). — Corn is looking
27
very well though many fields had to be planted over twice. On
fields where the first crop of hay was cut early there is a heavy
crop of rowen. There is a large area of potatoes planted and those
which are being dug now yield heavily ; no blight as yet There
will be a very small crop of fruit, but cranberries are plenty.
Pastures are in good condition. Barley, Hungarian grass and
corn are raised to feed green and are growing finely.
Pembroke (Nathaniel Morton). — Indian corn is in good con-
dition. There will be more than a normal crop of rowen. The
prospect for potatoes is good, with no blight or rot as yet. Fruit
of all kinds is poor in quality and light in yield ; cranberries are
about half a crop, having been much injured by hail. Pasturage
is in good condition. Oats and barley are but little raised.
Duxbury (R. T. Randall). — Corn is in good condition.
Rowen is a better crop than in former years. There is some
blight on potatoes. Apples and other fruits are not very plenty
here ; grapes and cranberries plenty. Pasturage is in very good
condition. Oats and barley are more than average crops. Leaves
on trees are turning yellow and falling oflf.
Halifax (G. W. Hayward). — Where corn came up well it
looks a heavy crop, but there are many missing hills. The pros-
pect for rowen is very good. Late potatoes look finely; some
blight but not bad as yet and no rot as yet. There are not many
apples nor pears and no peaches ; some grapes and cranberries.
Pastures are in good condition. Oats and barley are only raised
for fodder and have yielded good crops.
Lakeville (Nathaniel G. Staples). — Indian corn is in good
condition. The prospect is that the rowen crop will be a little
better than a normal crop. The prospect for late potatoes is very
good ; some blight but no rot as yet. There will be a fair crop of
apples and pears; no peaches; grapes and cranberries good.
Pastures are in very good condition. Oats and barley are very
good crops.
Carver (J. A. Vaughan). — Indian corn is in good condition.
Rowen promises to give a good crop. Late potatoes are growing
fast and there has been no blight or rot. There are no peaches.
Pastures are in good condition. Cranberries are our main crop.
Many bogs winterkilled badly ; the frost in June destroyed many
blossoms, and fruit worms are now working to some extent, but
on the whole we expect an average crop.
Rochester (Geo. H. Randall). — Corn has grown well and will
mature a good crop if frost holds off. Rowen will be a very good
crop, as the frequent rains have kept grass growing. Late pota-
toes will not give a very good crop as blight and rot have appeared.
28
All fruits are below average yields except grapes, which are better
than usual. Pasturage is in very good condition for the time of
year. Oats and barley are more than average crops.
BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Falmouth (D. R. Wicks). — Corn is fully up to the average in
growth and is looking finely. Rowen is or bids fair to be a good
crop. Potatoes are rotting on heavy land, largely because of the
wet weather. Apples are a very good crop ; peaches and plums
are rotting ; pears small and scaly. Pastures are in fine condition
as the continued wet weather keeps the feed growing. Oats and
barley are little grown except for fodder.
Barnstable (John Bursley). — On warm land Indian corn is in
very good condition, but on cold or wet land very poor. The
rowen crop will be very large and farmers are cutting when the
weather allows. The prospect for late potatoes is good, with very
little blight. Apples, pears and peaches are very light ; grapes
good ; cranberries a small to fair crop. Pasturage is in good con-
dition. Oats made good growth, but the weather has been very
poor for harvesting them. The prospect for the cranberry crop
seems to lessen, and the fruit worms are now eating badly.
Brewster (Thos. D. Sears). — Indian corn is in very good Con-
dition. The prospect for rowen is very good, owing to the wet
season. The prospect for late potatoes is not very good and I
have noticed blight and some rot. Fruit is looking fairly well,
but there will not be an average crop of cranberries. Pasturage
is good owing to the wet weather. There is a normal crop of oats
and barley.
Mashpee (W. F. Hammond). — Indian corn is above the aver-
age in condition. There will be more than an average crop of
rowen. Late potatoes promise well and there is neither blight nor
rot. Apples, pears and grapes will be half crops ; cranberries a
two-thirds crop. Pasturage is above the average in condition.
Oats turned out well.
Dennis (Joshua Crowell) . — Corn is in good condition. Rowen
will be a little above the normal in yield. The prospect is fair for
late potatoes, although I have noticed some blight. Apples, pears
and grapes will give fair crops, but cranberries are less than the
average. Pastures are in very good condition. Oats are about
a normal crop ; no barley grown. Corn looks finely, but needs
some hot, dry weather to mature it. The season has been unusu-
ally wet so far.
Chalham (E. Z. Ryder). — Indian corn is in very good condi-
29
tion. Rowen will give more than an average crop. Late potatoes
on low land are ruined by blight and rot. The outlook is good for
apples, pears and grapes. Pasturage is in better condition than
for many years. Oats are not planted to any extent and barley
not at all. The cranberry crop promises to be above the average
in this section. Some growers are complaining of scalded berries,
which will affect the yield somewhat.
Eastham (J. A. Clark). — Rowen will give a good yield. The
prospect for late potatoes is good, though there is some blight.
There will be only a light crop of winter apples. Pasturage is in
good condition. Asparagus is commencing to rust with the pros-
pect that it will be badly affected, spraying seems to do no good
this season.
DUKES COUNTY.
West Tisbtiry (Geo. Hunt Luce). — Indian corn is in good
condition. Rowen will be more than an average crop. Late po-
tatoes will give but a poor yield and show some rot. The prospect
for apples is poor and for cranberries good. Pasturage is in first
class condition. Oats and barley are average crops.
NANTUCKET COUNTY.
Nantucket (H. G. "Worth). — Indian corn is a little late, but
the prospect for the crop was never better. The outlook is very
favorable for a big rowen crop. The prospect for late potatoes is
good with no blight or rot. Cranberries are looking well. Pas-
tures are in good condition. There is a full crop of oats.
30
BULLETIN OF
Massachusetts Boakd of Ageiculture.
HARVESTING AND MARKETING APPLES.
By P. A. Waugh, Professor of Horticulture, Massachusetts Agricultural College.
The apple tree is peculiarly at home in Massachusetts and New
York State. Northward the severe winters make the growing of
many varieties precarious, while southward the trees are less and
less thrifty, until in the extreme southern States apples are almost
as rare as oranges are with us.
The commercial importance of the apple crop in Massachusetts
is increasing rapidly from year to year. In general we are seeing
more clearly that the more refined lines of agriculture are the ones
in which we reap the greatest success, and amongst these fancier
crops requiring more intensive culture, the apple takes high rank.
It must be said that the methods of handling the apple crop
have been \e.vy much changed in recent years. The farmers
who still adhere to the old-fashioned way of doing things do not
find great encouragement in selling apples. On the other hand,
those who have taken up with modern ideas, or better still have
led in the establishment of modern practices, are reaping their
just and generous reward.
Picking the Fruit.
The time was when the apples used to be shaken off the trees.
A still lazier method was to allow them to fall off. Such apples
are fit only for second-class cider, and if that was the market to
which they were destined, no great damage was done. However,
such apples are still sometimes offered in the markets. They are
almost always a dead loss to the man who attempts to sell them,
and interfere, sometimes seriously, with the sales of good hand-
picked fruit. Apples must be hand-picked from the trees in order
to be marketable. This is the only way. Moreover, they must be
carefully hand-picked and they should be taken off with the stems
31
attached to the fruit. If the apples are torn off the stems, the
skin is ruptured and decay is apt to set in.
The best receptacle in which to pick apples is the oak splint,
swinging bale, half bushel basket. If fancy fruit is to be handled,
it is worth while to pad these baskets with old grain sacks. A
Picking Basket, — Oak Sprints, One-half Bdshel, Swinging Bail.
heavy wire bent in the form of the letter S enables the picker to
hang the basket on a limb while it is being filled, and also to let it
down by a strap out of the tree.
Picking ladders are usually needed on old trees. These should
be long and as light as possible. Step ladders are sometimes
used. They should always be of the three-legged variety.
Certain varieties of apples, as for example "Wealthy, have the
bad habit of falling early from the trees. With such varieties
picking has to be timed with reference to this bad habit. Fruit
must be picked early enough to prevent its falling. Other varieties
which hold on well, like Baldwin and Spy, may be picked when
they are at their best. There has been a good deal of argument
as to just wlien an apple should be picked, but recent experiments
show that apples which are ripe and fully colored keep better in
storage than those which are picked earlier.
This matter of having apples fully grown, ripe, and thoroughly
colored is of so much importance that some growers who make a
32
specialty of fancy fruit have adopted the practice of picking over
the tree two or three times. Those apples which are mature and
colored are taken off at each picking, while those which are yet
green are left. These green apples increase in size rapidly and
take on the proper color eventually. The men who have tried this
method say that it pays well.
In handling the fruit in the orchard, between the trees and the
storage room, or later, between the storage and the shipping sta-
tion, some suitable wagon ought to be provided. A stone boat is
sometimes used and is not the worst thing that could be found,
especially for short hauls and small loads. It is better, however,
to have one of the low-down wagons made especially for handling
HOME-MADK FKUIT WAGON FOR HANDLING BARRELS.
fruit. In the illustration one is shown as it was actually made up
at home. Some sills were hung by strap irons from the front
and rear axles of a common wagon frame, and on these some
boards were laid, making a floor for carrying the barrels. Han-
dling barrels of apples in and out of the common high wagon is
hard and expensive labor, and it is apt to damage the fruit.
Grading the Fruit.
In nothing does the work of the experienced apple seller differ
more from that of the inexperienced man than in the grading of
the fruit. All of our city markets have now reached a point where
fruit can hardly be sold at any price unless it is carefully and uni-
formly graded and properly marked.
Apples should be graded into at least three lots which we may
call firsts, seconds and culls. Sometimes four grades are made,
but the three here mentioned are the most usual. The first grade
of fruit must be of good size, uniform in shape and color, free
from blemishes and true to name. Second grade fruit is smaller,
not so well colored, but must be free from any serious blemishes.
The National Apple Shippers' Association has adopted a rule for
33
determining first and second grade apples as follows : " The stand-
ard for size for number one apples shall be not less than two and
one-half inches in diameter and shall include such varieties as Ben
Davis, Wealthy, Twenty-ounce, Baldwin, Greening, and other
varieties kindred in size. The standard for such varieties as
Romanite, Russet, Winesap, Jonathan, Missouri Pippin and other
varieties kindred in size shall not be less than two and one-quarter
inches, and further, number one apples shall be at the time of
picking practically free from the action of worms, defacement of
surface, or broken skin. They shall be hand picked from the
tree, a bright and normal color, and shapely in form."
" Number two apples shall be hand picked from the tree ; shall
not be smaller than two and one-quarter inches in diameter ; the
skin must not be broken or the apple bruised. This class must be
faced and packed with as much care as number one fruit."
The different grades are variously designated, sometimes as
fancy, choice, select, prime, XXX, XX, etc., but these designa-
tions have no official standing. There is so much variation in the
practice of packing that none of these marks has any distinctive
meaning.
In grading and packing apples a sorting table should be built
somewhat in the form as shown in the illustration. It should be
large enough to hold at least three barrels of apples spread out at
one time. At one end there should be an opening or spout heavily
^^li\::.-;:.
Sorting Table.
padded with gunny sacks. Through this opening apples may be
guided and gently rolled into barrels. Some sorters prefer, how-
ever, to sort into baskets. The baskets are then emptied into
barrels.
Considerable experience and natural good judgment are required
to sort apples rapidly and accurately. The task is difficult and
34
highly important. The man assigned to it should be the best on
the job.
In filling apple barrels, the work begins at what is really the
top of the barrel. The head is put in and the barrel turned bottom
side up on it. The first layer of fruit is put in by facing, stem
downward, carefully on this inverted head. Good well-colored
specimens are selected as facers, but they should not give a mis-
leading idea of the general contents of the barrel. Usually a sec-
ond row of facers is put in, stems down, in the same way. The
remainder of the barrel is filled in with loose apples. These are
thoroughly shaken down three or four times during the process
of filling. Finally the barrel is sometimes finished by facing the
last row in the bottom (that is on top as the barrel is filled).
When the filling is complete the barrel should be somewhat more
than full. The fruit should stand up two or three inches above
the chines. This amount will be taken up in pressing the head or
the bottom in place. The bottom is pressed in with a screw or
lever press, is nailed in place and the barrel is ready for the
market.
Apple Barrels.
Customarily the package for selling apples is the barrel. There
are various forms of barrels in use in this country, the two most
common ones being the hundred quart barrel and the ninety-six
quart barrel. The National Apple Shippers' Association have
adopted the barrel having the following dimensions : stave 28J
inches, head 17^ inches, circumference in the middle 64 inches.
This is the one hundred quart barrel. There seems to be a ten-
dency at the present time to use more of the ninety-six quart
barrels.
The barrel market, however, in the last few years has been a
very difficult and unsatisfactory one. The prices have been
abnormally high and promise to be higher than ever this season.
It seems probable now that good barrels cannot be had anywhere
for less than forty cents each. Under these circumstances many
poor barrels are being used. Flour barrels are frequently em-
ployed and are in great demand. Such barrels should always be
very carefully cleaned out before being used. Clean, fresh, un-
used barrels are always better. When handling large crops of
apples it is doubtless the best practice to buy staves, hoops and
heads in quantities, knocked down, and have the barrels made up
on the farm by a cooper. At the present prices of barrel stock
no great saving can be made in this wa}', but fresh, clean barrels
are secured.
35
Apple Boxes.
The high prices of apple barrels, taken in connection with the
■changing conditions of our markets, have led to the extended use of
boxes. We have experimented to a considerable extent in the
Department of Horticulture at the Massachusetts Agricultural
College in the use of boxes for apples. While we are not ready to
say that boxes are better than barrels, in general, we have found
their use very satisfactory. Boxes should be used however only
for strictly first-class fruit, and more especially for the early and
soft-fleshed varieties. There is probably less margin of profit in
handling standard winter fruit like Baldwin in the smaller package.
Many kinds of boxes have been used and recommended. The
bushel box is probably the best under the present market condi-
tions. These boxes are made up in a variety of styles. The one
which seems to be the most attractive, and the one which we
prefer, measures 10x11x20 inches inside. This gives a trifle
-over the standard bushel and weighs about fifty pounds filled.
The ends are | inch stuff and the top, bottom and sides are | inch
stuff. These cost about $15 a hundred.
In shipping fancy apples in boxes, we have found it desirable
to wrap the fruit in papers. Any clean, white paper will answer,
but specially made tissue paper furnished by dealers for fruit
wrapping is the most satisfactory. The papers are cut 10x10
inches square.
Cold Storage.
The cold storage business for apples has been rapidly developed
in the last five years. It has also been greatly improved. The
largest bulk of winter fruit now finds its way into the large city
storage houses from which it is marketed as wanted. Many of
these storage companies accept apples for storage direct from the
growers. The prices charged for storage are from thirty to fifty
cents a barrel for the season. This allows the fruit to be taken
out at any time up to May 1 .
The keeping of fruit in what is called common storage has been
considerably diminished on account of the improved cold storage
facilities. Quantities are still stored at home, however, in cellars
or in houses constructed especially for the purpose. Such houses
or fruit rooms are usually cooled in some way, usually by control
of the ventilation. Well-built fruit houses of this type have
proved very successful in the past. Tlieir value is proportionally
less, however, as the city cold storage becomes cheaper and more
efficient.
36
I «
A Home Apple Storage House holding about 2,000 Barrels.
Methods of Selling.
There are many different ways of selling apples. Every man
must judge from his own circumstances what method will be the
most successful with him. This is a critical matter and failure is
common here. Too many men seem to think that because some-
one else succeeds by certain methods of marketing, those methods
are universally applicable. This part of the subject should receive
very careful study from the man who has apples to sell. The
principal methods of selling may be briefly summarized as
follows : —
(1) Retailing in the Home Market. — Very often apples can be
taken to the nearby village or city market in small lots and sold
from the growers' wagons at fair or even fancy prices. The growers
who are running vegetable or milk wagons commonly find this
method the best one. In all cases where it can be adopted it is
to be recommended. The fruit is promptly sold and the money is
in hand. There is no trouble with transportation companies, com-
mission men or other agents ; and very often there is no expense
for packages. Naturally this method is the best suited to the dis-
posal of a miscellaneous collection of summer and fall apples
rather than of the sale of a large block of Baldwins or some other
winter variety.
(2) On Trees. — It has been customary for some years in western
States for the growers to sell the crop on the trees. This practice
has rapidly gained ground in Massachusetts. The buyer comes
to the orchard and either pays a lump sum for the entire crop, or
else pays a stipulated price per barrel. In the latter case the price
is, say, $1.50 for the best grade and $1 for the second grade,
37
the grading being done by the buyer. This method has consider-
able advantages for the men who are not in close touch with apple
markets, or who are not experienced in grading and packing fruit.
It relieves the grower immediately of the two great responsibili-
ties— grading and selling.
(3) On Commission. — One of the best recognized methods of
selling is that of s4iipping the fruit on commission. When the
barrels or boxes are ready, they are put in the hands of commis-
sion men, usually in one of the large city markets. The commis-
sion man sells them for what he can get and returns the amount to
the grower minus the commission and any charges for freight,
cartage, storage, etc. There are many disadvantages to this sys-
tem, and much fault has been found with it, but on the whole it is
the best method for a large number of growers. If a reliable
commission house is selected and if the shipper is careful and
honest on his side of the transaction, good results may be expected.
Most of the cursing against commission men comes from shippers
who have tried to cheat them,
(4) On Joint Account. — This is a new method of selling and not
often adopted. According to this method the grower turns over
his fvuit to the seller at picking time, receiving a stipulated amount
in cash down.
This is considerably less than the value of the fruit, say $1
a barrel. The fruit is then held by the seller and disposed of at
his option. At the close of the season when the fruit is all sold,
the shipper and seller have a final settlement. From the gross
amounts of the sales there is deducted first the advance payment
made to the shipper. Then the storage, freight and other charges
are subtracted. The balance is finally divided equally between
the apple grower and the apple seller. In every instance which
has come to our notice, this method has worked very well.
The Current Crop.
It may be proper to remark that, though 1904 is scheduled as
" the apple year" with us, the crop now promises to be moderate.
The most reliable reports that we have seen say that it will be less
than last year. This is rather a safe way of estimating, for the
markets handled more apples from the crop of 1903 than ever
before in the history of American apple growing. Prices offered
by buyers this fall will probably be about the same as in the fall
of 1903. Though growers cannot generally expect to get better
prices than a year ago, they should not be frightened into selling
for less merely because this is called " the apple year" in Massa-
chusetts.
Series of 1904. Vol. 17. No. 5.
MASSACHUSETTS
CEOP KEPOET
FOR THE
Month op September, 190J:.
POULTRY CULTURE.
ISSUED MONTHLY, MAY TO OCTOBER, BY STATE BOARD OF
AGRICULTURE, STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, MASS.
J. Lewis Ellsworth, Secretary.
Entered June 3, 1904, at Boston, Mass., as Second-class
Matter, under Act of Congress of June 6, 1900.
BOSTON :
WRIGHT & POTTER PRINTING CO., STATE PRINTERS,
18 Post Office Square.
1904.
Approved by
The State Boabo of Publication,
Crop Eeport foe the Month of September,
1904.
Office of State Board of Agriculture,
Boston, Mass., Oct. 1, 1904.
Bulletin No. 5, Crop Report for the month of September, is
presented herewith. The reader's attention is called to the
article at the close of the bulletin on ' ' Breeds for the Farm
and Farmers as Poultry Breeders," by John H. Robinson,
editor of " Farm-Poultry." This article is in a measure sup-
plementary to Mr. Robinson's previous articles on poultry
matters, published in the crop reports of former years, each
of which dealt especially with some phase of the poultry busi-
ness as it applied to farmers rather than to poultry fanciers,
but is complete in itself.
Progress of the Season.
The monthly report of the Chief of the Biu-eau of Statis-
tics of the United States Department of Agriculture (Crop
Reporter for September, 1904) shows the condition of corn
on September 1 to have been 84.6, as compared with 87.3
a month earlier, 80.1 at the corresponding date in 1903,
84.3 in 1902, and a ten-year average of 79.(3.
The average condition of spring wheat was (5(3.2, the only
c<)m})arison possible, this being the first time spring wheat
has been separately reported, being with the previous month,
when the condition was 87.5. The condition in the five
principal States was reported as follows : Minnesota, 69 ;
North Dakota, 63 ; South Dakota, 56 ; Iowa, CA^ ; and Wash-
ington, 80, a decline during the month of 23, 27, 29, 14
and 1 points, respectively. ,
The average condition of the oat crop was 85.6, against
86.6 a month earlier, 75.7 on the corresi)onding date in
1903, 87.2 in 1902, and a ten-year September average of
80.6.
The average condition of barley was 87.4, against 88.1
a month earlier, 82.1 on Sept. 1, 1903, 89.7 at the corre-
sponding date in 1902, and a ten-year average of 82.1.
The average condition of rye on September 1 was 86.9,
against 84.1 at the corresponding date in 1903, 90.2 in
1902, and a ten-year average of 85.8.
The average condition of buckwheat was 91.5, against
92.8 a month earlier, 91 at the corresponding date in 1903,
86.4 in 1902, and a ten-year average of 85.8.
The average condition of flax was 85.8, as compared with .
78.9 a month earlier, and 80.5 on Sept. 1, 1903.
The average condition of tobacco was 83.7, against 83.9
a month earlier, 83.4 on Sept. 1, 1903, and a five-year
average of 79.5.
The average condition of potatoes was 91.6, against 94.1
a month earlier, 84.3 in 1903, 89.1 at the corresponding
date in 1902, and a ten-year average of 77.3.
The average condition of rice was 89.7, against 90.2 a
month earlier, and 93.6 at the corresponding date in 1903.
Of the thirteen principal clover seed-producing States,
four, namely, Wisconsin, Colorado, Utah and California,
report increased acreages, while all the other principal States
report decreases. In Indiana, Iowa and Colorado conditions
are below their ten-year averages, while all other principal
States report conditions above such averages.
The number of stock hogs being fattened was reported to
be 2.4 per cent less than the number a year ago. Report
as to size and weight indicated a condition of 94.2, as com-
pared with 95.1 a year ago and a seven-year average of 94.3.
In Massachusetts the average condition of corn Septem-
ber 1, was given as 95 ; the average condition of oats as 99 ;
the average condition of rve when harvested was 90 ; the
average condition of buckwheat Septeml)er 1 was 97 ; the
average condition of tobacco 107 ; the average condition of
potatoes 100 ; the average condition of apples 79 ; the
product of peaches compacted with a full crop 41 ; the aver-
age condition of grapes 89 ; the acreage of clover seed as
compared with last year 94 and the average condition 105 ;
the number of stock hogs for fattening compared with last
year 99 and the average condition as to size and weight 98.
Temperature axd Rainfall for the Whole Country.
[From United States Climate and Crop Bulletins.1
Week endinff September 5. — The week averaged warmer
than usual in the Middle Atlantic States, Ohio valley,
throuuhout the southern States, over the western portions
of the Plateau region and in the Pacific coast States, except
along the immediate coast of Washington, where the tem-
perature was slightl}^ below normal. In the innnediate
south Atlantic and Gulf coast districts and in southern New
England the temperature, though generally in excess, dif-
fered but slightly from the normal. In the central Rocky
]\Iountain region and from the jNlissouri valley eastward to
the northern New England coast the week was cooler than
usual, being decidedly cool over the western portion of the
upper Lake region, where the deficiency ranged from 6° to 8°
a day. Heavy rains occurred over a considerable part of the
central and west Gulf States, in portions of the Carolinas,
and over much of the Lake region, upper Mississippi, upper
Missouri and Red River of the North valleys, and there was
considerably more than the average throughout the eastern
Rocky Mountain slope and the southern Plateau region. In
New England and the Middle Atlantic States and over most
of the Ohio valley and east Gulf States the week was drier
than usual, no appreciable rainfall occurring along the
southern New England coast and over a considerable part of
the Middle Atlantic States.
Week endifK/ September 12. — The week averaged cooler
than usual over the northern portions of the Lake region
and in the Atlantic coast districts, Oklahoma, Texas and the
southern portions of New jNIexico and Arizona. Through-
out the middle Gulf districts and central valleys and over
the southern portions of the Lake region the temperature
averaged nearly normal, although generally slightly above.
In the middle and northern Rock}'' Mountain districts and in
the Pacific coast States, except along the immediate north
Pacific coast, the week was warmer than usual. The week
as a whole was much drier than usual, large areas in the
central valleys and ]\Iiddle Atlantic States receiving no
appreciable amount of rain, while only light showers oc-
curred over much of the Lake region and New Eno^land.
Heavy rains fell, however, over a considerable part of the
south Atlantic States and in the northern portion of the
upper Mississippi valley. Kains continued over a large
part of the southern Plateau region, but there was no appre-
ciable rainfall in the middle and northern Plateau districts,
or in the Pacific coast States.
Week ending /September 19. — The week averaged cooler
than usual over the Missouri, Red River of the North, Ohio
and upper Mississippi valleys, throughout the entire Lake
region, excepting portions of western New York, in north-
western New England, over much of Virginia and the Caro-
linas, from Kansas southward to the Rio Grande, and gener-
ally along the immediate north and middle Pacific coasts.
The temperatures were normal or slightly above throughout
the Gulf States, except in parts of Texas, and generally
throughout the eastern slope and the Plateau regions. The
week was also slightly warmer than usual over most of New
England and the Middle Atlantic States. Heavy rains oc-
curred in portions of eastern Texas and in the lower Missouri
and central Mississippi valleys, and were general throughout
a narrow belt extending from North Carolina north-eastward
to include parts of New England. Amounts in these dis-
tricts ranged from two to six inches. The week was very
dry over most of the central and eastern portions of the cot-
ton districts, many places reporting no rain and others only
light, inappreciable amounts, and, except in limited portions
of Utah and Arizona, there was no appreciable rainfall from
the eastern slope westward to the Pacific coast.
Week ending September 26. — The week averaged cooler
than usual over New England, the Middle Atlantic States,
the Lake region, the Red River of the North and upper
Missouri valleys, and the greater part of the Pacific coast
region. Over northern New England the deficiencies ranged
firom (3° to 10° a day. Throughout the remaining portions
of the country the week was generally warmer than usual,
the temperature average normal or slightly above over the
Florida peninsula, the lower Ohio valle}^ and most of the
Mississippi valley, and from 3^ to 6° above throughout
the greater part of Gulf districts, the eastern slope and
Plateau reoions. Unusuallv heavv rainfall for the time ofi
year occiuTed during the week in western California. In
the eastern districts from 1 to over 2 inches fell over much of
Michigan, upper Xew England, the lower Lake region, Indi-
ana and Illinois. Equally heavy falls occurred in southern
Louisiana, interior Mississippi and southern Arkansas,
and in limited portions of northern Texas and eastern Okla-
homa. Over the remainder of the country the rainfall was
generally less than normal, the week being very dry in the
eastern cotton belt.
Special Telegraphic Reports.
[Weather Bureau, Bostox-T
Week ending Septemher 5. — New England, Boston:
Weather generally good for harvesting and maturing crops ;
light frost in north portion on 31st, little damage ; rainfall
light, unevenly distributed, rain needed ; apples promise
large crop of excellent quality ; potatoes fair, but rotting
badly in Connecticut and Rhode Island ; corn promises large
crop if weather continues favorable for two weeks ; tobacco
nearly all cut, large crop of excellent quality.
Week ending September 12. — New England. Boston:
Light frosts in north on 7th, little damage ; warmer weather
and rain needed ; corn being cut, good crop in south, back-
ward in north, needing several weeks warm weather ; sweet
corn canning begun ; potatoes being dug, fair crop indicated,
except in Connecticut dfnd Rhode Island, where extensively
injured by rot ; large crop of apples, exceptionally fine
quality and color, except in Rhode Island and Connecticut ;
tobacco cut, excellent condition, early nearly cured, strip-
ping early Avill begin next week.
Week ending September 19. — New England. Boston:
Weather favorable; heavv rain on 15th of much benefit;
potato digging general, much rot, only fair crop indicated;
apples much damaged by wind of 15th in south portion,
elsewhere coloring well and largo crop of fine quality indi-
cated ; large crop of corn, field and sweet, of good quality
being cut, except in Maine ; tobacco curing finely ; ground
in good condition for ploughing and seeding.
Week ending SejJtember 26. — New England. Boston:
Weather generally fair ; freeze on 22d, coldest ever known at
this season, in places temperature below 20° ; all corn, vege-
tables and cranberries not harvested killed, much loss in
these crops ; apples little injured, picking will soon begin;
potatoes being dug, little rot in Maine and New Hampshire,
continue rotting elsewhere ; fall pasturage good ; much
ploughing being done.
Weather of September, 1904.
The weather of the month was marked by conditions that
approached the extremes in several of the elements. Dur-
ing the first decade there was very little rain, the combined
amount of the several showers being only sufScient to
moisten the surface of the ground. On the 14th and 15th
there was a downpour that has been but seldom equalled, and
probably not exceeded in many years. From the 16th to
the 24th inclusive there was almost an entire absence of rain
throughout the State, and the fall during the remainder of
the month was light and scattered. The month will go on
record as one of unusually few rainy days, with abundant
sunshine, but with a heavy total rainfall. The large pre-
cipitation of the month was, of course, the result of a single
heavy storm, the 14th and 15th, which was the chief mete-
orological feature during the period. During this storm the
winds along the coast reached hurricane force and shipping
suflered great loss, as did also nuftierous other interests.
While the temperature records of September do not present
abnormalities so marked as those of precipitation, they show
pronounced extremes. The maxima ranged in the 80s on a
number of days, with muggy, oppressive atmosphere, and
on the 2 2d and 23d it dropped suddenly to points ranging
slightly above freezing in some sections to several degrees
below in others. In some of the lowlands, with other con-
ditions favorable, reliable reports placed the mercury as low
as 20^ above zero. At Boston, according to the ofiicial
observations the minimum temperatiu^e, 35°, on the two
mornings mentioned above Avas the lowest for September in
thirty-three years, witli the single exception of 34° on the
26th of the month in 1879. The record was just equalled
with 35° on the 23d of September, 1(S75. Viewing the
temperature of the month from the monthly mean it did not
depart «>Teatly from the normal for September. Notwith-
standing the unusual conditions of temperature and precipi-
tation and the severe storm, September, considered as a
whole, was a pleasant month.
In the circular to correspondents returnable to us Septem-
ber 2G the following questions were asked : —
1. How does the crop of Indian corn compare with a nor-
mal crop ?
2. Are rowen and fall feed up to the usual average?
3. Has the usual amount of fall seeding been done, and
what is its present condition ?
4. How does the onion crop compare with a normal crop?
5. How do potatoes compare with the normal in yield
and quality?
(3. What is the prospect for root crops, celery and other
late market-garden crops?
7. How have apples, pears, peaches, grapes and cranber-
ries turned out?
Returns were received from 148 correspondents, from
which the followins: summary has been made : —
Indian Corn.
Indian corn, though late, promised before the frosts of
the mornings of the 22d and 23d to give a full normal crop
of grain, and perhaps something more than the normal in
the way of stover, but uncut corn was severely damaged, if
not entirely ruined, on those dates, and much of that cut on
the 21st in anticipation of the frost was not fully ripened
and will contain many soft ears. Ensilage corn was mostly
in the silo at that time, but enough remained in the field to
seriously diminish the value of the crop. Where corn was
well matured and cut in advance of the frost it is generally
well eared and of excellent quality, both for grain and stover.
10
RowEx AXD Fall Feed.
For the State as a whole more than an average crop of
rowen was secured, but there are some complaints from south-
eastern sections of a light crop, owing to prolonged drought
during the season of growth. That rowen which was cut
early was secured in good condition, l>ut there is consider-
able complaint of damage to that later cut by reason of rains
at time of making. Fall feed is in excellent condition in
most sections, though where rowen suliered from drought
fall feed is also short. The ground was well filled with
water at time of making returns, and with seasonable rains
during October pastures and mowings should go into the
winter in good condition.
Fall Seedixg.
Less than the usual amount of fall seeding had been done
at time of making returns, and much of that put in had not
germinated, owing to dry weather at the time usually de-
voted to this work. Where the work had been done a good
catch was generally reported and good growth so far as it
had advanced. The heavy rains of the third week of the
month must result in good germination of that previously
sown, and have put the soil in excellent condition for such
seeding as remains to be done.
Onioxs.
Onions are considerably under a normal crop for the State
as a whole, though perhaps better than was anticipated earlier
in the season. Maggot work and blight have been con-
tributing causes to the shortage of the crop. The crop is
drying down well and harvesting was well under way in the
regions of commercial production at the time of making
returns, some growers having marketed their entire crop.
Prices received ranged from 50 to 65 cents, with perhaps
an upward tendency.
Potatoes.
Potatoes would have been an unusuall}'^ heavy crop but
for rot, which will operate, however, to reduce the total
11
number of bushels secured to something below the normal.
Size and ee (W. F. Hammond). — There will be about an average
crop of Indian corn. Rowen and fall feed are above the usual
average. The onion crop is below the average. Potatoes are
above the average in quantity, but below in quality. Root crops
are above the average. Apples and pears are not more than half
crops; cranberries a three-fourths crop. The frost of the 22d
and 23d destroyed about one-third of the cranberries then un-
picked, also grapes, beans and late corn.
Dennis (Joshua Crowell). — Corn is about a normal crop.
Rowen and fall feed are above the usual average. There is but
little fall seeding done here. The onion crop is much below the
normal ; not more than half a crop. There is an avei'age yield of
potatoes, but with more or less rot. The prospect for root crops,
celery and other late market-garden crops is good. Heavy winds
have shaken off nearly all winter apples. Early cranberries were
less than an average crop and late ones suffered severely from the
unprecedented frosts of the 22d and 23d, some bogs not being
worth picking.
Harvnch (Ambrose N. Doane) . — Corn is a fair crop. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. There is not much fall
seeding done here. Onions are not a good crop, owing to damage
by maggots. Potatoes are a good crop in quality and quantity.
All fruit is a fair crop except cranberries, but the frost the night
of the 22d damaged late fruit 50 per cent.
Truro (D. E. Paine). — Indian corn is not raised here. Rowen
and fall feed are up to the usual average. Very little fall seeding
has been done. Potatoes have made a fair yield and are of good
quality. The prospect is fair for root crops, celery and other late
market-garden crops. There will be a light crop of all kinds of
fruit.
DUKES COUNTY.
West Tishury (Geo. Hunt Luce). — Indian corn is an average
crop. Rowen and fall feed are above the average in condition.
Potatoes are rotting badly. The prospect is good for root crops,
celery and other late market-garden crops. Fruit has been ruined
by a fierce gale and cranberries have suffered from the severe frost.
31
BULLETIN OF
Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.
BREEDS FOR THE FARM AND FARMERS AS POULTRY
BREEDERS.
By John H. Robinson, Editor ''Farm-Poultry," Boston, Mass.
When I was a boy in Illinois thoroughbred fowls were rare, and even
less frequently found on farms than elsewhere. But there was one
thing about the farm flocks in those days that I often think of with
regret, — in the improvement of poulti'y stocks that feature has been
lost, — the fowls in each flock and the flocks throughout each community
were, in general, very much alike.
To be sure there was not the uniformity one finds to-day in a lot of
selected specimens from a stock of well-bred birds. The best specimens
were not to be compared with the finest developed specimens of to-day
for either color, shape or size. Yet I am inclined to think that, aside
from the matter of color, the average farm flock of those days was more
uniform than even the average fancier's flock of to-day, and there are
some breeds now popular for which I would not except color either.
Observe that I do not claim that the flocks of the old days were as good
as those of to-day, — only that they were more uniform.
It is to be regretted that in the improving of flocks, which has fol-
lowed the introduction of new breeds, uniformity in flocks and of the
flocks in the same section have so seldom been retained. Thei'e have
been so many new and improved breeds to select from that as soon as
people began to go outside of their own immediate neighborhood to get
new blood, and to try to introduce blood that would improve their flock,
those who had before used the same kind of stock began to use some
very difi"erent stocks ; and as they still continued exchanging " roosters "
and eggs with their neighbors, the result was that the flocks often
became fearfully and wonderfully mixed. The poultry stocks of the
country, considered as a whole, continue so. There are here and there
farming localities where nearly all farmers keep the same kind of fowls,
and in some sections flocks of certain breeds are much more numerous
than elsewhere, but there is not anywhere such greater uniformity and
better general excellence as might reasonablj- be expected after two-
thirds of a century of improvement.
That this last statement is not in accordance with general ideas I am
well aware. Any one who will consider the lack of uniformity in the
poultry found in the ordinary farm flock as well as in the ordinary town
32
flock, and who will observe the small proportion of only fair-sized fowls,
must admit that there are grounds for it, We need not, however,
depend merely on observation. Here is an illustration. A few years
ago 1 had a lot of Light Brahma hens I wanted to sell in a bunch, and
at once, in order to get them out of the way. I could not sell them to
any of the local buyers because the}- were too large for their trade, so I
asked a buyer in a section the other side of Boston, where Brahmas
were bred more than any other fowl, if he could use them. He agreed
to take them, and turned the deal over to a Somerville buyer who some-
times made trips to my town.
The lot of hens sold weighed at this time only a little over seven
pounds apiece, live weight. They had been laying heavily for between
six and seven months and wei'e not in good condition. Four months
before they were sold they would have averaged better than nine
pounds, many of the hens weighing when in good condition ten to ten
and a half pounds. When the man who came for them was weighing
them he remarked that they wei*e the heaviest and largest hens he had
had for a couple of years.
Talking about weights of poultry, one thing led to another until
finally he asked : " What do you suppose is the average weight of the
foAvls we buy?" I guessed, "About five pounds." "Well," said he,
" the most of the hens we get weigh three to three and a half pounds.
Hens that weigh four to five pounds we call large hens, and we get
very few lots that will average four pounds."
Since then I have taken some pains to learn fi'om other buyers, and
to see for myself as I went about among poultry keepers, whether his
statements wei'e correct, and I have to conclude that they were, and that
the average fowl of to-day is but a slight improvement over the best
ordinary fowls of sixty or seventy years ago. Why is it? I think the
answer is, there has not been the improvement of poultry generally that
there ought to be because the farmer is so seldom a poultry breeder.
That does not indicate that farmers as a class are different from other
poultry keepers. The ordinary poultry keeper, even the ordinaiy fancier,
is not, strictly speaking, a breeder. But inasmuch as the farmers pro-
duce by far the greater part of the country's supply of poultr}' and eggs
(some authorities say nine-tenths of it), what farmers generall3' do or
fail to do with regard to poultry is of vastly more importance than
what the rest of the poulti'y keepers do or neglect to do ; for if all the
other poultry keepers by general consent should adopt a course which
would greatly improve their stocks of fowls, the efi"ect on the whole
market product would be small as compared with the results if half or
even a third of the farmers were to jjursue the same course.
Most people who raise poultry are just poultry grotvers. They hatch
the eggs of such stock as they happen to have. They keep on, year
after year, reproducing fowls, without any definite ideas as to the par-
ticular points of excellence which it would be desirable to establish in
their stock. They interest themselves little if at all in the principles of
breeding. They follow no definite system. If they use some pure bred
stock they give no special attention to jH-eserving its characteristics.
Oftener, indeed, such special attention as they give it is in the line of
33
Pair op Ideal Barred Plymouth Rocks
getting rid of whatever fixed character their fowls possess. The aver-
age poultry keeper has a perfect mania for crossing breeds, and nearly
always he makes crosses without definite ideas about what he is likely
to get or what he wants to get.
Then not finding the product
pleasing he crosses again and
again, until, becoming dis-
gusted with his chickens, he
either leaves them to breed
together by chance or gets
some new stock and begins
another series of crosses.
Poultry breeding pi'operly
consists in the intelligent, sys-
tematic mating of fowls to
produce progeny havingthe de-
sirable qualities of the parents
preserved and if possible in-
tensified, and the undesirable
qualities either reduced or bred out entirel}'. A poultry breeder is not
necessarily a fancier or a breeder of thoroughbred stock. One who
works systematically and persistently for the development of common
or grade stock is really more of a breeder than many growers of
thoroughbred stock. If his
ideas are good, and he is
reasonably successful in his
etForts to realize these ideas
in his stock, he accomplishes
more than most of those keep-
ing thoroughbreds. I have
known, first and last, a good
many breeders who have
made for themselves, from
common stock, flocks of fowls
in every practical respect equal
to average good thorough-
breds. They were virtually
pure bred, as much so as many
of the standard bred stocks.
But there are two serious
objections to working in this
way. The first is that it
takes very much longer to
accomplish any desired re-
sults by breeding from com-
mon stock than by breeding from thoroughbreds. Though, as has been
said, many thoroughbreds are by no means all that they should be, it is
always possible to get specimens of some popular thoroughbred variety
having the qualities one desires well developed, and from such stock
as a foundation a careful breeder can accomplish more in three years
Pair of Ideal Buff Plymouth Rocks.
34
than he could in three times as many years if he began with stock of
no particular breeding.
This is a point which has been demonstrated over and over. It is a
point which needs to
be emphasized often,
for one of the most
prevalent errors about
poultry breeding is the
opinion, held by many
who have a very good
idea of what they want,
that they can develop
it themselves by the
careful improvement
of inferior stock more
economically than by
paying the high prices
which it is frequently
necessary to give in
order to get good stock
of the type wanted. I
would not advise any
one who needed to
consider economy —
as most of us do —
to buy fine breeding
fowls in large numbers at big pi'ices ; but it is often the best economy
to pay almost an extravagant price for a few good birds to be used as
foundation stock rather than give time and attention to the development
of a larger flock of less meritorious quality.
The principle is exactly the
m
same as that upon which a
farmer or gardener, who
wants some of a new variety
of vegetable, grain or fruit,
so expensive that he does not
feel that he can afford to buy
it in quantity, proceeds. He
buys a small amount and
simply uses it as a foundation
stock from which to produce
seed or plants for a large
crop in some future year.
He should do the same way
with poultry, and should have
as much patience in working
toward the results he wants.
The second objection to developing common stock is that, in working
along lines in which no one else is interested, one almost invariably
comes before long to the place where he needs new blood, but as he
Ideal VS^hite Plymouth Rock Pullet.
Pair op Ideal Silver Laced Wtandottes.
35
cannot get it from stock bred on similar lines, thei'e being no other such
stock, he has to either go without new blood or use something dijfferent.
He has a] choice of only tAvo equally unsatisfactory courses. The
dilemma is easily avoided by using fowls of a popular breed, in which
it is always possible to get some such stock as one wants.
What puzzles the person who wants to get a few good bii'ds to use as
foundation stock is where to go to get such stock. He finds many breed-
ers, all claiming to have just what he needs. If he is where he comes
in contact with many people who have at one time or another bought
stock from these breeders, he is very apt to come across one or more
people who tell
him of experiences
with this, that and
the other breeder
that make him
think he had better
not risk an order
with any of them.
I get scores of let-
ters every year
from such people.
They write to me
supposing that I
can tell them all
-about the different
stocks, which is
good, which is bad ;
and about the
breeders, who is
reliable and who is
not. They say
something like
this : " I have only
a little money to spend for fowls. I have had to save very carefully to
get it, and I cannot afford to buy stock that will not prove satisfactory."
Now I am so situated that I am not at liberty to recommend one man's
stock in preference to another, and even if I were at liberty to do so I
would be very reluctant to express an opinion as to the best place to buy
stock of any particular kind, for I found out long ago that unless you
know what kind of stock a man wants, and know that he too knows
what he wants, advising him where to buy is too risky. If he is not
satisfied with the deal he blames you more than any one else connected
with it. I can do better b3' the man who wants to know where to go to
buy by telling him how to buy.
In the first place he must know what he wants. If he doesn't know
he must find out before buying, and he must learn it so that he is sure
of his knowledge.
To illustrate : suppose a man concludes that he wants fowls for a cer-
tain purpose and is told that White Plymouth Rocks would suit him. If
he was brought up on a farm he probably does not need to be told that
Ideal White Wyandotte Pullet.
36
Pair of Ideal Light Brahmas.
all White I'ljmiouth Rocks are not alike; for he has seen the production^
of plants and animals of many kinds and has noticed that individuals from
the same seed or the same
parents vary sometimes a
gi-eat deal. The first step,
then, is to learn what is the
correct type of White Plym-
outh Rocks. I think the best
way to learn this is by care-
fully studying a good ideal
illustration of a White Plym-
outh Rock. The ideal drawing
represents a bird perfect, ac-
cording to the artist's inter-
pretation of the ideas of the
best breeders and judges, in
ever}^ section, — a bird free
fi'om faults. Sometimes photo-
graphs are obtained which are
quite as good and look more
true to life, but the photograph
so often fails to do typical
birds justice in their best points,
and so often distorts some sec-
tions, that I think it much safer for those who want to learn the best
types in the different breeds to study the ideal drawings first, and so
learn to make proper allowance for faults in specimens they see, and.
also in photographs and drawings
that are portraits of individual
birds, and hence show in some
degree the faults of the fowls
they repi'esent.
It will help one to appreciate
the points of excellence in a
breed if he will study, in con-
nection with the ideal repre-
sentation of it, the authorized
description of the variety pub-
lished in the " Standard of Per-
fection." This description tells
him briefly what the drawing
shows him, and by studying the
two together he gets a better
apprehension of the type than
he could from either alone. From
book and pictui'e one who had
never before seen a White Plym-
outh Rock could get an idea of it good enough to make it impossible
for him to be imposed upon with fowls of different type, or with fowls
having serious blemishes.
Ideal Single-comb Rhode Island Red,,
Male.
37
Even if one is somewhat familiar with a breed it is well for him to
justify his ideas of good type by comparing them with approved
standards. Theoretically, the way to learn correct types would be by
study of the best birds, but in practice the first knowledge of what is
right is more surely gained by studying ideals, because forming one's
ideas from a model correct in all sections one avoids the common error
of learning to overlook readily the weak points which may be associated
with special excellence in the best birds they see.
Having learned what a White Plymouth Rock should be the seeker
after good stock is now prepared to inspect some stock for the pur-
pose of buying when he finds what he wants, I advise making a per-
sonal inspection of the stock from which one buys and personal selection
of the birds bought, if that is at all possible.
With the ideal White Rock -^Is^^ -
imaged in his mind the buyer
goes into a flock of White Plym-
outh Rocks and begins to look for
specimens resembling that ideal.
He knows that the type he is look-
ing for is a rather long and deep-
bodied bird, full breasted, neither
too low nor too high on the legs
to look symmetrical. The picture
he has studied has given him an
idea of the general appearance
and carriage of the bird, and if he
has any eye for outline he will
at once single out of an ordinary
flock some birds as typical and
some as not typical. These typical
birds, if on closer inspection they
are found free from serious faults,
and if they are vigorous and
healthy looking, are the kind of
birds he wants and he should take no others. He should pay any price
in reason for specimens of the right general type rather than take as
a gift specimens not of that type.
The fowls being satisfactory in appearance, the buyer, naturally,
wants to know something of their laying capacity. For this he must
usually take the seller's word, but if it is convenient for him to visit the
place a few times before buying and notice the eggs in the nests he can
form a tolerably good estimate of the general laying capacity of the
stock, and get accurate knowledge as to how the eggs run for size,
shape and color. If, as may happen, he fails to find any specimens in
the flock that strike him as typical, the thing to do is to postpone buy-
ing until he can satisfy himself whether his judgment of the stock was
right or not.
If he cannot buy White Rocks at home, it would be well worth his
while to visit yards elsewhere in his quest for stock, and not under any
consideration to buy until he can get what he wants. Even if he is
'-'^^Z-
Ideai, Single-comb Rhode Island Red,
Female.
38
unable to personally select his stock he can protect himself in Tjuying
from a breeder at a distance by carefully stating what he wants and
insisting that fowls be shipped him on approval. If he takes the neces-
sary precautions to protect himself at every point from his own inexpe-
rience as well as from the possible disposition of some with whom he
deals to take advantage of his inexperience, a man runs little risk of
parting from his money for fowls that are not what he requires. The
risk cannot be absolutely eliminated but it can be so reduced that the
buyer is reasonably safe from loss. It may take him some time to find
what he wants and to get started, but the delay is not lost time if he is
learning to buy on his own judgment, for as a rule one has to learn to.
do that before he gets fairly started in breeding poultry, and it is much
better and more economical to learn before buying than to learn by
buying what you do not want.
Another point comes up here. Suppose one makes a fruitless search
for fowls of the kind he had decided he wanted, — cannot run across
birds that suit him, — but in the meantime does find birds of another
variety that seem to him to be just what he wants ; should he drop his
first choice and take the others? Supposing a case as stated I would
say yes. The fowls which suited might not be the best type of their
kind according to prevailing opinion, but if they are what is wanted the
name by which they are called and their superficial points are of only
minor importance. While I have used the White Plymouth Rock in the
illustration above, any other Plymouth Rock is the same in everything
but color. The Wyandottes and Rhode Island Reds are in the same
class and diflfer practically from the Plymouth Rock principally in size
and shape, and not radically in either of these respects. Ordinarily a
Massachusetts or New England farmer would not want to go outside of
these three breeds to look for stock. Indeed, this is the class of stock best
adapted to the wantsof most poultry keepers evei-y where, and as a rule the
preference of a poultry keeper for any particular variety of this class is due
to his having happened to get stock of that variety which suited him.
A brief comparison of the thi-ee breeds and their varieties will indicate
how like they are in essential qualities, and also show the superficial
diflTerences which would sometimes be considered in making a choice,
and which in a few cases do have a marked influence in determining the
popularity of the variety.
All are medium-sized fowls, the Plymouth Rocks as a class a little
larger than the others, and a little longer in coming to maturity.
Of Plymouth Rocks there are three varieties. Barred, White and Buff.
Unless he had a color preference, a taste for appearance to satisfy, it
would make no difference to the poultry keeper w^ho wanted a fowl of
the Plymouth Rock type which of the three varieties he took.
In Wyandottes the number of varieties is greater, and most of them
are more difficult to pi'oduce in such uniformity of color as will satisfy
even a moderately critical taste. The White and Buff Wyandottes are
the only varieties of the breed in which the farmer looking for stock
would do well to take stock if he found what he wanted. Of the other
varieties the Golden Laced, Silver Laced, Partridge, or Golden Pencilled,
and Silver Pencilled are difiicult to breed, and the farmer who is not
39
something of a fancier would not long be suited with them. The Black
Wyandottes are comparativel}' rare and their color does not recommend
them to many practical poultry keepers. The Columbian Wyandotte,
with markings of a Light Brahma, should make a first-class variety for
the farm. The present objection to recommending it generally is that
the breed requires very careful breeding to bring it to such stage of
color development that the average novice in handling the variety will
get encouraging results in that feature. Of course the novice in hand-
ling any variety, as in doing work of any kind, makes mistakes at first.
It takes a year or two of experience in breeding to learn to avoid the
most serious mistakes. But the poultry keeper who wants to make
himself a good breeder of fowls will succeed better by beginning with
well-established varieties, because then his first and hardest years'
works are not made more difficult by lack of development or perma-
nence of the special characteristics of the varieties he is working with.
The ideal Rhode Island Red is of a type intermediate between the
ideal Plymouth Rock and Wyandotte type, but comparatively few speci-
mens have yet been produced showing that type conspicuously. The
average Rhode Island Red resembles the avei-age Wyandotte more than
it does the Plymouth Rock. There are two varieties, the Rose Combed
and the Single Combed. A thii'd variety. Pea Combed, like a Brahma,
is bred by a few bi'eeders but has not attained a popularity at all com-
parable with that of the other two, which in many sections of New
England seem to have matched the popularity of the popular varieties
of the Plymouth Rocks and Wyandottes.
For usual farm conditions in this country no other breeds need be con-
sidered. In the section where soft roasters for the Boston market are
grown on a large scale Light Brahmas are very generally kept by farmers
to supply growers of this class of poultry with eggs for hatching.
Having obtained stock suitable for his requirements the farmer is
ready to begin his work as a poultry breeder. The difficulty of getting
just such stock as he wanted will generally have convinced him by this
time that there is not near as much of it produced as there ought to be.
There ought not to be any considerable proportion of the poultry produce
each year that did not in a general way fill most of the requirements for
a good fowl for the farmer. Allowing for differences in size and in
purpose it is still true that whatever the variety or whatever the purpose
in breeding them the aim should be to produce well-developed, healthy,
vigorous fowls, and that these points should always be considered first.
For the fancier, to whom superficial qualities, such as perfection of
comb or crest, or excessive development of foot feathering, or accurate
mai-kings, or purity of color, seem of prime importance, and really are
made so in the competitions for which his birds are produced, we can
find some excuse for sacrificing the substantial qualities of fowls to the
superficial, or for being so impressed with features that are for the time
being a fad that he neglects the preservation and development of useful
characteristics ; but the farmer, as a breeder, has no excuse for not de-
veloping in his fowls the qualities of most value to him, and having once
clearly apprehended for himself what these qualities are, all his eff'orts
as a breeder should be directed to making them uniform in his flocks.
40
It does not take long to do this if he can bring himself to adhere
rigidly to the fundamental rules of good breeding, i.e. : —
First. — To breed only from the best obtainable specimens; following
this rule year after year, demanding that his breeding stock as indi-
viduals shall have the merit he seeks in themselves as well as in their
ancestors.
Second. — To give the chicks of his breeding stock the care and food
necessary to make them attain their best possible development.
In a previous article on poultry keeping for the farmers of Massachu-
setts I had occasion to refer briefly to the fact that as a rule farm grown
stock did not attain the best development possible. I would not go so
far as to say that the best development is to be sought for all the stock
produced on the farm, regardless of the cost of obtaining it, though I
think better development than is usual could be obtained on many farms
at an insignificant cost, but I would by all means urge every farmer who
wishes to improve his poultry to give all the attention to chickens from
which his stock birds will be taken that they need to bring out all the
merit there is in them.
Beginning with good stock, breeding carefully and growing his fowls
well, a farmer can in a very few years have a stock of uniform high
excellence that will be an ornament to his farm, will be far more
profitable than the old, carelessly bred stock, will be a source of pride
to him and stimulate his neighbors to follow his methods.
And here we come naturally to the consideration of another point, —
the relation of the farmer as a breeder to other farm poultry keepers,
especially to those in his immediate vicinity. It is of quite as much
advantage to him to have his neighbors generally keeping just as good
fowls as the fowls he has improved to his liking. One may take a
selfish sort of pride in having better poultry than those about him, but
it is not really much to his credit unless they too have good poultry. It
is to the advantage of the farmer and breeder of poultry also to have
the kind of poultry he keeps popular throughout his vicinity. I doubt
whether there is any one condition affecting the improvement of poultry
which has a surer and steadier influence for the i^reservation of practical
qualities than to have the stock almost universally kept in a locality,
and all the poultry keepers alike interested in getting practical and
profitable results.
It remains to speak of the satisfaction of breeding poultry. The mere
grower of poultry gets little pleasure out of his woi'k with it. The
breeder always finds something in his work to compensate for the
drudgery of some of the tasks of caring for poultry. His fowls begin
to assume an individuality in his sight and in his thought. Each suc-
ceeding year he becomes more adept in antieiijating the quality of the
chickens he will hatch, even though he may make no progx-ess in count-
ing them before they ai'c hatched. Nor is the use of what he gains by
intelligent eftbrts in breeding poultry limited to his work with poultry.
In learning to work with the principles of breeding he is providing
himself with a better equipment for every other branch of his farm
work, for the same general principles of production run all through the
animal and vegetable kingdoms.
Series of 1904.
Vol. 17. No. (3.
MASSACHUSETTS
CEOP KEPOET
Month of October, 19(
■r the greater part of
6
the State there was need of rain at the close of the month.
General light rains on the 29th and 80th practically broke
the drought. A conspicuous feature was the rather low
temperature daring the days and uniformly and exception-
ally cool nights. The daily mean temperatures were below
the seasonal average continuously, the 5th excepted, until
the 17th, but during the closing decade were near the nor-
mal. The monthly rainfall was little more than half the
usual amount, but was well distributed through the period,
so that the effect of the deficiency was less marked than
would otherwise have been the case. Excepting the low
temperatures, the weather of June was very pleasant.
July was notable for conditions near the seasonal in pre-
cipitation, temperature and sunshine. The precipitation,
though below normal, was so well distributed that the
deficiency was hardly noticeable. Thunderstorms were
less frequent than usual, but in some sections unusually
violent. The temperature was remarkable for equable dis-
tribution and uniform high range of the maxima and minima,
with an absence of extremes in both. Some quite warm
weather was experienced in interior sections, and on the
coast there were several days of muggy, oppressive weather,
though the maximum temperature was under 90 degrees.
Viewed as a whole, July Avas a very pleasant month.
August opened with several days of warm, showery
weather, with muggy, oppressive atmospheric conditions.
A week of cool weather, with scattered showers, followed.
During the remainder of the month the weather was marked
by periods of a few warm days, alternating with like periods
of cool weather, with the mercury considerably below the
average. The outcome was a monthly mean considerably
below the normal. The precipitation was below the average
from 20 to 30 per cent, but was quite equably distributed,
so that there was little complaint of drought. Local storms
were less frequent and violent than usual during August.
The weather was very pleasant, with a notable deficiency of
hot, humid days frequently characteristic of August.
September will go on record as a month of unusually few
rainy days, with abundant sunshine, but with a heavy total
rainfall. During the first decade there was very little rain,
but on the 14th and 15th a downpour that has been but
seldom equalled, with almost an entire absence of rain dur-
ing the remainder of the month. The temperature records
also show pronounced extremes. The maxima ranged in
the 80s on a number of days, with muggy, oppressive
temperature, and on the 22d and 23d dropped suddenly to
points ranging from slightly above freezing in some sections
to several degrees below in others. The monthly mean
temperature did not depart greatly from the normal. Not-
withstanding these unusual conditions September, considered
as a whole, was a pleasant month.
Weather of October, 1904.
The opening days of October and until the 8th of the month
were generally pleasant and with abundant sunshine. A week
of overcast weather followed, during wliich more or less rain
fell in about all sections. Fair weather, mostly with clear
skies again obtained, and continued through the 18th followed
by a wide-spread storm of much intensity on the 20th and 21st.
During this storm the winds along the coast attained hurri-
cane force and caused considerable loss of life and of ship-
ping, and much damage to shore and other property. The
weather was fair and very })leasant through most of the
remaining days of the month. The temperature ranged
below the seasonal average, with the exception of a few
days, until the 15th, the daily deficiency being about 3 to 4
degrees. There was a warm period from the 16th to the
2 2d inclusive, during which the mercury averaged 5 degrees
above normal. The weather during the rest of the month
was rather cooler than the average. Taking the month as a
whole the temperature did not de}iart greatly from the nor-
mal for October. While rain fell on about the average
number of days the monthly amounts were much below the
average, and in many sections were little if any above half
of the normal October rainfiill. Generally speaking, the
weather of October was favorable to farming operations,
^.e., to fall plowing and seeding, and to securing and housing
crops.
Crops of the Year.
The wet weather of May delayed farm work and at the close
of the month it was somewhat in arrears. Pastures and mow-
ings wintered well, as a rule, secured a good start, and at the
close of the month the prospect for grass was never better.
Fall seeding generally wintered Avell and got a good start.
The apple bloom was unusually heavy. Peach trees were
badly winter-killed and bloomed only in a few localities ;
cherries and plums made a full bloom, but there were some
complaints of a light bloom on pears. Few insects appeared
and did but little damage. Spraying is generally practised
by fruit specialists and growing in favor Avith farmers.
Farm help was fairly plent}'^ ; average wages, |20 per month
with board, and $1.50 per day, or higher, without board.
There was a slight increase in the acreage of potatoes.
Insects did less damage than usual in June. Indian corn
was reported as small and backward, but of good color and
otherwise thrifty. Haying was just beginning, at time of
making returns, with the crop not more than an average
one, the damage from winterkilling being more serious than
was expected. The acreage of early potatoes was consider-
ably increased, with crop somewhat backward, but generally
promising well. Early market-garden crops generally made
good yields and brought prices fully up to the average.
The flow of milk was well luaintained, with prices for dairy
products showing a tendency to seek a lower Isvel. Dairy
cows were somewhat more plentiful than usual, with prices
easier. Pastures were generally in good condition. Straw-
berries were a fair crop. Plums and cherries promised good
yields. Apples set well and promised well.
In July insects did very little damage. Indian corn was
still backward, but coming forward rapidly and very promis-
ing. Much of the crop is used for ensilage. Haying was
practically completed, the crop exceeding expectation and
being above average in quantity, and of excellent quality.
The amount of forage crops planted was slightly less than
usual, but all promised well. Market-garden crops showed
unusually good yields, with prices lower than usual, but not
9
too low for profit. Few early potatoes had bieen dug, but
the crop promised well. Returns did not indicate that the
apple crop would be up to the average of a bearing year.
Pears promised but a light crop ; plums a heavy crop ; peaches
much below the normal ; grapes promised well ; cranberries
mucli below average, owing to late frosts and hail. Pastures
were reported as short and dry in some sections, but the
rains of the closing days of the montli corrected this con-
dition. Rye, oats and barley were reported to be unusually
good crops.
Indian corn continued somewhat baclvward during August,
but was earing well and promised a good crop unless killing
frosts came at an unusually early date. Rowen promised
more than an average crop and would have been even better
save that the first crop was cut too late on many fields.
Potatoes were somewhat backward, but the vines were very
heavy and a good crop promised, though blight was general
in eastern sections, with some complaints of rot. The
acreage of tobacco was little changed and one of the finest
crops ever secured was in prospect. Pastures have seldom
been in better condition. Apples promised a good crop;
pears light ; plums generally yielded well ; peaches almost
a failure ; grapes fair to good ; and cranberries light, owing
to frosts, hail and insect damage. Oats gave a very good
crop, with barley unusually good as a forage crop and little
raised for grain.
Uncut corn was severely damaged by frosts on September
22d and 23d, but where well matured and cut in advance of
the frost it was generally well eared and of excellent quality.
More than an average crop of rowen was secured, and fall
feed was in excellent condition in most sections. Loss fall
seeding than usual was done, but where put in early a good
catch was reported. Onions were considerably below a nor-
mal crop, though perhaps better than previously expected.
Potatoes would have been an unusually heavy crop but for
rot, but will be somewhat below the normal in yield. Root
crops generally promised well, though there were some com-
plaints of injury from frost. Celery and other late market-
garden crops promised well. In the western counties an
10
extraordinarily heavy crop of apples was reported, but in
central and eastern sections it was somewhat lijrht as a rule.
Pears were a fair crop ; peaches very few ; grapes good, but
injured by frost ; cranberries suffered still further from the
frosts and will be one of the lightest crops of recent years.
In the cu'cular to correspondents returnable October 24
the following questions were asked : —
1. What is the value of the corn crop compared with a
normal crop ?
2. Have root crops proved to be average crops?
3. What is the condition of farm stock?
4. What is the condition of fall seeding?
5. How have prices for crops raised for market compared
with former years ?
6. Which of the leading crops in your locality do you
think have been most profitable ?
7. Which of the leading crops in your locality do you
think have been least profitable?
8. Considered as a whole, has the season been a profitable
one for your farmers?
Returns were received from 132 correspondents, from
which the following summary has been made : —
Value of the Corn Crop.
At the opening of September Indian corn had made a fine
growth of stover, was eared out fairly well, but needed a
month of ripening weather to secure best results, as a con-
siderable proportion of the crop was backward, owing to late
planting, poor germination of first planting and cool nights.
That which was well ripened and harvested prior to the
heavy frosts of September 22 and 23 gave a fine crop both
of grain and stover. Enough was injured by the frost or
cut before properly ripened to avoid the frost so that the
value of the crop was greatly reduced. What would, with-
out killing frosts, have been a crop considerably above the
normal in value turned out to be something below, results
varying greatly in different sections, so that a more definite
statement is impossible. Ensilage corn was more generally
secured in good order than was that raised for grain.
11
Root Crops.
Root crops are generally reported to be good average
crops, or a little above, and where raised for market are
bringing at least average prices. Potatoes rotted badl}'^ in
some sections, but where rot did not occur have given a very
heavy yield and proved to be a profitable crop, though bring-
ing less than average prices. Celery is a good crop, so far
as reported on.
Farm Stock.
There has seldom been a year when pastures have been in
such uniformly good condition over the' State and through-
out the season. Fall feed is also reported as good in pas-
tures and mowings. As a result farm stock is going to the
barns in good flesh and with a good flow of milk, hot a single
complaint of reallj^ poor condition having been received.
Fall Seeding.
Less fall seeding than usual appears to have been done,
but that put in early made a good catch and with favorable
weather has come forward very rapidly and is now in first-
class condition. Late seeding also appears to have made a
good catch and to be as forward as could be expected.
Prices.
Prices for crops raised for market appear to have a lower
trend than for the past few years, due in a large measure
doubtless to uncommonly heavy yields in many of the lead-
ing crops. Of the 131 correspondents answering this ques-
tion, 20 speak of prices as higher than usual, 7 as good, 59
as average and 43 as lower than usual. Prices for market-
garden crops have generally ruled lower than usual, as have
potatoes and apples, while dairy products and poultry prod-
ucts have ruled as high or higher than usual.
Most Profitable Crops.
Sixty-six correspondents, a bare majority, consider hay
to have been among the most profitable crops ; 44, potatoes ;
16, corn; 11, tobacco; 8, sweet corn ; 7, onions; 7, cab-
12
bages ; 3, cranberries ; 3, cucumbers ; 3, milk ; 3, strawber-
ries ; 3, tomatoes; 3, asparagus; 2, beans; 1, turnips; 1,
ensilage corn; 1 , oats ; 1, rye; 1, buckwheat; 1, market-
garden crops; 1, squashes; 1, forage crops ; 1, lettuce; 1,
cauliflower; 1, peaches; 1, apples; 1, poultry products ;
and 1, beets.
Least Profitable Crops.
Forty correspondents, less than one-third, report that
apples are among the least profitable crops; 31, potatoes;
22, corn; 8, cabbages; 6, onions; G, squashes; 4, toma-
toes; 3, barley; 3, rye; 3, beans; 2, oats; 2, turnips;
2, sweet corn; 2, peas; 1, buckwheat; 1, beets; 1, dan-
delions; 1, hay; 1, market-garden crops; 1, cranberries;
1, milk; 1, grapes ; 1, pears ; 1, plums ; and 1, peaches.
Profits of the Season.
The present season gives somewhat mixed results, but
may be said to be a profitable- one for our farmers as a
whole, as good crops have generally been secured, and prices,
except for apples and potatoes, have ranged well up to
those usually received. iNIarket-gardeners generally had a
profitable season, though not as good as last year. Dairy-
men generally did well and go into the winter with well-
filled barns and stock in good condition. Poultry raisers
received good prices for their products, and of our special-
ists the horticulturists have perhaps the most cause to com-
plain, o^ving to the damage to peach trees from the severe
winter and the low price of apples, combined with the high
price of barrels, this fall. Of the 132 correspondents
answering this question, 64 consider the season to have been
a profitable one, 32 fairly profitable, 19 an average season
for profit, while 8 think that it has hardly been an average
season for profit and 15 that it has not been a profitable one.
13
NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS.
(Returned to us October 25.)
BERKSHIRE COUNTY.
West Stockhridge (J. S. Moore). — Indian corn is a good crop.
Root crops are much better than last year, and taken all together
above the average. Farm stock is looking well, as fall feed has been
good. Fall seeding is looking as well as usual. Grain has brought
better prices than last year, but potatoes and root crops have been
lower because of large yields. Buckwheat has been our most prof-
itable crop, as there is a local market for all that is raised and it
commands a good price this year. Apples are our least profitable
crop owing to low prices, many giving them away to any one who
will harvest them. The season has been a profitable one, our
farmers being blessed with good markets for all kinds of farm
produce at Lenox and Stockbridge.
Stockhridge (F. A. Palmer). — Indian corn was a poor crop,
owing to poor seed and cold, wet weather. Root crops are up to
the usual average. Farm stock is in fine condition. Fall seeding
is now looking well. Prices for crops raised for market have been
a little above the average. Potatoes were a fine crop, but rotted
very badly. Apples are in great abundance and barrels high and
hard to get, so that many fine apples will rot on the ground. Hay
and rye have been our most profitable crops and potatoes and corn
our least profitable ones. The season has been a fairly profitable
one to our farmers.
Washington (E. H. Fames). — Indian corn is better than for
the last two or three years. Root crops are up to the usual aver-
age. Farm stock is in good condition, better than last year. No
fall seeding has been done in this locality. Prices for crops raised
for market have been about the same as in former years. Potatoes
and corn have been our most profitable crops and buckwheat and
barley our least profitable ones. Considered as a whole, the sea-
son has been about the same as usual for profit.
Peru (F. G. Creamer). — Corn is a full crop in value. Root
crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good con-
dition. No fall seeding has been done here. Prices for crops
raised for market liave ruled above the average, considering the
14
large crops. Hay, potatoes and turnips have been our most prof-
itable crops and oats, barley and rye our least profitable ones.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for our
farmers.
Hinsdale (Thos. F. Barker). — Corn is above the normal in
value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock looks
well. Fall seeding is in extra good condition. Potatoes bring
lower prices than last year. Hay and oats have been our most
profitable crops, and vegetables our least profitable ones. The
season has been a profitable one, as crops are above the general
average. The month has been very favorable to farm work.
Cheshire (L. J. Northup). — Indian corn is fully 40 percent
below the normal in value. Root crops are 20 per cent above the
average. Farm stock is well up in condition, better than for aver-
age years. Fall seeding is looking well. Prices for crops are
well sustained, except for cabbages, which are very plenty and sell
six for 25 cents. Hay has been our most profitable crop, and po-
tatoes our least profitable one, owing to low prices received. The
season has been a profitable one for our farmers and they have no
good reason to complain.
W iUiamstown (S. A. Hickox). — Corn did not fully mature,
owing to the cold season. Root crops are fine crops. Farm stock
is in fine condition. Fall seeding never looked better. Prices
have been less than usual for crops grown for market, as there has
been an over production of potatoes, apples and all garden truck.
Ensilage has been our most profitable crop and potatoes our least
profitable one. The season has been a fairly profitable one.
FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Roive (F. W. Woffenden). — -Indian corn is about 60 per cent
of a normal crop. Root crops are fully up to the usual average.
Stock is looking quite well as a rule. Fall seeding is in very good
condition. Prices for crops raised for market range from 10 to
20 per cent below the usual average. Potatoes have been our
most profitable crop and corn our least profitable one, owing to
the severe freeze before cutting. Considered as a whole, the
season has been fairly profitable. The apple crop is nearly har-
vested, more than half the crop being ruined by freeze and wind ;
winter fruit not moving at all as yet.
Charlemont (J. M. J. Legate). — The corn crop is below the
average in value, a large part of it not getting fully ripe. Root
crops are up to the usual average, but potatoes are rotted badly.
15
Farm stock uever looked better, pastures having been good all
summer. Fall seeding was never in better condition. Prices for
crops I'aised for market are fully up to the average and I think a
little above. Ha}- has been our most profitable crop and corn our
least jn-ofitable one, where raised for grain. The season has been
a profitable one, crops as a rule having been good and prices above
average.
Haicley (C. C. Fuller). — Indian corn was a good crop, but
suffered severely from frost. Root crops are up to the usual aver-
age. Fall seeding is in good condition. Farm stock is in about
average condition. Prices for crops raised for market have ruled
rather low. Potatoes have been our most profitable crop and ap-
ples our least profitable one. The season has been about a normal
one for profit, taken as a whole.
.Ashjfeld (Charles Howes). — Corn is about two-thirds of a
normal crop in value. Root crops are fully up to the usual aver-
age. Stock is in very good condition. Fall seeding is now look-
ing finely. Prices for crops raised for market have hardly been
up to average years. Hay is our leading crop and has been our
most profitable one. As it looks now tlie apple crop will be the
least profitable one this season. The season has hardly been an
average one for profit, as this is a dairy town and grain has been
too high for the price of dairy products.
Wliately (Frank Dickinson). — Indian corn is not over two-
thirds of a full crop in value. Root crops are not up to the usual
avei'age. Farm stock is below the average in condition. P'all
seeding is late but is coming on well. Crops raised for market
have brought average prices. Tobacco has been our most profit-
able crop and corn our least profitable one. Considered as a
whole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.
Montague (C. S. Raymond) . — Indian corn is about 80 per cent
of a full crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in very good condition. Fall seeding is looking well
where sown early. Prices for crops raised for market have ruled
about the same as usual. Hay has been our most profitable crop
and potatoes our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the
season has been a profitable one for our farmers.
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.
Amherst (Wm. P. Brooks). — Both field and ensilage corn
made a normal growth, but were poorly ripened. Root crops are
above average, carrots and mangels being especially good. Farm
16
stock is in excellent condition. Fall seeding is in good condition.
Prices for crops raised for market rule rather below the average,
except perhaps for onions and tobacco, for which good prices are
paid. Tobacco, onions and hay have been our most profitable
crops and corn our least profitable one. The season was a very
good one for most farmers, as nearly all crops are good, with prices
for most fair and for some above the average. The heavy winds
of the first part of the month did great damage to the apple crop,
from one-third to one-half being blown from the trees. This storm,
coupled with the high price of barrels and the low price of apples,
has rendered the crop less profitable than was anticipated.
Ilaclley (H.C.Russell). — Indian corn is three-fourths of a
normal crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in excellent con-
dition. Onions and tobacco have been our most profitable crops.
Onions have sold at from 50 to 60 cents per bushel and are about
all sold with a fairly good yield. Tobacco is selling at from 16
to 19 cents per pound in the bundle, a price below the expecta-
tions of farmers considering the quality, but at good paying prices.
Apples have been our least profitable crop. The season has been
a profitable one for our farmers.
Easthampton (Wm. E. Clapp). — Corn is about three-fourths
of a normal crop. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in fine condition. Fall seeding is below the normal
in condition. Prices for crops raised for market have ranged as
high as usual. Tobacco, as far as sold, has been our most profit-
able crop and onions our least profitable one. Considered as a
whole the season has been a profitable one. Potatoes yielded well,
but were considerably damaged by rot. Corn needs two or three
weeks more to mature, although there have been some very nice
yields.
Soxithamplon (C B. Lyman). — The corn crop was very good,
although the early frost damaged some pieces severely. Root
crops gave large yields. Some rot in potatoes but not general,
and they are bringing fair prices. Farm stock is in very good
condition. Fall seeding is in better shape than usual. Crops
raised for market are fully up to the average in price. Tobacco,
grass and corn have been our most profitable crops. Apples were
a good crop but suffered severely from winds, and at going prices
many think it will hardly pay to gather them. Dairy products are
fully up to the average in price. On the whole the season has
perhaps been a profitable one, but with the high price of help it is
diflficult to JTiake a profit.
17
Cheslerfield (Horatio Bisbek). — Corn made a large growth,
but failed to ripen well. Root crops are up to the usual average ;
potatoes a good crop with most farmers, while some have lost by
rot. Farm stock is looking well and dairy cows are in good de-
maud. Fall seeding has made a good start. Prices for crops
raised for market have compared well with former years. Pota-
toes have been our most profitable crop and corn our least profit-
able one. Apples are very plenty and many will not be picked.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one.
HAMPDEN COUNTY.
Blandford (Enos W. Boise) , — As corn is husked many soft
ears are found and the crop is not as good as was expected, not
over 80 per cent of the normal. Root crops of all kinds are prov-
ing extra good. Pastures having been good throughout the season,
farm stock comes to the barns in good shape. Fall seeding is in
good condition, although little was done. Hay has been our most
profitable crop, with potatoes yielding well at fair prices, and
apples our least profitable one, prices being very low and the out-
look not good, though the fruit itself is fine and fair. The season
has been about an average one for profit.
Russell (E. D. Parks) . — Indian corn is about an average crop.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is hardly up
to the average in condition. Fall seeding is in good condition.
Very good prices have been obtained for crops raised for market.
Hay has been our most profitable crop and potatoes our least
profitable one, owing to rot and low prices. Apples have been
plenty, but have brought low prices. The season is about up to
the average year for profit.
West Springfield (T. A. Rogers) . — Indian corn shows a heavy
growth of stalk, but many ears are not filled out well. Root crops
are fully up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good condi-
tion. Prices for crops raised for market have ruled from 10 to 20
per cent below the normal. Potatoes, tobacco and hay have been
our most profitable crops, and apples and onions our least profit-
able ones. There is a diversity of opinion among farmers as to
the year, some considering it profitable and others unprofitable.
Chicoj)ee (R. W. Bemis). — Indian corn is not quite up to a
normal crop. Root crops have proved to be average crops. Farm
stock is in good condition. Less fall seeding than usual has been
done. Prices for crops raised fou market have been fully up to
the usual average. Hay has been our most profitable crop. Con-
18
sidered as a whole the season has been a profitable one. Farmers
near the cities have great difficulty in securing good help.
East Longmeadoiv (John L. Davis) . — Corn is fully up to the
normal. Root crops are below the usual average, owing to dry
weather in August. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seed-
ing is in fair condition, but not as good as some years. Corn has
been our most profitable crop and potatoes our least profitable one.
The season has not been a profitable one, as labor has been scarce,
poor and high, and the price of grain a great deal higher than the
corresponding increase in the price of dairy products.
Wilhraham (PI. M. Bliss). — Indian corn is 20 per cent below
the normal in value, owing to poor germination, slow growth and
early frost. Root crops are up 1p the usual average. Farm stock
is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices
for crops raised for market have been very good, with the excep-
tion of apples. Grass and potatoes have been our most profitable
crops and rye and apples our least profitable ones. Considered as
a whole the season has been an average one for profit.
Holland (Francis Wight) . — Indian corn is about two-thirds
of a normal crop. All root crops have yielded well, but potatoes
have rotted badly. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seed-
ing has done fairly well. Potatoes have been our most profitable
crop and apples our least profitable one. Considered as a whole,
the season has been a fairly profitable one.
Palmer (O. P. Allen) . — Indian corn is rather below a normal
crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in
good condition. Fall seeding seems to be in average condition.
The usual prices have prevailed for crops raised for market.
Potatoes have been our most profitable crop and corn our least
profitable one, due largely to a late season last spring, which caused
much replanting. The season has been a profitable one for our
farmers, but less so than some recent years.
WORCESTER COUNTY.
Dudley (J. J. Gilles). — The corn crop is fully up to the nor-
mal in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have ruled 10 per cent above
the normal. Hay and cabbages have been our most profitable
crops and potatoes our least profitable ones.
Spencer (H. H. Kingsbury). — Corn made a good growth, but
matured slowly and was damaged by frost, so that it is not "above
19
75 per cent of the normal in value. All root crops have grown
well, and except for a small amount of rot in potatoes, were profit-
able. Pasturage has been good and farm stock is fully in average
condition. Fall seeding is in first-class condition. Many kinds
of farm produce have been slow of sale, and with the exception of
hay and eggs have barely brought average prices. Hay has been
our most profitable crop and potatoes our least profitable one.
The results of farm operations the past season appear to be about
the same as those of other years.
Brookffeld (F. E. Prouty). — Indian corn is about two-thirds
of a normal crop in value. Root crops are good yields. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been about average. Hay
has been our most profitable crop and potatoes our least profitable
one, owing to rot and low prices. Considered as a whole, the
season has been a fairly profitable one for our farmers.
Neic Braintree (C. D. Sage). — Corn is a full crop in value.
Root crops are better than average crops. Young cattle are look-
ing well; cows have been fed less grain than usual. Very little
fall seeding has been done. Prices for crops raised for market
have been fairly good ; little produced except milk. Hay, oats,
corn and potatoes have been our most profitable crops, all crops
being fairly profitable. The year has been a profitable one, all
crops being good and prices fair, except for apples, which are in
small demand. Barns are well filled.
Barre (John L. Smith) . — Indian corn is an average crop.
Root crops are not much raised in this locality. Farm stock is in
good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market have been above the average except for
apples. Potatoes have been our most profitable crop, where un-
affected by rot, and apples our least profitable one. The season
has been a profitable one, as milk has brought a fair price and
feed has been good.
Dana (Lyman Randall) . — Corn promised more than an
average crop before the hard freeze, but many late planted fields
did not dry out after the freeze, the husks stuck down and moulded
at the tips, which reduces the value of the crop, so that it is not
over 80 per cent of the normal. Root crops are fully up to the
usual average. Stock of all kinds is in excellent condition. Fall
seeding is not looking very promising. Prices for crops raised for
market have not been quite up to former years. Hay has been
our most profitable crop and cabbages our least profitable one.
Coasidered as a whole, the season has beeu a profitable oiie»
20
Field mice did much damage to grass aud destroyed many young
trees last winter, and this fall are much more numerous than last
year.
Royalston (C. A. Stimson.) — Indian corn is almost up to the
normal in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been up to the average.
Corn has been our most profitable crop and apples our least profit-
able one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable
one for our farmers.
Gardner (A. F. Johnson). — Root crops are up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition. There is not much
change in the prices of crops raised for market. Milk has been
our most profitable product. Considered as a whole, the season
has been about an average one for profit in this locality.
Fitchbnrg ( Jabez Fisher) 1 do not think the farming inter-
est as a whole has laid by any money without abstinence from com-
forts and luxuries to which it is fully entitled, considering the labor
and effort expended. The profit obtained by any one class is
gained from some other class, and the gain in the one case is an
equivalent offset for the loss in the other. This cannot be other-
wise while competition is the underlying motive of civilization.
Only co-operation can make it otherwise.
Harvard (John S. Preston). — Corn is a good average crop.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is looking
well, pastures having held out well and fall feed being good. Fall
seeding is in good shape. Prices for crops raised for market have
been better than for some years. Hay is the leading crop here, as
our farmers work for milk, and has been good, while apples have
been our least profitable crop, late fall and winter varieties not
paying for the barrels and work of picking. As milk has been
very low in price all summer our farmers have had a hard year.
Lancaster (S. C. Damon). — Indian corn is about two-thirds of
a normal crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good couditiou. Fall seeding is in good condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been about the same as
usual. Grass has been our most profitable ciop and potatoes our
least profitable one. The season has been a profitable one, except
for the low price of apples.
Worcester (Silas A. Burgess). — Indian corn is fully up to the
normal in value. Root crops, except potatoes, are up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in
good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been
21
lower than usual, below the average. Corn and hay have been
our most profitable crops and apples and potatoes our least profit-
able ones. The season has been a fair average one for profit.
The cold weather in September caused great damage, and high
winds have done much damage to apples.
Aubiirn (AYm. Gilbert). — Corn was about a normal crop, but
suffered a loss of 10 per cent from frost. Roots have proved to
be more than average crops. Farm stock is looking finely, pas-
turage having held out well. Grass seed sown this fall has started
well and promises a good crop. Prices for crops raised for market
have been low, about 90 per cent of former years. Corn and cab-
bages have been our most profitable crops. I think the season has
been a profitable one for our farmers.
Blackstone (O. F. Fuller). — Indian corn is hardly up to an
average crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is looking well. The
prices for crops raised for market are about the same as usual.
Potatoes rotted badly and the yield is not up to the standard,
while some cranberry growers lost a few cranberries by the frost
in September. Considered as a whole, the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
HopMnton (W. V. Thompson) . — Indian corn is above the aver-
age in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good shape. Pota-
toes and cabbages are not as high in price as usual, in fact all
crops run a little lower. Corn has been our most profitable crop,
and cabbages and squashes our least profitable ones. Considered
as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.
Marlborough (E. D. Howe). — Corn is 90 per cent of a normal
crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in
good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market have been from 10 to 2.5 per cent lower
than usual. Hay has been our most profitable crop and potatoes
our least profitable one, on account of rot. Considered as a
whole, the season has hardly been a profitable one for our farmers.
Stov) (Geo. W. Bradley). — Indian corn is about an average
crop. I should say that root crops are a little above average
crops. Farm stock is in very good condition. Not as much fall
seeding as usual has been done, but it looks well. Prices have
ranged about as usual, some crops bringing slight increases and
22
others slight decreases. Corn has been our most profitable crop
and apples our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the
season has been more profitable than for the last few years.
Maynard (L. H. JNIaynard). — The corn crop was normal, or
above, in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock looks well and is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good
condition. Most crops have sold well and brought fair prices.
Apples have sold low, but choice lots brought fair prices. Hay
has been our most profitable crop and all crops hkve been good.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one.
Groton (Geo. S. Knapp). — Indian corn is 90 per cent of a
normal crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is only in fair condition,
the season having been too dry. Potatoes are lower than usual
and apples very low, in fact prices for all crops have been lower
than usual, except for early truck. Hay has been our most profit-
able crop and apples our least profitable one. As there is a good
ci'op of hay and a fair crop of corn, also good crops of potatoes,
squashes, oats, etc., I should say that the season had been a
profitable one.
Townsend (G. A. Wilder). — Indian corn is about a normal
crop. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in
good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for
crops raised for market average about the same as usual. Pota-
toes, peaches and apples have been our most profitable crops.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for
our farmers.
Dunstable (A. J. Gilson). — The value of the corn crop is
somewhat above the normal. Root crops are above the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in
good condition and growing finely. In most cases the prices
received for crops raised for market have been lower than in
former years. Hay has been our most profitable crop and apples
our least profitable one. Considering the high prices farmers have
to pay for labor and the low prices received for the principal farm
products it has not been a profitable season for farmers.
Tewkshvry (Geo. E. Crosby). — Indian corn is about three-
fourths of a normal crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in
good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been
from 10 to 15 per cent lower than usual. Sweet corn has been
our most profitable crop and potatoes our least profitable one.
23
The season has not been as profitable as either of the two pre-
ceding.
Billerica (Geo. P. Greenwood) . — Indian corn is 90 per cent
of a full crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is looking well.
The prices received for most crops raised for market have been
very good. Sweet corn, tomatoes and beans have been our most
profitable crops. I think this has been a very good season, all
things considered.
Lincoln (C. S. Wheeler). — Indian corn is not more than half
a crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been above average,
except for apples. Beans, cucumbers, tomatoes and sweet corn
have been our most profitable crops. Considered as a whole the
season has been a fairly profitable one.
Stoueham (J. E. Wiley). — Fall seeding is in good condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been very poor. Lettuce
has been our most profitable crop this season and dandelions our
least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has not
been a profitable one for our farmers.
Weston (Henry L. Brown). — There is little yellow corn grown
and it is below the average. Beets, mangolds and carrots have
been good crops ; turnips have been a failure. Farm stock is
always in good condition. Fall seeding has been late and is not
up to the usual condition. Almost all crops have sold lower than
in former years and for less than half of last year's prices. No
crop has been very profitable, sweet corn as well as any and cab-
bages as poorly as any. Potatoes have given a fair crop, but
have sold low. Squashes made a very good yield, but were in-
jured by frost and brought very low prices. For market-gardeners
and those who raise crops for market the season has not been a
profitable one.
ESSEX COUNTY.
Salisbury (Wesley Pettengill) . — Indian corn was an average
crop, but suffered somewhat from frost. Late planted potatoes
rotted quite badly ; other root crops average yields. Farm stock
is looking well and coming to the barn in good condition. Fall
seeding is very good and the early sown is looking finely. Apples,
potatoes and s(iuashes have brought low prices ; other crops com-
pare favorably in price with other years. Hay has been our most
24
profitable crop aud i)otatoes and squashes our least profitable ones.
The season has not been as profitable as some years, as three of
our leading crops have sold very low.
Haverhill (Eben Webster). — Indian corn is not quite up to
the normal in value. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in fair condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been less than last year.
Hay has been our most profitable crop and potatoes our least
profitable one. Considered as a whole the season has been a fairly
profitable one with our farmers.
Neiohury (Geo. W. Adams). — Corn is a fair average crop and
owing to the rise in price is slightly more valuable than usual.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in from
fair to good condition. Fall seeding is in average condition.
Tomatoes bring an increased price, owing to scarcity, other crops
about the same, the advance, if any, being very slight. Onions
have been our most profitable crop and hay and apples our least
profitable ones. Considered as a whole the season has not been a
profitable one. Apples give in many cases a loss. Labor con-
tinues to advance in cost and deteriorate in quality. Thousands
of dollars worth of crops in this county will go to waste simply
because the product of a day's labor will not pay the workman.
Rowley (Daniel H. O'Brien). — Corn is about half a crop in
value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in
very good condition. Fall seeding is quite satisfactory. Potatoes
and squashes have been our most profitable crop aud corn our least
profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has been a
profitable one. Many fields of potatoes have rotted badly in por-
tions, while in other parts of the same field they have not rotted
at all.
Andover (Milo H. Gould). — Corn has been an average crop.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good
condition. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for crops
raised for market were low the first of the season, but are better
now. Sweet corn, strawberries and cucumbers have been our most
profitable crops and potatoes our least profitable one. Considered
as a whole, the season has been fairly profitable.
NORFOLK COUNTY.
Stoughton (Chas. F. Curtis). — Corn is fully up to a normal
crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock are in good flesh and in good order. Fall seeding when put
25
in early has made a good catch Prices for crops raised for mar-
ket have been a little under the average. Hay has been our most
profitable crop and potatoes our least profitable one. The season
has been a very profitable one on the whole.
Canton (Edwin V. Kinsley). — The corn crop is above the
average, much of that sown being for the silo or to be fed green
and making very heavy growth. Root crops are up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition and the supply of milk
has been ample to date. Prices ruled very high the first part of
the season and are about average at the present time. Fall seed-
ing is somewhat backward, although the Indian summer weather
of the past week has improved it. Cabbages and onions have been
our most profitable crops, and sweet corn, potatoes and apples our
least profitable ones. Considered as a whole, the season has been
about an average one for profit.
Nortoood (F. A. Fales). — Indian corn is three-fourths of a
normal crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in fair shape.
Prices for crops raised for market have been lower than usual.
Potatoes have been our most profitable crop and peas our least
profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season has not been a
profitable one, owing to low prices.
Millis (E. F. Richardson) . — Indian corn is a good crop.
Root crops are below the average. Farm stock is in good condi-
tion. Fall seeding is in fair condition. Prices for crops raised
for market have been better than usual. Grass has been our most
profitable crop and potatoes our least profitable one. Considered
as a whole the season has been a profitable one for our farmers.
Walpole (Edward L. Shepard). — Indian corn is about a two-
thirds crop. Root crops are below the usual average. Farm
stock is in fairly good condition. Fall seeding is in normal con-
dition. Prices for crops raised for market have been about the
same as in former years. Hay has been our most profitable crop
and potatoes and corn our least profitable ones. The season is
not up to the normal in profit.
Foxboroiigli (E. A. Morse). — Indian corn is above a normal
crop and more raised than usual. Roots are about average yields.
Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is looking finely
and more than usual has been done. Prices for crops raised for
market have been above the average of the past few years. Pota-
toes have been our most profitable crop. I do not hear much
complaint, so should say that the season had been a good one
financially.
26
BRISTOL COUNTY.
Easton (H. M. Thompson). — An early frost damaged the corn
crop considerably, preventing it from being more than a normal
crop. Root crops are up to the usual average, as a whole. Farm
stock will enter winter quarters in good condition. Early seeding
is looking very promising. Prices for crops raised for market are
fully up to the usual average. Hay and cucumbers under glass
have been our most profitable crops and certain garden crops our
least profitable ones. The season has been a profitable one for
our farmers. Eggs bring 36 cents per dozen at the door.
Attleborough (Isaac Alger) . — Indian corn is about 90 per cent
of a normal crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual aver-
age. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in excel-
lent condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been fully
as good as usual. Potatoes have been our most profitable crop.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a profitable one for
our farmers.
Dighton (James N. Paul). — Corn is not over half a normal
crop in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition
Prices for crops raised for market have ruled lower than usual
Strawberries, asparagus and potatoes have been our most profita-
ble crops and tomatoes, squashes and cabbages our least profitable
ones. Considered as a whole, the season has not been a profitable
one for our farmers.
Sioansea (F. G. Arnold). — The stand of Indian corn was
very poor owing to poor seed, but a very good crop resulted. Root
crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in very good
condition. Fall seeding is in very good condition. Cabbages
have brought low prices and potatoes fair prices. Potatoes arid
onions have been our most profitable crops and cabbages and to-
matoes our least profitable ones. The season has not been a prof-
itable one in this section, owing to the poor market caused by the
strike in Fall River.
Dartmouth (F. H. Mosher). — Indian corn is about a normal
crop, except the late planted. Farm stock is in fair condition.
Root crops are below average in yield and of poor quality. P^all
seeding has much improved in the past two weeks. The prices
for crops raised for market average slightly above those of the two
preceding years. Hay and forage crops have been our most prof-
itable crops and potatoes our least profitable one, some fields rot-
27
ting so badly that they were not harvested. As a whole the season
has been less profitable than the average on acconnt of drought,
early frosts and insect pests.
Acushnet (M. S. Douglas). — The corn crop was very late and
the early frosts damaged it to such an extent that it is not over
two-thirds of a normal crop. All root crops except potatoes have
turned out well. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding
is in good condition, but is backward. Prices on all products
have been lower than usual. Hay has been our most profitable
crop and potatoes our least profitable one, owing to a light crop
and low prices. Turnips and celery not yet harvested but looking
well, prices very low. I do not think that the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.
PLYMOUTH COUNTY.
Hingham (Aaron Low) . — The corn crop did not ear out well
and is below the average. Root crops have not been up to the
average in this section. Farm stock is in first-class condition,
pastures having been unusually good. Fall seeding has come up
well and is growing finely. Cabbages have not headed out well.
Prices for crops raised for market have been a fair average. Po-
tatoes are our most profitable crop and cabbages our least profit-
able one, almost a total failure. The season has not been more
than an average one for profit.
Norwell (H. A. Turner). — Indian corn is about two-thirds of
a normal crop. Root crops are good, but potatoes have rotted
somewhat. Farm stock is in good conclition. Fall seeding is
fairly good. Prices for crops raised for market have been about
the same as usual. Hay and cauliflowers have been our most
profitable crops and potatoes and apples our least profitable ones.
Considered as a whole, the season has been a fairly profitable one
for our farmers.
West Bridgeioater (C. P. Howard). — Indian corn is not quite
up to the average. Potatoes have rotted badly. Stock comes in
from the pastures looking well. Fall seeding is looking well.
Market gardeners have complained of low prices for their crops.
Potatoes have been our most profitable crop and onions and corn
our least profitable ones. This is about an average season for
profit with most farmers.
Pembroke (Nathaniel Morton). — Indian corn is below the
normal in value. Root crops are not up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in about the usual condition. Fall seeding is in very
28
good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been bet-
ter than usual. Potatoes have been our most profitable crop and
apples our least profitable one. Considered as a whole, the season
has been a fairly profitable one for our farmers.
Halifax (G. W. Hayward). — Corn is about an average crop.
Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good
condition, better than for a long while. Early fall seeding looks
finely. Prices for potatoes are low, the market being glutted for
fear of rot, but other crops bring about the usual prices. Hay
has been our most profitable crop and corn our least profitable one.
The season has been a fairly profitable one, no crop having been a
general failure.
Kingston (George L. Churchill). — Corn is about four-fifths
of a normal crop. Root crops have proved to be fairly good.
Farm stock is in very good condition. Fall seeding is in very
fair condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been up
to the standard of former years. Potatoes have been our most
profitable crop and turnips our least profitable one. The season
has been a peculiar one, but most crops have grown well, and the
season has been as profitable as usual.
Rochester (Geo. H. Randall). — Indian corn is about two-
thirds of a normal crop. Root crops are up to the usual average.
Farm stock is in very good condition. Fall seeding is in very
good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been
lower than usual. Potatoes and onions have been our most profit-
able crops and corn our least profitable one. The season has not
been quite satisfactory from the standpoint of profit. The early
frost damaged corn and cranberries. Apples plenty and prices
low.
BARNSTABLE COUNTY.
Falmouth (D. R. Wicks). — Corn will compare favorably with
a normal crop. Root crops, so far as harvested, are up to the
usual average. Farm stock is in fine condition, as there is good
fall feed and plenty of it. Fall seeding is looking well. Prices
for crops raised for market have been a little better than usual in
most cases. Potatoes and hay have been our most profitable crops
and peas and beans our least profitable ones. Taken as a whole
I think the season has been a profitable one.
Mashpee (W. F. Hammond). — The corn crop is below the
normal in value. Root crops are up to the usual average. Farm
stock is in good condition, rather above the average. Prices
received for crops raised for market have been above the average.
29
Hay has been our most profitable crop and cranberries our least
profitable one, being damaged by a late June frost and early Sep-
tember one. The season has been about an average one for profit.
Barnstahle (John Bursley) . — Indian corn is about 85 per cent
of a normal crop, the early frost injuring grain and stover. Root
crops are up to the usual average. Farm stock is in good condi-
tion. Fall seeding is in good condition. Prices for cranberries,
our staple crop, are 20 per cent less than in 1902 and 1903, —
prices for other crops much the same as usual. Cranberries have
been our most profitable crop. Considered as a whole, the season
has been a profitable one for our farmers.
Dennis (Joshua Crowell). — Indian corn is about a normal
crop. Root crops are hardly up to the usual average. Faitn stock
is in very good condition. Fall seeding is in good condition.
Prices for crops raised for market have been about average, rather
less than more. The cranberry crop, which is perhaps the main
crop in this section, suffered severly from a late frost in June and
from frosts of unprecedented severity in September, and at the
same time low prices have been received, so that the outcome is
far from satisfactory. I think the season has hardly been an
average one for profit.
Brewster (Thos. D.'Sears). — The corn crop is fully up to the
average. Root crops are not up to the usual average. The con-
dition of farm stock is good. Fall seeding is fully average in con-
dition. All crops except cranberries are bringing prices fully up
to those ireceived in former years. Cranberries have been our
most profitable crop and onions our least profitable one. The
season has not been a profitable one for our farmers.
Eastham (J. A. Clark). — Root crops are not up to the usual
average. Farm stock is in good condition. Fall seeding is in
good condition. Prices for crops raised for market have been a
fair average with former years. Asparagus has been our most
profitable crop. Considered as a whole the season has been a
profitable one for our farmers.
30
BULLETIN OF
Massachusetts Board of Agriculture.
BEE KEEPING: HOW TO MEET ITS DANGERS AND
DIFFICULTIES.
By Burton N. Gates, with Buggestlons from Prof. C. F. Hodge.
Massachusetts produces less than one-fourth of the honey consumed
in the State. The past year this amount was approximately 200 tons,
of which 15 tons came from Vermont and upward of 145 tons from Cali-
fornia. With a population of 2,805,000 this would give 0.14 of a pound,
or less than two tablespoonfuls of honey per person as a year's ration.
The average yield of honey per colonj' in the above named States in
1900 was as follows : —
Pounds.
Vermont, 14.2
Massachusetts, •. . . 13.0
California 28.3
while in Texas, which produced the largest amount of anj^ one State,
the yield per colony was only 12.2 pounds.
These averages are all low and must be considered to mean, in the
main, inefficient management, yet the colonies in California are being
handled more generally according to modern and improved methods.
Not infrequently well-managed apiaries in Massachusetts produce from
30 to 50 pounds, and yields of over 100 pounds of surplus comb honey
are not rare. With the adequate development of the industi'y there is
no doubt that Massachusetts could i^roduce all the honey annually con-
sumed within the State, and even beyond that amount, without straining
the limits of our natural resources.
We have been requested to make this article supplement somewhat
the excellent paper, " Bee Keeping, its Pleasures and Profits," by Prof.
James B. Paige.* In order that we may enjoy the "pleasures and
profits " of bee keeping it is certainly needful that we be armed and
equipped to meet the difficulties and prevent the losses which sometimes
threaten the industry.
With a capital value in 1900 of $10,186,000, for the United States as a
whole, the bees returned as profits and wages products to the amount
of $6,665,000. This is about 65 per cent interest on the investment, and
* Massachusetts Crop Report, July 31, 1903; also Agriculture of Massachusetts, 1903,
pp. 399-411.
31
returns of 100 to 200 per cent are sometimes realized in special cases of
good management and favorable conditions. The large returns indicate
that bee keeping is an industry which liberally rewards intelligent eflfort,
and there is no agricultural pursuit in which accuracy and the determi-
nation to do everything required at exactly the right time counts for so
much. No similar industry yields such large rewards and no occupation
is more exacting in the matter of prom})tness when anything needs to
be done. Unless we are sure of being able to do each part of the work
at the proper season we should not attempt bee keeping.
Wintering Bees.
Of all the dangers and difficulties confronting the bee keeper that of
wintering his bees in this latitude and climate, with its sudden changes,
was brought most closely home to many this past winter. Some lost
every swarm, others eighty per cent. The man who successfully brought
through to spring fifty per cent or more of his colonies is indeed to be
congratulated. But the extreme and prolonged cold was not the chief
cause of this excessive loss. Bees have been known to winter safely
under all manner of conditions; in stone jars, thin wooden shipping
boxes both shallow and deep, in glass hives and even in hives with no
bottom to prevent the wind from sweeping up between the combs. Yet
the bees must have maintained their normal temperature. Something
besides outside protection is necessai'y to the successful wintering of
bees. Certainly one of the necessities of successful wintering is plenty
of food, chiefly honey, although Cheshire* states that pollen is essential
to strong wintering. He says : " Honey the bees consume to enable them
to produce heat and give foi'th energy, and pollen to renew their nerve
and muscle waste, selecting the one or the other as nature needs." These
footls, it has been demonstrated by experiment, are best arranged in the
hive by the bees themselves, and not supplied by slipping into the cluster
late in the fall a frame or two of honey. This may act like a division
board and separate the cluster. In order to avoid the need of doing this,
if a swarm is weak in the fall, feed the bees early in September a syrup
of sugar and water, half and half, or extracted honey if you have it.
The bees will then deposit the food where they can use it when clustered
in winter.
Another factor of extreme importance is a population of young thrifty
bees in a colony. Bees which have worked all summer, gathering honey
and raising brood, are worn out, and cannot survive the winter if they
do the fall. During the winter bees are quiet, there is no wear and tear
upon them. They merely hang in a compact cluster wilhiu the brood
nest, moving about onh^ enough to procure food from time to time.
Thus young bees, when winter sets in, are capable of resting throughout
the cold months, being fresh when spring opens up.
To summarize: the two essentials are, have plenty of naturally ar-
ranged stores, with plenty of young bees. Bees enough to cover six
standard Langstroth frames will usually winter well.
* Frank R. Cheshire, " Bees and Bee Keeping," Vol. IT., p. ^2f), London, England.
32
Besides these essentials some protection for the outside of the hive is
desirable. It has been customary for years to winter bees in long, low
sheds or tenement hives. These are expensive and cumbersome and are
apt to harbor mice, which sometimes destroy the bees. Better satisfac-
tion is generally obtained by the use of chatf or double walled hives.
Still further in the direction of simplicity, Mr. Arthur C. Miller, of
Providence, R. I., has worked out the plan of wrapping the hives in
four or five thicknesses of paper, covering top, sides and ends. Tarred
roofing paper is preferred for the outside layer because waterproof and
black, the color serving to absorb heat. Mr. Miller has found that bees
may be wintered safely in any single-walled hive, even a quarter inch
in thickness, Avith this .simple protection. The paper is held in place by
strips tacked around the bottom.
Cellar-wintering is another method, little practised in Massachusetts,
yet of great value in Canada or the West. After being in some dis-
repute for several years, it is now coming to the front again as a
successful method for cold and exposed locations. A dark, dry cellar,
with good ventilation, in which the temperature can be kept at about
45° F., is suitable for the purpose. The hives are set on timbers, with
the bottom board removed for ventilation. They are put in after settled
cold weather begins in the fall and are not brought out until spring is
well arrived, many leaving the bees in winter quarters until the first
of May.
The Bee Moth or " Wax Worm."
Probably the greatest of all losses to bee keepers in the past have been
caused by this insect. It is said to have been chiefl}" responsible for the
decline in bee keeping dui'ing the past century. In the earlier days of
the industry in America farmers kept their colonies in any receptacle,
regardless of uniformlt}'. Sometimes bees wei'e hived in straw skeps,
as was the old custom in Europe ; moi'e frequently they were kept in
old boxes of odd dimensions, or even in barrels or kegs. Again, if a
swarm was found wild in the Woods, the tree was sawed off above and
below the colony, and this section was then taken home and. set up
among the boxes and barrels. Such an apiar}' certainly could not pre-
sent the neat appearance of the modern uniform hives. When honey
was taken the whole colony had to be sacrificed, being usually " brim-
stoned." In such hives, if the wax worm gained entrance, the colony
was usually beyond recovery before the owner knew what was going
on. Even later in the century, when bees came to be kept generally in
uniform " box-hives," there was no way of gaining access to the combs
and hence the wax worm could be controlled no better than in the hollow
log. The moth increased unchecked, and until the movable frame hive
was invented, nothing could be done to save the industry.
At bottom the diflBculty was that bee keepers did not study their enemy
and from a knowledge of the life history of the bee moth discover some
means of cliecking its attacks. Even at present, with all the devices
which make the control of the pest .so easy, no bee keeper is safe who
cannot recognize the insect at a glance in any of its different stages-
33
The moth is about three-fourths of an inch in length, dull, ashy gray,
streaked in imitation of a weathered chip and may be seen flitting rapidly
about the entrance of the hive at dusk The life history of the bee moth
may be briefly sketched as follows. The moth deposits her spherical
white eggs singly about the entrance or in the crevices of the hive, inside,
if she can gain admittance. As soon as the caterpillar hatches it begins
feeding on the combs, where it tunnels along the midrib, the tunnel or
gallery increasing in size as the larva grows It thus burrows through
the bases of the cells, possibly destroying great numbers of eggs and
young bees, and as it goes it lines its passageway with a tough, silken
web. In three or four weeks the caterpillar attains its growth and is
about one inch in length. It then withdraws to some secure crevice,
often gnawing a cavity in a frame or in the sides of the hive, and there
spins a strong cocoon. In this it changes into a pupa and after from
ten to fourteen days emerges as the adult moth, ready, after mating, to
repeat the life cycle.
If the caterpillars gain entrance to a hive earl}' in the season, and
produce four broods before winter, as is usual in this State, it is to be
expected that a colony will be much weakened from loss of j'oung bees,
and will not be able to survive the winter. This was the condition in
the old-fashioned hives in which so many colonies were destroyed.
These were left about the farm, a mass of webs and cocoons, which
acted as a breeding place for the whole neighborhood. Had the
farmers known the nature of the pest they cnuld have easily saved
much further infestation by merely destroying the old combs and hives
as fast as the bees died.
To-day, however, things have changed, the ravages of the moth are
checked, so that in some States it is nearly exterminated. This has been
brought about mainly by the improved hives, with movable frames,
which enable every part of the colony to be examined. Even with such
facilities the common black or German bee, of which we will speak later,
requires constant attention. The hive must be opened at least once in
eight or ten days, and whenever the wax worms have gained a foothold
the caterpillars can be traced in their galleries, and with a long pin or
knife blade can be cut out or killed. Even with this constant attention
infested black bees are frequently lost. From this it may readily be
seen how impossible the task of fighting wax worms was years ago in
the old box hives.
An equally important move toward controlling the bee moth was made
when the United States Department of Agriculture introduced Italian bees
into this country. Fortunately these and some of the still more recently
introduced races do not tolerate the presence of a wax worm in their
combs. Wherever the bee moth exists, and we I'egret to say that this
probably includes all of Massachusetts, simply requeen with Italian or
other moth-proof strain and the battle is won.* Hence by the use of
* For the method of introducing new races or etraina of bees in your apiary, refer to
some of the standard works on bee culture, under head of " Introducing Queens."
Many of these works were mentioned at tlie close of Professor I'aigc's article.
34
modern hives and suj^erloi* races of bees, the bee moth problem entirely
disappears as a difficulty. In reality, if this pest serves as a means of
improving methods and stock, it should be looked upon as a blessing in
disguise.
Robbing.
This is a real and serious difficulty, to avoid which the bee keeper
should carry with him an ounce of prevention and use it all the time.
As Mr. Root expresses it, " A stitch in time will save a great many more
than nine in this case." Phrasing the proverb to suit the bees, the love
of honey is the root of all evil. Generally robbing may be traced to
honey spilled or left carelessly where bees can get at it during a time of
scarcity or honey famine. The diiference between preventing any access
to honey and stopping the riot, when an apiary is in an uproar of rob-
bing, may be likened to that of putting out a match and a conflagration.
Robbing may be detected by the high-keyed, angry tone of the bees
and their quick and nervous flight. Great apparent uproar and confu-
sion among the bees is sometimes occasioned by the young bees swarm-
ing out for their daily play spell. Beginners often mistake this for
robbing, but the mild and joyous hum of the bees and the absence of
fighting about the entrances should serve to distinguish between the two.
When we discover the hive that is being attacked we shall probably find
bees fighting at the entrance and heaps of dead around the alighting
board, while others are trying to gain admittance through cracks about
the hive. They are likely to be cross and to sting promiscuously, causing
injury to stock and annoyance to passers by.
To prevent robbing we must never have honey about in any form, the
taste of which may start the craze. Avoid opening hives as much as
possible during periods of honey scarcity. Keep all colonies strong if
possible, and, when honey is not coming in, contract the entrances of
the weaker swarms to the width of one or two bees. Lastly, and most
important of all, keep only "civilized " bees. Here is another reason
for impi'oving stock. A small nucleus of Italian bees or of the other
improved races will successfully defend their hives, under conditions
in which a moderately strong swarm of black bees would be over-
powered.
If robbing has begun, immediately contract the entrances of the hives
attacked to the width of a single bee and throw a handful of weeds over
it to further confuse the enemy. If robbing bees are numerous it is also
well to smoke them vigorously. In cases of persistent robbing, the plan
of exchanging the greater part of the frames of the two hives concerned
is sometimes to be I'ccom mended.
Bee Diseases.
We now come to the grim part of our theme. For a man to say that
the bee moth has injured his apiary is a frank admission of ignorance
or neglect on his part. For him to bewail his afflictions from robbing
marks him as one who is careless if not slovenly in his methods. For
him to say that his bees have foul brood carries as yet no stigma, for we
35
do not know how it originates or wliere it comes from. This tells us
simply that he is unfortunate.
Brood diseases and djsenter}^ were known in the days of Aristotle.
Baron Dyierzon, in 18-18, lost his entire apiary of 500 colonies from an
epidemic of disease.
A condition commonly called dysentery sometimes appears in an
apiary, generally among the weaker swarms, especially in the early
spring or after a long period of confinement of the bees within the
hives. Bees normally void all exci'ement on the wing and outside the
hive, but under the above conditions they may soil the hive, combs and
one another with yellowish-brown stains. This may go on until the
whole colony perishes, a mass of mouldy bees in the bottom of the hive.
Of course a good many bees may die, especially in unfavorable weather,
of old age and weakness in the early spring, and we should not be sur-
prised to find possibly a quail or two dead in front of a hive at such
times. I have never known it to go farther than this unless the entrance
became clogged with dead bees. Generally, if the bees are able to fly
freely for a day of bright, warm weather, the trouble disappears, and
with a little help in scraping the bottom board, etc., the bees clean up
the hive in short order. This is generally done as a matter of course
during the first warm days of spring, when the bees begin to fly. In
exceptionally bad cases, it may be advisable to shake the bees onto clean
combs in a clean hive.
In severer cases bad food, especially honey made by the bees from
" honey-dew " is probably at the root of the difficulty. Hone)'-dew is
excreted by aphids or plant lice, which often cover the leaves of trees
in dry seasons with a sweetish substance, giving them the appearance of
being varnished. Bees do not ordinarily collect this, if they can find
nectar in the flowers, but as a last resort in seasons of scarcity they may
attempt to use it for winter stoi'es. As stored in the combs, such honey
is commonly very dark and has a nauseating taste. Careful bee keepers
in preparing the bees for winter generally remove the frames containing
such honey and either feed sugar syrup or supply, in good season and
carefully placed, combs of clean and wholesome honey.
In this connection a word of caution is in order against allowing bees
to soil washings on the line. With bees in cities this nuisance often
causes ill feeling among neighbors. To prevent this simply confine the
bees on wash days or until all clothes within the danger line, say within
a radius of a hundred feet, are taken in.
By far the most serious diseases of bees are those which attack the
brood. They may occur any time in the summer and are known under
the popular names of "foul brood," "pickled brood," "bad brood,"
"black brood "or "the New York bee disease," and so on. Of these,
the diff'erences, if any, are so slight and technical that we cannot here
consider them. For simplicity then, we will speak of the brood disease
which has gained a firm hold in certain localities of Massachusetts as
foul brood.
A foul brood colony in a neighborhood should be regarded as danger-
ous to the bees as a case of smallpox is to man. The strictest laws
36
should protect bee-men from the possible contagion through neglect of
a diseased colony by some thoughtless neighbor. Massachusetts affords
no such protection, unfortunately, as is secured in New York, Michigan
and other States. In New York, inspectors, one to each of the four
divisions of the State, have been appointed by the State Department of
Agriculture, to visit everybody who keeps bees. Wherever a bad colony
is found it is either treated and cured or destroyed, according to the
discretion of the inspector. The result is that fewer cases of foul brood,
or as they term it black brood, have been found this year than last. It
is expected by this means to stamp it out entirely within a few years.
Although the disease is not so general in Massachusetts it is here and
will surely spread if some efficient measures are not taken to stop it.
We need a live State Bee Keeper's Association, with branch societies in
every county. Then by a vigorous effort of our combined forces we
may insure protection and cure.
The first signs of the disease are, — failure of the young bees to
hatch, dead larvre are dragged from their cells, capped cells are sunken
or torn open. Later as the disease progresses putrefaction sets in, the
once milk-white larvae turn yellow, then brown and black, and sink, a
slimy mass, to the lower side of the cell. These putrid larvae have
sometimes a characteristic "glue-pot" smell and are viscid and ropy,
characteristics which are not constant, and which have for this reason
caused people to believe there are many kinds of foul brood. If the
dead larval mass is allowed to remain in the cell, it dries down to a chip
or scale, which closely adheres to the wall. The next larva raised in
that cell comes in contact with the disease and dies, and thus the colony
dwindles away.
The cause of the disease is definitely known to be a bacterium, bacillus
alvei, a microscopic plant. It lives upon the tissues of the larval bee,
and when mature breaks up into spores, also microscopic, capable of
living a long time under all sorts of conditions of temperature and dry-
ness. The spores correspond to the seeds of higher plants, and they
are found not only in the cells where the brood has died, but also in the
honey, pollen, and upon the walls of the hive. Thus it is important that
no matei'ial from a diseased swarm comes in contact with healthy bees.
This may be pi'evented by isolating a diseased swarm as soon as dis-
covered. If the swarm is weak it may be best to burn the bees and
disinfect the hive. If strong they may be cured by the following treat-
ment, which has been practised with success. Open the isolated colony
toward night when danger of spreading the disease by means of robber
bees is past, shake the swarm from the infected combs onto fresh frames
of foundation in a clean hive. Return the new hive to the old stand and
allow the bees to use up what honey they have in their honey sacs,
drawing out the foundation. As soon as the bees begin to drop from
the frames from starvation you may begin to feed, but not before. By
this means none of the honey carried from the old hive is deposited in
the new cells. Bees treated thus are usually cured.
Further care must be taken to destroy the germs in the old hive.
Cheshire says : " The destruction of the hive is never necessary. It
37
may be used again with perfect safety, if, having been washed and
dried, it be scrupulously painted with a mixture of two parts methy-
lated spirit and one part carbolic acid crystals, or one and one-half parts
good white fluid carbolic acid. This mixture not only destroys all
bacilli, but it glues them down by dissolving the propolis." For wash-
ing corrosive sublimate solution (Mercuric chloride), one-eighth ounce
in a gallon of water, may be used to advantage. A thorough rinsing
must follow.
Fumigation of the hive with formaldehyde gas has been advocated,
but recently this has not been found to penetrate the wax and honey
suflBciently to kill all germs. A better method is to extract the honey
and melt up the combs. Heat these for an hour or so as high as possi-
ble without burning. This will kill all germs. Then run off the wax,
which may be again used. The honey also is rendered wholesome for
either man or bees.
After handling diseased colonies the hands and all tools must be thor-
oughly disinfected before permitting them to touch healthy stock.
So far as we know every case of foul brood arises from infested bees
in the neighborhood. A hive dies out, the owner neglects to examine it,
possibly does not know that it is dead, but other bees rob it out and
carry the germs wherever they go. Thus, like an epidemic in a city,
the disease spreads until checked. When brood disease strikes in, the
only hope of saving the industry in a neighborhood lies in prompt and
energetic action on the part of every bee keeper.
The main difficulties of bee keeping have been considered and none
of them are insurmountable. A few minor dangers remain to be briefly
noticed.
Spraying trees during fruit bloom has caused severe loss in some sec-
tions, by poisoning great numbers of bees. Spraying at this time is
never necessary and is prohibited by law in some and should be in all
States. The direction given by Prof. M. V. Slingerland in Cornell
Experiment Station Bulletin 142, p. 58, "The Coddling Moth," is,—
" never spray a fruit tree when it is in blossom. You can reach the
insect and fungous enemies as effectively, and in some cases more so,
either just before or just after the trees bloom." You may then be cer-
tain of poisoning no bees.
Mice and rats have a sweet tooth and if allowed to will work havoc
in an apiary in winter. This may be prevented by tacking over the
entrances wire mesh of proper size, not to prevent the passage of bees,
but to keep out the mice. All surplus combs or honey must be stored
in mouse-proof rooms or boxes. A better way .still is to completely rid
the premises of all such pests and then keep traps well baited and set
the year around. Place no dependence on cats to do the job thoroughly
enough, and with the pests once inside the hives the cats cannot get them.
The king bird is commonly supposed to feed upon bees, the name
" bee-bird " or " bee-eater " being commonly applied to it in some sections.
Examinations of 281 stomachs of birds shot feeding about apiaries re-
vealed, however, the remains of only 4 worker bees, 40 drones and a
number of robber flies which are known to prey upon laden workers.
38
Thus the king bird must be accounted an active friend of the bee
keeper. ,
Toads sometimes take a few bees about the entrances of the hives.
The remedy for this is to raise the hive a few inches from the ground
and provide a generous alighting board.
Improved Stock.
In bee keeping, as in other lines of husbandry, in addition to intelli-
gent care, " improved stock " is the watchword of success. We have
already seen that the dangers connected with the bee moth, with robbing
and even with wintering may be reduced to a minimum by attention to
this point. Most of the difficulty of handling "cross" bees may be met
in the same way, and this is no small matter with beginners, amateurs
and those who keep bees in towns or cities.
For nearly fifty years the United States Department of Agriculture
has been searching the world over to discover superior races of bees
and has imported and tested a number of them. As a result we now
have the following races (except Apis dorsata), the comparative advan-
tages of which may be seen at a glance from the table given below.
Ten indicates highest excellence and so on down.
Comparative Value of Different Races of Bees.
Race.
Gentle-
ness.
Honey
Gather-
ing.
Resist-
ance
to Bee
Moth.
Winter-
ing.
Proliflc-
ness.
Swarm-
ing.
Length
of
Tongue.
Total
Points.
Black, .
5
6
4
8
.5
6
6
40
Italian, .
8
8
8
6
7
8
8
53
Carniolan,
9
8
8
10
9
10
8
6-2
Cyprian, .
7
10
10
"'
10
8
10
62
Dorsata,!
7
8
'J
0
8
I
10
33?
Caucasian,
10
8
8
8
9
8
5
51?
From the rating in the table we see that probably no one would keep
black bees, if he knew better. Further than this, anyone who keeps
black bees in a locality endangers the purity of his neighbor's stock. In
most sections of the State this constitutes the greatest difficulty connected
with the maintenance of pure high grade bees, since the black bees are
likely to produce great numbers of drones which mate with the virgin
queens of other races. The hybrids resulting from this cross are some-
times vigorous bees and good workers, but are likely to be the meanest
bees to handle that we have. The practical impossibility of controlling
* See " Nature Study and Life," Ginn & Co., 1902, p. 241. This table gives Professor
Frank's latest rating, including also the Caucasian race, under date, July 17, 1904.
t This is Apis dorsata, Fab., the giant honey bee of East India. All attempts to im-
port it having failed, little is known concerning its relative value. It builds huge combs
live or si-Y feet in length and three or four feet wide attached to overhanging ledges or
to branches of lofty trees.
39
the moth where black bees are kept should alone suffice to relegate this
race to the back woods.
The Italian bees have been popular since their introduction in 1860.
They are a large, light-colored bee, readily distinguished from the black
by having at least the first three bands of the abdomen j-ellow or leather-
colored. They are quiet and gentle and hence easily manipulated.
They cling to the combs, when these are lifted from the hive and thus
the queen may be readily found at any time. In I'esistance to bee moths,
prolificness, honey production and other valuable qualities, the Italian
bees are seen to be far sujierior to the blacks. The race has so long
almost monopolized the attention of pi'ogressive apiarists that a number
of superior strains have been produced by careful breeding and selection.
The Carniolan bees were imported from the Alpine province of
Carniola in 1884. They are large ashy gray bees with silvery white
hairs, very beautiful and gentle. Professor Benton calls them " ladies'
bees," and they are especially recommended to beginners or children.
Carniolans cap their honey extremely white, they winter best of any
race, they do not tolerate the moth in their hives, they are industrious,
working especially well on late flowers, and they are verj' prolific.
About the only questionable quality of the Carniolans is said to be their
excessive swarming, but this may be largely controlled by proper shad-
ing and by giving plenty of room in the hives.
The Cyprian bees, introduced from the island of Cyprus, are a small
slender bee with three bands of the abdomen yellow above and all the
segments, often to the tip of the abdomen, yellow undei'neath. They
are industrious and energetic and hold the record over all other races
for honey production, 1,000 pounds having been secured from a single
swarm (spring count) in a season. They may often be observed actively
at work while other bees are " loafing." It is said that they never molest
anyone passing or working among the hives unless the hive itself is
disturbed, when they become the fiercest and most persistent of fighters.
They protect their hives better than other races from bee moths, robber
bees and all other intruders, but on this account they have gained a
reputation for viciousness in handling, which, from my own experience
with stock obtained directly of Mr. Benton, I think they do not deserve.
They were easily reduced to subjection with smoke and could often be
handled without it. In point of prolificness the Cyprians are truly
phenomenal. My experience with a single swarm does not permit me
to speak in general terras, but I introduced the queen in a very weak
colony in June and by the middle of July it had become a veritable
volcano of bees, swarming daily and pei'sistently in spite of cutting out
of queen cells and the removal of numerous extra queens. A large
amount of honey was evidently produced, but it was practically all used
for rearing bees and no surplus was obtained from this colony. At
present writing I cannot recommend Cyprian bees for ISIassachusetts,
but further experiment may change this opinion.
With regard to the newly introduced Caucasian bees, Mr. Benton
writes, under date of July 6, 1904. "I feel pretty safe in calling the
Caucasians a valuable addition to our races of bees. They are Indus-
40
trious, prolific, and the gentlest of any bees with which I am familiar,
not even excepting the Carniolans. They have wintered successfully in
comparison to other races in the latitude of Denver, Colorado, and have
not here (Washington, D. C.) shown themselves inferior in wintering
qualities to ordinary strains of Italians. We may thus hope for good
reports in the near future."
Much attention is now being devoted to discovering or breeding a
strain of bees with tongues long enough to reach the nectar in the flower
tubes of red clover. In 1900 the A. I. Root Co. ofi'ered a prize for the
bees having the longest tongues. This was awarded to Mr. J. P. Moore
of Morgan, Ky., whose bees were found to have tongues measuring
■^^ of an inch in length. (Ordinary bees measure but ^Vo-) This
length of tongue enables the bees to secure nectar from most of the
flower tubes of red clover and thus to fill their hives with honey that
common bees cannot reach. Cross fertilization of the red clover by these
bees is likely to prove an important item, for which we are now depend-
ent upon the bumblebees. The problem of " red clover bees " is certainly
worthy of attention on the part of Massachusetts apiarists.
In order to put bee culture on a secure footing in Massachusetts we
need first of all a live and united association which shall reach practically
everyone who keeps bees in the State. The purpose of such an organiza-
tion will be to stamp out brood diseases and keep them out of the State,
then to work hard for a few years to secure the general adoption of
modern methods and the maintenance of improved stock. This should
place the industry beyond the reach of the bee moth at least. The as-
sociation may find it necessary also to secure adequate legislation for
protection of the industry. Another need of the State is a model plant
at Amherst and a strong course in practical apiculture. This, which
we are glad to note has already made a beginning, should grow to be
the co-ordinating head and the strong right arm of the association. It
should become the centre in the State for needed instruction, for proper
inspection and development of the industry, for all manner of investiga-
tion and experiment, and, possibly, a depot for distribution of the best
obtainable stock,
While our subject is not, possibly, a cheerful one, still to be forewarned
is to be foreai'med. Most popular writings jH-esent the subject in all its
most rosy lights, and this ought to be so ; for no other branch of industry
has the charm, the fascinating and absorbing interest which keeps people
young and happy and tingles in the blood like a veritable fever of de-
light, when once a mastery of the difliculties of successful bee culture
has been attained. And we have thus briefly presented some of its chief
dangers and difficulties in the hope that more people may come to enjoy
its many " pleasures and profits."
^
< -^
.A..
■i^^
"4 t>-^.
%4
; .i^F^l4-^ i
■ ''^' "ViA-
V ^