UMASS/AMHERS vr^mimj?'-- jw\v^^«^»* jw^.<£«iss^'^ - -w-i & LIBRARY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE no._A^ SB 354 A47 v.1-2 1848-52 Source. izsojsz' i i />*3 ? t J n fir — / wC This book may be kept out TWO WEEKS only, and is subject to a fine of TWO TENTS a day thereafter. It will be due on the day indicated below. 91) IQOfl H!92§ APR 2 «* AU61 5 iW / FWT OF TEE UNITED S71-i7Er: AGfflCVLTffiL&L SOt , i AND TRESIDENI OF TJZ, .,. i \ FOMOIOeiCAZ SOCZETT. , ^elL W^ \aaj \ ^B^r^^ ,-, VivOuXL vW | ^ PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL CONTENTION Of FRUIT GROWERS, HELD IN THE CITY OF NEW- YORK, OCTOBER 10, 1848, UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE. VAN NORDEN & AMERMAN, PRINTERS, 60 William-street. 1848. « fc-v. * i o ~^"Z- NATIONAL CONGRESS OP FRUIT GROWERS, ITS ORIGIN AND OBJECT. Among the varied difficulties attending the cultivation of fine varieties of fruit, there have perhaps been none of more serious a nature than the want of accurate and well defined knowledge of their flavour, productiveness, and habits of growth. There had existed, also, in the catalogues of various commercial establishments, manv varieties of fruits, whose novelty, or perhaps the mere fact of their existence, compelled these establishments to cultivate them to a certain extent, but many of which were worthless, and many more uncertain in their character. To remedy these evils, and to purge the list of all worthless fruit, had long been a desideratum with nurserymen and fruit growers ; and for some three years past much correspondence had taken place upon the subject. The time, however, for action was not thought to have arrived until the past sum- mer ; when the Massachusetts and Pennsylvania Horti- cultural Societies and the American Institute corresponded upon the subject, and the latter offered to provide a room and other conveniences for the accommodation of a Fruit Growers' Convention, to be held in the city of New- York in October. Pursuant to these arrangements a circular wras issued calling a Convention, and all the horticultural and agricul- tural societies in the Union were invited to send delegates. Circulars were also issued, requesting all fruit growers to bring or send to the Convention specimens of their fruit. At the time specified the Convention met at the lecture room of Clinton Hall, in New-York, the body of which was 8 The minutes of the proceedings of yesterday were read and approved. The Committee on the nomination of offi- cers presented the following report : For President, Marshall P. Wilder, of Massachusetts. Vice-Presidents, W. D. Brinckle, of Pennsylvania. R. T. Underhill, New-York. H. H. Crapo, Massachusetts. H. W. S. Cleveland, New-Jersey. A. S. Munson, Connecticut. Thomas Allen, Missouri. A. McIntosh, Ohio. Russell Mattison, Vermont. • fc Yardley Taylor, Virginia. Lawrence Young, Kentucky. Secretaries, S. B. Parsons and P. Barry, of New-York, and Geo. W. Deacon, of New-Jersey. The report was unanimously accepted, and, on motion, a committee was appointed to wait upon Col. Wilder and conduct him to the chair. Gen. Tallmadge, with a few remarks, introduced the President to the Convention. Col. Wilder responded in a pertinent and appropriate manner, for the honour conferred in. electing him to preside over the deliberations of the Convention. He said, they had assembled for the free interchange of experience and opinions, and for the better diffusion of correct pomological knowledge throughout our country. That it was particu- larly gratifying to notice so large an attendance of mem- bers; but, that amidst such congregated learning and intel- ligence, he had not the vanity to believe he could offer any remarks which would be of much instruction or interest. That many gentlemen had come from remote sections, and he knew how anxious they were to proceed to business. He should, therefore, not tax their patience with a speech, but at once invite attention to the objects for which the meeting had been convened, viz : "'To compare fruits from various sources and localities,- with a view of arriving at correct conclusions as to their merits, and to settle doubtful points respecting them. " To assist in determining the synonyms by which the same fruit is known in different parts of the country. " To compare opinions respecting the value of numerous varie- ties in cultivation, and to endeavour to abridge by general consent the long catalogue of indifferent or worthless sorts at the present time propagated by nurserymen and fruit growers. " To elicit and disseminate pomological information, and to maintain a cordial spirit of intercourse among horticulturists." Pomology, he said, had not until recently received the attention its importance demanded ; but that a new im- pulse and a general interest was now pervading the com- munity on this subject, and that it was only necessary to give this a right direction, to make it productive of great good to ourselves, and of permanent advantage to those who may come after us. The committee appointed to receive the names of dele* gates and others in attendance at the Convention, reported as follows : DELEGATES. MASSACHUSETTS. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.— -M. P. Wilder, B. V. French, Samuel Walker, Robert Manning, A. J. Downing, Josiah Lovett, A. D. Williams, W. B. Kingsbury, Azell Bowditch. Worcester Horticultural Society.— -John Milton Earle. Berkshire Co. Horticultural Society. -^Assihel Foote, Samuel Goodrich, Sewell Sargent. New-Bedford Horticultural Society.— James Arnold, H. H. Crapo, W. P. Jenny, J. B. Burgess, J. D. Hall. Northampton Agricultural, Horticultural and Floricultural Club, — ^J. Stebbin3 Lathrop. 2 10 Hampden Co. Horticultural Society. — C. W. Hartwell, D. C. Brewer, B. K. Bliss. Massachusetts State Agricultural Society. — J. C. Gray. Berkshire Agricultural Society. — Asahel Foote, R. H. Campbell. NEW-YORKl. New- York State Agricultural Society. — B. P. Johnson, James Hall. Rensselaer Co. Agricultural Society.— -Win. Busswell and Amos Briggs. Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society. — Herman Wen- dell, V. P. Dow, J. M. "Ward, L. Tucker, B. B. Kirtiand, Jas. Wilson, Wm. Thorburn. Buffalo Horticultural Society. — R. L. Allen. Long Island Horticultural Society. — Gabriel Winter, S. B. Par- sons, W. W. Valk, R. B. Parsons, G. W. Huntsman. Westchester Co. Agricultural Society. — Jas. Hay, H. W. Tib- bets, Wm. L.Ferris, D. K. Sherwood, Henry Wood, P. B. Mead. Greene Co. Agricultural Society. — A. Marks, A. T. Vanslycke. American Institute.— -R. T. Underhill, W. R. Prince, Henry Meigs. Aurora Horticultural Society. — John J. Thomas. Gcnessee Valley Horticultural Society. — P. Barry, Jas. H. Watts* Clinton Co. Agricultural Society. — Jonathan Battey. Queen's Co. Agricultural Society. — G. R. Garretson, Geo. Dv Kimber, Wm. R. Prince, S. B. Parsons, Wm. J. Youngs, D. F. Manice, Chas. N. Doane, Jas. Fleet and A. G. Carl. Fishhill Landing Farmers' and Gardeners'1 Club. — J. S. Rurnsey* J. W. Knevels, D. Brinkerhoff, Chas. Dubois, W. S. Verplanck, F. A. DeWitt, Townsend Glover. Onondaga Horticultural Society .-—Thorn as A. Smith, A. Thorp, Wm. B. Smith. Orange Co. Agricultural Society. — -A. J. Downing, Charles Downing, A. Saul, Robert Dennison, Lindley M. Ferris, Charles Hamilton, Samuel W. Corwin. Oneida Co. Agricultural Society. — Abiram Mills. Dutchess Co. Agricultural Society. — Edwin Haviland, John R. Comstock. Washington Co. Agricultural Society. — Ahira Eldridge, Edward^ Long. Cortland Co. Agricultural Society. — John Miller. Columbia Co. Agricultural Society. — E. G. Studley. 11 PENNSYLVANIA. Tenn. Horticultural Society. — Thomas Hancock, W. D. Brinkle, Alan W. Corson, R. Hare, R. Buist, Thomas P. James, Samuel C. Ford. Westchester Co. Horticultural Society. — Ezra Stokes. NEW-JERSEY. New- Jersey Horticultural Society. — H. W. S. Cleveland, Ira B. Underbill, George B. Deacon, Samuel Allinson, jr., Isaac Pullen, Marcus L. Ward, J. Vandeventer, Thomas Lavender, J. W. Hayes. Princeton. — J. S. Van Dyke. Delaware Co. Institute of Science. — George Smith, S. Morton, J. Painter, A. B. Williamson. Essex Co. Institute. — J. W. Hayes, J. B. Lindsay, Jos. Gross, William Rankin, Moses B. Coe, S. Harrison, Linden A. Smith, {rideon Ross, L. J. Harris. Morris Co. Agricultural Society. — D. J. Ganfield, Samuel J. Gustin. DELAWARE. Delaware Horticultural Society. — J. W. Thompson, Ed. Tatnall. KENTUCKY. Louisville Horticultural Society. — Lawrence Young. MISSOURI. St. Louis Horticultural Society. — Thomas Allen. VIRGINIA. Virginia Horticultural Society. — Yardley Taylor, of Loudon Co. 0 OHIO. Cleveland Horticultural Society, — A. Mcintosh. CONNECTICUT. Connecticut Natural History Society. — Erastus Smith, Henry W. Terry. 12 New-Haven Horticultural Society. — A. S. Munson, J. J. Walter J. T. Gerry, E. E. Clark, N. F. Thompson, George Gabriel, C. B. Lines. Hartford Co. Agricultural Society. — -Salmon Lyman. Litchfield Agricultural Society. — Robbins Battell, W. Hfi Thompson. RHODE-ISLAND. Rhode Island Horticultural Society.— -L. C. Eaton. VERMONT. Bennington Agricultural Society. —Russell Mattison. Persons, many of whom were contributors of fruits, and desirous of taking a part in the proceedings of the Conven- tion, were invited to be present, and the following gentle- men took their seats : Isaac Buchanan, New-York. Alexander Smith, Jas. Hogg, '•* H. Ripley, A. C. Bradley, P. B. Sherwood, " A. C. Van Epps, " T. Fowkes, " John J. Boyd, M Seba Smith, " Isaac Bloodgood, " J. M. E. Valk, Flushing, N. Y. Joseph H. King, " " Jno. Wilcomb, Win. J. Wilcomb, " Andrew Frazer, Long Island, N. Y. E, P. Disosway, Statcn Island, N. Y. M. Lapaugh, Rensselaerville, N. Y. E. Merriam, Lewis Co., N. Y. Jno. G. Bergen, Brooklyn, N. Y. D. P. Gardner, Hastings, N. Y. Henry Sheldon, Tarrytown, N. Y. H. Holcomb, Watertown, N. Y. Hon. Hugh Maxwell, Rockland, N. Y. Jno. Wood, Long Island, N. Y. Fred'k. Olmsted, Staten Island, N. Y. W. S. Carpenter, Westchester Co. N. Y. W. A. Jackson, Caldwell, Essex Co. N. h Geo. Olmsted, E. Hartford, Conn. David Miller jr., Carlisle, Pa. S. W. Carwin, So. Middletown, Conn. Solon Dike, Mass. 0. M. Hovey, Boston, Mass. Ward Stafford, Bloomfield, N. J. Thos. W. Stafford, Sheldon Moore, Kensington, Conn. Caleb Roscoe, Sing Sing, JN, Y. S. Lvman. W. T. Cook, New-Bedford, Mass. Seymour Whitney, Stratford, Conn. Henry Keeler, J. N. Bates, Barre, Mass. J. Smith, Wyndham. Chas. Sears, Monmouth Co., N. J. Mr. Kellog, ) N. A. Mr. Guillaudeu, I Phalanx. John J. Thomag, from the Business Committee, then reported the following rules to govern the business of the Convention : 1st. During certain hours of the session the Special Fruit Com- mittee shall be in sitting to examine fruits. 2d. All examinations of fruit presented during the present sitting of the Convention shall be made in the committee room, wher© statements to the committee must also be made. 13 3d. The result of their labours shall he made known to the 'Convention in successive reports during its sittings. 4th. In all the discussions which may arise in the Convention, no member shall speak more than five minutes, nor more than twice on the same subject. The report was accepted. On motion of A. J. Downing, Resolved, That a Special Fruit Committee be appointed for the examination of fruits. The Chair appointed the following gentlemen : A. J. Downing, Thos. Hancock, J. J. Thomas, Robert • Buist, Robert Manning, Dr. Herman Wendell, Josiah Lo- vett, L. C. Eaton, and Geo. Gabriel. Wm. R. Prince offered a resolution, calling for the ap- pointment of a committee to prepare and report to the Convention a list of a certain number of the various fruits that could be recommended for general cultivation. After some remarks from Mr. Prince, explanatory of the objects of his resolution, it was, on motion, referred to the Special Fruit Committee. The committee appointed to receive and report a list of the fruits exhibited, reported as follows : Aaron D. Williams, Roxbury, Mass. Pears, 10 varieties. Samuel Allinson, Mercer, N. J. Apples, 8 varieties- Morris & Stokes, Westchester, Chester Co., Perm. Plum, 1 variety. Apples, 9 do. Herman Wendell, Albany, N. Y. Pears, 10 varieties. Wilson, Thorburn & Teller, Albany, n.y. Pears, 8 varieties. Apples, 2 do. Isaac Sherman, Milton, Ulster Co., N.Y. Apples, 9 varieties. Pear, 1 do. Quince, 1 do. Jonathan Batty, Keesville, N. Y. Apples, 29 varieties. Rob't Washburn, Rensselaer Co., N. Y. Apples, 1 variety— seedling. J. C. Hastings, Clinton, Oneida Co., N.Y. Apples, 16 varieties. Pears, 1 do. — seedling. Yardley Taylor, Loudon Co., Vir. Apples, 5 varieties. W. S. Carpenter, Harrison, N. Y. Apples, 1 variety. Thomas A. Smith, Syracuse, N. Y. Pears, 5 varieties. Apples, 14 do. Thorp & Smith, Syracuse, N.Y. Pears, 4 varieties. Apples, 27 do. H. W. Sargent, Fishkill Landing, N. Y. Grapes, 9 varieties. Peaches, 2 do. Plums, 2 do. Pears, 15 do. M. P. Wilder, Boston, Mass. Pears, 120 varieties. Apples, 4 do. B. V. French, Braintree, Mass. 73 varieties of Apples. Ellwanger, Barry & Rowe, Rochester, N.Y. 44 varieties of Apples. 1 do. Pear. J. Shedaker, Burlington, N. J. Apples, 8 varieties. 14 Thomas Hancock, Burlington, N. J. Apples, 18 varieties. Pears, 14 do. Quinces, 2 do. Peaches, 2 do. Col. Hodge, Buffalo, N. Y. Apples, 27 varieties. Pears, 19 do. Charles Downing, Newburgb, N. Y. Apples, 21 varieties. Plums, 2 do. Grapes, 3 do. W. S. Young, Oyster Bay, Queens Co., L.I. Apples, 30 varieties. David Miller, jr., Carlisle, Penn. Apples, 22 varieties. John W. Knevels, Fishkill Landg, N. Y. Plums, 1 variety. Apples, 4 do. Peaches, 1 do. Pears, 6 do. Hickory Nut, 1 do. A. Bryant & Sons, Buffalo, N. Y. Apples, 39 varieties. Pears, 17 do. S. A. Barnett, Milton, Ulster Co., N.Y. Plums, 4 varieties. Apples, 18 do. Pears, 4 do. Quince, 1 do. Craft & Smith, Milton, Ulster Co., N.Y. Apples, 1 variety. Roswell L. Colt, Paterson, N. J. Grapes, 9 varieties. J. M. Earle, Worcester, Mass. Pears, 13 varieties. Apples, 10 do. Robert Manning, Salem, Mass. Pears, 110 varieties. Apples, 36 do. Quinces, 3 do. Charles Dubois, Fishkill Landing, N. Y. Plums, 1 variety. Apples, 6 do. D. W. Brinckerhoff, Fishkill Landing, N.Y. Apples, 8 varieties. Pears, 1 do. Plum, 1 do. Nath. Halleck, Milton, Ulster Co. N.Y. Apples, 4 varieties. Pears, 4 do. Samuel G. Newlin, Fishkill Landing, N.Y. Apples, 9 varieties. John W. Knevels, Fishkill Land'g, N.Y. Plum, 1 variety. Peach, 1 do. Pear, 5 varieties. Apples, 4 do. Nuts, 3 do, Josiah Lovett, Beverly, Mass. Pears, 8 varieties. Wm B. Kingsbury, Roxbury, Mass. Pears, 4 varieties. Norman Porter, Berlin, Conn. Pears, 11 varieties. Apples, 1 do. S. Lyman, Manchester, Conn. Apples, 5 varieties. S. Walker, Roxbury, Mass. Pears, 60 varieties. George B. Deacon, Burlington, N. J. Apples, 25 varieties. Moody & Penfield, Niagara Co., N.Y. Apples, 7 varieties. Edward A. Newton, Pittsfield, Mass. (By Thomas Allen.) Apples, 1 variety. , Pears, 1 do. A. T. Vanslyke, Coxsackie, N. Y. Apples, 19 varieties. Pears, 9 do. Quinces, 1 do. Isaac Pullen, Hightstown, N. J. Apples, 22 varieties. Henry H. Crapo, New-Bedford, Mass. Pears, 14 varieties. John Howland, New-Bedford, Mass. Pears, 2 varieties. William Swift, New-Bedford, Mass. Pears, 2 varieties. W. P. Jenny, Fairhaven, Mass. Pears, 8 varieties. James Arnold, New-Bedford, Mass. Grapes, 9 varieties. A. Mcintosh & Co., Cleveland, Ohio. Apples, 53 varieties. Pears, 43 do. Quinces, 3 do. Medlar, 1 do. F. R. Elliott & Co., Cleveland, Ohio. Apples, 31 varieties. Pears, 12 do. John Perkins, Moorestown, N. J. Apples, 7 varieties. James Fleet, Queens Co., N. Y. Seedling Pears. A. Foote, Berkshire, Mass. Apples, 15 varieties. Pears, 3 do. H. W. Terry, Hartford, Conn. Apples, 6 varieties. Sewall Sargent, Stockbridge, Mass. Pears, 4 varieties. James H. Watts, Rochester, N. Y. Apples, 1 variety, Northern Spy. Samuel H. Corwin, South Middletown, N. Y. Apples, 4 varieties. A. Marks, Durham, Greene Co., N. Y. Apples, 6 varieties, Quince, I do. 15 H. W. S. Cleveland, Burlington, N. J. Apples, 2 varieties. Pears, 1 do. W. R. Prince & Co., Flushing, L. I. Pears, 35 varieties. Apples, 10 do. Peaches, 8 do. Chestnuts, Prince's Hybrid. Cydonia japonica. A. S. Munson, New-Haven, Conn. Apples, 1 variety. Pears, 5 do. Geo. Gabriel, New-Haven, Conn. Pears, 6 varieties. Grapes, 1 do. A. Smith, New Jersey. Seedling Apples. Geo. Bristol, Kirtland, Oneida Co., N. Y. A box of Fruits. W. L. Ferris, Westchester, N. Y. Apples, 1 variety. Pears, 12 do. W. A. Jackson, Caldwell, N. J. Apples, 6 varieties. E. G. Studley, Claverack, N. Y. Apples, 11 varieties. R. Buist, Philadelphia. The genuine Tripoli Grape. J. S. Lathrop, Northampton, Mass. Apples, 6 varieties. H. N. Langworthy, Rochester, N. Y. Apples, 13 varieties. Pears, Swan's Orange or Onon- daga. Ira Harrison, Orange, Essex Co., N. J. 3 varieties of Apples. D. F. Manice, Hempstead, L. I. Pears, 19 varieties. Grapes, 4 do. Chestnuts, 3 do. Quinces, 2 do. John J. Thomas, Macedon, N. Y. Apples, 31 varieties. Pears, white Doyenne. T. S. Rumsey, Fishkill Landing, N.Y. Apples, 23 varieties. Pears, 20 do. Plums 8 do. B. G. Barker, Plymouth, Mich. Apples, 25 varieties. Quinces, 2 do. C. S. Phelps, Oswego, N. Y. Pears, 11 varieties. Apples, 1 do. Peaches, 1 do. Filberts, 1 box. W. D. Brinkle, Philadelphia, Penn. Apples, 8 varieties. Pears, 2 do. and seedling Chestnuts. C. W. Hartwell, Springfield, Mass. Pears, 6 varieties. W. S. Carpenter, Harrisontown, N. Y. Newtown Pippin Apples. J. W. Hayes, Newark, N. J. Apples, 27 varieties. Pears, 8 do. Geo. Olmsted, E. Hartford, Conn. Apples, 8 varieties. Thos. H. Rochister, Rochester, N. Y. Pears, White Doyenne. L. A. Ward, Rochester, N. Y. Pears, Gray Doyenne. J. W. P. Allen, Oswego, N. Y. Pears, 15 varieties. A. Bronson, Oswego, N. Y. Pears, 5 varieties. Grapes, 1 do. Fred. R. Buell, Litchfield, Conn. Apples, 33 varieties. R. T. Underhill, Croton Point, N. Y. Grapes, 4 varieties. Chas. H. Tomlinson, Schenectady, N.Y. Pears, 11 varieties. Apples, 2 do Wm. Buswell, Troy, N. Y., for S. Nor- ton, Pears, 1 variety. Job P. Whipple, Union Village, N. Y. A seedling Apple. Mr. McCulloch, Kirtland, N. Y. Apple Quince. J. R. Valk, Flushing, L. I. Grapes, 12 varieties. From the garden of the late Jno. B. Smith, Philadelphia. 9 varieties of Pears, by Dr. W. D. Brinkle. Wm. Keith, Roxbury, Mass. • Baldwin Apples. Samuel Goodrich, Stockbridge, Mass. 15 varieties of Apples. J. J. Thomas, Chairman of the Business Committee, said that he had a small select list of fruits prepared, and asked whether he should now present it? Doct. Wendell thought it would be better to postpone the presentation of such a list until the Convention had ex- amined the fruits and discussed their merits, &c. 16 After some remarks from other members J. J. Thomas read his list, and, on motion of Thos. Hancock, it was refer- red to the Special Fruit Committee. Hon. A. FooTe, of Massachusetts, remarked, that the list should be extended; that a great many of the best fruits were left out. Several gentlemen suggested that lists of varieties adapted to certain localities should be prepared by the Committee. James Arnold, of New-Bedford, recommended leaving the whole matter in the hands of the Special Fruit Com- mittee. Doct. Hare spoke of the importance of facts in regard to varieties that might be recommended, and hoped the Committee would accompany their lists with such facts- as they might base their recommendations upon. Dr. Munson hoped the Committee would take into con- sideration the variations of soil, climate, &c, by comparing specimens of fruit grown on various soils, and in various sections of the country. Dr. Hare again said the Commit- tee should not present a report until they could accompany it with full and satisfactory evidence of the merits of varieties under all circumstances. W. R. Prince here moved that the Special Fruit Com- mittee be instructed to prepare a list of rejected or worth- less varieties. The motion was opposed by Mr. Marks, of Green Co., who understood the whole matter to have been referred to the Special Fruit Committee. Mr. Olmsted, of Connecticut, thought it premature to present such a list, as sufficient information has not yet been collected to enable any committee to do it correctly. Mr. Smith, of Hartford, remarked, that the Committee might with safety place a variety on the rejected list when all were agreed as to its worthlessness. Mr. Hogg- remarked, that to prepare a correct list of rejected varieties would be labour enough for three months, and the Conynittee should not be embarrassed with it at this time. The motion was rejected. 17 Dr. Underhill, on behalf of the American Institute, ten- dered an invitation to the Members of the Convention to attend the Fair at Castle Garden, and the address of Dr. Tyng, at the Tabernacle. He also stated that the officers of the Institute would be happy to receive the fruits for exhibition at Castle Garden, after the Convention adjourned. Thos. Hancock moved that the fruits remaining at the adjournment of the Convention be presented to the American Institute for exhibition. The motion was seconded by Samuel Walker, and carried. Henry Meigs read a communication relative to Dock- nail's (France) new system of Pomology, or Classification of Fruits. Mr. Meigs also spoke of the benefits the country might derive from the distribution of grafts or scions of the best fruits ; that he had himself, within three or four years, dis- tributed 30,000 for the Farmers' Club. The Hon. Hugh Maxwell remarked, that he came here to learn — to obtain information from practical men who had assembled from various parts of the country. He wished for a general discussion, to avail himself of the ex- perience of this body. THE CULTURE A.ND MANAGEMENT OF FRUITS. James H. Watts, of Rochester, N. Y., presented the fol- lowing communication relative to the Northern Spy apple : Rochester, Mon. Co., N. Y To the President of the Pomological Convention at New- York : In presenting the " Northern Spy" apple amongst so great a variety of apples as are here before us, I feel that facts regarding its- origin, the growth of the tree and its fruitfulness, will not be' amiss. Like every new thing now-a-days, to establish its character has been no small task. It is enough to say, that I find it has friends now wherever known. 3 18 It has been repeatedly published, that from seeds brought from Connecticut forty years ago, (which were planted by the late Oliver Chapin, in East Bloomfield, New-York,) the first tree was produced, and from the tree suckers were taken and planted, the original having died. The trees from which the apples were taken, now presented, are growing in Mendon, N. Y., and I can truly say, I have never seen a more beautiful sight than the fruit with which they were loaded. I went fifteen miles to see them, that I could tell the Convention that an estimate was made that from the twenty-three trees one hundred and fifty barrels of the apples would be secured, one hundred of which were selected fruit ; and the crop sold for three hundred dollars, and this in a region of country where other choice apples sell at one dollar per barrel. The tree grows upright, and needs thorough pruning to give the fruit colour as well as flavour. The apples keep in cool locations until March, and even June, as fresb as a June picked apple, and are fragrant to the last, as well as juicy. I have done much to disseminate the scions as well as trees, and know no apple in Western New-York which will compare with it as a long keeper except the Russet. I only hope to live to see the day when they shall be as plenty as other apples, so that every one can have them. Very truly, James H. Watts. W. R. Prince moved the appointment of a committee of five to investigate the various maladies, and the depreda- tions of the various insects injurious to trees and plants. Thos. Allen, of Missouri, said he felt great interest in this subject ; that in the Mississippi valley they could not ripen plums on account of the ravages of the Curculio. The pear tree, he said, was also attacked by an insect that commences its operations on the ends of the young shoots, by eating out the pith, and so poisonous is the bite, that although the affected part be cut away, yet the tree turns brown and dies. He said, there were in that section of the country no pear trees of fine quality or recent growth, owing to this insect 5 that a few introduced by the old French settlers had with- 19 stood all attacks of climate and disease. He wished this matter to come before the Committee on Maladies., &c, and would offeras a substitute forW.R. Prince's resolution, "that a committee of five be appointed to investigate into and report upon the maladies of fruit trees, and the ravages of insects upon the same, and the fruit thereof, and the best preventives or remedies therefor." W. R* Prince accepted of the substitute, and it was adopted. The chair appointed the following gentlemen committee : Prof. Harris, of Massachusetts. W. R. Prince, Long Island. Dr. Rumsey, Fishkill Landing. Prof. Hall, of Albany. Dr. W. D. Brinckle, Philadelphia. H. W. S. Cleveland, of New- Jersey, made a few interest- ing and appropriate remarks in regard to Horticultural Ex- hibitions. He said, that all articles for which premiums were offered should be accompanied by statements of facts relative to their culture. D. F. Manice, of Hempstead, L. L, presented the follow- ing notes relative to the quality of certain varieties of fruits he had tested : Salt to Quinces has succeeded. Salt to Plums a failure. Manure litter, also. Success of Plums, good. Pears, trained dwarf, not so subject to blight. Season with us has been very unfavourable. Pears which do not do well with me : Queen Low Countries — fair and handsome, fall before ripe, and without flavour. Napoleon — poor, astringent. Dearborn's Seedling-^poor, two seasons out of three. Capiaumont — inferior, better on pear than on quince stocks. Flemish Beauty — liable to fall before lipe ; succeeds well on quince, 20 Duchesse d'Angouleme — not well flavoured; great bearer, and fruit fair. Crassanne — inferior. Easter Beurre — is as yet doubtful. Beurre d'Amalis — poor. Beurre Bonne — poor. Cumberland — handsome, poor. Doyenne Blanc — poor, cracks ; does better on quince. D 'Angora — probably of not much value from any specimens. Fortunee — was poor the only season it produced with me. G-lout Morceau — has never yet equalled my expectations. King Edward — has always fallen before ripe. Callebasse — great bearer, but inferior. Beurre Knox — do. do. Russet Pears — generally are more perfect with me than others. Beurre Bosc — fine. do. Golden — good. do. Diel — variable as to size and quality ; sometimes very fine. do. Niel — first fruited 1848 ; very good. Doyenne Louis — do. do. Colmar Epine — do. do. Bonchretien Fondante— very good. Fondante d'Automne- — do. Hampden Bergamot — generally very go^od. Dix — fine, grows well on quince. Doyenne Gris — fine. Dumortier — very good. Frankreal d'Ete — generally very good. Gendesheim — very good. Heathcot — good. Hericart — variable; this year good. Julienne — do. sometimes good. Jalousie de F. Vendee — very fine, Louise Bonne de Jersey — better on pear than an quince s,tock j is not uniformly good. Long Green — good, though this year inferior. M adeliene — good. Muscat of Aug. — good. Roi de Wurtemburg — is sometimes fine. Rostiezer — first rate. Rousselet Hatif — very good for the season. Sugar of Hoyerswerda — fruited but once, then fine. 21 St. Ghislain — fine. , Seckel — fine, young trees, bear indifferently. Stevens' Genesee— only middling, Thompson — good. Urbaniste — good. William's Bonchretien — fine, when all its qualities are consid- ered ; in flavour it is not better than second rate. Bloodgood — good, but not high flavoured. Hessel — great bearer, third rate. Marie Louise— has lacked flavour, and is generally astringent. He also suggested the inquiry, why does Doyenne Blanc crack on sea coasts ? D. F. Manice also stated, that he had succeeded in ripen- ing fine crops of plums on a sandy soil, by dwarfing the trees, and growing them six feet apart, surrounding the orchard with a tight board fence eight feet high, and paving the surface of the ground entirely with brick. He had tried salt and litter without any good effect. He said that trained trees, within five feet of his garden, but not fenced or paved, produced no fruit. He remarked that the Maclura was winter killed on Long Island. J. W. Knevels, of Fishkill said it was not winter killed with him. Dr. Munson, of New-Haven, said it would not prove suit- able for hedges in New England. Dr. Underhtll spoke of the effects of climate and locali- ty on fruits. He had said it was believed by some that the Newtown Pippin was degenerating, because it did not suc- ceed well in certain localities, but he said he had never seen it finer than the past year. He said, if we attempt to cultivate apples in the south, we must rise up on the moun- tains until we arrive at an altitude where we obtain a tem- perature corresponding to that of the locality where the fruit originated. In Jamaica or Cuba, he said, the Newtown Pippin may be successfully grown by pursuing such a course. The following communication, accompanied by three boxes of fruit, was received from F. R. Elliott, Secretary of the Pomological Convention recently held at Columbus? Ohio: 22 Cleav eland, 6t7i Oct., 1848. To the President and Members of the National Pomological Con- vention : Gentlemen, — I have the honour to transmit to your honourable body, the following slight sketch of the doings of the Ohio State Fruit Convention, assembled at Columbus, September 27th and 28th, 1848. This being the second State Fruit Convention of Ohio, the increased numbers of gentlemen in attendance, as well as the large quantity of specimen fruits compared with last year, gave evi- dence of the interest which this course has excited among fruit growers of the state. At the hour appointed for assembling of the Convention, the same was called to order by appointing Rev. C. Springer, tempo- rary Chairman, and F. R, Elliot, temporary Secretary. The election of permanent officers by ballot resulted in the choice of A. H. Ernst, Esq., President. C. Springer, 1st Vice-President. S. A. Barker, 2d Vice-President. F. R. Elliott, > c . . M D tj > secretaries. M. B. Bateham, J The value of various fruits in Ohio, with a knowledge of the different names by which they are grown, being the principal object of the Convention, the same was duly discussed by the members in attendance during two days' session. A State Fruit Committee having before been appointed, some changes were made of its members, and Professor J. P, Kirtland elected President. With a view to advance the objects of this Convention, as well as of others of like nature, the following resolutions were passed : Resolved, That this Convention, seeing the necessity of unity in action among pomologists, recommend to the National Conven- tion to be convened at New-York, October 13th, 1848, the appoint- ment of a future National Convention, at a time suited to the attendance of delegates from State Conventions. Resolved, That we recommend to pomologists throughout the states, the calling of State Conventions for the coming year, at such time as will enable delegates to attend the National Conven* tion without loss of time or delay. 23 In accordance with the above, the Ohio State Convention, after deciding that its next Convention be held at Cincinnati, has left the time of assembling for its president to name. In accordance, also, with the wishes of the members of the Con- vention, a box of specimen fruits has this day been forwarded to No. 61 Broadway, New-York, for examination by members of the National Convention. F. R. Elliot, Secretary Ohio State Fruit Convention. The Fruit Committee not being ready to report, the fol- lowing discussion took place : The Dix Tear was first taken up— five specimens pre- sented by J. M. Earle, of Worcester. Samuel Walker, of Roxbury, said it was one of the best of pears, but a tardy bearer, twelve or fifteen years elapsing after trees were planted before they bore. He said it did not grow well on quince, but succeeded when double grafted. Mr. Cabot, of Salem, Mass., had grafted it on a large healthy stock, yet it did not bear for fourteen years. Mr. Earle said, that in his neighbourhood it did well on pear ; he had not seen it on quince stock. He had not found it such a tardy bearer; had grafted it on a tree of Rushmore'sBonchretien, andit bore fruitin three years. He had known other instances of a like nature ; indeed* he said, it was its early bearing and productiveness that first induced him to propagate it. He knew trees that produced three or four barrels every year, the fruit always fine, fair, and never cracked. B. V. French, of Braintree, Mass., said that eighteen years ago he had a St. Germain tree, of which the fruit did not please him, and he grafted the leading centre limbs with Dix, and the side limbs with Wilkinson. He had seen no fruit on the Dix yet, whilst he had bushels of Wilkinson. C. M. Hovey said, that near his residence in Cambridge, there was a tree that bore two barrels of fruit in a year, and supposed it was grafted in 1832 or 3, and commenced bearing in 1843 or 4. He said that some time ago the place on which it stands had changed owners, and the new occupant, not 24 knowing its fine qualities, used it as a cooking pear ; recently, however, he has sold them for $14 pr. barrel, and he knew them to be resold again in Boston market for $28 pr. barrel. He said, that like most of the American pears, it did not succeed well on the quince. Samuel Walker said it had borne with him in two years on quince double worked, and he considered it one of the finest pears in the country. The President said he had trees that were purchased of W. R. Prince some sixteen years ago, and they had only commenced bearing a few on the top branches two years since, but that he had grafts set in old trees that bore in six years ; with him it always cracked badly. At Beverly, he said, they were always fair, while at Lynn, a few miles distant, they uniformly cracked. C. M. Hovey referred again to the tree near his residence ; he said there it was always fair, wrhiie Beurre Diet and White Doyenne near it, occasionally cracked. It stands on a ridge of loamy soil on a subsoil of clay. Dr. Underhill remarked that soil was an important consideration in connection with fruitfulness ; trees that grew rapidly, made wood instead of fruit buds, and con- sequently did not bear well. Trees rapidly grown, he said, were also tender, having large sap vessels ; he believed the yellows in peach trees to be caused by the prevalent custom of forcing their growth. He said he had planted peach stones in a soil so barren that they were not fit for budding in four or five years ; this he did to avoid the diseases consequent on rapid growth. J. M. Earle said, the soil on which the Dix trees grew at Worcester, to which he had before alluded, was a loam, where the roots struck down three feet before they came to the hard pan, and they were always in a vigorous condition. A. McIntosh said the Dix Pear was fine with him on the pear stock at Cleaveland, Ohio, but would not grow on the quince. His tree was probably fourteen years old. H. W. Terry, of Hartford, said that a neighbour of his 25 had a large tree of the Andrews pear on quince, 7 years old, that bore this year 1J bushels of fruit. The Beurre cV Arembcrg pear was next discussed. Samuel Walker called it "The Prince of Pears ;" he said that in most importations from Europe, the Glout Morceau had beefl received for this variety ; and that amongst cul* tivators the two pears had been much confounded, but that novv the confusion was in a great measure corrected. He said the first true Beurre d'Aremberg he saw, were from trees of Col. Wilder, that he received of Madame Parmentier, of New-York. He had grafted it on a large tree, and it bore plentifully in three years. It not only bore large crops, but adhered to the tree in the most violent gales, and ripened without any artificial means. Worked directly on the quince, it does not unite well at all; he has it double-worked, but it does not succeed so well as on the pear stock. The President said, that with him, for twelve years, it had produced large crops of fine fruit. He barrelled them up in the ordinary way, and they ripened without further care, C. M. Hove y said his experience corresponded with that of Mr. Walker and the President. Mr. Thompson, of the Loudon Horticultural Society, he said, considered it inferior to the Glout Morceau. He said in France he had not seen a true Beurre d' Aremberg ; the Glout Morceau being inva- riably cultivated for it, as far as his observation had ex- tended, and he had made particular inquiries of most of the principal nurserymen. As a general thing, Mr. Hovey said, that doubles-worked pears do not succeed well for any length of time. W. R. Prince said the Beurre d1 Aremberg and Glout Mor- ceau were the two best winter pears. He said the reason why Mr. Hovey did not find the Beurre d'Aremberg in France was, that he did not inquire for it by the proper name. That it was cultivated by the French as Soldat Laboreur. Mr. Hovey replied, that Soldat Laboreur was anew; pear. Mr. Walker agreed with him. Thomas Hogg said that Soldat Laboreur was found in old catalogues. 4 26 W. R. Prince said that the Glout Morceau was the true Beurre d'Aremberg, and that the Beurre d'Aremberg or Soldat Laboreur was the Orpheline d'Enghien. The Presi- dent said, there were in cultivation, or in catalogues, three Soldat Laboreurs ; that the Beurre d'Aremberg was known sixteen years ago, when he purchased his tree of Mrs. Par- mentier, under its appropriate name. J. M. Earle remarked, that he had once stated that the Glout Morceau was liable to crack, but since that time it had proved fine, better with him than Beurre d'Aremberg. The Glout Morceau was next taken up— specimens pre- sented by J. M. Earle, of Worcester, C. M. Hovey, of Boston, and Mr. Eagle, of Oswego. J. M. Earle said he preferred the Glout Morceau to Beurre d'Aremberg, as being less- acid. C. M. Hovey said it was one of the best growers on quince,' stout, vigorous, and ornamental in form, so much so, that Loudon figures it in his Arboretum, and recommends it as an ornamental tree. Mr. Hovey also spoke of its distin- guishing features, and of its history and origin. Samuel Walker said the Glout Morceau tree was one of the most thrifty growers on the quince, and remarked, that all trees on quince stocks should be planted so deep that the quince would all be under the ground to avoid the borer. He has seen no blight or black spots on the trees of this variety, nor had he lost any of them, while he had lost St. Germain, Chaumontel and other sorts. Those who liked a sweet pear would choose this, and those who preferred a more sprightly, the Beurre d'Aremberg. He knew but one drawback in regard to this variety, and that is, the tenderness of the young fruit, which are frequently killed by slight frosts. On the quince, it rarely bears before the fifth, sixth or seventh year, on account of its vigorous growth. t The President said, it was remarkably well adapted to the quince stock. He has a tree fifteen years old, that bears a barrel of fruit. On the pear stock, it does not bear so well with him. 27 J. W. Hayes, of New-Jersey, and J. W. P. Allen, of Os- wego, concurred in what had been said relative to this pear. The President said, that it had not done so well at Beverly ; as with him the fruit frequently fell when about as large as an ounce ball. J. M. Earle remarked that every blossom set its fruit, but afterward dropped many ; but still the crop was large enough. A. Saul said it was more subject to blight than any other. P. Barry replied, that after much observation on the attacks of blight, he had come to the conclusion that no one variety was more liable to it than another. That cases frequently occur, calculated to induce such a belief, but it was fallacious ; he had seen trees, said by some to be proof against the blight, cut down by it, while others, said to be quite susceptible to it, escaped, growing side by side. The Convention then adjourned till 4 o'clock in the afternoon. AFTERNOON SESSION. The Convention assembled at 4 o'clock, pursuant to ad- journment. A. J. Downing, from the Special Fruit Committee, re- ported as follows : REPORT OF THE SPECIAL FRUIT COMMITTEE. The Special Fruit Committee, to whom has been as- signed the duty of presenting select lists of fruits, respect- fully report — That, after consideration, they find it impossible, in the present state of pomological information, to offer to the Convention now assembled any extended list, comprising any considerable number of fruits worthy of general cultivation. This embarrassment arises from two causes* First. In the fact that many excellent varieties, well known and highly approved in those sections of the Union where certain members of the com- mittee reside, are either partially or wholly unknown in sections where other members reside, and consequently no unanimous action could be had on those varieties. Second. In the fact, that a large number of varieties are only well proved in certain locali- 28 ties, and, therefore, from this very fact, cannot be recommended for general cultivation. They, therefore, conceive that the pre- paration of extended lists of varieties worthy to be recommended to the public generally by this Convention, is a labour which re- quires more time, research and experience, and can only be satis- factorily performed by a general commiitee, with sub-committees in various portions of the Union, which shall be in constant activ- ity for the purpose of acquiring this information, in order to lay it in a satisfactory shape before this Convention at a future meeting. It may seem to many members of this body an easy task to designate 50 or even 100 excellent fruits of any class for general cultivation ; but actual comparisons of the facts and information on this subject, possessed by the different members of this committee, have convinced them that it is extremely difficult to get an unanimous verdict in favor of even ten varieties of any one class of fruits. There is such a diversity of experience, and consequently of opinion, respecting the merits of well known varieties, that many fruits which have long enjoyed the most irreproachable character in one part of the country, are found, on inquiry, to have the most indifferent reputation in another section. Indeed, so difficult is it from these causes, to do what at first sight seems so easy, that your committee have been reminded of the remark which an inexperienced politician once made to an emi- nent statesman in the political turmoil which was going forward- — " why,1' said he, " why make all this noise and trouble about a President ; why not all agree on some good man and elect him at once." Some other committee, more capable than the present one, might perhaps have been able to agree at once upon lists of 100 varieties of apples and pears ; but we have only, after consider- able discussion, been able to resolve to submit the following very small lists — leaving: it to the future committees, with months instead of hours at their disposal, to arrive at more extended and complete results : — 29 APPLES. Early Harvest, Rhode Island Greening, Large Yellow Bough, Baldwin, American Summer Pearmain, Roxbury Russet, Summer Rose, And, for particular localities,- — Early Strawberry, Yellow Bellefleur, Gravenstein, Esopus Spitzenburg, Fall Pippin, Newtown Pippin. Madeleine, Dearborn's Seedling, Bloodgood, Tyson, Golden Beurre of Bilboa* Bartlett, Seckel, Flemish Beauty, Grosse Mignonne, Georo-e IV. o Early York, serrated, Large Early York, Morris White, Oldmixon Freestone, Jefferson, Green Gage, Washington, Purple Favourite, Bleecker's Gage, PEARS. Louise Bonne de Jersey on quince, Beurre Bosc, Winter Nelis, Beurre d'Aremberg, And, /or particular localities,—' White Doyenne, Gray Doyenne. PEACHES. Cooledge's Favourite, Bergen's Yellow, Early Tillottson, Crawford's Late, And, for 'particular localities, — Heath Cling. PLUMS. Coe's Golden Drop, Frost Gage, And, for particular localities, — Imperial Gage. May Duke, Black Tartarian* Black Eagle, Bigarreau, CHERRIES. Knight's Early Black, Downer's Late, Elton, Downton, 30 In their report, the Committee did not state their prin* ciple of action, which was to reject every variety against which there were three voices, and to adopt none which had not been extensively cultivated. Mr. Allen, of Missouri* moved the adoption of the report. A discussion then arose relative to the Geo. IV. Peach, (which W. R. Prince said was a synonym of the Red Rare Ripe,) in which W. R. Prince, A. J. Downing, J. W. Kne- Vels and C. M. Hovey participated. Samuel Walker moved that the report be accepted, by taking up the varieties in detail, commencing with Apples. The motion was carried, and the Early Harvest, Large Yellow Bough, American Summer Pearmain, Gravenstein, Summer Rose, Early Strawberry, Fall Pippin, R. I. Green- ing, Baldwin and Roxbury Russet, for general cultivation, were adopted without objection. J? or particular localities, Yellow Bellefleur. W. R. Prince said he had never known it poor anywhere. Thomas Hancock said it was very inferior in New-Jersey; the trees were unhealthy ; he had cut his down many years ago^ J. M. Earle said it was poor in the vicinity of Wor- cester. Dr. Mttnson spoke well of it at New-Haven, Conn. Wm. Reid said it was good in Eastern Jersey. C. M. Hovey said it succeeded wrell around Hartford ; bore large crops. P. Barry said it succeeded well in Western New-York ; the trees healthy and good bearers, and the fruit fair and fine, and very highly esteemed* H. W. Terry said it did poorly at Hartford. A. Foote said, if retained, it should be in the general list. Samuel Walker remarked that it would be impossible to present a list suited to all meridians, but that we should do all we can to recommend as good a list as possible. C. M. Hovey said that the same qualifications might as properly be appended to other varieties. A. McIntosh said in Ohio it was one of the best apples ; there the Bald- win was poor, and sold not on its real merits, but by its eastern reputation and fair skin. 31 H. W. Terry said it was not good in Hartford. Dr. Mun- son said with him a fungus attacked the branches. George Deacon, of Burlington, N. J., said that he had 20 large trees, and in eight years had only one good crop. Mr. Tomltnson remarked that it did well at Schenectady.- J. Comstock, of Dutchess Co., said he had grown the Yellow Bellflower for 20 years, in latitude 42, at an eleva- tion of 600 feet, and in consequence of the shortness of the season the fruit did not ripen well two years in three, and was therefore too acid. The trees grow vigorously, and bear well. On motion, it was adopted as reported, for certain facilities. Esopus Spitzenhurg, for certain localities. Adopted. Dr. Underhill inquired if any one had large trees of this variety die. He said his had died, and he thought there might be some malady peculiar to it. Newtown Pippins, for certain localities, was next brought up* W. R. Prince said this was one of those varieties that required a rich soil and good culture. Samuel Walker said it had been thoroughly tried around Boston, and proved a complete failure. He believed no man could cultivate it in Massachusetts profitably. Dr. Underhill said he had 1,700 trees of this variety, and had often produced fruit 11 inches in circumference and sometimes 12. He said he had made experiments in manuring, but had found nothing equal to stable manure. Lawrence Young-, of Kentucky, said the Yellow Bell- flower and Newtown Pippin were the only varieties on the list that assumed the character of winter fruit with him. C. M. Hovey said his opinion was, that with proper care it could be cultivated successfully in Massachusetts. The orchards of Massachusetts? he said, were not well cultivated ; in many parts of the country quite neglected. Sheldon Moore, of Conn., said that he and his neigh- bours, fifteen miles southwest of Hartford, had attempted to cultivate it, but had failed. J. W. P. Allen said, at Otsego both Green and Yellow Newtown Pippins did well. 32 It was then, on motion, adopted as reported. Pears were next taken up. For general cultivation. Madeleine. Adopted. Dearborn's Seedling. Only one objection. D. F. Manice, of Long Island, said it failed with him two years in three. Adopted. JBloodgood. Samuel Walker said he had formerly an un- favourable opinion of this pear, nowhe regarded it as one of the best early varieties. J. M. Earle said it was apt to be winter killed at Worcester. Favourable reports were given of it from all other places, and it was adopted. Tyson. J. M. Earle asked leave to offer the Rostiezer as a substitute. C. M. Hovey said the Tyson was considered fine at Boston. W.R.Pjunce spoke well of it. Dr.BaiNCKLE said it was very fine. The original tree, at Jenkinstown, he said, was six feet in circumference ; and there were ten to twenty others, of good size, around Philadelphia. J. J. Thomas said it had borne with him, and proved fair and of first rate excellence. Thomas Hancock and Dr. Munson made similar remarks in its favour. It was adopted. Bartlett. Samuel Walker remarked that the original name was "Williams' Bonchretien," and he would there- fore move that it be adopted as Williams' Bonchretien, or Bartlett. Seconded by C. M. Hovey, and adopted. Seckel — adopted unanimously. Louise Bonne de Jersey, (on quince.) C. M. Hovey sug- gested that the qualification " on quince" be left out, as it might induce the belief that it was not good on pear stock. A McIntosh, of Ohio, P. Barry, of Rochester, J. Lovett and R. Manning, of Massachusetts, stated that they had found it better on the quince. C. W. Hartwell said he had examined it in five different states, and found it inva- riably fine on the quince. J. M. Earle, of Worcester, said it had not done well with him on the quince. The President said he had found no dif- ference. Thomas Allen, of Missouri, suggested that if "on quince" be struck off, the variety should be excluded en- S3 tirely from the list. Saml. Walker moved that it be re^ ferred back to the F ruit Committee, which motion was carried. Flemish Beauty was next taken up. W. R. Prince sug- gested adding "or Beurre Spence," as the trees received under that name from abroad had invariably proved to be Flemish Beauty. S. Walker objected to it, as the fact of their being synonymous was not yet sufficiently clear. Dr. Wendell said he had a tree imported for the true Beurre Sjyence, that bore this year, and he at first supposed it was correct, and had presented specimens as such at the Buffalo Convention ; but it was not then fully grown, and had deceived himself and other pomologists ; since then it has proved to be Flemish Beauty. He said* although satis.- fied that the two were one sort, yet he preferred leaving the question as it was, for the present, as there was a pos- sibility of the Beurre Spence being yet found. J. M. Earle and C. M. Hovey said that trees imported as Beurre Spence from various parts of Europe, and at various times* had proved to be Flemish Beauty. The President said he had been trying to get the Beurre Spence for 10 years, and had frequently received the Flemish Beauty. S. Walker and A. Saul said that several varieties had been received for Beurre Spence. Flemish Beauty adopted as reported. Beurre Bosc, Beurre d'Aremberg, Winter Nelis and Golden Beurre of Bilboa, adopted unanimously. For certain localities, White Doyenne and Gray Doyenne. On motion, the Convention adjourned till the next morn- ing, at 9 o'clock. The Convention met on Friday morning, agreeable to adjournment. Dr. H. Wendell, of Albany* remarked, that it was well known to most of the gentlemen present, that a North Ame- rican Pomological Convention had been recently held at Buffalo, at which 12 states, as well as both the Canadas, were represented by large delegations of enlightened po- 5 34 mologists ; and previous to the adjournment of that Con- vention, feeling the necessity of continued and united action, a resolution was passed unanimously, " that a North American Pomological Convention for the year 1849 should be held on the day succeeding the close of the Annual Fair of the New-York State Agricultural Society, at whatever place the Fair should be held ;" and such place was desig- nated, because it was generally understood that the Fair would be held somewhere in the vicinity of this city, and at a season of the year when most of the larger fruits are fit for examination. Cincinnati, Philadelphia and Balti- more were suggested, but the Convention unanimously agreed on the above place, and also authorized the Secre- tary of the New-York State Agricultural Society to invite horticultural and agricultural societies on this continent to send delegates to it. He would, therefore, offer the follow- ing resolution : Resolved, That the President of the Convention designate a committee of one from each state and territory represented here, whose duty it shall he to report, previous to the adjournment this morning, what action, if any, it is proper to take in regard to holding future pomological conventions. A. J. Downing- moved, as an amendment, that the same committee nominate a standing Fruit Committee, to be composed of not more than five of the most skilful po- mologists or fruit growers in each state, whose duty it shall be to collect all the information in their power on the fruits within their respective districts, and report the same at the next session of the Convention. The resolution and amendment were adopted, and the Chair appointed the following gentlemen : Herman Wendell, New-York. Yardley Taylor, Virginia. S. "Walker, Massachusetts. L. C. Eaton, Rhode Island. George Gabriel, Connecticut. Thomas Allen, Missouri. Russell Mattison, Vermont. H. W. S. Cleveland, New-Jersey. A. Mcintosh, Ohio, L. Young, Kentucky. Dr. W. D. Brinkle,, Penn. A, J. Downing, New-York. 35 The list of Plums was then taken up. Washington. Adopted. Green Gage. W. R. Prince said this was one of the best of plums, but the tree was so decrepid and unhealthy that it should by no means be recommended on this list. He pro- posed substituting Prince's Yellow Gage, or affixing to the Green Gage the words "an excellent fruit, but an unthrifty grower." A. Foote, of Massachusetts, and C.Hamilton, of Orange Co., N. Y., said it grew very well with them ; the latter gentleman said it grew as well with him as Prince's Yellow Gage. J. M. Earle said, in Worcester it is a fair grower, and as healthy as any other, and in quality unap- proachedbj any, except the Purple Gage. Mr. Hovey said, at Boston it is considered the very best of plums, and though not a rapid grower was healthy and vigorous. S. B. Parsons, of Long Island, said he thought it very proper to add the qualification suggested by W. R. Prince, as it was a remarkably poor grower on their grounds, so much so, indeed, that they were almost compelled to abandon its cultivation. S. Walker said he was surprised to hear the remarks of the gentlemen from Long Island. He said the Green Gage grew well around Boston when inoculated on suitable stocks. S. B. Parsons replied that they had worked it on several varieties of stock, and grown it on various soils, and in all cases it was a poor grower. D. F. Manice, of Long Island, said with him it grew well. C. Downing- said that no such qualification as that pro- posed should be affixed on account of poor growth in a single locality. Thos. Hancock said he had found it healthy ; was opposed to any qualification. W. R. Prince's amendment was rejected, and the Green Gage passed as reported. Bleeker's Gage, Purple Favourite and Coe's Golden Drop, were adopted without discussion. Frost Gage. W. R. Prince said this Plum was peculiarly subject to the black knots or excrescences. Chas. Hamil- ton, of Orange Co. said , with him it was free from this disease, 36 and it was one of the most profitable and highly esteemed varieties. The trees are thrifty and smooth, and he sells five hundred trees of it for one of any other variety. He has never been able to supply the demand, and had added last year five thousand trees to his stock. J. W. Knevels, ofFishkill Landing, said this variety originated near his residence, and was a valuable plum, but he agreed with Mr. Prince, that it was peculiarly subject to the "knots," and thought that might be owing to its being usually propagated from suckers. C. M- Hovey said it should not go out on the list, as its reputation was yet quite local. W. R. Prince moved that the words " subject to the knots" be affixed, but the motion was lost, and the Frost Gage | adopted* For certain localities, Imperial Gage. Adopted. J. M. Earle said he would suggest amending the report, by adding the Purple Gage, a most excellent fruit, nearly equal to the Green Gage, and lasts much longer. J. Lovett said, that the Committee had discussed it, but not reported it, in consequence of some confusion respecting its name. J. M. Earle remarked, the Purple Favourite already adopted was probably a seedling from the Purple Gage, later, but inferior in quality, and does not last as long. S. B. Parsons inquired if the Red Perdrigo?i had been con-^ sidered by the Committee, as it was, in his opinion, a most productive and excellent variety. Mr. Lovett replied, that it had been discussed, but it could not be agreed upon. W. R. Prince moved that the Purple Gage be added to the list, and the motion was carried. A. Foote expressed confidence in the judgment of the Fruit Committee, and admired the caution they had exer- cised in presenting the list of fruits, but thought a very important omission had been made in leaving out Fall and Winter Sweet Apples. . Cherries were then taken up. Black Eagle, May Duke, Black Tartarian, Knight's Early Black, Downer's Late Red Elton and Downton, were adopted without discussion* 37 Bigarreau. W. R. Prince said that "Bigarreau" was a misnomer commenced by the London Horticultural Society, and followed by Mr. Downing in this country. He said the word " Bigarreau" was used to designate a class of cherries, not any particular variety. He would therefore move, that it be struck out, and the original name of " Grajjion, or Cerise Ambree" inserted. C. M. Hovey sug- gested, as an amendment, that it be called " Graffion, or Bigarreau" The amendment was carried * and the Bigar- reau so adopted. Peaches were next taken up. Grosse Mignonne. W. R. Prince said the true variety was very little known, the sort usually cultivated being spurious. J. W. Knevels agreed with Mr. Prince. He had not been able to find the true variety. Mr. Downing called it the " World-renowned Peach." He thought he ought to have called it the "great unknown" and he would be glad to have the true variety made known to him. R. Manning's opinion was called for. He said the true Grosse Mignonne was cultivated in Massachusetts, and in some collections under the name of Royal George. C. M. Hovey moved that the word " true" be affixed to the Grosse Mignonne. The motion was seconded by W. R. Prince ; but was opposed by some member, on the ground that it was superfluous, as it was to be presumed the Com- mittee meant, in all cases, the true variety. The motion to affix " true" was lost, and the Grosse Mignonne adopted. Early York, (serrated.) W. R. Prince said this was not the original Early York, but probably the Early Violet ; the true one being the large Early York of New-Jersey, much superior to the other. He would therefore move, that the Early York (serrated) be stricken out, and the Sweet Water substituted. J. Lovett said the Committee were unani- mous in recommending it. R. Manning said with him the Early York (serrate) was always fair and fine, while the Sweet Water was poor and a slow grower. J. J. Thomas of Macedon, remarked, that in Western New- York it was extensively cultivated under the name of Early Purple, and S3 was very highly esteemed. He knew of no one of its season equal to it, except the Early Tillotson ; the Sweet Water, he said, was with him frequently winter killed. C. M. Hovey, of Boston, said that with him the Early York (serrated) was always fair, and much better than the Sweet Water. W. R. Prince withdrew his motion to substitute, and moved that it be called the Earlv Violet. The motion was lost, and Early York (serrate) was adopted. Old Mixon Freestone was adopted without discussion. George the Ath. W. R. Prince said the Early York and Red Rareripe wTere generally grown for this variety; and as its existence was doubtful, and as it would be recommending the same peach under several names, he moved that it be struck out of the list. J. Lovett said the Committee considered these as distinct varieties. Thos. Hogg-, senior, said that upwards of twenty years ago this peach was presented by Mr. Floy to the Horticultural Society of New-York, and was considered distinct from any other. J. W. Kne vels suggested referring it back to the Committee: The motion to strike it out was put and lost, by a vote of 23 to 17. Cooledge's Favourite. J. M. Earle and R. Manning said it was liable to rot on the tree. Saml. J. Gustin thought it inferior to Walter's Early. J. M. Earle agreed with him. H. H. Crapo was opposed to its adoption. C. M. Hovey said it was one of the best at Boston, and hoped it would not be stricken out. P. Barry remarked, that at Rochester it succeeded well, bore good crops, was large, fair and fine flavoured, and since it had been brought to notice there, it was much admired. Adopted. Crawford1 s Late adopted. Early Tillotson. Mr. Prince said it was so subject to mildew as to be unworthy of cultivation. Mr. Hovey said he had lately observed the trees in Western New-York, and they were as white with mildew as though a meal bag had been shook over them. He thought, that however fine the fruit might be, such an unsightly tree should not be recommended for culture. P. Barry was asked his opi- nion respecting it. He said that it was generally subject 39 to mildew, and in moist seasons or soils, particularly so, but that it grew well nevertheless. That it ripened about the same time as the serrate Early York, and very supe- rior in flavour. It was rejected. Bergen's Yellow, W. R. Prince, R. Manning, and others, spoke highly of this variety. D. F. Manice said it was unproductive with him. Adopted, Large Early York, or Honest John. W. R. Prince and C. M. Hovey remarked that this was synonymous with George the Fourth. R. Manning- said that his large Early York might not be correct, but it was different from George the Fourth. On motion of C. M. Hovey, the words " or Honest John" were struck out. C. Sears remarked, that as there appeared to be much confusion in regard to the name of this variety, and as it was desirable to have the matter correct, and well under- stood, before sending out the names on the list, he would move that it be referred back to the Committee. An amendment was offered, that it be laid on the table. Carried. W. R. Prince moved a reconsideration of the vote on George the Fourth. The motion was seconded and carried. On motion of H. H. Crapo, George the Fourth was also laid on the table for the present. Morris White. W. R. Prince said this was the White Rareripe, and moved that it be passed as such. Hon. Jas. Arnold objected to the changing of names. Geo. Olmsted thought there was too much time consumed in the dis- cussion of names. D. F. Manice said with him the Morris White was not worth cultivating. Thos. Hancock said there were several White Rareripes. That he had culti- vated a seedling from Morris' White, for 15 years, which he considered equal to the old one. After further discussion by W. R. Prince and others, the Morris White was laid on the table. Heath Cling, for particular localities. Adopted. 40 Mr. Prince proposed that the Nivette be added to the list of peaches. C. M. Hovey, H. H. Crapo, and others, objected. Dr. Munson, of New-Haven, read the following paper : Mr. President, and Gentlemen of this Convention: I would occupy a small portion of your time with a few re- marks on the subject of the deterioration of certain fruits of the orchard, particularly such as I think may be attributed to the influence of vegetable parasites. It is well known to you that some varieties of fruit, which formerly were of excellent quality, have, in many sections of our country, from some cause or other, greatly degenerated. Where this has been the case, it has been often attributed to the old age of the variety. Unfortunately for this assumption, this degeneracy has not been universally preva- lent; but, on the contrary, in some sections the same varieties of fruit are as fair and excellent in quality as in former years, at- taining their pristine beauty and perfection. This seems a fair subject for our investigation, and I would especially invite your co-operation, that with the aid of the prac- tical knowledge here assembled, we may be enabled to decide what is and what is not the true cause of this and some other maladies of fruit trees. It is generally conceded that climate, soil and culture each exert an influence on the vigour and growth of the tree, and quality of the fruit. That some latitudes are more favourable than others ; some soils are likewise more favourable to certain fruits than others in the same latitude. The latitude tolerably well adapted to the apple and pear is quite extended, and so is the diversity of soil, and yet a particular description of each, which might be most propitious to their per- fection, would be far more limited. A mixed soil, having neither ;too much clay nor too much sand, and not too destitute of, nor having too much humidity, is the soil most desirable for the apple and pear. Parasitic plants are some of the agents injurious to fruit trees and fruits, despoiling them of their beauty and excellence, and rendering the fruit worthless. These parasitic growths, too, have their appropriate latitudes and localities, and thrive best in re- gions most suited to them, and attach themselves to such trees or fruits as are most favourable to their growth. The mistletoe, which grows on the oak, elm., gum tree, &c, 41 and the several species of carcuta, which grow on various plants, are examples of larger kinds of vegetable parasites. The mosses and lichen, which grow on fruit and forest trees, form another class, and some of them are very injurious to the health and vigour of fruit trees. We would mention the fungi too, which forms another class. Some of this tribe infest the cerealia, which in Indian corn and in wheat are called smut, though each are of different species ; and another kind called spurred rye in that grain. There is another of this tribe injurious to the apple tree, which Was alluded to by a distinguished cultivator here present, from Burlington, yesterday, as having destroyed his bell flower apple trees. I have noticed what is probably the same fungus, in one instance in Connecticut, on the early white Juneating apple. Other common instances of injurious parasitie growths occur in the mildew on the fruit and foliage of the grape, which likewise infests destructively many other trees and fruits. Another, which seems to me of comparatively recent occurrence, I have noticed for these ten or fifteen years past, during which time it has made great progress in destructiveness. I have noticed it chiefly on the foliage of several species of the genus Rubus. It is a fungus of a bright orange colour, and infests the under side cif the foliage of the common red raspberry, Rubus ideus, in Connecticut ; and the exhaustion occasioned by this fungus, causes the plant to put up a multitude of spindling stalks, and renders it wholly unprolific, This affection disseminates itself, and I know of no remedy for it. The trailing wild blackberry (Rubus trivialis) is attended with a similar parasitic infliction on its foliage, and I have seen half an acre of ground wholly occupied by this vine, and so stinted in growth by this iron rust funguS as not to bear any fruit. But the most interesting to us on this occasion of the different orders of vegetable formations which become attached parasiti- cally to the wood, foliage and fruit of trees, and growing on them, is a species of an extensive tribe which, in sections where preva- lent, attaches to the fruit of the pear and apple, and occasionally to the peach. It appears in the form of dark spots, or of a num- ber of dark brown dots or patches on the surface of the fruit. On some fruit it exists without producing any very apparent effect, but is a blemish, while in others it produces a slight de- pression, arid on others it destroys the fruit, by causing it to craek in every direction. 6 42 It is to this cause, I am convinced, may be attributed the cracking of the white Doyenne pear, by which, in some sections, it is rendered quite worthless. The reason it operates more de- structively on this than on any other variety, is probably that the skin of this pear is of such a texture at the time when this para- site sheds its seminal principles, as to be most favourable to their reception and germination, and afterwards to its growth, and pene- trating beneath the parenchyma, a substance of the fruit, the parts contiguous being thereby deprived of vitality, shrink, and drying, become hard, thus stinting the growth of the fruit, and often occupying the whole surface of it with hard cracked cicatrices, rendering it wholly inedible. This malady affects some other kinds of pears in a less degree. In an old variety of pear, desig- nated in some parts of Connecticut as the pound pear, in others as the bell pear — not a baking pear, but a rich, sweet, fall eating pear — the same affection lessens its productiveness, causing its fruit to be less than half its former size, and more or less covered with dark spots, and sometimes it cracks. Other varieties grafted into this tree have done well and produced fair fruit. It has been asserted by some cultivators, that the cracking of the fruit of the white Doyenne pear might easily be remedied by enriching and good cultivation. Having had some experience for a series of years with a number of pear trees of this variety in- fested with this malady, I would at this time only relate a state- ment of facts rsspecting them. Some twenty years since I purchased of "VVm. R. Prince, of Long Island, a number of pear trees. They, after a series of years, came into bearing, and all but one proved to be the white Doyenne. For the first few years they bore edible fruit, but in a few more years they became in so extraordinary a degree infested with cracks and fissures, and so stinted in size, as to be good for nothing. Supposing the evil might be owing to some defect in the variety, I obtained of Mr. E. Averill, of Hartford, Conn., some scions of some trees which then bore remarkably fair white Doy- enne pears, which scions I engrafted into one of the trees above mentioned ; the grafts did well, and bore fruit at first pretty fair, but in a few years were affected with cracks like the rest ; and it was afterwards cut off and engrafted with some other variety, which has since bore fair fruit. The other Doyenne trees here alluded to I likewise had topped and engrafted with other kinds, a& the Golden Beurre, Bartlett, &c, &c, and all of them have 43 borne beautiful large fair fruit, having no cracks, and the grafts having as vigorous growths as any trees on my grounds. I would observe, that two of these trees stood on the margin of an asparagus bed, kept in good tilth by enriching every year. A small lateral twig was noticed this year, accidentally left on one of these trees, of the original Doyenne, but having cracked Doy- enne pears on it, and not any way improved, showing that culti- vation will not cure the affection. I would moreover observe, that the cracking of fruit likewise extended to some apples in the vicinity of these trees, and in one instance to some peaches. I conclude by observing, that it is quite evident that this affection of this fruit cannot be caused by any want of vigour in the stocks of said trees, because they produce vigorous growth, and fair large fine fruit of any other kinds engrafted upon them, except white Doyenne. In respect to the prevalence of the affection, it is probable it will prevail wherever this parasite happens to exist or can be disseminated, as it, like other plants, has its localities. Of the remedy for it, I recommend none but engrafting with some .other variety. The committee appointed to consider on the holding of future conventions, and to nominate a Standing Fruit Com- mittee, reported as follows : Resolved, That this Convention be designated the American Congress of Fruit Growers, and that the members or substitutes and officers thereof be regarded as holding their respective ap- pointments for two sessions. Resolved, That all pomological, horticultural and agricultural associations of North America be invited to send delegates to this Congress. Resolved, That at the close of the present session of this Con- gress it be adjourned to hold its second session in the city of New- York, on the first Tuesday of October, 1849, and the following gentlemen to act as the Standing Fruit Committee : 44 Marshall P. Wilder, of Massachusetts, ex officio, Vermont* R. Mattison, No. Bennington. Martin Slocum, Manchester. C» W. Goodrich, Burlington. B. F. Fay, Bennington. New- York. A. J. Downing, Newburgh, Chairman of the whole. J. J. Thomas, Macedon. Dr. H. WendeLLj Albany. P. Barry, Rochester. B. Hodge, Buffalo. Massachusetts. S. Walker, Boston. F. W. Macondry, Dorchester. P. B. Hovey, Cambridgeport. J. Lovett, Beverly. R. Manning, Salem. Ohio. A. McIntosh, Cleveland. A. H. Ernst, Cincinnati. S. P. Hildreth, Columbus. F. J. Scott, Toledo. Rhode Island. L. C. Eaton, Providence. S. H. Smith, Smithfield. Alfred Smith, Newport. J. I. Stimpson, Providence. B. "W". Comstock, do. Maryland. Samuel Feast, Baltimore. Wm. Corse, do. Lloyd N. Rogers, do. Delaware. J. W. Thompson, Wilmington, T. H. Humrickhouse, Coshocton.EDWD. Tatnall, Jr., do. Jas. Canby, do. Pennsylvania. Dr. W. D. Brinkle, Philadelphia. District of Columbia. T. Hancock, Burlington, N. J. Joshua Pierce, E. W. Keyser, Philadelphia. J. F. Callan, Thos. P. James, do. Wm. Breckenbridge. Robert Buist, do. Kentucky. New- Jersey. Lawrence Young, Louisville. H.W. S.Cleveland, Burlington.WARD Brown, Frankfort. R. S. Field, Princeton. H. Duncan, Fayette. J. W. Hayes, Newark. Jas. Allen, Nelson. J. S. Chambers, Trenton. Geo. W. Messenger, Louisville, Connecticut. Geo. Gabriel, New-Haven. Dr. A. S. Munson, do. H. W. Perry, Hartford. Missouri. Thomas Allen, St. Louis* Lewis Bissel, do. Jas. Sigerson, do. Geo. Olmstead, East Hartford. Nicholas Reihl, do. V. M. Dow, New-Haven. Emile Mullenchrodt, do. 45 Illinois. Indiana. Br. J. A. Kennicott, Chicago. J. D. G. Nelson, Fort Wayne. Jno. Wright, do. D. Irvinhart, Logansport. J. Y. Scammon, do, Mr. Scott, Madison. W. W. Arnold, Alton. Prof. J. W. Turner, Jacksonville. Canada. Jno. Frothingham, Montreal. Maine. Dr. C. Beadles, St. Catharines. Henry Little, Bangor. Jas. Dougall, Amherstburo-. S. L. Goodale, Saco. Geo. Leslie, Toronto. The report was unanimously adopted. Some discussion arose in regard to the name, but the title of the report was confirmed by a vote. A. J. Downing moved that a committee be appointed to draft a constitution for the American Congress of Fruit Growers, and report at the session of the ensuing year. The motion was carried, and the Chair appointed the fol- lowing gentlemen such committee : A. J. Downing, S. B. Parsons, J. W. Knevels. Discussion of Fruits continued i Spice Ajiph, from E. A. Newton, Pittsfield, Mass., pre- sented by Thomas Allen. Some were of the opinion that it was the same as Pomme Royal. J. M. Earle thought it was not so high flavoured. The President said it was not so firm as the Pomme Royal, but that he considered it a superior fruit. A. Foote said it was grown in his neighbourhood under the names of Spice, Pear and Pomme Royal. He had known it for 20 years, and it was esteemed by all who knew it, as one of the very best apples of the season. J. M. Earle said the apple alluded to by A. Foote was the true Pomme Royal or Dyer. On motion, it was referred to the Fruit Committee. 46 Geo. Olmstead presented the Case Apple, a seedling, which he said was as good or better than the Baldwin, in eating, from September to May, and a great bearer. On motion, this and all other new fruits were referred to the Fruit Committee. S. Walker proposed the Doyenne Boussock Pear for dis- cussion. C. M, Hovey was called on, and stated that he could speak of this variety after 3 years experience. Some 4 or 5 years ago his attention was called to it by Mr. Ken- rick's work, and he sent for it to France. Three years ago it bore, and he was surprised to find it so large, handsome and excellent, and so little known. He would recommend it for general cultivation. R. Manning said he had fruited it for six years, and concurred in Mr. Hovey's opin- ion of its merits. W. R. Prince also spoke highly of it. S. Walker said the first specimens of this fruit he sawr were from Dorchester, the second from Plymouth, the third from Providence, and the fourth from Quincy. Too much could not be said in its favour. Large, fair and fine flavoured : may be recommended as a fruit of the highest order. The President remarked that he concurred in all that was said in favour of this variety ; that it ripened from the first to the twentieth of September, bore well both on pear and quince stock ; that in the appearance of the fruit, it resembles an overgrown Doyenne. J.M.Earle said it had succeeded well atDedham. J. W. Hayes inquired if it cast its leaves early ? the President replied it did not. A. Saul proposed the Beurre d'Anjou pear for discus- sion. S. Walker said this fruit was first placed on the tables of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society by the President, some four or five years ago. He was at once struck with its appearance and prepossessed in its favour. He then called it an extra No. (1,) and would call it so now. He had fruited it this season, and tested its quality three or four years in suc- cession. It grows well on the quince, does not shed its leaves early, and is, on the whole, one of the bestpears introduced by 47 Mr. Wilder. C. M. Hove y said he had tasted specimens from the President's trees, for four successive years. It bore in his own grounds this season, and he was never more delighted with fruits or flowers than with the specimens on his trees. It ripens from the middle of October, till the middle of No- vember. The President remarked that it grows equally well on pear and quince, is uniformly handsome and fair, does not crack, holds its leaves well, bears early, only one on a spur, and has a fine erect habit. He said, it is also known in France as Ne plus Meuris. Lawrence Pear was next taken up. S. B. Parsons said, on Long Island it was considered first rate, grows vigorously, and bears early and well, of medium size, in eating to January, and keeps well ; may be packed away in barrels like Beurre oV Ar ember g. He would recommend it for general cultivation, and was planting it largely himself. W. R. Prince said, it was a most vigorous grower, was a seedling originated on a farm on Long Island, was one of the most valuable to cultivate for the market, on account of its great vigour and productiveness. J. M. Earle considered it among the best of pears. C. M. Hovey remarked that it succeeded well on quince stock. Wm. Reid spoke of its peculiar growth, the side shoots being at right angles to the stem. He said he had tested it and found it of fine quality. C. M. Hovey added that it was exceedingly hard}r, and a vigorous grower. Here the Convention adjourned till half past 3 o'clock. AFTERNOON SESSION. W.R.Prince spoke of the Newtown Pippin. Hesaidthat some people believed that there was but one variety. He said he knew two that were quite distinct. The green, he said, had a rough bark that rendered it distinguishable without the aid of the eye-sight. He said there is also a seedling Green Newtown Pippin, with smooth bark, and other seedlings of this variety, and he would therefore 48 mote that a Committee be appointed to examine into the several varieties of Newtown Pippins. A. J, Downing asked if any one else had doubts on the subject. Wm. Reid remarked that there was scarcely any perceptible difference in the trees of the two varieties in the nursery. A. J. Down- ing replied, that they grew very much alike in the nursery rows, but as the trees attained their full growth the differ- ence became quite obvious, and as the fruit ripened, the appearance was so different, that he was surprised that anyone should confound them. Hon. Jas. Arnold objected to the appointment of such a committee as Mr. Prince proposed, as the Fruit Committee were fully competent to decide all such questions. On motion of S. Walker, the Swan's Orange, or Onon- daga Pear, was next taken up and sent to the Fruit Com- mittee, with the request that they would decide its name. H.H. Crapo moved that the StandingFruit Committee be requested to report to the Convention to be held on the first Tuesday in October next, lists of the different varieties of fruits which they may consider as decidedly unworthy of cultivation. S. Walker objected to the resolution as being prema- ture, as such a list could only be safely given after long experience. The first conclusions were frequently erro- neous. He said the Vicar of Winkfield, when it first bore, at Boston, was poor and apparently worthless, and now they sold at SI 50 for a box of a dozen, and the purchaser generally considers he has the best of the bargain. He said if he had extensive grounds he would plant it out for ornament; that it would produce more pears in the same number of years, and on the same number of trees, than any other sort. The Bloodgood, too, he pronounced, at first, unworthy of cultivation; now he calls it' one of the best. He therefore thought it was unsafe to instruct the Committee to make out a list of worthless sorts. H. H. Crapo and W. R. Prince urged the adoption of the resolution. J. W. Hayes remarked that it would be difficult for the Committee to make out such a list unless for parti- 49 cular localities, and moved to amend the resolution to that effect. Hon. Jas. Arnold and A. Foote opposed the amendment. The former thought the whole matter might be left with the Committee. J. W. Hayes then withdrew his amendment. S. B. Parsons thought there were certain varieties of long standing, which every one, in every locality, would pronounce worthless. Such could be safely placed upon a list of rejected fruits. When a single dissenting voice was heard respecting the worthlessness of any variety, it would not be placed upon that list. The question upon the original resolution was then taken and carried, and the Committee were instructed to bring in another year, a list of worthless varieties. The Fruit Committee reported that more time was ne- cessary to arrive at the facts regarding the origin of the pear known as Swan's Orange, or Onondaga, and they therefore advise that it be referred to the Standing Fruit Committee to be reported on at the next session. The Fruit Committee also reported that they have esta- blished the following grades to designate the quality of good fruits, viz. : Good, very good, best. Case apple, from Geo. Olmstead, reported good. Smoke- house and High-top Pippin apples good. The Vicar of Winkfleld pear was called up again for discussion. The President was called on for information. He said it had been published, that if he had but one pear tree it should be of this variety ; not because it was first rate in quality, but that it combined so many good characteristics. It never fails to produce a good crop, never is blown from the tree, can be used in August for cooking, will ripen in a warm room in October, and may be kept till February. The Loudon Pippin apple was presented by Yardly Taylor, of Virginia. Referred to the Fruit Committee. Dr. Hare was called upon, and made some interesting observations on the yellows in the peach tree, and diseases of trees in general. 7 50 On motion of A. Mcintosh, it was Resolved, That the President and Secretary be a Com- mittee to confer with the American Institute relative to the expenses of this Convention, and that a copy of the trans- actions of this Convention be sent to each member thereof, and to all kindred societies in this country. The President here was called into the Committee room, and Vice-President Crapo officiated. On motion, Resolved, That a vote of thanks be tendered the American Institute for their liberality and courtesy towards this Convention. On motion of Yardly Taylor, of Virginia, Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be tendered the President for the satisfactory and impartial manner in which the arduous duties of the Chair have been per- formed. Also, Resolved, That the thanks of the Convention be tendered the Hon. James Tallmadge, for his valuable services in opening its proceedings. Resolved, That the Secretary be requested to address a letter of invitation to the Hon. Edmund Burke, Com- missioner of Patents, to take a seat in this Convention at its next session. The thanks of this Convention are also due to the Secre- taries for their efficient services — and also to Messrs. P. B. Mead, A. P.Cummingsand Samuel Allen, a Committee of the Board of Agriculture of the American Institute, for pre* paring the Hall for the use of the Convention. A. J. Downing stated, that as he and other members of the Fruit Committee were absent in the Committee-room when the list of peaches was discussed, and therefore had no opportunity to answer the objections raised against George the 4th, Large Early York, and Morris White, he would now move that these varieties be reinstated in the list reported by the Committee. W. R. Prince and C. M. Hovey said that it was unfair to bring up that subject at so late an hour, when a large number of the members of the Convention had retired, and thought it better to leave 51 them where they were till the next session of the Con- vention. A. J. Downing's motion was put and carried, and the Convention adjourned till the first Tuesday in October next. The deliberations of the Convention were generally- conducted with harmony, much information was elicited* the qualities of various new fruits discussed, and the fol- lowing select list adopted, with confident expectations of a more extended list another year. Cist of Snxits aioptei bg tlje (ffontjention, ©rt, 1848. APPLES. Early Harvest, Rhode Island Greening, Large Yellow Bough, Baldwin, American Summer Pearmain, Roxbury Russet, Summer Rose, And, for -particular localities, — : Early Strawberry, Yellow Bellefleur, G-ravenstein, Esopus Spitzenburg, Fall Pippin, Newtown Pippin. Madeleine, Dearborn's Seedling, Bloodgood, Tyson, Golden Beurre of Bilboa, Bartlett^ Williams's Bon Chretien, or' Bartlett, PEARS. Seckel, Flemish Beauty, Beurre Bosc, Winter Nelis, Beurre d'Aremberg, And, for 'particular localities ,- White Doyenne, Gray Doyenne. Grosse Mignonne, George IV. Early York, serrated. Large Early York, Morris White, Oldmixon Freestone, PEACHES. Cooledge's Favourite, Bergen's Yellow, Crawford's Late, And, for 'particular localities ,~ Heath Cling. 52 Jefferson, Green Gage, Washington, Purple Favourite, Bleecker's Gage, May Duke, Black Tartarian, Black Eagle, Bigarreau, PLUMS. Coe's Golden Drop, Frost Gage, Purple Gage, And, for particular localities, - Imperial Gage. CHERRIES. Knight's Early Black, Downer's Late, Elton, Downton* !W«BP5S'*;'-t«K\^'-,-v -> t^f^i J f >P" s /