ne - ye ** h . me ; payers: Pi ttn een ae Oe ee rt. oe a. .~. - CY a We a rv Wy WY Sy ee Sr ee se es es ee ee ts bs We WV ald) “Go™e SS eee ru Be Pa Ym a : Stay am “ ? lL | ¥ « : i ! 1 for t a < 3S CRA OF yee) hs wate: tp ty Ade e “ f | - 4 \ ; : ce : : ‘ a TRANSACTIONS OF THE MINNESOTA Spare Horriccnrorat Socrery. A ew yA - . ‘ ~ Ps \ 3 nA fe - oH PROCEEDINGS, ESSAYS AND REPORTSYor« oS ZOTANICAL _.~ 4 AT THE 4 +) <— RD oy” is ANNUAL WINTER MEETING, Held at Minneapolis, January 20-23, 1874, AND CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTS UPON THE EFFECTS OF THE WINTER OF 1872-3 ON FRUIT TREES IN MINNESOTA. Prepared by JOHN S. HARRIS, Secretary. SAINT PAUL: OFFICE OF ST. PAUL PRESS CO. 1874. L. : B RA [2 Y NEW YORK CONTENTS. BOTA r wiih. GARDEN PAGE. List of OfficerS—1874.... cece cccce sec eeccccn snes ccenrvensececeee Standing Committees..... 2... ..ee cece ee cece concern neeee nese eeee cans GLiSt OF Members... cecs cece cvcscescccsccs cocccces voce sees cescssevess Local and County Horticultural SocietieS......ee cece cece cece renee PPOTACEs poe w a nose xccnes veccnenecdeesccces vocesisleicds es isles voléleee veine List of Nurserymen, Florists and Gardeners of Minnesota...-..+++-++ Articles of Incorporation of the Society....-+.e.+-eceeeeeeceeeescece By-Laws governing Society......-eeee cece cece cess scene soseeecenees Transactions of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society..........- Order of Business............. a eleaslaeGh a pisetle Bs aa ets a ciahicigeelbisila’els Debates on fruit growing— Planting Apple trees .....e.eeeee cece cee: seeeeeeeereres Best sorts for Cultivation... .....s0e sees cece scene cereecece Transplanting... 2... .ceee cece recs cece ccesseccee seseceee Cultivation and protection. .... Saxe eialcleapaiviaie seielareejsataeierae Pruning and time to prune....-------see- cere neces Se nerie Diseases to which apple trees are liable and their treatment Insects injurious to trees and fruits, etC.-.-----+ eee eeees Circular of inquiry snails the effect of severe winter of 1872-3 on MEPITPAUBCER soe v= vic nv) scs.0 vice enc ascececises eae mssis¥ hele nisin viel 4. Address of the Secretary Eiaialeiiciese’s 2 Wraleite:iele aicietola)alielelele(ois(eisieisdere's(arsrereteiate a Report of the committee on, and discussion of the subject of varieties OD ADCS ec lawiss ces ccincc ces PAE CUD O DTC AC IC OROne re AR ARO oC OT Report of committee on Siberian Apples..... Gv) ¢ciniaisolalnle enailivialeve ktcistorels Debates on fruit growing resumed— Pears..... SG Siaisjeleisneleeiels sca a sbes afarei= shalats Setetatela aicieis(eleleieie| stele © IPIOMS 6.6 n1606 2s: aiale sfafalaga\atieta'atalierstetarefaiern (pe poteieisis eiataleraleisielisrslc)e BEGG a pia i0 sn.ais nls: wi is mas Vin sini Ajaietslgs o did ict Salar teat e siete ye Grapes—addition to list of last year recommended.....---- AO TENEAILGG © afal afar s's tai sae s/olaisre(als) = elelalwisieluiel eiala\slehsialstelwin/eiala a (ki) scavelsrs GOOSEDEITIES .-+ -+ eee eeeeeecoee Giahiadu celal sls)ata aval labahatalatetat Melee Blackberries ........0s-sseeecoees fate aiafictatatetiataiels pie ate at deletes BDL METTIGH ss a1nla0e) wage) are aielvie'e aifctoiate/ale tot eleion a aicieyimiatm etejsts beieie'st’s Report from A. C. Hamilton—how trees should be set in Minnesota. . Resolution from Kansas State Horticultural Society relative to the or- ganization of a ‘‘ Western Pomological Society”.....+++++++++++: Communication from Bates & Northrup pertaining to disasters of win- Te TMPN SAN EV es tal at 5 ava xisje's|ai'a io: \eleigtel sicist a’eieie Sisjela)sist ste! AOR BO HEC Sacra cn co Annual Address of the President of the Society. ecctaliofel ol s\n =: =,eleintaisie Report of committee on Kansas State Horticultural Society resolution Hlection Of Officers. . 20. sc cecs cece cncseeccccce wia'’e(a\s\a) 6’ sve (aleve peateealatattetet= Discussion of Shade trees.....-...e-seecees se SReies oiel e\eieiataiateentets ace Ornamental trees......-. Sialitelal's'e'scheie\ aaj s oleieidieneetetate Seles Evergreens ...... sisiigstetails ata ofet sls ala/sia’e)e\olnvalataly ePathstarelals:s\eis List of Evergreens adopted. ....-....ceecseeeee inte ons talcaetaratel ste «et shale Resolution inviting ladies to participate in proceedings ----+++++++++« Soils best adapted to the various kinds of fruits, etc. ......-.+- sNelelsi ste Adoption of Code of By-Laws. .......cccceceeccnce sovcccccee secs cece 1V CONTENTS. Report of Committee on Varieties of Flowers for cultivation.......... 64- Communication from Secretary Wisconsin Horticultural Society rela- tive to exchange of Society’s Transactions, etc..--+-++ +seesee-- 66 Report of Committee to Award Premiums .........+++ seceeeeeeeeees 68 Cranberry Culture...... Simin inisip eta ssisleRinlale ip cesicwcccs cece s rains Blueberries and Huckleberries.....+++++++seeeeeseceeecececceeeeeees 70 MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS, REPORTS, &C. Cultivation of Roses in the open ground....-++++-+++ rece reecee recess 71 Report of Committee to Make Awards in the Floral Department, State Fair, 1873...ccceee cccccscosrsottscen aesevecevedussecenscuse eee 15 Report of the Horticulture Department—State JOC MAIRIBE dS onerercer: - 81 Construction and management of greenhouses for amateurs.......+-.- 83 Report of last year’s eADERLENCY in fruit Growing in Minnesota.....-... 86 An essay on flowers. . sina bate > Ee SARS Report of O. D. Storr, Winsted ‘Lake, in reply to circular of Secretary 90 Report of E. P. Evans, Brownsville, for Houston county, Minn., and Vernon county, WiS...-.».+++. Sa eE isles eae soa ooenea svecidve OL Report of D. F. Kelley, Northfield ...... 2... eee ceecee ce veeeccceeeee D2 Report of Barnett Taylor, Forestville...-.... 2.2. eseeee cece ceees eee 9B Reply to ‘‘ Information Wanted” ......ese+-sec eee cece cece encerseees 94 Report of J. H. Thomas, Young America, Minn............+++---0+ ++ 96 Report of G. A. Perley, Wasioja, Dodge county, Minn....-. ei 05155 96 Report of W. B. Smith, Owatonna...... oe ee: oe Rlee cole einela bl aaah aan 98 POrertstree-CUlGULE > av aie ciers cisleretalercnavarsicls wicrom ale ible se Selewiahe aaa terete 98 ee ANDING COMMITTEES. EXECUTIVE: ee LE ireisiks os noes, occep sae acescccriesancssnesesaelt Lu ObeRCcent: BT PE ISCTEE: 0... 0.020 seanvernesenscnse veaaeenice SH Pan EME BAD ca nesn'pe oe sr 20s00s cnose neces cece soseisian ems) ake City. OE AGAIN 00s 05 cena cinncie denn ano ssume sionsiecanwaddcn Faribault. J. Ts GRIMES. 02.00. eescsccccscecsencvecvcscscesects esos Minneapolis, GENERAL FRUIT COMMITTEE: | WYMAN ELLIOT, H. J. BRAINARD, O. F. BRAND, E. H. S. DARTT, THOMAS RAMSDEN, BARRETT TAYLOR, P. A. JEWELL, ROBERT GOODYEAR, JOHN S. HARRIS, A. C. HAMIL- TON, A. W. SIAS, LEVI HILLIGOSS, F. G. GOULD. LIST OF MEMBERS. Abernethy, Wide ccccccpeccvccescvecssenscccesccese Buckendorf, William. ....+2ssceeeescseecevecesvecee Brackett, George VWs eee e es. Se OO eee Sess Feeeeeeeee Booth, J. H..-++eeeeseenee Bowerman, J. H. eeeeeve pete ee sees sees esos Sees eseeeseseeeee Brand, O. F. Poem eee were ee see Sees sees esses sesesees Carter, T. Gi cccecccces cess scccccsesccceeeseses cece Clark, C. H. Seca eee ee FOES eee ess esses SHE Eeeteeesese Chowen, George W. eeeeeeeeee eereeeeeereeeeaeee eeeeee Cannon, William. ..+.-+0. eseececececececceeers Day, Ditus..--.- ee ee ee ee esses Sees eeeessesese sees sees Dartt, E. H. S. ee ee eee SEES SHEE THEE HEHEHE EHEEOE SE HEEEE Foster, A. D.-- Fuller, G. Wauccce cece voce cccccecess Fowler, William..-. Fleischer, J. C.. ee eeee eer eases sees eeeeee sees esse eee sect eeeeseseae sess eeeeee eres eeee Ford, L. M. Come cece esse esse eeseereesses eee cesesece Grimes, J. T.-- Gibbs, HoB.« s+. Gould, T. G..---. ‘Humphrey, Otis M...-- persia telatarsie * Hilligoss, Levi......-- Herrick, H.N..-.- eee e eee eeeSeeeeseSHSSseeseseseeeee eee ee esses eesSeees sess sees eeeeeeee Howe, G. Wigiewieete vies eeee esse eeeeeseseeeeseeseeeeeee Hoffman, James Higgins, S. B....--. Harris, John S.. Jewell, P. A...---- Kilpatrick, Charles Kramer, J..C.. Meyer, Ernest... eoeeeeee eeeeeeesee eevee ese se esses eeeSsseerese esse egerecceoseces eee eccese sees teste eessese sees eee eesseeeeeeseeeeeeeeeee ee eeoeeesere eeese . eeece eeeeeseeee eocve eeaeeeee e@eesese Nutting, Levi .---..++-- Prescott, C. A...-..- Ramaley, D Stratton, L. eeeeces Moulton, Thomas...... Stubbs, N. J.ceeesecsceccccesee Stewart, A. Tyler, Alexander . Sieidia-ciainisi> tate nase Wilcox, E.. eeeees . weeeeseeeeeee sess eeee Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Faribault. Faribault. St. Peter. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Farmington. Owatonna. Minneapolis. Litchfield. Newport. St. - St. Paul. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Excelsior. Minneapolis. Blooming Prairie. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. Baxter, Iowa. La Crescent. Lake City. Minneapolis. La Crescent. Excelsior. Minneapolis. - Minneapolis. St. Peter. Faribault. West St. Paul. St. Paul. Minneapolis. Minneapolis. St. Paul. Excelsior. Long Lake. Richfield. - Minneapolis. . Trempealeau, Wis. HONORARY MEMBERS. B= PEFFER.....- Pees sess seers eesseseresseecser Pewaukee, Wisconsin. A. G. TUTTLE eeeeeeeersteeeeeeeeseeee se eeeeeeeeeee Baraboo, Wis. oO. Ss. WILLEY .... sO cree sere ese eos ese ease oeee Madison, Wis. HON. WM. W. FOLWELL.......-++++.++++ eeeee0e+ Minneapolis, Minn, + ‘ 8 ANNUAL REPORT. PREFACE. * The second annual volume of the Minnesota State Horti- cultural Society is herewith submitted to the friends of horticulture and rural adornment, and all who are interested in the welfare and happiness of the people of our noble State, and with its publication the official connection of the writer with the society ceases. From the time it sprang into exist- ~ ence the writer has been a member of the society, and has attended every meeting held with the exception of two, and during most of the time has occupied an official position, and it is with pleasure that he surrenders the responsibility of an officer, not to retire to private life, but to enter the ranks and join in the battle until the victory is complete. Of the value of this volume it may not be proper for me to speak. It speaks for itself to tell you that the society is steadily growing in numbers, influence and power for good. This volume contains a number of addresses and essays of great value, and the correspondence and reports are in my opinion one of its best features. The lists of fruits: adopted for cultivation are very complete, and fully equal—quality and hardiness to rule—to the lists recommended by our neighbors of the Wisconsin Society. The last (1872 and ’73) winter had severely tried many varieties of fruit, and we expected that many of our friends would be discouraged, and inclined to raise the old cry of “no fruit country,” but were happily disappointed, as the contents of this volume will show. It will be noticed that the men who have taken part in the discussions and contributed papers are with few exceptions the pioneers of fruit growing in this State, and many of them have had large experience in testing varieties in various localities. We for the first time present a list of Siberians for general planting. No doubt some of the varieties will be discarded in future years and their places filled with other and better, for this class of fruit is showing a capacity for improvement, but eee erie BAUR -SERETTS eae : : tebe di ; Bike LOR. ANNUAL REPORT. ~ : Lay NURSERYMEN, FLORISTS AND GARDENERS OF MINNESOTA. : Bunnell, M. C., fruit trees and shrubbery, Money Creek. Brand, O. F. & Co., general nursery stock of fruit, evergreen and orna- mental trees, Faribault. Bates & Northrop, general nursery, Stockton. Bowerman, J. H., general nursery, Faribault. Brimhall, William E., fruit and ornamental trees and garden vegetables, St. Paul. Brown, James, vegetable garden, La Crescent. Buckendorf, William E., florist, Minneapolis. Booth, J. E., florist, Minneapolis. ! Cook, C. P. & Co., hardy trees, shrubs and vines, Garden City. Dartt, E. H. S., hardy apple trees, Owatonna. Dean, J. H., nurseryman, Blue Earth. Elliot, Wyman, nurseryman and gardener, hardy fruit and ornamental trees, Minneapolis. Evans, E. P., nurseryman and dealer, Brownsville. Ford, L. M., nurseryman and florist, St. Paul. Fuller, G. W., nurseryman, Litchfield. Fleischer, J. C., florist, St. Paul. Goodyear, Robert, nurseryman, Mankato. Grimes, J. T., small fruits, hardy apple and ornamental trees, Minneapolis. Gould, F. G., nurseryman, Excelsior. Gillmore, J. F. nurseryman, Faribault. Harris, John S., fruit gardener and florist, La Crescent. Hoffman, James, nursery and shade trees, Minneapolis. Hermanson, J.°A., nurseryman, Otisco. Jewell, P. A., general nursery, Lake City. Jordon, E. B., nursery, Rochester. James, A. T., nurseryman, Smithfield. Kramer, J. C., general gardener, La Crescent. Latham, A. W., nurseryman, Excelsior. Moulton & Co., hardy apples, Minnesota seedlings and Siberians, Min- neapolis. Martin, Lewis, nurseryman, Anoka. Prentis, D. W. C., nurseryman and dealer, St. Peter. Stewart, A., nurseryman, Richfield. Sias Brothers, nurserymen, Rochester. Slee, John W., nurseryman and florist, Dundas. Smith, Truman M., small fruits and grape vines, St. Paul. Waller, G. B., nurseryman, Litchfield. Wadsworth, H. S,, nurseryman, Litchfield. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 11 - INCORPORATION OF THE SOCIETY. ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF THE MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Know all men by these presents, that we, the undersigned, John §. Harris, of La Crescent, Houston county, John H. Stevens, of Hennepin county, Wyman Elliot, Charles Hoag, J. T. Grimes, A. Stewart, R. J. Mendenhall, Peter M. Gideon and Charles H. Clark, all of Hennepin county, D. A. J. Baker, Truman M. Smith, D. A. Robertson, William E. Brimhall, H. J. Brainard, L. M. Ford and Wm. Paist, all of Ramsey county, and Thomas Ramsden of Washington county, O. F. Brand, A. W. McKinstry and Levi Nutting, all of Rice county, and P. A. Jewell, of Wabasha, EH. H. S. Dartt, of Owatonna, Steele county, all of the State of Minnesota, do hereby associate ourselves together for the purpose of becoming incorporated under the name, and for the purposes hereinafter stated, pur- suant to the provisions of title and chapter 34 of the General Statutes of said State of Minnesota, so far as the same may be applicable, and do now adopt the following Articles: ARTICLE 1. This corporation shall be known as the Minne- sota State Horticultural Society. ARTICLE 2. The object of the society shall be to collect, condense and collate information relative to all varieties of fruits, flowers, and other horticultural productions, and dis- , pense the same among the people. ARTICLE 3. Any person interested may become a member of the society by paying to the Treasurer or Secretary, the annual fee of one dollar, and signing the constitution and by- laws. ARTICLE 4. The amount of capital stock of this corporation shall be twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), with privilege to increase it to $100,000, to be held in shares of twenty-five dollars each. ey ‘ ex Nha Me on Ae fie ee ie pat nie Jaceiaca clay pes sae Lu ‘ft Seti Oe ee teeter By Mea O ” ¥ ro et Z wae RS AR | ‘ 0 . Yer é ae OR Saale POR UE here ae Assia al a eat eta ts & lige 4 Aine Tate: DSi a ’ 4 Bate t i ve NGCERR SL, 4th atg i ‘ bey) 0 ebb ee rks e eh The: bas ’ ih: y phen CER. DE A TED Ge, ee 4 t ue ; ie ie } et VPhee-Sy vee Ota ORE ‘ k + A Ses t ry . 4 } ar ty ft 4 e - Py as ‘ hee 4 . t . é é ; : 7 y: et : wae 4 be PRU J Mid 2 r. | 7 4 ' & ‘ ul ot e9 . ‘ "re iba A . : “pa at 2 | : ; ; / . MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 13 BY-LAWS ADOPTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD JANUARY 20-23, 1874. DUTIES OF OFFICERS. 1. It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meetings of the society, when present, and to deliver an ad- dress at the annual meeting of the same. In the absence of ae President, one of the Vice Presidents shall preside in his place. 2. The Secretary shall record all the doings of the society, collate and prepare all communications, etc., for the public press, and pay over all money received from members, or otherwise, to the Treasurer, on his receipt; shall receive and answer all communications addressed to the society ; establish and maintain correspondence with all local, county, district and State horticultural societies, and secure by exchange their transactions, as far as possible; to aid the President as an executive officer, in the dispatch of business relating to meet- ings of the society, and notices of horticultural and similar meetings of general interest, and report to the annual meeting of the society an abstract of the matter that has come into his possession, which shall become part of the transactions for the current year, and shall be prepared by him for the pub.ic printer. 3. The Treasurer shall collect and hold all funds of the society, and pay out the same only on the order of the Secre- tary countersigned by the President. 4, An Executive Committee of five shall be chosen annu- ally, who shall, in connection with the President and Secre- tary, (who shall be members ex-officio) have in charge all matters pertaining to the interests of the society ; shall revise all matter coming into the hands of the Secretary, and pass upon the same their approval before its submission to the annual meeting 5. The Executive Committee may call a meeting of the society at any time and place they may deem advisable for the interests of the society, giving at least thirty days’ notice through the public press, and shall in no case incur any ex- 3 14 ANNUAL REPORT. pense exceeding fifty dollars except by authority of the vote of the society at its annual meeting, when the specific objec and the amount so appropriated shall be designated. ; 6. The President, at each annual meeting of the society, or as soon thereafter as practicable, shall appoint a General Fruit Committee, consisting of one member from each Senato- rial District in the State, and it shall be the duty of each mem- ber to report upon the fruit crop in his respective district annually ; also a limited list of fruits best adapted to general cultivation in the district which such member represents. 7. That committees on vegetables and market gardens ; flowers and floriculture ; trees for the forest and forest cul- ture, and entomology,*e appointed each year, whose duties it shall be to report on their several topics to this society at the annual meeting. TRANSACTIONS OF THE MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ANNUAL MEETING HELD AT MINNEAPOLIS, JANUARY 20, 21, 22 AND 23, 1874. Pursuant to notice given through the Farmer’s Union of Minneapolis, and the principal periodicals throughout the State, and in accordance with provisions of the Constitution, the members and friends of the State Horticultural Society met in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, at Minneapolis, at 10 a. M., January 20. There was quite a large attendance, and an unusual interest shown in the cause of horticulture, and a strong desire to learn how to avoid a repetition of the disasters of last winter (1872 and 1873.) A table was set up in the hall upon which was spread col- lections of fruits, flowering plants, seeds for distribution, and samples of wines, jellies and preserved fruits, &c. But the display, though better than we expected, was much inferior to that shown at the annual meeting in this city two years since, and told plainly that misfortunes had overtaken us and dashed many bright hopes to the earth, but like truth, which, “crushed to earth, will rise again,” so is horticulture destined to be- come a grand success in our noble State. Severe winters may visit us, and corrupt and ignorant Legislators may defraud us of our rights, and rings may cripple us for a time, but the fruit-growers of Minnesota are “ iron-hearted men,” and they are searching for “iron-clad” trees. They have nailed the flag to the mast, and their battle cry is: “ Fruit for ourselves ; fruit for the millions that will soon people our State ; fruit to load our railroad cars and steamboats and send to other Jands. We will have fruit or perish in the attempt.” The meeting was called to order by the President, Truman M. Smith, of St. Paul; and the Secretary, J. 8. Harris, of La 16 ANNUAL REPORT. Crescent, being out of health, C. H. Clark, of Minneapolis, was chosen Assistant Secretary. : ; ADDRESS OF WELCOME. Col. J. H. Stevens, on behalf of Mayor Brackett, extended to the society the following address of welcome: Mr. Preations ‘and Gentlemen of the State Horticultural Society : I am directed by Mayor Brackett, who is unavoidably ab- sent, to extend to each one of you the hospitalities of the city. The citizens of Minneapolis feel honored that the so- ciety, in its wisdom, selected this place for the purpose of holding the annual meeting. They have ever taken a dee interest in the glorious cause of horticulture, and they will endeavor to make your sojourn with us pleasant. They doubt not that your deliberations will be attended with much benefit to the State. You have their best wishes and sympathy in all that appertains to your noble calling. They bid you God speed in your undertaking, fully believing that the day is not far distant when the apple, through your efforts, will be to the manor born, while the rose and kindred flowers will be house- hold treasures appreciated by all who are fond of the beautiful. PRESIDENT SMITH’S REPLY. Mr. Smith, in his reply to the above, remarked that the society had selected Minneapolis as their place of meeting feeling its great interest in horticulture as evinced by the choice fruits in their markets, and by the ornamental trees, and numerous and well-filled green houses and conservatories and beautiful flower gardens that beautify your many pleasant homes in your young and growing city. He also thanked the citizens in behalf of the society for their proffered hospitality and kindness. COMMITTEE ON ARRANGEMENTS. As the Executive Committee had been unable to prepare a programme for the meeting, a motion was made and carried that a committee of three be appointed to present topics for discussion, and prepare an order of business for the meeting ; committee to report at 2 P. M. A. T. Stewart, of Hennepin, P. A. Jewell, of Wabasha, and Theodore Bost, of Carver county, were appointed. The Secretary read a communication from G. E. Morrow, Secretary of the Wisconsin Horticultural Society, offering to MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 17 _exchange fifty copies of their Transactions for 1873, for fifty of ours for the same year. The communication was accepted and a resolution passed instructing the Secretary to exchange fifty copies of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society Re- ports for fifty copies of the reports of the Horticultural Soci- ety of Wisconsin. On motion of Mr. Ford, of St. Paul, a committee was ap-— pointed and instructed to proceed to the State capitol and se- cure all the State Horticultural Reports not in use there, and bring them before the society on Thursday morning. A short time was spent in free conversation, and the soci- ety adjourned to 2 p. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. The meeting was called to order by Vice President H. H. S. Dartt, of Owatonna, when the following report from the Com- mittee on Topics for Discussion, and Order of Business, was presented by P. A. Jewell : 1. What tests are necessary to fully establish the perfect adaptation of aly variety of apples to the peculiar and trying climate of our State. 2. Best sorts for cultivation. 3. Transplanting. 4. Cultivation and protection. 5. Time and manner of pruning. 6. Diseases to which apples trees are liable, and their treatment. 7. Insects injurious to trees and fruits, and the most economical and efficient means of destroying them. 8. Pear culture. 9. Plums. 10, Cherries. 11. Grapes. 12. Currants. 13. Gooseberries. 14. Blackberries. 15. Raspberries. 16. Strawberries. 17, Cultivation of forest trees for timber protection. 18. Deciduous, shade and ornamental trees. 19. Evergreens. 20. Ornamental shrubs and plants. 21. What soils are best adapted to the various kinds of fruits, and what manures promote the most healthy growth. 22. What new kinds of fruit appear worthy of cultivation. 23. Suggestions relative to the granting of premiums at State Fairs. _The report was accepted, and the society proceeded to the discussion of the subjects in the order named. 18 ANNUAL REPORT. 4 2 PLANTING APPLE TREES. Considerable discussion followed on the first subject as to the best locality for planting apple trees, and the time neces- sary to test their hardiness. It was asserted as an established fact that many varieties of trees would grow and produce apples on or near the borders of our lakes and rivers when they would not flourish on the high prairies. The severity of the last winter on fruit trees had made the question one of great importance as to which kind of fruit trees should be recommended and what tests should be applied. Mr. P. A. Jewell stated that his experience proved that many varieties, such as the Ben Davis, which have come into exten- sive use, had failed to stand the test of Minnesota climate ; that all the samples of fruit we have is but the growth of a remnant of hundreds of fruit trees that we have planted. Because one or two trees out of a dozen different varieties stood the test, it should not be taken as proof of their worth. It is impossible to test any kind of trees with one, five or ten years’ growth. Messrs. Hoffman, Stevens, Stubbs, Dartt, Clark, Bost, Fuller and others spoke at length, and Mr. Clark said he thought that although the last winter was an exceptionably severe one, it was quite safe to assert that any tree that had stood the test of this climate, planted in different parts and in different soils, was sufficient to establish its hardiness. He accordingly presented the following resolution : Resolved, That this society will not tecommend for trial in this State any variety of apple tree that has not stood a test of at least five years in different locations and soils throughout the State. Mr. Jewell said that he would not object to trying any tree five years, but he would not recommend it for planting in five years—not less than ten years. It was necessary for trees to have a test of that length of time, or at least till they had a test such as only last winter could give. Mr. James Hoffman thought that dwarf varieties would have to be resorted to yet, since the standard had failed. Rev. Mr. Fuller thought that last winter was a sufficient test for any tree. Mr. Bost said that in his vicinity the old trees had been killed and not the younger varieties. Mr. Jewell offered the following in amendment to Mr. Clark’s resolution : That we do not recommend for general planting in large quantities any variety that has not stood a test of ten years in a variety of soils and situations, and shall have passed through at least one winter of great severity. Another warm discussion arose on Mr. Jewell’s amendment. : ; MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 19 The Secretary, J. S. Harris,-offered the following resolution for the amendment: ‘ Resolved, That a test of five or more years in ten or more different localities, and endurance of such a winter as the last without injury, should be a sufficient test of hardship to warrant this society in recom- mending for general cultivation. Mr. ©. H. Clark thought it was unjust to those who planted trees, to impose such a length of time on any variety of trees before they could be recommended for general use. The resolution offered by Mr. Jewell was adopted. Variety of apples next taken up. ‘ BEST SORTS FOR CULTIVATION. - The next subject was the best sorts for cultivation. It was moved by Mr. Dartt and seconded by Mr. Gould, of Excelsior, that the Duchess of Oldenburg be counted first on the list. Carried. It was moved that a committee be appointed to present a list of trees to be regarded the best. The President appointed Messrs. Jewell, Dartt and Hoffman as such committee. TRANSPLANTING. Transplanting was the next theme of discussion. Col. Stevens introduced Dr. O. M. Humphreys, of this city, to the meeting. The Doctor had not been long in this State, but always had a deep interest in fruit and tree culture. His experience had always favored his preference for fall planting. He always planted immediately after coming from the nursery, and with as many roots as possible. His spring transplanting had not been so successful. The Duchess tree, from his observation, has proved the best. The crabs in sandy soil and in different parts of the State, had proved a failure, although in heavier soil it may do better. His grape vines, of twenty varieties, see ave plants deep, and they passed through last winter safely. Mr. Hoffman had been in the State twenty-six years; six- teen years he’ had planted forest trees, and five or six fruit trees. He always plants forest trees in fall, and lifts or heals in his fruit trees in fall and plants them in the spring. Duchess he favors best, Haas next, Ben Davis not at all. Mr. Jewell thought if fruit trees were lifted in the fall they would survive the winter, but all fruit trees should be 20 ANNUAL REPORT. get in the spring. They should be dug up early in the all and carefully laid away till spring, when they suffer but little injury in transplanting. It is not safe to take even the hardiest varieties from a nursery and transplant them. Mr. Gould indorsed Mr. Jewell’s opinion of transplanting, but he objected to the manner of burying trees in winter. He recommended a dry place, not putting the body of the _. tree in earth at all,—by digging ‘a trench on the north side of a hill, and leaning the trees at an angle of 45 degrees, so that the water will not rot the bark. Mr. Jewell preferred a high and dry location, burying about two feet, digging a deep trench which will take in the trees entirely below the surface. After placing the trees in these trenches he places rafters or ties across the top, covering with a board, then he covers over all with dirt ; after a freezing he covers with straw or litter. . Mr. Harris gave his system and experience, which con- formed nearly or quite to that of others. He had transplanted apple trees in the autumn with good success, if it was done early and the soil was not too dry, but preferred to receive trees in the fall and plant as early in the spring as the season would permit. Said his plan for winter- ing the trees was to select a dry, sheltered place and dig a trench eighteen inches deep and about the same in width and long enough to receive what trees he had. Then open the bundles and take one tree at a time and re- move with a sharp knife all bruises from the roots, cut back the tops to correspond with root and place in the trench, standing at an angle of about 45 deg., and put the earth back over the roots one tree at a time, being sure to leave the work when completed so that water will run from it. By this pro- cess had kept his trees for spring planting for many years and never had one injured. If the trees are received from the nursery in very cold weather, the pruning and making ready should be done in the barn or cellar, to prevent their being long exposed to frost. CULTIVATION AND PROTECTION. This subject being next taken up, was opened by Mr. Grimes. He believed in deep ploughing with proper prun- ing, while for protection mulching was necessary, and he would recommend a growth of something like raspberries in © parallel rows to trees, as incidental to the same. Mr. Dartt favored thorongh cultivation. Mr. Jewell believed in thorough cultivation, particularly during the first. three or four years. In order to get trees se lll + Ps < . bas 1 . A”. ’ , ; 3 3 ' n MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. — St well established would commence as early as possible. He warned the society against late cultivation as tending to late. growth, thereby jeopardizing the safe passage of the trees through the winter. He would mulch in the fall of the year. There is nothing better than straw, which would hold the snow, taking due caution against injury from mice. Mr. Dartt had had most satisfactory experience in mulch- ing with earth, sowing oats, and as they grew working them into the soil. Mr. Hoffman approved of cultivation. Said it kept the soil in condition to receive and retain moisture. The Secretary said that his experience had favored cultiva- tion up to-the last winter, but during that winter his losses had been most severe where the ground was cultivated. Be- lieved liberal mulching would have saved most of his orchard. Had trees of Northern Spy and Perry Russet in grass not materially injured. Presented the following report from S. B. Klough, Winona county : ' *¢T have an orchard of 65 trees four years planted on high ridge land; soil clay loam. Trees of those varieties nurserymen call hardy, just com- mencing to fruit. Land seeded to clover last fall. I hauled wheat straw and put it about a foot deep around the trees, and out as far as the roots would reach. Lost one tree, a Dominie, the rest all right. The tree that died had never done well.” PRUNING AND TIME TO PRUNE. In consideration of this subject, Mr. Dartt would only prune to please the eye. He thought little pruning should be done, and would prune about three feet up. Mr. Jewell thought that three feet was high enough. Mr. Grimes thinks the less pruning trees have the better ; it should only be done when limbs grow in improper places. Mr. Howe thought that trees could be shaped in any way desired. If scions are to be cut they should be cut from the tops of the tree. We want the roots to run deep so that we can plow near them, and the tree should be trimmed high up. Mr. Gould thought that one should use judgment in trimming trees. It was not safe to cut large limbs. J. 8. Harris thought we should not cut off the Transcendent too early ; he found budding on Transcendents a failure. Mr. Jewell thought the trouble with Mr. Harris’ failure in budding on Transcendents was in not cutting away the top early enough, which caused bleeding. A motion was made and carried to adjourn till evening. o thls. 2? ANNUAL REPORT. EVENING SESSION. ‘ The President in the chair called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. The Secretary being absent, Mr. Latham was appointed Secretary pro tem. The President then announced the topic for discussion. THE DISEASES TO WHICH APPLE TREES ARE LIABLE AND THEIR TREATMENT. The discussion was opened by Mr. Dartt. He considered that the blight affected fruit trees, as disease does the human family. The Transcendent and seedling crab are most liable to blight ; the Duchess of Oldenburg and Soulard crab the least. The Tetofsky is not so free from it as the Duchess. The Saxton and Golden Russet also suffered severely from it. He pre- ferred the severity of winters, like the last, to the blight. Col. Stevens could not agree with Mr. Dartt. He had never heard of any successful remedy for it,-but believed that the frosts of winter were worse than blight. It was not general- ly considered dangerous to fruit trees, as it does not affect them oftener than once in twenty or thirty years. It has been a number of years since the blight made its appearance in Minneapolis. I have heard that a few years since it pre- vailed to such an extent in Southern Illinois as to threaten the total destruction of the orchards, but has since disap- peared. Mr. Smith had lost two Soulards by the cause of blight— esteems the fruit very highly. Said that until lately Mr. Har- ris had thought the blight caused by electricity ; believed that Mr. Elliot considered it the result of a certain fungus in the atmosphere, but he did not think either supposition en- tirely correct, as the electricity, according to that theory, would destroy the trees every year. He thought the blight was contagious, and could only be regarded as a disease. Mr. Gould also thought it was contagious, and was the re- sult of fungus matter in the atmosphere, and there was no remedy tound for it yet. He had examined the trees affected with it with a powerful microscope, but could not detect the cause. Stated that his Transcendents were the first to blight. Dr. Humphreys asked what should be done with a tree in a garden of a hundred others, that had blighted for two or three years ? Answered by Col. Stevens—* Dig it up.” Dr. Humphreys then asked if wood ashes had been used, and further stated that all diseases were self-propagating, and that if the cause of the blight is parasites, a preventive ought MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 23 to be found in disinfectants. We might approximately decide as to this cause by their use. He intended to try on his own grounds a solution of potash or strong lye. Carbolic acid and other similar disinfectants might be tried with probably good effect. ; Mr. Stewart has trees with wood ashes thrown around them, and they have suffered as much as others. . Mr. Gould advised cutting off all diseased branches and burning them. Mr. Jewell does not profess to know the cause of the blight, although he has suffered much from it. His experience with it was more in nursery than orchard. Thought the more rapid the growth of the tree, the more liable to blight; that the disease was transmitted through the atmosphere, and wher- ever there was a rupture in the bark of the tree there it lodged. The blight attacked some Transcendents 4 or 5 years old, and spread rapidly through his nursery. Would keep Transcendents and Hyslops from the near proximity of a growing nursery, as they are more subject to blight. He also notices that trees not pruned suffered less than those closely pruned. Had used a tree plow to cut the roots of nursery row trees which were badly affected with good ‘success in arresting the disease. He inferred that from arresting the growth of the tree in this way worked the favorable result. The Transcendents and crabs as a class were most subject to blight, and in the selection of varieties to plant care should be taken as to their kind. Would not recommend setting ‘Transcendents, and other varieties subject to blight, in same orchard with others, as they would be liable to cause it to spread among the others. Had top grafted a Hyslop. The blight killed the body and the tree is now dead. This liability to blight is an objection to using crabs to top work upon, and if used for this purpose all sprouts should be keptaway. The Montreal Beauty blights worse than any other. INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TREES AND FRUITS, AND THE MOST ECO- NOMICAL AND EFFICIENT MEANS OF DESTROYING THEM, ‘Was the next topic taken up. Mr. Brand considered the best way to destroy the aphis was to watch them carefully as they appeared upon the top leaves, and destroy by rubbing between the hands. If left two weeks they will spread rapidly. He suffered much the past season from the borer. By close examivation he had been able to detect their first appearance by the incisions made by the perfect insect in depositing the eggs, and the best way to de- stroy them was to crush the eggs by a pressure on the bark. r * ~ 4 \ ‘ ge Sane y ' ; ; 24 ANNUAL REPORT. : Mr. Stevens had had strong soap suds recommended for the louse, to be applied to the leaves; had tried it and found two — applications to work an effectual cure. eae Mr. Jewell had tried solution of ammonia and decoction of tobacco, the latter of which he found the best, and would fur- ther say that it was the only use for which it was fit. Mr. Cannon said tobacco water (the leaves to be immersed in it or apply with syringe) is the best remedy I know of. _ Mr. Howe suggested evening bonfires, or that a pan of burn- ing tar be placed among the trees as an economical way of catching and destroying insects. % Mr. Dartt regarded the apple worm as the most destructive to the apple in Minnesota and throughout the north-west. Thinks this worm’ was brought here in barrels of apples mee from below. Described Weir’s trap for catching them. Dr. Humphreys inquired if the fact of a leaf-louse depositing its eggs on a tree one season would render it more liable to its ravages another year. ~ Mr. Gould thought it would, from his own observation. Mr. Stewart said that a tree that was once attacked by leaf- louse is more liable to be attacked by them the next year, as their eggs are left on the branches and are not injured in the winter. Mr. Dartt inquired if the aphis or louse did not become a fly. Mr. Gould said they were green when young, but when fully developed they became a black fly not much larger than a louse. Mr. Stewart had discovered a white grub among his straw- berry vines that destroyed them by eating off the roots, and was unable to account for it. ts The President thought it was the larve (Lachnosterna) of the May beetle, and that soap-suds was the best remedy. Mr. Jewell said his nursery had suffered considerable from the beetle. The ground that was formerly covered with poplar trees was infested the least. He thought the best remedy was to go through the orchard every day, and catch and destroy them. At this stage of the discussion Col. Stevens offered the fol- lowing resolution, which was adopted without-discussion : Resolved, That a committee be appointed by the President to prepare @ memorial to the Legislature, requesting provisions to be made for the appointment of a State Entomologist. Col. Stevens, and Messrs. Dartt and Jewell were appointed such committee. Discussions resumed. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL, SOCIETY. 25 Mr. Dartt asked if ants are injurious to trees. . . Mr. Cannon considered them the best preservative of the trees. Mr. Bost thought the ants only infested the trees for a honey substance that the aphis drops when worried, and that this bothering of them might compel them to drain more sap from the tree. Mr. Jewell moved to consider to what causes are to be ascribed the wholesale destruction of fruit trees the past winter or spring. Carried. * Mr. Stewart ascribes this loss to the immaturity of the wood and severe freezing. Mr. Dartt considers the severe freezing alone the cause. Mr. Stubbs—Caused by severe freezing. Animal life can endure only a certain degree of cold, and the tree, too, has its limit. ; Mr. Carter, of St. Peter, thinks the sun somewhat to blame. Mr. Gould believes the extreme cold did the damage. Saw scions of Flemish Beauty pear last January that were entirely dead, and this before the season had become warm. Grape vines were also killed down in Ohio, eight miles below the lake shore; vines that had never been affected before. Mr. Brand does not consider the cold altogether the cause, but the dry weather and dry soil were fully as much to blame. On the grounds of Mr. Drew, where he had seen the hardier varieties dead, it was dry soil throughout. He had seen the Ben Davis killed by cold weather, but not the Duchess of Oldenburg or Fameuse. Dr. Humphreys questioned whether the drouth of the pre- ceding summer and fall had not impaired the vitality of the trees and rendered them easily overcome by the cold. Mr. Jewell believes the extreme cold weather the cause of this loss. In his locality it was quite wet in the fall, and trees could not have been killed by dryness of soil. Thinks the roots of unmulched trees were killed by excessive cold, and not by lack or excess of moisture. Thinks there is a certain lowness of temperature at which any variety would be killed. Trees ripen up and stand the winter better if the ground is dry. Air. Dartt knew of hardy varieties like Transcendents to have root killed while the tender ones had not. The plum he had introduced from Wisconsin stood the winter, while the Ilnois variety succumbed to it. Mr. Brand stated that J. O. Milne had not lost a single tree of Ben Davis; and this, he considered, was due to the fact that in that part of the State (Sauk Centre) there were heavy 26 ANNUAL REPORT. rains in the fall, and the same was true of all trees in wet places. | : The President said that the experience throughout New England during the last winter was that trees the best pro- tected by snow suffered the most. In his own orchard the Minor plum, that had winter killed three or four years ago, came through the last winter all right. Those trees that he cultivated latest in the season suffered most. Trees are in- jured by sudden changing. Immature wood, and the early and severe frost was the cause of his loss. Dr. Humphreys apprehended a severe winter and protected some tender varieties with wrappings, and they came out all right. hin Bowerman never knew trees covered with snow to sur- vive cold weather any better than those entirely exposed. Mr. Jewell thought the drouth had nothing to do with winter killing. Meeting adjourned to 9 a. M. to-morrow. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21st. Society met at 9 a.m. President Smith in the chair. The discussion was resumed on the cause of the destruction of fruit trees last winter, and was opened by Mr. Harris of La Crescent. He had lost a great many fruit trees last win- ter. Some varieties were almost entirely killed, apparently root killed, as they did not sprout again from the roots. Among those that suffered the most was Northern Spy. Lost one Transcendent ; some others made but feeble growth be- cause a portion of the roots were injured. The Duchess stood the winter well. Lost one or two Red Astrachan and Tallman Sweet trees. His opinion was that the wholesale destruction of trees last winter was from exceeding dryness of soil the previous fall, and the severe cold the winter fol- lowing. He had trees of Perry Russett, Northern Spy and Early Harvest that had been exposed to dripping water and the shade of sheltering buildings that escaped injury. Some trees that had grass or weeds around them came through very well. When he discovered that the winter had been so unfavora- ble for trees, he had caused the following circular to be published in the Farmers’ Union, asking for information, the replies to which will be published under the head of Reports- ‘MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 27 CIRCULAR. ‘ La CRESCENT, May 22d, 1873. To the Fruit Growers of Minnesota : - We have just passed through the hardest winter known to the oldest citizens of this State, and there were peculiar circumstances attending it that will make it a test winter for many years, if not for alltime. The winter set in early and dry, and frost penetrated to a great depth before any considerable snow fell. Many losses have occurred to our fruit growers by the destruction of trees and plants. We desire to profit by the severe test by collecting such facts from the people as will enable us to place before them a list of fruit trees that are iron-clad under all cir- cumstances, and therefore solicit from you answers to the following questions as soon as possible : ist. What varieties of apples have you planted in this State? 2d. What varieties have come through the last winter without re- ceiving any injury in root, trunk or branches? 8d. What varieties have received no injury to fruit buds? 4th. What is the nature of your soil? Whatis the exposure? What cultivation and protection do you give? 5th. Are you raising any seedlings that are perfectly hardy, and are any of them good enough to take the place of Russets, Seek-no-Furthers, and other varieties that we are obliged to discard? 6th. Are you raising pears, and have you any variety that stood the test of last winter without injury? $ 7th. What is the hardiest and best strawberry for your locality? 8th. What two varieties of grapes are the best with you? Notes upon plums, cherries and other fruits will be acceptable. You are further informed that this society intends to be represented in the meeting of the American Pomological Society, to be held in Boston next September, and you are requested to furnish the delegates with specimens of your fruit for the exhibition. Please correspond with the officers of this society, and they will make known to you the time and manner of sending them. JOHN S. HarRRIs, Secretary of Minn. State Horticultural Society. ; i Mr. Latham—The cause of this universal loss must be some one common to the whole State. In some localities the soil was dry, in others wet ; in some the ground was frozen deep- ly, and in some the snow fell deeply before freezing. The only common cause was the severe and long-continued cold, which he thinks must be the grand destructive cause. Mr. Hoffman does not consider cold the only cause of this loss. Has noticed that where his soil has been dry, the roots have been easily killed Has lost shade trees from this cause. As a preventive for this cause of loss, cultivate thoroughly and keep the ground moist. Col. Stevens asked if his, Mr. Hoffman’s, experience was not that for many years all the tops and branches died off, and sprouts came again from the roots. Mr. Hoffman replied that he had thoroughly tested with fruit and shade trees, and found if mulching was plenty there was no danger of root killing. He had sometimes sustained . ‘ 28 ANNUAL REPORT. injury to trees in severe winters by top killing, and they yprouted again from the root. He lost only two trees last winter. His soil is sandy, and cultivated, and slopes east. Mr. Ford related his experience, which is very interesting but unfortunate, and would leave the impression that his was a very unfavorable locality for fruit trees. His loss last winter was from root killing. He had a Tran- scendent on one side of a walk and two Tetofskys on the other. The Tetofskys are dead, and the Transcendent is alive and bore full last year. He wants to know what made the difference between the two sides of the walk if the crab is not the hardiest. Mr. Hoffman answered: Because there is a pond of water near the walk where the Transcendent stands. ae Mr. Fuller, of Litchfield, said his nursery was on soil of light sandy loam, in a most exposed place on open prairie. Wher- ever snow covered the trees they were preserved, and where most exposed they perished ; the same was true of White Elm, Mountain Ash, &c. It was the hard and repeated freezing of the sandy soil that killed them. Mr. G. P. Peffer, of Pewaukee, Wis., was introduced as a delegate from the Wisconsin Horticultural Society, and after- ward elected an honorary member, and invited to participate in the debates. He said it is always well to consider the soil and situation in which trees were planted. Cold affects a tree very much the same as heat, and will in like manner evaporate the sap ; and a root being exposed to a certain degree of cold is certain to perish. He had ascertained by actual measurement before and in time of a hard freeze that the root and trunk of a tree will shrink nearly one-third by freezing; probably by the evaporation of the sap. Related his experience with ashes. The soil in his nursery was clay loam, and very stiff. He ap- plied ashes liberally to a block for trees and incorporated them with the soil by plowing and harrowing till the soil became loose, pliable, and would not retain water. The trees on this ground grew well and looked better than any others he had ; but last winter they root-killed, while those on land not prepared with ashes were not so injured. The varieties killed were the hardiest he had. Mr. Harris thought the application of ashes on clay soils made them more porous, and in the absence of fall rains it was in a condition to invite deep freezings, which extracts the sap from the roots ; there being no moisture in the ground when they thaw out, death must ensue. The roots freeze harder when encased in a dry substance thau a wet. A bucket of water would freeze over in a cellar before vegetables would receive injury. 4 MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ae ae Mr. Bost said it is thought in his locality that one principal reason why the losses were so great was because the soil was 80 wet. Mr. Bowerman, of Pioneer Nurseries, Faribault, said that part of his nursery was on high and dry ground, and some arts of it on low grounds; on high grounds lost less by root illing than on low. Lost but few young trees by killing of root, but lost heavily by tops dying. : “Mr. Howe, of Hennepin county, said some think the loss is from dryness, some from wet, and some from cold. He thought the cause was the extreme changes of the weather ; the extreme cold of January, and the mildness of March, fol- lowed by sudden freezing and thawing rapidly. Mr. A. Stewart, Hennepin county, says the sole cause is because the root is not hardy enough. Has experimented on this subject fifteen years. Roots must be perfectly hardy or thoroughly protected. Mr. Ford offered the following resolution, which was adopted: Resolved, That names of places of different speakers be given in the report. Mr. Stewart said his experience was mostly confined to Hennepin and Le Sueur counties. . The Secretary moved that we suspend the regular discus- sion of topics, as he had some reports to present. Seconded by Mr. Ford. The Secretary read a report from the Olmsted county Hor- ticultural Society. The Society was organized on the 3d of March, 1873, with the following officers: President—Wnm. Somerville, Eyota. Vice President—J. B. Clark, Rochester. Secretary—S. D. Hillman, Eyota. Asst. Secretary—J. W. Mason, Rochester. Treasurer—J. M. Westfield, Rochester. The regular meetings are held the third Saturday in each quarter. Have already discussed apples, grapes, small fruits, &e. On motion, the report was adopted, and ordered to be placed on the minutes. The Secretary read the following extract from a letter re- ceived from Mr. D. W. Prentis, of St. Peter : **T wish to say that there is a man here from Finland, where the ther- mometer goes down to 56 degrees below zero. He says high up in the mountains, or at quite an elevation, where there is no rain all winter, they raise fine apples, and winter apples at that, and also nice pears. I thought that such varieties would stand our climate. I learn that twenty- oO Tae ee 30 ANNUAL REPORT. five Finland emigrants are at the Reception House in West Brainerd. Have written to the postmaster to have him obtain an interview with them and see if these statements were confirmed. I also wished to learn if some one could not bring out some scions. ‘Would it not be proper to have the statements investigated, andif. wise, ask the Legislature to appropriate a sum sufficient to obtain ane fruits as are hardy in that extremely cold climate?” Moved that the communication be received =, placed’ on file to be embodied in the proceedings. The Secretary then read his annual report to the society. ADDRESS OF THE SECRETARY OF THE STATE HOR- TICULTURAL SOCIETY. Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Minnesota Horticultural Society: The official position in which I am placed by your favor | makes it my duty and privilege to address you at this time, reporting to you the progress we have made during the pagt year and the hopes and prospects of the future. THE LAST WINTER. The winter of 1872-73, for long continued and extreme cold storms and fierce winds, stands without a parallel in the his- tory of our State. During the autumn preceding, the rain- fall was very light, and was followed with but light falls of snow and hard freezing, that continued over most of the State until the 7th of January, when we experienced the most fear- ful snow and wind storm known within the memory of the oldest inhabitants, which continued for three days, and car- ried mourning and sorrow into many homes, and caused great loss and suffering to stock in the new and sparsely settled parts of the State. Previous to this storm the ground was frozen dry to the depth of three to five feet. The winter had set in earlier than usual, and but few farmers and gardeners had given proper mulching or protection to their trees and plants. The whole winter ranged extremely cold and the spring was rather backward, and a long drouth prevailed in some sections of the State. What do we witness as the result of these unfavorable influ- ences all combined in one year’s experience? Many orchards of great promise were ruined, and many others were seriously injured, while a very few were comparatively unharmed. With the view of drawing out as many facts as possible, to ascertain the extent of the injury, and the varieties of apples Seas -MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 31 that were not injured, or that were injured the least, I caused a circular letter to be published in the Farmers’ Union of May 24th, 1873. In reply a number of communications were received from different parts of the State, and many others have reported through the columns of the Union. From this correspondence I am enabled to report that the Duchess of Oldenburg and Tetofsky are damaged the least. The Red Astrachan, Haas, Fameuse, Tallman Sweet and St. Lawrence, rank next best among those varieties which are in general cultivation, and they stand for hardiness about in the order they are named. The Siberian crabs and a number of the hybrids or seedlings of the Siberian have generally proved to be perfectly hardy. I also tind that some other varieties have come through all right where they had been grafted upon crab stocks. I have heard of a few instances where the Harly Harvest, Northern Spy and Perry Russet did not show any injury. The fire blight has prevailed quite extensively, and is doing serious damage to the varieties of Siberian crab. The losses of last winter to the apple and the blight which is affecting both the crab and apple trees to a certain extent have had a tendency to discourage a few of our farmers, but the profes- sional horticulturists and many of the amateur fruit growers appear to be hopeful, and freely express the opinion that in spite of losses and failures we are gaining ground, and that our efforts will eventually be crowned with success. Doubt- Jess we shall learn lessons from the past year’s experience that will prove of great advantage to us in the future. I received ‘but two reports of orchards that did not sustain any serious injury from the winter. One in Winona county, which is on a high ridge of land, seeded down to clover, and with trees mulched around with wheat straw to the depth of one foot, contained sixty-five trees, in varieties nurserymen term hardy, and lost but one tree,a Dominie. The other was in Fillmore county, on high prairie land cultivated in corn. The stocks left standing over winter came through splendidly. Orchards have generally fared best that were not cleanly cultivated. As the greatest losses arose from root-killing, (and much of that could have been prevented by mulching) this meeting should take a positive stand and prompt action upon the mat- ter, and propose some method by which hardy roots and stocks for grafting and budding upon may be raised by our nurserymen, and in quantities sufficient to meet our present requirements. SUMMER MEETINGS. The officers of the society did not deem it to be expedient ae ANNUAL REPORT. to call you together for meetings of exhibition or discussion during the last summer, but a call was made for a meeting to be held in St. Paul, upon the evening of the second day of the State Fair, which, from causes beyond our control, was very near a failure. No business was transacted except the ap- pointment of examining committees and determining where the annual meeting should be held. - THE AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. The American Pomological Society held their last biennial session in September last, at Boston, Mass. Our society was represented in the meetings by but one delegate, Wyman Elliot, of Minneapolis, from whom we expect a report. Owing to the earliness of the meeting and the unfavorable condition of the fruit crop, we could not make an exhibition that would convey any correct idea of the advance we have made in horticulture, and therefore did not consider it expe- dient to attempt to show our fruits. The next meeting is ap- pointed to be held in Chicago, in 1875. FALL EXHIBITION. The exhibition of fruits, flowers and vegetables, at the State Fair, held in St. Paul in September last, was a fine suc- cess ; in most particulars far surpassing our most sanguine expectations. I think this was the result, in the first place, of a determination on the part of our fruit growers to show that all was not lost, and they would fight it out on that line, i. e. the hardy stock that is left, and in the second place, from the liberal additions that have been made to the premium lists since the influence of the State Horticultural Society has been brought to bear upon the State Agricultural Society in giving the management of the horticultural department over to our direction. The premium lists in the floral and vegetable departments should be thoroughly revised, and the result would be an in- creased number of exhibitors, a lively competition and an improvement in the culture of the articles exhibited for pre- miums. Some additions ought to be made in the fruit department. In the past, the Siberian crab has shown a capacity for great improvement, and we now,have some of its seedlings and hybrids that are perfectly hardy. The fruit is received with favor for home consumption, and is fast coming into general use for pickles and sauces, and will probably soon have a commercial value next to the common MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 33 apples. I think they ought to be placed upon the premium lists in a separate class and advanced to the position which they merit. Some varieties are reported to be long keeper and others superior for eating from the hand. , MEETINGS FOR DISCUSSION. One meeting per year is not sufficient to do justice to the questions which are demanding our attention, but it has been found difficult to get the members out to more. I do not be- lieve this is the result of a want of interest on their part. Our State is large, the summers are short, and the fruit growers and farmers are crowded with work, and considerable time would be consumed in going to and returning from a summer meeting, while the traveling expenses incurred by those living in remote parts of the State is an item of considerable impor- tance. Perhaps a practical remedy for this would be the division of the State into districts, and holding summer meet- ings alternately in the several districts. J think this hardly practicable at present, but it can be brought about in time. SEEDLINGS AND NEW FRUITS. Nothing in the line of seedlings or from the new varieties has come up for our notice since the last annual meeting, and from the few varieties of seedling apples exhibited at the last State Fair, it is evident that some of the competitors for favor will never again be heard from. The Wealthy of Excelsior still maintains its reputation for hardiness, and doubtless could with safety be placed upon the list for general cultiva- tion. Experiments with seedlings are being made by indi- viduals in various parts of the State, and some parties are conducting them upon a system that cannot fail to make our future in apple growing equal to, if not in advanee of, any State in the Northwest. (I would refer you to a communication from Peter M. Gideon, of Excelsior, published in the December number of vol. for 1873 of the Horticulturist, p. 369.) The Wealthy originated with and was brought to notice by Mr. Gideon. He has now under cultivation several hundred seedlings that bear marks of being a cross between the Crab and Wealthy Duchess, Blue Pearman and other superior varieties that endured the severity of last winter without injury. If any improvement can be made it must be by hybridizing our best varieties of apples with the crabs or the variations which come about through cultivation, or the planting only of home-grown seeds of the hardiest varieties. Necessity is called the mother of invention. May not our necessity prove 34 ANNUAL REPORT. . a blessing in developing for us and our posterity a better class of fruits ? ¢ * COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETIES. We are not in correspondence with or in receipt of reports from any local or county horticultural societies except the Olmsted County Horticultural Society, which was organized last March, and is prospering. I believe there are some other such societies in the State, and there ought to be more, and if abstracts of their transactions could be secured and published in our annual volume they would add to its interest and use- fulness, and by complying with the requirements and provisions of the acts of the Legislature of last winter, providing for the printing and distribution of the transactions of the State society; would be entitled to receive copies of the same. Another plan would be for the State society to assume the position of a parent society, and have auxiliary societies organized in every favorable locality, these societies to be — required to hold summer meetings for exhibition and discus- sions, and to send delegates and full reports to each annual meeting of the State society. After the adjournment of the last annual meeting the State Legislature passed an act to provide for the printing and dis- tribution of our society reports. Under this act the State printer has published the history and an abstract of its pro- ceedings from its organization, Oct. 3, 1866, to the annual meeting, inclusive, in January, 1873, in a neat and closely printed volume of two hundred and eight pages. Aside from the aid granted, we have incurred a debt of $225 in collecting material and preparing it for the printer. In order to liquidate this debt and defray the expense of sending one or more dele- gates to the winter meeting of societies in adjoining States, and to procure seeds, plants, cuttings and trees for experi- menting with, I recommend that we adopt a resolution of thanks to the last Legislature for the aid and encouragement they have extended to us, and memorialize the present Legis- lature, now in session at St. Paul, and ask them to grant us an additional annual appropriation of $300. Insects injurious to vegetation are rapidly on the increase, , and a State entomologist is loudly called tor. We cando no less than to ask the Legislature to provide for one. Cranberry culture is awakening a lively interest in some of the States. There is no State so well adapted for it as Min- nesota. Shall we encourage its growth, or let our swamps and marshes remain unsightly and unprofitable wastes. It is unnecessary to remind you of the importance of planting sf a MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIRTY. 35 shade and ornamental trees and wind-breaks. The people have aroused themselves and are inquiring what they shall _ plant. In conclusion, I recommend that this meeting take the necessary steps to secure for the next annual meeting a full report of the forestry of Minnesota, to include the evergreen and deciduous timber and ornamental trees that are found flourishing in the State, the places where they are found, and the soils most natural for their perfect development. I would also recommend the appointment of a committee of three or more practical horticulturists, to co-operate with a like committee from the State Agricultural Society to revise, correct and amend the premium lists in the Horticultural de- partment of the State Fair. Respectfully submitted, J. S. Harris, Secretary. On motion of Col. Stevens, the report was accepted and adopted. The report of the Committee on Varieties being called for, Mr. Jewell, (the chairman being absent), presented the follow- ing lists, but declined to make a full report, as the attention of the public had been called to many varieties he had recom- mended at previous meetings, some of which had failed. FIRST LIST. Apples for General Cultivation. 1. Duchess of Oldenburg. 3. Wealthy. 2. Tetofsky. 4. Stewart’s Sweet. SECOND LIST. Apples for planting in most favorable localities. 1. Haas. 5. St. Lawrence. 2. Fameuse. 6. Red Astrachan. 3. Plumb’s Cider. 7. Saxton. 4, Walbridge. 8. Price’s Sweet. 9. Perry and Golden Russets. On motion, the report was received. The Secretary thought the committee should present a list of Siberians. Mr. Jewell said he was supposed to be interested in crabs, seedlings and hybrids, and he did not think it well to intro- duce them personally. Moved by Mr. Gould and seconded by Mr. Ford, that a committee of three be appointed to prepare a list of Siberian crabs and seedlings for general cultivation, to be presented this afternoon. 36 ANNUAL REPORT. Carried. aD The chair appointed on this committee, Thos. Moulton, P. A. Jewell and Mr. Harris. : ; Mr. Jewell did not feel disposed to act on this committee for reasons before stated. hae The President said as they had buried the crabs at a pre- vious meeting, and Mr. Jewell had been the first to start them, he ought now to be among the first to resurrect them. Mr. Harris said that he had officiated at the burial, but had found that the things were prematurely buried, before dead, and would cheerfully help dig them out. Moved and seconded that the report on apples be taken up, one variety at a time, for adoption. Carried. THE DUCHESS OF OLDENBURG. Mr. Fuller In Meeker county this apple has been killed very badly, and he hardly knows of any trees of this variety now in healthy existence. Mr. Grimes has lost no Duchess since he grafted on hardy roots. Moved and seconded that the Duchess be adopted for gen- eral cultivation. ; Dr. Humphreys asked Mr. Fuller if his trees root-killed. Mr. Fuller said they did. Mr. Ford stated that with him the Duchess had killed, while the Transcendent, only eight feet distant, lived, and he in- tended to dig up and destroy the Duchess. Mr. Ditus Day, of Dakota county, had 20 or 30 Duchess that did not winter-kill; did not know of but one tree in his locality that had been injured. Mr. Fuller stated that the Duchess being slow in starting may be the cause of its killing with him. In reply to question by Dr. Humphreys, he said some of his trees were planted in loam, and some in sandy soil. Mr. Jewell (Lake City) does not consider that in his part of the State there is any danger of this variety being injured except by root-killing; had seen them top-killed in_this locality and at Mankato. In the southern part of the State the Duchess is free from root and top killing, but in the | northern some have top-killed. In the extreme northern part of New York they were more successful in growing ap- ples than in the southern part of the State. . Mr. Peffer, of Pewaukee, Wis., said that as he came up to this meeting he stopped at Sparta, Wisconsin, and he thought that the winter had been more destructive to trees there than MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 37 in Minnesota. In the whole place there was but one bearing tree left, and that was a Duchess. Mr. Hoffman said that on digging some Duchess that looked feeble he found that the roots thoy were grafted on were dead, and their life was supported simply by roots that sprouted from the scion. : Mr. Carter, of St. Peter, said a neighbor lost several Duchess, ten years, while the younger trees were not hurt. Mr. Knight’s fine Red Ash are dead. . Mr. Ford, St. Paul, said he dug along the rows of Tran- scendents and found them good, while the Duchess near by were dead. . _ Mr. Stubbs, Long Lake, said in his locality there was scarcely an old Duchess that passed through the winter without injury and most of them were destroyed. He planted ten trees ten years ago that were bearing, and every one is now dead or nearly so, but he believed the trouble was from root killing. Col. Stevens suggested mulching as the best preventive of root killing. Mr. Morrison said that Mr. Ford had set out twenty Duchess trees for him and warranted them to be hardy, but they had all died after bearing a little. So had some green gage plum trees all killed. . Mr. Gould, Excelsior, thought this variety should be placed first onthe list. Any tree that passed through last winter, with branches above the snow uninjured, had had a sufficient test. He could show any one 1,000 trees on south shore of Lake Minnetonka, seven and eight years old, in good condi- tion for a crop of fruit next year. Thomas Moulton, of St. Anthony, had 250 trees, four to seven years old. They stood on ground not cultivated, both sand and clay ; 75 of them bore last year. Had 1,000 three years old, and those that suffered most were where the snow was from three to four feet deep. Had seen Transcendents top and bottom killed. Mr. Hoffman said it looked very much as if two varieties of Duchess had been planted out ; one died, the other lived. The President said he had had the Duchess planted since 1861, and had never lost but one tree. Moved by Mr. Ford and seconded by Mr. Jewell—* That ‘in favorable localities’ be added to the resolution to adopt.” Motion lost. The original motion was carried, Mr. Ford voting No. TETOFSKY. Mr. Ford said his experience with the large apples was that they had better be dug up and destroyed. 6 } / ar i - oh ‘poe . ‘ 7 ; { 38 ANNUAL REPORT. Moved by the Secretary that the Tetofsky be recommended for cultivation in village and city gardens. He said it was pecu- liarly adapted for such places, as it was hardy enough, and a small and compact tree and early bearer, but on account of its diminutive size it does not make a very good appearance where planted promiscuously in the orchard with standard apples. Thought the fruit too perishable for shipping long distances to market. / oui Mr. Stevens, of Minneapolis, favored the Tetofsky. He was very much attached to it, as the first apple he had raised was of this variety. Hoped the motion of Mr. Harris would not prevail, because the tree was equally valuable for the farm as the city garden. Mr. Jewell, Lake City, said his experience with it was very much the same as with the Duchess. Had 7,000 two-year old trees, and they came out all right, as did others in his part of the State. Believed when they died it was from root killing, and if they had been mulched they would have survived. Mr. Bowerman, of Faribault, said he did not lose any in the nursery. They were not mulched, but weeds were allowed to grow to protect them. Mr. Fuller said he felt more favorable to this variety than the Duchess. In his experience, seventy-eight miles west, on the St. Paul and Pacific railroad, he had but few trees that were not affected in his nursery. Some tree roots, as the Haas, were all killed, while others were not much hurt, and Tetofsky looked best of all. Mr. Grimes hoped the society would not confine Tetofsky to towns, as the country wished some. His Tetofsky had proved all right, has never had one killed back a bud; was one of four varieties that bore last year. Mr. Howe, of Minneapolis, and Mr. Ford, of St. Paul, sug- gested that the society recommend what location to plant this tree in as favorable to success. The question being called for on the Secretary’s motion, it was lost, and a motion to recommend it for general cultiva- tion was carried. WEALTHY. Moved and seconded that the Wealthy be recommended for general cultivation. Mr. Peffer being called upon for his experience, said that P. M. Gideon, of Excelsior, left him some of the Wealthy to propagate ; also some of the Molly, which latter is proving to be worthless. Said that they had got somewhat mixed in sending out, and that some had probably received the latter MINNESOTA PIES HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ' 39 under the name of the Wealthy, and it would certainly injure under so severe a test as the last winter, but he had been able to get the two varieties separate, and the trees had made a good growth last year, a proof that they were not much in- jured. The tree grew thorny but the fruit is of good flavor. Mr. Thos. Moulton bought a lot of scions of Mr. Gideon, cut the 8th of last March, after the severe winter, and they succeeded better than crab scions cut at same time. Lost very few.” . Mr. Gould, of Excelsior, said he lives 1 1-2 miles from the original tree ; had examined it several times every season, and was satisfied that the tree was hardy enough for this climate. The old tree bore last year. He thought it was inclined to blight badly. It is an average grower with much vigor, more than the Duchess, and the best variety to graft into the top of other trees he knew of. Has no blight on his own, but Mr. Gideon’s are badly injured, but several hundred of his two-year olds escaped last season. It made growth last year from its extreme terminal bud, evidencing its hardiness. The fruit was above medium size, and presented the best appear- ance of any he had seen. Its form is perfect, its color good, and is second rate in quality. Season about same as Fameuse, November and December. Owing to a mistake in labelling scions of this and the Molly—which is a worthless variety—a little confusion had arisen, but the last winter had pretty effectually used up the Molly, and those acquainted with the two could easily distinguish the true Wealthy from the other. Question. Is it not generally considered a crab or a hybrid ? Ans. It is not. Col. Stevens considered the Wealthy of great merit as a market apple on account of its beautiful form, color and ap- pearance. He had five trees and they had never injured on his grounds either by blight or winter killing. It is evidently the coming apple of the Northwest. Mr. N. J. Stubbs, Long Lake, has a very favorable opinion of it. Itis the hardiest seedling in his knowledge. Some trees grown on their own roots have stood as well as any crab. Mr. Latham, Excelsior, has observed that a large growth of this variety from.a bud has passed through this winter, and grown from the tip, while other varieties considered as hardy have been more or less injured. Mr. C. H. Clark had planted 150 yearling trees and he lost all of them, and that, too, alongside of the Duchess and Tetofsky. He observed that Gideon’s own old trees were nearly used up, although the young trees looked well, and thought all varieties of trees should be renewed often in this climate. / . > “ ¢ : \ 40 ANNUAL REPORT. Mr: Gould remarked that the old tree was nearly used up by blight the year before, and the present appearance of the tree is ascribable to that cause, and that probably Mr. Clark’s 150 trees were the Molly. 7 ; Rib. Mr. Harris said he thought that the vitality of new varieties of trees was impaired by the excessive cutting of scions, and they were in a condition favorable to taking the blight. The condition of the old tree was a natural consequence, after being robbed of so many scions, and did not argue anything against its value. Although the facts stated in the discussion proved nothing derogatory to the planting, he would move to amend the motion by making it read “ recommended for turther trial. His motion was afterward withdrawn.” Mr. Ford personally had had no experience with the Wealthy, but on Mr. Slate’s grounds onthe St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, he found it badly diseased. Mr. Martin’s, at Anoka, were also killed. Mr Latham—Very many trees have been sent out by mis- take for Wealthy that were Molly, which is not a very hardy variety. Mr. G. P. Peffer considers it well worthy of cultivation. Has blighted but little the past year. Mr. Hoffman got some scions and trees that were genuine, and they are doing well. , Mr. Grimes has two trees standing on his grounds four years old, making a good growth every year and not killed. Mr. Jewell said trees on his ground top-worked on crab have stood well and grown from the terminal buds. Has seen the variety in many places, and it shows itself to be hardy and successful. Thinks the reason it has blighted so badly at Gideon’s is because there are so many blighted crabs in the same orchard. Mr. Clark believes the Wealthy worthy of general cultiva- tion in this State, notwithstanding his losses. Moved and carried to recommend the Wealthy for general cultivation Adjourned till 14 Pp. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. The President called the meeting to order. During the forenoon Mr. J. E. Booth, of Minneapolis, brought in and placed on exhibition in the rooms occupied by the society, some very beautiful flowering plants, which were in bloom. Among them were specimens of Chinese MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 4l Primrose, Libonia Florabunda, Zonale Geraniums, Lycopo- diums Erectum, Erianthus, &c. There was also an elegant boquet of cut flowers upon the table. Mr. Booth received many high compliments for the elegance and fine condition of his plants. He is the proprietor of the Minneapolis green- houses on Tenth street, and also a professional landscape gardener. Truman M. Smith, of St. Paul, had on exhibition some fine samples of grape wine and crab cider, also some jars of cider jelly. Some fine varieties of apples were on exhibition. The Secretary presented some reports, but they were not read for want of time, it being necessary to remove to the Tribune rooms for the afternoon. They will be found unde the head of Reports and Miscellaneous Papers. Discussions resumed. STEWART’S SWEET CALLED UP. Mr. Stewart, the originator of the variety, being absent, a motion was made and carried to postpone the action upon this variety until more members were present who are acquainted with it, and proceed to the discussion of the list for cultiva- tion in favorable localities. . HAAS. The Secretary moved that this variety be placed first on the list. Seconded by Mr. Jewell. : Carried. PLUMB’S CIDER. Mr. Harris said he had not had much acquaintance with this variety, having no trees that had commenced bearing ; but from the appearance and growth of his young trees he thought it would be safe in his (Houston) county, and would therefore move its adoption as second on the list. The motion received a second, and Mr. Peffer spoke favor- ably of it for Wisconsin, and Mr. Jewell said that it was about equal in value and hardiness with the Haas. Without further discussion, it was adopted. FAMEUSE. Mr. Jewell, of Lake City, gave his experience with this . variety. Said that in favorable localities it would stand, and that previous to the winter of 1872 and 1873 it had stood well 42 ANNUAL REPORT. enough to pay for itself many times over. We could not afford to leave out so good an apple. : Dr. Humphreys, Minneapolis, had an experience with one tree which had grown and borne fruit in 1872, but the winter of 1873 destroyed it. Mr. Grimes, of Minneapolis, said he had cultivated it with encouraging success, and raised fruit up to season of 1872, but the winter of 1873 destroyed them, but not his confidence in the tree. He should continue to plant and grow the Fameuse whether this society recommended it or not, believing that only an exceptionally cold winter would injure them. Mr. Clark had a limited experience with this variety. With him it stood next to Duchess and Tetofsky ; could recommend it for favorable localities. Mr. Harris, of Houston county, said he was a strong advo- cate for the Fameuse. Considered it the safest apple for Min- nesota, that had been thoroughly tested, after the Duchess, Tetofsky and Haas. It wasanearly and abundant bearer, and was almost sure to live long enough to bear fruit. He had seen trees of it that were nearly dead revive and become fruit- ful. He was fortunate with this variety last winter ; most of his trees were deep planted and not cultivated, and were not generally seriously injured. None were entirely destroyed. By a decided vote the Fameuse was placed on the list. The next variety under consideration was the / WALBRIDGE. Mr. Peffer, of Pewaukee, gave his experience with it in Wisconsin. Said he knew trees twenty-five or more years old not killed last winter and bore fruit last summer. It is very valuable for its keeping qualities, and stands second to none for growth in protected localities. Mr. Harris said his personal experience with this variety did not extend far enough back to recommend it for general cultivation under the rules we had adopted for our govern- ment in this meeting. He had about twenty trees under cul- tivation. Found it an easy tree to transplant, and with the exception of a single tree, it came through the last winter as well as the Duchess and better than some of the crabs. For many years he had been looking about for a late keeping apple, and his attention being called to the Walbridge he had taken every opportunity to secure information about it, and finding that it was universally doing well in Wisconsin, as far north as the latitude of Sotithern Minnesota, had concluded to give it a trial, and had the utmost confidence in its value for Houston county. . MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 43 Mr. Jewell had been personally familiar with the Walbridge for several years. Found it generally regarded valtatie, Considered it more hardy than Fameuse and second only to the Duchess. In this State his familiarity with it extended only during the last four years. He regarded it as the best late keeper yet offered to us. Mr. Moulton set a few trees three years since. They flad generally stood well. Mr. Ford said he was satisfied to recommend it for favora- ble localities, and it was finally placed on the list. THE ST. LAWRENCE Was next taken up. Mr. Day had fruited this variety in Dakota county the past season ; considered it hardier than Fameuse or Fall Stripe. Mr. Stubbs said he had planted a-few in Hennepin county which stood pretty well until the last winter, but he had not much confidence in it for his locality. - Mr. Jewell said that while this variety was not as hardy as some, it was too valuable to throw over, it coming early into bearing, and he believed it would succeed in favorable locali- ties. Mr. Harris spoke in its favor, and moved to place it on the list. The motion was carried. PRICE’S SWEET. Mr. Jewell would place this apple upon about the same footing as the Saxton, and thought by all means it ought to be placed on the list. On motion to that effect, it was placed upon the list. RED ASTRACHAN. The Secretary moved to place this variety on the list to recommend for general cultivation. Mr. Grimes dissented from this idea, in that his experience placed it inferior in hardiness even to the Fameuse. Gen. Nutting, of Faribault, objected to placing it on the list for general cultivation. Even if hardy its season was near the same as the Duchess, and it was so slow coming into bearing, and bore so little, that it was an unprofitable invest- ment. On putting the motion it was voted down, and a motion to place it on the dead list was carried, with but two opposing votes. 44 ANNUAL REPORT. SAXTON OR FALL STRIPE. Mr. Stevens highly recommended this variety for hardiness as having in his own experience rewarded the labor bestowed on them by producing bountiful crops of fruit while very young. On his grounds it passed the winter of 1873, and bore well the past season. . Mr. Latham, in his experience and observation, took issue with Mr. Stevens, reporting reveral instances on Lake Minne- tonka, where the Saxton had proved a failure. _ Messrs. Brand and Nutting, of Faribault, and several others were in favor of placing it on the list, not so much for its perfect hardiness, but because wherever planted we are pretty certain to enjoy its fruits. On motion of Mr. Harris, it was placed on the list. PERRY RUSSET Was next discussed and objected to on account of the long time before it comes into bearing, and on motion of Mr. Ford it was placed on the dead list. GOLDEN RUSSET. This variety was taken up, and after a brief discussion, placed on the dead list. PEWAUKEE. Mr. Jewell moved to place this variety on the list for favor- able localities. Mr. Peffer, of Wisconsin, who originated this variety, rather modestly spoke highly of this variety. Said it was a seedling of the Duchess of Oldenburg, a good keeper, and of fair quality ; fruit nearly size of Duchess. Mr. Gould, of Excelsior, had not had experience with this tree beyond the past three years, and in his nursery, out of some 250 trees, about three-fourths stood the severe winter of 1873. He thought favorably of the tree for protected localities. Mr. Stubbs, of Long Lake, had about the same experience as Mr. Gould. Prior to the last year’s experience the tree killed back some each winter, and finally to the ground in 1873, but believed his trial was not a fair test, he having forced the growth by excessive cultivation, getting a growth of three or four feet each year. Mr. Grimes said he had some experience with ten trees of MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 45 é, ‘N . this variety for three years, and regretted that his opinion must be recorded against its hardiness, though he should not dis- card it without another trial. Mr. Jewell said his experience was somewhat similar to those gentlemen who preceded him. Upon a vote being taken, this variety was finally placed on the dead list. STEWART’S SWEET. Amasa Stewart, the originator of this valuable variety, being present, it was again taken up. He stated that it was a fall apple, that it originated from seed some fourteen years since, and it had proved hardy with him through all winters past; bore fruit in Blue Earth, Le Sueur and Hennepin coun- ties, and did not know of any trees having been killed by winter. Mr. Stubbs said he was acquainted with the tree, and he full corroborated what Mr. Stewart had said. Also Mr. Hoffman said the same. Mr. Gould considered it a better variety than almost any other sweet apple, and hardier than even the Duchess. Mr. Clark, Hennepin county, had cultivated Stewart’s Sweet the past four years, and would bear testimony to its perfect hardiness. The tree is beautiful growth, and second to no sweet apple in quality. . Mr. Ford’s testimony sustained that: previously given. On motion, it was placed on the list for general cultivation. The apple list being finished, it was moved that the com- mittee on Siberians be called upon to report.: Carried. SIBERIAN APPLES OR CRABS. Mr. Jewell, for the committee appointed to prepare and. present a list of Siberian crabs and their hybrids for general cultivation in the State of Minnesota, said: “ Our committee submit for your consideration the following list of Siberian apples arranged in four classes :” First Class. Early Strawberry, Beecher’s Sweet, Orange, Minnesota. Second Class. Conical, Maiden’s Blush, Quaker Beauty, Hutchinson’s Sweet, Meader’s Winter. ~ ri 46 _ ANNUAL REPORT. 7 Third Class. General Grant, Hesper Blush. ‘ tahoe’ Aiken’s Striped Winter. Fourth Class. . Aiken’s Green Winter, Transcendent, ~ Hyslop. A motion was made to receive the report. - Carried. The list was taken up and discussed, one variety at a time, and finally adopted as reported, with the exception of the Hyslop, which was voted unworthy of general cultivation. — Mr. Jewell has given us the following report and description of them since the adjournment of the meeting: The committee of the Horticultural Society arranged the Siberian apples in four classes—the first three with respect to hardiness and the fourth with reference to their special adap- tation to cooking. . FIRST-CLASS-— IRON-CLAD. Early Strawberry—Tree a strong and handsome grower, bearing heavy crops alternate years. Fruit, size and appearance of Transcendent, excellent for eating. Season, August. 2d. Orange—Tree a moderate grower and an annual and abundant bearer. Fruit larger than Transcendent, flesh firm, crisp, juicy and delicious. October to December. 3d. Beecher’s Sweet—Tree vigorous and erect, a biennial and abundant bearer, fruit resembling in appearance the Transcendent, but larger, very pleasant for eating. Sep- tember. 4th. Minnesota—A medium grower, with pale green leaves of unusual size, often becoming highly colored in autumn like the foliage of the sugar maple. Fruit larger than the Golden Russet, skin thin, nearly white, with beautiful blush on the sunny side. (Quality excellent, December to February. CLASS SECOND—EXTRA HARDY. 1. Conical—Tree vigorous and handsome, and a good bearer. Fruit is large as Transcendent, mellow, dry, and with a peculiar spicy flavor. In appearance and flavor resembling the Black Gilliflower. October. 2. Maiden’s Blush—Tree medium grower, of slerder, grace- ful habit. Fruit not quite as large as Transcenden<, of pearl \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. = = 47 white color, with a beautiful red cheek, flesh tender, fine grained, with a peculiar pleasant flavor. December to January. 3. Meader’s Winter—A handsome, strong growing produc- tive tree. Fruit size of the last ; excellent for eating. Season April and May. 4, Hutchinson’s Sweet—Tree a good grower, with slender twigs; a moderate bearer. Fruit size of the last described ; superior quality, keeping until‘April or May. 5. Quaker Beauty—A stronger grower than the Transcen- dent; a biennial bearer. Fruit large, handsome and of excel- lent quality. April to May. CLASS THIRD—HARDY. 1. Gen. Grant—A vigorous, erect and symmetrical tree ; an annual and profuse bearer, fruiting in dense clusters. Fruit very large, dark red, nearly black when ripe, and in quality much like the Duchess. October and November. 2. Hesper Blush—Tree among the handsomest, and a good bearer. Fruit a little smaller than the Gen. Grant; smooth, handsome, quality good. Season, November to January. 3. Aiken’s Striped Winter—A fine tree, but the least hardy of the class; an annual and free bearer. Fruit good sized and valuable for either eating or cooking. Season, mid- winter. Class Four, except Green Winter, are too well known to need description. They are suitable for cooking and drying only." A few additional facts in regard to these Siberian varieties may not be without interest. The first class is slightly more hardy than the second, but both are regarded as sufficiently so to warrant general planting. The third class is less hardy than the two preceding, but will probably succeed in all but the most trying situations. None of them are as orchard trees like the Transcendent badly given to blighting, except Meader’s Winter and Gen. Grant. In fruitfulness the several varieties differ greatly, but in the aggregate fruit younger and more profusely than the common kinds of apples. For eating none are inferior to the Duchess, while several kinds are equal in this respect to any apple grown. As a harvest fruit the Early Strawberry is more valuable than the Tetofsky, the fruit being as good in quality, and the tree more vigorous and hardy, and adapted to all kinds of soils. ~The Orange is unquestionably more valuable for general A8 ; ANNUAL REPORT. ~ cultivation than the Duchess of Oldenburg. The tree is even more hardy, not less productive, the fruit less perishable, last- ing several months, and perfectly adapted to every use to which an apple can be applied—eating, cooking or the manu- facture of cider. | he As an early winter apple there are none of the common sorts, that have come to public notice, that in hardiness of tree, size, quality and beauty of fruit, are equal to the Minne- sota, the largest of,Siberian seedlings. The only unsettled question on which the value of this va- riety measurably depends, is its productiveness. x P. A. JEWELL. PEARS. The next topic announced was Pears. Mr. Fuller inquired if any member knew of any variety of pears, of bearing age, that endured last winter in this State. Said he did not like to give up the idea that they could be produced in Minnesota. Mr. Harris said that he lost all of his, about fifty trees, of about ten varieties, but chiefly Flemish Beauty. Had heard of some trees in Houston county reported all right, but had examined them and they were no better than dead. Did not think it expedient for us to say much about raising pears. A motion was made and carried to pass over this subject without recommending any variety. PLUMS. All varieties of tame plums have thus far been a failure in this State, never living to pay the first cost of the trees. Moved by Mr. Ford, of St. Paul, and seconded by Mr. Har- ris, that we recommend for general cultivation only the best varieties known as native, or belonging to the wild order. Carried. CHERRIES. Mr. Myers, of St. Peter, said he was cultivating a variety of cherry that he brought over from Germany, which with him and wherever tried had proved hardy, prolific and desir- able. They are known as the Hartz Mountain cherry. Col. Stevens said he had seen the cherries, and thought they were very valuable. ‘The President, T. M. Smith, said he considered this variety one of the best cherries he ever saw. He had on his place MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. se several other varieties, but the only other one of them that bore fruit was the Early Richmond grafted on the Black Eng-. lish Morella. Mr. Carter, of St. Peter, is familiar with this cherry. Does not think that too much has been said in its praise. It is valuable, hardy, and a great acquisition to the fruits of Min- nesota. This variety of cherry was endorsed and recommended for cultivation. Mr. Ford wanted to know if any one had trees under cul- tivation of the Lieb cherry. Mr. Grimes had them, but could not speak understandingly of the merit of the fruit because the plants were too young. Mr. Ford had heard considerable in its favor, and moved that the society recommend the Lieb cherry for trial. The motion was agreed to. Mr. Truman M. Smith said he had been successful with the Harly Richmond cherry grafted on Morella stock, and moved that it be recommended for trial. Carried. GRAPES. Mr. Ford moved that the list adopted last year be reindorsed by the society. Carried. | ' (The varieties recommended at the last year’s session were Concord and Delaware.) Mr. Ford then suggested that the President (who has had an extensive experience in grape culture) recommend an addi- tion to the list of three varieties for family use and three varieties for general cultivation. This suggestion meeting with favor, the President was appointed a committee of one to prepare such lists and report in the evening. Meeting adjourned until 7 p. m. EVENING SESSION. Meeting called to order by the President. Vice President Dartt then took the chair, while the President made the fol- lowing report : GENTLEMEN—For one individual to select a list of three or six varieties of grapes from the scores of candidates to be found in catalogues, and with even a greater variety of tastes to please, is a difficult undertaking. 50 ANNUAL REPORT. But I have considered the merits of the following, and submit them for your consideration : 1st List.— For Amateurs. 1. Croton. 2. Rogers’ No. 4. 3. Rogers’ No 15. 2d List.—For General Planting. 1. Creveling. 2. Martha. 3. Salem. ; Report was received and adopted. The Secretary read the following report from A. C. Ham- ilton : ' CuicaGo, ILu., Jan. 19th, 1874. To Minnesota Horticultural Society, at Minneapolis : DEAR FRIENDS IN THE CausE:—I am very sorry I cannot be with you at your annual meeting, but I venture a word by way of writing you. I presume you will have one of the most interesting meetings we have ever had, for it being at Minneapolis, the Banner City of Minnesota, with all its hospitality, and with a people who are always in sympathy with horti- cultural and agricultural meetings, and for any real reform which is for the general good of Minnesota, I will say then I am heartily sorry I can- not be with you. I will venture one thought, which will be wholly upon the subject of how trees should be set in Minnesota. The last winter has shown us that many of our trees have been killed, and even some of the most hardy ones. Many causes have been given. I will tell you my reason, and then tell my way of avoiding any future trouble from same cause. The trees were killed by extreme freezing in the early part of winter, and by the dry soil; not enough moisture to sustain the roots. I know a whole orchard garden that was saved in this way. Last August a year ago the man who owned the place raised his house about 15 to 20 inches higher than it had been. When this was done his grounds were not high enough, so he filled in the orchard so as to make it about the same in proportion to the house. The consequence was his trees were 15 to 20 inches lower down, so he filled up to the same proportion as he had raised the house. All were in good condition and made good growth—even a nice Flemish Beauty pear—while ten feet from there, almost everything was killed. Now the conclusion is, in my mind, that we had better set trees much deeper in the ground, so they will get more moisture, which the tree always needs. I hope this will be discussed freely. One more instance. I know a tree which stood near the back kitchen, down where all the slops from all the wash days had been thrown out all winter around the tree, and in spring the ice was more than 12 inches thick about it. This tree lived and fruited well, while the rest in garden nearly all died. This seems to be true, moisture is very much needed. Minnesota has no winter rains to feed the trees upon. The tree needs this even in winter, or a certain moisture on the roots kept up. Chicago has rains, and I know it, for I saw some yesterday. Was any one ever in Chicago and not see it rain? But I see the trees look nice. I will not use any more of your time. Hoping you will have one of the best meetings you have ever had, I am Yours, very respectfully, A. C. HAMILTON. Moved that the report be received and placed on file to be embodied in the Transactions. i al \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 51 Carried. CURRANTS Were next in order. Moved, that we recommend Red Dutch, White Dutch, White Grape and Victoria. _ Passed without discussion. GOOSEBERRIES. Mr. Jewell moved to recommend Houghton’s Seedling and Pale Red, for general cultivation. . The motion to recommend was lost. BLACKBERRIES. Mr. Loring said there is a blackberry growing on his place, without covering or protection, that does not winter-kill, called the Banton Seedling, from Vermont. It bore heavy last year. ‘ Mr. Truman M. Smith said they were hardy, stout and good. Col. Stevens said it is well known that they are hardy. Mr. Brand moved, that we have no blackberries known to do sufficiently well here to recommend for cultivation. Adopted. STRAWBERRIES. The Wilson’s Albany was adopted for general cultivation. Mr. Grimes moved that the Green Prolific be recommended for amateur cultivation as an abundant bearer. Carried. Mr. Harris said the Downer’s Prolific was a good berry, and abundant bearer, and moved that it be recommended for general cultivation. Adopted. Charles Downing was spoken of as doing well on sandy soil ; very vigorous grower, a little later in the season. The Michigan Seedling and Charles Downing were recom- mended for trial. WEALTHY APPLE. Mr. Carter, of St. Peter, said he had voted to place the Wealthy apple on the list for general cultivation. He would now move to reconsider the vote. The motion received a second and was carried. 52 ANNUAL REPORT. Mr. Harris moved that the Wealthy apple be recommended for trial. eh Mr. Dart, of Owatonna, said his theory was to oppose re- commending anything unless it was established that it had a permanent value. ‘ so it will look cheap on paper and it is cheap in reality. ‘Out ir og men have given us encouragement in this by way of giving lands for this object, now let the people take hold and go ahead with the work. A word and [ am done, and this is in behalf of the citizens of ‘Winona. We cordially invite you to hold your next ainual meeting at Winona, and we pledge you a good hall well warmed and hospitable people to welcome you here, and we hope you will surely decide to come, and decide it’ at your meeting this winter, so no misunderstanding will occur. I wish you, one and all, a happy and profitable Soaphiaae * iii Aeyeees By, . C. HaMILTon. REPORTS OF COMMIITEES. There being no reports from special or other committees, Mr. Dartt moved that the general fruit committee report. Considerable discussion here arose in reference to the inability of members of committees to report, many of them alleging that they had no notice of their being on said committees, nor of the meeting of the Society. Judge Baker remarked that the trouble consisted in members not reading the Press and the emanations of the agricultural editor. Secretary Ford retorted that notice was published in the Pioneer and other papers. He supposed the members had copies of the Traasactions in which their names were to be found, as on commit- tees. Did not suppose it a part of his duties to notify them for a report. He concluded by saying the Press and Pioneer had insert- ed such notices without charge, and the Society had no money to pay for notices. Col. Stevens promptly stated the Minneapolis papers had never charged a cent. REPORT FROM STEELE COUNTY. Mr. Dartt, of Owatonna, made a verbal report. The present pros- pect in his section was not encouraging. Many men had invested their last dollar in apple trees. The severe winters were the cause of the discouragement. The varieties tried were not hardy enough to stand the severe cold. Blight was another cause of discourage- ment. Disease was so prevalent and disasters so frequent as to cause general discouragement. There is one cause of encourage- ment, if we find a single variety hardy enough to stand the winter. If we find one we can get another. One variety at least, he thought, could be depended on, and that was the Duchess of Oldenburg. This he recommended for general cultivation. The greatest objec- tion to this variety is that it is an early fruit, but this is better than none at all. It will take the farmer through his harvest very com- fortably. In small fruits there are many sources of discouragement. The raspberry killed worse last year than ever before. Currants and strawberries were but little better off. This, however, should not be a source of discouragement. The time will doubtless come when this evil, which now works against the successful cultivator of small fruits, will be remedied. E. B. Jordan, of Rochester, objected to the remarks of the last MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 5 named gentleman, as calculated to discourage the planting of trees. We come here, he said, to encourage horticulture, but the tendency of the last speaker’s remarks was not encouraging. If any one knows of any varieties that have failed, it is well enough to speak of them, but he thought the gentleman too wholesale in his condemna- tion. ; . Mr. Dartt replied to the criticism of the last speaker. His object was not to discourage horticulture, but to tell the truth though it shamed the devil. | Col. Stevens remarked that from the favorable nature of Mr. Jor- dan’s land, he could raise more than twenty varieties of fruits that could not be successfully raised on Mr. Dartt’s place. This fact, he thought, would account for the discrepancy in the statements of the two gentlemen. Mr. Jordan. We do not want in the very outset to discourage the ‘planting of any kind of trees. Moreover I object to the assertion that the Duchess of Oldenburg is the only variety of apples fit for planting. President Smith suggested that Mr. Dartt was only speaking of his own district. Mr. Dartt rejoined that he did not mean that the Duchess was the only one that could be raised, but it was the best that he knew of. The Tetofsky was the next best. To this there are some objections. It does not take root readily ; it is also an early fruit. As many or more trees of that variety died when transplanted than, any other. It was also more liable to blight and to winter kill. The Haas is the next best, but it blights a little. The Saxton is liable to blight. So are all varieties when exposed to blighted trees. The Golden Russet was good for nothing in his section. These three varieties are hardy enough; others not so. The Wealthy killed down worse than the Haas or Ben Davis. Col. Stevens denied this, saying that the Wealthy he has had stood the cold better than any other. There was a mistake. The Wealthy had never been known to kill even in the sandy soil near Minneapolis. Mr. Dartt remarked that because a yearling tree kills ought not to discourage any horticulturist.. He had no doubt there would bea large number of varieties that in time would succeed and recom- mend themselves. Those that have stood the test should be recom- mended. New kinds should be tried before being recommended. The great source of discouragement is getting up new fancy varie- ties and getting people to pay their money for them, and when found out they simmer down to nothing. Many that have been highly recommended to-day stand very low to-morrow. We should - so act that the people will not believe we are a set of axe-grinders. If we come here recommending, from time to time, new varieties, and they turn out worth nothing, how long will it be before the peo- ple will lose confidence in the State Horticultural Society? REPORT OF L. B. HODGES.. Mr. L. B. Hodges, of Olmsted county, remarked that it did him 6 \ ANNUAL REPORT, § ° | g00d' to hava this sort of talk. He had ‘been trying to’ raise ares th fora number of years at Oronoco. He had read everyth ng had done. When they said they had failed, they were only echoi the voice of a thousand men. Go slow and do not recom Years ago he planted a large number of varieties, and thought h had a soft thing—he started in the nursery business. He hada thing, for they ¥ were too soft. He finally paid a hundred Goll te to grub them up. That had been the experience of many a man. The Society, he was free to say, had not exerted as beneficial an influ- ence in this State as it ought. The members were laboring under the suspicion of being axe-grinders. It is said that those who re- commend trees have a large stock on hand which they want to get rid of. They ought not to take anything for granted, but go slow. He would tell an instance of how this Society stands. A leading man had told him it was not worth while to join the Society. They were all horticulturists and gardeners, interested in palming off upon others their products. That was the reputation of the Society, and of course it carried no weight with it. The speaker concluded by giving his experience in apple raising from the years 1856 to 1861, during which time he had labored hard to succeed, but had resulted in a disastrous failure. After some further discussion of the relative merits of different varieties, during which some sharp things were said in reference to the interested motives of the champions of certain kinds of trees, a member remarked that this was not a body of politicians nor of axe- grinders. His idea was that the meeting was after the manner of a teacher’s institute. It got together and talked over the matter for the general good, and not for the purpose of misleading the people. REPORT OF TRUMAN M. SMITH. The President stated that the trees he had planted in 1861 had continued to grow, stand the winters, and bear fine fruit until the winter two years ago. What had stood through 1864, with the ther- mometer at 34 degrees below zero, had failed then. He has no trees to sell. He was supplying the St. Paul market with fruit, and he was interested in getting none but desirable varieties. Nurserymen of the Union and of the State have examined his grounds and agree with him that the cause of the failure of success with apples was not the extreme cold, but the sudden freezing early in November, before the sap had returned to the ground. This was what used up the tree. He further detailed his experience with the Duchess eight years ago, and concluded by saying that 1873 had vanished his hopes by killing trees that had withstood harder winters before. REPORT FROM HENNEPIN COUNTY. Mr. Herrick, of Minneapolis, detailed his experience, which he described as ‘very limited and intermittent.” He had planted some trees and raised a few apples. Out of a number of trees re- ceived from Dubuque in bad condition when planted, he had suc- ceeded in saving three varieties. He had planted three acres in oe bait Sie ™% MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ; t fruit bearing trees and bushes, not as a means of livelihood, but as a matter of comfort. They should seek varieties of fruit to raise in’ this State. He had secured new varieties of crab last spring. Knew nothing about them. Small fruits, he thought, offered more encour- agement. The report of the committee on business, as given above, was then adopted, and the meeting adjourned to meet at 7.30 P. M. EVENING SESSION. President Smith took the chair, and announced as the topic for discussion : * The effects of the winter of 1873 and 1874 on our various kinds of fruit.” Mr. Moody, of East Minneapolis, said he thought on the whole the winter was not very injurious. Most kinds of stock with him had come through very well. Mr. Dartt, of Owatonna, had a good deal of stock injured, and es- pecially young trees. The Siberians were effected more or less, as also the raspberries. Mr. Jordan, of Rochester, stated that some things had been in- jured as much as the year previous. Raspberries were badly injured, though heretofore considered hardy in all localities. THE TEST OF VARIETIES. The eighth topic came up: ‘‘ What tests are necessary to fully establish the perfect aduptation of any variety of apples to the trying climate of our State.” Mr. Dartt moved that we reaffirm our action of last winter, which is as follows: That we do not recommend for general planting in large quantities any variety that has not stood a test of ten years in a variety of soils and situa- tions, and shall have passed through at least one winter of great severity. Mr. R. J. Mendenhall, of Minneapolis, was inclined to the opin- ion that ten years’ trial was more than was really necessary, espe- cially after such a winter as that of 1872 and 1873. After a long debate, in which most of the members participated, the time was changed from ten to five years. THE CRAB AS A STOCK TO GRAFT ON. President Smith said he had a conversation with Mr. Soulard, who thought he had found a splendid variety to graft on, but time had proved his position to be incorrect. Mr. Dartt had been successful in grafting on the crab stock. Mr. Jordan gave an account of a visit to Mr. Soulard at Galena, 8 i ANNUAL REPORT. . : f 7 Phi reais Sa ‘ Bol Li ft who took him to an orchard where the experiment had been tried on a large scale, but only one variety had done really well. In his own orchard probably one-half of his ten acres is worked on the crab stock. | ease _ A great variety of theories and practices were also adyoca: e other members, but nothing arrived at that was reliable or definite. The subject was therefore left for future discussion. It was how- Z euer quite evident that less importance was attached to the subject than in former years. WEDNESDAY MORNING. The Society met promptly at nine o’clock, and was called to order by the President. The attendance was somewhat in excess of that of the day previous, indicating an increase of interest on the part of the members as the session progressed. FRUITS AND WINE ON EXHIBITION, Upon a table in front of the Secretary’s desk was a fine collection of apples of different varieties, grapes, &c., which attracted consid- erable attention throughout the day, and was the subject of critical examination and inquiry by those interested in the subject of their successful culture. The following is a list of the specimens exhib- ited, with the names of the exhibitors : Wyman Elliot, of Minneapolis, some very fine specimens of the Wealthy apple. Moulton & Co., also some excellent Wealthy apples, also some Haas and Duchess, some of the Minnesota Crab, General Grant and Hyslop. Truman M. Smith, St. Paul, three varieties of choice grapes, Sou- lard crab apples, two jars preserved plums. W.E. Brimhall, St. Paul, Fameuse apple, Haas apple, Hyslop crab, Soulard crab, Soulard preserve, dried Transcendent apple sauce, blackberry wine, currant wine, cider vinegar. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. On resuming business, E. H. S. Dartt, of Owatonna, moved that no one be allowed to speak more than once on any subject, and then but five minutes at a time, which motion was carried. On motion, the report of J.S. Harris was referred to a finance committee. The reports of the delegate to the annual meeting of the Wiscon- sin Horticultural Society, at Madison, on Febraary 3d and 4th, 1874, and of District No. 1, of Houston county, were received and placed on file. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 9 ‘THE VARIETIES OF APPLES TO Cart tht aay IN OUR STATE. ‘The order of business was next taken up, and discussion | com- menced on the second subject of the morning programme. Mr: Jewell made some interesting remarks on the subject of re- commending fruit trees for general cultivation, and then offered the following resolution, which was adopted : Resolved, That we do not recommend for general planting, in large quantities, any variety not generally known, and that has not stood a test of five years. Messrs. Jewell, Moody and Brand were appointed a committee to - prepare a list of fruits to be recommended by the Society, and or- dered to report in the afternoon. The third order of business was referred to the same committee. BLIGHT—ITS CAUSE AND TREATMENT. The fourth order, the subject of blight, was next taken up, and a long and running discussion ensued. Mr. Jewell said he had had a great deal of experience on the sub- ject of blight, but he professed to know very little about it. In fact, the more experience he had, the less he knew about it. The Trans- cendent was very subject to.blight, and for his part he would not allow them to grow near other better varieties. Peter M. Gideon, of Excelsior, Hennepin county, remarked he had tried almost every variety of apples. He was the originator of the Wealthy. Many kinds had blighted with him—the Duchess as well as the Transcendent. But to reject all that have been atfected by blight would be, he thought, to reject many of our hardiest varieties. The blight had passed over the country three times, coming, it is said from Europe. In this country it had been more destructive than in the old country. In Germany and France trees 150 years old have been killed. He could not explain the nature and cause of its destructive power. The Siberian and Crab he considered a God- send to the Northwest. Many crabs in his vicinity had stood the blight pretty well. Keeping the roots in good condition will repair any breaches the winter may make, and as for the blight, he doubted not a remedy will eventually be found. Mr. Dartt’s experience was that crabs were more subject to blight than other varieties. He had various varieties mixed together ; some escaped, others were affected. As compared with others, the Duchess was quite free from the disease. His Tetofskys were very badly blighted near the Transcendent. So were several rows of crabs. As a stock for grafting, he should choose anything else ra- ther than the Transcendent; had tried it in many instances. Judge Baker, of Groveland, Ramsey county, had some couple of hundred Transcendent trees and had never seen blight upon them, It was true they had been affected in Minneapolis and some other parts of the State, but it would not be well to discard them. If t hey could not raise crabs they might as well give up apple culture. He 3 10 | ANNUAL REPORT. called on some of the sayans present to tell them the cause of blight. It would be a most fatal thing to allow it to be spread on the record that they had discarded the Transcendent. ‘1 “to sae Mr. Jordan had discarded six or eight varieties of the crab. Mr. Jewell thought the only remedy was to discard those kinds i which the blight originates. Had tried cutting off the tops of the trees. That retarded it somewhat, Trees trimmed in the spring of the year will blight worse. If trimming begins when the blight be-- gins, it would check it, but the labor is too great. The cause of horticulture is not injured by the people understanding the difficul- ties that beset*it. ’ Judge Baker wanted to know how it was that the discovery that Transcendents blighted worse than any other varieties was not made when they were selling at a dollar apiece instead of when they had come down to $50 per thousand ? Secretary Ford had traveled over the St. Paul & Pacific and Sioux City roads and had seen very few trees blighted. Had been in the nursery business among the first in the State, and had not yet had a tree blighted ; could not agree to discard the Transcendents and that class of apples. Blight was not liable to, stay with them forever. They had only a few apples in the State, that were reliable, and it would sound very bad to discard this variety. One Transcendent had given him more profit than all his others. . Mr. Truman M. Smith did not pretend to know the cause of blight. His experience was that trees in protected localities were more liable to blight than those in exposed situations. Electricity, he thought, had something to do with it. Immediately after a thunder shower, followed by hot sun, blight generally prevailed. He didn’t under- stand the remedies. He had Transcendents standing ten or twelve years on high ground free from disease, and which had borne as high as thirty bushels of fruit. In lower places they had blighted. One tree standing in grass did not blight last year, but one pruned late last spring blighted considerably. Mr. Brimhall did not know anything about the cause of blight. Had had very little of it. His land was a heavy clay. Mr. Gideon had Transcendent bearing trees in positions exposed to the sun that did not blight. Blight follows after showers followed by awarm sun. He believes the cause is the same as that of cholera. Both came originally from Asia. Crabs were an Asiatic tree. He had tried the process of pruning. Too much pruning did more harm than good. When the blight takes effect, young sprouts will put out just below, showing that nature had begun to work and repair the breach. Mr. Jewell scouted the idea of electricity having anything to do with blight. He had never known of a situation high or low that was free from blight. It had taken hold in those localities where trees had stood the longest and had been growing worse from time to time. Some had thought it peculiar to the North, and that the South was not subject to it. This was not so. He had observed the same thing on trees near St. Louis and other places. Mr. Gideon remarked that in Ohio apple and plum trees had been MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 72 damaged by it, also in Illinois. He admitted the crab caught the contagion more readily than other varieties, yet others will take it. Col. Stevens said W. M. Harrison was the best horticulturist in Minnesota, and he was of the opinion the insect originated the blight. It came around every 15 or 20 yeurs in Illinois. He believed him- self it was an insect or parasite. — Mr. Loring did not know anything about blight; did not believe it was an insect; had examined the leaves of affected trees with a powerful microscope, but could not find it. It was not confined to this locality, but was prevalent in Masachusetts, Ohio, Illinois, and other places. His first tree was in an exposed situation. Others were soon affected. Could find no remedy. Mr. R. Knapheide, of Ramsey county, had lost many trees, Did not understand the cause or remedy. Mr. Brocklehurst inquired whether he thought the disease pecu- liar to cold or hot countries, and ‘stated it was found in Australia. 0. F. Brand had no blight on his grounds; was satisfied that the Transcendent crab was a dangerous thing to have around; might flourish in some localities, but not with him. Mr. Dartt knew of trees that had been neglected and in poor soil which had been blighted. He, too, thought it a sort of cholera and liable'to strike in any place and at any time. Mr. Jewell thought rich soil and high cultivation were more fa- vorable to blight. Judge Baker thought no crab had been shown to have the excel- lence of the Transcendent. Mr. Grimes, of Hennepin, gave his experience as developed on his own grounds. He had no theories to advance. Did not think with Col. Stevens that an insect was the cause. Blight did not attack his trees until nearly two years after it had reached the locality. It had used up everything in the shape of a tree on a piece of his ground. Older trees were not affected. Smalier trees of three years’ growth were not as subject as older ones of four or five. Different varieties of the Siberian crab, and Hyslop, have been worse affected in very rich ground; Duchess ‘less affected than the Tetofsky. In some portions of his grounds Transcendents had not been affected at all; in another piece nearly every tree was blighted. First tree af- fected was a Montreal Beauty. It then run through the whole lot. Mr. Stewart thought all varieties subject to blight—some more than others. Montreal Beauty first blighted in his grounds. Duch- ess less affected. Had never lost one. Had never known of a tree being injured the same season it was transplanted. Mr. Graves had suffered serious loss of Duchess in consequence of blight. Mr. Grimes thought a number of varieties of crabs were not sub- ject to blight unless standing near blighted trees. Crabs were more subject to blight than standard apples. Mr. True did not know anything about blight. Mr. Elliot would like to know the cause. Duchess had done very well; Tetofsky was more subject. He thought the disease a fungus traveling in the air. Thos. Moulton knew very little about it. Had commenced two 12 ANNUAL REPORT. years ago in his nursery and was worst on ver heavily The General Grant, Quaker Beauty and Transcendents_ blighted some, especially on sandy soil. ae <3 Mr. T. G. Carter, of St. Peter, had not seen much blight ntil past season. The Transcendent and other varieties had bes ed more or less. ner Prof. Lacy being called upon, stated that he had prepared a ps per, at the request of the Secretary, to be read at the mnt and one of the subjects treated was that of blight. {ec earmaie SOME PROBLEMS IN HORTICULTURAL PRACTICE—BY PROF. C. Y. nerd STATE UNIVERSITY, MINNESOTA. It will hardly be expected of me, I think, to take up and discuss the details of practice peculiar to your own soil and climate. In the effort to make myself acquainted with such I have examined a very valuable and very creditable volume, entitled ‘* History of Horticul- ture in Minnesota.” It is full of the valuable experiences of horti- culturists located in different parts of the State, and of the opinions based upon those experiences. A recent writer has affirmed that Adam was born with two inter- rogation points on his eyes and one on the end of his tongue. I claim to have some of the characteristics of our illustrious ancestor, and in looking over the records of the Society, I have frequently asked myself ‘‘ why” such and such a thing was done—** why” such and such a thing is true. I believe that if I can throw any light upon two or three of these points your time and mine will not be entirely wasted. Ifit shall appear that I am laboring under any misapprehensions, I beg that you will take occasion to set me right. Without further introduction I will now proceed : Mutcuine.—In the volume above referred to a majority of speak- ers and writers recommend mulching. The light and sandy charac- ter of many soils and the dryness of the atmosphere explains the importance of mulching in summmer. Downing says, ‘‘ mulching is nothing more than covering the ground about the stems with coarse straw or litter from the barn yard, which by preventing evap- oration keeps the soil from becoming dry and maintains it in that moist and equable condition of temperature most favorable to the growth of young roots.” This shows the benefit of summer mulch- ing; but many claim to derive great benefit from mulching in winter also, applying the mulch even after the ground has frozen. What purpose can this mulch serve but to protect the roots? This, you perceive, brings up the question as to which is killed by our winters, top or roots: ” Without going into the merits of this question, I will simply avow the belief that winter mulching often saves the life of the tree. Freezing of the roots may not do any material injury, but sudden changes of temperature, especially sudden thawings, unques- tionably do injure the tree, and cold snaps after the tree has started into growth are still more disastrous. Again, as has been recently stated by a member of the Society, the tree keeps up a certain amount of activity to which moisture is an essential condition, throughout the winter. Dry winds evaporate this moisture, and the MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 13 tree must have some means of replenishing the supply. These are mostly taken away when all of its roots are enveloped in a mass of frozen soil. Dry, porous soils freeze deeper and thaw out quicker than moist ones. They do this because of the comparative absence of water in them which is a poor conductor of heat, and therefore serves to render temperature equable. Thus, concerning mulching, science explains and enforces what practice has shown to be good. But mulching is not equally valuable on all soils, and some attach little importance to it. Clay soils need it far less than sandy soils, They are more retentive of moisture, and hence do not dry out so easily in summer, freeze so deeply in winter, nor thaw out so sud- denly in spring. Again, thorough cultivation may in part take the place of mulching, since it favors the absorption and retention of moisture in the soil. To sum up this matter—mulching preserves the moisture of the soil in summer, lessens the depth of frost in winter, and renders changes of temperature in the soil less sudden. It is most beneficial on sandy soils, and less so on loams and clays. It is not so necessary if thorough cultivation be given. Prounine.—In looking over the records of the Society, I find sum- mer pruning almost always recommended—spring pruning generally condemned ; the contrary of that to which I have been accustomed. It is not, however, I believe, without a simple explanation. Writers on horticulture have long urged spring pruning to promote the vigor of the tree, summer pruning to check it. All the evidence I have noted indicates that nature in Minnesota needs no assistance in the development of trees, but in order that the development shall be a healthy one, nature needs rather to be checked and bridled. As to the precise effect of spring pruning I am not informed. You per- ecive I take it for granted that it produces too luxuriant a growth of wood—more than the tree can ripen. CuxitivatTion.—On this subject there is legitimate ground for dif- ference in practice. Some would be shocked by an advocacy of non- cultivation. Others have practiced non-cultivation and are nearly or quite ready to declare in favor of it. Now, certainly, if the soil can supply both food and moisture for a crop of trees and a crop of grass, and the latter does not shade the former, I can see no reason why both should not be allowed to grow. ‘That there are such soils I have no doubt whatever, and could adduce some instances to prove. But I am not going to weave an argument either for or against cultivation. Cultivation is much more frequently neglected than overdone, and non-cultivation is only too common, in spite of constant advice against it. My aim is to arrive at the principle and the truth. Poor soils and those only moderately rich, not only can- not support two crops at once, but the fruits growing upon them are highly benefited by thorough cultivation, at least in the fore part of the season, and by manures. On the other hand, very rich soils may not only produce grass when set in trees, but the former may be a positive benefit to the latter by moderating, not arresting, the growth of wood. Buieut.—As this is a problem in horticultural practice, I do not feel free to close this paper without a word upon it. Still, I ap- proach the subject with great diffidence, since I have no new facts to 14 | ANNUAL REPORT. 2 wpm add to what little is now known. AIILI have to offer is theory, and this chiefly the theory of others ; but as much as I dislike iy inghsa ry, I think it will be as good, at least, as blindly referring the cause of the disease in question to some electric condition of the atmos- here, : it haan P'The blight of the pear tree, which I assume is nearly the same as the blight of the apple tree of this section, Downing divides into two kinds—lInsect Blight and Frozen Sap Blight. If this division be correct, I assume again that the blight of this section is mainly Frozen Sap Blight. To explain this, he presumes ‘‘ a damp, warm autumn by which the tree is forced into a late growth, succeeded by a very sudden and early winter. While the sap vessels are still filled with their fluids, a sudden and sharp freezing takes place, or is, perhaps, repeated several times, followed, in the day time, by bright sun. The descending current of sap becomes thick and clam- my, so as to descend with difficulty ; it chokes up the sap vessels, freezes and thaws again, loses its vitality, and becomes dark and discolored, and in some cases so poisonous as to destroy the leaves of other plants when applied to them. Here along the inner bark it lodges and remains in a thick, sticky state all winter. If it happens to flow down till it meets with any obstruction, and remains in any considerable quantity, it freezes again beneath the bark, ruptures and destroys the sap vessels, and the bark and some of the wood beneath it shrivels and dies. ‘In the ensuing spring the upward current of sap rises through its ordinary channel—the outer wood or alburnum—the leaves ex- pand, and for some time, nearly all the upward current being taken up to form leaves and new shoots, the tree appears flourishing. To- ward the beginning of summer, however, the leaves commence send- ing the downward current of sap to increase the woody matter of the stem. ‘This current, it will be remembered, has to pass down- ward through the inner bark or liber, along which still remain por- tions of the poisoned sap, arrested in its course the previous au- tumn. This poison is diluted, and taken up by the now downward current, distributed toward the pith, and along the new layers of al- burnum, thus tainting all the neighboring parts. Should any of the adjacent sap vessels have been ruptured by frost, so that the poison thus becomes mixed with the still ascending current of sap, the branch above it immediately turns black and dies, precisely as if poison were introduced under the bark. And very frequently it is accompanied with precisely the odor of decaying, frost-bitten vegeta- tion.” Thomas does not adopt any theory. He says, ‘‘ but after admit- ting that the different theories may be in part correct, and that the blight may be caused by a combination, in a greater or less degree, of each assigned cause, we are driven to the conclusion, from a large number of observations of which these limits preclude even a brief recital, that the cause of blight, like that of potato disease, re- mains hidden in a large number of instances, from our knowledge. And that whether the latent tendency to disease is only increased and developed by changes of the weather, or whether those changes actually produce them, is yet enveloped in doubt.” ry, - J 4 MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 15 Now, while I do not think any of the theories suggested by the names fire-blight, insect blight, frozen sap-blight, sufficient explana- tion of the cause, I think it quite probable that anything which tends to an unhealthy growth may be a predisposing cause, while something else is the immediate cause. In order to introduce you to this supposed immediate cause, I take the liberty of a slight di- gression. wit _Far down in the scale of vegetable life there is a group of plants called Fungi, which despite the exceeding minuteness of many of its members, exercises a very important office in nature and upon hu- man life and industry. Some of these plants render very important services, as seen in yeast, the value of which depends on the multi- plication and growth of one of these plants; also seen in the manu- facture of vinegar and all kinds of fermentation, and the curing of cheese. Others, again, cause great trouble and injury. Smut in wheat is caused by one, ergot in rye by another, mildew of the grape by a third, rust by a fourth, bread-mould by a fifth, and so on. Many of these plants produce spores, which answer to seeds in higher plants, in immense numbers. ‘These spores are very minute, float easily in the air, and often they possess great hardiness and vitality, some of them withstanding the boiling point of water and several degrees of frost. Of one it is estimated that a single square inch of leaf affected by it will produce 3,000,000 zoospores, a kind of seed or fruit peculiar to it. Of another it is estimated that in 24 hours a single spore will produce 20,000,000 of individuals. In germinating, these spores send out a net work of thread like fila- ments, and these in turn produce spores again, but sometimes the plant produces two or three forms of fruit before bearing its own true spores, and sometimes these filaments grow a considerable time without producing fruit of any kind. But in order that these spores may grow at all they must find suitable food and suitable conditions of moisture and temperature. Warm and moist condi- tions are in general most favorable. But whether this or something else be the true cause of blight, no patent preventive or remedy is known for it. The best that can be advised by way of prevention is to place the tree under the best conditions and keep it in the most healthy growing habit possible. Place the tree in a moist but not a wet soil. Discourage very early spring, and especially late fall growths, and seek after only a mode- rate growth each year. Probably the best mode of procedure when the disease appears in the nursery is to take out the affected trees as soon as discovered, and burn them, to prevent as muchas possible the spread of the disease. When it appears in large trees cut out the branches one to three feet below the affected point, and burn the excised portion, Among possible remedies and preventives may be mentioned washing trunks and branches with solution of copperas, or with car- bolic acid. A friend on the appearance of blight among his pear trees immediately ceases cultivation, letting the ground.grow up to grass, and thinks he checks the disease in this way. In view of these facts relating to Fungi in general, it appears quite possible that the growth of some of these plants should be the me) OS 16 ANNUAL REPORT: Haars eal immediate cause of blight. But when we consider what dis are almost certainly caused by such rowths, this possibility | mes a probability. The potato disease w hich has caused such wi ae havoc is, without doubt caused by the growth of a fangue, t in the vines and tubers. A chapter of its history will give us an “ides, of the nature of some fungi. In 1845 it first attracted great, a ne It appeared in the Isle of Wight, and in two weeks overran. the whole island, and in another month it was all over Ireland. ‘An as tonishing example of the rapidity of growth and distribution of t fungus. The “ Yellows” of the peach tree is also believed to be due toa fun ngus. The ‘* Black Knot” of the plum tree is still another disease, un- doubtedly due to a fungus. It may be further remarked that Mr. Taylor, Microscopist of the Department of Agriculture at Washington, by subjecting the bark of an unhealthy pear tree to certain processes, discovered the spores of a fungus in it, while the bark of a healthy tree treated in the same way showed none of these spores. His investigations do not, how- . ever, show whether the fungus is the cause, or merely the accompan- iment of the blight. Dr. Kirtland, of Ohio, favors, or did favor this hypothesis. The contagious character which many suppose it to have also favors this view. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. The meeting re-assembled at 2 o’clock, and the President, Tru- man M. Smith, delivered the following lengthy and interesting ad- dress : Gentlemen of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society: One year has passed since we last met in council, for the welfare of our cause and ourselves and our State, and now the great question of the day is, what advancement have we made in that time, what have we learned and what have we new to offer at this time. Horti- culture, like all other Arts and Sciences, cannot stand still, we must either be progressing upward and onward or else going backward, there is no stopping place, no standing point. SUCCESS OF THE GRAPE CROP. While some new fruits were brought out, among which were several varieties of gr apes by Mr. Kramer, of La Crescent, and other fruits which the growers’ names have escaped my memory, I fear the hard times have borne down with a heavy hand upon the horti- culturists and horticultural prospects in this State. But still, not- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. AT withstanding the cold and backward spring of 1874, and the almost entire failure of most of our small fruits, the year 1874 had some | bright spots for horticulturists to note. The grape crop, although short, ripened up to perfection, and never before at our State Fair was there such a display of this luscious and best of all fruits, not by one or two, but from many and different parts of our State, showing plainly, if well and properly cared for, Minnesota need not send her money out of the State to purchase grapes at least, for better grapes were shown by Mr. Knapheide and Mr. Gould Harris and others thar. have ever been shipped here from our sister States south and east of us, and ahead of California grapes in flavor and eating qualities, and many species are rivaling them in appearance. FRUIT AND FLORAL DISPLAY AT THE STATE FAIR—NON-RECEIPT OF PREMIUMS. . Then the display of apples from different parts of the State were worthy of the pride and admiration of the State Horticultural Socie- ty ; also plums, pears and other fruits, and where shall I find words to express a just appreciation of the display of plants and flowers. Great credit is due our florists and fruit growers for the large and magnificent and well arranged display at our State Fair, a display which was a decided success in everything except our premiums, which have so far proved an entire failure, and for which failure the State Horticultural Society or its members are not responsible in the least. The most I will say in regard to our failure to receive our premiums is this: it was extremely unfortunate besides being very inconvenient, for the money due is not a large amount to the State at large, but to our poor horticulturists who so much needed it and had so honestly and fairly earned it, it would have proved a great. blessing, and have helped to carry us through this cold and long win- ter ; for you must remember that fruit growing and horticulture is the poorest paid of any occupation in our State as far as dollars anu cents are concerned, hence the $800 due our horticulturists are more to them, and would do them more good, than $80,000 would some other brances of industry. To illustrate this, I will say, I have now in my possession a letter, received from one of our very best and most intelligent, active horticulturists in the State, saying he cannot be present at this meeting, for the railroad fare would be $10 or $12 ; he has not a dollar left, but had he have received his premiums due from the State Fair he should have saved enough to have come with, and his desire to be with us is such, he said he would willingly saw wood to raise the money to come with, but he had been sick and was not yet able. I mention this to show how much good our premiums wouid haye done could we have got them, and how much depend- ence had been placed upon them. So far as I know this is only a fair sample of many other cases. THE DUTY OF HORTICULTURISTS—STATE AID REQUIRED. Now, as many advocate withdrawing from the State Agricultural Society Fair, and not exhibiting at the next State Fair, on account 18, ANNUAL REPORT. of not receiving our premiums, I must say that I think such a course would be suicidal and contrary to all principles of Horticulture ; for we all well know our last State Fair was held during the very worst weather of the season, and the elements, more than anything else, killed our Fair, financially. Now horticulturists are not the men, and should not be the men, to give up at one or two failures; if so, we may as well abandon our calling and go at something else. But I for one will not admit that our Society or its members are com- posed of any such material; but on the other hand, though we fail -one hundred times, we will up and try, try again; and now let each cand every member make up his mind to make the greatest effort and to make the best show of our products at the next State Fair ever ‘made in this or any of our sister States, and help in every way to - make the State Fair of Minnesota, next fall, a decided success in every way, and then we will be not only enabled to secure our back but future premiums, and the good will, not only of the State Agri-. cultural Society, but the State at large. You must remember that -our business depends more upon the success and prosperity of our State and citizens at large than almost any other, for we have almost solely to depend upon a local and home market for our saies, and consequently everything that advances and enriches our State helps us; and the good time for Horticulturists in Minnesota is yet to come, and may many of us who have struggled and worked in its in- fancy and borne the heat and burden of the day yet live to reap some of its rewards, and if not, die with the prospect that our chil- dren may receive some of them, and that the world, and Minnesota in particular, is better for our having lived, and that the Minnesota State Horticultural Society was not established in vain. And in speaking of the welfare of Minnesota, brings to mind the import- ance and necessity of being represented in the next meeting of the American Pomological Society, to be held at Chicago, Ill., in Sep- tember, 1875. Now will not the Legislature of our young and grow- ing State take a sensible and business-like view of it, and assist us to send delegates with the best show of fruits and vegetables that Minnesota can produce? All who ever have had much to do with the subject of inducing emigration to our State know the great draw- back, and the chief argument to be met, and the ones used by States and railroads south of us having land to sell, with the greatest force is, ‘*‘Do not goto Minnesota. I would not live in a country where you cannot grow fruit.” And this is the argument that keeps thou- sands and tens of thousands of emigrants from our beautiful and healthy State. And now let the State Legislature aid us to show them at the show of fruits at Chicago next fall, that they have be- lied Minnesota; and if the Legislature and the railroads will provide us with the means—$300—to collect fruits and send delegates to at- tend the meeting at Chicago, I think we can not only redeem Min- nesota from the reputation that we cannot grow fruit, but will in- duce 1,000'to make Minnesota their future home, and thereby do more and lasting good to Minnesota than $10,000 worth of emigra- tion tracts. For seeing is believing, and many will not believe we can grow fruit until they can see it; and they will not believe we can grow fruit unless we show it at that meeting of the Pomological MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 19 Society. ‘We are invited and expected to make a display of fruits if we have them, and consequently if we do nothing in the way of show it will be admitting the arguments of those interested parties, that we cannot grow fruit in Minnesota, It was once said we could not grow ‘‘cawn” in Minnesota, but they have backed down a peg or two from that, and the story that we could not grow wheat and veg- etables. And now let the State aid us. It will cost but little, and will pay well, and we will make them back down from the proposi- tion that we cannot grow fruit in Minnesota. I for one have faith in Minnesota, and in our fruit growers and fruit growing. But it takes time, and we have much to learn. But we are improving, and year by year something turns up more and more suited to our cli- mate and soil. The introduction of the Wealthy apple, by Peter Gideon, Esq., is a triumph of itself worth more to the State of Min- nesota than all the fast horses ever introduced, and we are not to stop here. Other and more hardy apples will be found that will stand our climate, and bear good fruit. Stewart’s Sweet I hear highly spoken of, although I have not seen it as I remember ; but the show of new fruits, apples, plums, pears and grapes at our State Fairs, shows we are started on the right road. And when we can raise enough fruits to stop the importing of so much and save the million dollars that now goes out of the State for fruits alone, we shall have done much to relieve our State from hard times. In one year St. Paul alone has imported at a cost to consumers of $3 to $5 per bar- rel, over 34,000 barrels of apples; over 26,480 packages of small fruits, and nearly 20,000 packages of canned fruits, making in-all over $500,000 worth, at first cost, to our city alone. And what have we exported? 7,149 barrels of cranberries in 1873, and there is no reason why we should not have exported 70,000 instead of 7,000 of cranberries. And here again let me urge not only our Society but the State Legislature, to, by every means possible, encourage the growing of cranbérries, not only for home use, but for export. In the city of New York for 1870 over $10,383,000 worth of fruit was imported from abroad, besides as high as 667 car loads of strawber- ries from Delaware Peninsula alone, making 7,470,400 quarts; and one man in 1873 shipped to New York 125,000 baskets of peaches ; and in 1872 John 8. Coles marketed $22,500 worth of blackberries ; and this in a market that 85 years ago was much smaller than St. Paul is at the present time. As statistics will show, New York city in 1790 contained only 32,328 inhabitants, and city and county only 33,131, and that year bragged of the enormous exports and trade, and was then, as now claimed to be, the first city for business and commerce on the the American continent. A COMPARISON—PROMISING FUTURE. Perhaps a few items will be interesting: In 1790 New York ex- ported 667,700 bushels of wheat, 28,000 barrels of flour, total ex- ports amounting to $2,516,197. While St. Paul exported in 1871, just 80 years after, 1,279,645 bushels of wheat, 128,118 barrels of flour ; and when it is recollected that New York at this time, 1790, had been an incorporated city for 100 years, or nearly, (1696)—and e 20 ; ANNUAL REPORT. had a population of 4,322 in 1697, and with all her advantages had been over 100 years in growing as much as St. Paul or Minneapolis has within the last 25 years, and that the State of Minnesota had in 1870, by the United States census, 100,000 more people than the Empire State had in 1790, only 80 years before, and which popula- tion it has nearly doubled in, the last five years—we as horticultur- ists may look for the good time coming. In view of these facts it shows our State is fast growing in wealth, education, and refine- ment, and when we take into consideration that horticulture is only appreciated among the civilized and enlightened portions of the globe, and that it is one of the chief ornaments and necessities of an highly educated, wealthy and prosperous community, may we not hope in the not far distant future to find horticulture in all its branches recognized and supported by the wealth and intelligence of Minnesota. ORGANIZATION OF LOCAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETIES RECOMMENDED. In view of this fact I must urge upon this Society the im- portance of organizing and sustaining, in every town and city of our State, local horticultural societies, and keeping up a constant series of weekly and monthly meetings, at regular stated periods, in which the fruits, and flowers, and vegetables of the locality can be discussed, and then the experience gained by each local society brought to the winter meeting of this society, and the best fruits and flowers of each brought in competition at our State Fairs. In this way we could gain knowledge, and knowledge is power and capital, and would enable us to succeed where we now fail. Now, let us be up and doing, and keep up with the times and age of industry and improvements, and not lag in the race. Let us be worthy of our most noble and most ancient and honorable of all occupations that man was ever called upon to perform on this earth, and not forget- ting our Great Author and co-worker in all our efforts at horticul- ture. And in conclusion, let me sincerely thank you for the kind- ness and attention you have shown me, and honored me with your confidence and esteem, by twice electing me unsolicited on my part, to be your President. Hoping you will with much charity forgive my shortcomings and imperfections, and believe me ever your humble servant. and co-worker in the great and glorious cause of Horticulture in Minnesota. On motion of Judge Baker, the address was received and ordered printed. COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS. Messrs. Jewell, Baker and Moulton were appointed a committee on the nomination of officers. During the absence of the committee Mr. Scott, who was present, made an interesting report of what had been done in horticultural operations at the University farm. Some of the statements elicited some comment from the members, but the results may be somewhat varied another year, or in other hands. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 21 EXPERIMENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY FARM—-REPORTED BY W. T. SCOTT, SUPERINTENDENT. Messrs. P. W. Fuller, J. 8S. Harris and C. M. Loring: In accordance with a resolution passed at the last annual meeting of the Minnesota Horticultural Society, I present the following re- port from the Horticultural Department of the State University : Owing to the lateness of the season in beginning operations, and no suitable preparations having been made in seed or soil, the greater part of the year has been devoted in preparing for future operations in Horticulture. The soil used in experiments is a light sand, crop- ped for fourteen years, without manure of any kind being used in former cultivation. The seed used was mostly obtained from New Jersey; a part was obtained the present year, and a part in former years, and grown in Minnesota, three to five years. Having closely observed the growth and habits of most of the plants, both in the East and in our own State, it seems proper to make the following statement : Ist. The quality and quantity is materially improved. 2nd. The time required to mature for market purposes is lessened each year, from five to ten days. 8d. Isolated specimens not to be relied upon, in determining experi- ments. 4th. Only one exception apparent, in quality. MARKET GARDEN. Experiment No.1. Potatoes—Best yield, Early Rose; 2nd best, White Peachblow; 3d, St. Helena; 4th, Jackson White; 5th, King of the Earlies and Early Goodrich. No. 2. Quality—Best, White Peachblow; 2nd; Fluke; 3d, Early Rose; 4th, Jacksons; 5th- Early Goodrich and King of the Earlies. No. 3. Seed—Best yield per acre from seed cut to two eyes each, plant- ed in drills, worn out soil, no fertilizers, ten rods, six bushels, or ninety- eight bushels per acre, by weight. No. 4. Potatoes planted without cutting, in drill, same conditions as No. 8, four bushels, or sixty-four bushels per acre. No.5. Deep vs. shallow covering—one-sixteenth part of an acre planted May 9th, in drills, four inches below surface, covered with two-horse plow, twelve inches deep, and leveled with drag twenty days after planting, ridged culture, yield, by measure, six bushels, or ninety-eight bushels per acre, old ground, no manure, No. 6. One-sixteenth part of acre in drills four inches deep covered with hoe four inches in dept. Same soil and conditions as No.5. Yield 44 bushels or 76 bushels. Difference in yield in favor of deep covering 22 bushels. Difference in time of maturing in favor of shallow covering eleven days. - Difference in favor of cost of cultivation in favor of deep planting one-seventh less. ; No. 7. Potatoes—Culture. In favor of well-ridged up, against level cul- ture, 50 per cent. in favor of first named. No. 8. Potatoes—Fertilizers. One-eighth of acre, 5 ton well rotted ma- nure, product 23 bushels or 184 bushels per acre. One-eighth of acre one bushel gypsum, 214 bushels or 172 bushels per acre. One-eighth acre with- out manure, 13 bushels or 104 bushels per acre. Conditions alike in each respect. Cost of gypsum and application of same $1.25; increase of yield 68 bushels per acre. Cost of drawing manure and application $5.50; in- creased yield 80 bushels per acre. 22 ANNUAL REPORT. > “No. 9. Salt and ashes (leached) in proportion to jth salt and 4ths ashes increased the yield of beets 40 per cent. and carrots 30 per cent. at the rate of 1,200 pounds per acre in drills. No. 10. Sweet Potatoes. Four varieties planted. Southern Queen ma- tured only; plants set May 15th, matured October 12th; yield good; quality nearly equal to the Nansemond when grown in New Jersey. Lest the above statement might result in a partial failure under different culture, will give the details for success: Select light sandy soil, plow shallow, drag and mark out with single shovel plow (from north to south) drills 34 feet apart, scatter well rotted manure in the drills and cover with double furrow, two- horse plow, throw the furrows well up. and set the plants about 16 inches apart on top of furrow; keep clean by light surface culture, but do not dis- turb the soil near the base of plant. Mzm.—Planted on a level surface, was a failure; plant as near the 10th of May as possible, and see that the plants be exposed to the atmosphere at least three days before removing from the hot bed. No. 11. Cabbage—Jersey Wakefield, new, early, fair size, quality good, one of the best. No. 12. Cabbage—Winingstadt, new, early, large, extra, promises to be one of the best. No. 13. Tomatoes—Canada Victor, early, fair size smooth, good quality, fair yield. ; No. 14. Trophy, large, prolific, good, succeeds best on trellis work. No. 15. Tomatoes for pickling, preserving and canning. The pear shaped yellow, seems to be the favorite of the small varieties and greatly superior in flavor and appearance. No. 16. Beet—Sugar Yellow Globe, greatest yield; Yellow Silesian, 2d; and long white Mangle Wortzel, 3d. No. 17. Deep Blood Red, (imported from France,) Long Blood Red, Early Bassoon, Early Blood Beet, as far as quantity and quality were con- cerned, seemed about equal in all respects and worthy. No. 18. Egg Plant—Early Purple, worthy. No. 19. Squashes—seven varieties. Summer and Winter Crookneck, Summer bush, Turban, Boston Marrow, and Mammoth and Hubbard, all worthy. No. 20. Turnips—Rutabagas. Yellow Swedish best yield; White Ger- man, best quality. No. 21. Peas—Dwarf, McLean’s Little Gem, wonderfally prolific ou rich soil; Tom Thumb, fair; Champion of England, vigorous and productive; Landreth’s Extra Early, good. Perhaps there may. be better kinds, but we have yet to find them. No. 22. Onions—Wethersfield, large red, reliable, best for planting to perfect a crop in first season: Yellow Danvers, best from sets, second sea- son. No. 23. Cucumbers—Early Frame, Long Green, good and productive ; difference in maturing of Early Frame, eighteen days, in southern and northern exposures. No. 24. Watermelons—Five varieties tested; Mountain Sprout, large, good, late; Mountain Sweet, medium size, extra good, ten days earlier than first; Ice Cream, (marked extra early) proved extra late, small size, good; Phinney’s Early, medium size, prolific; Early Extra, good; Peerless, one of the best, if not the best. No. 25. Skillman’s Nettled Muskmelon seems worthy to be placed at the head of the list; Jenny Lind, small, early and good; Long Persian, too late; Mustang, (from New Mexico,) peculiar flavor, large and extra good. FOREST AND ORNAMENTAL TREES. No. 27. About six thousand forest trees have been planted, for experi- mental purposes, of various kinds—box elder, post oak, white, red, water and rock elm, soft maple, mountain ash, European larch, and a variety of evergreens. A large number of the mountain ash were materialiy injured last winter. ‘ ti a a hl ee MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 23 No. 22. Planting forest tree seed—Greatest source of failure found in the nature of the soil, if planted deep enongh to be benefited by moisture seed failed, if too near the surface it failed for want of moisture; succes insured by a light covering (very light) of soil, ditto of straw or hay, and a generous sprinkling of rain water. No. 29. Result of experiments in propagating by cuttings, suggested by L. M. Ford, Esq., who also furnished cuttings for some of the white, yel- low and Italian willows, Lombardy poplar, &e. ; ; time selected, May 25—one month later than cuttings should be set to insure perfect success. Twelve white willow, eight inches in length, placed in the soil seven inches per- pendicular, one bud above ground, one year old wood; ten made a fair growth, two failed. No. 30. Twelve white willow cuttings, eight inches in length, two years old wood, set at an angle of forty-five degrees, lower part of cutting four inches below surface, the upper part one inch below surface; an entire fail- ure. No. 31. Twelve white willow cuttings, cut four inches in length, placed ‘ me ground four inches perpendicular, two years old wood; two grew, ten ie No. 32. Twelve white willow cuttings, cut eight inches long, placed in the ground seven inches perpendicular, two years old wood, one ‘bud above surface; eleven made a growth of from three to four feet, ground well tramped around each cutting. The above apply to each of the other kinds named in No. 29, except the raage slg the last being an entire failure; also, except the growth named in No. 32. HEDGE PLANTS. No. 33. The buckthorn will, without doubt, make a good hedge, and will, I think, be found to have more good points for a Northern hedge plant than any other on the list. No. 34. Ripening a Jate and excessive growth of wood on fruit or forest trees. Banking up the earth around base of tree from eighteen to thirty inches according to size of tree. This is given without comment or theory, as the result of a series of experiments, instituted for the purpose of preparing an excessive growth of v7ood, to withstand the cold of Minnesota winters. In the search for more light on this subject, have learned with surprise and dismay, that non-culture was considered by many eminent horticulturists to be a condition of success. Being well assured that non-culture or stinted growth both in the animal and vegetable kingdom has the greatest retarding influence on fruit culture and forest tree planting, earnestly contend for a vigorous and healthy growth. No. 35. Pruning—Vlime. Effect on vigorous growth; Effect on stunted growth; Effect of stimulants or plant food; Effect on change of climate and soil. Experiments carefully noted but will require longer time to mature. EXPERIMENTS.—The effects of extra culture continued and selection of seed,. with reference to localities, is deemed of the utmost importance, to insure perfect success in orchard, garden or farm. Early Sweet Corn and White Dent hybridized. Onecrop; time five years ; result: an established sweet corn (evergreen) by selection of seed grains; greatest difference in time of maturity twenty days. No. 36. Common Sweet Corn and Early Sweet Corn, by selection of seed, and extracultivation produced a superior evergreen sweet corn, supe- rior in flavor and equal in every other respect to the best evergreen sweet corn known in the West; time-—six years, with greatest apparent improve- ment the last year in quantity or size of ears, with a slight decrease in qual- ity ; perhaps the nature of the soil or condition of atmosphere at time of ma- turing may have governed the quality. The experiments made seem to justify the conclusion, that extra culture and a judicious selection of seed will finally ensure the highest and best results. W. T. Scott, December, 1874. Supt. of Experimental Farm, State University. 24 ANNUAL REPORT. ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR 1875. The committee on nominations then reported the following list of officers, and the report was adopted : President—Truman M. Smith. Vice Presidents—W. Elliot, T. G. Carter, E. H. Dartt. Secretary—Professor C. Y. Lacy. Tieasurer—A. Stewart. Executive Committee—J. F. True, O. F. Brand, J. S. Harris, T. T. Smith, E. B. Jordan. A difference of opinion here sprung up as to what effect the adop- tion of the report had. Some thought the adoption of the report elected the officers, while others thought that it did not. In order to get at the matter, the vote adopting the report was reconsidered. The report was then received, and the Secretary was instructed to cast the vote of the Society for those persons named in the report, and he did so. Accordingly they were elected. LIST OF APPLES. The committee on apples made the following report: List of apples for general cultivation —Duchess, Tetofsky, Weal- thy. The minority adds Stewart’s Sweet, by J. H. Woods; Malinda, O. F. Brand. List for favorable localities—Haas and Price’s Winter Sweet. List for most favorable localities—Fameuse, Plum’s Cider, Wal- bridge, St. Lawrence, Saxton. Minority report read by QO. F. Brand—Siberian apples or crabs, first class—Early Strawberry, Orange, Beecher Sweet, Minnesota. Second class—Conical, Quaker Beauty, Maiden Blush, Hutchinson, Sweet Meaders, Winter. Third class—General Grant, Hesper Blush, Aiken’s Striped Winter. Fourth class (minority report)— Aiken’s Green Winter, Hyslop, Transcendent. Mr. Tostevin, of this city, stated that he had three hundred trees ‘that were bearing apples, and that last year he shipped a considera- ‘le quantity of apples to New York city. He desired to learn some- thing as to what kind of apples were the best to raise. Mr. Gould, of Excelsior, did not like the Tetofsky as well as he did the Duchess. It was too slow of growth. Mr. Gideon said the Duchess was altogether the best, and that the windfall of the Duchess would sell for more than:the whole crop of the Tetofsky. It was finally decided to recommend the Tetofsky for general cultivation in small quantities for homie use. On a vote being taken it was decided to give the Wealthy the same position as the Duchess. Stewart’s Sweet was placed on the list for general cultivation. Mr. Ford stated that he had visited a number of orchards in the Minne- sota valley, and that he found the Stewart Sweet to be far the most hardy, much more hardy than the Duchess. Mr. Gould found the Duchess more profitable for him in the tim- ten MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 25 ber than the Stewart Sweet would be. On the prairie it might be different. Colonel Stevens thought the Stewart Sweet the most hardy kind we have, and though it is not quite so prolific, it is invaluable. Finally, on a vote being taken, it was decided by a vote of 14 to 4, to place the Stewart Sweet on the list for general cultivation. Mr. Brand, of Faribault, gave a brief history of the Melinda. It was brought from Orange county, Vermont. Dr. Jewell stated his views of the Melinda. He did not like it at all. He doubted its hardy character. It was corky, and was neither — a good eating or cooking apple. Mr. Jordan gave his experience in regard to the Melinda, and the experience of a good many others, and claimed that it was a very hardy variety on the prairie. Finally the Melinda was rejected for general use. The Haas was adopted for favorable localities, 11 to 3. The Price’s Sweet was adopted for favorable localities by 10 to 1. The Saxton same, 10 to 1. ] The Fameuse was adopted for the most favorable localities, 14 to 3. Plum’s Cider was adopted for the most favorable localities, 7 to 5. Walbridge the same, 10 to 1. St. Lawrence same, 9 to 1. Utter’s Red for favorable localities, 4 to 4. The President decided the matter by giving the casting vote in its favor. Tallman Sweet was adopted for the most favorable localities, 12 to 5. The Alaska, a new apple, was next taken up, and its history was given by Mr. Grimes, who read a communication from L. D. Mills, of Blue Earth county. : On motion of Mr. Jewell, this seedling was recommended for trial by amateurs and pomologists. WEDNESDAY EVENING. The Society was called to order at 74 o'clock. President Smith in the chair. THE PIONEER VINEYARD OF MINNESOTA. The following communication, regarding grape culture in Minne- sota, was received from Mr. Rudolph Knaupheide, and read before the Society : My vineyard was commenced on a very small scale in the year 1853, more than twenty years ago. Coming from the State of Mis- souri where most kinds of fruit was raised in abundance, I was anx- ious to have all I could of such luxuries in my new home. At first, I tried many kinds of apples, pears, cherries, and German prunes in 26 ANNUAL REPORT. connection with a few grape vines. The trees and vines set out when I commenced on my place were bought at a nursery in Quincy, Illinois, by a brother who lived at that place. I have raised some apples, but have not been so successful as with grapes. Like many of the early settlers near the timber adjoining the Mississippi I com- menced to live in a log cabin, after selecting a claim, which I bought second-hand. The two Isabellas brought from Illinois by my brother were plant~ ed in April, 1853. In 1856 I built a new house and the next spring the vines were carefully taken up and set out on the south side of the building. This was in fact their second removal after planting, as I had occasion to build an addition to my shanty from whence they were taken and set out in the fence corners in 1854, The first winter they were killed down to the ground, when I con- cluded the vines would need protection in this cold climate. While in the fence corner, I began to cover the vines a little and found they did better. Soon after being planted by the new house they began to bear fruit, and have produced more or less from that day to this. Of course they have been well protected in the autumn, which has al- ways been done with earth. Sometimes I have put a little manure over the covering of earth, but do not deem it necessary—except perhaps in the case of small vines of the more tender varieties. Soon after the Isabellas were planted by the new house I set out two more vines, one the Oid Clinton, and the other what was said to be the Catawba, but was not true to name. From my old vines I propagated a number of young ones which were set out by a high fence. I kept on propagating until I had growing about thirty vines of the four sorts first obtained. I was so well pleased with my success with grapes that I conclud- ed to plant more kinds and start a vineyard. My first Concords and Delawares were obtained of Mr. Ford, who had often urged me to go into the business, as the climate seemed so well adapted to the cultivation and ripening of this excellent fruit. I was pretty care- ful, however, and would not go ahead faster than I had proper expe- rience, with the various kinds and their treatment. Some time after, I got a few Northern Muscadines, Oportos,. Del- awares, and some others of Mr. Smith. From time to time I pur- chased of others, and a great number of varieties. In starting my vineyard I prepared ihe ground with the plow, then followed with the spade throwing out the soil until it was worked up about sixteen inches deep. I next built a tight board fence from eight to ten feet high, on all sides except the south. This was done because I had not a good site for the vineyard business, it being al- most level, or sloping a little to the southwest. It is also at the foot rather of quite a hill. Hence it is not so free from frost as on the top of a hill. MY FIRST SHOW AT THE FAIRS. In 1860 I took my first grapes to the State Fair, which was held at Fort Snelling. The kinds exhibited were the Isabella and a dark MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 27 grape that was bought for the Catawba, but nobody knew its name, and it has since been discarded. I did not take any to the fairs when held too far from my home, but have had fruit every year. One season, however, in 1869, I believe, they did not mature well, on account of a very early frost. The next season the vines did not yield a first rate crop, as they seemed to have been injured by the hard freeze the previous fall. THE NUMBER OF VINES, SALES, &C. The amount of ground I now have in my vineyard is about two acres, but one-half acre of which has been set during the past two years and has not produced a crop. The whole number of vines in bearing is 825 including about forty varieties, some twenty of which have produced fruit. My leading kinds are the Concord, Del- aware, Hartford Prolific, Northern Muscadine and Creveling. Since the fair at Fort Snelling, I have raised more or less fruit to sell. My markets are St. Paul and Minneapolis, the latter being the place to get the best prices, not being so overstocked with fruit from below. One year my crop brought forty cents per pound at retail, and thirty cents at the stores. In 1874 my sales were 8,600 pounds, being my largest crop. The amount received was $1,077. They were nearly all sold at wholesale, the Delawares bringing 18 to 20 cents, the Concords 10 to 123 cents, the Creveling 124 cents per pound. The Hartford and Muscadine brought 15 cents at first and 124 to 10 cents later. The average for Delaware per vine $1.393 ; Concord $1.48; Hart- ford $1.41; the Northern Muscadine $1.514, the best of all. Some of the Delawares were not in a suitable place, which reduced their amount. They are quite particular about their treatment. Some seasons the result might be quite different from the above. The business has paid well the past four years. TIME OF RIPENING. The first to ripen is the Hartford, and a few days later the Mus- cadine, then the Delaware and Creveling, and last the Concord. The first two drop their fruit and last but a short time. ,Some of the newer sorts may take the place of the above. When we have a good year for dent corn, our grapes ripen well. We need something that will do well when we have a short season. I am looking for some variety as good and productive as the Con- cord, but earlier. This would be a great thing for the vineyardist, and indeed for the masses. PROTECTION, SOIL, &C. My practice is to prune the vines in the fall and cover, leaving a pretty good supply of wood as some damage is quite sure to occur. If too many buds start in the spring some are rubbed off. I do not follow the course laid down in the books altogether, in this climate, but am guided very much by circumstances, 28 ANNUAL REPORT. My soil is rather a sandy loam and was formerly covered with such timber as maple, basswood, elm, butternut, hickory, iron wood, &e. he RupotpH KNAUPHEIDE. Reserve, Ramsey Co., January, 1875. REPORT FROM SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA—-BY J. S. HARRIS, LA ORES- CENT, HOUSTON COUNTY—-READ BY GEN. S. P. JENNISON. Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society : In discharge of my duty as defined in Art. 6 of the By-Laws, I would submit the following very imperfect report: _ The season of 1874 was rather unusual for this part of Minnesota. The whole season averaged dry, and the heat at times was excessive. Several days during the summer the mercury stood for hours at 102 in the shade, and on the 10th of September it reached 106 in the shade, and 130 in the sun. This kind of weather was disastrous to some kinds of fruit, and injurious to all, unless it was grapes, which are better in hot, dry seasons than cold wet ones. From all the information I am able to procure, the disasters of the winter of 1872 and ’73 were not over-estimated. The slaughter of apple, pear, cherry and tame plum trees was very great. Our largest and best orchards were mainly planted before the organization of the State Horticultural Society, and before any correct information had been collected and disseminated in relation to hardiness of varie- ties, and consequently each individual ordered and planted largely of those varieties they were familiar with in their former and more favored homes. As a consequence almost every variety named in Eastern catalogues, to the number of hundreds, had a representative here, and they all, with few exceptions, perished. No doubt the loss would not have been as extensive, if hardy roots had been used for grafting upon. Those who have from time to time added to their lists the hardier and newer varieties have trees still living and prom- ising fair returns, and it is a remarkable coincidence that nearly all of the fruit raised the past year in this district, is of the varieties that have been recommended by the State Horticultural Society ; and of all the varieties they have ever recommended for cultivation or trial the Ben Davis is the only total failure, and all others are re- covering from their injury, and promise good returns. The heaviest loss occurred in and around Caledonia, where but few of the newer varieties were grown. The apple crop of the last year was larger than any previous year except 1872. The Duchess, Tetofsky, Red Astrachan, Fameuse, Saxton, Tallman Sweet, and some varieties of Russetts, have done the best. The Red Astrachan although discarded by the Horticul- tural Society is redeeming itself and proving more valuable for this district than the best Siberians. As an illustration I sold fruit from six trees to the amount of $55.00 and from 25 trees of Transcend- ent Crab that would average much larger to amount of $60. The As- trachans were eagerly sought for and the crabs were hard to dispose MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 29 of. Very likely our market needs educating, and perhaps the time may come when people will appreciate the merits that the Siberian have over the common apple. The winter of 1872-3 may have been a God-send to croakers and tree men but it was a great misfortune to the fruit growers for the time being. Transcendent and Hyslop Crabs have borne much less than a full crop with some few exceptions. The exceptions are trees upon the high bluffs where the blight has not yet reached. The short crop is attributed to the fire blight which prevailed more extensively among the crabs than usual, while the common apple generally was exempt except when growing in the immediate vicinity with crabs. Strawberries and Raspberries were a short crop. The Wilson is the leading and most popular strawberry grown, and Doolittle’s Black Raspberry is more extensively grown than all others. Currants and gooseberries were also a poor crop. They were probably injured by a late frost and dry weather. Yhe grape crop was average, and the quality surpassed any pre- vious year. The bunches and berry were somewhat smaller than usual, but the richness and sweetness were all there. The most at- tention is paid to the cultivation of grapes in the towns of Browns- ville, Hokah and LaCrescent. The variety most extensively grown are the Concord and the Delaware. NEW FRUITS. Some new seedling apples and crabs have fruited for the first time, but as far as I am able to learn, nothing has been brought out that promises to be of any great value. Insects injurious to fruit and fruit trees have been more numerous and destructive than ever before. The apple worm, the larve of the codling moth is doing considerable damage, and unless a uni- ted effort is made to head them off and destroy them, sound, fair apples will soon be the exception and not the rule. The borer, of two or more species, is making sad havoc among the newly planted trees, and as but few of our fruit growers have any knowledge of entomology, they are compelled to fight them at a disadvantage. The twig pruner or saw-worm is increasing to an alarming extent. Their visitations may be only periodical, as with the oak tree-pruner, but if not, they must be met and conquered, or disaster will be sure to follow. By capturing and destroying the perfect beetle before the eggs are laid, and gathering and burning all affected branches, they may be headed off. I have but just commenced the study of ento- mology, but have during the past year raised some of the worms to perfect insects, and from the study of their habits am satisfied that they may be kept under by keeping paper bands, same as for cod- ling moth, about the trees, and removing and killing as often as twice a week. The perfect beetle is a neat little fellow, more than half an inch long, dark brown color, and belongs to the class of snapping bugs, and feeds upon the foliage, and sometimes the fruit, of the apple tree. The larve burrows in and feeds upon the pith of the branches, and just before entering into the pupa state, saws the 30 ANNUAL REPORT. branch from the tree and falls with it to the ground, and probably comes forth a perfect beetle the next spring. ; In the month of August last I received a communication from the Secretary of the Penn. Hort. Society, requesting specimens of fruit to show upon the National Dessert Table, at their Autumn Fair. I complied with his request, and also sent specimens of most of the finer fruits grown upon my place, which without any solicitation on my part were entered for competition, and were awarded the third prize, a silver medal, which (unlike the awards made at our last State Fair) has been duly received, and is highly appreciated. Joun S. Harris. La Crescent, Minn., Jan. 15th, 1875. . P. S. Iraised last year about three hundred bushels of apples, which I consider a pretty fair thing after losing so many trees by the winter of 1872 and 1873. On motion the above was accepted and placed on file. Mr. Jewell moved that any member be allowed to bring up for discussion any seedling apple that he thinks of value to the State. The motion was adopted. THE PEACH APPLE. Mr. Jewell said this apple he considered quite as hardy as the Duchess. He obtained cions of this variety from Northern Vermont. It probably came from Canada. Mr. Elliot saw it on exhibition at the biennial session of the American Pomological Society, by Mr. Bryant. He stated that it was a very hardy tree well adapted to northern climates. The ap- ple is a little larger than the Malinda of a light peach color. From all the facts he could gather, he thinks it will prove desirable for us to experiment with. Mr. Brand said he had one tree of this variety. THE JENNITON. ; Mr. Jordan spoke of the Jenniton. He thinks it more hardy than the Fameuse or Haas. ‘They are the finest trees in appearance of any in his orchard of 1,000 trees. He has some in the nursery that were three years old the hard winter of 1872 and 1873. Dr. Jewell said this tree was a Southern apple. It ripens like the Ben Davis, when the tree becomes old. The fruit is much smaller than at the South, where it originated. It soon dies after beginning to bear, even in northern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin. Mr. Gideon thought there were two kinds of Jennitons, one large and the other small. He had seen them differ in size in Illinois. He thought the kind Mr. Jordan has is the smaller. Mr. Gould endorsed what Dr. Jewell said, according to his per- sonal knowledge. He had seen them in Carver. Dr. Jewell insisted there was but one variety, as he had lived ina Jenniton country many years. Mr. Knaupheide had some experience with the Jenniton. The - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 81 first were brought from Illinois and set many years ago, but. died in the ground the hard winter of 1856-7. He got some more of Mr. Ford later that seemed more hardy, but smaller. ‘They died a few years ago. Dr. Jewell said THE DRAKE APPLE is a Minnesota seedling; as fine a tree as he had ever seen; more hardy than the Haas or Saxton, and is much prized by the person on whose ground the original tree stands. OTHER VARIETIES. Mr. Jewett called attention to the White Astrachan. It is hardy and a very fine bearer, deserves to be put in the place of the Red Astrachan, for it is much more productive, but it is of slow growth. Ripens before the Duchess about two weeks. Bears at about six years old. Burns’ Seedling is a Siberian crab, smaller than the Transcendent, Pickett’s Seedlings originated in southern Minnesota from the Haas. All are remarkably hardy; some are very fine growers and fruit early and well. The fruit of none is large, but very good for cooking ; about the size of the Soulard crab; the most perfect seed- lings he had seen in the State. Valuable, he thought, for the extreme Northwest. Mr. Jordan said the Pickett Seedlings were undoubtedly hardy enough for the extreme Northwest, as perfect trees as any of the Si- berian variety. The season reaches to the middle of winter. Mr, Jewell recommended particularly the No. 5, because it bore at five years old, and yielded well. A committee of five was appointed to secure such legislation as was needed, consisting of C. M. Loring, D. A. J. Baker, Truman M. Smith, P. A. Jewell, General Jennison and Wyman Elliot. On motion, adjourned to meet to-morrow morning, at 9 o’clock. THURSDAY FORENOON. The Society met at 9 o’clock, President Smith in the chair. O. F. Brand was chosen Secretary pro tem. during the absence of the Secretary. MORE SPECIMENS OF FRUIT, ETC. In addition to the specimens of fruits, etc., already noticed, there was a fine collection of the Wealthy apple, raised by Mr. L. G. Gould, of Excelsior, Hennepin county, and also an interesting col- lection of beetles and millers, exhibited by Wyman Elliot, of Minne- apolis. Ree: 39 ANNUAL REPORT. |, THE APPLE LIST—THE EARLY STRAWBERRY. The Society resumed consideration of the fruit list. A motion was made to recommend for general cultivation the Early Strawber- ry. Mr. Jewell said it was handsome, and hardy, and free from blight. Had three trees in bearing, finest in his orchard. In its season was preferable to Transcendent. It had one fault, it don’t keep long. . Mr. Daritt moved that it be named for general trial. It had not been known sufficiently long. Same might be said of all such vari- eties. Mr. Jordan thought it as good as any of the Siberian apples he knew of. Thought it perfectly hardy. Mr. Dartt’s motion was then put and carried. THE ORANGE. . Mr. Dartt moved that the Orange go on the same list. Mr. Jordan thought it the best crab. It ought to constitute 90 per cent, of the crabs in every orchard. Does not blight and whe till midwinter. er Mr. Jewell said it was a special pet of his—had planted = would plant largely of this variety. Fruit kept nice for two months, and was fit to ship to other markets. The tree was a moderate grower, annual bearer, and handsome as an ornamental tree. Mr. Brand favored the Orange. Would keep till February. It flourished as far north as Alexandria, and is found also at Wells and Albert Lea. The variety was therefore unanimously recommended for general trial. BEECHER’S SWEET. Mr. Jewell said Beecher’s Sweet was very hardy, strong and a handsome grower. Does not bear very young, yet very profusely —nmuch larger than the Transcendent crab. Inclined to blight. Recommended for general trial. THE MINNESOTA. Motion was made to place the Minnesota on the same list. Mr. Jewell thought this the most remarkable of allourcrabs. The fruit is the size of the Fameuse. ‘Tree scarcely inferior, and very hardy and free from blight. Skin of fruit very thin. Was inclined to think it would keep, and that it was the most valuable of all the crabs. The motion was carried, seven for and none against. THE CONICAL. The Conical was next considered. Mr. Jewell thought it a very good thing. It was about the size of a Transcendent. Hardy MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 35 enough, and not liable to blight. Although not a culinary apple, it has a peculiar spicy flavor, and to pass it by as had been cnpgpated would be a great mistake. ‘Mr. Brand had a few of the variety ; ; were rapid growing trees ; a the largest of their age. Fruit good and very much like the Black Gilliflower. His had not blighted. It was then placed on the list for general trial. The Quaker Beau- ty and Maiden’s Blush were disposed of in the same way. HUTCHINSON’S SWEET. The Hutchinson Sweet was next taken up. Mr. Dartt said his trees did not promise very well. Mr. Jewell said his trees were hardy, but blighted some. It was not a very good bearer, nor an apple highly productive. His trees had not suffered very much. . A motion to pass it over was then adopted unanimously. MEADER’S WINTER. A motion was made to put ‘Meader’s Winter on the list for gene- ral trial. Mr. Jordan moved to amend by adding ‘in localities not subject to blight.” He said it was worse with him than the Transcendent. Mr. Jewell said it was the best keeper of all the crabs, but was very subject to blight. Mr. Jordan said but for the blight it would have been a pet with him instead of the Orange. Unsurpassed for productiveness and quality, but blighted a good deal. Mr. Brand said the twigs of his trees had blighted. It grows very well, and is of enormous growth. Not quite so hardy as the Orange crab. Fruit highly flavored and keeps well—very well. A member said he had grafted some on Transcendent stock, but the hard winter had killed them. Motion as amended was then carried—4 for, 3 against. GENERAL GRANT. Mr. Jewell said the General Grant was the most productive tree he had ever had. Mr. Dartt moved to recommend it to those not afraid of blight. Carried. HESPER BLUSH. Hesper Blush was next taken up. Mr. Jewell said it was a handsome tree, but didn’t bear very well. With him it had never blighted. A motion to pass it was adopted by 6 to 3. 6 s 34 - ANNUAL REPORT. AIKEN’S STRIPED WINTER. | ae Aiken’s Striped Winter was then put on the list for favorable lo- calities by a vote of five for and none against. és ee . ehitl ‘4 AIKEN’S GREEN WINTER. Aiken’s Green Winter was passed, four to none. HYSLOP CRAB. A motion was made to discourage the cultivation of the Hyslop Crab. Judge Baker coming in just then made a heavy speech against the motion. They looked, he said, to the Hyslop and Transcendent to get all their fruit. Mr. Dartt would like to see the tree stricken from the list. The tree was hardy, but subject to blight. Mr, Smith’s experience did not coincide with those of others. The Hyslop in the St. Paul market would bring one-third more than any other crab. It was famous for jelly. If fruit growers would take hold of it, thousands of dollars might be saved by going into the manufacture of jelly. It keeps longer than any other crab in the market, with the exception of the Soulard. Blights a little, but should be retained on the list. . Mr. Gideon gave his experience. He could get 25 per cent. more for the Hyslop than for the Transcendent, but could make more at selling the latter at $1.25 than the former at $1.50. He was not in favor of discarding it, by any means. Mr. Brimhall was in favor of retaining it. It sells readily in market, the color is good, and he thought it a valuable apple for this locality. He could never get enough to supply his customers. Mr. Jewell said the objection to the Hyslop was in his mind so strong as to constitute a sufficient reason for its rejection. It has a thick skin, is liable to blight, and generally inferior to the others. A motion to strike it from the list was lost. Mr. Jordan thought the Hyslop, in comparison with the others, was pretty much as the fellow’s mixture of sawdust and meal, for wintering calves—the less sawdust there was, the better. The less Hyslop there was, the better. The variety was finally recommended for cultivation in small quantities, by a vote of 10 for and 3 against. THE TRANSCENDENT. The Transcendent was next taken up. Mr. Jewell moved that it be placed on the list for general planting, for those not afraid of blight. There was, he said, no dispute as to the quality of the fruit. Blight was the only cause of trouble. The motion was passed, 14 to 1. ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 35 COMMITTEE TO VISIT THE LEGISLATURE. | Mr. Ford then offered the following resolution, which was adopted : Resolved, That a committee consisting of Gen. Nutting, Dr. P. A. Jewell, Judge Baker, Col. J. H. Stevens and Mr. Brimhall, be appointed a commit- tee to visit the capitol and invite the members of the Legislature to meet with us for the purpose of examining the Minnesota fruit on exhibition, and to unite with us this evening in discussing the question of forest tree plant- ing on the prairies. ie Resolved, further, That the same committee endeavor to secure one of the Legislative halls for the meeting of the Society this evening. WOODLAWN RED. Mr. Jewell moved that the Woodlawn Red, of Wabasha county, be recommended for trial. The tree was hardy, fruit not quite first class, a little larger than the Transcendent, and keeps till midwin- ter, Its best season was November and December, but will keep till January and February. Color yellowish, with a red cheek, and was highly esteemed by its originator. It fruits at four years old. Judge Baker thought the motion had better be adopted as they had to live on the crab family. Mr. Brand regarded it as a first-class fruit, a little larger than the Transcendent. Mr. Dartt said that as it was bearing in only one or two locali- ties, it had already been given sufficient notoriety. The question was put, and a tie resulted—3 for and 3 against. THE SOULARD. On motion of Judge Baker the Soulard crab was recommended for general use in small quantities—6 for, 3 against. PLAN FOR OPERATIONS AT THE UNIVERSITY. Prof. Lacy read a paper on the general plan and operations at the experimental farm and garden at the University. A resolution was passed asking persons to make contributions of seeds, &c., to the State University. AMENDMENT TO THE BY-LAWS. Mr. Dartt moved that the by-laws be so amended as to elect offi- cers by ballot. Col. Stevens moved to amend by viva voce vote. The ballot par- took of the nature of dark lantern affairs, and he didn’t like them. Judge Baker went back to Jefferson, and talked about office seek- ing the man, and not the man the office, then branched off to emolu- ments, the caucas, the dead lock at the capitol, comprehending all things celestial and terrestrial, and finally wound up for a moment, when on motion the whole matter was laid on the table. aan aexvit ipown, DISCUSSION ABOUT THE MINUTES. | x An effort was here made to have the Secretary read -sishhnihon of the last two days for the purpose of corrections, but after fapata- erable discussion was abandoned. A motion was adopted that no member be allowed to patch up any speech he may have made during the present session. THE NEXT PLACE OF MEETING. President Smith spoke of the difficulties under which the Society had heretofore labored. This year there were three propositions before the Society—one to meet at Winona, a second at Northfield, and a third at the State University. Prof. Lacy spoke of having a summer meeting, and would be glad to have them at the University. It would be a good time to show small fruits. Mr. Herrick moved that the executive committee be empowered to call a meeting next summer. AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION. Mr. Jewell moved that a committee of three be appointed on amendments to the constitution and by-laws, to report at the next winter meeting. The motion was adopted, and Messrs. Ford, Gideon and Dartt were appointed such committee. Mr. Dartt declined, and this led to considerable talk, during which some sharp things were said by several members, and Mr. Gideon declining also, Messrs. Gould and Hodges were substituted i in their places. LADY MEMBERSHIP. Another question sprung up relative to the admission to the Soci- ety of ladies, owners of, or managers of, conservatories or flower gardens, and contributing to the Society a paper on Floriculture, and wives of members, without the payment of the necessary dollar. A motion to the above effect was voted down. THE EX-SECRETARY’S REPORT. Mr. Hodges called attention to a line on the 15th page of the Secretary’s report of last year, ‘‘ Corrupt and ignorant legislators may defraud us of our rights,” and moved to expunge it from the record. The question recurring on Mr. Hodges’ motion, Mr. Ford moved to amend by adding that ‘‘ the Society do not approve the state- ment.” Col. Stevens disapproved of the amendment. He had been a legis- lator, and he knew how it was himself. Judge Baker contended there was nothing wrong in the words. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 37 The legislators were the servants, not the masters of the people, and it was their duty to promote the interests of the Society. The matter was finally laid on the table, and the meeting adjourned to meet at 2 P. m. . , THURSDAY AFTERNOON. The Society met at 2 o’clock, and was called to order by the President. THE NEXT ANNUAL MEETING. Col. John H. Stevens moved that the next annual meeting of the ‘Society be held either at Minneapolis or at the State University. The President stated that Winona and Northfield, as well as the University, had extended the Society invitations. Col. Stevens thought it would be best to hold the next annual meeting at the University on the 3d of next January. Mr. Brand thought it no more than justice to the southern part of the State, where the great majority of the fruit growers reside, that they should have the next meeting. They could attend with greater facility. F Mr. Ford thought different. Minneapolis and St. Paul were more central and convenient to all. Mr. Gould favored leaving the matter to the executive committee. It was a burden to members of the Society from the southern part of the State to force them to come to St. Paul and Minneapolis every year. Mr. Dartt was of the opinion that localities where the meeting is held had a decided advantage. He didn’t care to intimate. that there was a ‘“‘ring,” but if the Society was permanently located in either of the cities named, it would be regarded as a local institu- tion. The Mississippi Valley could raise fruits that could not be raised back of that river. He thought it would be just to give the towns back of the river a little chance. The executive committee should give notice that they are open to propositions from places that want the meeting held there. Mr, Brimhall moved to lay it on the table, as it was time enough for the executive committee to determine the matter. Carried. LADIES TO BECOME MEMBERS. Mr. Ford, from the committee on amendments, made the follow- ing report, which was adopted : The committee appointed on amendments to the constitution re- commend the following to be added to article 3: That the wives of members may become honorary members without the payment of the 38 Bn ANNUAL REPORT. annual fee; also any lady or ladies who may contribute articles or papers for the annual transactions of the Society, In article 5 the words “by ballot” be inserted after the word “ elected.” . ea OBITUARIES. The Secretary stated that several of the pioneers of our Minneso- ta horticulture had died during the past year. It would seem as though some action ought to be had by the Society on the subject. On motion the Secretary was instructed to prepare obituary no- tices for the Transactions, of such persons as have died during the year. REPORT FROM HENNEPIN COUNTY, BY WYMAN ELLIOT, OF MINNEAPOLIS. The past year can hardly be called a success by the fruit cultur- ist. Frost, drouth, and insects have given him much to contend with, and except in few cases, where extra care and situation has in- sured him a fair yield and good prices for fruit sold, has shortened the crop of all varieties of fruit. Our first summer fruit is the Strawberry, and I think none of us can deny a failing in that direction, especially when served with good, rich cream and sugar. The vines wintered as well as usual. Notwithstanding the poor prospect for fruit in the early part of the season, caused by drouth blighting the blossoms, a few light showers helped materially to increase our anticipation, al- though on an average it proved not half a crop, many of the berries being shriveled and tasteless, lacking the delicious flavor usual im more favorable seasons. Some complained that their vines had not their usual healthy appearance, the leaves being full of holes and appearing ragged and worm-eaten. Some patches were almost en- tirely. destroyed by the larvee of the June or Dor bug. Perhaps a word or two of what I heard and saw while in southern California, may not be out of place here. There strawberries are grown in forty, eighty, or one hundred acre patches. The land used is interval valley land, rich, deep soil, inclined level, falling one foot to three or four hundred feet. When not as level as desired, it is graded so that waters from the upper side will flow gently over the whole area. The water is obtained from a zanja (water ditch) or artesian well. -When the grading is completed, the land is divided into beds three feet wide or laid off into rooms for receiving plants ; plants set and a quantity of water sufficient to saturate the surface turned on. When dry enough it is well raked over and loosened leaving it in acondition to withstand drouth and prevent baking and cracking. After from three to six weeks it is again irrigated and raked as before—not a weed to be seen, nothing but clean, healthy vines that yield abundantly. Nearly all the work is done by China- men. Many lease their grounds to the Chinese for a certain share of the receipts from the sale of crops, deducting freight and com- . + MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 39 mission. Strawberries are in season almost throughout the year, but the fruit i is not so richly flavored as ours. Cartan: ‘The crop was very light, and in many instances an entire failure, owing to the injury received from the currant borer and worm (abrazxas ribearia.) In some cases the bushes were entirely destroyed. I managed to save a small part of my crop from the ravages of this pestiferous insect, by the use of Paris green and flour. One part Paris green to twenty-five parts flour dusted on when the bushes were wet with dew or wet by sprinkling | water. I prefer flour to any other article I have used. The gluten in the flour causes the green to adhere and often withstand several showers. I made two ap- plications during the season, and am in hopes to secure part of a crop the present year. Gooseberries. The gooseberry crop was very poor, owing to the loss of foliage by the small green gooseberry worm. Apply the same remedy as for the currant worm. Raspberries. The yield of fruit was quite small, the canes of both black caps and red Philadelphia being much injured the previous winter. Al-, though the winter of 1873 and 1874 was considered very mild, from’ some cause the raspberry canes in the spring were in many instances killed down nearly to the ground. Apples. Most of the apple trees withstood the winter withoutinjury. Many of the tender varieties have done well the past season, and some few bore quite abundantly, but as a general thing the crop was below the medium. The summer’s drouth caused many to fall premature- ly, and those remaining to ripen were in comparison with fruit of other years small. Many of our seedlings have risen in the estima- tion of our fruit culturists in a remarkable degree. Foremost among these stands the Wealthy, which should be looked upon with pride. And we as a society should render due praise to Peter Gideon, the originator and propagator of a seedling comprising hardiness, pro- ductiveness and flavor, qualities very essential to a tree in this cli- mate. It is sought after from all the States in the Union, and at no distant day will be looked upon as the ne plus ultra of the Northwest. Plums in the early part of the season promised a heavy yield. In July the trees were overladen, but the drouth in August shortened the crop. Still, plums were never more abundant in our market, ordinary qual- ae ANNUAL REPORT. ities selling oftentimes for fifty cents per bushel, which hard aly Say for picking up; while the fine varieties, such as Harrison’s Apricot, Big Red, Elliot’s Big Cherry, and some others, sold readi- ; ly at $2.50 to $3. 00 per bushel. Quality and size are a8 much sought in this class of fruit as any other. ae EVERGREENS AS A PROTECTION TO FRUIT TREES—AN ESSAY READ BY 0. F. BRAND, OF FARIBAULT. If, as has been often stated, ‘‘ A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” and gladdens the heart of its possessor continually, of how much greater worth to the appreciative mind of man must it be, if at the same time, while imparting perpetual joy to its owner, it likewise contributes directly or indirectly to his material wants, thus becom- ing in a double sense a joy forever. In the Horticulture of Minnesota, where man’s most vigilant care and greatest skill is taxed to its utmost to counteract the perpetual war of a remorseless climate, I can conceive of no tree or class of trees so admirably adapted to meet the wants of our horticulturists as a ‘* Thing of Beauty” as our coniferous trees. There is a grand- eur about an evergreen imparted by no other tree. All people of keen perceptions admire them, whether in clumps or single speci- mens—planted to adorn the humble cottage of the villager with his one small lot, or the palatial residence and extensive grounds of his more pretentious suburban neighbor. I repeat, there is a beauty and a grandeur about them which fills the heart of every apprecia- «tive person with delight. As wind-breaks in this climate they should be regarded as indispensable to the comfort of man and beast. Of their benefit to orchards, and their influence on fruit trees, there can be no doubt, while used as a protection from the savere winds. As a wind-break they are the most perfect protection that can be grown. But it is not only as wind-breaks that they are valuable. In this climate, remote from water, even though we find hardy varieties of apples which so far as growth is concerned, seem capable of resist- ing the extremes of our climate, still they produce but little fruit, owing to the fact that their fruit buds kill, or their vitality is so im- paired that they produce little or no fruit. The evergreens when planted around and among apple trees are said by one of our hest authorities to continually give off an exodium of warmth and moist- ure, that reaches a distance of its area in height. He goes on to state that he has studied this matter thoroughly, and that it is his firm conviction that to ameliorate vlimate—to assist in prevention of injury against extreme climatic cold in winter and of the frosting of the germ buds of the fruit in spring—all orchards should have plant- ed in and among them evergreen trees. Such being the facts, the double purpose will be filled, and the evergreens utilized by the hor- ticulturist, and thus be made not only a protection but an imparter of life and force, whose power will gladden the heart of the fruit- grower when he beholds his trees bending beneath their weight of luscious fruit. Then let us plant evergreens; not one or two in the tough grass MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 41 or dry sod to die, but plant in cultivated ground by hundreds and by thousands. Plant small trees under two fect, as they are less expen- sive than large ones. Plant all around your orchard, and promiscu- ously among your orchard trees, and if well cared for you will find that indeed you have a thing of beauty that will force you to see in it a joy forever. . Col. D. A. Robertson thought the essay sound doctrine. The Col- onel then made a long speech, in which his pet theories were fully enunciated, and with much vigor and earnestness. Dr. Jewell responded at considerable length, controverting Col. Robertson’s theories, after which a recess of ten minutes was taken to enable the exhibitors of apples and other fruit to show the same to ex-Goy. Austin and several members of the Legislature, who had just previously entered the room. DELEGATES TO THE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. After recess the following gentlemen were appointed delegates to the Agricultural Society: C. M. Loring, Thos. Moulton, J. F. True, and Wyman Elliot. Messrs. Dartt and Jewell spoke further on the subject of ever- greens. On motion of Mr. Dartt $5 was appropriated to the present Secre- tary, Mr. Ford, to pay for postage. MARKET GARDENING ON LAKE SUPERIOR——REPORT OF J. S. BROCKLE- HURST, ONWOTA. Mr. President. and Members of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society : , It may be considered somewhat presumptuous on my part to ven- ture to place my views on the above subject before the members of this Society, knowing as I do how short a time I have resided in this country, having arrived from England only in May, 1873, and got settled on my farm in the ahove locality during the month of June of the same year. But in this matter I have bowed to the peremptory commands of your worthy and enthusiastic Secretary, who issued his orders on the subject, without listening to a yea or a nay being allowed on my part; and in due obedience I will endeavor, briefly, to outline what I know of the matter in hand. Egotism forms a feature that is una- voidable, but for such feature your indulgent consideration is craved. My farm is situated on the western extremity of Lake Superior, abutting on that part known as Oneota Bay, and very picturesque in its position. It is composed of bluffs, flats and bottom land, the soil being mostly reddish sandy loam, and very quick and warm. The timber upon it was mostly of white birch, of large size, indica- ting, as I am informed, and have found to be the case, a rich and productive soil. The subsoil is on most parts, so far as I have proved it, a strong clay, forming a good retaining bottom, not al- lowing the manure used to leach wastefully. ~ 42 ANNUAL REPORT. re During the year 1873, having: arrived so late in the spring, I had to bend to work, and was principally occupied in clearing up and burning the brush, with which the land was thickly covered. Not- withstanding I prepared about one-half acre around my house for raising such vegetables as were required for household. purposes, such as potatoes, radishes, lettuce, cabbage, beans, (string, snap and Windsor,) peas, carrots, onions and turnips, as well as putting in a variety of herb seeds. ie That season, as you are doubtless all aware, was wet. Everything put into the rich soil, (without one forkfull of manure,) owing to the warmth and raniahire of the season, came rushing up with a vigor gladdening to my heart. In twenty-three days from sowing my rad- ish seed I had that salad on my table, and as everything | had put in came in its due season, I had that year an abundance of vegeta- bles of every description for household use, and of several a good winter supply. I experienced, however, one drawback; owing to the advanced period of the season in which I sowed my seeds, those from which I wished to secure seed for future use, with the exception of peas, did not mature, more especially owing to an early and severe frost in September. This mishap, I am convinced now, would not ordi- narily occur again, if the seeds were put into the ground at the ear- liest possible season. The ensuing fall and winter I was occupied in chopping and clear- ing more land, and this spring I had fifteen acres roughly cleared for cultivation, the whole of which I got under farm and garden crops and grass, presenting ‘‘ a thing of beauty,” when the crops were all growing, not often seen before in that neighborhood, though alas, not ‘‘a joy forever.” I also planted 1,200 rhubarb plants on about one-third of an acre of ground; also 4,000 Wilson’s Seedling strawberry plants, I need not inform the members of this Society to what perfection my vegetables arrived, for is it not ‘‘ writ” on the book of the State © Agricultural Association, that I am entitled to the premium for the ‘‘ best display of vegetables, not less than thirty varieties?’ Also the sweepstakes of $50 for the county of St. Louis. My exhibits la- bored under one disadvantage, however—that the Fair was held here too early for vegetables grown in that northern locality being shown in their best maturity. Fortunate, perhaps, for the Association, it Was SO, otherwise the judges might have awarded me so many other premiums as to have put the commissioners utterly and hopelessly beyond the possibility of solvency. Many have expressed the opinion to me that Lake Superior is too far north, and its growing season too short for productive and profit- able cultivation. Neither of these is in my opinion true, after only two seasons of trial. But I may here refer to what the Weller Brothers have done—also Messrs. Youngblood and Gray, Lemagie, and one or two others. I unhesitatingly affirm that all kinds of veg- etables, natural to temperate climates, will mature to the greatest perfection. I may say, without detracting from any small merit of my own, that if some of those gentlemen had sent to the Fair a few MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 43 of their choice vegetables, that some of mine would have been put into the shade. Iam convinced that with proper manuring and cultivation that that district is unsurpassed for raising all kinds of roots and pulse, and also cauliflower and broccoli. I raised some heads of the former on land without manure, quite new, and never turned over either with plough or spade, that weighed, when trimmed, from two to four pounds each. The kind was Carter’s ‘“‘ Dwarf Mammoth.” I also raised to ripeness, corn, tomatoes and musk and watermel- ons, as also Marblehead and Canada Crookneck squashes. The to- matoes were of two kinds—Canada Victor and Carter’s Early Red, one of which latter, without any forcing, and taken from the plant with a large quantity of others, weighed one pound six ounces. But I do not think as a general thing or to be counted as a cer- tainty, that these fruits last referred to would ripen every year in that neighborhood. However, to sum up: I did not find my gar- dening business a commercial success, principally from the great collapse that occurred in the prosperity of my principal market, Du- luth, and from the fact, too, that owing to the lateness of the season at which garden products come to maturity, the public demand for early vegetables is supplied by importations from this neighborhood and the public appetite satisfied. There is therefore but small local demand for vegetables, properly so called, till Duluth rises from her present depressed state. My future intention, so far as I can peep into futurity at present, is to cultivate my land in small -fruits, and I hope at some future time to force from St, Paul a return of the dol- lars she now draws from Duluth for vegetables, for the strawberries, &c., I expect to send her before a very long period elapses. The seeds I used were in the major part brought from England. Before closing allow me to say a few words on “ hedges:” There seems a difficulty on the most part on this subject, where there should in reality be none. America, in many States, produces abundantly its own best plant for this purpose. I allude to the *‘ Pear Thorn.” It is objected to by some as too slow growing. This feature, I main- tain, is its great recommendation. What farmer wants to occupy valuable time every year in trimming or repairing fences? It is true the ‘* Pear Thorn” may be some years coming to a sufficient growth to repel cattle, sheep and hogs, but when once in that condition it may be said always to be so. What man, with a grain of judgment, can call willow a fence? It may be grown to be a wind-break, but can never be urged into a fence. Let me entreat my hearers to patiently give this plant a trial—say round their half acre or acre garden, or to a small enclosure of flower garden in front of their houses, and I am sure the result will be satisfactory to them. The raising of *‘quicks” will present itself, probably, to some of the nurserymen present, as another profitable branch of their profession. COMMITTEE ON ENTOMOLOGY. R. J. Mendenhall, Rey. J. Marvin, and J. 8S. Harris were appointed a committee on entomolgy. . if ‘ 44 | ANNUAL REPORT. f REPORT OF FINANCE COMMITTEE. = i - . i aa The report of the finance committee was accepted and placed on file... , . oa wei gnats . ~¢ Yonah BAY WINDOW PLANTS—AN ESSAY BY MRS. GEN. VAN CLEVE, OF EAST MIN- NEAPOLIS. READ BY THE SECRETARY. peat tot My pretty setting room is bright and elegant this cold winter morning, and looking all around it with calm content, I see no rose- wood furniture, no Brussels, Axminster or Wilton carpet, no lambre- quins or fleecy lace window draperies, and no ‘ what-not” in the corner, filled with rare and costly articles of vertu, and I mentally exclaim, what is it that so beautifies and brightens this homely little room? On one side hangs a fine engraving of Ary Scheffer’s ‘‘ Christus Consolator”—a constant source of delight and encouragement; on another, a ‘‘ Landseer,” so life-like that the dogs almost greet me audibly. Scattered about, in approprate positions, are some pretty chromos and fine photographs. On either side of the window, on rustic brackets, stand an Apollo, and she who went mad for him, the shy modest Clytie, just in the transition state from the broken-hearted maiden to the sun-loving Helianthus, and between these statuettes a bay window filled with lovely plants. As the bright sun streams through and over them making summer in my room, it is hard to be- lieve the report just brought in: ‘‘ Mercury down to 25° below,” and this window is what gives an air of elegance to our plainly furnished but wonderfully cosy, family room. A friend once said to me, “a painting of that size representing such a bower of beauty, could not be purchased for a thousand dollars.” Sometimes when busied and perplexed with cares and wearisome duties, I come into this room, look at my plants, and get so filled with a sense of God’s goodness in creating such loveliness, and his love in placing it within my reach, that, after resting a few moments, my weight of care seems lightened, and there creep into my heart, sweet thoughts of the fadeless flowers of that beautiful land, where by God's grace I hope some day to find my home, and remembering ‘‘ that the sufferings of this present life are not worthy to be com- pared with the glory that awaits those who love God,” I rise up refreshed, comforted and strengthened, and go singing to my work, which although just as hard as ever, has, through the influence of my ‘‘ bay window plants,” been made endurable and even pleasant. Such a window then, is not only beautiful to look at but has a real moral influence, and it rejoices my heart that so many of my neigh- bors are making efforts to establish in their winter sitting rooms, window gardens which not only gratify themselves but cheer the passers-by. Now one of the chief sources of satisfaction to be derived from ‘‘ Bay window plants” is the pleasure they give to outsiders. I never put a curtain to the window nor close the blind, but as soon as it grows dusk, just ‘ ’twixt the gloaming and the mirk,” light a lamp, placed conveniently for the purpose, which with the light from our MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOOIETY. 45 open old fashioned fire place makes a warm, bright picture for those, who having, perhaps, been overburdened through the day, are hurrying home tired and worn; they cannot look in upon such brightness ‘and beauty, breaking suddenly upon them, out.of the cold and darkness, without being cheered and softened. Who can tell but some hoy who, far from home influence, has been tempted to leave the right way, may be hurrying to some low haunt of vice, and seeing the’ bright ‘bay window with its beautiful occupants, may be reminded of the geranium that grows in ‘mother’s window at home,” and thinking of that dear mother who he knows calls down blessings on his head, may turn from his evil purpose, and resolve to do nothing which could grieve that loving, trusting heart. By all means let every one who can, cultivate ‘bay window plants,” and let their light shine on and through them, in such a way that others seeing their good works, may be led to glorify our Father who has created so much beauty for wayfarers through this world of trial, temptation and suffering. As the result of several years’ experience in this special depart- ment of floriculture, I would say that many plants which thrive well out of doors through the summer, will not prove satisfactory in a bay window. Those that have best repaid me for the care necessary to bestow upon them are the Zonale or horse shoe geranium; the Pelargoni- ums; the various kinds of Abutilon; the Ivy geranium with its rich, dark green, wax-like leaves, made perfect by their zone of brown. The Fuchsias, with their brilliant pendants so exquisite, that one must be cold indeed to see them without expressing delight; the different varieties of Bouvardia, a comparatively new and very satis- factory plant, with trumpet-shaped flowers in clusters, reminding one somewhat of the Honeysuckle; the brilliant crimson Coleus; the Maurandya, a beautiful, graceful vine, and very easily cultivated ; all the varieties of Ivy; the time-honored, graceful and free-growing Madeira vine and Smilax, so justly admired and so useful for all sorts of floral decoration, Last and best loved by me of all my fio- ral family, because it was my first and has been a most enduring treasure, I name the elegant Calla Ethiopica, exceedingly valuable for its bright glossy foliage, and bearing a magnificent fragrant mono- petalous blossom, which standing out fair, pure and saint like, makes one feel that ‘* Solomon, in all his glory, was not arrayed like this” queen among the lilies, clothed and made glorious by the Almighty hand. Hanging baskets are beautiful adornments to a bay window, and for these I find very suitable any of the vines above mentioned ; also the silver-edged Vinca, the glossy-leaved Myrtle, (the Periwinkle of Old England,) a plant I dearly love, from having seen it in great profusion covering, protecting the nameless graves in the neighbor- hood of Southern battle-fields. Then there are the different varie- ties of Saxifrage that grow so thrifty and with their pretty pink blos- soms are very satisfactory, and the Moneywort which seems to have been made for this very purpose. There are many other plants suitable for window culture. I have confined myself to those which have proved most satisfactory to me, 46 . ANNUAL REPORT. and experience has taught me that it is unwise to try to keep too many. Sometimes in the fall, when everything is looking its love liest, we are tempted to bring in so many things that we cannot giy them all the sunshine they need; then it is wonderfully dishearten- ing to have to remand one after another to the cellar. To me it seems like putting friends, who have been condemned, through no fault of their own, in a dungeon, to weep their lives away. A south bay window is the proper one in which to keep plants—one catching the morning sun is of all things desirable. Plants are sun-worship- pers, and they thrive much the best when they attend to their devo- tions in the early morning. . The care of house plants in the winter is by no means easy or light ; but they of the weaker sex can almost always secure the as- sistance of one or more of the dear group, whose stockings we darn, or whose shirt buttons we replace. Love labor is very faithful and satisfying, and fortunate will she be who, like myself, has ever at hand one whose happiness is to minister to her comfort and joy, and who in doing so becomes so interested in the work itself, and learns to love it so well, that he needs no urging or persuading from her to induce him to take the very best care of her dear ‘ bay window plants.” COV Minneapolis, Jan. 18, 1875. A vote of thanks was tendered the writer, for her very able and instructive essay, which was ordered placed on file, for publication. COMMITTEE ON SUBSCRIPTION BOOKS, Judge Baker moved that a committee of three, in conjunction with the President, be appointed to open the books and receive subscrip- tions to the Association. The motion was adopted, and C. M. Lor- ing, Col. D. A. Robertson, and Norman Buck, of Winona, were ap- pointed such committee. Judge Baker moved that when the meeting adjourns, it adjourn to meet at the Capitol at 8 o’clock. Adopted. VOTE OF THANKS. Mr. Wyman Elliot offered the following, which was unanimously adopted : That we render a vote of thanks to the citizens of St. Paul for their generous entertainment to our members, and to the press of the city and State for the able manner in which their reporters have brought our proceedings before the public. Also, to the County Commissioners and the Sheriff of Ramsey county, for the use of their hall, and may the genial shadow of the sheriff never be less. COMMITTEE ON FLORICULTURE. The following were appointed a committee on flowers and floricul- ture: Mrs. Gen. Nutting, of Faribault; Mrs. Gen. Van Cleve, Min- neapolis; Miss Gill, St. Paul; J. C. Fleischer, St. Paul; J. E. Booth, Minneapolis. “MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 47 On motion of st Dartt, President Smith was allowed $3. 00 for ostage. _ Adjourned to seven o'clock. THURSDAY EVENING. The Society assembled shortly after 7 o’clock, in the hall of the House of Representatives, President Smith in the chair. The committee on constitution and by-laws was re-appointed, and ordered to report at the next annual meeting. NOTES ON THE BIG WOODS.—BY N. H. WINCHELI..—READ BY PROF. LACY. “The Big Woods” of Minnesota consist of a southward spur from the forest-covered portion of the State, covering a strip about forty- five miles wide in the centre of the State, and reaching nearly to the Iowa State line. By this spur the prairies of the State, at least those in the southern part, are divided into two parts, the greater of which lies on the west of the Big Woods. The great material ad- vantage the farmers of Minnesota occupying the prairies, have over those who in other States are much further removed from timber, is easily seen, while others who prefer timbered land to prairie, have the choice of thousands of acres yet unoccupied in the region of the Big Woods. The boundary of this southern prolongation of the northern timber is not well marked, the trees gradually becoming thinner and smaller, and more and more restricted to the valleys of streams, till the country is changed to a treeless prairie. Around the outskirts of the woods small oaks and aspens constitute almost the only arboreal vegetation, but within the woods a great variety of hardy deciduous trees are found, mingled with the usual species of shrubby vegetation. ‘The general surface is much more rolling than in the prairie region on the east or west, and the soil seems to be coarser, with more frequent boulders. Yet there are also extensive flat tracts in the Big Woods, that are as level as any prairie region. In general, the Big Woods may be thus bounded: Beginning a few miles west of Minneapolis the eastern edge of the Big Woods crosses the Minnesota in a line toward Lakeville in Dakota county. Continuing in a southerly direction, it passes about a mile east of Cannon City, and of Owatonna, when it takes a short bend to the west and northwest, passing about four miles north of Waseca, and near Kast Janesville, in Waseca county. In Blue Earth county it is variously modified by the valleys that are tributary to the Minnesota from the south. Continuing west, about six miles south of South Bend, it turns north and crosses the Minnesota, sending out a spur northwestward which follows indefinitely the Minnesota valley. Running along the west side of the Minnesota, distant from it about four miles, it begins to bear off toward the northwest at St. Peter, and passes five miles west of Henderson. Between Arlington and 48 ANNUAL REPORT, New Auburn, in Sibley county, the timber line is on the east of the direct line. Near the former village, about four miles north, some large patches of timber, containing large oaks on tof the main road, and the line seems to swell several miles to the w west, but at Arlington the timber is entirely on the east of the town. Be- tween New Auburn and Glencoe the timber line runs about a mile east of the main road, and about three miles east of Glencoe. It is found again at four miles north of Glencoe. Thence it continues west and northwest to Darwin on the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. North of that its exact location has not been traced. It seems to run still northwestwardly, and to include the region of small lakes in Pope, Douglas and Otter Tail counties and the region known as the Leaf Mountains, in the wooded portion. North of the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, the Big Woods widen out rapidly, both to the east and west, merging into the general forest of the northern part of the State. The term is strictly, and originally, only applicable to the spur that includes the Lower Minnesota valley, extending nearly to the Iowa line. The writer has crossed this spur in a number of di- rections. In passing from Far.cington in Dakota county to Shako- pee in Scott county the following species of trees and shrubs were seen. For ten or twelve miles after entering the woods very few large trees were seen, the oak shrubs being the largest, and almost the only treelike vegetation. About half way to the Minnesota river the maple and large elms, bass and ironwood appear. Trees and Shrubs of the Big Woods. Oak shrubs. Apparently Quercus ilicifolia. Wang. Hazelnut. Corylus rostrata. Ait. (?) Bur Oak. Quercus macrocarpa. Michx. White Oak. Quercus alba. L. Wild Red Cherry. Prunus Pennsylvanica. L. Trembling Aspen. Populus tremuloides. Michx. Choke Cherry. Prunus Virginiana. L. Wild Plum. Prunus Americana. Marshall, White Ash. Fraxinus Americana. L. Thorn. Crataegus. Rose. Rosa blanda. Ait. June Berry. Amelanchier Canadensis. Var. Botryapium. Torr. and Gray. Round-leaved Cornel. Cornus circinata. L’Her. Common Elder. Sambucus Canadensis. L. American Crab-apple. Pyrus coronaria. L. [The young twigs and the under surface of the leaves are very woolly pubescent. ] Black Cherry. Prunus serotina. Ehr. Frost Grape. Vitis cordifolia. Michx. American Elm. Ulmus Americana. L. (Pl. Clayt.) Willd. High-bush Cranberry. Viburnum opulus. Two or three species of Willow. Salix. Green Ash. Fraxinus Vividis. Michx. f. Prickly Ash. Zanthoxylum Americanum. Mill. Cockspur Thorn. Crataegus Crus-galli. L. Red Raspberry. Rubus strigosus. Michx. Black Currant. Ribes flo®idum. L. Cottonwood. Populus monilifera. Ait. Large-toothed Aspen. Populus grandidentata. Michx. \ : MINNESOTA STATE HORTIOULTURAL SOCIETY. 49 Bass. Tilia Americana. L. : La Red Mulberry. Morus rubra. L. — id . -Tronwood. Ostrya Virginica. Willd. Sugar Maple. Acer Saccharinum. Wang. Soft Maple. Acer rubrum. L. Alternate-leaved Cornel. Cornus alternifolia. L. Bitternut. Caryaaumara. Nutt. [Rare east of Spring Lake. } Butternut. Juglans cinerea. L. [Very rare except at Spring Lake and westward. ] Slippery Elm. Ulmus fulva. Michx. Staghorn Sumac. Rhus typhina. L. Tamarac. Larix Americana. Michx. Box Elder. Negundo aceroides. Moench. Wolfberry. Symphoricarpus occidentalis. R. Br. - Panicled Cornel. Cornus paniculata. L’Her. [The most common species of Cornel. ] Between Shakopee and Mankato the following additional species were seen in the valley of the Minnesota: Kentucky Coffee Tree. Gymnocladus canadensis. Lam. Red Cedar. Juniperus Virginiana. L. Black Walnut. Juglans nigra. L. Hackberry. Celtis occidentalis. L. Blue Beech. Carpinus Americana. Michx. Yellow or Gray Birch. B-tula lutea. Michx. f. [This birch has oblong catkins, and spreading obtuse lobes on the scales, the latter being three lines long. The hickory grows to about six inches in diameter and then is invariably winter-killed. A large tract has lately been cut for fuel near St. Peter. The hackberry is used for fuel, and for furni- ture. It frequeuts the heaviest timber. The butternut is rarely large. The box-elder sometimes exceeds three feet in diameter. In the absence of the sugar maple its sap is used in the Upper Minnesota valley by the Sioux In- dians for making sugar and syrup, of which it is said to furnish a very fine quality. | In traveling through the Big Woods in 1874, the white birch (Be- tula alba var. populifolia spach,) was noted in Hennepin and Carver counties. The bittersweet, (Celastrus scandens, L.) is also abundant in the Big Woods. There is a species of oak that appears like red oak, (Quercus rubra, L.) that frequents the outskirts of the Big Woods. It is sometimes associated with the burr oak in the ‘‘ open- ings,” and sometimes is found in company with the trembling aspen. it makes d smaller tree generally than the burr oak. Besides these the Virginia creeper, (Ampelopsis quinquefolia. Michx.) and the blackberry, (Rubus villosus, Ait.) have been seen. At Jordan, in the valley of the Minnesota, the black raspberry was noted, (Rubus oc- cidentalis, L.) ‘The white pine grows near Minneapolis, (Pinus stro- bus, L.) and in Mower county ; it is found along the rocky banks of the streams in Mower county. The black ash (Fraxinus sambucifolia, Lam.) has also been observed in the Big Woods, but it seems not to be common. The red-berried elder (Sambucus pubens, Michx.) has been seen at Minneapolis; also the sweet viburnum, ( Viburnum Len- tago, L.) and the strawberry bush (Huonymus Americanus, L.) Two species of spircea, the ninebark, (Spirea opulifolia, L.) and the com- mon meadow-sweet spircea salicifolia, L., were noted at St. Peter. Although according to the foregoing boundary of the southern end fe) / . . 7 i Pt a ANNUAL REPORT. of the Big Woods, they extend, en masse, only to about the center of Blue Earth county, the area of continuous timber is extended con- siderably further south through the agency of the valleys of the Blue Earth, the Cobb, and the Maple rivers,—tributaries of the Minnesota that run nor thward from the watershed that lies along the southern State boundary line. Consequently there is more than the usual -amount of timber, for prairie lands in Faribault and Freeborn coun- ‘ties. In those counties, as the suppression of the prairie fires is ren- «dered more complete by the forming of the soil, the scattering shrubs of oak and the aspens, that are avant couriers of encroaching forests, bring on more and more the character and aspect of a wooded coun- try. Other species then gradually venture out from the sheltered valleys, and flourish on the open tracts. It is in some of these more southerly spurs from the main body of the Big Woods that the shag- ‘bark hickory (Carya alba., Nutt.) sometimes appears. The existence of this great spur of timber, shooting so far south ‘from the boundary line separating the southern prairies from the morthern forests, and its successful resistance against the fires that ‘formerly must have raged annually on both sides, is a phenomenon in the natural history of the State that challenges the scrutiny of all observers. While it holds mines of wealth, open to the practical economist, it affords to the scientist a rich field for observation and study. With timber, comes the fauna that is peculiar, in our lati- tude, to timbered regions. This fauna is strikingly different from that of the prairies. The bear, the wolf, deer, a great number of forest warblers, and numberless winged insects, that would other- wise be restricted to the northern half of Minnesota, are by this spur of timber brought into a much more southern latitude. The deer at present roams over the whole of this tract from north to south. It furnishes shelter for thousands of birds that winter among us, but which otherwise would become exterminated, or driven from the State. It has also its climatic effect, and its sanitary influence. It is eminently a region of small lakes. What may be the cause underlying. that has wrought this wonderful diversity in the heart of our great State is a subject for legitimate investigation, but the limits of this paper do not permit me to enter on that. It is only possible here to give a few notes, and to call attention to some of the salient points. That this tr act is destined to be one ef untold benefit to the State cannot be questioned. It is as yet but sparsely inhabited, and the details of its natural history are unknown. The following have been noticed by Mr. L. M. Ford: Two varie- ties of the wild gooseberry (Clematis Virginiana,) a well known climber, blooming in August; the Dutchman’s pipe, (Arestolochia sypho,) another climber ; one variety of the honeysuckle, (Lonicera ;) the leather wood, (Dirca palustris,) a dwarf sort of thorn, heavily laden with fruit in autumn, probably Crataegus coccinea, and near Minneapolis the trailing juniper, (Juniperus prostrata.) TREE CULTURE IN NOBLES COUNTY. ADVANCE OFFICE, WORTHINGTON, Minn., Jan. 16, 1875. LL. M. Ford, Secretary Horticultural Society: Your letter asking information concerning tree culture in Nobles county, " MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 51 is received. We have not had time, in this new county, to report results, and any facts I might furnish would not therefore be of much practical val- ue. I could give theories and opinions innumerable from both practical and impractical men, but suppose you do not want these. Here are the main facts concerning tree culture in this county: 1. The people are thoroughly alive to the importance of tree planting, and there is scarcely a claim, or a farm, upon which there is not already from one to ten acres started. A great many tree claims have been taken, and hundreds of acres will be planted next season. H 2. Last year was avery poor year for trees. The streets of Worthing- ton were lined with soft maples from two to five years old, on Arbor Day, and most of these lived and were doing well when winter set in. It is wor- thy of note that those which were watered and mualched have dune best. Tens of thousands of white willow and cottonwood cuttings were set last spring, and I judge that hundreds of acres were planted with soft maple seed, but probably not one seed or one cutting in a thousand came, owing to the dry weather. IT planted about twenty acres with soft maple seed, and about two acres with cottonwood and white willow cuttings, and have noth- ing to show for it. The grasshoppers cut off the few soft maples which sprouted, and the cuttings dried up in the ground. 8. I made a discovery with box-elder seed which is probably worth men- tioning. During the winter of 1872-3, we sold from the Colony Office, for other parties, quite a quantity of box-elder seed, which were planted throughout the county. Very few of the seeds sprouted, and there was a general complaint at the apparent worthlessness of the seed. Most of those who planted plowed up the ground used and prepared it for other crops My ground was left unmolested until the spring of 1874, when, what was my surprise, to find the little box elders pushing through the ground by hun- dreds after having lain over one season! 4. There are several groves in this county which have been remarkably successful. One of these was planted by the Railroad Company, for a snow- break, about two miles west of town. Some 1,500 cottonwood and Euro- pean larches were set in alternate rows in the summer of 1873. Last fall I took a stroll through this grove, and found many of the cottonwoods from ten to fifteen feet high, and the larches doing well. Two years more will furnish a grove at this point ample enough to accommodate any pic-nic par- ty which Worthington imay send out. 5. Esquire Brown, of Graham Lakes, in this county, claims to have had uniform success in tree culture. He prepares his ground thoroughly, and is very careful in the treatment of settings and cuttings. He gathers cuttings in the fall of the year, ties them in bundles of convenient size, and sets them on end upon the damp ground of his cellar during the winter, and then plants as early in the spring as possible. Call on us for a report two or three years hence, and we shall be able to give you some astonishing results, for our peovle are awake to the import- ance of tree culture. Yours, etc., A. P. MILumr. REPORT ON FOREST CULTURE ON THE MAIN LINE FIRST DIVISION ST. P. & P. R. R., AND A PORTION OF THE COUNTRY TRIBUTARY THERETO.—PRE- PARED FOR THE MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.—BY L. B. HODGES, SUPT. OF TREE PLANTING DEPARTMENT. Forest tree culture on this line was commenced in the spring of 1870, by the planting of two thousand large sized deciduous forest trees in the parks at Litchfield and Willmar. As Iam now writing what some day may become history, truth compels me to say that these first experiments were failures. We are none of us proud of our failures. We are too often ashamed of our failures. But failures even have their value, and frequently fur- , : ‘a t . ee vr) * 52 ty | ANNUAL REPORT. , nish such jnatiuctive lessons, that even success is largely indebted to failure. ; ra i 3 CAUSES OF THIS FAILURE. | vot . | " + d : I give only such causes as I know of, and which are indisputable, and were of themselves certain to insure failure. The trees were simply ‘‘ grubbed out,” and not as well grubbed out as a good farmer — would grub out a young tree which his breaking plow frequently en- counters. They were then planted on unbroken, uncultivated prai- rie—thrust into post holes, for I can call them nothing else, and the dirt trampled down. I know not how long they were laying around exposed to sun and wind, it is not material; the ‘‘ grubbing out” barbarism sealed their fate at the outset. The poor mutilated things didn’t want to die, and assisted by kind nature made persistent struggles for life. Some of them retained vitality enough to enable them to leaf out for several springs, but they couldn’t grow, and have gradually disappeared. Of the two thousand so trans- planted perhaps a dozen still retain sufficient vitality to leaf out next spring. Those trees were planted by contract for fifty cents each. The contract was too mercenary. The company erred in trying to get good work done at half price. No genuine tree-planter would have disgraced his profession by making such a contract. The re- sult could be predicted from the outset, as a dead loss to the com- pany of an even thousand dollars. In another direction the loss was still more serious, because the failure had its influence in discouraging others who were deterred from planting by the results of this mercenary stupidity. These parks have since been replanted and are now in a fair way of realiz- ing the anticipations of the original projectors. The next chapter was commenced in the spring of 1872, in the letting of a contract to James Hoffman & Son, of Minneapolis for planting 7,500 soft maple, box elder, Lombardy poplar, cottonwood and European larch. Another contract was assigned to the same parties for the plant- ing of 50,000 cottonwood, Lombardy poplar and box elder, in Octo- ber, 1872. The trees embraced in the first contract were planted just west of Summit Lake, between the 95th and 96th mile posts, between Atwa- ter and Kandiyohi, on the highest ground on this line, between the Mississippi and Red Rivers. High, rolling prairie, soil first-rate, subsoil clay. Planted in right of way, on north side of track, in rows four feet apart, and two feet apart in row. Received good cul- tivation, and with the exception of the European larch have made a very satisfactory growth. The growth of all this lot of trees has been seriously interfered with in consequence of the erection of storm fences, which have arrested the drifting snow, precipitating large drifts, eight feet deep, upon the young trees, breaking and mangling them fearfully ; like the toad in the well, jumping up three steps and falling back two; yet under this incubus, graduaily as- serting their supremacy, and now averaging about the height of the fence, (eight feet.) On the final estimate of ‘this lot in May, 1874, MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 53 7,496 were found to have weathered the elements, and were accept- ed by the Company and paid for. It is proper to state, that in an- ticipation of some fatality, Mr. Hoffman planted some 300 or 400 more than his contract called for. Cause of loss, depredations of cattle and snow drifts. Soil and climate not to blame. Of the second contract but 41,500 were planted; about one-half on the cuts between Kandiyohi and Willmar, and the balance on the Pomme de Terre cuts just east of Morris. This planting was badly done—was done on ground broken out of season, and badly broken —was done too late, and every condition supposed to be necessury to ensure a failure, having been fully complied with, the final esti- mate, made two years after planting, showed about 18,500 live trees which were accepted and paid for by the Company. The greatest mortality in this lot occurred among those planted on the Pomme de Terre cuts, and was confined principally to the Lombardy poplars. ‘The cottonwoods in this lot have done much better than could have been expected. Most of them were seedlings when planted. The ensuing winter the tops froze off clear to the ground, and on June 1st, 1873, they were about the size of young cabbage plants. At this writing most of them stand from six to twelve feet high, and very thrifty and well proportioned. During the summer and fall of 1872 about sixty acres in small strips twenty-five feet wide, along about fifty of the worst cuts, was broken under the supervision of C. W. Moore, Esq., Superintendent of the Western Division. These strips were broken within right of way limits, the outer edge of the strips coming up to or on the right of way lines, and the inner edge of the breaking to within fifty feet of the centre of track. This breaking was designed for the planting of forest trees, which when grown to a sufficient height and dense- ness, would serve to protect the road from snow drifts. Many of these strips were planted in the fall of 1872 with acorns. The ground not having been properly prepared for planting ; many of the acorns worthless, and the gophers being on short rations the following spring concluded to ‘‘go for” those which were good, which they did in ‘‘a way I despise.” The result was a failure. We now approach what may be styled the SECOND EPOCH in this history ; the abandonment of the contract system and the or- ganization of a Tree Planting Department. The bitter experience of all railroad men in the Northwest in shoveling and ‘‘ bucking” snow-drifts, running snow blockades, dur- ing the winters of 1871 and 1872, and 1872 and 1873; the immense ash outlays for removing snow and ice, added to the loss from dam- age to machinery, reaching in the aggregate many hundred thousands of dollars; the loss of time, the absolute impossibility of operating many of our roads during such winters, the consequent derangement of all business and commercial transactions, called loudly for a per- manent and practical remedy, and when the great electrical storm of January 7th, 8th and 9th, 1873, swept over the entire Northwest, burying the roads in impassable drifts, arresting travel, stopping the 54 ANNUAL REPORT. ~ mails, paralizing business, and carrying desolation, suffering and death to an hundred households, it became patent to every thinking, intelligent mind that the only practical and permanent remedy, ne that would secure absolute immunity from such public calagalitae consisted in the energetic, persistent, patient and laborious execu- tion of a comprehensive, broad gauge system of forest tree culture. That great storm, although an unmitigated curse, from whose effects Minnesota yet suffers, had an excellent effect in calling the attention — of her people to the imperative necessity of tree-planting. Although many have been awakened to a true appreciation of this great inter- est, yet it is my candid impression that as a State, we need the chastening influences of just such a storm at least once a month, for six successive months to awaken us to a realizing sense of duty in this behalf. I have said years ago, I say now, and I propose to keep on saying it, until this fact is branded upon the memory of every Minnesotian, that our entire Western borders, from Manitoba to Towa is a vast treeless region, too destitute of timber to admit of successful agriculture ; without any protection from the wintry blasts which rake us fore and aft with the accumulated momentum of a thousand miles uninterrupted sweep—precipitating the climatic pe- culiarities and eccentricities of Alaska, Hudson Bay and Greenland upon the inhabitants thereof on short notice—that this region is the fairest portion of Minnesota, rich in all the elements of wealth except timber ; soil of unsurpassed fertility, bountifully supplied with run- ning streams, dotted with lakes of surpassing loveliness, and natural meadows of the most valuable grasses; crossed and re-crossed by seven different lines of land-grant railroads, convenient and accessi- ble to the markets of the world, capable when fully developed of furnishing food for a continent, yet still, comparatively speaking, a ‘‘ howling wilderness” with railroad stations, embroyo town-sites, isolated farms, mixed up with any amount of government land to be had for the taking. The Big Woods stretching along between the densely settled por- tion of the State and the treeless region is fast disappearing, and what is being done to supply tle inevitable necessities of the not far distant future? As this is a question no one man is at present pre- pared to answer, I will endeavor to furnish my proportion to this: query, by picking up and resuming the report of work already done on the Main Line of the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. Soon after the great storm of January, 1873, the president of the First Division of the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad Company, deter- mined to try the experiment of tree planting along the Main Line more thoroughly and systematically than had hitherto been attempted. I was placed in charge of this work with instructions from the com- pany to go ahead in my own way and accomplish what I could with the limited amount at their disposal for this purpose; to remember the company was poor and bad no money to waste, but to deal fairly and liberally with all. This, if not the exact language, is at least the spirit and substance. I at once proceeded to Olmsted county, and purchased 500,000 white willow cuttings of John J. Repner, of Little Valley, Hon. Wm. Somerville, of Viola, John James, of Eyota, Harrison Waldron, of Byron, and Peter Kinney, of Pleasant Grove, MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 55 assigning to each of these gentlemen such a number as he conld make a sure thing of. I take great pleasure in acknowledging and re- cording the fact, that these gentlemen fully appreciated the merits of this work, and took pride in furnishing us, with probably the finest lot of cuttings ever made, for the paltry consideration of $2.50 per thous- sand, payable in filthy lucre in the following June. I hope the company nor the Legislature won’t go back on me if I invite each of those gen- tlemen to take a free ride over the Main Line some day next season, to - gee what their cuttings look like now. As the success of this work de- pended largely upon the intelligence and fidelity of my force, 1 took the precaution of picking my men from a large number, many of whom I had known for years and had tested. My own reputation, which I considered fully as valuable as the company’s money, was at stake, and I selfishly employed men I could go my bottom dollar on without risk ; and among those who particularly exerted themselves to make this experiment a success, I wish to record the names of Wiiliam Somerville, W. A. Stebbins, James F. Wilson, Manning McLane, John Hill, Charles Moulton, Henry Brockway, Charles Allen, C. E. Hewitt and Wm. Carley, of Olmsted county ; and Jerry Leary and Dennis O’Brien, of Kandiyohicounty. While nearly every man employed in platting this great lot of cuttings did his duty and earned his pay, I feel it only justice that the above mentioned names. should have honorable mention in the transactions of this society. Making our headquarters camp at Willmar, we divided our force in two parties, putting one crew in charge of Mr. Somerville. and the other in charge of Mr. Stebbins. We started the teams and plows a couple of ‘lays in advance of the planting parties, preparing the ground for the cuttings. And rigkt here I wish to remark, that. any man who breaks prairie out in that country in the months of August, September, October and November, as this breaking was done, should be adjudged guilty of a grave misdemeanor, and pun- ished by fine or imprisonment, at the discretion of the court. We found this breaking decidedly tough. Back-setting had no effect on it, except to throw the sod in better shape for the harrow to get hold of. We back-set and harrowed this breaking until the sod was tolerably well mutilated. We then set our stirring plows in beam. deep, and succeeded in burying those wretched sods out of sight. May they rest in peace. Then with repeated harrowing, we at length succeeded in getting this ground in a tolerably fair condition for tree planting. I am particular in describing our method of over- coming the difficulty of planting trees on such ground, as many who have made tree planting claims will tind the same difficulty when they commence work next spring. Some are even now urging our Congressmen to procure an amendment of the tree planting act, giv- ing them another year to prepare the ground for tree planting, in- tending to fit it up for trees by planting some other crop on it this. coming season. My Christian frontier friend, let me say to you, that an experience of twenty-nine years among the sods and clods of the northwest, has convinced me that no paying crop can be raised on any such ground. It is simply a fight, you have got into thorough inexperience, and you might as well fight it out next spring and plant your trees at once on the battle ground, as to ask Hercules for } 1 00 Ot 4 4 - 56 ANNUAL REPORT. help. After you have made this fight and ofieeta you have a piece of ground you can grow trees on or anything else ; but past you do make it, every month’s delay gives the enemy an advan’ Take the bull by the horns! Having made this fight Pei dred small battle fields on the Main Line, and conquered, we follow- ed up the victory, by plunging our cuttings into the deep mellow earth as deep as we could stick them. Between April 23d and May 23d, 1873, we made this fight, and planted this first installment of 500,000 white willows. They are strung along in small, isolated tracts from Swede Grove to the Breckenridge Flats, a distance of over a hundred miles. But another enemy was putting in an appearance. No sooner did the willows commence growing than the weeds and grass came up as thick as hair on a dog. We lost no time in organizing a campaign against this new enemy, and the fight was kept up without intermis- sion until August ist. It was a lively tussel between the willows and the grass and weeds, but the willows came out ahead, excepting in one or two instances near Swede Grove where the pigeon grass was too many for them. During the month of June and a few of the first days of July we broke about 500 acres for future tree planting. This breaking was done in strips parallel with the road, and on each side of the track— two strips on each side; the first strip from eight to sixteen feet wide with the right of way lines in the centre of the strip; then, par- allel with these strips, and from 100 to 180 feet back, another strip on each side was broken 25 feet wide. By planting white willow cuttings exactly on the right of way lines the company will in four or five years have a live fence sufficient to keep cattle and horses away from the track, and at the same time grow a valuable wind- break. The strips 25 feet wide and 100 to 150 back are also to be planted to willow, cottonwood, soft maple, box elder, ash, butternut, oak and other valuable varieties of timber. Here we obtain an outer wind-break at small cost, which will not only protect the road from snow blockades but will, also, in the course of fifteen or twenty years, and from then for all time, furnish ties, just when, and where, they will be needed. In the future construction of railroads across prairie regions, such strips should be broken while the road is in process of construction ; or better yet, would be the breaking of all the ground between the strips and planting the whole belt. This would fill the bill. To resume, September 1st, 1873, all hands commenced pulling up and piling the weeds which had grown during harvest. Then when this was done we mowed around the young trees, burned around them, burning up all the weeds and rubbish, and thus protecting the trees from the prairie fires which had not yet begun to run. This is the payment of tae premium on a kind of insurance the tree-planter cannot safely postpone beyond the last of September. In October of this season of 1873 we went into our June breaking between Kandiyohi and St, John, with plows. Found it mellow as an ash heap. October 12th commenced planting white ash seed on some of this ground, between Willmar and St. John. Planted enough for 1,500,000 trees, when the ground froze up, the last of Oc- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 57 tober, and we disbanded and went into winter quarters. The tree- planting campaign on the Main Line for the season of 1873 was a brilliant success, and marks an era in forest tree culture in Minne- sota. The spring of 1874 opened inauspiciously for tree-planting inter- ests on this line. Litigious Dutch bondholders, scheming financial agents, hostile legislation, suits for a receiver, suits to foreclose, suits to vacate the charter, with the senseless clamor of noisy dema- gogues, gave the management full scope for their abilities, without bothering their heads about tree-planting. It was not until April 1st, 1874, that anything was decided upon with reference to tree planting, and even then I had to hire my crew with the understanding that the work might be suspended any time. We managed however, to get some 115,000 white willow, lombar- dy and cottonwood cuttings. We had on hand ash and box elder seed enough for two million trees. These were all planted in good season. In the meantime, the company had succeeded in obtaining 20,000 two-year old European larch trees, from the nursery of Douglass & Sons, Waukegan, and with 110,000 two and three year old trees from Peterson’s Chicago Nurseries, and also with 50,000 willow cuttings from our old friend Somerville, for the parks which had been broken in 1872, fenced in 1873, at Willmar, Randall, Han- cock, Morris, Hermann, Gorton and Campbell, and partially planted in spring of 1874, with this stock so opportunely furnished. When the soft maple and elm seed commenced falling, the company fur- nished money to buy and plant them in their proper season, and also in the fall, the company managed to furnish the means to buy and plant seeds for several millions of box elder, ash, white, black, red, burr and jack oak, butternuts and sugar maple, which were all planted just before the ground froze up, excepting a few bushels of box elder seed now on hand. The ash seed planted in the fall of 1873 came up in the spring; scarcely a seed failed and the young ash stand from 12 to 20 inches high. The ash and box elder sowed in spring of 1874, have done equally well, and we have every reason to believe the seed planted in the fall of 1874, will realize our rea- sonable expectations. Although the season of 1874 was not as fa- vorable as the preceding season, we have no cause to complain. The seeds and cuttings have come to time in good shape, and are now thrifty young trees. Our 500,000 white willow cuttings of the planting of 1873 now stand from six to fourteen feet high, already in many places forming very respectable wind-breaks. Another winter they will afford sufficient protection to repay their cost. Our last work before breaking up camp, was to thin out from this first planting enough for 500,000 cuttings for another springs’ planting, or for the accommodation of settlers who may wish to plant. We can at any time next spring thin out enough for another 500,000 lot if necessary. The results of the last two seasons operation in tree-planting on the Main Line is the production of not far from four million young orest trees where none stood before; the practical demonstration of the adaptation of the soil of the treeless region to forest tree culture, and consequently the practicability of forest tree culture on a scale 58 | ANNUAL REPORT. of such magnitude as to protect the roads from snow blockades, and ultimately redeem the fairest portion of Minnesota, and render it an inviting and productive region. So much for what the First Division St. Paul and Pacific Railroad has already accomplished in this be- half. I wish I could say as much of the country tributary to it. I think I can truthfully say that the people are waking up to the feasi- bility and necessity of tree-planting, and the good example the com- pany has sct has encouraged them. They did more tree-planting last season than in any season before; next season they will do still bet- ter. The great want of cheap cuttings and trees has been met by the company, so that the poorest men can make a beginning. Gen. Becker and Jno. Swainson have already planted 40,000 forest trees on their farm near Morris, and intend to plant from year to year until they get about 700 acres into timber. Mr. Morris, our chief engineer, has a fine grove well under way on his farm near Morris ; Mr. Bartlett, near Hancock, has planted 30,000 cuttings. Mr. Bart- lett has also planted enough forest tree seeds for a million of trees. Nearly every farmer in and about Hancock is engaged in forest tree culture to agreater or less extent. At Benson, Capt.Frank Thornton has made a good beginning, and has already several hundred thou- sand thrifty young ash, box elder and soft maple. John Clint, road- master of the Western Division, has a fine plantation of young forest trees on his farm near Benson. At Lac qui Parle great attention has been given to tree-planting, and the extensive and flourishing plantations of J. H. Brown and Abner Tibbits are the special pride of that locality. Mr. Parsons, near St. John, has ordered 27,000 cuttings and forest trees to plant on his farm. He wisely estimates that the enhanced value of his farm from this planting, will, to a great extent, make up for short crops and low prices. At Willmar, the citizens are alive to the importance of the work and are generally preparing for extensive tree-planting in the spring. On the whole, the indications are favorable and encouraging. The mass of the people are slow and cautious ; they are too poor to make many experiments, but when once convinced and educated to the proper degree in horticultural interests, they will do a work in tree- planting which in a few years will far exceed in magnitude anything the company can hope todo. This matter of educating the people in the correct principles and practice of forest tree-culture is a duty properly belonging to the Legislature. . The tree-planting committees of the Legislature at its last session recognized this duty and attempted to perform it, but failed. It oc- curs to me that this society would not go beyond its legitimate func- tions in calling the attention of the Legislature to this important subject. Measures of general public benefit, should not be dealt out wholly by private or corporate individual efforts. I have every rea- son to believe that the State is willing to do its whole duty in this behalf, if the matter is properly brought before the Legislature. Not only should correct information be gratuitously furnished to the people, but in addition to the bounties already offered. Young trees and the ground on which they stand, should be exempt from taxa- tion for a term of years throughout our whole agricultural domain. Such Legislation should also be obtained, which would protect nur- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 59 sery-men from being taxed beyond reason, and driven from the State by the stupidity of township assessors or county commissioners. Give the people of Minnesota some reason to believe that the “Minnesota State Horticultural Society” is not merely a ‘“ posey bed,” an *‘ apple stand,” or a nursery-man’s advertising medium. CRANBERRY CULTURE IN THE ST. CROIX VALLEY.—REPORT BY SENATOR W. H. C. FOLSOM, TAYLOR’S FALLS. My experience in cranberry culture is not of such a character as to enlighten you from practical cultivation. What I do know is gathered principally from the cultivation of the berry in Burnett county, Wisconsin, in townships 38 and 39, ranges 17 and 18. My attention was called to this locality in 1873. Having heard much of the enterprise there, I concluded to visit the cranberry marshes. The scene on approaching these marshes, where the native cranberry was found, before the white man had commenced to improve, was picturesque in the extreme, to those who have a taste for nature’s handiwork. There are extensive tracts of land, covering thousands of acres, dotted here and there with islands of young pine, and points of high-land projecting in various shapes into the marshes. It re- minded me of an ocean bay, in a calm, only changing the ocean water color to endless green. I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman there—Mr. Irving— who had spent much time in Massachusetts in the culture of this berry. He cheerfully gave me information of much interest in this culture. There are in these marshes somewhere from one to two townships of land, on which cranberries were then growing, or susceptible of being improved so that cranberries can be raised thereon. One township of land contains 23,040 acres. Three hundred bushels of berries have been gathered from the cultivated marshes in Berlin and Oshkosh, Wis. Multiplying the number of acres, if you please, by one-half this amount and it will astonish you, by showing the mil- lions of bushels these great marshes can be made to yield. Then estimate this amount at $1.50 or $1 per bushel, and you will find it will bring millions of dollars. And that into a country which has been considered worthless by most all our people. This description is but a small area of the marshes of Minnesota and Wisconsin on which this berry is a native. Were we to culti- vate on the introduction of this berry into all our marshes, and the benefit to be derived, by giving employment to multitudes of men, women and children, we would be lost in wonder at the magnitude of this future trade. The time will soon come when this berry will be shipped to all parts of our habitable globe, thereby increasing the demand. Already these Wisconsin cranberry cultivators ship thousands of bushels to California, New Orleans and eastern cities. The future of this cul- ture and the traffic will follow the disappearance of the pine. Never failing, save the usual casualties that befall all growing cultivated articles that sustain life, this trade will ultimately be of endless benefit to this and coming generations. 60 ANNUAL REPORT. _ The parties operating on the marshes I visited,.which I have here- tofore alluded to, already have some thirty or forty miles of ditch made, averaging five feet at the top, three feet at the bottom, with an average depth of four feet, at a cost of about 75 cents per rod. These ditches are to drain the water from the marshes when desired. They have dams across these ditches, to flood the marshes when de- sired. The flooding of the marshes aids in subduing the wild grasses and other encumbrances, also is essential to the growth of the ber- ries. On these marshes wherever the flowage is killing the grass, the vine is rapidly spreading, without transplanting. Undoubtedly they would yield a quicker return by transplanting. ; Large tracts, of these lands, which, at this time, have no vines, are bought by companies, mostly from the cranberry lands in East- ern Wisconsin, who are experienced in this business, and know what they are doing. They openly declare that vines can be grown on these marshes, where sufficient water can be obtained, and controlled to flow the lands. Mr. Irvine informed me that this flooding pro- cess, and the manner in which it was controlled, was the key of suc- cess. I examined the effect, which one year alone had accomplished, as these companies commenced operation in 1872. It surprised me, when I saw the mode, and heard it explained, that so little was gen- erally known of this business. After the marshes are subdued, dams and ditches built, there is comparatively small cost in raising the fruit, until the harvest, when men, women and children flock in from the farming countries, to pick, to pack, to store, to dry, to box, and convey to market. An expert will pick from five to ten bushels per day by hand, no rakes being allowed. In 1873, these marshes had an abundant yield. These companies paid to qutsiders $1.50 per bushel. In 1874, the crop was light. The failure of the crop on these marshes, was caused by the drains not being properly constructed, they not being acquainted with the peat formation, (which absorbs more water than the marshes they were accustomed to.) The drains in many instances, were dug too deep, which drained the marshes too dry, it being a dry spring, and left the vine without sufficient moisture to form the blossom and pro- pagate the fruit. They have learned by this season’s failure, the proper depths necessary to control the different localities in the marshes. It will be an easy matter to control the flowage by their dams in all seasons hereafter, In instances where the tougher class of grasses will not yield to flowage, a course has been adopted in New Jersey, which is effectual, by spreading white sand to the depth of half an inch to one inch. Another benefit derived from practical flowage, is the controlling of the ripening of the fruit, by delaying the growth and formation of the blossom, in the spring which is cal- culated to place it beyond late frosts. Also, it affects the early ripening of the fruit by adapting the water to the natural wants of the vine. Whereas on marshes not controlled by dams, and water, they are subject to extreme drouths and excessive rains, often de- laying the berry until it is killed by early frosts. The failure of a crop is not so great a loss as the failure in other agricultural crops, $48 ie honk ike ee \ ” te: $ a me ; PSiaige cons: a yetieour Nona rox! va cd Oe oo at it > ark ane, tT ESE EHTS arate Bae, 10 Bicsiesica Aneta $4 “paps iat Es Gait: Ml Cass Sw OI, SO Re SOms (fi nite 3a i ate, Jens toll disnodal 4 pes Tae ny Wier Sit at coaak oe. r Tari "ie. eee yt Rai He TS When y witas ’ T paryeeyt ¥ ‘ ‘ f : a a4 er F - i. X vaipanass F she are At Bb . < ; ‘ ? Laaal F alee th? . ee 62 ANNUAL REPORT. + Co APPENDLX REPORT OF THE DELEGATE TO THE WISCONSIN HORTICULTURAL SOCIE- ‘TY, FEBRUARY 3D, 4TH AND 5TH, 1874. At the last annual meeting of this Society, held in Minneapolis, Jan. 18th-20th, 1874, I was elected a delegate, and furnished with ample funds to attend the annual meeting of the Wisconsin Horticul- tural Society, of which meeting the following is my report. : The annual meeting of the Wisconsin Horticultural Society opened Tuesday evening, February 3d, under very favorable auspices, in the agricultural rooms in the capitol, at Madison. . The room was crowd- ed to its fullest capacity, with delegates from all parts of the State. Many ladies honored the meeting with their presence, and some of them contributed their mite in the way of most entertaining papers, which showed a practical knowledge of floriculture, and their ability to present to the attentive audience the beautiful side of this ‘‘ heay- en-born art.” It has never been my fortune to meet with a more genial body of horticulturists—men who were filled with enthusiasm and a thorough appreciation of the importance of: this great branch of scientific industry—men who were willing to impart to others the knowledge they had gained by experience and observation, and ea- ger to dive deeper into the hidden mysteries of this, the oldest and noblest of arts. The whole meeting, from the President’s hearty and spicy address to the closing session and adjournment, was a suc- cess. The programme of the meeting, which had been published and ex- tensively circulated for some time previous, provided for a large number of essays and papers upon subjects pertaming to horticul- ture, and in this our Wisconsin friends are considerably in advance of us, as well as in horticultural experience, and the management of their Society, as by this course they are enabled to get out a more valuable report with less labor and expense. In this meeting the programme was strictly followed, and the papers presented and read were numerous, able, entertaining and well worthy of preservation for future generations to read. The dis- cussions were warm and animated, and in them much information was drawn out that will be profitable and an aid to greater improve- ment. The subject of the losses and injury to fruit and ornamen- tal trees, in the winter of 1872-3 was discussed at considerable MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 63 length, ie. the facts drawn out go very far to show that it comes as the result of two or three seasons unfavorable for healthy growth of trees followed by a winter of unusual severity, absence of snow, and a lack of moisture in both atmosphere and soil, which together with the evaporation which is continually going on, even when trees are at rest, extracted the moisture from both root and branch, while no supply could be taken in. To me, this theory looks plausible, and is very well sustained. To prevent the recurrence of such a calami- ty it is recommended to supply moisture by artificial means when there is a lack of it, retain as much as possible by mulching and hereafter be more careful in the selection of our trees. At this point a very animated discussion arose upon the using of Crab and Sibe- rian roots and seedlings by nurserymen for stocks to graft upon to insure greater hardiness. The strong argument was that the crab roots would endure any amount of freezing and drouth without in- jury. Although no definite conclusion was arrived at, some of the members are very sanguine that experience will prove the theory a good one. The vexed question of fire-blight came up for investigation and various causes for it were presented, but the mists and fogs which enveloped it were not dispelled and the field remains open for more diligent research and practical experiments. Their meeting differed from ours in that there was a greater diversity of opinion upon the merits of varieties of apples for general cultivation, and not quite as much favor shown to the Siberian species. The portions of the State bordering upon Lake Michigan and surrounding the smaller lakes have proved much better adapted to the growing of fruit than the rest of the State, and I fear if the farmers in the more unfavorable localities plant largely of some of the varieties adopted, they will meet with failure. Most of the region north and west of the Wisconsin river seems to present more difficulties to the fruit-grower than even Minnesota. They have adopted what is termed a perfectly hardy list, viz.: Tetotsky, Duchess, Haas, Fameuse and Plumb’s Cider, and a general list in which Rawle’s Jannet and Ben Davis have found a place. In grapes, raspberries and strawberries more varieties find favor than with us. There was a fine display of apples for so unfavorable a season, and from the great number and fine appearance of the seedlings shown, I am led to infer that our neighbors are awake to the imyor- tance of originating something better than they yet have, and there is no reason to doubt that systematic experiment will bring about improvement. The society are offering premiums for valuable seed- lings and that will have a tendency to bring forward such as with- stood the severity of the severe winter. The secretary in his report, made a statement which we may profit by, viz.: ‘* There is a promising field so far as apples are concerned in the neglected or unknown varieties in our older orchards. If it be found that in various parts of the State trees of any variety have lived and thrived and borne good crops of fruit for a score of years past, this fact makes this variety worthy of our notice.” We have but few trees in Minnesota that date back a score of years and still 64 ANNUAL REPORT. produce fruit, but I think We have some and they ought. to be 2 looked up and given a fair trial. The Wisconsin Society has a membership two or three times. nto than ours, and is in a prosperous condition, (the Treasurer r re over $400.00 in the treasury.) It works hand in hand with ih ricultural Society, which society places at their disposal to be to) in premiums for horticultural products at the annual State Fair, sum of $800.00, and also defrays the expense of making the exhibi- tion. They are receiving liberal aid from the State in publishing and - lustrating their transactions ; in fact the Society has advanced to that position which entitles it to general respect, and the Legislature and railroad corporations dare not ignore it. The talented, the wealthy, the influential, and the enterprising men of the State are working to- gether to solve the great questions of fruit growing, home adornment and rural improvement, and all are eager to see them result in suc- cess. Have we nosuch men in Minnesota? We certainly have, and why will they stand back and see the Society struggling in poverty, look- ed upon with contempt by our legislators, and branded as beggars and insulted by railroad officials, when we ask a slight reduction in fare in going to our annual meetings when a single dollar per year from a few of them would place usin such an advanced position that the aid and encouragement we so much need would come to us even without asking, for the people would consign to everlasting disgrace the legislator who would dare to oppose the granting of libera! ap- propriations to aid our work. Joun S. Harris. La Crescent, Minn. CRANBERRY CULTURE IN MINNESOTA. BY REV. J. E. WOOD, DETROIT, BECKER COUNTY, MINN. This inviting and profitable branch of fruit culture, I am glad to learn, is beginning to excite interest and inquiry among the farmers of Minnesota. It is really surprising that it has not sooner engaged their attention, inasmuch as the best facilities exist in many sec- tions of the State, to an extent unsurpassed, if not unequalled, in any country. Nature evidently designed Miniuesota as the garden of the world for the production of this delicious and healthful fruit. I shall heartily rejoice to witness an experiment, under such con- ditions, and on such a scale, as shall command the attention of in- quirers, and fnrnish them with the information needed to guide them in subsequent attempts; but I do not wart to see the experience of eastern cultivators repeated here, and the lesson learned by mistakes, disappointments and losses. Persons, being told that it is a sure crop, may be misled into in- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 65 vesting money in locations and methods where total loss and dis- appointment will be the only result. With the confident belief that there is more salid gain to the wealth of the State in this, than in any other unde¥eloped resource, and with a sincere desire to see capital invested, yet I want it to be so invested at the outset, as to put the question of success beyond all doubt; thus encouraging the many to engage in the development of this almost limitless resource. The best cultivators of the cranberry in the east have received the most munificent returns for their capital and care. The first object, therefore, is to sound a note of caution, to those who are contemplating the business by exhibiting some of the mis- takes which have been made and which are liable to be repeated by the uninitiated. Most of the errors attending the cultivation of the cranberry, have resulted, not from reading on the subject, but from the conceit, that having read a book or an article, the person was fully posted and capable of doing just the thing described. Most persons without experience, will either err by leaving too much to their own understanding, or by a mechanical conformity to rules under all conditions, fail by too great pains and exactness. Whichever way the error is committed, the experimentors will inva- riably conclude that the writers were ignorant of the subject. The cultivation of the cranberry commenced in Barnstable county, Massachusetts, a little more than a half century ago, and although it has now reached the magnitude of a leading interest there, yet what has been learned up to the present time, has cost that county not less than a hundred thousand dollars. This has been sunk in miserable failures. A few cases will illustrate the causes of failure and the errors to be guarded against. One man after seeing a bog sanded, conceived the idea that sand and water were the only essentials for a crop; so he went to work iu a sand bluff, abuxting a small stream, and levelled a plat of half an acre, built a dam, opened sluices, set his vines, and then watched and fought the running blackberry vines for ten years, ere he would be convinced that bis garden was better adapted to blackberries than cranberries. Another man took the opposite course. Having a peat marsh so situated that sanding would be very expensive, he resolved to make it without sand, and really counted upon a fortune in advance, like the milkmaid of the fable, and came to as great a disappointment. He cut and removed the turf entirely, pilling it up around the outside, leaving a bed of clear, mellow peat mud, into which he set his vines. The first year he was surprised at the luxuriant growth, which continued rampant through- out the second year, but on the third year, when he looked for fruit, lo! there were vines ; noting but vines. Another man, having a spot of perhaps two acres, with rough sur- face and shallow muck, overlaying a clay subsoil, at great expense removed both turf and mud, replacing them with a light dressing of sand. Here the vines grew slowly ; moss, bries and rushes asserted their supremacy ; and, after years of patient care and waiting, with no fruit for his pains, he made it over at greater expense than at first. Anothe¥ man could not see the need of such expense in draining, 10 66 - ANNUAL REPORT. inasmuch as marshes are the native home of the cranberry, so he put his money into a marsh that could not be drained at all. The result was grass and rushes and little or no fruit. Another man thought he had just the spot for a good bog; plenty of sand and water, both good, especially the water, being just the thing for trout raising. He indeed had all he counted on, and more ‘too, for his bog was so full of springs that drainage was impossible, and his experiment goes on to the list of failures. Another man had all the necessary conditions except as to the quality of the water. This, when drawn off, left a heavy scum on the vines, which blasted the berry in the blossom, and the investment of several thousand dollars proved unremunerative. Another man had a splendid site—the bed of an old mill pond, with the dam and flume still remaining. It was a good meadow, but he wanted to make a fortune by raising cranberries. He had been told that this spot could not be beat, and it was really true. He had read considerably, but was going to use his common sense, and he could not see the use of expending $300 or $400 on an acre when it could be done for $100. So he put on a heavy team and plowed it, cut his ditches, and carted material from a hillock near by—not sand, but sand and loam—spreading it on the furrows. This he did in the winter; in the spring the vines were set, and they grew splendidly, and so did the grass. Every year this bog produces a few berries, good in quality, but hard to find on account of the grass. Every year it produces a fine crop of hay, which he cannot cut without cut- ting his vines. This contest must ere long be decided in favor of the grass, as the method pursued was better adapted to grass than the growing of cranberries. Instances of this character might be cited indefinitely, but these are sufficient to convince the interested reader that hap-hazard meth- ods are no better in this than in other departments of business. Any person contemplating the investment of money in cranberry growing should get all the information within his reach from books, papers, conversation, and if possible by observation, before he com- mences. Butif he can avail himself of the company of an expe- rienced cultivator to walk over and inspect his proposed site and its facilities, he will derive safer guidance from his advice than he would get by months of reading. This is the negative side of the subject, and perhaps we have said enough to guard the mind against unduly expanding any general statements which may be made on the other side. SELECTION OF A SITE FOR A CRANBERRY BOG. The first point to which the attention of the person should be directed who proposes to engage in raising cranberries, is a suitable spot. This will depend, in some degree, on what he proposes to himself; if to purchase land, the whole State is open for selection. If he already owns land, he has to investigate and decide on its adaptation to the business. Then again, he should decide whether he intends to culti- vate according to the strict meaning of the word, or merely to prop- agate the vine on lands in their normal condition. If the latter, | _ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ‘ 67 then he may take nature as his instructor, and imitate as closely as _ possible. The control of water for flowage will be of considerable advantage, but he must not expect results very much in excess of - the product of natural bogs. The propagation, by simply trans- planting vines on to land which cannot be worked, costs but little, and may pay well for the outlay. But to cultivate in earnest is a very different thing, and requires knowledge and practical skill at every step of progress. Not afew of the failures which we have noted resulted from selecting an unsuitable spot. We would there- fore advise the beginner— First. To select according to the amount of capital he may wish to invest. If he has got to buy the land he can just as well find a site containing about the desired area, as one twice as large as he intends tocultivate. The importance of this will be seen at a glance. Suppose his plot contains ten acres, and only five are cultivated, the uncultivated portion is flowed necessarily with the cultivated, and by the action of the water foul seeds of endless variety are scattered over his bog, imposing a formidable if not impossible task to keep his plat free from noxivus vegetation. If only a portion of any se- lected marsh is made, the unmade portion should by all means be separated from the part improved by a dike to prevent the distribu- tion of foul seeds. Second. The next desideratum is drainage. This is of prime im- portance. Where drainage is imperfect it is impossible to keep out foul vegetation, and the quantity and quality of the fruit will be se- riously affected, while the labor and discomfort of harvesting will be increased many fold. Such a bog is, at the best, but little better than one of nature’s planting, and is quite likely to prove a total failure. Third. Flowage is the next essential of a profitable bog. To be able to cover the vines whenever a frost is expected, or whenever worms commence their ravages, will render the bog worth one hun- dred per cent. more than one equally as good which can be flowed only during the winter. It will probably save his crop three years out of five. The quality of the water must also be taken into ac- count. The standard considered perfect by experienced cultivators is a stream abounding with brook trout. It is not essential to find trout in your waters, but to be sure that it is so pure that your vines will not be covered with a thick slimy sediment when drawn off. This will blight the blossom, and but little fruit can be realized on the best bog, that has to be covered with impure water. ‘The water of our streams, as far as I have observed, is remarkably pure, and there is probably little danger of a poor selection in this respect. Fourth. The next feature to be considered, is the character and surroundings of the marsh. Deep muck is not essential. Some ex- cellent bogs have been made on alluvial bottoms where there was a slight intermixture of vegetable matter with the sand, called black sand by farmers. ‘These are desirable, because most easily and cheaply made. If it is a peat or muck formation, it must be of a loose, friable nature, through which the water will freely percolate. A thin muck overlaying a hard pan, if sufficiently porous to drain readily, will make a good bog; but a plat so full of springs that wa- 68 » ANNUAL REPORT. : ter is found oozing out everywhere or which cannot be made dry enough for corn, with ditches from four to six rods apart, should be rejected. , Sometimes springs are found very abundant around the borders of a marsh, which a single ditch will cut off if run along next to the up- land, leaving the interior well drained. A little experimenting in the way of ditching will determine this point. The general level of the bog should be at least twelve inches above the water in the stream, before sanding, and more if there is a large surface to be drained. Many streams can be brought down to the required level by clearing out obstructions, by widening at the out- let, or by dredging a sand bar at the point where the dam is to be built. Sand, being an essential to successful bog making, should be found convenient to the spot. A marsh not more than thirty to forty rodd in width, with good sand on either side, can be profitably made ; but sand is heavy, and it takes a great many tons to cover an acre, even the minimum depth of three inches. If I owned a bog of the above width, and my neighbor would sell me one half as wide, as good as mine in every other respect, for $50 per acre, I should save money by the purchase. The sand should be tolerably coarse, perfectly free from clay or soil, and the higher the bank the better, as less surface will have to be cleared of soil to get at the pure sand. I have noticed some very desirable situations along the Mississippi and its larger tributaries. These consist of marshes enclosed by crescent shaped highlands, and separated from the river by a narrow beach, of alluvium. On this beach the turf can be piled, making an effectual barrier to the river during freshets, and holding the water in the basin during the period of flowage. The water for this purpose can be taken by a sluice, tapping the river at a convenient point above the bog. Fifth. The last, though not least consideration, bearing on the selection of a site, is the character of the indigenous vegetation. The cranberry does not flourish well as a joint tenant. Every species of grass, brakes, bushes and creeping vines, must be exterminated. Some varieties of grass are very tenacious of life, and must be pared otf and removed or turned under so deep as to bury the roots entire- ly, and the sand put on as soon as possible afterwards. Rosebushes and other bushes hard to kill, running briars, &c., must be dug or pulled up. If this task appears too formidable, look further for a site. These comprise, in brief, all the necessary directions in regard to the selection of a situation for a cranberry bog, but I have found it difficult to express them as clearly as I desired to within the limits 1 had prescribed for myself. LAYING OUT AND WORKING A BOG. The methods to be pursued in working a bog will vary necessarily, according to the character of the site. We will speak first of a peat or muck formation. If it is covered MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 69 with brush ‘or wood, these must be cleared off and the refuse burned. If it is a hay bottom, the grass should be closely mown and burned over. All obstructions to an easy and perfect view of the plot being re- moved, the cultivator should proceed to lay it out for working. A simple process, pursued in the East is as follows: Take a strip of board, ten to fifteen feet long, with the edges jointed and made ex- actly parallel; prepare a quantity of stakes, sharpened at one end and sawed off square at the other; if not owned, borrow a carpen- ter’s level; with this preparation, select the spot where the work is to commence, and drive the first stake so that it will correspond with the proposed surface of the bog when completed. From this starting point, run several lines of stakes through and across the bog. Usually the point of departure will be the bank of the stream, passing through or alongside the bog, and from which a slight but even grade may be given, both up stream and toward the upland. The turf should be removed or inverted, where the stakes are to be driven so they will not have to be disturbed until the leveling and grading are completed. This operation is labor-saving. By a little calculation the cultivator can make the parts elevated above the proposed surface fill those below and thus greatly reduce and sim- plify the work of leveling. A correct eye is a good thing in this work; that is, an eye which can detect inequalities in the surface, without constant resort to in- struments. I will give an illustration from experience: Having a large gang at work on a plot which I was in a hurry to finish, and being unexpectedly called away, I borrowed a foreman from another gang to superintend the workmen during my absence. As he had the reputation of proficiency in the business, I gave no other instryc- tions than simply to tell him we were engaged in leveling, and ty careful to make the work tell. What was my surprise on returning, to find that he had kept the men at work all the time, wheeling ma- terial on to a spot which needed lowering to begin with. The labor of the gang was worse than thrown away, for it required an equal amount of work to undo what was done wrong. While engaged in laying out a bog, it is well to calculate the lo- cation and height of the dam required for flowage, and whether seve- ral grades and dams may not be required for ready flowage. The laying out of ditches may be deferred until after turfing, as it is difficult to tell at first how near they will have to be for effectual drainage. If the bottom is very wet, it may be expedient to cut part of the ditches before turfing, and these through the lowest and wettest parts of the bogs, and at such intervals as to give assurance of no labor lost in ditching. Turf a strip wide enough to throw the material on, wherever a ditch is to be cut. This can be economical- ly used in leveling. Ditches should be cut, at least thirty inches wide at the top, and sloping with an angle of 45 degrees, and usually to the level of the stream in depth, 7. e., so the water in the ditches will be on a level with the stream. About twelve rods apart will be a safe distance for the preliminary ditches. If, however, the surface is sufficiently 5 \ 70 ANNUAL REPORT. dry to work comfortably, all ditching can be postponed till after the turfing. The tools needed for turfing I will now describe. They consist of a turfing axe, a strong three pronged hook and a hoe, a bog hoe or one made on purpose, of the same shape but lighter. Te hook must be yery strong, with prongs eight to ten inches long, curving inwards a little, and furnished with a strong handle. The hoe should be ground sharp and kept in that condition. The axe is made for the purpose, with a broad edge and perpendicular ends, the handle fitting close to the top so as to prevent roots from catch- ing between it and the axe. The axe has three edges properly. An old broad axe is sometimes used for turfing, but is heavier and much inferior to a real turfing axe. These tools are sufficient for the ope- ration called turfing, which we will now describe. If the ground has been covered with brush to any considerable extent, I would recommend turning the turf up to the air and sun, letting them remain exposed as long as possible. If it is a hay bot- tom I would advise deep turfing and grading in strips of convenient width, sanding as quickly as possible, and at all events before the inverted grass roots have sprouted. In turfing begin with the axe, cutting straight parallel lines fifteen to eighteen inches apart; then crosswise in the same manner, leaving the turf in squares of a con- venient size to handle. The axeman should be followed by another with the hook or hoe, who will either turn up the turf to the weather, or invert it as the case may require. Bush turfing need net be very deep, unless it be to lower the surface; but grass turfing cannot be too deep. Turf holding briers, rose-bushes or other vegetation hard to kill, should be put in separate piles. If any slough holes exist, wéich require filling, they will furnish a convenient receptacle for these, only he careful to put them in so deep as never to hear from them again. The next operation is grading, which consists in some instances, in carefully turning and adjusting the turf, so as to render the sur- face even; in other instances the turf has to be removed, or partly turned and partly removed. Sometimes low places can be conve- niently raised by using several thickness of turf, in which cases about 33 per cent. should be allowed for settling, when the turf rots. It is a good plan when turf is used for this purpose to give it a dressing of an inch or two of mud from the ditches. Any roots protruding from the mud or turf should be pulled out or cut close to the surface. The sharpened hoe is useful for this purpose. Surplus turf must be removed to the upland, never burned on the bog. Careful examination should now be made for any places that remain too wet, and if required additional ditches be cut. A ditch sufficiently wide and deep to drain the springs, and prevent the en- croaching of foul vegetation from the upland, should always enclose a bog. The surplus turf piled outside of this makes a very good fence against cattle, which should never be allowed to trample a bog. A narrow walk between the outside ditch and fence is a con- venient and useful arrangement. . The bog is now ready for sanding. Pits for this purpose should be opened at convenient points around the bog, so that the greatest D5) MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 71 width will be as nearly as possible equally divided between sand pits on opposite sides. The surface soil must be carefully removed from these, uncovering as much sand as will probably be required in each place before beginning to sand. An inexperienved person should be very liberal in his estimate. For distances not exceeding fifteen rods the wheelbarrow commonly used on railroads is the cheapest and best vehicle for moving sand. A track of one and a half or two inch plank, wide enough to roll the barrow on conveniently, should extend from the pit to the farthest point to which sand has to be carried. Beginning farthest from the pit, the sand should be dumped in in courses and levelled to the desired thickness as fast as one or two courses have been dropped. As the track has to be frequently moved, the plank should be as light as possible. A convenient tool for levelling sand is a common hay rake, with tough twigs woven into the teeth about half their length. The leveler should stand on the track and work the sand to a smooth level surface, and no tramping over it, should be allowed until it is marked off for vine setting. Stones that can be hauled in at the bottom and covered entirely with sand, will do no harm; but if too large for this, they should be thrown out by the shovelers. The depth of sand required will depend on the richness of the bot- tom. On pure black peat the vine will grow vigorously, produce one crop perhaps, and then become abortive. I am acquainted with a bog of this kind which was prepared with four inches of sand. The vines grew well and produced two decent crops, when the proprietor had to prue them, which he did by cutting them off close to the sur- face. ‘The best results, on very rich bottoms, have been attained by putting on sand from six to twelve inches deep. The more sand, the longer the period required to bring the vines to full bearing ; but once at that stage, they continue productive for many wears. All we have thus far written applies solely to muck or peat bot- toms. Two or three illustrations will indicate how these directions are to be varied on locations having different characteristics : A gentleman of my acquaintance made a cranberry bog of about two acres. The site, to begin with, was almost a dead level, border- ing a small stream. An outside ditch from one and a half to two feet deep by three feet wide was found suflicient for ordinary drain- age. It was laid out in plats or beds of four rods in width, divided from each other by shallow ditches, not more than four or five inches deep. ‘These were intended to facilitate the drawing off of flowage water. The mud here was shallow and not very rich, so that four inches of sand was deemed enough. ‘This was evenly spread over the entire surface, ditches and all. The vines were set in rows close to the margin of these ditches and were allowed to cover them with runners. ‘This became a very productive bog, with no waste of ground by ditching. The next illustration is a plot of larger extent, consisting of a sub- strata of loose sand overlaid with a thin muck and grass sod. The laying out and ditching here was done the same as in the last exam- ple. The sanding was mostly done by subsoiling. The soil ona strip farthest from the upland was wheeled ashore, then sufficient sand was taken away to make room for the mud on the next strip of 72 _ ANNUAL REPORT. equal width, which was thrown on, leveled, and covered with sand. This process was repeated till the whole bog was made, the last strip being sanded from a sand pit. Some interval lands are naturally adapted to the growth of the cranberry. These are found nearer the sources or on the borders of rivers and lesser streams containing much sand and fine gravel, and are easily and cheaply brought into cultivation. A light dressing of two or three inches of sand is all that is required to repress intruding vegetation, with shallow ditches to facilitate surface drainage after flooding. Interval lands, however, that are very rich, require to be heavily dressed with sand, or wild grasses will assert their supre- macy. j In addition to what we have said already about tools, we hardly need add that a manure fork will be found convenient in handling turf. For shovelling sand the round pointed shovel is best, and for ditching, a square pointed one, ground sharp For moving sand long distances, a hand gravel car to be manned with five or six hands, is desirable. A track for this car may be constructed with four inch joists, firmly tied by cross slats, and of a length to be conveniently moved. The car itself may be modelled after the gravel car of the railroads. SELECTION AND SETTING VINES—VARIETIES. There are three leading varieties of the cranberry, viz: The Bell, - the Oblong or Egg shaped, and the Cherry, deriving their names from their form. Frequently all of these will be found growing wild on a single square rod. Careful examination has detected several other varieties, differing in form, color, productiveness, and time of ripening, butyless distinct than the three named. I have not had opportunity to examine the native bogs of Minnesota, while in fruit, but from an examination of the product in market, I judge that they are marked by the same general characteristics of the natural bogs in the east. In the different lots, which I have seen on sale, the two first of the leading varieties, the Bell and Oblong, respectively pre- dominate. In commencing the cultivation of this fruit here, it will hardly be possible to stock a bog with any single variety. To obtain vines from the east would be quite expensive, without any assurance of getting the desired variety after all. Most cultivators have ob- tained their vines from wild swamps, and the fruit exhibits the same variety ; often in a single handful all the varieties are found. The native fruit, like the strawberry, is much improved by cultivation, both in size and solidity. There is a marked difference in the time of repening of the same varieties in different localities, and it is de- sirable to stock a bog with some early growers to accommodate the time of harvesting. Late growers are generally more prolific, but in gathering the product of several acres it is desirable to begin as early as possible. The earliest bearers are ready for harvesting about the middle of September, and on a well arranged bog the harvest season can be prolonged till the first of November. One very essential point in the successful cultivation of the cranberry, is to procure good / MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 73 healthy bearing vines. A aa plant cannot be made fruitful by transplanting. To incur all the labor and expense, to prepare the ground, and then fail by setting out vines that never did and never will produce fruit, would be an intolerable mistake. Every reader will, therefore, appreciate the necessity of the utmost vigilance in this part of the work. The healthy vines are not generally the finest in appearance. The stalk is usually smaller and more wiry than the barren vines, the runners fine and regular, and the leaves have a mellow, brownish look. Avoid, therefore, wild vines, which throw out strong, vigo- _rous runners, and are clothed in a beautiful green. The difference between the productive and non-productive vine is very apparent to the touch ; while the barren vine is somewhat harsh, the productive vine, drawn between the fingers, will be decidedly unpleasant i in its sharp, rasping effect, indicating the presence of silex to a great de- gree. Many persons, who may contemplate engaging in the business are well acquainted with some natural bogs on which they can rely for vines. To such it is only necessary to say, take your vines from those patches which produce the largest and best fruit. Any variety desired, as the Bell, or Cherry, or Oblong, may be found in small patches and thus propagated. If unacquainted with any natural bogs, obtain information of some person on whom you can implicitly rely, not failing, however, to test the vines by the directions above given. SETTING THE VINES. Of the different methods of propagating the vine in cultivated plats, we will only speak of two: Ist. By cuttings. By this we mean that the vines are collected in sufficient quantity and run through a hay or straw cutter, and then scattered evenly over the surface, and raked in. This, if done quite early in the spring, may result in stocking the ground thoroughly and quickiy. But this method has several drawbacks. 1st. It will not admit of clean culture, which is very essential. 2nd. It is at tended with great waste of vines at the best; and, 3d. If the sowing happens to be followed by dry, hot weather, the greater portion of the plants will die, and time as well as expense is lost. The second method is the one which we would recommend, and denominate hole setting. It is slower, more expensive and _ labori- ous, but decidedly the best. Remember, painstaking wins every time in this business. For hole setting, lay out the ground in squares of from 15 to 18 inches, by drawing a marker straight each way. Then with a hard- wood stick sharpened, (some have an iron point,) punch a hole in each corner. The setters follow, inserting a small bunch, perhaps a single vine, folded several times, in this hole, leaving the top out a little, and pressing the sand close around them. This method has every advantage: clean culture, certainty of growth, regularity and beauty of appearance, and a general uniformity of spreading and matting. 11 74 ANNUAL REPORT, : : TIME OF SETTING. , ” The spring of the year is, doubtless, most favorable for vine set- ting, but convenience may force the process at other periods. Ihave known vines to do well set as late as the middle of June, but would not advise it after the first of June. Fall setting may be done from the 20th of September till the ground closes up. But unless you are prepared to flow your bogs, vines should not be set after the ground begins to freeze hard nights, as freezing and thawing will be likely to throw them out of the ground. One advantage of fall setting is, that vines can be selected on the recommendation of a recent crop, and the cultivator will not be likely to be deceived in this important matter. Vines, however, may be collected in the fall for spring set- ting, and packed down in a damp cellar or other suitable place, where they will not dry up. For the benefit of any who may desire to introduce the berry into their natural meadows and swales, without cultivation, we will des- cribe another method, called sod setting. This is simple and sure with regard to the vines growing, and is the only method short of thorough cultivation that-we would recommend to anybody; and we would by no means advise this, where the conditions are favorable for cultivation. The process consists in removing sods from your natural meadow two, three, or four feet apart each way, and insert- ing sods from a natural cranberry meadow, pressing them down well with the feet. Vines in natural meadows, bearing superior fruit, may be propagated to an indefinite extent by this method, at slight ex- pense, and considerable profits realized. A word about picking and packing, We must repeat here our adage, ‘‘ Painstaking wins,” in this business everywhere. Slovenli- ness always makes a dull market. The berries should be picked by hand, and spread, not more than five or six inches deep, in hurdles, made of laths, left open, so the air can draw through them. These hurdles may be piled in a dry room for a period not longer than three weeks, when they should be winnowed, (hand cleaning is best,) and every unsound berry culled out, then packed in clean, dry barrels or boxes, for market. I have known $2.00 a barrel paid toa man who had for several years followed this careful method, over the price which his neighbors were able to get for fruit, equally as good except in the method of packing. Every market gardener and dairy- man will readily understand this. With the hope that some additional hints may be gathered, of val- ue to the intended cultivator, we give a brief history of the cranber- ry business in the Eastern States. ITS HISTORY. The first attempts to produce this excellent fruit by cultivation, were nearly simultaneous in this country and England. In 18138, Capt. Henry Hall, of Dennis, Barnstable county, Massachusetts, commenced the cultivation of the cranberry on a small scale, His experiment was very successful, the bog or garden continuing pro- ductive to a surprising extent, and without failure of a good crop for d= lien) ee 7, Ee ae ee yy ee ee ee ee Votes All ee eee RO ie MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 75 more than fifty years. In the same year, Sir Joseph Banks obtained a small quantity of vines from America, and planted a plat of ground 18 feet square, from which an abundant crop was harvested, in the proportion of 460 bushels to the acre. During the next thirty years after Mr. Hall had introduced the cultivation, a great many experi- ments were made by others, mostly unsuccessful, and the subject was consequently brought into such disrepute that general attention was not attracted to it “until about the year 1850. Even since then, many thousand dollars have been sunk in failures. These failures have been useful to some extent, yet the parties who made them ** paid dearly for the whistle.” For some reason not explained, the English experiment, though remarkably successful, was not followed up, and the English market, as well as other European countries, has to be supplied from Ameri- ca. Cape Cod cranberries, for a score of years past, have been ob- served on sale in the streets of London and Paris. ‘The exportation would doubtless have reached a much greater magnitude if the culti- vators could succeed in producing enough to satisfy the home de- mand to a reasonable extent; but we confidently anticipate that the time is not far distant when this fruit will attain an important rank among our exports. With our wide adaptation of climate, natural localities, and admirable soil; with the new and increasing interest awakened by the almost fabulous profits, together with the opportu- nities now afforded for every person to acquaint himself with safe and successful methods of culture, it cannot fail to be prosecuted to a much greater extent, so that the ever increasing home consumption will be provided for, and at no very remote day a portion of our pro- duct may be spared for the foreign demand. From time to time pamphlets and newspaper articles have been published, essaying to give the public reliable information on the subject, but most of the theories first advanced have been abandon- ed. Ihave before me a pamphlet of 32 pages, published in 1860, compiled from a great variety of sources, and professing to give con- cise, practical and complete information on the subject, which has no present value, except as affording a glimpse of the history and progress of its development. For a short period the subject of up- land or field culture attracted considerable interest, growing out of the operations of Mr. Sullivan Bates, of Bellingham, Massachusetts. In 1846, he succeeded in raising about 400 bushels on an acre. His success was considered complete, and the newspapers were filled with recommendations, and rules for upland culture. Nurserymen through- out New England advertised the Bell or upland cranberry very ex- tensively. Mr. Bates’ vines were expressed all over the country, and many farmers engaged in the business. The following is a portion of an advertisement appearing as late as 1eGu ss Cranberry Plants for Sale. The subscriber begs leave to offer to the public a selection of the finest cultivated cranberry plants in the country. They are constantly being received, fresh from the cranberry grounds of Mr. Sullivan Bates, of Massachusetts, a comprise the beautiful Bell variety, so celebrated for upland. * * * * Having taken the general agency for supplying to any extent these unrivalled plants, he will furnish any quantities, _*= | a - ANNUAL REPORT. from 100:to 200,000 plants on the most favorable terms,” etc. This was nearly at the end of the delusion. The subject died away grad- ually and for a number of years has not been heard of. It has eyi- dently taken its place with the Multicaun’s speculation and others of that sort. Of the probable cause of the failure, the public has never been informed, but we conjecture that the cranberry worm had some- thing to do with it. This worm does not usually appear in any neighborhood until several years after the cranberry has been intro- duced, but when they come, no plots in the neighborhood will be ex- empt from their ravages. Flowing is the only remedy—and where this is impossible, the best producing bog ever made will be compar- atively worthless. We think this the obvious reason why the upland culture was abandoned. Mr. Bates and the newspapers which ad- vertised the plants, and perhaps the nurserymen, made a good thing out of it, but the poor farmers who were deluded into spending time, money and land in the operation, were severe losers. Another venture in cranberry raising was made by Mr. Addison Flint, of North Reading, Mass. In 18438 he flowed a natural meadow to kill bushes and grass, keep- ing the water on for three years. After the water was drawn off and the surface dried it was burned over to get rid of the refuse vegeta- ble matter. He next removed sods from a cranberry marsh to this spot, planting them three and a half feet apart each way. On about half an acre he planted berries the same distance apart, crushing the berries and covering slightly with mud. This was done in October. The spring following, a number of bushels of decayed cranberries were sown broadcast over the spot. From planting, very few vines appeared for two or three years, and no fruit for five years. From thet portion set with sods, in three years, 17 bushels were harvested ; the fourth year 28 bushels; the fifth year 93 bushels; the sixth year 150 bushels. The sixth year the planted vines yielded 40 bushels. This was then considered successful fruit culture, worthy of a pre- mium from a county society. Mr. Flint, in writing up the subject in 1864, says: “I have no doubt but there is swamp land enough in Massachusetts suitable for raising cranberries, to raise enough, at the prices they have brought for the two last years, to come to more than all the corn, grain and apples, raised in Massachusetts.” Mr. Flint’s brilliant success was so terribly eclipsed, however, by other cultivators, that his methods were not followed, and of late years but little heard of. His methods have the virture of involving but little expense, and the results would commend the methods had not others given manifold greater results. The extensive swamp lands of which he spoke remain to this day in the same condition they were in then. One remark of his, however, is worthy to be transcribed and kept prominently before the public, viz. : ‘If I had ten acres and you had ten acres, and every man between Boston and New York and Boston and the Canada line, had ten acres each, and they all bore 300 bushels to the acre, it would not glut the market. ‘* Very few of the inhabitants of cities have yet begun to geta taste of cranberries.” act S55 j ¥ ao | : a. ae 7 ved’ A | - Cee Lae Pe 1 eo See “ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 77 What was then said about glutting the market is manifestly true now. The demand has outrun the production by a constantly wid- ening distance. From 1860 onward the production was mostly confined to the thorough cultivators, centering mainly in Parnstable county, Massa- chusetts. That county contains admirable soil, a favorable climate, but a scarcity of water, yet producing annually a crop worth from $300,000 to half a million dollars. There is hardly a county be- tween St. Paul and the N. P. R. R. which does not contain more good cranberry lands than does this famous cranberry centre. Of late years New Jersey has become quite largely interested in cran- berry growing, and doubtless possesses much good land for the pur- pose. Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire have done something towards supplying the market, but it has failed to enlist much enterprise and capital in either of these States. Next to Mass- achusetts New Jersey has been most successful, yet it remains for Minnesota to outdo each and all other States in this most remunera- tive industry. FACILITIES FOR PRODUCING AND MARKETING. ’ Minnesota undoubtedly possesses a greater area of land adapted to the production of the cranberry than any other region of the Unit- ed States. It has been officially estimated that the northeastern section of the State, bounded by the St. Croix, Mississippi and St. Louis rivers, alone comprises not less than 256,000 acres of cran- bery marsh. ‘The wild marshes can in most instances be drained and brought into cultivation. But this is only a small part of the area in the section above named. There are numerous situations where the cranberry does not grow wild, as favorable to cultivation as the best of the native marshes. Beginning with Carlton county, on the line of the L. S. & M. Railroad, and following down that road to St. Paul, extending to the left to the St. Croix river; at the right to the Mississippi river, on all the tributaries and sub-tributa- ries of both rivers, as also the Nemadji and its branches, good cran- berry lands exist to an unlimited extent. On the line of the N. P. Railroad, beginning with Crow Wing county, east of the Mississippi, and running west to the vicinity of Oak Lake, on both sides of that road, the explorer will constantly meet with admirable situations for cranberry culture. From Oak Lake, journeying towards St. Paul via Otter Tail and St. Cloud, keeping west of the Mississippi, through Wright and Hennepin counties, we will still find cranberry lands abundant. Our opportunities for observing the southern and south- western portions have been less, hut from having passed through by rail, seeing all that rapid traveling would allow, we judge these sec- tions are by no means destitute of lands suitable for cranberry rais- ing. With our extensive area, we have unquestionably a most favorable climate for this fruit. The abundance and early maturity of the wild product is sufficient evidence on this point. ‘The use of sand so largely on cultivated bogs accelerates the growth and early ripening of the fruit, and ren- 78. ANNUAL REPORT. ders those bottoms which were liable to frosts far less. liable. We are confident that we run no hazard in predicting that when the cran- berry shall be properly cultivated here, we shall be able to produce a larger, sounder and better flavored berry than has yet been seen in the Eastern markets. The perfect maturity of the fruit is seldom at- tained elsewhere, but we think it will be here. The extraordinary profits of the business is a strong inducement to invest capital in it. From the time when cultivation began until now, fears have been entertained by some, that the market would eventually be overstocked ; but instead of this being true, the demand has kept far in advance of the supply. Experience, however, has proved, that when the market price of any commodity exceeds a rea- sonable limit, the people will abstain from its use. The production of this fruit might be multiplied manifold, without bringing the mar- ket price much below the average of the past few years. Even were the price redaced fifty per cent., what product is there which mother earth is capable of yielding, which will compare with this for profit- ableness? A friend of mine, on an outlay of $225, realized, the third year, an income of $600. Another on an outlay of $400 in preparing an acre, realized $1,000 a year for several years in succession. The first named friend, in discussing the prospect of an overstocked mar- ket, remarked that if he could be sure of $6 per barrel, he knew of no business that he could engage in which would pay as well as cul- tivating cranberries. Here in Minnesota, the native soil of this fruit, the market is so poorly supplied, that but few of the people can af- ford to use it freely. They rank among the luxuries of life, which are beyond the reach of the majority. In view of these facts, the parties most interested in the production will not regret to see the price brought down to astandard more in accordance with the means of the people. A fruit so delicious and healthy, so easily produced and kept as this, ought to be cultivated to such an extent that all the admirers of it can afford its constant use. In addition to the constantly increasing home consumption, the item of cheap transportation to other markets is worthy of our con- sideration. No sane person will dispute the unparalleled commercial advan- tages of Minnesota. ‘‘ Occupying the exact centre of this continent, and constituting the watershed of its eastern half, the steam naviga- tion of three great internal water systems terminate here, namely: The Mississippi river, northward from the Gulf of Mexico; the Red River of the North, southward from Hudson’s Bay; and the St. Law- rence river and chain of great lakes westward from the Atlantic ocean,” These water lines, fed by our admirable net work of rail- roads, afford outlets for the products of manufactories and agricul- ture not exceeded, if equalled, by any community of our vast coun- try. The wheat producers of Minnesota are thus enabled to com- pete with farmers who by lineal distance are much nearer the great markets. Whatever can be properly urged on this point, in favor of any other product, may be urged in favor of the cranberry. At the rates of flour and wheat, we can raise, pack and transport cranber- ries to New York as cheaply at least as the Cape Cod growers Can. Without doubt, whenever the attention of our people shall be suifi- <9 i ee aes lel iam a Oe ee et ae et ae CE ee Ea Wee OREO, Lene 4 ‘ ‘ ' f : > : ; MINNESOTA STATE HOR TOURALEAS SOCIETY. 79 ciently enguged in this business, special rates of a lower grade will be obtainable, giving us a decided advantage over all competitors. Minnesota being our adopted home, we naturally feel a deep inter- est in everything which concerns her growth and prosperity ; and having the fullest confidence in the ultimate success of the cranberry - business, we are gratified to learn that a wide spirit of inquiry exists among our farmers, and to some extent among capitalists. We have endeavored to give these the benefit of our experience and investiga- tions, by improving an occasional hour snatched from other pressing duties, in penning this short treatise. We have intentionally left much to the practical common sense of the intended cultivator, which would have increased the length of this essay. Possibly we may have omitted some details which would prove useful to the beginner. Should questions arise in the experience of any who may attempt the business, we will cheerfully endeavor to answer them through such medium as may be most convenient. In conclusion, we will add a word in relation to what we deem the BEST METHOD FOR INTRODUCING THE CULTIVATION OF THE CRANBERRY SUCCESSFULLY. With private parties, and especially with those not possessed of annj le means, the constant temptation is in favor of cheap methods. This is ruinous economy. The principle of association in our day has exerted a most powerful and widely beneficial influence in the prosecution of enterprises for which private means and capacity would prove inadequate. We would suggest to parties interested in this subject the formation of a stock company under the general law, for the purpose of introducing and prosecuting the cultivation of the cranberry on a large scale. Such a company will possess many ad- vantages over a single handed attempt : Ist. Each person risks no more than he can well afford in an un- tried business. 2d. A company can afford to employ a man of experience and competent ability to superintend the making of a bog. 3d. There is economy in having a large area in a single plat; as the dam, fencing, packing houses and tending a large bog are much less expensive proportionately than for a small one. 4th. Individuals might be tempted to begin on an indifferent spot, by reason of nearness to their residence or cheapness. A com- pany will not be likely to break ground on any other than the very best spot that can be selected. 5th. The proportionate profits to those interested in a large op- eration will be greater, if the company is wisely officered, than in a small one. Lastly. Parties who would be reluctant to invest thousands in a private enterprise, would freely invest a few hundreds in a stock company. We hope to see an early movement in this direction. Let no per- sons, however, who have the disposition and means to take hold of this business on their own account be deterred by what we have said in favor of associated effort. 80 ANNUAL REPORT. A FRUIT FARM OF WINONA COUNTY. | BY PROFESSOR WILLIAM F. PHELPS, OF THE NORMAL SCHOOL. Having enjoyed the opportunity of inspecting one of the finest farms in this region, and knowing the deep interest that is felt in the question of fruit culture in our State, I venture to send you a few facts that may be worthy of attention by the agricultural readers of your transactions. ‘ The farm referred to is owned and worked by Mr. Stephen El- dridge, and is located upon what is known as Homer ridge, about five miles to the southeast of Winona, and two miles from the Mis- sissippi. The ridge is elevated about five hundred feet above the surface of the river, and averages perhaps from half to three quarters of a mile in width. It was formerly covered with a thrifty growth of forest trees, principally oak, but is now the site of several splendid farms, among which that of Mr. Eldridge, containing 140 acres, is the most remarkable. He purchased the property some ten years ago, has cleared it all but 40 acres of timber, and has erected upon it a commodious dwelling house and one of the most convenient and well constructed barns in Winona county. The land lies mainly on the top of this ridge, with a somewhat gradual slope to the south and east. The soil is a strong clayey loam, and capable of producing the best of crops. In the ten years that he has occupied it, Mr. Eldridge informs me that he has never failed but once to realize from 30 to 33 bushels of wheat to the acre. That exception was the dry season of 1870, when his crops averaged 25 bushels. His crops of corn, oats, hay, and potatoes have been eyually successful, although he has given less attention to that class of products than to others, which I had more especially designed to mention. It is as a fruit grower that this modest, undemonstrative gentle- man has achieved the most surprising success, and to this brancu of his operations let us briefly turn our attention. Two pieces of ground, comprising, all told, only 17 acres, are devoted to fruit raising. These fields slope gently to the east, and are separated by a narrow lane leading to the woods in a ravine between two spurs of the ridge. On these two pieces of ground there are about 800 apple trees of some eight years growth, the bodies of the trees being about six to eight inches in diameter and standing in rows 20 feet apart. There are about 30 varieties of this kind of fruit, among the more important of which are the Red Astrachan, the Duchess of Oldenberg, the Fameuse, the Golden Russet, the Bell Flower and others. Corresponding with each row of apple trees there are three rows of raspberry bushes, comprising two varieties each, of the red and black. ‘The middle row of raspberry bushes is in line with the row of apple trees, and the others are on each side. The remaining spaces between the apple trees, embracing some ten or twelve feet, MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 81 are occupied with strawberry beds extending entirely across the fields and occupying fully one-half of the entire space. The straw- berries are of the Wilson seedling variety, among the most prolific bearers known, enormous size, and of the most luscious description. When I say that in the proper season these bushes and vines are simply loaded with blossoms and fruit, I speak the literal truth. Of strawberries, Mr. Eldridge usually realizes from 400 to 500 bushels, and of raspberries, from 500 to 700 bushels during each season. One year he sold 600 bushels of apples from these orchards. This is per- haps a little above the average yield. Only two crops of straw- berries are raised from the same vines. Each two years, the old vines are ploughed under and replaced by new settings. In the fall the strawberry beds are covered with a light coating of straw which remains until after the frosts of spring. About every fourth year a thorough dressing of the best barn yard manure is applied to the soil and ploughed in. The new shoots of the raspberry plants re- ceive in the spring of the year a ‘‘ pinch” at the top to check the upward growth of the main stems, and to cause the lateral branches to develop the more fully. Mr. Eldridge has thoroughly studied the habits of these plants and trees, and his treatment of them is very scientific. The result is that his production is liberal and certain. He rarely fails to gather a good crop. In the season of picking and marketing he employs from sixty to seventy-five extra hands, mostly young women. In order to give your readers some notion of what may be done om “a little farm well tilled,” I append a few figures given me by Mr. Eldridge as to his operations in 1874. I first give the results of the seventeen acres devoted to fruit, premising that the year 1874 was a very unfavorable season for berries. The product was: SOME See LICE Y Ab oh 45 SO. «xan: oily vinre.cvs .aje's/s-0/ajaleieie) s sipig taldip\ chain ola eelejais $1,920 200, bushels Red Astrachans at $2.00... 2.200 ccccosccnvvccscce vocecses 400 TIMBUAMCISPPIDCHESS AL GI. 7D suc ccc codecs b ncetespecesiengcies op ie.e sie 175 QO PUPMeIs PamMense Al 1.00. sls sc ec, ewe oe eccle ge be since vee teen 200 100 bushels Golden Russets, &C., at $1.00... eeereeeeececncccervees 100 TOtall Value Of TFUItS SO] aejats o:0sr0, << m0 alain naj0.; 0 Woi0 4 5) we aasiele $2,790 The farm products sold were: 1,200 bushels wheat at 85 CentS.....e.ceseececevenccccecvecs : ae $1,020 MEE NENCUETICAL OO COMGS «ares c cleie tie! cs catclevajaiaic leis eee ee setee caese 240 BUURDHOHEIS OAS ALOU: CENTS ss cc's eee calas'deccteaccescecceececesioce 100 SRMMNMMA PS EL ISN (8 12a Sica lahielalofe 'aietle ula. aPaie/ie'ole!ale obstelolate afe'ela’s ly via elalls tie oletplaite 360 ZQ0RDUBHEIS potatoes at 75, CANES 2006 \s0510 deine slenissie» vesciviscéaptsmme 300 SPU BIEVER. FOPOCUCEN sc cin v0 c¥\s\5\e.¢ 0 s.0,0 a0, cs 4s) c,0 8's 006 are euniiats $2,020 Total fruit and farm productS.......e cece cceecccecevecs B4,210 But this is not all, on the same ground there are 1,600 young ap- ple trees nearly ready for transplanting, and worth $15 per hundred, total $240, swelling the gross amount to $5,490. It would of course add to the interest of this subject if I could give an accurate statement of the expenses attending this production. 12 ease, ts 5 i ie) ee oe abl RS da eter ed oe eee. t oust tS vy * D oe oa pe % —~ . %\ > . = . 82 ANNUAL REPORT. But this was impracticable since no account has been kept with suf- ficient care to render the showing satisfactory. The facts as stand, however, are of much interest as bearing upon the general question of fruit raising in this State, about which there me = fore been so much skepticism. i ? i FRUIT GROWING AT EXCELSIOR. BY PETER M. GIDEON. We came here twenty-one years ago last November, the next spring set out 350 apple trees, about 50 pear, plum and cherry trees, and planted a bushel of apple seeds, and out of all there now remains a few branches of one apple tree, the centre having been cut out, killed some eight or ten years ago by leaf lice, at which time and by which cause we lost a great many fine trees. Three years thereafter we set about a thousand trees in one orchard, the most of which were killed by the grasshoppers at the time our settlers around the lake were so cleaned out; and not only the orchard trees, but several thousands of seedlings and root grafts, but few of either left that the winters had spared. For the first twelve years we planted southern or eastern apple seeds, in quest of something hardy, and never less than to have brought a thousand young trees, and to-day only eight remain out of the twelve years planting of seed. The greater part were so ten- der they died in the nursery row; but of seedling and grafted trees over 10,000 died after being set in orchard. Up to the time of our getting seeds and cions from Bangor, Maine, we had set in orchard some four or five thousand trees—all dead save one tree and a part of one other, referred to above. With the introduction of seeds and cions from Maine, our pros- pects brightened, the Duchess, Blue Pearmain and Red Astrachan being of the lot of cions, and soon into bearing—the Duchess first, and best ever since, and the fact being told, the Duchess tree was in demand, and set by thousands to good profit. And from the seed got at the same time, and at same place cions were had, we grew the Wealthy apple, in tree as hardy as a crab. And indeed grown from seed obtained as crab seed, and from later experiments have no doubt but it came from a genuine crab seed, as I have since grown perfect crab trees from apple seeds, and perfect apple trees from crab seed—the majority of the seedlings from the Wealthy apple are perfect crabs, in tree and fruit. And the sameis applicable to Duchess seedlings, though the Duchess, Wealthy and a crab tree stand in close proximity, which might account for the cross- ing without either of the originals being hybrids. Ovr crabs are all hybrids to a greater or less extent, and their seedlings are more or less apple in tree and fruit, and the nearer the proximity to other va- rieties the greater the variations in the seedlings. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOOIETY. 83 So great is the gain in the reproductive process from crab seed, that we may truly call the crab a Godsend. For by careful selection we retain the tree in all its thrift, hardiness, and profusion of bear- ing, with the fruit enlarged and ameliorated at each remove. Those _ coming into bearing soonest show most crab in tree, and those show- ing most apple in composition of tree bear the largest fruit, and gen- erally, though not always, best in flavor. We have about 600 choice seedlings, from seed of our own grow- ing, now set in orchard, and more than a thousand yet to set, which we expect to set next spring. Of those set in orchard about 60 have borne fruit, many far surpassing the famous Transcendent in size, flavor, beauty of fruit, and in hardiness of tree. In fact the average hardiness is better than that of Transcendent. The finest samples of our seedling trees have not borne yet, but those that have borne stand a pledge that better is yet to come in. We have 4,600 apple, pear, plum and cherry trees in orchard, and those mostly hardy, reliable trees, the tender ones pretty well killed ‘out. A vast amount are crab stocks, top worked with good varieties of large apples, which process we find to be a success with all varie- ties that we have so worked, not one having winter killed with us, though others have lost trees so worked, but ours were well mulched and theirs were not. I find that acrab root well mulched will repair any break that a cold winter may have made on its top, be that top of ever so tender a variety of apple. We lost a great many trees two years ago from excessive cold, but no crab trees so lost, though the blight took in the crabs full as bad, if not worse than on the ap- ple—suffered great loss on all. The blight and the cold of two years ago gave us a great back-set, but we are fast recovering by re-setting with our hardy seedlings, which are proof against all extremes of cold. Our reverses have been great financial drawbacks, but we never gave up in despair, but at each reverse sought new varieties and better seeds, till now success has crowned us—and only a matter of time, und a rich harvest is reaped, so far as the apple is concerned. But of the pear I am not quite so sanguine—yet feel quite sure that out of the great number of varieties we will find some that will stand our climate. We have over one hundred varieties of pears now in cultivation, and as many more tried and gone. The cherry, we found, was not a paying crop; and it is mostly cleared out, and something else set in its place. The peach and cultivated plums were failures. Grapes a paying success, as is also the strawberries, the blackcap raspberries, goose- berries and currants. To sum up, with us fruit growing is a success, and the owner of land in the northwest that now fails to plant in variety sufficient for all family demands is a.sluggard. Our break-downs of the past are bridges over which he can pass without fear of failure. The cost of success we have met, in poverty paid it, so that no one needs to pass over our experience, run our risks or foot our bills of losses to get a full supply of fruit in great variety, lasting the year through. When we began our career we cultivated the ground, but did not mulch any. ‘That year the trees killed, some only in the root, others 84 ANNUAL REPORT. © only in the top, and others in the top and root; both the root and top happening to be tender. We soon discover ed that some were so- tender in the top that no care could save them, but that others were sufficiently hardy in the top to stand, provided they were on hardy roots, or if on tender roots, so protected that the full force of the frost could not reach them. Therefore we began the process of mulching. But when'to apply it was a problem that experiment had to solve, and we went at it with a will to know, and so applied the mulch at various seasons of the year, often using alternate trees, sometimes removed the mulch in spring from some, and left it to others the year round. Those mulched in fall before any freeze never bark-bursted nor root killed, and those around which the mulch was. left the year round made the best growth, and those killed worst that. were mulched after the ground had froze hard, fared even worse than those not mulched at all, side by side with them. The mulching should be applied from two to six inches deep, according to coarse- ness, and the greater the circumference the better; and any kind of litter is good, though I deem forest leaves and meadow muck (com- mon peat) the best in their results, and the most lasting. One fall we had 1,000 trees mulched, and did not lose one of them, and 168 not mulched, and lost nine-tenths of them; and in other seasons a. similar proportion. Our soil—a deep, rich, loose loam, on top of clay—and first trees set out at the usual depth of setting, which gave drouth and frost full force at them; but of late we dig down into the clay and set deep, getting a better growth, and finding them less af-- fected by drouth or frost. Andof late we effectually avoid sun-scald on the southwest side of the trunk by forming low heads—12 inches. of trunk being enough for any tree. Itis not every winter that roots kill, but to be successful you must be prepared for the worst ere winter sets in, not knowing what may come. Having given a brief history of our losses and gains, and how come at, perhaps some would be eager to know the cost—a bill not easily summed up in dollars and cents, seeing our own labor has done it all. We labored to get money to buy trees, seeds and cions; set ~ and re-set as destruction cleared spaces. Not a tree, seed nor cion free from any one during days of uncertain trial, though I often ap- plied to persons from the east and north to send to their friends. there for seeds and cions for me to test; but was as often refused, on the ground tbat fruit could not be grown here, and that they would not be a party to my poverty; that I was foolish for ever ex- pecting to grow fruit here; and others, more abrupt, told me I was a fool for my efforts, so hopeless was the prospect, in the judgment. of the mass of men, after a few years of first trial. One year after we came here, by the dishonesty of two men whom I trusted in care of a drove of cattle, we lost all we were worth, and since been in no speculation to make anything—settled in tim- ber, did all by hard knocks. Came here an invalid, so far géne with lung disease that our friends and physicians thought I could not en- dure one winter here. Fourteen years we were without a team of any kind, all teaming paid for by our own labor. At one time for the space of five years, was not five miles from home, and in that time only twice over two miles, and once in the time was five months MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 85 ‘not off our own premises—no time to.spend, nor anything fitting to wear. ; 1 To save money to send to Bangor, Maine, for seeds and cions, I patched two old vests, tacked them together, then cut the legs off of an old pair of pantaloons, patched the holes and sewed them to the old vests as sleeves, and the balance of the garb to fit was my rig for six months; and the result, the Duchess apple soon had a re- nown in Minnesota; for all my successes were quickly and faithful- ly given to the papers, and often the same article went to a half doz- en papers. And from the seeds then and there got we grew the Wealthy apple, and from their seeds in turn, we have now a host of . young trees that are sure to enlarge and extend the blessing. Therefore, having given the facts in brief, I leave others to sum up the costs to us, and the worth of that old suit of rags to the north- west, THE PLOW IN GRAPE CULTURE. BY REV. C. B. SHELDON, EXCELSIOR, MINNESOTA. The question is sometimes asked, shall the plow be used in tilling grapes? My reply is, emphatically, yes; provided the management from the first has been right. The only objection to the plow is, that by its depth of culture, it may injure surface roots. My plan is, from the first to discourage surface roots, and promote a deep growth. The reasons for this will appear in the sequel. I begin with the preparation of the soil. Owing to the high price of labor, we cannot trench our land from two to three or more feet deep, as is done in the vine countries of Europe. But the least that should be done is to subsoil plow the land. If this is done twice, so much the better ; the second time crossing the furrows first made. The expense is slight compared with the benefit derived. This will stir the soil some 18 or 20 inches deep. In the fall, after the first summer’s growth of the vines, before covering for winter, dig away the soil from the crown of the plants, and prune off entirely all roots within six inches of the surface. One object of this is to retard the starting of the vines in the spring and so enable them to escape one of their chief dangers, that of being killed by the late spring frosts, The surface roots are the first to feel the warmth of the spring sun and are liable, by genera- ting sap, to stimulate the buds prematurely into action. These being removed, the other roots lying deeper, are slower in their action, and the sap does not begin to circulate freely and force the buds until all danger of freezing is over. The other reason for this pruning of the surface roots of the young vines, is to stimulate the growth of the lower roots, and form the 86. . ANNUAL REPORT. habit of the vine to depend upon them, and thus leave the surface for culture. Let the vineyard be thus commenced, and no injury ite from the use of the plow. The plants will be more hardy, produc- tive and lasting, and the expense of culture will not be one-quarter of that by hand alone, Two plowings alternating with the cultiva- tor, together with a little hoeing between plants in the rows, are suf- ficient for the season. The use of the plow also greatly facilitates the covering for the winter. After the plants are pruned and laid down I turn a furrow or two on each side of the rows, which about half covers them. Nothing could induce me to throw aside the plow in grape culture: and return to the drudgery and inefficiency of hand tillage. STEWART’S SWEET—HISTORY OF ITS ORIGIN, HARDI- NESS, &c. BY A. STEWART, RICHFIELD, MINN. My seedling was raised on the Le Sueur prairie, in 1856, and was one of two trees out of about 200,000 settings that was not injured by the hard winter of 1857-8. This tree stood in a real sand bed,. but came out finely with neither top or root killed. This same sea- son I had 60,000 grafted apple trees three years old, completely ruined by having the roots killed. The trying time seemed to be the 23d of February, 1858, when, after freezing the ground to a great depth, a thaw came on with rain at 9 o’clock in the evening, but the next morning the mercury was down to 30 degs. below. This great change of temperature and throwing off the ground around the root . did not have any serious effect on this seedling. In the spring of 1866, I removed to Minneapolis with what I had of the nursery. The next spring trees generally came out badly, many large Siberians having been ruined by killing of the roots. My soil was a light sandy loam, near town, and though my loss was very great to other varieties, yet my hardy seedling was not injured. In regard to bearing qualities, it has not been fully tested. As compared to the Transcendent it is not a great bearer, The original tree did not come into bearing until eleven years of age, while I have known it to commence producing fruit at seven years. The speci- mens exhibited at the State Fair of 1874 were from trees of that age. A few years will prove the bearing qualities of the apple, as the trees become older, and it would not be a real objection if it did not pro- duce so much fruit as the Transcendent, which is too often overloaded. I have never known it to be winterikilled on its own roots, but on common seedlings it has sometimes been somewhat affected in cer- tain localities. It is generally considered more hardy than the Duchess, which seems to be more hardy than the other Russian va- aie eS MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 87 i rieties. I then made up my mind that it was a most valuable apple tree for this climate, with regard to hardiness, at least. This fact was fully established in two localities, and with others, on the worst of soil, being light and sandy. For many years I had supposed there was no danger ho root killing, when the ground froze early and remained so. During my first year in Minneapolis the ground was bare until very late in win- ter, but frozen hard until spring. The damage that year to fruit trees was very severe, and thousands died when -they ought to have started into vigorous growth. THE SIBERIAN APPLES. BY DR. P. A. JEWELL, LAKE CITY, MINN. The committee of the Horticultural Society arranged tie Siberian apples in four classes: the first three with respect to hardiness and the fourth with reference to their special adaptation to cooking. FIRST CLASS—IRON CLAD. 1. Early Strawberry—Tree a strong and handsome grower, bear- ing heavy crops alternate years. Fruit, size and appearance of Transcendent, excellent for eating. Season, August. 2. Orange—Tree a moderate grower and an annual and abundant bearer. Fruit larger than Transcendent; flesh firm, crisp, juicy and delicious. October to December. 3. Beecher’s Sweet—Tree vigorous and erect; a biennial and abundant bearer. Fruit resembling in appearance the Transcendent, but larger ; very pleasant for eating. September. 4. Minnesota—A medium grower, with pale green leaves of un- usual size, often becoming highly colored in autumn like the foliage of the sugar maple. Fruit larger than the Golden Russet; skin thin, nearly white, with beautiful blush on the sunny side. Quality ex- cellent. December to February. CLASS SECOND—-EXTRA HARDY. 1. Conical—Tree vigorous and handsome and a good bearer. Fruit as large as Transcendent, mellow, dry and with a peculiar, spicy flavor. In appearance and flavor resembling the Black Gilli- flower. October. 2. Maiden’s Blush—Tree medium grower of slender, graceful habit. Fruit not quite as large as Transcendent, of pearl white color, with a beautiful red cheek; flesh tender, fine grained, with a peculiar, pleasant flavor. December to January. 3. Meader’s Winter—A handsome, strong, growing, productive el Ee ee 88 ANNUAL REPORT. tree. Fruit size of the last; excellent for eating. Season, April and May. . ' ‘ 4. Hutchinson’s Sweet—Tree a good grower, with slender twigs ; a moderate bearer. Fruit size of the last described; superior qual- ity ; keeping until April or May. 4: 5. Quaker Beauty—A stronger grower than the Transcendent ; a biennial bearer. Fruit large, handsome and of excellent quality. April to May. CLASS THIRD—HARDY. 1. Gen. Grant—A vigorous, erect and symmetrical tree; an an- nual and profuse bearer, fruiting in dense clusters. Fruit very large, dark red, nearly black when ripe, and in quality much like the Duchess. October and November. 2. Hesper Blush—Tree among the handsomest and a good hearer. Fruit, a little smaller than the Gen. Grant; smooth, handsome, quality good. Season, November to January. 8. Aikin’s Striped Winter—A fine tree, but the least hardy of the class; an annual and free bearer. Fruit good sized and valuable for eating, cooking or either. Season, mid-winter. Class four, except Green Winter, are too well known to need description. They are suitable for cooking and drying only. A few additional facts in regard to these Siberian varieties may not be without interest. The first class is slightly more hardy than the second, but both are regarded as sufficientiy so to warrant gen- eral planting. The third class is less hardy than the two preceding, but will probably succeed in all but the most trying situations. None of them are, as orchard trees, like the Transcendent, badly given to blighting, except Meader’s Winter and General Grant. In fruitfulness the several varieties differ greatly, but in the aggre- gate fruit younger and more profusely than the common kinds of apples. For eating, none are inferior to the Duchess, while several kinds are equal in this respect to any apple grown. As a harvest fruit the Early Strawberry is more valuable than the Tetofsky, the fruit being as good in quality, and the tree more vig- orous and hardy and adapted to all kinds of soils. > The Orange is unquestionably more valuable for general culltiva- tion than the Duchess of Oldenburg. The tree is even more hardy, not less productive, the fruit less perishable, lasting several months, and perfectly adapted to every use to which an apple can be applied, eating, cooking, or the manufacture of cider. As an early winter apple there are none of the common sorts that have come to public notice that in hardiness of tree, size, quality and beauty of fruit are equal to the Minnesota, the largest of Siberian seedlings. The only unsettled question on which the value of this variety measurably depends, is its productiveness. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 89 A CATALOGUE OF THE PLANTS OF MINNESOTA. BY I, A. LAPHAM, LL. D., OF MILWAUKEE, WIS.—1865. [Nore.—Dr. I. A. Lapham, whose death occurred at Milwaukee on the 14th of September, 1875, had been a prominent scientific ob- server and writer in the Northwest for more than twenty years. While his field was mainly within the State of Wisconsin, of which he published an accurate geological map in 1869, he made several extended tours of observation in the State of Minnesota, in connec- tion both with public and private surveys. He was first to call at- tention, in a systematic way, to the remarkable effect of the Great Lakes on the climate of the country contiguous to them. A work of his on the “ Antiquities of Wisconsin,” was published by the Smithsonian Institute in its contributions to knowledge, in 1855. Occasional papers of his have appeared from time to time in the American Journal of Science and the American Naturalist, on the Geology, Archeology, Zoology, Botany and Climatology of the re- gion of the Great Lakes. Upon the organization of the present geological survey of Wisconsin, he was very wisely and justly ap- pointed its director He had contributed so largely to the working out of the natural history of the State that the minuteness of his acquaintance with it could not he acquired by a stranger in anything short of a lifetime. It is lamentable that a short-sighted economy refused, two years ago, to publish the results of his labors and of his coadjutors, and that his manuscripts, stored in the archives of he State, stifled vindicators of his industry and research, are liable to be ignored and forgotten in the further prosecution and final completion of the work. With a generous and cosmopolitan spirit which characterized him in his scientific labors, he sent the manuscript of the following cat- alogue of the plants of Minnesota to the writer, soon after the ini- tiation of the geological survey of the State, without expressing any desire as to the disposition that should be made of it. He designed it, of course, as a free contribution to the natural history of the State of Minnesota, which would be capable of producing more good in the possession of the ofticers of our survey than in his own. The Board of Regents accepted it with due acknowledgments, and would have published it when that branch of the survey should have been undertaken. But the death of Dr. Lapham renders it an act of justice to the memory of his generous labors to delay its publica- tion no further. The value of this catalogue to the State of Minnesota cannot be estimated—the result of no scientific labor can. ‘To the develop- ment of the botany of the State it will add a very great impetus. It is the first attempt ever made to make out anything like a com- 13 aa ANNUAL REPORT. | plete list of our native vegetation. It is the embodiment not only of the labors of Dr. Lapham himself but also of all his predecessors, in studying the botany of Minnesota. Hundreds of local amateur botan- ists will scan its pages. It furnishes a platform from which to begin a careful search for other species, and to which, as a check-list, to re- fer future examinations. The issue of this catalogue, us here pub- lished, is actually the very first and most important step toward the exhaustive study and complete development of the botany of our State. By this means, when the State survey, ordered by the Leg- — islature of 1872, is ready for the enumeration and classification of our flora, a vast amount of information will be at hand, in the pos- session of the botanists of the State, stimulated and guided in their work by the systematic arrangement here presented. In this sense, then, it is a publication of the geological and natural history survey of the State, since it will redound largely to the progress of that work, to whose care Dr. Lapham at first confided it—N. H. W.] But very little definite information has yet been published in re- gard to the native vegetation of Minnesota. Mr. Thomas Say, the distinguished zoologist, and one of the founders of the Academy of Natural Sciences at Philadelphia, while connected with the expedi- tion of Maj. Long, collected a few plants which were examined by the late Lewis Von Schweinitz, and noticed in the narrative of that expedition. Prof. D. B. Douglass, of West Point, had previously brought home a few Minnesota plants which were placed in the hands of Dr. John Torrey, of New York, and noticed in Silliman’s Ameri- can Journal of Science for 1822; and Dr. Douglas Houghton, of Michigan, added quite a number to the list, on the return of the party that first visited Itasca lake, and discovered the true source of the Mississippi in 1832. In the reports of Nicollet and Owen lists are given of plants collected by persons connected with their surveys. All these lists have been consulted in the preparation of this cat- alogue, which, nevertheless, rests chiefly upon my own observations and collections made during several excursions into the State; one of which, in the spring of 1857, was extended to the waters of the Red River of the North. In 1858 Mr. Robert Kennicott made collections of plants and ani- mals in the Red River country which are preserved by the North- western University at Evanston, Illinois. Mr. Charles A. Hubbard collected expressly for me a large number of plants including mosses and lichens, while on a tour from Lake Superior to Lake Winnepeg and Pembina, as well as while on his return by way of St. Paul. In 1861 Mr. T. J. Hale while prosecuting geological investigations along the Mississippi river in connection with the Wisconsin State survey. made some collections of plants in Minnesota, a list of which he has kindly furnished to me. Several species are introduced upon his authority. This catalogue suows that there are growing naturally in Minne- sota 48 forest trees, 77 species of the grass family, 133 compound flowering plants, 22 coniferous trees and shrubs, 38 kinds of pod- bearing (Leguminose) plants, 23 ferns, 56 mosses and lichens; and a total number of about 850 species. It is not to be supposed, how- ever, that this is a complete list of the plants of Minnesota; hun- dreds of species yet remain to reward the industry of future observers. MINNESOTA STATE HORTIOULTURAI SOCIETY. Ot. SERIES I, SPERMIFERZ. (Plants bearing seeds with an embryo, and one, two, or more cotyledons.) CuassI. Angiosperme. (Seeds inclosed.) Sus-CiassI. Dicotyledons. (Cotyledons two.) RANUNCULACEZH. THE Crowroot FamiLy. ATRAGENE, Linnzus. ° Americana, Sims. CLEMATIS, Linneus. Virgin’s Bower. cylindrica, Sims. Virginiana, Linn. PULSATILLA, Tournefort. Pasque-flower. Nuttalliana, Gray. ANEMONE, Linnzus Wind-flower. Virginiana, Linn. Pennsylvanica, Linn. nemorosa, Linn. Low Anemore. Hepatica, Dillenius. Liver-leaf. triloba, Chaix. THALICTRUM, Tournefort. Meadow Rue. anemonoides, Michx. dioicum, Linn. RANUNCULUS, Livnzeus, Crowfoot. Butter-cup. reptans, Linn. Cymbalaria, Pursh. romboideus, Goldie. sceleratus, Linn, Pennsylvanicus, Linn. fascicularis, Muhl. repens, Linn. Creeping Crowfoot. Isopyrum, Linnzus. biternatum, Torr. and Gray. CaLTHa, Linnzus. Marsh Marygold. palustris, Linn. Coptis, Salisbury. Goldthread. trifolia, Salisb. AQUILEGIA, Tournefort. Columbine. Canadensis, Linn. Wild Columbine. DELPHINIUM, Linneeus. Larkspur. virescens, Nutt. Acraa, Linneus, Baneberry. Cohosh. spicata, Linn. White Cohosh. MENISPERMACEZ. Tuer Moonszep Fami.y. MENISPERMUM, Linnzeus., Moonseed. Uanadense, Linn. BERBERIDACEZ. THE BARBERRY FAMILY. CAULOPHYLLUM, Michaux. Blue Cohosh. thalictroides, Michx. NELUMBIACE. THE NELUMBO FamMILy. NELUMBIUM, Jussieu. luteum, Willd. Sacred bean. 92 ANNUAL REPORT. . CABOMBIACE®. Tue Warer-Surerp Famiy. BRASENIA, Schreber. Water-Shield. peltata, Pursh. NYMPH ACER. THE WatTer-Lity FAMILy. NympH«A, Tournefort. odorata, Ait. White Water-Lily. Nupwar, Smith. Yellow Pond-Lily. advena, Ait. SARRACENIACEZ. TuHeE PITCHER-PLANT FAMILY. SARRACENIA, Tournefort. Side Saddle flower. purpurea, Linn. PAPAVERACER. THE Poppy FAMILy. SANGUINARIA, Dillenius. Bloodroot. Canadensis, Linn. FUMARIACEX. THE FuMATORY FAMILY. DicentrRA, Bork. Dutchman’s Breeches. Cucullaria, DC. CORYDALIS. Ventenat. aurea, Willd. glauca, Pursh, CRUCIFERZ. THe MustTarp FAMILY. Nasturtium, Robert Brown. Water Cress. sinnatum, Nutt. sessiliflorum, Nutt. lacustre, Gray. DENTARIA, Linneus. Toothwort. laciniata, Muhl. — CARDAMINE, Linneus. Bitter-Cress. rhomboidea, DC. Spring Cress. pratensis, Linn. ARABIS, Linn. Rock Cress. lyrata, Linn. hirsuta, Scop. levigata, DC. Canadensis, Linn. Sickle-pod. TurRITIS, Dillenius. glabra, Linn. BaRBAREA, R. Brown. vulgaris, R. Br. Erysimum, Linneus. Treacle Mustard. cheiranthoides, Linn. SISYMBRIUM, Linneus. Hedge Mustard. officinale, Scop. canescens, Nutt. Srvapis, Tournefort. Mustard. arvensis, Linn. Field Mustard. DraBa, Linneus. Whitlow Grass. Caroliniana, Walt. CAMELINA, Crantz. sativa, Crantz. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 93 TuLaspl, Dillenius. arvense, Linn. 4 Lepripium, Linneus. Peppergrass. Virginicum, Linn. Wild Peppergrass. intermedium, Gray. CapsELLA, Ventenat. Shepherd’s Purse. Bursa-pastoris, Moench. VIOLACEA. THE ViIoueT FamIty. Viova, Linn. Violet. ; blanda, Willd. cucullata, Ait. Blue Violet. sagittata, Ait. delphinifolia, Nutt. pedata, Linn. Mublenbergii, Torr. Canadensis, Linn, pubescens, Ait. Yellow Violet. CISTACEZ. Tue Rockx-Rose FaMILy. HELIANTHEMUM, Tournefort. Rock-Rose. Canadense, Michx. Hupsonra, Linn. ericoides, Linn. Lecuea, Linn. Pin-weed. minor, Lam. DROSERACEM. Tue Sun-DEw FAMILY. DRosERA, Linnzus. Sundew. rotundifolia, Linn. longifolia, Linn. linearis, Goldie. PARNASSIACE. THe PaRNASSIA FAMILY. Parnassia, Tournefort. Caroliniana, Michx. HYPERICACEZ. Tue St. JOHNSwWOoRT FAMILY. Hypericum, Linnzus. St. Johns-wort. pyramidatum, Ait- corymbosum, Muhl. ellipticum, Hook. mutilum, Linn. Canadense, Linn. Exopga, Pursh. Marsh St. Johnswort. Virginica, Nutt. CARYOPHYLLACEA. Tue Pink FamMIty. VaccariA, Medik. Cow-herb. vulgaris, Host. SILENE, Linnzeus. Catch-fly. stellata, Ait. Starry Campion. antirrhina, Linn. ALSINE, Tournefort. Michauxii, Fenzl. Merineis, Linneus. laterifiora, Linn. 94 ANNUAL REPORT. STEeLvLaRIA, Linneus. Chickweed. longifolia, Muhl. longipes, Goldie. CrRastium, Linneus. arvense, Linn. Anycuia, Michaux. dichotoma, Michx. Mo.LuvuGo, Linnzeus. Carpet Weed. verticillata, Linn. Carpet-Weed. PORTULACACEA. THE PURSLANE FAMILY. Portutaca, Tournefort. Purslane. oleracea, Linn. TALINUM, Adanson. teretifolium, Pursh. CiayToniA, Linnzus. Virginica, Linn. Spring Beauty. MALVACEZAX. THE MALLow FamILy. CALLIRRHOE, Nuttall. triangulata, Gray. Napa, Clayton. dioica, Linn. ABUTILON, Tournefort. Avicenns, Gertn. TILIACEZ. TuHeE LINDEN FAMILY. Tiuu1A, Linneeus. Linden. Americana Linn. Basswood. LINACEAX. THE FLAx FAMILY. Linum, Linneus. Flax. Boottii, Planchon. OXALIDACEZX. THE Woop-SorRREL FAMILY. OxaLis, Linneus. Wood-sorrel. violacea, Linn. stricta, Linn. Sheep-sorrel. GERAIACEZ. THE GERANIUM FAMILY. GERANIUM, Linneus. Cranes-bill. maculatum, Linn. Robertianum, Linn. BALSAMINACEA. THE BALsamM FaMILy. IMPATIENS, Linneus. Balsam. Jewel-weed. pallida, Nutt. fulva, Nutt. RUTACEH. Tue RUE Famity. ZANTOXHYLUM, Colden. Prickly Ash. Americanum, Mill. PTEeLEA, Linnzeus. trifoliata, Linn. Hoptree. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, ANACARDIACEZ. Tue Sumacu FaAmMILy. Ruuvs, Linneus. Sumach. typhina, Linn. Staghorn Sumach. glabra, Linn. Smooth Sumach. venenata, DC. Poison Sumach. Toxicodendron, Linu. Poison Ivy. VITACEHM. TuHeE VINE FamMILy. Vitis, Tournefort. Grape. » estivalis, Michx, Summer Grape. cordifolia, Michx. Frost Grape. AMPELOPSIS, Michaux. Virginia Creeper. quinquefolia, Michx. RHAMNACE®. THE BUCKTHORN FAMILY. RHAMNUS, Tournefort. Buckthorn. alnifolius, L’Her. CEANOTHUS, Linnzeus. New Jersey Tea. Americanus, Linn. ovalis, Bigelow. CELASTRACEA. THE SPINDLE TREE FaMILy. CELATRUS, Linnzus. scandens, Linn. Bitter-Sweet. Evonymos, Tournefort. Spindle-Tree. atropurpureus, Jacq. Wauhoo. SAPINDACEA. Tue SoOaPpBerRY FAMILy. STAPHYLEA, Livnzus. Bladdernut. trifolia, Linn. AcER, Tournefort. Maple. spicatum, Lam. saccharinum, Wang. Sugar-Maple. dasycarpum, Ehrh _Silver-Maple. rubrum, Linn. Red-Maple. NEGUNDO, Moench. Box-Elder. aceroides, Moench. POLYGALACEX. THE Mitkwort FamI Ly. loLyGaLa, Tournefort. Milkwort. sanguinea, Linn. cruciata, Linn. verticillata, Linn. Senega, Linn. Seneca Snake-Root. polygama, Waltr. i LEGUMINOSA. Tue Pra Famizy. Lupinus, Tournefort. Lupine. perennis, Linn. TRIFOLIUM, Linn. Clover. repens, Linn. White Clover. GLyCcYRRHIZA, Tournefort. Liquorice. lepidota, Nutt. 95 96> ANNUAL REPORT, PsoRALEA, Linneus. argophylla, Pursh. brachiata, Douglas. Prairie Turnip. esculenta, Pursh. ‘' Pomme de Prairie.” PETALOSTEMON, Michaux. violaceum, Michx. candidum, Michx. villosum, Nutt. AMORPHA, Linnzus. False Indigo. fruticosa, Linn. canescens, Nutt. Lead Plant. nana, Nutt, TrePHROsIA, Persoon. Hoary Pea. Virginiana, Pers. ASTRAGALUS, Linneus. Milk-vetch. caryocarpus, Ker. Ground-plum. Canadensis, Linn. Herpysarum, Tournefort. boreale, Nutt. OxyTROPIS, De Candolle. Lamberti, Pursh. splendens, Doug. DEsMODIUM, De Candolle. Tick-Trefoil- nudifiorum, DC. acuminatum, DC. canescens, DC. cuspidatum, Torr. and Gray. Dillenii, Darlington. Canadense, DC. LESPEDEZA, Michaux. Bush-clover. procumbens, Michx. capitata, Michx, Vicia, Tournefort. Vetch. Caroliniana, Walt. Americana, Muhl. LaTHYRUS, Linneus. venosus, Muhl. ochroleucus, Hook. palustris, Linn. PHASEOLUS, Linneus. Kiduey Bean. diversifolius, Pers. paucifiorus, Benth. Apios, Berh. Ground-nut. tuberosa, Moench. AMPHICARPMA, Elliott. monoica, Nutt. Wild Bean. Baptista, Ventenat. False Indigo. leucantha, Torr. and Gray. leucopbea, Nutt. Cassia, Linneeus. Chamecrista, L. ROSACAZA. TuHE Rose FAMILY. Prunus, Linneus. Plum. : Americana Marsh. Wild plum. pumila, Linn. Dwarf cherry. Pennsylvanica, Linn. Bird cherry. Virginiana, Linn. Choke cherry. serotina, Ehrh. Black cherry. Spina, Linneus. opulifolia, Linn. Nine Bark. salicifolia, Linn. Meadow-Sweet. tomentosa, Linn. Hard-Hack. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. AGRIMONIA, Tournefort. Eupatoria, Linn. Geum, Linneus. album, Gmelin. Virginianum, Linn. macrophyllum, Willd. strictum, Ait. triflorum, Pursh. PorTrentTiuua, Linnseus. Five-finger. Norvegica, Linn. paradoxa, Nutt. Canadensis, Linn. Five-finger. Pennsylvanica, Linn. arguta, Pursh. . Anserina, Linn. fruticosa, Linn. tridenta, Ait. palustris, Scop. FraGaria, Tournefort. Strawberry. Virginiana, Ehrh. Wild Strawberry. vesca, Linn. DALIBARDA, Linnzus. repens, Linn. Rusvus, Linnezus. Bramble. Nutkanus, Mocino. triflorus, Richardson. strigosus, Michx. Red Raspberry. occidentalis, Linn. Black Raspberry. villosus, Ait. Blackberry. Canadensis, Linn. Low Blackberry. hispidus, Linn. Rosa, Tournefort. Rose. lucida, Ehrh. Wild Rose. blanda, Ait. Cratae@us, Linneus. Hawthorn. coccinea, Linn. Scarlet-fruited Thorn. tomentosa, Linn. Pyrus, Linneus. Apple. coronaria, Linn. Crab-Apple. arbutifolia, Linn. Choke-berry. Americana, DC. Mountain-Ash. AMELANCHIER, Medic. Canadensis, Torr. and Gray. June Berry. LYTHRACEA. TuHeE LOOSESTRIFE FaMILy. LYTHRUM, Linnzus. Loosestrife. alatum, Pursh. ONAGRACEZA. Tae EvenInG PRIMROSE FAMILY. EPHILOBIUM, Linuzeus. Willow-herb. angustifolium, Linn. palustre, Linn. molle, Torr. coloratum, Muhl. JENOTHERA, Linneus. Evening Primrose. biennis, Linn. rhombipetala, Nutt. serrulata, Nutt. albicaulis, Nutt. pumila, Linn. 14 : 97 98 ANNUAL REPORT. GauRA, Linnzus. coccinea, Nutt. Lupwie1as, Linneus. polycarpa, Short and Peter. palustris, Elliott. Crrcma, Tournefort. Enchanter’s Night-Shade. Lutetiana, Linn. alpina, Linn. MYRIOPHYLLUM, Vaillant. Water Milfoil. spicatum, Linn. vertcillatum, Linn. heterophyllum, Michx. Hippouris, Linnezus. vulgaris, Linn. CACTACEM. Tue Cactus FamMILy. Opunti4, Tournefort. Prickly Pear. vulgaris, Mill. GROSSULACE®. Tuer GoosEBERRY FAMILY. Rises, Linnezus. Cynosbati, Linn. Wild Prickly Gooseberry. hirtellum, Michx. rotundifolium, Michx. Swamp Gooseberry. lacustre, Poir. Swamp Gooseberry. prostratum, L’Her. Missouriense, Nutt. floridum, Linn. Wild Black Currant. rubrum, Linn. Wild Red Currant. CUCURBITACEZ. THE CucUMBER FAMILY. Sicyos, Linneus. angulatus, Linn. Ecuinocystis, Torrey and Gray. Wild Cucumber. lobata, Torrey and Gray. CRASSULACEZ. Tue Houss-Leex FAMILY. PENTHORIUM, Gronovius. sedoides, Linn. SAXIFRAGACE®. THE SAXIFRAGE FAMILY. SAXIFRAGE, Linneus. Virginiensis, Michx. Pennsylvanica, Linn. HeucHERA, Linneus. Alum-root. hispida, Pursh. Richardsoni, R. Brown. MITELLA, Tournefort. diphylla, Linn. Twin-Leaf. TIARELLA, Linneus. False Mitre-wort. cordifolia, Linn. CHRYSOSPLENIUM, Tournefort. Americanum, Schwein. HAMAMELACEZX. Tue WircH-HAZzEL FAMILY. HAMAMELIS, Linnzus. Witch-Hazel. Virginica, Linn. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 99 UMBELLIFERZA. THE UMBEL-BEARING FAMILY. , Gyprocoryye, Tournefort. Americanum, Linn. SanicuLa, Tournefort. Canadensis, Linn. Marylandica, Linn. Sanicle. EryneGtum, Tournefort. Button Snake-root. yuccefolium, Michx. PoLyTznNiA, DeCandolle. Nuttallii, DC. HeEracy.xum, Linneus. lanatum, Michx. Cow Parsnip. Pastinaca, Tournefort. Wild Parsnip. sativa, Linn. ARCHEMORA, DeCandolle. Cow-bane. rigida, DC. CYMOPTERUS, Rafinesque. glomeratus, DC. ARCHANGELICA, Hoffmann. atropurpurea, Hoffm. TuHaspium, Nuttall. barbinode, Nutt. aureum, Nutt. trifoliatum, Gray. ‘Ziz1a, DeCandolle. integerrima, DC. Cicura, Linnzus. Water Hemlock. maculata, Linn. bulbifera, Linn. Strum, Linnzeus. Water Parsnip. lineare, Michx. CryproTaniA, DeCandolle. Honeywort. Canadensis, DC. OsMORRHIZA, Rafinesque. Sweet Cicely. longistylis, DC. brevistylis, DC. , ARALIACE®. TuHeE GINSENG FAMILy. ARALIA, Tournefort. hispida, Michx. nudicaulis, Linn. Wild Sarsaparilla. CORNACE®. Tue Docwoop FamILy. Cornus, Tournefort. Dogwood. Canandensis, Linn. circinata, L’Her. sericea, Linn. stolonifera, Michx. Red-twigged Dogwood. paniculata, L’Her. alternifolia, Linn. CAPRIFOLIACEH®. THr HONEYSUCKLE FAMILY. Linn2a, Gronovius. Twin flower. borealis, Gronovy. SYMPHORICARPUS, Dillenius. occidentalis, R. Brown. Wolf-berry. racemosus, Michx. Snow berry. 100 | ANNUAL REPORT. ! = P Lonicera, Linneus. Honey-suckle. flava, Sims. Yellow Honey-suckle, parviflora, Lam. : hirsuta, Eaton. ciliata, Muhl. DierVILLA, Tournefort. Bush Honey-suckle. Canadensis, Linn. TriosTEuUM, Linnens. Horse Gentian. perfoliatum, Linn. SamBucus, Tournefort. Elder. Canadensis, Linn. pubens, Michx. VIBURNUM, Linneus, Lentago, Linn. Sheepberry. dentatum, Linn. Arrow-wood. pubescens, Pursh. Opulus, Linn. High-bush Cranberry. RUBIACEH. THE MApDDER FaMILY. : Gaxrum, Linnzeus. Aparine, Linn. Goose Grass. asprellum, Michx. concinnum, Torr. and Gray. trifidum, Linn. triflorum, Michx. circezans, Michx. boreale, Linn. CEPHALANTHUS, Linneus. Button-Bush. occidentalis, Linn. MITCHELLA, Linn. Partridge-Berry. repens, Linn. OLDENLANDIA, Plumier. purpurea, Gray. VALERIANACE. THE VALERIAN FAMILY. VaALERIANA, Tournefort. edulis, Nutt. Frpia, Geertner. radiata, Michx. COMPOSITZ. THE COMPOSITE FAMILY. VERNONIA, Shreber, Iron-Weed. fasciculata, Michx. LiaTris, Schreber, cylindracea, Michx. scariosa, Willd. spicata, Willd. pycnostachya, Michx. punctata, Hook. Kuuntias, Linneus. eupatorioides, Linn. EUPATORIUM, Tournefort. purpureum, Linn. altissimum, Linn. perfoliatum, Linn. Boneset. serotinum, Mich. ageratoides, Linn. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ASTER, Linnzus. Starwort. macrophy!lus, Linn. sericeus, Vent. levis, Linn. azureus, Lindl. Shortii, Boott. undulatus, Linn. cordifolius, Linn. sagittifolius, Willd. multiflorus, Ait. Tradescanti, Linn. miser, Linn. simplex, Willd. sestivus, Ait. prealtns, Poir. Novi-Belgii, Linn. puniceus, Linn. prenanthoids, Muhl. oblovgifolius, Nutt. Nove-Angliz, Linn. ptarmicoides, Torr. and Gray. angustus, Torr, and Gray. ERIGERON, Linneus. Fleabane. Canadensis, Linn. Butterweed. bellidifolium, Muhl. Philadelphicum, Linn. glabellum, Nutt. strigosum, Muhl. DIPLopapPpus, Cassini. linariifolius, Hook. umbellatus, Torr. and Gray. Bo.utontA, L’Hertier. glastifolia, L’Hert. SormaGo, Linnzus. Golden-rod. bicolor, Linn. latifolia, Linn. puberula, Nutt. stricta, Ait. speciosa, Nutt. Virga-aurea, Linn. rigida, Linn. Riddellii, Frank. neglecta, Torr. and Gray. patula, Muhl. arguta, Ait. erecta, Torr. and Gray. ulmifolia, Muhl. nemoralis, Ait. Missouriensis, Nutt. Canadensis, Linn. serotina, Ait. gigantea, Ait. lanceolata, Linn. APLOPAPPUS, Cassini. spinulosus, DC. GRINDELIA, Willdenow. squarrosa, Dunal. CHRYSOPSIS, Nuttall. Golden-Aster. villosa, Nutt. POLYMNIA, Linneus. Leaf-cup. Canadensis, Linn. 101 102 ANNUAL REPORT. SILPHIUM, Linnzus. laciniatum, Linn. Compass-Plant. terebinthinaceum, Linn. Prairie Dock. integrifolium, Michx. perfoliatum, Linn, Cup-Plant. PARTHENIUM, Linnzeus. integrifolium, Linn. AmBrosiA, Tournefort. Rag-weed. trifida, Linn. artemisizfolia, Linn. Hog-weed. psilostachya, DC. XantTHuM, Tournefort. Cocklebur. strumarium, Linn. HELIOPsIS, Persoon. Ox-eye. levis, Pers. Ecuinacka, Moench. angustifolia, DC. RupBeEcKIA, Linneus. Coneflower. laciniata, Linn. subtomentosa, Pursh. hirta, Linn. LEpacuys, Rafinesque. pinnata, Torr. and Gray. columnaris, Torr. and Gray. HELIANTHUS, Linneus. Sunflower. rigidus, Desf. occidentalis, Riddell. giganteus, Linn. grosse-serratus, Martens. tomentosus, Michx. strumosus, Linn. tracheliifolius, Willd. decapetalus, Linn. Corgopsis, Linneus. Tick-seed. trichosperma, Michx. palmata, Nutt. lanceolata, Linn. BipEns, Linnezus, frondosa, Linn. Beggar-Ticks. connata, Muhl. cernua, Linn. chrysanthemoides, Michx. Beckii, Torr. GAILLARDIA, Fougeroux. aristata, Pursh. HeLENIUM, Linneus. False Sunflower. autumnale, Linn. Sneeze-weed. ACHILLEA, Linneus. Mil-foil. Millefolium, Linn. ARTEMIsIA, Linneus. Wormwood. Canadensis, Michx. caudata, Michx. Ludoviciana, Nutt. dracunculoides, Pursh. frigida, Willd. biennis, Willd. Absinthium, Linn. ANTENNARIA, Gertner. Everlasting. margaritacea, R. Br. plantaginifolia, Hook. GNAPHALIUM, Linnzus. polycephalum, Michx. uliginosum, Linn. MINNESOTA STATE HORTIOULTURAL SOCIETY. ERECHTHITES, Rafinesque. Fire-weed. hieracifolia, Raf. Cacauia, Linneus. reniformis, Muhl. tuberosa, Nutt. SENECIO, Linnzus. Groundsel. integerrimus, Nutt. aureus, Linn. Ragwort. Cirsium, Tournefort. Thistle. altissimum, Spreng. ; muticum, Michx. Swamp Thistle. discolor, Spreng. Cynruta, Don. i Virginica, Don. Hreracium, Tournefort. Hawk-weed. \ Canadense, Michx. scabrum, Michx. longipilum, Torrey. NaBALus, Cassini. albus, Hook. racemosus, Hook. asper, Torrey and Gray. LyGopEsmiA, Don. juncea, Don. TROXIMON, Nutt. cuspidatum, Pursh. TARAXACUM, Haller. Dandelion. Dens-leonis, Desf. Lactuca, Tournefort. Lettuce. elongata, Muhl. MULGEDIUM, Cassini. Blue Lettuce. Floridanum, DC. leucopheum, DC. pulchellum, Nutt. Soncuus, Linnzeus. Sow-thistle. asper, Vill. - LOBELIACEZH. Tue Lopevia FaMILy. LosBeELi4, Linnzus. cardinalis, Linn. Cardinal Flower. syphilitica, Linn. Blue Lobelia. inflata, Linn. Indian Tobacco. spicata, Lam. Kalmii, Linn. CAMPANULACEZX. Tue BELL-FLOWER FAMILy. CAMPANULA, Tournefort. Bell-flower. rotundifolia, Linn. aparinoides, Pursh. Americana, Linn. SpECULARIA, Heist. perfoliata, A. DC. ERICACE®. THE HEATH FAMILY. GayLussacta, Humb. Bomp. and Kunth. resinosa, Torrey and Gray. Black Huckleberry. Vaccinium, Linnzus. Cranberry. Oxycoccus, Linn. Small Cranberry. macrocarpon, Ait. Cranberry. cespitosum, Michx. Canadense, Kalm. corymbosum, Linn. 103 104 ANNUAL REPORT. ‘CHIOGENES, Salisbury. hispidula, Torrey and Gray. ARCTOSTAPHYLOS, Adanson. Uva-ursi, Spreng. Bearberry. Erie, Linneus. repens, Linn. GAULTHERIA, Kalm. procumbens, Linn. CASSANDRA, Don. calyculata, Don. ANDROMEDA, Linnzus. polifolia, Linn. Lepum, Linnzeus. Labrador Tea. latifolium, Ait. Pyroua, Linneus. rotundifolia, Linn. elliptica, Nutt. secunda, Linn. CHIMAPHILA, Pursh. umbellata, Nutt. AQUIFOLIACEX. Tue Hoiiy Trise. Lex, Linneus. Holly. verticillata, Gray. NEMOPANTHES, Rafinesque. Canadensis, DC. PLANTAGINACEA. THE PLANTAIN FAMILY. PLanraGo, Linnzeus. Plantain. major, Linn. Patagonica, Jacq., var. graphaloides, Gray. PRIMULACEZX. THE PRIMROSE FaMILY. PrRIMULA, Linneus. Primrose. Mistassinica, Michx. ANDROBACE, Tournefort. occidentalis, Linn. DODECATHEON, Linnzus. Meadia, Linn. Shooting-star. TRIENTALIS, Linnzus. Americana, Pursh. Lysimacuia, Linnzus. Loosestrife. stricta, Ait. quadrifolia, Linn. ciliata, Linn. laceolata, Walt. longifolia, Pursh. NAUMBURGIA, Moench. thyrsiflora, Reichenb. LENTIBULACE®. THE BLADDERWORT FAMILY. OTRICULARIA, Linneus. Bladderwort. vulgaris, Linn. minor, Linn. intermedia, Hayne. OROBANCHACEZR. THE BROOM-RAPE FAMILY. PHELIP#A, Tournefort. Broom-Rape. Ludoviciana, Don. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 105 APHYLLON, Mitchell. fasciculatum, Torr. and Gray. . SCROPHULARIACEAR. Tue Fiagwort Fami.y. VeERBascuM, Linneus. Maullein. Thapsus, Linn. Common Mullein. Blattaria, Linn. Moth Mullein. LinariA, Tournefort. Toad-flax. Canadensis, Spreng. Scropuvaria, Tournefort. Figwort. nodosa, Linn. CHELONE, Tournefort. Snake-Head. glabra, Linn. PENSTEMON, Mitchell. Beard-Tongue. pubescens, Solander. grandifiorus, Fraser. Mimuuus, Linneus. Monkey-Flower. ringens, Linn. Jamesii, Torr. GRATIOLA, Lenneus. Hedge Hyssop. Virginiana, Linn. , ILYSANTHES, Rafinesque. gratioloides, Benth. False Pimpernel. SyYNTHYRIS, Benth. Houghtoniana, Benth. Veronica, Linnzeus. Speedwell. Virginica, Linn. Americana, Schweinitz. Anagallis, Linn. scutellata, Linn. GERARDIA, Linneus. purpurea, Linn. aspera, Dougl. tenuifolia, Vahl. setacea, Walt. quercifolia, Pursh. pedicularia, Linn. CASTILLEIA, Mutis. Painted-Cup. pallida, Kunth. Mountain Painted-Cup. coccinea, Spreng. sessiliflora, Pursh. PrpicuLaRis, Tournefort. Lousewort. Canadensis, Linn. lanceolata, Michx. MELAMPYRUM, Tournefort. Cow-Wheat. Americanum, Michx. OrtTHOCcARPUS, Nuttall. lutens, Nutt. VERBENACEX. THE VERBENA FAMILY. VERBENA, Linneus. Vervain. angustifolia, Michx. hastata, Linn. Blue Vervain. utricifolia, Linn. stricta, Vent. bracteosa, Michx. PuryMa, Linneus. Lop-seed. Leptostachya, Linn. 15 106 ANNUAL REPORT. > LABIATZ. Tue MINT FAMILY. TevcRIUM, Linneus. Germander. Canadensis, Linn. Isanruus, Michaux. False Pennyroyal. cseruleus, Michx. Menrua, Lioneus. Mint. Canadensis, Linn. Wild Mint. Lycopus, Linnzeus. Water Horehound. Virginicus, Lino. Bugle-weed. Europeeus, Linn. PyYCNANTHEMUM, Michaux. Mountain Mint. lanceolatum, Pursh. HEDEOMA, Persoon. Mock Pennyroyal. hispida, Pursh. Monarpa, Linneus. Horse Mint. fistulosa, Linn. Wild Bergamot. BLEPHILIA, Rafinesque. ciliata, Raf. hirsuta, Benth. LopHaNntTHus, Bentham. Giant Hyssop. nepetoides, Benth. scrophularizfolius, Benth. anisatus, Benth. Anise Hyssop. Nepeta, Linneus. Catnip. Cataria, Linn. DRACOCEPHALUM, Linneeus. Dragon-head. parviflorum, Nutt. PuysosTecia, Beutham. False Dragon-head. Virginiana, Benth. BRuUNELLA, Tournefort. Self-heal. vulgaris, Linn. ScUTELLARIA, Linnzeus. Skull-cap. versicolor, Nutt. parvula, Michx. gulericulata, Linn. Jateriflora, Linn. GALEOpSIS, Linnzus. tetrahit, Linn. Sracnys, Linneus. Hedge Nettle. palustris, Linn. BORRAGINACEAR. THE BoraGeE FaMILy. OnosmMopiuM, Michx. False Gromwell. Viginianum, DC. molle, Michx. LiIrHospERMUM, Tournefort. Gromvwell. latifolium, Michx. hitum, Lehm. conspicuum, Spreng. longiflorum, Spreng. MertensiA, Roth. Smooth Lung-wort. corymbosa, Don. CynoGLossuM, Tournefort. Hound’s tongue. Virginicum, Linn. Morrisonii, DC. Beggar’s Lice. HYDROPHYLLACEZX. THE WATER LEAF FAMILY. HypROPHYLLUM, Linneus. Water-leat. Virginicum, Linn. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 107 POLEMONIACE®. °PoLEMonruM Famity. Po_eMoniuM, Tournefort. Greek Valerian. \ ; reptans, Linn. Jacob’s Ladder. PHLoOXx, Linnzus. glaberrima, Linn. pilosa, Linn. divaricata, Linn. CONVOLVULACEZX. CoNvVOLVULUS FAMILY. CaLysTEaqiA, Robert Brown. Bracted Bindweed. sepium, R. Br. Hedge Bindweed. Cuscuta, Tournefort. Dodder. Love-vine, % tenuiflora, Englem. Gronovii, Willd. SOLANACEZ. THE NIGHTSHADE FamfLy. SoLanum, Tournefort. Nightshade. nigrum, Linn. Puysauis, Linneus. Ground Cherry. angulata, Linn. pubescens, Linn. viscosa, Linn. GENTIANACEZ. Tue GENTIAN FAMILY- GENTIANA, Linnzus. Gentian. crinita, Freel. Fringed Gentian. detonsa, Fries. Small Fringed Gentian. alba, Muhl. White Gentian. Andrewsii, Griseb.: Saponaria, Linn. puberula, Michx. affinis, Griseb. MENYANTHES, Tournefort. Buckbean. trifoliata, Linn. APOCYNACEH. Tue DoGBane FAMILy. ApocynuM, Tournefort. Indian Hemp. androsemifolium, Linn. cannabinum, Linn. ASCLEPIADACEA. THE MILKWEED FAMILY. Asciepias, Linneus. Milkweed. Cornuti, Decaisne. phytolaccoides, Pursh. Nuttaliana, Torr. (A. Vaseyi, Carey.) obtusifolia, Michx. incarnata, Linn. tuberosa, Linn. Butterfly-weed. verticillata, Linn. AcERATES, Elliott. Green Milkweed. viridiflora, Elliott. monocephala, Lapham. longifolia, Ell. 108 ANNUAL REPORT. F OLEACER. Tue Oxive Famiy. Fraxinus, Tournefort. Ash. Americana, Linn. White Ash. sambucifolia, Lam. Black Ash. ARISTOLOCHIACEZ. TuHrE BiRtTHWORT FAMILY. _Asarum, Tournefort. Wild Ginger. Canadense, Linn. Colt’s Foot. NYCTAGINACEH®. Tuer Four-O’Citock FAMILY. OxyYBAPHUuS, Vahl. nyctagineus, Sweet. angustifolius, Torr. CHENOPODIACEZ. TueE GoosrEroot FAMILY. CHENOPODIUM, Linneus. Pigweed. hybridum, Linn. Buitum, Tournefort. Blite. capitatum, Linn. Strawberry Blite. SaLicorniA, Tournefort. Glasswort. herbacea, Linn. CHENOPODINA, Moquin. Sea Goosefoot. maritima, Mogq. AMARANTACE. THe AMARANTH FAMILY. AMARANTUS, Tournefort. Amaranth. hybridus, Linn. Monte.ia, Moquin. tamariscina, Gray. Acnipa, Linneus. Water Hemp. cannabinum, Linn. Frewicara, Moench. Floridana, Moquin. POLYGONACEZ. THE BUCKWHEAT FAMILY. PoLyGonum, Linnzus. Knotweed. amphibium, Linn. nodosum, Pers. Pennsylvanicum, Linn. Persicaria, Linn. Lady’s Thumb. hydropiperoides, Michx. aviculare, Linn. Knot-Grass. ramosissimum, Michx. tenue, Michx. articulatum, Linn. Virginianum, Linn. saggittatum, Linn. dumetorum, Linn. Rumex, Linnzeus. Dock Sorrel. altissimus, Wood. Tall Dock. Hydrolapathum, Huds. maritimus, Linn. Golden Dock: THYMELEACEZ. THE MEzEREUM FAMILY. Dirca, Linnzeus. Leatherwood. palustris, Linn. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 109 ELM AGNACEX. THE OLEASTER FAMILY. EL#AGNUvS, Linneus. argentea. Pursh. Silver-berry. SHEPHERDIA, Nuttall. Canadensis, Nutt. argentea, Nutt. Buffalo-berry. SANTALACER. Tue Sanpal-woop FamILy. CoMMANDRA, Nuttall. Bastard Toad Flax. umbellata, Nutt. CERATOPHYLLACEAX. Tue Honeworr FAMILy. CERATOPHYLLUM, Linnzus. Honewort. demersum, Linn. CALLITRICHACEZ. Tue Water Starwort FAmMILy. CALLITRICHE, Linnzeus. Water Starwort. verna, Linn. EUPHORBIACE®. Tur SpurGe FaMILy. EvpPHoRBIA, Linneus. Spurge. polygonifolia, Linn. Geyeri, Engelm. maculata, Linn. hypericifolia, Linn. marginata, Pursh. cyathophora, Jacq. corollata, Linn. ACALYpPHA, Linnzeus. Three-seeded Mercury. Virginica, Linn. URTICACER. Tue Nerrie Famity. Utmus, Linnzus. Elm. fulva, Michx. Slippery Elm. Americana, Linn. White Elm. CetTis, Tournefort. Hackberry. Nettle-tree. occidentalis, Linn. Sugar-berry. Urtica, Tournefort. Nettle. gracilis, Ait. LaporTga, Gaudich. Wood Nettle. Canadensis, Gaud. Pintea, Lindley. Richweed. pumila, Lindley. Ba:uMERIA, Jacquin. False Nettle. cylindrica, Willd. PARIETARBIA, Tournefort. Pennsylvanica, Muhl. Pillitory. Humutvs, Linneus. Hop. lupulus, Linn. PLATANACEZ:. THE PLANE TREE FAMILY. PLATANUS, Linneus. Plane-tree. Buttonwood. occidentalis, Linn. Sycamore. 119 ANNUAL REPORT. a JUGLANDACER. Tue WaLnut Famity. JuGuans, Linneus. Walnut. cinerea, Linn. Butternut. nigra, Linn. Black Walnut. Carya, Nuttall. Hickory. alba, Nutt. Shag-Bark Hickory. glabra, Torr. Pig-nut or Broom Hickory. amara, Nutt. Bitter-nut or Swamp Hickory. CUPULIFERZ. Tue Cup-BEARING FAMILY. Quercus, Linnezus. Oak. macrocarpa, Michx. Burr Oak. alba, Linnzeus. White Oak. Castanea, Willd. Yellow Chestnut Oak. rubra, Linn. Red Oak. palustris, Du Roi. Pin Oak. Coryuvs, Tournefort. Hazel-nut. Americana, Waltr. Wild Hazel-nut. rostrata, Ait. Beaked Hazel-nut. Carpinus, Linneus. Hornbeam, Ironwood. Americana, Michx. Water Beech. OstryA, Micheli. Hop Hornbeam. Virginica, Willd. Lever-wood. BETULACEM. Tue BircH FaAmMILy. Beruta, Tournefort. Birch. papyracea, Ait. Canoe Birch. nigra, Linn. Red Birch. pumila, Linn. Low Birch. Atnus, Tournefort. Alder. incana, Willd. Speckled Alder. serrulata, Ait. Smooth Alder. SALICACEH. THE WILLow FaMILy. Sauix, Tournefort. Willow. candida, Willd. Hoary Willow. humilis, Marshall. Low Bush Willow. tristis, Ait. Dwarf Gray Willow. discolor, Muhl. Glaucous Willow. cordata, Muhl. Heart-leaved Willow. fluviatilis, Nutt. rostrata, Richardson. Long-Beaked Willow. nigra, Marshall. Black Willow. lucida, Muhl. Shining Willow. longifolia, Muhl. Long-leaved Willow. pedicellaris, Pursh. Stalk-fruited Willow. Porutvs, Tournefort. Poplar. tremuloides, Michx. American Aspen. grandidentata, Michx. Large-toothed Poplar. monilifea, Ait. Cottonwood. balsamifera, Linn. Balsam Poplar. Sus-Cxass Il. Monocotyledons. (With but one Cotyledon.) ARACEA. THE ARUM FAMILY. Arisa#Ma, Martius. Indian Turnip. triphyllum, Torr. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Catia, Linneus. palustris, Linn. TYPHACEZX. Tue CateTary FaMIty. Typua, Tournefort. Cat-tail Flag. latifolia, Linn. Reed Mace. - SPaRGANIvuM, Tournefort. Bur-Reed. simplex, Hudson. unatans, Linn. angustifolium, Michx. _LEMNACEZ, Tue Duck-weep Famiy. Lemna, Linneus. Duck’s meat. trisulca, Linn. minor, Linn. polyrrhiza, Linn, NAIADACEZX. THE POND-WEED FaMILy. PoraMOGETuUM, Tournefort. Pondweed. pusillus, Linn. _ pauciflorus, Pursh. compressus, Linn. . lucens, Linn. natans, Linn. ALISMACEZ. Tur WATER PLANTAIN FAMILY. TRIGLUCHIN, Linuzeus. Arrow Grass. maritimum, Linn. SCHEUCHZERIA, Linn. palustris, Linn. AtisMa, Linneus. Water-Plantain. Plantago, Lina. SaGITTARIA, Linnzus. Arrow-Head. subulatus, Engelmann. variabilis, Engelmann. ORCHIDACEZ. Tue OrcuIs FAMILY. Orcuis, Linneus. Spectabilis, Linn. Showy Orchis. GYMNADENIA, R. Brown. tridentata, Lindl. PLATANTHERA, Richard. False Orchis. Hookeri, Lindl. bracteata, Torr. hyperborea, Lindl. dilatata, Lindl. leucophea, Nutt. psycodes, Gray. SPIRANTHES, Richard. Lady’s Tresses. gracilis, Bigelow. latifolia, Torr. cernua, Richard. PoGonta, Jussieu. ophioglossoides, Nutt. CaLopPoGon, Robert Brown. pulchellus, R. Br. 111 112 ANNUAL REPORT. ’ MicrostTy is, Nuttall. monophylla, Lindl. — ophioglossides. Nutt. Adder’s Tongue. CoRALLORHIZA, Haller. Coral-root. multifiora, Nutt. Macrei, Gray. CyprirEpium, Linneus, Lady’s Slipper. pubescens, Willd. Yellow Lady’s Slipper. candidum, Muh). White Lady’s Slipper. spectabile, Swartz. Moccasin Flower. acaule, Ait. AMARYLLIDACER. THE AMARYLLIS FAMILY. Hypoxys, Linnezus, Star-grass. erecta, Linn. HAMODORACEX. THE BLoopwortT FaMILy,. ALETRIS, Linneus. Colic-root. farinosa, Linn. IRIDACEZX. Tue Iris FaMILy. Irts, Linneus. Flower-de-Luce. versicolor, Linn. Blue Flag. SISYRINCHIUM, Linn. Blue-eyed-grass. Bermudiana, Linn. DIOSCOREACEZX. Tue YAM FAMILY. DioscorEA, Plumier. Yam, villosa, Linn. China Root. SMILACEZX. THE SMILAx FAMILY. Smi~ax, Tournefort. Catbrier. rotundifolia, Linn. Greenbrier. herbacea, Linn. Carrion Flower. TRILLIUM, Linneus. Three-leaved Night-Shade. cernuum, Linn. Wake-Robin. erectum, Linn. Purple-Trillium. MeEpEo.a, Gronovius. Indian Cucumber-root. Virginica, Linn. LILIACEZ. THE Lity FaMILy. PoLyGONATUM, Tournefort. Solomon’s Seal. biflorum, Ell. SmiLacina, Desfontaines. False Solomon’s Seal. racemosa, Desf. False Spikenard. stellata, Desf. bifolia, Ker. CLINTONIA, Rafinesque. borealis, Raf. ALLIUM, Linnzeus. Onion. tricoccum, Ait. Leek. cernuum, Roth. Wild Onion. Litium, Linneus. Lily. Philadelphicum, Linn. Orange Red Lily. Canadense, Linn. Nodding Lily. ERYTHRONIUM, Linneus. Dog’s-tooth Violet. albidum, Nutt. a MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. MELANTHACEZA. Tue Cotcuicum FAmMILy. Uvuwaria, Linneus. Bellwort. grandiflora, Smith. © sessilifolia, Linn. ZYGADENUS, Michx. glaucus, Nutt. ToFIELDIA, Hudson. False Asphodel. glutinosa, Willd. JUNCACEZX. Tuer Rusu FaAmMILy. Juncus, Linnzeus. Rush. effusus, Linn. Balticus, Willd. filiformis, Linn. scirpoides, Lam. paradoxus, E. Meyer. nodosus, Linn. Conradi, Tuckerm. tenuis, Willd. PONTEDERIACE®. Tue PICKEREL-WEED FAMILY. SCHOLLERA, Schreber. Water Stargrass, graminea, Willd. COMMELYNACE®. Tue SprpeRwoRT FaAmILy. TRADESCANTIA, Linneus. Spiderwort. Virginica, Linn: CYPERACEZ. THE SEDGE-GRASS FAMILY. Cyperus, Linneus. diandrus, Torrey. erythrorhizos, Muhl. Michauxianus, Schultes. strigosus, Linn. inflexus, Muhl. alterniflorus, Schw. phymatodes, Muhl. Schweinitzii, Torr. filiculmis, Vahl. Du.icuium, Richard, spathaceum, Pers. HEMICARPHA, Nees. subsquarrosa, Nees. ELEocuaRIs, R. Brown. Spike-rush. palustris, R. Br. intermedia, Schultes. tenuis, Schultes. acicularis, R. Br. Scirpus, Linneus. Bulrush. Torreyi, Olney. lacustris, Linn. Bulrush. debilis, Pursh. fluviatilis, Gray. Clubrush. sylvaticus, Linn. Eriophorum, Michx. Wool-grass. ERIOPHORUM, Linneus. Cotton-grass. polystachyon, Linn. FIMBRISTYLIS, Vahl. capillaris, Gray. PHyNcHospora, Vahl. Beak-Rush. alba, Vahl. , ScieriA, Linneus. Nut-Rush. triglomerata, Michx. 16 113 114 ANNUAL REPORT. Carex, Linneus. Sedge-grass. siccata, Dewey. Muhlenbergii, Schk. lagopodioides, Schk. festucacea, Schk. aquatilis, Wahl. straminea, Schk. Pennsylvanica, Lam. (deri, Ebrh. lanuginosa, Michx. lacustris, Willd. hystricina, Willd. tentaculata, Muhl. GRAMINE®. Tue Grass FAMILY. LeersiA, Solander. White-grass. oryzoides, Swartz. Rice Cut-grass. Virginica, Willd. lenticularis, Michx. Fly-catch Grass. ZIZANIA, Gronovius. Wild Rice. aquatica, Linn. Indian Rice; Water Oats. ALoPEcURUS, Linn. Fox-tail grass. aristulatus, Michx. Water Fox-tail grass. ViL¥FA, Adanson. Rush-grass. cuspidata, Torrey. aspera, Beauv. vagineeflora, Torrey. SPROBOLUS, R. Brown. Drop-seed grass. junceus, Kunth. heterolepis, Gray. cryptandrus, Gray. AGrostTIs, Linneus. Bent-grass. perennans, Tuckerm. Thin-grass. vulgaris, Withering. Red-top. Cinna, Linneus. Wood Reed-grass. arundinacea, Linn. MUHLENBERGIA, Schreber. sobolifera, Gray. glomerata, Trin. Wild Red-top. Mexicana, Trin. sylvatica, Torr. and Gray. Willdenovii, Trin. (BRACHYELYTRUM, Beauvois. aristatum, Beauv. ; CALAMAGROSTIS, Adanson. Reed Bent Grass. Canadensis, Beauv. Blue-joint. confinis, Nutt, coarctata, Torr, longifolia, Hook. Oxyzopsis, Michaux. Mountain Rice. melanocarpa, Muh}. asperifolia, Michx. Canadensis, Torr. Stirea, Linneeus. Feathergrass. spartea, Porcupine-grass. AnRisTIpA, Linneus. Triple-awned Grass. purpurascens, Poir. tuberculosa, Nutt. SParRTina, Schreber. Cord-grass. Marsh-grass. cynosuroides, Willd. Fresh water Cerd-grass. BoureLoua, Lagasca. Muskit-Grass. oligostachya, Torr, hirsuta, Lagas. curtipendula, Gray. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. K@LERIA, Persoon, cristata, Pers. GuyceriA, R, Brown. Manna-grass. Canadensis, Trin. Rattle-snake-grass. nervata, Trin. aquatica, Smith. Reed Meadow-grass. fluitans, R. Brown... Poa, Linneus. Spear-grass. sylvestris, Gray. serotina, Ehrh. False Red-top. pratensis, Linn. Kentucky Blue Grass. compressa, Linn. Blue Grass. ErRaGROSTIS, Beauvois. reptans, Nees. Frankii, Meyer. capillaris, Nees. pectinacea, Gray. Prstuca, Linneus. Fesque-grass. tenella, Willd. ovina, Linn. nutans, Willd. Bromus, Liuneus. Brome-grass. Kalmii, Gray. Wild Chess. ciliatus, Linn. PHRAGMITES, Trinius. Reed. communis, Trin. TRITICUM, Linneus. Wheat. repens, Linn. Couch Grass. caninum, Linn. HorpDxEvM, Linneus, Barley. jubatum,.Linn. Squirrel Tail Grass. ELymus, Linnzus, Wild Rye. Virginicus, Linn. Canadensis, Linn. striatus, Willd. GYMNOSTICcCHuM, Schreber. Bottle-Brush Grass. Hystrix, Schreb. Hrerocuioa, Gmelin. Holy Grass. borealis, Roem and Schultes. Seneea Grass. PuHavanris, Linneus. Canary-grass. arundinacea, Linn. BgsckMANNIA, Host. cruceeformis. Host. Panicum, Linneus. Panic-grass. agrostoides, Spreng. capillare, Linn. autumnale, Bosc. virgatum, Linn. latifolium, Linn. paucifiorum, Ell. dichotomum, Linn. depauperatum, Muhl. Crus-galli, Linn. Barnyard Grass. Seraria, Beauvois. Bristly Foxtail Grass. glauca, Beauv. Foxtail. viridis, Beauv. Bottle Grass. CENCHRUS, Linneeus. Bur Grass. tribuloides, Linn. Sand-bur Grass. ANDROPOGON, Linneus. Beard Grass. furcatus, Muhl. scoparius, Michx. SorGHuM, Persoon. Broom-Corn. nutans, Gray. Indian Grass. 115 | 116 ANNUAL REPORT. : Crass II. Gymnosperme. (Seeds naked.) CONIFER. THE CONE-BEARING FAMILY. PINUvS, burthiories: Pine. Banksiana, Lamb. Northern Scrub Pine. resinosa, Ait. Red Pine. Strobus, Linn. White Pine. ABIES, Tournefort.. Spruce. balsamea, Marshall. Balsam Fir. Canadensis, Michx. Hemlock Spruce. nigra, Poir. Black Spruce. Larix, Tournefort. Larch. Americana, Michx. Tamarack. JUNIPERUS, Linneeus. Juniper. communis, Linn. Virginiana, Linn. Red Cedar. Taxus, Tournefort. Yew. baccata, Linn. Ground Hemlock, SERIES II. SPORIFERZ. (Plants bearing spores, with no true embryos, and no cotyledons.) Cuiass I. Angiospore. (Spores inclosed.) EQUISETACEAR. Tue Horse-Tar Famiry. EQuiIseTuM, Linneus. Scouring Rush. arvense, Linn. sylvaticum, Linn, limosum, Linn. hyemale, Linn. scirpoides, Michx. FILICES. Tue FERNS. POLYPODIUM, Linneus. vulgare, Linn. phegopteris, Linn. dryopteris. Linn. STRUTHIOPTERIS, Wildenow. Ostrich Fern. Germanica, Willd. ALLosorRus, Bernhardi. Rock Brake. gracilis, Pres}. atropurpureus, Gray. Preris, Linnzeus. Brake. aquilina, Linn. ADIANTUM, Linnzus. Maiden-hair. pedatum, Linn. CHEILANTHES, Swartz. Lip-Fern. lanuginosa, Nutt. (C. vestata, Hook.) ComrtTosorus, Link. Walking-leaf. rhizophyllus, Link. ASPLENIUM, Linnzeus. Spleen-wort. thelypteroides, Michx. Felix-foemina, R. Br. Woopsta, R. Brown. Iivensis, R. Br. CYSTOPTERIS, Berohardi. Bladder-Fern. bulbifera, Bernh. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Aspipium, Swartz. Wood Fern. Thelypteris, Swartz. spinulosum, Swartz. cristatum, Swartz. fragrans, Swartz. marginale, Swartz. acrostichoides, Swartz. OsmunpbaA, Linneus. Flowering Fern. Claytoniana, Linn. Borrycuium, Swartz. Moonwort. lunarioides, Swartz. Virginicum, Swartz. LYCOPODIACH. Tue Ciusmoss FAMILY. Lycoropium, Linneus. Clubmoss. lucidulum, Michx. annotinum, Linn. dendroideum, Michx. Ground pine. complanatum, Linn. SELAGINELLA, Beauvois. rupestris, Spring. HYDROPTERIDES. THE WATER FERNS. AZOLLA, Lamarck. Caroliniana, Willd. MUSCI. THE MosszEs. SPHAGNouM, Dillenius. Peat-moss. acutifolium, Ehrh. Dicranum, Hedwig. undulatum, Turner. scoparium, Linn. flagellare, Hedw. CERATODON, Bridel. purpureus, Brid. TrRICHOSTOMUM, Bruch. and Schimper. glacescens. Hedw. BaRBULA, Hedwig. mucronifolia, Br. and Sch. TETRAPHIS, Hedwig. pellucida, Hedw. PotytTrRicuum, Bridel. Hair-cap Moss. commune, Linn. juniperimum, Hedw. piliferum, Schreb. Bryvum, Bruch. and Schimper. cespiticium, Linn. roseum, Schreb. Mnivum, Bruch. and Schimper. affine, Bland. punctatum, Hedw. cuspidatum, Hedw. BaRTRAMEA, Hedwig. fontana, Brid. Fumaria, Schreber. hygrometrica, Hedw. PHYSCOMITRUM, Bridel. pyriforme, Br. and Sch. 117 118 ANNUAL REPORT. NeEckERA, Hédw. pennata, Hedw. Cimaorum, Web. and Mohr. Tree Moss. Americanum, Brid, , Hypnvum, Dillenius. tamariscinum, Hedw. gracile, Br. and Sch. triquetrum, Linn. uncinatum, Hedw. crista-castrensis, Linn. molluscum, Hedw. Haldanianum, Grev. pratense, Koch. nitens, Schreb. rutabulum, Linn. polymorphum, Br. and Sch. HEPATIC. Liverworts. MARCHANTIA, Linnzus. Brook Liverwort. polymorpha, Linn. TRICHOCOLEA, Nees. Tomentella, Nees. MASTIGOBRYUM, Nees. trilobatum, Nees. Crass II. Gymnospore. (Spores naked.) LICHENES. UsneA, Dillenius. barbata, Fr. EVERNIA, Acharius. jubata, Fr. prunastri, Ach. RaMAutina, Acharius. calicaris, Fr. CreTRARIA, Acharius. ciliaris, Ach. PELTIGERA, Hoffman. rufescens, Hoffm. PaRMELIA, Acharius. tiliacea, Ach. caperata, Ach. conspersa, Ach. parietina, Fr. chrysophtalma, Ach. stellaris, Waltr. obscura, Fr. cerina, Ach. CLADONIA, Hoffmann. cespiticia, Floerk. pyxidata, Fr. rangiferina, Hoffm. Reindeer Moss. Floerkiana, Fr. BIATORA, Fries. Tuckermani, Fr. UMBILICARIA, Hoffmann. Muhlenbergii, Ach. Tripe de Roche. ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOOIETY. 119 IN MEMORIAM. BY THE SECRETARY. DR. ALFRED E. AMES, | Who died September 23, 1874, especially deserves mention in this report, because of the fact that he was ever identified with the devel- opment of horticulture in Minnesota, being one of its earliest pio- neers, and manifesting an earnest interest in its success. It would almost seem to be a matter of supererogation to recount the many zealous efforts in behalf of the industries of our State, performed by one whose whole life was so familiar to its people; however, the fol- lowing data, from his own diary, will doubtless prove interesting and acceptable : He was born at Colchester, Vermont, December 14th, 1814, and was consequently at the time of his death, nearly sixty years of age. When seventeen years old, he removed to Orwell, Ohio. When at Barnesville, Ohio, he became, in 1833, engaged at brick-making, teaching and studying during a portion of the year, and thus fitting himself for greater and more extended usefulness. On September 28th, 1836, he married Miss Martha A. Pratt, at Geneva, Ohio, and in the following October removed to Chicago, Il- linois, that city at the time having a population of only 3,000. Near the present city of Bloiden, he shortly afterwards pre-empted a claim of 160 acres, residing the requisite portion of the year upon it, and the remainder at Chicago, engaged in his trade. In November of 1838, at Vandalia, then the seat of government of Illinois, he became acquainted with Stephen A. Douglas, and with Alex. P. Field, the Secretary of State. By the latter he was ap- pointed his deputy. He was also appointed private secretary to Governor Carlin. In 1839, going to Springfield, which had become the capitol of the State, he became deputy to Stephen A. Douglas, who was then the Secretary of State; and private secretary of Governor Carlir, and chief clerk of the House Committee. It was during this year that he attended his first course of medical lectures at Rush Medical Col- lege, Chicago. In 1841, he began the practice of medicine at Belvidere, Illinois. August Ist, 1842, he was elected to the Illinois House of Represent- atives. March 30th, 1842, he was appointed postmaster of Belvi- 120 ANNUAL REPORT. dere, but temoved July 1st, 1844, to Roscoe, where he practiced his contemplated profession, and also became postmaster. In 1845, he graduated at medicine; in 1849 was elected State Sen- ator, and during the same year:-was commissioned by Governor French as Paymaster General of his staff. In 1850, was re-elected to the Senate; in 1851, emigrated to Minnesota, going by wagon from Roscoe to Galena, aud by steamer to Saint Anthony’s Falls. In November he entered into a partnership with Dr. J. H. Mur- phy, for the practice of Medicine at Saint Anthony. In 1852 his family joined him. For a few months he acted as sur- geon at Fort Snelling. October 21st, 1852, he was elected to the Territorial Legislature for Hennepin county. In October of 1854, he was elected Judge of Probate. In 1856 he became postmaster at Minneapolis. June 1st, 1857, he was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention, and be- came chairman of the committee on school lands and the University, and in 1860 a member of the State Normal Board. Dr. Ames built the third greenhouse in Minnesota and the first in Hennepin county. It was not a large establishment as compared with some of those of either Hennepin or Ramsey county at the present day. The Doctor was one of the very earliest of settlers on the west side of the Falls—after Col. John H. Stevens—it being at that time a part of the Fort Snelling Reserve. Through the influ- ence of Capt. A. D. Nelson, Dr. Ames succeeded in getting a per- mit fram Col. Lee, who had command at the Fort, to make a claim, which he did in November, 1851, not far from the present court house. In 1857, the Doctor commenced to fit up a first class place, using an entire block, and upon which was built a fine residence. If we are not mistaken, it was considered the finest place in Minnesota, if we ex- cept perhaps the Borup place, in St. Paul. In 1858, the grounds were laid out by Mr. Wm. Buckendorf, an experienced gardener, of Hamburg, who was obtained the previous season by Judge E. B. Ames, the Consul of our Government for that city. In March of the same year the Doctor and his gardener visited the Groveland Nursery, where, among other things, a number of evergreens were obtained, all of which lived and are now fine trees, though taken up while there was yet some frost in the ground. A number of plants were also purchased from our greenhouse, which, with many things grown from seed during the summer, formed the nucleus of the stock for the greenhouse that was erected in 1859. Quite a large collec- tion of roses; was imported from Hamburg. The stock of plants were kept over winter in a room of the new house which Mr. Buck- endorf used for a sort of temporary conservatory. This pioneer plant house was built in a most substantial manner, the material used being brick and stone. It has a span roof, with two parts, for hot and cool house, with substantial ornaments here and there. In addition to the furnishing of plants for the Doctor’s grounds, the gardener was allowed to raise some to sell. Minneapolis, for a num- ber of years, was so small a place that this little greenhouse usually contained far more plants than could be sold, without going to St. Paul. Buckendorf always had good plants, and the grounds were eee io ARR : MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 121 laid out in excellent taste. They were kept clean and well stocked with plants from the greenhouse, so that a host of visitors were quite familiar with Dr. Ames’ place from many parts of the State. Indeed, for many years it was a kind of resort for all lovers of beautiful flowers, fine trees and well-kept grounds. WILLIAM M’KENDREE HARRISON. In the fall of 1859 the Harrison family, of Belleville, Ills., came . to Minnesota and settled in Minneapolis. They were in quest of a more healthful climate, and being delighted with the country, they very soon made up their minds to purchase suitable places for build- ing homes, which they did in1860. They all secured quite a number of lots, so as to have room for trees, to gratify their love for horticul- ture. The place selected by William consisted of an entire block, located on Eighth street. . This city home of our departed friend, it is safe to say, in a few years contained more choice fruit than a majority of the large farms of Minnesota. The same may be said in regard to ornamental trees, beautiful plants, and garden vegetables. Everything was planted that seemed likely to succeed in this climate, regardless of expense. Mr. Harrison was continually making experiments in horticulture, not for his own benefit alone, but for the good of others who had less time and means to expend. The famous Transcendent apple was one of the notable things secured by these new comers. It was ob- tained from Ellwanger and Barry in 1861. After seeing these trees in bearing everybody wanted the kind of crab apples that was raised by the Harrisons. They did almost everything they undertook on a large scale. They came to the North Star State not to make a fortune, for this they had accomplished by years of hard labor and close attention to the milling business at their old home. Having passed their early years on a farm they still cherished a desire for a sort of country life. This they enjoyed in a measure by having am- ple grounds about their fine dwellings. As an example of what may be done in the way of fruit culture on a single block, it is well known that in one season William Harrison sold fruit from his Transcendent trees to the amount of some $200, besides giving away many to friends and visitors. This, of course, was before the appearance of blight, and while the fruit was not abundant in our markets. Other kinds of fruits, such as currants, strawberries, raspberries and grapes were grown on a liberal scale. Large sums of money were expended on common apples, pears, plums and cherries, but with little success in the end. In the cultivation of our native wild plum the subject of this sketch was conspicuously identified. Some of his kinds are very popular, and have been cultivated by nurserymen for a number of years in place of sorts obtained from the east. The Harrison Peach plum has a wide reputation. We learn from Mrs. Harrison, to whom we are indebted for the main facts in the life of our late friend and co- worker, that a man by the name of Hepp, an early settler of Minne- apolis, either discovered this valuable plum or introduced it from another State. It is supposed to be a native of Minnesota. 17 122 ANNUAL REPORT. : Mr. Harrison was not only a most prominent pomologist, but other departments of horticulture engaged his attention. — Indeed, his was a life of enthusiastic devotion to such pursuits. In early years, he was fond of planting trees, and seeds of trees. His home in southern Illinois, as in this State, was noted for its choice fruits and beautiful trees, many of which he reared from seed or planted with his own hands. The last planting at Belleville was done the same year he left for Minnesota, and consisted of all the choice things of the present day. Among the trees worthy of note about the grounds of his late home are a number of fine European Larches, some twelve or fifteen inches in diameter, and 25 feet high. These have been noticed in some of the Eastern papers and nurseryman’s catalogues, as examples of what may be done with this tree at the North, and on sandy soils. Another conspicuous thing, and the only one of large size we have seen in any place in the State, is a Ken- tucky coffee tree, standing on the south side of the house. This tree was obtained from the Groveland Nursery, with others, in 1861, and has made a fine growth. The hemlock is also to be seen on these premises, though often winter-killed. If planted on the north side of the building it might do much better. Floriculture was not overlooked by Mr. Harrison. All the leading and hardy shrubs were planted in abundance. So, too, were the hardy herbaceous plants, such as peonias, phloxes, lilies and the like. For a number of years, we have noticed in these grounds the beautiful Japan or lancifolium lilies. In the bay window we noticed a choice collection of plants, among which was a large variegated century plant that is not often cultivated as a parlor ornament though one of the very best for such a purpose. Mr. Harrison was engaged in several large business enterprises at Minneapolis. He was for many years connected with the lumber firm of J. Dean & Co., that has grown to be among the heaviest in the State. The North Star Iron Works were founded by William Harrison and a few others, a large part of which he owned at the time of his death. He was also a director in one of the city banks. Bee-keeping was a favorite business with Mr.: Harrison, and in it he was very successful. At one time at his Minneapolis home he kept nearly eighty stands, and from which a large amount of honey was taken annually. The death of Mr. Harrison was quite sudden, and unexpected by friends at a distance. He was sick but a few days, and his life ended most peacefully, and full of the Christian’s hope. He died May 2d, 1874, in his sixty-sixth year. His father, Thomas Harrison, was a local preacher of the Metho- dist Episcopal church, in the faith of which his children were raised. William was connected with the Centenary for nearly fifteen years, and was considered one of its pillars. For its support, as well as all charitable objects, the ample means of William Harrison were liber- ally bestowed. In his death, the cause of religion, as well as the cause of horticulture, lost one of its most zealous friends and sup- porters. ‘The place of such men is not easily filled. In his death, the State lost one of its most valuable citizens. May his noble deeds in life’s great battle be an example for others to follow, and his ex- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 123 cellent name be cherished by the members of this Society. The well known injunction of St. Paul was truthfully illustrated in the life of our departed friend: ‘ Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit ; serving the Lord.” CYRUS GRAY. The subject of this memoir was the pioneer market gardener of St. Paul, and was well known to all the early settlers of that city. Previous to the establishment of his garden the citizens of St. Paul ob- tained their vegetables from Galena, furnished by the steamers, daily. We have a faint recollection of seeing this pioneer about the streets of St. Paul, soon after our arrival in 1850, with a wheelbarrow. It required but few things in this line to supply the St. Paul market of that early period. Besides, like most pioneers, the first horticultur- ist was not blest with an undue amount of this world’s goods. He commenced the business in a very small way, when compared with some of the gardens of the present time. The site of the first garden was on the Selby place, and was a very good selection for the pur- pose, being free from frosts and having a strong clay loam soil. The same ground is now occupied by the fine residences of Dr. Day, Mr. Knight, Mr. Monfort, Mr. Thos. Cochran, Rev. Mr. Flint and others. Mr. Gray, commenced, we believe, on the Selby place in the spring of 1851. Weare not informed in regard to his operations before that year. The writer used to visit his garden quite often, to see if vegetables could be grown in this hyperborean region, having in view the same business in addition to fruit growing and a general nursery. In 1851 his garden was quite extensive, considering that he did all or nearly all his own work. Onions and cabbages, in particular, were very fine, as were indeed the beets, carrots, parsnips, &c. Ma- nure was used in that garden, though on new land, end of a rich, deep soil. - The great fault of our old pioneer friend was in not sticking to his trade. He wanted more land, and in a few years went out among the romantic lakes near White Bear, where he attempted vegetable and fruit growing on a larger scale. His place, of course, was too far away from market to be very profitable, and fruit culture in those days was rather precarious in Minnesota. The end of this pioneer gardener’s career was rather tragic. He was on his way to Shakopee, where he once lived for a while, to look after some property, but while stopping over night at Minneapolis, the hotel was burned and he lost his life’ An alarm was given, but Mr. Gray being quite deaf, was not awakened. In the struggle for life he failed to reach the door, and he perished by suffocation. GEORGE W. STEWART. The year 1874 is memorable for the work of the fell destroyer among Minnesota horticulturists. Mr. G. W. Stewart, of Le Sueur, is numbered among the fallen. He was one of the pioneer nursery- men of the State, and though having many years ago abandoned the 124 3 ™ ANNUAL REPORT. ae atone, he evinced his ardent love for horticulture by the planting of both fruit and ornamental trees. His late home was conspicuous for the number and variety of the evergreens with which it was sur- rounded. Indeed, we may say, his cottage at Le Sueur was almost hidden within the beautiful spruces, firs, cedars, &c. Near the town he planted an orchard of various kinds of fruit trees. We paid a visit to our old friend and co-laborer a few months before his death. His trees were in very good condition, but some of the apples, gen- erally considered as iron-clads, he had almost abandoned after the repeated hard winters. The best looking apples in his grounds were | the Stewart Seedlings, that were originated by his successor in the business, and within a short distance of his home. We believe the subject of this notice in connection with his cousin, Amasa Stewart, established the third nursery of note in Minnesota. He came from LaSalle county, Illinois, in 1854. The following sea- son, in company with Mr. A. Stewart, he started a nursury out on the Stillwater road, some three or four miles trom St. Paul. They brought from below an immense stock, in all numbering some 300,000 fruit and ornamental trees, shrubs, roses, currants, gooseberries, Osage orange, &c. These were planted on heavy clay soil, but many failed within a year or two from the effects of cold weather, &c. They were largely made up of such varieties as were generally grown in the nurseries below. Of course they were not very well calculated to endure the rigors of a climate like ours. In 1856 Capt. Stewart sold out his interest to his partner, who continued the business for a number of years at Le Sueur. The birth place of Mr. Stewart was Morrow county, Ohio, which occurred April 22d, 1823. He removed to Illinois in 1844, where he was also engaged in the nursery business, we believe, from 1850. During the war Mr. Stewart was in the service of the country, and came out as Captain. One or two years he was honored with a seat in the Legislature, and for some time he took quite an active part in local politics. His death was very sudden, and occurred at Omaha, while on his way to the west in company with his son. Thus have we been called upon to record the departure from our midst of four members of our profession. They were all noted in the different departments of horticulture, and among the pioneers, hence it is a duty we owe the cause to preserve a record of their services in our Transactions, though none of them ever became active mem- bers of our society. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 125 \ . TREE CULTURE BY ‘THE ST. PAUL AND SIOUX CITY RAILROAD COMPANY. BY THE SECRETARY... In Southwestern Minnesota more is being done in the way of tree planting than in any other portion of the State. The first settlers engaged in the business at an early day. Hence we see frequent groves, in every direction, after entering upon the prairie beyond Mankato. ‘These timber groves and wind-breaks constitute quite a feature in the landscape. In the newer portions, like Nobles county, it will be seen, by the report of Mr. Miller, the people have com- menced in real earnest. So, too, has the Railroad Company, though not on so large a scale as on the St. Paul and Pacific. They have had much to contend with, but the grasshoppers have proved the greatest hindrance, One or two years the planting has suffered on account of dry weather. The officers of this road are doing a good work on their own lands in tree-planting, and propose to go into the business on a large scale. General J. W. Bishop, manager of the road, sends us the follow- ing figures, just as the work goes to press: Trees and cuttings planted in the spring of 1873....++s-++.+-e+-: 55,455 Trees and cuttings planted in the spring Of 1874..--+.-seesseeeee 54,024 Covering the strips one hundred feet wide along the northwest side of cuts, where we had been troubled with snow. Ground occupied by these trees is about one hundred acres. Generally, they are thrifty and doing well. We carry trees and cuttings during the planting season free to all prairie stations on our road, and the people have planted large numbers of them. NOTES ON OUR INSECTIVEROUS BIRDS. | We extract the following from an interesting paper on the ‘‘ Birds of Minnesota,” by P. L. Hatch, M. D., contributed to the ‘ Bulletin of the Academy of Natural Sciences,” Minneapolis, published in 1874. The birds, by destroying the numerous insects injurious to plants and shrubbery, perform a work for the agriculturist and hor- ticulturist which is hardly appreciated, and merits more attention than is apparently given to it by the class benefited : | Many species have increased in great numbers. The conditions for their multiplication, and maintenance, have kept step with the march of improvements, and, let us add (at the peril of protest from > “2 * 126 “ANNUAL REPORT, = 2 the somewhat sensitive, and most assuredly interested agriculturist the inexorable necessities of civilization. With the occupation, cultivation of the soil, there spring up as if by magic, myriads of entomological forms, many of which are inimical to agriculture, or to our comfort. We look to the birds for relief, and thank heaven for the wisdom which provides thus beautifully, and bountifully, for the preservation of those balances in organic life, so interwoven into the welfare of our race. The Raptores, or rapacious birds, have . multiplied with the vermin and reptiles so obnoxious to our grains and our sensibilities, and if, perchance, our poultry has been levied upon by a hawk by day, or an owl by night, for a meal that the or- dinary chase had failed to supply him, we are paying very cheaply for the benefits of their ordinary service, and the choice of those regal birds that soar over us, instead of the loathsome reptiles which creep at our feet. But, when we learn of the growing numbers of the insectivorous songsters, many of whom by their resplendant plu- mage, have been called ‘ the butterflies of the vertebrate creation,” we recognize a beneficence of design in their distribution, that exalts _ those attributes of the Creator which ally him so closely to our inner and higher being. ‘Twenty-five years ago the Baltimore Oriole with its body of gold and wings of jet—the Tanager with its body of fire and wings of night. were solitary wanderers in this land of the Da- cotahs, only represented by a few as the avant couriers of a coming civilization. Now, in the voluptuous spring, they are seen every- where flashing in the sunlight through our forests and our shrubbery the winged flora of the glorious season. And so long ago only, the voluble and mellifluous song of the Brown Thrush and the Robin, and Bluebird, and the gushing, fussy little House Wren were scarcely heard, and in only a few favored localities. Now those delicious notes are borne vpon the fragrance of spring into every open Case- ment, and they herald the teeming summer from every treetop. The grand chorus of feathered songsters has become an annual repast for e our willing and waiting ears which makes the long dreary winter bearable with its delicious anticipations. LIST OF TREES, SHRUBS AND FLOWERS. The time was so much occupied in discussing the apple question that nothing could be said on the list of trees, shrubs, and flowers. ~ The former lists were adopted with a few additions. SHADE TREES FOR STREETS AND LAWNS. White Elm, Basswood or Linden, White Ash, Box Elder or Ash Leaf Maple, Soft Maple, Rock Maple, Butternut, Black Walnut and Hackberry. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 127 ORNAMENTAL TREES. Mountain Ash, White Birch, European Larch and Kentucky Coffee Tree. EVERGREENS. Norway Spruce, Austrian Pine, Scotch Pine, Balsam Fir, Ameri- can Arborvite, American Black Spruce, White Spruce, Red Cedar, (when clipped,) Siberian Arborvite, for small yards, Hovey’s Arbor- vite and Savin. ANNUALS. Asters, Balsams, Candytuft, Catchfly, Calliopsis, Cockscomb, Escholtzia, Larspur, Morning Glory, Mourning Bride, Migonette, Petunias, Phlox, Drummondii, Portulacca, Sweet Peas, Sweel Alys- sum, Whitlavia, Zinnia Elegans. HARDY HERBACEOUS PLANTS. Astilbe Japonica, Achillea, three varieties ; Asclepias, Tuberosa, Clematis Erecta, two sorts; Columbines, Dielytra or Bleeding Heart, Delphinium or Double Larkspur, German Iris, Hollyhock, Lychnis and Japan Day Lilies, four varieties; Lily of the Valley, Ixia or Blackberry Lily, Native Phloxes, Peonias, Pansies, Perennial Flax, Phloxes, May Pinks, Sedums, Sweet Williams, Spireas, Tall Day Lilies. HARDY SHRUBS. _ Acacia or Moss Locust, Barberry (common and purple,) Burning Bush, (Wahoo,) or Strawberry Bush, Buckthorn, Carrigana or Sibe- rian Pea Tree, Cranberry, Yellow Flowering Currant, Charles the Tenth Lilac, Purple, White and Persian Lilacs, Lilac Josekia, Up- right Honeysuckles (three kinds,) Hydrangea, Hydrangea Boreii, Hydrangea Paniculata, Deutzifolia, White Fringe, Clethra Alnifolia, Syringa, two sorts. DUTCH BULBS. For Fall Planting only—Hyacinths, Tulips, Crocus and Snowdrops TENDER BULBS. For Spring or Summer Planting—Gladiolus, Cannas, Caladium Esculentum, Dahlies, Madeira Vine, Tigredia or Shell Flower, Tu- beroses. HARDY BULBS. For Spring or Fall Planting—Lilium Auratum, L. Candidum or 128 ANNUAL REPORT. old Garden Lily, Japan or Lancifolium Lilies, Tiger Lily, and Na- tive Lilies. BEDDING PLANTS. Achyranthus, Alternantheras, Centaureas, Double Petunias, Fe- verfew, Zonale and Sweet-Scented Geraniums, Gazanias, Heliotropes, Lobelias, Lantanas, Pyrethum (Golden Feather,) Tea, Bourbon and Noisette Roses, Cuphea or Cigar plant. TENDER CLIMBERS. Maurandia, Cobea Scandens, Cypress Vine. HARDY ROSES THAT NEED NO PROTECTION IN WINTER. Yellow Harrison, White, Yellow and Pink Scotch, Cinnamon Roses, Old Blush Rose, Sweet Brier. ROSES THAT NEED PROTECTION. Hybrid Perpetuals, Moss Rose, Madam Plantier (a fine white,) George the Fourth, Russell’s Cottage; Centifolia (pink and white,) Old Cabbage Roses, Tuscany Rose, Miralba, Monthly Cabbage, Old White. CLIMBING ROSES THAT NEED COVERING. Queen of the Prairies, Baltimore Belle, Bede Sisters, Gem of the Prairies. TENDER SHRUBS THAT GENERALLY NEED PROTECTION IN WINTER. Flowering Almond, Wigelas, Rosea and Alba, Spirea Prunifolia and Billardia, Tree Peonia, Tamarix Africana, Calicanthus, Purple Fringe or Smoke Tree, Deutzia, Graclis and Crenata, Japan Quince, Deciduous Cypress, Snowberry, red and white. HARDY CLIMBERS. American Ivy, Virginia Creeper, Celastrus Scandens (Climbing Bitter Sweet,) Clematis or Virgin Bower, Matrimony Vine, Native Grape. TENDER CLIMBERS. Honeysuckle, Scarlet Trumpet, Yellow Monthly, Monthly Fra- grant and Parifolia, Chinese and American Wisteria. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, 129 INCORPORATION OF THE SOCIETY. ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF THE MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Know all men by these presents, that we, the undersigned, John S. Harris, of La Crescent, Houston county, John H. Stevens, of Hennepin county, Wyman Elliot, Charles Hoag, J.T. Grimes, A. Stewart, R. J. Mendenhall, Peter M. Gideon and Charles H. Clark,. all of Hennepin county, D. A. J. Baker, Truman M. Smith, D. A. Robertson, William E. Brimhall, H. J. Brainard, L. M. Ford and Wm. Paist, all of Ramsey county, and Thomas Ramsden, of Wash- ington county, O. F. Brand, A. W. McKinstry and Levi Nutting, all of Rice county, and P. A. Jewell, of Wabasha, EK. H.S. Dartt, of Owatonna, Steele county, all of the State of Minnesota, do hereby associate ourselves together for the purpose of becoming incorpo- rated under the name, and for the purposes hereinafter stated, pur- suant to the provisions of title and chapter 34 of the General Stat- utes of said State of Minnesota, so far as the same may be applica- ble, and do now adopt the following Articles : ArticLE 1. This corporation shall be known as the Minnesota State Horticultural Society. ArtTIcLE 2. The object of the society shall be to collect, condense and collate information relative to all varieties of fruits, flowers, and other horticultural productions, and dispense the same among the people. Articte 3. Any person interested may become a member of the society by paying to the Treasurer or Secretary, the annual fee of one dollar, and signing the constitution and by-laws. ArticLeE 4. The amount, of capital stock of this corporation shall be twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000,) with privilege to increase it to $100,000, to be held in shares of twenty-five dollars each. 18 ? 130 _ ANNUAL REPORT. Artictr 5. The officers of this society shall be as follows: Pres- ident, oie Vice President to reside in each Congressional District of this State, Secretary, Treasurer, and an Executive Committee of three or more members, all of whom shall be elected at the annual meetings of this society, which shall be held on the third Tuesday in January. Articte 6. The principal place of business shall be wherever th majority of the society may hereinafter designate. ‘MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 131 BY-LAWS ADOPTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD JANUARY 20-23, 1874. DUTIES OF OFFICERS. 1. It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meetings of the society, when present, and to deliver an address at the annual meeting of the same. In the absence of the President, one of the Vice Presidents shall preside in his place. 2. The Secretary shall record all the doings of the society, col- late and prepare all communications, etc., for the public press, and pay over all money received from members, or otherwise, to the Treasurer, on his receipt; shall receive and answer all communica- tions addressed to the society; establish and maintain correspond- ence with all local, county, district and State horticultural societies, and secure by exchange their transactions, as far as possible; to aid the President as an executive officer, in the dispatch of business re- lating to meetings of the society, and notices of horticultural and similar meetings of general interest, and report to the annual meet- ing of the society an‘abstract of the matter that has come into his possession, which shall become part of the transactions for the cur- rent year, and shall be prepared by him for the public printer. 3. The Treasurer shall collect and hold all funds of the society, and pay out the same only on the order of the Secretary counter- signed by the President. 4, An Executive Committee of five shall be chosen annually, who shall, in connection with the President and Secretary, (who shall be members ex-officio,) have in charge all matters pertaining to the in- terests of the society ; shall revise all matter coming into the hands of the Secretary, and pass upon the same their approval before its submission to the annual meeting. 5. The Executive Committee may call a meeting of the society at any time and place they may deem advisable for the interests of the society, giving at least thirty days’ notice through the public press, and shall in no case incur any expense exceeding fifty dollars except by authority of the vote of the society at its annual meeting, when 132 ANNUAL REPORT. the specific object and the amount so appropriated shall be desig- nated. ; 6. The President, at each annual meeting of the society, or as soon thereafter as practicabie, shall appoint a General Fruit Com- mittee, consisting of one member from each Senatorial District in the State, and it shall be the duty of each member to report upon the fruit crop in his respective district annually; also a limited list of fruits best adapted to general cultivation in the district which such member represents. 7. That committees on vegetables and market gardens; flowers and floriculture ; trees for the forest and forest culture, and entomolo- gy, be appointed each year, whose duties it shall be to report on their several topics to this society at the annual meeting. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 133 AN ACT TO PROVIDE FOR THE PRINTING AND PUBLISHING OF THE TRANSACTIONS OF THE MINNESOTA HORTICULTURAL SOCI- ETY AND THE DISTRIBUTION THEREOF. e Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota: SECTION ONE. The object of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society, an incor- poration duly incorporated under the general laws of this State, be- ing to improve the condition of horticulture, rural adornment and landscape gardening, it shall be allowed for these purposes to take, hold and convey real and personal property ; the former not exceed- ing in value five thousand dollars. SECTION TWO. There shall be printed two thousand copies of the reports of the State Horticultural Society, from the organization of the Society un- til A. D. one thousand eight hundred and seventy-three, including its transactions at its annual meeting held on the fourteenth day of January, A. D. one thousand eight hundred and seventy-three, pro- vided, the number of printed pages of said volume shall not exceed two hundred ; the Secretary of State shall distribute the same as fel- lows, to-wit: two hundred copies in making the customary exchanges and in supplying one copy to every public library and to the editor of every periodical in this State, two copies to each member of the Legis- lature and the officers thereof; and to each of the State officers ; one hundred copies to the State Horticultural Society ; fifty copies to the State Agricultural Society ; fifty copies to each County Horticultural Society who shall report its organization, with officers elect, and num- ber of its members, with an abstract of its proceedings for publica- tion in said volume, to the State Horticultural Society ; fifteen copies to each County Agricultural Society who shall report annually to the Secretary of the State Agricultural Society as provided by statute ; and all the remaining copies to the State Horticultural Society. SECTION THREE. Hereafter, or until the Legislature shall otherwise order, the report of the State Horticultural Society, together with the abstract of the reports of other Horticultural Associations of this State, so far as 134 ANNUAL REPORT. the same shall be published, shall be annually printed, published and distributed, in like manner and number as provided in section two of this act. Provided, that such expense of publication shall not ex- ceed in any one year five hundred dollars. SECTION FOUR. This act shall be in force from and after its passage. Approved February 27th, 1873. State or MInnesora, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE. ; I hereby certify that the foregoing has been compared with the original on file in this office, and is a true copy thereof. Witness my hand, and the Great Seal of the State, this 14th day » of March, A. D. 1873. [Sxat. ] S. P. Jennison, Secretary of State. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 135 AN ACT TO ENCOURAGE THE CULTIVATION OF TIMBER AND HEDGE FENCE, AND TO APPROPRIATE MONEY THEREFOR. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota: SECTION ONE. That for the purpose of encouraging the growing or cultivation of timber and live hedge fences in this State, there shall be annually appropriated, out of any moneys in the treasury belonging to the general revenue fund, not otherwise ‘appropriated, the sum of three hundred dollars. SECTION TWO. That the said sum is hereby placed at the disposal of the State Agricultural Society of this State, for the payment of premiums for the best five acres of cultivated timber, or continuous half mile of live hedge fence, or a less amount if deemed necessary ; provided, That the said society shall make such classifications and regulations as may be deemed most expedient to encourage the largest competi- tion, and all awards of premiums made under this act shall be im- partial. SECTION THREE. That the provisions of this act shall apply only to timber or groves and hedges propagated from seeds, cuttings, or layers, subsequent to the passage of this act, and no person shall be entitled to more than one first class premium one the same piece of timber or hedge. SECTION FOUR. That the said society shall fix the rate of entrance fee of those wishing to compete for premiums under this act at a reasonable amount; and in order to encourage competition, said society may appoint a person or persons in each county, whose duty it shall be to visit the premises of persons competing for premiums in such county, and make out an accurate report of the condition, mode of propagation and cultivation of the timber or hedge growing on said premises, which report shall be made in accordance with instructions from said society, and shall be attested under oath or affirmation. 136 ANNUAL REPORT. SECTION FIVE. That said society shall cause an accurate account of all sums paid as premiums in accordance with this act, together with a list of per- sons competing for premiums, and to whom such premiums were paid, with the amount thereof, and shall annually, on or before the first Monday in February, make a true report of the same to the Governor of the State: which report, together with a certificate of the correctness thereof, shall be signed by the president and secre- tary of said society. SECTION SIX. This act shall take effect and remain in force from and after its passage. Approved March 7, 1867. OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STArE. I hereby certify that the foregoing has been compared with the original on file in this office, and is a true copy thereof. Witness my hand, and the Great Seal of the State, this 20th day of June, A. D. 1867. State oF Minnesota, © H. C. Roaesrs, Secretary of State. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 137 AN ACT TO ENCOURAGE THE PLANTING AND GROWING OF TIMBER AND SHADE TREES. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota : SECTION ONE. Every person planting one acre or more of prairie land within five years after the passage of this act with any kind of forest trees, ex- cept black locust, and successfully growing and cultivating the same for three years, and every person planting, protecting and cultivat- ing for three years, one half mile or more of forest trees along any public highway, said trees to be planted so as to stand at the end of three years, not more than one rod apart, shall be entitled to receive for ten years, commencing three years after said grove or line of trees has been planted, an annual bounty of two dollars per acre for each acre so planted, and two dollars for each one-half mile so planted, to be paid out of the county treasury of the county in which said grove or line of trees may be situated ; such bounty shall not be paid any longer than said grove or line of trees is cultivated and kept alive, and in a growing condition. SECTION TWO. Any person wishing to avail himself of the provisions of section one of this act, shall within three years after planting said grove, or line of trees, file with the county auditor of the county a correct plat of said grove or line of trees, showing on what section or other piece of land said grove or line of trees is situated, attested by his own oath, and the affidavit of at least two householders of the vicin- ity, setting forth all the facts in relation to the growth and cultiva- tion of said grove or line of trees. The county auditor shall lay such plat and affidavit before the county commissioners, and if they find from the evidence, that section one of this act has been fully complied with, shall cause warrants to be issued from the county treasury of the proper county for the bounty above provided for. SECTION THREE. The affidavit of the claimant, and of at least two householders of the vicinity, showing the growth and condition of such trees, shall be filed each year in the office of the county auditor before the county 19 138 ANNUAL REPORT. commissioners shall authorize warrants to be drawn on the county treasurer for the bounty for that year. SECTION FOUR. © This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its pas- sage. Approved March 6, 1871. State or Minnesora, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE. } I hereby certify that the foregoing has been compared with the original on file in this office,.and is a true copy thereof. Witness my hand, and the Great Seal of the State, this 25th day of May, A. D. 1871. [SBAL. | H. Marrson, Secretary of State. 4 ’ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 139 AN ACT FOR THE PROTECTION OF CRANBERRIES. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota: SECTION ONE. That if any person shall hereafter pick or gather cranberries on lands other than his own, in this State, before the tenth day of Sep- tember in any year, such person shall be fined in the sum of ten dol- lars for each offense so committed. SECTION TWO. All prosecutions under the provisions of this act shall be com- menced within six months from the time such offense is committed, and the same shall be upon complaint, under oath, before any jus- tice of the peace in the county where the offense is committed, and all] fines imposed and collected under this act, shall be paid, one-half to the complainant and one-half into the treasury of the county where such conviction takes place, for the use of the common schools within such county. SECTION THREE. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its pas- sage. Approved March 6, 1871. State oF MINNESOTA, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE. I hereby certify that the foregoing has been compared with the original on file in this office, and is a true copy thereof. Witness my hand, and the Great Seal of the State, this 25th day of May, 1871. H. Mattson, Secretary of State. . 140 ANNUAL REPORT. AN ACT TO ENCOURAGE THE PLANTING AND GROWING OF TIMBER AND SHADE TREES. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota: SECTION ONE. That every person planting one acre or more of prairie land, within five years after the passage of this act, with any kind of forest trees, except black locust, and successfully growing and cultivating the same for three years, and every person planting, pro- tecting and cultivating for three years, one half mile or more of for- est trees, along any public highway, said trees to be planted so as to stand not more than one rod apart at the end of three years, and when planted on each side of any highway, such trees shall not be planted within the four rod limit of such highway, shall be entitled to receive for ten years thereafter, an annual bounty of two dollars for each acre, and two dollars for each half mile so planted and cul- tivated, to be paid out of the state treasury ; but such bounty shall not be paid any longer than such grove or line of trees is maintained and kept in a growing condition. SECTION TWO. Any person wishing to secure the benefit of this act, shall within three years after planting such grove, or line of trees, and annually thereafter, file with the county auditor of the county in which the same is located, a correct plat of the land, describing the section, or fraction thereof, on which such grove, or line of trees, has been planted or cultivated, and shall make due proof of such plant- ing and cultivation, as well as of the title to the land, by the oath of the owner, and the affidavit of two householders residing in the vicinity, setting forth the facts in relation to the growth and cultiva- tion of the grove, or line of trees, for which such bounty is demand- © ed. The several county auditors shall annually, on or before the first day of August, forward to the state auditor a certified list of all the lands and tree planting reported and verified to them in compli- ance with this act, with the names and post office address of the re- spective owners thereof; Providing, this act shall not apply to any railroad company for planting of trees within two hundred feet of its track for the purpose of snow fence. - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 141 SECTION THREE. If the state auditor shall find that the provisions of this act have been duly complied with, he shall issue to the several appli- cants entitled thereto his warrant upon the state treasurer for the bounty named in the first section, on or before the first Monday of October in each year. Provided, that if the aggregate of the bounty so applied for shall, in any one year, exceed twenty thousand dol- lars, it shall be the duty of the state auditor, on the first Monday of October, in such year, to equitably distribute twenty thousand dol- lars, and no greater sum, among the claimants who may be entitled to the aforesaid bounty, and his warrants for such pro rata shall re- lieve the state from further claims for such year. SECTION FOUR. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its pas- sage. PE ool Feb. 20, 1873. State oF MINNESOTA, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE. ; I hereby certify that the foregoing has been compared with the original on file in this office, and is a true copy thereof. Witness my hand, and the Great Seal of the State, this 12th day of May, A. D. 1873. S. P. JENNISON, Secretary of State. 142 ANNUAL REPORT. CONGRESSIONAL TREE PLANTING ACT OF MARCH, 1874. An Act to amend the act, entitled: “‘An act to Encourage the Growth of Timber on Western Prairies,” approved March 3, 1873, be, and the same is hereby amended so as to read as follows: That any person who is the head of a family, or who has arrived at the age of twenty-one years, and who is a citizen of the United States, or who shall have filed his delaration and intention to become such, as required by the naturalization laws of the United States, who shall plant, protect, and keep in a healthy growing condition for eight years, forty acres of timber, the trees thereon being not more than twelve feet apart each way, on any quarter section of any of the public lands of the United States, or twenty acres on any legal subdivision of eighty acres, or ten acres on any legal subdivision of forty acres, or one-fourth part of any fractional subdivision of land less than forty acres, shall be entitled to a patent for the whole of said quarter-section, or of such legal subdivision of eighty or forty acres, or fractional subdivision of less than forty acres, as the case may be, at the expiration of said eight years, on making proof of such fact by not less than two credible witnesses ; Provided, That not more than one-quarter of any section shall be thus granted; and that no person shall make more than one entry under the provisions of this act, unless fractional subdivisions of less than forty acres are entered, which, in the aggregate, shall not exceed one quarter section. SECTION TWO. That the person applying for the benefit of this act shall, upon application to the register of the land district in which he or she is about to make such entry, make affidavit before the register or the receiver, or some ofticer authorized to administer oaths in the district where the land is situated, who is required by law to use an official seal, that such entry is made for the cultivation of timber ; and upon filing said affidavit with said register and said receiver, and the payment of $10, he or she shall thereupon be permitted to enter the quantity of land specified ; and the party making an entry of a quarter section under the provisions of this act, shall be re- quired to break ten acres of the land covered thereby the first year, ten acres the second year, and twenty acres the third year, after the date of entry, and to plant ten acres'of timber the seeond year, ten acres the third year, and twenty acres the fourth year after date of entry. A party making an entry of eighty acres shall break and plant, at the times hereinbefore prescribed, one-half of the quantity required of a party who enters’ a quarter section ; and a party enter- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 143 ing forty acres shall break and plant, at the times hereinbefore pre- scribed, one-quarter of the quantity required by a party who enters a quarter section, or a proportionate quantity for any smaller frac- tional subdivision ; Provided, however, That no final certificate shall be given or patent issued for the land so entered until the expira- tion of eight years from the date of such entry; and if, at the expiration of such time, or at any time within five years thereafter, the person making such entry, or, if he or she be dead, his or her heirs or legal representatives, shall prove by two credible witnesses that he or she or they have planted, for not less than eight years, have cultivated and protected such quantity and character of timber as aforesaid, they shall receive a patent for such quarter section or legal subdivision of eighty or forty acres of land, or for any frac- tional quantity of less than forty acres, as herein provided. And in case of the death of a person who has complied with the provisions of this act, for the period of three years, his heirs or legal repre- sentatives shall have the option to comply with the provisions of this act, and receive, at the expiration of eight years, a patent for 160 acres, or receive without delay a patent for forty acres, relinquishing all claim to the re:nainder. SECTION THREE. That if, at any time after the filing of said affidavit, and prior to the issuing of the patent for said land, the claimant shall abandon the land, or fail to do the breaking and planting required by this act, or any part thereof, or shall fail to cultivate, protect, and keep in good condition such timber, then, and in that event, such land shall be subject to entry under the homestead laws, or by some other person under the provisions of this act; Provided, That the party making claim to said land, either as a homestead settler or under this act, shall give, at the time of filing his application, such notice to the original claimant as shall be prescribed by the rules estab- lished by the Commissioner of the General Land Office, and the rights of the parties shall be determined as in other contested cases. SECTION FOUR. That each and every person who, under the provisions of the act entitled, ‘‘ An act to secure homesteads to actual settlers on the public domain,” approved May 20th, 1862, or any amendment there- to, having a homestead on said public domain, who, at any time after the end of the third year of his or her residence thereon, shall, in addition to the settlement and improvements now required by law, have had under cultivation, for two years, one acre of timber, the trees thereon not being more than twelve feet apart each way, and in a good thrifty condition, for each and every sixteen acres of said homestead, shall, upon due proof of said fact by two credible wit- nesses, receive his or her patent for said homestead. SECTION FIVE. That no land acquired under the provisions of this act shall in 144 ANNUAL REPORT. any event. become liable to the satisfaction of any debt. or debts con- tracted prior to the issuing of certificate therefor. whale SECTION SIX. That the Commissioner of the General Land Office is hereby re- quired to prepare and issue such rules [and regulations consistent with this act, as shall be necessary and proper to carry its provi- sions into effect; and that the registers and the receivers of the several land offices each be entitled to receive two dollars at the time of entry, and the same sum when the claim is finally estab- lished and the final certificate issued. SECTION SEVEN. That the fifth section of the act entitled “An act in addition to an act to punish crimes against the United States, and for other pur- poses,” approved March 3, 1857, shall extend to all oaths, affirma- tions, and affidavits required or authorized by this act. SECTION EIGHT. That parties who have already made entries under the act ap- proved March 3, 1873, of which this act is amendatory, shall be permitted to complete the same under full compliance with the pro- visions of this act. —- =. Meo HAY aie TRANSACTIONS OF THE MINNESOPA |ISpare HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. PROCEEDINGS, ESSAYS, AND REPORTS AT THE SUMMER MERTING, HELD AT THE STATE UNIVERSITY, JUNE 30th, 1875, AND AT THE ANNUAL WINTER MERTING, HELD AT Winona, January 18th, 19th & 20th, 1876, TOGETHER WITH APPENDICES CONTAINING ESSAYS, REPORTS, OBITUARIES, AND OTHER PAPERS ON MISCELLANEOUS SUBJECTS. Prepared by CHAS. Y. LACY, Secretary. | | ST. PAUL: THE PIONEER-PRESS COMPANY, 1876. 2 ec VL Be De ee Pe P= | LRAAWNWSA Oricon OF THE MINNESOTA - STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, PROCEEDINGS, ESSAYS, AND REPORTS~_ AT THE SUMMER MEETING” ~_ NEW YORK NIB OTANICAL Ar pet STATE UNIVERSITY, JUNE 380th, 1878 HELD AT THE AND AT THE ANNUAL WINTER MEETING, HELD AT Winonu, Junuary 18th, 19th & 20th, 1876, TOGETHER WITH APPENDICES CONTAINING ESSAYS, REPORTS, OBITUARIES, AND OTHER PAPERS ON MISCELLANEOUS SUBJECTS. « Prepared by CHAS. Y. LACY, Secretary. ST. PAUL: THE PIONEER-PRESS COMPANY. ab 1876. e? cr Ag A: rang { Lo ‘ . ad . « ‘ 4 . / 2 , 2 on. ‘ 4 es CONTENTS. PaGE. TE on ares amie ne. sigi0'$ ae a COE Leg aBh aw ae nel aa Aenea Standing Committees.........--+++--0-- sshd Cea 6 Wee se Sees Saas ae mms e Local and County Horticultural Societies. .........0.cccce ccc ccce secs BBG OMTMOMDETS.... 00. cece svcsene siaidiarsig aimee aeetesivive cts act sim eiqitalalabiers Honorary members........ On cca ceecncvcqesace wanees ee sua gaee vette Proceetings of Summer Meeting. ..-:.-cecccccovecesacsacccescccccnvece MP MIMIVGYSICY FATM . 2... cccce cece ncee secscncve tatetarevaraclate tte cies Strawberries, Essay on, by Col. J. H. Stevens..... oe go eral atgial hi ecole eset : Strawberries, Discussion O0...... 0... ccecnccece ceccccce ce BS an aA MPIIUEVALLYONY sic 'aiein.e'ein:d cise o.0'6 c sictoieie's \e sfortareta mie cfardie ste ende Ce REET TD ceca v ct sd wenn aauvssicevske © emp bia ae a 4208 poe inensise 6 Warieties... 225. -cccnce miotelin sie'n a efaa tata (aie laleratate Ae SAAS SAG rane on Varieties recommended... ..: ...c00 cece cncccccces cs Sie dade esis Flowers, Essay on, by Rev. J. H. Tuttle........... wietalstasel eae Getta ents PARISI GT SGHYT p0's)s smi: 00,0. q0'0 ole) nie = oc,00 mnie lnleiate' wie isis /si) sjaesoiptafesal slaveleie Seu PAISEE lets fate yatsveyein (a e!4's/a (stay aca/a u\e\/e/alule\'e'ofo ai aceiscccaleya.siwials c's oo ou en's o ale! wie wien, ey. cajeleindlseintetoiain.e ‘aie \e\eta\s\uiat aie ann PLOSPECtS .-. eee cecccscecsccceesecces cee cue in msidine ata cieeiaa oe ree 4s oe Causes of Injury....-- Sd a.e.0,srsigue'ainy «| eiaja pieqe\s adie c’a'n ol Sela nete en 41 TYANSCECHOENE cu oc cc cicc se'bedie aetna 06.0 e.0'sisis.c ok p's\cn \aleisipt gaat Planting ........ Sisilsiv’a 5 iv ois 'sin-w'9 0 (4)a ee B(Aipiminia'>,/ citic «a's cie 6. eine cle p's oie More's wik'e. «le (ore WiGleiblel iain tia aia PPR ee! Resolntions. «> cee ccclss coce ve vv cuse viv 00 .c c.sisie.0 © 's\0lsielelnigieeinma—CrE South Park.....-... siatkle otha a/evcin eins ajeie’e eee «5, 6:0,0,0'8) 0 oj) 2a 45 Minnesota’s Display ...-..-- eee- cece cece cece core cece ce ennsceees 45 Exhibition in 1876....2¢.scce0 cece cccs ceences so ecole « otaisiaaneni «aia anata Pomological Society, Discussion on Report..- BoPae +0 $e; aisle ele Horticulture in Southeastern Minnesota, es on, or J. s. Hareiay 48 AUthOTIty .. 0002 cece cece econ wee e ence cu cece cans wccces cece cence 48 Adaptation... 2.20 ccscccce cccscecces cece se rcee rece cece cceseace 48 Before Settlement. cicses c+ 0x00 > wcece ceccy + sans 000.00 6 5)a cui 48 First Planting. .... 2.000 cone cece sence cnes ca teccters cone cue scene 48 Winter of [87223 c sen ce cis ninle sis nieore nis wine cin sie: sine \cla iano ssi nn 49 Winter Of LS 740 << sie ee teiein sis nis cae ciel e, oye\0/p) 0a oh» = e/a niga ~ 49 PG@ars co sc ca ae s'c-oln ob eicte ots einiaelelalinliiioia el e/s/h (a0 «1c! ee 'oisa/s:6'o1 5 eta 49 StUTAWDCITieS << os ocsc sec. ocieciwuleuleeics dle v's 06 sc os as6w\sin a 0isln/ninenne RaASPDerrieS «2c ccccce cccenccccs voccce caccer cece cecss cece sees se 50 OTITEATIES «.<'c 0 co v'o'e:s bine pies elle ie} oIMaIeni isan’ = 6 [e's 0.0 cle! /n\e'a aiei mann ssee OO O@HELPIGN 3. J. lace sooo scours sloe'e nism epaneie’s elpissie's ee’ alc /ois lay laletelt aan , _ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. v PAGE. PUM S vaniacaineduseeam died i ee 50 Grapes..... were ee ee ee eeeFeeeeeser see ee eeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeseee see 50 New UTES cotta pilsipipineie sie po'sad ew ee ee we rere se ee ee ewes eese sees 50 BIOWEYLS. ccc cc cncce ee ee eee eee ew ee tee ee eeeese eee ee eeeeeeee oe 51 NB OCEA INVENT iiadinie» 60/056 <0 «-q\nm epslalnaivedte Fc ag dd ate wand oli hs sie aD White GYUD snes scchen casa cute Pate ane dale ala aanee beck el IE GT OES oir o's 5.5.0 5.0.0.0 0 0s 00.89 «ols a Aebuth le kh abana Sete amet e c >. dices a se oudalatote ees OF RPM atei tates aia ovaieiais/s\ aiaie 6% s'0\c/6" ais a'm o's, 616 wie (e a.6'e, gai leuainanrc wees 58 Strawberry Cultivation, Discussion OM...........seesece cece Bejetaeta’a) = 58 SOMMER iste) o criai a) csc’ s)aris) a\.cvesbrava bia's/0/Si.c.eciave ae Ow ike. cmin son tie AEE 58 Varieties recommended.........-.sceeeeccccs ce s mfalniniatate) letahensta ss 59 EIAGGS SCECIING. 2... 0.00% cceees e/ala/ofein i's sis lutdie\s o\Stavsiel s/s munvartcie a os 60 Seer ENTT ED ey GINOIO Il 56 a'arsi6 /«'syorqso\ehess.0,0i0: a. n\é)s © alelo\ = ajaceiealajwralstalole on mcte eiaiae acs 60 PEE ME MMPEL ICTS) 0) vata a) oxc'c's\e! 16: aig areca a cteicl acl avalele a alate PE Ae ofa.oedels aedanielavec 61 PES EA DCTCON, DY oc, Ws MSOXEll siics.cje) secre escicle apajeejaeyesidle « 20a's'e ee/clac 4, c0tia o's 06 a4 60.0.65's.03 a:d'a oo a One ee. 64 De Soto..... aval pla/aln'qiatn\s\6 ies 6 0's 0.8 «oje/e/hatere\ nc cutee ta ene dat avi mia da) 6 66 PU TEUA MES faiec'a. p/ais < siaie biota: do) is S 6 @ od eraisib ble 6) wisiciane tie See Ge 66 VI 1 Bint ha SS a 744 OS inaae ANNUAL REPORT. PR MM Pace. Methods of Propagation, Paper on, by A. Stewart......sssecssseecees Adaptation of Varieties. ee ee n'a 'v\o'e's 'o a'o's ‘Se Root-Killing. eee eeeeee ee ee eee ee eeese ee eet aeeeeee Svbs bo cent een Prevention..... ata alaiawiaie tate treat os Satcnsc ce ccitolgit tele alter aaa Methods of Propagation, Discussion on.......... o'cldiatole cts Ca ere mene enn Crab StOCKS . 06s ce cece dene cccce cece cccecscccsccoseuseussssuens Cause of Injury im ’72-3. 2... 0.22 ceceeccecetse cence cecncessees Deep Planting: sls0.. tcccbecewceceetoosce os eclevess eels mnmninnt Depth to Plant... as ye ee ae FCO ORIG oes a ecaeidenaies UTED SOULS fb! al Pace ee take se heeasde tans caste «oc edie eae ie ee Root-killing elsewhere’\..°. 00. secc ccs cece voce se enine enema Adaptation to Crab Roots...-....e.seeeeeee cence vot eee aoe ees Agricultural College Farm, Report on by J. S. Harris. «...+-++-s+0+-- Mie WNIVELBILY «cs cv > en's «0 ajo/0,0'0's'6\ 2 aicle me's seb ele a/a'sia) a ele ee oe Agricultural Department......-..2ee.seeeeeeeees EP eS ce Warm. s2s6. 2326 Sab ple sic: wie Se eiate a c.0 sieie)s)aa daly Wwin\eis hotel sioheiais a taaaaem eete's Gade hess catattcheleloetetelelejew’celsie tele saints wae AP i cv wel raee Nursery...e+-.eees diese cele sclals neice wee slsielewisais ceovcceess esalse one Garden Vegetables, Report on, by W. T. Scott...... oe os + caisisine sana Horticultural Witerature .\. seis cies ces o cicleinta istelntele eters ie pine apeaeiet ODE Ci reteers ies o's bss ciz eis ae sinlsisie eles aids oitncx aie oe wieun piste bie etna Transplanting............ lea|elale o'a\ a o\eleiays"a/chnie'\clet alaleateiee oconesawes MI CAB ataie ate arctsle's'a tetas elem latte es Wis steep or ecose oh © oleraiaaletetalatatnenee eens s Crossing, and Selection Of Seeds... ....2 cece cece cove cee cone voce POTHbORS to vie wate esc. cice taiecieve-cl'e'e brs oie piavaiate oteie/ainleinie eit staan bs ae Bush Beans.........see0e Ss a 6 niaio\ cis" 0\510\00'e: samia) wre seen ie: Tacoreete POLE "BEHTIS. cers! Nu cele \e/0e 0: ee cre o-ayeisl elec 'e p.e'6. 6 0 teisie © ate einai Cabbages..... 4S Rachboode® siaceicisiong: vee! lacey sialare sales) em eteae tte SWE COOLrl se utes erelelote wm eremeis wea ee oe Vecitoliete stat ots ts heaCae nae Sa Saat sie COTTON. aie 's!e e'eielelchele ee eceie'e cle w'stnistalevee aricie wreele-tes! sfalere ethan SUUGSIIGS ‘occ sepiec ce neen soe evasenscun ebb sinuies als Gyan aie etels EOTITALOES atc/o nies ce stakes alesis late e eeletenieinte wietedere tastes = ‘s\p'aie "esa anata SWEET UPOTALOES «<0 ele cc wc -soc be ccee sielvieisc'n etn eles Sint (o/elp ite CaniBOWET, ssice cove wccec cscs nceess sere saela ossicles + een : Bee PIANt.. fece.e cece ccc ce nscece cecccnces soscvces pbeues sngwall Tj GUBINGS galore ste 'sioie © ia'eloca ‘wivigis’s\c\s'o s'e!0%ere'c' eval 6 efaiaiale\ else yale! o-aieh aici BEGUH). woo v.nie) sieteloils wie’ sisiein es) <\cle[e) oie.07e) aieie'ss/ete/eln' voles sists orale nnn MiclOnB 2. o's n'e.> arose toletstarotetelorsieleteve nfelsie'n: els\a’e%eteie"s'ole aps ci's piatehaaannn rae Special) Wervilizers.s oss 'stsieie's elles ole|s'e o'c's's!e 0) e''v'o. 0! sin a's e ne Garden Vegetables, Discussion ON. :......e+see cece cccece cocccevccncs Cutting Potatoes. cnc s sere niecciseericr =< s\e's s\e\6 o +s cleletoteieararers Early Tomatoes......... SIE [sins wleleiee ee cles ols oo einisini stan Varieties of Potatoes and ‘peu: wle\(e\a[n'e sin «ee en >/aleis vielen Nenana ima “Beans .'.'."..<° ‘s\e's 01s © » + a5:05 is 5 iptninrie ins keldbesielaions Sie cistait del ina rds WEE MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Ix PAGE. SOWING. css seevcevececrcrccccneessenersccstecccecerecerenceses 125 Transplanting. ...ececerecevecccececccecscnssesavencssssreenees 126 Soil and Preparation.....ssecececececsecceccereessesesereseses 126 Planting OUt.++.cesececeeseetecerenecserenseencceseseseecserss 126 CUILIVALION.. oe cece cece ee ceee coon eenereemeneeerenaesseeeetnnes 126 SeCUriINg .. +. ee eeeeeerecrcececesecneerereseerereerseeesencrense 127 PYESETVALION..2 0 cece cecscccccccccccccccecccccccseeseaseecse wee’ LOT Celery, Discussion ON....++seseeecececcceceeeereeecececeeseeeeeeene 127 Blight, Discussion on...-.-- IER OT EE cuheta ead vate P seneltatraitinesy see Lae UMMM METS thy sictalele eic.s sac. ciajee'seciegvedweictetrasaeMeissiicemaiace LOD Root Pruning .---....-+++seeees $0 cele, daticesieneoneeeiee Malas eces 128 Grounds for Public Buildings, Resolutions Ollscsssssececsisscevelccce ns 128 Evergreens, Discussion on .....--- ac cleeacnccconcsccgescevescessevce 100 Norway Spruce....- see cece cece cnccescecececsseceescecseseveve IB) White Spruce........+-.5- dd lclaatea alte ddelstaelelelslcecietmeaarguss LOL MM TEMETIIIC-3c'e wa retstatatelels odie & sew mien sania ai vateeiplatone a Waleeres bos 132 SUMMA EIRIDESLIIC sialfols) s alatedelr iais\s, © 'n.e nininjs oun wininin’ain oc alntainlala sabstalisisiviastsins LOS SRE MTM Ges cstiaras es sl ckwicinsceeiomierteccstee Bistate mareisneisiatatarate Ntsteteele ls 132 Pe vICAn ATDOL VIGAE: «s\sindsisieidisisies sve'c'els\s 40 sa sja/aelais alee sles's e)s'a'e als 132 MOET wie’ isis nia! tes eeivisiaiebis ais 'elsicis pen aie shaisie Pele ANP tacit Cin 132 Red or Norway Pine.....-. sees seco. wlae.e lslelvinlsln sialeretaiatn sidlalaielae 133 MRE OVINTELP EN. oc 'sc)s.slcicixs «age selec Sia'aisie cienipelaia)cla wislein ae wi sien serene 133 PAPO SPIUCE. oo cee ctelsiesic! cicleletale a'c)o's occ oe injcies'nleld wisisiale aislsie’s 133 Mountain Pine.... 2... wees Soelclarchints elaneverstelatole's eusiat ohetetererk ataberetanets 133 ETIAIEOAT DON Vitae e cose qeeels.caisise Caran ccice’- eles salsa ene) sels. 133 PEMA S VUE. cic ies elses cir o's viv nie ceielb iio cloeis'sle ciadelsicsdislaitmesiecsieisle s 133 Trailing Juniper... 1.2220 cece ccccer cocncesacncccncsncess sees 134 List Recommended......-eee.eere aketaiminieiaie\avajeio\s area clea atamarers ie stares 134 Protection of Apple Trees, Discussion On.... eee sere sees sees Afr ADS 134 Next Annual Meeting.. ......... AAA NiO Sarain sis. ols tama rate: matereletetelctale 135 REPEL MEDEIIBEENTILTUMTL Sg]o1a‘e. or 2\<,¢!cls 6° 4,0\0’e!s,0: aic'ere's «) 6) eaihie/6) a’s.elayn’eiarpnaterera tare stetelapm alee 135 Bill of Secretary...... Eh ae se tice at shale ilale fete ale calorie} ate state eaiataatatatsfatataie 136 Articles on Exhibition..... rs) istolevielslorcheyerclatelataeisinie/alcvavateret tare tierarsiets'ric) e's eielie 136 Anpenoix A, Obituary, Capt. Wim. PaISt. <5. .ccccscccescoscacecsecces 141 Appendix B, Reports of Members of General Fruit Committee........ 143 Small Fruits, Wyman Elliot........ 2.00 sees cece cone avec iaiatet ar afotale 143 Sr PIIGS s is Ms ALGO Merce: sie araicis cyerereveissie’ < aieie!oicre sisie’ee 4 76; claletels 146 Berrees WBE IULS te) os PLONE) crerausieiefeieleoiie's. siaverei c's. a v, x.oneieielehasiasiniccehmale 148 Wie TR. ALES. ooo tas cece cee s cece sc ne sees ees secece swan secs santos 148 MTEL MAGARIN 5, c:a\0; sinio.c,o'oace isieisis eieieiaais, siecle ss vse’ sis ivvesa nae Sei 150 MEEMP Mea SOLES aisie's ss #10” s\s//ai6ie s,s te! sivicis 01 6.0.00 60°06 s\6,0,0) eines) sfaeanenaenete 152 i, D: Mills...... ainletaleysitietatdiavala\s's\'el.cie\c ears sia AROS ROO oid sacenos 154 Appendix C. Reports, Papers and EssaysS......ceeessceeeace “CHOI +s 156 Report on Entomology, by R. J. Mendenhall....... Glorstatatatsiaieie|s’ +s 156 Paper on Orchard Protection, by H. M. Thompson ............. 159 Paper on Cranberry Cultivation in Rice County, by O. F. Brand. 164 Paper on Potatoes, by Wm. E. Brimhall......cecccccesccccs cece 166 Paper on the Transcendent, by Wm. E. Brimhall..............- 167 Paper on Planting Fruit Trees, by O. BF. Brand..........+...s058 167 B LIST OF OFFICERS FOR 1876. PRESIDENT : TRUMAN M. SMITH.... eeoeeeseeee ee eeseeeseeoeee sese ARG cir Paul. . VICE PRESIDENTS: E. H. 8. DARTT, First District...... 2... .200 seee cece eeeeOwatonna. T. G. CARTER, Second District .............. covccegecee St. Peter. J.T. GRIMES, Third District ........ eile e'ceee tele cicsese eM IMNECADOLIS: SECRETARY : CHAS.-Y. ACY ccciccs eeeeeeee sess sess vese eeeeeeeeses ..-- Minneapolis, E. TREASURER: EEA Iniciaidicslalc 6 ¢ci6c8scce cece sect open ce sets cece ce ehtOCHeRtel, STANDING COMMITTERS. EXECUTIVE: Hon. NORMAN BUCK, Chairman.........sceseceeeeeeeee Winona. SURREY NPP IG TANG) T oia ccc nis cieleicials’s aiselalsiaiels evieis vin.gejsie.e 60s) cae Minneapolis. ROT IDNs ice 8 od ROOMS ee OR Ue . ee ee eoluae Clty. MP NTPEDER NONI) 3.5 c 10,15 6 s'vi0/5 0% S wieie ons cleo 06 vel ota e.cveseea: dices wels Faribault. Sir AMU IU tA chaielaiialolcieurisieie: e’eee < cieie = a ols o'0) o.00 v1gele%e SOCOG nC La Crescent. ON ENTOMOLOGY: Hon. R. J. MENDENHALL...........22- afepies pis annette Minneapolis. J. S.HARRIS..... eal Nal ateielajave:s c's '016-6:0'9's o:ate ewe Sha cieiale auahe en eee La Crescent. MU MR IMAC ETE TITIAN LY vieleiercsavalcie/s's\ 0.c.0 0.0 00:00 10.0.6 0a,cl8 wievaverereiene - Minneapolis. 2 10 ANNUAL REPORT. ON FLOWERS AND FLORICULTURE: C. M. Mt) PRL Gs en dice scclc beep Uié'e.e e's els ovale eeere eae oeeeeeeseee Minneapolis. WM. KING os csi asueces eeee ee - see ee ereesesseee sestele dee aaene Paul. PROF. W. F, PHELPS......- eee ee eres sere ues orsee ooeeeeeee Winona. ON VEGETABLES AND MARKET GARDENS: e J. T. GRIMES. 20.00 .cccee cece ccce seccseecccccs vesecccee - Minneapolis. W. E. BRIMHALL,. «os cc cccuc+cctcbsidepbiveledecysecoce events bs MEM: M. PEARCE. 2.22 2 cccccecccecccccesccccccses ovsces sce os ROCHEStEr, ON TREES FOR THE FOREST AND FOREST CULTURE. Tic Be OD GG beccssivcteres bisioreresicisretaleroicieisienssieiwialola bie lols dio ois Gi52 sy) Ue ‘As SORA TE ccclcs sede Guidevon eb oeve pees e0alole 6 lo d oféie'se vie ERA CHINERSIRN By. Eee ABAD iio ig io tein ce we S sainivin tare re oi ve cin gal piles ms ae ietalele Owatonna. PERMANENT COMMITTEE ON OBITUARIES. COL, J. BH. STEVENG f.0.c snisine cscs ae svecas cowe'nasa aseheun Minneapolis. Hon. C. M. LORING........ syadetsfeiaieeias BPO ICID AC ICT Minneapolis. Gen. LEVI NUTTING........-00.00-- wide de te ve sida wares - Faribault. COMMITTEE ON CATALOGUING FRUITS, SHADE AND ORNAMENTAL TREES AND PLANTS. PA: SOW REG: i ieeay heren tees aetna Lake City. WYMAN ELLIOT. ... «2.0 cee cee cece cen cece ce cces cece Minneapolis. IAG WV. . (SIAN \ c.iolescsc'e siete pissieye cialeretceloin mn/eicsinlo\s)isiais isi nis oie) oterehee rele Rochester. COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE. Con, J. H. STEVENS. ..200 socnes sees cece ccvcvscces ssesce Minneapolis. BY, EUSP AUS Tiara statis ein'ele'sln'er anieeive bois old's svle'eie vine wlsissiolonn Owatonna. WM. CAININON s/c :shajo;e 0100.0) = oje/010/0,« 010,0,0,0, 0 aisjefsinje sigfe so tel don ete Bismarck, D.T. Cy. Me DORING ih ieies soieseieoisinciasee tens ccc ces clseieis c0:c00000 MINCE DOME, NORMAN BUICK ; onc siete: viste states ahernierietevole’s site orerels)aleielleve wie /eie Winona. ACO W . AS LAIS | :ci:s cressteltes emp eteieneiats sebetelnielcleinadd o bisis oso soled eaisis Rochester. For Committee to solicit and collect fruits for the Centennial Exhibition see p. 32. o Totes «¥3 uth oy 4 (TeV dy (pA dada JH \ Ix FE AE J. oe LEISC: - ; ——— M. w. LELAND, ooo te wees cose cocce cece veceee 0 Hblein ae sll de S. D. HILLMAN, Rochester...- eeee sees seeeseee eeee sees sece eek tary ; ; e mere ‘ i fa rae’ “¢ ; f ss . . : J A? ee NICOLLET COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. rnd ORGANIZED MARCH 9TH, 1876, WITH 12 MEMBERS. J, ERNEST MEYER, St. (ROGET oinic.ole 60 iw 'o\010 018) =o elavele nie miaioin ee Li he G. CARTER, St. Peter .-e0 cone cece cceeceverccecs soos shnens SOGRGAN MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 13 LIST OF MEMBERS. , PFN occas c os nc0d vconte coescoscee es HOkan, HOUStON Cannty. Boxell, J. W......-..-+> ree eer ini weak Afton, Washington county. Bower, Thomas. ..-+.-eees seeeseceeeceess St. Paul, Ramsey county. er cc casc.ccasengssoa voce sewn Minneapolis, Hennepin county. EE sinins oinicnns onnvinncesccsane® ec Winona, Winona county. Bunnell, M. C......... ee CR ea ec Money Creek, Houston county. ia. in on ania « 10 n.sinnsiai0 ec o0's.ainiae Faribault, Rice county. ee oo nciie oi c a x's 0 n'a od gn ok Stockton, Winona county. UPR CA, los’ e nciccnscan>pucccaciconca ce St. Paul, Ramsey county. PROG METT OCO. As < 01007 0 oicials delmieie's oe e'elaers Minneapolis, Hennepin county. BEPMHITISTELO ET. iciccre vo sic cc acac vvine se Aiecerioc St. Paul, Ramsey county. Cannon, Wm........ .. aia cans Hae abe Bee dicts Bismarck, D. T. Carter, T. G.......-ecee cee © i cecec cece wn St. Peter, Nicollet county. WIS IOROO GT Wins ciccc ce ccwe ceccee ne Be sleverrave Winona, Winona county. Cook, Mr. S......'. Rett cates te alee aisipie APACE. Maple Plain, Hennepin county. MICEOTIGrTWiedescccecs cass neces pict aie gan Dundas, Rice county. EPMIMEA IS clelsia' a'sie's's'd) ocacgscce seee caedse Owatonna, Steele county. PETIA VITIAID < aie 's) < ccc cip'c ccccn anise 5 c.nu ene Minneapolis, Hennepin county. iol ale boise) am as chaise wip se cast aces Sauk Center, Stearns county. GRIT NN c« << deleebile siakls s odalwe secs oda kere Newport, Washington county. IPE SEG ace Boos cic js= 06 ceisnicn onieiclais St. Paul, Ramsey county. GTMMMCS ye) Be ceicinie cla e cle opie cons snee'cees oe Minneapolis, Mennepin county. Pee fetafa' orev a co aisrsclc e's aie csiecaeatie se wes Excelsior, Hennepin county. EA eUMeMUEDRUUY = iatatieymo'che'ete:a ‘ela! oj 'e'eiaim ula! bie =¥erelele Winona, Winona county. HRSVOMEUIIG COI cic o co's'hcice e sicre ses vc cies sighs oe Money Creek, Houston county. PEMPE BEAN GHSS oo li o'a:0!d ono clnicsd silicic di eece ce wise La Crescent, Houston county. Eee SMmVI RGN eiieidle ai fave''s'utlo'els!aln'd/ale) eimmaie wlbtaiae's leis Rochester, Olmsted county. EOP DERMIS PAL MW wc. sae. soc0,0 secs Wloweicces Kenyon, Goodhue county. EMC EOT OT Z Olaisjciejejeiaie 0/0 00000 00 sees sievsece St. Paul, Ramsey county. RG CHIME ala cc tcc cisissaicnesecapace save ceots Paul, Ramsey county. SU ReU VNR TIRT OED | PAUL a ciel clafajevanciaiaynie ald bisjisj0jnim pais Lake City, Wabasha county. SUPE TO Rice Biiale cinie'<) te woivinias sine ciciseicis'cees cc Rochester, Olmsted county. SU GTEORISEMEREE Ora) fe ava laie:alers:ciaiallaie.cfevalein\eisie'd estates Farmington, Dakota county. Lacy, Prof. Chas. Y..---+.0+.00+ see eeceee Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Loring, Hon C. M....--+e-eeeeeeee .++++e«-+-Minneapolis, Hennepin county, Morey, Prof. Chas, A...... pisses. 0s enim Winona, Winona county. +s eg 14 ANNUAL REPORT. Matthews, B. A.-c-s-seeeseeee eevee eee Knoxville, Iowa. McKellup, C. D..-- sss eeeeeeeseeeceeeceee Faribault, Rice county. Mendenhall, Hon. R. J...-- seeseceeeeeee ss Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Pearce, M......scee coeccececces ceeeseee eRochester, Olmsted county. Phelps, Prof. W. F..+-+++++eeeeeeee+++-+e+. Winona, Winona county. Philips, A. J.....-secececesescoee socesees West Salem, Wis, Rollins, I. Woh, hock tases cee she eaten, Wabasha county. Stevens, Col. J. H.....0 sseeeeceeceeeeeees Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Smith, Truman M.......+--++ seeee+ee++-+- St. Paul, Ramsey county. Stewart, A...ccce cccecccacrcnnccecscce ...- Richfield, Hennepin county. Scott, W. Tescescsers sees cesscocecese sees Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Somerville, WM... ..seee coeeees «+eee.--s Rochester, Olmsted county. Bind, A. Weees vececesceceencns sree essa ones Rochester, Olmsted county. Schiffman, Dr. R.....-.-0- eee cece ,..--St. Paul, Ramsey county. Thompson, JOSiah ..+..eeeeeeeee ceceee cece Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Theopold, F. Asses sees sees cecenceeecsecee Faribault, Rice county. Train, Dr. H. B....-- seen seeeeecenes ...---Hokah, Houston county. Uline, C. S.ccseseee ccceececceceeeceee see St. Paul, Ramsey county. Wachlin, Wm........06 ccesecee sees sees +s Faribault, Rice county. Wilcox, B...- sees cece ceceee coceweee sees Lrempealeau, Wis. HONORARY MEMBERS. Geo. Peffer..ccsceccevcrcoscce cesccecccese Pewaukee, Wis. A. GoW bM es arp, are siels, mane e epepiaieisiae >see no ni0 Baraboo, Wis. O. S. Willey.. seeds ake sat b eo eA wea MARION (Vee Hon. Wm. W. Folwell. Xa cas 'owiginigta@) é 24 ANNUAL REPORT. ‘ i} dows, and balconies, and piazzas with flowers. Is one too poor to buy a rod of land? He can easily beg enough soil to fill a few pots, and with these lay out a garden in his kitchen, or dining-room, or parlor. Ar and water are cheap, and these are nearly all flowers need. s Cases must be very rare in which poverty is a reasonable excuse f for a flowerless home. Cultivating flowers, on the other hand, is one of the blessings of which the poor can be sure, and one of the ways in which they may successfully compete with the rich. They cannot buy diamonds and silks, and elegant furniture; let them decorate themselves and their é homes, then, with flowers. They cannot spend the winter in Florida ; let them invite the flowers of Florida, then, to come and spend the winter With them, Although we all love flowers, Our taste for them can be cultivated, making the pleasure they afford us immensely greater. They are scattered ' everywhere so abundantly that their influence is diminished by familiarity. After all, how few of us appreciate them as we should, how few of us study them until we thoroughly understand their construction and realize their loveliness. ‘‘Behold,” said the Saviour, ‘the lilies of the field, how they grow.” Wow many heed this suggestion and stop to see ‘‘how they grow,” to treasure up the wonderful lesson they teach of nature and of Ged. And this leads me to say, finally, that ‘“< Flowers are Moral Educators.” They serve as a perpetual stimulant to the moral sense; they exalt our feelings and tastes. Horace Smith exclaims, ‘‘ Your voiceless lips, O flow- ers, are living preachers—each cup a pulpit, and each leaf a book.” We naturally think of Napvleon as one whose stern and hardy nature was developed, at last, by rugged experience, into something like iron, and yet what tenderness and delicate sentiment was still left in him, when we read that he once made this remark: ‘*‘ Where flowers degenerate man cannot live.” He who stops to notice a flower, to pluck it, to admire it, be he ever so bad a man, gives at least one proof against his total depravity, one sign that his heart is yet in sympathy with the great world of beauty. The traveler in Europe and other Eastern lands, sees here and there, exhibitions of wretchedness and poverty, and uncleanliness, at which he stands appalled, but the picture has always this one redeeming character —the lowest of the people cultivate flowers. The love of flowers is the one uncorrupted and unfallen angel that flies with white wings among every class of people. Homes from which almost every nameable com- fort has been driven: where hunger, and nakedness, and want of all kinds, hold sway, can still afford a vine for the shattered window, and a lily, or pansy, or daisy for the ragged children to hold in their dirty hands. Peas- ant children often come running out of their homes with bouquets of flowers for sale, seeming confident, always, that they will find a way, through these, to the stranger’s heart and pocket, while the purchaser feels he has received something better than his money; that rays of beauty have been transferred to him from places where he would have seen no he ol eile ac iia elias 7 adi tt TS oy me ey ee Tee ee yey © MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 25 other light and felt no other pleasure. It was a garden in which the first human beings were placed, and from which their first sins expelled them, and, in finding his way back to the lost paradise, man must enter into the the garden again, pure and beautiful as the flowers that grow there. . DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris proposed to pass over the discussion for want of time, if no objections were made. Mr. Tuttle should like to hear something about the money value of flowers. Think that might be urged as a consideration in favor of their cultivation. 4 Roses. Mr. Elliot :—Why have we lost so many of our hybrid perpetual roses this spring? Have lost 14 or 15 varieties notwithstanding the usual covering. Prof. Peckham :—The late freezes in the spring after the cover- ing was removed are likely to have killed them. When the mer- cury falls below zero it makes little difference to the plant whether twenty or forty degrees. Mr. Elliot :—They appeared unimpared when the growing season commenced and promised to grow and bloom, but then withered and died. Richfield Pansy. Col. Stevens :—Would like to hear from Mr. Hoag concerning the Richfield Pansy exhibited a few years ago. Mr. Hoag :—I do not know whether or not, an inquest was held over it, but if so, the coroner is the man to ask. It died the sum- mer after exhibition. This pansy come from seed obtained by planting four varieties closely side by side, and it combined all the colors of these four varieties. I protect witb covering of straw. Mr. Baker :—A pansy bed must be young. It runs out about every two years. To obtain large plants they must be so grown as to prevent flowering until July or August. Mr. Harris :—Such is my love for flowers that I would rather live on three meals a week than do without flowers. Reports. The Secretary moved that members of the General Fruit Com- 4 \ 26 ANNUAL REPORT. \ mittee be requested to hand their reports to the Secretary, and that the same be published in the Farmers’ Union, and mais go ie in the piven sa kines of the Society. Carried. Winter Meeting. Mr. Elliot moved to recommend the Executive Committee to oe point the next winter meeting at Winona. Carried. / Pomological Society. Mr. Harris spoke of the need of being represented at the meeting of the Pomological Society in September next. : Mr. Hoag moved that the President, Secretary, Mr. Harris and Mr. Elliot be requested to attend the meeting. The Secretary moved to amend by adding that the President and Secretary be instructed to issue delegate credentials to any mem- bers of the Society who may request them with a view of attending. Special Apple Premiums. A motion to sustain the Executive Committee in offering special apple premiums in current premium list of the State Agricultural Society was carried. Life Membership. A resolution relating to life membership was here introduced and passed, but the Secretary is unable to furnish the substance. DISCUSSION ON CURRANTS. Pruning. Mr. Elliot:—Has any one had any experience in pruning cur- rants to improve the fruit or prolong the bearing age ? Mr. Grimes :—Do not prune, but manure, to bring up to bearing a full crop of good fruit. Mr. Brimhall:—Would renew old bushes by cutting out the old wood, and by manuring. Red Dutch is about the best bearer. . ¢ 10 '‘ 7 \ - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 27 Varieties. Mr. Baker :—Will the President name the best three varieties? Mr. Smith :—Prince Albert is one of the best, but late. Victoria is one of the best bearers. Bailey’s Sweet is the best white. La Versailles is also another good red currant. Could not be hired to set Red Dutch. : | Col. Stevens:—The Red Dutch is the best and surest we can raise, while all other varieties soor run out. Mr. Smith :—Have had good success with Victoria set between apple trees. Two rows of currants between two rows of trees standing twenty feet apart. Mr. Harris :—Does the aphis, which causes ¢urrant leaves to curl and fall, do any injury? Mr. Smith :—It does; after the leaves fall the fruit merely col- ors and does not ripen. (In answer to a question.) The White Grape is larger than the White Dutch. DISCUSSION ON RASPBERRIES. It was then moved and carried to take up the discussion of raspberries. Varieties. Mr. Harris moved to recommend the Doolittle for general culti- vation. Mr. Brimhall moved to amend by substituting Seneca Black Cap and Mammoth Cluster. Mr. Smith :—-The Seneca is superior to the Doolittle—hardier. The fruit is larger, better flavored, less seedy and a little later. Mr. Grimes :—I agree with Mr. Smith. The Seneca is the best of all the black caps. The Doolittle is a great bearer, and I would not throw it out entirely, but it sometimes kills to the snow line. Think it would be a good idea to throw some straw over them. The Seneca is an enormous bearer. Would throw out the Mam- moth Cluster. It bears well if it gets through the winter. Mr. Harris :—Have plowed mine up. They are not prolific and ripen late. The birds take them all. Mr. Brimhall :—Have discarded the Doolittle, and now cultivate the Seneca, Davison’s Thornless and Mammoth Cluster. The dif- ficulty with Mammoth Cluster is the cones grow too large. The Thornless is sufficiently prolific to raise for market. 28 ANNUAL REPORT. r. Harris :—I do not find it so. ts ” — Smith :—I find it prolific, and the earliest black cap. Mr. True was asked to name the best red varieties, but declined. Mr. Smith :—I would name the Turner, Philadelphia and Clarke. _ Mr. Elliot moved to amend the first motion by recommending as first, for general cultivation, the Seneca, and adding ~ Doolittle and Davison’s Thornless. Mr. Grimes:—Am not growing red raspberries to any extent now ; can do better with the black caps. Mr. Elliot :—Have a few of the Philadelphia. They have killed back badly for the last two years, but three years ago wee bore a great crop. Mr. Smith:—Mine also have killed back, and I ites héard of others whose vines have done likewise. I have the Tur- ner, which bears better and sells higher than any other red variety. It came through in good condition last winter. Mr. Harris :—Mine also came through in good condition last year. Mr. Smith :—Does any one know anything about the Herstine? Mr. Harris moved to recommend the Turner red raspberry for trial. Carried. Also moved to give the Philadelphia one more year of trial before rejection, but strong objection being made, the motion was with- drawn. Mr. Brimhall :—I have thrown out the Kirtland. Mr. Smith :—I have the Ontario black cap, but not in bearing. . Mr. Harris :—Has any one had any experience with the Harkness black cap? I received six plants from Mr. Sias, of Rochester, and they gave such a yield as I never saw from any others. Mr. Baker :—Is the same soil equally suited to all varieties? Mr. Smith :—The red varieties like more moisture than the black caps. All like moisture, but not stagnant water. The action of the Society on raspberries was therefore as follows: Recommended for trial : Turner’s Red. Col. Stevens moved that members of the Society be requested to send to Mr. Lacy, Professor of Agriculture, specimens of all new varieties of grains, fruit trees, &c., for trial on University farm. Carried. A vote of thanks was tendered the University authorities ine their cordial reception, their hospitality, and the use of rooms for this meeting. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 29 Pres. Folwell invited the Society to make use of the rooms at the - University, and to feel welcome there at all times, and to appoint meetings there whenever convenient. ' Judge Baker moved that Col. Stevens, Gen. Nutting, and the President of the Horticultural and Agricultural Societies, be ap- pointed a committee to apply for a room at the State Capitol for the two societies, and to be open at all times. Carried. The Society adjourned to take another look at the articles on — exhibition, and thus closed the first summer meeting of the Society that has been held for several years. Few or none will venture to call it a failure, though the number present was not large. Many are enthusiastic over its success, and it is hoped that it is the pioneer of a series of summer meetings which shall gradually increase in size, importance and usefulness, and give the Society a reputation which shall establish it on a firm basis. To the success and interest of the meeting the exhibition added in no small degree, and though we speak of this last, the fact must not be taken as an index of its importance. The articles were arranged on two rows of tables flanking the sides of the floor of the new chapel. Articles on Hahibition. Gracing the Secretary’s table were three handsome bouquets re- ceived from Mr. Wm. King, of St. Paul. They contained of roses two varieties, pelargoniums two varieties, fuschias five varieties, heliotrope, verbenas, rose geraniums, and several other varieties of choice flowers. ° Perhaps the most striking and beautiful collection was that of Mr. J.C. Fleischer, of St. Paul. These plants were in pots. They made a truly fine appearance and the thanks of all are due Mr. Fleischer for his labor in placing these on exhibition. The collec- tion comprised geraniums, 11 varieties; begonias, five varieties ; fuchsias, five varieties ; pelargoniums, and other flowers. Mr. C. M. Loring had one basket bouquet and two bouquets of roses. Mr. J. C. Booth, a beautiful Yucca and two bouquets. President Smith, St. Paul—Roses, 20 varieties ; peonies, 10 varie- ties; fuchsias, 5 varieties; calycanthus, feverfew, pinks, dielytra, perennial phlox, verbenas, a Mahonia, green currants, 5 varieties ; asparagus, 4 bunches} Chas. Downing strawberry, 2 baskets ; leaves of bloodroot under cultivation. 30 ANNUAL REPORT. J. S. Harris, La Crescent—Two varieties of sweet beatin: ma Bermuda and Southern Queen. 73h Wyman Elliot, Minneapolis—Peonies, 8 varieties, and some giant specimens of pie-plant. — . Mr. Elliot gave some figures, as follows, relating to his pie-plant: One stalk weighed one pound and 144 ounces; 9 stalks from one hill weighed 13 pounds and 44 ounces; the entire hill, stalks and leaves, weighed 78 pounds. Mr. J. T. Grimes, Minneapolis—Bouquet of mock oranges and roses; peonies, 11 varieties; roses, 12 to 15 varieties; currants, 4 varieties ; gooseberries, 2 varieties ; transcendent crabs. Mr. W. E. Brimhall, St. Paul—Cauliflower, three heads; Golden Russets ; Soulard crabs ; Charles Downing strawberry ; large speci- men Early Rose’ potatoes; pie-plant; asparagus, for table and for hanging ; rose bouquet, of six varieties. PROCEEDINGS AT THE WINTER MEETING HELD IN WINONA, JANUARY 18TH TO 20TH, 1876. Pursuant to notice given through the public press and by the distribution of programmes, the Society convened in the rooms of the city council of Winona, January 18th, 1876. . Winona, January 18th, 1876. The meeting was called to order by President Smith at 11:25 A. M. Welcoming remarks by Rev. Edward Ely: I am glad to see the fruits growers of the State in Winona. Wi- nona is one of the first counties in successful fruit growing in the State, especially in apples. I am glad that you have come from other parts to give encouragement toward raising apples. We have not been very successful for two or three years past. The last two or three winters have ruined bearing trees. I recently made a visit to the poor farm, where last year hardly a barrel of fruit grew on 300 or 400 trees. I hope with the advice and expe- rience of this Society we shall have better success. We have sue- ceeded well with small fruits, strawberries, blackberries, raspber- ries and grapes. We bid you welcome here. I hope you will be ee MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 31 aospitably entertained, and will feel at home in the city. I close with the hope that the attendance on your meeting may be all that can be desired. | Reply of President Smith. We are as happy to meet here as you are to see us. Hope to see your fruits on the table here at our meeting. Hope to meet the apple growers of this section, and, as they are the oldest in this branch of horticulture, they ought to teach us. I congratulate you on the progress this place has made since the first time I saw it, broad fields of waving grass. If thus much has been accom- plished in the last twenty-five years, what may we not expect in the next twenty-five years! And may not horticulture advance with the other improvements? ‘The interest we see you taking in your streets and cemeteries, shows the interest you take in horti- culture. Winona wants not so much the frequent meeting of this Society, as a local society to work for itself and with the State So- ciety. Minnesota, though not the largest State in the Union, is hardly surpassed in variety of soils and climates, and what we want is local societies, which shall search out the varieties and methods suited to each locality. Let us put our hands to the wheel, and work together with a will. Committee on Appointment of Committees. A motion to adjourn was made and seconded. On motion of Mr. Elliot a committee was appointed to report on the appointment of committees and the men to serve on them. The President ap- pointed W. Elliot, N. Buck and P. A, Jewell, but Mr. Buck asking to be excused, Mr. Ely was substituted. Motion to adjourn until 2 o’clock was then carried. TUESDAY AFTERNOON. Meeting called to order at 3:05 P. m. Appointment of Committees. The committee on appointment of committees made its report. On motion of Mr. Grimes it was accepted and adopted. The Pres- _ 7 32 ANNUAL REPORT. : ident proceeded to appoint the committees in accordance with pi report, as follows: | ' Committee for the solicitation and collection of fruits for the Centennial Exhibition to mphort to and be in correspondence with its chairman : Chas. Y. Lacy, Chairman, Minneapolis, Hennepin county. J. S. Harris, LaCrescent, Houston county. S. Bates, Stockton, Winona county. John Hart, Winona, Winona county. Geo. W. Clark, Winona, Winona county. Dr. J. Q. A. Vail, Homer, Winona county. Pp. A. Jewell, Lake City, Wabasha county. Barrett Taylor, Forestville, Fillmore county. E. B. Jordan, Rochester, Olusted county. B. F. Perry, Rochester, Olmsted county. R. B. Hathaway, Pleasant Grove, Olmsted county. E. H. S. Dartt, Owatonna, Steele county. Dr. Twitchell, Chatfield, Olmsted county. T. G. Carter, St. Peter, Nicollet county. Robert Goodyear, Mankato, Blue Earth county. J. B. Swan, Garden City, Blue Earth county. W. W. Pendergast, Hutchinson, McLeod county O. F. Brand, Faribault, Rice county. R. C. Judson, Farmington, Dakota county. Ditus Day, Farmington, Dakota county. F. G. Gould, Excelsior, Hennepin county. P. M. Gideon, Excelsior, Hennepin county. J. W. Boxell, Afton, Washington county. J. I. Salter, St. Cloud, Stearns county. M. C. Bunnell, Money Creek, Houston county. At a meeting of the Executive Committee, held March 5th, it was resolved not to exhibit at the Centennial, but to exhibit with the Pa. State Hort. Soc. at the same place some time in September, when there will be an ad interim meeting of the Am. Pomological Society. The above committee was respectfully requested to per form the same services under this slight change of programme. Committee to report on summer meeting: J. T. Grimes, J. S. Harris, D. A. J. Baker. Committee on cataloguing fruits, shade and ornamental trees : P. A. Jewell, Wyman Elliot, A. W. Sias. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. : 33 - Committee to report on the condition and progress of horticul- ture in the agricultural department of the University of Minnesota : Col. J. H. Stevens, E. H. S. Dartt, Wm. Cannon. Committee on Finance. whose duty it shall be to solicit aid for the promotion of the best interests of the Society : C. M. Loring, Norman Buck, A. W. Sias. Roots for Market. Several members being absent so that the regular order of the programme could not be followed, the paper of Mr. P. C. Sherren, St. Paul, on the ‘‘ The Cultivation of Roots for Market,” was read by the Secretary. At the close of the reading it was ordered incor- porated in the Transactions. The following is the text: CULTIVATION OF ROOTS FOR MARKET. From my not being at St. Paul for a week I did not receive yours of the 30th ult. until a few days since. I beg to state that I raise no early vegeta- bles that require a hot bed .to grow the plants, and only a small quantity of other kinds, as I do not regularly attend any market during the summer, but I will give you a brief account of what I do grow. Onions. I have been a grower of onions in Minnesota every year for fifteen years, and for many years in much larger quantities than what I do now. I con- sider my average crop has been from four to five hundred bushels to the acre, but in the year 1861, I had about eight hundred bushels to the acre; it was considered by all who saw them to be the largest crop of onions ever raised here. My usual method of cultivation is as follows: Soil and Care. I generally grow onions on the same piece of land from year to year, and if possible prepare the land in the autumn by manuring it heavily with well rotted barn-yard manure, plow it in, and early in the spring plow again and work the land until it is as fine as it can be made, then drill in about four pounds of seed to the acre, with a garden seed drill, in rows fourteen inches a part, and as s9on as the onions can be seen in rows, commence hoeing 4nd weeding, and all the wood-ashes that have been saved during the winter are strewn on the rows. Varieties. The kind of onions that I have raised are the Large Red Wethersfield and Yellow Danvers, which I consider the best keepers. L inf Jax bi - 84 . ANNUAL REPORT. ~ MW GE “Cabbage. haa Wg J also raise my cabbage plants tor autumn and winter cabbage in my onion bed by mixing a small quantity of seed with the onion seed which are drilled in together, and have never had the cabbage plants destroyed by the small fly, which is often the case when grown in a separate bed. I attribute my success in raising cabbage plants to having them with the onions, Parsnips and Carrots. I make rule to grow parsnips and carrots on land that has been heavily manured the previous year, by so doing I get no forked roots and am sure to get a large crop. I sow both in drills fifteen inches apart. Beets. I select a piece of land that has been well manured the previous year for my early beets also, and the sort I raise for the early is the Bassano, and the second early, Dewing’s Extra Early Blood Red Turnip. Those two kinds I prefer to all others, and for winter beets the Long Smooth Blood. I sow the two early kinds as soon in the spring as the season will permit, and the late not before the end of May or beginning of June—by sowing late they are of better quality. I sowin drills fifteen inches apart, and thin to about six inches. Roots for Stock. The roots that I grow for winter feed for my cows are Long Red Man- gel Wurzel, White Sugar Beet and Yellow Globe Mangel Wurzel, and can raise from eight hundred to nine hundred bushels to the acre; the land must be heavily manured to raise a large crop. I sow in drills two feet apart, and thin the Long Mangels and Sugar Beets to about a foot apart, but the Yellow Globe can be grown closer together than the others. I consider these roots excellent for milch cows and of great value to feed during the winter. My land is a sandy loam with a little clay mixed with it. I consider it must be an excellent soil for roots and vegetables. By manuring I have never failed to raise good crops. Should you think the above on the cultivation of roots, &c., be worth producing at the meeting of the State Horticultural Society you are at lib- erty to do so. My health has been bad the whole winter. I seldom leave home and cannot venture to take the journey to Winona, but should have been pleas- ed if able to attend the meeting. I am sir, yours respectfully. P. C. SHERREN. Floriculture. The Report of the Committee on Floriculture, by Mrs. Van ham bole, All Aw ot lee ee ie +4 de ee es ee a er ae ee ; ty , ‘ ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 35 Cleve, Minneapolis, was then read by the secretary, and on motion _ of Mr. Jordan ordered incorporated in‘ the Transactions. The fol- lowing is the paper in full: ' REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FLORICULTURE. 4 One who does not know Minnesota by experience, cannot realize the ex- hilerating effect of a winter ride in its clear, keen atmosphere, so full of the life-giving principle that every inhalation is like a draught of the ‘‘ wine that maketh glad the heart of man.” What if the mercury is nearing the bulb? there is no dampness to make one shiver; one’s blood is so thoroughly purified and circulates so health- ily, that he can laugh at the cold; he is alive all over, and, instead of being chilled and uncomfortable, he feels like shouting for joy and thankfulness that his lot is cast in this glorious clime. On the afternoon of January 13th of this our new-born year, after such a ride, which filled my soul to overflowing with a sense of God’s goodness, I found myself, as if by magic, in the midst of lovely flowers and tropical foliage, where the air was soft and warm, the sun shone brightly, and summer reigned in wondeiful beauty. Bright crimson and creamy white camelias opened their lovely cups among dark, glossy foliage; exquisite carnations bent low their fringed petals, heavy with aromatic fragrance; the slender passion vine looked in and out on pretty primroses of various hues, very charming in their graceful simplicity. Geraniums, heliotropes, myrtles, and many other beautiful things, flour- ished in luxuriance all about us;. great begonias, with rich variega- ted leaves and bright blossoms, interspersed with endless varieties of mosses, graceful ferns and delicate water ivies, formed an elegant setting to this bower of beauty, while the slender, shining smilax made wreaths and festoons over all, and vigorous English ivies, with their dark-green leaves, so suggestive in their firmness and durability of the practical com- mon sense of the land of their birth, wound their strong arms around the pillars of this floral temple, giving the air of solidity and security to what seemed so like fairy land, that [almost feared to breathe or speak aloud, lest, like a lovely dream, it might vanish out of my sight. Only ashort time, however, could be spared from imperative duties to enjoy this beautiful vision, and as we took a lingering look, and passed out into the keen air and the snow, I thought what a blessing, and how much real enjoyment the study of floriculture has bestowed upon humanity. During our short summers we enjoy the prairie and forest beauties, and never tire of study- ing and cultivating the wonderful and lovely things which God scatters so bountifully about us; and the christian delights to look up from all these beautiful creations to Him who made them, and say, with a sense of own- ership, ‘‘ My Father made them all.” Shall we not then praise and magnify His holy name, that he has put it into the hearts and minds of men to study the habits of the floral world, so that our enjoyment of them may not cease, when this same dear Father, for wise and kindly purposes, ‘‘ com- mandeth and raiseth the stormy wind, when He giveth snow like wool, 36 _ ANNUAL REPORT. scattereth the hoar frost like ashes, Re forth His ice like canara toF who can stand before His cold?” ; It seems a thing impossible that a horticulturist should be a sceptic, or a wicked man. There are such wonders constantly revealing themselves to him, that not only must his mind acknowledge a God in all these things, but his heart must be softened and warmed to Him, who taketh such thought and tender. care for,even inanimate objects. 2 As proof that the study ana culture of flowers affects the heart, as well as the mind, let me give you an extract from a letter from the South: “The Euonymus, which is valuable either singly or as a hedge plant, has also the silver-leaved variety. Its leaf buds are very conspicuous in win- ter, and have a size and vigor that somehow gives one a sense of courage. It is the plant of all others I would choose, to illustrate two points in botany that often escape the eye of a superficial observer, but which are full of interest, even to young children, when pointed out, viz., the forma- tion and careful packing away of young leaves in the leaf bud, and the existence of the embryo in the seed. The fruit of the Euonymus, in mid- winter, before drying, is a lovely study. The pericarp opens and discloses from one to four egg-shaped orange-colored seeds. Beneath this pretty seed-coat, and the inner, thinner one, lies, embedded in pure white starch, an embryo of bright green color, its two leaves elliptical in shape, so easily separated and so exactly like the large leaves growing on the shrub, that one feels a sort of awe in looking upon the wonder, followed by an impulse to caress softly the sleeping baby plant.” There are heart lessons, as well as great enjoyment to be drawn from this beautiful science, and from the healthy moral influence it exerts, it be- comes the duty of Christians and philanthropists to encourage it. All cannot have a greenhouse filled with tropical beauties, but all can cultivate one or more window-plants, and the gentle humanizing influence of these lovely silent teachers, much more than compensates for the care bestowed upon them. One never feels alone where there are flowers. They seem like sentient beings, and to the old, the feeble, and infirm, they are espe- cially dear. We all know their blessed effect in a sick room, and some of us have seen a feeble, suffering invalid shed tears of joy over a single gera- nium leaf, hugging it to his heart as if it was a living friend. If I could convey to the wards of a hospital my graceful fuchsias, my scarlet geraniums, my pretty twining smilax, and my precious calla, now blooming in all her queenly purity in my window, I am sure they would do more good to the weak and sorrowing ones than the doctor’s visit. And this leads me to speak of the great good accomplished by the flower mis- sions, now so much in vogue, and to suggest that we in Minnesota, who love flowers so well, should make a move towards supplying our hospitals and asylums, our alms-houses, aye, our jails and State prison, with these beautiful gifts of God. Any one who has read the very interesting and instructive story of Pic- ciola must be convinced of the benign influence of flowers on those unfor- tunates who are shut out from their fellow men. God gives these blessings to us so liberally, not from our deservings, but out of His own great love: shall we not share them with those who wai MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 37 have them not? Love and unselfishness are among the lessons they are designed to teach; let us learn these lessons. As a Society let us manifest that we recognize science as the handmaid of religion, and in humble imi- tation of the God of nature and grace ‘‘ who maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth His rain on the just and on the unjust,” let us inaugurate a plan whereby the wilderness of sin and suffering, and the solitary place of the criminal shall be made glad, and the desert of pov- erty and wretchedness shall blossom as the rose. C. O. VAN CLEVE. To the Horticultural Society of Minnesota: \ If these thoughts of mine, written in great haste and in the midst of onerous cares and duties, are deemed worthy of acceptance as a report of our committee, the Society is very welcome to them. I regret that lack of time put it out of my power to send anything better. I love the culture and study of flowers so dearly that when I attempt to write of them, I hardly know where to begin, and a hurried essay or report is always un- satisfactory to me. Very respectfully, C. O. VAN CLEVE. DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris confessed to being half crazy on flowers. They ought to be grown more, especially by farmers. When horticulture has its proper place, every farmer’s. house will be adorned with flowers and furnished with fruits. Hoped that other ladies would follow the example of Mrs. Van Cleve, and give us papers on the subject of flowers. Varieties for Cultivation. Mr. Jewell hoped Mr. Harris would name some flowers and shrubs for cultivation. How flowers inspire humane sentiment we all know, but we want the names of flowers and shrubs for this State. Mr. Harris :—That ought to be left to a committee. There are, however, a few that all can get. Would name for annuals Mexican ageratum, china asters, mignonette, petunias, larkspurs, balsams, antirrhinums or spapdragons. For biennials, pinks, hardy herba- ceous phlox, which is perfectly hardy unless on sandy soil. There are a hundred varieties ; they begin to bloom early in July or last of June, and continue till after frost. When necessary to protect plants, would use strawy horse manure. 38 : ANNUAL REPORT. ‘oy Roses. Hardy roses are the Cinnamon, Blush roses, Harrison rose, Per- sian Yellow rose, and Queen of the Prairie for a climbing rose; this needs protection with litter from the horse stable. The same protection answers for Hybrid Perpetual, and even tea roses. Bulbs. Peonies are easily grown and any one can grow them. For tulips only the slightest protection is needed. They should be taken up once in three or four years and the surplus bulbs given to poorer neighbors. Shrubs. Of shrubs easily propagated and perfectly hardy there are the Snowball and Lilacs, and if one has no money with which to buy, he can get the common Waboo or Burning-bush, which is very fine, but blooms at a different season. The berries, of a crimson color, give the plant the appearance of a burning flame. The High-bush Cranberry is still another fine wild shrub, easily obtained. Bedding Plants. Mr. Elliot:—The wahoo grows commonly on bottom lands. The verbena, geranium and pyrethrum, or fever-few, are fine bed- ding plants, left out by Mr. Harris. The verbena is not excelled, and gives continuous bloom from early tili late. The geranium is likewise very fine. The fever-few is much used in cemeteries, and gives agreeable variety. The gladiolus should be classed with the tulip, as one of the finest bedding plants. Of lilies there are the Japan, tiger, blackberry, and white day lily. The wahoo we should all go into the cultivation of, mere than we do. The berries are of the shape of bittersweet berries, and the foliage turns crimson after frost. Preservation of Plants. Mr. Harris :—I practice a method of keeping geraniums by which any one can handle them. I dig them up before frost, cut back the tops pretty close, set in a box of such size as can be handled ea- sily, and put them in the cellar. No matter how dark it may be; MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 39 if the cellar is dry they will need watering once, but if moist not at all. | : Mr. Cannon :—Prefer leaves for protection for all kinds of plants, ’ especially where they can be obtained plentifully. More Varieties. Mr. Jewell:—There are several varieties of peony of great beauty. Tartarian honeysuckle and the syringa are epartecnly hardy. Weigela rosea is also hardy. Mr. Elliot :—Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora, a shrub bearing white flowers, is fine. Mr. Smith had one that bore 250 blossoms last year, perfectly hardy, easy of propagation, reliable, and can be grown by everyone without protection. Mr. Harris :—The American cowslip is another plant worthy of cultivation. The common aquilegia is another hardy perennial. The hyacinth needs only a little protection. Those are costly. I meant to name only cheaper and at the same time beautiful kinds. Mr. Smith :—I have a yellow jasmine that stands well. Hybrid Perpetual Roses. Mr. Grimes :—Would name hybrid perpetual roses. Had grown many varieties with good success. Grew the first grown in Hennepin county. Protects with straw. Had at one time 42 varieties. The white ones are tender but the colored varieties stand better. His method is to cut back severely, cover roughly with straw, throw- ing the same over the plant. They need high cultivation and ma- nure. They bloom on new wood, and if kept growing all summer they will bloom all summer. They are of all shades of color, and there is nothing equal to them for beauty. The older varieties are hardier than the newones. Gen. Washington and La Reine, Baron Prevost and Gen. Jacqueminot are all hardy. Mrs. Elliot is pret- ty hardy. La Reine is one of the best of bloomers. Mr. Smith :—Had one five feet high, blossoms bright rose color. Mr. Harris :—Knew of one that grew in Brownsville nine or ten feet high, trained on a trellis, and in June it bore a wagon-load of flowers. They are difficult to propagate. ‘This man propagated by layers. Mr. Grimes :—All are propagated by layers or by cuttings. La France is another fine variety. Mr. Cannon :—Madame Charles Wood is another good variety. Mr. Smith :—Madame Smith is a good rose. 40 . _ ANNUAL REPORT. — ' Mr. Jewell :—Have grown a good many roses. Bb gre co with straw, but use it freely and apply it with care. If the 4 is set where the snow stays, and straw is used also, nothing a better. ‘Hetoeg "Horticulture in Anoka County. This discussion concluded, the report of Lewis Martin on the condition and prospects of Horticulture in Anoka county was read by the Secretary, accepted by the Society and ordered incorpo- rated in the Transactions. It is as follows: CONDITION AND PROSPECTS OF HORTICULTURE IN ANOKA COUNTY. ANOKA, MINN., Jan. 12th, 1876. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Sec. State Horticultural Society : DEAR Sir :—Yours of the 10th inst. requesting report of horticulture and horticultural prospects in this locality, received. In reply will say. I have been interested in horticulture for about forty years; have lived in four different States. Climate. For the last twenty years I have resided at this place, and I think all who have had experience with our trying climate will agree with me that the place is yet to be found that presents so little encouragement to the enthusiastic horticulturist as the northern portion of Minnesota. Hard Winter. For the last few years preceding the memorable winter of 1872-3 our winters had been comparatively mild. Wehad commenced planting many of the semi-hardy varieties, such as Haas, Ben Davis, Fameuse, Perry Russet, &c. I was propagating and had on hand a large stock of young trees, from our new seedling apple trees. The most of these seedlings, had been raised by Mr. R. Woodward, William Evans and S. Hawkins, of Henne- pin county. All of these trees had borne fruit for several years, and to all appearance, were as hardy as an oak. Mr. Woodward had an orchard of 25 or 30 trees in bearing, ail seedlings of his own raising, of which he was justly very'proud. These seedlings, together with all of the semi- hardy varieties, were found to be dead in the spring of 1873, and I am sorry to say my Wealthy apple trees, together with Gen. Grant and several others of the new hy- brids, shared the same fate. Iam glad to know, however, that the origi- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 41. nal Wealthy stood the test, and that others are ie Baydag better success in mepresting it than I have had. ure. - Duchess. In this section the Duchess of Oldenburg now ranks as our most hardy apple, but is far from being an iron-clad—they die or give out after bear- ing two or three crops of fruit. ‘ Prospects. Some may differ with me, but I venture the assertion that this ‘portion of the State can never be made profitable for apple growing unless there is a radical change in the climate. Ido not allude to the extreme cold, but to our clear dry atmosphere and the scorching effect of the sun’g rays. Cause of Injury. That the injury to our apples and some of the crabs was due to the sun, is proven by the appearance of the trees in the early part of the season. The bark is always injured or killed on the south side. Another fact—I found in the spring of 1873, that the Duchess of Oldenburg, where they were protected trom the sun by buildings were only slightly injured, while those protected on the north by timber and exposed to the sun were either killed or badly injured. That much of the damage is due io the dryness of our atmosphere is proven by the fact that varieties which pass the winters uninjured near large bodies of water, the temperature being about the same, will kill in the interior. This would seem to prove that the humidity of the atmosphere tends in a measure to counteract the clearness of the atmosphere, thus preventing injury from the sun. Drouths undoubtedly injure the vitality of vegetable life to a certain extent and render it more susceptible to injury. Nevertheless, the direct cause of the damage was heat, and not cold. We may search Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Russia for hardy varieties of the apple, but it will not avail unless we can find varie- ties iron-clad against the effects of a clear, dry atmosphere and the scorch- ing rays of the sun. Siberians. The Siberian family of crabs are at home in all localities and under all circumstances, whether or not protected from the blasting wintry winds, or our scorching summer suns. Transcendent. The Transcendent is. the standard variety here. Our farmers are planting them by the hundred, five hundred and thousand, for the purpose of making cider and cider vinegar. One of our farmers raised about three hundred bushels the past season, which he manufactured into cider. I once saw a prominent member of our horticultural society from the southern portion of the State, rise in his place and declare the Transcendents were not worth raising; said he had so many that after using all he could in his ee © 42. ANNUAL REPORT. family, selling all he could and giving away all he could, that he commenced giving them to his hogs, and that he gave them so many that they would ; not eat them. That is the very reason why they are so valuable—they are such abundant bearers, so thrifty and so hardy. The man who would try to sell our farmers anything else in the shape of apple trees would meet with a poor reception. Some of the new hybrids may prove valuable, but the Transcendent is the tree for ‘‘ the million.” Planting. A very common error in planting has been to plant in low places or sags, protected on the north by rising ground or timber. I have seen Duchess of Oldenburg and Hyslop that were killed dead, and Transcendeuts injured in such places, while those planted on high ground unprotected on the north would escape uninjured. Pears, Plums and Cherries. Pears and tame plums annihilated or killed to snow-level. Cherry trees about the same as the Duchess of Oldenburg. They live a few years, bear small crops of fruit and die out. Small Fruits and Grapes. Small fruits and grapes do well here, and I hope the day is not far distant when our people will give increased attention to their culture. ‘ Recommending Varieties. In conclusion, I would suggest that the Society in recommending a list of fruits (particularly apples) should divide the State east and west, at or near Minneapolis. Such varieties as the St. Lawrence, Red Astrachan, Price’s Sweet, Fameuse, and the Saxton or Fall Stripe may answer for amateurs in the southern part of the State, but I would as soon think of planting peaches for profit. Very respectfully yours, LEWIS MARTIN. DISCUSSION. The discussion which followed this paper was ordered appended to the paper on Methods of Propagation to Secure Hardy Trees, and will be found on page 68, and following. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 43 TUFSDAY EVENING. Meeting called to order at 7:25. Pomological. Mr. Hodges being absent, and his paper not at hand, Mr. Elliot read the report of the delegates to the meeting of the American Pomological Society. On motion of Mr. Jewell the report was ordered incorporated in the Transactions. It is as follows: REPORT OF DELEGATES TO THE MEETING OF THE AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. The biennial session of the American Pomological Society, held at Chicago in September last, was a grand success. The many attending appreciating the fine exhibition of fruits, from British America to the Mexican Gulf—from the Pacific Slope to the extreme limit of fruit cul- ture in New Brunswick. Here were mingled the fruits of tropical and temperate zones. It is said to have been the finest exhibition ever held on this continent. Apples. The king, the apple, was here large, rosy red, blushing like a maiden’s cheek, lustrous and spicy, full of the nectar that our boys and girls enjoy of a long winter evening. Varieties too numerous to mention. Many new seedlings of great promise were shown that mayhap will swell the already large list. Pears. Pears were presented in great variety, some exhibitors’ lists numbering among the hundreds. Marshall P. Wilder had a fine collection of 270 varieties, which deserve the highest honors. Seedlings were numerous, and one collection from B.S. Fox, San Jose, California, was considered extremely fine. Specimens from historical] trees, collected by Robert Man- ning, Salem, Mass., including the Endicot, planted about the year 1630, an orange pear tree 285 years old, a Werder grafted April 19, 1775, and a tree planted by Anthony Thatcher in 1840, were exhibited. Plums. Plums from western New York were exceedingly fine, reminding us of our boyhood days, when in Maine we had Gage, Damson and Purple plums of rare excellence. 44 ANNUAL REPORT. - - Grapes. Grapes were immature for the most part, and showed the want of sun- shine. Seedlings were quite abundant, those of J. H. Ricketts, of New- burg, N. Y, deserving the most attention. Peaches and Blackberries. Peaches in great variety, blackberries enormous in size, presenting a temptation to handle and taste hardly to be resisted, and a collection of semi-tropical fruits, including oranges, lemons, pomegranates, bananas figs, pineapples, &c. Discussions. It was a rare treat to hear those solons of pomology discuss the merits of the different fruits. The cataloguing of fruits was one of the best fea- tures of the convention. It gave every one the benefit of the Society’s experience in a nutshell. Each variety had its poor as well as its good qualities ventilated. There were but few varieties recommended for trial, adapted to this climate. One new variety, the Wealthy, was considered worthy of general cultivation. ' Awards. The committee on award of the Wilder medal, reported the collection of fruits was much better than had been expected, and recommended the awards as follows: 1st, Michigan State Horticultural Society, for the splendid display made by the different horticultural associations of the State. 2d, Iowa State Horticultural Society, for collection of apples beau- tifully displayed by Mr. James Smith, of Des Moines. 3d, Wisconsin State Horticultural Society, for geueral collection of fruit. 4th, Nebraska State Horticultural Society, for collection of apples. To the following in- dividual collections: John Saul, Washington, D. C., for pears; Elwanger & Barry, Rochester, N. Y., for pears and for plums; E. Moody & Son, Lockport, New York, for general collection; J. H. Ricketts, Newburg, N. Y., for a large collection of seedling grapes of great promise; Isidor Bush & Son and Masner, of Basherry, Mo., for a collection of native grapes; D. Redmond, Ocean Springs, Miss., for an interesting collection of semi- tropical fruits; Edward Daniels, Ganston Hall, Va., for pears and grapes; A. Fahnestock, Toledo, Ohio, for pears; Fand. L. Clapp, Dorchester, Mass., for seedling pears and a fine dish of ‘‘ Clapp’s Favorite;” J. W. Manning, Reading, Mass., for pears; Hovey & Co., Cambridge, Mass., for pears; S.E. Chamberlain, Waterford, Va., for apples; B. S. Fox, San Jose, Cali- fornia, for seedling pears. Resolutions. Resolutions were passed designating Baltimore as the place for the bien- nial meeting of the Society in 1877. Also a resolution, by W. C Flagg, denouncing the present postal law relating to third class matter, declaring it a nuisance and urging its repeal. \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 45 South Park. The drive to South Park, tendered to the delegates by the park com- missioners, who escorted them in carriages along their fine avenues and streets (to Grand Boulevard, down to Oakwood Boulevard, on to Drexel Boulevard, down Drexel to Bayard avenue) revealed what had been ac- _ complished in the short space of two years, under the guidance of one of the best landscape architects of the age, Prof. Cleveland. The planting of immense elm trees on the outside, the laying out of flower borders and beds, the planting of ornamental trees and shrubs, and not least, the lawns, more like velvet than mere grass-plots, to one who has an eye for the beautiful, was a treat long to be remembered. The Botanical Garden, though still in its infancy, had growing some 3,000 plants. This park is the largest in the country, and doubtless will in a few years become a place of much renown. No one visiting Chicago should leave before ad- miring the beauty there portrayed by that great architect. Minnesota’s Display. An old adage says, ‘‘ the truth should not be spoken at all times,” but the present requires plain speech; though it may not be agreeable, or look well in print, yet facts are stern realities, and should be presented at times when inactivity and indifference take possession of a Society. Your committee cannot look back on our display of fruits at Chicago with any but feelings of regret, having signally failed to make such an exhibi- tion as we might have done had our fruit growers responded to our solici- tations with the enterprise we expected. Your committee blushed with shame when interrogated by Minneso- tians as to the exhibitions from our own State. We could point to only a few specimens of apples, crab-apples, native plums, grapes, and a few specimens of bottled small fruits (collected by Prof. C. Y. Lacy, for the use of the State University.) I fear the ‘‘ almighty dollar” stood in the way of that encouragement from our friends that we desired. A few of the answers received to our cards of solicitation may give you some idea of how much this splendid opportunity for exhibiting the fruit resources of our State was appreciated, viz.: ‘I think [ shall not send any fruit to the Exposition as I have no apples but Tetofsky, Duchess, and Haas, and can use them to a better purpose. There are but few apples to be had, and I cannot spend time to gather an assortment of any account.” Another says: ‘*T cannot get any fruit worth sending you. I have but few specimens of Wealthy, and those I cannot spare. The trouble is no one will make a present of any fruit.” Yet another: ‘‘I have no fruit to send to Chicago.” A fourth gentleman says: ‘‘ I have but few grapes that are ripe; not enough to do any good.” Here is the whole secret of our failure, and J, for one, am not willing the blame should be ascribed to the committee. The ex- hibition, to be sure, was early for many of our fruits, some of the apples being immature, our late plums not ripe, and our grapes needing at least two weeks’ more time to ripen. The few bunches of grapes on exhibition com- pared favorably with those from farther south. To show you how we missed a golden opportunity for advertising one of our best seedlings, I will give you an example: es a ANNUAL REPORT. There was exhibited a Wealthy apple about the size of a Transcendent crab, the only one on the tables. This stunted specimen was shown as a fair sample of the Wealthy, and no explanation on our part could dispel the ~ idea from people’s minds that it was the best we could produce. A certain reporter who visited the Exposition, returning home and seeing the fruit _ exhibited at our State fair, said in no very complimentary language ‘that we made a failure; it would have been better to have staid at home.” The. year was acknowledged unproductive, but some from favored localities could have added materially to the collection if they had desired. Winona had some very fine fruit on exhibition at the State fair, but I think nota single specimen at Chicago. Lake City exhibited, for two days only, a few plates of crabs and hybrids. W. E. Brimhall, Truman M. Smith and J. T. Grimes, sent a few specimens of Duchess, Transcendents, Hyslops, &c. John S. Harris, as usual, exhibited a number of varieties of standard apples, the best he had. If others had done likewise, we should have had, if not a gorgeous, a creditable display. I desire to impress upon the mem- bers of this meeting the necessity of early and active measures for an exhibition at the Centennial. Exhibitions in 1876. The American Pomological Society, at its last meeting, resolved to ac- cept the invitation of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Association to meet for a social reunion in September, 1876, at the Quaker City. We should mature plans as soon as possible, and it would seem advisable now, while together, to discuss this all-absorbing question. This year is fraught with many benefits to our great Northwest, if we but improve the opportunity of exhibiting to the world in a presentable form the varied products of our soils, not the least among which is the fruit interest. We cannot be sur- passed in the quality of such as we do raise, nor in that beautiful waxen appearance which all our fruits possess. In sprightly flavor our cultivated apples, crab-apples, plums, grapes, currants, gooseberries, raspberries, strawberries, and uncultivated cranberries, blueberries, huckleberries, raspberries, blackberries, &c., excel that from more southern localities. Floriculture should be represented in all its varied forms. Finally, there is much in the State that would be of interest to the gazing throng if we but do our whole duty in placing our resources upon the tables in the most interesting manner. Pardon me for these few suggestions. Let whoever has charge of the collection of fruits not rely upon written solici- tations, but have the pledged assistance of an efficient working committee, whose hearts and souls are in the work; who are willing to contribute time, and money, if need be, in making collections. There are some, not many, I am glad to say, who do not take that interest they ought in an enterprise of this kind. Let us as a society make one grand effort, and send, not only what we ourselves, but our friends and neighbors raise. If a few in each county take the matter in hand, make their collections and forward to the State committee, there will be a variety from which to select some worthy of the object. Never grow weary in well doing. Try to help each other over the rough road of adversity, for we all feel better for a little timely assistance given, ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. — 47 not grudgingly, but with a hearty good will. Our State should be more liberal to our Agricultural and Horticultural Societies. We are looked upon by many as a mutual. admiration society, devoted to the interests of nurserymen and a few stock and grain growers, who have entertained the idea of turning an honest penny by having something better than their neighbors. In the name of reason and common sense, who is to derive the benefit from our enterprise and forethought if it be not the State at large. ‘‘ There seems to be a feeling of distrust among our members, a fear that some one is deriving an unforeseen benefit that will not redound to the advantage of the whole. This is all wrong. We should do away with the feeling of exclusiveness and conceit which exists to some extent among fruit-growers, and substitute instead a universal desire to promote each other’s welfare. That while there shall ever be a healthy and generous emulation, there shall also be more frequent and friendly consultations, a closer union, and better friendship.” ‘There is, that scattereth and yet increaseth, and there is, that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.” ‘In union there is strength.” ‘‘Our State needs your united action.. You yourselves need the stimulus of these meetings, discussions, and exhibitions. Where the wrong shall ne corrected, the right strength- ened, and where the experience of each shall become the property of all.” WYMAN ELLIOT. DISCUSSION. Mr. Jewell explained his action as stated in the report. Said when he found so many crabs beside so few apples, he thought the sooner he got out of the way the better, as people would think we could raise nothing but crabs. Mr. Wilcox characterized the show from Minnesota as miserable, and said he was ashamed of it although Minnesota was not his own but a neighboring State. Mr. Harris explained how the elements prevented effective action on his part by flooding railways and sweeping away bridges. He then read an invitation from the Pennsylvania Horticultural So- ciety to take part in their exhibition and reception on the 12th, 13th and 14th of September, 1876. Horticulture in Southeastern Minnesota. There being no further remarks Mr. Harris read his report on the condition and prospects of horticulture in Southeastern Minnesota, and the report was ordered to be published in the Transactions. The tollowing is the text: 48 ANNUAL REPORT. newer CONDITION » AND PROSPECTS OF HORTICULTURE IN SOUTHEASTERN MINNE- SOTA. — ne a : vs hyip ; Mr. President iad Gentlemen of the State Bostoulturat Society: Authority. Article 6 of the by-laws adopted for the government of this Society at the annual meeting of 1874, requires each member of the general fruit committee to render an annual report upon the fruit crop of his respective district, and present a limited list of fruits best adapted to general culti- vation in the district which he represents, and in accordarce therewith I present the following for district No. 1. Adaptation. There is not a county within our State better adapted to the raising of most varieties of fruit than Houston. The soil is the very best, clay and sandy loam preponderating nearly everywhere. There are no extensive tracts of prairie, and the uneven surface of the land furnishes ample drainage and every desirable aspect for protection. Before Settlement. Before its settlement by the white man, many varieties of wild fruits were abundant, and some of them of superior quality. The strawberry, black raspberry, native plums and wild grapes were growing so plentifully that the first settlers had a bountiful supply of them just for the picking. But as improvements have progressed, and stock is allowed to roam at large, these fruits (with the exception of plums) are fast disappearing, and now hundreds of families do not average to have a single quart of strawberries or raspberries per year, and with all the favorable circum- stances before mentioned but very little tame or improved fruit has been produced. In my opinion this may be traced to a lack of horticultural knowledge. First Planting. The first settlers generally commenced planting fruit trees as soon as they could get a piece of ground broken up, and they usually selected those varieties that were favorites in their former homes, and practiced the methods of cultivation and pruning that were in use in the older States. They had no idea that one variety was hardier than another, and there- fore planted largely of the early harvest, Rhode Island greening, golden pip- pin, jeniton, rambo, &c., from the Rochester, New York, Nursery. These trees planted in the virgin soil made a rank, watery and late growth, and seldom survived the second winter. They re-planted with western grown trees and fared no better, and very soon it became the universal opinion that apples could not be raised in Minnesota. This opinion greatly re- tarded tree planting up to the time of the organization of the State Horti- cultural Society, when it again began to excite attention, and within three or four years of that time almost every farm had its little orchard of iron MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 49 clads, and for a few years they were doing so well that people began to entertain hopes that we should soon have apples, and also pears, in abund- ance. But these hopes were of short duration. Winter of 1872-3. Tne fearful storms and cold weather of January, 1873, which swept over the whole Northwest like a tidal wave, totally destroyed all of the pear trees and more than one-half of the apple trees that had arrived ata bear- ing size, and greatly injured many more. The consequence was a general discouragement which resulted in the neglect of what was left, and fora time the discontinuance of replanting. The partial recovery of some va- rieties, the fine crop produced upon the recovering trees in 1874, and the discovery that the injury sustained was generally from root killing, has combined to awaken a new interest; but the plantations now being made are largely of Siberians. Winter of 1874-5. The winter of 1874-75 was lopg continued and of great severity, but as far as my observation goes no injury was sustained by the apple trees ex- cept such as were previously much enfeebled by disease. Last spring the trees blossomed reasonably well, but the prevailing weather at that time, and for two or three weeks following, was cold and resulted in cutting off tbe apple crop and materially shortened that of the Siberians. However, I am confident that this was a blessing for us, for another full crop with- out a season for rest and recruiting would have been destructive to many of the remaining trees. Pears. For a few years previous to the hard winter a few varieties of pears were doing very well and were being quite extensively planted. In 1872 they fruited so well that several farmers had a surplus for market, and the de- mand for trees was very great. In the month of June of 1872, several ot my trees showed fire blight, and I also noticed it on trees in other places, As the extreme cold of the following winter destroyed all the trees of a bearing age, we are not permitted to accuse blight with having anything to do with their death, and have pronounced them too tender for our cii- mate and but very few trees are now being planted. I do not think that a single specimen of the fruit was raised in the county last year (1875.) Trees from two to five years old are looking very well. Strawberries. This fruit is not as extensively grown as it should be or has been in past years. The hard winters, the ravages of the White Grub and neglect of cultivation has nearly ruined the old planting, and new ones have partially failed from some cause as yet supposed to be unknown. The above cir- cumstances taken into consideration, the crop of fruit for 1875 was very good. 50 ANNUAL REPORT. ms Raspberries. This fine fruit is not receiving much attention. The Doolittle Black Cap, although somewhat injured by the previous winter, produced an average crop, and the fruit was of first quality. The Reds were a failure. Currants. Never before has there been so abundant a crop of currants raised in this county. They are a fruit that is growing in favor because of hardiness and easy cultivation. The currant worm has not yet troubled us. Blackberries. Blackberries are not cultivated to any great extent, and the native wild are not doing sufficiently well to merit notice. Cherries. But few cherries are grown. Ihe common Morellos are the only variety any ways reliable. Crop less than averag@, mostly taken by birds. Plums. No tame plums fruited, and the trees seldom survive to come to a bear- ing age. The native produces an abundant crop of fruit. Some attention is being paid to the cultivation of some of the best varieties. Good plums are in demand in the markets at fair prices. The Desoto is being tried, and promises well. Doubtless the coming plum will be a seedling raised from the best native wild. [And why not? In America the greatest men have come from the ranks of the toiling masses. } Grapes. For the perfect development of this valuable fruit the season was unfa- vorable. With such weather as we usually have in August and September the crop would have been immense; but with the several weeks that we had of cool, cloudy and wet weather, the ripening progressed slowly, and the early frosts ruined a large proportion of the crop; and I have fears that with most varieties the wood has not matured sufficiently to endure this winter. The Concord is most extensively grown, and so far has proved to be the best grape for the people. New Fruits. I am not aware that any new fruits of special merit have been brought out during the last year. Vegetables. Vegetable gardens have done remarkably well, and I have never known a season in which veegtables of all kinds were better or more plentiful. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 51 . Flowers. ' The love of flowers seems to be universal, and the cheapness ot green- house plants, and the choice seeds sent out by Jas. Vick, and others, are making it very easy to gratify that love. Their cultivation is largely on the increase. INSECTS IN 1875. White Grub. The White Grub, the larva of the May Beetle, has caused the most alarm both to the farmer and the gardener. Working under ground and out of sight, the damage is done before their presence is discovered, and scarcely any useful plant has entirely escaped them. Many strawberry beds are entirely ruined, and I have noticed some fruit trees seriously injured by the bark being eaten from their roots. Borer. The Flat-headed Borer is at work in the trees that were enfeebled by the winter of 1873, and the young and healthy trees do not entirely escape them. Codling Moth. The fruit of the apples and crabs was not as badly injured by the larva of the codling moth as usual. Whether their numbers were diminished by the severity of last winter, or by some insect friend that is coming to aid in exterminating them, I am unable to say. Beetles. In examining specimens of apples last summer, I frequently found a small beetle in them and no worm. I would ask older and more learned horticulturists if they have any knowledge of an apple-worm that changes to a beetle, or a beetle that infests the fruit. The saw worm, which was very destructive the previous year, has disappeared. Grape Worm. A more than usual quantity of grades were stung by some insect, and contained a small white worm. This may prove acause for alarm and great watchfulness should be exercised by grape growers to prevent its becom- ing a pest by getting numerous. The fruit grower is beset with enemies on every side, ranging in size from the microscopic insect to the six-foot vagabond boys of our villages. We have asked our Legislature to provide us an entomologist; we must ask them to make more efficient laws against fruit thieves; and in the meantime let every one remember that ‘ eternal vigilance is the price of fruit.” 52 _ ANNUAL REPORT. > FRUIT LISTS. ag In conclusion, I present the following list of fruits for this district. Apples for General Cultivation. Duchess of Oldenberg, Haas, Fameuse. For trial—Walbridge, Utter’s Red, Red Astrachan, Plumb’s Cider and White Astrachan. Pears. Flemish Beauty. Plums. Best natives. Strawberries. Wilson, Downer’s prolific. Chas. Downing for trial. Raspberries. Black caps, Davison’s Thornless, Seneca, Doolittle. Red, Philadelphia, Turner. Currants. Red Dutch, white grape. Grapes. Concord and Delaware. Siberian Apples. Transcendent crab. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOHN S. HARRIS, Member of Fruit Committee for First District. DISCUSSION. The Turner Raspberry. Mr. Smith:—The Philadelphia killed with me last winter to the ground while the Turner stood uninjured. Mr. Harris :—With me also the Philadelphia was killed and the Turner uninjured. Mr. Wilcox :—With me the Philadelphia withstood the winter of 1872-3 and was killed by the winter of 1873-4. Mr. Smith said he thought it was a general experience that where ‘MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 53 the Philadelphia had failed the Turner had stood. Could not speak certainly about the productiveness of the Turner. It is the earliest to ripen and continues to ripen for a long time. Obtained 50 cents per quart for this when the Philadelphia did not bring 30 cents, but they were marketed with great care. Mr. Jewell :—Have had it for two years. It is perfectly hardy, multiplies by suckers more rapidly than the Philadelphia. Got a few berries the first year and a few last year, but not enough for a picking from 200 plants. The season is long—six weeks. Mr. Smith :—Have set all of this kind in preference to Philadel- phia, but none yield so much, in so short a time, as the Philadelphia. Mr. Bunnell :—The Philadelphia stood with me last winter on a light soil with a northern exposure, Hart’s Seedling Strawberry. Mr. Elliot :—The Society should recognize the new strawberry of Mr. Hart. Mr. Hart has experimented with varieties of strawber- ries for several years and this is the best he has found or produced. The quality is as good as most of the large varieties, better than the Wilson. Mr. Smith :—Better than the Wilson, and the finest berry I saw last summer. Mr. Hart says it is more prolific than the Wilson. Mr. Harris:—Some specimens I received last summer were the best I ever saw. Strawberry Cultivation. The paper of Mr. Seth H. Kenney on Strawberry Cultivation was called for and read by the Secretary, after which it was ordered that the paper be abridged by the Secretary and published in the Trans- actions. It is as follows: STRAWBERRY CULTURE. MORRISTOWN, Rice County, Minn., Jan. 9th, 1876. Mr. President and Members of this Society: I received an invitation from the Secretary of this Society asking me to write a paper on strawberry culture, and without waiting for areply, stated that he had already placed my name on the programme, and hoped I would find it agreeable and convenient. &c., leaving me no honorable chance to say no. My love for the cultivation of smal] fruits is so great, there is so much to learn, andI have made so little progress in this interesting branch of 54 ANNUAL REPORT. horticulture, that it is with great reluctance that I present this paper to the Society. Ihave for some years made the cultivation of small fruits my- leading business, and shall have to confine this paper to my own practical experience. eal y Merits. I think there is no fruit that will grow so well, almost everywhere and with so much neglect, as the strawberry; andI might add that with good cultivation and protection no fruit gives so general satisfaction, or better returns for the labor bestowed. Without further preface I proceed to the subject in hand. Age of Plants. I have always made it a point toset plants of the previous year’s growth. The roots of such plants, if grown from young-set plants on good mellow soil, stirred well between the rows with a shovel plow, just before it is time for the runrers to take root, will have a light color like the roots of horse radish. A plant that has borne a crop of berries and then trans- planted will never yield well. Preparation of the Soil. I have become convinced that deep plowing is very important in the cultivation of the strawberry. To prove this I have carefully dug the roots of Michigan Seedling that had been planted one year in hills on good mel- low soil, and found the roots had grown down into the earth 12 inches. I have mentioned Michigan Seedling because I raise more of this variety than of any other berry. Every one can see the advantage of having the roots go deep enough to get plenty of moisture in a dry season. I think any ground that will raise a good crop of corn will raise good strawber- ries. I think ground cau be made too rich for most strawberries, but Michigan Seedling is an exception, as I have manured this kind highly with the best results. The best fertilizer I have ever used was wood ashes, at the rate of one peck to the square rod, sifted or spread on when the leaves got fairly to growing in the spring. Time of Year to Set Plants. I have had the very best of success in setting plants the last of April. I have set plants in August, September, October and November, and by careful mulching brought part of them through the winter, but I cannot see that there is much gained by setting in the fall. The Ida. In setting, pistillate varieties, such as the Ida, for instance, should be set in alternate rows with staminate varieties, such as the Wilson, Michigan Seedling, Early Scarlet, Charles Downing and Nicanor, which are rich in pollen. When placed beside any of these the Ida has many good qualities, / MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 55 I have grown it for a good many years and can confidently recommend it to fruit growers. It is a rank grower and throws out a good many runners. I set in rows three feet apart and alternating with some one of the above va- rieties. I cut no runners on this variety and the next season each plant sends up one or two or more tall fruit stems which hold up their fruit better than any other variety. The berries are of fair size, and among the first to get ripe, beginning to ripen about four days later than the Early Scarlet They are rather sour but of fair flavor, and the latest though somewhat Smaller are the best berries I ever tasted. The experience of other grow- ers is the same in this respect. It is one of the hardiest varieties I am acquainted with and the berries last longer than any other. Time to Cultivate. The time to cultivate is before you can see any weeds, especially if the land has not been kept clean before. I would not wait until I could see weeds, it is so much easier to take them when small. This constant cultivation keeps the soil moist in a dry season and saves much work that would have to be done otherwise by hand. Where the plants are mulched I take no plow into them till after fruiting. Time of Ripening. The first on the list for four years past was Early Scarlet, a bright red berry and a very good berry, The first sent to market in 1872 was a pail- ful June 8th; in 1873, June 22d; in 1874, June 19th; in 1875, June 22d. This variety is a prolific bearer, and coming as it does so ealy, brings good prices. I will here say I have cultivated this variety for fifteen years, and it never has failed but once. One year, from some unknown cause, the vines were barren. The treatment of this variety has been different from other varieties. I set a large bed of them and do not cut any runners; let them cover the ground. The next season, after fruiting, I plow once in 12 inches, alternate strips, and drag it well, and then let them run over the new plowed ground for the next season. Then plow up the strips that were left the year before. After fruiting, I have to pull and hoe a good many weeds, but I think it pays to keep them clean. The length of the strawberry season for the past year was from June 22d to July 14th, 22 days, that I furnished the city of Faribault with berries. The season for table use was six days longer. I have looked over my books and find on June 22d we picked 60 qts.; June 24th, 79 qts.; 26th, 168 qts.; 28th, 226 S.; 30th, 410 qts.; July 2d, 468 qts.; 3d, 16 qts.; 5th, 736 qts.; 7th, 392 qts.; 9th, 184 qts.; 12th, 177 qts.; 14th, 77 qts.; total for the season, 93 bushels. Most of first two pickings were Early Scarlet. After that the other varieties began to get ripe. The last picking was made on the same day we picked the first Doolittle black cap raspberries. s Varieties. s Michigan Seedling.—This berry tastes much like the Wilson, It is much more productive with me. I plant it for the main crop, and have for quite a number of years, and one year with another it pays the best. The ber- 56 ANNUAL REPORT. ries are large and hold their size well to the last picking. It is avery rank grower, and I always plant them in hills 20 inches apart, and pick ‘off all the blossoms the first year, as I do with all kinds when newly set. - keep all the runners picked on this variety except to produce plants. Ex cept the first year it throws out no yunners until the plants are done | ting, which is not the case with any other variety that I am acquainted rt Charles Downing has a short root like the Wilson. Does not stool u hills enough to make it profitable, except in matted rows. Did well hn season. A splendid berry, uniform in size, very fine fiavor. Will not stand a drouth as well as some other varieties. ° Downer’s Prolific.—Not a large berry, quite early. A bluish bloom on the berry leads some people to say it is mouldy. This variety, on rich ground and ina rainy time is apt to mildew. This variety does best on old beds without being plowed up. If I wanted a strawberry bed and to do no work on it after the first year, I would plant this variety. I havea bed that has not been plowed for four years, that last season yielded well. A few Charles Downing mixed to help fertilize them makes do much better. Green Prolific.—Of excellent quality, large, of fine flavor, and planted beside Wilson or Michigan seedling, have been quite profitable with me. Kramer’s Seedling.—Originated in Iowa. Quite hardy, a blood-red berry of very fine flavor, a rank grower, rather deficient in pollen. Not always a sure crop, but has some seasons done well. Triomphe de Gand. A French varlety. A very fine flavored berry. Rather tender. I have known it to kill when well mulched. Some seasons it does well, but it is a tender variety for this climate. Hardines of Varieties. I have never covered many plants of any kind. My experience warrants me in saying early scarlet is the hardiest of any thing I have found. The Ida next, and Michigan seedling and Wilson next. Last season I had two beds of strawberries that faced the south; one was Wilson and the other was early scarlet; the Wilsons were about half killed, while the early scarlet were not hurt in the least. One year ago last fall I mulched four rows of Michigan seedling heavily with crushed sorghum stalks. [I let the mulching remain till I saw the green leaves begin to come in sight. I then uncovered the hills where I thought the plant could not get up through, and Jet the mulching remain till after fruiting. I never have seen as good a crop. They were larger, nearly a week later, than other rows of the same variety on the same ground. Some idea of the pro- ductiveness may be gained from the fact that the picker who gathered them picked 50 quarts in one-half day. I came to the conclusion that mulching paid. . Hills or Matted Rows. I have cultivated Michigan Seedling, Green \Prolific, Wilson, Kramer’s Seedling and other varieties iu hills, while the Ida and Early Scarlet as be- fore described. {* ' / ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 57 Time to Mulch : ‘Strawberries need air till the ground is frozen, and then a light sub- stance for mulch is much the hest. When the leaves begin to look green I should open the mulch over the plants. A northern exposure, where mulch- ing is not practiced, is much the best, as the snow; one of the best cover- ings, remains there longer. The best way to keep suow on large fieids of strawberries is to plant raspberries every 25 or'30 feet, two rows six feet apart, with the strawberries in the wide spaces. Crop of Plants. Taking a crop of plants from a bed of Michigan Seedling diminishes the following crop by one-fourth to one-third. I do not think it makes as much difference with most other varieties. Receipts. The average price I received for strawberries in the city of Faribault, in 1875, was 153 cents per quart. The cost of picking was 2 cents per quart, and commission for selling 15 per cent. The 93 bushels brought, tnere- pore, $445.95. Deducting cost of picking and commission left $319.49. There were some other expenses, as cost of delivering, and loss of boxes, which would amount to $30.00 more, leaving a net of $289.49. I cannot tell the exact area but think it is about two acres. Best Varieties. From my experience I should say the best three varieties for general cultivation are Michigan Seedling, Early Scarlet and Ida. I would not say there are not better kinds. But I have done the best with the three above named kinds, and this result has been reached after testing over twenty varieties. The Wilson. There are many people that want Wilson plants. I have tried them for years. The reason I still try them is that people will buy Wilson plants. In the first place they have a short root, and cannot stand a drouth well. They have very short fruit stems, so that the fruit soils badly when it rains. . It does not hold its size well after the first and second picking. And last of all, I never have obtained two crops on the same bed. It exhausts itself the first bearing season. I presume my views will not agree with many on this berry, but different locations make a difference. Kentucky. I see by the report of the Dlinois State Horticultural Society this winter that they recommend the Kentucky. This same variety I tried three years, and then plowed them all up. The same with Jucunda and Ameri- can Agriculturist. - ) 58 - ANNUAL REPORT. ah 4 Col. Cheney. ~ I am testing Col. Cheney. It is a pistillate and did not fertilize well. After fruiting I wrote to A. M. Purdy, who advised planting the Wilson beside it. Had a few berries that were very fine from this variety. Soil. . , The soil where I have grown strawberries is on a northern exposure, except the beds of Wilson and Early Scarlet, already mentioned. It isa rich loam with a clay subsoil, and was formerly covered with Sugar Maple. One word more and I have done. If you would make your homes attract- ive, if you would have good health, plant a good bed of strawberries. It will cause smiling faces and help to overcome many of the ills of life. fr Respectfully yours, SetTH H. KENNEY. DISCUSSION. Varieties. Mr. Grimes :—He has not the Downer’s prolific. Mr. Smith :—He evidently has the Colfax. Mr. Harris :—I never saw a good Green prolific. Mr. Grimes :—They are good to sell, to fill the basket. Mr. Smith :—Mr. Brimhall has the Charles Downing, and it has done well with him. It sold in St. Paul at five cents per quart more than the Wilson. Mr. Brand:—I have a few Michigan seedlings. Set 500 two years ago, and last summer they were the only ones I got fruit from. Also set Charles Downing and at the same time, and got no fruit from them. The soil was a black vegetable loam. Mr. Smith :—I get different reports of the Charles Downing from different localities according to the soil. Mr. Jewell:—I know only what I have seen on other places. Mrs. Brand told me a year ago last summer that the Wilson gave the best crop. Mr. Brand :—I had then no bearing plants of the others. Mr. Smith :—Have Boyden’s No. 30. The plants made a good growth last summer, but as it was the first season, gave only a few berries. Mr. Smith :—Have discarded the Col. Cheney and Col. Wilder. Mr. Bunnell :—The Col. Cheney is a wedge-shaped and fine look- ing berry. Mr. Grimes :—We should guard against recommending varieties MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 59 from sample, as the berries may be large but the vines not pro ductive. For example, I bought three plants of the Dr. Nicaise for $1.00, took good care of them, and the second year the three plants produced one berry. Mr. Wilcox :—I will report from the other side of the river. I used to get from the strawberry king at Knoxville many varieties and try them. I got the Col. Wilder and others. Finally I quit trying and got down to the Wilson, and I now raise nothing else. Would report the yield of Mr. Smith, of Green Bay, who obtained over 400 bushels of Wilson’s Albany from an acre. Got myself $450 from one acre of Wilson’s Albany last year. Mr. Jewell :—Every man who grows for profit has got down to the Wilson. Until the new ones are tried, we will retain the old ones. Mr. Grimes :—The Charles Downing has been spoken of highly to me by several persons. Mr. Harris :—I pretend to keep the weeds from only the Wilson and Downer’s Prolific, but since I saw the Charles Downing have been favorably impressed with it. I doubt the genuineness or value of the Michigan Seedling, as it was introduced by a villainous- looking individual. Mr. Pearce :—Mr. Cook is the best cultivator in Rochester, and he considers the Charles Downing the best. Mr. Smith :—I can’t sell Early Scarlet at five cents per quart in the St. Paul market when people can get larger ones. @ Mr. Harris :—They are unsaleable after the Wilson comes. Mr. Elliot :—It is the common experience that the Wilson brings double what the Early Scarlet does. The Wilson is the hardiest and most productive strawberry we have. Mr. Grimes :—The Early Scarlet is good for preserves, and good to stand neglect. Mr. Wilcox :—The Charles Downing is a good berry, but too soft for marketing. The list of strawberries as it stood before was then adopted, with _ the amendment that we recommend Downer’s Prolific for home use, Charles Downing for general trial (14 for and 5 against,) also Michigan Seedling for trial, (9 for and 0 against.) Varieties Recommended. The action of the Society on strawberries is therefore as follows: 60 ANNUAL REPORT. Recommended for general cultivation : 2 Wilson’s Albany. Recommended for cultivation by amateurs : Green Prolific, as an abundant bearer. Recommended for cultivation fer home use: Downer’s Prolific. Recommended for general trial : Charles Downing. (14 for, 5 against.) Recommended for trial : Michigan Seedling. (9 for, 0 against.) Hart’s Seedling. A number spoke in favor of recommending Hart’s seedling. Mr. Smith explained that the action of the Society in passing it over was in accordance with Mr. Hart’s wishes, who desired to ex- hibit it at the summer meeting before it was recommended. Prof. Phelps then invited the Society to hold sessions at the Normal School building, and to be present at the morning exer- cises of the school the following morning. The invitation was accepted by a unanimous vote. WEDNESDAY MORNING. The meeting was called to order by the President at 10: 25. The Normal School. The members of the Society had previously witnessed the morn- ing exercises of the Normal School. The order, discipline and training displayed in these exercises delighted every one and called forth expressions only of satisfaction. At a given signal the pu- pils of the Normal Department found their seats without noise or confusion. At another signal the pupils of the model school en- tered in three divisions, each headed by its leader. On entering the room each division formed fours, halted, faced about and re- mained in the aisles during the exercises, after which they formed , : MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 61 twos and marched away under the leadership of their captains. The Normal classes were then dismissed in order to their class rooms. When the hall was cleared the Principal, Prof. Phelps, re- marked that to show what could be done in case of fire or other accident, he would bring the pupils all back to their places in the hall inside of two minutes. The signal was given and the pupils appeared, taking their places easily and naturally, and within the time specified. After these exercises the visitors were shown into some of the class rooms, where hoth teachers and pupils showed a modest confidence and self-possession not easy to assume before a crowd of critical strangers. Had every school in the country a teacher trained in such a school as this, the superintend- ent in his visits would not find teachers too diffident to answer his questions, or go on with classes in his presence. Order, system and neatness were apparent in the movements of each pupil, and in everything about the building. It is only to be regretted that the means at command are not sufficient to put the surroundings of the building in keeping with the interior management. Statistics. A paper or circular from the Department of Agriculture was read and explained. The circular asked for statistics of fruit trees and fruit products. A committee of Messrs. Brand, Grimes and Jewell was appointed to collect and prepare such statistics. Plums. Mr. Boxell’s paper on the improvement, propagation and culti- vation of the Plum was then read by the Secretary, and ordered published in the Transactions. IMPROVEMENT, PROPAGATION AND CULTIVATION OF THE PLUM. Secretary Minnesota State Horticultural Society : Deak Sir :—Much to my regret, I shall not be able to attend the meeting at Winona, and although I do not think I have any special knowledge of the subject, I shall, in compliance with your request, give you a few notes at random, on the ‘‘ Improvement, Propagation and Cultivation of the Plum.’’ Trees. First get your trees. My first plan was to take sprouts in the spring from trees growing in the thickets which we had marked when the fruit was ripe. Selecting some for extreme earliness, some few for lateness, 62 . ANNUAL REPORT. and many for large size and fine flavor. I also got sibel ‘feom the culti. vated native trees in my neighborhood, which I thought valuable. In this way I started my plum orchaid, which I hope to improve by obtaining choice varieties from the fruit growers of our State. ns sets Cultivation. } bpepenane As to cultivation, plums seem to do tolerable well with or without it on most soils. I think they prefer a rich soil and high culture. A neighbor of mine has a fine plum tree which bears a fine crop of fruit only when he digs aboat it and manures it the precediug spring. I know plum orchards however, sodded over with grass and uncared for which do quite well. Planting. Plum trees may be planted quite close, or as fur apartas youlike. Ihave a small orchard planted in the spring of 1871, in rows 12 feet apart, the trees 6 feet apart in the rows. I intended it for a wind break as well as for fruit. I cultivated well and they have done well, and already begin to crowd one another in the rows. I shall remove half of the trees and plant the best of them elsewhere, leaving the remaining trees 12 by 12. I have taken bearing plum trees from the woods, with trunks two inches in diam- eter and covered with rough bark and moss, cut off the tops close, scraped off the moss and planted them early in the spring, and they soon made fine symmetrical tops and have borne fruit abandantly. Propagation. Choice kinds of native plums may be propagated rapidly as follows: Take up roots in the fall the size of a man’s finger, greater ur less, pack them in dry sand and keep them in the cellar till spring, then cut them in pieces three or four inches long, and plant them three or four inches deep. The roots may also be taken up early in the spring and planted immediate- ly. If the soil is light and dry press it well and mulch. I have not yet grafted any plums myself. Improvement. For the improvement of our native plums, I propose that we allow no plum trees bearing poor fruit to grow in or near our orchards. Let them be destroyed utterly. Then let us plant the seeds of our best plums, aim- ing at largeness of size and sweetness of flavor, and aiming to get rid of that harshness, astringency, or ‘‘ pucker” that nearly all native plums have, in a slight degree at least, when cooked. Black Knot. Now let me tell you what I know about ‘‘black knot.” WellI don’t know anything about it, except that it is hereditary and incurable by any means known to me, but not at all contagious. I could give my reasons for this belief, but I fear the length of my paper is already greater than its im- portance. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 63 Uses, In conclusion ( mention some of the uses we make of our plums besides eating them from the tree and pared with cream and sugar. We eat them stewed and in pies. The very best develop but little harshness 1n cooking. We use them pickled and spiced, and in plum butter, jellies and preserves, and for canning. We seal up large quantities in stone jugs, using about one-third enough sugar to make them palatable when first cooked. They improve by keeping, and when opened the next spring they are about sweet enough. In this paper I have spoken only of our native Minnesota plums. yee J. W. Boxe.t. « DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris :—The roots should be cut up only in the spring. Mr. Elliot :—Some varieties require manuring. Harrison’s Peach is a shy bearer, but by manuring heavily it produces fair crops. Black Knot. Mr. Carter :—I think the ‘‘ black knot” is contagious. Mr. Smith stated that Mr. Boxell had set a healthy tree in a grove affected with ‘“ black knot” and this tree remained healthy. Mr. Carter :—Have seen a grove of healthy trees affected over a considerable intermediate space from a grove of diseased trees. Cutting off branches affected does not help the matter. Keeping Roots. Mr. Dartt :—Think if the roots are placed in dry sand they will wither. They should be put in moist sand and then they will cal- lous by spring. Must be careful and not use the roots of grafted trees. . - Mr. Elliot :—I use sand and sawdust mixed in equal parts and of natural moisture. Mr. Harris :—By the term dry sand we do not mean peony dry sand, but only not wet sand. Mr. Stewart :—I bury the roots out of doors in the natural soil, covering about a foot deep, and they do not heat or sprout. Mr. Dartt :—I object to calling it dry sand when moist is meant. Mr. Jewell :—The point is well taken, and not only that, but a certain degree of moisture is required. I pack in moist sand and then cover with sawdust. May saturate the sand and it will dry out, unless so protected. 64 > ANNUAL REPORT. Fp Plum List. On motion, the revision of the plum list was taken up. Mr. Dartt called for reading of the plum list as last adage The latest action of the Society was to recommend only the best varieties known as native, or belonging to the wild order. ' ‘ Miner. , Mr. Jewell moved that the Miner plum be recommended for gen- eral cultivation. ‘ Mr. Harris :—Would like to know if the nurserymen have the Miner to sell ? . Mr. Jewell :—I have not, and do not know of any one who has. Seven years ago I obtained some trees and have not obtained one plum. Moved them two years ago, but they have not borne since, though in spring they are amass of blossoms, Afterwards I got some from other sources to sell, and these trees set two years later than the first have borne for two years at least. I have spoken disrespectfully of the Miner, but now think better of it. Mr. Grimes :—Am glad I was not the one to put forth the reso- lution, lest some one would charge me with ax-grinding. Have had the Miner for several years. Bought ten trees. Some are now nearly a foot thick. Have borne well. Sold seven bushels last year. Sell more readily and bring more than other varieties. Sold mine for $2.00 per bushel. Have seen one man who wants 500 trees of them. If there is any variety of plum, native or for- eign, that is valuable, it is the Miner. It is the latest, and the fruit stands considerable frost. There is no doubt but some trees were spurious when they first came around. But if mine are not genu- ine then I have a spurious variety that we ought all to have. Got mine of Joel Barber. Mr. Wilcox :—I also got mine of Joel Barber, and would go a mile to cut down a Miner if they were all like mine. Mr. ‘Harris :—Had seen the fruit of the Miner at the State Fair, and got a poor opinion of the Miner. But last fall saw some of a different character. Have known of cases of fraud in which sprouts were sold from the roots of grafted trees. Mr. Jordan :—I bought 200 trees, said to be the Miner, and the mildest winter they killed down six inches, and this winter two feet. Got them from Mr. Budd, of Iowa. A great many were planted in Iowa before the hard winter and they were cut to the ground. I MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 65 think I know something of the history of the Miner. On the river bottoms of Illinois there grows a small, bitter plum, that after lay- ing away for some time, becomes agreeable in flavor. The leaf is like a peach leaf, and | think I should know the plums derived from this species by the leaf alone. All Miners here are from this species. I also have the Wild Goose, which also belongs to this species, and is as tender as a peach. Some variety of the same species stands on Mr. Gideon’s place, and is called the Miner. These have stood the winter, but the fruit undergoes the same change in keeping. Mr. Dartt :—The genera! reputation of the Miner is variable, and it is, therefore, wrong to recommend it for general cultivation. I move to amend so as to recommend for trial instead of general cultivation. Mr. Jewell :—Have never known the Miner to kill after the first _ year. Doubt Mr. Jordan’s ability to tell the Miner by the leaf alone. Mr. Smith :—Think the diversity of opinion due to whether the tree is a genuine Miner or nol. I got six trees from Mr. Sherman, of Rockford, Ill., and these six trees proved to be of six different varieties. I afterwards got some for a friend from Mr. Vail, and he showed beautiful fruit produced from these last summer. We should not discard the var kety because the tree is not always genuine. Mr. Grimes :—The Miner is from the Chickasaw plum, of which there are many varieties that cannot be distinguished by the leaf alone. It is tender only when young, and after that hardy. Mr. Gideon’s are not Miners, as he himself confessed when he saw mine. Mr. Jordan :—All the so-called Miners are similar in leaf, and so much like the Sloe as to show their parentage. I got mine from Mr. Miner himself. Mr. Carter :—I have three old trees, and hence supposed to be genuine. The leaf is not like a peach leaf. Know no wild plum that is hardier. The best plum grown in Minnesota. Mr. Philips :—I obtained six Miner plums from three different men, and one of them proved genuine. Mr. Carter :—Before it is ripe the fruit is a magenta color, and when fully ripe, crimson. Mr, Hart :—My experience is that it is worthless in Minnesota. The Miner plum was then recommended for trial by a vote of 13 for and four against. 9 a 5 66 ANNUAL REPORT. NTA De Soto. “ste Loe Mr. Jeweil moved to recommend for trial the De Sates niialicien seconded by Mr. Harris. It bears young and bears heavily, but the size is not as great as was expected, and in quality it is tiie: wnat as others, second rate. _ Mr. Elliot :—Three years ago I bought four trees for $5, and planted them. The second year they bore a few and last year they were loaded. From the four trees, I got half a bushel of fruit. The tree is extremely productive and perfectly hardy. The quality is not as high as that of the Miner or Harrison’s Peach. The fruit is of good size, yellow with a red cheek. It is a soft plum, It comes from Mr. Hale, of Iowa, and is a seedling from the native plum. Expect to have twenty varieties in fruiting next year. Consider the De Soto a good plum. The Harrison’s Peach, unless highly cultivated, is not productive. Mr. Wilson, of Richfield, had a seedling at the State fair that I consider of promise. Some plums have a sour pit, with an astringent skin, not noticed when first taken into the mouth. Mr. Harris:—The De Soto originated in Wisconstae and Mr. Hale got his stock by getting several large trees. ; Mr. Brand :—We should make it a principle not to recommend a variety until we know something about it, and nurserymen should not sell it until they know it at sight. Mr. Elliot-—-No spurious trees of the De Soto have been sent out. Mr. Hale is honest with it and deserves credit for it. The De Soto was then recommended for trial by a vote of 10 for and 8 against. Mr. Harris :—Am satisfied that’ better plums grow wild in every county than the Miner or De Soto. Natives. Mr. Dartt offered the following resolution : Resolved, That in view of the vast number and variety of native plums of great excellence in our State and the uncertainty of getting a genuine arti- cle by importation, therefore we recommend that our people depend prin- cipally upon our own native thickets for a supply. Mr. Buck wanted to know what some of the excellent varieties were. Mr. A. C. Hamilton hoped to see the resolution adopted. He was impressed with the value of the native plum while driving MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 67 through the Chatfield woods last summer, and seeing fine bearing trees not over four feet high. Mr. Dartt believed that the recommendation of certain varieties opened the door for unprincipled agents to impose fraudulent varie- ties upon the people. Mr. Jewell believed that the Society should recommend approved. varieties else how should any improvement be made in the plum? ' Mr. Wilcox thought the resolution was just the thing, and if nur- serymen were so sensitive about their honesty, why let them build up a reputation for honesty that will stand among the people. He knew to his cost that there were dishonest nurserymen. He was a nurserymun himself; had made mistakes, but believed he had done it ignorantly. When he got so that he condescended to dishonest practices with malice aforethought, why then put him down. Mr. Jordan moved to amend the resolution to read ‘native plums” instead of ‘“ native thickets.” The amendment was adopted and the resolution as amended was carried. Plums Recommended. The action of the Society on plums was therefore as follows: Resolved, That in view of the vast number and variety of native plums of great excellence in our State, and the uncertainty of getting a genuine article by importation, therefore we recommend that our people depend principally upon our own native plums for a supply. Recommended for Trial. Miner (13 for, 4 against. ) De Soto (10 for, 8 against.) ‘ WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. Meeting called to order by tlie President at 2 o’clock. Plums. Mr, Jewell moved the following resolution : Resolved, That to procure better plums than we now have we recom- mend thg planting of the pits of the best varieties of native plums. Adopted. 68 _ ANNUAL REPORT. ) Mr. Jordan :—Plums occupy a prominent place in my business. Am more successful with those obtained from the gardens of per- sons who procured them from the woods, and from the seeds of those cultivated in gardens. The Waldron plum was from a plum tree that grew in the garden of Mr. Farmer. Of Mr. Fisher’s plums one is called the Peach plum. He says it is free from the bitter- ness of the wild plum, and has a peach flavor. I procured sprouts from these and planted the seeds. Plum butter made from the produce of these was almost like peach butter. This stands, with me, at the head of any in the State. Have fruited about fifty varieties. Methods of Propagation. Mr. Stewart then read his paper on methods of propagation to secure hardy trees, and it was ordered to be published in the Trans- actions. f METHODS OF PROPAGATING TO SECURE HARDY TREES. Adaptation. In all apple-growing countries we find that no one variety is valuable only in certain localities. Its value in any new location is only ascer- tained by years of experience. Varieties that grow and do well in eastern States, where they have deep snows aud moist atmosphere, are worthless here in our dry climate, where we frequently have no snow until the A Ms winter weather is past. Root Kkilting. Root killing of the apple by the ee of the cold is not known there, while here, within two hundred miles of Winona, there have been millions of trees root killed within the last fifteen years. This should teach us a lesson. It should teach us not to use tender seedling roots to propagate our hardy varieties on. Some are recom- mending Siberian crab seedlings, which fe but little better, as seventy-five per cent. of them will winter kill here. Prevention. We have trees that will produce hardy roots by layering or mounding, as is done with the quince or Doucin apple, or they may be had by grafting the variety wanted for stocks on seedling roots. When grown one year, most of them will have thrown out roots from the scion. They can then be taken up, trimmed back so that there will be no root left aed those that have sprung from the scion. By so doing we can have a stock to propagate our hardy varieties on, MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 69 that there is no danger of winter-killing; that can be used in grafting the same as seedling roots, or it may be planted in the nursery row and top- worked at any desired height. we . A. STEWART. DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris :—These principles are steps in the right direction. The loss by cold is not above ground alone, but also below. This has not been admitted because some trees were killed that were covered root and branch. We must, however, have iron-clad trunk and top and root. Mr. Wilcox :—I disagree with the deaiceient that 75 per cent. of the seedling crabs fail. Crab roots are perfectly safe, but we use also the long scion to secure any additional safety that can be got. Mr. Stewart :—I base this statement on my own experience and observation of my neighbors. Crab Stocks. Mr. Jewell :—How to get hardy roots is the question. Crab roots are not of uniform hardiness; some are tender and others hardy. ‘Transcendent roots are hardier than Siberian crab roots. Why, then, use the tender crab root? Mr. Wilcox plants 18 inches deep, and then the scion takes root. Then why use crab roots when they are worked upon witb difficulty? Why not work on apple roots, using the long scion and setting deep in the orchard. It may be necessary to use crab roots for grafting above ground, but then take a hardy crab to begin with. Mr. Wilcox :—If we were sure of roots from the Transcendent there would be no use of working on crab roots, but we are not sure. So, as the crab root is hardier than apple root, we get this advantage of hardiness by using crab roots. (In answer to a ques- tion:) My soil is sandy, with a gravelly subsoil at a depth of about 18-20 inches, but it is not always reached in setting trees. We set deep, to be sure of getting roots from the Transcendent cion. We have got the result desired, and last summer the Trancendent fruited, as also some apples budded into it and making their second years growth. Cause of Injury in 1872-73. Mr. Pearce :—I doubt if the cold did the work in ’72-3. ‘Trees 70 ANNUAL REPORT. protected .by a grove, and snow drifted over them ‘seven feet deep, so that the sgil probably did not freeze that winter, all were killed. Duchess, Haas, Tallman Sweet, standing under these conditions, were killed. | Mr. Hart :—Slow growing roots cause slow growth of the top, and this makes the tree hardy. Had the same experience as Mr. Pearce. Would shovel away the snow if it»were four feet deep about the trees. Mr. Jewell :—Not one of those who believe the destruction due to some unknown cause believe that the trees root killed. In De- cember, 1872, at one time the thermometer was 30°—40° below zero before any snow fell, and then it was that the injury was done. Hardy roots is our text. The root should be short and the scion long. Facilitate getting roots from the junction by letting the scion be larger than the stock, and projecting beyond it at one side. Mr. Hart :—Snow fell November 10th, 1872, and did not all go off until spring from where it drifted behind fences. A Member :—Deep planting is the correct principle. Mr. Jordan :—-I know of no case in which trees died when the ground was not frozen. Mr. Jewell here introduced Mr. Tuttle, President of the Wiscon- sin State Horticultural Society, who had just entered the room. Mr. Dartt :--Some scions are more difficult to root than others. The Tetofsky fails. Have set it 18 inches deep for the express purpose of getting roots. ‘Trees have been injured in the top more than the root. In the former case the tree hangs along, but in the latter it dies at once. It is easy to protect the root by mulching. With this precaution we need not be so much troubled about hardy roots. We want hardy tops, which will not injure in the fruit buds. Some will do well so far as the tree is concerned, but the fruit buds kill. Mr. Hart :—In the spring of ’56 I planted some trees; as snow came early there was no frost in the ground that year. The tops killed bpt the roots lived. Mr. Stewart :—-Of my own crab seedling roots on loamy soil only one in 50 lived. Mr. Brand :—9%5 per cent. of the crab roots live in my experi- ments. It was the cold and dryness of December that killed the trees in 72-3. The last of December there was no moisture in the soil, and the day before Christmas the thermometer stood 40° below zero. Mr. Pearce :—Fuller, of New York, says it makes little difference MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 71 whether the mercury be 10°—15°, or 850—40°¢ below zero A root that will stand in the one case will stand in the other, and therefore I am not so particular about what roots I graft on. Deep Planting. Take nature for my guide as to dept to set trees. Set a little deeper than they stood in the nursery. Don’t want to set down in coarse, cold soil. There the roots spread near the surface, while only in loamy soil do they strike downward. Mr. Jewell :—We do not follow nature in most respects. Itis by a departure from nature that we attain desirable results. Moved by Mr. Elliot, and carried, that no one be allowed to speak more than five minutes on any one question. Mr. Scott would like to have the sense of the meeting as to his question, deep and shallow planting. Would like to know also, any one has noticed the difference in this respect. between trees growing naturally here and in the Eastern States? Mr. Tuttle :—At the root is one form in which trees kill. In 1869 the trees were injured by cracking of the bark near the sur- face of the ground. In ’72-3 trees were killed at the root, and in °*73—4 at the top. It is desirable to set deeper than we now do, but 12-18 inches is questionable. Mulching will do if attended'to. A good method of protection is to throw soil up about the trunk be- fore freezing, and mulch after ground has frozen 5 or 6 inches deep, Cannot then always secure the tree, because they sometimes kill at the top. It was moved to recommend planting trees 6-12 inches deeper than they stood in the nursery. Mr. Harris :—I cannot do so on my clay soil. Mr. Dartt offered to amend so as to read two inches on heavy soils and four inches on light soils. Mr. Jewell likes the discrimination, but four inches is not enough on light soil. Mr. Dartt :—Two inches on heavy soil is all that is safe, and four inches will do for light soil. Mr. Bunnell :—If the tree requires moisture, as I believe, to keep from root-killing, why not set deep where the roots will find it? Mr. Pearce :—Would set 1—4 inches deep according to the size of the tree and support with a stake. Set as early as possible. Mr. Jordan :—Should plant 8-10 inches deep on clay soil. Would favor recommending setting 2-18 inches deeper. Mr. Hart :—The nurserymen want us to plant deep so they may / 72 ANNUAL REPORT. sell us more trees. It is no use to plant where the roots can getno heat, air, and sunlight influence. ou, ehh Mr. Wilcox gave an invitation to the members of the Society ish visit him next fall and see the results of his method of deep plant- ing. Mr. Scott :—Have not set many trees in Minnesota. Have done some planting, and some trees set 10 inches deeper than in the nur- sery are now worth double what they would have been set in the ordinary way. We, as a Society, need to recommend some depth, Mr. Dartt :—Perhaps the difference is explained by the deep dig- ging and pulverization of the soil, and not alone by setting deep. Should not overdo the thing, 2-4 inches is enough and will not bend nature too much. ‘ Mr. Philips :—Glad I came here. Have been considered a fool for planting 3,000 trees. It is some consolation to find some one with 7,000. (This number was metioned by a previous speaker.) With such a multiplicity of theories each man must try for himself and make conclusions for himself. Mr. Grimes :—Think we had better recommend common sense. A motion to lay the question on the table was lost, 4 to 11. Mr. Brand :—Would set on clay soil 6 inches deep. and have the - top of the root 10 inches below the surface on light soils. There . is great carelessness afmong farmers in the setting of trees, Depth to Plant. Mr. Jewell moved an amendment recommending two to six inches in clay and six to twelve inches in light soil, which was carried by a vote of 10 to 5. The motion was then carried by a vote of 9 to 5, and reads as follows : Resolved, That we recommend the planting of trees from two to six inches deeper on clay soils and from six to twelve inches deeper on light soils than they stood in the nursery. The following discussion on hardy trees was had after the read- ing of Mr. Martin’s report, and was ordered inserted at this point: Crab Roots. Mr. Wilcox :—I had an orchard before 1872-3 that Dr. Stickney said was the best in Wisconsin. That winter swept away most of my orchard and 60,000 trees from my nursery, though part of the on ‘ pes | \ ‘MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. oa) nursery stood on clay soil. In the spring I went out one day near night, dug up several trees and found the roots dead. Iron-clads as well as half hardy trees were much injured. None escaped entirely. It was a singular fact that three Transcendents were killed while a Red Astrachan, standing in the center, lived. All this was owing to the destruction of the roots. I therefore, advocated grafting on crab roots. Dr. Stickney, however, said that of 100,000 so grafted but 60,000 grew, and only 20,000 made good trees At the meeting of the Wisconsin State Horticultural Society one year ago, I showed good trees on crab roots. Dr. Stickney said he hoped the exper- iment would be continued. Recently Dr. Stickney has said “ must graft on crab roots.” Root-killing Elsewhere. In September last I met a man who lived west of Keokuk and who began to flatter me because I lived, as he said, in a place where there was snow to protect the roots. This man was going to set long scions and plant deep. I said I had no faith in it without the hardy root, Root-killing is not confined to this latitude. A man 300 miles south of us lost 200,000 trees a year ago this winter. My plan is to graft the Transcendent into crab seedlings, use also long scions and set deep. At two yearsfrom graft bud into the branches thus grown. Blight. M. Elliot :—What will you do with the Transcendent when it blights? The Transcendent is one of the worst to blight. Mr. Wilcox :—True, but as long as nurserymen propagate as they do we must suffer some. The blight, however, is passing away. Mr. Hart :—I bought of Mr. Wilcox a dozen trees eight years ago, and seven or eight of these are the only sound ones I have, and they were not worked in this manner. Mr. Wilcox :—I have no faith in them. If not dead now, they will be dead before long. Mr. Jewell :—Crabs, like apples, differ in hardiness. The seed- lings are therefore not reliable. It is more desirable to get the Transcendent on its own roots. But still I think there are other crabs better than the Transcendent. Do not believe the blight is leaving. Have dug up or girdled all my Transcendents. All I had left was the remnants of two blocks between which stood a block of Tetofskys. The blight swept across from one block of Trans- 10 74 ANNUAL REPORT. cendents to the other, and I lost 1,000 Tetofskys in this way. Have never seen a Tetofsky blight except in proximity to a crab. Would not encourage the using of Transcendents in any quantity. Last season was cold, and hence there was not so much blight. \ Better than Transcendent. ; i y Mr. Wilcox :—Saw the blight as bad as ever last season. Would like a better stock than Transcendent. I think perhaps Whitney’s No. 20 may be such. Do not think Maiden’s Blush is iron clad. Mr. Jewell :—I agree with Mr. Wilcox about the Maiden’s Blush. The Early Strawberry is, however, superior to the Transcendent in every respect. Adaptation to Grab Roots. Mr. Jordan :—As to top working on crabs, no one crab, as arule, will answer as a stock for apples; but some varieties of apples will work well on some varieties of crabs. Only one is a success on the Soulard, and that is the Red June. The Red June on the Transcend- ent grows much larger than the stock. The Orange Crab works well on the Soulard. We shall not find a crab stock suited to all apples. The Wealthy works well on the Transcendent, as also does the Melinda and Rollins’ Russet. Buta majority of apples fail on the Transcendent because they grow much larger than the stock. We must find a variety of crab for a stock for each variety o¢ apple. Mr. Wilcox :—I would not be understood as recommending the Transcendent for double working. Mr. Dartt:—My experience confirms Mr. Jordan’s; there is no general crab stock for working all varieties of apples upon. We must find out what variety of crab is best suited for working cer- tain varieties of apples upon. The Tetopsky works well on the Transcendent. Mr. Jewell :—TYhe stock should be hardy and free from disease. Agricultural College Farm. The report of the committee to visit the Agricultural College Farm was then read by Mr. Harris and ordered to be incorporated in the Transactions. It was as follows: 1 ’ *. e MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOOIETY. 75 REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CONDITION OF AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE FARM. Mr. President and Gentlemen of Minnesota State Horticultural Soctety : The University. On the first day of July, 1875, the undersigned as a committee of this Society, paid an official visit to the State University and University Farm. We find the University to embrace a number of schools so planned and ar- ranged as to form a very compact University system and each school to be headed by enterprising and efficient professors. We had the pleasure of being conducted over the buildings by President Folwell and some of the professors. The library contains more than 10.000 volmes and is continually receiving additions, and is so well arranged that any work called for can be found without delay. The museum contains a great variety of useful inventions, interesting specimens of mineralogy, &c., and is fast becoming a valuable feature of the Institution, and in the Agricultural department, under supervision of Prof. Lacy, a fine collection of seeds, grains, grasses and woods are being made. Agricultural Department. The buildings to be used for the Agricultural College were not entirely completed but would soon be ready for occupation and the use for which they are designed. This department is designed to give the students special training in the sciences pertaining to agriculture, including their practical application. Chemistry, botany, landscape gardening, horticulture, arbor- culture and entomology are among the studies to be pursued, and reduced to practice. A convenient glass structure has been erected for the propa- gation and growing of plants, flowers, &c. Farm. The farm is not very convenient to the University, not because too dis- tant but because of the quantity of loose sand that must be traveled over to reach it. No doubt the farm may be a good one for agricultural experi- ments, for when a student has become so well educated that he can make it produce paying crops he is safe to make a living at farming upon any part of the habited globe, but it does not strike us as being a favorable place for the successful pursuit of horticulture. The soil that is being used for horticultural purposes is mostly alight sand, and we were informed had been cropped for fourteen years without the use of fertilizers of any kind, and had become so impoverished that it would not produce good weeds. Garden. The garden department is under the supervision of W. T. Scott, and from the system, neatness and good cultivation that is seen on every hand, we are inclined to pronounce him to be the right man in the right place. 4 ‘ sR By Ste 4 e 7 : 76 ANNUAL REPORT. / wa Nursery. . sate gh sane + : A small nursery has been started for the purpose of growing trees for the farm, and scions of every new variety will be tested with a view to their hardiness and other desirable qualities. The enterprise is a worthy one, and we trust that those who are fortunate enough to raise good seed- lings will have them tested here before throwing them upon the market. We found a great variety of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants and grapes growing in the Experimental department, some to test their hardiness and others to test the virtue of various fertilizers and methods of cultivation, but they have not been out a sufficient length of time to en- able us to come to any definite conclusions about them, but if the finale will no doubt be the gaining of much valuable information for the State. Considering the soil and location and short time since the experiments were commenced, the prospect is encouraging. It is in the vegetable garden where the greatest advance has been made and the best results attained. From the numerous labels and number of stakes that are seen on every side, we infer that hundreds of experiments are being carried along with system, and that almost every edible vegetable known to the gardener had a place there, and the value of various fertilizers is being tested. Enough has already been accomplished to determine the best and most profitable varieties for growing in the Northwest, and also to prove that fertilizers applied to the soil, and thorough cultivation given, increases the yield and improves the quality of vegetables; also, that vegetables grown from seeds raised here are of better quality and come to maturity earlier than those from seeds raised in a more southern latitude. We most heartily approve of the efforts that are being put forth by the officers and professors to place the Universityin a condition to rank with the first in the Union for the scope of instruction given, and recommend them to the confidence of the citizens of this great and growing State. Our thanks are due Professor Lacv for conducting us over the farm and entertaining us with descriptions of the experiments that are being tried and we recommend that this Society pass a resolution pledging aid and encouragement in donations of seeds, plants and trees for the experimen- tal gardens and greenhouse, and that the superintendent be requested to make a report in abstract at each annual meeting of this Society. We further notice that at the last State Fair, held at St. Paul, Sept. 14th to 18th, 1875, the exhibition made by the University was remarkable for being the fullest and most complete show of vegetables ever made in this State. The laws of the institution debar them from receiving any premi- um except honorable mention, which is well deserved. JoHN S. Harris, Chairman Committee. Garden Vegetables. The report of Mr. Scott, as chairman of the Committee on Gar- den Vegetables, was called for and read and ordered to be published in the Transactions. It was as foilows: MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. | 77 \ REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON GARDEN VEGETABLES. . MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 15th, 1876. } To the President of the State Horticultwral Society, St. Paul: Horticultural Literature. Dear Str :—If some one would gather from horticultural literature all that has certainly been known, in the theory and practice of gardening, the work would be of immense value. The attention of the Society is called to the fact that we have not a work of this kind. It is, to say the least, not pleasant for a committee to report what they may think to be new and find that it is like a tale twice told, and yet the fact is, it must be new to many of us, or we should not hear so often the query, ‘‘ what kind of soils are best adapted to various kinds of fruits and vegetables; what the best mode of cultivation, and the varieties best adapted to our soil and climate.” That we hear these and similar questions almost every day—we gladly re- port as an increasing interest in new and improved varieties of vege- tables. Object. The object of gardening is that we may have pleasure and profit thereby. The chief source of pleasure is to attain the highest perfection, to assist na- ture in the process of furnishing food, and the instruction we receive while thus engaged. If we fail to realize the importance of the meee gardening for profit must and will be a failure. Statistics. We are unable to give the exact amount of garden seed imported and raised in our State; neither can we give the amount of vegetables grown, but we do find that each year the demand has increased, and the present year the increase has been beyond the average of any of its predecessors, while a visit to the St. Panl and other markets show that the quality has improved with the demand, and are now supplied with vegetables equal to, and in some respects superior, to the eastern markets. Together they rep- resent a cash value of thousands of dollars. Transpvanting. The remarkable effect of transplanting on the growth and habits of some kinds of vegetation is worthy of notice. Ina small flower garden on the Experimental Farm the third transplanting gave a greater number, and more perfect flowers. The effect was even more remarkable in the culti- vation of vegetables. In the Experimental Gardens on our State Farm the third transplanting increased the size of head vettuce one-half over one transplanting, and the corresponding varieties were improved in that re- spect—cabbage, celery, cauliflower, brocoli, each showed a marked im- provement by the third setting. @ 78 | ANNUAL REPORT, oe Peas. a a tae \ ‘ fe j : P New peas continue to attract attention. Messrs, Carter, Veitch, and others, in England, as well as in our own country, seem to have exhausted the superlative, and the end is not yet, and in truth, the improvement is simply wonderful. Ina trial on the above named garden of twenty varie- ties, mostly new, and, we add, good, the Kentish Invicta and Blue Peter, as early peas, are worthy of notice; while Eugenie, Blue Imperial, Carter’s Surprise, Veitch’s Perfection a McLean’s Premier, have so many good points, that we feel like responding to the cry of our English cousins, ‘‘ Eureka!” Whether they will continue to maintain Phple good qualities, time will determine. Crossing and Selection of Seeds. We present with this report two specimens of evergreen sweet corn, with all the fixed characters of standard varieties. No.1, the product of across of the common field sweet corn and white dent, one cross, time’ six years. No. 2, common field sweet corn crossed with early sweet corn; seed selected; time seven years; result, inferior to none on the list. Potatoes. Results of experiments commenced in seventy-three. Perhaps there is more interest felt on this subject than that of any other connected with the farm or garden. We are all of us acquainted with the name of some variety that has run out, or, in other words, failed to produce a reasona- ble amount of large potatoes in proportion to the number of small ones. From the lists, containing hundreds of names, said to be of wonderfal value, we have but a few left that are worthy of recommendation. In an ordinary field of potatoes, some are found to be coarse and of inferior quality, and will not transmit the origina) quality Others are immature, and cannot be expected to produce the best results. A few only in each hill are fit for seed. Eyes planted from seed and stem ends show a marked difference when planted separately, for three years, in favor of stem ends; yet the experiment shows a far greater difference and im- provement, where an equal proportion of eyes are planted in each hill, from stem and seed ends; the result shows that while the potatoes from the seed end are inferior in quality to those of the stem end, that both grow small by degrees and beautifully less each year, and give the first signs, viz.: (a greater number of small ones and less of large ones) of running out. Imperfect seed, poor soil, and the usual way of cutting and selecting the seed, will cause, in time, any variety to be branded as worth- less. A change of location, the very best conditions of soil, together with a judicious selection of seed—cutting lengthwise if cut at all—will, we believe, not only maintain and improve the good qualities of the Early Rose, Peerless, Late Rose, Compton’s Surprise, Early Ohio, Extra Early Vermont, Brownell’s Beauty, Snowflake, and other valuable kinds, but that the Neshannock, Fox Eye, Carter, and many others, said to have run out, may be made equally productive and good. In this connection the mo : ¥ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. | 79 Peerless and Early Rose potato seem to be adapted to all kinds of soils; both seedlings from one seed ball, from an inferior potato, the first named --not the best—but one of the best—is a better potato at this time than five years ago, in every respect; the latter, in some localities, is equally good; in others the never failing sign shows that our main dependence in past five years, may fail. Early Bush Beans. The White and Black Wax are recommended for quality—Harly Six Weeks and Early Rachael for general cultivation; the last named is also an excellent bean when ripe. Pole Beans. Having carefully tested fourteen varieties we would recommend Marble- head Champion and Giant Wax as being the two best pole snap beans—the former very early, the latter an evergreen. The Concord and Sieva or, frost bean are, at least, equal, if not the best, to any of the others; while the Cranberry will be found to be a keen competitor of the Concord. We would add here that we hope in time to place the Lima at the head of the list. Early Cabbages. Little Pixie—the earliest, very small solid heads. Jersey Wakefield and Winningstadt—excellent in all respects, we find nothing better in the list of early cabbage. Late Cabbage. In the large list of names, the Premium Flat Dutch, Stone Mason, Fot- ler’s Improved Brunswick and Drumhead give general satisfaction. Sweet Corn. Early Minnesota—earliest. Early Selected—best. Crosby’s Early and Moore’s Early Concord—good. Cucumbers. Earliest—Early Cluster. Most productive— White Spine. Onions. In a list of six varieties, the Large Red matures first, Yellow Danvers, ~ second; White Portugal, third. Squashes. For early summer squashes, the Early Scollop Bush is perhaps equal to any other. The new squashes, Butman and Marblehead, may improve on closer acquaintance. So far, we fail to discover any superior qualities on comparison with the Hubbard. 80 ANNUAL REPORT. “=p Tomatoes. Having tested twelve varieties—including nearly all the new very best— we believe the Canada Victor, Hathway, and Gen. Grant will be found equal to, if not superior to all others for table and cooking purposes, while the pear-shaped Yellow will be found to be the best for canning and pre- serving. ; Sweet Potatoes. J Pog | That sweet potatoes may be grown of good market size is true. That the quality will not always be satisfactory is also a fact. To those who wish to succeed, the Southern Queen is most desirable. Cauliflower. Our climate and soil seems especially adapted to the late varieties of cauliflower. We would recommend a northern exposure or slope for this crop as well as late cabbage. Celery. Of all garden products we find this the most difficult to grow success- fully. As arule clay subsoil is essential to success, sandy soil the excep- tion. In eight varieties, we find Boston Market the favorite. Egg Plant. Early Purple, best. Lettuce. Early Butterhead, Hanson and large India give universal satisfaction. In a large list of names we find others equally good, but none better. Beets. Egyptian, Early Bassano, Dewing’s Blood Turnip and Bastian’s Blood Turnip, are known to be among the best for early varieties, and equal to any for late or winter use, when planted for that purpose. Melons. Perhaps, all things considered, Phinney’s watermelon is the most pro- ‘fitable, for home as well as market purposes; of good quality and early. Special Fertilizers, commercial especially and otherwise,adapted to various kinds of vegetables. Very little attention has yet been paid to the application and results of the different fertilizers so extensively used in Eastern States. We believe it to be a well established fact, that well rotted stable manure supplies in a great measure the essential elements required by vegetables to produce I ‘ \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 681 the best results; at the same time we are well assured that the supply is limited, and to some other source we must look for plant food. # Judging from the immense amount of tertilizers manufactured and used in the older settled States, and in Europe, together with the thousands of tons of guano, we are justified in the assertion that they must be our main dependence in the future, as aids indispensible in successful gardening. W. T. Scort, D. A. J. BAKER, Committee on Market Gardens. DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris:—As a Horticultural Society we have not given enough attention to vegetables. We need a garden book for the masses which is not yet published. Henderson’s ‘ Gardening for Profit” is three times out of four a damage to the man who uses it. For example Mr. Kramer, of LaCrescent, followed it in manuring very heavily for cabbages. The consequence was they grew all to loose leaves instead of forming heads. But a couple of years later the ground so manured produced a splendid crop. In another case, a hotbed was prepared by mixing rich pig manure with the soil and the man bought his plants that year. Let us devote more attention to garden vegetables hereafter. Cutting Potatoes. Mr. Scott :—There is not much poetry in gardening but a good deal of solid comfort. I have found that, by using seed from the seed end of the potato they run out ,in about three years, and are also inclined to rot. I have found, also, that potatoes cut for seed are better than whole ones. This is contrary to the experiments of others where the best results were obtained from whole potatoes. The explanation is to be found in the difference in the soils upon which the two experiments were made. The selecting of seed is a very important point, for we can get in this way almost any char- acteristic we want, Early Tomatoes. Mr. Elliot :—This is a subject I have been interested in for twenty years. ‘There are several points of importance connected with it. The selection of seed is one of them. When new kinds come around they are often adulterated with poor kinds, the vitality of which has been destroyed. The potato is a subject of interest and I would 82 ANNUAL REPORT. like to see the manner of cutting, as mentioned, explained by Mr. Scott. -Have been informed of the discovery of a new way of gro ving and ripening tomatoes to get them into market 10-15 days earlier than by any other way, but the details were a secret. Earliness is a very important consideration and forcing will yet become an im- portant branch of business about our cities. , Mr. Grimes :—Glad to see the vegetables placed on the table. It is a subject we cannot afford to overlook. Vegetable garden- ing stands intermediate between fruit growing and farming. Would like to have a committee to report on the vegetables as well as upon fruits. Potatoes I cut first lengthwise, and then cut down to one eye to a piece. Have been interested in potatoes, and have tried many varieties. Was first to get the Early Rose in my section. Varieties of Potatoes and Peas. Mr. Scott :—(In answer to questions.) There is not much dif- ference between Extra Early Vermont and Early Rose, in value. _ The Early Ohio gave no small ones, and is of great promise. Late Rose promises to be good for late Veitch’s Perfection pea is very productive, and a good late pea. Early Caractacus was the earliest of all, and Blue Peter the best early pea, considering all points. ‘Mr. Hart :—Is the Snowflake potato of good table quality? It is not so with me. I got one pound and grew 113 bushels from it. — Mr. Scott :—The quality of the Snowflake is good. Canada Vic- tor tomato was earliest. Hathaway’s Excelsior was a little later than Victor, but best in several characteristics. Mr. Dartt:—I had a variety of potato called the White Rose, which was great on the yield, but not of good quality. Mr. Smith:—I got the Late Rose from Mr. Campbell, of Ohio. It produced great vines, but cannot say as to yield. Mr. Scott :—(In answer to question.) Hathaway’s Excelsior and General Grant tomatoes are more productive than Canada Victor. Lima Beans. Mr. Harris inquired about the improved Lima Beans advertised by Dreer. Had grown Lima Beans and raised a great many. (No one knew about them.) Mr. Smith gave his experience last summer in raising Lima Beans. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 83 Etna Bean. ‘Mr. Hart inquired if any one knew anything about the Etna Bean, represented as something new. Mr. Jewell:—The Etna I suppose to be the same as Hale’s Eureka bean. It sometimes produces very heavy and sometimes does not. It is a small white bean. Transplanting. Mr. Harris asked if any one had observed benefit from trans- planting cabbages in the seed bed before setting in the open soil. Mr. Elliot :—Have done so with early cabbage with good results. With tomatoes the benefit is more marked still. The care and man- agement of tomatoes after they are planted out is also of impor- . tance. One method is to set early, train to stakes four feet high, and prune off all vine outside of the blossoms. In this way we get a great crop for the space occupied. Asparagus and Cauliflower. Mr. Smith:—Asparagus ought to be planted more generally among the people. Mr. Harris :—I sometimes get the best heads from Extra Early Erfurt cauliflower, sometimes from Early Paris, and sometimes from Le Normand’s, according to the weather at the time of heading. Asparagus is not more generally planted because the planting as generally described is such a difficult operation. A good enough bed need not be so much work. When I came to Minnesota I sowed seed on soil with only ordinary preparation for crops, and afterwards gave a dressing of manure to the surface, together with rubbish from the house, and now the bed is about four inches above the general level and it is just as good as one made later and dug deeper. Mr. Smith :—I dug two feet deep and applied 800 loads of ma- nure to my first bed. I cut it closely and late in the season. Next planted one-eighth acre, dug it three or four feet deep, and applied 300 or 400 loads of manure. From these beds I sold last year 1,206 doz. bunches. But they had been dressed with manure, gyp- sum and ashes, and six barrels of salt. It paid as well as anything. Would not be without an asparagus bed if I had only 50 feet of land. Would plant in that case 2x3 feet and manure in the ordi- * apo - 7 bb ‘ ? A PA a 84 yew ANNUAL REPORT. nary way. It will not, however, cut so long each ‘season. Cut last year up to 16th of August. Must, however, feed the roots if you cut so close and so long. Have sold from one-third acre $600. Cut under the ground so that the stems are white. My customers want it so, most of them. In this way the ground must be kept light. I dug it in the spring, and hacked it with a pronged hoe after every rain. The largest cut was 125 dozen bunches in one day. Mr. Elliot :—Have a bed 50x60 feet, on which I put 40 loads of the best manure. It did well till within a few years, when I quit manuring it. Have another field set by ploughing furrows four feet apart and setting plants three feet apart in the row. I cut to suit customers. Most of them want it cut at, or just under the sur- face. The bunches weigh about three to the pound. Brought 50 to 75 cents per dozen last year. No vegetable produces so much per acre as asparagus. This field cultivation is the best for farmers. Mr. Smith :—Have heard of a bed 125 years old, which is good yet. Can’t get it out of the land. Buta plat only ten feet square . is required for a family. Mr. Elliot :—Can get it out by plowing three or four times. Mr. Scott :—Have yet to see when any one wanted to plow it up. Those in Minnesota who follow Henderson word for word will fail. Mr. Hart :—Would as soon think of a ilies up arow of Duchess trees as my asparagus bed. Mr. Smith:—I cut as regularly as I would milk, Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, and Saturday night. Cut when it is one-half or one inch above the surface. When cut in this way the roots must be set deep, or it may injure the crowns. Deep cul- tivation and digging, not alone for continuous and heavy yield, but also to enable it to withstand drouth. Asparagus is very sensitive to heat, and in hot weather it grows very rapidly, while a cold day or two will check its growth very materially. ‘ WEDNESDAY EVENING. Meeting caled to order at 7: 30. Horticulture in Meeker County. The report of G. W. Fuller, on condition and prospects of Hor- ticulture in Meeker county, was read by the Secretary, and ordered by the Society to be published in the Transactions. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 85 CONDITION AND PROSPECTS OF HORTICULTURE IN MEEKER COUNTY. LITCHFIELD, Jan. 18, 1876. C. Y. Lacy, Secretary : Dear Sir :—Being the only nurseryman on the open prairie west of the ‘* Big Woods,” my experience may not be unprofitable to fruit-growers throughout the State. The Hard Winter. Four years ago the coming spring, I put in all kinds of apples that were then grown in the State, both root-grafts and orchard trees, such as Duchess, Tetofsky, Haas, Ben Davis, Saxton, St. Lawrence, Tallman Sweet, Price’s Sweet, Perry Russet, Fameuse, Red Astrachan, White Astracan, Walbridge, Utter’s Red, Pewaukee, Peach Apple, and all kinds of crabs, old and new. The following severe winter (that of ’72-3) swept away all my orchard trees except Duchess, Tetofsky and the crabs, and all my nursery trees except the crabs, and the Haas, Ben Davis, Saxton, Price’s Sweet, Peach Apple, and afew of my Perry Russets, Red Astrachan and Fameuse, that were somewhat protected. Notes on Varieties. The Ben Davis seems to be hardy until it is three or four years old. This is the case also with the Gen. Grant. The Tetofsky lives, but easily root-kills, and does not look healthy or grow. This is the case also with the Saxton and Price’s Sweet I have had Stewart’s Sweet in both orchard and nursery for two years, and while they prove thus far perfectly hardy, I question their value, if they do not bear till eleven years old, and are no larger and no better than the crabs. The Wealthy I have had but one year, and it stood well through last winter. The Peach appleseems nearly as hardy as the Duchess. Some Duchess trees in this vicinity are begin- ning to bear, and are looking fine and healthy. I have now, as the result of my four years’ experience, cut down my list of large apples for general planting to Duchess, Wealthy, Peach Apple and Haas; and crabs, to Early Strawberry, Orange, Beechs’ Sweet, Minnesota and Transcendent. Quaker Beauty, Maiden’s Blush and Meader’s Winter stand pretty well, but I am afraid of them. I think we should be very cautious in adding to the list of apples to be sold for general planting. Small Frwits. The past season was favorable for strawberries, currants and gooseber- ries, but not favorable for raspberries, either red or black. I grow Doo- little black cap and Philadelphla red. Blight. I have had no blight in my nursery nur have I seen any in this part of the State, with a single exception. This was a Transcendent, in Forest City, three years since. 86 ANNUAL REPORT. ~~ oY _ Borer. The “‘ borer” is doing bad work in some places. Near Kingston some very large trees were entirely ruined by them. Nothing was done to stop their ravages. In fact, I do not think the owner knew what the pareshiy was. We must fight everything of this kind from the start. Very respectfully, J G. W. FULLER. Horticulture in Winona County. The report of W. K. Bates on Horticulture in Winona county was then read by the Secretary, and ordered by the Society to be er / lished in the Transactions. as was as follows: REPORT ON CONDITION AND PROSPECTS OF HORTICULTURE IN WINONA CoO. C. Y. Lacy, Secretary State Horticultural Society : As the programme for the meeting to be held at Winona, January }8th, 1876, came to hand last evening, I will try to dot a few lines on the pros- pects for fruit for this, our centennial year. Prospects. From my own observations and inquiries, I think our county will have a very large crop of apples as well as small fruits. The last season proved to be a very good one for small fruits, but a limited crop of apples. But the raspberry crop was cut short by the dry, warm weather coming on just as the crop was being gathered. Varieties. Of raspberries, the Davidson Thornless proved itself:to be a number one fruit both in quality, quantity, hardiness and being early—the first berry to get ripe. The standby of course, in strawberries in our county has been the Wilson Albany, but its days for the supremacy are about gone, I think, in Minnesota at least. Hart's Seedling. As our good horticultural friend and neighbor, Mr. John Hart, of Stock- ton, has sueceeded in raising a strawberry from the seed that can be justly designated as the coming strawberry. A strawberry we long have sought, And mourned because we found it not. It will be found to be all that is desired and will be a great acquisition to our list of choice fruits. To insure better crops of small fruits I think we must mulch with rotten straw, so that in case we do have dry weather just as the fruit is getting ripe the mulch will keep the ground cool and damp. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 87 s Grapes. The last season was an unfavorable one for the grape. the fruit being tardy in getting ripe. I like the Concord best, with the addition of the Delaware, Janesville and Martha. I tried the Concord, Chasselas and White Delaware, but they both proved tender. Pears. Under Thursday’s discussions I see that the pear comesin. I have the Flemish Beauty; also two kinds that I got of Mr. H. B. Waterman, of Minnesota City. The two kinds seem to be very hardy, the trees being * some six inches in diameter, and*some 20 to 25 feet high. They stand in ‘a sort of sandy black loam, or rather creek-wash land—near the creek. The trees came from Michigan, I believe, but cannot say what kinds they are. Faith in the Future. I have faith that on some soils, with the land being high, sloping to east or northeast, that we may succeed with the pear. I am a believer, also, that we shall, at no distant day, raise plenty of the apple. AsIhearda man say the other day, when he had to pay $2.00 for a half bushel of ap- ples, as he had the day before, he thought it time to commence to raise his own; and I think as much, when we can raise such as Duchess, Wealthy, Fameuse, Tetofsky, Haas, Price’s Sweet, and our larger list of Transcend- ents, Oranges, General Grants, Hyslops, and others too numerous to men- tion, as we have in the past and can in the future. Whatif we did lose some trees in ’72 and ’73? did we not lose the corn crop in ’74? and who of us will say ‘‘I shall stop planting corn,” because the season failed to ripen the crop? Butif the seasons kill the apple tree, the key note is then that Minnesota is not the place for fruit growing; while at the same time, if any of the other crops are hurt, it is soon forgotten. I, for one, shall still keep planting, and in time shall reap the reward. Yours, W. K. Batss. ANNUAL ADDRESS. President Smith then read his annual address, at the conclusion of which there was applause. The address was accepted and a copy requested for publication. The following is the address in full: PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS. Gentlemen of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society : Our Purposes. We have met again to compare notes and consult each other on our experience and experiments of the past year with its successes and S ' - ANNUAL REPORT. *s failures, its fruits and flowers. Now the question naturally arises, what have we new to offer, and what have we learned in the past year that will add to our horticultural knowledge, and be of lasting ben- efit to ourselves as individuals, and to our Society, or the future welfare of Minnesota. This is the great question of to-day and for this meeting to discuss, and if possible, after a full comparing of notes and experiences with the different fruits, flowers and vegeta- bles, and different soils and modes of cultivation to answer by se- lecting the best, so that all may gain some knowledge or get some hints that may be of use to ourselves as well as others in the future. — It is for this purpose that we meet here to-day, and it is for this purpose that the Legislature of the State of Minnesota have pub- lished two thousand copies of our Transactions from year to year, so that our experience, our success and our failures, and our exper- ‘iments may be made known to the public and not forgotten by our- selves. Consequently you do not come here to listen to lengthy addresses or flowry speeches. If you have any such expectation | you will be sadly disappointed if you expect anything of the kind from me. Ido not propose to take up your valuable time in that way, but to throw out a few hints in regard to our Society and our calling, both of which I hold to be not only of great importance to ourselves, but also to our State, and to those who shall occupy our places long after we are called to other, and may I not hope, better spheres, by the Great Author of our being and Our Calling, for, as I have before remarked to you in a former address, the Almighty planted the first garden, and planted man therein to tend and take care of it; so that we can see ours is not only the most ancient, but the most exalted and honorable of all occupations man can perform. God not only planted the first garden, but has by His sunshine and showers warmed and watered all that have ever since been planted. Now when we give this a serious thought, and that God is on our side, who shall prevail against us? And when we take into consideration that fruit is the only food that is prepared by nature ready to be consumed by the human family, who can doubt but that horticulture is not only the first but best employ- ment of men. And is it not a duty as well as a pleasure to do all ‘in our power, both as individuals and as a Society, to improve and advance horticulture in all its branches? That advanced horticulture tends to elevate and enlighten, and MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 89 bring to a higher state of civilization, to give more and purer en- _ joyments than any other science or occupation, none can deny, that have sought its enjoyments or witnessed its effects upon others. Flowers. Flowers are admired and sought by all, from the cradle to the grave. There is a demand for them everywhere, in all enlightened nations. The higher and better the standing of the city or nation, the greater the demand for flowers and other horticultural products. Even in drinking saloons they are used to attract the passer by, and to in some manner add or lend a respectability to their calling. The wild and untutored savage will stop to look and admire them. They adorn the wedding feasts. They are occupants of the sick room and hospital. ‘Lhey grace the pulpit and parlor alike, and go with us to the house of mourning, to render our sorrows less keen. They are everywhere present and everywhere welcome, where the skill of the florist or the possibilities of nature will permit their growth ; and who can say that we are not the better and more ele- vated for them, in every sense of the word; that life is not purer, our joys more, and our sorrows less, for having an abundance of flowers. ‘Then let us add to and encourage their culture by every honorable means within our power, until each and every home and school-house in our land shall have its shade trees and flower gar- den, and until our cemeteries shall each and all be furnished or planted not only with shade and ornamental trees and shrubs, but also with an abundance of the choicest flowers our soil and climate can produce. Fruits and Vegetables. Now, what has been said of flowers, is equally true of fruits and vegetables. But they appeal to us in a different form. They ap- peal to our palates, our health, and last, but not least, our wealth. Our fruits, even at the present time, amount to quite a sum in dollars and cents, not only to those who grow them, but in saving and keeping money in our State, whereby all are benefited. And when this Society, or some other or individual members thereof shall have solved the great problem of what kinds of fruits will withstand the severity of our cold, dry climate, and what is best adapted to our soils, and what is the best method of cultivation, horticulture will not then stand in the background, and horticul- 12 90 ANNUAL REPORT. tural products will form no small share of our commerce and our food. Pas) Be Cautious. Now, to aid in bringing about this good time is what we are here for, and in order that we may accomplish this in the shortest possi- ble time let us goslow. Be careful what we recommend for general cultivation until well tried in different soils and locations, believing that such a course will tend not only to advance horticulture and fruit-growing, but give the public confidence and show them that we at least have no axes to grind and no rings to support. Agricultural Society. To the officers and members of our State Agricultural Society - let us one and all return our thanks for the very satisfactory and liberal manner in which, under their many difficulties and extreme bad weather, during not only the week of State Fair, but the whole fall of 1875, that tended to make the State Fair a failure, paid not only our premiums, and fulfilled their obligations not only to this Society and its members, but to allothers. It is true that they were not able to pay the old premiums of 1874; but as I said last year, let us take hold with a will and do our level best to make the State Fair of 1876 a great success in every way that we, as horticultur- ists, can add to the attractions, and to furnish the very best display of fruits and flowers, and other protlucts, ever made in the State of Minnesota, and thus enable them to pay all premiums and ex- penses, and to pay our old premiums; for I believe all that stands in the way of our getting our premiums, as the State Agricultural Society is now organized and officered, is their ability to do so. I do not think they will keep us out of our money long after one successful State Fair. Give them all the support we can, and good weather during one State Fair, or two at most, and they will not only have the means, but disposition, to pay all to the last cent, and will most cheerfully do so. Obituary. And here let me remark, our late Secretary, L. M. Ford, Esq., last winter was appointed to prepare obituaries of deceased per- sons, and in our Transactions has published three of men that I think never were members of our Society, and to which I have no MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 91 objection ; but that he should fail to notice the death of Capt. Wm. Paist, late Secretary of the State Agricultural Society and State Grange, and one of the members and incorporators, and warmest friends of this Horticultural Society, and oue by whose aid and labors the State Agricultural Society first recognized this Society and its members, and was willing to give us a place and voice in its deliberations, and anything like a share in its premiums, should have been passed by in silence, looks strange to me, and I think demands attention at your hands. 1875. The year 1875 was not a bountiful one to the horticulturists of Minnesota. Generally the fore part of the season was dry, espe- cially during the fruiting season of raspberries, and the latter part, _ during the ripening of grapes, cold and wet. So they did not ripen well. In stating my own experience and conclusions, perhaps. it may induce others to do the same, and thereby compare and learn ‘something for the future. First, asparagus was a good or extra crop, best I ever raised ; but prices so low it did not pay. Straw berries, only small quantity cultivated, medium crop. Raspberries not over 1-10 of crop; cause of failure, I thhink, manner of hoeing and want of mulching, together with drought at time of fraiting. Grapes, well loaded, but did not ripen well; still I had a fair crop, over six thousand pounds ripe grapes. But last year’s experience teaches me that to grow grapes and have them ripen in this north- ern climate every year, we cannot cultivate too well, and keep too free from weeds. I believe had I put double the amount of labor upon my grapes, judiciously expended, in the early part of the season, I would have made more than double the money. And here let me remark, do not fruit growers, especially growers of small fruits, cultivate too much land for the labor they have to be- stow? Would not better cultivation be more profitable? State University. Our State University is now doing something to aid and assist us, and can we not soon look to them for assistance in this vexed ques- tion of entomology as well as pomology, botany and other sciences that will aid horticulture. Whoever visited that mstitution five or six years ago and last season will see a marked improvement in the right direction, and cannot this Society make arrangements to hold our annual summer meeting at the University, and thereby gain a 92 ‘ ANNUAL REPORT. constant knowledge of what is going on and what improvements are being made, and by our presence show them that we take an inter- est in their success, and also show them by our displays what we are doing as individuals and as a Society. Progress, Can any one look back 25 years and see the prospects of fruit culture as I then saw them in Minnesota, and look at the crops of small and large fruits and vegetables of 1870 to 1875, and say that even in Minnesota we have made no progress? I think not, and have we not something to encourage us to move on and make an extra effort to make more improvement in the next 25 years than we did in the last, and shall we not, as a Society, make an effort through our able and efficient Secretary, together with our incoming Presi- dent, to make a display of our horticultural products next September at the reunion of the American Pomological Society in Philadelphia, that will be a credit to our State, our Society and to ourselves indi- vidually. In conclusion, let me return my heartfelt thanks for the kindness and courtesy you have shown me as well as honors conferred by three times electing me your President, and hoping you will forgive and forget my short comings, and believe me as ever devoted to Minnesota horticulture and the interest and advance- ment of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society. While I surren- der my office to other and abler hands soon to occupy it, I remain as firmly devoted to the interest of the Society as ever, and that I may still be of some advantage and in some manner help the cause, will ever be my prayer while life shall last. DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris:—On behalf of the State Agricultural Society, I tender thanks for the encouragement and assistance received from the Horticultural Society the past year. But for it we should not have been able to meet our difficulties and to succeed as well as we did. Summer Meeting. Am in favor of the State University for holding a summe? meet- ing. There is a place to keep and to show fruits and other products. The State has made great progress in horticulture. There were s , ; / ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 93 only twelve men at the first meeting. We shall yet command the respect of the Union. . In Memoriam. Mr. Elliot offered the following resolution : Wuereas, Our Secretary for 1874, from oversight or neglect, did not furnish in our last year’s Transactions, an obituary notice of our late wor- thy brother horticulturist, Capt. Wm. Paist; therefore Resolved, That an obituary notice be prepared for publication in our Transactions for the coming year by J. W. McClung, of St. Paul, and that Mrs. William Paist is hereby elected a life member of this Society, enti- tled to all the rights and privileges pertaining thereto, including a copy of the Transactions annually. The resolution was adopted. Floriculture. The Secretary attempted to read a report on Floriculture, by Mr. J. E. Booth, of Minneapolis, but owing to the difficulty of reading some of the specific terms, he asked and was granted leave to finish the paper at another time. The following is the report in full: FLORICULTURE. MR. PRESIDENT :—The love of flowers is almost universal; but, though it is so general, I find that very few people have the patience to try to cul- tivate them, and, of those who make the attempt, there are very few who succeed. Most, after repeated trials, and as many failures, give up in des- pair. Some few, indeed, of the unsuccessful ones, are content to go on year after year, making repeated failures, and yet persevering in spite of all. But those who succeed, and those who persevere despite their non-suc- cess, are very few as compared with the larger number, who, having met with nothing but disappointment, become discouraged, and give up the attempt in disgust; being content, either to do without flowers altogether, or to buy them, if wanted for any particular occasion. I might say a great deal in praise of the cultivation of flowers, and its refining influence; show- ing how it adds to the beauty and pleasures of home, improving the mind and expanding the ideas of the cultivator; but I take it we are all agreed on that point, so I will not say much about this. My object is to point out some of the causes of failure, and to show how it may be best avoided, confining my remarks almost entirely to that department of floriculture which comes under the head of window-gardening—I will merely observe, that plants and flowers are the cheapest ornaments and decorations we can have in our homes. Whether they be the shanty of the poor, the mansion of the rich, 94 ANNUAL REPORT. or the dwellings of that numerous class between those two extremes—they never clash with the richest surroundings, or look out of place amidst the most elegant and costly appointments. On the other hand, they give an air of elegance and refinement to the poorest abode, without making the furniture look shabby by contrast, even though it be of the roughest and scantiest de- scription. Of one thing we may be assured, that where we find flowers in any abode, whether of rich or poor, there we shall find cleanliness, and a natural refinement which prompts to the making of home comfortable and attractive. Perhaps it would be in vain to look for plants in the homes of our laboring classes during the winter; and, indeed, it would not be fair to expect it, on account of the impossibility of excluding the frost, without keeping up a fire at night—an expense which their means will not warrant them in incurring. But there are numbers more fortunately circumstanced, who, having houses thoroughly warmed both day and night, would run no risk of having their plants frozen. Window-Gardening. Window gardening is especially and emphatically the province of the ladies, and is one of their rights which none will dispute, or attempt to debar them from exercising. What a relaxation they would find it, to turn from the worries and cares of their household duties—from the ‘‘ res au- gusta domi”—to their plants; and I may say that the satisfaction to be derived from their cultivation, would be in proportion to the judicious care and attention bestowed upon them. Though it not infrequently hap- pens that, in spite of all the care and attention lavished upon them, the plants, after doing well for a time, go back on their cultivation, and die. But with proper care and judicious attention, barring accidents, success is pearly certain; and my object is to show some of the causes of these © disappointments, and point out how they may be avoided. In the culti- vation of pot plants several points should be observed. First in impor- tance comes watering, on the proper performance of which, perhaps, more than on anything else, the health and prosperity of the plants depends, and from want of a proper appreciation of which fact arise most of the failures which amateurs incur. In the great majority of cases where plants are not healthy and thriving, the cause lies here: either they over- water, or they do not water sufficiently. Many people keep their plants standing in saucers ftll of water, by which means the soil gets completely saturated, and turns sour; the plant consequently becomes unhealthy, and loses its leaves. Soon the plant dies, much to the surprise of the owner, who cannot think what could have ailed it, little imagining that it was her mistaken kindness that did the mischief. Pots often dry out on the sur- face, while the soil is sufficiently moist below, and to water while in this condition only does harm. This surface drying often happens in warm rooms. The best way to ascertain when a plant requires water is fo rap the pot with the knuckles. If it gives a hollow sound, water is required; but if the sound be dull, the plant is wet enough. In some instances, as when pots have become very full of roots, they will not sound, when struck, even though the soil be dry. When this is suspected, lift the pot with the hand, and judge from the weight. On the other hand, plants — ee MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 95 often suffer from being kept too dry, either from not being watered often enough, or not getting sufficient water to reach all the roots. When such cases occur, the only plan to save the plants is to immerse the pots ina pail of water, and keep them there till the bubbling ceases. This will insure that the water reaches all the roots. They should then be taken out, and afterwards watered in the usual way, as required. The soilin the pots of plants exposed to the full blaze of the sun often get thorough- ly dry and hot, and when this occurs, the plants should be plunged in water till the soil is thoroughly saturated. It is useless to water them in the usual way, as the water only runs down the sides of the pots, without getting to the roots, and the soil in a short time becomes as dry as before. Again I say, be careful with the watering. Soils and Potting. The health of plants also depends a good deal on the quality of the soil, on the drainage, and on the size’of the pots used. If the pot be too large the soil is liable to sour before the roots reach the pot sides, and the plant suffers in consequence. In shifting plants they should be put in pots one size larger. Soft-wooded plants require re-potting oftener than hard- wooded plants, as their root-growth is more rapid. For drainage of such plants a piece of a broken pot over the hole in the pot bottom will be suffi- cient. Fora larger plant more drainage is required. In potting plants the pots should not be filled within half an incb of the top for small pots, or an inch for large ones, so as to have plenty of room for water. Some peopie fill up to the rim, but when this is done the water runs over the sides of the pot instead of getting to the roots. All newly-potted plants should be kept from the wind and sun till the roots get hold of the soil. About the best compost for soft-wooded plants consists of three parts of good loam, a little well rotted manure and some leaf mould, with a little sand, well mixed together. For hard-wooded plants a mixture of good loam and peat. Plants should be shaded from the sun on hot days, and frequently syringed to clean their leaves from dust, but this must not be done when the sun shines on them. I will now give a list of plants most suitable for pot culture. For summer I would recommend geraniums, Zonale, Bicolor, Tricolor, Bronze; and the various sorts of scented gerani- ums, such as Rose, Nutmeg, Lemon, Cinnamon, Apple, &c. Fuchsias— Light, single, Madame Correllison, White Lady Schiller (the best,) Diadem ; Dark Single, Elm City; Pure White Double Arabella. These I consider the best. There are many newer ones, but they have not been sufficiently long before the public to warrant me in recommend- ing them: Lilies, Alba, Lancifolium, Rubrum; lobelias; miguonette, planted in boxes and thinned out; Tradescantia; myrtles, English ivy, Ger- man ivy, smilax; Lycopodiums. For winter and spring the same except fuchsias. Bulbs. For winter and spring the various kinds of bulbs, as hyacinths, tulips, crocuses, &c., may be grown to advantage and make a fine show. Hya- 96 ANNUAL REPORT. cinths I would especially recommend, for the ease with which they bin hea grown and for the beauty and fragrance of the flowers. They may be raised either in pots or glasses. For glasses the single varieties are ‘the best. Colored glasses are preferable, as the roots do not like a ‘strong light. Fill the glasses with clean rain water so that the base of the bulb but just touches the water. A few pieces of charcoal in each glass will keep the water pure. The glasses should be put in a dark frost-proof place, such as a cellar, till they are nearly filled with roots before the bulbs make any top growth. On this point the production of fine flower-spikes depends. The glasses may then be removed to the living room, keeping them near the light, but avoiding strong sunshine and a dry scorching atmosphere. As the water in the glasses evaporates, they should be filled up with water of the same temperature as the room. Hyacinths may also be grown in pots. For this purpose a rich light soil is necessary. A good compost may be made of two parts sandy loam to one part well rotted ma- nure and sand. In planting, the soil should be pressed firmly in the pot, leaving the crown of the bulb uncovered. A single bulb may be planted in a four-inch pot, or three bulbs in a six-inch pot give a fine effect. After planting, the pots should be watered and then set away in a cool, dry place and covered with sand, ashes, or sawdust, about six to eight inches deep, till the pots get filled with roots. They may then be brought out to the light, but if the flower buds are forward andof a pale color they should be shaded till they assume their natural color, when the full light may be admitted; but here, as with glasses, strong sunshine and dry, hot air must be avoided. They will require a good dealof water. The bulbs should be planted from September to the last of November or beginning of Decem- ber for a succession. ‘Tulips may also be grown in pots, treating them in the same manner as hyacinths. I believe these are all the essentials of successful window-gardening. J. E. Boots, Minneapolis Greenhouse, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Raspberries. Mr. Grimes then read his paper on the propagation, cultivation and varieties of the raspberry. It commanded general and close attention, and at the close was ordered published in the Transactions. It is as follows: PROPAGATION, CULTIVATION AND VARIETIES OF THE RASPBERRY. Mr. President and Gentlemen of the State Horticultural Society : It cannot be denied that our climate is a rigid one, especially for the fruit grower, who must be possessed of a degree of intelligence and per- severance not absolutely necessary in a more congenial clime. With us, success is the exception, and it is only by repeated experi- ments and trials. We wait and watch, standing, as it were, on the balance MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 97 between hope and despair, while some favorite pet of ours is undergoing the ordeal that must determine its value or worthlessness. No wonder some have gone back, after repeated failures, and left the field and the re- ward for them that know not what failure is. By such, progress has been made, horticultural science advanced; old varieties of fruits have been tested and brought out, new varieties introduced and disseminated, suited to the soil and climate of Minnesota. In the list of fruits none stand higher, with us, than that class generally denominated small fruits, of which the grape, currant, gooseberry, rasp- berry, and strawberry are the most prominent. Of these none perhaps © are more certain, or yield a better return for the labor required in their cultivation, than the raspberry, the subject assigned me for my. ald essay. First— “ Varieties. The foreign Red Raspberry (Rubus Idaeus) has been long tried in the Eastern States, but it has been found that there are few localities where its cultivation has been attended with good results. The Red Antwerp is a type of this class, and if the fruit could be grown here with any degree of certainty, it possesses all the ple qualities which one would expect to find in the raspberry. Our native Reds {Rubus strigosus) are more hardy, some varieties en- tirely so, but like their foreign cousins, throw up such an abundance of suckers, that where once introduced, seem determined to remain, whether you want them or not. The Turner and Clark are perhaps the best of this class. There is also a sub or hybrid class, derived from crossing the foreign with our native red, but I have failed to notice any marked improvement in them. We proceed to notice the black cap family (Rubus occidentalis) an en- tirely different class from the others, producing no suckers, but propagating only from the tips. Now it is well known that this species is not only hardy and prolific, but produces abundantly without extra care in cultiva- tion, and will succeed in a greater variety of soils, and over a wider range of country than any other. It is, in all respects, says a horticultural friend, a first rate berry, except in one, it is’nt good to eat. It is, however, an excellent berry to raise, and it is good to give away, at a reasonable price. It stands pre-eminent in the same relation as the Wilson among strawher- ries, or the Concord among grapes. There are some thirty or more varieties of the black raspberries in culti- vation, but the difference between most of them is very slight indeed, so much so, that when you select some half dozen, you have all the qualities included in the whole list. The Doolittle is the one best known, and has been the market raspberry for more than ten years. It is an early variety, carries well, and is in all respects one of the most profitable. Davison’s Thornless will ripen a few berries a little earlier, but is not so productive as the Doolittle; its chief recommendation, “it don’t scratch.” The Seneca is from a week to ten days later than the Doolittle, equally 13 _ * ANNUAL REPORT. productive, is less seedy, more juicy, better in quality, and carries well to market.) ‘In fact, it is one of the very best of the black caps. whee wets The Miami, or Mammoth Cluster, as it has been rechristened, is the latest, as well as the largest of all the cap varieties, but the fruit is coarse, dry, sour, and seedy; even the birds do not seem to relish them, after eat- ing better sorts. They are only palatable when well sugared up. The canes grow very stout, and generally winter-kill to the snow line in this latitude. The Garden Soler is a variation from the blacks, in that the fruit is purple, with more of the flavor of the reds. it.is a valuable berry for family use, but too soft to carry well to market. The canes are perfectly hardy. There are also yellow caps, but the fruit is inferior to the black, and can be recommended only for variety. There are also new red fruited sorts of this class being brought into no- tice, and I think we may soon look for a berry combining all the good qualities of the red, with the habit of growth and hardiness of the black. Perhaps it would be proper in this connection to notice certain varieties called ever-bearing, which are said to produce a full crop early in the sea- son, and afterwards upon the tips of the new growth of wood to produce fruit ripening at intervals until the close. In this we have too much of a good thing. I have sometimes during the fall season found ripe fruit enough for a taste, but nothing for the market or the table. Varieties to Plant and time of Planting. One of the most puzzling things to a beginner is to make a good selection of varieties, and the more he consults standard authorities, the worse is the confusion, and even when his inquiries are directed to some nurseryman or fruitgrower, the chances are that some special pet of his, of which the in- quirer has never heard, comes recommended as being superior to every thing of the kind, and the wonder and admiration of all who have seen it. Of course it is held ata high price, but who cares for that, when we are getting something better than can be found in our neighbor’s grounds, and likely to supercede everything of the kind? While I would not discourage the planting of new varieties for experi- ment, I say touch lightly until they have been more fully tried. Better follow in the old channel, if you can realize from $200 to $500 per acre for your crop, than risk your chances on something new, even though It prom- ises double that return. The black caps thrive well everywhere, and in their wonderful natural habit of adaptation to ail soils and climates, they are a perfect blessing to both grower and consumer. The Doolittle and Seneca will be quite suffi- cient for those beginners, who cannot afford the high prices for new and untried sorts. Of the red raspberries, public opinion seems to point out the Philadelphia as the surest to grow. The raspberry may be planted out with good success, either in the falior spring, but I prefer the latter, as the ground is always moist at the time, and if the plants have been handled with care, so as not to expose the fibrous roots to the drying winds, are very sure to grow. I have planted ‘he MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 90 at various times, from the middle of April to the middle of Juve, when the plants had made growth of a foot or more, with equal success; indeed, I prefer to have them well started if they can be removed ina moist time, with some dirt attached to the roots. Soil and Location. The raspberry cannot be grown successfully in any place under the sun, without a good, rich, moist soil, such as you would select to grow a pre- mium crop of corn or potatoes, and if those requisites are wanting they can only be remedied by abundant manuring, frequent cultivation, and deepen- ing of the soil. Moisture is a partial fertilizer, but low moist grounds are to be avoided, as producing too much wood of a weak succulent growth, which is sure to winter kill. The best location that can be found for a raspberry plantation is high, level lands, sheltered well from the cold, sweeping winter winds. Many ’ trees and plants exposed to the full sweep of the winds and sunshine of winter, perish, that otherwise would have been perfectiy hardy. The next best location and one that will ripen the fruit a little earlier is an eastern or southern slope. and if there should be a lack of moisture in the soil it may be remedied by mulching. Cultivation and Protection. Good cultivation consists in keeping the soil mellow and free from weeds; and no crop will give better returns for a little extra labor and care. The plow should be started early in the season, followed by the cultivator at frequent intervals, until the fruit is anout half grown, when mulching may take its place. Perhaps no part of the culture of this fruit is so important, and has so great an influence on the success of the crop, as a careful mulching. It should be applied invariably during the fruiting season. It can afterwards be removed, the ground carefully cultivated, and then replaced for fall or winter protection. Pruning may be considered a part of the cultivation necessary in the management of a black cap plantation. The young canes should be short- ened in just previous to the ripening of the fruit; this removes them out of the way of the pickers, and checks their rambling growth by causing the plant to branch out and grow more stocky, thus making it stronger to sustain itself and its load of fruit. It also stands the winter better, being nearer the ground. After the fruiting season is over, the old canes should be removed, as they are then entirely worthless, and tend to check the growth of the new. If the work has all been properly done the rows of plants at the end of the growing season will present a broad top bending over toward the ground; and now a little dry straw placed on top of the rows, just enough to shade the plants from the sun, will bring them through the winter all safe. Marketing, &c. I am not going to load down your ships for the market, nor guarantee a 100 ANNUAL REPORT. Al $1,000 an acre for tke crop, as some fruit: growers have claimed, and per-_ haps have succeeded in some instances to obtain; but if you are near a good market, and attend to the handling and marketing of the fruit your- self, there is no crop that will pay better. The fruit should be picked as it ripens, for if left on the vines todo long it becomes too soft to handle. ‘Lhe better way is to divide the plat in two equal parts, (as the fruit ripens in succession) and go over one part each day, picking all the ripe berries clean ‘as you go. Never use buckets or tubs for gathering or carrying, unless you intend the fruit for jam. For marketing, pint baskets are preferable to quarts, and a flaring bas- ket is better than a straight or upright one, as the weight of the fruit rests more against the sides, and presses less at the bottom. The baskets should be well filled, and the fruit placed upon the market in the best pos- sible concition, as ultimate success depends very much on our reputation for honesty and fair dealing. If near enough to a large city. and you have no more fruit than you can handle, it would be better to select your cus- tomers and supply them from day to day, saving the commission of mid- dle men, who frequently absorb all the profits. In engaging ina business of this kind certain conditions are necessary: First,a good market; second, one that is easy of access; and third, quick and cheap transportation, without which no certain calculations could be made, as the business may be overdone, and we should not be able to compete with those having ad- vantages over us. But there is a market that I have neyer seen glutted, and the prices are always remunerative; I mean the home market. How many of you farmers and mechanics have even a scant supply of those health-giving fruits? and yet how easy it would be for every one owning a few rods of ground, to cultivate enough for family use, not only while fresh, but to can, and pre- serve, and dry to supply the table the whole year round. Twenty years ago I came to Minnesota in poor health,—my family’s health was poor, but we are all living, and now we have eight children, and since we have had plenty of fruit to supply the table, no physician has entered our door (professionally) in the past eight or nine years; not since our last baby was born. The Birds. And now one plea for the birds and lam done. Some persons say that they would plant out more of those small fruits, but the birds always get the largest share. True, if you plant no more than the birds ought to have, for they are co-laborers with yourself, protecting and saving the fruit from devouring insects, while you only do your part in cultivatiag the crop. Are they not worthy of their hire? Long before you have left your dreamy couch, they have sung their morning hymn, and gone forth like angels of mercy upon their errand to save, and with microscopic eyes search out and destroy those small insects that are just ready to devour the crop. But man comes sneaking out, creep- ing, and crawling, and crouching beneath the hedge with murderous gun n hand, brings down the fluttering birds, bleeding and dying, at his feet What wonder if the earth is cursed for man’s sake? MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 101 s I never miss what fruit the birds take from my grounds, and they are welcome, thrice welcome to the little pittance they claim, and have so — nobly lad, I believe the same birds come back to me every year, and seem glad to find the place, for scarce have the snows of winter gone be- fore I hear the familiar greeting song, and then with cheerful hop from branch to branch, and tree to tree, down in the furrows, along the fence, and tbrough the grounds, gathering up the seeds of noxious weeds, and swarms of insects yet in embryo, they still pursue, and watch and work, as with a will, the summer through, asking nothing in return except a lit- tle fruit for dessert; just that and nothing more: God clothes them. J. T. GRIMEs. DISCUSSION. Mr. Harris :—Feel modest about speaking on this subject. Good fruit is easy to raise, but farmers hardly know how it tastes. If they did they would raise more of it. The Doolittle is the most commonly cultivated, and the black caps are the most profitable. We fruit growers do not wish to monopolize the cultivation of fruits. We want the farmers to grow fruit and the nurserymen will sell them the plants. The Seneca will yet take the place of the Doolittle. Davison’s Thornless is hardier than the Doolittle and would culti- vate a few for early. Red berries, however, sell better than black in the market. Mr. Pearce :—I consider the raspberry the most important fruit crop of the State. I cultivate only for family use. (The speaker here described his fruit farm of about half an acre.) I manure with soap factory sediment and this makes the.n produce wonderfully. Some pines on one side cause the snow to lodge and cover up the vines. Mr. Cook cultivates two rows of corn and two rows of rasp- berries alternately throughout the field; the cornstocks hold the snow which protects the vines. Yields. Mr. Smith :—The best yield I have heard of is that of Mr. Boxell, whose Philadelphia yielded at the rate of 2,800 quarts per acre, and the Kirtland at the rate of 1,600 quarts per acre. He sold at whole- sale at an average of about 25 cents per quart. He intends putting out ten acres of raspberries. He grows the Philadelphia, Seneca, Doolittle, Kirtland, and Turner. He is a grower aiso of onions; sometimes raises 3,000 bushels, but generally about 1,500 bushels. Mr. Bunnell :—The farmers at large are becoming more interested in setting raspberries. They should be well cultivated in garden 102 ANNUAL REPORT. soil and thoroughly mulched in summer. For varieties: would plant Davison’s Thornless, Doolittle, and Philadelphia. (Mr. Brand made some remarks which were lost by the Soothe, . Training. Mr. Jordan :—Have now about ten acres of raspberries, largely of the Red, Purple Cane or garden variety. Davison’s Thornless is not a favorite with me. Have two acres of Philadelphia which have produced half a crop for the last two years. As to training I find a difficulty. If I cut back the branches, the wind blows them ahout and breaks them, and if I let them grow they trail on the ground. (Inquiries were made about the Ontario. Some had it but had not fruited it. The Herstine was also inquired about.) Mr. Sias :—Hoag’s seedling is the beet I ever tested. Mr. Hart :—As for the Herstine, have seen them and called them the best I ever tasted. Know of a man who has half an acre of them. Mr. Tuttle was called for, and finally rose. He remarked in substance as follows: I see quite a change since I last visited your Society. Then you were recommending fruits found difficult to grow in Wisconsin. Now I perceive more caution. Success will first be reached with hybrids, and finally we will grow the apple in Minnesota and Wis- consin to supply our home demand. The territory of Russia is similar in climate and soil to ours, and as they grow fruit there, so we can here. I have faith in Russia as a source of varieties, and think attention should be turned in that direction. Blackberries. Mr. Smith:—(In answer to question.) I have tested nearly everything of promise in the blackberry line, and everything has been a failure. But the trouble is, my soil is too rich to grow blackberries. Secretary's Report. The annual report of the Secretary, Chas. Y. Lacy, was then called for and made, and was ordered to be published in the Trans- actions. It was as follows: MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, 103 ( REPORT OF THE SECRETARY. _ GENTLEMEN :—I find neither in constitution nor by-laws anything that requires me to report anything more than matters of business interest. Custom may perhaps demand something more—some display of eloquence. Gladly would I conform to both law and custom, but pressing duties have not left me the time to prepare a written report of the most ordinary things. I therefore beg your indulgence while I make a verbal report of such matters as may be of interest and not already generally known. - A meeting of the Executive Committee was held March 24th, 1875, when it was decided to hold a summer meeting of one day’s duration at the State University. It was also decided to offer special apple premiums in the premium list of the State Agricultural Society for 1875, as follows: Special Apple Premiums. The Executive Committee of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society pledge said Society to the payment of the following premiums when awarded: For the best seedling Winter Apple raised in Minnesota..... «+++ $100 00 EIBMPEMMOE ONG DGS > aic's0.010 < sto,cimysiciaisisie' « aisininiatbiviajas ices <\yaysie see « 50 00 For the best seedling Autumn Apple raised in Minnesota... ..-.. 30 00 parE ONTO OBESE oa ncsisie 5(Siolw s'eisejeim;e:aysi\e:a a0 moi ia. cyelnip> ain|a'n) niae'a: ainie\ula/ace 20 00 Entries for these premiums, naming and describing tree and fruit, to be made by the originators only, on or before January Ist, 1876. No premium to be awarded until the Autumn Apple shall have been ex- hibited at the State Fairs, and the Winter Apple at both the State Fairs and Winter Meetings of the State Horticultural Society, for five years; nor until the tree shall have been in bearing in each Congressional district of the State of Minnesota for five years; nor uniess the tree shall be as hardy as the Duchess of Oldenburg, and the fruit of good quality. Entries for special apple premiums must be filed with the Secretary of the State Horticultural Society. Summer Meeting. The summer meeting was held June 30th, and though the attendance was Small, the meeting was highly interesting and successful. Among other features of interest was a visit to the University Farm, a report of which you have already heard. There was also a very fair display of plants, fruits, flowers and vegetables. It is hoped that these summer meetings will grow in interest and the exhibitions in size with each succeeding year. At this meeting the action of the Executive Committee on special apple premiums was approved, and other business transacted as follows: A committee consisting of J. S. Harris, D. A. J. Baker, Col. J. H. Ste- vens and Wm. Fowler, was appointed to report at this meeting on the con- dition of the University Farm. 104 ANNUAL REPORT. A permanent committee on obituaries, consisting of Messrs. Stevens, Loring and Nutting, was appointed. | ‘ Messrs. Smith, Harris, Elliot, Jewell and Lacy, were appointed delegates to the meeting of the American Pomological Society. | Col. Stevens, Gen. Nutting, Pres. Smith, of the Horticultural Society, and Pres. Fowler, of the Agricultural Society, were appointed a ‘commit- tee to apply for a room at the State Capital, for the use of the Agricul- tural and Horticultural Societies, and to be open at all times. Another meeting of the Executive Committee was held January 6th, when the programme for this meeting was adopted, and 300 osha ordered to be printed and distributed. Library. The following books have come into my possession. They are now placed, and will hereafter remain, subject to the order of the Society: Transactions Illinois Horticultuial Society, vol. 2, 1868. Transactions Illinois Horticultural Society, vol. 3, 1869. Transactions Illinois Horticultural Society, vol. 4, 1870. Transactions Illinois Horticultural Society, vol. 5, 1871. Transactions Illinois Horticultural Society, vol. 6, 1872. Transactions Illinois Horticultural Society, vol. 7, 1873. Transactions Illinois Horticultural Society, vol. 8, 1874. Entomology of Missouri, 6th report, 1873. Transactions Wisconsin State Horticultural Society, 1872. Transactions Wisconsin State Horticultural Society, 1875. Pomology of Maine, 1873-4. Proccedings Nebraska State Horticultural Society, 1872. Transactions Nebraska Horticultural Society, 1871; paper. An Address before the Nebraska State Horticultural Society, by James T. Allan; paper. Address of Dr. H. Latham, at State Fair of Nebraska, 1872; paper. A Speech at Neb. State Fair, 1873, by J. Sterling Morton; paper. An Address, The Foes of the Farmers, at Neb. State Fair, 1874, by A. L. Perry; paper. New Constitution of Nebraska of 1875; paper. Prize Essay on Forest Growing, by J. T. Allan; paper. An Address, Farmers’ Wives and Daughters, at Neb. State Fair, 1873, by Matilda Fletcher; paper. Fruit List for Province of Quebec; paper. Address at 15th Session Am. Pomological Soc., 1875, by M. P. Wilder; paper. Proceedings First Annual Meeting Minn. Hort. Soc., 1869; paper. Rep. Minn. State Hort. Soc., 1866-73. Transactions Minn. State Hort. Soc., by John S. Harris; paper. Trans. Minn. State Hort. Soc., by L. M. Ford; paper. Thirteen volumes in cloth. Thirteen volumes in paper. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 105 Expenses. The expenditures of the Secretary for the past year have beenas follows: For ENVELOPES -cceccccne -cocve secece seeee re ey $1 75 ‘© 25 St. Paul Presses sent to various Agricultural Papers......... 65 Fe SR Oe Cent BtAMPS..--++ 00+ veerss Sm Sateen ena as saueaeene 25 ** Postage on 5 copies Transactions ....60).c.e.eeeee cece cence ce 30 CEA SRNOLICES , scar va owes wvestesdspeccveu cane veee vette 36 ‘© Four hours writing notices........cc0.sscceececae Pecicwe a ican tw AO) ‘* Postage on 17 letters......... A nunke, 5 iXip: snip teen atataletta Cit Sas aiavals ee 51 SEES ILODOLEG « noe viehin 9.6:s 009 cncnneqaninsinsaccee cine gacepe 17 ** Printed jxapenigtiae and, Envelopes.) a dee2--6.806 seise ass atlas 6 50 SRMREMIBI EEO SAM Cinccs cacccc cece seccscswsesscccescccsasccsiccs wotuds 6O “« Printing R. R. Certificates Ayr ale ay ctave eM aveiekt-aheiat hipiataa oraiciey siniereteveutshalee 1 75 $14 64 Respectfully submitted, Cuas. Y. Lacy, - Secretary. Treasurers Report. The annual report of the Treasurer was then read, accepted, and ordered to be published in the Transactions. Treasurer Minnesota State Horticultural Society : 1875. Dr. Cr. Jan, 2ISt, who, UMlanee ONUHANA... s/c jek ctis skein sits ool BF 38 Jan. 21st, To membership dues. .....- 200 seee cee cece cece 24 00 31 33 Jan. 21st, By cash paid out on order of Pres. and Sec’y... $23 97 1876. Janel 90D, BY, Balance... ..00 sceetuticlele Bhs MoM alares 5 ciniarefercie 7 36 31 33 The Society then adjourned to 9 o’clock to-morrow morning. THURSDAY MORNING. Meeting called to order by the President at 9: 25. The election of officers for 1876 was the first business taken up. 14 106 ANNUAL REPORT. The Scien was by cape without nominations, and the following are the results: For President. - First ballot— Dartt, 5; Harris, 1; Loring, 2; Smith,9; Jewell, 3; Elliot, 2. Whole number, 23. Second ballot— | Dartt, 5; Loring, 1: Smith, 14; Jewell, 3. Whole number, 23 On motion of Mr. Grimes, Truman M. Smith was declared unanimously elected. For Vice President from First Congressional District. Dartt, 12; Harris, 3; Buck, 3: Jewell, 2. Whole number, 20. E. H. S. Dartt was declared elected. For Vice President from Second District. Carter, 19; Blank, 1. Whole number, 20. T. G. Carter was declared elected. For Vice President from Third District. Elliot, 11; Grimes, 6; Loring, 4; Blank, 1. Whole number, 22. Mr. Elliot declined, and, on motion of Mr. Brand, the rules were sus- pended and the Secretary directed to cast the vote of the Society for Mr. Grimes; which was done, and J. T. Grimes was declared elected. For Secretary. Lacy, 20; Harris, 2; Brand, 1. Whole number, 23 Chas. Y. Lacy was declared elected. For Treasurer. First ballot— Elliot, 4; Sias, 9; Stewart, 9; Brand, 1; Harris, 1; Rollins, 1. Whole number, 25. Second ballot— Elliot, 2; Stewart, 8; Sias, 13; Rollins, 1. Whole number, 24. A. W. Sias was declared elected. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 107 Executive Committee. On motion of Mr. Jordan, the President was empowered to ap- point the Executive Committee, and the following were appointed : Norman Buck, Wyman Elliot, P. A. Jewell, O. F. Brand and J. 8S. Harris, the President and Secretary being members ex-officio. Delegates to Meeting of the State Agricultural Society. Mr. Jewell moved that the President appoint the delegates. The motion was carried, but afterwards rescinded, and on another mo- tion, Pres. T. M. Smith was appointed chairman of the delegation with power to appoint co-delegates. The President appointed as co-delegates, E. H. S. Dartt, A. C. Hamilton, Col. J. H. Stevens and Chas. Y. Lacy. Mr. Dartt declined and, on motion, the delegates were empow- gred to appoint substitutes. New Siberians and Hybrids. The election of officers concluded, Mr. Jewell gave the substance of his paper on Crab-apples and Hybrids verbally, promising to prepare a written paper in time for printing in the Transactions, as ordered by the Society. The following is the paper : NEW SIBERIANS AND HYBRIDS. The peculiarities of the old Siberian sorts are clearly defined, but their improved descendants present no unvarying characteristics of either fruit or tree by which their Siberian parentage can in all cases be determined. Seven years ago I sent the fruit of the Maiden’s Blush crab to F. R. Elli- ott, of Cleveland, Ohio. In acknowledging its receipt, he expressed the opinion that it was not a crab, and mildly cautioned me against imposing on the public by sending it out as such. And yet this condemned variety was from Siberian seed, and the same lot of seed as a half-dozen other varieties sent him at the same time, the Siberian character of which he did not question. The fruit of the Maiden’s Blush does not resemble the old Siberian sorts, except in size. The stem is very short, the texture fine, and the flavor very pleasant. But the tree in texture, ripening of the wood, and glossy appearance of both twigs and foliage, is clearly Siberian. Chase’s Winter Sweet, on the contrary, is in tree apparently a common apple and in fruit a crab. As the result of much observation, I conclude that none of the improved Siberians retain all of the characteristics of the old sorts, and that there are few if any that do not either in tree or fruit exhibit some Siberian peculiarities. I must therefore regard it as slightly 108 ANNUAL REPORT. wae presumptuous for any pomologist, however eminent, to attempt to settle positively the relationship of every variety by the fruit alone. After a careful examination of both tree and fruit it may not be possible to deter- mine in every instance whether or not a variety is of Siberian origin. Any tree grown from Siberian seed is known to be either a crab or a hybrid. But it is a mooted question whether the choicest Siberian sorts are proved crabs or a cross between the crab and common apple. “If a cross exists itis not the result of careful experiment, but of accident. The circumstantial evidence, however, is strongly in favor of their being hybrids. It is not probable that from the seed of the red and yellow Sibe- rian should spring at once an apple as large as the Small Romanite and much superior to it in flavor, unless the seed from which it was derived united in itself the initial forces of both the Pyrus baccata and Pyrus malus, for gradual, rather than abrupt improvement is the order of nature. The greatly modified character of both tree and fruit, and the strong re- semblance they sustain to the common apple and the crab, justifies the inference that they are of mixed parentage, and should be regarded as hybrids rather than crabs. But as it is not certainly known that any of the Siberians are hybrids, I shall not attempt to draw a line between Siberians proper and hybrids, or indicate to which of these supposed classes any paf- ticular variety belongs, but shall treat them all under the common head of improved Siberian sorts. It is not my purpose to describe in detail each variety that may be worthy of cultivation, for several of them were thus described two years since, but to compare them with the old Siberian sorts and the common apples, with the view of determining their respective value for planting in our State. The great objection to the common apple is its lack of hardiness. Since the winter of 1872 and ’73 our Society has recommended but three yvarie- ties for general cultivation, Tetofsky, Duchess, and Wealthy. Even these approved varieties are looked upon by those most familiar with the result of the experiments at orchard making in different portions of the State, as unreliable in many situations. This admission may touch our State pride unpleasantly, but it is always best to look the situation squarely in the face while we hope and labor for better things. By planting the seeds of the most hardy sorts, we may and probably shall have at some future day kinds that can be set with safety and profit on every quarter section. We are not dealing with the more or less remote future, but with the present. To-day every farm needs an orchard. How can it be made? The most thoroughly iron-clad of our apples are not to be relied on in all situ- ations. The Siberian, Transcendent and Hyslop crabs afford fruit fit only for culinary uses, and the trees are often sadly injured by blight: For an immediate and satisfactory solution of this important question we must look to the improved Siberian varieties. In the worst situations they are the sole reliance, and in more favorable situations they are still worthy of a prominent place, for the reason that they combine to a large extent the excellencies of both the crab and the common apple. They are perfectly hardy and free from fire-blight; early and abundant bearers, and the fruit equal in quality to the common apple. It is not every variety included in the list recommended by this Society that possesses such a fortunate com- bination of qualities. For the excellence and defects of the different kinds, — MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 109 I refer you to the article prepared at the request of the Society two years gince. There are some varieties not included in the list, to which I invite the attention of the Society as worthy of cultivation: Whitney’s No. 20, a September fruit of large size and fine quality. Blushing Maid, hardy; fruit large and handsome; season, autumn. Orion, an early and free bearer, fruit quite large, handsome and of fine quality; season, October to January. Honest John, a strong growing tree and profuse bearer, large size, quality good; season, October to February. There are several seedlings originated by Peter M. Gideon, quite remarka- ble for beauty, and some of them pleasant for eating. They are all fall varieties. I have on my own ground eight or. ten seedlings of promise, but cannot speak with assurance of their value until they have had further trial. The extent to which the common apple can be planted with safety can be considerably enlarged by top-working the more hardy kinds on the Siberians. This process of making orchard trees is somewhat expensive, but it enables us to grow valuable varieties that otherwise we would be compelled to discard. I have tried the Red Siberian, Transcendent and Hyslop for this purpose, and the result with most varieties has been quite satisfactory. In a few instances the union of the scion with the crab stock was imperfect, and occasionally an instance has occurred of the Hyslop aud Siberian body being killed by blight. I would recommend the Early Strawberry and Quaker Beauty as being quite as well adapted to top- working as any of the crabs. Sufficient attention has not been given to the roots of orchard trees. The fall of snow in our State is less than in the States farther East. Not unfrequently for several weeks the ground is entirely bare, the cold in- tense and protracted. Unless the orchards are heavily mulched in the fall, the roots of the trees are apt.to be killed. As usually, mulching is attended with considerable expense, and from the pressure of work, liable to be neglected, it is desirable that our trees should have roots of such a hardy natnre as to make mulching quite unnecessarv. The most certain method of securing this result is to root the tree from the scion. With this object in view, in grafting, a long scion and a short root should be used. When the tree is transplanted to the orchard, it should be set eight to twelve inches deeper than it stood in the nursery, according to the na- ture of the soil. Before planting, two upward incisions should be made near the roots of the tree, cutting through the bark and slightly into the wood, forming a tongue one-half of an inch to an inchinlength. At the point where thé incision is made new roots will be formed of the same character as the top of the tree. Thus we shall have in every instance each variety on its own roots. If the top is iron-clad the root will be equally so. In other words, our trees wi!l be iron-clad at both ends, and mulching can be dispensed with without risk of injury to the roots of our trees, however severe the winter may be. Summing up in a few words the practical lessons included in what I have said: The Tetofsky, Duchess and Wealthy should be planted in most situa- tions, and if top-worked on the crab, may be planted successfully every- where. Several other varieties less hardy, valuable for their productive- ness and quality of fruit, if top-worked may be planted quite extensively. sd 110 ANNUAL REPORT. , The impreved Siberians are worthy of a place in every orchard, and in many situations must constitute the main reliance for some years to come. Whatever varieties are planted the precaution should be taken to have them on hardy roots. If these suggestions are faithfully carried out, the temadaia of Minne- sota will soon find that it is both cheaper and more pleasant to raise fruit on their own grounds than to grow wheat and buy it. ie . P. A. JEWELL. After the paper was read the following discussion was had: Hyslop and Transcendent. Mr. Tuttle :—Three years ago I shipped Transcendents to Chi- cago, where they brought $5.00 per barrel. Last year and year before they brought $3.50 to $4.50. I sent Hyslops also, and these brought $8.00 when the Transcendents brought $5.00, but they came after other kinds, when the Transcendent was gone from the market. Still the Hyslop will bring more than other kinds under the same circumstances. Showy apples sell best. Mr. Smith :—The Hyslop brings 50 cents to one dollar per bushel more in the St. Paul market than the Transcendent. Mr. Elhot :—The Hyslop markets in better condition, while the Transcendent bruises and shows bruises badly. The price of the latter varies with the condition. Transcendents brought in by farmers last season sold for 50 cents per bushel, while those mar- keted with care and in good order sold for $1.50. Mr. Jewell:—If I could have but one variety, and that the Transcendent or Hyslop, would take the Hyslop, for the fruit keeps longer. It is a slow-growing tree, and hence not extensively propagated, because nurserymen want to get a tree in the shortest possible time. Threw away the Badger State because of its slow growth. Early Strawberry. Mr. Brand moved to recommend the Early Strawberry for gen eral cultivation. Mr. Sias :—It is sufficiently hardy. Mr. Jewell:—It has succeeded finely in Litchfield. It is every- where the finest tree in the orchard, and quite productive. Mr. Harris mentioned one tree dead from blight. Mr. Jewell:—The first propagated were grafted on Siberian Crabs, and many of these failed. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 111 / Last Year’s List. The President read the action of the Society on crabs last year. Mr. Dartt moved that the action be reaffirmed, which was sec- onded. , Mr. Harris :—Meader’s Winter is very fruitful, but blights. Mr. Hart :—Think the list is too long, as it will be confusing to farmers. The motion was carried, with the amendment that the General Grant be stated least hardy on the list. The latest action of the Society on crab apples stands therefore thus : Recommended for general trial : Early strawberry. Orange. (Unanimous vote.) Beecher’s Sweet. Minnesota. (Seven for, none against.) Conical. Quaker Beauty. Maiden’s Blush. Woodlawn Red. (Tie vote, 3 for and 3 against.) Recommended for general trial for favorable localities : Aiken’s Striped Winter. (Five for, none against.) Recommended for general trial in localities not subject to blight : Meader’s Winter. (Four for and three against.) General Grant. General Grant is the least hardy of the list. Recommended for planting in small quantities : Hyslop. (Ten for, three against.) Soulard. (Six for, three against.) Recommended for general planting for those not afraid of blight : Transcendent. (Fourteen for, one against.) Passed over without action : Hutchinson’s Sweet. Hesper Blush. Aiken’s Green Winter. 112 ANNUAL REPORT. ae Apples. _ The list of apples adopted last year was read. “tif frit Saxton. tat \ riit¢ . , ow Mr. Dartt:—I move that the action of last year on apples be reaffirmed. Would not, however, vote so strongly for the Saxton as I did last year. . . The motion was seconded. Mr. Tuttle :—The Saxton, while young, does well, but becomes tender as it grows older. Will not in the end give satisfaction. _ Duchess and Wealthy. By common consent it was decided to take up one variety ata time. The Duchess was placed first on the list for general cultivation by a unanimous vote. The Wealthy was placed second on the list by a vote of 14 for and 1 against. Melinda. Mr. Brand moved that the Melinda be placed third on the list, which was seconded. Mr. Jordan asked for its history and the estimation it held in the mind of its introducer, Mr. I. W. Rollins. It kept in good condi- ' tion last year till June with me. Mr. Rollins :—It has been grown in three counties but only in one district. Some trees are injured in the crotch. Its keeping qualities are as stated, and the flavor is not lost by keeping. The quality is second rate. In hardiness it is third, the Duchess and Tetofsky being first and second. It is a good bearer, bears heavy every other year, and some every year. One year I obtained seven barrels from 15 trees. It bears small. The buds stood better last winter than those of any other except the Duchess and crabs. Have had it in bearing seven years, and the oldest I have were planted 14 or 15 years ago. It stood three or four years before bearing. Mr. Harris:—Under the rule we cannot pass the motion. I move to amend by recommending it for trial. The amendment was seconded. ; Mr. Brand :—The Melinda has not been fairly treated. The rule Bac ’ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 113° was made to keep out this variety. The wood may not be so per- fect as the Duchess, but none give more fruit. Mr. Jewell:—Mr. Rollins’ location is more favorable than the average of the State, though not most favorable. It is high prairie. The trees in Mr. Rollins’ orchard, I would say, are from one-fourth to one-half dead. One side of the tree has made no growth. I think the trees died at the top as well as at the root. It is hardier than the Haas but not hardy enough to recommend for general cul- tivation. Have been told that the quality begins to deteriorate in March. It is never first rate. Have examined the Duchess and Melinda in the same orchard in three cases and found the wood of the Duchess always in the best condition. Mr. Wilcox gave some history of certain varieties, and said that, in one orchard with the Duchess he saw the Melinda in pretty good condition. : Mr. Sias :—Have grown it for seven or eight years. Have fruited it for three or four years. The tree is hardy but not as hardy as the Duchess. The amendment of Mr. Harris was then carried by a vote of 13 for and 3 against. The motion as amended was carried by a vote of 13 for and none against, by which the Melinda was recommended for trial. ' Adjourned till two o’clock. THURSDAY AFTERNOON. The meeting was called to order by the President at 2:25. Test for Varieties. Mr. Harris moved that the rule for the government of the So- ciety in recommending fruits be amended so as to read: Resolved, That we do not recommend for general planting in large quan- tities any variety that is not generally known, that has not stood a test of flve years in a variety of soils and situations, and that has not passed through at least one winter of great severity. Carried by a vote of 10 for and 6 against. Mr. Brand moved that the action of the Society or the Wealthy be reconsidered. Lost by a vote of 4 for and 10 against. 15 114 ANNUAL REPORT. a Tetofsky. No other action being taken, the Tetofsky was left on the list for general cultivation. Stewart’s Sweet. Mr. Harris moved to strike Stewart’s Sweet from the list for gen- eral cultivation. Mr. Grimes :—It is hardy enough. Mr. Jordan :—Some are dying in Rochester, and it is a crab. Mr. Brand :—A crab without question. Mr. Grimes :—It is an apple because the fruit has a short stem. Mr. Jewell :—The long stem is not an infallible characteristic of crabs. I know of no uniform characteristic of crab apples. (A question was asked concerning its productiveness, to which no answer was made.) Mr. Dartt:—A want of knowledge as to its productiveness is proof that it is not generally known. It may he hardy while young, but not when old like the Saxton in this respect. Mr. Stewart :—The trees are scattered from Minneapolis to Mani- toba, and I hear good accounts from it. It is my opinion it will bear enough to make it profitable. It has had a hard chance be- cause of the grasshoppers eating them up in many regions. Mr. Harris mentioned a Transcendent that at 15 years bore 18 bushels. Mr. Harris’ motion to strike from the list for general cultivation was carried by a vote of 9 for and 1 against. Mr. Harris moved to‘recommend for trial, which was carried by a vote of 11 for and none against. Haas. The Haas recommended for trial by a vote of 13 for and none against. Price’s Sweet. Price’s Sweet was allowed to stand on the list for favorable - localities, no objection being made. Saxton. It was moved to strike the Saxton from the list for favorable lo- calities. Lost by a vote of 5 for and 5 against. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 115 Mr. Dartt :—I would retain it because of its earliness in bearing. Mr. Hart :—Would as soon dig up my Duchess. Mr. Brand :—I have planted 100 trees of it. Mr. Jordan :—I fear we would be considered changeable if we should strike it off. We are going to have a change of climate, we have been having a series of severe winters and now we may have something different. Mr. Jewell :—Its good points are that it bears young and bears well, and if so trained as to have it bear while young it will pay to plant. The vote was reconsidered and the motion to strike from the list was again made and lost by a vote of seven for and nine against. Fameuse and Plumb’s Cider. The Fameuse and Plumb’s Cider were allowed to stand where placed last vear on the list for ‘‘ most favorable localities.” Walbridge. A motion to take the Walbridge from the list for ‘‘ most favora- ble localities,” and recommend for “ trial” was carried by a vote of 10 for and none against. St. Lawrence. The St. Lawrence was taken up and Messrs. Wilcox, Pearce and others said good things of it. Mr. Jewel! moved to recommend it for ‘‘ favorable” instead of ‘** most favorable localities.” r Messrs. Brand, Hart, and others also spoke favorably of it and the motion was carried by a vote of 14 for and none against. Utter’s Red, Talman’s Sweet and Alaska. Utter’s Red was allowed to stand where placed last year on the list for ‘* favorable localities,” as also Talman’s Sweet on list for ** most favorable localities,” and Alaska on list for ‘‘ trial by ama- teurs and pomologists.” Red Astrachan. Mr. Harris moved to recommend the Red Astrachan for general trial. 116 ANNUAL REPORT. Mr. Grimes :—It has never borne with me. tNh Mr. Smith :—Have one on Paradise stock, and it has borne well enough so as to pay. Mr. Jewell :—Not more than one tree in twenty that has been planted in this State is now living. It fails in so many cases and succeeds in so few cases that we had better let it alone. * Mr. Dartt:—In Wisconsin it lives, but does not bear. Mr. Tuttle :—It bears sparsely for many years, but when it gets older it bears heavy alternate years, and proves profitable. Mr. Wilcox :—Have had it stand where the Transcendent was killed. Has done as well with me as the same number of any other kind of trees. Mr. Harris :—It has stood as well as any, the Duchess excepted, since the hard winter. Mr. Pearce:—I would recommend it only top-worked. Mr. Barry says should not use it on his own stock. It is a shy bearer but a profitable tree. Mr. Carter spoke unfavorably of its bearing. Mr. Hart:—Would not recommend it as a standard, but as a dwarf it bears enough in one year to pay its cost. It was moved to recommend it for trial in favorable localities when top-worked, which was carried by a vote of 8 for and none against. White Astrachan. : Mr. Harris moved to recommend the White Astrachan for * gen- eral trial” throughout the State. Carried by a vote of 8 for and 1 against. Peach Apple. Mr. Brand moved to recommend the Peach apple for trial. Mr. Brand :—It is later than the Duchess and entirely hardy. The motion was carried by a vote of 5 for and 1 against. List Recommended. The action of the Socicty on apples was therefore as follows: Recommended for general cultivation : lst. Duchess of Oldenburg. (Unanimous vote.) 2d. Wealthy. (14 for, 1 against.) 3d. Tetofsky. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 117 Recommended for trial : Melinda. (13 for, none against.) Stewart’s Sweet. (11 for, none against.) Haas. (13 for, none against.) Walbridge. (10 for, none against.) Peach Apple. (5 for, 1 against.) Recommended for favorable localities : Price’s Sweet. (10 for, 1 against.) Saxton. (9 for, 7 against.) St. Lawrence. (14 for, none against.) Utter’s Red. (4 for, 4 against.) Recommended for most favorable localities : Fameuse. (14 for, 3 against.) Plumb’s Cider. (7 for, 5 against.) Talman’s Sweet. (12 for, 5 against.) Recommended for trial by amateurs and pomologists : Alaska. Recommended for trial in favorable localities when top-worked : Red Astrachan. (8 for, none against.) Recommended for general trial throughout the State : White Astrachan. (8 for, 1 against.) Winter Fruit. Mr. Sias then read a paper on Winter Fruit which was accepted and ordered incorporated in the Transactions. The following is the text in full: WINTER FRUIT. RocuEstTER, Minn., January 17th, 1876. Mr. President and Gentiemen of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society: Where shall we find hardy, reliable winter varieties, of good quality, of the common apple (Pyrus malus?) You need only refer to the last annual report of this Society to convince you that right here is the great want of the State. Hence, the question of where shall we find desirable winter varieties of the common apple, will, I think, be acknowledged by all to be a pertinent one, and uvless we can add something to this very meager list for general cultivation, it will certainly count us but very little as an im- =i ‘a i begs e 118 , ANNUAL’ REPORT. migration document to set before the great Centennial Exhibition, soon to be opened at Philadelphia. As it now stands it would do Minne ota great injustice as a fruit-growing State. And I will say in this connect on, that doubtless the chief reason why our winter list is so very small, is owing partly or wholly to the fact that the men who are now foremost in this noble work of making Minnesota Seedlings a specialty, are men of taste, refine- ment, and rare modesty. Had they possessed a hundredth part of the ‘* cheek” of some of those unscrupulous fellows who have been flooding the country with untried, half-hardy varieties of distant origin, and of little or no merit, they would have had several of their promising new seedlings that are destined to add millions to the wealth of the Northwest, fairly and squarely before the publicyears ago. And meanwhile these public - benefactors have been struggling along, in some cases through sickness and great tribulation, sewing together old vests and rags for raiment, to enable them to save a little money to buy seeds to continue this grand work, that is one day to make us all ‘‘ wealthy.” Such heroic enthusiasm, under peculiar and most trying circumstances, contains all the elements of great and final success, Now how have these great horticulturists been treated or appreciated by what is sometimes termed a generous public? For an instance, what great encouragement have they derived from our institutions, gotten up for the so-called purpose of encouraging agricul- ture and horticulture ? Since the time that Horace Greeley made the ill- advised, or careless remark, that ‘‘you can’t raise apples in Minnesota,” the croakers appeared to tike out a new lease of life, and to put on all the self-assurance and dignity of a man who knew just whathe was driving at! At our county agricultural fairs in some cases they offered the liberal premium of three dollars for the best exhibition of fruits, and when the lucky man, who had been watching this fruit for three long days, called for his money, he was very politely informed that the institution had ‘‘ busted,” and that it would be utterly impossible for him to pay over ten cents on the dollar, while at the same time this ‘‘ busted ” society could pay three hundred dollars fur the best exhibition of cruelty to that noblest of all animals, the horse ! And I am inclined to think that this is just about a fair exhibit of the public generally towards these most useful till- ers of the soil. And now to go back to our subject of where shall we obtain winter varieties of the common apple. Thus far we have depended chiefly on the Eastern and Middle States, and as this is known to be one of the leading causes of so many failures, you will not of course be very anxious to invest anything further in that direction. Then again, some say we should look to Russia, or Northern Europe, for the best results. Now let us consider this for just a moment, as to winter fruit. My expe- rience in shipping trees south makes me skeptical in regard to finding good keepers, that originated as far north as St. Petersburg, Russia. (We may import varieties from there that originated far south of that point.) And out of one hundred varieties that I am now testing of Rus- sian origin, I should be disappointed if a single variety proved a good keeper. November 6th, 1860, the memorable day of Abraham Lincoln’s first election, found me distributing trees to our rebellious brethren, on Green River, in the southern part of Kentucky. These trees originated mostly in the Eastern States, and were the best keepers and most suc- MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 119 cessful varieties in those States, (we can profit by their experience if we will,) viz., Baldwin, Boston Russet, Northern Spy, Porter and R. I. Green- ing. While no farther south than Glasgow, Ky., I found these long keep- ers (with us) decaying badly in October, and was informed by old citizens there, that the best keepers that originated as far north as New England, were nothing but fall varieties with them, and they had always been dis- appointed in trying to get good keepers from the north. Now the differ- ence in latitude between this place and St. Petersburg is some fifteen or _ sixteen degrees, while the difference between Boston, Mass., and Bowling Green, Ky., is less than one-half this distanoe. Therefore, judging from the long experience of fruit growers in the older States of the Union, and from my own limited knowledge of the busi- ness in this State, I am forced to the conclusion that our greatest success with long keeping, heavy bearing, and with varieties of superior quality, and trees of large size and longevity, will of necessity be with Minnesota seedlings. And this doctrine of seedlings will not only apply to the apple, but also with equal force to the pear, when propagated from seed of such hardy varieties as the Flemish Beauty. Seedlings also of our best native plums, and so on through the whole catalogue of our different fruits. I wish to say in this connection that I very much admire the action of this Society, especially since the severe winter of 1872-3, in ruling out eveny- thing not positively known to be hardy. And now in conclusion, I suppose every man who owns a rood of land will want to plant something to commemorate the great centennial event of 1876, and by planting Minnesota seedlings he will not only do the very best thing possible to mark this great event, but what is of far greater im- portance to Minnesota at the present time, he will also mark an important epoch in the povelopment of Minnesota as a fruit-growing State. A. W. SIs. DISCUSSION. History and Characteristics. Mr. Sias was then called on to give the history and characteris- tics of these varieties. He said they were started on Greenwood Prairie, a part of them 19 years ago. The seed was brought from Northern Vermont. The location in which they grow is ‘‘ favorable,” but not “ most favorable.” It is in the valley of the Whitewater and only a few feet above the water’s edge. Rollin’s Russet stands at the head of the list. The parent tree was killed three or four years ago by the borer. The year before that I cut scions from it and found them healthy. That tree has produced several barrels of apples. The fruit keeps till June or even July. The parent tree of Rollin’s Prolific produced over three barrels in one season. Itis a pie apple. The Elgin Beauty is fully as hardy as the Duchess. 120 ANNUAL REPORT. None have had any root protection. All are winter varieties. Rol- lin’s Pippin and Wabasha are first class eating apples. Mr. Jewell :—Have seen these apples. Of the six varieties only two fixed my attention. The Wabasha is nothing remarkable. The Elgin Beauty is as fine as any Duchess I ever saw. It never lost any growth in consequence of the winter of 1872-3. The apple is of fine appearance. The tree is in better condition than the Melinda. (A full description of these apples will be found in the appendix.) . Centennial. Business arrangements for the Centennial Exhibition was the next order taken up. ‘ Mr. Grimes :—It will requre some one to be there to receive, dis- play, and take care of the fruit, and this Society must send some one. Mr. Elliot :—There should be a committee of three to confer with the State Centennial Board. Mr. Harris :—The State Agricultural Society is intending to make an exhibition of the products of Minnesota, and depend much up- on the Horticultural Society to aid them. Mr. Dartt moved that this Society exhibit in connection with the Agricultural Society. The motion was carried. . Mr. Dartt moved a committee, consisting of Messrs. Elliot, Har- ris and Jewell, be appointed to confer with the Agricultural Society or its Executive Committee. Mr. Harris suggested that it might not be policy for him to act on that committee as he was a member of the Executive Committee of the Agricultural Society. Speeches were made by Messrs. Hart, Jewell, Dartt and Elliot. Mr. Jewell moved to amend by dropping the name of Mr. Harris and substituting Mr. Lacy. The amendment was accepted and the motion carried by which Messrs. Elliot, Lacy and Jewell were ap pointed such committee. A motion was made by Mr. Harris that the Horticultural Society sustain the committee just appointed in whatever they may do after conference with the Executive Committee of this Society. The motion was disposed of by instructing the committee to report to the Executive Committee of the Society. Mr. Pearce moved a resolution pledging the efforts of the Horti- cultural Society toward making an exhibition at the Centennial, but no action was taken on the motion as it was considered best to await the action of the Legislature. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. = 121 _My. Dartt in the chair. Final Resolutions. Mr. Elliot moved that a committee of three be appointed on final resolutions, which was carried, and the chair appointed Messrs. Eliott, Jewell and Grimes. Insect Enemies. The next order taken up was a discussion on insect enemies. m Twig Pruner. Mr. Harris showed a twig pruner which he had raised. It did considerable damage a year ago last summer. Oak branches from one inch in diameter to the size of a twig were cut off by it. He had found the larva in a twig which it had cut off and which had fallen to the ground. The larva then goes into the ground and comes forth the next season as a perfect insect, lays its eggs in the branches where they hatch into larva, which repeat the injury. Beetle in the Apple. Another insect, belonging to the beetle tribe, he found in the apple. He got the larva of this instead of the larva of the codling moth. He put into the bottle with the beetles hatched from these larva, some larva of the codling moth, and the beetles ate them up. The question raised was whether we have in these beetles an enemy of the larva of the codling moth. Another beetle he found ina rose bush. The rose broke down, and digging into the ground, he found the bush girdled. Borer. Mr. Sias showed beetles about an inch long. On a tree which had died suddenly he found them. The insect he had observed to bore its whole length into the tree in 2 to 5 minutes. Grape Curculio. Mr. Harris spoke of the grape curculio which left its eggs in the 16 Ee ANNUAL REPORT. grape. Prot. Riley says these should be watched and the stung specimen picked off and destroyed to prevent the multiplication of the insect. Summer Meeting. The committee on summer meeting then reported as follows: We submit that we think it expedient to hold a summer meeting and exhibition some time between the 15th of June and 10th of July, at the State University. ; , The report was accepted and adopted. Grape Borer. Mr. Smith mentioned a square headed beetle found in the grape vine. It entered above a bud and worked down inside the vine, killing it. A neighbor had two hundred killed in this way. 7 Communications, &c. The Secretary moved that all communications prepared for and not read at this meeting be submitted to the Executive Committee for approval before insertion in the Transactions. The motion was carried. Blight. It was then moved to take up the subject of blight but the Society resolved to defer it. Co-operation of County Societies. Mr. Elliot moved to take up the discussion ‘* How shall we secure the more active co-operation of County Societies,” which was car- ried. Mr. Smith :—We can only do it by each member being a commit- tee of one to organize a local society in his own county. The mem- bers thereof will at the same time learn much from each other, while they increase the usefulness of this Society. - Mr. Elliot :—Each county society is entitled to fifty reports of the State Society, and if a county society can’t be formed at once then let some neighborhood form a society and call it a County MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 123 Society, and gradually gather in all around until it represents the whole county. f 4 Olmsted County. Mr. Pearce :—Our County Society has met with reverses, but we still meet. Mr. Sommerville :—I have not met with them for the last year on account of business. Am sorry for it, and hope we shall restore the society, and will try todo so. Have been in the State nineteen years. Am a farmer with no ax to grind. Have derived benefit from my visit here. Know better what to plant from notes taken here. Will try and reorganize our society and help along the State Society. Mr. Sias:—Am a member of the same society. We had two meetings last year. Winona County. Mr. Hamilton :—Our society failed to report for two years be- cause the interest was diminished by the winter of 1872-3, and because farmers do not come in and take an interest in the pro- “ceedings. m Mr. Harris :—Think it would be a good plan for the State Society to get up a circular with asample constitution and other informa- tion. Some of the best information and results come from small local societies. He instanced what the Lemon Weir Valley Society had done to improve the taste of the neighborhood and increase the cultivation of flowers and shrubs. , THURSDAY EVENING. The meeting was called to order by the President at 7: 25. Pear Culture. A verbal report on pear culture, by Mr. Hart, was called for. Mr. Hart reported as follows : Seedlings from seed sown on sod all died but one. This is an excellent pear. It has been sold in Winona for the past six years. 124 ANNUAL REPORT. Now have 75 trees, which look healthy, and from which I expect fruit next year. I see no reason why we should not raise pears. They like our soil and will not root-kill if we can keep the tops. Would recommend every man to raise a few. When I can’t raise pears I will leave the State. I buy the trees and do not propa- gate. They require high, dry situations, but not poor soil, unless we wish to kill the tree. Have the Flemish Beauty and Louise Bonne de Jersey and others, all on pear stock. Mr. Grimes inquired about the Birkett Pear. Mr. Jewell :—The Flemish Beauty is the hardiest. There is no soil so poor that it will not live if it does not freeze out. Up to °72-3 many trees were in fruiting. One in La Crosse bore four bushels one year. Our experiments in pear culture have not proved a success. We can’t recommend it for general planting. In a few very favorable localities it may succeed. There are some fine pear trees of the Flemish Beauty over back of the lake, in Winona, but there is not one place in a thousand like that. Would recom- mend to try it if you have a very favorable place on not very rich soil. If it has not protection from the sun on the south, had better protect with an evergreen. Mr. Sias:—I have some pears on the Juneberry and Thorn. Has any one had any experience with it thus worked ? Mr. Jewell :—Have it on the Mountain Ash, but not long enough to tell anything about it. Barnett Taylor had several on thorn stocks. Mr. Smith :—It succeeded on the Thorn in Vermont. Mr. Hart :—I planted in a shaded place, and there it failed. Then gave it a southern exposure and it succeeded. Mr. Dartt :—I concur with Mr. Jewell in doubting our ability to raise pears successfully in Minnesota. Raised them before the hard winter, but not since. Where we can raise tender varieties of apples we can raise hardy pears. In recommending for trial in most favorable localities would also make the provision that the experimenter have plenty of money to experinient with. Mr. Brand gave two cases to prove that protection from the sun is needed. In similar cases when the trunks were wrapped with straw rope the trees lived. With protection from the sun, we can raise the pear with success in many localities. Mr. Harris :—In times past I have been a strong advocate of pears. But some cause has destroyed the pear trees in every part of the State. Before 1872-3, hundreds of them looked as well as the Duchess. Shall the pear be known no more in Minnesota? Ce he q / MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 125 The cold is not the only cause of destruction. Blight is one of them ; a large proportion of the destruction isdue to that. Young trees did not die at that time, and if cold was the cause of death, why did the old ones die and the young live? I still have faith that we may again have on our tables such pears as we used to have. Have had 50 to 100 trees, and never lost one from cold. If we can get protection from the sun it seems to me we Can yet raise pears successfully. I do not give it up yet. I have ordered more trees. Mr. Jewell :—Many zealous horticulturists still refuse to look the truth squarely in the face and see that the trees died because they were not hardy enough to live, that they died because they could not stand sun and cold. Mr. Smith :—I have had the trees killed by blight. Mr. Pearce :—Have tried pears many times, and failed every time. A neighbor graded his yard up with stones and rubbish, and put on.a little soil, and planted the Flemish Beauty. They have never lost one inch of growth. I have faith that they will live and bear. Mr. Harris announced that a letter just received, stated that Messrs. Fowler and Judson, of the State Agricultural Society, could not come to the meeting. Celery. The paper of Mr. Brimhall on the cultivation and preservation of Celery was then read and ordered filed for publication in the Trans- actions. The following is the text in full: CULTIVATION AND PRESERVATION OF CELERY. Seed and Varieties. : To obtain good celery, be sure to get good seed to begin with, and of the best known varieties, one of which I claim—the Boston Market— stands first for general cultivation and market gardening. It grows large, stocky, solid, crisp, tender, and nutty flavored when properly grown. Sowing. Seed being obtained, should be sown in a hot-bed or cold frame being . prepared in time, with very light, rich, sandy loam. Time can be gained by tying the seed up in a cloth or bag, tight together, and then put it into hot water enough to cover the package, and let it remain there until down to blood heat; then mix double the quantity of dry sand with the seed and 126 ANNUAL REPORT. sow in the prepared bed, and cover about one-fourth of an inch deep. It. should be kept moderately warm 1 and wet, and partially shaded during hot weather. Transplanting. When the plants are about two inches in height, they should be trans- planted two inches apart in equally rich soil, and be kept well sprinkled with soft water every evening during bright, sunshiny weather. When the plants are from three to four inches high, every other plant each way should be taken out to another bed, or may be planted in the field where wanted to be grown. Great care should be taken in removing the plants, that all the roots be secured with a clump of earth with them. To secure this the soil in which the plants are growing should be well saturated with soft water before removing the plants at any stage of their growth. When it is desired to have the plants remain in the bed until they are six or eight inches high, they should be thinned out to about six inches apart that all may grow strong and stocky. Soil and Preparation. The soil in which celery is to be grown should be made very rich and loosened deep by double-plowing or subsoiling to the depth of one foot or more, and should be plowed twice to thoroughly mix the manure and pulverize the soil; then harrow, and if lumpy, roll the land, and get it in the best possible condition to be had. Planting Out. I abandoned the plan of growing celery in trenches years ago, and now grow it on the top of the soil with the most excellent success, in the fol- lowing manner: When the plants are very large I mark my land out in rows six feet apart with a single shovel plow, and when using small plants use the line and dibble, setting the plants six inches apart in the row. June and July are the months for planting out celery, when good strong plants are to be had. The latter part of July is the best for winter celery. Always select a cloudy day for planting out celery and remove all side sprouts or succors, and press the earth well around the roots. Cultivation. Hoe the plants as soon as possible after setting, to keep the ground from getting hard and crusted. Continue to cultivate it as often as every ten days. When the plants are one foot or more in height, the land being well cultivated between the rows, take a line and loop it around the first plant in the row you wish to hill, and continue to loop the line around each * plant to the end of the line. This is to keev the tops or stalks close to- gether that no earth can get in the center. Great care should be taken never to get any earth into the heart or center of the plant. In earthing up, do not get above the heart until the last earthing to bleach and pro- tect it from frosts. This should be well done by the first of October \ MINNESOTA STATE HOntititoRaL SOCIETY. 127 Celery can be grown as # second crop after early Heian potatoes, ‘&e., &e. The earthing up can be mostly done with the plow and horse-hoe, with a careful hand to use them. Securing. Time of putting away varies according to the weather, but should be - gecured by the first of November, always selecting dry, pleasant weather in handling. The same rule in its cultivation after the plants are set out. Preservation. ‘ To keep celery in and through the winter season in large quantities in this climate is no small task, where the weather is so changeable, and I hardly feel competent for the task, though I have kept it until the first of April. It is very evident that it should be kept cool, not where it will freeze, with some light and circulation of air. The soil in every case should he free from clay and gravel. A moderately dry sandy loam is the best in which to put it away. One very good way is to select a southern slope, dig trenches two feet deep and eighteen inches wide to set it in; plow the earth away from one row at a time with one horse; then witha fork or spade loosen the plants and remove to the trench, setting them in an angle of about sixty degrees, and not so close but that there will bea little space between them; press the earth well on the roots and earth up nearly to the tips, and fill up the trench with dry leaves or straw. Lay some short pieces ot boards across the trench six feet apart, and cover the trenches with two boards one foot or more wide, letting them lap over each other in the middle to keep out all rain or melting snow. Then spread evenly over the trench straw or hay, to the thickness of one foot or more and four feet in width, and as the weather gets colder add more straw, and cover it over with six or eight inches of horse-manure. This can be taken out any pleasant day at noon. Another very good way for storing small quantities is to take a deep hot- bed trame, dig a pit for it two or three feet deep. Set the frame, set out the celery as hefore stated, fill up the top space with leaves or straw and cover over with boards. Then hay or straw with manure at the outside to keep out the frost. When one has a cool cellar or root-house, by making one floor above the other, can store quite a good quantity, and protect by dry straw. A great deal depends upon the condition of the soil in which the celery is put away. It should be moderately dry and free from all vegetable mat- ter. White clean sand is very good when easily obtained. Peat soil is one of the best in which to grow celery, and also for storing itaway. There are numerous large tracts of peat lands in this State, and, at no very dis- tant day, we may expect to see these very valuable lands devoted to the cultivation of celery if not to cranberries. Wo. E. BRIMHALL. DISCUSSION. In the discussion which followed Mr. Harris said he would re- 128 ANNUAL REPORT. commend the Sandringham Dwarf, White Celery, as ie solid, crisp, of dwarf habit, and of a creamy white color. Blight. The next in order was a discussion on blight. Lime. ¢ Mr. Brand stated the substance of a communication from the Hon. Charles Clark, proposing as a remedy working lime into the soil and sprinkling the trees with it when moist with dew. A letter from Col. W. H. H. Taylor, of Minneapolis, was read | by the Secretary, recommending the same remedy, and stating that several persons had tried it with the same result, namely, success. The Secretary stated that judging from a scientific point the effi- * cacy of this remedy was not at all improbable. That “blight” is supposed to be due to the growth of a fungus, and that the pres- ence of the alkalies generally, such as lime, potash, soda, &c., is unfavorable to the growth of fungi. Hence the application of lime may very likely prove valuable for the prevention and cure of ‘“* blight.” Mr. Scott stated that his father used lime freely, and did not suffer from blight so much as his neighbors. Mr. Bunnell :—First noticed the effects of blight in the valleys. Then found some on the prairies. Root Pruning. Mr. Jewell :—Hope future experience will prove the value of this remedy. Root pruning I have had some experience with. What- ever checks the growth of the tree checks the blight. But if we depend on root pruning we must repeat it every three or four years. I ran a plow along the rows of trees, cutting off the roots, and the blight was arrested. Think if there is virtue in alkali our soil ought to be unfavorable. to blight. Further remarks were made by Messrs. Dartt and Pearce, when the subject was dropped. Grounds of Public Buildings. Prof. Phelps then offered the following preamble and resolution: |‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIFTY. § 129 © Wuereas, The general dissemination of a knowledge of horticulture is one of the most important means for promoting the interests, improving the taste and advancing the happiness of the people; and, Wuereas, Nothing can contribute so efficiently to these great objects as the actual demonstrations afforded by the cultivation, under competent di- rection, of the best varieties of plants, flowers, and shrubbery; therefore, Resolved, That in the judgment of this Society it is the policy and duty of the State so to arrange, decorate and cultivate the grounds connected with its public educational institutions as not onlyto afford examples of the varieties best adapted to our climate, but the means for thorough and practical instruction upon this subject, to those who are to become the teachers of our children and youth. It received a second and Prof. Phelps made some remarks in sup- port of the resolution as follows: Mr. Phelps :—In offering these resolutions I desire to express my high appreciation of the work which the State Horticultural So- ciety has undertaken to perform. The first duty of a free com- monwealth is to educate the people, and thus qualify them for their weighty and solemn responsibilities as citizens. I can utter no more truthful aphorism than that the true wealth of a nation is its cultivated sons and daughters. It is none the less true that the ed- ucation of the people should be such as best befits their condition and circumstances. The masses and the industrial classes are identical. Hence the masses should be taught those things that most concern their daily life, and that will best minister to their enduring happiness and prosperity. Among these things horticul- ture, the growth of plants and flowers and luscious fruits, that so minister both to the beautiful and the useful, must ever occupy a prominent place. What greater boon could be bestowed upon the people than the disposition and the ability to beautify their homes and surround them with that ‘‘ which is pleasant to the sight and good for food.” How is the tendency of our youth in the rural districts to rush into the din, the turmoil and the temptations of city life, to be checked, if not by such influences as will make them contented with their lot amid the freedom and the purity of the country that God has made? A knowledge of horticulture and of the science of culti- vating the soil, is the great need of the hour, and I believe that the State should do everything in its power to diffuse this knowledge among its rural population. As a step in this direction permit me to suggest that it should begin by a suitable cultivation and ornamentation of the grounds surrounding its public institutions, particularly its State University 17 10) ANNUAL REPORT. POs KE and its “three Normal Schools where its teachers are — for the high vocation of instructing its children and youth. ws I ask you, Mr. President and gentlemen, to look about this fine | edifice in which you are assembled, and see what a veritabie cow pasture it is. Open to the street, ungraded, unadorned, unenclosed, a disgrace to the State! Many years ago, when these apartments were planned and this building was located, it entered into the hearts of those who looked to the future, that here a botanical gar- den should be laid out, in which might be cultivated those plants, flowers and shrubbery which had been proved to be the best adapted to our soil and climate, and which might afford perpetual ‘* object lessons” to the thousands of ingenious youth that should assemble here to be fitted for duty as teachers under our great common school system. And why not? What noble, better, more useful purpose could these premises be made to subserve? To what end more prac- tical or benificent could a few thousand dollars be appropriated? Think for a moment of the extent to which the practical lessons thus imparted would reproduce around the country school houses and rural homes of the people. Certain it is that the noble science of horticulture which you, gentlemen, are laboring so earnestly to promote will never be taught in our schools until our teachers can be made familiar with its theory and practice, and this familiarity can never be acquired until its objects and living illustrations are at hand to attract the senses and stimulate to earnest and thought- ful study. Not to weary you at this late hour, gentlemen, let me commend this thought to your candid attention. I know of no way in which your worthy and self-denying labors, as a society, can be made to receive a more powerful impetus. I know of none that would be more fraught with blessings to the people in the diffusion of sound information concerning one of the noblest and most useful of arts. Messrs. Harris and Jewell in a few remarks supported the reso- lution very warmly, and it was then carried unanimously. Evergreens. The discussion on evergreens was then opened. Mr. Pearce :—It is one of the most important subjects we can discuss. We want them for protection before we can raise fruit. The best for this purpose is the Scotch Pine. This for windbreaks. For ornament, would plant Balsam Fir, Norway Spruce, Black and White Spruce, Mountain Pine, Dwarf Pine, and Austrian Pine. 8 MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 131 The list of evergreens last adopted was then read by the President. Norway Spruce. Mr. Dartt moved to place the Norway Spruce at the foot of the list. Mr. Pearce :—That would be a mistake. It is the handsomest tree in the grounds of Rochester. Mr. Harris :—I worked hard to get it at the head of the list, but the last two or three years proves that it is too high. Ifa reddish color is better than green, then the Norway is the right tree. Mr. Jewell moved to place the White Spruce at the head and the Norway at the foot. If we can shade it on the south with a house or similar object it may answer. But the White is so near like it that most persons do not distinguish them. The White is far more hardy and satisfactory. Mr. Elliot :—Am now convinced that Brother Ford knew best when that list was made. Mr. Jewell’s motion was lost on the first vote, by a vote of 8 for and 9 against. A second vote was taken which resulted in a tie, 10 for and 10 against. Mr. Pearce :—It will do well on good soil, though it is pees to injury from the sun. Mr. Smith :—Have had them color badly, so that they were un- saleable, on clay soil and northern exposure. Mr. Grimes :—While young they are ordinary, but when they get to be fifteen feet high they are very beautiful. It is hardy in good situations, while hardly any evergreen is hardy in very bad situa- tions. I have evergreens unmistakably hardy, which are yet injured because they stand in a very exposed position where the wind draws round a corner. White Spruce. Motion was made to place the White Spruce first on the list. Carried by a vote of 10 for and 8 against. Norway Spruce. Motion was made to place the Norway Spruce second on the list. 8 1962 ANNUAL REPORT. An amendment was offered to place it third on the list, which was lost by a vote of 7 for and 12 against. vd Motion to place it second was then carried by a vote of 11 for and 8 against. : 1) Scotch Pine. Mr. Jewell moved that the Scotch Pine be placed third on the list, and in answer to the question, ‘‘ for what purpose?” replied, ‘‘for all purposes for which evergreens are employed.” For a vindbreak there is nothing better. Carried by a vote of 13 for and none against. The Balsam Fir was placed fourth on the list by a vote of 15 for and none against. Austrian Pine. Motion was made to place the Austrian Pine fifth on the list. Mr. Jewell :—It is more sensitive to the sun than Norway Spruce. I tried to raise it for six years and then gave it up. Would drop from the list. Mr. Pearce :—It is darker and the needles twice as long as those of the Scotch Pine. It sears over but does not kill. ’ Mr. Grimes -—It is finer than the Scotch Pine, but the leading shoot kills back. Mr. Smith :—Have had one very badly injured. White Pine. Motion was made to amend by substituting White Pine. The amendment was carried, and with it the resolution placing White Pine fifth on the list, by a vote of 11 for and none against. The American Arbor Vite or White Cedar was placed sixth on the list by a vote of 11 for and 2 against. The Red Cedar was placed seventh on the list by a vote of 11 for and 4 against. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 133 Red or Norway Pine. Motion was made to place the Red Pine 8th on the list. Mr. Dartt :—It is a native, which is in its favor. Mr. Grimes :—That is not much of a recommendation, as it is better to get it as grown from the seed in the nursery than from the forests. ) The motion was carried by a vote of 11 for and none against. Austrian Pine. The Austrian Pine was then placed 9th on the list by a vote of 9 for and 7 against. Lrish Juniper. Messrs. Smith and Pearce :—lIt kills every year. Hemlock Spruce. Mr. Smith :—I have a specimen that has lived several years. Mountain Pine. The Mountain Pine was placed 10th on the list by a vote of 8 for and none against. Siberian Arbor Vite. Motion was made to place the Siberian Arbor Vitae, for small yards, 11th on the list. Mr. Elloit :—By pruning it can be trained into any form. Mr. Grimes :—It grows up in fine fronds, is perfectly hardy, not injured by cold or sun. Mr. Jewell :—Have tried it for seven years and my experience is the same. It is much finer than the native and needs no pruning. The motion was carried by a vote of 14 for and none against. Black Spruce. Motion was made to place the Black Spruce 12th on the list. Mr. Jewell :—It is worthless, not worth handling, and the list is long enough. 134 ANNUAL REPORT. Mr. Brand :—Have a perfect and fine tree in my grounds, Mr. Jewell:—They are almost invariably ragged and aeney- Mr. Brand’s looks much like a White Spruce. M. Carter :—I have two that I call Black Spruce which are per fect and handsome. Mr. Brand:—So many trees are ill shaped because they are brought from the forest. Mine were grown in the nursery. Motion was made that the resolution lie on the table, which was carried. Trailing Juniper. Motion was made by Mr. Stewart that the Trailing Juniper be placed 12th on the list, which was carried by a vote of 13 for and none against. The discussion on evergreens then closed. Summary. The action of the Society in recommending evergreens stands therefore thus : White Spruce, 1st. (10 for, 8 against.) Norway Spruce, 2d. (11 for, 8 against.) Scotch Pine, 3d. (13 for, none against.) Balsam Fir, 4th. (15 for, none against.) White Pine, 5th. (11 for, none against.) American Arbor Vite, 6th. (11 for, 2 against.) Red Cedar, 7th. (11 for, 4 against.) Red or Norway Pine, 8th. (11 for, none against.) Austrian Pine, 9th. (9 for, 7 against.) Mountain Pine, 10th. (8 for, none against.) Siberian Arbor Vite, 11th. (14 for, none against.) Trailing Juniper, 12th. (13 for, none against.) Protection of Apple Trees. Jehn Hart made a motion that the Society now take up the dis- cussion of protection for apple trees. Carried. E. H. S. Dartt commenced the discussion. Thought there should be some kind of a windbreak, such as white willows or some kind of hedge; thought that orchard trees should be at a space of at least four rods from the hedge ‘or windbreak. Would recommend / MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 135 the Scotch Pine for a row now and then among the orchard rows, and occasionally one in the orchard row interspersed. -Mr. Bunnell would set trees upon a northern exposure; would hank up earth around the tree just before freezing weather; also protect the trees from the hot sun, head the trees low and place a board on the south side of the tree. J. S. Harris would coincide with E. H. S. Dartt’s views. A. W. Sias would plant the evergreens among the orchard trees for protection, such as Scotch Pine and Spruces. Mr. Pearce concurred with the others about the planting of ev- ergreens ; would not prune the trees after first year. O. F. Brand would recommend the wrapping of the bodies of the trees with some cheap wrappings, and leave them upon the trees both summer and winter. P. A. Jewell would not plant a tree that needs such attention, for the farmer could not be induced to take all this pains. At this point the discussion was closed. Next Annual Meeting. Mr. Dartt invited the Society to hold its next winter meeting at Owatonna, and on motion it was resolved to hold the next annual meeting of the Society at Owatonna. Final Resolutions. The committee on final resolutions then reported the following : Resolved, That'this Society return its sincere thanks to the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, the Winona & St. Peter and the Southern Minne- sota Ratlroad Companies, for their generous action in selling return tickets over their lines to those who have attended this meeting, at one-fifth of their regular fare; that oh es upon this generous action as a recognition of the efforts we are making to develop the horticultural resources of the State, and to diffuse information relating thereto; and, that we recognize in it obligation to continue these efforts with increased zeal and enthusiasm, Resolved, That the thanks of the members of this Society from abroad are hereby tendered tou the Committee on Entertainment, and the citizens of Winona, for the hospitable manner in waich we have been welcomed and entertained. Resolved, That the thanks of the Minnesota Horticultural Society are tendered to Prof. W. F. Phelps for his generous donation of the use of the hall, for the invitation to witness the opening exercises of the school and the privilege of examining the many valuable geological and mineral specimens contained in the museum. ’ 136 ANNUAL REPORT. : Mr. Smith offered a resolution thanking Prof. Phelps for sug- gesting the change of halls for holding the meetings of the Society. The resolution was carried by a rising vote, and Prof. Rbelpe acknowledged it in a few appropriate remarks. The Secretary then moved that the Society express its cae satisfaction with the exercises of the Normal School so far as we have witnessed them. ; Mr. Jewell was glad this resolution had ‘been offered, and made some very appropriate remarks in approval of the school. ‘The resolution was passed unanimously. Bill of Secretary. The bill of the Secretary to cover expenses, as detailed in his report, was allowed. Mr. Harris then made a few very impressive remarks, stating that this had been one of the most pleasant, harmonious, interesting and valuable meetings the Society had ever held. He compared its present condition and reputation with its condition and reputa- tion when the Society was first organized as the Minnesota State Fruit Growers’ Association, when it had but twelve members, and when these were considered insane. He concluded by encouraging the members to continue the good work, and asking God to stand by and bless them in their labors. The Society then adjourned. ARTICLES ON EXHIBITION. The following is a list of the articles on exhibition with names of exhibitors. Pp. A. JEWELL. ® Crabs. Orange. Aikens Striped Winter. Maiden’s Blush. Quaker Beauty. Beecher’s Sweet. Minnesota. Hutchinson’s Sweet. Unnamed variety. Apples. Unnamed variety. 281G0 * aS erat Canned Pre Gere ret yh te ae iS d ‘ Ti Ye : ‘ eal Winter GERD. sdotay, ae ips Woy) F reek ae f 4 on be z Hyslop ( rab. gia? a 2) a “tubes Fait Stripe Crab. y CF Ee E wast 4 | Me Se TUTTLE. ‘ethic Apples. si h- ss ‘Walbridge. Red Reinette. , biased? ; JOHN HART. y Apples. 3 + Limber Twig. Saxton. Potatoes. ' ’ Snowflake. B: , : W. K. BATES. Apples. e Lucy. White Winter Sweet. Seek-no-Further. , Worthington. Talman’s Sweet. Ben Davis. Fameuse. . Two Unnamed Seedlings. \ NORMAN BUCK. Apples. Blushing Lady. Baldwin Sweet. : Talman’s Sweet. Groesbeck Russet. Strawberry. 18 ig “ i? ‘Gaes . Crabs. e iJ tosah WW, ial ee reve er. Dyna’ wry < ‘ Fameuse, (Winter.) i la der’s Wit Hyslop. - wa suaieracti i ie . \ ‘ WARN DT iabt deer vice Bil y [ Rs te ls a omnsmeaD, MONONA, IOWA. wee bare . tatictutd Apples. ‘ ! Two unnamed Seedlings. WYMAN ELLIOT. Honey Sweet Crab. Red Currant Wine. ent ee "i ; MICHAEL KNAPP. ’ t + Grapes. sleek Delaware. Concord. ‘ Diana. Tona. Eumelan. * : > TRUMAN M. SMITH. : Apple Jelly. Crab-Apple Cider. Cider Vinegar. 3XXX Port Wine. ie Delaware Grape Wine, ’72 and ’74. Old Sherry. . + i I. W. ROLLINS. Apples. Melinda. Sweet Russet. Bethel. Oscaloosa. vem Spheness No. 6, Extra a Barly Vermont, Early Ohio, aes Early Nonsuch, Pe ad Surprise, Brownell’ : P ‘! 96 a Rethds ‘ , Dy Net, a rm ry 5 : ; Mind “Ph L i Se oe sa ie bt ’ , j ee | ee: A SN net eT i ae To" daistratedine ons ila Gait s : Di ae aay ON ae at yi aur la i) SHR { NS Se ag ia me nee Ni Hi: ad eet. a ed : ua et ee WeEreap |) jo. & 1 t. 4 * A ‘ i a é more ye ae ' ¢ ; ' ; /~ : ; 4 y ; i. ae ee eit APPENDIX A. OBITUARY—CAPT. WM. PAIST. Capt. William Paist died near St. Paul, Minnesota, on the morn- ing of October 12th, 1874, in the 50th year of hisage. He was born at South Charleston, Ohio, July 31st, 1825. He received a good English education, and at the age of ‘fifteen entered his father’s store and was brought up a merchant—following this business in partnership with his brother and engaging extensively in buying - wool for an eastern house and packing pork. The firm did a very extensive business, and had unlimited bank credit at Springfield. Heavy losses finally impaired Mr. Paist’s capital, and in 1855, he removed to St. Paul and embarked with enthusiasm in the purchase and sale of real estate, making money until the crisis of 1857. The storm which levelled so many fortunes to the ground did not spare Mr. Paist. Unable to realize upon his extensive purchases of real estate, almost everything was swept away, and he became a poor man. He struggled manfully for a living with varying success, until 1862, when he joined the army—enlisting as a private in com- pany K, of the 8th regiment of Minnesota Volunteers. He was soon promoted to a Lieutenancy, and accompanied his regiment, com- manding his company, on the expedition led by Gen. Sully against the Indians on the Minnesota frontier. He was afterwards promoted to the Captaincy, and served with his regiment until the end of the war. At the battle. of Murfreesboro, he was wounded by a spent ball which knocked him senseless. It was intercepted by the brass buckle on his belt, which alone probably saved his life. Colonel Rogers, supposing him dead or rin stally wounded, ordered him car- ried back to camp. But he revived sufficiently to hear the order and rousing up asked, ‘‘ Colonel, does it make any differenee whether I go back or forward?” ‘Not a bit,” said the Colonel, ‘* Then I will go on with my men,” replied Mr. Paist, and so he did. He joined Sherman’s command and participated in his triumphant march to the sea. His unpretending modesty, kindness of heart and man- ner, genial social qualities and manly courage made him a great favorite with his men who would do almost anything for him. The writer saw him when he returned with his company, covered with dust, and was welcomed back at the Capitol in St. Paul. He wore none of the insignia of his rank and could not be distinguished from the humblest man in his company, which caused a friend to re- mark, ‘‘ Bill, you don’t put on much style.” This was true of him on 142 ANNUAL REPORT. / all occasions. His only style was the style of good fellowship and kindness. AY See ; = Quitting the army with an honorable record, he purchased a small farm in the vicinity of St. Paul and embarked quite extensively in the dairy business. He was one of the 12 or 15 original Grangers who organized the North Star Grange of Patrons of Husbandry, the first in the State, and probably the first in the United States. He was elected Secre- tary of the State Grange, serving the first two years without pay, and afterwards was repeatedly re-elected, holding the office until the - day of his death. He was also elected Secretary of the State Ag- ricultural Society in 1872, re-elected in 1873, and again re-elected in 1874, holding this position also until he died. / In 1873 he was Chairman of the State Central Committee of the opposition or Grange element which held a political State Conven- tion in September, at Owatonna. . For some years prior to his death Capt. Paist’s health was feeble. ° His disease was consumption, contracted during the hardships and exposures of the war. But his energy and indomitable spirit would not succomb. He would ride to his office in the city and personally supervise the important correspondence and other business con- nected with the State Fair, when unable to set up and while occu- pying a bed in his office. But he finally yielded when literally worn out, and on the 12th of October the fading leaves of autumn gave the signal for his departure and he quietly expired at his home in the presence of his faithful wife and affectionate children, uni- versally lamented by his acquaintances and friends and without an enemy in the world. The large funeral procession which followed his remains to the tomb on an inclement autumn day attested the respect and esteem in which he was held, and evinced the faculty in which he excelled many abler men—that of attaching to himself the warm sympathies of a multitude of friends. His heart was as guileless as that of a child and his life illustrated that— ‘¢ The brave are the tenderest— The loving are the daring.” MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 143 APPENDIX B. REPORTS OF MEMBERS OF GENERAL FRUIT COMMITTEE, PRE- PARED FOR, BUT NOT PRESENTED AT, THE SUMMER MEET- ING, JUNE 301TH, 1875. SMALL FRUITS. REPORT OF WYMAN ELLIOT, OF MINNEAPOLIS. The subject of small fruits has heretofore received too little at- tention in our discussions, but at the present time is very appro- priately placed on our programme, and I hope may receive such notice as it deserves. We, as a Society, in seeking to grapple with the all-absorbing topic of large fruit; as the apple and pear, have neglected to pay the notice due the strawberry, raspberry, currant, cranberry and native plum. The small fruits of our State are quite a source of revenue to our pioneer settlers, growing wild very abundantly in many localities, and being available to nearly all liv- ing in small towns and cities along our railroads. The cranberry in early Territorial days was considered free plun- der, but now a good cranberry marsh is thought to be a profitable possession, and lands that a few years ago were looked upon as worthless, are being improved. and soon will be our most productive and profitable. Among these are many fine locations in our State for cranberry growing, and all wanted to develop them is a little Yankee ingenuity and Western enterprise, The area used for cran- berry culture is added to each year, and in a few years such lands will become very valuable. The blueberry will before long be added to our list of cultivated fruits, and we shall doubtless see many new and improved varieties. as we have already of the raspberry and other fruits. Practical experience is what we need. Heretofore we have been experimenting singly, and have made no note of what we have learned. Each one learning something new for himself without in any way benefiting his brother horticulturist, consequently we have 144 * SeRaed ANNUAL REPORT. all traveled the same road of bitter experience, when if we had communicated more freely with each other we might have shunned some of the failures; but now that we have an agricultural fa iS and a live Professor at its head, we shall be looking in that direc- tion for examples of practical horticulture. Ithas been the fortune of most of us to have experimented unsuccessfully with some of the small fruits, but our failures give many of us our best experiences. Since the blight has thrown a shadow over our hopes of profit from the apple, we should strive to make up in small fruits what we lack in the larger. We may safely enlarge our strawberry, currant and raspberr. patches without fear of overstocking the market, and we may yet regain the reputation of being a first-class fruit State. Truly, the experience of the past two years has not been flatter- ing, but we may derive some comfort from the fact that, while we, in cold Minnesota, have been scorched, they, six hundred miles south, have some of them been burned. To arrive at the area covered with small fruits, in our county, is no easy task, but I should say we have, of the different varieties, as follows: Strawberries, fifty to seventy-five acres; black and red raspberries, fifteen acres; currants, fifty acres; cranberries, two hundred acres. The prospects of a full crop of small fruits are equal to many of the past years. Strawberries are one-half to two-thirds of a crop, late rains having swelled the fruit set to a good size. Many of the blossoms blighted, from some cause unknown. Plants wintered passably well. Currants will yield about two-thirds of a crop, the few berries setting being a good size, but bunches short. The crop of rasp- berries is not more than one-third of the usual amount, caused by the killing back of the canes by the extreme cold of the past win- ter. Plums promise xo yield abundantly, having set very full. The little curculio is at work, leaving his crescent-shaped mark to let people know that the hard times did not disturb his repose. The currant, by some, is considered the most valuable of all our fruits being used in the many forms. When green it is most ex- cellent for sauce, pies, tarts, and canned for winter use. When ripe the wines, jams and jellies made from it help to fill the larder of every well regulated housekeeper. In its season it is used very much as a table fruit, being very healthful. The old Red Dutch is first for profit and quality. White grape next. The rest are fancy varieties for professional nutserymen to make money from. The soil in which I have cultivated currants has not been the best adapted to developing the largest returns, but it is such as a large majority of our horticulturists have to deal with—sandy prairie. J usually propagate by cuttings taken the latter part of September or first of October and planted in rows two feet apart and six or eight inches in the row; setting top of cutting even with the top of the ground, then by turning a furrow with a light plow on the row they are prepared for winter. After the frosty nights in the spring are passed, the ridge is raked off, leaving the top of the cutting even with the surface ; cultivating clean, we are reward- - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 145. ed in the fall by fine, healthy canes. Remove every alternate row, and if the bushes in the row remaining are too thick, thin; then leave for fruiting. Currants are usually three or four years old before bearing a full crop, and in our light soil bear but threé or four good crops before beginning to decay. The past two years the currant worm and borer have made sad havoc with our bushes, but at the present time I see signs of coming off victorious with the help of Paris green and hellbore, either of which are sure exterminators of the larva of these pestiferous insects. I usually hire children to pick the fruit, paying one and one and a half to two cents a quart, using tickets as tallies, and each night taking tickets and paying for them. The most satisfactory way of selling is by weight; as, if I market cur- rants by the bushel before the stems wilt, the purchaser, after keeping 24 or 48 hours, is obliged to resort to wine measure to sell the number of quarts bought; but by weight, every one gets proper quantity. A bushel of good plump currants weighs forty pounds. I would like to have pruning of the bushes discussed at the next winter meeting. Some recommend tree form, single stem; others the bush, six or eight canes to a bush, some shortening of tops, others catting out old wood each year, some spring, some fall pruning. All have their advocates; but which is best, or is there no choice between them? Manuring, cultivating and muiching are recommended; clean cultivation has always proved most satisfactory to me—mulching with manure in the fall pays omrcrnely, well, as soil cannot be too rich for currants. Gooseberries with me are not and have not been a success, as far as fruit is concerned, being, like the currant, subject to the goose- berry or currant worm, which eats the leaves and stems off the fruit and soon kills the bud. The same remedies are recommended as for the currant. Gooseberries are not as easily picked as other small fruit, on account of (as the children express it) the prickers, and as a paying crop are a failure; yet I think a few gooseberries should have a place in every collection of fruit. Strawberries, the queen of small fruits, as far as pleasure and profit are concerned, are very much sought after in their season, by both rich and poor, adorning with no better grace the sumptu- ously spread table of the rich than the plain unostentatious board of the working man; possessing no more delicious flavor for the rich man’s lordly palate than for the undefiled taste of the humble mechanic. They are the people’s choice of the small fruits, easily cultivated by amateur as well as professional gardeners. They should have a place in every garden: A small patch well tended gives a family a delicacy fit for the highest in station. The strawberry is a native, growing luxuriantly and producing fine fruit in many localities, The Wilson Albany Seedling is gen- erally conceded to be most productive and most successfully culti- vated in all locations. In place of irrigating strawberries in fruit, mulching between the hill and rows with meadow grass or clean straw is very beneficial. I have used straw, hay, leaves and saw- dust as coverings for winter protection. Hay is the best, leaves 19 ‘ fj vee | . om oe 146 ANNUAL REPORT. next, and. straw, if free from foul seed, is very good. Many | nake sad mistakes in removing the covering from their strawb bee before the frosty nights are over. There is usually no of smothering the plants if care be taken to lighten the coveri after the snow is off. Our fruit raisers cultivate very little His ills, pre- ferring to let the vines run and form beds two or three feet wide. Vines are worth very little after the third year. The raspberry is one of our most wholesome and desisable fruits. It succeeds the strawberry in season, and if grown properly is thought by some to excel it in flavor and deliciousness. Our and Black, as found in their native haunts, growing in the shade of the lofty maples and hickory, possess rare delicacy unrivaled by our cultivated sorts. Moist, cool locations, with northern expos- ures, are preferable. Doubtless many of you have seen in your wanderings localities where the wild raspberry grows luxuriantly. Such situations are well adapted to the growth of cultivated varie- ties. The severity of the past two winters has proved most disas- trous to the raspberry, in many instances killing the canes nearly to the ground. (The best method of protection is one of the sub- jects needing our attention.) Many of the finer varieties, protect them ever so well, are too tender for this climate. Raspberries are sometimes quite remunerative, giving returns of from three to six hundred dollars per acre. The bushes are not so subject to the depredations of insects as many other of our small fruits. The small borer that assails them near the root is easily destroyed by the free use of wood ashes. Doolittle and Seneca are leading varieties. Red Philadelphia for hardiness and productive- ness stands first, quality of fruit is not equal to some of the new sorts. Mulching has a tendency to increase productiveness and flavor of fruit. T hope in the future we may be able to devote more time and attention to the nature and cultivation of small fruits. For from these are, to some, the profits of fruit raising in the State. Query—Is the tomato a small fruit or a vegetable? Respectfully yours, Wyman Ex ior. REPORT OF J. I. SALTER, OF ST. CLOUD. Sr. Croup, Minn.. June 21st, 1875. Mr. C0. Y. Lacy: Srr :—Your favor of the 5th inst. was duly received, and in com- pliance with your request, I herewith return to you a very imper- fect report of the condition of fruit in my vicinity. Owing to the backwardness of the spring, rendering the early preparation of the soil for the reception of the different seeds inexpedient, and in some MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 147 instances impossible, I have been so driven by my work that I have scarcely known the condition of my nearest neighbor’s plants, shrubs, fruit trees, &c.; but since the receipt of your note I have taken some pains to ascertain the present prospect for a crop of Russian apples, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries, also the condi- tion they were left in at the beginning of warm weather. The “Dutchess of Oldenburg” has stood the past winter in timbered land, in many instances very well; ‘‘Ben Davis” killed entirely with some, while with others it withstood the severe cold better than the ‘“‘ Duchess,” and this without any apparent cause; on the open prairie they are both ruined, or nearly so. Transcendent and Hyslop Crahs have stood alike on plain and timbered land well, none being killed by cold so far asIcanlearn. The borer has, how- ever, destroyed many trees. Raspberries have been, where not protected, somewhat injured, especially the more tender varieties. Philadelphia and Brinckle’s Orange badly killed. Except in some instances where ample and judicious protection has been given, not more than one-fourth, or at most one-half crop can be expected from those varieties. ‘‘ Mam- moth Cluster” and ‘‘ Doolittle” will give from three-quarters to a full average crop, depending on past care and location. The varieties cultivated are generally the Blackcaps; the other varieties but sparingly, Philadelphia leading all others except Black Caps. As far as diseases, there does not seem to be any as yet developed. In- sect enemies, but few and not yet very troublesome. The “ Rasp- berry Maggot,’ and a small white worm that sometimes (but sel- dom) destroys the roots of new canes, being all worthy of mention. Ordinary care and cultivation, together with proper manuring, will be almost certain to give fine returns. Blackberries ‘* Nix,” all killed ; same way every winter. The past winter killed nearly all the wild canes to the ground. The varieties tried here so far have been the Kittatinny and Wilson. I have been experimenting with a wild variety for the past five years, and supposed my labors crowned with success, when the past winter came and destroyed my triumph ; still, I think success with us, in the blackberry line, must be found, if found at all, among the wild sorts. Strawberries: All the varieties where not protected, have suf- fered somewhat; Wilsons the least of any—some beds of the Wil- son passing through the winter without the least protection, and coming out this spring in brilliant style, scarcely a plant injured. **Wilson’s Albany” is the variety principally grown, although *“* Jucunda,” ‘‘ Triomphe de Gand,” ‘“ Charles Downing,” ‘+ Hovey’s Seedling ” and “* Mexican Everbearing,” with many other varieties, are grown to some exient. ‘‘ Hovey’s Seedling” has heretofore been the standard sort raised for family use, but it is rapidly being displaced by the ** Wilson.”” The ‘‘ Triomphe de Gand” and “ Ju- cunda,” the former especially, seem to require a heavier soil, and more particular attention, than the ‘“‘ Wilson,” and as a conse- quence are not so extensively grown by farmers, and others not making horticulture a specialty. The prospect is good for a fair crop of this most delicate of all small fruits, but scarcely a full crop. As far as my own experience goes, and from what information 148 ANNUAL REPORT. growers of the fruit have given me, there seems obs almost entire freedom from disease, from the depredations of insects of this plant as yet. A few years since it was the exception to find a small bed of strawberries for the use of the family, in the farmer’s garden ; ; and when found the variety was almost surely ‘‘ Hovey’s Seedling,” or else a variety—the name unknown to me—that was prolific in nothing but foliage. Now, however, the case is quite reversed, and almost every farmer’s table is graced with luscious strawberries and sweet cream iu the season. Being sorry that I cannot make my report more instructive and full, and wishing the best success to the Minnesota State Horticultural Society and its officers, I remain very truly yours, J. I. Sater. REPORT OF J. S. HARRIS, OF LA CRESCENT. The extent of small fruits under cultivation is diminished some- what, owing to the combined injuries of insects and of the hard winter of two years ago. Hardly enough are now grown for home use. Grapes, however, constitute an exception. These are recover- ing their lost favor with fruit growers. Among insect injuries may be mentioned those of a white grub working at the roots of strawberries. The chinch bug is also sap- ping the stems of plants set last Fall. The currant borer is working on the bushes, but the currant worm is unknown. Grapes have at present no insect enemy. The strawberry most extensively cultivated is the Wilson and the Green Prolific next. Currants are mostly Red and White Dutch _ The raspberries are Black Caps and Natives. The Grapes are chiefly Concord, Clinton and Delaware, the Isabella discarded. The vineyards are somewhat extensive. The cultivation of straw- berries in single rows is abandoned. The blight is prevailing fearfully on the Transcendent and some other crabs, Talman’s Sweet and St. Lawrence. REPORT OF W. K. BATES, OF THE STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Stockton, Minn., June 26, 1875. C. Y. Lacy, Sec. of Minnesota State Horticultural Society: Yours, with notice of appointment to report to Society was re- ceived. In reply would say, as I cannot attend your meeting the 30th ult. I will send a small report. So far as my personal knowledge goes, we shall not have a very large crop of apples. The orchards in our section wintered nicely, MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 149 and are doing finely this summer. I have not seen or heard of a case of blight this summer, the cold, backward season being the cause I think. Take a very wet, warm spell in summer and the blight develope rapidly. f insects I would say that I sold my neighbor a lot of trees, which after being set out started nicely until last week he noticed they showed such a lot of dead leaves and limbs that they must be dying, so he called my attention to it, and we gave the orchard a critical examination, but could not find anything until about the last tree, on which we found a large green beetle, (similar to the one spoken of on page 119, Report 1866-73, of S. H. Society,) eat- ing away on the underside of a limbina bud. The habit of this insect is to eat only at the base of the bud, and does not eat the leaf. The insect, on being found, drops to the ground as if it were dead, like the Colorado potato bug. Of small fruits I can say that the prospects are good for a large crop. Mr. H. B. Waterman, Harvey Pike, Mrs. S. Pike and O. M. Lord, of Minnesota City, in this county, are large growers of rasp- berries. They prefer Doolittle’s Blackcap to any other for profit, as it is very hardy; they are trying Davison’s Thornless for early. The Mammoth Cluster is very large and nice, but winter kills some winters. I have tried all the above and like them. Mr. Eckerts, near Winona, likes the Seneca Blackcap best. The best way to train the respberry is to prune them back when they attain to two and a half or three feet in height. ‘This makes the plant throw out a large iot of short limbs which give a large crop the next season and does away with the trellis. Of strawberries, Mr. John Hart, of this place, is the largest grower. His main plant is the Wilson Albany. He has a fine lot of straw- berry seedlings of his own raising, some of them very promising. My own experience has been with the Welcome, (very early,) Agri- culturist, Wilson’s Albany and Welcome, best culture being the bed system kept free of weeds; mulch in winter with chaff. From what little I have seen of the Prouty Seedling Strawberry I think it best of all. The Kent is best to stand weeds and grass, the Albany the poorest. The Emperor, Banus Mammoth, Leming’ s White, and Nicanor proved worthless ; the Colfax is a very sour berry, rather small but a very heavy bearer. Of currants we find that the Black Naples, Red Dutch and White Grape are the best. Set plants 4x4 or 5 feet and mulch heavy with manure every spring and we have good crops of nice fruit,—and this applies to the gooseberry as well. I only have the Houghton which does not mildew. Hoping you may have a good meeting, I remain yours. W. K. Batss. 150 ANNUAL REPORT. - FRUIT CULTURE IN MINNESOTA. Worrtuineton, Minn., June 29, 1875. Prof. C. Y. Lacy: This is a new county, settled principally by the National Colony about three years since—consequently very little has been done in fruit culture thus far. Mr. Chas. Plumb, Mr. Boweman, Dr. E. Bedford and Mr. G. J. Hoffman are the men in this vicinity who are giving most attention to fruit. Mr. Hoffman’s report, which I enclose herewith, will speak for itself. It embraces more valuable information than I could obtain from all other sources. Regret- ting that I cannot meet with you to-morrow, and hoping that you may have a‘pleasant and profitable meeting, I am Truly yours, R. F. Humiston. REPORT OF G. J. HOFFMAN, OF WORTHINGTON. In the following list the varieties are numbered according to hardiness 1, 2, 3, &c., 1 being the hardiest. Apples. TICIOSS’:+ cc conc victor we misctaice's « ocianlcels diese = «0 ejeic:h = W\oisalsu ete baal sien 1 GOLGISKY nie vie selutois ewa) w/eielatnetals bole oie dive’ o's ew ele eis cols cree ele wane pala iaen ean 1 TRGRUDAVIS 2 ..«/sG.o, 5 bic clelela-wielaidielele © bld/misigl stale leit tae cl tect whale iets aistacmiet stent 2 Ball Stripes: -j-'0/0.0 sien. dic opine cece ociss cae nie 090s o:0's'nisle me sla‘elsieid ln oiaisiens 2 Were se atacce cslabie.s.s <,<0% ds ocd cence me ss 6d dase a elem bc Usle ole. nt ateie einen 3 PIGMIGN Olav ceiaicisla sc'e'c veleicucceecleneagemestt waes eces es eu 5 eine ete Golden RUBE ck m cine. .c.c0cccciccnc vcceceisecie ecew a tin see alee e ene Fee Pk ioe SOPs Of WME is bso ets ales cele Sia ot wibis alive! elon o idoled, dele = wale sate 3 St) GLENCOE iiclacieh Save piabietele ale cies ale 'o sim bis eye ole Wc) ale oo laletintieta otal 3 Bawiles, AMO iiss oe steiaclsleit blew! stxinio.se «'¢,0is (es6< 019-0 Bales @ tae «. « 66 jee 3 PREG DUN Gis co oa oc vette tote aisle lo helene <:6'e' 6s alae wiajeieia wlplletie tcl tin as mannan Tn maer Barly JOC -..¢.. cece cccvcccsece Diclevevccdae’s 0 «eee mee os ce (aise) sn 4 Perry Russet..... © cone cece »oelninieeing 40s 000s, 00 0 Yee voleis th cletatnl sean 3 Winter Winesap . o/siaf sik sof. seisisiewcle le sciiciss ole cvele nic a/clulsle aclalga erie taaeiaees 4 Walbridge os -cciieccce soccer rect cnennecscssr reve cece seen cuca 3 Pewaukee .ssese ss eciasee belgie eros wistaielera Wip\ais 0 0's o e's ee db cielo tee eae 4 Siberians and Hybrids. Transcendent.......0- osielb.c 0 ee lelete eleibiale e'e\e > <0 ».oe ce. ee/sicn sie 1 Small Red Crab......... we 's'sio © s\aele eialale winielw’eie ove b:0 ele sipieraruate each nn 1 Large Hed Crab ase se sscs\p<.cn cia pie eotenie ne Sis coc s'e in sins «nsla lg: oie 1 MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. eo | Winooski ee ey eee ee ee eset ee eeees oeee eee reeee /eeeeee eeeeee ee 1 Oak Hill ewe er wees eeeere ere ee ewer es ee ee ee eee eevee eereereeseee eeeeeeet aoe 2 PATSITIRTOAG «2 ce ac cenibeDelnetebe cc clu o'e a ciadig eww lnn eminbtdatememiamtests Skthien air ei 1 PEMIOT 6 oes vlctees clauee Pathan siecle duit «cite tele crease brent tite Per = eae 2 MEET COT COL G« cid kia’eia tied ol 4.519 oi elere.a'e slagie's oo ele eysisless, Win nada Wiha armel om aie aehaaee B Lake ee Pot eere cere ar ener oeeee “penne ‘em weee 1 TERABNGO noc e nasn verses cecgscessicccs Vets ieush eves cody st dsb vdes Sees cos 2 DE saws nese gui chdp sess cooecd teauige den Oe rih gee wearer me roe 2 I oot etareie Coe dla tics ce'es woah dd Gee de, clea Macees Seidule Cleehe s 2 Kishwaukee.........- Wii co\Gcisv 06, en's nM ar + wen Wa vmicibla hie aleatelyaa tisiealeren 2 ee UE NST aya ics < v'a'ts! nie cence cc a cme s 6 Hepeeules eh us calves «efile ain ds 4 NIE TOR TA dare cinicccisccsse over aceceusccce Nerd ae Cale arcaiebtatstataee 2 RPUIME UG aloe cans acnccc dscns cccnct « ca cccn cone coeds aWaphilgiine ds os 3 Dpto 0c o'. yc ude 4s de ce'ace dunce cin. cw cated eal Cully mtaalnaan be ieee 1 Raspberries. Mammoth Cluster. Purple Cane. Doolittle Blackcap. Seneca. Philadelphia, (stood the winter best.) Strawberries. Wilson’s Albany. Ida. Downer’s prolific. Green. French. Michigan Seedling. Nicanor. Charles Downing. Kentucky. Col. Cheney. Have fruited Wilson and Ida. Sometimes Wilson does best and sometimes the Ida. Currants. Red Dutch. Cherry. White Dutch. White Grape. Cherry and White Grape doing poorly because of too much wind. Grapes. Concord. Clinton. Delaware. Doing well and are easy to protect. 152 ANNUAL REPORT. * Cherries. : ies Early Richmond. Common Morrello. English Morrello. Seedlings from Early Richmond. All damaged somewhat last winter. Plums. Natives. \ All wintered well. Set most of the trees in the spring of 1873. Have about 400 trees set 12 feet by 16. Cultivated with corn the first two seasons. Have now seeded down every other space, while the others are de- voted to small fruits; have a northern slope. All trees damaged more or less last winter, except crabs. Duchess and Tetofsky lost a few buds. Set six pear trees, which are mostly dead. G. J. Horrman. Worthington, Nobles County, Minnesota. REPORT OF O. D. STORRS, WINSTED LAKE. Winstep Laker, Minn., June 12th, 1875. Meo. ¥.. Laeys Dear Sir :—In compliance with your request and notice of my appointment as member of State Horticultural Society, I append the following report of the condition of fruit trees and small fruits. Standard Apples. The varieties that have passed through the last winter uninjured are the Hebron, Tetofsky and Stewart’s Sweet. Second Hardy. Winsted Pippin killed back 4 to 6 inches; Wealthy, 2, 3 and 4 years old, 4 to 8 inches; Russian August, 5 years old, 4 to 6 inches ; Morrison’s Treasure, 3 years old, 8 to 12 inches, and badly sun- burnt on southwest side; Duchess killed back 6 to 8 inches and the wood is black, and some of the best 6 and 7 year Duchess are dry- = A eas Fae , ee” Ct ar) arr At er 1 ‘ , é baba. 4-2 , at ‘ ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 153 ing up and will die during the summer. Haas killed back 6 to 8 inches, and 2 out of 10 are dead, 5 years old. Fameuse nearly all dead, they leaved ovt and in a few days the leaves dried up, the wood is black down to the snow line. Saxton—some are dead and others in same row but little injured. The varieties that winter killed are Pewaukee, Walbridge, Mollie, Bellflower, and Black Vendevere. These were 3 and 4 years old. I reset with hardy trees. I have 22 varieties of crabs, all came through the winter in good condition except the Soulard. I have discarded that entirely. , I have from 250 to 300 Seedlings from 1 to 4 years old, and only four have come through without any injury, two of these are from seed of the Duchess apple 3 years old, one of the other 4 are from Trans- cendent seed, the other from a large Minnesota grown apple. Iam experimenting with Seedings from Minnesota fruit, as I believe our horticultural success depends upon our efforts to grow trees from seed. ‘ Plums. The Miner plum, 5 years old, have come through with from 1 to 2 inches of tips killed—blossomed and a good prospect for a fair crop; Miner, 1 and 2 years old, killed 4 to 6 inches. I don’t con- sider the Miner plum a sel/ at all, but far superior to our best native plums. Richland Purple killed to the ground, 4 years old. Carnation cherry, 5 years old. ‘Lhis hardy cherry passed through the winter wholly uninjured—not a bud hurt—prospect for a light crop of fruit. I have an orchard of about 350 trees and about 30 different varieties. Soil, heavy clay, north slope, no protection. Small Fruit. Grapes came through al! right when covered. I have only two varieties—Moffets and Concord. Currants, gooseberries, raspberries, strawberries, are doing well, prospects for a crop, good. The area of small fruit in this locality is small. Farmers do not seem to appreciate the value of small fruit sufficiently to cultivate to any extent. I am pleased to hear that the subject of discussion at your sum- mer meeting is on small fruit, and hope many will profit thereby, and wake up to the interest of cultivating more small fruit in Min- nesota. The mode of cultivating fruit trees in general is to plant the ground with some hoed crop, corn generally. I have noticed sev- eral orchards that have been let grow up to grass with only mulch- ing around the roots and are doing well. Diseases. None except winter-killing and sun burning or bark blistering on 20 iy ON _ ANNUAL REPORT. Se the south side. Cause—hot spring sun. I have never had a tree firebligbt yet, and only know of one orchard within ten miles that had a few Transcendent stock with fireblight last summer, 1874. The only insects that are injurious to fruit trees are worms of two varieties, green and brown, that unless hunted off and killed will eat the leaves entirely off. Plum trees are infested with caterpillars that make inane webs or nests in the branches. The best remedy I have found for de- stroying them is to smoke them with tobacco. Put tobacco leaves in an old pan with fire in and hold it under their nests and it is sure death and does: not injure the tree or fruit. I have visited the principle orchards within ten miles around and find the prospect for fruit isgood. Currants full crop, gooseberries and raspberries are well loaded with fruit. Grapes, but few are in bearing. ‘ REPORT OF L. D. MILLS, GARDEN CITY, BLUE EARTH COUNTY. JUNE 28th, 1875. C. Y. Lacy: Dear Sir:—Yours of May 29th received, informing me of my appointment as member of General Fruit Committee of Minnesota State Horticultural Society. Cannot send a report that will be of much interest, except, perhaps about grasshoppers, and the extent to which they have damaged small fruits, as you say, small fruits are the principal subjects of discussion for the meeting of June 30th. Currant bushes are nearly stripped of both foliage and fruit. Hoppers eat off the stem of fruit, allowing it to drop; also eat some of the fruit. Gooseberries eaten some, but not as bad as currants. Strawberries, foliage not eaten much ; fruit about one-third eaten. Raspberries, foliage nearly all eaten, and fruit damaged to a con- siderable extent, but if hoppers emigrate soon (which they proba- bly will) there will be half or two-thirds of a crop. Wilson’s Albany is the most successful strawberry cultivated here, and about the only one that is grown to much extent. Of raspberries, the Doolittle, Black-cap and Philadelphia are the ones mostly cultivated, as they are the most successful. Houghton Seedling Gooseberry is the only one grown here. It is very pro- lific, and is grown with good success. Grapes do well where proper care is given them, but are not very extensively cultivated in my immediate locality. Mr. Kenworthy, \ Arh 4 ‘ ' \ ‘ ’ ; i \ < * een i iigee* wit es 4] UPA r f are , : . ee en ‘ ye aloe, Ae o 4 4 Bar eh Ti ¢ iy’ \ 5 (RT TILA eS Ol Yt vt PS 2 irre. if ty A ' | t 7 ; Li - 4 ). it , Ls 4 Ea / ‘ if ‘ ¥ it se at 5" ~. S ‘ f q t , / ’ é ) ‘ J i fl ! ’ t ’ ; ' Yay * dl \ i - ° 156 ANNUAL KEPORT. APPENDIX C. REPORTS, PAPERS AND ESSAYS PREPARED FOR, BI'T NOT PRE- SENTED AT, THE WINTER MEETING, JANUARY 187TH, 1876. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ENTOMOLOGY. Minnvapouis, Minn., 17th of First Month, 1876. To the President and Members of the State Horticultural Society : I exceedingly regret my inability to be present at the winter meeting soon to convene in Winona. And still more do I regret that my time and the state of my health will not permir my pre- paring a paper upon my favorite subject, entomology, that might be of interest to all horticulturists. In afew words, however, allow 1e to speak of that insidious little pest, the apple moth, sporting Ae name ‘“‘ Carpocapsa Pomn-ella,” and which belongs to the great order Lepidoptera, and of the tribe Tortricidae. The fact has to be acknowledged that this, the most beautiful moth of the beautiful tribe to which it belongs, is with us in vast numbers, and like many others of the “Insects Injurious,” we have to say that their ancestors were imported, and the increase has been rapid; and wherever apple-growing has been attempted, we find the apple-worm pretty generally diffused. Isaac P. Trimble, the distinguished Entomologist of the Ameri- can Institute of Horticulture, has devoted much time, patience and labor to consideration of the habits of this moth, whose forewings are of a beautiful ash-gray and brown in wavy alternate streaks, with a large, tawny brown spot, streaked with bright bronze or gold. In some sections of the United States this insect is two-brooded. I have not carried my investigations sufficiently far to determine whether this is the case or not. I should think, however, that there is but one brood during the season. From the time the egg is deposited (which is done almost as soon as the apple is formed) in the calyx or snuff-end of the apple, until the larva is full-fed, is about five weeks. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 157 The worm, or caterpillar, when young, is of a whitish color, with a black head and black, shield-like covering on the top of the first segment, but when full grown is changed to a flesh color, or quite — pinkish tint, especially on the back, while the head and first seg- ment become more of a brown color. Each segment has eight little spines, out of which grow very minute hairs. Being now full grown, the worm leaves the apple and selects some crack or crevice, spins its little house, and in three er four days changes to a crysalis, and in ten weeks comes out the perfect and beautiful moth. Of course the appearance of the moth varies with the latitude and the work it has before it. As it has not been ascertained as whether here the insect is two-brooded, the time that it remains in the crysalis state cannot be accurately fixed. There have been many devices used for the destruction of this pest, the most important of which is the band of hay, straw or rags laid in the forks or tied around the limbs and trunks of the trees. It has many natural enemies. I also desire to call the attention of the Society to the Curculio —or the Little Turk, as State Entomologist of Missouri, C. V. Riley, calls him. From his name, to speak scientifically, Conotra- chelus nenuphar, you are at liberty to call him Turk or Hottentot, as you like, it will make no difference to him, for he will go for your plums the best he knows how every time. This insect belongs to the great order Coleoptera, of the tribe Curculionidae, thus showing his name islegion. Should I undertake to tell you of this pestiferous fellow, and you were to allow me the time, there would be no other subject treated of at this meeting. My friend Riley, of whom Missouri should feel proud, gives twenty- four reasons why this apparently insignificant insect ‘* should be dreaded as much as an invasion of Arabs; among which reasons he says the plum curculios are a most unmitigated nuisance, and though a most beautiful object under the microscope, the fruit growers of the United States, if they had their own way about the matter, would wish them swept from off the face of the earth, at the risk even of interfering with the harmony of nature. From one hun- dred peach trees, Parker Earl captured, in six days, six thousand five hundred curculios.” I will not trespass upon your time by going into the details of the birth, growth, maturity, mischief and death of this insect. Any one, the most casual observer, can see the imago at work with its elephant-shaped nose making the incision crescent-shaped—then presto depositing an egg—then presio again with its snout pushing the egg quite under the skin—and gluing up the wound—then off for the next plum, &c., &c. From the egg thus carefully stowed away under the cuticle of the plum, there soon hatches out a little grub or maggot, which works around and around, when, in course of time, he growing all the while, and the fruit growing also, the mischief is done, the fruit falls to the ground, and in due time, being full fed, the larva leaves the plum and makes its way into the ground, changes his personal appearance very much, and during the next June is ready to commence operations again. And here I agree with Prof. Riley, that the plum 158 ANNUAL REPORT. curculio is. single-brooded. I donotknow how many species thovetire of this insect, but they are certainly numerous. Ihave observed with much interest one in particularthat preys upon the leaves of ourcom- monwhite elm. I should not say upon the leaves, but between their surfaces, in such a manner as to make the leaf to wear the ance on portions of its surface like the combs of the chicken cock. Tae most effectual remedy against the curculio is the jarring pro- cess. Eternal vigilance is the price of good plums, and upon the first appearance of the crescent mark get a sheet and spread under. the tree, and with a board and mallet jar the tree; the Little Turk falls off and is easily captured, for he packs his trunk and would fain make you believe he is a dead plum bud. That the tree may not be injured by the jarring, it is better to saw off one of the lower limbs, leaving a short stub to strike on. The next insect that I shall bring to your notice is the Bostrichus (Amphicerous) bicaudatus—order Coleoptera, Family Ptinidae—or apple twig borer, which many of you, no doubt, have observed, very much to your disgust. It is a very common insect, and is a dark brown beetle, not more than two-fifths of an inch long; the thorax’is rounded and rough, punctured—and especially is this the case toward the front, where there are many rasp-like prominences. It is almost a cylindrical beetle, the thorax so covering the head as to be scarcely discernible, and the elytra so completely overlaping the abdomen as almost to conceal it, and terminating with (especially in the male) two little horns, from which this insect received its specific name, bicaudatus —two-tailed. In its larval state this insect is entirely unknown; observations, however, are being made with a view to ascertain its metamorphoses. You are all familiar with its work, and I need not now claim your attention further on its mode of operations. The best method of destroying it is to watch for its presence, and with a wire inserted in the passages, crush them; or cut the infested branches off and burn them. I will mention one thing more. Dr. Le Baron, of Illinois, says that all the larva of the genus Bostrichus are genuine wood-borers—and this may be—but this bicaudatus eats through the bud into the pith, and this in its imago state. An insect somewhat similar is often injurious to the grape vine— not so long, is not bicaudatus, though it has the rough thorax and imbedded head. There is certainly no one ignorant of the fact that during its season we have the squash bug, Coreus tristis, but ama- teurs must not confound this insect, which is of a dirty brown color on its upper surface, and of a dirty yellow ochre color beneath, with the striped cucumber beetle, which belongs to the sub-family, Galerucidae species, Diabrotica vittata. Insects belonging to this sub-family are for the most part distinguished by the nearness with which their antennz approach each other at the point of insertion, often being as near together as the first joint, and the antenne perfectly filiform, the thorax is not so broad as the elytra, and often, though not al- ways, similarly colored. Lhe great family Chrysomelidae, of which our Diabrotica vittata is one species of a sub-family, forms a remarkable exception to in- ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 159 - jurious insects in general by being most mischievous in their per- fect state. But the insect under consideration does sometimes do mischief by burrowing into the roots of plants in the larva state, as no doubt many have witnessed—when they have seen a melon or cucumber vine die without any apparent cause, We also have with us in great abundance Hemiptera Coccidae, or bark lice, ete. There is, however, an insect, from the mischief it is doing and is likely to do unless some stringent measures are taken to stay its pro- gress, that will force itself unmistakably upon the notice of all lovers of sauer kraut and cauliflower—and I refer to the cabbage butterfly —or butterflies, as there are two or three species of them. But to give a detailed history of them would require all the time allotted to a single paper, and we must leave it for the present. M. ORCHARD PROTECTION. H. M. THOMPSON. Sr. Francis, Milwaukee Co., Wis. The observations and experiments of horticulturists in the West and Northwest, covering the period of one generation, have most conclusively demonstrated that, owing to the peculiar climatic con- ditions prevailing over a large extent of country, the difficulties encountered in growing fruits for family and for market use, have been and are now so great as to discourage, to a considerable extent, the acreage of tree and small fruit pianting necessary to supply the demand, which must keep pace with the increase of wealth and pop- ulation ; hence the importance of inquiring into the causes of failure and the general adoption by fruit growers of such preventative measures as are most likely to mitigate, if not to entirely avoid in the future, the disasterous results which have occurred in the past. The experiments made in testing the standard varieties which originated in the Eastern, Middle and Southern States, have proved that the most of these varieties possess certain peculiar, undefined, constitutional characteristics in the composition and structure, which renders their existence precarious, when planted in localities containing different soils, and subjected to climatic conditions, en- tirely the reverse of. the conditions to which those varieties were subjected in their origin; the Baldwin, Spitzenberg, and R. I. Greening may be cited as instances of proof. On the other hand it has been ascertained by experiment, that certain varieties of apple trees which originated in localities, in which the various conditions of soil and climate were similar to the conditions prevailing in the locality to which they have been remov- 160 ANNUAL REPORT. | j “, ed, do not appear to suffer by removal. As instances in confirma- tion of this view may be cited the introduction of the Fameuse from Canada, Red Astrachan, Duchess, Alexander, and the Currant crab from Northern and Northeastern Europe. The discovery of these important facts may be considered as the first tending to the dis- covery of other important facts necessary for the advancement and success of horticulture in the Northwest. 3 alertal Horticulturists having ascertained one of the causes of failure, are led to the inevitable conclusion, that other causes of failure must, also exist, the most prominent of which are believed to be frequent and sudden alternation of freezing and thawing, when the ground. is surcharged with moisture. causing the separation of the bark from the wood structure of the roots, or the disruption of imperfect cel- lular formation in the roots, in consequence of late and unperfected autumn wood growth; or the cellular formation, be the same perfect or imperfect, may be injured by the sudden withdrawal of frost in early winter, mid winter, or early spring, when the earth is devoid of moisture ; in this instance the interstices existing in the soil about the roots being filled with air, the withdrawal of frost has the same tendency to injure the cellular formation, as would result if the roots were above ground at the time of the withdrawal of frost. In- jury may also result from an excess of exhalation of moisture, in- duced by cold, dry winds, when the extremities of the roots of the trees are encased in frost. Or strong winds may sway small trees from an upright position, and thereby produce a cavity in the soil at and below the collar of the tree, liable to be filled with water by rain fall. Subsequent lowering of temperature cause congelation and expansion and thereby burst the bark at or below the collar. Injuries also result from the active circulation of sap in the south and southwest portions of the stem of the tree, induced by the ab- sorption of heat from the sun’s rays, and the arrest of circulation and expansion of sap, and rupture of the cells in consequence of con- gelation by subsequent freezing. Having ascertained and enumerated some of the causes which produce disastrous and often fatal results to vegetable life, we may take into consideration propositions of what will probably be the most appropriate, effective and practical means for adoption as a preventative against the recurrence of the many causes that have produced such disastrous results. And as a combination of causes seem to produce results that have a tendency to impair vegetable life, it is also to be presumed that a combination of preventative measures are required to counteract or obviate the causes that re- sult in injury. Hence the following propositions are adduced : ist. The introduction of varieties originated in similar soils and subjected to similar climatic conditions prevailing in the locality in which they are to be planted. 2d. Originating varieties adapted to our climatic conditions, by repeated | reproduction from seed. 3d. Originating varieties by hybridizing, using the Siberian Crab and some of the best and most promising varieties of apples as parents. 4th. Winter mulching. 5th. Amelioration of the se- verity of climatic influences, by the aid of individual, corporate and State efforts, in enlarging the forest area, by forest tree plant- / MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 161 ae and the preservatio no the natural forest. 6th. The adop- of the plan of protecting orchards and small fruit grounds a belt of evergreen trees. Ts compliance with the conditions in the first proposition may be noticed the introduction of the Red Astrachan, Alexander, Duchess, and the testing of numerous other varieties from similar sources. In complying with the terms of the second proposition, the process of acclimatizing by the process of reproduction is laborious, and considerable time must necessarily elapse before the desirable, le- gitimate results van be accomplished. In promise of its eventual fulfillment may be cited the production from seed of a number of varieties in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin, possessing considera- ble constitutional vigor or hardiness, which may serve as the founda- tion for the reproduction of other varieties possessing still greater inbred constitutional adaptation to the climatic influences with which they have come in contact. The requisite conditions specified in the third proposition have promise of fulfillment in the past and present efforts of earnest and eminent horticulturists to obtain by hybridizing, varieties of apples, the trees of which will be as hardy as the crab, and the fruit of which shall partake of the size and flavor of the best and most promising varieties of apples now in cultivation. The requirements of the conditions of the fourth proposition may be fulfilled by the general adoption on the part of orchard growers of the cheap labor system of sowing rye, millet, Hungarian grass or buckwheat in the latter part of the month of July, and allowing it to remain on the ground through the winter, and thereby pre- venting the alternation of freezing and thawing which has pro- duced so much injury to the roots of trees and small fruits. In the fifth proposition, for the purpose of modifying tempera- ture, increasing rainfall, and to retard the evaporation of moisture from the soil, and to break the force of winds, efforts should be en- couraged for the more general planting of trees in the form of for- ests and timber belts upon the boundaries of farms, and at least one line of trees upon each side of the line of railways, and two lines of trees upon each side of all public highways. The sixth proposition requires for its fulfillment the adoption of the plan of enclosing all orchards (which are not favored by natural forest protection,) with belts of evergreen trees ; hence it is impor- tant that such facts as have a bearing upon the supposed advantage to be derived from such protection should be brought to notice. It is conceded that ‘cold air in motion has the property of ex- tracting heat in proportion to its velocity.’’ In illustration of this principle we will suppose that when the mercury in the thermome- ter is below the freezing point, a person may emerge from a forest or place where the air is not in motion, and enter a treeless plain, or place where the air is in motion at any given velocity, and there is apparently a sudden increase of cold; the apparent lowering of temperature being attributable to the increase of the extraction of heat from the physical system, caused by the moving atmosphere. In this instance there is not only increase of loss of heat by extrac- tion, but there is also an accelerated loss of moisture by exhalation 21 162 ANNUAL REPORT. , ; from the physical system, the proportions of which are in ratio to the degree of cold and the velocity of the wind, and as v life is in many respects partially if not wholly subject to conditions which affect the physical system, it is to be presumed that the ve- locity of the prevailing winter winds, passing as they do, over a large extent of treeless plains of the northwest, must be very great, and that the extraction of heat and exhalation of moisture from ex-— posed vegetation must be in proportion to the degreef cold, velocity of the wind and the length of time during which those adverse con- ditions prevail. The effect of these influences upon trees that have made so late a growth in autumn as to leave imperfect cellular for- mation in the whole or any portion of the trees, in combination with either a very wet or dry soil, may be partially manifested in injury to the imperfectly formed cells of the roots, or the bursting of the bark at or near the collar, or rupture of the inner bark and wood cells of portions of the stems and at the junction of branches with the bodies of the trees, or the injury may be confined to the extrem- ities of the branches, or in extreme cases when subjected to many or all of the conditions adverse to the sustenance of vegetable life, the trees may be injured in every part of their organization. As the longevity of fruit trees is dependent upon the peculiarities of their constitutional organisms, and upon the climatic conditions to which they are subjected, and as the latter conditions are extreme— and as these extreme conditions are violent extremes of cold and heat, and as these extremes are dependent upon the velocity and direction of the wind, and as the coldest and strongest winter winds are from the northwest, and as the thermometer ranges the lowest when the wind is in the northwest and highest when the wind is in a southerly direction, and as the degree of extraction of heat and the volume of exhalation of moisture is greatest when the winter winds are in the northwest, and as the results of these dependent forces are injurious in their effects upon vegetable growth, it is, therefore, to be presumed that the strong winter winds are the principal causes of injury; and that, if by any means orchards can be so protected so as to break or impair the force of the wind, the injuries manifested in orchards will be lessened in like proportion. If this be true, tender varieties planted and tested in orchards which are to be found located in the heavy timber lands, (some of which have the original forest growth so located as to break the force of . the wind upon one or more sides of the orchard,) would undoubt- edly afford instances tending to disprove, or substantiate the con- clusions herein deduced. The majority of, if not all the intelli- gent horticulturists of the State concede that many varieties of apple trees are more hardy and productive in the heavy timber counties bordering on the western shore of Lake Michigan, than the same varieties grown in the oak openings, or in the prairie sections, The productiveness of tender as well as hardy varieties in the lake shore timber counties, may be partially attributable to the influence which so large a body of water as Lake Michigan must necessarily exert upon the atmospheric currents in the summer season, but this influence is not as considerable as many might presume, from the fact that the prevailing summer wind is southwest, while in the MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 163 winter months the prevailing winds are from the northwest, and when the winds are from the lake to the land, the mercury ranges lower than at stations further inland, and the maximum extremes of cold and heat to which orchards in the lake shore counties are subjected, are greater than in orchards in the interior counties, therefore, it may be concluded that as the winter climatic condi- tions are so affected by the air currents or proximity to the lake, are more unfavorable to the longevity of fruit trees, in the lake coun- ties, than in the interior counties. Neither can the supposed or real differences be attributed to ditferences in soil, from the fact that the soil in the timber counties are so variable that soils in various gradations from sand, gravel, and loam to the heaviest clay, are to be found in almost every orchard of considerable size. In all the . timber counties that have come under my observation the healthiest and most productive orchards are those that have the original forest growth located upon one or both of the north and west sides; and, as a further evidence of the benefits derived from orchard protec- tion, may be cited the facts that in the early settlement of Milwau- kee county, the whole country, extending from the lake to the prairie, was a dense forest, with occasionally a clearing of from two to ten acres. At this time peach trees were planted that came into bearing, and produced so abundantly as to break down many of the trees, and others perished from exhaustion caused by overbear- ing. Since that time the land has been denuded of timber to such an extent that peach trees cannot be grown except in isolated loca- tions and with some sort of protection. Having determined some of the causes that have tended to pro- duce injuries to fruit trees, and having adverted to the laudable efforts which have been, and which are now being made, for the in- troduction of iron-clads, originating hybrids, acclimating varieties by reproduction from seed for the prevention in the future of the wide spread disasters of the past; and having cited circumstances indicating that natural forest protection is beneficial, it remains to be seen what further conjunctive efforts are necessary to assist and forward the steps already taken for the accomplishment of the desi- rable results in the shortest possible space of time. As already shown, winter winds is one of the prime causes that has contributed to produce disastrous results, hence orchardists should consider it of the utmost importance to plant belts of trees around their orchards at such a distance apart as will break or im- pair the force of the winds, and also to plant dense lines of trees in the orchards at distances of not more than one hundred and eighty feet. Evergreen trees are the best adapted for orchard belts and protection lines, from the fact that they retain their foliage through the winter—‘: Each leaf of the compact foliage tending to obstruct and break the force of the strongest wind.” One row of evergreens closely planted will not only cost less but will. prove more effica- cious for the purpose intended than ten rows of deciduous trees, which have only their naked stems and branches to obstruct the force of the wind. Individual efforts in planting evergreen timber belts for orchard protection, although isolated, will not only prove efficacious for the purpose intended, but will be found to be practical 164 (awswat weponr, and effective in producing early satisfactory results, fronithetite | that the results will enure to the individual planter, and is not de- pendent upon statutory enactments, or combined public efforts. The attention of orchard planters being called to the he tai planting evergreen belts for the purpose of preserving the of fruit trees, and for the purpose of preventing the fruit from blown off the trees, and for the purpose of beautifying the scape and enhancing the value of real estate will not hesitate to adopt the principle that the planting of an evergreen belt is oo necessary a requisite as the planting of the orchard itself. . Orchard protection being not only beneficial is aiso entirely prac- tical from the fact that small evergreen seedlings, suitable for tim- ber belts, and forest tree plantations, are now grown from seed in America’ (as in Europe) by the million, which can be purchased | and planted at so small an outly of money, that the entire expense need not exceed the cost and labor of planting the fruit trees con- tained in the orchard. CRANBERRY CULTIVATION IN RICE COUNTY. Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen : Iam happy to report that after the lapse of many years of talk, essays, and agitations of the cranberry question’ by our Society and the State at large, a beginning has been made by a few citizens of Rice county, to develop the latent wealth that exists in this nat- ural product of the State. It is estimated that there are in Rice county 800 acres of the natural beds, and about 3,000 acres of marsh which can easily be brought under cultivation. You will undoubtedly remember the prominent notice this subject received in the message of Mr. A. W. McKinstry, when President of this So- ciety, and it is evidentiy owing to the valuable facts and sugges- tions given at that time by him that caused an investigation of the subject, and induced others to embark in the business. During the past summer Mr. McKinstry visited the marshes, and I herewith add the result of his observations in the vicinity of our small fruit friend, Seth H. Kenney: Before leaving the Kenney neighborhood we took the opportunity to visit the cranberry marsh belonging to Messrs. C. Russell, W. A. Shaw and Chas. Lane, which lies a short distance south of Mr. Kenney’s. We have long had faith in the possibilities of Minne- sota in the way of cranberry culture, and this was greatly strength- ened by what we saw here. We found a large marsh as level as a house floor, which had apparently once constituted the bed of a lake, but had been filled up by the gradual accretion of vegetable matter, as the soil is a spongy, fibrous peat, of an indefinite depth, and trembling beneath the tread. Trenches have been cut around the forty acres owned by Messrs. Russell, Shaw and Lane, which take off the surplus water. Two acres of this ground are now cov- { \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 165 ered with cranberry vines. The history of this patch proves the natural adaptability of our peaty marshes to cranberry culture. About ten years ago, as Mr. Kenney informed us, a few cranberry vines made their appearance at a point in the marsh. The first year that he noticed them, he picked a couple of handsful of berries from them. The next year they had spread so that he gathered a quart. From year to year the patch has since enlarged, so that it ‘now covers about an acre of ground. The persistence with which the vines encroached upon and routed out the tough marsh grass, afforded the surest evidence that the cranberry is ‘to the manor born.” At the time of our. visit the vines were loaded with berries, and as the picking was to commence on Monday, we shall proba- bly be able to report the yield in our next. A house has been pur- chased adjoining the marsh, and Mr. Lane has moved into it to be able to attend personally to the management of the patch. Last spring Mr. Russell experimented in extending the vines upon the marsh by planting. ‘The runners were cut up in lengths of from four to eight inches and pushed into the soft ground with the end of aboard. They have most of them rooted, and have made a growth this season of from four to ten inches, throwing out new roots like a strawberry runner. On some of them were cranher- ries. That the entire marsh can thus be brought under cultivation we have no doubt. Another method of propagating, and one that promises to be even more effective, has been tried by Mr. Russell on an acre of marsh lying north of Mr. Kenney’s place. In the spring, when about six inches of the surface of the marsh had thawed, while the mud be- neath remained frozen so as it would bear the weight of a team, Mr. Russell, using a plow with a sharp coulter, turned over the tough marsh sward in smooth furrows. Where the furrows lapped, cranberry cuttings were introduced at intervals of about a foot. These have made a nice growth during the season, and having no grass to con- tend with, will undoubtedly cover the ground in a short time. So far as we know, Mr. Russell is the pioneer in cranberry culti- vation in Minnesota. He has corresponded extensively with cul- tivators in Wisconsin and New Jersey, and obtained valuable information as to the habits of the cranberry plant. It has but one insect enemy, a worm that sometimes causes serious loss. To counteract this, flowage in the spring is necessary. ‘The marsh of Messrs. Russell, Shaw, and Lane is well situated in this respect, as by raising a dam two feet high at the outlet of the marsh, the entire tract can be flooded. Another drawback upon cranberry cultiva- tion, which cannot be averted except as early ripening is hastened by cultivation, is premature frosts. As to the profit of cranberries, there can be little question. Fifty bushels to the acre are a poor crop, while as many as five hundred bushels have been gathered. At from $2.50 to $3 a bushel, this is likely to pay a pretty good interest, and if cranberry growing is profitable at the East, where from $300 to $500 per acre are expended in grading and covering the ground with sand, which is considered indispensable, we don’t see why it shouldn’t pay pretty well here in Minnesota, where so liitle especial preparation is necessary. 166. ANNUAL REPORT. Messrs: Russell and Theopold have purchased one hundred and sixty acres of marsh bordering on French Lake, of which eighty are well situated for cranberry cultivation, being already largely: covered with the vines. O. F. Brass » a CULTURE AND VARIETIES OF THE POTATO. Mr. President: The culture and varieties of the potato is one that much interests me. Of all the vegetables in use the potato should stand at the head of the list. It is food for both man and beast, and has, I think, been grown nearly to perfection. Now, as to the varieties, the Early Rose and Peach Blow seem to be the leading varieties. The Early Rose has been to my knowledge, the most popular early variety, and is, if poperly kept, a good winter potato when grown on new land and planted early. I think very much depends upon their being planted early that they may get our June rains, about the time of forming sets, and they continue to grow right along until fully ripe. Whilst late planted ones are quite likely to be checked by the dry hot weather, and scarcely ever mature or give a good crop. I saw an article in the Prairie Farmer of December 11th, where R. P. Reed had raised one hundred and _ fifty bushels from one bushel of the Snowflakes, this is ahead of any yield which ~ I ever obtained from any variety. I would inquire whether any of our members of this Society have tested or know the quality of . the Snowflakes. Mr. Reed says they are dry and of rich flavor, and yielded three times as much as the Rose and ripened at the same time. The Early Vermont and Compton’s Surprise are gaining in flavor. In planting and cultivating to obtain the greatest yield from a given amount of seed cut to single eyes, plant in rows, two and one half feet apart, the pieces eight to twelve inches apart, one in a place. Plant shallow so the ground will be level after they are covered, and as the ‘potatoes begin. to burst through the ground give them a good harrowing with a light harrow. When the tops are three or four inches high give them a good cultivating, and in a week or two go through between the rows with a good horse hoe with double mould boards, which slides the earth under and amongst the vines so completely that no hoeing is re- quired to finish the crop. They should be dug as soon as they are ripe, and before the fall rains. By turning a light furrow away from each side of the row with a small plow the potatoes are easily thrown out over the ground with a good spading fork, they should be allowed to dry ‘a few hours before gathering, and should then be pitted out so no sun nor rain cap reach them and so remain as long as safe from frosts. When housed they should be kept from light and air as much as possible. W. E. Brmaati. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 167 | THE TRANSCENDENT. _ Sr. Pavr, Minn., Jan. 15th, 1876. i To the President of Minnesota State Horticultural Society: I am unable to attend the annual winter meeting this winter, to be held at the city of Winona (which I regret very much,) for I know the Winona people will give you alla welcome and hospitable re- ception. May they ever be blessed for their generous actsis my hearty wish. Should the Transcendent Crab Applecome up for discussion, Iwish to say a few words in its favor. Notwithstanding it does blight in some locations, itis very easily grown, and I say if they kill down, re- plant them again, The blight is claimed to be only a disease, and not likely to last long. I think to-day that the Transcendent is the best thing in the shape of apples for profit that we in this vicinity have. Not that I am propagating them, but for the reason that Iget a good crop of them, and they sell more readily than all others. They are good . for sauce and pies in August, long before they are ripe, and they last till late in September, and sometimes into October. They make the best of jelly, good for canning, and dried they are the next thing to the unpared peach. They make what my neighbors call good cider, and we have no reason to doubt that it will make good vinegar. I have fifteen acres of them set in an orchard, which netted me thirty dollars per acre, less than one-half of which had been planted only four years, and the balance two years only. The four-year planted trees yielded, or netted fifty dollars per ac.e, the apples bringing me one dollar per bushel. Why are they not a God-send to the people of Minnesota? Hoping you will have a more happy and profitable meeting than ever, Respectfully yours, W. E. Brimuatt. PLANTING FRUIT TREES. An Essay read before the Minnesota Horticultural Society, at its Annual Meeting, January 17, 1871, by O. F. Brand, but never before published in the Transactions. We sometimes meet with those who say they do not care to be troubled with trees that cannot take care of themselves, or that need protection in winter, in any form. This idea would be a rational one were they to leave the trees to nature, in their natural home and under natural conditions ; but as the organic conditions of all our fruit trees have been materially changed by the artificial means that 168 3 ANNUAL REPORT. " have been used to bring about the results so gratifying to us, it becomes the province of man to assist nature in producing such results as shall be deemed most profitable and useful. Those who would leave their trees to take care of themselves after havin placed them in an artificial position, will find that nature will neither respect their ignorance nor reward their indolence. The cultivator must not expect that nature will undo what he has poorly done, or presume that after a tree has received an unnatural and immature © growth, it will pass through the winter as safely as a tree grown entirely by nature. It appears to be an established fact that the safety of a tree through the winter depends, to a great extent, upon its condition in the autumn preceding; and it cannot be too firmly impressed upon the mind of the cultivator, that the ripening of the seasons growth is of the greatest importance, to enable us to bring our trees safely through our extremely cold and changeable winters. A few words from a celebrated writer will throw some light on this subject: ‘‘ The mechanical action of frost may, however, undoubt- edly be guarded against to a great extent. It is well known that the same plant growing in a dry climate, or in a dry soil, or ina situation thoroughly drained from water during the winter, will resist much more cold than if cultivated in a damp climate, or in a place affected by water in winter. Whatever tends to render tissue moist will increase the power of conducting heat, and consequently augment the susceptibility of plants to the action of frost, and whatever tends to diminish the humidity will also diminish their conducting power, and with it their susceptibility. This is an in- variable law, and must consequently be regarded as a fundamental principle in horticulture, upon which success in the adaptation of plants to a climate less warm than all their own will essentially de- pend. The destructive effects of frosts upon the succulent parts of plants may thus be accounted for independently of the mechanical expansion of their parts; indeed, it is chiefly to that circumstance that the evil effects of cold in spring may be ascribed, for it has been found that trees contain nearly eight per cent. more of aqueous matter in March than at the end of January, and all experience shows that the cultivation of plants in situations where they are liable to be stimulated into growth, and consequently to be filled with fluid by the warmth and brightness of a mild protracted autumn, exposes them to the same bad consequences as growing them in damp places, where the wood does not ripen. The ripening process consists in the slow but gradual and complete removal of watery matter, and the conversion of fluid organizable materials into the more solid substances which are necessary to form woody fibre, and its effects are seen not only in the power conferred of resisting cold, but also in providing the secretions necessary to sustain the growth of the following spring. Having thus clearly shown a great fundamental principle of horticulture, we must cause the operative details to harmonize with it. It is, however, unnecessary to give a minute description of the manner of cultivation to attain the object. A few general rules will suggest to us all the details necessary. First, we prefer to lay the ground off into lands 12 feet wide, and backfurrow it twice or “MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 169 three times, or until the bottom of the deadfurrow is about three feet below the level. Then, if the soil is naturally wet, or has a cold, retentive subsoil, it would be well to fill the deadfurrow with small stones, then backfurrow over it until it is covered from two to three feet deep—four feet would be better. This will leave a ridge over the covered drain, six feet from an open drain. The matter of the distance apart that these drains should be, is a sub- ject of argument, or rather, a matter of choice. By preparing the ground in this way the roots of the tree can run deep, and thus be protected from the long, severe drouths of summer, and the ex- treme cold of winter; for, with a loose, friable soil, the evapora- tion is less rapid during the long, protracted drouths which fre- quently occur during the early part of our summers. With such a soil the trees will make an early second growth, and mature their growth before the last of August. Any plan by which the planter can get a deeply-worked soil, thoroughly drained from below the frost, as likewise on the surface, will be sure to produce the desired — result—a healthy growth and well-ripened wood. 22 170 ANNUAL REPORT. | APPENDIX D. ABSTRACTS FROM THE REPORTS OF LOCAL AND COUNTY HOR- TICULTURAL SOCIETIES. OLMSTED COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Meeting of July 15th, 1875. Mr. A. W. Sias being called upon, said in regard to small fruit culture, that the whortleberry had been sadly neglected in this country. He had found near the head waters of Bear creek, some whortleberry bushes growing. He had transplanted some of them in his garden and they were growing finely. He thought there was nothing to hinder every one from having, at least, a small patch of this delicious berry. Mr. Sias also spoke of the gooseberry, and recommended its more general cultivation. He said that in England these berries, by diligent cultivation, were grown as large as Transcendent, and Hyslop crabs, some of them measuring quite two inches in diameter. Six years ago he undertook to improve some varieties, taking the seeds of Houghton’s and Hurd’s, and from these he had now about thirty-five varieties in bearing. Some of them were larger than the original berry, and he thought that by continuing the process further improvements might be made. He had experimented with black currants in the same manner, tak- ing the seeds of the Black Naples, planting them year after year, he had raised some fine specimens, but the seedlings were later than the original plants. He doubted whether he had any seedliugs superior to the Black Naples, but he could tell better in ayear or two. Of rasp- berries, Mr. Sias said he thought the Hoag Seedling was superior to anything which he had seen. Next to this he would place Davi- son’s Thornless on the list. He exhibited fine specimens of the Thornless and said this fruit was doing remarkably well. He also showed fine specimens picked from the thirty-five varieties of gooseberries which he was cultivating. Mr. Pearce exhibited a currant bush of the Red Grape variety, and also specimens of the Mammoth Cluster raspberry. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 171 Mr. Leland asked Mr. Pearce if he would cut out the old brush every year. Mr. Pearce replied, he would cut them out every second year, at least. Mr. Hillman inquired of Mr. Pearce what kind of raspberries he preferred. Mr. Pearce said that he liked the Purple Cane very well... The Mammoth Cluster is a good variety ; also the Thornless. The latter was an early variety and had produced better than any other variety which he had tested. He believed in thorough trimming. Mr Sias asked if it was not the best time to trim immediately after the fruit is off. Mr. Pearce thought in that case the young canes would not be sufficiently protected from the winds. Mr. Sias said he cut out the old canes, and supports the young stalks by tying them up. Mr. Cook favored trimming immediately after bearing, and not let them grow more than one and a half feet high. The next year they may be allowed to grow two or three feet high. By properly mulching there is novdifficulty in raising raspberries. Mr. Hall said he picked ripe raspberries at his place on the second day of July. Mr. A. Harkins inquired if the Thornless was as early as the Purple Cane. Mr. Cook replied that they ripened about the same time. Mr. Harkins said he did not protect his raspberries, still they were uniajured. He had the Purple Cane and the Philadelphia. Of the former he was picking about twenty quarts a day. Mr. Sias said he had a few of a garden variety, which seemed to be a cross between the Black Cap and some red variety. Mr. Hall said he had two hundred grape vines rooted. He would not recommend covering grape vines with anything besides straw. Mr. Pearce moved that Mr. Cook be requested to furnish copies of his essay for publication in the city papers. Carried. Mr. Cook exhibited several varieties of strawberries put up in small glass jars He preferred for family use and general culture, Downer’s Prolific; next to this is the Wilson’s Albany Medium. The next best is Wilson’s Albany Selected. For late fruit, the Green Prolific and the Kentucky are preferable. Mr. Hillman spoke favorably of the currant. Its season contiu- ed longer than other small fruit. Iv is easily raised and always sells well in market. Mr. Pearce said currants make excellent jelly. Mr. J. A. Leonard thought currants would make excellent wine. Mr. Sias thought gooseberries were ahead of currants, as three times as many could be raised with the same amount of labor. He spoke highly of the American Seedling. 172 ANNUAL REPORT. eu . SMALL FRUIT CULTURE. An Essay read before the Olmsted Coe orticultural Secnee Tuly 17th, 1875, by Mr. M. W. Cook. Mr. President and Gentlemen : The subject of small fruit culture has been thoroughly discussed by the various horticultural societies of the different States and counties, and while there is little that is new to offer, there is much that is interesting and of great importance. Having just expe- rienced three years of very trying, and to many kinds of fruit trees very damaging weather, the idea is rapidly gaining ground that if we would secure a supply of fruit with certainty and without long waiting, we must give more attention to the cultivation of small fruit. Time will not permit me to enter upon a long argument to show the great importance of this branch of horticulture, but I will briefly reply to the old question, “* Will it pay?” which is daily asked, by stating a few facts, and leaving each one to draw his own conclusions from them. The yield of strawberries varies greatly according to mode of culture and varieties planted, but thirty bushels of strawberries is no greater yield than ten bushels of corn. The yield per acre va- ries, then, from fifty to more than two hundred bushels, and the value of these in the market from $100 to $1,500. They may be as easily raised as potatoes after the plantation is made, if rightly done; badly cultivated they are costly. I am very frequently asked the questions, ‘* How shall I prepare the land?” ‘* How and when shall I set the plants?” ‘* What varieties are the best?” ‘* What care do they need?” ete., ete. I answer, any ground that will grow good corn or potatoes will pro- duce good strawberries. Clear the ground of weeds, roots and seeds ; plough or spade deeply. An application of thirty bushels of ashes, ten of lime, and two of salt per acre, although not necessary to a fair crop, is very beneficial. It should be thoroughly mixed with the soil about a week before the plants are set. As a general rule the spring is the best time to set plants, but if strong, healthy plants can be obtained early in the fall, they may be set with safe- ty, and will produce a partial crop the following season. For gar- den culture the proper distance apart to set, is one foot by one and one-half feet; for field culture one foot by two and one-half or three feet, giving in the latter case a chance to do nearly all the work with the cultivator or fine tooth harrow. Whatever mode is adopted, set the rows straight. Clean culture is of the first im- portance. Some varieties do well on almost any soil, while others require a particular kind of soil, and are unsafe except to test on a small MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 173 scale. For profit, plant those kinds only that can always be relied upon, and be sure that the plants are pure. I have tested on my grounds more than twenty-five kinds, and find after an experience of ten years that the sorts which it will do to recommend, are few. Downer’s Prolific is unquestionably the hest early variety, Wilson’s Albany the best medium and Green Prolific the best late kind. These three varieties do well on all soils, and under all modes of cultivation. Among the newvarieties that promise well are Boyden’s No. 30, and the Kentucky, both very late. By planting these va- rieties we may have this delicious fruit for at least one month. When set in the spring, the fruit stems should be removed the first season. Cover in the fall with straw or wild hay; either must be free from foul seed. In the spring remove the covering leaving it at the end of the bed; cultivate until the berries begin to turn, and then put the mulching between the rows, and wet it two or three times during the bearing season if possible. If the directions given are followed, my word for it, you will be rewarded with an abundance of this healthful and delicious fruit. Fortunately it is so easily raised that the poorest owner of a few square rods may have it in abundance. It will contribute to healch, comfort and economy, save butcher’s and grocer’s bills, and make home pleas- ant. One-twentieth of an acre as well cultivated as a field of corn should be, and set with an early, a medium and a late variety would yield an average of four quarts per day for from four to six weeks. In order to accomplish so desirable a result, who would hesitate to _ devote even one-eighth of an acre to strawberries? Make your plans now, decide upon the number of plants of each kind you will need, make arrangements to procure them reasonably, prepare the ground at once, set out the plants in good time, and you cannot fail to be highly gratified with the result. Remember the conditions. Un- mixed plants true to name, and clean culture. J. J. Thomas says if you allow them to become weedy, they will bear but little, and you will come to the conclusion that strawberries are a humbug. Do the work early and well, and the expense will be small, the labor light and the reward great. Next in their turn, and right on the heels of the strawberry, come currants, raspberries and grapes. Thus, with small expense and proper care, our tables may be supplied with the various kinds of small fruits from three to four months. Raspberries that have proved sufficiently hardy by proper pruning and a little protection, to warrant their culture, are, for blackcaps, Davison’s Thornless, Doolittle and Mammoth Cluster; for red, Purple Cane and Philadelphia, the last being the latest and best for general culture. For grapes, the Concord and Janesville are hardy and of fair quality. Raspberries, the first year after setting, should not be allowed to grow more than one and a half feet in height, but kept pinched or cut back, which will cause them to throw out side branches, which should also be pinched off when one foot long, thus causing them to be stocky and not easily broken by the wind, and protected early in winter. The second year let them grow two and half a feet high—not higher. By pruning in this way and witha little protection, we need have no fears from winter killing. ! i 174 _. ANNUAL REPORT. . Gentlemen, if what we may do and say shall have a tendency to ' awaken an interest among farmers and owners of village lots to a renewed interest in the subject of small fruit culture, we shall feel well paid. Having briefly and indirectly answered the question, in the light of dollars and cents at least, will it pay, i leave the sub- ject to your discussions. To MEETING OF FEBRUARY 12, 1876. A meeting of the Olmsted County Horticultural Society was held at Upman’s Hall last Saturday afternoon, the 12th inst. Quite a number of members were present, and the discussions were spirited and full of interest. The President, M. W. Leland, called the meeting to order. Mr. M. Pearce spoke of the importance of maintaining an organi- zation as a society. Ours was the only county horticultural society in the State; we lived in one of the best counties in the State for fruit-growing, and he desired to see their membership largely in- creased. The attendance at the meetings had not been large here- tofore, and he proposed a reduction in the membership fee. Mr. E. B. Jordan was opposed to the motion, and would favor raising it to $2 a member. He was willing to be one of five to pay all the ex- penses of the society. The subject was laid over for future consideration. The subject of the annual election of officers was next considered. After some discussion it was decided to proceed with the selection of officers instead of waiting until the next regular meeting. On motion, the following officers were chosen for the ensuing year : President—M. W. Leland. Vice President—Wm. Somerville. Treasurer—A. W. Sias. Secretary—S. D. Hillman. Assistant Secretary—G. W. Mason. Mr. Jordan said that horticulture was not looked upon with as much favor as it should be, for, with the new varieties of apples and hybrids he was encouraged to believe that Minnesota would vet be- come a fruit growing district. The hybrids could be grown success- fully and would yield fruit unsurpassed by Michigan standard apples. He had ten acres planted, and should set 300 more trees of the differ- ent hybrid varieties inthe spring. They would grow wherever the pop- lar or maple could be grown, and bear excellent crops of fruit. The Early Strawberry was among the first to come into bearing, and the fruit ripens earliest of the hybrids. The Conical ripens its fruit in September, keeps till January, and is superior to the Gilliflower. He had gathered a bushel from a tree set four years. He should — ~~ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 175 : plant 100 this spring. The Orange was the most valuable tree of these varieties ; fruit keeps until January, prolific bearer, excellent quality, and was highly recommended by the State Society. He also spoke of the merits of the Quaker Beauty, Palmer’s Sweet and Woodland Winter. Mr. Pearce also spoke highly of the hybrids and thought they would take the place largely of standards in this country. They bore early and produced abundant crops of fruit. He spoke highly of the Orange, and said it was perfectly hardy. An impression prevailed that it was impossible to grow apples in consequence of farmers having spent hundreds of dollars on trees which had proved to be useless. He would recommend the hybrids for general culti- vation, also the more hardy varieties of seedling apples. He would urge farmers and fruit growers to set them out in large quantities, and in five years the State would have a surplus of fruit. The State Society had made out a list of *‘ iron-clads.” Of this list the Early Strawberry stands at the head. ‘The tree is a strong and handsome grower, bearing well alternate years. Fruit the size of Transcendent. The Orange grows slower; the fruit is larger and keeps much later. The Minnesota bears fruit as large as the Russet, nearly white, good quality and keeps till Feb- ruary. M. W. Cook said he could fully endorse what Mr. Pearce had said in regard to the hybrids. They were divided into three classes by the State Society, but he considered the dozen or more varieties mentioned as hardy and worthy of recommendation. Mr. Leland said he had tried everything to get rid of blight and succeeded best by growing trees on sod ground. Mr. Richardson thought that deep planting would secure the same result. t A discussion here followed as to the causes of blight, its nature and the remedy. Mr. Pearce said it was a fungus growth peculiar to vegetation, and could be prevented by the use of quick lime. GERMAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF RAMSEY CO. Sr. Pau, April 10, 1876. Mr. Chas. Y. Lacy, Minneapolis : Dear. Sirn:—Our “ German Horticultural Society of Ramsey County” consists of twenty members, all practical gardeners, en- gaged in floriculture, fruit and vegetable gardening. The officers of the society are: 176 ANNUAL REPORT. -President—J. C. Fleischer. Vice President—Edward Blum. Secretary—A. Miller. Treasurer—Alois Meier. Librarian—Ch. Bunde. We meet every first Saturday of the month. Our dues, $1.00 for membership and $1.00 per year, payable quarterly. We keep several horticultural papers on file, read them at our meetings, and discuss those articles which seem interesting to the members, Yours truly, J. C. FLEISCHER. RICE COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Faripeautt, Minn., March 29, 1876. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Secretary State Horticultural Society: Sir :—Pursuant to instructions, I have to state, that a meeting of the Faribault Fruit Grower’s Ciub was,held in this city, pursuant to call, March 10, 1876. On motion, it was resolved to reorganize as the Rice County Horticultural Society, with the following officers : President, R. A. Mott; Vice President, J. P. Andrews; Secre- tary, A. W. McKinstry ; Treasurer, Wm. Wachlin. A discussion was held upon the subject of hardy apples. Voted to place Duchess first on the list, Melinda second. The subject of Cranberry cultivation was also diseussed. Adjourned to Wednesday, April 12, 1876. Very Respectfully, A. W. McKinstry, Secretary. APPENDIX E. DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW VARIETIES OF FRUIT. DESCRIPTION OF 0. VY. ROLLINS’ NEW SEEDLING APPLES, AND FAMEUSE CRAB, BY A. W. SIAS. RocHester, Minn., Jan. 24th, 1876. What is known as the Rollins’ varieties were started from seed brought from Northern Vermont, and planted on a rather low, flat, open prairie, known as Greenwood Prairie, in the township of EI- gin, Wabasha county. One variety takes its name from the county in which it originated, and another from the township. The name Rollins’ Pippin was suggested by its slight resemblance to the well known Fall Pippin, (This, however, is a better apple in quality, and a better keeper.) The name Rollins’ Prolific was suggested from its great bearing qualities, having produced over three barrels in a single season. ‘The four varieties above mentioned were named by A. W. Sias, Rochester, Minn., who was the first to propagate and bring them to public notice. Also the Viola, a fall variety, from Mr. Rollins’ grounds, that first fruited in the township of Viola—hence its name. The other two varieties are Rollins’ Russet and Spice-sour. Viola. Tree strong, straight, hardy and handsome; fruit about the size of Fameuse ; shape and color resembling the R. I. Greening; qual- ity hard to beat ; season, September. Rollins’ Russet. Tree a strong and rapid grower; ripcns its wood earlier in the fall than the Haas, and is believed to be more hardy. Fruit, in color, size, quality, and as to keeping qualities, more closely re- sembles the Roxbury, or Boston Russet, than anything else with which I am acquainted. Great bearer; season, January to June (or July.) 23 178 ANNUAL REPORT. ‘ _ Rollins’ Pippin. Tree vigorous, straight and hardy, fruit large, color yellow, fine- grained, flesh tender and delicious. Season, October to May. Elgin Beauty. Said to be more hardy than Duchess of Oldenburg; medium grower ; straight and handsome ; fruit medium size; color, streaked with red on yellow ground; flesh sometimes of a pinkish color, tender, moderately juicy, with a rich, sub-acid flavor; season, No- vember to March. Wabasha. Tree a strong grower; fruit medium size; flesh tender, sprightly, with a pleasant, acid flavor. This variety has fruited every season since the hard winter of ’72, and the tree looks remarkably well; season, December to March. Fiollins’ Prolific. Moderate grower; hardy, an abundant bearer; fruit size of Fa- meuse ; splendid for culinary purposes, as tart as the R. I. Green- ing, which it somewhat resembles in color, size and quality, but hardly as rich in flavor; season, January to March. Spice Sour. This tree, although believed to be fully as hardy as the St. Law- rence, is doubtlesss less hardy than either of the six varieties above described. Fruit medium, or below; flesh moderately juicy, tender, with a pleasant, aromatic flavor; season, December to April. The seven varieties above named all originated with O. V. Rol- lins, Elgin, Wabasha county, Minn. Fameuse Crab ° originated with A. W. Sias, Rochester, Minn. Tree handsome; stocky grower; apparently as hardy as Transcendent. Winter of °72-3 had no more effect upon it than the very mildest winters since it first started from the seed seven years ago. All the lower branches of this tree start out exactly at right angles with the trunk, or body of the tree, extend some ten inches, then gradually turn upward. Fruit size of Transcendent; color, bright, glossy red cheek, with shaded side nearly white; sub-acid flavor, wholly destitute of as- tringency ; flesh white, quality good ; season, December to Febru- ary, (or possibly later, as it bore this year for the first time.) EDINGS, ESSAYS, AND REPORTS ‘ee THE SUMMER MEETING. HELD AT THE AND AT THE ANNUAL WINTER MEETING, i a : HELD AT ae ‘ | TE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE, JUNE 28TH, 1876, | | Owatonna, January 16th, 17th & 18th. (877. SeSSs ae MR sen Bs tN " ‘ ¥ ~ i — Sieh Se | Prepared by CHAS. Y. LACY, Secretary. | 1 | ST. PAUL: i PIONEER PRESS COMPANY. 1877. : ieee !} TRANSACTIONS OF THE MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, PROCEEDINGS, ESSAYS, AND REPORTS AT THE SUMMER MEETING, sili.“ HELD AT THE or Pe RAS STATE AGRICULTURAL. COLLEGE, JUNE e8FH, 4876," AND AT THE , ANNUAL WINTER MEETING, HELD AT Owatonna, January 16th, 77th & 78th, 7877, Prepared by CHAS. Y. LACY, Secretary. SAINT PAUL: PIONEER PRESS COMPANY. 1877. Pie if cra, WE - et ' i . = J + £8 » ( ! i \ s / 7 ’ . ‘ ’ ‘ Ws ‘; £ CONTENTS. PAGE. EI 55 'o as, 3508 eb a Hoa e be eee Re diva tneies 18 BT NPOIRIITIGLOCS 66 6 ooo ssd 5: sus einsia cine acisnsiceepiciuiaciel alesavineiedee 17 Local and County Horticultural Societies.....0..sssesecceccecceeseeese 19 PMIEIMRIOT IGT T os co scsc ce op se csbeieepecioesies sicc oie tel pieloiatetietets bots Paes © 20 Blgres too late Or 1876... 20000 ceesciecce viecetece -bsaceciae siejabsiddiaiataiores © OT Seemorary and Life Members... .. 2.02 scccsesccccnseceseasvene ewpbcienae. 29 Fruit Lists as approved or revised at OWwatonna........seeseseceseees 23 J). SS OGRA OCIOOUCTOOOCRIOO CPE DOO CIOINIO OOO Cs” OODOr eeeeeeee enone 23 Crab-apples.........6- Si daaicla seleiaicdas'aiawele/aiente ainjaja biap6o's eel aiae wee > 24 Grapes.....-.... eisieioretars sa ginia\s\eg/els's Sigietalanaeleew nicieneciseinjeermtosmar ELD RILPAVVOETIICSs svc 0c0 sees sc ccse sec ce cesielceis afevetefavatehars iaietstgia pitas 25 TBA PBCTLICS « o10c's sce vccc cee ov ‘syaiatioy plate iniaialnteieisdniaitiais sis\aTh Q\nisisiginieiatma> 2D GPONUNs so oc cuselesdecase ves ac bibidcata Sse ofelels slecatay o SvalatBpan ns anuameek ey aers 26 - Deeg eed etetaretetar cle ’lee'a''s syelel Nelvist e's «/dia[ainlateln/eielelevoiniel elec a wa aiay a’ dichaveiareaaniotele 26 GOOSEDELTICS 6 o6 655 ccs cce cosa ses oi wisi do tsidel ovoCarttai hla of ja qpateteinree 26 VET CENS'«/=\c\0''0\s1vie a '0is\o olgicin.e.e.eis/s\sleidisiewn.cie ec asics) eicieajeseepeteasgeee 26 Peoceedimes at Summer Meeting... 2.00 cecceciacesscunns anepiininelnes « 29 Sa BAC LPARAM SERRE TE Lin) ole ss Wro}io10's.0:i vie: 01.0 0.0/4)'s /wiia ioVwlalg.0/%)-e(siaioie. wiaiin se aiciSiresleiabe Mastareraly a 29 Wisconsin Horticultural Society.......2++ esse eee. opaciae daseeaihotang hake « 29 RE MMEGEIT G3 sine’ ow clea waa owen s eee aja a ayajacnibeesecauufers aule(e cise nlaceler ies 30 Pew irects Of Last: Wil pel isis ee e/eisisise. 0 ais ictaiaisier yw vive aia eisieeia.eiio.e © 30 SESAME SISGirn ate siete io olovaioravoranila\ ofelatpitote oiavekaveie valie\ate ayeceisieussauays laiaik fBYeiaie aceiore.e 81 PRS CA ON CULTANtB’s v:60 008s coc nsciecigne seine he nininiweinn sjenemanns -- 82 Training Raspberries......... seis telela ate miaieinbeletas sicieratain)sisictsu.siataja\aiaiete 33 Fruit Prospects.......e.eee- aislninialstalrereve siatalelalie)s[afatn'e\c\els/aisausieusiet ate 33 Report of Mr. Meyer, General Fruit..... abate arash assy ora ain vo al Sie sats Seakereten 33 Discussion....... Aidood bok Mb ciiel site sstet ota ysie(aic(atelalsin\a/ei-.a\0's!.4, $xpie;e\o)5,5)5te eae 84 pea BREPHEMBUTIENLLS avala)ayo (ny ctsiaie) aiois{aiciaielo/e\diele\6)e/4'0,01s),6,0,sjea70, 9.0/6 6. 0,676.50) aia 34 Imperfect Strawberries.......... aiaye 6.66; synleseiata, suspen a2'a\o fe Ss 35 POV TINE LADS oy ia is nian ceo se 0 0,0,0,0, 0, 0.0,0,019,0)2:0, 06,50, 35 Prof. Morey’s Paper, Nature and Growth of Fungi .........-..eeee0.- 36 PMSCUSSION, sc/0's:0. sieielaiee (is Sivin/ais/s[e,2.5\9,0.0,0,0.9,0,0 «as, eeynwinia aisisieiabaneeineiiabetne.) 45 aes: ANNUAL REPORT. MAO MMDR CIA lg Ss be lu SR ae alee s PRORAMMEREEEE Co cs cde Giinte Wait sce lsle vs asjc eyed fae ane lowhisee afetaia ois vie 6.o.c Swisie Aighdate ee Centennial Exhibitén.iss::-+.s3+,seveeds coed sonsed wise ann Thanks to the Ladies....... slatte ofeR\s leat as Jlede hanes Genera ee County Horticultural Societies........sceceeeccee cece csceccsces Proceedings at the Winter Meeting at Owatonris......-.c:ecnenee Programme : 2+ ses wsccssee cscs vauseedes thane dvessepsess ecg AP ISUUIARION carne siek ace wba, sulea cle satel teleiesueoinieun ciieis «ay Agricultural Society... seas Sa gatia $2 8 tatelern Sea S's Appointment of Committees....... See As eesececscccceced a een F. G. Gould’s Paper, Grape Culture.... ccc cececee seccccecees A JntrOduction® >*s = s%.+s sss ses 'e'c'waje cote TOCAON rete otere cts! sta! cleletel cfole’elatele'etc'ets= aieiiae nia tials opt aterars Varieties to’ Plantss.. sdaacsdsissarsiscade ose temuceem Starting Plants from Cuttings......s.ceeesecececccecncescceccs Setting in Vineyard....-.-.-+--ee+e- eevee cccteveece veeses sees Pruning socecccecececcccceccsccscceeccces cece sces sons sacsseesee” Protection...+..+.-- AARON ROoGoe ODO Oo Discussion Of SAMC.cccrccecerceesceeese oa se cldece case secu nee Depth of Covering —Propagation. ....sseessees cesencesen reves Cultivation........... niafesieveni nis seine eee Saher Sie: api ce Potucy WStaNCe te setae ceiccia s naise ctrna vine sreisiele piers a ecinie ss em sls\aieialeteane Quality Of Fruit.......e sees cece ceseveeenee PRODI OoN mos + mse Pruning..-.....-sseee- Sscese acess ficsas coce acca sees Sea Delaware’: 22% chess sees teem alse sl ow sls fete ees ns aici ea! ole onto dbng yliyte Gbmacoeece aC Orbe Gobo SECC Euebeaeetes)etse LoDo ° Soil and Elevation........ SOISGSUOntI IS ticocricscosl Varieties........ aisles sacs carats pie etme tantars PPP I) SPIES UAL Loire eteis.sislosiciesre.0s, e's cise e'o cree /e AnindeSepic itd se on alate OPHEr VATICTIES > 3. ccce5cc cccee ccc ce cree ou cdce ewes wel =k mEnien Concord and Delaware......-..+..- nice ca cneare cle onste ey ietaaa soavines Hartford Prolific and Janesville........ ...-- oes aictee 210 ote ee antes WiNGews cones ite aie cl ee slenc cs see's cer oes oes vee eee Report of O. D. Storrs, of General Fruit Committee............+. +e. Insect EnemieS...--ecereesscees IO OAREA CISCO TSS co: Se Strawberries...... Metclateieivica’e Ma eieciann as cere wate a ete ieee a o\e Seater Gooseberriesite'sch%. (tet eteereolclcte see lektse sslee Sect be se cere ocean RaspberrieS...eeecessececeee atiainigia eC ove o's ae elect ate lactelae ane Qurrants:.'.\.'\evicte sdevec-svente seacee USiscee sceltet ss ene eee GTAPES.. cece cece cece cere cee teens seen ees seers neces seen sees sees 54 a ie ae = \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 5 PAGE. PIOMBS 060 ctsteew tose sess dew viddsdvertacsadicssiaePalerenaess | G2 EVVGr QYOCNS «cue cine ows 0000 eiinisainls ides s a oleGts salesieels pea@eleceees oo 62 Apples siccvicistyraic'swelvivivieied dis cle'a'e! deiclelegdec’s’ abbbteertdcichaMitesese 62 CLrab-APPles! Kicis-crewwic wie aiatoroee sieves” Socdsd Seda dc reed ed Chet eee OER Deep and Shallow Planting. sos scscccseddisscadvetpeccasenccs 68 Flowers..-..... weeded en dpurvcelublnce bebe wale eh ston stsabisatecteet > "OS BSEMSSION, ON SAME. 600 obec cccccusscscescnviecrveebib'e seu cedsecltauest 64 PAPSOS siwlersintas aletarecteleia'aiai viete'siate cicieleletempe wee eeaabedddtes wa wen OF Report of G. W. Fuller, of General Fruit Committee..........ee.se008 64 IT Sala ini Sarnia crdinscbetcrv oratorere “wnc'e'c STU MRRIGUT dec EIA oo G4 MEME SEMBOCES «'s oe e's cid Sicetweb weed veeiemeds sede cccesancss ‘G4 PRISGIS Ol, LAS, WANTER «soni ev iccewes dioneieenOede caccesceccesece 6D EMOUST COG s 00.0.0 ciacicieisvncielese civieleieieeia/siareleleculelenide wosece cove aoe) «00 OD Another Report from Mr. Fuller........00 ssseee. Too ERE npricGerccimore edi Biitects) of. Last Winters ss scs ssidcce cede plemaetlene cccepecs dace Mar PHUQUCMPMIS He cevete desc dated ed ised Sade Coa oasccccecsaccesk 65 ABATE Siatai e's uoisrove te avole’e's Yeln'e'b falotae roreha a's aided a wraevereeia le'efuiae of fe Wee. /6G Strawberries—Wilson and Downing...........cescecccccecccces 67 a ae ts tmnalasee Hee pa orale SERUAYE 5 a c/s/niga aie xsermtae oa 67 Raspberries..... Snpin\e © ole 'y\e Us .0jele.e ialeieeaewiow & oveaintaleeiets AApcleeiaeeh 67 GME IMITEM EDs a 4 'athcieie o ciate ob abeece ala nshowue eet are oo Ree eictbiele<'s 68 SACK, NOL 2 ajeicje} x, 0)0(che\clnieivia, acialele aidime Seue sh aie creree. eee Zelola'a} oft eisieete 68 Discussion of same....-. sku olny oak bad oe anlteh Sint elder irr one eK 4 69 asm herries— Vi ariebies..s tives wes hieclo solasele Belsele waite me ebase 69 HOBECTS/ 111) CANES otic cjes od ldinld ala ld ale alo-alolalcle ei cls ie ole alal cteleteinlelabescale cele 69 HERD Sta Kirs(2 1199 is io wrclw' n\n! wlyniiojeinie minapoveieisio.ra/evnverc oasis ple yeleroiecarchiataleulell Genel ee - 69 OTHELANSECES| ANG) REMECIES:s :erisic iojereoieis cierowreiwivwiie olaeiblaadebee ces Seeteclaeae Propagation.....+-.+ sielealaiay cee vessels cobleleapinie nee Planting eee eeeserseccececces soveces sisieja Otte ee DIeSSiNG «+ eee ceceeecccneecccseencccecscenescees Discussion ON SAMEC.... sce cece veceececes pabbiclete's sete a alctataters ithe ASPALAgusS..eeseceseceseees otejeiain aid s'elaisiatels oes teen cversevecces HIOrse-Tadish «..0 2200 cece cccccescvece coccce cess ecence piatelerelormats Mr. Hart’s Letter, Blight....... arcieta\atavateare Sjateratsletoatatat « ‘stole’e aleleieltploighartetats DiSCcuSSioN ON SAMEC.-+e-veecee cece cece elofelatelelieiatefaletote aa stale > hata tte tater Cause and Cure Of Blight.......-seccscee sacscne rece ccesvces = 5 My. Scott’s Paper, Plants under Cultivation........ssseeccceeecceeeees Report of Delegates to Centennial Exhibition........ Saleee ho ete ata eevee DiSCUSSION ON SAME weit.v sab 9 i n'eae soe 00 oakden ee be as 0S ak peep eden woe 95 Mr. Pearce’s Paper, Fall Planting and Root Killing of Fruit Trees...... 96 PEE DIA AUNG 20s evs edenavnes oawpihieeecnas sneees cewandianeejeenon el ene RoOOt Killing......00-escoees-ce i elu isis s\ierbteiaraiein ails ainla/slaly es enecevic cies 96 Discussion on same..... aeistatelaialats a oe eralfayota| ein state ot araiieVal sfetninilmlaielateteieta al SFL Trunk Protection......... ayatare/aibialare''s Sate is a/a(fa/a\elaln nia\aia aise! sio\ ASIA CE: Report of Auditing Committee.. aera aie “ 98 Mr. Booth’s Paper; Laying Out, iantiie fa and Care of Small Tae aoe 98 ATURE XAPADICS cre/aic, 816.0:0\ 0/0 010!'p, 0.0.0. 40010! s sielniy-a s tienes siehsise ee loiaatenicete he OO TOCRUIOD ANG SOM! «0c 0\s0%0'0 e:0c'e v'e's'e’ cisia'd'e ear ftafata oMat(o¥a/atataralalefatalonsEstetetete 100 Whe House and its WleVation «60000 eisica'aiv'ea's ecole vic leiclein a/v nia's'e » 100 RIED claret aid cnc cupid accents acd oat ease een warm te arent «+ 100 BOGGINS ANA SGGGING: L000. cove cwcesasvese uses scesisssessvcaeeice) LOL Walks and Flower-Beds....-....... aravateuiwtevers eialahelNalefeluileintnis 'sialatete.c 101 METHEC Reale a! s'o's\e! diate e's'aneteiels aie alelaie’ Si hievaverad takaletafateitatetataveyeNeletata tals YalareVaibiale ere 102 Ae ERO EG AVY TAS 2 ino alnhalaie’a'ois! Ualelsl,cieletsheta\eYets faci alclolevataletelefe\\vaVeibie'e.jotaferajaio OO MEER Ole AINGSia/cielalsin'a'e/eta aiatsisleis vein’ alaiete) aia alelielciatelstaleliaie's sta, sla%e ta:e/e\olle sels 102 When the House is Already Built... 12... .200 ceeeseceescooces 102 EPPREESTE WEIGEL CHVVIIL ajaiata’ oiaia ol sta a's) aiste'e) clevsiehe eleiel 0! 6/e' sisal o/b 6.e. 5,/o’alels)si (ub afaymietete 102 MOCETEC NTT AT CDI Na) sfadalel she otal ata’ a’e'‘oiple!o) cia'elat's's cist ola! y’e, s's'='si'e/efu 0 /e/oYe(olnyalaialetmennna 103. EMS EO TY ON AINE |y/-( ators at's'e'c'e'sc's'cie'.'0'o° d5i6\s)aicleenal « 0c' sie s/e\iale/elatelalletatntatelels 103. Sodding and Seeding Lawns.... ..cesseccecesse soscuudvosessses 10D Pea aT SPLINS SCANS .'. .. 2.0. «se 00e ve anne enn asl ne bRNiereie « 103. SRE ners Apel, ANMUASs s'a's'c'<'c'e cles s © blslallsilolcl 's/n'alal otalelalalatatakaatietalate’s © 104 Amendments to Constitution and By-Laws....seceeeceeesrevessevececs 108 Keeping Transcendents and other Fruit... 00.0 ccc cece rece cscs tens ven 108 8 ANNUAL REPORT. PAGE. ‘Report of the Secretary .-corsscecereveeececcsecerseeccssre senctsnnes Summer Meeting. .cesscccececccccnccccce sosccesesese soesen secs Centennial Matters .....0scescecccnceccce:: sevececcsccessesnsas Transactions of the Socloty. + .scs- css cs oene + cainnnuyaenene LiDrary..cseecccccerecececcrcce reece cesses recseseceseseseeses Membership..--+- aeccer cece PO mew eee eset sees eseeseeTeseseeeee ee Expenses seeeee CeTe recesses esses ee esses esssseeeesseseseseseeeees L Report of the Treasurer ...+-sesee eee seen cece sere Per Hiectlob Of OMIGETS -.+ vn eccsccce ahns sin acsacasiere «ae, n0cchnene PVGSiG ONE vaeeleiw's.d2e sles sin 01s o\0.0\8 wie'eh.s wie © m/e ©isiple 0.4.0 sheianiiie aa Wice PLeSiGONiSs.s ccc, nce cs ssleb\cleuoc sia0s| © ¥,0:5'» 0. i¢nicie ginmnnn SOCLEtary soe cece ccecccce cece cece sees recssesee cece sees ceesssees Treasurer...-.- solu d'eteia.p piainisle.a s(vis piulote/is's,s's!Sialp pa «)aie ites nial Executive Committee ...sicccccccccccscvendssccsssesens owe pemmaie Game Laws... -- SSSA TE a © [pis a,cip aja n/a\s/ a6 aes tai Goa mp als g a eee Articles on Exhibition, Report of Committee ......-esscecscscesceccene Harris Seedling Apples, DeSCription..---+se-sseeeceee sceeceeceeecees Cataloguing Fruits, &C..sscesesceevecececccceecceceeerseeesceseee cece Apples, Discussion and Revision Of List...+s+sessesseseee seeceeseecs Duchess, Wealthy and Tetofsky.......-- eie-eeta pie) oa ee osuaenauen ae Haas. .ccceccescces oe sccieecclges 600000 eved.0vee 6.000 00.0 nininemeieene Pomological Society...+++sssesccccsccccsevccscecccecesen eesesececee Taxation of Nursery Stock. ...0cccecccccccrssccces seccce senses veces Revision of Apple List Resumed........ « ciciele | p\s'0 0 0 0]¢ he ania tai ete Haas again..... ialpieteisials civ ciniu/siaintalee oc cees cecneneccce sean eceee Plumb’s Cider.....-. ch anie cle ¥e.00 ten s1po.o ewiee.c les 6 ine einiis eee Melinda). «occirc.cs ccs cclbiecie woe sissies nica sic oe 6.6 anianisie in Stewart’s Sweet, Walbridge and Peach...-..+..... #6. 95, «puiaielaaeete Price’S SwWeet.ceessee rece pieie\ ela (wie vla\e\s) eles iaiaia/alela ih oles) ieee batneia’s ST ERSHETINET ereieciclave ose e\als\efa\eisinaie plein alvie pintelb:s els lais'Naleleie (eleistoities s ceesen St. Lawrence....ee-eeaee POROBESS ect RAAB e bei = - aie Utter’s Red i... cece cccccccvccce aie’ sisia'e etalon ia seated 9: him elepecaineaee WAMCUHE seices ca ciccce bo accu occ, 0080.00 20 c.0 0's 00\00ine selene eens Talman Sweet....--+.se. cle inue'e cons 'o'e)s 6 ain etein\s'sja\ateteain(aiua ann AlASKA). 2 c'cisc)e aislaeninicivisinysieicivinisce phi wslecevels a a\ainie\ala(= sole inte os Ox gnis White Astrachan.......e.e- pinninta: oiaélc/nldisie.sia <=\e eleinia «imine aves JULIA: ccc cate c ersletelete tieteraiel cictesveteielelslaic's c/s a e)e:e! pie p:a\\aie ia stn) ac i Rollin’s Pippin, Rollin’s Russet, Rollin’s Prolific, Elgin Beauty, Wabasha, Viola, Queen.of Elgin, &C.....e..eeeeseee oye i iancare ° Clawson and KiMDIG. sic sae 6 eaisiseingiv aes eeeeeeseeeses eeeecaeeeece 109 121 122 ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. -Crab-Apples, Discussion and Revision Of List........sseecceeececseces Soulard.... See eee FHSS HES SSE HEHEHE SHHHEHETHEHEEEH HS OHHH EEE S : ‘ e . ‘ PGE. ‘S ; Hart’s Seedlings ...essececrcsccecccccenvedecsrsvvcavesece eercece 122 Meader’s WOMEN tS oes vag Sheagenccas eeee sessed eee sesesesece Hesper Blush...- Pee e rest eeeseseeeseeesees rebe ee eweoereseeesees Whitney’s No. DO ivicwe ee a rs Alaska.... Blight OWICTADG coccicas cise cesae wee Pe PCC Pe eeeseeeeee eeeerseesee Mender’s Sweet, Russet. «+000... 00509:0'e6 asic od ceyess cvsic cams seni Sylvan Sweet......cccesoees Brier’s Sweet and Northfleld Beauty.. eet wees reese eeeeseseeseseeesenesesese ee eeeeeese sees sees eeseeveses Virginia.... ee eeeeee reese reese sees ,eeeeet seeesesesseeseesesesess ve SE CCH ASAI « o.os.n.0 wcicnesemsinsiag daeees cenane hen Galesaweie ENED 27, CLC SOCIOL s00n0sncbensicuncenetasneegasniamwaenccwan Organization of County Horticultural Societies... Report on President’s Address.. Report of Mr, Latham of General Fruit Committee.......0sscecceeseee Review... TDUGHESS « ..22.00.00 000 Tetofsky....... PIG ANLINV cielo plin'sle's):s ois\s/0 ieee 5.0.0. Crab-Apples Russian Apples.....e....- Seedlings.......... Grapes...... Congratulations Evergreens.. seeeeceseeesseeves eee reese oeosseeeresF eeeeaereeseseeeseesee ee ee eroeeeee e828 eeFeeeesee ee eeeeeeeoHeseseseseeese sess sess seee ree @ S@eeeee0e oe eee cere eeresees oe esece ss. aia.ee eeee sees sess eseeeessesee eeseeeeese eaee ee eeee reese sesesees cere cess ae HP® eeveesevrese_ seeaeees eee reosese Report of Mr. Fish, of General Fruit Committee. Apples.... MSI VUWITS «000 ccceccca.e sistant aiaidiaialalaietelete Delegates to Meeting of Agricultural Society...........6- Honorary Members... SUMiner Meeting... ...0.ccccsucsces eieisiaial Wialerainiisla ian sis: akniciein seis. Report of Mr. Carter of General Fruit Committee Small Fruits Pla iaipiclel vie wie. e's 2 erseceesa eee seee teen re eeecoereseeeses teee ve et eesece ee peesen eesseoe eoce eee eeeeeriaseos eee eeeeeeseence eee 123 123 123 123 123 123 124 124 125 125 ‘125 125 125 126 126 126 126 127 127 127° 128 128 128 129 129 129 129 130 130 131 131 132 132 132 132 133 - 133 134 - 185 - 185 R : Wives of Members...+-. = Peay beh", teens OOO eee sccese " 4 Adjournment... eee sees seeeceee ee eeeeee teen sees ms oni SAlew We bt ees Dily os en seu feat “~{THIBS \e ; i 4 oor dyad 2 wf Ni vas, OAS 7 aoc, Corvrcilies ¥ 4 , et : ty 71 Z or ‘ “y +S ‘ . ry < iZ i As . y = YT! ~ wi 2 nerhadeetye 8 . nv r te | + rpeienge 7 = er oe cot hep ! ' te ‘ y pt 74 ete ; v MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 1 INDEX TO APPENDIX. PAGE. APPENGix Aw.ee eee ceeerecencce cece vevevesevcncccsccscesecccccssecse 145 Report of the Delegates to the Meeting. of the American Pomo- Memnrreneiety, "Part'T. ..05 00's cede ces ouaseveuaecesnsees sesise 145 Arrangement of fruits for examination. .....0..ccccesssssecaccee 146 MUPIRIGELOL A WHLl0. cs accesso cscs cas vcecae vsincsc's slaieiecinalselae elsjeal LAY Varieties, Contributions, &c. Part II.............. RITA C Oc Moo 4) Preparing for a display at the Centennial Exhibition...........+. 148 Wyman Elliot substitute on committee in place of Prof.C.Y. Lacy. 149 List of Fruits received and by whom contributed........eee-ee+- 149 W. E. Brimhall............ Auidlais egateraeta av: sin aia'e iatatalaralte/eve clare 149 PESO MUTYTeTD WU SIN IUM = eis 0. 0:0 «ore, #/e//aib:0.0inia' eo ayelmleiy vic cfela elare aiciawn eran LAG MoMA, Toa Stinie siesis.e)a(cic's: citse-o ainie cine ciettiaisiore s sia pieig aisie e/eta tpl 4o Charles Hause: sss. i cesses nce aiteda el sielelis’e alsje\alein/aisiain’s erele arene PPO EOC ta raie sa '5, a loicic gte-eiv isn/\cieie'e eiore bnetac a nsec acini oe L AD ERMC ERLLLULE vasats\aiaiainye's tingsisia's\sieiavsraie'e el o.e ea rmareietee ciate Ane Orcdos Lee Jacob Martella.... ........ a's jmisveleisiw.aieraie orate eiciale cantante evceccce 149 Wyman Elliot......... Sh aialahesieila ein] s/FhataCcieiatstarnie BAateSaD Smo nite 149 Riemer GMITMEN cs ava.s:s/ cis,nevalclere sie eicrenicieve ore eieja ais, sievetaxeteta ayafetelelate 150 | COREL ACKE EL a cies erst cieicieere aisrcieivievee-eieleverticiave srarcieersishitrets sieetes DO PSGPANY 1a S12 ors! nis'asel eral aiova a\aisNeiaisie) ciatarersiaveriara cinta eraiaace) nie siete wares) LOO Min Wee ClaiK scree ee picialclat aves Siercfotticierctatereiarsietareiereis entisicate vecee 150 PBIMESHELANCWICK cralsle'slatrisie'e’ si steisteipielnereie sae udeetas cis « adn noer 151 Winona County Farm.—W. D. Hatch..........seeececeee» 151 Per TEMNEPWPEIHETIS(ONT oes So Sa (o's'n's c'alt'o)a'c'o stot 0+ 0 o 2+ e's. 0 caren ene Lhd did BO ELS SAR CEA SRA ACO ROCIACIAS OC ARES ERCP IOC ICO 151 er PGC av ac tects ss en cedadss tors sucutsueas pee 151 MVORIVANP ES MC Keiecie'asjspaeie st ee oe sce cles fe erste «cnc cee coeee 151 RUPP ES UCKAteitt een teste cscs cisle ccc als cette « aaa ony chain elena 151 BreOe We Mimi seed bs ec ss. se os. .b bets a eee eee 15] Jon Aaritsecesietteee sSac ch04 otek rece cee pincer CODage 152 COONS TOV se dat sat a xe d,5.c 2c o2 2b cleats cle ate] seater TREE Ra a eter 152 Myrss Mary Campbell: 2s é0scccee senclsctecde deste cteticis © cole «- 152 12 ANNUAL REPORT. PaGE. James Mitehell i iciss vaceikeloeisce.c i ee ee ee eT 152 PA cJO WE] ba a%o.0.0 0 ip 0.9.0'0\6.0.010,56 0 ccc ues'e 00.905”, «0.53: nt ene TEL. Montes. cciccccs s00n0000000 0000 sosle¢ on cicsiantneenennn Act PERCHED) cis siu'e in nininl inane ois oie 0.0.0 8s ree es BB. JOPdON «60.0 20.00.0055 0000 ving samp 0.00 6 05\njpinginlaeeneene JOHNS. Halvi9s 0 cs acts caine’ oa sece's ssc cece 9 hp eieeniemnnn Names of Contributors omitted may be published in future report 153 List of fruits Starred for Minnesota in the Biennial Report of the American Pomological Society........++.-e+. oo cccse smaee sas ete Number of varieties contained in list.....++-.sseecesescesceeses 154 Comparison as to varieties exhibited at Centennial and at our Bate AIT cs neieislsistele se iewielsinioe Ain ee Pala ©) »:4i0:d a\nioim a as Awards at the Centennial, Pomological Department. Part III... 155 CANA s\.0s 0.0.2: 20/0015 00.0:0\014,0.0 shinies sins \6/e\» efeisipipieie sieralai aie nan Connecticut..... miata a.05 00 ‘9 se'0,08: a in. o/eiu,a non ee alee ieee = eee DCA WATE. :sja:0:0iece vo, 0j0,n:0.0in;01.4/6 ape eip eye, o\a\0/s)e0 ht eleucalss ilateeanen District of Columbia... isos, 5,s.0,0.0.0:s\005,0.5)s 1 a0)4 sie ane ae ae BIOTIC = s%e01s ae © (0\0.0,0,0:0,0,6,610,0 6, 05 0.9, 4:0 80,)4'610,.5, 5 0 0)alpi a ieee [ndians. +4: <0ls s«cess cece acess + ome aug neuen TOWaisciets occa cere wee ese ASS » 9:0 i\e stole ajnsaca apatite ee ene aan Kansas ....00.0 sales eer ciatataratare aren 2 ‘0 aiata 6 ama elaine iateaee aes MGiNe 005s 020000s00c00 000s cones re=s qumede apelin Massachusetts....... cin ieiaieiemcletatelerera (elena ROP rc Michigan... sesecceecs cece eee reece cece cece scenes vccssees LOT MEI RNESOtAcicse’siniclsols elsieje/cleip' els s/o 0 6 »-0;¢/0\010.0,0 leis sila aueieistsierenate 157 INGO TASER emis ac leteisiela'clsielsie tals siete er oa NeW JeLSe/Y.-+ ce cee ccce cove cenccscccscsccsscscscccessess ID) INGWi LOLK cit celaisle aia (s/o wlcin'e'e aisle ole ieateieiete Sore. © sash 0 occ ohio EET North Carolinidasicie:ccsjaiecss siceyerataalealectereteiae a; We. othbo ale aletate tetas - 157 OG) NESS OOCISOROIDOOOIOBOCIMOORDONO oti 9) vn co eos 157 PeNNSY]VANIA 2 nic.ce 0 vse apjee onjcie ial ©) 8 6;0;0's'sh,ojepofosye te ales aa Uy ASIC Din lo OO OMCO MOE OIDO eC hac nen oA on ate dpa aismwia eats List of Acting Judges....«.++....- 0.8" 010 01010, ef6.0 ele/siale ole o dbecse seen ripe State Exhibitions—Am. Pomological Society Reunion. Part IV. 158 States receiving especial mention— Wisconsin..... sicicveinte ciersialae as. s,0 0.6 4.6.6 ate cunyetoeeeelae Aerie tne : - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, 18 ’ PaGeE. Exhibition of Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Part V.......161 Appendix B. Local and County Horticultural Societies............+0.+ 163 German Horticultural Society of Ramsey County...ecesecccscsee 168 Rice County Horticultural Society.........cce.ccevecccccccccees 163 Nicollet County Horticultural Society.....0..scceesscesesecceses 163 McLeod County Horticultural Society. ......cecececccesccsessece 164 Olmsted County Horticultural Society............00 essccceceece 164 "y, Werleties of Apples .recommended.....sosvecccccssevescee 164 . Seeding down Orchards.......... renin tan EAN enaecsnaude Ie Minnesota Fruit........ Saicie seams We, cumalen select evsawclag ea LOG Poeeccenstal Nruit Grower: cases bc'sce Cees aswedvccese 165 The Rochester Nursery ......... avetate oie sale <\sin winia ctatalniateranie ee LOG Metter from H. Bo JOrdOn..<.sccveccec vecacccesrcce cocccee 167 Appendix C. Articles of Incorporation... .ccc.cccccncensvcccesssesce 169 By-Laws of Association.......... i aioabiele'6 e’a etainiolateisie @letelerciata cele ten An) Appendix D. Laws of Special Interest to Horticulturists......... 2. 173 ee owe ne erst ak. -% piven ts ‘ jib mere eres. ' . vi ees weed Cea es ce we bh sesh 4 ne rhe Siac. > : he kepebic Pale Mit RE Py Ti > RUE wwe Were vow RRR TRIS TOR 08 feaitars . tie ’ aA Ay > +; ; . RaW : z i ¢ » : ' y : : “y ‘ ‘ \ vt . * \ ts i - f ' ' : - t ' ’ | ; 7 ; . \ 4 * t * why cy “ . in ‘ 7 oi ais i i / L fe } : ‘ é ’ bo | OFFICERS FOR 1877. PRESIDENT. TRUMAN M. DUI Eineis csc enced nnicbceseemrenisamte Paul, - VICE PRESIDENTS. Bot. &, DART, First District...s00cccesces +eee Owatonna. A. W. McKINSTRY, Second District........... - Faribault. J. T. GRIMES, Third District.................-Minneapolis. SECRETARY, Deemer? LACY .,... 0.02... Jo01s28200 YOR. \e Minneapolis. TREASURER. PMU aT LA Siainla'n cles sicie.0 6 \easbecss seeucilensase’ se a OCHeS te ; STANDING COMMITTEES. EXECUTIVE. VAAN LO Wisrcrord sieisis a0 016 c:eitiriewisis ist mjesciass Minneapolis. Vile: Os 13158 N03 00 0 ee St. Paul. O. F. BRAND .. «).5:../. aa DOCUAA SAPICgC CCR EES Faribault. PPE LU Ss istaiaia cise cles cigs sisi ve eisdie sects, ewe 6.0 La Crescent. (USS SEALS! OU DISH M01 eee ee St. Paul. PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY E£z Officio. * ON ENTOMOLOGY. Hon. R. J. MENDENHALL....0.6 205 occ scneee Minneapolis. BPM MEWANEU TD EGiclais'a'ee sc sie devas ecceee socio ovat ctuperete La Crescent. SUNS ADIN OED PEROT icici c,c.cinis vive sicien's ses oenis nicweye Minneapolis. 3 oe ANNUAL REPORT. ° / P i ON FLOWERS AND FLORICULTURE. Miss HORTENSE SHARE.......+-+.+e+0.+++++-ROSemount. J. Cc. FLEISCHER ..++++-secessecececceesees a aneie Paul. - WM. CANNON.....- weeeee see ceeeesseeves oes Fort Abraham Lincoln, D.T- ON VEGETABLES AND MARKET GARDENS. WM. E. BRIMHALL.. 2 .-0e eeceee cooesceeesses Qt. Paul. 3 i ea GRIMES.... eee eee eee teeeeesreeeeeeee «+++ Minneapolis. J.C. KRAMER...... sgt aheiaiede ose aes oe Feces ese La Crescent. ON TREES FOR THE FOREST AND FOREST CULTURE. L. B. HODGES 2000 cece cocsvctcce secsccssovcecss St. Paul, JOHN K. KEPNER..... o csscceccce cscs csceccee Little Valley, Olmsted @o. J: H. BROWN 6-0-2» wece rove sence cscccees + +ee++- Lac qui Parle. ON CATALOGUING FRUITS AND SHADE AND ORNAMENTAL TREES AND PLANTS. (See Page 115.) P. A. TEWELL....2c0 -ccccecccccpeces cocecccces Lake City. WYMAN ELLIOT. ...0- 200 ccccc cece cvee cesses Minneapolis. A. W. STAS .ccccccccccecccssccscesesscecs +eeee. Rochester. PERMANENT COMMITTEE ON OBITUARIES, CoL. J. H. STEVENS 2000 cive eeccce ce cece cceeee Minneapolis. Hon. C. M. LORING......+ sinigitte ne ve slots antes Shab a Gen. LEVI NUTTING..... .o-ccceces coos eeccee. Paribault. TO COLLECT FRUITS FOR MEETING OF AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. O. BF. BRAND emai icinicien ic fs se vclerettoseas Faribault. J. S. HARRIS <2 ce laces ocd isvcie' venice sccc cece veee sua Crescent: A. W. SEAS? eee Ghee e rl a bie Wiatat ollaieteia'sl 6 bp ib Curetelete ts Rochester. ON AMENDMENTS TO CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS. CHAS. VY. LAGCY sccccetsisvencmeisicnmlntiisinies s 5,0 0.0 000 +0 Javecloaeae Minneapolis. KT, SS. TD ABD cw vic vec ose ne ale deteieeeteininiela\cs «\0'e'e's \o'e ala lc'e sinha Owatonna. U. S. HOLLISTER....e. eeeee alajein@lsie 1060's @ 00,00, 6einla bilge oeeee St. Paul. daltenemnthds sas eee. Rodina, Jalna Pyeedet .fead 72. pee ols eu aN EoIO Qanirsil .e}!c wisi "Oey VAs BA WO Lc tetona - leeheie Mile PI! iss tert cs There am hei as ME | UTA’. ) COUNTY HORTICULTURAL , SOCIETIES. he iweir vewews Be MPy Ve iy rad y PVE soos sein a , ; F Arrre oat : “Bn < , : iD te rs (See Appendix.) Pera ‘ ‘ "y if ie 4 ‘ ‘ a j ‘ : , ; ‘ 1 a? ‘i {on ; om On 19 _ ent 7 ‘ ¥ \ at. rit i ; 3 i ea f y wo t ] ae. / y 2 ‘ ' 1 \ | 2 \ - : 5 i . ‘ ¥ - 20 "ANNUAL REPORT. MEMBERS FOR 1877. Anthony, David......-+s++s+eee+eeeeeeeee.. Kasson, Dodge county. Arnold, W. Weeeeesseccsoceccececeee sees eeClinton Falls, Steele county. Andrew, John B.ceesscoeesseceeeces eo eeeeFaribault, Rice county. Bernstein, Wm...-- eo cecscccscccecceeee sere Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Blakeley, Capt. R.-se-+-seesseees -eeeeeeeee St. Paul, Ramsey county. Brackett, Hon. Geo. A..-+-++++++e+++eee++-Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Bower, Thomas..-+-+sscseeveeesereeeeeeeeSt. Paul, Ramsey county. Boxell, J. Weeveee cece cecceccecceeceeeeeeeAfton, Washington county. Brimhall, Wm. E..-.-+++++++se-eeeeeeeee St. Paul, Ramsey county. Brand, O. F..ssceceesceeccccceccceeeseeeesFaribault, Rice county. Booth, J. E...--- ah cveanee camel .++eeee+-+Minnehaha, Hennepin county. Cameron, G. W.---+seneees ne eae Wn dR ean --.Dundas, Rice county. Cannon, WM...-ceeeceeeccecceceveverece --Fort Abraham Lincoln, D. T. Carter, T. G.....- Une wicca sse saints alwaimicled St. Peter, Nicollet county. Clement, J. B....--cccccscvcceeccsccesence Faribault, Rice county. Cochrane, Thomas, Jr..--«++--es onecscecs St. Paul, Ramsey county. Cook, M. W..---- eeecceccceceeseees seas sone Rochester, Olmsted county. Dart, BE. H. S..secececcee cocececececceese++Owatonna, Steele county. Day, Ditus..---seeseseserceeseeececece cone Farmington, Dakota county. Drake, Hon. E. F...-+.+sse-eeeee ees aialetetelein St. Paul, Ramsey county. Dennerline, J. G. A-sererees Sia S.clelelelserniniain'aia Owatonna, Steele county. Elliot, Wyman....--.seeees Pate vaifeeha nhs eae Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Fox, C. Boece coc cece cccereccccreccccce ces South Troy, Wabasha county. Grimes, J. T..--eeseeeceeececee cece ceeeeees Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Gronvold, Dr. Chr....--+-eeseeeee cece ceees Norway, Goodhue county. Hart, John.....--.-e+- SUB AOSD UO MEOnoouIC: Winona, Winona county. Hoag, M. J.--eeecesceccc cece cocescecces Rochester, Olmsted county. Hollister, U. S.--- esse cece cece coceceerecce St. Paul, Ramsey county. Harris, J. S.-+- see cece ceecees ais ones vces wa La Crescent, Houston county. Humphrey, D. W.--+-+e- coer cece cece cence ce Faribault, Rice county. Hodges, L. B...----eeeecceecen ceeceececees St. Paul, Ramsey county. Jewell, P. A...ceeecceccesccccs ceeccccccces Lake City, Wabasha county. Jordan, E. B...se- cee cevecececeeceese see Rochester, Olmsted county. Kramer, J. C...eee cece cece cece ceeeccecce ce La Crescent, Houston county. Kenney, Seth H......seeeseee soeceees ---«-Morristown, Rice county. Laing, Prof. R. W..--- eccecce soveseees seve Minneapolis, Hennepin county- ' = a a iT erly ie Soe 7 , ; ey on oe! MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL socreTy. = 2] \ Lacy, Chas. Y.....-++.seeeseeeseeeceee+eesMinneapolis, Hennepin county. |. -Lindersmith, Orlando.........+++..++++.+++Owatonna, Steele county. © McHenry, Wim........ +200 sees seee sees ee+eSt, Charles, Winona county. McKellup, C. D......2+sseeee sees sees eeeeesFaribault, Rice county. Middleton, James...-..++.++++++++ee+e+++-. Woodbury, Washington county. McKinstry, A. W..++e+ ceeeseeeceee cece eeeFaribault, Rice county. “McClung, J. W..--.-s0 serene seeeeeeeeee ss Ot. Paul, Ramsey county. Morey, Prof, Chas. A........csseee :++++++sWinona, Winona county. IAUNOWS, Be Alccsccscccencscccecceces ---» Knoxville, Iowa. Ny he isle petted So eeeceeeeeseeeeees osFaribault, Rice county. Miller, C. F..... ep let tetas trata Sie .. +«++.Dundas, Rice county. * Norquist, John.....-.+++.sse++sseeeeee+ee+Red Wing, Goodhue county. Pearce, M...+-+e+e+eee sees cece eevee seeee+ Rochester, Olmsted county. Phillips, A. Dees sseeeseesecssccceecsee cess West Salem, Wis. Pye, S. M.cees sees cee ceeeecee cece cece essFaribault, Rice county. Rice, Hon. H. M......... tees cececcceeeseee ot. Paul, Ramsey county. Smith, T. Tunis.................+++..+...-.St. Paul, Ramsey county. RT FD sie .os tcc s wenn cece tecccass +++ -..-Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Storrs, O. Doses sseeereecsceceeeseeeceee+s.Winsted Lake, McLeod county. Sias, A. Weesececsssecne siga/sialpiasitia eee tole Rochester, Olmsted county. Smith, J. A...se-eseeeeeee sees cecesseeees++Minneapolis, Hennepin county.’ Smith, Truman M...c..cccsee cove cccs sees -St. Paul, Ramsey county. POTATO TIO) Wis con vic occe'seciscsisece ove +ee++ee Rochester, Olmsted county. Somerville, Wm..... aiatleiaivietercie ‘aa aVelaseraseratitaie Rochester, Olmsted county. Thompson; Josiah... cece cccces cccsccces Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Wachlin, Wm.....-.. te cece eceeceeeceee oe Haribault, Rice county. Wilcox, Bence sce cccccecsccccccccce sile aaluiele Trempealeau, Wis. The wives of members are members of the Society without fee. NAMES TOO LATE FOR 1876. The following names of members for 1876 were received too late for insertion in the Transactions of last year : PGP HOMYRPIDAVIG! = occ voce ccccactisnevaccecccecse Kasson, Dodge Co. BSE MS HUTTON EN nln wie w'«'s\s'/s/e/o.e.00\ 69.0015 010 s1e.c\0 0 si cle 0's\s Minneapolis, Hennepin Co. UISEVMOOUUUTY wecces coccccccca sclvecsiesscicss -- Minneapolis, Hennepin Co. Hendrickson, W. G....... S OBO A HOCH EBIDOBO HU ASSoe St. Paul, Ramsey Co. WVOAL CHAK. . cacce cccsce oven eee eletsictata\e) sie\alerataialw(e Richfield, Hennepin Co. ean gn OPEN Talelaysiale-o (slain ie\'tialeicla'aeisi ; : ‘ ss waen wa r \ "i i! vee 7 seen - ’ - : be : ae. 2 sa | - - ! \ Az ; : ‘slal9o say z ; F ‘, ‘ ‘ a Aik > / , , ‘ P é. wy . t : P ¥ ‘ ‘ F t . ot f ~ ; 4 . - 4 : : ad ‘ cat " ‘ : ' 7 ‘ wt / s i ‘ ; Nj te - t t ‘ , aa v4 : i s { p 3 ’ Pa ‘ \ j - : : F. t J \ : \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 23 FRUIT LISTS, As APPROVED OR REVISED aT THE ANNUAL MEETING AT OWATONNA, JAN. 16TH To 18TH, 1877. NorE.—It should be remembered that negative votes are not always unfa- vorable ones. Those casting them may be in favor of placing the variety in a higher list or in a lower one. APPLES. ‘ (See page 116 for discussion.) Recommended for genaral cultivation— Duchess of Oldenburg. Wealthy. Recommended for planting in limited quantities— Tetofsky. Recommended for general cultivation in favorable localities— Haas. Price’s Sweet. 5 for and 2 against. Plum Cider. 7 for and 1 against. Saxton. 6 for and 2 against. Recommended for favorable localities— St. Lawrence. Fameuse. Unanimous vote. Utter’s Red. Talman’s Sweet. 4 for and 1 against. Recommended for general trial throughout the State— White Astrachan. Elgin Beauty. Recommended for trial— Melinda. 8 for and 1 against. Walbridge. Unanimous vote. Stewart’s Sweet. Unanimous vote. Peach. Unanimous vote. 24 ANNUAL REPORT. ; \ Recommended for trial by amateurs and pomologists— Alaska, Queen of Elgin. Unanimous vote. Julia. 7 for and 1 against. Rollin’s Pippin. Unanimous vote. ~ Molly. Unanimous vote. Rollin’s Russet. Unanimous vote. Clayson. Unanimous vote. Rollin’s Prolific. Unanimous vote, Kimball. Unanimous vote. Wabasha. Unanimous vote. Hart’s Seedling, No. 7. Unanimous vote. Hart’s Seedling, No. 11. Unanimous vote. Viola. Unanimous vote. CRAB APPLES. (See page 123 for discussion.) Recommended for general trial— Early Strawberry. Minnesota. Orange. Quaker Beauty. Beecher’s Sweet. Conical. Meader’s Winter. Maiden’s Blush. Hesper Blush. 3 for and 1 against. Woodlawn Red. 3 for and 3 against. ~ Meader’s Sweet Russet. 5 for and 2 against. Recommended for general trial in favorable localities— Aiken’s Striped Winter. Recommended for general trial in localities not subject to blight— General Grant. (The least hardy on the list.) Recommended for general planting by those not afraid of blight— Transcendent. Recommended for planting in small quantities— Hyslop. Recommended for trial by amateurs and nurserymen— Whitney’s No. 20. Unanimous vote. Virginia. Unanimous vote. Alaska. 7 for and 2 against, Brier’s Sweet. 6 for and 1 against. °e Passed over without action— Huichinson’s Sweet. Aiken’s Green Winter. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 25 GRAPES. : (For discussion see page 55.) Recommended for general cultivation— Concord. Unanimous vote. Delaware. Unanimous vote. Recommended for planting in limited quantities— Hartford Prolific. Unanimous vote. Recommended for trial for its earliness— Janesville. 4 for and 1 against. STRAWBERRIES. (For discussion see page 86.) Recommended for general cultivation— Wilson’s Albany. Recommended for cultivation by amateurs— Green Prolific, as an abundant bearer. Recommended for cultivation for home use— Downer’s Prolific. Recommended for general trial— Charles Downing. Recommended for trial— Michigan Seedling. Countess de Haricourt. Prouty’s Seedling. RASPBERRIES, BLACK-CAPS. (For discussion see page 88.) Recommended for general cultivation— Doolittle. Seneca. 4 : te HP Pe Recommended for general cultivation— yet hire 1! ( ¥ 4; =| : ‘ Red Dutch. angawiure , - s > ViCtO White Grape. ‘ iy ‘ 7 ‘ a 4 ; f a BO. - ANNUAL REPORT. Mr. Harris mentioned the meeting of the Wisconsin Horticul- tural Society at Tomah this day, and proposed sending a message of greeting. - A motion that the Secretary be directed to send a message of greeting was carried, and the message immediately sent. DISCUSSION. The Effects of Last Winter. This subject was taken up for discussion. Mr. Wilson. I suffered more last winter than ever before. Lost strawberries that were covered with leaves and straw. Lost also Black-cap Raspberries that had been exposed for years. They killed to the ground. Hardy lilies were killed last winter with ordinary protection. Mr. Grimes. “Had the same experience. Lilies slightly protected are all dead. Wild lilies in the marshes were also killed. My theory is that the winter commenced early and was unusually severe. The thermometer stood 30° below in November. Some plants considered hardy are dead while others considered less hardy came through. The Carnation Cherry is an example of the last, while the Leib is dead to the ground. ‘Trees and plants that ripened up were able to sustain the first cold, but the others were not. Grapes are alive but putting out feebly, and we shall have but little fruit. Mr. Harris. The destruction was due to the events of the spring. In February there was a severe thunder storm. Then snow fell 2 or 3 feet deep. One week we had a great thaw and then another freeze and the beds were covered with from 3 to 15 inches of ice. I think there was no injury done up to that time. The Philadelphia shortly before that was alive to the tips but afterwards found dead. Strawberries where the ice was deepest suffered least. Roses protected partly with sods but chiefly with coarse litter are dead. One Queen of the Prairie left unprotected is now loaded with buds. Two or three Hybrid Perpetuals unpro- tected are in good condition. My soil is heavy, some black prairie but mostly clay. Mr. Elliot. Strawberries are pretty much killed out. Currants are a better crop this year than last. Mr. Wilson. We can protect against cold but do not know how to protect against a thaw. My soil is sandy loam on gravelly sub- o£, « | Lh i ben - A, ’, MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ‘ soil. We must pee protection but sometimes we give too much, when we have mild winter with heavy snows. _ Mr. Gould. In September there were ten days or two weeks of | wet, cold weather, when we wanted it warm and dry, so that grapes even if well protected are subject to rot. Strawberries are, however, as well fit for winter one year as another. Have one bed on a Northern slope and another on a warm exposure. The for- mer will give a good crop, the latter none. Apples. matured well last fall for they have blossomed well and set well. I consider the causes of the destruction of plants to have been: First, they were kept growing when they ought to have been ripening, and Second, they were not properly protected. Mr. Brimhall. My soil is heavy clay. My strawberries on low land where the water stood, froze and were killed. Where the. water ran off they are all right. Raspberries on low rich soil were badly injured and are growing feebly. On higher drier land they are all right. Of trees more were injured than ever before. Sou- lards that have stood for ten or twelve years are nearly killed. Some standards counted hardy are growing but are feeble. The Carnation Cherry has generally wintered well until last winter when they were killed. The same is true also of some pear trees. The Duchess (in reply to a question) were badly injured. Mr. Smith. Strawberries were much injured. Charles Down- ing stood the best except the Champion. It was done by ice. Grapes never wintered better. Currants came out well, and most apples as well as could be expected. I have a hazel-bush soil for my small fruits. Where my grapes are itis heavier. Of roses I had a few killed, General Washington for one. A few of the Black-cap raspberries killed. The Turner came out perfect though not protected. Mr. Harris. My Green Prolifics killed out last winter. I think the ice absorbed heat from the plants. Flowers. Mr. Wilson. Here is a moss rose that has a peculiarity., The flowers are supposed to be white, but here on the same stem is a pink rose, and on another different colors are found in the same flower. I would like to hear an explanation. Another thing is the transplanting of lily-bulbs. The catalogues say transplant in the fall. I did so, and all were killed, whatever the soil might be. All those bulbs should be transplanted here in the spring. Roses mainly came through well with me, but Baron Provost was killed Bi 31 82 /ANNUAL REPORT. with some others. (Mr. Wilson here showed some beautiful roses of several varieties. ) ~ All manure, however well rotted, should never touch the stems, but be dug in around the roots. My man covered roses with ma- nure, because it was easier to obtain, and the next spring they were killed. Mr. Harris. We all know that manure is filthy, and the worst thing for winter protection, but not for a summer cunleli Flow- ers sport, and it is not uncommon for flowers to show such varia tions as those mentioned. Most people say that it is because of their proximity to other kinds. Idoubt this. I think it is be- cause the variety is not a pure variety; that there is something besides pure white in the blood, so to speak, of that white moss rose. The names of flowers should also have the names of the dealers with them, because otherwise you cannot depend on the names of the flowers being true, and different dealers call the same plant or flower by different names. Mr. King was called for, but declined to say anything. Mr. Wilson showed a winter Gladiolus which was a beauty. He said it was perfectly hardy, as it was planted last fall and came up this spring. Mr. Abernethy. [have been using iron around my ed and it has produced a deeper color in foliage and flowers. Mr. Harris. Ihave been told of a woman who put around a Geranium on sandy soil leached ashes. This became more thrifty than any of the others. The leaves were twice as large. I would like to know the best season and method of layering to get rose bushes. Mr. King. The best time is from the first of July till the mid- dle of August. Take cuttings when the wood becomes older. Mr. Elliot. J layer by twisting the shoots and pegging them down and get very strong layers. Insects on Currants. Mr. Elliot proposed to discuss the currant worm. He uses Paris green to destroy it. Mr. Gould. I use unleached ashes about the roots. Mr. Elliot. To destroy the borer I prune out and burn the old wood. Ihave been told of a man that got rid of cut worms by the use of Paris green. I have used it myself for the currant borer, spreading on the ground under the bushes. Mr. Elliot. (In answer to a question.) The Paris green does MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 33 noharm. The currants are so small when it is applied that it is washed off before the fruit is ripe. Mr. Smith. I practice thorough cleaning of the ground, and have no trouble with the currant worm. Mr. Harris. J think the application of Greats to the ground can do no good, but think its application to the leaves will be effectual with the currant worm. : Training Raspberries. Mr. Elliot. Is any method of growing raspberries better than to let them grow without training ? . Mr. Grimes. I think it is better to head them down and cause them to branch low, and then cover with straw slightly—not much is needed. The best time to head back is just before pick- ing. Cut back to the top of the fruiting canes, then a new and spreading growth will begin. Fruit Prospects. Mr. Harris. They appear very slim now for this year. Mr. Brimhall. I have noticed some puff-balls on some kinds of trees, and have noticed that in such seasons the fruit crop is light. The Secretary here read a letter from Ernest Meyer, Esq., of St. Peter. REPORT OF MR. MEYER. JUNE 18, 1876. Truman Smith, Esq., St. Paul: Deak Sir.—Knowing your disinclination to answer letters I should not attempt the second time to trouble you with a letter, but having received notice of a summer meeting of the State Horticultural Society, to be held at Minneapolis, and not being able to attend, I will state to you a few facts of my experience in raising fruit since we met before. This business looks to me more discouraging now than it has ever done before. Commencing With the apple, I am sorry to say that my whole orchard is going to be ruined this summer by the blight. All the crabs, and many of the other trees are badly affected, and, having commenced so early in the season, I tear that a great many trees will be killed. The same trouble I find through this and adjoining counties. It is now the third time that this disease has appeared among my trees. In raising small fruits I have not succeeded much better. The black-cap raspberries are badly injured, and will not give half a crop; and, as this is the third year in succession that they have ~ 9) 34 ANNUAL REPORT. failed, I have made up my mind to throw them aside, I have tried hard to save them by trimming early and covering the tips, but all in vain. They are not the variety for this country. My red varieties—one from my native country, the Philadelphia, and a wild one taken from my woods—came out with the prospect of a full crop. These were killeé@ down last winter, with the exception of the wild one. Can nothing be done to prevent this killing down? My black raspberries are on the east side of my garden, and well protected. Currants and gooseberries have done well with me. I sent you last fall a box of Miner plums, raised in my garden. Do they compare with the description given in circulars of nurserymen ? There are not many of them this year. My cherry trees came out in full bloom, but fruit blighted; will give some crop if birds are not too greedy. I would like very much to be at the meeting in Minneapolis, but in this grasshopper country people have to avoid all unnecessary expenses. We have to buy. our bread, and have the prospect of another visit of that insect, for they deposited their eggs within fifty miles from here. Our crops look splendid, and I hope they will not be destroyed. Hoping to hear from you this time, I remain, Yours Respectfully, E. MEYER. Mr. Wilson. What kinds does he refer to? The Brown Thrush and Robin are the worst on strawberries, and the Baltimore Oriole . On grapes. Mr. Harris. Ihave lost raspberries from a little white grub. I dug up and destroyed the old bushes and planted again beside the old patch. They are now beginning on that side next to the old patch. Mr. Wilson. Such cases as Mr. Meyer’s are simply exceptional and not general. Small Fruits. Mr. Perry. J have had some experience with raspberries. I have considered the Doolittle a success for ten years past, and this year it will give the greatest crop I have ever had. I believe that a slight covering of straw to keep off the sun is all that is required. I have had the Davison’s Thornless, but itis not so good. But the best of all is the Philadelphia. I have had currants for ten years. The worms cut off the crop, and then I commenced anew and kept the ground clean and had no further trouble. Cherries are doing well. I have 50 trees that are bearing well. I have the best strawberry in Minnesota or the United States.' It is the Coleur de Chair (Color of Flesh). It is as hardy as the Wilson, larger, and in general superior for family use, but not so firm for shipping. I plant new every third year, setting the plants two feet MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 35 j 4s apart. Keep clean of weeds, but cut no runners. I have had a sad experience this year. The plants largely killed by a grub. Mr. Elliot said use lime on the soil. Another recommended salt. He (Mr. P.) had used ashes. Imperfect Strawberries. Prof. Morey. Ihave noticed many deficient strawberries, and would like an explanation. Mr. Smith. I think it is the dry hot weather. Mr. Harris. We did not get that down where I live. I think — that itis due to hoeing and cutting off the roots, and if this is found where they are not cultivated it is probably due to the work of grubs cutting off the roots. (It was proposed to read further communications if they were of a more cheerful character, some favoring the reading whatever the character.might be. But the discussion was resumed.) Uncovering Plants. Mr. Wilson. Iwould uncover plants when the weather is warm enough to warm them, and not before. Mr. Gould. I would uncover when there is not much danger of the ground freezing. The fruit can. be kept back by leaving the covering on longer; but then it may be left on too long, and the plants will not blossom at all. Mr. Wilson. The dry winds of April are the trouble about un- covering too early. They take the life out of the plants. It is so with the Montana Verbena and also the Snapdragon. Mr. Grimes. I find it well not to throw off the covering and expose at once to sun and wind. The best time is a cloudy or cool day, and if a gentle rain is falling it is better still. Mr. Harris. [let the chickens uncover my strawberries. They do not do it too early. They should not be covered too early in the fall, but only after the ground is frozen. Uncover in cool, cloudy weather. I use straw or tan bark for covering. Mr. Abernethy. Will shavings do instead of straw? In reply, it was stated that they are pretty heavy, but if light ones are used they will answer. Mr. Elliot. Ihave used them once, and do not want to do so again. Mr. Gould. Marsh hay is the best covering. Mr. Chatfield. Pine shavings are injurious to all plants, especially ? 2 Saar ANNUAL REPORT. | is the sawdust so. I have used manure with shavings in with in- jury. Ihave seen, however, that Mr. Stewart uses them about. his peach trees; they keep away mice. I have noticed that wher- ever water stood the plants were killed last winter. . The Society and the ladies and gentlemen present then repaired .to the grove west of the University, where an ample repast, pre- — pared by the ladies of Minneapolis, awaited them. AFTERNOON SESSION. PROF, MOREY’S PAPER. At 2:30 p. M. the meeting was again called to order. Prof. Charles A. Morey, of Winona, was introduced by the Sec- retary, and gave his address on ‘‘The Nature and Growth of Fungi,’ at the conclusion of which a vote of thanks was tendered, and a copy requested for publication. The following is the address in full: NATURE AND GROWTH OF FUNGI. All of us recognize the broad distinctions between plants, animals and stones. We See, as did the ancients, that stones grow, that plants grow and live ; and that animals grow, live and move. But when we come to study each kingdom closely, we are sometimes confounded by the apparent ex- ceptions to this broad rule. We find minerals which strangely resemble plants, and plants which seem to cross the line and take on the motor powers of an animal. Nothing could puzzle a young student more than the statement that the sponge is an animal. To him, it seems to have all the characteristics of a plant, and no others. However, he can content himself by thinking that old students thought so before him; and not only thought so, but tenaciously held to their belief after the more venturesome had announced the classification which now obtains. This seeming lack of distinctions runs through all science. It eludes pre- cise definition and causes some trouble in fixing terminology; but the student soon comes to understand it, and to accept recognized limits with- out contradiction. In these modern days, when scientific men are rapidly going over, dissecting, classifying and labeling all the known material in the world, these minute of detail upon which the general scientific distinctions are based, are studied with an eagerness that is astonishing. It is a hard matter to find a class of minerals, a family of plants, or a single species of animal to which special and careful study has not been given by somebody. ‘¢Men spend their lives,” as Carlyle says, ‘‘ upon a single Greek root;” and , MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 37 in science the narrow field of a single species is sometimes so broadened by study and comparison that the work of one lifetime only clears the way for an ’ intelligent beginning. It is a curious thought that one day the human mind will find itself out of material. All wiil have been pushed to the limits beyond which Tyndal vainly attempts to pass, and which he so eloquently described in his Belfast address. Men will understand how all matter mingles and combines to produce the objects and phenomena of the universe. Perhaps they will then be able to see why. Iam afraid they will never be satisfied if they do not. P ' The student of Botany is very soon brought face to face with the per- plexing lack of definite characteristics between the plants he studies. He will even be in doubt many times as to whether a specimen is a flowering, or a non-flowering plant, the broadest distinction in Botany. But these troubles will gradually melt away, as he studies more, and he will learn to recognize points of difference which are only appreciated by the educated eye afid mind. It is wonderful to what extent the power of observation may be cultivated. There are a hundred who can talk, to one who can think ; but there are many who can think to one who can see. The educa- tional world is just discovering this truth. It is only within a few years that it has been thought necessary for a student to use his eyes for any ' other purpose than to pore over text-books. It is no wonder that science did not thrive, and that classical studies predominated. But the tide has reached its ebb, and we everywhere see evidences of a strong flow in the right direction. The kindergarten system which twenty years ago would have been thought the height of absurdity, is now liberally employed in teaching target-practice to the young idea. There is an increasing demand for science in our public schools, and an increasing willingness to supply the apparatus with which to illustrate it. In colleges, the reaction is still more marked. We see its effects in the well-stocked laboratories of the university in whose halls we meet to-day. In these laboratories text-books are secondary, while habits of observation are carefully inculcated. Students see the actual conditions of the materials in the different stages of chemical and physical operations, the mere description of which could give but a vague idea. Fungi have been universally admitted into the vegetable kingdom. Of the two great classes, they belong to the Cryptogamia, or flowerless plants. The ordinary fern, or brake, of the woods, the various forms of moss, and the lichens, also belong to this great ciass of plants. They are the lowest in their organization of the vegetable kingdom. Many of them have no leaves ; some consist of but a single cell. The name is from two Greek words mean- ing concealec marriage. It was first used by Linnzus. They are the most difficult plants to study, because of the great variety of structure in the dif- ferent groups. They are not propagated by seeds, but by smal} bodies con- sisting of but a single cell, called spores. On the under side of the leaves of common ferns, along the curled edges, these spores may be found in abundance. The process of fertilization is not yet well understood, but there seems to be nothing like chance in their growth. The same species occur regularly in the same places. A large number of fungi are parasites; i. e. growing upon other plants. Smut incorn, rustupon grain, and the ordi- nary mould, are examples. A still greater number grow from decaying vegetable matter; others are found upon animal matter, as leather or bone; 38 so _ ANNUAL REPORT. and still others select such unpromising soils as gravel, fragments of rocks, — or even iron andlead. So far as our present knowledge goes, they are never produced in any other way than from the spores of the same species. These are infinitesimally small. The air is full of them, of all kinds and descrip- tions. They are deposited everywhere, and are excluded with the greatest difficulty, if indeed, they can be excluded at all. The mind is like the eye; it can only grasp the middle ground of vision. In that beautiful band of colors, the solar spectrum, there is more heat towards the red, and more chemical power towards the violet end. They extend far outside the visible colors. Light, heat and actimism are all pro- duced by the same kind of waves, differing only in size. Heat and the red — are produced by larger waves than actimism and the violet. Green is the medium. The eye recognizes only those wave lengths between and includ- ing the red and violet. Outside these the waves are too large or too small to produce the sensation of light. So with the mind: Wecan have no definite idea of infinite space @r of endless torment. The figures $1,000,000,000,000 give us no conception of the amount represented. In the opposite direction it is the same. With our powerful microscopes we view wonderfully small things; but it is only a step towards the minute. Rub your hand over a bar of soap and-rinse it in a tub of pure water. The whole will take a blue tinge. The coloris dis- tinct, but the particles of soap which produce it are far beyond the power of the best microscope. Another experiment will push the question still farther. Whena match is burned, a pungent, poisonous gas is produced. It is sulphurous acid. It consists of one part of sulphur vapor by volume, and two parts of oxygen, chemically combined. Light destroys the B pens force, and loosens the two elements. In a dark room fill a large glass tube, having glass ends, with this gas. Through the tube pass a single ray of light from any source. At first, nothing will be seen. The particles of the gases are not large enough to reflect light. At the end of fifteen minutes, a slight blueish tinge will appear, increasing until the particles of sulphur are all released. Now the light began to act upon the compound gas immediately, and the particles of sulphur have been growing for fifteen minutes. But with the best microscope in the world they cannot be seen separately. The mind can form no conception of them when first liberated. Many experiments have been tried, to prove spontaneous generation. All sorts of solids and liquids have been sealed up and carefully watched for signs of life. They are generally found in the form of some kind of fungous growth, but there is always a doubt about the total exclusion of all germs. Fungi are always rapid in growth, and rapid in decay. In a night a small army of dwarf umbrellas will appear in a door-yard. In as short a time they disappear. They are vastly more important than is generally supposed. We favor their growth as the yeast plant, the vinegar plant, and the mush- rooms which we eat; we oppose their growth as smut, rust, potato and timber rot. Many of them are indirectly useful to us in hastening the decay of organic matter. New life is supported at the expense of the old, and together both are returned to the original soil. They are the scavengers among plants. It is not yet proven that such infectious diseases as diph- theria, cholera, &c., are due to growth of fungi. They are frequently present, almost always in diphtheria, but bad cases of both have occurred where no traces of fungi could be found. One thing is certain; the best cs , é ; : / ; . MINNESOTA SATE HORTICULTURAL SocIETY. © 39 ’ preventive of such diseases is absolute cleanliness, both of person and premises. When in the room with a person having diphtheria, the handker- chief should be held over the mouth and nostrils. It will filter the air, keeping out a majority of the spores of the disease. Very few fungi are eaten in this country. Foods of all kinds are so plenty, that nobody thinks of resorting to ‘‘ toadstools.” During the war they were eaten by soldiers, sick, or tired of army diet. The ordinary mushroom is sometimes found in restaurants in large cities. But of the hundreds of species of edible fungi, some of them making the most delicious dishes known to the gourmand, scarcely half a dozen are ever eaten in the | United States. Besides the reason given, there is the other one, of danger. ‘from poisoning if a wrong species is selected. One very frequently hears the inquiry, ‘‘ How can I tell the edible from the poisonous ?” There is no brief rule that will fit all cases. The edible species must be learned. We all know the difference between the woodbine and poisonous ivy, aconite and sorrel, nettles and pigweeds; we must become as familiar with the * f ae A OD ee kN POU Uae Tne ae a ce y ol - ‘ : , 64 ANNUAL REPORT. ~—»> - Balsams., I might mention many other varieties that might and ought to be cultivated in every garden. I love flowers and could hardly keep house without them. O. D. Srorrs. DISCUSSION. ; Larches. Mr. Hollister. I disapprove of what is there said about the Larch. Treated in the right way there isno trouble with it. It starts to grow very early and must therefore be planted early. I have planted 1,000 each year for several years and lost not over five in a thousand. Mr. Dart. I agree with Mr. Hollister. There is no trouble if the planting is done in time. It is an excellent tree. Can get almost as large trees as of the cottonwood. Mr. Grimes explained why his (Storrs’) trees did not live. They were planted too late in the spring or else got too late in the fall to be removed successfully. REPORT OF G. W. FULLER. The Report of Geo. W. Fuller, Esq., of Litchfield, of the Gen- eral Fruit Committee, dated January 15th was read and ordered on file for publication. The following is the report in full: LITCHFIELD, Jan. 15. CG. Y. Lacy, Sec. Minn. S. H. Society: Apples. Dear Sir :—The past year has been very favorable for all kinds of fruit in this part of the State. The most of the trees bearing are the Transcendent, some Hyslop and a few Duchess just beginning to bear. Also a few Early Strawberry, Beecher Sweet and Minnesota Crabs, and I know of one Peach Apple tree which fruited last year. This tree seems about as hardy as the Duchess. The Wealthy I have had but two years, but thus far it does well. Stewart’s Sweet has stood three years on my grounds and seems perfectly hardy but is slow in fruiting. Are there two kinds of Duchess Apple? We have two apples decidedly different in size and color if not in quality under that name. Blight and Insects. The Blight has shown itself a little on the Transcendents and Hyslops. “MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 65 The “flat headed borer” has begun his work on our apple trees, and last spring I found « good many small limbs with a small hole bored in, usually | beginning in a crotch of the limb, running down from three to six inches, in which was a small grub. It was evidently his bed for the winter. I did not succeed in catching the fellow after his change in the spring. The ‘‘ Canker Worm” appeared quite thickly on our currants and goose- berries last spring. Some tried White Hellebore with indifferent success. The most effectual remedy I found to be a preparation of lime and sulphur as recommended in the transactions of the Illinois Hor. Soc. (Can give you this receipe if wished.) Effects of Last Winter. The winter of 75-6 was very hard on the roots of all trees. The previous summer and fall were very dry, and there was but little moisture in the ground when it froze up without snow. All fruit trees not thoroughly mulched were more or less injured, or entirely killed. Evergreens. The Balsam Fir, Scotch and Austrian and White Pines, are my best ever- greens. Norway Spruce does well, except its sun-burning in the spring. . The Austrian Pine does remarkably well with me thus far. hespectfully, G. W. FULLER. P. S. Iam sorry I cannot be with you, but circumstances forbid. ANOTHER REPORT FROM MR. FULLER. The report of Mr. Fuller, dated June, 1876, was also read and ordered on file for publication. The following is the report in full: LITCHFIELD, June 27th, 1876. Pror. Lacy: Your notice of the summer meeting of our Horticultural Society came duly to hand. Iam sorry I cannot be present, but business forbids. Effects of Last Winter. Last winter was very hard on the roots of trees in my grounds, owing to the exceeding dryness of the soil last fall. All young trees that were not mulched were root killed. But everything well mulched came out nicely aud is doing well. Small Fruits. Currants and gooseberries and raspberries—Doolittle and Philadelphia— 9 ‘ 66 ANNUAL REPORT. | " are full of fruit, but the ‘‘currant worm” has found its way here and is at work. Pears. F A few days since I was in an orchard about 15 miles northwest of this, and was surprised to find a Flemish Beauty pear tree, which I sold to the gentleman four years ago this spring, alive and doing well. I did not sup- pose such a tree in the State that has lived through these four past winters. Insects. I find some kind of insect boring into the small crotches near the ends of the limbs of my apple trees. This was evidently done last fall, and the fel- low hatched out very early in the spring, as it was only very early that I found him at home. What are these fellows? I trust you will have a pleasant ana profitable meeting. Respectfully yours, G. W. FULLER, Litchfield, Minn. DISCUSSION. Peach Apple. Mr. Brand. Does any one here know about the hardiness of the Peach apple? Pres. Smith. Myr. Martelli‘has it, and recommends it. Two Kinds of Duchess. Mr. Kenney. I should like to know if there are two kinds of Duchess ? Mr. Brand. I have seventeen trees of the Duchess, on two of which the fruit is much darker than on the others. A neighbor has some that show the same differences, but there is no difference in flavor. Those trees with the darker apples are not so thrifty as the others ; they are trained higher, and four years ago they were somewhat injured but not badly. I think this makes the difference. Pres. Smith. Among my Duchess there are some with the fruit of a different texture from the others. The Secretary suggested that the stock may have something to do with these differences, and this view was supported by others present. MINNESOTA STATE HORTIUULTURAL SOCIETY. 67. Mr. Hollister mentioned others who held the same view. Have seen similar differences in the Snow apple. * REPORT OF MR. BOXELL. The report of J. W. Boxell, Esq., of the General Fruit Com- mittee, was read by the Secretary and ordered on file for publi- cation. ‘The following is the report in full : A¥rton, Washington Co., Jan. 10, 1877. Prof. C. ¥. Lacy: a I send a brief report for the meeting at Owatonna next Tuesday, which I regret I cannot attend. ; The Past Crop. The fruit crop in this county was good, with the exception of the straw- berry crop, which fell short, I think, nearly one-half. The currant crop was excellent. The raspberry crop up to the usual average, or perhaps above it. Grapes, I believe, generally did well and ripened well. An unusual number of young plums were blasted, puffing out to the size of a man’s thumb, yet the crop was a fair one. Apple trees, crabs and hybrids were loaded with fruit. Strawberries— Wilson and Charles Downing. Among strawberries, the Wilson and Charles Downing are the most pop- ular here. The Charles Downing is not so great a bearer as the Wilson, but the berries are somewhat larger and of more uniform size through the sea- son; they are less harsh and acid than the Wilson, and most persons will pay a little more for them by the quart. The plants cover the ground well, and stand the winter well, and a patch that I planted in 1873 shows no signs of running out yet. The Charles Downing has failed almost with me, on very rich soil, and I know of several such instances. Ona light or some- what sandy soil in good condition the crop in this vicinity has always been a fair one. Currants. The red Dutch currant is the most reliable and profitable, as none but red currants can be sold in large quantities. Next, a few white grape or white Dutch currants, for variety; and the black Naples currant should not be forgotten. Though hardly eatable from the bushes, they make the best of jam, and when canned, or kept in sealed jugs till spring, they make the rich- est of pies. Raspberries. I have spoken of the raspberry crop as a large one. My own black 68 ANNUAL REPORT. raspberries were an exception. They suffered worse last winter than ever ‘ pefore—Doolittles, Senecas, Mammoth Clusters and Davison’s Thornless. They were all so badly winter-killed, that I had not much over a third of a crop. With this exception, the Doolittle and Seneca, have never failed with me. The ground being nearly bare of snow much of the time, I think, explains the matter. Several rows of the Doolittle, with plenty of snow drifted among them, came out much better. My red rasp- berries all wintered through well. Even the Clarke, too tender for our winters generally, came through without injury, and bore a fine crop. The Turner and Kirtland are thoroughly iron-clad. ‘The Kirtland is not very prolific, yet a few are desirable on account of earliness. The Turner. The Turner, for delicious flavor of fruit, is the king of red raspberries- Though very prolific, a single picking will not equal a picking of the Phil- adelphia, yet the bearing season of the Turner is very long. The Turner ‘ yaspberry throws up a great number of young plants from the lateral roots in the fall, which winter over. Even tender plants, from six to ten inches high, set out in June, will throw up many plants the same season, that will winter over. In fact they spread so rapidly, and are so very hardy, that they will soon become too thick and the berries will be small, unless they are properly thinned and cultivated. The Philadelphia. The Philadelphia raspberry has always done well with me. The tops kill down some, every winter. After the buds start in the spring, I cut off all dead tips and cut off all dead wood, and cultivate. I planted my first Phila- delphias in the spring of 1871, and they have borne a good crop every year since. This little patch is on a slope facing the west, and exposed to the northwest wind. My other Philadelphias are on level land, and in the lowest spots and little depressions they winter-kill most. I may mention that they have been injured most during the mildest winters. The cold winters of 1872--3 and 1874-5 did not injure them. As Ihave seen much complaint of the winter-killing of the Philadelphia raspberry, I will mention that for four years, including 1876, my lowest yield was over 2,200 quarts, my highest over 2,800 quarts, per acre. The flavor of the Philadelphia is by no means equal to the Turner. Grapes. Grapes ars not so largely cultivated in Washington county as strawberries and raspberries, yet many are doing well, on a small scale, with Concords, Delawares and Clintons. *¢ Black Knot.” A word as to the contagion of ‘‘ black knot” in Plum trees. Eight or ten years ago my children planted a dozen or more Plum trees in and around a \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 69, native cluster left inclearing the land. This native cluster bore good plums, but was badly affected with black knot. My sons cut all the tops entirely from these trees, and burnt them. They also dug the dirt away from the roots and left them exposed for some time; then put a considerable quantity of fresh ashes, sulpher and salt about the roots of each tree and replaced the dirt. They soon had fine tops again, but the black knot was as bad as ever. They are still standing, but ruined and worthless. The trees planted _ in and around this cluster are now large, and bear fine fruit,-and although their roots and branches intertwine or interlock with the diseased trees and touch them in many places, not one of these trees brought from a healthy cluster has a particle of black knot. DISCUSSION. ; Raspberries.—V arieties. Mr. Kenney. In the spring of 1873 my Philadelphias were badly killed. Last spring they were killed again, after they had started to grow. Pres. Smith. I have had a similar experience. They were killed in 1873, and again last spring. Before this they had been consid- ered tolerably hardy, but not so hardy as the Turner. The Turner is the hardiest raspberry. Mr. Kenney. I fruited the Turner last summer for the first time. Itis very hardy ; has a long bearing season and large ber- ries. Jam very favorably impressed with it. Pres. Smith. The suckers of the Turner must be kept out in order to get a crop of fruit. Mr. Brand. The Turner has another good point: it is nearly thornless. The Philadelphia is hardier, however, than any black- cap raspberry. Insects in Canes. Pres. Smith. Jn the Turner, Philadelphia, Kirtland and Clarke I found last spring the burrow of a grub, which appeared to kill the cane above it. Mr. Brand. I have found spots on the canes two or three inches long, which were punctured with numerous small holes, in each of which there was a grub. Raspberries—blackcaps. Mr. Kenney. The Doolittle and the Seneca are the best of . 70 ANNUAL REPORT. the blackcaps. Some like the Mammoth Cluster, but it is too tender. The Seneca is the richest flavored blackcap. Pres. Smith. J think the Ontario has an equally good fruit, and is about the same as to hardiness. Other Insects, and Remedies. Mr. Kenney asked concerning certain insects, especially the lice on tender shoots of apple trees. Mr. Brand. Myr. Barry’s receipt is tobacco-water, dipping the branches into it. i Pres. Smith. A solution of soap-suds is an effectual remedy for most insects. It fixes the Tent Caterpillar. Mr. Hollister. Is the term ‘‘Canker Worm,’’ applied to the ‘¢Currant Worm,’’ correct ? It was decided not. Plant Lice. The Natural History of the aphides or plant lice was here dis- cussed, relating to which the following is copied from ‘‘ Harris’ Insects Injurious to Vegetation:”’ “The winged plant lice provide for a succession of their race by stocking the plants with eggs in the autumn, as before stated. These are hatched in due time in the spring, and the young lice immediately begin to pump up sap from the tender leaves and shoots, increase rapidly in size, and in a short time come to maturity. In this state, it is found that the brood, with- out a single exception, consists wholly of females, which are wingless, but are in a condition immediately to continue their kind. Their young, how- ever, are not hatched from eggs, but are produced alive, and each female may be the mother of fifteen or twenty young lice in the course of a single day. The plant lice of this second generation are also wingless females, which grow up and have their young in due time; and thus brood after brood is produced, even to the seventh generation or more, without the ap- pearance or intervention, throughout the whole season of a single male. This extraordinary kind of propagation ends in the autumn with the birth of a brood of males and females, which in due time acquire wings and pair; eggs are then laid by these females, and with the death of these winged individuals, which soon follows, the race becomes extinct for the season.” Ants. Mr. Sias. Are ants friends or foes to the horticulturist ? Mr. Dart. When they loosen up the ground into a mound they may do injury, but I think not in any other way. MINNESOTA ERE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, 71 ue Sias. Do they mae the blight? I had one Transcendent, among others, that did not blight, and this was covered with ants. I could see no other reason for this difference. _ Mr. Dart. I think it was because they checked the flow of sap, by loosening up the soil around the roots, thus favoring the dry- ing of the soil. Adjourned to meet at 7 o’clock Pp. m. TUESDAY EVENING. THE ADDRESS OF PRESIDENT SMITH. The meeting was called to order by the President at 7:30. The regular programme was proceeded with, the President’s Ad- dress coming first. It was accepted and ordered on-file for publi- cation. The following is the address in full: Ladies and Gentlemen, Members of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society : Since our last annual meeting, the centennial year of this great republic has passed, never to return to any of us now living. A year of pleasure and profit to very many, and a year of sorrow and loss to some, I have no doubt, and a year in which ali have had occasion to pause and take a look at the past, and to note the progress and improvement, not only within the United States of America, but to glance over the whole civilized world, and com- pare notes with them, and see the advance and improvement made within the last one hundred years. And in so doing, shall we find that horticulture and horticultural improvements have kept pace with other arts and sciences? In answer to this, the report from the able delegates of this Society at the Great Centennial Exhibition and meeting of the American Pomological So- ciety’s reunion, will be much more instructive and satisfactory than anything which I can say on this subject. But while the Centennial Exhibition is supposed to show the improvements and progress of one hundred years, we here in Minnesota, and especially the horticulturists, have not had one-sixth of that time to prepare and start for the race and competition with the whole world, and yet our State Horticultural Society, only in its tenth year of ex- istence, in this cold, dry climate, where they say neither fruit nor corn can be grown, have, through the energy, pluck and perseverance, under diffi- culties, and at the individual expense, of such men as Wyman Elliot, J. T. 72 _ ANNUAL REPORT. I . Grimes, J. S. Harris, John Hart, Norman Buck, and many other members of our State’ Horticultural Society, been enabled, not only to secure mention and attract special notice at the exhibition, but to be one of only six or eight horticultural societies to receive an award of a medal on apples, as reported among the lists of awards given in January number, 1877, of Gardeners’ Monthly and Horticulturist, and this, too, without State aid for collecting and paying expenses of such exhibition. While other States’ societies had not only years the start of us in fruit culture, be- sides the advantages they claim as to climate and soil, added to which most of them had liberal State aid or appropriations from legislatures, shall we not justly feel proud of our humble efforts under such adverse circumstances, and may we not well feel encouraged to persevere and “try, try again” in the future; hoping that when the next Centennial Exhibition shall come around, that the Minnesota State Horticultural Society may so have made itself known, and its influence so felt for the good of the public, that the State Legislature of 1976 will not fail to make a small appropriation to assist in making the best and fullest display of fruits possible for her to make. Although you may think this is looking far into the future, is not the future what we are working for ?—not the past. And in what manner can we better work for the future, and be likely to be known and honored years hence, than by helping to aid the State and its future residents to have a full supply of the very best fruits, flowers and vegetables? What better fortune can we leave to follow after us than the knowledge of how to most successfully grow horticultural products in the State of Minnesota, and what will best succeed therein? When we consider the immense advantage to ourselves and the State at large our experience and experiments have been in the last ten years, what shall we not gain if we only do our whole duty, and work with a will and with an eye single to the best interest of the citizens of the whole State ? and give all to understand, so that we shall not be misunderstood, that the Minnesota State Horticultural Society is not the place to bring any axes to grind. We are not in that business. Neither is it to be run in the interest of a few nurserymen, but on the broad principle of justice to all; and while we do not propose to run it in the interest of any one class, we hope to aid all honest efforts of our nurserymen to supply all citizens of our State with trees and plants suitable for our climate and soil, and by helping to teach the masses how to plant and care for them, so that they may grow and produce fruit profitably; and thereby increase the business and profits of our nurserymen, and help to keep the money in the State that is now paid out to foreign nurserymen and tree-pedlars—at the same time help the producers to get value received for money paid, and obtain trees and plants that will be of some use to them. Such is my idea of a few of the labors of our Society and what it owes the public, and believing that when it becomes known that such is our object and aim, the public will help and sustain us in our humble efforts until every school house in our State shall have its shade and ornamental trees and its flower garden, and until every farm and village lot shall have its shade, ornamental trees and shrubs, flowers and vegetables, and plenty — er MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 73 of them, and we can all live like sensible beings and in a manner that will elevate and enlighten us and bring us nearer to nature, and nature’s laws, and nature’s God. I cannot close this hasty address without a reference to our late State Fair, which was called a failure, and so it was, as far as dol- lars and cents were concerned, to all except those inside the ring, if I may be so allowed to speak. No doubt the Fair was set too late in the season, and I think all Horticulturists will agree with me, that in this State, Octo- ber is too late to have a successful State Fair as a general rule, but I must compliment the Society upon the display made last fall under such adverse circumstances and lateness of the season, and too much praise cannot be given to such men as John S. Harris and Bates & Son, W. E. Brimhall, Moulton & Co., and many others for their magnificent display of apples, and Rudolph Knaupheide, F. G. Gould, Eggleston and others for equally as fine a display of grapes, and to J. C. Fleischer, State Reform School, and others for display of flowers, and for which they deserve the especial thanks of this Society, considering the extreme weather and risk that they run of losing all on exhibition by frost; then the display of vegetables and other _ Horticultural products, including display of home grown seeds by Busch, Hollister & Co., was enormous and would compare favorably with those of older States ; and the display from our northern county of Mille Lacs by J. S. Brockelhurst, deserves especial mention, and I must say did credit to himself and county he represents, and how much would it have made the hearts of those men and women glad, and how much would it have en- couraged them to try again to do as well, or better, if they could have received the small premiums offered and so honestly earned, and not have been told by the President of the State Agricultural Society that we were exhibiting under the National Rules of the Trotting Association and the purses offered for fast horses and base ball must all be paid whether the Society paid expenses or not. Now, I for one would have been satisfied if the affairs had been prop- erly and economically managed, to say nothing more, and then, after paying all just and honest expenses, have divided the balance, whatever that amount might have been, pro rata, among those who were awarded premiums; and I think all reasonable persons would have been perfectly satisfied with such a result fairly made, even had it not have paid 10 cents on the dollar. Now is it not a proper time for us to commence a new deal, as the: boys say, and have a change of some kind in our fall exhibitions, as we begin on the new century of our common country? Can we not devise some plan for an ex- hibition or fair to be run by the horticultural, farming and mechanical and other interests of our State, that will turn special purses and pool selling and things of this kind, under National rales, out of the list, and each bear its share of the expense and receive each its share of the profits, if any there should be. I merely throw this out as a suggestion, hoping it may have the attention of this body, if it deserves any, and not without, as I have no ax to grind, and do not propose to help grind one for any one else; and believe me as ever devoted and willing to join hands in any and all plans that I can 10 74, ANNUAL REPORT. =———™” see will be for the best interest of Minnesota Horticultural Bonteiysaea Minnesota horticulturists. i i 7 PAPER ON APPLE CULTURE. The report of the delegates to the Centennial Exhibition, J. T. Grimes, Esq., chairman, came next on the programme, but his colleague, Mr. Elliot, being absent, the report was deferred till the following forenoon, and a paper on Apple Culture, by W. K. Bates, Esq., was read and ordered on file for publication. _ The following is the paper in full : Cc. Y. Lacy, Secretary Horticultural Society : Seeing by the programme for winter meeting, received last evening, that I was assigned ‘‘ Apple Culture,” I will try to tell what little I know about it. First, I would say if you are a stranger in our State, see to it well that you have a proper selection of site, soil, and hardy varieties of trees. Site. First, for orchard site I would choose an eastern or northeastern ex- posure. Or, in other words, where a site could be chosen and not have it raked by our southwest, west and northwest winds. The southwest wind is most to be dreaded, as it is too warm in late winter and early spring, and causes the sap to start too early. If our farms do not contain such a location, we must do the next best thing, and that is, to protect our or- chards by an evergreen belt of the best of evergreens, the Norway Spruce and the White Pine. Soil. 2d. Fora soil, I would select a clay soil; or, at least, a soil with clay subsoil. Varieties. 3d. In regard to selecting varieties, I may say our State Horticultural Society furnish us yearly a digest of all that seem to do well in our different localities. But in this part of the State bordering on the rivers and valleys there are varieties that may not do as well back in the prairie counties, but can be planted here and prove profitable. Amongst these I may mention Duchess, Fameuse, Wealthy, OUtter’s Red, Jefferson Co., Haas, St. Lawrence, Tetofsky, Plumb’s Cider, Saxton, Seek-no-further, and some others. All the above are common apples, and I may say that in all our old orchards, set out in an early day, by the sales of Mr. N. Stevens and A. W. Sias to our early settlers, none has given such returns in real cash as the Fameuse. It has é MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 75 stood the blast, and in our markets finds ready sales. Trees last fall bring- ing in $12.00 to $15.00 per tree, or at the rate of $1,200 to $1,500 per acre, as much as an acre of wheat ina lifetime; and to our membersI can say, — what a return in golden fruit after our watching, working and waitings; and if one variety can do as well, what will be the result when that superb of apples, the Wealthy, comes into bearing. We raised some of this last fall of ’76, and were more than pleased with it. But I am digressing, and I would still further say we have our Siberian family to full back on. All good, and I think the day not far distant when they will be bettered by be- ing hybridized, so that they will not be met in the markets as crabs. Planting, Training and Pruning. 4th. I prefer low headed trees. Buy them in the fall and heel them in with proper care and set them in spring about the time the Oaks are putting forth their leaves and not earlier is my rule, as the tree will start and not stand still and be dried by the cold spring winds. In setting I dig out a hole large enough for the roots without cramping them and deep enough to set the tree 6 to 9 inches deeper than it stood in nursery row, and on sandy soils I set twelve to fifteen inches deep, and after setting I generally mulch with rotten straw and cover it with little earth to hold the mulch in place. After planting I cut back a portion of the top of each tree to help form a better head and balance the loss of roots. But in after pruning I prune but little, and go most decidedly against seeding down orchards to timothy-grass. Plant the ground to hoed crops or buckwheat. In closing I can say our county again redeemed herself by a large apple crop, several parties having some 200 or more bushels. There was a glut of Crab-apples in our markets, but a large amount were made up into cider with good returns. Other Fruits. A large crop of Raspberries, Strawberries and Currants, with those that had plants. My trial of Prouty’s Seedling Strawberry and Janesville Grape were of such a good success I would recommend them to all. One of my neighbors raised with common bed culture four bushels of Strawberries to the rod of ground or at the rate of 640 bushels to the acre at 10c, per quart would net him $2,048.00 per acre. I mention this to show what can be done in Minnesota. Hoping you may have a good meeting and being circumstanced so that I cannot attend by being hurt, I remain, Yours truly, W.K. BatTEs. STOCKTON, MINN., Jany. 12th, ’77. - 76 ANNUAL REPORT. = =" DISCUSSION. itt ce iy yA Deep Planting. Mr. Hollister. Deep planting has been mentioned twice, and as it is contrary to the laws of vegetable physiology, I would like to hear it explained. Mr. Jewell. There are two reasons for deep planting. ‘The trees are less affected by winds, and get more moisture. They get hardier roots by the formation of a new set above the root grafted on. There are only two ways to get hardy roots: one is to set deep, and the other to graft on crab-roots. The latter is seldom done, and the former is most practicable ; but you lose by it about half a year’s growth, because the tree does not start quite so soon. Pres. Smith. Is not a slow growth preferable for Minnesota ? Mr. Jewell. If the tree is hardy, the more rapid the growth the better for the owner. A moderate growth for the half hardy kinds is, however, better. Mr. Dart. Ihave not been in favor of deep planting. Hardier roots are the only advantage, and these are not needed if people will only mulch and cultivate thoroughly. Deep setting needs to be adopted with caution in a wet sub-soil. In that case, it is best to set near the surface and to mound up around the tree. Mr. Jewell. But few will mulch regularly, and hence hardy roots are needed as well as hardy tops. Mr. Dart. I set about the usual depth and mound up, because I fear my soil is too wet to set deep. Mr. Hollister. Do any members know of deep-planted trees that have stood for many years ? Mr. Jewell. My experience is recent, but Mr. Wilcox, of Tigi: pealeau, Wis., began four years ago, and his trees were all right one year ago. I also planted some Haas eight inches deeper than usual at that time, and have not had any trees do better than these have done. CRANBERRY CULTURE. A paper on Cranberry Culture by 8. H. Kenney, Esq., of Mor- ristown, was read and ordered on file for publication. The following is the paper in full: MorRIsTown, Jan. 3d, 1877. Mr. Epiror: Your article last week on cranberry culture suggested to me that a few items about that branch of business in Rice county would be of interest to your readers. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 77 About eighteen years ago, in crossing a marsh, near my residence, I found a few cranberry vines; they were very scattering, not occupying more than one rod of ground, and mingled with what is termed wire grass. I picked one-half a pocket full of berries; there the marsh is what is termed a peat formation, and was then very wet. It was, after the discovery of those few berries, burned over from time to time, which retarded the growth of the vines, till six years ago, when there were seven bushels of berries from that small lot of vines, which had spread so ‘as to cover a number of rods. About 12 years ago, we dug a ditch to a pond of water that had no outlet, and kept the whole marsh very wet. Since that time the spread and growth of the vines has been very rapid. Five years ago, I helped pick the berries; we gath- ered 60 bushels. The marsh was then sold to another man, who picked not less than 150 bushels three years since. The rapid spread of the vines and their productiveness, attracted the attention of Calvin Russell, and the late W. A. Shaw and Charles Lane, of your city; two years ago last spring they bought the marsh; they dug small ditches once in ten rods, to intersect with the main ditch, which was the outlet to the pond above mentioned. They also built a dike to hold the water in the spring. The following sum- _ mer the marsh gave good promise of a crop, but the cranberry worm put in its appearance in the beginning of August, and did considerable damage; a frost the same month froze most of the berries, and injured the vines by freezing the tender shoots (as explained in your last week’s article on cran- berry culture.) A careful examination of the vines a year ago last fall, after the berries were harvested, failed to show any promise of fruit for the fol- lowing seasons. About September 12th, the ditches were closed so as to flood the marsh, but there being less rain than usual that fall, the vines were not flooded till the snow melted in the spring, when they were nicely cov- ered, and remained so till the 27th day of June, at which time the water was drawn off; what fruit buds there were blossomed and bore fruit, and the next fall Mr. Chas. Lane picked about 30 bushels of the finest berries I have ever seen. The vines are at present full of fruit buds, and if there are not any of them under the water the ditches are all full and the surface of the ground is covered in places. The growth and spread of the vines in the last two years is something surprising. Mr. Russell set plants and cuttings over a number of acres two years ago; early in the spring, partly by scalping the turf with a bog-hoe, and rolling the turf and sticking the vines down in the scalped place. These also grow in an upright position the first season; last season they run along near the top of the turf, in some cases 30 inches, and then took root in the turf. The ditches were 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep, and the vines, in some cases, run into the ditch and crossed to the other side. Some vines were set also by cutting through the turf with a spade, and pressing in the vines with a piece of board sharpened on the end. These made nearly as good growth as the others, and look very promising. Still another way: the turf was scalped and piled, and the ground plowed when the frost had come out of the ground four inches deep. The vines were pressed in between the furrows. About on acre was planted in this way. / 78) ANNUAL REPORT. These vines made considerable growth the first season, and had a few berries on them, Last season some of the runners grew nearly three feet. The grass has grown considerably on this plat. Early last summer, the grass was carefully pulled out of three square rods of the ground to ascer- tain whether the vines would do any better without the grass. It was found, however, that the best growth was obtained where the grass was not pulled. The vines seem to require the shade that grass gives them, These vines were all set early in the spring, as early as the frost would permit. A few vines set the 16th day of June, and the date carefully noted by me, grew, but never have made such fine growth as the early set vines, Still another piece of ground was set out, and sand spread on to the depth of three or four inches. The vines look well. It will require considerable time to determine the best mode of culture, but from careful observation of peat lands that have been drained in this ’ vicinity, I should say care must be taken not to drain the peat dry enough to cause it to rot, as then it becomes good grass land, and the grass makes such rank growth as to choke the vines. The vines do not thrive where water stands on them through the growing season. Flowing the vines pre- vented the ravages of the cranberry worm the past season. The flowing of the marsh in the spring brought many berries to the surface which the wind and waves washed in all directions, From a careful experiment with the seeds of some of these berries planted, we obtained in one season from 14 to 2 inches growth of vine. We found not ten rods from where the original vines grew, three distinct varieties of berries, which evidently must be seedlings; one a very dark colored berry—almost black, and ripe about two weeks sooner than the most of the crop; the vines in many places have almost entirely occupied the ground, and look as near perfection as one could imagine. The thorough system of drainage, enabled the fruit to be gathered immediately after heavy rains, the berries were much larger than ever before, and they would command one dollar per bushel more than any berries I saw in the St. Paul market, last fall. The vines set two years have not had time to develop yet. I hope in the future to be able to report great success in this branch of industry. Calvin Russell deserves much credit for the experiments detailed above. The prospects of success in this enter- prise look to me very encouraging. SeTH H. KENNEY. DISCUSSION. Importance of Cranberries. Pres. Smith. This is an important subject. The fruit can be kept the year round, shipped to all parts of the world and is healthful; hence its importance. I consider it one of our most important fruits. I have kept it from one season till the following October in a cool cellar. Few fruits keep like this. Several years \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 79 ago 7,000 barrels were shipped from St. Paul, and I see no reason why we cannot sell 70,000 barrels, and thus see less of hard times. Mr. Kenney. The vines spread rapidly, and altogether it is an easy fruit to grow. PERENNIAL GARDEN VEGETABLES. The paper of Wm. E. Brimhall, Esq., of St. Paul, on Perennial Garden pee was then read and ordered on file for publi- cation. The following is the paper in full : Asparagus. This is justly esteemed one of the choicest vegetables of the garden. Indeed it possesses every quality to recommend it—flavor for the palate, hardihood of constitution, facility of culture and it brings profit to the grower. Although few plants demand so little trouble, no others are so well worth a great deal of trouble. This it will be our object to prove while explaining the method by which it is cultivated. Propagation.—In forming new beds it is customary to use two year old plants, because they may be safely removed at that age and will come into bearing in two years. May is the best time for planting: but having pro- duced beds from seeds, we prefer that method of propagation. Too much pains cannot be taken in preparing the ground before planting, as nothing can be done after the plants are started except by topdressing. If the soil is stiff and unpleasant to work, mix with it some lighter earth, and about a wagon load of well rotted manure to every ten feet square. When the land is fit for planting sow the seed in drills eighteen inches apart. When the plants appear, thin to one foot apart in the row. For the first year the ground should be kept free from weeds and the soil light by frequent cultivating. The following spring cover the ground with about three inches of finely pulverized manure, and during the season cultivate as before. Remember you are preparing a bed that will last twenty years. In the autumn when the stalks have turned yellow, cut and burn them. Before the ground freezes, cover with a good coat of good manure. In the spring fork it in and cultivate as before. If your work has been well done, the next spring you may have asparagus for market. Cutting.—At every cutting cut the bed clean, leaving no thin spindling shoots. But do not cut later than the first of July, for if every shoot be taken off a crown, to the end of a long season, that root will be destroyed. To prevent the crowns from being too deeply buried, on account of the fall dressings, the ground should be forked late in April, and the rough earth raked off. 80 ANNUAL REPORT. 7 Manuring. Ci dressing of ait and ashes is very beneficial ; about ba cad pound of salt to the square yard. Np Forcing.—With respect to forcing, it is very easy, with narrow beds, to bring the plants forward by digging trenches eighteen inches wide anda foot deep, on each side of the beds, and fill them with warm stable dung, raising the dung six inches above the level, but not covering the plants.. If the nights are cold, the beds should be covered to prevent freezing. _ Planting.—If plants are to be set out, the ground must be prepared by digging trenches two feet deep and filling them with equal parts of light soil and well-rotted manure mixed together. The plants should be set six inches deep, with the roots spread horizontally. Care should be taken to set the crown two inches below the surface. When the plants are started, they should be treated in the same manner as those raised from the seed. Marketing.—When the crop is successfully raised, only one step has been accomplished towards turning it into money. When cutting, do not leave it long exposed to the sun, for it soon wilts; but, as soon as possible after cutting, wash, assort and bunch, making two sizes, and of equality through- out. Cut the butts neatly and square, and tie very tight at both ends. If obliged to keep the bunches a day or two before sending to market, stand them in a tub with an inch or two of water, and keep in a cool place. Always, in handling, keep the heads one way; and when it is bunched the bunches should stand upright. It is desirable that asparagus should appear well in market. Varieties.—The oldest favorite variety is ‘* The Giant.” ‘* Conover’s Col- lossal” is a mammoth variety fast coming into favor. It bears cutting a year sooner than any other sort. Rhubarb. Rhubarb, although a native of Asia, is so hardy as to resist the frosts of our severest seasons. And of all esculents, for culinary purposes, it is the most easily prepared. Within a few years its cultivation has increased, so that immense quan- tities are annually sold in all the large markets. It has become so common, and is so easily produced, that little need be said in relation to its culture. But in this, as in everything else, nothing less than the best results should satisfy the gardener. Propagation.—Any one of the many varieties may be propagated from the seed. But as the seed does not always produce the same variety as that from which it grew, the better way is to take offsets with one or two good eyes and set them, either in the spring or fall. Soil.—The soil must be moist and rich, for upon the strength and quick- ness of the soil depend the desirable qualities of the stalk—crispness, flavor and succulence. Care.—Plants from offsets should not lose a leaf or stalk, except by natu- ral decay, until the second year; and in time of drought they should have a plentiful supply of water. — MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL society. 81 ‘The plants should stand in rows three by four feet apart, and be well cov- ered with manure in the fall, which must be forked in around the roots in the spring. The seed stalks must be pulled whenever they appear, and if the leaf stalks are kept moderately thin good rhubarb may be gathered until the time of frost. Varieties.—The ‘‘ Linneus” is the earliest variety, very high flavored and prolific. We consider it the best for family use. The Victoria is a larger variety, less acid, but coarser grained than the first mentioned. ‘ Horse-Radish. This has long been a favorite garnish for roast beef and other fresh meats ; it eminently possesses some of the properties which prevent or correct the bad effect of an: excess of nitrogenus aliments upon the system. It pos- sesses valuable medicinal properties in cases of hoarseness, dropsy, rheu- matism and paralytic affections. ‘As a condiment, it finds a ready market in all large cities, and no kitchen garden should be without its bed of horse-radish. Soil.—It succeeds best in a damp, rich soil; it never has large roots in poor or dry or shallow soil; or in a shady place or in the drip of trees. It thrives in the trenched bank of a ditch, where the ground maintains a con- stant, regular, considerable moisture. Preparation.— Where large beds are to be made the soil should be prepared the year before by subsoil plowing and working in a good coat of very old manure, if the manure is new or newly applied, too much top and too little root will be the result. : Propagation.—As seed cannot be relied upon, it is better to use sets, which may be had by cutting the roots into lengths of two inches, planting in the fall or spring in rows eighteen or twenty-four inches distant each way. They should’be dibbled into freshly trenched ground, covering slightly. If the ground has been well prepared, there will be fine large roots by the second year. Planting.—Good roots may be made to grow the first year in the following manner: Throw the ground into ridges about eight inches high by turning two furrows together, leaving the ridges two and a half feet apart. Into these ridges, set, with a dibbling stick, fine roots about the size of a pipe- stem and as long as can be procured, say from eight to sixteen inches. The best way to get such roots is to save them when digging for market, trim- ming off all the long slender ones and packing them in dry sand or sawdust ; keep until the following spring. These rootlets should be set at an angle of forty-five degrees so that they may not be too deep in the ground. Dressing.—But the most important part is what is called ‘‘ dressing the roots.” When the plants are well started the earth should be thrown away from them first with a plow; following with a hoe until the roots are bared, then with a garden trowel scrape all the fibers and rootlets from the main root leaving it smooth except at the lower end. 1 82 | ANNUAL REPORT. + When the roots have been well dressed they should be earthed up again. te This dressing should be repeated about the first of August, again the first of September. Using this method we have raised roots weighing one pound each and they were smooth, strait and solid; if left in the ground heed the second year they become hollow and woody. Horse-radish raised in the above manner, sells for from ten to fifteen cents per lb. DISCUSSION. Asparaqus. Pres. Smith. I trench deeply for my bed, and plant the roots deeply, and cut white for the St. Paul market ; cut from five to six inches under ground. Horse Radish. Mr. Jewell. I doubt the good effects of horse-radish, mentioned in the essay. In the case of a man whose stomach was open, and could be looked into, it was found that horse-radish retarded digestion. We are likely to ascribe good effects to whatever pleases our palates. Pres. Smith. The Germans put it into liquors for the rheu- matism. ; Mr. Kenney. It was recommended by a physician for a neigh- bor of mine who had fits. MR. HART’S LETTER. A letter from John Hart, Esq., of Winona, was read and ordered on file. The following is the part that relates to the discussion which followed the reading : WINONA, Jan. 10th, 1877. Mr. C. Y. Lacy; Esq. : DEAR Sir: Your note of —— was duly received, asking me to suggest some topic for discussion at your next annual meeting. There is nothing should call our attention more than the protection of our trees against in- sects. We have watched closely for the last year. Whenever we found a tree blighted, we examined it close and found that insects were the cause. We took a limb from a Transcendent tree which was showing blight, and, examining the leaves, we found them covered with small insects. It will appear strange that some varieties will escape, whiie other varieties are “MINNESOTA STATE wonmiouutuaL SOCIETY. 83 sey tyastiaed, all in the same row. We suppose from this that those little insects are like other living beings, and go for the food that suits their taste best.. We remember when we first planted apple trees here, our trees were entirely free from insects, and our apples free from worms. At that time our small birds were very numerous, which I think protected ‘our ee dtl Respectfully yours, i JOHN Hart. DISCUSSION. Cause and Cure of Blight. ' Mr. Jewell. Our friend Hart is mistaken. Scientists have not found any such insects. Some think it is a vegetable fungus, and probably they are not far from the truth. I used to be troubled with the blight, but have now got rid of those trees which blight the worst. I concluded I had no use for the Transcendents, and dug them up and have not suffered seriously since. Mr. Cook, of Rochester, lost heavily from blight, because he did not get rid of his old Transcendents before the blight came. Mr. Jewell de- tailed another case in which Transcendents had been the cause of great loss. Mr. Pearce believed that the ammoniacal emana- ations from a manure pile would prevent it, but the blight is beginning on trees subjected to these conditions. We can stop it because a tree is never attacked when not growing. So, if when beginning to blight, we stop the growth by root-pruning, or other means, we stop the blight. Last summer my trees began to blight, so I girdled them, taking off a narrow ring of bark nearly or quite around the trunk, and covered with wax. It stopped the blight. Mr. Pearce. Lsaw a German last summer who thought that the sun scalded the sap to produce blight. He thought so because the leaves began to wilt one very hot day. JI think the ammonia theory plausible, at least. I have no blight to speak of. I got rid of my Transcendents some time ago, but there are other.trees also very liable to blight. Mr. Grimes. Thus we see how liable we are to be mistaken. ’ Mr. Harrison and others, some years ago, took a magnifying glass and found some insects on blighted trees, and concluded that they were the cause of the blight. Mr. Jewell. What advice shall we give to the man who has Transcendents? This is a serious question. Perhaps he has bought them of you. Shall you tell him to make a brush-pile of ' , ey 84 ANNUAL REPORT. them? ‘I think the straightforward course is the best. He prob- . ably will not follow the advice, but will yet wish he had. Mr. Sias. I object to that plan. We should be obliged. to throw out the best crab or hybrid we have—Meader’s Winter. Mr. Hart’s paper is the best we have had on the subject of blight for some time. I believe it is due to insects, not to one but to several. . de y Mr. Jewell. I meant to throw out those kinds which blight the worst, and are most likely to cause an orchard to be infected. do not attach any importance to Mr. Hart’s paper on that subject. Mr. Kenney. I have many Transcendents, and would not like to dig them up. I consider them valuable, and my neighbors do likewise. ; Mr. Jewell. I would dig-them up only when they blight, and not before. Mr. Pearce. I propose to put them by themselves and let them blight. I believe they will pay the best of any, notwithstanding their liability to blight. Mr. Grimes. Mr. Jewell is not.consistent in his twoataniint of the Transcendent. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Mr. Jewell. A man is consistent in refusing to endorse what he endorsed a few years ago, if the interval has shown him to be wrong. I will still sell Transcendents to nurserymen at whole- sale, but not at retail, and I will not recommend them to any one. Mr. Kenney. Istill have faith in the Ben Davis under partic- ular treatment. Adjourned to meet at 9 o’clock a. mM. Wednesday. WEDNESDAY MORNING. PLANTS UNDER CULTIVATION. The meeting was called to order by the President at 9:30. An essay on Cultivated Plants was read by W. T. Scott, Hsq., of Minneapolis, and ordered on file for publication, after which Mr. Grimes introduced the following, which was carried unanimously: Resolved, That the thanks of the Society are due, and we hereby tender the same, to W. T. Scott, for his well written and intelligent essay on Cul- tivated Plants. | MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL § SOCIETY. 85 : boil Scott's 8 paper has not reached the hands of the date Sant 6 if received in time it will be placed in the Appendix.) _ A short discussion on the above subject, was had in wfhileh Messrs Scott, Hollister and Lacy took part. REPORT OF DELEGATES TO CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION. On motion the report of the Committee on Centennial Exhi- bition was called for. Mr. Grimes asked leave to make a partial report since the report of the Committee on Awards had not yet come to hand which would enable them to make a complete report. - The request was granted and the partial report was read by Messrs Grimes and Elliot. After the reading it was ordered to be placed on file for publication when complete, and the following resolution carried: Resolved, That the thanks of the Society are due and are hereby tendered to those persons who contributed fruits to our exhibition at the Centennial Exhibition and that they are tendered especially to the members of the com- - mittee whose report we are to receive. (The report of the Delegates will be found in the Appendix to this volume. ) DISCUSSION. Fruit Charts. The subject of fruit charts, suggested by the report, was taken up for discussion. Mr. Jewell. F-question the practical value of such a chart. Mr. Grimes. It would be of great value. Mr. Dart. I think it of not much practical value. Mr. Grimes. It would mark the northern and southern limits of each fruit. Mr. Jewell. The weakness of the theory is that the fruit lines would not correspond to the isothermal lines. Mr. Elliot. We want a map that will show that apples will grow in the river counties, while they will not grow in the north- ern or the interior counties. Mr. Jewell. lt requires too much careful knowledge to con- struct a good one, and a poor one would be worse than none. Mr. Dart. We do not want one because in the regions outside of these lines people will be discouraged from trying to raise fruit. = 86 . G8. "ANNUAL REPORT. ‘amar nip “oe Mr. Jewell. We want to educate the people so that ‘acilaies elevation shall be taken into account, as they must be in deciding © whether fruit can be grown or not, and we can do this alout as easily as to construct a chart. Mr. Scott. We want some kind of information that shall see the elements of success in fruit growing. ] Mr. Pearce. The.influence of soils has struck me frequently. “We have soils on which apples and grapes do well, and I think also where pears will grow. I have come to the firm conclusion that I can raise apples, but to do so will take precautions as to the nature of the soil. . A motion was made to strike the chart suggestion from the re- port, but it did not prevail. It was then moved and carried that the President appoint a committee to report on the plan for @ fruit chart at the next annual meeting. Messrs. Harris, Jewell, Brand, Grimes and Smith, of St. Cloud, were appointed such committee. On motion, the Finance Committee was requested to report this evening. The Committee on Cataloguing Fruits, &., was re- quested to report to-morrow afternoon. Mr. Jewell replied that they had no report prepared, but could have one by the time the transactions would be printed. PRESERVED FRUITS. Mr. Elliot was requested to report on the methods of preserving the fruits on exhibition before the Society, that had been kept beyond their season. He reported to the effect that the process was a very simple one ; very cheap, and, so far as he had tried it, a very good one. The process is a secret one, but the materials are of common occurrence. The fruits and vegetables which had been put up in the fall appeared to be in good condition. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. REVISION OF STRAWBERRY LIST. The meeting was called to order at 2:15 o’clock p. m. The revision of the Strawberry list was the first business taken up. The list as last revised was read by the President. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL society. 87 Ida. i) lpht Mr. Kenney. The Ida stood better than anything else last year with me. om Champion and Charles Downing. pr Pres. Smith. The Champion stood the best last year with me. The Charles Downing has been in the St. Paul market for four years now and has grown in favor. The vine is hardy, even more so than the Wilson, and the berries are large. Mr. Elliot. The fruit is very showy and is going to take well, but it will not bear so much handling as the Wilson; none will do that, but the Downing has a better flavor and a brighter acai color. Hart’s Seedling. Mr. Jewell. Does any one know anything more of pa s Seed- ling than was told last winter ? Pres. Smith. It lived well last winter, and those on exhibition last summer were very fine. Mr. Elliot. Out of twelve vines which I received, only two ied and those were much injured. History of Hart’s Seedling. [Since the meeting, Mr. Hart has sent us the following history of his Seedling strawberry, which we insert here:] While describing our Seedling apple trees, it may not be amiss to say a word about our Seedling strawberry, of which there is considerable inquiry this spring. As for ourselves, we prize it more than all the Seedling apples we have ever raised. We give you its history as brief as possible. About 14 years ago we commenced to sow strawberry seed, raising a small patch every year since, and finding no berry as good as the Wilson, we threw them away as fast as tested. About three years ago we had a small patch with several varieties of berries in it, among which were the Agriculturist, Ju- cunda, Russell, Wilson, Triumph, Duke of Kent, &c. We took the largest berry we could find from each of these berries, saved the seed and sowed it, and raised over 200 different varieties. From this lot we got one plant from which our present stock originated, which, we think, is the best strawberry we have yet seen, considering size and quality. Respectfully yours, JOHN HART. > 88 trace as ANNUAL RRPORT es. romscyeerte r — Boyden’s No. 18 and Red Jacket. : Mr. Jewell. Does any one know anything about Boyden’ 5 No. 15? With me it is better than No. 30. (Mr. J. also enquired | any had tried the Red Jacket, but received no reply to either in- quiry.) It was moved and seconded that the list of strawberries stand over as last adopted. Countess de Horicouri: PT. Mr. Elliot. IT want to say a word about the Countess de Hari- court. Wm. Lyon, of Minneapolis, marketed 20 to 300 quarts daily last summer. It stood last winter the best of any in our section. It was moved to amend the motion by adding Countess de Hari- court and Prouty’s Seedling for trial. The amended motion was then carried. REVISION OF RASPBERRY LIST. The revision of the raspberry list was the next business taken up. Mr. Grimes. I move to recommend the Doolittle and Seneca for general cultivation for black-caps, and the Philadelphia and Turner for red. The Doolittle is the earlier but the Seneca is the better berry. Pres. Smith. My. Brimhall, Mr. Boxell and myself agree on the Doolittle, Seneca and Ontario as the best black-caps. The On- tario has about the same season as the Doolittle, but it is sweeter _ and richer than either that or Seneca, and about the same as to hardiness. The Mammoth Cluster I have thrown over, for its want of hardiness, and the dry chippy character of its fruit. Mr. Grimes. The Doolittle and Seneca are about equal in hardiness. ‘ The motion was divided, and a motion to recommend the Doo- little and Seneca for general cultivation for black-caps was carried unanimously. A motion to recommend the Ontario black-cap for trial, was carried unanimously. Turner and Philadelphia. A motion was made to recommend the Philadelphia and Turner for general cultivation for reds. = MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 89 Pres. Smith. The Turner is hardier than the Philadelphia ; the fruit larger and better; the yield not so good as the Philadelphia when the latter is at its best, but its season is longer; from the 5th of July to the 5th of September last year. It is nearly free from thorns, but suckers badly, but the suckers are easily got out by the hoe or plow. Mr. Boxell is much pleased with it. In flavor it excels all others. Mr. Grimes I thought I never saw any canes fruit so heavily, and the quality was superior. Mr. Jewell. Three years ago I got 200 plants, and now I have a million. Mr. Stickney wrote me that it did excellently last year, but that it would not become popular because of its suckering and it will not bear unless the suckers are kept down. Mr. Elliot. I think I prefer it to the Philadelphia. I think we generally let too many canes grow in a hill to get good crops of good fruit. Pres. Smith. Ido not want more than four canes in a hill. Motion carried, 9 for and 1 against. Herstine and Ganargua. Pres. Smith. Has any one tried the Herstine ? Mr. Grimes. It has been grown by a neighbor of mine for two years. The first year he was greatly pleased with it, but last year it was not so good. Has any one tried the Ganargua, a red berry that grows or roots at the tips like the black-caps? Golden Thorniless. Mr. Jewell. Has any one tried the Golden Thornless? Some bore with me last summer, but the quality was not good. The fruit was somewhat woody. Mr. Grimes. My experience with the Golden Thornless has » been similar, THE PROPAGATION OF TREES BY CUTTINGS. A paper on ‘‘ The Propagation of Trees by Cuttings,’’ by L. B. Hodges, Esq., of St. Paul, was read, after which the paper was ordered on file for publication, and Mr. Jewell moved a vote of thanks to Mr. Hodges for his humorous and instructive essay, and also a rebuke for his reflection on the religious intelligence of the 12 90 ts . annua REPORT, members of the Society. The resolution was passed amid laughter and applause. The following is the paper in full: When a small boy, more than forty years ago, in the pleasant village of Canandaigua, N. Y., my attention was arrested by a magnificent great wil- low on the premises of Judge A —-, one of the pioneers of that region. It was a tradition among the boys that this immense tree grew from a wil- low switch which the Judge cut in Connecticut and used as a riding whip during his horseback journey from Connecticut to Western New York, and for over thirty years of my manhood passed on the broad prairies of the Northwest, I have often seen and heard of similar willows with very similar ‘histories. Now, this is all well enough per se, but when intelligent and educated gentlemen, on the strength of such occasional and isolated circum- stances, affirm that all you have got to do in order to grow the willow, the cottonwood or the Lombardy is to simply stick a cutting in the ground in most any sort of a hap-hazard way, they are simply leading the multitude astray and doing harm rather than good. The object of this paper is to furnish to the people interested in the propagation of forest trees by this particular method such practical information as a long and varied experi- ence has proved to be correct. If this sort of experience is in conflict with tradition and preconceived notions, why so much the worse for the traditions and notions. I begin by saying that a proper preparation of the soil is not only of primary impor- tance, but also a prerequisite condition of success. Soil and its Preparation. Your ground must be good ground, it must be thoroughly subdued and mellow before planting, and right here I propose to point out and expose the practical nonsense and absurdity of the proposition that a cutting will grow anyhow, so you only stick it in the ground. Acting on this absurd proposition, hundreds of thousands of all sorts of cuttings have been stuck into all sorts of ground by all sorts of people. The results are well illus- trated in the parable of the sower. (Before going to bed to-night, you fellows who haven’t read that parable for twenty years or more had better look it over.) Soon after the passage of the Timber Culture Act of 1873, I read in one of the most ably-conducted and widely-circulated of our country papers, an editorial showing the settler how to grow a forest under the provisions of said act. Boiled down, it simply amounted to this: Strips of breaking two or three furrows wide, said strips twelve feet apart and the cuttings to be stuck twelve feet apart in the strips, in the raw, unsubdued sod; no further labor or expense necessary—result, a forest. I promptly denounced, the absurdity of such teachings, but for all that, a heap of fellows had to try it on. It would be a good time now for them to report what luck they have had. In the pursuit of knowledge under difficulties, my curiosity has led me over quite a large number of tree claims which have been planted in good faith in accordance with such teachings. 7 \ ’ _ + MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. ot \ ‘ Candor compels me to say that when you find a muley cow climbing a tree stern-first, it will be up one of the trees so propagated on one of those tree claims. ' The Northern Pacific Railroad Co., expended a number of thousands of dollars in just about that sort of a way of propagating forest trees from cuttings, and succeeded in demonstrating that it was just as easy to drive a government mule through the eye of a needle, as to grow forest trees in any such way as that. The idea of getting something for nothing, isa bad one. There must be an equivalent, a quid pro quo. In your dealings with each other, this idea of something for nothing, may work, occasionally,—but you can’t bulldoze the prairie with any such non- sense. The cutting plunged full length into a deep, rich, mellow soil, under the vivifying influences of heat and moisture, soon begins to expand its buds, and throw outits slender, thread like, flbrous roots. If the ground has been properly prepared, those roots at once begin to draw nourishment for the incipient tree; the buds grow into branches, and in a few months you have a thoroughly developed forest tree, and the better cultivation you give this young tree, the sooner you get a tree that is of some use in the world. On the other hand, the cutting stuck in the raw sod, makes a failure in trying to get its roots into the hard earth in a vain attempt for nourishment ; struggles along in a feeble, quiet sort of a way till dry weather sets in, and then quietly starves to death without a struggle or a groan, and the innocent author of this miserable abortion wonders what ails his trees, and some- times gets mad, and uses ‘‘ cuss-words,” about the man who sold him the cuttings. To go back to the starting point: break your prairie in June; break shal- low—back set or cross-plow last of Sept. turning up two or three inches of fresh dirt. If ina hurry, (to save your claim) harrow thoroughly, and plant your cuttings right along up to the time the ground shuts up, and if not through, finish up the job early in the ensuing spring. If in no hurry it is good prac- tice to raise a crop before planting cuttings. A hoed crop is best, and if well cultivated leaves the ground in admirable condition for tree-planting. If you sow small grain before planting, you can’t be too careful in getting your seed perfectly clean. A few grains of wild buckwheat, or, what is more to be dreaded, pigeon grass, will give you an infinite amount of trouble, and by increased labor in keeping it down, double the cost of growing the forest. In growing a wind-break from cuttings, for a single row, I would prepare a strip of ground not less than 84 feet wide, by deep ploughing and thorough harrowing. I would have the ground as mellow as an ash-heap. I would draw a line lengthwise along the centre of this strip, and about every twelve to eighteen inches would plunge the cutting in nearly or quite full length, and at once tramp the mellow earth firmly around the cutting; and then I would keep that strip of ground clean as a hound’s tooth. I wouldn’t allow a weed or blade of grass to grow on that strip dedicated to the wind-break; and I should keep the cultivator running up and down the margin each side the row of young trees pretty often till harvest time, after ‘ei. Pe ANNUAL REPORT. CLC _ which, if-any weeds or grass had put in an appearance, erties pull them up, carry them off and burn them up. I should repeat this process the next season, and in the fall would calle heavy with good manure. I think by that time you will have that strip of prairie pretty well bull- dozed, and a wind-break started that won’t dry out or freeze out, and which will stand and grow in spite of grasshoppers or other enemies. Time of Preparing Cuttings. As far as the willow is concerned, most any time will do. I have cut them nearly every month in the year, yet would prefer cutting and planting right along through the month of May, as being then liable to less loss and better growth. I confess in my own experience to more satisfactory results with cotton- wood cuttings cut and planted in October and November than in any other months. As far as willow, cottonwood and Lombardy cuttings are concerned, good fresh healthy ones are about as sure to grow (in Minnesota) if properly handled, and under the most favorable circumstances, as either corn or potatoes. Failure is not necessary. Do your work intelligently and thoroughly, and at the proper time, and success is the rule. Care of Cuttings till Planted. In the fall of 1874 I caused to be cut and hauled together, enough white willow to make five hundred thousand cuttings. I reduced som? of this brush to cuttings in the fall, tied them up in bunches of a hundred each, set them up on end in trenches dug about a foot deep, threw a foot of dirt over them and let them lay till spring. The balance was stacked in good shape, covered with a layer of slough hay—threw enough loose dirt over it to keep the wind out, and let the thing go till it thawed out in the spring—then un- covered it, worked it up into cuttings and planted them. They came good and grew well, and I never knew any difference between those buried in trenches, or those of the stack. Whenever in the course of human events, I found a lot of cuttings drying up and apparently worthless, before plant- ing I would ‘‘swell ’em up” by throwing them into the most convenient lake, pond or stream. But a good way is to keep them buried in the trench until you are ready to plant. There are plenty of cottonwood trees in Minnesota propagated from cuttings in the manner I recommend, now big enough to make a cord of wood each—17 to 20 years from the cutting. You can grow 300 such trees to the acre. Can you grow anything that will pay better ? Is there any better way to ‘‘ conquer the prairie,” or to bulldoze and intim- idate old Boreas ? DISCUSSION. Mr. Scott. I would like to know what has been the success of others with cottonwood cuttings. I have had but poor success. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 93, Pres. Smith. Have you not tried on sandy soil? e Mr. Scott. Yes. 5 Ser ChEErS | Pres. Smith. That is the fewnbies On heavier soils there is no difficulty. REVISION OF CURRANT LISTS. td The currant list was next taken up for revision. Pres. Smith. Ihave two new ones, Bailey’s Sweet White and Clinton White. They are both good. Mr. Grimes. The Versailles is liable to kill down, and is much like the cherry, hence I am neither increasing nor diminishing my stock of it. ' ; Mr. Scott inquired concerning Stewart’s Seedling. Pres. Smith. 1 consider the Victoria one of the best. I also grow one known as Smith’s Seedling.’ Bailey’s Sweet and Clin- ton White have stronger bushes and better flavored fruit than the White Grape. ’ 4 Mr. Scott. Stewart’s Seedling is a fair bearer, vigorous and very early. The fruit is of good flavor and the size of Red Dutch. Mr. Elliot. Ido not think the Victoria better than the Red Dutch. We have none yet to beat the latter. I grew 150 bushels last year. I prune freely. Pres. Smith. Mr. Elliot may have a better strain of Red Dutch than I have. “Mr. Elliot. The Red Dutch averages a larger berry than the Victoria, but the bush of the Victoria is more vigorous. “I cut out a portion of old wood each year and leave some new shoots. The borers started my pruning, to get rid of them. I cannot say that any one variety is more liable to their attacks than other varieties. Pres. Smith. Has not Mr. Elhot his currants on sandy soil? The Victoria requires a moist, rich soil. Mr. Elliot. Yes; mine are on sandy soil. That makes a dif- ference, and we ought to state the nature of the soil in all our discussions. It was moved to adopt the old list of currants, with the White Dutch stricken out, viz.: Red Dutch, White Grape and Victoria, for general cultivation. The motion was carried, 7 for and 2 against. Mr. Dart. Why strike out the White Dutch ? Mr. Elliot. Because of its poor yield. It was moved to recommend Stewart’s Seedling for trial. The motion was carried unanimously. “94 ANNUAL REPORT. Pres. Smith. The Black Naples is popular in market, and we should recommend.one black variety for trial at least. . Mr. Elliot. There was a great demand for black currants last summer. | Pres. Smith. They are only moderate bearers. Mr. Elliot. On moist and rich soil, and well cultivated, they givé a good yield. It was moved to recommend the Black Naples for general culti- vation as a black variety. - Motion carried unanimously. GOOSEBERRIES. Gooseberries were then taken up. Mr. Jewell. as any one tried Smith’s Seedling ? Pres. Smith. The American Seedling is the best I have tried, a pale red in color. Mr. Jewell. Tried the Downing for several years but it was not a success. JANESVILLE GRAPE. Mr. Jewell. I want the Janesville Grape to take a higher place. It is very early, very hardy, bears young and bears neglect. I left mine uncovered last year and they came through in good condi- tion. Mr. Pearce. tis the only one I have succeeded with. Some vines bear the same year they are set. The flavor is nearly equal to the Concord and some say better. It was moved to transfer the Janesville to the list for general cultivation. The vote resulted in a tie, 4 for and 4 against, the President deciding the vote by voting in the negative. CONDITIONS OF SUCCESS IN FRUIT CULTURE. Mr. Pearce’s paper on ‘‘ Fall Planting and Root Killing’’ was called for, but the following was offered by Mr. Scott : Resolved, That the want of due care in the selection of location is the greatest retarding influence to successful fruit culture in Minnesota. Mr. Brand moved a substitute: . e——— ee em . MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 95 Resolved, That for successful fruit culture we should always have moist — - autumns and the mercury never below zero. Mr. Jewell moved to amend by adding “‘and the best location is outside of the State.’’ Mr. Dart. I-do not believe that want of proper location is the greatest retarding influence. I think variety has more to do with it than location. Mr. Scott. In this State success is not to be obtained by the choice of varieties, but if we have not the proper location and we make one by planting wind-breaks we have a better chance of success. Mr. Dart. We can take the best varieties we now have on the prairie and succeed with them—the Duchess and, perhaps, the Wealthy, as well as the Russian apples. Mr. Jewell. We have a few that will live if properly planted anywhere above water. I consider selection of the proper vari- eties, site, and proper care in planting and cultivation, the essen- tial points ; and I consider this the order of their importance. Mr. Jewell moved to amend by substituting the following :— Resolved, That the greatest obstacles in the way of successful orchard culture are, lst. Want of knowledge of the best varieties. 2d. Not select- ing the most desirable locations; and, 3d. The lack of proper attention and skill in the planting and after-culture. This substitute was carried. GOOSEBERRIES AGAIN, =_ The discussion of gooseberries was then resumed. Does any one grow gooseberries successfully ? There seems to be some demand for them at 5 cents per quart, or $1.50 per bushel. Mr. Grimes moved to recommend the American Cluster goose- berry for general cultivation, also known as Cluster and American Pale Red. Mr. Scott. They have killed down when side by side with the Houghton. Mr. Dart moved to amend so as to recommend for trial. Mr. Brand moved to lay the gooseberry question on the table. The motion was carried. 96 7 ANNUAL REPORT. — ri “#ALL PLANTING AND ROOT-KILLING OF FRUIT beri x war *| ‘ A veeistisa i) Mr. Pearce’s paper on ‘‘ Fall Planting and Pact killing ’’ was then called for and read, after which it was ordered on file for pub- lication. The following is the paper in full : Fail Planting. Since the fall of 1872, preceding the cold winter, I have planted or caused to be done from 100 to 1,000 fruit trees each fall, usually three to four years old, and in no instance where the trees were of hardy varieties, wood well ripened and trees properly set, mulched, and, if necessary, the mulching wet, have the trees died or presented a sickly appearance. I do not write this to induce others to practice fall planting on a large scale, for it is very likely many of them would fail, owing largely to the unripened condition of the trees when received from a distance, as nurserymen who have large amounts of trees to deliver in the fall commence digging before vegetation ceases, stripping off the leaves. Such trees are not fit for fall planting; they will do for spring, providing they cap be kept from freezing during the winter. Root! Killing. It is a well-known fact, by those who have given this subject their careful attention, that the dry condition of the soil late in the fall, just previous to freezing up, is one of the principal causes of root-killing. It matters not how hardy the roots are, freezing and thawing in dry ground is sure death, and every fruit-grower who expects to make apple raising a success must pay strict attention to his soil, especially late in the fall. Mulching at the proper time is considered a sure protection against dzouth, but there are times in order to make the roots of fruit trees secure against all doubt, it is well to wet the mulching. This should be done a few weeks before the ground freezes up, providing the ground is not sufficiently moist to draw the frost from the roots of the trees. The fall of 1872 was exceedingly dry; but little moisture was in the soil. I was then in the nursery business; had several thousand trees from two to four years old, many of which were sold and delivered, some were set out and the balance heeled in. Those set out were mulched, ana the mulching kept wet until the soil was good and moist. Those that were heeled in were managed in much the same way. The roots were placed in loose earth and properly covered with earth root and branch, mulching placed over the roots and that wet till the ground was well saturated with water. In both cases the trees came out all right in the spring, while those in the nursery unmo- lested were nearly all root-killed in the spring regardless of varieties. The past fall the ground in regard to moisture to protect the roots of fruit trees against root-killing was in an excellent condition, and I apprehend no \ E . MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 97. danger to fruit trees in orchard or nursery, so much so that I did not mulch last fall. A deep snow falling early in the winter before the ground has frozen and then drifting several feet deep around apple trees, preventing the ground ' from freezing during the winter, if it is not removed at once from about the _ trees and the ground allowed to freeze, the roots of the trees will be very apt to perish. The cause is unknown to me; nevertheless, I know it to be correct. : Another item I will give a passing notice. Nurserymen are sometimes negligent or try to do more than they accomplish. Ill-shaped and forked trees are suffered to grow on their ground, and from thence to the farmer’s orchard, which is always an eye-sore to an intelligent nurseryman, and a | loss to the purchaser. Healthy trees, with tapering stem and symmetrical top always find a ready sale, often at double the usual price. DISCUSSION. ‘ Mr. Dart. I object to the phrase ‘‘ always find ready sale.’ Mr. Jewell. I object to fall planting. It might succeed, but. sometimes it will fail utterly while in any case the trees will make a better growth planted in the spring. I object also to the manner of mulching. I am persuaded that no roots are hardy enotgh to stand freezing even in dry soil. Wetting requires much labor, and. it is better to wet the ground and then mulch, but better still to preserve the moisture by cultivating till autumn. Straw is the best mulch exceptsnow. The next best is coarse manure, but do not use fine manure. Straw is more useful because it catches more snow. Mr. Pearce. Talk is cheap; facts are what we are after. I do not advise any one else to set trees in the fall. But it is well enough to seta few. I set out a hundred in the fall of 1872 and they lived through. Mr. Grimes. J am aware that apple trees may be set in the fall but I prefer the spring. But if set in the fall, set deeply, mound up and wrap up the trunk to protect it from wind and sun, for newly set trees stand stationary while established trees still have some action, even in winter. Mr. Arnold. Fall setting has been an old hobby with nursery- " men because they want two sales, one in the fall and another in the spring to replace those set in the fall. But with farmers it is not popular. If not protected by snow they will die even though they are deeply set; deep setting is the only security in this State and fall planting is a very poor practice for Minnesota. Mr. Pearce. I do not advocate fall setting, but as trees are 13 BM Oe ae Sia . plies ? / . 98 sovitetaRibe heeled in they are no better off than if set in the oibdg They must be set carefully if set, and heeled properly if heeled. \ “ANNUAL REPORT, = Trunk Protection. Mr. Kenney. I have practiced protecting the trunks of trees for four years. I wind them with crushed sorghum stalks. My- self and man wind 100 in a day. Ihad some pear trees, all but two of which were wound in this manner. These two did Get survive the first winter. i Mr. Pearce. +The subject of winding is iitiportaall ‘T shall practice it. I would wind all standards. Mr. Kenney. Trees so wound leave out a little later than oth- ers. A German friend cuts gunny sacks into strips for this pur- pose. By winding the trees they do not suffer from borers. Mr. Arnold. I have practiced it for some time. I think it should not be done too early, before the sap has all returned to the roots. j Mr. Jewell. Nothing is cheaper for the purpose fai tarred paper tacked on to lath to separate it from the tree itself. I think, ‘however, double working is a better method, because one can thus get trunks that do not need protection. To grow the Flemish Beauty pear, I think it will be advisable to wind the trunks. This is not indispensable, because we can graft on the June berry. The question is: ‘Is it better to have trees that need no ie tion, or to have tender trees and then protect ?’’ WEDNESDAY EVENING. REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. The meeting was called to order by the President at 7:45 o’clock. The Auditing Committee reported on three bills presented by J. T. Grimes, T. M. Smith and Chas. Y. Lacy. They were reported correct and just, and the report was accepted. i THE LAYING OUT, PLANTING AND CARE OF SMALL DOOR-YARDS. The paper of J. E. Booth, Esq., of Minneapolis, on the Laying MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. — 99 Out, Planting and Care of Small Door-yards was read, ordered on file for publication, and the thanks of the Society voted for it. The following is the paper in full: Mr, President: I have been requested to furnish a paper on the ‘‘ Laying out, Planting and Care of Small Door-yards,” and it has been suggested that I should con- sider the subject with a view of assisting the farmer as well as the city or — town resident. I am glad that this Society, largely composed as it is of agriculturists, is at length making an effort to induce farmers to improve their surrounding. This is a subject in which all farmers should take an interest, coming as it does right home to their very doors. I have often wondered why it is that they, more than any other class, should fail to sur- round their houses with neat, well kept lawns and cheerful flower-beds. Instead of these we generally find a bare yard or arank wilderness of weeds. I do not mean to say that there are not some exceptions, but these are very few and far between. I hope the time is fast coming when it will be a rare thing to see a farm house without its flower garden, as well as a spacious and well-stocked vegetable garden. And why not? The requisites are very ‘few, and these the farmers possess in ample abundance. A favorableaesitu- ation, good soil, a little labor, and avery small amountof expense, properly guided and directed by good taste and judgment, would doit. And I think it is due to the want of taste that we so often see around farm bouses this lamentable desolation. Of course we are not to expect farmers any more than others to lay out their grounds with the skill of a practical land- scape gardener, but what little taste they have they might make use of. : Public Examples. And right here, let me ask what the various Educational Institutions of the State are doing to improve the taste of the people? What has the State University done? I do mot wish them to have a Professor of Landscape Gardening, as they have a Professor of Agriculture, whose business it shall be to teach the art, but let it be by example rather than precept. The site of the University is the finest which coald be found, perhaps, in the State. Now, let the University Regents show us what art, going hand in hand with nature, can do. Let the farmers’ sons, and daughters too, who attend the University, have something better to see than the present desolate and neglected aspect of the University campus, looking as if nobody owned it. Let them see lawns, and terraces, and flower-beds, and flowers, and arbors, and shady walks, and when they go back home they will not be satisfied till they have something of the same kind there. Then let the Regents do their duty, and instead of causes of complaint give us grounds for approval. Why cannot the boards of education, in city and country, lay out the lots around the school building with some little regard ‘to taste, and instead of their present unsightly appearance, make them “‘ things of beauty” and ‘‘joys forever.” The cost need not be much, and the expense would be repaid over and over again by the refining and educating influence which could not fail to be exercised on the children; for, at their susceptible age their sur- roundings have a great influence on their minds. ° I RS i 8 Te TEES Te ae et! \ 1 ~ Md ; / cs? 00°- ram “ANNUAL REPORT, = -I will now proceed to consider the laying out of a garden. And ast, when the house has yet to be built. / a - Tor ’ : Location and Soil. : j Rt In this case, the first thing to do is to choose a good location for the house, and in doing this any natural advantage of view, shelter, &c., should be seized upon. It is also of importance that the soil should cpoe as no amount of manuring can make a poor soil equal to one naturally good, for manuring does not permanently enrich the soil, but has only a temporary effect. If possible, a soil should he chosen with a sandy or gravelly subsoil, .as this would itself obviate the necessity of artificial drainage which might be required were the subsoil of a clayey nature. If a situation can be ob- tained which is sheltered from the north and northeast, either by trees or hills, with the proper soil and a gentle slope to the south, then we have the requisites for a good beginning. And here I would say that the way the house is placed will have a good deal to do with the general appearance. The House and its Elevation. bi , Care should be taken that the house in style and architecture is suitable to the location. A house which would look well in a town might be an ab-— surdity in the country, and vice versa. But whatever kind of house is chosen, if on the flat it should be raised at least three feet above the general level. If on the side of a hill, then the front should stand well up, while the hill should be excavated for the rear of the house. The amount of excavating depending on the slope of the hill and depth of the house. This will give a much more striking appearance, besides affording room for cellars and allowing for various outdoor arrangements. The Garden. The house having been built, then comes the laying out of the garden. And here right on the threshold, so to speak, of the subject, Iam confronted by the difficulty of conveying my ideas in an intelligible manner by description alone, without the aid of plans, which, of course, the exigencies of the case prevent me from introducing. Did circumstances admit of my giving a few plans, I should be able to treat the matter much more comprehensively and exhaustively. As it is I must do the best I can trusting to your good nature to overlook any shortcomings. I would advise that the garden should con- sist largely of lawn, as when once well started and in good condition this is much easier to keep in good order than the same space of flower-beds and if properly looked after always presents a good appearance. If the house has been raised sufficiently a terrace should be made around the house, or if on the side of a hill, along the front. Insome places the conformation of the ground might necessitate a succession of terraces. The balance of the lawn should be made with a very gentle slope, considearble pains should be taken to get the ground into the proper condition for sodding. | MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL society. 101 Sodding and Seeding. It should be properly graded and prepared, and the walks having been staked out, the sodding may be done and for this purpose the finer and closer the grass on the sods the better. If sods cannot be obtained then recourse must be had to seeding down. In this case the preparation of the ground will involve more labor and care. The ground must be thoroughly pulverized by plowing and then harrowed till perfectly smooth and level, all stones, &c., being removed. If only a small lawn is required, then digging and raking may be substituted. Sodding may begin in the spring as soon as the ground is sufficiently thawed out to allow of working, During the very hot weather of summer the operation will have to be suspended, but, may be resumed in the fall and continue till the ground freezes up. Walks and Flower-Beds. The lawn having been made, then the flower-beds may be cut out. The walks will also have to be made. If gravel can be obtained, then they may be made of this. The ground should be dug out some depth. Put the large stones in first, and then smaller ones, putting only fine gravel on the top. If gravel cannot be had, then walks may be made of bricks, strips of wood, or any other material that may be thought advisable. The walks must be made rather higher in the middle than at the sides, which should not be more than an inch lower than the top of the turf. Where the walks pass up the front of the terraces, steps will have to be used; these may be either of boards or stone, and must be of the same width as the walks. Of course the beds may be made of any shape and size, to suit the fancy of the owner, but I would advise that they be made of simpler form and not so numerous as to cut up the surface of the lawn too much. They may be either scattered about the lawn or made at the sides, as may seem most desirable. If large rough rocks are at hand, a circular bed of pyramidal form, and consisting of two or three small terraces edged with these rocks, would have a good effect. The lower of these may be planted with coleus and the tops with cannas. As regards the planting of the garden, the beds may be each filled with one kind of flower. or different sorts may be mixed in the beds. The best effect is produced in small beds by massing; that is, using one sort. Where plants are mixed, the tallest growing should be planted at the back, where the beds are at the outside, and the others graded down so as to have the dwarfest at the outside. In beds cut out of the lawn, the tallest growing plants should be in the centre and the others according to the height they grow. Beds of geraniums, verbenas, feverfews, and other bedding plants have a fine effect, as they are in flower from the time they are planted till frost comes. Coleus of various kinds also make a very fine appearance. A judi- cious’ use of peonies, dialetras, perennial phloxes, &c., is also advisable. They are perfectly hardy, and when once started improve every year. Annu- als will also be found very useful, but it will be better not to depend to any great extent on these. A great objection to annuals generally is that in this climate they have scarcely begun to bloom before frost comes. If our sea- sons were of any decent length, much more use might be made of them. 102 ANNUAL REPORT. ats = ; Trees. r] \ ’ A few trees, principally evergreen, may also be introduced with advantage. While a small number of large growing trees may be allowed for the sake of ‘shade, yet care must be used that there are not enough to.shade the place too much. S. Care of Lawn. The lawn will require to be mown about once a fortnight. For this pur- pose, a lawn mower will be found to do the work much better and more ex- peditiously than it can be done with a scythe. Of course, a lawn mower will cost What might be considered a large sum; but with care it will last for years, and when the better work and saving in time is taken into ac- count, it will be found to be much cheaper than mowing by hand. Care of Plants. When plants are first set out, unless in rainy weather, it will be necessary to well water them. In very hot, dry weather it may also be necessary to do this, but it should not be done till absolutely required, and then the ground should be well soaked. Nothing is more injurious than light, frequent waterings. These only dampen the surface of the soil, causing the plants to send up their roots in search of that moisture they cannot find lower down, and so rendering them much more liable to suffer from drought than if watered more copiously and less frequently. When the House is Already Built. When a farmer wishes to make a garden to an old house, then he must be guided by circumstances; but, if possible, the same general plan should be carried out here that I have before recommended. I may here observe that the farmer has the great advantage over others that he can get all he wants in way of sods and soil for the cutting and hauling, and the labor would cost him nothing or next to nothing as the work could be done by himself and his men at a time when there is no pressing work about the farm. The flower garden would also afford pleasant and healthy occupation for the spare hours of the ladies of the family. House in Town. In laying out the front gaiden of a house in a town the case is somewhat different to those we have been considering, as there is no choice of location the only thing to do is to take the lot as it is and make the best of it. Here again a lawn, either level or terraced, will look best; a few flower beds of simple design should be introduced, the remarks made above as to planting, etc., will also apply here. But in the case of town residents their time being usually fully taken up by their occupations they have no time to do the work themselves so will have to hire it done. They will probably call in some man who makes a business of laying out gardens and whose skill and taste may be safely trusted to turn outa good job. “MINNESOTA STATE HORTIVULTURAL society. _ 103 eee ‘ Conclusion. Were it not that I do not wish to take up too much of your time I should like to refer to several other fatten connected with the subject. Ina paper ‘of this nature it is impossible to do more than give a few ot the more prami- nent points without going as fully into details as might be wished. If how- ever, what I have said should induce any one to attempt to improve his place and has given him some idea how to do it, then I doubt not that if he make a beginning he will get some sort of satisfactory result by the time he gets through. All of which is respectfully submitted by J. E. Bootu, Minneapolis Greenhouse, . Minneapolis, Minnesota. DISCUSSION. Sodding and Seeding. Mr. Grimes. This is the first time this subject has been before the Society. In the country, we have more space to cover and we cannot do so much sodding, because of the labor required, and because sowing seed makes a better sod. I would sow some oats or similar grain to shade the grass while young. Flowers for yards are not so difficult to get as some suppose. Many are easily grown from seed. To set them properly and with taste, is more difficult. I agree with what is said about the grounds of our public insti- tutions, but [ would not advise sodding on the University grounds, because they are too extensive and the operation too costly, and it is better to seed. When the ground is prepared to work, locate the shrubbery and then lay out the walks according to the shrub- bery. At the University there should also be a fountain, and that should stand near the plant-house. (The Secretary explained that the University grounds had not been improved because they had not been fenced, and they had not been fenced because it was confidently expected that the bounda- ries would soon be extended. ) Mr. Scott. It is a mistaken Western idea, that the grounds must be covered with sod to make a velvety lawn. I would rather undertake to make a lawn by seeding than by sodding. I would not recommend to sow grain with the seed. It is better to use a hight muleh. White clover and blue-grass, sown in the spring, make an excellent lawn by fall. FALL AND SPRING SEEDING. My. Elliot. I would not sow in the spring. I have not suc- 1) Sa ANNUAL REPORT. | / ceeded thus in eighteen years of experience. Sow in August, and | mulch when the ground freezes, and next season you have a lawn. © Mr. Grimes. Fall is the best time. I have tried several times to make a meadow by spring seeding, but it dries out in spots. I have had better success by sowing in the fall. I would sow oats with the grass very thin. Sowing in the fall gives it a start, and. ‘the next summer it gets established before the drouth comes on. You must roll it also after sowing. I would sow blue-grass and Alsike clover. The latter is a more rapid grower than the white, and runs on the ground, and looks fine while it lasts. My. Hollister. Alsike clover is coarse in appearance and unfit for a lawn, Mr. Grimes. Another grass for lawns is the English lawn mixture. . L Mr. Hollister. The lawn mixture usually consists of one bushel of red top, one bushel of blue-grass, four pounds of white clover, and two pounds of sweet vernal. Wood meadow-grass is also often mixed in. ae | ANNUALS, A paper on “‘ Annuals,’’ by Miss Hortense Share, of Rosemount, was read, and ordered on file for publication. On motion of Mr. Grimes, the thanks of the Society were ten- dered Miss Share for her valuable, interesting and well-written paper. The following is the paper in full : - While preparing to remove to Minnesota, friends often said to me, ‘* What are you going to do without flowers in that cold country?” ‘*Iam not going to do without; expect to cultivate flowers wherever I have a home.” ‘* Well, you will see—too awful cold up there—with no summers to speak of, and frost all the year round—too near the North Pole!” The first two summers were exceptionally dry, and the winds on the — prairie simply abominable. The choice shrubbery, roses and vines we brought with us died—the loss of each one causing a pang, seemed like part- ing from old friends. The flower seeds I planted in June came up beauti- fully in September after the rains. The bulbs, many kinds and choice, perished the first winter. I was disgusted, and turned to the wild flowers, for flowers of some kind I must have. The many beautiful kinds on the prairie, in the brush, and on the shores of Minnie Elk were a source of continued delight. But iv a land of strangers I longed for the familiar faces of the old home flowers. With me flowers are a necessity—thence follows endless pains- taking. So I set to work to conquer difficulties, and propose to tell how I ees Pe oe a oe ” WA, e ‘ al , sans pa x ‘ f . - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL society. 105. succeeded. First, we set out in the large yard innumerable trees and shrub-— -bery to break the force of the furious winds. It was a rainy season, and ~ they all grew and flourished; and to-day we are living in almost a wood. We often think the winds do not blow as they used to, but going from home find them still ‘‘ on duty” on the prairie. After twelve years experience I am not afraid to try anything, and have had in perfection in one summer three hundred varieties of flowers. The soil when new is all that can be desired; so rich that even with care- less culture the growth is simply wonderful. After a few years it neéds enriching if you cannot make new flower beds. I enrich the ground with anything but crude manure, that from a spent hot-bed is excellent; a sprinkle of leached ashes is good; sweepings from the hen house; liquid manure from the barnyard; soot from the stoves, and wherever [ find extra good dirt some of it goes to the flower beds, until everything laughs with bloom and beauty. Spade the ground deep and rake thoroughly; but do not sow the seed until the ground is dry and warm. A few kinds need to be put in early. The seasons are very short with late and ungenial springs, and early autumn frosts. To remedy this I sow in a hot bed the seeds of such flowers as bear transplanting the last week in April or first week in May transplanting into the prepared borders the last week in May, or first of June, according to the season. A rainy evening is desirable, but, if ready, do not wait. I take up the plants carefully with as much earth as possible, having previously given them a good watering, and left the sash off nights to harden them. If very dry pour water in the holes, set the plants firmly, pour on more water and draw up dry earth around the stem, leaving a slight depression around each plant. Next morning cover with paper, leaves, or better still if I have them, invert small flower-pots or tin cans over them; in short anything that will exclude the sun is pressed into service, and the flower beds are ‘a sight!” Only water every second day, in the evening, unless the weather is very hot and dry. After the fourth day leave them uncovered until ten o’clock. In a week they are growing well and left uncovered all the time. With a push hoe I stir the ground frequently—keeping it loose and mellow, and killing any volunteer plants. With weeds, am not troubled, as none are allowed to seed. ' Chickens are excellent scavengers; they have the run of all my flowers, seldom harm anything, but do a world of good, as this ground abounds with ‘‘bugs and things.” One year some beds were infested with worms and insects eating the leaves and roots of the plants. I left all the dead flower-stalks until spring, raked the beds, burned the trash on them, spread and spaded in the ashes; the resu!t—not a bug or worm to be seen, nota plant destroyed. I give a list of some Annuals, the seeds of which are sown where they are to bloom: Abronia.—A pretty trailer; flowers in trusses like the verbena, but small- er; delicate fragrance. Looks best in a bed by itself. Alyssum (sweet).—Pretty for borders, and delicious in boquets or vases. Amaranthus, tricolor.—Very showy, but needs hurrying up to escape early frosts. Antirrhinum.—Blooms first season from seed; in warm countries is a wae 106 ANNUAL REPORT. ‘perennial; plants sometimes winter well if covered with coarse ‘nated there is'plenty of snow. — Loh ened : - Browallia.—A lovely little blue flower. Looks best in masses, but the = mats should not be crowded. Covera little deeper than the catalogues say—on account of drying winds. : oie Bartonia Aurea.—A most lovely golden colored flower—shines in the sun _ with a metalic lustre—handsome as a cactus bloom; foliage beautiful; the whole plant has a strange foreign look. I admire it very much. ; ‘Coreopsis .—Showy and brilliant; especially the bronze-colored: Are fine as single specimens, but I prefer it in a bed by itself; seeds itself. Candytuft.—In variety, never saw this flower in perfection until I grew it in Minnesota; sow very early in the spring, and again in June, to have a constant supply for bouquets. Wa Delphinium.—Some of these are perennial, but bloom first season from _ seed, winter well with slight covering. Dianthus (China and Japan Pink.)—Biennials, full bloom the first season. The new varieties are beautiful. With a covering of leaves and snow they bear our hardest winters. Plant seed every spring to keep up a supply. Escholtzia.—(I call that a horrid name!) Profusely blooming plants, with fine foliage; sometimes called California Tulip Flower. Marigold.—All varieties, are showy plants—provided you like them, which I don’t—except Tageta signata pumila, the intensely double flowers of which, and lace-like foliage are very pretty. Marvel of Peru.—A border of this old-fashioned plant makes yuite a show, and is very effective as a hedge. Mignonette.—No flower-garden can be complete vl ee this ‘ Little Darling”—we want a profusion of it everywhere. Morning Glory.—This vine fairly revels in tnis rich soil—Such a prodig- ality of bloom, flinging out its dainty chalices of most exquisite tints by the hundreds. Perilla.—A very ornamental plant, deep purple foliage. Colors best in full sunshine. Tropeaeolum or Nasturtiom.—The dwarf varieties are superb for massing ; the tall growing for rock-work. % Nemophila.—All the varieties are beautiful, and colors delicate, are best — massed but not too thickly, are profuse in bloom. Seed should be sown early as possible to have them in bloom before the very hot weather, they like partial shade. Peas (sweet.)—These to be had in perfection should be planted very early in the spring; from four to five inches deep. If you would have enough to fill your vases all summer plant them in rows in the vegetable garden, hoe often and draw the dirt up high around the roots, give stout brush and pick off all seed pods as they form. Its exquisite tints and delicious fragrance make the Sweet Pea a favorite with all. Pansy.—Sown early, they flower late in summer; covered with dry leaves make fine plants the second summer. They love a damp, rather shady sit- uation. Poppies.—Always have poppies! Portulacca.—Makes a beautiful bordering the first year, is a nuisance the second. Looks well in beds or large clusters. The double varieties look like little roses. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 107 ; pe _ Phlox Drummondii.—Admired by all. Makes a fine show set in masses; plant about eight inches apart. If not allowed to seed will bloom all summer. Scabiosa.—Rather coarse, but lasting a long time. ' \ Zinnia.— With plenty of room this makes a show; good fora hedge. The . flowers lasting about forever; well, I have known them to look fresh and new for three months. The three-cornered shriveled seeds produce double flowers; the large flat ones, single. I have given the names of only a few of the hardy kinds of Annuals. The tollowing are sown in a hot-bed and transplanted : Asters.—The new varieties are superb. The plants are as easily tpaliae planted as a cabbage. ‘ Balsams.—These need some care in removing; are fine fora Othe ds I make the soil very rich; spading in strong manure; they are gross feeders. When coming into bloom, water once or twice with liquid barn-yard manure (during a rain) and the bloom is superb. Trim according to directions given by Vick. Celosia.—I do not admire these much, but always grow a few; the combs are immense. \ > mutt Petunia.—The blotched and striped varieties are without a rival. Their free-flowering. and gorgeous display makes them indispensable. Of these I never save seed; a twenty-five cent packet is enough for three years, and I have no time to waste cultivating inferior kinds of any flower, so always get the best. Datura Wrightii.—A strong, rather coarse plant, and wants about ‘“‘ all out- doors” to spread itself in. The flowers are immense, delicate color, white shaded with purple, and have a sweet fragrance which florists make a fuss over, but say nothing about the horrid odor of the leaves. They scorn to call them © se Jimpsons,” but, if not sisters they are first cousins, anyway. However, I always have a few plants, as I like even Ohio weeds. Verbenas.—These are a specialty with me. Have grown them from florist’s plants and from seed, and prefer the latter; I get the best seed and never have a failure. - Last summer [ had a brilliant show on a bed freshly dug out of the sod; this was done as early as the frost allowed. April 25th I sowed the seeds in a hot bed, and every seed came up. When they were nearly large enough to transplant, I dug up the bed, over which the suds from the wash had been thrown for weeks. Inafew days after I wheeled well rotted chip dirt, manure from an old hot bed, fresh prairie soil (taken from the winter’s banking around the house and exposed to the action of the frost all , winter,) aud some lake sand, spread it over the bed, re-dug and raked it smoothly, then sprinkled over the surface four large shovelfulls of sand. In the evening, of May 26th there was a warm rain, sol set out the plants— previously hardened off by being uncovered at night—shaded them from the sun for a few days, and they grew on as if they had never been moved. I never saw such growth, such depth of green, such trusses, such brilliant, gor- geous bloom, so many colors,—bright scarlets with large white and yellow eyes, intense crimsons, maroons, creamy fragrant whites, pinks, reds, regal velvety purples to blues of all shades, spicy as pinks, striped, in short, every color I ever saw in verbenas. One morning they were carefully counted— five hundred and twenty-four full blown trusses on twenty-four plants. The raising of annuals from seed fully repays for all the labor bestowed. One dollar judiciously invested in seeds with ordinary care will give more oe 108 ANNUAL REPORT. @ satisfaction than twenty dollars worth of bedding plants. .The former are the hardy nurslings of sun and shower, the latter pampered darlings with frail constitutions, and almost worthless after coming far through the mail. Of all flowers not hybrid I save my own seed, selecting from the finest plants and from the first flowers. In this way many kinds come into bloom several weeks earlier. To mark them, tie strings to those I wish to save. The seed of mignonette drops out of the little seed-pod as soon as ripe. I make sacks of thin Swiss-muslin, and draw over the flower stems, tying them at the bottom. The seeds drop into these, and in this way I get all I want. , People often say to me, ‘‘ It is quite a ‘chore’ (I hate that word) to have so many flowers; I never have any time.” Time can be found, if you know how to manage so that your affairs indoors and outdoors do not clash. And it is a positive recreation, however weary from the never-ending routine and cooking one has to do so much of in this siete? country, to get out among the flowers. And if you have no ‘‘penchant” for the endless plaitings, shirring, and puffing of the present abominable style of dress, there will be ample time to cultivate all the flowers you have room for. AMENDMENTS. The Committee on Amendments to the Constitution and By- laws reported the following additional articles : ARTICLE 8. The Society may at any regular annual meeting elect as hon- orary members, any person or persons who may have performed valuable services for the Society, or upon whom the Society may wish to confer special honor. Such memberships shall be held for five years from date of election, and shall be entitled to all the privileges of the Society except voting. ms ARTICLE 9. This Society may at any regular annual meeting, and for sufficient services, elect any person or persons as life members of the Soci- ety. Such shall enjoy all the privileges of regular members. Article 8 was adopted. Article 9 failed by a vote of 5 for and 5 against. F A motion was. made to refer Article 9 back to the same com- mittee, with instructions to report some way to | raise reyeupe by the sale of memberships. Motion carried. Mr. Dart gave notice that a discussion on birds would be pro- posed. Mr. Pearce mentioned the subject of taxation of nursery stock for discussion. KEEPING TRANSCENDENTS AND OTHER FRUIT. A motion was made to invite Mr. Elliot to describe his method of keeping Transcendents so far beyond their season. ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL socipTy. —§ 109° The motion was carried. Mr. Elliot. The process is simple. Pick the fruit carefully when nicely colored, pack in a box that has a whole top, place on ice with a couple of inches of sawdust between, cover with a cake of ice, and then cover the whole well with sawdust. The Duchess, Fall Stripe and Transcendent thus treated keep nicely ; Red Astra- chan not so well. _ Adjourned to 9 o’clock Thursday morning. 7 THURSDAY MORNING. REPORT OF THE SECREPARY. The Society was called to order by the President at 9:30 o’clock. Communications were read from C. D. McKellup, of Faribault, and from Henry 8. Evans, the Secretary of the Montreal Horti- cultural Society. The Report of the Secretary was read and accepted and a yesolu- tion was passed thanking the Secretary for his full report and the thorough performance of his duties. The following is the report in full: Summer Meeting. GENTLEMEN :—The Secretary has but little of interest to make a report of. The Society held a meeting at the Agricultural College, at Minneapolis, June 28th. The attendance was not large but there was a very fair exhibition of small fruits, vegetables, flowers and plants. Two papers of high character were read at this meeting, one by Prof. Chas. A. Morey, of Winona, on Fungi, touching on blight incidentally, and the other on Horticulture in its relations to education. A very pleasant feature of this meeting was a picnic dinner spread on the University grounds by the ladies of Minneapolis. All who attended this meeting expressed themselves well satisfied, but it was evident to me that the meeting amounted to little more than a meeting of those members of the State Society residing in Hennepin and Ramsey coun- ties. The meeting and exhibition might therefore just as well be held by the horticultural-societies of these counties, and hence although heretofore heartily in favor of a summer meeting of the State Society, Iam notin favor of another attempt in that direction. The hope that such a meeting and exhibition would finally draw fromall parts of the State, does not give much promise of fulfillment. Hence the abandonment of this idea on my part. ANNUAL REPORT. = P Centennial Matters. J Previous to this meeting your Secretary has little to report. A committee from this Society acted in concert with a similar committee from the State Agricultural Society on Centennial matters, but its only action was to organize, to recommend some memorial to the Legislature, and to await the : action of that body. The kind of action committed by that body did not furnish apology for further meetings of the committee, and it never met a second time. et. In view of the action of the Legislature, it was resolved at the summer meeting of the Society not to exhibit on the Centennial Grounds, but with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. You have seen how that resolu- tion was disregarded by the Committee on Centennial Exhibition, and I think we can none of us be too grateful to the committee for doing just as they did. The results certainly justify the course taken. I can say this with good grace, for although Chairman of that Committee, I took no part in its proceedings. Transactions of the Society. Within the last year all copies of the Transactions not distributed have come into my hands, except a few retained by the Secretary of State to distribute when specially applied for. These are now placed subject to the order of the Society, and include as follows: 377 copies No. 1, cloth binding. °612°° «¢ ‘2, paper ‘* by J. S. Harris. Bayi yee Sark EB we “by L. M. Ford. 988 *§ oO nd Ke by Chas. Y. Lacy. 2,198 copies, total. What to do with these is 4 question which has occurred to me. It seems neither right nor proper to hoard them too closely. Thus far, I have used my own judgment in distributing them. I would now recommend that the Society authorize their distribution, so that County Horticultural Societies now in existence shall not suffer through any failure of the Secretary of State to distribute according to law. In other words, so that when any County Horticultural Society shall show that none of its Secretaries have received the volumes prescribed by law, the Secretary of this Society shall furnish the same. I would also recommend that the Society furnish to County Horticultural Societies that may hereafter be found with twelve or more members, the number of copies stated in the law, of the Transactions from .- the beginning of their publication. This may perhaps be an inducement for the organization of such societies and for the present at least, this Society can afford to do it. Library. The library of the Society have not received any important additions the past year. > ' / MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL society. § 11] oor i ab? Membership. ,, che membership for the year 1876 was much larger than it has ever been before, there being upwards of 75 members, ‘ wee : Expenses. The expenses of the Secretary’s office have been correspondingly large, : but at the close of this meeting I think the Society will not only have paid all its expenses, including charges on fruits sent to the Centennial, but will have a balance in the Treasury. The expenses of the Secretary’s office have been as follows: \ POStAGE..- 22-5202 dene en cteeed deebaldtnesesiseceescceseees $8 68 Postage On) Transactions. .. 2. .s.cccs cece sccves occven Senvece 6 56°) Copying notes, of Proceedings... 0 sccscessenserereoraccece 4 45 Express on Proof to and from Printer..........c.ccccecccee 2 00 Postal Cards for Summer Meeting............ aan oe afal ala, anaes 1 50 Printing same.........-..... aidalatete stale tes (e'e ram Sawin aiatafdtarets’ etetsyete 1 25 Telegram to Wis. Hort. Soc..... SOSA be, ieee: kanes Mah + 1 00 Labor, Mailing Transactions, Postal Cards and Programmes. 1 42 400 Printed Programmes........0sececcsccescsceee ceccee cs 6 00 \ RI RO MTIVEIONCS «5515 0 v ses vetla cess decencecacee, seoee, 126 Bee eretaps FOr PrOPramMess . « va..0\cnieie. idls'senislee ces yecaecsae 12-00 DOGRMMEIMDELSHID TICKETS <: ‘ a ¢ ] 2, i ’ j f i Toe m ; Bee ¢ . f : ? : "tor . 4a | ANNUAL REPORT. undergo the same ordeal that inventors do until the nurserymen get a stock of them. Mr. Jewell. I think the Elgin Beauty ought to go on the list for general trial, but not the others. Mr. Sias. Mr. Richardson has more of the Rollins Russet than any one else. He says it is subject only to the blight, and he is not discouraged on that account. A motion was made to amend by placing all but the Elgin Beauty on the list for trial by amateurs and pomologists and ‘Elgin Beauty on the list for general trial. The amendment was carried unanimously, and then the wile as amended was carried unanimously. Clawson and Kimble. Mr. Pearce. Mr. Clawson, of New Haven, has four trees grown from sprouts from a tree raised from the seed. The trees are per- fect, although growing in an unfavorable locality. The fruit is better than the Seek-no-further. He calls this variety the Clawson. These sprouts were planted about 20 years ago. Last fall I vis- ited these trees, and found three of them loaded unusually heavy with fruit resembling the Yellow Bellflower in outward appear- ance. On testing them, I found the apples fine-grained, juicy, mild subacid, excellent for eating and having a small core. I gave the trees a thorough examination, and found them perfect, except a slight injury in the forks caused by the winter of 1872-3. The fourth tree was taken up and set in another place when eight or nine years old. It did well until run into with a plow, which broke the roots loose and caused half the tree todie. The remain- ing half hung full of fruit last year. The Kimble is another seed- ling growing in the same town. The seed was planted by Mrs. Kimble some seven or eight years ago. The tree is very vigorous and healthy, and bore about half a bushel of fruit last year. The fruit is of very good quality and keeps all winter. A motion was made to place the Clawson and Kimble on the list for trial by amateurs and pomologists. The motion was Carried unanimously. Hart’s Seedlings. A motion was made that the two seedlings of Mr. Hart go on the same list. One was a dull red, shaped somewhat like the ! : MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 123 Gillflower, and marked No. 11. The other was yellow and sweet, and marked-seedling No. 7. _ The motion was carried unanimously. CRAB APPLES. Soulard. _A motion was made to strike out the Soulard entirely. Motion carried; 6 for and 1 against. Meader’s Winter. A motion was made to place Meader’s Winter fourth on the list — for general trial. The motion was carried unanimously. Hesper Blush. A motion was made to place Hesper Blush on the same list. The motion was carried ; 3 for and 1 against. Whitney's No. 20. A motion was made to place Whitney’s No. 20 on the list for general trial. Mr. Dart. Tt is not well enough known for that. Mr. Pearce. Itis of great promise ; the season is August, and the size large. Mr. Jewell. It has not been fruited in this State. Mr. Brand. The bark has burst in winter on trees three and four years old. The motion was lost ; 4 for and 4 against. It was moved to recommend for trial by amateurs and nursery- men. The motion was carried unanimously. Alaska Crab. A motion was made to place the Alaska Crab on the same list. Mr. Brand. It is evident to all that it is a Fall crab, but it has been advertised as a late Winter crab. - My as 4 Z% a> ° a . ‘- i jf , ra 5 ‘ oe 9 a \ : . ‘oe yor \ : } - ‘ “2 ’ 124 | ANNUAL REPORT. — " r Mr. Sias. I wintered it last winter and it stood as well as any _ crab. Last year was not so fair a test as some, however. — Mr. Kenney. Ihave bought fifty trees of it. fr The motion was carried ; 7 for and 2 against. Blight on Crabs. The members were called upon to state their experience with Blight on Crabs. Mr. Brand. As to Meader’s Winter, I think Mr, ‘Ten ex- perience is confined to his own grounds. I have fifty trees coming | into bearing. I saw no blight on the Orange till this year. It is mostly twig blight, in one instance only on the trunk. I consider it substantially free. The General Grant is subject to blight, but has never injured badly. The Early Strawberry does not blight to injure it. The Conical has not been injured. The Quaker Beauty blights worse. The Maideu’s Blush does not blight to injure. Aiken’s Striped Winter I do not remember to have seen blighted to injure. The Minnesota I have seen blighted some but not, on my grounds, enough to injure it. I think Mr. Jordan’s were on Transcendent stocks, and caught the blight from them. Of Palmer’s Sweet I have five bearing trees, and it has never blighted at all. Beecher’s Sweet I have in bearing, and it has not blighted with me. Mr. Jewell. The Minnesota is as free as any tree that ever lived. The only ones mentioned that blight are General Grant and Meader’s Winter, and the last not seriously except while young. The original tree stands in the vicinity of blighted trees. I have had Meader’s Winter three or four years old badly injured. The General Grant in the nursery is badly injured, butif it stands to eight or ten years old it will not seriously injure. The Karly Strawberry I have not seen to blight very much. The Quaker Beauty is not inclined to blight very much if away from the Transcendent. It stands well in the orchard and as an orchard tree it is safe. The Maiden’s Blush blights some but I have not had it badly injured. Meader’s Sweet Russet. Mr. Brand. I move toadd Meader’s Sweet Russet to the list of Crabs for general trial. Mr. Jewell. It is not equal to Beecher’s Sweet. It is not so productive nor of so good a quality. ; Fe ‘ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. $6 iain avin I have eight bearing trees. It is a'fair keeper, will keep into November, of better flavor than the Beecher’ s Sweet but the latter is more productive. \ The motion was carried; 5 for and 2 against. Sylvan Sweet. Mr. Sias asked about the Sylvan Sweet Con Mr. Jewell. It is no crab at all, but a small inferior seedling of the common apple and not hardy. Mr. Sias. I received a few cions and grafted 500 stocks this winter. I judged from the cions that it was a crab and hardy. Mr. Brand. Ihave met a gentleman who had worked for the proprietors of the Sylvan Sweet Crab, and he said the original tree ’ was not hardy. | Brier’s Sweet and Northfield Beauty. Mr. Jewell. I would mention Brier’s Sweet Crab. I have never seen a better tree than the original. It is erect and vigor- ous, but not a very early bearer. The quality is good but the season is short. The tree is hardy enough and is worthy of culti- vation to some extent. Also the Northfield Beauty Crab. The fruit is about the size of the Haas but of better quality. If a crab and hardy enough for Minnesota will be a great acquisition. Virginia. A motion was made to recommend the Virginia Crab for trial by amateurs and pomologists. The motion was carried unanimously. Brier’s Sweet again. It was moved to recommend Brier’s Sweet for trial by nursery- men and pomologists. The motion was carried; 6 for and 1 against. It was moved to close the subject of crabs. The motion was carried. NEXT MEETING. Mr. Pearce made a motion to hold the next annual meeting at _— 126 | - QNNUAL REPORT, = Rochester. Some one asked if any guarantee could be given, in case the meeting were held there, that the Society would not be run by Mr. Jordan. This led to a somewhat extended discussion, of which Mr. Jordan was the chief subject, after which the motion was carried unanimously. / ORGANIZATION OF nibs HORTICULTURAL SOCIETIES, The report of the Committee on the Organization of Cady Horticultural Societies was read. The report was accepted, and the committee continued with power to act. The report was as follows: Your committee report progress, and are in favor of publishing a pamph- let briefly enumerating the advantages of horticultural organizations, and the relations of the same to this Society, their rights under the laws of the State, the method of organizing such societies, and a brief constitution for their use. Cuas. Y. Lacy, W. T. Scott. REPORT ON PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS. The report of the Committee on the President’s Address was read and accepted. It was as follows: - Your committee report in favor of referring the whole subject of an exhibition by the Horticultural Society to the Executive Committee, with power to act. REPORT OF MR. LATHAM. The committee acting with the State Agricultural Society made a verbal report, but the Secretary failed to get the substance of it. The report of A. W. Latham, Esq., of Excelsior, of the General Fruit Committee, was read and ordered on file for publication. The following is the report in full: To the Minnesota State Horticultural Society: Review. The labor of another year has been crowned with success, and our further efforts in growing the apple and the grape have produced results most encouraging. While there are but few varieties of the common apple (pyrus malus) that can be planted with safety and certainty in our orchards, _ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 127 the experience of over twenty years, including one or two exceptionally severe winters, has proved that there are a very few kinds which are worthy of very general culture. It was fortunate for the orchards of Minnesota that the severe winter of ’72-3 was not longer deferred. Planters in this ‘locality were setting or about to set large numbers of such varieties as Ben Davis, Fameuse, Pewaukee, &c., of which single trees were to be found looking very promising and bearing fair crops of fruit. Much, however, was yet to be learned by the settler in this yet comparatively new and untried climate. The lesson came with sudden severity, but none too soon; and our hopes of fair orchards of those varieties of apples whose names were familiar to us of old, were quickly blasted. But though the list of eligible kinds is greatly curtailedit still contains those of merit, as the Duchess of Oldenburg, the Tetofsky, and above all, Minnesota’s own offspring, the new and beautiful Wealthy. There are a few other sorts than these, not so hardy, which are doing pretty well about here and may, no doubt, be planted with profit, such as the Haas, Plumb’s Cider, &c. ' Duchess. Of the Duchess it canndt be said that it came through the ‘‘ hard” winter totally unscathed, but I do not remember to have seen a tree in this section that I believe to have been killed back in the top, as the term is usually applied, or otherwise injured above ground, except upon the trunk or main branches on the S. or SW. sides. There were occasional trees the following spring, as indeed there have been other springs, before and since, which had the appearance of being injured uniformly all through the tree, some of which ultimately withered and died, while others recovered. Their appear- ance would indicate injury to the root, although individual trees, weakened from special cause, may have succumbed to our rigorous climate. In regard to the number of bushels of the variety ripening in this section the past season I can only conjecture and should place the amount at not far from 400 bushels, of which the pioneer of fruit culture, Peter M. Gideon, contributed nearly one-half. Most of the bearing’ trees are young, but few being 10 or 12 years of age and consequently the average per tree is low. Tetofsky. ¢ Of the Tetofsky, I can say but little, as there are few trees of this kind bearing here, except that it seems to be nearly, perhaps quite, as hardy as the preceding. Its fruit is such a very short keeper that it has little merit as a market variety, and a very few trees are aS many as any planter has use for. Wealthy. In the Wealthy are centered many hopes, and its ultimate success with us is very nearly assured. I speak thus cautiously of this beautiful apple as an experience of many years in tree culture in this latitude has made me ‘ ‘4 ae . ‘ i} \ a 128 ANNUAL REPORT. op ee aaa ‘ exceedingly, perhaps over, cautious. Most of you have seen and tasted its — _ fruit, and will agree with me that it is of excellent quality, and for beauty ' of appearance unsurpassed. In regard to its season, there is some dispute. I can only say that I have kept the fruit without difficulty through the winter, and at this time (Jan. 15th) the specimens in my cellar have as fine an ap- pearance as when gathered, and will doubtless keep till March. I believe that if allowed to ripen on the tree, picked carefully, barreled, and put in a dark, cool cellar, they will be in fine condition for use during the latter part of the winter; but with the care ordinarily bestowed upon apples in lati- tudes where the fruit is more plentiful, they will not keep much after January Ist., The tree is as hardy as the Duchess, and as far as my own observation goes, not nearly so liable to injury upon the trunk. It is a very satisfactory tree to most planters in a new country, who are not willing to live and wait, as in the *‘ good old time.” With care, it usually fruits at five years, or, at most, at six years of age. It is to be regretted that an imperfection must be recorded against this valuable variety ; but truth compels the statement that it is somewhat liable to blight; not, indeed, to any such degree as the crab family, but this being a scourge before which we are comparatively powerless, we dread its most distant approach. However, a large proportion of the Wealthy trees in this section, of an age to be productive, are top-worked upon Transcendent or Hyslop, and have suffered from blight through the influence of the stock, or from being planted in contiguity to trees of the crab kind. Wealthy grafted upon common apple stocks and standing apart from crab trees are compara- tively uninjured. Indeed, no crab tree should ever be planted near an orchard of standards, as no doubt longer exists of the contagious character of the blight. This disease has not thus far attacked our standard trees to any ‘such extent as to deter planting, but only to confirm the necessity of certain precautions as to tillage, enriching, &c. Probably the few Wealthy trees of bearing size have produced 40 or 50 bushels the past season. A large increase is looked for the coming year. Crabs. Our crab orchards and nurseries have suffered this year, as before, from blight. While it cripples bearing trees more or less, it rarely kills, and great hopes are entertained that like the locust scourge, it may wear itself out and depart. Russians. Many new Russian varieties have fruited the past year, and look well, but they have not yet stood the test and are only regarded with hope. Seedlings. Many new varieties of seedlings, crabs, standard, and crosses of the two, , MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 129 have also borne fruit, mostly upon the farm of Mr. Gideon. Some of these have much to recommend them in the direction of beauty and quality of fruit, hardiness of tree, &c. Not to specify individual trees, suffice it to say, that the success in this work is such as to encourage further effort, and ‘to leave no room for doubt that ultimately kiads will be originated that will be perfectly adapted to our peculiar climate, and of a quality of fruit worthy of general culture. Grapes. The grape crop here is as fine as usual, and I believe larger than hereto- fore. I leave this subject to my co-laborer, Mr. F. G. Gould, who makes it the subject of a special treatise. ; Congratulations. In conclusion, the Minnesota fruit-growers have good cause for exulta- tion, and we must be faint-hearted, indeed, who falter now by the way. There have, indeed, been times when the clouds lowered, and there seemed certain prospect that perpetual darkness would enshroud us. These clouds are being withdrawn, and we can believe that in the not distant future the glorious sunlight of an assured success will dispel their latest shade. Let us clasp in encouragement each his fellow’s hand, and press forward earnestly towards the end to which we are devoted. Yours, fraternally, A. W. LATHAM. EXCELSIOR, Minn., Jan. 15, 1877. EVERGREENS. A motion was made that the list of Evergreens stand as adopted last year. The motion was carried. REPORT OF GEO. H. FISH. The report of Geo. H. Fish, Esq., of Sauk Centre, of the Gen- eral Fruit Committee, was read ‘and ordered on file for publica- tion. The following is the report in full: SauK CENTRE, Stearns Co., Minn., Dec. 16, 1876. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq. Dear Sir: Your card of the 7th ultimo, reminding me of my duty to the Society, came in due time but in my absence. I wish to assure you that I have a lively interest in horticulture, and wish soon to see it receiving its deserved attention by the people of all parts of our State. I believe a gen- 1 / 130 ANNUAL REPORT. “std be eral attention to it would add to the general health of, and be a source of : profit to the people, and also tend to mental and moral culture, by opening up an attractive field for the excercise of observation and thought, and of true tastes and sympathies. Imported fruits are always expensive items of consumption, compared with the expense of raising such as our climate will admit of, to say nothing of the vastly inferior quality of most of the im- ported, canned and dried fruits. This county, and those west and north, have been backward in taking the initiatory steps in the enterprise of fruit raising, in the way of setting out trees and plants; likely owing to the pre- vailing impression that this part of the State at least is too far north, and consequently the climate too severe to admit of a chance for much success. ' Apples. Still, in the successive past few years, many have ventured to set out quite largely of the Transcendent and Hyslop trees, mostly of the former, and the two last seasons the oldest trees have proved productive. Last fall there was an abundance of Transcendent apples in town for sale at $1.25 a bushel. It is very rarely that any of the tried, standard trees have stood the climate so us to perfect any desirable growth. Small Fruits. But few have made a commencement with small fruits, and there seems to be a geveral want of knowledge as to their importance, and indifference in regard to their raising, though enough has been done to prove that with care they can be profitably raised. I had last season half an acre of rasp- berries; about two-thirds yearling plants of the various kinds, the rest two year old, on highly manured sandy land, all bearing well. I have the Sen- eca, Doolittle, Davison’s and Mammoth Cluster, of the black-caps. Part of them were mulched in fall and stood the winter the best. Iam not yet cer- tain which are the hardiest and most prolific. The Seneca and Davison’s Thornless certainly have done well. I have two rows each of the Philadel- phia Red and Purple cane, The Philadelphia has stood two winters, with ground almost bare of snow, and no protection, without killing at all, and last season bore prodigiously. The Purple Cane stood the winter nearly as well, and fruit is very delicious, but bore nothing like as well as the Phila- delphias. I keep the red bushes pinched back severely, the same as the black, making them stocky, which may account for their hardiness. I know of several parties who have cultivated the black-caps for a number of years successfully in this vicinity, and for eating when fresh in summer, and for canning and drying, every farmer who regards economy and the comfort and health of his family, should raise them. If apples of standard varieties are uncertain, they and strawberries with care are not. Of course, some years are singularly unfavorable. Last winter there was but little snow, and many warm days, thawing the frequent light falls to an ice, which com- pletely covered the beds, and in most cases so bound the canes as to destroy \ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 1381 the fruit sets, if it did not kill the plants, so that in this part of the State most of the beds were a failure. Still, enough have been raised in past years to prove that with care they can generally be relied on in this part of the State. They are the ne plus ultra of canned fruits, when canned prop, erly at home. The same is true of drying them. But comparatively very _ few are yet raising them, and most will persist in getting plants from old adulterated beds of Wilsons, or those entirely spurious because they are free, rather than paying a fair price for true plants. This is owing mainly to the fact that people are generally ignorant of the tendency of superior kinds to be run out by those that are inferior when not cared for in that particular. Should not the exquisite relish that all people have for berries of various kinds, the tendency to social enjoyment in their eating at table, their extreme healthfulness, the source of delight to old and young in seeing them gtow and produce so bountifully under good care, and the disappoint- ments so common to children in their futile tramps in search of inferior wild ones to gratify their natural yearnings, induce every farmer and gardener not to delay their cultivation, who has a true desire to please and to make home and society pleasant? Planting costs but little, the care required is not great nor irksome to a true taste, and remuneration quick and profitable. Would not short essays read before the Society at different times in future, as in the past, and published, discussing which are the best kinds, and what are the especial modes of cul- ture necessary to their highest development and productiveness, thus keep- ing the subject before the minds of the people, and giving them instruction, be likely eventually to prove of eminent usefulness to the public? G. H. Fisu. TRANSACTIONS NOT RECEIVED. A motion was made that members who have not received the Transactions of the Society. shall be entitled to the missing num- bers by applying to the Secretary and forwarding postage. The motion was carried. The meeting adjourned to meet at 7:30 P. M. THURSDAY EVENING. DELEGATES TO MEETING OF AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. The meeting was called to order at 7:45. A motion was made that the President appoint two delegates and attend as a third himself. 132 ANNUAL REPORT. The motion was carried, and Messrs Elliot and Dart were ap- pointed. — | Ce, A motion was made that the President have power to fill vacancies in the delegation. The motion was carried. . 7 HONORARY MEMBERS. A motion was made that Mrs. C. O. Van Cleve, of Minneapolis, be elected an honorary member of this Society. Carried. A motion was made that Miss Hortense Share, of Rosemount, be elected an honorary member of this Society. Carried. ) SUMMER MEETING. A motion was made to dispense with a Summer meeting this year. Carried. REPORT OF MR. CARTER. The report of T. G. Carter, Esq., St. Peter, of the General Fruit Committee, was read and ordered on file for publication. The following is the report in full: St. Peter, Nicollet Co., Minn., Jan. 16, 1877. Prof. Chas Y. Lacy, Secretary State Horticultural Society : Small Fruits. DeaR Sir: I cannot give a report covering the whole district, but will confine it to what has come under my observation in this county, an one orchard in LeSueur county; which, by the way, is notin my district. Last winter seems to have been hard on strawberry vines more than one year old, whether covered or otherwise. The young vines from the last year’s runners were all right. The strawberry and raspberry crops were not up to the average, I think; some not half a crop. Of black-cap raspberries, the Doolittles constituted the main crop, other kinds being but little culti- vated. With me, however, the Mammoth Cluster and Seneca were the most productive, and the fruit the largest. The Philadelphia red bore a very fair crop. With me they came through the winter better than the blacks, and yielded 100 per cent. better. The markets in this vicinity were better sup- plied than in former years, and prices consequently lower; more people having engaged in the business of raising small fruits than ever before. Of strawberries, I think the Wilson yielded best. The drouth cut both crops short. - MINNESOTA STATE HORTIUULTURAL SOCIETY. 133 The currant crop was larger than usual, and they sold for lower prices’ than heretofore obtained. * Gooseberries were largely in excess of the demand. . Plums. Plums were not so plenty, and not so’ good as usual, except in a few instances. There are a number of excellent varieties of the wild plum in the county, which have been cultivated and many of them are of a large size. ' The Miner is about the only tame plum raised in the county. It is very late and should be planted on a light warm soil in order to ripen well, when it is hard to find its equal. Mr. Bergen, of Lake Prairie, has two trees of the German prune, six years old, which have borne fair crops of fruit for the past two years, and are healthy and flourishing. He also has several choice varieties of the native plum. He claims that spreading fresh stable manure over the ground under his trees once in two or three years protects his plums from the curculio. Also, that an application of pine tar to all kinds of fruit trees which are diseased in the body or branches is very bene- ficial. This does not refer to blight, as he is not troubled with it, but probably to the damage to the bark, wounds from borers, &c. Apples. The crop of Transcendent apples has been very large, so much so that large quantities have been made into cider. Within the last four or five years they sold here at four dollars a bushel. Notwithstanding that this apple is very much subject to the blight, I believe the time is not far distant when we shall export dried fruit, and that it will command a better price than the best quality of eastern dried apples. Consequently, I believe it should be generally cultivated. It does not need to be pared, I am told, and the core can be removed by a simple tin punch. The Hyslop also makes a good dried apple, and needs no peeling, although the better for it, of course. The blight has done no damage, so far as I have heard, except in the orchard of Ernest Meyer, of this place, where it attacked his large trees some two years ago, mainly Transcendents, I think, but has not touched two and three years old trees. Mr. S. B. Carpenter, of Lake Emily, across the river from St. Peter, in LeSueur county, also had a touch of the blight two years ago. It struck one row of young trees on highly cultivated new ground. He had used leached ashes freely on the balance of his orchard, and never had a tree touched. He applied them to this diseased row and they have never been troubled since. By the way, Mr. Meyer had nine or ten varieties of apples on exhibition: at our county fair, among which were some Fameuse and several seedlings of promise. Mr. Carpenter raised about twenty-five different varieties—the ~ 134 ANNUAL REPORT. OSS ATE ‘Duchess, of which he had about veeteiiive bushels; Haas, ness %oR Bar bushels ; Red Astrachan, one bushel; a sweet apple, supposed to be Talman Sweet, one bushel; about twenty of Transcendents, and more or less of | Tetofsky, Fameuse, Golden Russet, Jeniton, Small Romanite, Maiden’s Blush, Hesper Blush, Quaker Beauty, and twelve other varieties, including four Seedlings, (standards,) and an early winter Pippin, fruit as large as the Duchess, which last has stood ten years, now fruited for first time, and is hardy so far. Two of the Seedlings bear splendid fruit, are sixteen years old, but not quite hardy. The Golden Russet, Talman Sweet, Jeniton, Small Romanite, and Red Astrachan were damaged by the hard winter of 1872 and ’73, and have not recovered yet. Haas are six years old, and were not hurt by the hard winter referred to. The Duchess, young and old, are black on the south side, also some of the Transcendents. Mr. C.’s orchard is located on the south-east side of Lake Emily, and being on western border of the Big Woods, is somewhat pro- tected, although the timber is cut off on north side as a general thing. The Duchess is damaged on the south side of body—very few people tak- ing care to give them protection from the sunin winter. I am satisfied that this and the borer kill many trees, and it is charged to hard winters. ‘Some trees of Stewart Sweet, not less than sixteen years old, are bearing good crops—trees perfectly healthy and hardy. Some trees in a neighbor’s orchard, bought (of Moulton) for Aiken’s Green Winter, seem to be perfectly hardy, while others, bought for Aiken’s Striped Winter, (but labeled Aiken’s Green Winter,) have killed to near the ground and are sprouting from the stump. Quite a number obtained Beecher’s Sweet from same source, but they seem to be Beecher’s, or some one else’s, sour, but are a desirable apple. Grapes. ¢ Grapes were a short crop—not quite a third with me, and from that to one- half, so far as I have learned. The Concord must be grown on a light, warm soil, to be sure of ripening, as you can hardly count on two out of three crops on timber, or good black prairie soil. The Delaware is of course more certain, but not sure of ripening by any means. The Janesville is sure and is a very good grape, growing better the longer it hangs on the vine, and a freeze which spoils the Concord does not seem to hurt the flavor of it a particle. The dark grape which grows wild in some of the New England States, seems to do well here without any protection, and is, in my opinion, a better grape than the Clinton. I am expected to give a list of fruits best adapted to this district, but beg to be excused therefrom, and will in its place give the qualities of the ideal tree, bush and vine, which are required to make a success in fruit growing in this district. It must be proof against cold, heat, moisture and drouth; against blight and damage from insects; against careless setting; against damage from horses, cattle, sheep and swine, wagon wheels and farm implements gener- MERSORA STATE HORTICULTURAL ii. 185 ally; should be able to stand total neglect, sil should ane a large crop of _ the best fruit the same season it is set out, which will ripen enqdeinila until cold weather, and keep until it is ripe the next summer. y This seems to be the popular idea, and about what is expected in trees, &c., bought of our nurserymen. As it is difficult to fill the bill with any one | variety now in existence, let those who are experimenting for new varieties bear the above standard in mind. ” Hurriedly yours, oe T. G. CARTER. DISCUSSION. Tar. 7 Mr. Grimes. Iconsider that as an able and truthful report. Tar may be good to keep out the wet and to protect from decay, but I should be afraid to apply it to green parts of plants. Paint will do just as well for those purposes. The German Prune is no hardier than some of the cultivated plums. The Miner while young kills back, but later it becomes hardy. The fruit keeps excellently, and on the whole it is a very good variety. Mr. Pearce. J would like to know if tar is injurious. I have used pine tar, and no harm was done. Mr. Grimes. Ido not know that tar would do any harm, but some substances will injure. Lard is an illustration. It fills the pores and prevents transpiration. My. Dart. I knew a man to kill 30 or 40 trees by binding with pork rinds. Mr. Jewell. I have tried pine tar on 75 trees. I saturated cloth, wrapped it around them, and left it on for a month without injury. Anything, however, which closes the pores will prove injurious. I have tried the cultivated Plum, German Prune and the Miner. Some years ago I planted and sold especially of the German Prune. I know of none of them that are alive now. None survived the winter of 1872-73. Ihave the Miner. It was tender while young, became hardier when older, but bore none until lately. Last year I had about 100 on twelve to fifteen trees. I got some more trees later, however, which fruited younger. Trunk Injury. Mr. Pearce. It isa common complaint that a tree is injured on the south side. Frequently this extends only through the outer bark and does not injure the inner bark at all. 7% 136 ANNUAL REPORT. une Mr. Jewell. Mr. Pearce’s statement is correct. Often the blackening which we see does no harm. There may, bi be disease there. 7 dike My ; ‘ REPORT OF MR. HARRIS ON INSECTS, &0. ee “eg The reports of J. S. Harris, Esq., La Crescent, on Insects In- festing House Plants and on General Fruit were read and ordered on file for publication. They were as follows: Mr. President and Gentlemen of State Horticultura. Society: The study of the habits and instincts of a few small and insignificant insects or ‘‘ bugs,” as they are most usually termed, appears to many people to be a matter of so trifling importance as to be unworthy the attention of any man of common sense; and yet a thorough knowledge of the science of entomology or bugs, is of vast importance to those who till the soil for aliving. There is no useful fruit, grain, plant, or vegetable that has not its insect enemies, and in this State alone the annual damage done by them to the growing crops will doubtless exceed a million dollars, and they are con- stantly ontheincrease. Their name might appropriately be called ‘‘Legion,” and with the exception of one single species—the Colorado potato beetle— who can tell us how to head them off? Doubtless if all of our insect ene- mies were as well known as the above named beetle, and had been subjected to such irrepressible conflict, much of this immense damage could be pre- vented. ; I am but a young student in the science, and in this paper will risk my reputation only on a few insects that are injurious to flower and ornamental plants that are kept in green houses, conservatories and parlors, taking only those which are most common and giving the remedies that, in my own experience, have proved the best. Aphis rosea, (of the natural order of Hemiptera,) Or what is usually known as green fly, or green plant lice, infest nearly all plants that are cultivated both in and out of doors, and if left unmolested are particularly destructive to free-growing plants like monthly roses, scented geraniums, calceolarias, verbenas, &c., when kept in the house. The young lice, extremely minute and of a greenish color, when full-grown they are about one-tenth of an inch in length, and usually of a dark green color; but the color varies somewhat, according to the plants they are feed- ing upon. The older insects frequently have wings. On the plants kept in the house the female produces her young alive, but some naturalists state that on trees and plants growing out of doors the females, late in the fall, produce eggs for the generation of next spring. This is doubtless so, for a very little freezing kills the mature insect. They attack the young grow- an YI - MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 137 ing shoots near their points, and the young leaves on the under side, and piercing the tender cells with their proboscis suck away the juices that are needed to sustain the vigor, which causes the foliage to curl up and turn prematurely yellow. They also have a peculiarity of exuding from the abdo- men a honey-dew like substance that is a favorite food of small ants, and this substance soon gives the affected plant a filthy appearance. Where ants are seen frequenting plants it is pretty good evidence of the presence of the aphis. * \ Remedies—In all plant structures, separate from the dwelling, fumigating with tobacco smoke is the best and most practical remedy. This should be done as often as once a week. One plan for doing it is to take a few ignited coals on a shovel and place upon them tobacco stems (the waste of the cigar factory) slightly moistened, about four ounces for each twelve feet square of space in the house, keeping the house closed for an hour or so. Another and better method where brick or earthen floors are used, is to light a few shavings and lay the moistened tobacco stems upon them and let them consume slowly. After the smoke is out of the house the plants should be syringed freely to bring. down the stupefied insects, and afterwards the shelves should be brushed off and the floors swept clean. Where the plants are kept in the dwelling house this system of fumigation is not advisable as the room would carry a disagreeable odor for several days. Where but few plants are kept they may be taken out of doors or into the wood-shed, or taking a mild day for it and put into a dry-goods box with a close-fitting cover, and the smoke be blown upon them from a common smoking pipe; afterward syringe them and return them to their places. Another excellent method for cleaning plants of this insect is to fill a tub with soft water warmed to 100 to 120 degrees; invert the plant, holding the hand over the soil or tying a piece of cloth or something of the kind over the soil in the pot, put all the branches in the water, keeping the pot in the hand, and after drawing it to and fro a few times, take it out and shake it. If any insect remain take a small fine brush and brush them off, giving another dip, which will clean them for the present. This operation should be repeated as often as the insects appear, for nothing has been found out or heard of that will totally exterminate them. After this operation is per- formed, care should be taken not to raise a dust before the foliage dries off. Red Spider, (Acarus cellurius.) This insect is extremely minute, and when on the leaf can scarcely be discovered with the naked eye. When viewed tbrough a microscope the body is a bright red color, and the legs, which are eight in number, are of a light red, and they may be seen running about on the under side of the leaves with great rapidity. Although so small it is more difficult to exter- minate than the Aphis. ; With its proboscis it wounds the fine capillary vessels of the under side of 18 ‘ 138 ANNUAL REPORT. the leaves, which causes them to prematurely décay. When very numerous they work a thick web on the under side of the leaf and frequently all over it, causing the plant to present an unsightly and half-dead appearance. The bridal rose, the monthly rose, fuchsias, jassamines, violets, and callas are among the plants that suffer most quickly from their ravages, but when they once get a lodgement scarcely anything will remain exempt from their . attacks. An experienced gardener will usually detect their presence before much damage is done. When the foliage of the plants begins to get brown and look sickly it requires but little sagacity to divine the cause. Remedy.—The delight of this insect is a warm, dry atmosphere, and the only safe and effectual remedy is water. Water persistenly applied to the under sides of the leaves by syringing or sponging or dipping as recom- mended for Aphis, will eventually subdue or destroy them. Fumes of sul- phur is instant death to them, but amateurs and the inexperienced had better not try it, as it is a dangerous remedy that must be used with caution, or it will be death to the plants. Woolly Aphis or Mealy Bug (Coccus hesperidus,) is found infesting many collections of plants, and if not instantly destroyed soon becomes a serious enemy. It is of a white, dusty color, usually coy- ered with down, and resembles little bunches of cotton sticking in the forks of the branches and axils of the leaves. When broken itis of a brownish red. It is generally of a dormant nature, but in warm weather it may be seen moving up and down the stems of plants. If a single plant infested with it is placed in a collection of clean plants, the whole collection will in -a few weeks be covered with them. Iam having my first experience with them, they having got into my collection on some gardenias purchased in the east, (New York,) and I find them upon whatever comes in their way, but indulge most freely on the Crassulas, Echiveras, Prickly Cactus, Bouvar- dias and Oleanders, greatly marring their beauty, and I think if left alone would kill them outright. Remedy.—I find it is quickly destroyed by dipping the plant in a solution. of one pound whale oil soap to five gallons of rain water; but as this some- times injures tender plants I hardly like to recommend it. I think it best, when they are discovered, to watch for them and brush them off with a small tooth or nail brush, or crush them with a pointed soft wood stick. Itis also said that alcohol applied to them with a fine brush or feather is instant death to them, but not having tried this remedy, I should not like to recommend it only for very hardy plants. Brown and White Scale (Coccus.) This item I write under protest, as it is some time since I have had an opportunity to make microscopic examinations, and I am inclined to think that both brown and white are one species. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 139 - These are less injurious to'plants and less common than those previously — mentioned. They are generally found in the form of a scale adhering to the stems and leaves of plants that have been kept in dark and badly ven- tilated green-houses and rooms, and where plants are crowded close together. They seem to flourish in the myrtle, ivy and oleander. The full grown scale is about one-tenth of an inch in length and of an oval or egg shape. This scale is not the insect proper, but a substance that forms or grows over the female to provide a protection for the eggs or young. If the full- grown scale is carefully lifted and placed under a microscope, a great num- ber of eggs or active young, will be discerned, of a brownish or yellow color, having six legs, which they use with considerable dexterity, aud after they escape from the maternal shelter they ramble around until they find a Suitable place for feeding, when they fix themselves to the leaf or branch for life. Over the little insect a light colored film soon forms, and continues to increase in density and size until the insect attains its growth and pro- duces its young, which in turn undergo similar changes, and are trans- formed into other scales. The effects are of a corroding nature. They ex- _ tract the juices, and in time the foliage will assume a yellowish and decaying appearance, and the growth of the plant will cease. The best remedy is rubbing off with a stiff brush, or washing frequently with strong soap-suds, using a piece of sponge tied on a small stick, scrubbing every leaf and crevice. Thrips. The thrip is an active, jumping insect of very minute size, of various colors, from yellow to dark brown. They generally lurk close to the veins of the leaves of plants and luxuriate in shaded situations, and are very destructive when they get a foothold. The remedy is fumigating with tobacco, or the warm water bath recommended for the Aphis. JOHN S. Harris. REPORT OF GENERAL FRUIT COMMITTEE FOR DISTRICT NO 1. La CreEscENT, MiInn., Jan. 16th, 1877. The fruit crop of this district last year (1876) exceeded in quantity that of any previous year. Strawberries, raspberries and currants were a medium crop, but not as fine quality as in some previous seasons. Grapes were a light crop, owing to a failure to set well in the spring, but ripened well and were of good quality. The apple crop exceeded our most sanguine expec- tations, and were it not for the extreme hard times, it would give a new impulse to the planting of trees. The Duchess, Fameuse, St. Lawrence, Price’s Sweet, Plumb’s Cider, Haas, Sops of Wine, Utter’s Red and Astra- chans are among those doing the very best. The Walbridge still promises well, and fruited for the first time. Some varieties that flourished before the hard winter of 1872-3 are now extinct in this region. The blight pre- vailed pretty freely, and the crabs and some of the crab men are feeling a 140 | . ANNUAL REPORT. brie : , , little sick. We hope soon to be able to get along without them as our main dependence, and shall have no use for them when apples are cheap and bi for temperance is getting popular here and cider will not pay. fess all together the prospects are favorable. ; “ JOHN S. phe. General Fruit Committee, 1st District. DISCUSSION. Smoking. Mr, Elliot. Smoking a house should be done in cloudy weather, or at close of day, when the sun is not bright, and then the bad odor gets out before the next day. Mr. Jewell. Tobacco works like acharm. I have used it for the woolly aphis on trees extensively. Borers. Mr. Kenney. I would like to hear about the Apple Tree Borer. Mr. Elliot. In the mature condition it is a short-lived insect, Mr. Dart. Wash the trunks of the trees in the fore part of the season with lye or soap-suds. This keeps off beetles, and keeps the bark smooth, so that they can be seen if they make an attack. Mr. Pearce. They affect neglected trees. Take ashes, fill a pail quarter full, fill with water and scrub and wash the trunks with this, using a broom. Do not let the grass and weeds grow. I think that chickens keep trees free from borers. An Eastern writer recommends using a wash of aloes and water after the soap- suds. : Mr. Jewell. Ido not keep my orchard free from grass, and I never lost but one tree from borers. Another method is to make with tin a funnel around the trunk and fill this with strong soap- suds. This method drowns out the grubs in the trunk. Mr. Dart. I believe that the lye wash is good for the,tree in other ways besides destroying or preventing the borer. Mr. Brand. Ihave had some experience with borers. Much hickory appears to harbor them, and where there is no hickory they are rare. The borer full grown is a beetle, and it makes an incision from 4 to 13 inches in length in which it lays a number of eggs. By drawing a knife blade over these incisions you can hear ae eggs crack. They hatch in about ten days and begin to work, which you can see by the sap exuding. I believe they stay MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 141 in the trunk two winters. They may be dug out with a knife, punched in the hole with wire, or the hole filled with cotton ' saturated with kerosene. Mr. Kenney. Isee now why some places are free from borers. They took all my time before I wrapped the trunks of my trees. AMENDMENTS. The report of the Committee on Amendments was read and accepted and the committee continued. The report was as follows: Your Committee on Amendments to the Constitution and By-Laws report that it is not prepared at present to report on life memberships with a view to raising revenues. ; Your committee also report an amendment to the By-Laws which shall read as follows: 7 ‘ Finat ARTICLE. These By-Laws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the Society at any regular annual meeting. VARIOUS RESOLUTIONS. Fruit for State Exhibition. A motion was made to instruct the committee appointed to col- lect fruits for the meeting of the Pomological Society, to collect fruits at the same time for the Exhibition of this Society next fall. The motion was carried. Delegates to Pomological Society. A motion was made that the President and Secretary be author- ized to issue delegate credentials to all members who will attend the meeting of the Pomological Society free of expense to this Society. The motion was carried. Transactions for County Societies. A motion was made that the Secretary be instructed to issue wanting copies of the Transactions to all County Horticultural Societies. The motion was carried. 142 ss ANNUAL REPORT. Seah On ' Ornithology. A committee on Ornithology was proposed, but it was finally decided that a paper on that subject should be provided without such a committee. . Good words were spoken for several birds, and some bad words for others. Final Resolutions. The report of the committee on final resolutions was called for and read. The report was accepted and adopted, passing the res- olutions, which were as follows : Dr. President: The committee on final resolutions beg leave to report.— First Resolved, That the members of this Society from abroad hereby tender their sincere thanks to the Committee on Arrangements, for the pro- vision they have made for our satisfaction and comfort. Second Resolved, That we extend to this city our best wishes for its prosperity and welfare, and especially to those families who have so kindly entertained us during our stay among them. Third Resolved. That we instruct our Secretary to furnish those fam- ilies each with a copy of the current year’s reports when published, as a memento of our thanks. The members furnishing the Secretary with the names of those entitled to receive them. Fourth Resolved, That our sincere thanks be and are hereby extended to the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, and the Winona & St. Peter Railroad Companies for their generous actions in passing us over their roads at reduced rates, and we assure them that we do not come here in our own be- half but in the Horticultural interests of this great State, and our hearts are in the work, and in performing that work we trust that all will be mutually benefited and we hereby assure all with whom we have had intercourse, that they will be remembered long after we have dispersed and retired to our several homes. WIVES OF MEMBERS. A resolution was offered amending the By-Laws so as to make the wives of members, members of the Society without fee. At 10 o’clock p. m. the Society adjourned. [ eat Ce eare: Seen te ae ee) Nitta, lls ara on HN, Be t TGS PRICE ee mh NG ie gts) * jf * = nd me we Ca cee inhale nba t al Ae eee ee mathe <)-c4a Seen us TER! CE > Pe x es “3 , sa vi : ‘ é 4 ” hk wade: . 0 ci ica pete all hiban <-—reiea - cr ecabapebet accede tase iAaisGhntnipene perp emanate ree e ¥ ; - ¥ ' ot f y . y 4 ‘ 7) 1 ; - » * * oe Poy : Newt gta" He) i 4 nN . ‘ rs, P) oF ; a - - ; , , . . ’ 7 . “ i " * e ’ r os é / ' . we > ; ’ APPENDIX A. REPORT OF THE.DELEGATES TO THE MEETING OF THE AMER- ICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY, AT THE CENTENNIAL EXPOSI- TION, PHILADELPHIA, SEPT. llta TO THE 1é6rn, 1876. e. z Fai eRig ties ‘PART I.—PrReparep sy J. T. Grimes. In presenting this report, it may be proper to state that the meeting of the American Pomological Society for the centennial year was not the regular biennial session, but an ad interim meet- ing haying its bearing on the great central idea of the exposition, in showing the people how pomology has progressed in America during the last century. No such an exhibit of fruits was ever made on this earth : in fact, it was the grand feature of the month, and Americans had more reason than ever to be proud of their country when looking over those tables loaded with more than » - 15,000 plates of fruit, the fairest and best ever produced beneath the sun. The weather was all that could be desired, and there seemed to be only one regret, that Pres. Wilder was unwell and could not be present ; consequently, no formal meeting of the Society was held as had been proposed. It was the original plan to place this grouf in the Horticultural Department, where it would naturally belong, but there was no room there ; so the management projected an annex to the Agri- cultural Hall, constructed of wood and glass. The tables were arranged in long rows with the ends fronting the entrance doors, and were made narrow with three shelves to each side so as to facilitate the examination of the fruits by the judges and visitors. When we arrived on the grounds we felt somewhat embarrassed as our society had accepted an invitation to exhibit with the Penn- sylvania State Horticultural Society, as we supposed at the Cen- tennial, but when we learned that they were only intending to exhibit at their own hall in the city of Philadelphia, we thought best to make other arrangements, and accordingly applied for space at the centennial department, but were informed that it was all pre-engaged, but our fruit, when it arrived, could be placed upon 19 ~ epeG ANNUAL REPORT. tables that were not occupied. We asked if that. arrange would be permanent. They said not, but we would have to move if those entitled to the space came forward and claimed it. We told them that we could not place ourselves in such positions as to ~ be obliged to move round, in fact we thought some injustice been done. Canada for instance had one row of tables the whole length of the building, lowa had nearly as much, States and societies had a very liberal proportion, while others had none. But we found that Canada did fill her tables with fruits, fine, fat and luscious, Iowa did as well, and Kansas! well what is it that Kansas can’t do in advertising her resources ? noticed that most of those States that had not secured space also failed to be there with their fruits. But Minnesota was not left out in the cold; and some other we were subse- quently notified that if we would make formal application, two - tables and 400 plates would be placed at our disposal, which was at once done and the space secured, and would have been filled to © overflowing, had the Express Companies brought forward all the fruits which had been sent and on which the charges had been prepaid. As it was, our collection only numbered 209 plates con- taining 108 varieties of standard apples, 35 of crabs, 1 of pears and 2 of plums. Of standard apples we had on exhibition 63 named varieties, unknown 12, seedlings 19, of these E. B. Jordon, of Rochester, contributed 9, and 14 varieties of Russian apples, designated by numbers, were contributed by Moulton & Co., M neapolis, and attracted a great deal of attention, as did all of our fruits from their firm, polished, waxy appearance. contributors will be found in Part II to this report. The fruits were arranged for examination by the judges as follows : Division 1.—a. Summer Apples. Division 5.—a. Strawberries. b. Autumn Apples. b. Raspberries. c. Winter Apples. c. Blackberries. d. Currants. Division 2.—a. Summer Pears. e. Gooseberries. b. Autumn Pears. f. Cranberries. c. Winter Pears. g. Water Melons. h. Citron Melons. Division 3.—a. Free Stone Peaches. b. Cling Stone Peaches. Division 6.—a. Oranges. c. Apricots. d. Nectarines. Division 7.—a. Almonds. e. Native Plums. b. Filberts. f. Foreign Plums. c. Walnuts. d. Shellbarks. Division 4.—a. Native Grapes. b. Foreign Grapes. The displays by nurserymen, fruit-growers and societies were considered separately, and the awards consist of a special report by the judges and a Diploma, and a Bronze Medal from the United States Centennial Commission. The list of awards will be found in Part III. Exhibitors were required to attach cards to their fruits inserting the name of each variety, if known, or if We also A full list of MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 147 a seedling, or if unknown, to mark it as such ; so that the judges could also act as a committee on nomenclature, to insert, correct, or reduce all local and improper names to a common standard. This is an important work, and can only be done by a national society, such as the American Pomological. Another work of perhaps equal importance rests also with that society which has as yet not been attempted. It is the maping out of a fruit chart of our country, showing by isothermal lines to what limits the various kinds of fruits can be successfully grown, for instance apples, peaches, pears and plums that are grown near St. Catharines, Canada, cannot be grown as far north as central Iowa, and peaches that are produced in abundance near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan cannot be grown with any degree of certainty for more than a hundred miles south; away from the in- fluence of large bodies of water, and in going south, certain fruits disappear while others take their place. The value of such a chart can be seen at aglance. It would not only serve as a guide to the fruit grower, but the country could be divided into fruit zones cor- responding to the areas occupied by the different fruits, and the fruits of each district placed side by side at our national exhibi- tions to be judged in competition only within the district to which it belonged. In making up this report your delegates expected to avail them- selves of the special report of the judges (which is part of the awards to which we are entitled) and which the Director-General assured us would be printed in pamphlet form and a copy furnished, but which we have not, as yet, been able to obtain. The only document which we have received is the following notice of award : INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION. (No. 235.) PHILADELPHIA, 1876. \ The United States Centennial Commission has examined the report of the Judges, and accepted the following reasons, and decreed an award in con- formity therewith. \ PHILADELPHIA, February 14th, 1877. REPORT ON AWARDS. Product: One hundred and nineteen varieties of apples. Name and address of Exhibitor: Minnesota State Horticultural Society, Minnesota. The undersigned, having examined the product herein described, respect- fully recommends the same to the United States Centennial Commission for award, for the following reasons, viz.: Fora large and valuable collection representing the pomology of the extreme North, including twenty-four 148 : "ANNUAL REPORT. | varieties of crabs (pyrus Baccata.) The Soap illustratin Trees ‘of fruits to adapt themselves to peculiarities of c Posey ot _ Suet, Foster. Dies ; marrearyed: of peek ih s } ¢ ‘ sf Approval of Group Judges. ‘a i cael T. T. Lyon. E. SaTTeRTHWaIr. Tuomas MEEHAN. W. L. ScHAFFER. JOSIAH HOOPEs. J. B. YELLOWLY. A. W. HaRRISON. WILLIAM ParrY. PARKER EARLE. A true copy of the record. Francis A. WALKER, Chief of the Bureau of Awards, Given by authority of the United States Centennial Commission. {L. s.] A. T. GosHorN, Director-General. ; > J. L. CAMPBELL, J. R. HAWLEY, Secretary. , President. PART II.—Vanrietres, ContrisutTors, &c. PREPARED BY Wyman ELLIov. MINNESOTA FRUIT. PREPARING FOR A DISPLAY AT THE CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION.—TO THE FRUIT ; GROWERS OF MINNESOTA. The State Horticultural Society of Minnesota, at the summer meeting, held at the State University, June 28th, 1876, decided to make a display of fruits at the Centennial Exhibition, at the time of the meeting of the Ameri- can Pomological Society, September 11th to 16th, and appointed the under- signed to take charge of it. In order to make the exhibition a success on the part of the State, we would respectfully solicit every fruit grower to contribute such specimens as he may have, to the care of Prof. C. Y. Lacy, Secretary State Horticul- tural Society, Minneapolis, Minnesota, who will forward the same, or send direct to Philadelphia, consigned to our care. Every specimen should be wrapped in tissue paper and packed in cotton or some soft material to pre- vent bruising. The boxes should also be open enough to prevent heating. Each variety should be carefully labeled, and the contributor’s name attached thereto, as we intend to keepa complete record, to be appended to the report which we shall make to the annual meeting of our society. Such fruits as mature before the time, can be preserved in alcohol and water, and sent. As a distinct feature, we would earnestly recommend that originators of new varieties of fruits to send all specimens worthy of consideration, giv- ing in writing all facts relating thereto. These, in justice to the originators, will be exhibited separate from the general collection, that the attention of the Pomologist may be directed to their merits. We shall be on the grounds at least one week before the time specified, in order to perfect all necessary arrangements. Cuas. Y. Lacy, Sec. State Hor. Soc. J. T. Grimgs, Del. of State Hor. Soc. Mg 4 MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 149 In response to nearly one hundred of the above circulars sent, there were received from the following contributors, fruits to be forwarded and placed on exhibition at the Centennial. The undersigned served in place of Prof. C. Y. Lacy, at his request, as he was sick and unable to receive and forward fruits. W. E. BRIMHALL, ST. PAUL. Ld Duchess of Oldenburg. Haas. Molly. Wealthy. Crabs. Chicago. ~Gen. Grant. Hyslop. Large Yellow. Large Red. Marengo Winter. Montreal Wax. Montreal Beauty. Soulard. Transcendent. Virginia. TRUMAN M. SMITH, ST. PAUL. Transcendent. MRS. WM. PAIST, ST. PAUL. ° Transcendent. CHARLES HAUSE, ST. PAUL. Duchess of Oldenburg. Plumb’s Cider. THOMAS ODELL, ST. PAUL. Duchess of Oldenburg. Haas. F. G. GOULD, EXCELSIOR. Wealthy. JACOB MARTELLA, WEST ST. PAUL. Haas. Fameuse. Gravenstein. Russian Varieties. Sweet Pear. Unknown. Crabs. Gen. Grant. WYMAN ELLIOT, MINNEAPOLIS. Pride of Minneapolis. Hyslop. Transcendent. 150 ANNUAL REPORT. F Plums. Harrison’s Big Red. Harrison’s Peach. J. T. GRIMES, MINNEAPOLIS. Duchess of Oldenburg. Grand Sultan. ® Haas. Tetofsky. Crabs. Transcendent. Hyslop. GEO. HACKETT, MONEY CREEK. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fall Stripe. Golden Russet. Early Washington. Lucy. Talman Sweet. Money Creek Beauty. Sweet Winter Crab. Quaker Beauty. § Plum Crab. 3 varieties Seedlings. A. W. SIAS, ROCHESTER. Ben Davis. Cook’s Favorite. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fameuse. Golden Russet. Goodenough. Haas. Koursk’s Anisette (New Russ’n.) Melinda. Red Astrachan. Koreana. Sops of Wine. Talman Sweet. Vasilis Largest. (New Russ’n.) 2 Seedlings. Crabs. Conical. Beecher’s Sweet. Hyslop. Hesper Rose. Meader’s Winter. Maiden’s Blush. Montreal Beauty. Orange. Power’s Large Red. Transcendent. Soulard. Pears. Flemish Beauty. G. W. CLARK, WINONA. American Russet. Fameuse. Fall Orange. Golden Russet. Haas. Jeniton. Keswick Codling. Northern Spy. Painted Lady. Paradise Winter Perry Russet. Price’s Sweet. Rome Beauty. Romanite. Utter’s Red. Winona Chief. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. JAMES HARDWICK, WINONA. Fameuse. Haas. Golden Russet. Nonpareil. Price’s Sweet. Talman Sweet. WINONA CO. FARM. W. D. HATCH. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fameuse. Golden Russet. Price’s Sweet. Westfield Seek-no-further. WILLARD HARR ON, HOMER. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fameuse. F. B. ROWELL, HOMER, Duchess of Oldenburg. Fameuse. Fall Orange. St. Lawrence. Talman Sweet. Crabs. Transcendent. - Siberians. S. E. ELDRIDGE, WINONA. Cheesbouck Russet. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fall Pearmain. Golden Russet. Jeniton. Perry Russet. Phoenix. Lady Apple. Price’s Sweet. Talman Sweet. Saxton. Willow Twig. Winona Chief. Crabs. Transparent. Black Winter Crab. NORMAN BUCK, WINONA. Bailey Sweet. Fall Orange. Fall Pearmain. Fameuse. Keswick Codling. Talman Sweet. Strawberry. Silver-Blush Seedling. 1 unknown. Cc. F. BUCK, WINONA. Ben. Davis. Fameuse. Fall Pearmain. Lady Apple. Westfield Seek-no-further. 1 unknown. GEO. E. KING, WINONA, Twenty-ounce Pippin (11 in.) 151 ‘ 152 > ANNUAL REPORT. > JOHN HART, HILLSDALE. American Summer. Pearmain. Duchess of Oldenburg. Early Joe. Hawley. Jefferson County. Saxton. Utter’s Large Red. Yellow Bellflower. Red Astrachan. 6 varieties seedlings. Summer Varieties. Benoni. ‘ Paradise. Red Astrachan. a Seedling No. 8. Oo. M. LORD, ROLLINGSTONE. Fameuse. 2 unknown. MRS. MARY CAMPBELL, ROLLINGSTONE. Baldwin. Blushing Lady. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fameuse. Utter’s Large Red. 4 varieties seedlings—No. 3 named Dumelon, JAMES MITCHELL, HILLSDALE. Perry Russet. 4 unknown varieties. P. A. JEWELL, LAKE CITY. Duchess of Oldenburg. Fall Stripe. Green Winter. Haas. Peach. Crabs. Aiken’s Green Winter. Beecher’s Sweet. Badger State. Corical. Early Strawberry. Gen. Grant. Hesper Rose. Maiden’s Blush. Orion. Orange. Quaker Beauty. I. H. MOULTON, EAST MINNEAPOLIS. Cordell. Fameuse. Haas. Red Astrachan. Saxton. Walbridge. Wealthy. Russian Apples. Transparent Muscovite. Nos. 580, 548, 985, 987, 377, 587, 468, 988, 274, 393 and 190, in catalogue of apple trees imported in 1870, from St. Petersburg. Russia, by the U. S. Department of Agriculture. MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, 153. Crabs. Aiken’s Green Winter. Aiken’s Striped Winter. Beecher’s Sweet. Badger State. Gen. Grant. Orange. Quaker Beauty. Sweet Russet. White Winter. J. C. BEACH, HOMER. 6 specimens of large apples for name. Named Cranberry Pippin (by Plumb.) E. B. JORDON, ROCHESTER, MINN. Ben Davis. Carolina Red June. Duchess of Oldenburg. Jeniton. Haas. Melinda. Price’s Sweet. Peach. Seek-no-further. Saxton. Crabs. Aiken’s Green Winter. Beecher’s Red. Beecher’s Sweet. Conical. ’ Early Strawberry. Fellows’ Winter. Gen. Grant. Hesper Blush. Hyslop. Maiden’s Blush. Minnesota. Malakoff. Meader’s Red Winter. Meader’s Green Winter. Orange. Sweet Russet. Transcendent. Seedlings. Haas No. 1, large. Haas No. 2. Haas No. 3, small. JOHN S. HARRIS, LA CRESCENT, MINN. Autumn Strawberry. Ben Davis. Bailey Sweet. Cranberry. Duchess of Oldenburg. Dominie. Early Harvest. Fameuse. Golden Russet. Hubbardston’s None-such, Julia. Jonathan. Northern Spy. Pomme de Gris. Perry Russet. Price’s Sweet, Plumb’s Cider. Red Astrachan. Roxbury Russet. Sops of Wine. St. Lawrence. Saxton. Seek-no-further. Talman Sweet. Tetofsky. White Astrachan. White Pippin. Walbridge. Vandeveer. ; Sylvan Sweet Crab. [If the names of any contributors have been omitted, the Sec- retary would like to publish them in a future report. | 20 See ss ‘29 eee - BS ee he Pee + Neh 154 ANNUAL REPORT. LIST OF FRUITS STARRED FOR MINNESOTA IN THE BIENNIAL REPORT OF ‘THE a . AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Ben. Davis.* Duchess of Oldenburg. * Edgar’s Red Streak or Walbridge. * English Russet or Poughkeepsie Russet.* Fall Pippin.* Fall Queen or Haas; Gros Pommier.** Fameuse or Pomme "de Neige; Snow Apple.* Gilpin or Curthouse; Little Romanite.* Golden Russet, of Western New York.* Gravenstein; ripens early and keeps late.* Hawthornden * Late Strawberry or Autumn Strawberry.* / Maiden’s Blush.* Plumb’s Cider.* Rambo.* Red Astrachan.* St. Lawrence.* Sops of Wine or Hominy.* Tetofsky.* Talman Sweet.* Wealthy.t Willow Twig or James River.* Twenty-two varieties are contained in this list. One variety, the Wealthy, is put down for trial, and one variety, the Haas, is double starred, and this over the Duchess, one of the most hardy, productive and best varieties in the State. It has occurred to us that this list is a little defective and needs some revision. Let us take a glance at the varieties on exhibition at the Centennial, and also at our State Fair, and see if they entirely correspond with the above list. The Hawthornden and Maiden’s Blush are neither in the list of apples on exhibition at our State Fair or at the Cen- tennial. No doubt there are some in the list of nearly three hun- dred varieties of the Pomological Society, besides those starred, that may be adapted to some particular sections of our State. In the list of standard apples sent for exhibition at the Centennial, we find there were of the Duchess of Oldenburg twelve contributors; Fameuse, eleven; Haas. eight; Golden Russet, six; Saxton, six; Wealthy, Russian varieties, Red Astrachan, Fall Orange, Perry Russet, Utter’s Red, Price’s Sweet, Fall Pearmain, three; Ben. Davis, Keswick Codling, Lady Apple, two. In the remainder of the list no two contributors exhibited the same variety. In that of those sent for the State Fair, there were of Duchess of Oldenburg, ten contributors; Fameuse, eight; Haas, nine; American Golden Russet, Ben Davis, Pomme de Gris, Saxton, Tetofsky, Wealthy, Utter’s Red, four; (Remark, Utter’s Red twice by the same exhibitor, as Utter’s Red and Lucy.) Dominie, Perry Russet, Rawle’s Janet, Seek-no-further, Talman Sweet, Alexander, Plumb’s Cider, St. Lawrence, three Bethlemite, Little Romanite, Northern Spy, -Walbridge, W inter Wine, Bailey Sweet, Price’s Sweet, Sweet Pear, Fall Orange, Vale’s Winter Pippin, Pioneere, Molly, two. In the remainder, no two exhibited the same variety. The above lists show that our Society have , \ A . Pe MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, 155 been wise in keeping their list for general cultivation within bounds, rather than having too many varieties to select from. We generally get our best and greatest number of varieties from those persons most favorably located for fruit raising. If our State could be districted according to limitation of success with t certain varieties, it would be of much advantage to those just em- barking in fruit culture. For example—a certain portion of the river counties raise fruits that are wholly unadapted to the interior of the State. There are isolated sections in nearly every. portion of the State where, from the nature of the soil, elevation or prox- imity to considerable bodies of water, fruit can be more success- fully raised than in the surrounding country. Yet, to publish a suitable list for these locations, would be doing great injustice to those in favored situations, while to limit it to only those varieties which are hardy and successful in all portions of the State would do the more favored equal wrong. I would suggest that the list of fruits cultivated in this State for starring at the next biennial session of the American Pomological Society, be placed in the hands of a proper committee. Wrman ELLior. PART IIJ.—Awarps at THE CENTENNIAL; PomotogicaL Dr- PARTMENT. The recommendation for awards by the Pomological group of Jurors were adopted by the Centennial Commission without a single exception, as follows, viz. : CANADA. Fruit Growers’ Association, Ontario. D. W. Beadle, Sec. St. Catharines .........-.00- -..--+-Apples and Grapes. James Doupal, Windsor ...0.. 0. ccccccencs seuss scce Pi Ag ett gael Apples. Neen OMS Ye ELATNT ICON 2'.' 7% io a clelc selasie cide wlececldc sas ae a. Salem Grapes. Ur eMCTOLON, FLATIILGOM s:0 < cic sc cclees else dcleles sles ste e ces’. Clinton Grapes. Mayor Pafford, Niagara ............. drotocns contac BAR eiichohabios Exotic Grapes. Thomas H. Parker, Woodstock...-.....sse5..00 ...-- Grapes under glass. Chas. Arnold, Paris, Ontario......ceee. scence Apples and Seedling Grapes. Donald Smith, per Fruit Growers’ Society.......- fe sogh8600000 peor Apples. MaeayScott,, Jr.,, LONGON, Ontarid. «oie. . oa eee, »,aisidieisiaioee ele alale nl sjeeieid Apples. Jas. M. Stacy, Masonyille....... eicteia’eliayelaia/atede oh pisisro, aetaratioeiare London Pippins. NM e UR WENIAIA GAC HINGE o72/aie%. ojsieiaie, «aie o:0i0i0 sorej< Sieeisis aed iene Seedling Apples. IIGIIOO 2» ocas wipoc cers soem scat cen anive enss Collection of Grapes. CONNECTICUT. ODEO PAU OMBECLICUL s «/0,4)«\s,00.4,014's, 0,00 0, 00) 2, 9)5 et dintele, p =/oi dare tetalete Apples. aipewenould, Wiest Cormwall..'...... 0. oe Sisleyga aia Sore Apples and Pears. P. M. Augur, Middlefield........... Si /cle ails Gyalelepslatoiehavela beaks lapatateretety stityrs Apples. 156 ANNUAL REPORT. David Williams, East Hartford....+. Sede ee ee reese esse eseeee eres .... Apples. B. H. Atwater, Berlin....+. wereerrer eee eee eee tondisiawa seeeeees Apples. P. D. Stillman, Hartford.... eee eer ee rere eeee sees esses eeree seecseeee Pears. John Turner, Norwich ween eer e ee eeses sees eeee cece cece ce scene seoees Fears, DELAWARE. E. Anderson, Felton seeeee Se ree eee Fees Haeeeses sees suse aseese +++- Pears. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. John Saul, Washington..-..+.s++eees Rds Fite isridpiegs so cevee saws ents enh BORG: FLORIDA. Redmond & Co., Pensacola «-++++serresreeeereres os eeee ceeeee veccee FIGS, INDIANA. Indiana Horticultural Society, Wm. H. Ragan, Secretary, Clayton.... eee OO eee eee ees SHH FOE eeesee eee .--- Apples and Pears. IOWA. Iowa State Horticultural Society. -.....++++.+++++--+++-Apples and Pears. Z. H. Hollingsworth, Sandusky..-..++sseees -ceeeececeeeeeceee oeesApples. R. S. Willet, Malcolm.....-...-- Socnvedsdclece oneaed stlalevslaiuin saat siete anna E. H. Elkins, Burlington....-ssesseeee -eeceeeees a rte as Atobere ee .--. Apples. Jas. Smith, Des MOineS..- cesses ceceerscceneececceceecees secvess Apples. State of [OWA.. ese cue cee eves cocecenceses rete scree 2,c:aai eee ee Apples. W. W. Gearheart, BurlingtOn....+++-e+seeeeeeeeeee we eecccccecccees Apples. David Leonard, Burlington. ....+-see sees coerce ecee cere cece cewees Apples, Henry Avery, Burlington...----- Geeccoees co ccee cece cece csceensaces Apples. T. C. Barney, Keokuk... ..ceereeececececeeeceeeececces cess coee sees POAIS. John Given, Keokuk......es++-+- a) eo aay tat ig nig aes a4 re ‘ L ‘ ° th ‘A . + ) i - WOOL 2A bil Hane year™ by. ENG ou SAIN TA A, Odie 3) 0 Seay non F tt al Boom speennry ¢. ~ |* r ‘ L) INCORPORATION OF THE SOCIETY. ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF THE MINNESOTA STATE HORTI- CULTURAL SOCIETY. ; ee Know all men by these presents, that we, the undersigned, John | 8. Harris, of La Crescent, Houston county, John H. Bisvens, of Hennepin county, Wyman Elliot, Charles Hoag, J. T. Grimes, A Stewart, R. J. Mendenhall, Peter M. Gideon and Charles H. Clarks” " all of Hennepin county, D. A. J. Baker, Truman M. Smith, D. Ke be Robertson, William EK. Brimhall, H. J. Brainard, L. M. Ford and =n Ww. Paist, all of Ramsey county, and Thomas Ramsden of Wash- ington county, O. F. Brand, A. W. McKinstry and Levi Nutting, all of Rice county, and P. A. Jewell, of Wabasha, E. H. 8. Dart, of Owatonna, Steele county, all of the State of Minnesota, do hereby associate ourselves together for the purpose of becoming incorpor- ated under the name, and for the purposes hereinafter stated, pur- suant to the provisions of title and chapter 34 of the General Statutes of said State of Minnesota, so far as the same may be applicable, and do now adopt the following Articles : ArticLE 1. This corporation shall be known as the Minnesota State Horticultural Society. ; heidun 2. The object of the society shall be to collect, con- dense and collate information relative to all varieties of fruits, flowers, and other horticultural productions, and dispense the same among the people. ARTICLE 8. Any person interested may become a member of the society by paying to the Treasurer or Secretary, the annual fee of one dollar, and signing the constitution and by-laws. The wives of members shall be members of the society without the payment of a membership fee. 22 170 ANNUAL REPORT. ArqicLE 4, The amount of capital stock of this corporation shall be twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000,) with privilege to increase it to $100,000, to be held in shares of twenty-five do each. ArticteE 5. The officers of this society shall be as follows : President, one Vice President to reside in each Congressional Dis- trict of this State, Secretary, Treasurer, and an Executive Com- mittee of three or more members, all of whom shall be elected by ballot at the annual meetings of this society, which shall be held on the 3d Tuesday in January. . ArticLE 6. The principal place of business shall be wherever the majority of the society may hereinafter designate. id BY-LAWS ADOPTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD JANUARY 20-23, 1874. DUTIES OF OFFICERS. 1. It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meet- ings of the society, when present, and to deliver an address at the annual meeting of the same. In the absence of the President, one of the Vice Presidents shall preside in his place. y 2. The Secretary shall record all the doings of the society, col- late and prepare all communications, ete., for the public press, and pay over all money received from members, or otherwise, to the Treasurer, on his receipt; shall receive and answer all com- munications addressed to the society ; establish and maintain cor- respondence with all local, county, district and State horticultural - societies, and secure by exchange their transactions, as far as pos- sible ; to aid the President as an executive officer, in the dispatch of business relating to meetings of the society, and notices of horticultural and similar meetings of general interest, and report to the annual meeting of the society an abstract of the matter that has come into his possession, which shall become part of the transactions for the current year, and shall be prepared by him for the public printer. 3. The Treasurer shall collect and hold all funds of the society, and pay out the same only on the order of the Secretary counter- signed by the President. 4. An Executive Committee of five shall be chosen annually, who shall, in connection with the President and Secretary, (who shall be members ex-officio) have in charge all matters pertaining to the interests of the society ; shall revise all matter coming into the hands of the Secretary, and pass upon the same their approval before its submission to the annual meeting. 5. The Executive Committee may call a meeting of the society at any time and place they may deem advisable for the interests of the society, giving at least thirty days’ notice through the public press, and shall in no case incur any expense exceeding fifty dol- ‘MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Tit ~ 172 : ANNUAL REPORT. ‘ lars except by authority of the vote of the society at its annual meeting, when the specific object and the amount so appropriated shall be designated. 6. The President, at each annual meeting of the society, or as soon thereafter as practicable, shall appoint a General Fruit Com- mittee, consisting of one member from each Senatorial District in the State, and it shall be the duty of each member to report upon the fruit crop in his respective district annually ; also a limited list’ of fruits best adapted to general cultivation in the district which such member represents. . 7. That committees on vegetables and market gardens ; flowers and floriculture ; trees for the forest and forest culture, and ento- mology, be appointed each year, whose duties it shall be to report on their several topics to this society at the annual meeting. 8. The society may at any regular annual meeting elect as hon- orary members, any person or persons who may have performed valuable services for the society, or upon whom the society may wish to confer special honor. Such memberships shall be held for five years from date of election, and shall be entitled to all the privileges of the society except voting. 9. Final Article. These By-Laws may be amended by a two- thirds vote of the society at any regular annual meeting. » ¢ _ MINNESOTA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 173 / _ APPENDIX D. LAWS OF SPECIAL INTEREST TO HORTICULTURISTS. 4 FROM CHAPTER 57 OF THE GENERAL LAWS OF MINNESOTA ‘ FOR 1877. : ‘ Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota : Section 1. Chapter thirty-eight (38) of the General Laws of one thousand eight hundred and seventy-four (1874), entitled ‘‘An act for the preservation of game,’’ is hereby amended to read as follows: Sec. 1. No person shall kill or pursue with intent to kill any woodcock, saving only during the month of July after the third (3d) day of said month, and during the months of August, Sep- tember and October; nor any prairie’ hen or chicken, nor any white-breasted or sharp-tailed grouse or prairie chicken, save only during the month of August after the fourteenth (14th) day of said month, and during the month of September; nor any quail or partridge, save only during the months of September, October and November, nor any ruffed grouse or pheasant, save only during the months of September, October and November; nor any aquatic fowl, save only between the first (1st) day of September and the fifteenth day of May succeeding, in any year. Sc. 6. No person shall break up or destroy, take away, or in any manner interfere with any nest, or the eggs therein, of any woodcock, snipe, quail, partridge, ruffed grouse or prairie chicken, pheasant, plover, or any species of wild duck, brant or wild goose, not domesticated; nor shall sell or expose for sale the said eggs, nor shall have the same in his possession for any purpose. And every railroad company and every express company, and all employees and agents of the same, shall be deemed persons within the meaning of this section; and any person or persons offending against any provision of this section, shall be punished by a fine of not less than five (5) nor more than fifty dollars ($50,) and by the forfeiture of all eggs in his or their possession, together with the costs of prosecution. * * * * * * te ak a oe i a *? if a gt * ~ (yt ae et Se St ce yor RAY mae Abe i = § . : : } \ + w ony. ty ay, i > ?s hd ~9¢4 2°) , t mu + A Lear try . = > 174 , ANNUAL REPORT. night hawk, blue bird, finch, thrush, lark, linet, sparrow, martin, swallow, bobolink, robin, turtle dove, cat bird, o other oceania el keener e mpage. in this chapter, excepting blackbirds and wild pigeons. Any person or persons | Gifonding against any of the provisions of this sect shall be punished by a fine of not less than five [dollars] ($5) nor more than fifty dollars ($50,) or by the forfeiture of any gun or guns, ~ cage, trap, net or any other device, and all sporting implements in his or their possession, together with the costs of prosecution, — or both, in the discretion of the court. * * * * * * * * 1 *€ Src. 11. No person shall at any time enter into any growing or standing grain not his own, with sporting implements about — his person, nor permit his dog or dogs to enter into any such grain without the permission of the owner or occupant thereof; and any person who shall enter upon the premises of another with gun, dogs, or any sporting implements upon his person, without per- mission of [the] owner or occupant thereof, from and after the first (1st) day of December of any year, to or before the fifteenth (15th) day of August following, with intent to kill, hunt or pursue any animal or game-bird, the killing of which is forbidden by this act, at any time (except woodcock, during the period it is lawful to kill the same,) shall be liable to a fine of ten dollars ($10.00) — for such offense, to be recovered by action before any justice of the peace of the county where the offense was committed, by the owner or occupant of said premises. But nothing in this section contained shall be construed to limit or in any wise to affect the remedy of the owner of any such grain or premises, or of the person injured, at common law for trespass. a. ih For penalties and methods of proceeding, see General Laws for 1877. Page 91. From Statutes at Large of Minnesota, Bissell, page 1001: Src. 114 (45). Willful trespass on garden, orchard, etc., how punished.— Whoever willfully commits any trespass by entering upon the garden, orchard, or other improved land of another without permission of the owner thereof, and with intent to cut, take, carry away, destroy, or injure the trees, grain, grass, hay, fruits or vegetables there growing, or being, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding fifteen dollars nor less than three dollars. 4 HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, || ANNUAL WINTER MEETING, HELD AT Rochester, January 15th, 16th and 17th, 1878. | Preparep By Cuas. Y. Lacy, SECRETARY. MINNEAPOLIS : JOHNSON, SMITH & HARRISON. D 6 18% ré ey ant.” Peder! as Levray ANNUAL WINTER MEETING, ’ HELD AT MINNEAPOLIS : JOHNSON, SMITH & HARRISON. 1878, AG ~’y oa ® " A Ore ‘ Spe tONTU tae DDE ¥ aie aes ey Pace. SNE: gs OF taal dapat ama ged fal) cere orig es eee eee eee we ew ew wee settee teen eee ees CAST gen se ; i ate Metter Discussions Siam Reve. oi a Aa La See es oe LEE a ae ad ON Marea eo Rca ng A RA ear i 6 Gane Ne s, Paper on Planting Trees for Shade and Ornament Trees for Shade and Ornament—Paper V arieties best adapted for the purpose........... : 5 er saccharinum—Sugar Maple Ia ns nigra—Black Walnut ans cineree—Butteinut p Th Americana—Basswood ee cy Ru NC Sen Onc am TiC eC PO Cin at} Bea 60, pe felelel-e weve! 4/0. a) 6\e) are e\\0,.e 6/'m) @) sials wale fe CC CC i er ar ry SES Me Ce ee ee ered se Berner eres se eeuence OC er oy cee ere eer ee ere es eee eee terse ae @) OV 8/0 (a) |e sole. 0 ele w eC le eves em 6/e ala 0 alae wie © PrehseeLw ois) sian exe eee ‘ee llele ) ehae Sie e 6 =e ieee EIDE) Oe Ra ST a ae Ser EME Dr raw ie a NS ate RRR RADDA ETS SSE RN Da tea Ra Discussion on same 7 aie) wie (aoe See) Sel ee a eta, e. ase s) Bie.e) «ie Sie elle (ole m 0s’ 6 a. 6) ee) 61 6@) nue Avale: clete SES LeN So es 01s! Ss 0 exe ele je a (0 :@ 10, (0) O18 le aith) ©, ap\.es*'e 6,0 aie a 66 ip a'a6.19 sels. ene ie) WarsiL© .ai8"/e:;8)'6 (01/838) miele lS) .el.n./eire \6, 68 610 vie) 6), 01\6 (aia \&. ©) 4's '6)) a: me \usm, 10 aol 6) inhale etsy Ciiestnuts....... 2... Baie aisle shen ote ola Ba ne sere oh a ius ga Horse Chestnuts Apple List, discussion and revision af Wealthy—Duchess SS) 86S) 8) 6) O) alphas 6). 0):6\'e) 0's ‘ee 0a 5 © a)6 0) 0,10 a 0,8) 04 5s) sie 9 ejahe b osm wlatal ola lattedainre White Astrachan a) o/s iete\®) 6) 6) et0s)6,'6,'e 0 6\e' 6.8) 2 a0 a © | (0.0 0.0 ajo ces © 6 « aueln ia) shal skola 9-0 t/e bide es eile» os @ « 6 0 610/6\\9\\o ss ap Whee aieliola Bimts Tate 6s ole e) 6 0.6\/e 6 oes) 6s 606 © ee 6) 84 elas vale maine] alate eel al OPS) 00. ee 0) 6.8 © fe: ee © Sine 0.06.0) 6 are srwym io) alee ew, mile a aie aaal aiwinie ALS En Te se aed oe ng 6-0, 6 16 (6) 06,1616 00076». a) .e\e\le 2) 6/0 ola jal BPO lelprallain ela tetas ial ate Pfomb's MORE ere te calo's sa sible sir Eee ary ua aadee Pa RUR hea = Price’s Sweet Siw e iene aS) ofa. ee vo 6) 0 0) seis ele ete se atelie ns 0) 0 \s)lefaels Relate eterell aie ale mn eee: it 21 Tree Planting Laws, referred to committee..........+- ceeeeeee > Pecetagpetnsats aeremmiamemeaman Ps seed ee ee tense eee seen Crab and Siberian Apples,—Discussion and Revision of Lists. . Siiden Noite Semen acta PremMiliT LASG. | «) ccs <2 eee ee oe ee alalore wide cha aeiae sumer es Re San: By dee or AGILE a isieis tic ie eheaie atte ete aleve ee D oc. GULEIVALLOM oe neko ee aes cet wees cee ee ee ese sie ime’ to Elaryestss w.4 ox oyot wn nis eae eee Wicldper AGO. fos oss an coeweces sates yee Cost of Production. 6.0.06 e+ eee: .5 sreme ons some eee History of Early Amber Cane... ..\...i+..61.sc28eeee APAMSCENM Nbr .osaersials eek ees lo Ree eee a ase he ee Fee i Varina besa). = er ee stahate aus ese tener: So ee Nu vd Omnis peak sues ve cald's ole nels elefetathe «00 etic Early Strawberty. 02.1. 2-sae evn wee eee hha whereas ventana eae 22.8 Meader’s Red Winter..........-:... BREE Wine beter teeters eeees ras Power's Large Red.......... Beri ire ph ++ +h at Sea Eiyalop... 2 at. 22a ate st Satis sihitees err r Russell’s Sweet Winter...........-. wialace te + «jon apa ee NETL ions is one is acts {ois Seeibmiee wee evsleetletes coe (BO hye rt Lak Se MRCS Se mamma at co) ry Pe : Mieaderisis weet slbUSS@b- cit 1 ls ahaa «ole ojos «heel i Minnesota teatro coer eis. inaag eee aes +. 9 Beach’s Sweet (Beecher’s).......2...2+.0e2006 «+ «0 ia Quaker Beauty. ix 26502 ts e's o's Betis wee oe oe oes ae Maiden’s Blush......... Eby etmtAg are aS iacn 2% Pr Hesper Blush. . nated RASA eae hoa nok vies tr Woodland Winter (Woodlees Red) Seyret Lt ...0 002 2 eee Aiken's Striped Winter....... Briel ts Bibs tiots 0's nine «og sce General Grant s.'s)00\.o ase ements EE SE ti oss beat, 0s Whitney’s No. 20—Alaska—Brier’s Sweet. ..... Pe os 5 . ihekaeee eee eee ee age) efevare cheats i PHAM E, Shor s. . orev evorsiecat hubitele a tataenete 66 Fee paration Cina) halte 1c Rae em re ee AL oiaaleptats acuraaeede mamercial Fertiiizers—Discussion resumed............00..00eeee ee ieee 71 Crab and Siberian Apples—Discussion resumed..............0e0eceeeeuee 72 Seve Power's Large Red (again).............02.).)esisecscereebeces 72 pe | Virginia MMPATIER ero deities dere ee Pe Mcaliay rh Aon 73 ieee Sr Wariemes quite exempt from Blight.........06....2...ducasaneee oy he Re: * ‘Table to tT snalndca sey alee hier ale nee alte ain ae 1 NG oan A ASA ecoie he chee St. Se eRe Seen 74 Col. Healy’s Paper on Cemeteries............ccceccscecceesueeeseeens 74, Cemeteries—Location, Laying Out, Planting and Care of................. 74 EE ia oe acai an lc aadlee, PRD ROG ee eae a Metinies, Drives and Walks See nhiee aa tee cin helen Sent en Oe ee 7 Ae +. Plat of Section 3 in Oakwood Cemetery..........0..0ceceeeeees 7 MME OECUOUS Sy sche ce c's cic tind ghee motels opitet. 6 teem ae ae Mee cli Letafomnle!Paicitic’ ons) 2 acd Fajr CAS OES a eee Boao: RseOELICS—“PIRCUISSION= «0. oc oee'e cues sa dsiislda s vuRehie’ oh wenemie ri; MMMM o's cc occ cas ss meee RRMA hata tt ib a ee eee NPIS AINA in chau, boo. x'<) sis ss «ss oo a.0 © mie Sine BAGS 2 fachate a einai hi | Mr. Wilcox’s Paper—Propagation of Hardy Trees............eeeeeeee AP ey tc’ pete ceramics “ Hardy Trees—Paper on.......... bY Selig Ue Aarne rare 78 ~ ‘ . —Diseussions “on. sic, 8. Sees e eae Gove ol Final Resolutions, Committee on...........20eeeeeee eee SOI ae ee 83 Porestry Laws—Report of Committee... 50000 ccc es cc vece deeded sees 83 - a - 3 % re. a rae ie < ws Sy Scat ceeecenttis seteecesetiness Ne _ 15 Re RR ROW AN. Je. drut, rr CAGES Nats ht shud LRP ORE AT) eee er ee ereceene RCH G SRERTRAILGY Son QUASAR: Eee nene 2 Usnlia Blah isl osha > yb Dratteod ‘Bark css Stout be Ukcervart ap coun Moulebing :s\s0 \as0diie so Azsinee viele eaeieeaes etna TPEERAB RGR Season AIA Oe DASCUSSION ON-BAMC.> +49 bn 00s (4s pawed ede Adee BOR ee Seeding down.........s...00- beeen eee seeeeeeeee Pym gs: arate ‘sheet ge ohshers! AND ie able aa plch Ng Mr. Harris—Report of General Fruit Committee..........-.+++. Strawberries... 6.ds.ccecescevacses ends Ole tee San Raspberries... seen Election of Officers concluded:.:....... 0.53 .bsis45005% 500000 1 Delegates to Agr. Society meeting. s+. . ca:h/sus-oeen sek ale rr Committee on Local Societies “Report, -.7+-+-++1-7-hr-7+sa ar 100 General Grant (again)... -....2-- 0.5 .0ceecens aes sen tenes epee Reedbing Grapes—Report on-by J. C. Kramer. .........- «sss sepa ci Discussion... ...s--+c+0.s0e0tee.serte she 101 Grapes—Discussion and Revision of Lists..........+.s++eseeeeeeceeeesee 102 Concord...... MS es As Fas ou eae PE WeLAWATC.5 cio. osc ee ccie scores sees vie elev cole © aptevenise =a —————na Janesville.......... av otlahh aah ts ala oon oboe wa ove ie Hartford Prolific. ...........- Br SoS a torace ent oss eecneeepiinns AOs Olint0m oie aiclaelste ovclece soe pele sac se nin s ss cle s'tpie ees 5 6 eel en Rogers’ No. 15 es eres Muscadine......-. +++.++- 104 Eumelaw......-. Seneca esis ese magewncees secs s § ei Tomvale ates Seiten RONNIE ue baila ns w/o vo 0 oo ew «in jek Paya ia \ SRC e RAR cr Gishe's, UN 6-40 se 2» Spain ee Rogers’ No. 4 (Wilder) No (Lindley) and No. 19 (Merinae a 104 Strawberries—Discussion and Revision of Lists............. o's ot Wilson's Albany. s\-'ecien oso: «is sisi. seeeeees 105 Countess de Haricourt:....... SAA Saget eso oti tae bet : Misvinimiscobipie,s'min{epsieasi fswceletn insers enngaini eee Maba he 108 ciniie hy ey dle hed aaah g he Rito wing ree, uate 108 Bega nts cx\a os nialiainsal = he/ ia: « oto aia nth 9’ oy are mere eae ee sion and Revision of Lista... 2... 0.0.0. eane «dais es ve LOD DENECA. ++ ee eee ee eee eareeneeeeees ee ee ey 109 See eer weer ee er seer eserees i. seers rereeesreseseessseese 109 Phia—Tamer... +... se eeeee cee ee cece eee seen ee ene ee es 109 PPTIE aac’) -'» 2.0.» Asie, 8s pe 0's pide occ blog 32 nlaceueser er its, e.,—Report of Committee. ..--.-..-.seseeveseeseen 109 * Desitoone Conifer... RRS AN ee aie) Aes PP ORS IP gs LANEY eT Gt Me OR od SEM AL RE CSS eae nirdd aeptenirnen ae eve So TIL]: bert Aerio enbal- SbyMls ¢<'72, ct: 8 2am aw 9 GP) elo: a:e alle shares Gale te oe Vi TENT GET EES LSS ALAS Ae Re RMN ena REE I Abeer (TIO. Jiploma and Medal—Presentation............seeeeeeeeeseeves 113 on-—Report of Committee... .... 0.40500 ean divs ee enone Mle Seeiatatete els lasaiiniaile*s/a\a lw 47o\s: 5,000 Ce } 114 Oo oooh WO SRR eeter nae Heer tee eae wees eee ee eeeseseseeee 115 " oe : » “ Vis Bey ie es Perks Ty & Syd a ems ee ; besos Anthony. ssseveeseetsessseestesnneee Report of John Hart on Fruit in Winona County... Appendix C.—Reports of Local and County Societies. .......- Olmstead County. <0... 3... ocas ss .oenete ea Ten Commandments of Pomology.+++++++++00+00++ % ee Sememiel O Girnpies. 0.0. cane sp tetees ey Witenes. eoens eee Bimiwherried. ...o 2 os does cdekivass ans s) Ophea Appendix D.—Notes ermine Correction to List of Centennial Contributions. ........... ..+ eye Phillips. .0...:-..ss4ss00 810000059 nl Appendix E.—Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws..........++ s+ss+e08 < ve neat ieee eee es eee —_ : ie - : ¥ s.g% re Pee oy LT ey Bea ron ee od Mt te eee it Otasli) fps > wont T7. wi 4 ss vray ; mele ~< ;. 7 4 e . . z ; ' | ] \ L a 4 . { \ $ seeee eee ive CC see ie st Pra. VICE PRESIDENTS. ene ; Pe ee rs ise a ea Wise District. 0000s sess t fant eae of WP . SECRETARY. STANDING COMMITTEES. EXECUTIVE. MMM sls es oon cc 5 os nes acs eels swegeedies pads eies n/en oat MOORE Bee PETE NOT 5 20.5, kee cece eves welt eccesesen on e's MERGE DONE, ROI stg a 6 cl ciss ssc cie cea cscececsinacciedies svi aensulbeure WERON a: MEST 55 lo's = csc c's b.cle scree oa v'salau vd esiasae c's « smomc eee BE DAUI: EME TITATT 52 5/505 os eine ccs cena s caseevced ane casaveiel epee vobe PAM: President and Secretary, ex officio. (11) anaes St mn obier ite yt } : ae Ae DELEGATE 0 MEETING OF WISCONSIN OR SE ADAIR GL ATS A. AR PAMEIIPS occ eree ese ae : DELEGATES TO MEETING OF STATE AGI WYMAN ELLIOT ck eo es ee O. F. BRAND. eoreeveeeeeeeeve ettieeticeeeseeenearesastegs AGG 10 ORCAS ESB ke a UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. Hon. Wm. Le Duc, Washington, D. C......20cseeeeeceeeeeeees AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Hon, M. P. Wilder, Boston, Mass.......++ ces sss 70a ss amet MONTREAL AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL mapas u Hee Henry 8. Evans, Montreal, P. Q...-...-....-ceeecee eee ss Sey and Treas FRUIT GROWERS ASSOCIATION OF ABBOTTSFORD. Charles Gibb, Abbottsford, P. Q.......-.0.sseeeee- Bei soos cae MOCTOHIEFS: WESTERN NEW YORK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Patrick Barry, Rochester, N. Y.........0+eseeeeees vec annualele bitte che se neSIGeneee P. C. Reynolds, Rochester, N. Y.......e.seereeeeeeerenes ...Sec’y and Treas. 4 Me..-.- as oieialae Tawi tee see Ae seer _Seesary. es CIETY, \ -cipvenes POMOLOGIOAL, socrery. jee a hv ig oof Ay 1 Rapids Re eat Sai GROWERS ASSOCIATION OF ONTARIO. aaa aura EAL Se tin eR / 7 aa Nab sce fc lachast casio sete Oe WISCONSIN STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. oe i oe ; ; RtaeG MeMlicon, Wis... .. 0.2... .cccs ec ceeceeeneeaee ne wees Secretary. iS _ MICHIGAN. STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. - Robt. G. Baird, Lansing, Mich........... Ein ites ictan des SCAM tba tah ok. Secretary. aE et ap IOWA STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. e Meeromiimdde ames, Ta.... 2.5.0.6... ee eees HERG es Pte a ttn dS ... secretary. MINNESOTA STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. meme artaineton, Mann... 1.0%... ect e vs bene wneadeelss cave Secretary. GERMAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF RAMSEY COUNTY. SREP EIU cp ca. c'0 a+ 5 xine civ sve + vein soled Cae nee nese siewegis President, I Na nie 2 nine a ain a a.0 wa 0 a a'n)n ho alo ah Sips minielat .+.. Secretary. RICE COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. R. A. Mott, Faribault:........ Reise ale Scat ag Ae od sap aah ......+President. A. W. McKinstry, Faribault ....... Br te Ae ee ere ose. secretary as ig. AN FEW Set Cea a Po + ire 7 ee We tee Gee 1 - . eet se ‘tnt “ee * ‘ ut | A ; ASD Ee a ¢ a ; *~ Minnesora Srate HorTicvuLTurRAL Sociery. 15 4 MEMBERS FOR 1878. METER Sec ssc c uss ciee esccsccusees Rochester, N. Y. MUMNIEIC Stir ctdcs cows tec ces ccceweceseses Faribault, Rice county. MUTEMMEEEEL CS icts cle cwewsnccncecsvccssesewes St. Paul, Ramsey county. NTs os ine once ces wee evesecees St. Paul, Ramsey covnty. fee Specs pacecvseccades Fort A. Lincoln, D. T. ee ana St. Peter, Nicollet county. MUI ic nc ssc ccecscc cee Seccecevevavs Winona, Winona county. MMEPENENTY WV ce ces cece cece es ce cceeesane Rochester, Olmsted county. SS Dover, Olmsted county. re Owatonna, Steele county. UE gcc oie wre s vince d enbapnce Farmington, Dakota county. Macias soc wikis csscserwectwecurs Farmington, Dakota county. nis eis ss. is t)s sae sla doe sie 4: warsle's Farmington, Dakota county. DIT sik cs cece c cise eccsasenecweue Minneapolis, Hennepin county. I ecieS oe cia cio a ood en ein yee eee ees Excelsior, Hennepin county. | eae ares Arkona, Ont. DE oc picts ve seve ve accascce ce’ Cleveland, O. oe ec oo clap ss cece a sivess een Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Pinas ac cose vances nctevacnete Dover, Olmsted county. MRL are siolo sc oc cre ee nt se reue revere La Crescent, Houston county. seis ds) pa ntsc since eine codecs Winona, Winona county. MEE ssc) o.c sre nic. Sotee shes e ce veesees Rochester, Olmsted county. EN eof gan vied cs oc sa ct ene qeensestes St. Paul, Ramsey county. eral 65 08 ai aielaceeetisicn a: seen St. Paul, Ramsey county. UMMM ee sieves cis «Secs we sae acainje nd sae Rochester, Olmsted county. Poin Sais 6m cy voce sleana ne cenad Morristown, Rice county. MeTMOMeNMe, HUGOLPN... 2. wet cw ete ee St. Paul, Ramsey county. Sian ace eee nel tp em eceyeuins Minneapolis, Hennepin county. DUNE oc sic case ce levcewiweve veete cs Excelsior, Hennepin county. EEC MMN RENAN betes c crsls sclsic ceisisléalee a cles oe alee ers Rochester, Olmsted county. SEPIA gfe oie me seen eee cee stan ccaces St. Charles, Winona county. EIRP INY oink So eee cee cere ea ue cd ens Faribault, Rive county. UMMM ciyvn''s cc Sclateis e cie'e.e v0 kv dle view de ole Dundas, Rice county. I Se em ce oles es tee eee eee sees St. Paul, Ramsey county. RIND ease che ec ecw enw on ge ae Wee ovis Red Wing, Goodhue county. PRM ss Selec nae ce peer son aiee praia Rochester, Olmsted county. Ee aie) finin's a cle's ee tiesine 5 +t eae ecisies Rochester, Olmsted county. EINES SS eee Winona, Winona county. 05) ode Eee a ee West Salem, Wis. : a eR: ¥ TRY & *, tere cere err ewes Geo. Peffer.............+..+--Pewaukee, Wis: s:2.:.:-en Miss Hortense Share...... ....Rosemount, Minn.............+++€ Mrs. C. 0. Van Cleve. . . eo eee -Minneapolis, Minn. ste eee eee vee LIFE MBMBER. Mes Win: Padake os csc fosccu Du scadeene eens Se - 7 4 . Pissezs ere see Rol Or Te Meg ea ae APPLES. ee + cag cultivation— L ‘ Wealthy. Tetofsky. "Recommended for general cultivation in favorable localities— Price's Sweet, (Unanimous vote, ) : Plumb's Cider, (Unanimous vote, ) Saxton. ____- Recommended for favorable localities in southern portions of the State— i St. Lawrence. Fameuse, (Unanimous vote.) Utter’s Red. Talman’s Sweet. Recommended for general trial throughout the State— ) Seeierhon. (Unanimous vote.) Elgin Beauty, (Unanimona yore.) Recommended for trial— Melinda, (Unanimous vote.) Walbridge, (Unanimous vote.) ; Stewart's Sweet, (Unanimous vote.) Peach, (Unanimous vote.) : 2 ol 18 Aas ANNUAL REPORT. | val Recommended for trial by amateurs and pomologists (all by unanimous _ Alaska: ; Queen of Elgin. Julia. Rollin’s Pippin. Molly. Rollin’s Russet. Clayson. . Rollin’s Prolific. > eas Kimball. Wabasha. ~ dcr Hart's Seedling, No. 7. Hart's Seedling, No. 11. ets Viola. Clara. CRAB APPLES. Recommenped for general cultivation. Transcendent, (9 for and 5 against) Orange, (Unanimous vote.) Hyslop, (Unanimous vote) ' Early Strawberry, (Unanimous vote.) Beach’s Sweet. (Beecher’s) (5 for and 2 against.) ob Recommended for planting in limited quantities. ” Conical, (8 for and 1 against.) Maiden’s Blush, (Unanimous vote.) Hesper Blush, (Unanimous vote.) Recommended for general trial. Powers’ Large Red,(13 for and 2 against.) Virginia, (Unanimous vote.) _ General Grant, (8 for and 5 against.) | Beach’s Red, (Unanimous vote.) Recommended for trial by amateurs and pomologists. Minnesota, (Unanimous vote.) Brier’s Sweet, (Unanimous vote.) Aiken’s Str. Winter, (Unanimous vote.) Quaker Beauty, (10 for and 2 against. Whitney’s No. 20, (Unanimous vote.) Woodland Winter (6 for and 2 against. Alaska, (Unanimous vote.) Hutchinsons Sweet, 6 for and 2 against Varieties quite exempt from blight. Orange, (Unanimous vote.) Minnesota, (Unanimonts yote.) Beach’s Sweet, (Unanimous vote.) Power’s Large Red, (Unanimous vote.) Conical, (Unanimous vote.) Early Strawberry, (9 for and 1 against.) Maiden’s Blush, (Unanimous vote. ) Virginia, (6 for and one against.) Whitney’s No. 20, (Unanimous vote.) Beach’s Red, (Unanimous vote.) Varieties quite liable to blight. General Grant, (Unanimous vote.) Transcendent, (10 for and 1 against.) Hyslop, (14 for and 1 against.) Varieties recommended and not named in these lists were not assigned, either for want of sufficient knowledge, or because they are not decidedly To from blight or decidedly lable to it. tis +43 sory 7M O56 1%, ee Sed 3 ; i | L , ist 4 ie 6 ) f 7 , for its earliness, (Unanimous vote.) a) Vo. 4 or Wilder, (Unanimous vote.) it . at No. 9 or Lindley, (Unanimous vote.) 's No. 19 or Merrimack, (Unanimous vote.) a STRAWBERRIES. é ss ah ue for general cultivation (unanimous vote )— Wilson’s Albany. | for general cultivation for near market and home use (unanimous 7 Be ay pr Charles Downing. : ~ Countess de Haricourt. (LDS el cela Pe Recommended for trial— i darn : . Seth Boyden, (Unanimous vote.) . Col. Cheney, (Unanimous vote.) » ; Kentucky, (Unanimous vote.) Prouty’s Seedling, (Unanimous vote.) Michigan Seedling, (6 for and 1 against.) PATA) RAS PBERRIES—BLACK-CAPS. . Recommended for general cultivation— Doolittle. Seneca. Pecommended for trial— Ontario. RASPBERRIES—RED. Recommendeed for general cultivation— Philadelphia. Turner, a , P ~ ple Se (oF a2 ‘4 | Sena Sain 1 | "(Action of 1876.) Resolved, That in view of the vast number and ran nat by importation, therefore we Leeebntineat that our people de our own native plums for a sapply. Recommended for trial— Miner. (13 for, 4 against.) De Soto. (10 for, 8 against.) : GOOSEBERRIES. a = J None were recommended. Las 3 if ¢< : i oe EVERGREENS. Rn Be ce KIPAS : of 4 List adopted 1876 and approved 1877. The votes economia those a ; 25 it wes White Spruce, Ist. (10 for, 8 against.) bate: ELT i Norway Spruce, 2d. (11 for, 8 against.) ite, a ig F Scotch Pine, 3d. (13 for, none against.) Rees uiok ys Balsam Fir, 4th. (15 for, none against.) eros White Pine, 5th. (11 for, none against.) . cot, Rae American Arbor Vite, 6th. (11 for, 2 against.) ett eee Red Cedar, 7th. (11 for, 4 against.) ae Red or Norway Pine, 8th. (11 for, none against.) - Austrian Pine, 9th. (9 for, 7 against.) Mountain Pine, 10th. (8 for, none against.) Siberian Arbor Vite, 11th. (14 for, none against.) Trailing Juniper, 12th. (13 for, none against.) ~——— eee. rc eee PROCEEDINGS AT THE Pee NT ER MEETING, HELD AT ROCHESTER, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 16, anv 17, 1878. The society met pursuant to the following notice which was forwarded by postal card to the principal newspapers and the lead- ing horticulturists of the state. ANNOUNCEMENTS. MINNESOTA State HortTICcULTURAL SOCIETY, Minneapolis, Dec. 24th, 1877. The annual winter meeting of this society will be held at Rochester, beginning at 10 o'clock a.m., Tuesday, January 15, 1878, and continuing three days. The following have already promised papers on the svbjects named, and favorable answers’are daily expected from others. U.S. Hollister, Esq., St. Paul, ‘‘ The Growing of Seeds for Market.”’ Hon. L. B. Hodges, St. Paul, ‘‘ Planting Trees for Shade and Ornament on Streets and Roads.’’ E. Wilcox, Esq., ‘Trempeleau, Wis., report on ‘‘The Propagation of Hardy Trees.”” Hon. R. J. Mendenhall, Minneapolis, report on ‘‘ Injurious Insects.” J.S. Harris, Esq., La Crescent, report on ‘‘ The Horticultural Exhibit at the State Fair.”’ Prof. Chas Y. Lacy, Minneapolis, ‘‘ Education for Farmers.” The following subjects have been proposed for discussion: ‘‘Commercial Fer- tilizers—does it pay to use them in the West?’’ ‘‘ Home made Fe.tilizera—best plans for securing, composting and applying for fruit and vegetable gardens;”’ 22 Annual REPORT. Av NR “Horticultural Literature and Libraries;”” “ The Orchard—best locatic soil and protection. 5 SR Messrs. Miller of Dundas, and Kenny of Morristown, will be p re és production. The various fruit lists adopted or approved last year will b be ti up for revision. Every facility will be given for the exhibition of fresh and served fruits, vegetables and other horticultural products; and it is hoped this feature will be even more prominent than heretofore. The citizens of Re ter will give free entertainment to members of the society and those members. Such are requested to forward their names to 8. D. Hillman, Rockin ter, Secretary of local committee. All are cordially invited to attend the meet- ing. The usual reductions in railway fares are expected. No formal programme will be printed, but a second announcement will follow this in a few days. CHAS. Y. LACY,. ~~ Secretary. 8 a MINNESOTA STATE HorTICULTURAL SOCIETY, Minneapolis, January 11th, 1878. The annual winter meeting of this Society will be held at Rochester, beginning at 10 o’clock a. m., Tuesday, January 15th, 1878, and continuing three days. The following papers will be on the programme in addition to those already announced: Mrs. W. L. Breckenridge, Rochester, paper on some floricultural subject. Col. Geo. Healey, Rochester, ‘‘Location, Laying Out, Planting and Care of Cemeteries.” Wm. Somerville, Rochester, paper on ‘The Form of Orchard Trees.” EK. B. Jordan, Rochester, (subject not announced.) M. Pearce, Rochester, ‘‘Soil and Cultivation for Fruit Trees.” J.C. Kramer, La Crescent, paper on ‘‘Grapes,’’ paper on ‘‘Potatoes.”’ O. F. Brand, Faribault, (subject not announced.) Judge 8. W. Eaton, Rochester, will address the Society. The following subjects, in addition to those already announced, will be opened for discussion: ‘‘The Congressional Tree Planting Act;’’ ‘Sorghum, Its Culti- vation and Manufacture; ‘‘Uses of Crab and Siberian Apples;*’ ‘‘Probable Effects of the Warm Weather of December, 1877;° ‘‘Game, Trespass, and other Laws Affecting the Horticulturist;** ‘‘The Garden Pea—Cultivation, Varieties, &c.;’> ‘‘The Tomato.”’ Interesting ‘ean are expected from several commitees, and the exhibition of fruits, &c., will, it is hoped, be large and fine. The citizens of Rochester will give free entertainment to members of the Society and those becoming members. The annual membership fee is one dollar, but all are cordially invited to attend the meeting. The meeting will be held in Good Templars’ Hall, Brown’s Block. The Winona & St. Peter R. R. will setwrn members at one cent per mile. The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul R. R. has not yet been heard from, but it is confidently expected that it will, as heretofore, return members at one-fifth fare. CHAS. Y. LACY, Secretary. Minnesota STATE HorrTicuLtTvuraL SOcIETvY. 23 Spin Owing however to lateness in the arrival of members, the meeting was not called to order until 2:45 p. m. m ADDRESS OF JUDGE EATON. _ At that hour Judge S. W. Eaton, of Rochester, delivered the fol- lowing adddress of welcome to the society: Gentlemen of the Minnesota State Hortieultural Society : Icould wish that one more thoroughly versed in the processes and details of _ your occupation had been selected to occupy the position in which I find myself placed, but yielding to the earnest solicitation of friends, I have consented to address you at this, your yearly convocation, feeling that ] shall receive all rea- sonable indulgence at your hands. My remarks, from the reasons stated, will necessarily be general in their character and import. I see before me gentlemen from various localities in our beautiful and highly productive state, representatives of a noble and useful occupation. You haye, | take it, assembled at our beautiful and thriving city to compare notes and com- municate results of your labor and experiments for the past year; to interchange opinions, discuss methods and mature plans for advancement of horticulture in our State. Your wisdom and business sagacity are apparent in the formation of a society to advance the interests and ensure the success of the branch of industry in which you are engaged. In concert of action there is strength; in co-operation, the grandest results are achieved. In associated effort knowledge is obtained and experience and advantages utilized which would be quite impossible in individual action. Yours is an honorable and a useful occupation. Among the varied instrumen- talities of comfort, refinement and civilization, horticulture occupies a prominent and an honored position. Wholesome, luscious fruit, as all know, constitutes an important factor in the world’s living, and no table, however hum le, is consid- ered complete without some portion or variety at least of these toothsome pro- ductions. . Besides the delicious fruits, no inconsiderable portions of which are being sup- plied through the efforts of our horticulturists, we should mention the not much less useful, but more ornamental trees, shrubbery, plants and flowers. It has been said that he who causes two blades of grass to grow where only one grew before, is a public benefactor. On the same principle, but in a larger sense, he who causes trees, shrubs, plants and flowers to grow where nothing grew before, either useful or beautiful, confers on the public a lasting good. In- deed, it is not, perhaps, too much to say, that in this state, where there are large treeless districts, the propagation of trees is one of the most necessary and important features of our industries. To my mind, a treeless habitation, is no home at all. Even the most elegant and costly residence, built on the most beautiful and eligible site, lacks one of the most important features and attrac- tions of a home, unless surrounded, or at least flanked, by a liberal and tasteful show of trees and shrubbery. Who, that has any taste, love or appreciation for the beauties and attractions of home, would think of building a house, even of inferior dimensions, on the bleak and unbroken prairie? Fine, vigorous trees, beautiful in appearance, use- ful in breaking the force of the winter winds and yielding their grateful shade, 24 | Annvat Report, impart to any home a charm and an attractiveness which nothing | at the same cost, can afford. The good taste and refinement of the are most happily evinced in the propagation of beautiful plants and ers in and about the home. More than this, your cemeteries, your st farms, your walks, your yards and courts are rendered more beautiful an& tive by a generous and judicious cultivation of shade and ornamental tree fact, I am happy to state, which is becoming more generally appreciated city — and country throughout the State. > See In the propagation of ornamental trees and of plants, the horticulturists of the — State have, I believe, met with general and gratifying success. Also, in the cul- tivation of the smaller finits, suited to our soil and climate satisfactory and profitable results have been realized ; but from the best information which 1 have on this subject, I feel compelled to say that in apple raising, much f»ilure and loss have attended the best and most careful exertions of the nurserymen of the State. And yet, we are unwilling to believe that in a State celebrated all over the world for its remarkable fertility of soil and its large variety of produc- — tions, the apple cannot be successfully and profitably propagated. We are the _ more encouraged in this hopeful view from the improved results which we have witnessed in this direction within the past few years. Our horticulturists, profit- ing by experience, and acquiring knowledge through patient, intelligent investi- gation and effort, will demonstrate to us to-day that apples, fine, fair and lus-- cious, can successtully be grown in Minnesota. If you doubt this proposition, you should visit, in the proper season, the orchards and nurseries scattered all over the State, or attend the annual county fairs, and you will be convinced. There can be little or no doubt that many of the people of this State have been grossly cheated or deceived in the purchase of apple trees—I refer solely, to this kind of property which has been imported here from other States. In, perhaps, a majority of cases, varieties of trees not adapted to our soil and climate, have been selected, taken up without proper care and boxed up, or otherwise; these trees have been shipped to customers in Minnesota, and when they have arrived here, they wcre as utterly dead as a last year’s brush heap. For years this kind of trade went on, costing our farmers and others large sums of money, besides subjecting them to muck labor, cruel disappomtment and deep disgust. I do not mvntain that there was intentional fraud on the pact of the nurserymen in other states in these transactions ; all the parties may have been, and probably were, honest ; and yet, the ugly fact that our people paid out a good deal of money for apple trees and did not succeed in getting one in one thousand to live and thrive, remains undisputed. Possibly, apple trees started or propagated in another State, hundreds of miles away, may be brought here and cultivated with success, but I am of the opinion that it is not a safe or profitable mvestment. To be successful, even in a moderate degree, due reference must be had to the varie- ties selected and proper care in shipping and handling must be observed. How- ever,‘to me it seems that trees propagated entirely in the State will be found to be the only safe and reliable ones. IT have intimated that the culture of the apple in our State has thus far met with indifferent success. It is not the case, I believe, that any of the horticul- turists in the State have experienced as gratifying results in this regard as they could have wished, None have been wholly succéssful, neither have any to my knowledge, met with entire failure. In reference to the cause of failure, you, gentlemen, are much better qualified to instruct me than I am to enlighten you. You will, however, I know, pardon me tor briefly hinting at some of the main Al “> , 7 - -? e . $ > _ Minnesora STATE HORTICULTURAL SOcrery. 25 causes which, id my opinion, have heretofore tended to prevent more favorable results. Prominent among these causes may be mentioned the fact that fruit growers have failed in ascertaining the varieties of the apple best suited to our soil and climatic conditions. It is confidently believed—yes, I may say it has - already been demonstrated, that there are varieties of apples which, with the proper treatment and care, will do well in our State, both as respects growth and fruitage. Your efforts in the future will more fully demonstrate the best kind of trees to propagate, and your good sense and sagacity will not permit you to hesitate long in adopting the varieties which promise the largest success. The proper seasor. of the year as well as the best method of transplanting are, of course, essential conditions and cannot have escaped your patient and intelli- gent observation. The different varieties of soil, the location of the orchard, the kind of mulching— or whether any is necessary—pruning, the destruction of borers, caterpillars and other pests, are all questions and conditions which in my: judgment, are inti- mately connected with this pursuit, and to which you, of course, have given your earnest and untiring attention. The citizens of our highly favored State have an interest and feel an honorable pride in its prosperity, its increasing wealth, and in the development of its grand and illimitable resources, and whatever legitimate and honest industry is caleu- lated to subserve these desirable ends should receive the encouragement and fostering care of onr people. The soil of our vast prairies and stretches of wood land, in fertility and in ease of culture, confessedly unsurpassed by that of any other State or district in the world, only awaits the skillful touch of an intelligent and well-directed industry, under the blessing o! heaven, to yield a generous and bountiful harvest. From economical considerations, if from no other, we, as a State, should produce, so far as practicable, whatever of the comforts and luxuries of life may be desirable. No money should be sent abroad for any of these which can, wlth reasonable care and effort, be produced at home. IfIam correct in this view, we should foster and encourage the interests and aims of horticulture. The propagation of wholesome, nutritious fruits, the cultivation of trees, shrub- bery, plants and flowers must, in the very nature of the occupation and its asso- ciations, be pleasing, delightful and elevating. Who is there that, dwelling and toiling among these beautiful and attractive surroundings, does not feel stirred by delightful and pleasurable emotions, at once pure and refining? Indeed, itis claimed, and without doubt justly so, that the intelligent and judicious tilling of the soil brings the mind into nearer communion with the Infinite Creator than any other merely earthly occupation. Brought into more immediate contact and relationship with the operations of nature’s benificent productive forces, and with a live, abiding faith in the grand results, laden with the comforts, luxuries and attractions of home and society, the meditative, reflecting mind looks up “through nature to nature’s God.”’ I would impress upon all tke importance of making the home pleasant and attractive. Farmers, whether wealthy or possessed of limited means, as well as the residents of cities, towns and villages, may add largely to their happiness, enjoyment and weil-doing by giving more and earnest heed to these suggestions. Would parents have their children love home; would they have them cheerful. contented and happy under the parental roof, they should try to invest that home with charms and attractions suited to the young and admiring mind. Children and youth, with minds pure, innocent and susceptible. are passionately 26 7 . ANNUAL, REPORT. yo fond of the beautiful and the ornamental. They must have somethin; and attractive at home, or they will grow churlish and disconte ar the gratification of those innate desires away from the home of and which is too often the case, among scenes and associations hart jurious to both mind and body. To furnish these luxuries and ornaments to which we have allv are so essential to our comfort and enjoyment as a people, is especially t of our horticulturists, and that they may be prospered in their pleas highly useful occupation is the earnest wish of the people of our y oung and and flourishing State. Your association, as I learn, was formed in Rochester, eleven years a 0, : ‘Since that time our city has had a creditable and gratifying growth. Four extensive nurseries are established here and are doing a prosperous, and A “doubt not, a paying business. For evidence of our material prosperity we point you to the broad acres of fertile lands which surround our city on every side, to our capacious warehouses and elevators, our fine business blocks and excellent hotels, our elegant homes and pleasant streets. That our educational and religious in- terests have been nurtured and directed with proper care and effort, our com- fortable school buildings and our dozen neat and elegant churches will attest. Gentlemen from abroad, on behalf of the resident members of your society, I cordially welcome you to the kindness and hospitality of the citizens of Rocheeter. PRES. SMITH’S REPLY. At the conclusion of the address President Smith thanked Judge Eaton for the kind greeting which he had extended to the State Horticultural Society, and pledged the efforts of the society to bring about the results mentioned. These he said had been the efforts of thefsociety heretofore and would be in the future. He compared Rochester in Minnesota to Rochester in New York, as being a similar center of fruit-raising and tree-growing. At the conclusion of President Smith’s reply, a vote of thanks was tendered Judge Eaton and a copy of his address requested for for publication. COMMITTEES. President Smith then announced the following committees : On finance, Messrs. Kenney, Hollister and Jordan. On the articles on exhibition, Messrs. Latham, Brand and Sias. On the address of the president, Messrs. Hoag, Harris and Day. The secretary having failed to present a formal programme, Messrs. Lacy, Pearce and Harris, were appointed a committee to prepare one. Minnesota STave HorricuLruraL SocieTy. . 27 | Me | COMMERCIAL FERTILIZERS. 5 his subject was called up for discussion. Mr. Elliot. We have plenty of fertilizers at home without the aid of foreign ones, but the day is coming when we shall need them. Mr. Hollister. Uhave had some experience with them; have made trials with Peruvian guano and bone dust and have decided in favor of home-made manure. Have used two tons of gypsum on pieces of corn, potatoes, peas and clover—have seen no good results from it. Could not tell where it had been sown two weeks later, although sown in strips through the fields. Wood Ashes. Mr. Kenney. Would like to hear about the use of wood ashes. Mr. Hollister. They have been one of the best of fertilizers with . me. I think one ton of them worth two of gypsum. Have put them on corn when three inches high, and they were of temporary benefit. Have sown broadcast on peas just before blossoming with - good results. Have got the best results from an application to a newly set bed of strawberries at the rate of five to ten bushels per acre. Mr, Elliot. Think they increase the yield of onions one-third. Mr. Wilcox. Wave used gypsum on clover and it increased the yield one-third ; saw no good from its use on strawberries. Mr. Kenney. From three-fourths of an acre I obtained two hun- dred, and forty bushels of onions; the manure was ashes sown broadcast. Have put ashes on strawberries at the rate of one peck to the rod and think them excellent for this fruit. Mr. Wyman. Have used ashes and horse manure together for onions and obtained good results. Mr. Phillips. Have sown gypsum on clover and obtained three and a half bushels of seed per acre to two bushels where gypsum was not sowed. Mr. Hollister. Think that in mixing ashes and horse manure no permanent result will be obtained though the immediate effect will be very marked. The ashes will liberate the ammonia which will destroy its permanency as a fertilizer. Mr. Hodges. 1 think the best fertilizer for onions is to herd eat- tle on the ground previous to breaking. Have sowed seed broadcast on such ground and thinned to four or five mches. The onions grew so large they had to stand on edge to get room. 28 ANNUAL REPORT. PAPER OF HON. L. B. HODGES. Mr Hodges was called upon to read his paper, which*we Ss r lows : PLANTING TREES FOR SHADE AND ORNAMENT ON STREETS A’ ROADS—WHAT TREES TO PLANT, AND AND HOW TO Ply THEM. The foregoing is the heading of the accompanying article. The text was furnished by Prof. Lacy. I don’t know what book he got it out of; neither do I care. There ought to be a good many sermons preached on that text to all the peo- ple of Minnesota. Right here in Rochester it don’t seem so necessary. The people here have appreciated the importance and necessity of this work, and have taken hold of it in earnest. The changed appearance of this town-site, as between 1854 when I first camped on it and now, 1878, is due more to tree planting than any other one class of improvements. Great as has been the change in this immediate vicinity within so short a Lin, still greater changes have occurred in other localities. Villages and cities origi- nally built on the open prairie, without a tree or shrub in sight, whose streets and avenues were formerly raked fore and aft by the fierce blasts of winter, and scorched by the blazing suns of summer, have by the intervention of the tree planter, been converted into bowers of beauty, protected alike from furious wind and blazing sun. No investment of time and money is more satisfactory or more permanently useful than that employed in planting forest trees aleng the lines of our public highways. In a prairie country like ours, no investment adds so much to the beauty of the country or the ready cash value of the real estate so adorned. The prosecution of this good work appeals alike to the best judgment and most eculti- vated taste. Much has been done in this direction, but far more remains yet to be done. We have done just enough to thoroughly demonstrate the practical nature of the work, the thorough adaptability of our prairie soil to develop magnificent speci- mens of forest trees. In the tree planting returns for 1877, the number of rods planted to trees and hedges along the public highways of Minnesota is given as 265,633, equivalent to 642 miles and 192 rods. The returns are imperfect, incomplete. One thou- sand miles would be much nearer the mark. This is a good beginning, but only a beginning. Have any of you figured on the probable number of miles of public highway in the prairie portion of Minnesota? There are full five hundred prairie townships in what is known as the treeless region of Minnesota. Then there are at least half as many more prairie townships in other comparatively well timbered coun- ties, like Olmsted and Dodge. This rough estimate, which I think is below the actual figures, gives us 750 townships of prairie. Allowing thirty-six miles of public highway to each township gives us 27,000 miles. This must be doubled to give us a row each side the highway, making a total of not less that 54,000 miles yet to be planted along the highways of the prairie regions of Minnesota; enough to reach twice around the globe and some four thousand miles to lap Minnesota Svrare HorvicutturaL Sociery. 29 > - over. Who can correctly eaiiate the climatic effects and the ameliorating influ- z ences following so grand a work? I assume, as a matter of course, that in the treeless region, the planting would be close enough to form staunch and perma- nent wind breaks. f - The protection thus afforded to growing crops would of itself be of inestimable — yalue. The »rotection afforded to orchards and other fruit growing institutions would alone amply repay the cost, while the comfort afforded to man and beast would be beyond the power of figures to express. VARIETIES OF FOREST TREES BEST ADAPTED FOR THIS WORK. This is so largely a matter of taste that no list that could be made would suit every one. This task must conform to facts and to common sense. ‘I'he adapt- ability of the soil to each variety of forest tree must be recognized. The natural limits that have been assigned to each variety of forest tree must be borne in mind, and then the peculiar service required in the particular locality to be bene- fited, and, finally, the pecuniary ability of the owner of the real estate must be taken into account. For merely shade, in my opinion no tree can excel the White Elm (Ulmus Americana). As an ornamental shade tree it is absolutely unapproachable. It is undoubtedly the most ‘‘ magnificent vegetable of the temperate zone.’’ It is: long lived, hardy, and a rapid grower. But it needs room to spread itself. Planted sixty feet apart their tops will interlock long before reaching maturity. The White Elm will do well on any Minnesota prairie from Iowa to Manitoba, but growsymore rapidly on river bottoms and rich, moist soil. It seems to pos- sess the advantage of withstanding the bad effects of dust and smoke, and would consequently be better adapted to planting in large towns than most other vari- eties of trees. In this connection, let me warn the fellows out on the broad prai- ries not to plant too large White Elms. I have seen them transplanted from two to three or four inches in diameter, trimmed to bare poles, tops cut off say twelve to fifteen feet from the ground, and in three years develop so much top that the wind would blow them over so far as to leave them standing at a very acute angle. They seem to develop top more rapidly than root. On the rich, moist alluvial soil of the western counties plant small trees. Acer Saccharinum—Sugar Maple, Rock Maple. The Sugar Maple as a shade and ornamental tree can not be too highly prized. It is indigenous to Minnesota, but is more particular about its location than the White Elm. In this state it prefers well drained localities. A locality in which the White Elm would flourish to pertection would in many instances prove fatal to the Sugar Maple. I have had but poor success in planting them on leve} prairie with deep clay subsoil. Such localities should be underdrained for the Sugar Maple. I very much doubt if they can be made to live where the ground is saturated with moisture during the growing season. On the second bench of the streams, and along the banks and sides of ravines, on any tolerably good soil, and on hill sides, the Sugar Maple flourishes and reaches its best proportions, Poor sandy soils are not suited to the growth of the Sugar Maple, neither are most of the rich bottom lands of the Red River Valley. 30 ANNUAL REPORT. - Juglans Nigra—Black Walnut. All rea considered, I am strongly inclined to the belief that the Black nut is the most valuable forest tree that can be grown in Minnesota. Its gro is very rapid, and when fully developed is one of the largest of our - forest trees. It prefers a rich, moist soil, but will flourish and make a very satisfactory growth on any number one prairie not too far north. The Minnesota Valley seems to be the northern limits for this tree in that portion of Minnesota west of the Missis- sippi river. I have never seen any Black Walnut to amount to any thing north of the valley of the Minnesota river. They are a tender tree when young, and we occasionally get a winter in which they require considerable protection. As a shade and ornamental tree it sometimes rivals the White Elm. When planted as a shade tree give it plenty of room, that its natural habit of throwing out a low broad top may be encouraged. Bryant tells of a Black Walnut tree at three feet from the ground twenty-five feet in circumference. ‘‘ At the height of twelve or fifteen feet the trunk divides into several branches, each of which by itself would constitute a large tree; the whole forming an immense canopy, over- shadowing an area one hundred and fifty feet in diameter.” Juglans Cinerea—Butternut. When grown in open ground throws out a low spreading top; is a hardy, rapid grower, and in all respects a desirable shade and ornamental tree. This tree and its first cousin, the Black Walnut, ought to be considered in the double character of not only forest but fruit trees. A Black Walnut orchard, or a But- ternut orchard, propagated from the seed planted on the right kind of soil, would soon throw in the shade any apple orchard in Minnesota; would come into bearing as quick, would grow faster, stand more grief, and bring more bushels of either fruit or dollars, in the long run. I suggest, as a practical measure, the offering of liberal premiums to encourage the planting of Black Walnut and Butternut orchards. Tilia Americana—Linn, Linden, Basswood. This is another very desirable shade tree. Rapid grower, hardy, long lived. Will grow and develop well on any good farming land, but prefers a rich, moist, cool soil. Furnishes good shade and shelter for man and beast, and also bounti- ful crops of flowers, from which the ‘“‘ little busy bee’’ manufactures a most excel- lent article of honey. Basswood suitable for transplanting is not easily found in large numbers in our native forests, and the main source of supply for shade trees must be from propagation in forest tree nurseries. Fraxinus Americana—W hite Ash. One of our most valuable forest trees. Very hardy. Rapid grower, and when planted wide apart throws out a beautiful wide spreading top. Most of the prairie soil of Minnesota is well adapted to the growth of the White Ash. This tree will do its best in a cool, deep, moist soil. It don’t amount to much on a warm, dry, sandy soil; is not afraid of cold weather; deserves a higher rank in public estimation. For general planting on our northwestern prairies, no forest tree merits more general cultivation and attention. It is easily propa- gated from seed, and can be furnished by millions; cheap as corn fodder. * a Mi . al , Ps ’ - von . [ yore pat ’ f , Minnesota STATE HorticuLtuRAL SOcrIETvyY. es a - Fraxinus Sambucifolia—Black Ash. For merely a shade and ornamental tree, perhaps preferable to White Ash; will grow best on ground too wet for White Ash; will flourish and develop mag- nificently on ground too wet for most any other timber except it may be tamarac. Populus Angulata, or Populus Monilifera—Cottonwood. _ The highly refined, fastidious and aristocratic element of our large towns and cities unite in despising this noble tree. But who cares? It has its own merits, merits that will cause it to be propagated, cherished, nourished and protected by willing hands and loving hearts, until the great interior treeless region of the North American continent shall have been reclaimed and become one of the tra- ditions of the past. When the marble monuments vainly erected to perpetuate the memory of the names of its traducers shall have crumbled into dust; when even the state Horticultural Society has ceased to exist, even then will this mon- umental tree shed its blessings and its cotton alike upon the just and the unjust. I propose to stand by the Cottonwood. Whether planted on a sand bank or a river bottom, in the door yard or in a desert, on the prairie or in the timber, the result is a great, sturdy, healthy forest tree. It is a success, and that’s why people plant it. It don't fool away years of precious time getting ready to do something, but it is up and a coming from the word go. It is emphatically a pioneer tree. This and the White Willow will do more to prepare the way for the cultivation of fruit trees than any other agencies I can think of. ; I have enumerated enough of the deciduous trees. I could easily have extended the list to twice its lenght. But ‘‘ Enough is as good as a feast.”’ Evergreens. I shall not branch out much on evergreens; had rather wait and hear from John Kepner. I desire to say a good word for the Scotch Pine. [I find it abso- lutely hardy, and a thrifty, good grower on the broad prairies of Kandiyohi and Stevens counties; have had them growing out for nearly four years. They always look bright and healthy. They are undoubtedly a good tree to plant by the roadside. It is the great lumber tree of Scandinavian nations of northern Europe. It delights in buffeting old Boreas; is admirably adapted for wind- breaks, and will be used extensiveley for this purpose just as fast as the prairie farmer becomes able to pay for it. I have experimented with various sorts of evergreens on the prairies, and have had more comfort from the Scotch Pine than all others combined. The European Larch, about which volumes have been written, has so far proved hardy, healthy and a rapid grower on the main line of the St. Paul and Pacific railroad, where it has been planted as an experiment in different localities. and on widely varying soils. From experience so gained I should not be afraid to go in tolerably heavy on the European Larch. HOW TO PLANT THEM. It is all surplusage trying to tell this crowd how to plant trees. You know as much about it as I do; but it may be this paper may fall into hands not so expe- rienced as yours. And so I commence by saying, the first thing to do is to pre- 32 2 da Bepors.”. \20aknye pare the ground. In commencing de novo on the prairie, I should firs sod in June. I should let it sweat till October. I would then backset ing up two or three inches of new ground. (I am supposing you ai to plant aiong the highway the whole length of your farm. In the would plant it to potatoes. I prefer potatoes for this purpose because the gro gets worked over more in growing this crop than any other you would be | il y to plant. After digging the potatoes in September, I would then p he ground as deep as I possibly could; the deeper the better. And then Ivy harrow thoroughly. I would have all the holes dug before I took up a eauet: I would dig big holes, not very deep but a good ways across; deep enough so ~ you can throw in dirt, good mellow black soil, forming a little mound in the bottom of the hole to set the tree on. Then, while an assistant holds the tree in an upright position, manipulate the fine, soft, mellow earth all among the roots, spreading them out full length, so they nestle and lay comfortable hke and natural. It any of the roots are bruised and mangled trim them off aa sitten with a sharp knife; and also cut out all dead roots. Too much care can not be exercised in transplanting forest trees. In fecha them up get all the root you can, especially small fibrous roots. Don’t allow the roots to be exposed to sun or wind, Don’t let them freeze while out of the ground: Plan your work so as to have the least possible number of hours inter- vene from the time the tree is lifted from its native spot till it is in the ground again. Should unavoidable delays occur, heel them in, or better still, bury them all oyer in loose earth, taking them out as you plant them. After getting the roots comfortably arranged, shovel the fine, black, mellow soil in, pressing it firmly. You don’t want to tramp it. I think most good sized trees, especially the Cottonwood, do better planted somewhat deeper than they originally stood. Don’t drown your trees with water. Many people heave in several buckets of water in each hole. This is unnecessary. Your tree don’t want to stand in a mortar bed. More trees are killed by too much water than by toolittle. If pos- sible, mulch thoroughly as soon as planted. Mulch with any good manure. Ship manure is best. Old hay or straw is good. If the ground is reasonably moist when the planting is done, good, thorough mulching will protect the tree from drouth*far more effectually than indiserimi- nate bucketfuls of cold water. Cold water is a good thing in its place, but needs to be used with some judgment. Don’t mutilate your trees. This trimming up to bare poles and then cutting the top off may be necessary in very exposed localities, as too mueh top resists the wind to such an extent as to loosen the hold of the roots to the soil. This won't'do. In such localities plant small trees. A tree no larger than a rawhide riding-whip, with its full complement of fibrous roots, will soon get away from such trees as are usually planted along highways; provided, always, you plant it in ground which has been thoroughly prepared, and then give it the same care, protection and cultivation you do your corn when you get fifty bushels per acre. If I was in a hurry, and couldn't wait, and must have big trees at once, I would take up root enough so there would be no necessity of cutting off the top; only trimming the top into symmetry. It would be, perhaps, necessary to steady and brace it against the wind until well rooted. How to do this your own ingenuity should suggest. Minnesota STATE HorricuLTurRAL SOoOciery. 33 dich , AFTER CARE. & _. In planting a line of shade trees along a public highway, I should aim to dedi- cate a strip of ground at least one rod wide to this purpose. I should plough that strip and harrow it at least twice each year, between May and August, keep- ing down all weeds and grass. Every year I should work the mulching when well decayed into the ground, replacing it from year to year, until the tree is firmly established and able to help itself to food and drmk. Bear in mind that a young tree needs care, protection, feed and water, as much as a young steer, and the better treatment either gets the better it grows and prospers. The mulching and cultivation is to the tree what corn, hay and water is to the steer. I can not too strongly condemn the infamous and brutal treatment given to trees by men why ought to know and to do better. The man who handles trees in transplanting, as he would fence rails or posts, deserves to lose them, and generally does. ‘To illustrate; last spring I saw a large box of ornamental trees, mostly evergreens, on the platform at Willmar. After lying there exposed to wind and sun several days, I saw them opened. The moss and other mulch they were packed in had prevented the roots from drying, and had they at once been properly planted, could have been saved. It seemed a whole neighborhood had clubbed together, and each one’s package was bound up separately. These pack- -ages were taken from the box and laid on the platform, where for several days they were exposed to drying winds and scorching sun. They were all killed within twelve hours; but those fellows would come every day or two and carry off a bundle and plant them, all the same; and you can’t make one of them believe that nurseryman is any better than a horse thief. We must preach to the people that a tree, if not exactly animal, is, at least, a living, breathing organism, as susceptible to good or bad treatment as anybody; as quick to appreciate good treatment as you or I, and as quick to resent bad treatment. In fact there are few classes of living beings who tolerate less bad treatment than trees. WHEN TO PLANT—SPRING OR FALL? This is a question often asked. Ido not consider it of as much importance as many do. It is not half as important as a thorough preparation of the soil, mulching and thorough cultivation. With most forest trees it really makes but little difference. For several years I have planted largely, commencing in the fall as soon as the leaves fall; planting until winter comes, heeling in or burying what is left, and in the spring commencing again and planting right along till 20th of May, or until the leaves start. Some seasons there is no perceptible dif- ference between spring and fall planting of most varieties of forest trees. Should it set in very dry, as it sometimes does early in spring, and continue dry for several weeks, your spring planting will suffer to a certain extent, limited, how- ever, by the amount of mulching and cultivation the trees receive during the season of trial. Should there be a reasonable supply of moisture during’ the spring and early summer no appreciable difference would be likely to be observed. Large sized trees, whether planted in the fall or in the spring, will quite fre- quently go through the first season making a good, healthy, vigorous growth, and if June and July of the next season is unusually hot and dry, succumb to the withering influences of the season. This, however, is largely prevented by mulching or cultivation, 3 34 ANNUAL REPORT. oe. Small forest trees one, two and three year olds, usually, sti so far as my experience goes, have always escaped this peril. I have sometimes thought the 2 transplanting of large forest trees from the forest to the open prairie more ae ardous in the fall than in the spring. Sometimes facts prove it to be so, and then again facts prove it not to - 80. The fact is, you can’t most always tell. . With a thorough preparation of the soil, and prompt, clean cation your trees, if properly handled and planted, will, as a rule, outlive the fellow that plants them. DISCUSSION. Evergreens. An inquiry was made as to why the roots of evergreens dry quicker than those of deciduous trees. Mr. Hodges. I mulch my evergreens thoroughly. : Mr. Wilcox. I would suggest that the-resin of evergreens be- comes thick and thus the sap dries quicker than that of other trees. Butternut, Mr. Elliot. Butternuts must be planted where they are to grow, Mr. Wilcox. I Wave transplanted them after growing two years. Mr. Hart. J think the butternut is hardy if well-kept and cared for. Mr. Elliot. I move that a vote of thanks be tendered to Mr. Hodges for his essay, and that a copy be requested for publication. The motion was seconded and carried, Mr. Hodges, You may take the seeds of any forest tree however -hardy and plant millions of them and the first winter you will lose nearly half; these being weakest ; no tree will go through the first and second winters without loss. After this there is no trouble if they are taken care of. The butternut grows as far north as the Sauk valley. Planted here on prairie as many live as of any other tree. The black walnut is more tender and cannot be grown so far north as the butternut. Have planted seed from the Minnesota and the Zumbro valleys but without success. Mr. Cook. I got afew butternut trees from Bryant of Ihnois, but they did not live. Mr. Hart. I believe the butternut is hardy and the toate are generally from carelessness. Mr. Hodges. With Chestnuts I have had no personal experience. A friend in 1855 brought Chestnuts from Chatauqua County, N. Y. For several years they grew in summer and froze down in winter. MinnesoraA STATE HorTicuLTuRAL SOcrery. 35 _ Then there was a period of mild winters and the trees grew and bore, but in 1872 and ’73 they were killed root and branch. Mr. Cotterell. took some home and planted and a year later found them growing. They grew and died about as fast. I thought the tap root must be cut and I cut it in one row These do not appear to kill down. I think I will cut the tap root of the re- mainder. — Mr. Harris. Houston County has Chestnut trees that have borne. I have trees; one transplanted young, the other not at all. They are doing well. Horse Chestnuts. Mr. Pearce. There has been one Horse Chestnut in Rochester for many years. It grows up in summer and kills down in winter. - REVISION OF APPLE LIST. It was moved and seconded and the motion carried to take up the revision of the apple list. Motion was made and seconded that the varieties of apples now recommended for general cultivation be continued. Wealthy—Duchess. Mr. Harris. We have not seen much of this variety on exhibi- tion at our State Fairs. If the tree is as hardy and the fruit as good as is claimed why have we not seen and know more of it? It was put on the list for general cultivation in violation of the rule requiring trial and fruiting in different parts of the State. Mr. Elliot. The first fruit was on exhibition here in 1869. Then the cions were sent to Illinois to be propagated and the trees sent back here, giving only eight years for their growth here—not suffi- cient time to show much fruit. On light soils the tree is not as hardy as the Duchess of Oldenburg, but on clay soils it is perfectly hardy. Mr. Latham. The reason why it has not been exhibited more is that until within a few years Mr. Gideon has had all the bearing trees and he is not in accord with the Horticultural Society. The old tree is dead and was not winter killed. It bore after the hard winter of ’72-8 but afterwards blighted and finally died. His younger trees are mostly on Crab stocks but some are not on Crabs and these look well. The tree is certainly hardy. Had never seen a tree winter killed or injured on the south side. 36 ANNUAL REPORT. Mr. Wilcox. My first cion failed, but the next year they suc- ceeded. My Wealthy trees have never blighted. Last year [had some apples from a tree four years from top working. Am Wey much pleased with the Wealthy. Mr. Jordon. On Mr. Gideon’s grounds no tree is exempt. Have had much blight, but when the Transcendent near by had to be destroyed the Wealthy was not injured. Have worked the Wealthy on the Transcendent and neglected to rub off the buds on the Trans- cendent stock. Branches from these buds blighted but the Wealthy cion on the same tree did not. Mr. Latham. I do not emphasize the matter of blight but on Mr. Gideon’s grounds the Wealthy blights worse than the Duchess. It has not blighted with me. Mr. Jordan. Mr. Gideon works on Crab seedlings indiscrimin- ately and such are very subject to blight. S. P. Quincy, Olmsted Co. I got some cions and put on the Hyslop, The branches of the Hyslop blighted but the Wealthy cions did not until the Hyslop became affected. Mr. Phillips. I got 75 trees and the next winter came to see the fruit at the meeting of this Society. Was disappointed in this, but heard it highly recommended and so I got 75 trees more. Have never lost but one tree and that was by accident. More than this, they have never failed to grow Srom the terminal bud and this I con- sider this good evidence of hardiness. Mine are growing on white oak clay soil. Shall set 500 more in the spring. Mr. Brand. Ihave opposed recommending the Wealthy for gen- eral cultivation for the same reason as Mr. Harris—insufficient trial, but I have planted more largely of it than of any other variety. Mr. Pearce. Wave not always been a particular friend of the Wealthy. I think it hardy, but disposed to blight. It is very hardy, a rapid grower and recovers from an injury sooner than any other variety. Have now more faith in it than in any other. It has come out aJl right every time. Mr. Hart. I find it aslow grower and am afraid that we may not all have the genuine variety. Mr. Harris. Have seen the Wealthy where I would not give anything for it, but elsewhere have seen it doing better. Mr. Day. Ihave a tree 13. inches in diameter which produced 57 apples in 1876. The motion to recommend Wealthy and Duchess for general cultivation was carried unanimously. , . Minnesora Srare HorricunrTuRAL SOcIETY. 37 ame, Tetofsky. Motion was make and seconded to recommend the Tetofsky “ for planting in limited quantities.” An amendment was offered and seconded to recommend “for general garden culture and orchard planting in limited quantities.’ Mr. Brand. It is generally objected that the tree does not bear well, but it has not been planted here long enough to test its bear- ing qualities. Mr. Harris. 1 know of trees planted 10 or 12 years that bear 2 or 3 bushels of fruit, but the fruit is not worth much. It does not keep. Mr. Cotterell. It comes however when people bite sharp for fruit. Iam pleased with the Tetofsky. Mr. Pearce. We have one in this vicinity 12 to 14 years old that is a great bearer. They are slow growers but sure. I have two trees and would hate to take $15 or $20 each for them. The amendment was lost and then the motion was carried unani- mously. White Astrachan, Motion was made and secouded to place the White Astrachan on the same list. Mr. Elliot. The fruit is like the Tetofsky—not Seen for a long time, Mr. Harris. It is a better desert apple. The tree is one of the handsomest that grows, and the hardiest also. A thousand bushels of the fruit could be sold in La Crosse. JI have the trees in bearing. Mr. Wilcox. 1 endorse what Mr. Harris says of the White Astrachan. Dr. Twitchell. I have tried for four or five years to raise the trees and do not believe they can be successfully grown, Mr. Jordon. I doubt if it can be grown outside of the protec- tion of the river blutts. Mr. Wilcox. Mine are on the prairie and much exposed. Mr. Brand. Mine grow steady and have not borne, but I think the tree hardy. The motion to recommend “for planting in limited quantities” was lost ; 2 for, 8 against. Haas. Motion was made and seconded to recommend the Haas for “gen- eral cultivation.” 38 AnnvaL Report. Mr. Hart You have not the Saxton. I have eaten it roasts own grounds for thirteen years. The tree bears at five years and I ms is have received $7.00 for the fruit of a single tree in one year. Mr. Sias. There is a difference in our location. J am hight as on the prairie; Mr. Hart is on the Mississippi bottom. Mr. Phillips. The Saxton is where it belongs—on the list rec- ommehded “for general cultivation in favorable localities.” Mr. Brand. I view the Saxton from still higner ground than either Mr. Hart or Mr. Sias and it does well with me. Have over a hundred trees and am glad to have them. Several of them bore 3 in 1876 and the fruit is good. Mr. Kenney. I obtained ten trees. They are perfect and I have had some fruit from them. The trunks have been protected with crushed sorghum stalks. Motion “to strike from the lists” was lost by a vote of 4 for and 9 against. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for favorable localities.” Motion was made and seconded to amend by including the Haas. This was objected to by the mover of the motion. Motion was made and seconded to adjourn to 7:30 p.m. Carried. » TUESDAY EVENING. The Society was called to order by President Smith at 7:30, The revision of the apple list was continued. St. Lawrence. The St. Lawrence was allowed to remain recommended “for fayor- able localities.” Motion. was made and carried to add to the above heading the words “in southern portions of the state.” WHITE ASTRACHAN AND ELGIN BEAUTY. Allowed to stand recommended “for general trial throughout the state.” Melinda—Stewart’s Sweet.: Allowed to stand recommended “for trial.” Minnesora SvaTve HortTicuLTurAL Society. 39 Mr. Wilcox. I move to amend by adding “if top worked on Crabs.” Many varieties thus succeed when they would not if grafted onthe apple. The Haas is one of them. Mr. Latham. It is not safe to recommend the Haas “for general cultivation.” Mr. Jordon. Yt is not entirely hardy here. Mr. Pearce. I have not decided whether to graft any Haas or not. The tree is a good grower but not hardy and is liable to in- jury. The motion was lost, two for and ten against. Plunb’s Cider. Motion was made and seconded to recommend Plumhb’s Cider ‘ for general cultivation.” Mr. Pearce. I do not believe there was one tree that was not killed or injured by the winter of ’72~73. Mr. Latham offered an amendment, which was seconded, to strike from the list recommenked “for general cultivation in favorable localities.” Mr. Brand. Better leave it there ; it does well on Mr. Gideon’s place. Mr. Latham. I would change my amendment to recommend “for favorable localities.” This was not objected to and Plumb’s Cider was recommended “for favorable localities” by a unanimous vote. Price’s Sweet. Motion was made and seconded to place with Plumb’s Cider. Motion carried by unanimous vote. Mr. Kenney. Ihave thirty on transcendent stocks looking well, but on their own stocks they are not good. Saxton. Motion was made and seconded to strike the Saxton from the list. Mr. Pearce. There is no question but the tree is hardy and no tree produces more fruit. Jt continues to bear even when diseased. The apples are very good. Better let it stand on list recommended “for general cultivation in favorable localities.” Mr. Stas. I have had it for 18 years and not a blossom yet. Mr. Jordon. We don’t want it to cumber the ground. 40 ANNUAL REPORT. Walbridge. Bs hs ; etl) Motion was made and seconded “to strike from the lists.” Motion lost by a vote of 2 for and 2 against. Mr. Wilcox. I consider it top-worked one of the best. Mr. Brand, Mr. J. S. Harris has some fine trees of it. Mr. Elliot. Mr. Tuttle, of Wisconsin, says the old trees bear well but they do not bear young. - Peach Apple. Mr. Jordon. This apple is worthy of some notice. I took it to the Centennial Exhibition. The trees have borne since the hard winter. The fruit does not keep well but is nice. Mr. Brand. The tree is very hardy. For trial by Ameteurs and Pomologists. Motion was made and seconded that varieties. so recommended last year be allowed to remain. Motion carried by unanimous vote. The following are the varieties: Alaska, Julia, Queen of Elgin, Molly, Clayson, Kimball, Rollins Pippin, Rollins Russet, Rollins Prolifie, Wabasha, Hart's Seedling, No. 7, Hart’s Seedling, No. 11. Viola, Clara. Mr. Day. I have seedling which has borne for two years. The fruit of one year kept until June of the next year. The tree is ten or twelve years old and hardy. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for trial by amateurs and pomologists.” Motion carried by unanimous vote. Mr. Sias. Would like to know what is the object of this list if amateurs and pomologists cannot get the stock with which to make the trial. Mr. Hart. We must look to that question. Although my seed- lings were recommended a year ago I have not been asked for any cions. I am ready to place them for trial in the hands of any re- sponsible parties. Minnesota STATE HorvicuLTvuraAL SoOcirery. 41 Mr Harris. I am ready to distribute cions of the Julia if the stock is not lost as I fear it may be from an accident to the tree. Jefferson County. Mr. Hart, I have an apple called Jefferson County. I think it a good one. Ne Mr. Wilcox. I got some cions of it from Mr. Hart and it has borne with me several years. Am much pleased with it. Mr. Jordon. It has not succeeded with me. ‘PROFESSOR LACY’S PAPER. Professor Lacy’s paper on ‘“ Education for Farmers” was then presented. After the reading a vote of thanks was passed and a copy requested for publication. The following is the paper in full :— (Copy of the paper has not been furnished.— Printer.) MR. HARRIS’ REPORT. The discussion on Game, Trespass and other Laws was passed over and the paper of J. 8S. Harris on the Horticultural Exhibit at the State Fair was called for. After the reading it was moved to file for publication: The mo- tion was seconded and carried. The following is the paper : THE HORTICULTURAL EXHIBIT AT THE STATE FAIR OF 1877. Mr, President and Gentlemen of Minnesota State Horticultural Society: Our worthy Secretary has chosen me to furnish a report of the Horticultural exhibit at the State Fair, I assure you that I am not able to prepare such a report in time for this meeting. However I will endeavor to be ready with onc before our transactions go into the hands of the printer. Asa whole the last State Fair, held in Minneapolis, Sept. 3d to 8th, 1877, was very satisfactory. Financially it was a grand success, not only paying all expenses but furnishing a surplus sufficient to enable the Society to pay the whole indebtedness of the previous Fair of 1876. Weshould like to attribute the success to the unpar- allelled display of horses, cattle, sheep, swine, poultry, grains, vegetables, fruits, flowers and fine arts, but honor and justice forbid. A share of the credit must be given to the enterprising city where it was held, to the remarkably fine weather which prevailed at the time and to the liberality of the visitors, for the exnibition was not remarkable for a State of our resources, where all the people are noted for pluck and enterprise. Several of the departments were not filled up to the standard of previous years, and more especially was it the case with the Horti- cultural department. The causes of this deficiency were mostly such as are 42 . ‘AnnuaL Report; beyond our control. The fruit crop was almost a failure in all sections of the State. But very few of our apple trees bore even samples for the codlnanae to deposit their eggs in and perpetuate their species, and the Siberians were not plenty and were not up to their usual standard of excellence. In many partsof — the State drouth had prevailed and greatly injured the vegetables. Flowers and ornamental plants were shown in profusion, but the practiced eye of the professional gardener could see that the season had not been propitious for them. Probably another draw back was the Agricultural Society was in bad odor with some of our best fruit growers, who were holding unpaid premium claims | for the previous fairs, and who would not therofore help us out in the exhibition. Having taken these adverse circumstances into consideration the State board expected but little and therefore allotted but little space for the show of fruits. However we were most happily surprised, for the exhibition far exceeded our expectations. Apples. The largest and most complete show of apples was made by I. H. Moulton, of East Minneapolis, about 125 plates, many of them of very fine appearance for so unfavorable a season. A marked feature of this exhibition was some fine samples of the Wealthy and a number of varieties of Russian origin, which he is propagating in his nurseries. J.S. Harris & Son, of La Crescent, Houston County, showed about 30 varieties of apples and 18 of Siberians. E, Ely, of - Winona, showed 22 varieties from the orchard of Mrs. Campbell of Minnesota City, and a few Siberians. P. A. Jewell, of Lake City, 5 or 6 very choice plates of apples and 16 of Siberians. J.T. Grimes showed the best Transcendents on exhibition, but through an oversight of the committee was not awarded a first premium. Gould, of Excelsior, showed Duchess, Wealthy and Siberians. Brim- hall, of St. Paul, showed Duchess and Siberians. Gould, of Beaver Dam, Wis., two plates of new varieties of Siberians, of very superior quality, and A. W. Sias, Rochester, sent in a basket of new Seedling Siberians of fine appearance. A. Stewart, of Litchfield, made a display of Minnesota peaches. Some others not mentioned above showed Duchess and Siberians. A marked feature of the exhi- bition was that the apples made a much better show than the Siberians notwith- standing the unfavorable season. Grapes. The exhibition of grapes was really superior to the apples. They were shown great profusion and of superior quality and were well ripened for so early in the season, showing that evidently the grape is at home on our soil. The largest exhibitors were R. Knaupheide of St. Paul, J. C. Kramer of La Cresent, F. G. Gould of Excelsior. There were also some fine plates of Delaware and Concord by amateurs. In Mr. Kramer’s collection was a white seedling of excellent quality which he . claims to be perfectly hardy, and it appears to be worthy of trial. The exhibit of Flower and Ornamental plants was fine and extensive but a much better effect could have been secured if more space had been allotted to them. The leading exhibitors were Wyman Elliot, J. ©. Booth, and Geo. A. Brackett. Minnesora Svate HorricuttvraL Sociery. 43 _ Owing to their crowded condition the judges found considerable difficulty in - making just awards. Garden Vegetables, - The competition in this department was spirited and the show large, but in general appearance the specimens did not give a fair example of what our gar- -deners can do in a favorable season. The University of Minnesota had on exhibition ‘a very large collection that were raised on the State Exp. Farm, which, to those who have a personal knowledge of the farm spoke volumes for the skill of t!.e producer (for the soil of the farm is a poor bed of sand that had been entirely exhausted by cropping before it came into the possession of the University), Busch, Hollister & Co., Wyman Elliot, J.T. Grimes, and several others showed extensive colJections. There were no huge squashes or mammoth cabbage to help out the show. Premium List. We have a premium list for the Horticultural department that compares favor- ably with that of any other state, but I think the time has arrived when it should be revised. A special premium should be made for apples of Russian origin to encourage their trial, and professional nurserymen ought not to be brought into - competition with orchardists and farmers. A special premium should be given on the lists adopted by the Horticultural Society. I would suggest that a suitable committee be appointed by this society to revise the list before the next State Fair or that it be made the duty of the executive committee to do so. JOHN S. HARRIS. The society then adjourned to meet at nine o’clock Wednesday morning. WEDNESDAY MORNING. TREE PLANTING LAWS. The society was called to order by President Smith at nine o'clock. The subject of Congressional tree-planting and other forestry laws was referred to a committee consisting of Messrs, Hodges, Brand and Elliot. A communication from Dr. John A. Warder, of Ohio, requesting action on a memorial, asking the appointment of a commissioner to visit and report upon the forests of Europe, was read and referred to the same committee. 44 ie \ ANNUAL ReEporrT. SUGAR AND SYRUP. It was decided to take up the discussion of this subject. A num- i ber of questions were submitted by J. S. Kramer, Esq., of La Cres- “5 cent, and were answered by Messrs. Miller and Kenney and others. Best Variety. sivas The Secretary. What kind of seed gives the most profit in sugar _ and syrup? cae Mr. Miller.» The Minnesota Early Amber Sugar Cane is the best I ever tried. Its granulating property is much superior. Other kinds have not granulated with me. It ripens as surely as a crop of corn: I think I can feel more sure of a crop of this than of a crop of corn. Mr. Kenney. My Amber Cane was two and a half inches high on the 9th of June, when the frost came; it cut every hill nearly to the ground. I let it alone and most every hill came up again. It made a good crop which was cut September 16. The last of it was worked October 9th. Lying so long was injurious, but four acres of Cane produced four hundred and twenty-eight gallons of syrup. Mr. Miller. As to the earliness of the Early Amber, aman in Sheldon, Douglas county, planted the seed June 2nd, and the cane was ripe before frost. Mr. Kenney. I began working the cane last year, August 28th, and took a sample of sugar, September 3d. It was a choice article. Planting.— Harvesting. The Secretary. What is the cheapest and best way to plant? Mr. Miller. It you are planting but little, plant with a hoe in moist soil, about one inch deep. But for four or more acres get a planter. I used a Corn Planter, but it must be nicely adjusted. A planter plants as fast as four men and better because it puts the seed in moist soil. If the soil is clayey it must not be packed. Mr. Kenney. It does not hurt the cane to freeze after one day’s wilting, because then the cells do not burst by freezing. I prefer to let it lie on the ground till the leaves are cured; then the cane can be stored. Lay it on the ground in such a way that the tops and leaves will overlie and protect the stalks from the sun. It is important to cure the cane to get rid of the acid, especially in making sugar. I have always stripped the leaves from the cane for fodder, and believe the leaves paid me for the labor. I have got about two tons of fodder per acre. Minnesota STavTe HorricuttTvraL Sociery. 45 Mr. Miller. I found from the Sorgho Journal, that it is unneces- sary to strip the cane. I cut off the tops but do not strip. Would not give a man ten cents a day to strip. The cane handles better and the leaves protect it from the sun. They also assist in keeping off the dirt when it is beaten up by rain. sHave not been troubled by broken and dried leaves with my mill, which is the Victor, made by the same firm as Cook’s Evaporator. Mr. Kenney. I use a mill made at Madison and will get another of the same kind. Used the Victor one season and then sold it. Mr. Miller. Have used a mill with a choker but shall throw it aside. The leaves are better than Timothy hay, but the labor of stripping at that season is too great. The crushed stalks and leaves go into the yard to cattle, horses, sheep and hogs, which like them very much, Mr. Kenney. I strip and cock the leaves to cure, and they can be stacked in a couple of weeks. Have had the fodder in February. I manage so that two men and a boy strip for 140 to 170 gallons per day. The Secretary. What is the best time and depth to plant? Mr. Miller. Plant as early as you can—before corn-planting— say the first week in May. Mr. Kenney. It is advantageous to plant in succession. I[ planted 120 rods, June Ist, on new timber land, and obtained 118 gallons of syrup; this was stripped on the hill, cut and allowed to lie three days in the sun. Mr. Miller. There is no danger of the seed rotting in the ground if it is planted early, It can be depended upon for a crop of seed. The seed can be fed to all domestic animals. It can be ground and fed to hens, It is extra feed for them. Hogs fatten on it and horses and cattle eat it. It gives from 20 to 25 bushels seed per acre. Sprouting the Seed. The Secretary. Is it advisable to start or sprout the seed before planting, and if so in what manner? Mr. Miller, I have never been favorable to sprouting since I tried it. I planted the seed dry and with sprouts one-fourth of an inch long and could see no difference in the growth or results. Mr. Kenney. I have also planted the seed sprouted and not sprouted and could see no difference. Mr. Harris. I found thirty years ago that there was no ad-° vantage in sprouting seeds. Mr. Elliot. My experience has been the same, 46 ANNUAL REPORT. \ Soil. . S ig The Secretary. What kind of soil is best, sandy or clayey? 3 Mr. Miller. Sandy soil has been regarded as the best for syrup, making it of a lighter color. Have tried it but was unable this year to make as good syrup as from clay soil. Would say that clay soil is better. Mr. Kenney. Land that will produce from 40 to 50 basheld of corn will produce good cane. Mr. Fox. I have found rich alluvial bottom and best for syrup, but for an article that will granulate I want the mullatto soil or yellowish clay. Messrs. Kenney and Miller, Our soil is generally black prairie soil underlaid with clay, which sometimes plows up. The Secretary. At what distance should it be planted and how many kernels in the hill? Mr. Miller. I plant three and one-half feet apart each way and get the best yield by planting six to eight kernels to a hill. Cultivation. The Secretary. What is the best method of cultivating? Mr. Kenney; I do the first cleaning with hoes, simply dressing out around the hills. I get the help to do this in time, whatever the cost. If the weeds once get ahead it is impossible to repair the injury. Next I go through lightly with a shovel plow and stir the ground often while the cane is young as in the cultivation of corn. Mr. Miller (in answer to a question.) I should be afraid to har- row unless the ground was very level. Otherwise the hills might be covered by it. Mr. Latham. A neighbor of mine has used a small ight harrow and thus saved the first hoeing. t Time to Harvest. The Secretary. How ripe should the cane be for best yield of | syrup and sugar? Mr. Kenney. Three years ago (1875) I made my first sugar from cane that was ripe, but there was not much of it; next year (1876) I had four acres which I let get dead ripe, and from this I could get no sugar. Two acres, however, were planted later, May 28th. This was cut up greener and granulated almost before the syrup was cold. It made about 600 pounds of sugar. The seed was not hardened when the cane wascut. This year (1877) I began August Miynesora Strate HorricvtTurséL Sociery. 47 | 28th to make up my product. I worked three lots directly from the hill, then a lot that lay a week. This had nearly all turned to sugar by the following Monday. Mr. Birdsell had 62 rods of cane that lay five days and made 62 gallons of syrup. In two or three days there was only two or three gallons of syrup to the barrel re- maining. My best yield of sugar was from cane with the seed half ripe, cut five days before working. But this year Mr. Miller let the seed get ripe and got nearly as much sugar as [ did. Machinery. The Secretary. What are the best machines and the best method of manufacturing syrup and sugar? Mr. Miller. For sugar there is no evaporator equal to Cook’s, I had four acres of cane about half ripe and six acres pretty ripe. The ripe cane granulated in the cooler so as to make twelve barrels of sugar. All ripe cane granulated very much the same. Have used no purifiers. Mr. Wardell, of Iowa. From the Imphee variety of sorghum I have made little sugar, but a very ffne quality of molasses. I used animal charcoal to remove the flavor. | Mr. Miller. The Victor Mill is made of different sizes. The largest size costs $250.00, with down sweep to go with four-horse power. The next smaller size costs $190.00. No. 4 Evaporator, 3 feet 9 inches by 9 feet costs $50.00 at Cincinnati, and $15.00 more for each addition in size. The larger sizes are 4 ft. wide and 14 ft. longer per size. Mr. Wardell. With too much pressure a detrimental substance appears in the sugar, and prevents making the best syrup. Mr. Kenney. The Climax mill costs $150.00 at the shop, with 10 per cent. off for cash. I think it the best that is made because it is self-adjustable. Have used a refining process but was disap- pointed in it and have ceased to use it, Mr. Day. Have also given up the refining process because of the cost and trouble. I use a mill like Mr. Kenney’s. Yield per Acre, The Secretary. What is the yield of sugar and syrup per acre? How many gallons of juice are required for a gallon of syrup, and what is the yield of sugar per gallon of syrup. Mr. Day, Uave had yields of from 47 to 250 gallons of syrup. per acre. The Amber cane on good ground, well cultivated, will give an average of 100 gallons per acre. 48 . ANNUAL REPORT. CRS ¢ ES Mr. Kenney. Three years ago I got seed of Mr. Miller a Be obtained 125 gallons per acre, but southern grown seed gave 150° re gallons. The stalks of this grow larger. It is also later oa a4 early enough to ripen. Mr. Miller. Last year I got an average of 155 gallons per acre. This year I lost the account, but figuring on a small piece of cane, I got 160 gallons per acre. Mr. Kenney. Since I got the seed Friis Missouri, I have obtained 160 gallons per acre. 8 to 9 gallons of juice make one gallon of syrup and one gallon of syrup yields from 5 to 7 pounds of ee Cost of Production. The Secretary. What is the cost of production, and what are the receipts from it? Mr. Kenney. A man at Rice Lake made enough from three acres to pay for mill and pans and to supply his family with syrup. The cost of cultivation is a little more than that of a crop of corn. The cost of stripping and hauling is about $8.50 per acre. Three boys and myself boil about 60 gallons per day (from daylight until dark) costing for labor about $5.00 and for fuel about $1.00. I have offers to grow, strip and deliver at my mill at $25.00 per acre. One cord of basswopd boils about 90 gallons of syrup. i Mr. Harris. I gather that it costs about 40 cents per gallon to get it into the barrel. Selling Price. Mr. Brand. Tt sells in Faribault for 80 to 90 cents a gallon and is sought after by many. It is without sorghum flavor. A gallon of syrup leaves a half gallon of syrup after the sugar is separated. Mr. Kenney. I receive 75 cents per gallon by the barrel, 80 cents _ by the keg, and 90 cents for less quantities. Beginners sold at 50 cents, but the same parties now sell at 70 cents and the supply is & exhausted. It is estimated that Rice county raised 15,000 gallons F and it would require 60,000 to supply the demand. Mr. Miller.” Twenty-five cents a gallon is the common price for manufacturing at the mill. Mr. Kenney. I got 35 cents a gallon for all I made for others. Paid $3.00 a day to a man to boil. Two pounds seed per acre are required. Mr. Miller. In draining the sugar I have had the best success with centrifugal force. I first got the seed from Mr. Stubbs, of Long Lake. He said the seed had been raised in this state about , ' Miyyesora Stare HorricutturaL Socrery. 49 five years, but did not tell where it came from. I thought that eane would degenerate, and sent some seed to St. Louis to be grown there. It had been grown in Missouri only two years when the short and early stalks became very few, while in Mr. Kenney’s, grown from Minnesota seed, the short and early stalks were nearly one quarter of the whole. Mr. Hollister. It seems strange that this variety should dete- rioate in this State if it originated here. The circumstances favor- able to its origin should also be favorable to its continued growth. Mr. Miller. It mixes with broom corn all kinds of sorghum and with Dura, Pampus or Upland Rice. History of Early Amber Cane. Notz.—Something concerning the history of this variety since the meeting adjourned has been obtained from Mr. Elliot. It is as follows: . Duwrertu, Ind., Feb. 20. Wyman Elliot: Dear Srr—Your favor of February 12 is just at hand, and contents noted. The history of the Early Amber Cane, as I understand it,isthis: Eighteen years ago this winter I went to Europe to select nursery stock, seeds, etc., to add to my collection at Richmond. While in Paris I bought of Vilmoin, Andrieux & Co., a few pounds of Chinese sugar cane seed, merely requesting the best kind they had. A part of this was given to a friend in this county, who was a skillful manufacturer of sorghum syrup, and by him planted. I requested this gentleman to note carefully whether this was different from and superior to kinds already grown here. In the plat so planted, embracing about one- fourth of an acre, there appeared one stalk of different habit from the rest during its growth, and that ripened_its seed by the time the remainder was fully in bloom. The seed from this stalk was carefully saved, and planted the next season at some distance from any other cane, so as to prevent admixture. This crop ripened much earlier than any other cane had heretofore been known to do in the neighborhood, and when the cane was manufactured the syrup was found superior in taste, to any heretofore produced. On account of its earliness and the beautiful amber'color of the syrup, I named it Early Amber. I do not believe the name was ever applied to any cane until I applied it to this. There is an apparent want in the chain of pedigree here that is easily explained. At the time the first crop of Early Amber was worked up here, a young man from North Carolina named Lindley was employed by the gentleman who grew and made up this lot, to assist in the sorghum works, and this workman seeing the value of the new kind of cane, saved and carried back to North Carolina a fine lot of Early Amber seed. From the product of this se:d carried back to North Caro- lma, seed was again brought to Wayne county, Indiana, and introduced as early Carolina sorghum. It was seed of this, grown by Mr. Conley, of Wayne county, Ind., that I first advertised’as Early, Amber, though I knew of the origin of that 4 (50 ANNUAL REPORT. grown by my friend in this (Henry) county, but having my hands full of my ¢ wI business, nursery and fruits, I did not give sufficient heed to the cane ir R. have, however, during the past few years traced the matter up, and am perfect aaa. sure that what was received from Wayne county from North Carolina was the _ direct product of seed carried from here by Mr. Lindley. I have sold the Early — Amber seed largely in the west and northwest during the last ten years, especially in Iowa and Minnesota. In thelatter state [have frequent customers about Long Lake and Lake Howard as well as occasional orders from many other localities. One enthusiastic manufacturer in your state told me that he considered the in- troduction of Early Amber in his state as one of the most paying farm crops. I have never given the attention to the subject of varieties of sorghum that I should, and do not certainly know whether the single seed found in the French seed was a ‘“‘sport,”” and a new variety, or whether it was a seed of a well known sort, that accidentally got in with the kind intended to be given me, nor whether the variety now known as Early Amber is not known elsewhere under another name. I have only written what I do know about Early Amber, and regret my want of knowledge. Respectfully yours, ; E. Y. Treas. P. S.—If a satisfactory method of separating sugar from Early Amber syrup is developed and made public at your convention on the 27th, I should be glad to get into correspondence with those having the process in hand. While the value of this industry is probably greater with you than with us who are nearer the eastern and southern markets, yet I am confident the sor- ghum interest will be recognized with us as of greater importance than it now is. Syrup is now worth forty to fifty cents per gallon, and much is sold here that is produced in Western Virginia and elsewhere. We should at least grow ourown syrup, and sugar also. Hoping your convention may be a profitable occasion, I am, Yours truly, E. Y. Tas. CRAB AND SIBERIAN APPLES. Motion was made and seconded to close the discussion on sugar and syrup and take up the revision of the list of Crab and Siberian Apples. Motion carried. Motion wos made and seconded to refer the list of Crab and Sibe- rian Apples to acommittee. After some little discussion the motion was lost. Motion was made and seconded that the names of the lists be first fixed. Motion carried. Motion was made and seconded that the first list be “recom- mended for general cultivation.” Motion carried. Motion was made and seconded to strike out names of lists adopted last year as follows: ‘Recommended for general trial,” “Recommended for general trial in favorable localities,’ Recom- mended for general trial in localities not subject to blight,” and “Recommended for general planting by those not afraid of blight.” Motion carried. Minnesota Stave HorricucTurAL Sociery. 51 Motion was made and seconded to strike out the list “Passed over without action.” Motion carried. Motion was made and seconded that two lists of Crab and Sibe- rian Apples be added, in the first of which should be placed those varieties “quite exempt from blight,” and in the second those varieties “quite liable to blight.” Thé motion was carried. Transcendent. “ Motion was made and seconded to place Transcendent first on list recommended “for general cultivation.” Motion was carried, 9 for and 5 against. Virginia, Motion was made and seconded to place Virginia second on same list. Mr. Smith.. The fruit was the best in the St. Paul market last year. It is about the size of Transcendent, and the flavor good either for eating or for pies. The tree stands best of any in Mr. Brimhall’s orchard. Mr. Elliot. Mr. Chas. Hoag, of Richfield, got some of the trees from Illinois twelve years ago. I obtained a part of them. They are hardy and do not blight, but on sandy soil do not bear well. Mr. Harris. The trees appear equally well with the Transcend- ent and the fruit is equally good and valuable. Mr. Sias. I saw trees moderately loaded two years ago on Mr. Stewart’s place. There was no blight on them, though Stewart’s Sweet stood blighted all around them. Mr. Hart. The Virginia is highly spoken of in Winona county It is proved to be hardy. Motion carried, 10 for and 2 against. Norsz.—In a letter from F.G. Gould, of Excelsior, to the Secretary, dated Jan. 14th, 1878, occurs the following paragraph: Hope a new and better name may be adopted for the Virginia Crab. I do not believe it originated in Virginia. The tree is said to be exceedingly hardy and nearly free from blight, fruit better than Transcendent and nearly as large. When it is better known there will be a demand for it for prairie planting, where most of the new crabs but partially succeed. The society adjourned to meet at 1:30 p. mu. 52 x ANNUAL REPORT. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. CRAB AND SIBERIAN APPLES RESUMED. The society was called to order by Pres. Smith, at 1 30). 56 The revision of the Crab Apple list was resumed. Orange. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for general culti- vation.” Motion carried by unanimous vote. Early Strawberry. Motion was made and seconded to place on same list. Motion carried by unanimous vote. Meader’s Red Winter. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for general culti- vation.” Mr. Harris. Mr. Jewell says it is one of the worst to blight and it grows too slow for firewood. Mr. Brand. Tf I could have but one variety, I would take Mead- er’s Red Winter. Have over 50 trees in bearing. The original tree did not blight to injure, and I have never had any blight on mine except on trees that I had pruned severely. Mr. Mason. I know that Mr. Meader himself has but little con- fidence in it, and about Hesper, you cannot sell the variety at all. Mr. Sias. Have had it in bearing for three years but do not think very favorably of it. It is not hardy enough. Motion lost, 1 for and 5 against. Power's Large Red. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for general culti- vation.” Mr. Sias. I believe I was the first to introduce it in this State: [ got it from S. B. Parsons, of Flushing, L. I. It is perfectly hardy as free from blight as any I know of and an enormous bearer. The fruit is a little smaller than Transcendent and about the same sea- son as Transcendent. rt rb, } » ~* © Minnesota SraTE HorvricuLTuRAL SOcIgETrYy. 53 Mr. Cotterell, I can confirm what Mr. Sias has said. There is no blight upon it. The fruit is sought after more than any other, - _ and the tree has borne exceedingly each year. Motion carried by unanimous vote. Hyslop. Motion was made and seconded to recommend the Hyslop “for general cultivation.” Motion was carried by unanimous vote. Russell’s Sweet Winter’. Mr. Day inquired concerning this variety. Mr. Sias. The fruit is too small. Have seen the tree. Mr. Day. A neighbor of mine has some answering its descrip- tion. They have never blighted. Mr. Wilcor. I got two trees three years ago. Both have blighted to the ground. Minnesota. Mr. Mason. What is the objection to this. It has never blighted. Mr. Phillips. Does it ever bear? Mr. Harris. J have trees large enough to bear three bushels, and they have not borne. (See “Minnesota” again.) Conical, Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for planting in limited quantities.” Motion carried, 8 for and 1 against. Meader’s Sweet Russet. Motion was made and seconded to place on same list with Conical. Mr. Brand. Wave had several trees in bearing for several years. The tree never blights, is hardy and a fair bearer. Mr. Miller. I have eaten the apples and they are nice; entirely without the crab taste. Mr. Jordon. The tree is a shy bearer, little subject to blight. The fruit is very delicious, honey sweet. Mr. Brand. The trees were planted in 1871, hence they have not stood long enough to determine whether prolific or not. Motion lost, 2 for and 5 against. 54 | AwnuaAL REPORT. Minnesota (again). if ie Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for planting in limited quantities.” eae Mr. Sias. I know the originator. He says the tree is a good or fair bearer. The fruit is large and of good quality, The season is early winter. The tree is hardy. Motion was made and seconded to amend so as to recommend “for trial by amateurs and pomologists. : Mr. Pearce. Why recommend it at all? I have thrown it out. The amendment was carried by unanimous vote. Motion was made and seconded to reconsider the list of Crabs recommended ‘‘for general cultivation.” The motion was lost. Balance of List. Motion was made and seconded that the balance of the list be recommended “‘for trial by amateurs and pomologists.” A substi- tute was offered that each variety be considered separately. The substitute was carried. Beach’s Sweet. Motion was made and seconded that Beach's (Beecher’s) Sweet be recommended “for general cultivation.” Motion carried, 5 for and 2 against. Quaker Beauty. Motion was made and seconded to strike out the Quaker Beauty entirely. ; Mr. Sias. It is not sufficiently hardy—not adapted to our eli- mate. Mr. Mason. It is hardy at Hesper. It is rather a shy bearer but the fruit is nice. Mr. Brand. Have had it growing several years on rich soil and much exposed. Nothing is hardier, but it has never borne. Mr. Day. I got the Quaker Beauty several years ago and I have valued it highly. It is perfectly hardy. The fruit is nice — larger than Transcendent. Mr. Dart. J have raised a few apples of this variety. The tree . is not a good nursery tree because it grows scraggy. I have under- stood the tree to be a good bearer. The fruit is good. Mr. Wilcox. I don’t believe it is either good for the nurseryman or the fruit grower. I know it killed with me. Minnesota Srare Horricurtrurat Sociery. 55 Mr. Cook. The tree is tender while young and a poor nursery tree Mr. Jordon. Have had it standing six years in the nursery and . it has borne no fruit. I see no value in it. “Motion was made and seconded to amend so as ‘to recomufénd “for trial by amateurs and pomologists.” The amendment was crrried, 10 for and 2 against. Maidens Blush. “Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for planting in limited quantities.” Mr Harris. The tree is hardy and good. Mr. Brand. The bark bursts and the tree does not bear very well. At any rate it bears late. Mr. Dart. Many trees bear late and then bear well. This is a very satisfactory nursery tree. Dr. Twitehell. Jn my nursery the tree is as good as the Weal- thy. The trees bear late, but I have seen them as heavily loaded as the Transcendent. The trees are as hardy as any I ever raised. Mine are six or seven years old, but there are some in Chatfield nine or ten years old. : Mr. Wilcow. It is one of the best. The tree bears late but bears well. Motion was made and seconded to amend so as to recommend “for general cultivation.” Mr. Latham. I don’t think it is well enough known to recom- mend for general cultivation. Mr. Jordon. I got two trees six years ago and they have not done satisfactorily. Mr. ————. Ihave nice trees six or seven years old, but they have borne no fruit. - The amendment was los‘, 4 for and 7 against. The motion was carried unanimously. Hesper Blush. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for general culti- vation.” Motion was made and seconded to amend so as to recommend ‘for planting in limited quantities.” Dr, Twitchell. It is as hardy as the Maiden’s Blush and equal to it. Mr. Wilcox. It is one of the worst to blight. 5G a . ANNUAL REpPorT. Dr. Twitchell. The gentleman probably knows and speaks of , the Hesper Rose in place of Hesper Blush. ; Mr. Jordon. Saw trees of this variety in fine condition in i nepin county several years ago, but last year I saw the same trees neatly dead. * Mr. Brand. The tree is particularly subject to the borer. The amendment was carried unanimously. Woodland Winter. Motion was made and seconded to strike the Woodland Winter (Woodlawn Red) from the lists. . Mr. Sias. The old tree bears heavily. I have a few in the nur- sery and they are fine. Mr. Jordon. The fruit is as good as the standard apple. — Motion was made and seconded to amend so as to recommend “for trial by amateurs and pomologists,” The amendment was carried, 6 for and 2 against. Aiken’s Striped Winter. Motion was made and seconded to recommend ‘for biti by ama- teurs and pomologists.” Mr. Jordon. Have had it in beatae two or three years and it is not of any value. Motion carried by unanimous vote. General Grant. Motion was made and seconded to strike from the lists. Mr. Cotterell. We have men here who have had it without blight. Mr. Phillips. I had ten trees struck off by blight. Dr. Twitchell. It blights no more than the Transcendent. The fruit is larger than Transcendent and as good as the Duchess. Mr. Dart. It ought to go ahead of the Transcendent, Would like to have it recommended “for planting in limited quantities.” Mr. Hatfield. I got some trees and they have done well. Mr. Day. The tree is as hardy as the Transcendent and blights no more. The apples are large unless too many are allowed to grow. Mr. Wilcox. What has been said in its favor is my experience. Motion made and seconded to amend so as to recommend “for general cultivation.” Minnesor4s STATE HorricvuLTurRAL SOCIETY. 57 - The amendment was carried by unanimous vote. (See “Gen. Grant” again.) id Whitney's No. 20—Alaska—Brier’s-Sweet. Recommended “for trial by amateurs and pomologists” by unan- imous votes. Hutchinson's Sweet. Recommended “for trial by amateurs and pomologists”, 6 for and ‘1 against. Aiken’s Green Winter. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for trial by ama- teurs and pomologists.” Motion lost, 2 for and 4 against. Power's Large Red (again.) Mr.——. The tree is as hardy as any tree in Minnesota, and the fruit is very fine. Mr. Sias. The fruit sold readily for two dollars per bushel. Motion was made and seconded to reconsider the action on Power’s Large Red. Motion was made and seconded to lay the Crab Apple subject on the table. This motion was carried. MR. MENDENAALL’S PAPER. Mr. Mendenhall’s paper was called for and read by the secretary, after which a vote of thanks was tendered and the paper ordered on file for publication. The paper way as follows: THE CABBAGE BUTTERFLIES. In this northern clime, where fruit is comparatively scarce and difficult to grow, great store is naturally set by the vegetable garden, which our intense though brief summers develop in remarkable perfection. Among our most important garden crops is the cabbage. This delicious and healthful esculent thrives greatly in our quick, rich soil, and is noted for a solidity of structure and delicacy of flavor not excelled, if even attamed to, in any other part of the world. These qualities render it one of our most marketable products and a source of no small profit to the producer. 58 - Annual Report. Ca oe The only impediment to the successful cultivation of the cabbage sank \ occasional prevalence of certain ‘‘worms" and other insects, which g erode the leaves, and in this way interfere with the compactness and vigor of its growth. Among the most injurions of these insects are ne larvee of two ¢ or three — butterflies, distinguished as the ‘‘ Cabbage Butterflies,’ or ‘‘ Garden Whites.” These butterflies are familiar to every one as they flit lazily am flower to kl sipping nectar, or hover in flocks over the cabbage or cauliflower beds intent on the more serious business of placing their eggs where their young can find sus- tenance. We have in this country two native and one imported species. The first of these, and the one which at present has the widest range, has been named the Southern Cabbage Butterfly (Pieris protodice, Boisd.) The popular name is clearly a misnomer, as it was bestowed upon it by Prof. Riley under the errone- ous impression that it occurred in destructive numbers only in the South and Southwest. This is our darkest species of Pieris, the body being black and both upper and under wings of the female being quite regularly checkered in gray, black and white. The sexes differ more in color in this than in any other of the species; the wings of the male being creamy white, with but five more or less distinct black spots on the outer half of the upper pair, while the under pair are plain white, The insect hibernates in the chrysalis state in some protected situation. The butterflies of fhe first brood make their appearance in May, and deposit their greenish-white, sub-conical eggs singly on the young cabbages and turnips, as well as on some wild cruciform plants, such as mustard, pepper-grass, (Lepidi- um) and cress (Arabis). The young larva is of a dull orange color, witha black head, but shows the characteristic lines and black dots immediately after the first molt. When full grown it measures about one and one-eighth inches, and is nearly cylindrical in form. The ground color is greenish blue, with four narrow longitudinal yellow stripes and a broad band of lilae along each side. The surface is roughened with numerous minute black spots from which preceed short, stiff hairs. It feeds for about three weeks, during which it molts four times. The chrysalis is attached by the tail and supported in an upright position by a band of silk around the middle, like those of the typical Papilios, which it likewise closely resembles in form. It is of a bluish-gray color dotted with black. The butterflies from the first brood emerge from their chrysalides in from eight to ten days, and immedlately proceed to place their eggs upon the now well- grown cabbages. The first brood is seldom numerous enough to do much dam- age, but the fall brood, being under favorable conditions very abundant, has destructive powers proportionately great, and often causes considerable loss in large fields. The only other species we have with us as a is the Potherb Butterfly (Pieris _ oleracee, Boisd.) This is a peculiarly northern species, being rarely found as far south as Pennsylvania in the East, and probably not much below the south- ern boundary of sur own state in the West, while it extends northward as far as Great Slave Lake, and possibly beyond. The butterfly has a black body covered with soft white hairs, and the wings are of an unspotted creamy white color slightly shaded with gray at the base and on the front edges, especially on the under surface. It lays its eggs usually three or four together, on the under sides of the leaves. The eggs are of a yellowish color, somewhat pear-shaped, and furrowed with longitudixal ribs. The larva is a velvety, dark green cylindrical worm, without spot or stripe. It changes to a pale green or whitish chrysalis ornamented with minute black dots. Tnere are two broods of worms during the / : Minnesora Svare HorricuLtTvuraL. Sociery. 59 season, the second brood, like that of protodice, being the most destructive. , The development of this insect is somewhat irregular, and it may usually be found in all its stages during the months of July and August and the early part of Sep- tember. The larve of both these native species feed preferably upon cabbage, but also devour with apparent relish the leaves of turnip, cauliflower and kohl- rabi, and are occasionally found upon radishes, cress, pepper-grass, mustard and y several wild plants of the same family (Cruciferae). The first named species feeds indiscriminately on the upper and under sides of the leaves, and is easily detected by its dark and variegated coloring. The sec- ond species, on the contrary, conceals itself on the under side of the outer leaves, with which its green color so closely blends that it requires careful search to discover it. Destructive as these indigenous butterfly larve sometimes prove, their depre- dations are trifling in comparison with those of the imported Rape Butterfly (Pie- ris rape, Schrank). This insect has long been known throughout Europe as one of the most serious pests of the vegetable garden. It was introduced into this country about twenty years ago, and has since spread over almost the entire Dominion of Canada, and established itself throughout the northern and middle Atlantic states. It was first recognized in the vicinity of Quebec, to which port it was doubtless unconsciously brought and cast ashore in the egg or chrysalis state, with the refuse from some vessel; or perhaps the butterflies from chrysalides suspended during the voyage, escaped while the vessel was at the dock, and fluttered landward to perpetuate their kind on new soil. As with most imported insects, the change of climate seemed to impart new vigor to this pest, and as its European parasites had not followed it across the ocean, and our native species had not then adapted themselves to the immigrant, it multiplied for the first ten years with exceeding rapidity, and in 1870 was estamated to have destroyed, in the neighborhood of Quebec alone, more than $240,000 worth of cabbages. Its ravages were equally severe for some years in the market gardens around Boston, New York, Philadelphia and other eastern cities, where the unconscious gar- dener would walk amid a snow storm of white butterflies, bemoaning his ragged and wilted rows of cabbages and cauliflower, without dreaming of associating the innocent looking flutterers around his head with the work of devastation gomg on at his feet. To illustrate how little general knowledge there is upon the sub- ject of the transformation of insects, it is said that a certain entomologist while attempting to capture some of the butterflies from one of these suburban gardens, was driven out with much abuse by the irate gardener, for beating down the plants with his net. -In vain the gentleman attempted to explain the service he was rendering in the capture of the butterflies. He was listened to with absolute incredulity. The gardner could never be made to believe—not he—‘‘that catch- ing white butterflies in a bag would save cabbages from worms ”’! As this destructive insect is slowly but surely advancing westward, it is well for us to make ourselves acquainted with its characteristics in order that we may recognize it upon its first appearance, and yield it ‘‘ no quarter.”’ The two sexes of the imported butterfly are much alike, and bear a casual resemblance to the male of the so-called Southern Cabbage Butterfly. The body and the tips of the front wings are black. ‘The female has two conspicuous black spots near the outer edges of each of the front wings, while the hind wings are marked with a large spot on the upper edge and a smaller one near the middle. The male has a single biack spot on each of the front wings and an indistinct one on the upper edge of each of the hind wings. The larva is of a deep green ~ . q a d - ’ iy cA oe ' . - ~ 60 . ANNvaL Buporr': >is iaewte. coloy, pohiiel with a dense, velvety SESE and ornamented "i longitudinal yellow stripes. It does not, as in the case of our native s fine its depredations principally to the outer leaves, but has the habit into the heart of the plant, and defiling it through and through with its gnawings ‘and excretions. In localities where this worm is naturalized, no cabbage can es committed to the pot without first being picked to pieces and each leaf eer , looked over to detect worms that may be lurking in its folds. The increase of this insect has been materially checked during the ‘sian ioe, or eight years, by the attacks of two parasites. The first of these, a minute Chalcid, was originally supposed to be its European enemy, which had by some fortunate accident heen introduced into this country in infested larve or chrys- alides, but later investigations render it more probable that the parasite is a native of this country, as well as of Europe, and that it probably preys upon our native species in the absence of the imported one. It is a very small, metallic green, four- wimged fly, and bears the scientific name, Pteromalus puparum, Linn. This fly punctures the skin, and lays its eggs on all parts of the worm, and the tiny maggots, often to the number of forty or fifty, feed upon the fatty tissues near the surface, so tnat the larva, though weakened, is not vitally injured by their presence, and is able to change to chrysalis. The parasites then work deeper, and soon destroy the life of their victim; and in the course of ten or twelve days the flies begin to emerge. The second parasite is a Tachina fly, a two winged insect about the size of the common house fly, which it closely resembles in general appearance, This insect has also proved a valuable ally of the gardener in reducing the numbers of the cabbage worms. Various applications have been experimented with in destroying the worms, but for the most part those that were efficacious against them, such as carbolie powder, white hellebore, and Paris green, at the same time rendered the plants upon which they were used unfit for food. Dusting with lime and wood ashes, and drenching with hot water, have been tried with considerable success. The best measures, however, are preventive and consist in trapping the chrysalides under pieces of board plaeed here and there among the plants, and elevated an inch or two from the ground by means of clods or stones under eachend. When ready to change the worms will eagerly avail themselves of such shelter, and the boards should be examined every week or ten days during the season, and the chrysalides removed and destroyed, with the exception of those that are parasit- ized, which may be known by their dark livid color. Another preventive is to catch the butterfles, which always fly low and slowly, in a butterfly net. The latter is a bag two or three feet in length, made of coarse book muslin or mos- quito netting, the open end being secured around a hoop of thick wire, having the ends twisted together and soldered into a narrow tin tube to form a handle, which can be lengthened at pleasure by fitting into it a stick or cane. The but- terflies can be caught on the wing or as they alight, by throwing the net over them and giving it a dextrous twirl to secure them, after which a slight pinch between the thumb and finger puts an end to their power for injury forever. The cabbage plant is liable to the attacks of a large number of other insects, but none of these have proved formidable pests with us, although further south the damage done by some of them renders the cultivation of cabbage very unsat- isfactory and unremunerative. - ‘ a) Minnesota STATE HorvicvuLtTvuRAL SOcIETY. \ GE - At the conclusion of the reading of this paper, Mr. Pearce called attention to the apparatus for the destruction of nocturnal insects, in the report of the Department of Agriculture. MR. HARRIS’ REPORT ON INJURIOUS INSECTS. The report of Mr. Harrison Injurious Insects was then called for and read by the writer, after which a vote of thanks was tendered and a copy requested for publication. Mr. President and Gentlemen: One of the greatest aids that could be given to the farmers and horticultur- ists of this State by the present legislature would be a practical entomologist, whose duty it should be to inquire into the minutest details “of the lives and habits of insects both beneficial and destructive, and cause to be published frequent reports of his investigations, that the people may be able to recognize their friends and and exactly when, where and how they may combat their enemies to the best advantage. It is evident that insects destroy or seriously injure one- fourth of the products of this State, and that they are alarmingly on the increase. (One thousand dollars expended in furnishing the necessary information would return a hundred fold to the people.) It is of the utmost importance that the tillers of the soil should be informed of the best means for heading them off, Books and papers treating upon the subject of entomology are scarce and difficult to obtain, and what little is written and published in our agricultural papers is so over-shadowed by other subjects that it is not half as beneficial as practical reports devoted exclusively to the subject, consequently the most of our people are igno- rant of the habits, instincts and various transformations of insects, and are unwittingly giving aid and encouragement to their enemies by furnishing them the best facility for their increase. It they knew that the weeds and wild plants that luxuriate in the angles of rail fences were a particularly favorable place for protection during their trans- formations, that decaying logs and stumps are the very best nurseries for them, and that danger lurked in everything that marred the beauty of their places, self- interest would prompt them to clear out the fence angles, grub and burn the stumps and clear up and destroy everything that is useless but to present hiding places or inducemento for insects to take up their winter quarters in or to deposit their eggs for the coming season, and the farms and gardens of our State would present an appearance of neatness and thrift. The insects that were most injurious to the horticulturist in the year 1877 are the chinch bug, the May beetle and its larva, the white grub, cut-worm, cab- bage worms of two species, canker worm and steel blue grape bud borer (and bed bugs.) : Chinch Bug. Karly in the sexson the chinch bug ( Micropus leucop terus) made its appear- ance in Houston county. They were massed about the base of strawberry plants, young beets, cabbage, etc., and for two or three days I observed them very numerous on the green fruit of the raspberry. At the beginning of the straw- 62 . ANNUAL Reporr! > 59° % berry season they suddenly disappeared from the fruit and vocilaie pl commenced marching in herds through some of the wheat fields, swee) thing before them. The full grown insect is about one-twelfth of an inch length, and of a black color with white wings. When crushed they emit a very unpleasant odor. It is said that multitudes of them hve through the winter con- cealed under chips, stones and various kinds of rubbish; and that the females deposit their eggs in the ground in the month of June to the number of 300, and that the first brood of young mature from first of July to middle of August, and that dry seasons are much the most favorable for them. I discovered the first about the 20th of April, (about a pint or more) under a board that had lain through the winter by the side of my raspberry bed. Remedy.—Farmers sometimes save their crops by plowing a deep furrow along the side of their fields, which the insects are entering, and then hitching a horse to a log and drawing it back and forth in the furrow, which crushes them as they fall into it, and are unable to crawl out over the loose dirt of the via, Salt is said to be‘a remedy. Few if any birds prey upon them. May Beetle. In the month of June the May Beetle (Phyllophaga Quercina, Harris) came out of the earth in great numbers and devastated the foliage of the fruit and forest trees to a considerable extent. At night they swarmed in such numbers as to present the sound of bees swarming. Their larva, the large white grub, is very destructive to flower and garden plants, also to strawberry plants and young ~ trees. As they work entirely under ground, they are not discovered until the mischief is done. I have found as many as eight under a single hill of straw- berries, and lost three-fourths of the crop of cabbage on a half acre. They con- tinue to work on through the entire summer. Whenever a plant is discovered wilting it should be immediately dug out and the grubs destroyed, or they will move on to the next plant. Ducks and other poultry are useful in destroying the beetle. The Butcher bird has a particular appetite for the grubs, and will destroy great numbers of them when turned to the surface in plowing. I think that multitudes of the beetle might be trapped at night in kettles or tubs of water with lighted lanterns suspended over them. Cut Worms, Cut worms (for description of them I refer you to an essay by Mr. Mendenhall, read at Market Hall, Minneapolis, Dec. 22, 1877) werenumerous and very destrue- tive to cabbage and tomato plants, young Lima beans, cucumbers, melons, &c. One good preventative against them is to keep the ground clear of weeds. The moth, or perfect msect, is led by instinct to seek out the foulest or weediest places to deposit her eggs, to be sure of provender for her progeny; hence the slovenly gardener suffers the most from their ravages. Grape Bud Borer. The steel blue grape bud borer is a short beetle about one-tenth of an inch long. They made their appearaece about the time the buds commenced swell- ing, and the damage they dois by boring into the heart of the bud, thus destroy- ing its vitality. I did not make their acquaintance until they had about finished MinnesorTa STATE HorTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 63 up their work, and am not familiar with their habits or history. As, like the Colorado potato veetle they have a habit of feigning dead and falling to the grounl when disturbed, I think they might be caught in nets by holding them under the vine and giving a sudden jar to it. At one time in the summer I dis- + covered the leaves of some Concord grapes infested with a dark catapillar about one-third of an inch long, which was eating the leaves full of holes. Before I could take time to secure some of them in order to watch their transformation before they had entirely disappeared. Probably they were the larvie of the beetle. I do not know that bed bugs are injurious to the horticulturist, only as they keep hired hands from getting sufficient rest at night, and consequently they take more in daytime. Cabbage Worms. A green and yellow striped caterpillar about 144 inches in length when fully grown, has been very destructive to cabbage, eating the leaves away and even into the hearts, causing premature decay. I have not had time to study them -up, but think they are the larva of a yellowish white butterfly (Pieris rape, or P. oleracea) that is seen hovering about the garden in considerable numbers. There appeared to be several broods of them during the summer. Sprinkling the cabbage with a moderately strong brine would probably be beneficial. Thou- sands can be destroyed when they are small, before they have wandered from the leaf wpon which they have hatched. A few minutes spent daily in looking for and destroying them will prevent their doing any serious damage. Considerable damage was done to the cabbage in the fall by another insect that eats holes im the leaves, riddling them like a seive. The caterpillar is little more than one half inch long, of a greenish color, and thickened in the middle. Dr. Fitch has described it in N. Y. Report of 1853 Page 874, as the Cabbage Moth (Cerostoma brassicella.) When disturbed, the. caterpillar drops from the plant to suspend itself by means of a silken thread. The pupa is formed in a silk-lke cocoon woven upon the leaves, and as it is but a few days before the perfect insect emerges, probably more than one brood is hatched out in a year. Inoticed them quite numerous last fall in the garden of Mr. L. Chase of Minne- apolis. I think salt water would be a good remedy. My patch was entirely cleared of them by a flock of blackbirds, but they scratched the cabbage to pieces considerably in getting at them. JOHN L. HARRIS. MR. HOLLISTER’S PAPER. Mr. Hollister’s paper was then called for, and read by the writer, After the reading, a vote of thanks was tendered and a copy requested for publication. The following is the paper. GROWING SEEDS FOR MARKET. It is not intended by this paper to convey the impression that seed growing is an easy and sure horticultural horse to ride to sudden competence. Neither is it intended to show that any one can succeed in the business, any more than an essay detailing the workings of any commercial enterprise would guarantee busi- ness success to any person undertaking it. 64 ANNUAL REPORT. The great question with any productive industry is that of supply and deman The minor problem is, if there is an evident demand, how to profitably reach market; . Common commodities of horticultural birth—grains, fruits and. have simply to be placed on the open market, when they immediately fix price. Their merit is easily discernible by appearance and condition. with garden seeds, Their appearance is not their guarantee. Seed time a1 harvest—the work of a year, only tells their story. Bound up in the shell of a - Jittle seed, that the most practiced eye cannot distinguish with certainty whether it be Swedish Turnip or Flat Dutch Cabbage, lies the hidden germ that tells of success or failure. All sorts of radish seed look alike, as also tomato, Recs lettuce, &c. In buying fruits you can judge for yourself. In buying seeds you are at the mercy of the seller, for he must judge for you; and that is where the trouble comes from when.you attempt to find a market for garden seeds of your own growth. You must first convince your customer that you are yourself reliable, then you may begin to quote prices, and not before, A beginner in the business might grow a full list of sorts, true to name, oN as good as could be produced anywhere; he might fill his satchel with samples, and tramp from St. Paul to Boston, visiting every seedsman on the route, and not sell a dollar’s worth. On the other hand, a grower with a reputation for growing good stock, need never leave his premises to effect a sale, but will be ptished to the full capacity of his farm to supply the demand. Understand me; that when seedsmen speak of a grower, they haye reference to the man who grows seeds to sell in bulk to dealers, a man who issues no cat- alogue, does no advertising, but depends upon others to sell his stock for him; and this class are very numerous, and occupy a very important place in the seed trade. There are but few dealers in this country who are also growers. Most of them who make big claims, only grow a few varieties, and sort up from the gen- eral growers. For instance, a seedsman in Illinois or Michigan may grow to good advantage the vine seeds, but the weevil infests his peas so that he must send to Minnesota or Canada for them. He can grow sweet corn to perfection in Tlinois, but if his gardeners want a really early sort it must be grown somewhere north of his location. He can grow tomato seed, but must go to Staten Island for his cabbage seed. He can grow parsnip, but must go to New York for carrot, He can grow onions, but must go to Connecticut for his seed. And thus the interchange is made: we buy of the East, the East buys of us. We import radish, cauliflower, celery, spinach, and Swede turnip from Europe, and in turn sell them squash, cucumber, tomato, cabbage, carrot and onion. The general grower must supply the most of this exchange stock, which cer- tainly opens a wide field for intelligent industry. While we may to a certain extent point out how many sorts may be grown, we do not advise that a general list be attempted. Better grow pumpkins carefully, and get a reputation for No. 1 pumpkin seed than to attempt a long list of fancy sorts and expect to get your money back before you establish a reputation. Grow no large quantity of seed of any kind until you know where you are going to sell it, and at what price, unless you have a good deal of money to spend for advertising, and are willing to take your chances in creating a market. While this advice may seem to discourage it also encourages, It discourages careless attempts; it encourages the careful, pains- taking, scientific grower. One is sure of failure; the other is sure of success. And both meet their just reward. . Minnesota Stave Horricutturat Socrery. 65 peBeivy * If any man should be rewarded for his labor it is the taller of the soil; and ig any man deserves to go empty handed and unrewarded, it is he who places spuri- _ ous seeds in the furrow of the husbandman, The grower and dealer in seeds has then a critical and sacred duty. The bumal and the resurrection of the seed they sell will proclaim how well they keep their trust. & fis , Soil and Preparation. Seed growing is also vegetable growing, for the same operations are necessary to grow the stock from which the seed is to be produced as is pursued in market gardening operations. It is highly important then that the ground be in the best possible tilth. A sandy loam, or warm light soil, brought up to the required standard strength by the application ot fertilizers, is the best condition of soil we have any knowl- edge of for growing vegetables, and as far as our experience goes, is of the sort to produce the plumpest, brightest and best developed seed. We find a strong clay soil too cold and slow, and that a deep black loam has a tendency to induce too rampant growth of vine or stalk, which is quite apt to be at the expense of the quality of seed. Let us suppose then, that the soil is in the right condition, plowed in the fall and again in the spring, thoroughly pulverized with harrow and roller, laid out in straight rows, so as to be sightly in appearance and easy to work, and we will begin by The Selection of Seed Stock and Stock Seed. In seed-growing parlance, the roots of all biennials that are planted for seed _ crop are called seed stock, while the seed of annuals planted for the same purpose is called stock seed. _In selecting roots, like beets, carrots, &c., care should be taken to use only those perfect specimens that preserve most radically the form, color and foliage of the variety sought to perpetuate. And this can partially be done in the field at harvesting time, by first rejecting all that showed foliage of the wrong color or shape. Then again rejecting unshapely and off-colored roots, you can arrive at nearly a perfect seed stock. In annuals the selection is easier as the plant, seed and fruit tells the story, unless there has been admixture by too close planting; in which case the damage is irreparable. In selecting these stocks the greatest care must be observed, and it is a work that should never be entrusted to inex- perienced persons. It is one of the secrets of success, and the most important branch of the business. I have been assigned a subject that would require, to do it justice, more space than you would be willing to allow me. I can therefore only giance at the list, and give here and there a practical hint that may be of value to some one, even though they may wish to grow only for their own use. Beets. One of the most difficult seeds to procure to suit the fancy of a critical planter. It has a great tendency to sport, and only by strict selection of seed stock and complete isolation of the growing seed crop can any thing like satisfactory resulta be obtained. In harvesting the seed stock in the fall, the crown should not be 5 66 © ANNUAL REPORT. cut close. Winter as you please, in cellar or in pits. Plant.as soon as da frost is over, in rows three feet apart and eighteen inches apart in the roy cover to the crown. Soil should be rich. Cultivate thoroughly, and hill ur at the last hoeing, to support the stalks. Cut as soon as the seeds turn brown. Dry in the sun, and thresh with a flail, but take care to do this before the stalks — become so dry as to break badly, as it is then almost impossible to separate the short bits of sticks from the seed. Clean with a fanning mill, and spread out in a dry loft to cure before sacking; and here is a good time to remark penrstoe pad keep better in sacks than in barrels or bins. Good six years. — Sta € Beans. This aristocratic plant will well repay for planting on moderately rich soil, not- withstanding its reputation for thriving on gravelly knolls. Plant at late corn- planting time, in rows running north and south, thirty inches apart, one bushel of seed per acre. Cultivate well; hill but little, as the pods should stand well up from the ground. Never hoe or cultivate when the vines are wet. Harvest as soon as ripe. Stack in hard stacks around a pole with plenty of brush at bottom, and cover with hay; and Jet them remain in this position until thoroughly dry and cured out. If dried for only a day or two on the ground, they will thresh well, but are not cured out sufficiently to sack with safety. They are apt to heat, which will ruin them for seed and also take on a dingy appearance, while if cured in the pod they preserve the bright glossy appearance so valuable in seed stock. Thresh with a flail, and compel yotr men to wear rubber shoes while at work, as heavy boots are sure to split a great many beans. Clean with a fan- ning mill, and sift with a No. 8 seive, and hand pick. Cabbage. This vegetable responds liberally to careful selection of seed stocks, and fails just as liberally in proportion as poor specimens are planted for seed. Old estab- lished specimens preserve their individuality remarkably well, but the new mtro- ductions are apt for years to persistently sport, as having an ambition to be every thing at once. This is familiarly illustrated in that new candidate for public favor, Henderson’s Summer, which in our grounds seems yet to be undecided whether to be a Jersey Wakefield, Early Wyman, or Fottler’s Brunswick; and for the interest of the seed trade, I hope it will soon settle down to business, and establish for itself a pedigree. Winter according to your most approved notions, taking care that the roots are preserved tolerably fresh, and that the stalk at its junction with the head is preserved from alternate freezing and thawing, as that is a vital point, and if injured is sure to rot off when planted out. Plant 4x4 ft. deeply, so the head nearly rests upon the ground. Harvest as soon as the pods turn yellow, as there is danger of loss by shelling, and the seed loses its plump appearance if allowed to get too ripe. It ripens irregularly, and several cuttings must be made to insure an even sample of seed. Much of the cabbage seed sold has the appearance of having two or three sorts mixed, owing to the carelessness of the grower in harvesting the whole stalk at one time, containing seed in eyery stage of ripening. Dry upon cloths in the sun to dry, and remove to the thresh- ing floor by tying the corners of the sheets together. Thresh with a very light flail; clean with fanning mill, and finish with No. 18 seive. ele ll ts cl il dit elec - % . . ) Minyesova STave HorrvicuLTuRAL Sociery. 67 “For seed stock winter cabbage should be planted at the sual time. arly sorts must be planted so as to mature late in the fall. Borecole, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli and Cauliflower, owing to our hot, dry _ summers, are not profitably grown here, but are brought mainly from Germany. Carrot. American grown carrot seed is far better than the European. The European is fifty per cent cheaper—which accounts for the difference of price—in catalogues of dealers. Those determined to present the best stock of American seed, are com- pelled to sell at a higher price than their competitors who sell imported seed ; and this is also true of American beet and cabbage—both superior, but owing to the high comparative price of labor both must be sold at a higher price. Select the best roots, plant in April on rich ground, one foot by four. The -seed ripens unevenly and must be gathered at different times and spread on a floor under cover to dry. Thresh; rake the stems off, sift through a No. 8 seive and continue sifting and rubbing the seed through smaller meshes until you finally finish with fanning mill and No. 24 seive. Celery. Seed stock celery is preserved in the same manner as for winter and spring sales. being sure to preserve those with solid stems and perfect heart. Plant early in spring four feet by two. Whena majority of the seed is of a brown color cut the whole stalk. Dry in the sun about one or two hours and thresh lightly, and clean this first threshing by itself with No. 24 seive. Lay the stalks away for two days to dry more thoroughly and thresh again. This second threshing is usually sold as soup celery. Sweet Corn, . owing to its tendency to mixture, requires as much care as any seed crop. Noth- ing but radical and complete isolation will insure purity of stock. In the man- agement of our own seed farms I insist on at least forty rods intervening between sorts. Plant stock seed, selected with reference to color of seed, color of cob, number of rows, and size of the ears of the sort you wish to perpetuate. No grain or vegetable will respond more readily to care in this respect unless it is the tomato. In the climate of Minnesota the soil must be rich and light to insure a profitable crop of seed corn of any variety. Plant in check rows three and a half feet each way, four kernels to the hill. Cultivate and use the hoe often. Our plan of harvesting, though expensive, is a sure one. When almost ripe we drive through the field and gather all the ears in a wagon. They are taken to the drying house, partially husked and the ears trained up in bunches of about twenty ears each and hung on nails overhead, and on bars across the room until they are filled. In husking the poor ears are thrown out as stock food, and the good ears that are broken off so that they cannot be hung up are placed upon lath shutters, and the whole immediately dried with fire heat. No shelling is done by us until wanted for spring sales, as we have fouy? by experience that sweet corn rapidly 68 e ANNUAL Report. loses its germinating properties if shelled pe sacked ‘nna in a E season for planting. Stock seed should be selected while tae then more readily detect the earliest and best ears. te Cress; Endive, Kohl Rabi ant Leek are eee grown in Rurope. here i is grown in England. Cucumbers, Melons and Squashes are handled so nearly alike that one description will suffice for all; surppeeiengy! ; of course, that having good stock seed, you know how to grow the crop. Com- plete isolation is demanded for all the sorts, and it is more impersane with the — squash family than any of the other vines. The crop being grown, we first go over the field and select and ia away the most perfect specimens for stock seed, to be used in growing a seed crop the next year. When the crop is thoroughly ripe, they are either hauled to a convenient place or cut open and the seed taken out in the field. With melons and cucum- bers the latter plan is pursued, as they break badly in handling. Prepare tables to work.on in cutting and taking out the seed. The whole inside is scooped out and put in barrels, and water poured over the mass sufficient to just cover it, and left in warm autumn weather about forty-eight-hours, or until decided fermenta- tion takes place. The whole is then thoreughly stirred up with a stick, allowed to settle half an hour, and the top poured off, which carries with ita large portion of the pomace. Use water freely now, filling the barrel full, and continue stirring and pouring off until the seeds are clean. To begin with, the barrels should not be filled more than half full of the pomace, and after fermenting, the barrel should be filled full of water before pouring off, as the more the liquid is reduced with water the more readily the seed separates from the pulp and settles to the bottom. This is the only plan we pursue in cleaning melon and cucumber, and it has the advantage of disposing of all light seeds, as nothing but the perfect ones settle to the bottom. In separating the squash seed from the pulp, we are compelled to use a taieae der enclosed in a box made to conform to its shape and size. The cylinder is spiked with teeth about three inches long, with corresponding spikes in the con- cave of the box, and set so that when the cylinder is turned, the spikes pass like the arrangement of cylinder and concave in a threshing machine. The seeds and pulp are thrown in at one end, and while the cylinder is turned with a crank, gradually passes out at the other into a barrel, from which the final washing can be done. As soon as washed the seeds are spread out in the sun if the weather permits, or over fire heat under shelter if it is cloudy. We use frames 3x6 feet, covered with cotton cloth. If we are drying out of doors we always pile them up one frame on top of another, as many as two men can carry, and take to the dry house over night, as a sudden storm of wind and rain would cost you several days extra work, if left out of doors. Onion. Owing to the fact that onion seed is only considered good for one year, new stock must be annually grown to supply an immense demand, and the business of growing this seed has assumed great proportions. MINNESOTA STATE HorTIcUuLTURAL SOCIETY. 69 “The « seed stock i is grown and wintered the same as for market. “Plant on mod- erately tich ground, as early 1 in the spring as the ground can be worked, in rows three feet apart, and from six to eight inches in the row. The onions should be just covered with earth. When ripe, the seed bolls are gathered in baskets and hauled to » dry air loft, where they are piled in heaps of about twenty bushels, the windows closed, and allowed to remain until they begin to heat, when they are spread out thinly, the wmdows opened until they are nearly dry, when they are piled and allowed to heat again, and finally dried for threshing. This sweat- ing process opens the pods, and very much facilitates the labor of threshing. We thresh with a flail, run four times through the fanning mill, and float in water, to carry off all chaff and broken bits of stem. After washing, the seed must be spread out thinly and dried as soon as possible. Peas. Sown in every garden from Maine to Texas and from Manitoba to Florida, and in large quantities at that ; it takes at least one hundred thousand bushels annu- ally to supply the demand for garden peas alone in this country. This vast territory, or at least nine-tenths of it, cannot produce any peas fit for seed, The whole country south of latitude 42 is so infested with the pea weevil that the peas are unmerchantable for seed or for any other purpose except for food for swine. This vast area must either import peas from Europe or have them grown in latitude north of 42. The climate and soil of central and northern Minnesota is admirably adapted to this crop, and there is certainly a field for profitable operation. As fine a lot of Champion of England peas as I ever saw were grown for us last summer in Le Sueur county. Our own fields near St. Paul prove conclusively to us that there is no better place in America to grow this important seed crop. New clean land is to be preferred. We plow in the spring as early as possible, and drill the peas in four inches deep, two and a half bushels per acre of all sorts. Rows run north and south thirty inches apart for dwarf sorts, and thirty-six inches for tall sorts. Cultivate thoroughly so as to keep the ground loose, and hill slightly to protect the roots from the sun and support the vines. We never give support to any field crop of peas; even the Blue Imperial Tall and Cham- pion of England are allowed to sprawl around as much as they please, and we find the loss does not near approach the cost of bushing. From the best stock seed you will always find a few spurious vines that we call the Barneys. Go over the field at blossoming time, and pull them out. The Barneys, as they are found in Early Kent, Dan O’Rourke, Phil. Ex. Early and Carter’s First Crop, will be found with pink blossoms. In Tom Thumb, Little Gem and Blue Peter, the color of the blossom is the same, but the vine presents a rough, scraggy appearance. As soon as ripe we go over the field with steel knives, shaped something like the blade of a pruning knife, and about twelve inches long fastened to a handle. four feet long. With this implement they are rapidly cut close to the ground and left two or three days until thoroughly dry, when the vines are pitched together with forks, loaded on a wagon and hauled to the threshing floor, where they are threshed with flails. Three good men on the floor will keep two men and a team hauling, which gets the crop out of the way quite rapidly. ae, 70 | ANNUAL REPORT. Clean well with a fanning mill and hand Pick. The green or should be harvested before perfectly ripe in order to preserve their fine color. >* ; vy vores Popa: asec eiene , Bi a 4 Tomato seed, when conscientiously saved for sale, is taken only from per we call first pickings. The first to ripen, as well as the largest and finest shaped fruit, is always formed low down on the stem and is the only fruit that mies gathered for seed purposes. In curing the seed the ripe tomatoes are passed through a mill much like the old-fashioned cylinder apple grinder, only the teeth on the cylinder are about three inches long. After grinding they are placed in a barrel and allowed to ferment, and are washed and dried same as cucumber or squash. Turnip. With a short chapter on turnip seed, I will finish the list. The fancy white turnip, and most of the Swede or Rutabaga seed is imported from Europe. The great labor required to handle the roots in storing and trans- planting in this country of high priced labor renders the business unprofitable, when grown in competition with equally as good stock grown in England and Germany. ‘There is now being offered in this country a large stock of worthless American seed, that is offered at a price that will temporarily ruin the business of the dealer who offers good stock, and I am sorry to say it is being offered by dealers who ought to know better. The worn out cotton and tobacco fields of Virginia are being turned to advantage in this respect. feel is sown broadcast of the different varieties, and without any cultivation the crop is allowed to struggle for existence and shape. In that climate they can remain out all winter with safety, and are not hary- ’ ested, but are allowed to remain just as they grew, and without any opportunity to weed out the worthless, and the whole mass is allowed to go to seed, until the field presents the appearance of a tangled growth of wild mustard. When ripe tis harvested with a reaper, and the whole operation has been attended with so little expense that the growers and dealers in this spurious article are able to undersell other dealers and reap a rich harvest besides. About two thousand bushels of this stuff were grown last year, and some of you who buy from commissioned boxes will have an opportunity to test it. Separation of Varieties. I will give you my plan for securing isolation in growing a general crop. Our fields are laid out in forty acre lots, 80 rods square. We have a notion that everything should be sowed north and south, and lay out our grounds accord- ingly. We will suppose we have eight sorts and wish to grow in an isolated position. Selecting a field that suits us, we begin, for illustration, on the west side and plant ten rods wide, or five acres of Early Maine Corn. ‘ alto seo hun ao fed aches GE Ever- as ce blossoms at so widely different periods there is no danger of - nw fifty rods from the Hubbard nisl and will plaut five acres of to complete the field. In this manner we can utilize all our avail- ' ‘seed growing and still preserve complete islation. _ You may remark that we are growing beans on the same soil required to grow 0 n an¢ washes. We grow beans on corn land and find it pays. We are too m town to be able to procure manure enough to enrich a whole field fit for te squashes, and consequently resort to manuring in the hill, which plan we find to work well enough for us. _ Sead growing is a bnsiness that requires strict personal attention on the part _ of the person engaging init. He must have every convenience for rapid work, with plenty of shelter, drying sheds, threshing floors, bins, &c. A strict system of labeling must be persisted in. From planting in the field until sacked for market the fabel must be made to follow the product. “Trust nothing to memory or your skill in detecting different vanenes for if you do it will sooner or later get you in trouble. Care in this business will surely bring its reward. There is no more tite agricultural or horticultural industry, including, as it does, growing the finest sorts of vegetables. The new candidates are grown and anxiously watched in their development. Acres of phlox, zinnias, petunias and gladiolus distributed for isolation, keep- ing an eye to effect, have their place in this exhibit. Straight rows, clean culture, thrifty growth, all combine to give a seed farm, a self satisfied appearance, _that must be a source of gratification to any one of horticultural taste who has charge of it. F ' U. S. HOLLISTER. COMMERCIAL FERTILIZERS, It was proposed to resume the discussion on this subject. President Smith. Farm-yard manure, it is known, trom long continued application loses its value and effect, and: by using salt, ashes, gypsum, lime, &., we may be able to obtain better results. Mr. Harris. Farm-yard manure may not be the best. for con- tinued use on grapes but it is for most crops. EVENING MEETING. Owing to a lecture in which it was thought members of the society might be interested, the question of holding an evening meeting was raised. 72 ANNUAL REPORT. Motion was made to hold an evening meeting, but was not a ie } onded. The following motion was then made and seconded: ae a AP A 7 Resolbed, That we do not desire to interfere with the nvochooutale of the | people of Rochester and will not hold a meeting this evening. { ree ne . ? The motion was lost. CRAB AND SIBERIAN APPLES RESUMED. Motion was made and seconded to reconsider the motion laying the Crab Apple question on the table. Motion carried. Powers’ Large Red (again.) The reconsideration of Powers’ Large Red was called up. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for planting in limited quantities.” Mr. Sias. J have had it in bearing five or six years. Mr. Jordon. It has borne four bushels on one tree. Mr. Hoag, It is a noble bearer and perfectly healthy. The fruit is without an astringent taste. I would set 1,000 trees of it sooner than of any other variety. Mr. Pearce. It is free from disease, free from blight. The fruit is not so large as Transcendent but much better. Motion was made and seconded to amend so as to recommend “for trial by amateurs and pomoiogists.” This amendment was lost, 6 for and 11 against. The motion to recommend “for planting in limited quantities ” was lost, 1 for and 12 against. Some talk about rings ensued, which iti is not necessary to report. Mr. Brand. It has not appeared that the fruit, though acid, has any flavor. (In answer to a question it was stated that no trees were known in Wabasha county.) I sold this variety in Wabasha county in 1866 and if they are not alive where have they gone? Those trees that are now only six years old have not been severely tried. Motion was made and seconded to have a list of Crab Apples recommended “for general trial.” The motion was carried. Motion was made and seconded to recommend Powers’ Large Red “for general trial.” Motion carried, 13 for and 2 against. Minnesora Stare HorricurturaL Sociery. 73 Virginia (again.) Motion was made and seconded to reconsider action on Virginia. ‘Motion carried, 9 for and 5 against. Motion was made and seconded to recommend “for general trial.” Motion carried by unanimous vote. © Blighting Varieties. Motion was made and seconded to proceed to assign those Crab Apples “ quite exempt from blight” to list with that heading, and those “quite liable to blight” to list with this heading. The motion was carried and the following varieties assigned without discussion, by the following votes: Varieties quite exempt from blight— Orange, (Unanimous vote.) Virginia, (6 for and 1 against.) Early Strawberry, (9 for and 1 against.) Powers’ Large Red, (Unanimous vote.) Beach’s Sweet, (Unanimous vote.) Minnesota, (Unanimous vote.) Conical, (Unanimous vote.) Whitney’s No. 20, (Unanimous vote.) Maiden’s Blush, (Unanimous vote.) Varieties quite liable to blight— Transcendent, (10 for and 1 against.) Hyslop, (i4 for and 1 against. }) General Grant, (Unanimous vote.) — Varieties recommended and not named in these lists were not assigned, either for want of sufficient knowledge, or because they are not decidedly exempt from blight or decidedly liable to it. WEDNESDAY EVENING. CRAB AND SIBERIAN APPLES.—Continued. Pending the consideration of the blight question the Society adjourned to meet at 7:30 p.m., at which time the Society was again called to order by the President, when that question was closed and other business proceeded with. gone 66 vs iScteront it in r conmidaranle ohare _ Hesper. The original tree has borne ten bushel n have never failed to blossom like pinks. For hardine no superior. Some that I sold three years ago are n The fruit is like the Conical in shape, tender, sub acid, the size of Transcendent. é. Mr. Mason. I can confirm what Mr. Jordan has sata every year and does not blight. is Motion was made and seconded torecommend “‘for aon Motion carried by unanimous vote. sates be Motion was made and seconded to place on list of varieties qui exempt from blight. Motion carried by unanimous vote. COLONEL HEALY'S PAPER. It was proposed that Colonel Healy’s paper should be read and it was accordingly read by the Secretary, Colonel Healy being absent. After the reading a vote of thanks was tendered and a copy requested for publication. The following is the paper in full: THE LOCATION, LAYING OUT, PLANTING, AND CARE OF CEMETERIES. To the Horticultural Society of the State of Minnesota: GENTLEMEN—Having been requested by a member of your society to make a short report on the subject of cemeteries, the manner of laying out, planting, ornamentation, &c., I very reluctantly consented on account of my inadaptedness to a service of this kind. J have had some experience in the laying out of ceme- teries, to be sure, and I laid out and surveyed the several sections in Oakwood Cemetery of Rochester, Minn., that have been laid out; but to delineate and explain the matter in a report is quite another thing, and I have therefore intro- duced with this report a copy of section No. 3 in said cemetery, the more fully to exemplify my views. Cemetery in its most comprehensive meaning embraces all burying-grounds, but in modern times it 1s almost exclusively applied to ornamental or rural bury- mg-grounds. Formerly it was the custom to bury in church yards, and it origi- nated in this wise: In the Dark Ages, if the remains, or any part thereof, or something representing the remains of a dead saint to whom a church may have been dedicated, could be obtained, they were buried near the altar in the choir. “*Tt became a prevalent desire of men eminent for piety or high rank thus to be wr SHArics - 7 i le ae ¥ th . on ue Pah eeel. A v ISD 611, OD MOLL PHLIQUIML ILD S]O'T Ip HOLIIS’ Styy uy W)ON UMTS co DESAY POF ‘K 1, aula) poomyeg CoN NOLLOGS 0 IW Td —< Lhe ISAM SiitentienY eases to develop Tria asdle ad heels aaa trees, shrubs and flowers and works of monumental art. ‘Uhis ig in the Pere la Chaise cemetery near Paris, extended to Lon- glish cities, and i in the United States, particularly i in Brooklyn ed were the people to abide by the old practice that the Hnglish ment in 1850, as a sanitary measure, enacted a law for the closing of grave yl cities. It was applied first in ita where the danger was Toaae aoe quite as senseless a custom, the bina of thie dead with the head to the west, has been almost entirely superseded by a promiscuous deposit without any view as to the direction in which the body should lie. This also, I imagine, has'been brought about principally by the establishment of rural cemeteries, which are generally laid out in such manner that but a small portion of those _ interred could be laid in that manner. —soy— 2 Site. Grounds for cemetery, if extensive, should be diversified, consisting generally of slight elevations and depressions, interspersed with occasional deeper indenta- tions for a fountain or small lake, with space around the same for a grove and seats for the weary; also occasional higher elevations with steep banks aro desir- able for the erection of vauls or tombs. These differences in elevation should not be enough to make the grounds difficult to traverse but sufficiently so to make them conspicuous. Avenues, Drives and Walks. Having selected suitable grounds the next thimg of importance is to locate the avenues, drives and walks or paths to conform thereto, which of course will make _them more or less circular and often serpentine. To demonstrate, in the plot at A and B are prominences, and the ground at A is encircled in an elliptical form by an avenue and walks which very nearly correspond to the form of eleva- tion. To the west and north of this elevation the descent is very gradual and the avenues and walks are lain parallel to the central figure, while in other directions they are changed. On the east side of this elevation the descent is more abrupt and terminates in a depression sufficient for the erection of a fountain. Still east of the fountain and between it and a main avenue is a plot not quite elevated enough for graves, and is set apart for a hitching ground. At Bis another slight elevation which is surrounded by an avenue and walks, forming a complete circle fitting the contour of the ground almost exactly. This section is surrounded by others which are laid to conform to the ground inasimilar manner. Other form- ations might call for very irregular serpentine avenues and paths, and such is the character of the Greenwood and Mount Hope cemetery grounds. to 8 T lots should eatin Onn eave ates the contour of the fetcmersie vinee y as in the plat, a do oS eS Much might be said in regard to the kind of Uactnties for lots, the poly or, of combination in such enclosures, the kinds of monument that should not 3 erected and the manner of erecting such as are proper, and also concerning im-" re provements generally, might be touched upon, but it would extend this report — beyond the limits I had designed—I will however say that no wooden structure should be allowed either as an enclosure or monument and that thin marble slabs if over two feet in length should be laid horizontal, because the rayages of time will at no distant day be sure to bring them to that position. ; I think that hight and symmetrical hedges or heavy cut stone blocks are the most appropriate for borders to lots, the hedges in this climate to be forme: of the Siberian Arbor Vitae or other shrub that is equally hardy. Enclosure of Lots, Planting. The planting of trees, shrubbery and flowers in the older cemeteries have ~ especially engaged the attention of those having control, and the general con-— clusion arrived at is, that care ought to be taken in the kind and amount of the articles, especially forest trees, which have often been removed in consequence of their branches obstructing the view, discolormg monuments, and the swelling and extending of the roots, disturbing the foundations of monuments. Instead of on lots forest trees should be placed on the borders of wide avenues and other places outside of lots purposely reserved, On this subject a late report of the secretary and comptroller of Greenwood Cemetery has the following: In view of this great and increasing evil, caution in — the matter of tree planting is becoming more and more desirable. However pleasant the shade, the sunshine is better. Greenwood has all the shadow it ~ needs, though another tree should never be planted there. Our experience shows that it would require but a few years of unchecked growth to convert the whole cemetery into a jungle. We entreat all who are or who may become lot owners in Greenwood to be sparing and judicious in the setting out of trees and shrub- bery. It would be well, indeed, if the smaller lots were never planted with any thing more spreading or of more rapid growth than the yews. . There is nothing so neat and clean, nothing that is so pleasing, at all seasons and to all eyes a8 : oe are rola ” , Most ee Oe arti GEO. ere é DISCUSSION. ee Paar _ Planting. ; | 1 Jor rris. If we could get at some principles in the aiehetg cemeteries it might be of some use. Would like to have trees a a plants recommended for that purpose. In the older states y large trees have been found objectionable. Would like to see a list of moderate growing trees, roses, and herbaceous plants, ts _ Mr. Sias. I have tried both thé American and the English yew | but they did not survive. “Mr. Jordon. Many have been planted in this city but they are all gone. Mr. Pearce. I used to think a cemetery an unpleasant place, but now I think it a beautiful place. We show ours to all who visit the city. The lots are kept of uniform height and covered with Blue grass. Flowers are grown on them and a moss rose, nearly hardy, has been extensively planted. Verbenas are also much planted, especially white ones. “g Trees to Plant. Mr. Jordon. it would be wise to recommend some trees, I have planted many and have planted reluctantly anything but Arbor Vitz. I fear our cemetery will yet be overrun by large trees as Pines, Balsams, &c. Mr. Elliot. JI would suggest the Savine Juniper and the native Trailing Juniper. Mr. Sias. The best three trees of my acquaintance are the Prostrate Juniper, Savine Junipor and Arbor Vite. Mr, Latham. Does any one know the Mountain Pine? J have only seen it four feet high, but Douglass says it reaches ten feet at maturity. cen Shed. : peers re mine ep er fo mor any in his yard. There is also the Tom Thumb Q Thumb Arbor Vite. ; Mr. Sias. I have the Tom Thumb Arbor Vitew well. es President Smith, The Tom Thumb Arbor Vite tender with me, Mr. Hart. The Trailing Juniper is the most plant I know of. | Soe Mr. Hollister. Something is wanted to relieve the oa this purpose. Bees" President Smith. There should be something in the - eal eteri es besides these pigmies, but not on the lots. __ . Mr. Elliot. At Lakewood we have a supetintemiaall oe. anything is planted his approval and consent must be obtained, Hard Maple is the best for drives in cemeteries. fice Ne. Mr. Jordon. The Weeping Birch is hardy here. in ha At this point the discussion on planting cemeteries was ee and it was decided to postpone the President’s address until nial day morning. MR. WILCOX’S PAPER. Mr. Wilcox was requested to read his paper. At its close a vote of thanks was tendered and a copy requested for. publication. The paper was as follows: - THE PROPAGATION OF HARDY TREES, TREMPEALEAU, WIs., Jan. 28, 1878. CV Y. Lacy: ; The act incorporating the Minnesota State Horticultural Society says: “* Article 2. The object of the society shall be to collect, condense and collate information . relative to all varieties of fruits, flowers and other horticultural productions, and dispense the same among the people.” In contributing my mite to the above, I shall draw largely from the experience, observation, &c., of other men, believing that a vast territory and the experience of those conversant with fruit-growing therein, will be more valuable than my own in a limited sphere, I shall, however, not forget to give a short account of my failures and success and hopes for the future. Minnesora Stare HorticutTurat Society. 79 - The first work in growing an apple tree, like building a house, is a good foun- ~ dation. If this is built on a sandy foundation it will not stand, so if an apple tree be grafted on a tender root. The winter of 1872-3 taught us in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Northern Illinois and Iowa, a very expensive lesson which ought to be turned to profit in the future. The winter of 1874-5 should teach the same lesson m Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, lowa, and even New York. _ Now I will call up my first witness, F. R. Elliot, he says: “The growing of trees from grafting or budding upon roots of seedlings grown from the refuse seeds of apples or pears from the mill is no better towards the improvement and reliability of varieties, than that of growing stock or mankind from haphazard meetings. Selections of all future life must be made to secure advance, by grow- ing, in the vegetable as well as the animal, from pure and hardy stock, free from contamination. ** All the records of growth and longevity of orchar aa may be traced to the stock upon which they have been worked. It is the same in the vegetable as the ani- mal kingdom. If the native healthy character is not kept up by the knowledge of the proprietor and manager, then decay must exhibit itself in a large percent- age of the stock.” ’ From this want of knowledge of the origin and hardihood of the stock comes the great loss of trees in our orchards, - As the origin and hardihood of the stock is Mr. Elliott’s main idea, let us next enquire of Charles Downing about that. He says : ‘‘Transplanted into a warmer aspect, stimulated by aricher soil, reared from selected seeds carefully pruned, sheltered and watched, by slow degrees the sour and bitter crab expands into a golden pippin.”’ Now to attain this great excellence in quality of fruit how much have we lost in hardihood of tree, and this is the next object of enquiry. We lost in our nursery the winter of 72-73 about 60,000 trees by root killing. They were grafted the common way on apple roots ; about 40,000 were one year old—nearly all killed, while say 10,000 seedling crabs same age along side went through without injury; about twenty three-year-old crab seedlings top worked with Tetofsky came out all right, while 120 same age and variety grafted on apple roots were nearly all killed. In the orchard consisting of about 1,500 trees, all ages from a “few years up to 15 years, about 1,000 were root killed, even transcendents 10 years. old; these leaved out in the spring, set fruit a little later; seeimg that the leaves niet fruit did not increase in size, I took my spade and found the roots all dead. Charles M. Hambright, of Gould’s Nursery says: ‘‘I might add that side by side in our yearling seedling block thecommon apple seedlings were 95 per cent killed, and not one of thecrab with about the same proportion of loss in our three and four year old grafts.” Pres. Tuttle says: ‘‘Root killing is often mistaken for blight, for the outward form of the injury is much the same in both cases.”’ I might multiply testimony almost indefinitely from my scrap book, but will stop on the root question after quoting extracts from two letters. The first is from Charles Downing ; he says : “T should think you are on the right track, that is, obtain the hardiest root stock, then graft your best and hardiest kinds on that stock.’’ Samuel Foster writes : “T learned some years ago from D. W. Adams of Alamakee county, Lowa, that in that region they would not depend on the seedling roots to graft on except to put in a long cion and plant deep, then the cion would take eoot. Your plan of crab roots is no doubt best. I have sometimes top dressed the crab and have seldom or never known their roots to kill. 80 “Anno Rerorr. Here I will rest my case as to the root and dhiedaes a few of the those who believe in grafting upon roots grown from cian indiser tained from the mill. Ist. A long cion and deep setting. iy 2d. Slitting the bark near the ground when transplanting, Gai is the of the purchaser.) aes 3d. The nurseryman to dig his trees when one year old and copia setting six inches or more cleeper than before.” “Waww 4th. Mulch about the trees. I will not give my reasons at any greater length for prefering crab roots. Faint Now, having, as I believe, shown how to get a good root to graft wpon can it not be shown how a tree can be grown which will stand our climate. This is our plan: Graft the Transcendent crab upon crab roots grown from seeds of Transcendent, Hyslop, Golden Beauty, or any of the Siberians which we have, using a long cion and setting deep. When the Transcendent is large enough bud into its limbs such hardy standard apples as have proved best adapted to this climate as well as best adapted to this work. Some kinds are failures when thus — worked. We donot mean to say the Transcendent is the best or only kind of tree we would use for this work, in fact we hope a number of kinds will prove better by being less subject to blight. Now I will give a brief history of our failure and success in top working but will not go back any further than 1872. In the nursery that year we had some — hundreds one year old from the bud put into three year old Transcendents. These were grafted on common apple roots. Our theory then was that hardy varieties worked the usual way by grafting upon apple roots was well enough and that more tender kinds, such as Domine, Jonathan, Early Joe, Wagner, &c., could be grown in this way. The following winter took the conceit in both cases: out of us. In the first place many of the Transcend’nts were killed to the root and where they survived most of the buds of the above kinds failed. A few of these trees lived and were transplanted into the orchard one and a half feet deep, soil generally loam with a gravelly subsoil; they have done well, except some more of the tenderest kinds killed last winter. Since then both in the nursery and orchard we are using the hardiest kinds we know of adapted to this work. We find Wealthy, Price’s Sweet, and a seedling we have perfectly at home, Plumb’s Cider Utter, Fall Orange and’Fall Stripe do very well; Walbridge and Haas, some defective unions; Duchess, Fameuse, Tetofsky, not a success on Tran- scendent, but on seedling crab Tetofsky and Duchess do very well; the Orange crab is a failure top worked on Transcendent; Willow Twig works well and stands well so far. Now I could furnish reports from Maine to Nebraska of those who have themselves or know of others who have practiced top working upon the common apple and always with greater success than when worked the common way. If done upon Transcendent or other hardy crabs Hybrids or even well known hardy standards like Duchess or Wealthy how vastly better would be our prospect of success. The best evidence of faith in some of the fruit men in this plan is found in their works. They have in their own grounds for their own orchards from a few trees up to thousands top worked 6n crabs, thus practi- cally endorsing this plan, except the roots are the old way and they are making great efforts to get crab roots even paying five times as much for crab seeds as the common apple seeds cost. Now afew words about the future of apple growing in the Northwest. Horace Greeley found the man he had been a long time looking for who could raise an average of one hundred bushels of corn to the Minnesora STATE HorrTicuLTuRAL SOcIeErY. 81 acre near Grinnell, Iowa. I have been looking a long time for a young man just starting in life who believes in apple growing in the Northwest. Have any of the members ever looked around upon the faces of those found at our winter meetings and noticed how few will be seen below the age of middle life and how great is the proportion of grey beards. Where are our young men getting their education? Is it at the saloon and caucus? I knowit is not at our Horticultural meetings. Still these old fanatics are laying the foundation for future success in apple growing in the Northwest. Since writing thé above I have received the following letter bearing upon the subject. E. W1LCOX. Farrpaurt, 1, 28, "78. Friend Wilcox: In reply to yours of the 19th, I will say: In the spring of 1874, I set about five thousand Wealthy, and twenty-five hundred Malinda root grafts planted side by side on very rich, deep new land, the soil being black sandy loam. These were grafted on common seedling stocks. They came wel] and made remarkable growth, many of the Malinda standing three and a half feet. I think that was the highest point they ever reached. The next spring the whole lot were injured badly, but the Wealthies came on and made as nice a lot of trees as could be desired; no root killing noticeable among them, and making at four years old, heavy six to seven foot trees. From the twenty-five hundred Malinda grafts I have never dug twenty-five good trees. They were nearly all root killed. They did not ripen their wood the first fall; the Wealthy did. The same spnng I grafted in April, about the 10th, twenty-five hundred Wealthy and two hundred Malinda on crab roots. This lot were also planted side by side, about three weeks after the first lot. They all grew well, and I think the Malinda looks as well to- day, every thing considered, as the Wealthy. The soil on which the last lot was planted was more dry and had more clay in it than the first piece. My opinion is that it was the crab roots that saved the last lot of Malindas. The last lot are on a western slope, the first on level land. Very truly yours, O. F. BRAND. DISCUSSION. At the conclusion of the reading the following discussion was held: Mr. Sias. We don’t want to graft everything upon crab roots, I find the best success attends the closest relation between stock and graft, hence the apple had better be put on the apple root, then set the tree four inches deeper so as to get roots from the graft, and afterwards mulch the tree so as to insure against loss by root-killing. Mr. Wilcox. But Mr. J. J. Thomas truthfully says, continuous mulching requires too much labor. 6 82 3 ANNUAL ReporT. Mr. Latham. J have found obstacles to the use of crab roots, | but top working half hardy trees upon the Transcendent makes them hardier. Those thus put in before the hard winter, are now living. Mr. Pearce. Since the hard winter I have used’a short root and long scion and set deeply and of good trees, thus treated I have not lost one by root-killing. Mr. Jordon. The apple on its own root is better than on any other. I have 1,000 Wealthy trees that have been top-worked for three years. As arule the top-working of standards on crabs is a failure, but as the exception it is a grand success. The Hyslop is best forthe Wealthy. The Transcendent is good for Plumb’s Cider, and Rollin’s Russet for the Haas. Am convinced that many half hardy varieties can be successfully grown by top-working. The Jeniton on the Transcendent. As to the time of working—it must be done in the first weather after January that is warm enough for a man to work out without gloves. Set the cion as close to the main stem as possible so that no beetle may be formed on the branch. The wax should contain no animal fat, but consist of four parts resin, one part beeswax and one-fourth part oil ot turpentine and more or less oil, according to the temperature of the day. Pull this mixture until it is like taffy, then go to the orchard, drawing the wax into ribbons wind it round, without twine or any thing else. Mr. Latham. Mr. Gideon paints the wax on old sheets and pillow cases. I have used it also thus and it can’t be beat. Mr. Harris. I don’t believe in hybrids between the common apple and the crab—they don’t bloom at the same time. Mr. Jordon. I beg to differ, because of the Hesper varieties. They are all from the same variety of crab, but there is a great difference in size, and many resemble some particular variety of apple. They came from a bushel of apples that were thrown out, frozen, from the trunk of a stranger, and these apples came from an orchard of standard apples with one crab apple tree in it. Mr. Harris. J have two seedlings from the Transcendent. The fruit of one is nearly as large as my fist but the seed of that tree came from a season when the Transcendent was out of bloom before the Standard apple was in bloom. At this point the Society adjourned, to meet at 9 o'clock Thurs- day morning. ‘ . Minnesota STATE HorTICULTURAL SOCIETY. §3 THURSDAY MORNING. The meeting was called to order by the President at 9 o’clock. COMMITTEE ON FINAL RESOLUTIONS. | - Messrs. Latham, Hollister and Miller were appointed a committee on Final Resolutions. REPORT ON FORESTRY LAWS. The committee on Congressional tree-planting and other,forestry laws, reported through its chairman as follows: Your committee to whom was referred the duty of reporting such amendments to the congressional timber culture act, as we demand necessary to best promote and encourage the growth of forests on the western prairies, agree in recommend- ing that said act of congress be so amended as to embrace the following points : First, That every legal sub-division of 80 acres of government prairie land be made subject to entry under the provisions of said act. Second, That 10 acres of land covered by any timber entry be planted and kept in a healthy growing condition. Third, That the trees be planted not more than four feet apart each way. Fourth, That at the time of proving up there shall be not less than 900 trees standing on each acre, and that the rows of trees shall be not more than 8 feet apart, and the trees standing in each row not less than four feet apart in the row. Fifth, That the entire amount of ten acres of breaking be done in the month of June next succeeding the date of entry. Sixth, That said ten acres of breaking shall be thoroughly subdued by two years of cultivation after the season of breaking, and that the third year after breaking the ground the trees shall be planted. Seventh, That at the time of proving up the trees shall average ten feet high. | Eighth, That in the event of any failure to break and cultivate and plant as hereinbefore specified, the land so entered shall be subject to entry under the provisions either of the timber culture act or the homestead act. Ninth, That the claimant be allowed to propagate his trees either from seeds and cuttings or by transplanting. Tenth, That the claimant be allowed to plant his trees in groves of not less than two acres in each grove, or in belts not less than three rods wide on any part of the land. Respectfully submitted, L. B. Hopaszs, O. F. Brann. Your committee to whom was referred the memorial to congress of the commit- tee of the American Nurserymens’ Association, would recommend a hearty en- dorsement of said memorial by this society. We recognize the fact that the 84 ANNUAL REPORT. future welfare of the nation depends largely upon the success of a system of for- estry which will ultimately reclaim the great treeless region of the North Amer- ican Continent, and render it a habitable and revenue producing region. We have carefully examined said memorial, and no language at our command would more clearly set forth our own views. We cordially endorse it, fully be- lieving the accumulated experience of European nations would greatly aid us in many ways, and as the sense of this committee we submit the following resolu- tion : Resolved, That the members of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society, rec- ognizing the great importance of gaining a more correct knowledge of the science of forestry, do hereby most earnestly and respectfully urge upon our senators and representatives in congress to use all honorable efforts to secure the passage of the Bill No. 1218 of the House of Representatives. Respectfully submitted, Ty, Ea Boseat, O. F. Branp. DISCUSSION. Distance to Plant. After reading the report the following discussion was held: Mr. Dart. The planting recommended is too thick. The trees must be taken out or they will die out. Think the underbrush ought to be cleaned out of nature’s groves. Mr. Sias. The nearer the trees stand, the less brush, the. better the shape. Mr. Somerville. Wave had an experience with trees seventeen years, when set twelve feet apart they make brush, when you want a straight, thrifty tree set out four feet by four, and cut out the stunted ones. Mr. Jordon. The bill is too strict in its provisions because in case of failure the settler loses his claim. Mr. Harris. Four feet by four is not too close, rows four feet apart and trees two feet in the row would be better. Mr. Dart. Four feet by eight would be better than four feet by four. Mr. Pearce. There is no danger of getting the trees too close. Mr. Hollister. Must plant close enough to get straight trunks. Would plant four feet by four if I had ten acres to plant. Have seen them planted in Wisconsin ten inches apart in the row and afterwards thinned. Mr. Hart. Have helped to plant trees in Europe. They plant close there. Minnesora STaTeE HorricuLTuraL Sociery. 85 ' Mr. Wardell. Six years ago I planted 25 acres: for shelter and timber. Planted White Willow, Cottonwood and Soft Maple. Planted the Willows four feet apart and after five years took out enongh for two years’ use. A neighbor runs three_fires from the trimmings of six acres. Hecutsin June, seasons for one month, and then puts into the shed. I cultivated the trees like corn for three years. They are a source of profit, ornament and usefulness. I can sell my farm for from $10.00 to $15.00 per acre more than I could without them. My grove and orchard are the last things to be neglected. I would plant again in the same way. Have not yet taken out any trees, but only branches. Where the trees have been mainly lost in any way, the remaining ones are of lijtle account. Everywhere they succeed best with close planting and the thinning process. Mr. Hodges. Two years’ cultivation is required before planting for subduing the prairie sod. It was moved and seconded to take up the report section by section, which motion was carried. The first section was read. A motion was made to amend it so that it would correspond to the action of the State Forestry Association. A motion was made and seconded to lay the report on the table to be taken up at any time. This motion was carried. PRESIDENT SMITH’S ADDRESS. President Smith then read his annual address, which was ordered on file for publication. The following is the address in full: Ladies and gentlemen of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society: Another year has passed, and we meet again for mutual instruction, to review the past and prepare for the future. When we turn back the pages of history, both sacred and profane, we find Horticulture old as man himself; that it was the first occupation of man, and has continued to occupy his attention more or less ever since, and yet, how imperfectly is it understood. Then why should we be discouraged if we can not solve all of its problems in the short space of a few years. Yet while Horticulture is so old, Horticultural Societies are of recent origin. The oldest in the world of which we can find any record being but seventy years, and within the memory of many still living, was organized in London in A. D. 1308, and called the London Horticultural Socicty. One noble- man, Sir Joseph Banks, and two private gentlemen, were chiefly instrumental in its organization. This society establi:hed the first experimental garden in A. D. 1817; and this model garden still exists and flourishes at Chiswick, having been removed there in the year 1822. From this beginning horticultural and kindred societies soon sprang up and flourished in different parts of the old world, Ger- 86 : ANNUAL REPORT. oka many and other nations soon following in the good work. The first and oldest mi f society in. the United States is claimed by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. They célebrated their fiftieth birthday December 21st, 1877, and at the time of that celebration, three of its originators were still living, to wit: David Landreth, the well known seed man, and Jeremiah and Moses Brown. May not these men well be classed among the fathers of horticulture in America, and* should we not honor and respect them for the good they have accomplished ? Can they not look back with pride upon the advance in horticulture in all its branches in the last half century, and see the improvements, the new varieties of fruits, flowers and vegetables, that have taken place in the last fifty years, many of them under their observation and through their aid and assistance, and the benefit that society has been, not only to the state of Pennsylvania, but to the United States and the world? Now, when we remember that since the formation of the societies above named, and with their aid and assistance, and with the aid and assistance of the many hundreds of societies since formed, there has been more advancement in horti- culture, horticultural implements and knowledge among the masses, and the improvement of old varieties and the introduction of new, rare, and before unknown varieties of fruits, flowers and vegetables, in the last fifty years than in the two thousand years previous. Now, when we look upon the past, and see what has been accomplished in the last fifty years under the many difficulties they had to contend with; and when we take into consideration the advantages we now have; the facilities of correspondence and the experience of the best and most eminent horticulturists; the abundance of horticultural reading, books and periodicals; the cheapness, and facility of obtainimg new and rare plants and seeds from all parts of the world; our system of railroads, steamships and express companies and mails, all aiding us, together with the number of horticul- tural and agricultural societies in all parts of the Umted States and most of the civilized world, shall we not look with hope at the future of horticulture? Can we not take hold and work with courage and with a reasonable expectation that if we do our whole duty we shall see much greater progress in the future than in the past; and may we not confidently expect to see many new and choice fruits raised in Minnesota, and in abundance to supply all the wants of her citizens, so that we may have enough and to spare? Shall we not take hold with a will and with courage to work for the best interest of our society, our state and her citizens ? Horticulture is a study, always fresh, always presenting something new to admire. The book of nature is always open for us to read, and the God of nature is always ready and willing to show new beauties and new and rare species to the willing and attentive student; and we find our oldest and ablest horticulturists still as close students and as eager after kuowledge as the new be- ginner. Men like the iate Thos. Rivers, are as earnest as ever in the search of its hidden mysteries. In fact the pleasures of horticulture and the desire to acquire a more perfect knowledge seems to grow with our old age. When once fairly enlisted in the cause nothing seems to dampen our ardor and zeal in the good work. Neither age nor infirmities, cold winters, early or late frosts, will alrive us from our chosen profession. ; Now as we are in our infancy, only eleven (11) years last October since the first attempt at an organization in our State, and five (5) years since we commenced work under our present constitution, may we not hope, before we have attained eur fiftieth birthday as a society, that we may accomplish much for our state. If Minnesota STATE HorTicuLTuRAL Society. 87 any of us now assembled should then be living to help celebrate that day of our existence as a society, may they not point with pride to the orchards, vine- yards and fruit gardens, beautiful lawns and shade and ornamental trees along _ our principal streeis, roads and avenues, grounds decorated with evergreens, ‘shrubbery and flowers, glass structures well filled with fruits, flowers and exotic plants, as a part of what the Minnesota State Horticultural Society has accom- plished? Now in order to do this we must enlist the masses to help us work. We must secure local societies in every county, town, city and school district. They must hold their meetings monthly, or oftener, and must exhibit at the same their fruits, flowers and vegetables in their season, compare notes and modes of cultivation, and from their united experience select the best varieties and modes of treatment to be presented to this Society at its winter meetings. Then from these varied reports from all parts of our State, we will have a basis to work upon, something from which to select what is best for the State at large and for special locations. é At a former meeting there was a committee appointed with this in view—to draft and prepare a blank form of constitution and by-laws and have the same printed so that they could be distributed throughout our State and help to facilitate the organization of such societies. I sincerely hope that committee has per- formed that duty, and that we may soon have many local societies. May I not again call your attention to the necessity of a State Entomologist, and through you, if you should think best, the attention of the Governor and Legislature? I think one should be appointed and paid by the State, which could be done at a very small cost in comparison to the benefit to be derived therefrom. Could not some of the professors or teachers of some of the State institutions of learn- ing, that are competent and willing, with a few hundred dollars added to their salary, perform the duties of State Entomologist, and thus not burden our already heavy tax payers to any extent, and still be of much and lasting benefit to our entire State? Permit me to again call your attention to the subject of cranberry culture, believing as I do that it is one of the great resources of our state. With thou- sands, if not millions, of acres of the best cranberry marshes in the United States lying idle and useless, should we not urge their improvement, that they may be- come productive, and help to increase our exports as well as the health, wealth and comfort of our citizens? Cannot capital and labor from the older states and men that understand it be induced to take hold of the matter? I think it would pay our State or our railroad companies to take hold and to donate a few sections of suitable lands in small tracts, upon certain stipulations that the parties should plant and properly cultivate in cranberries for a series of ten years or more, and thus give the business a start, and not let these lands lay dormant the next twenty or thirty years. When we take into consideration that as our country settles up and our cities and towns grow in wealth and population the demand for the cranberry constantly increases; that they now have to be imported in large quan- tities to supply this demand; that our once full supply of wild fruits, cranberries especially, is constantly declining as the country becomes settled up; that the marshes are being filled up by the washings from plowed ground, and run over by the herds of cattle that roam by the ten thousand over the unfenced portions of our State, tending to exterminate the once abundant crop of wild fruit. When we take into consideration that the cranberry properly ripened, and grown and handled with care, can be kept in a fresh state, without canning or other expensive process, for one year or more, and that it can be sent to distant “¢ , sha 1 A 7A : 7 NN oA 88 ANNUAL REPORT. , ‘ ew 3) markets at a small percentage on its cost or worth, in comparison to a at i other heavy produce; when we witness its successful cultivation in several of the older States, should not we give attention to the subject? Asan illustration of its importance, one gentlemen in New Jersey, Jas. Hinchen, near Medford, is reported to have commenced about twenty years ago, on an old mill pond of ten acres, which cost him to put into a bearing condition about $1,600, and took — three years to accomplish it, and from which he has taken seventeen crops with- out a failure, and never less than one hundred bushels to the acre. From this commencement he has now several hundred acres valued at from $100,000 to $200,000, with a net increase of from $20,000 to $40,000 per annum, with a crop in 1877 that was estimated at twenty thousand bushels, and to require ten thousand days’ labor to harvest. This success has been reached in a State where. disease and insects prevail to such a degree that the aid of the microscopist of the United States Department of Agriculture was called to aid in discovering a remedy for the disease of sun scald or rot, which often destroys whole crops of many of the growers. Now what this society and the State at large needs most is knowledge; to know what to plant; what our particular soil and location is most suitable for, what varieties will succeed best, which are the hardiest and most productive, which are best adapted to each locality. Now where are we to Set this knowledge and to look for correct information on this and other subjects of the kind? May we, or should we not, with confidence look to our State Uni- versity, the agricultural department thereof, and its professors and students, for » much of this information ? If we give the encouragement they deserve, and fill their classes and halls with our sons and daughters, as we should, will not the great wants of horticulture and agriculture soon be spread broadcast all over our state? Especially if in addition to the above we organize local, county, town and schcol district societies. We should establish or help to establish in every city and town, a system of fairs or exhibitions, to be held for the purpose of showing our products in their season of maturity and sale. Exhibitions can, if properly managed, be of the greatest benefit, both in spreading a desire to excel and in exciting competition, and will thereby increase and promote the interests of horticulturein our state, until we shall find every school house surrounded with its shade and ornamental trees, flowers and shrubs, and every city and town with its parks and lawns well planted with shade and ornamental trees well cared fcr. Let us strive to have every farm have its fruits, vegetables and flowers in abundance, as well as its lawns, shade and ornamental trees, thus causing homes in Minnesota to be loved and sought after, and creating a desire among our boys and girls to engage in fruit and flower growing, and to make their homes the most pleasant and happy places on earth. This matter of exhibitions or fairs has been a study and problem upon which most of us have spent much time and thought, and upon which as far as I can learn, there has been no satisfactory conclusion arrived at, but one point upon which all agree is that there is a necessity for these exhibitions, in order that we may see the varieties and samples that we wish to discuss and learn about. Who cannot get a better idea of an apple, pear, bunch of grapes, flowers, or any thing else we wish to discuss and learn about by having the same bel ore his eyes, that he may add the sense of seeing to his facilities for learning the best varieties and modes of cultivation. Now, desirable as these frequent meetings and exhi- bitions are, few can be induced to attend them—say they can not spare the time, and many say it will not pay. 1, for one, believe we can not do without them in some shape without great loss, and will, at the risk of ridicule and being called a MinnesoTa State HorTicurTurRAL Socirery. 89 fanatic, propose a new plan; one I am confident, if well matured and properly conducted, will Jo more to stimulate and increase an interest in, and advancement of, not only horticulture but agriculture and other kinds of employment, than all the fairs ever held. It is this: establish in every town or city, big or small, a central and well filled public market, where all can meet and bring the products of the garden and farm, and have ample room to display and arrange to the best advantage whatever they may have to sell, be the same a load of wheat or pota- toes, a cow, horse, or apples, grapes, vegetables, or a bouquet of flowers. Here would come together both producer and consumer, the producer as exhibitor and the consumer as judge. The latter will be ready and willing to pay a premium on the best and finest grown specimens of every kind, in better price and more ready purchase, while the man who produces the best will receive his premium, without the interference of any rings or national rules, or without peing com- pelled to spend the entire week waiting io know whether he is entitled to a premium or not. Here all can meet on common ground, and show what they have to the best advantage; and where all come into competition, does it not give us all a chance to see the best and to learn of new varieties and new modes of cultivation? If any one has anything new all want to know about it, how it succeeds, where it can be obtained, &c.; and can we not there learn and see much without loss of time, money or stock on exhibition. We can have a short meet- ing in some suitable location, for discussion, if desirable, without much extra expense in time or money. I firmly believe, after an experience of many years in the business, that if the farmers and gardeners in each and every town or city, would agree to sell their produce at a central location or market, and upon a regular market day, in small towns once a week at a certain place and time of day, and in city three times a week or every day, the producer and consumer would both be greatly benefited thereby, and an interest in horticulture be raised and encouraged among the masses. Now, as heretofore, I must advise you to go slow in order to make haste, and in order to accomplish the most good in the shortest space of time. Let us be very careful to only recommend for general culture such varieties of fruits, flowers, vegetables or trees and shrubs as are well known to succeed with ordinary care and cultivation and such only as will succeed in most of the soils and situations where the masses are likely to plant them. For instance, we all know that the Duchess apple and the crab apples are likely to succeed in most soils and localities, and will give more dollars and more satisfaction. A few trees or plants that are hardy and will succeed and produce fruit in abundance are more satisfactory than whole orchards or plantations of worthless stuff. Fruit growmg in Minne- sota, for the present, at least, will be pursued by those who have a love for it and by those who are willing to take care of and study the habits and wants and necessities of the kinds planted and the soils and situations most suitable for their growth, instead of by those who seek the profit there is in large planta- tions and orchards without care or thought of what is to be a success. I for one believe that with proper selections of soils, locations and varieties, fruits, such as apples, cranberries, grapes and other small fruits can be grown with a reason- able profit to the grower to supply the wants of our own citizens and some to export, with the addition of health and wealth to our entire state. In closing let me urge you, one and all, to help bring about a more general knowledge of horticulture in all its branches; and here let me say we should devote more time to the subject of vegetable culture, all of which is more practical and * profitable, as far as our own use is concerned. There are many new and improved - . ’ 90 : AwnvaL ReEporT. Sivek ak: varieties, or claimed as such, I would like to. have discussed. Can we ot learn something in the matter by an interchange of views? In conclus ‘thank you for the many kindnesses you have bestowed upon me, and the and harmony that have characterized our meetings the last five years. Hopin you will forgive my errors, and believe them of the head and not of the hear and that I shall be ever and always willing to join hands in any and all that I can see or believe for the best interests of the Minnesota State Horticul- tural Society, Minnesota Horticulturists and the state and its citizens, I close. — REPORT OF FINANCE COMMITTEE. The finance committee submitted their report, which was scconte ed, as follows: Se Your committee have examined bills and vouchers presented by Sec. Lacy, amounting to $32.75, and bill of J. T. Grimes, amounting to $2.65; found the same correct, and recommend that orders be drawn on the treasurer for the - amount. SETH H. KENNEY, U. S. HOLLISTER. REPORT OF TREASURER. The treasurer submitted the following report which was accepted. REPORT OF THE TREASURER STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, GIVEN AT ROCHESTER, JAN. 17th, 1878. Amount in treasury at the close of its last annual meeting at Owatonna, January 16th, 1877.06.20. ove wes neseerssws sons cd paw penn $17 55 Membership fees received of C. & eee J enusry. ee 1876.) tee 56 00 One Transaction sold, ‘‘ Oe Ss ae 50 | Membership fees taken by A. W. Sias..........ssseceeececcscscecess 7 00 Received for postage on reports........ccsccoe sce essnsces sss 65 . ag ae . Total ic. veo coote keke a oe A eee $81 70 Paid'C: ¥.- Lacy, Janvary l7th, 1678..0..:- 2. se - Fruit Lists as approved or revised at Minneapolis.....+.2.0d0 . ts Proceedings of Winter Meeting at Minneapolis........../.. Peete SCE TOPMININIG: 452 => S'e'sc0.c'c's ain" e'b's'5 0) 0 a5be sare ere ree ein a ee i Z = 7 TUESDAY MORNING. Be “el : Breminn List for Horticultaral Products at State Pair. ohana alg “ Appointment of Comes. ce v Report of Committee on Local Societies.......-.. -s-eeeseeeece Invitation to Legislature.....2.5...00.0..c2 eee e. 0 oees ene Protection of Fruit Trees—Report of Mr. Gideon... . ee Rabbit. ..0.050 5S acne wees cot abe chat oc yee < ° Mice is 6.0sceseeteceeeterees scene deeds +2: Bark and Leaf Lice... /.5 05:00 0cceselsse:32 ees eee Borers... 1s sees cece cece eset cee ene e eens ress eeneeeres : * / Caterpillars... 0... 8s. ce ees clece co 804. eee ah Cold and Drouth.. 5... se0eee+eeenede + ncegls we sl etn Discusssion on above Report... ......--020cereeesas es 00 ey alee Wrapping with Paper... «-..- 2.0.0. .00+s +000 ose eee laver, Entrails, Meat, Sulphur, Whitewash .............--..-. - Clean Culture and Mounding.... >... .......05.>-.08 ss aenn Sal-Soda, Tobacco, Sulphur and Carbolice Acid for Leat Lice...... Whitewash for Mice.. .....:.......00000. 0200 55ers Kerosene, Ashes and Tobacco for Lice—Pinching.........-...-6.— Natural History ot Aphis....-. we enc cen cee ee nen a) dee a TUESDAY AFTFRNOON. Report on Potatoes by Mr. SiaS ... 2... see cece eee ee cece cece rece teeeeee ee Value of the Potato. ...-...s.cecseccccccsccne cu eee) c Source of New Varieties—Seedlings...-......+e2eeeceecereeeeee QT Trial of New Varieties... .....0.2000.00+0002s0 sels amie etna Discussion on above Report.....2. 2.22 0ccecce see cee ces eee tay anna Results with New Varieties .......-.-+++++c+sesesee seen sini y,-5 dt Ml a \ ma 4 Minnesora Stare HorricutTuraL Socipry. 3 PAOE Ruby—Burbank’s Seedling............. < d\iaia eRse so as0sles as one ® Terms of Recommendation........-0+-++++.- 0+ 000 oss ae Crab- Apple Lists............. oe pele wwuinle) elk! 2 0.sigicle\ atin ian Minnesota—Whitney’s No. 20............. I oe General Grant..... po uaeaet io # sia's elasmlk = a\s0.0 9.019 .00ara oye se le sec erece’ Feet eect eee e eee cece seers Ag Ae J] gre San ey 5 gaa aT a CS SRR LED of Horticulture. .........- teeteee vee nee "ramen Peer hs 64. ip AG CIOMMMIBUANICER. «55 his dacs eae teas ye te oee kets tects : and Quality of Entries’........... Be Cie een haere ct “1 ie Ee NS ad Cat sce om Settee eee reece eee ence e ene OK Sees tors and Exhibits—Houston County...........0..00ceeeee * . ‘Winona Chainty. «2 seem 3 Olmsted: County: 2.75 JG. see eee gthis ag oh Riéé Countyes 00. 6.) I a aie en ae + a Nicollet’ Counity.’-.'.../../ 7. Seis 5 «ee a a“ Dakota. County: 1.2. Wee ne ce ae “yo ” - Hennepin County so. 05 Fas tented Oe Pres, * ¥ Washington County..............-++5- 66 eat a a Ramsey Qourity 200s. ook ces ae eee ee 7 foe . ‘Northern Pacific.’ ...'... 2. <> ves vers'e'a.< «gle AO ee ns * lowa and Wisconsin... 5. 5:2. s0ce eens w ; ; Premiums Awarded—Apples, Collections....... ..-....2.22.2+++ 67 pa ‘f ‘ass ic - 6S Single’ Plates). .\.2 tenes ae eee ye . Be “ Siberians and Hybrids............. 68 } DS iis Peek SS ‘Single Plate of Siberians and Hybrids 68, \ " as Ae ¢ < °- Seedling Apples .''.)2..s).. cen epee oe s ; 5; leas Grapes—Collections....... ....sese00.. 68 en me re "s o> Simgle. Plates. 50s 2s 25 ose. 0 eee ee Be : | Seals Blowerss3 08 Zak es ids 0 al niga ne: nee r. URN E PORUUTIG «0.01555 «210 5 vie's'e wes 01 \un.a'n win/encie awa mae ene RD 4 BREESE SINGS. /< ales hi sisieie , wicle O's vordiae clelaleie acc alc, devel Gtain salou c ee ¥ Piygee latite—Paper by Mrs. HE. Morse.......2.--..ccscccncnee ssseccce OL ; Discussion on above Paper.........-.+.seeeeeeeeeeteceseceeeees Uh : Fumigation, Sprinkling, and Immersion for Insects.............. 74 . ened Plants—watermg... 0. ces sitec'slc cesses ecjaecara cuando de ; Horticulture at the Minneapolis Fair of 1878; Report of ‘Nir. Grimes...... 75 Etirrrtc i outa POM VERS. 5 ='ua ) se'e cele em occ ele Conc ee . Sit See Glutted Markets....... 0.0 Seeds cecesccsn ceeds (nace eee RICE Uc l maGie seein ies epee een ee 5 co eee 100 a ee Obituary... Sins. .cceeles duals aeececew te te 60 aten ont TRCUIOROCbs tro own Doe as nee eee wee lo eee sane ea Fruit at the Fairs... ..0...¥.t.ccccccdsccconcectccce oon Agricultural College and Reform School..................+2.+-. 101 Obituary—Committee on .. 2.2.2 5... ie cece boc tee sabe os + seen Catala. obec Selec be ci ee oo ese dns itiae nls @mielalale chen ale 2 oie aaa Secretary’s Report.......-..0ssseecesccsecececcertcctecersesseseane es 1025 PLOQTCSS. «02 02 ee ccceseecccscuseesacnbas oc a's ciatgtttn tat Growing Reputation. .»..:.:-.,cssedlenes: 2.0 103 — ‘ arent tr Minyesora Stare HorzicutturaL Sociery. 7 ‘ PAGE deter trom Hon. P. Barry.” 2. 06.0 tesieea wae Pot terre ee 103 a POPS PCN Glee OWN GOES 6.5 ¢-0.0 4 oc cP eeltldee cams canto cete oa 103 2) Sage MAS TAOS TURE) ie ain. «\n'o\a.cleis'a’a'vicinic'a'e Xe emtae nce maleggt 104 “ig protenas. Ws Genel, WBQissc.s<0ss sak ade vellametioeeas sate Ea AR I Cl AA Re dn en ge Bite weenie 105 y EEE NLCTMOCTSTINY) «'<'s's.o'n's pn nla's'n as v ehd'siaiset'y siegm mam, ek newts 105 SERENE AEPUAIEN PS OCLCUICS «'a.al5in) 6.0: 8:2: wa wren aaa 6.0 tiviaina aed eee ate 105 MUMMERS nine’ nnn! a! |p \a'e's oles as tinw'e « slotdle te aster neg honne 105 mmecutive Committee Meeting... ...csceccccccccscccseccencnes 106 MN geste nas Savy w n'a sw ov ghia o(c/ ein’ ainini sia ape’ na mig eee eae 106 ET UTULEG TOT ss a 'e'a ss « n'a 'e'e's ube avie onda nels tae a titinn's's Soaisetine 107 IN 08s la gina n'a ss outa! shan pieis'nia'e t dibs wueia'se ea eelet x Spee eae 110 MUMIMPTIGOT s/n oso se ricedcecccescvgeccaeee’ BE NEA hana legate 2 110 OER RETO ag oe Se ccid ais 6. sas 0 vis Sii ds wpaleia chine eters eae 110 IE TB A soto <7 aa" dials. ". Arboretums—Paper by Dr. Warder....... 2.2... ¢. ++ ssmntue nee etter from Mayor Rand........ésseseseentecsecens 040 cet see Place of Next Meeting... ..-0s:s0eceeses ei eeeeeeeeeesseeneneceeeenes Resolutions... . oo oe oe ole seis ledces senjae a (asp) oom cael > s = ee Adjournment... 6.6. se ocleecacerecseccs cee scr ens ssa senna bees oh \Appendix A—Obituaries, Dr. P. A. Jewell......0....ceceesseenseececsee” Appendix B—List of Varieties of Apples and Crabs fruited by E, B. Jor- _ don of Rochester.........2--seeeseeceeeeecececnccesccsecnce | Appendix C—Reports of County and Local Societies..... ...--.-+---+2--- , ¥ seee sete cece eereceeee stent eeees “> one ‘ a ART TOP Es ee , econd aR WER eae es Bic ne eee) i. M. ROD 6026225060 ns sana 1d Do ne ® STANDING COMMITTEES. He Oa Bn Sh EXECUTIVE. “S 2 oo ~ ' Se eee [ ¢ Tt} PeieeeARRIS.... ..... Fis, th Ae pea alee eae La Crescent. MANO HLLIOT. .........-... 20. se beseclhedersecas naoses Minneapolis Mee OEMATOH.................. PUES sale oiniee eyaie e's es «ok ROCKRSTEES , 4 Meee hR............ TRE atahia sheets asthe sBeiciee xe ..-St. Peter. | a eo ooo 4 deus gacgdernalaoreh. ‘see Mexcelsior. : . President and Secretary, ex officio. a ee COMMITTEE ON ORGANIZATION OF LOCAL SOCIETIES. = - (See page 37.) , RIUMG TLDS 6. fisniccccsccicceseceerecdastc es Ble Fae ....La Crescent, Pare ACOED AME... 'sc6 002. Hie eet Ga hot eat a oisi alk eysierenneetera bore EX COLSTOte M. MFO Bes tee cinn ne casein denvedesencnane seeeeeee-,ROChester: s. Pn oe ee DM ONDBR WOOD SII .csWsssao3 sa ease ae ee Rae ee mas COMMITTEE ON SEEDLING APPLES. (See page 37. ii Pep pay. oS wean Pee NG. GOULD:....).0).e-.2sshscs atecss-s2h ts rn Boa ronan BL PEACH onset) a mee SSE ea i = £4.24 "a7 "a". bat ee BS yo a Minnesora State HortricvuttvraL Sociery. 11 ¢ MEMBERS FOR 1879. Ce owas sos ey ee sede eee ee neon’ Minneapolis, Hennepin county. RE sens ee wwe cet neens -Bucksport, Me. IMIG conc. cc csc ses sce cn ccceecces Faribault, Rice county. eres cea ccs ecevcssccnue es Excelsior, Hennepin county. Eason = ooo since cence es ciens eee Minneapolis, Hennepin county. MO Tec cs. cece ee fcc es eae’ .-St. Paul, Ramsey county. UPIOERPIGATY so ss... swe e ccc scensncecs Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Me wc ect c cece seccsersacs St. Peter, Nicollet county. eto fc slain ccc cscutncdoccceus Fort A. Lincoln, D. T. | A Dover, Olmsted county. ss eae are eee Minneapolis, Hennepin county. ll Farmington, Dakota county. ME init nicin a pee nics ocestccsceseeecune Farmington, Dakota county. Mei cca. dss ses acaseccice Farmington, Dakota county. Mer, 2... 5...... I ot sc) td ata ete sx Sieur e Owatonna, Steele county. UMNGUNVEVINIAN fcc cesses scseesicses rence Ae Minneapolis, Hennepin county. Se Minneapolis, Hennepin county. IIIa oon ccc ccc ec ccs cate tees nes Litchfield, Meeker county. eric cen cles ese accesses ccs Sauk Center, Stearns county. a Newport, Washington county. Min cs ee gies ccc cece ese Minneapolis, Hennepin county. PU gicla am cece eens Schnee a sae oe an Minneapolis, Hennepin county. “EW 1) Si re Minneapolis, Hennepin county. FE Minneapolis, Hennepin county. le cos cowie nce ce as coda te ea class Cleveland, Ohio. elisa. UI SSGCn eee ie ee St. Paul, Ramsey county. lei, J), Sos oS ggee RSE oi La Crescent, Houston county. Se SE Minnear olis, Hennepin county. 8 ean St. Paul, Ramsey county. EY aire cass ae cc ences eo scerecees Minneapolis, Hennepin county. os OSE a Winona, Winona county. Na ale a le -/o'eo)c wiunin snd von ce snes siacs Rochester, Olmsted county. Salta; 105 S16 SoS cece Minneapolis, Hennepin county. a SR St. Paul, Ramsey county. MMMM LD EL ic in)s) ais ow nies asic csacecededes Morristown, Rice county. DENG a Bia on coe win c's oo ae nt vo osgets Sac’ Minneapolis, Hennepin county. CAVE HRPM EGITEIE sis cas’ co Siete b vec cee ocw chai Minneapolis, Hennepin county. fi -— Norquist, ene ivawtle Deane RLS beat 3 eds As : ‘ Pearce, Bec ron nen, Ce Geek eee pea Ned r Phillips, A. J A euiveaweeayetebidan aca EE “Read, A. Re Ds eae pele pie at NRA ae: 1 gl Ra) A RR Ree EI, | Rand, A. Rise pis eee acertett ope tee apolis Biobertaaii, Ce Woes « the following lists represent the action taken at two witclinga RA rally omitted, except in case of varieties changed at the last = APPLES. ; pei es (For discussion see Page 59.) Pade for general cultivation: hess of Oldenburg, Wealthy. Le : ed for planting ected quantities : | Tetofsky. | Pe nnended for general cultivation in okt: localities : Haas, Price’s Sweet, Plumb’s Cider, — Saxton. Recommended for favorable localities in southern portions of the State: _ St. Lawrence, Fameuse, -Utter’s Red, Talman’s Sweet. Recommended for general trial throughout the State: . White Astrachan, Elgin Beauty, Peach. % ; ’ % ; a | : Recommended for general cultivation— Transcendent. Hyslop. Beach's Sweet. Recommended for planting in limited quantities— ” Conical. Maiden’s Blush. Hesper Blush. Recommended for general trial— Pan a Powers’ Large Red. Virginia. © General Grant. Beach’s Red. Whitney’s No. 20. Recommended for trial by amateurs and pomologists— Minnesota. Brier’s Sweet. Aiken’s Str. Winter. * Quaker Beauty. Nee Alaska. Woodland Winter. : oe ane Hutchinson’s Sweet. ane OM boat < BLIGHT. Sa se Norr.—Since there was no blight in the State in 1878, the lists were no changed at the last meeting, and they represent the action taken in June, 1878. Varieties qnite exempt from blight— Orange, (Unanimous vote.) Minnesota, (Unanimous vote.( — , Beach’s Sweet, (Unanimous vote.) | Powers’ Large Red, (Unanimous vote.) — - Conical, (Unanimous vote.) Early Strawberry, (9 for and 1 against.) Maiden’s Blush, (Unanimous vote.) Virginia, (6 for and 1 against.) Whitney’s No. 20, (Unanimous vote.) Beach’s Red, (Unanimous vote.) _ Varieties quite liable to blight— General Grant, (Unanimous vote.) Transcendent (10 for and 1 against,) Hyslop, (14 for and 1 against.) * ’s No.9 9 or toa OS gaa s No. 19 or Merrimack. i; ane STRAWBERRIES, : onded for general cultivation. - : Wilson’s Albany. , Pbiintniet Sor general cultivation for near market and home use. a - Downer’s Prolific, - Charles Downing. Green Prolific, Countess de Haricourt. Recommended for trial— Seth Boyden. Col. Cheney. a _ Kentucky. Prouty’s Seedling. Michigan Seedling. Kramer’s Seedling. For general trial for amateur cultivation. Hart’s Minnesota Seedling. RASPBERRIES—BLACK-CAPS. : Recommended For general cultivation— = Doolittle. Seneca. Recommended for trial— Ontario. RASPBERRIES—RED, Recommended for general cultivation— Philadelphia. Turner. See wee ee ee a ee ee eee eer 7 ATES 1. fat CAditon at 1ST ae Reoshiad, That in view cf the vast number and variety reat excellence in our State, and the uncertainty of getting portation, therefore we recymm-nd that our people depe id our own native plums for a suppl y- : DS Weaniimended Jor trial: pe sy Miner, De Soto. ee ; \ > vee GOOSEBERRIES. Me 1 | ~ BS prot None were 1 commended, ae aa 4 EVERGREENS.’ Y i . - List adopted 1876 and approved 1877. The votes recorded are- ‘those | tS) hee White Spruce, Ist. (10 for, 8 against.) Norway Spruce, 2d. (11 for, 8 against.) rey Scotch Pine, 3d. (13 for, none against.) Balsam Fir, 4th. (15 for, none against.) White Pine, 5th. (11 for, none against.) American Arbor Vit, 6th. (11 for, 2 against.) Sy" Red Cedar, 7th. (11 for, 4 against.) Red or Norway Pine, 8th. (11 for, none against.| Austrian Pine, 9th. (9 for. 7 against.) Mountain Pine, 10th. (8 for, none against.) Siberian Arbor Vite, 11th. (14 for, none against.) Trailing Juniper, 12th. (15 for, none against.) TREES FOR FOREST PLANTING. Deciduous— uy Cottonwood, Sugar Maple, Moat | 9 White Willow, t For moist White Ash, eed White or Rock Elm, soil. Box Elder, ? <0 Butternut. ‘ 4 Deciduous Conifer— te European Larch. Aaah ee Evergreens— eae ; Scotch Pine, Arbor Vite, : SAE White Pine, : Balsam Fir, os ee Red Cedar, Norway Spruce, _ Black Spruce. ee . ; a ‘ re - ag LA ace ER MEETING, 3 30 Sra ore | ape G. ¥i WOISHHG rin eho POLIS, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY, Sox “gaxvany 21, 22 axp 23, 1879; AD th a gual a ROG Ee AM ME: TUESDAY MORNING. ‘es “te Ae Hes . _ TEN O’CLOCK. 1. Premium List for Horticultural Products at State Fair; a discussion. a Appointment of Committees, Auditing Committee, Combats on Articles E on Exhibition at present meeting, Committee on Resolutions. ; 3. Report of Committee on the Organization of Local Societies, (Committee consists of J. S. Harris and A. W. Latham.) TUESDAY AFTERNOON. Protection of Fruit Trees ; report by Peter M. Gideon, of Excelsior. Discussion on same. Report on Potatoes by A. W. Sias, of Rochester. Discussion on same. Hart’s Seedling Strawberry ; report of Committee. Horticulture i in Meeker county ; General Fruit Report by G. W. Fuller, of pebacid. 7. Discussion on same. 2 . > guys go po ON ee a ee ae ee ben ‘i 1. Fruit Culture and Fast Horses ; ‘an nldves by BBE _ sior. | apr poy oy _ 2. Discussiononsame. = 5 ef 8. Report on Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables shite Harris, of LaCrescent. 4. Discussion on same. 5. Report on Fruit Culture by John N. Norquist, of Red Vi 6. Discussion of same. iy WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. of St. Paul. 2. Discussion on same. z 3. Growth and Management of Plants in the house ; paper oy Morse, of Minneapolis. 4, Discussion on same. ae 5, Preservation of cries Fruits ; paper by J. W. Boxell, of Valley Ore mz Discussion on same. - ‘ WEDNESDAY EVENING. Were On this evening, Dr. P. L. Hatch, of Minneapolis, will give an ‘‘informal — talk” before the Y. M.C. A., on “ Birds of Minnesota.”’ The members of the Horticultural Society have been cordially invited to attend this ‘informal talk,” and hence the society will hold no session on this evening, unless the early con- clusion of this exercise should give ample opportunity ior so doing; m which case discussions and miscellaneous matters will occupy the attention ot the society. THURSDAY MORNING. Annual Address of the President, T. M. Smith, of St. Paul. Discussion of same. Report of the Secretary. Report of tiie Treasurer. Election of Officers. eh tS ll es Minnesora Stare HorricutTuraL Sociery. 19 THURSDAY AFTERNOON. 1. Report on Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables at the Minneapolis Fair by J. T. Grimes, of Minneapolis. 2. Discussion on same. 8. The Production of New Varieties of Apples; report by Peter M. Gideon, of Excelsior. [Mr. Gideon will explain the plan and state the progress of the work he is now doing at Excelsior. ] 4. Discussion on same. 5. Growth and Management of Fruit Trees inthe Nursery; paper by J. M. Underwood, of Lake City. 6. Discussion on same. THURSDAY EVENING. 1. Cultivation of the Strawberry;* paper by M. W. Cook, of Rochester. *If the opportunity occurs these papers should be called up earlier in the meeting, as the programme for Thursday evening is necessarily very full. 2. Discussion on same. 3. Articles on Exhibition at Meeting; report of committee with remarks. 4. Discussion on same. 5. Growth, Management and Uses of Evergreens ;* paper by H. M. Thompson, of St. Francis, Milwaukee Co., Wis. 6. Discussion on same. 7. Unfinished business. Place of meeting. 8. Fina resolutions; report of committee. 9. Adjournwent. The following subjects have also been proposed for discussion, and may be taken up at the pleasure of the society: Garden vegetables. Small fruits; how can their cultivation be extended? Special horticultural exhibitions; are they practicable; are they desirable; where should they be held and how conducted? Blight; its nature, prevention and remedies. Methods of promoting and retaining the fruitfulness of orchards. Orchards; sites, souls, &c. New varieties. The fruit hsts. The parlors of the Y. M. C. A., over the city market, have been engaged for the meeting, and will be kept warm day and night during its continuance. Tables and plates, and every tacility for the exhibition ot truits, vegetables and plants, will be provided. In view of these facilities and of the abundant truit crops ot the past season, the horticulturists of the state are earnestly exhorted to make such an exhibition as shall be worthy to represent the horticulture of the state ; Entertainment will be furnished by the citizens of Minneapolis to members and tose becoming members. The hotels will furnish board and lodging to those presenting membership tickets, at the following rates: Nicollet House, $2 per day; Clark House, $1.25; National Hotel, $1.50. Arrangeme.ts with the railways have been made as follows: The Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul R. R. will sell retwin tickets at one-fifth of regular rates on presentation o: the certificate of the secretary. The Minnesota Amber Cane Association will hold its annual neapolis, January 23d and 24th, and the reduced railway r: those who attend this meeting also. ‘OHAS. ns TUESDAY MORNING. The society was called to order by President T. M. Smith, : > 4 - 10:45, in accordance with notice given through the press, and the ney above programme, which had been mailed to the members of the society and a large number of others, supposed to be interested i ma horticulture or some of its branches. Prayer was offered by the Rev. Geo. W. Fuller of Litehiiela ; after which the meeting proceeded according to programme as closely as circumstances permitted. PREMIUM LIST FOR HORTICULTURAL PRODUCTS AT STATE FAIR. The premium list was taken up for discussion. Pres, Smith explained that it had been the custom of the State Agricultural Society to set apart a certain sum of money for premiums for hor- ticultural products, and to allow the Horticultural Society to offer this money in such manner as it saw fit, and since the list needed improvement it was thought best to bring it up for discussion here. Mr. Hollister moved to appoint a committee of three to report on this subject to-morrow. The motion was carried and Messrs. Brimhall, Gould and Jordan successively appointed by vote of the society. APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES. Messrs. U. S. Hollister, W. Elliott and A. W. Latham were appointed by vote of the society a committee to audit accounts. Minnesora State HorTicuLTuraL Society. 21 Messrs. P. M. Gideon, G@. W. Fuller and U. §S. Hollister were appointed a committee to report on articles on exhibition at this meeting. Messrs. Chas. Y. Lacy, A. W. Latham and Wm. McHenry were appointed a committee on resolutions. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON LOCAL SOCIETIES. The report of the committee on the organization of local socie- ties was called for as being next in order, Mr. Latham, a member of the committee moved a postponement of the report till the arrival of the chairman, Mr. Harris. No objection was made and the motion was declared carried. INVITATION TO LEGISLATURE. The Secretary suggested that if an invitation was to be extended to the members of the Legislature to visit this meeting it should be acted upon at this time. Dr. Twitchell moved that an invitation be sent. Mr. Latham moved to amend by stating some time for the visit. Mr. Hollister suggested that unless some legislation is desired a ° yisit would not amount to much and would cost the State a thou- sand doliars. Pres. Smith thought it best not to ask for legislation. Mr. Gould was in favor of an invitation. Mr. Hollister would have the Committee on Agriculture only come up. Mr. Thompson——Am in favor of an invitation to all the mem- bers. It would be much to the interests of the society to have them come and see what we have on exhibition and what we are doing. Mr. Jordan—Think the main object should be to get them to see what we have on exhibition. Many of them are unbelievers in fruit culture, and what we have here should do much to dispel that unbelief. Dr. Twitchell—I hold the same views and think that what we are doing here equally as worthy of attention as what the Legisla- ture is doing. Move the following resolution be adopted: Resolved, That we extend an invitation to the Legislature, now in session at St. Paul, to visit us at this place at such time during our meeting as may suitits convenience. 22 ‘Annuat Report. a And further, That they be requested to appoint a committee to report 1 the exhibit. Be The motion was carried. . Motion was made and carried that the Secretary be instruc transmit the invitation in accordance with the above. a The report of Mr. Gideon on protection from rabbits, mice, be, was called for and read by the writer, as follows: oat THE PROTECTION OF FRUIT TREES AGAINST RABBITS, “MICE, IN: SECTS AND THE EXTREMES OF CLIMATE. “sk Rabbits. To prevent the depredation of the gray rabbit on trees, take the entrails of one and rub the trees as far up as the animal can reach, and no tree so treated will be molested inside of three or four months, but such application will only induce the white rabbit to greater destruction, so that to head off the latter you must trap or shoot them. Poison could be used to exterminate them, but I prefer to make a fry of them. Mice. But for mice I apply the poison. I take a small stick with a square end and insert it in the vial of strychnine, and pound it as fine as flour, and dust that over with a small bit of cornmeal. The process of setting baits is this: I put a dry chip or bit of board on the ground. On that I put a smaller piece, on which I put about a teaspoonful of dry corn meal, over which I dust the strychnine, and then to keep all dry I cover with box or old sap trough, and sometimes to attract, I put hay, straw, or corn meal over the box or trough, as it may be. Five or six baits so set are enough for an acre of orchard, unless grass and weeds are very thick, in which case more might be needed, and renewed twice a year is suffi- cient, say in August and November. Grapes that are covered with hay or straw needs one such bait under the covering of the vines to each teelis. Bark and Leaf Lice. And as to the bark and leaf lice that often infest fruit trees. I know of no remedy other than to leave them io the mercy of the ants, hornets, wasps, and yellow-jackets, and if undisturbed they will never fail of ultimate success, though some loss may accrue.before their ultimate triumph, yet their work is the cheapest, and only certain remedy I know of, having tried nearly a score of remedies, to no avail. Borers. The borer that does his work near the surface of the ground, can be destroyed at once by making a small mound of dry, unbleached ashes around the trees, and if higher up by a plaster of wet ashes or lime, and held in place by a bandage of cloth. I never cut or gouge the tree in search of them. Minnesora STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 23 Caterpillar. The caterpillar I gather off by hand and crush under foot, and they that want _ a more delicate process can conjure up one to suit their fancy. Cold and Drouth. To protect against cold or drouth, I mulch early in fall, with any kind of corse litter or meadow. muck, and leave it there the year round, for it is as essential to guard against drouth as against cold. The mulch guards the tree against all great extremes of heat, drouth, or cold, and no danger from mice if you keep plenty of baits set. PETER M. GIDEON. Mr. Latham moved the report be accepted and filed for publica- -tion. The motion was carried, after which opened the following— DISCUSSION. Wrapping With Paper. Mr. Fuller. J wrap with building paper and thus save from mice and rabbits. Mr. Jordon. Have seen an orchard so treated worse damaged by the paper than by mice or rabbits. It kills the bark wherever in contact with it. Mr. Fuller. Wave had experience with it for years and have never had a tree injured. Mr. Spaulding. I commenced using tarred paper early. I first put newspaper around the tree and the tarred paper outside of this. Have recommended this method to others and have heard only of success. Have never had a tree injured by it. Think -it perfectly safe if put on newspaper first. Mr. Fuller. There is difference in paper. Some coat the paper with tar instead of using paper simply impregnated with tar. Mr. Gideon. We should be cautious about the use of these things. Have seen tarred paper used once but it was disastrous. Why not say oiled paper? This is harmless and cheap. Liver, Entrails, Meat, Sulphur, Whitewash. Dr. Twitchell. I have used the liver of animals. It is the blood that the rabbits object to. Petruleum tar is certainly injurious. Mr. Gideon. Not all meat will repel rabbits. The gray rabbit are rabbit, se Cay aes since Jae tobacco steeped in sia s ‘ant a th They don’t like tobacco. Doubt the efficacy of oil te Mr. Jordon. Have tried oiled paper but found - Then tried a lighter paper but it was still costly to then tried chemical paint and found it effective. whitewash consisting of + paint and % whitewash. well. Have now two fox hounds and one grey hound, an hi these the most successful against rabbits. Wrapping atid) poisoni require constant and continuous attention. Mee > Mr. Gideon. My trees head low and paper cannot be appli ey. as to protect. For trees in snow drifts it will not answer eithpe For mice in these cases must use poison traps. One man can set 500 traps per day. Clean, Culture and Mounding. Mr. Pearce. Mice work where there is grass. Clear the ground — clean and you will suffer no injury from them. If you do noteclear — the ground then tramp down the snow about the trunks. Mr. Jordon. J have men clear away rubbish and mound up six inches high with dirt. Mr. Fuller. I make the mound of leached ashes if : have them, and if not I use dirt. Mr. Jordon. Must be sure to remove the rubbish and make the mound firm as mice like to burrow in straw and loose dirt. Mr. Gideon. Trees should be mulched and that at the collar and close up to the trunk. There should be nodirt there. Dirt freezes and the freezing extends into the wood and produces bark-bursting. Sal Soda, Tobacco, Sulphur, Carbolic Acid, for Leaf Lice. Mr. Brimhall. Sal soda, 1 pound to a gallon of water extermin- ates leaf lice. Mr. Storrs. Sal soda has failed with me. Have also smoked with tobacco which did no good. Then fumigated with sulphur with the same result. Then tried soap-suds with carbolie acid, which also failed. I then made a stronger solution of suds and acid and killed both lice and tree. Minnesota STATE HorTiIcutTurRaL SOcIETvY. 25 Whitewash for Mice. Mr. Latham. I have succeeded ‘in destroying plant lice with to- bacco solution. Have used a mixture of whitewash, cow manure and sulphur for mice and rabbits, painting it on with a brush. This is also a good disinfectant. It also protects the trunks against the sun, being a good reflector and reflecting the heat instead of absorbing it. Kerosene, Ashes and Tobacco for Lice—Pinching. _ Mr. Gould. It is hard to destroy leaf lice when they get well started. The wasp known as yellow-jacket will, however, if plenty enough, keep them in check. [I find it a nice point to make solu- tions of tobacco, carbolic acid, &€., strong enough to kill insects and not to hurt the tree. At evening when the lice are gathered together they can be destroyed by pinching. The ants seen there do not disturb the lice. But when all the green lice are killed the old ones of a darker color continue producing. Mr. Jordon. Mr. Sias has been successful with kerosene oil. It does not hurt the tree, and putting on a few branches clears the whole tree of lice. For the trunks of trees I have used a wash o¢ lime, cow manure and soft soap, putting it on in May, and have found it of great value in keeping the trees clean and healthy. Instead of soft soap, have sometimes used refuse from lye. Mr, Gideon, Used kerosene last year and it made no impression on lice. Used paris green and flour so abundantly that the leaves were burned, and the lice survived. Mr. Fuller. Thave taken an ash pail and thrown ashes up among leaves on aplum tree while the lice were young, and thereby cleaned them out. Mr. Tyler. Have used very strong tobacco solution, on peach trees, washing it off with clean water the next morning. Tobacco sickens the lice and they come off easy with clean water. Mr. Spaulding. Have found two varieties of aphis on plum trees. Have been most successful in pinching them. Natural. History of Aphis. Dr. Twitchell. I believe paris green would have been effective if thoroughly applied. The natural history of this insect is inter- 26 ANNUAL Report. Ras sth tert: esting. The first to hatch in the spring are females. hermaphrodite, and some thirty generations, also hermapk successively produced during the season. Toward the clos 2 of the season males’are produced, and these fertilizing the females, eggs are produced, which hatch the following spring as above sta d. Te destroy the first crop is therefore most important, and these ly roulc pinch off. >: a OF Mr. Brimhall. Salsoda made strong enough will kill t lem. One pound to a gallon of rainwater is about right. mae Mr. Gould. Would leave undisturbed the little wasp nests before mentioned, as enemies of the lice. For mice cats are good. Mice have never hurt my trees. I even have grass growing near - them, and the cats keep off the mice. Rats are increasing with us. They have found out how to bark trees and I don’t know what to do with them. Mr. Storrs. Washing with tobacco solution has had the best effect in my experience. At this point the society adjourned to meet at 1:30 p. m. TUESDAY AFTERNOON. REPORT ON POTATOES. The meeting was called to order by President Smith at 1:45. Mr. Sias being absent his report on potatoes was read by the Secretary. It was as follows: Prof. C. Y. Lacy, Dear Srr:—Were it not for the fact that you had rendered it incumbent upon me, by your liberal donation of some twenty choice varieties of the Irish potato, to be distributed among the members of the Olmsted Co. Horticultural Society, to say something on this important subject, I would not intrude my crude thoughts upon this intelligent body of horticulturists at this time. I have too much respect for the the feelings of this society, to inflict upon them a long, dry paper on the theory and practice of potato culture in Minnesota—fertilizers, &e. Will merely give a bit of my experience, and a prediction or two, and I am done. -~Mriyyesora Srare HorricvutturaL Sociery. 27 ie Value of the Potato. Of all our horticultural productions, there is perhaps nothing of greater importance, if we except the apple, than the Irish potato. A native of South America, and introduced into the British dominions in the 16th century. Web- ster says: ‘‘In the British dominions and in the United States, it has proved one of the greatest blessings bestowed on man by the Creator.”’ Source of New Varieties—Seedlings. The fact that the Commissioner of Agriculture, Wm. G. LeDuc, has just in- troduced a very superior*variety of the Irish potato mto this country from Peru, is a matter of considerable interest, and possibly of great commercial importance. Although I am inclined to think it almost too good’a thing to hope for, that we should obtain a variety of the Irish potato, that originated south of the equator, that will even prove of as great commercial value as some of our best native seedlings. We will doubtless find varieties richer in saccharine matter, and of most excellent quality, and to those who have a preference for sweet potatoes, a great acquisition. But for lack of adaptation to our more rigorous climate and soil, lack of pro- ductiveness oy lack of keeping qualities, is it not too much of a good thing to hope for, as I said before, that they should prove as great a blessing, or of as great a commercial value, as the Early Rose, Peach Blow, or a dozen others that might be mentioned? I took a similar view in regard to Russian varieties of the common apple, soon atter the introduction of the four hundred varieties from St. Petersburg, in 1870, by the department of agriculture. And after putting one hundred aad thirty varieties on trial, and fruiting a dozen kinds, I am still more fully convinced of the correctness of the prediction. The past season I took more fruit from one Minnesota seedling, known as the Rollins Pippin (and still more from the Rollins Prolific) than from the whole dozen new Russians put together. They were all top grafted on the Hyslop, except one tree, and the Russians had been grafted one or two years the longest. Mr. M. J. Hoag, an old settler in this State, and a man of considerable experience in the nursery business before he came here, expressed my views exactly before our county Horticultural Society, when he stated that ‘‘ Every climate must have a pomology ofits own.’’ Now this means seedlings. Possibly this rule may not apply with quite as much force to potato seedlings as to seedlings of the apple, but to all those who are tired of sending east for new varieties at one dollar per pound, I say, try it. Were this State thrown entirely on its own resources, and obliged to run an independent line; and depend wholly upon its own seed and seedlings, for potatoes, apples, strawbernes, &c.. who does not believe that in a single decade we should be the gainers thereby. Let us see how it is with the common apple. Why, already, our last report from this society shows that no one attempts to place anything ahead of one of our Minnesota seedlings for fall, and I will here predict that in our list for ‘‘ trial by amateurs and pomologists” there will be found varieties for winter, which, for hardiness and quality combined, will surpass anything imported into this State. (If any timid member should happen to cry ‘‘ axe to grind’ at this poimt, please to inform him that this axe called ‘‘ Minnesota Seedlings,’’ has such a ring of superior steel about it—it is not what was called iron-clad before the winter of seventy-two and three—that even the most confirmed old croakers will yet be willing and anxious to catch / 28 ‘“ANNOAL REPORT. oe hold und help grind.) And as to the strawberry, I shall be disap) di M. W. Cook, chairman of the committee to visit Mr. John Hart’s seedlin June, doesnot undertake to show that the numerous seedling strawberry gro down east, who are bringing to the front strawberries that rival the e apple in size, will have to look well to their laurels, or they are all distan Minnesota seedling. While we should not be unmindful, or ungrateful favors from abroad, in the shape of new varieties of the Irish potato at one d per pound, yet as a matter of economy and profit, I think it would be we experiment with new seedlings of our own. Nees: nana Trial of New Varieties. _ * er . isPare ve To go back to the potatoes distributed from you to the members of our county Horticultural Society, I will say that I found open and willing hands for all except the Eureka, Excelsior, and Fluke. These I planted myself, and am highly pleased with the result. The Excelsiur is a potato of high excellence for the table, as its name would imply. Among the new varieties on trial the past sea- son, I wish to mention the Burbank as one of the best with me; planted half a bushel and dug about twenty-five, and, had we succeeded in keeping off the Colorado beetle, think the yield would have been nearly doubled. I also wish to. mention a very fair late potato, Breese’s Prolific. Some six or eight years ago, as I was*passing a grocery store in our city, I saw a basket of these potatoes turned up to the full exposure of the sun, and, as it was about the first of June, they had probably’ been so exposed at least a month, until they had turned quite green, and had sprouted and put out in leaf. I took them and cut them into pieces of one and two eyes each, and planted on land that had never been manured; had been cultivated and cropped six years; and from this bushel of potatoes I gathered a trifle over over one hundred. I attributed this large yield partly to the fact of their having been so long exposed to the sun. Last fall I dug my first crop of potatoes from the seed, and for aught I know they are all right, but to my inexperienced eye they certainly look like ‘‘ small potatoes.’’ And now, in conclusion, if fortune should favor me in the pursuit of this new enterprise, and I should chance to strike a bonanza, you may expect to hear from me again. Respectfully yours, A. W. SIAS. DISCUSSION. Results with New Varieties, Prof. Lacy gave the result of experiments with potatoes on the State Experimental Farm, as detailed in the following tables: Minnesota STATE HorRTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 29 Yield per Yield per acre on acre on Clayey loam. Sandy soil. rode ois: oka Sinn e.x a'sin' a4.9'ais viee 4 59.6 Bush, 98.3 Bush. Barly Wideawake, early........0000. cesseseseeees 2.9 “ 19.6 Centennial, early....... Bettina (hee Stats Mette ete 32.0 « Four other early varieties (average)..........+.2.05: bP ape 8 a Ai, Improved Peachblow, late...-......-.:0+.seeeeeeee By eels hh By ieee Superior, AUG cs <5 asin’ ace e eee, cette nen seesasecens 91:6." 4° 4,15 St. Lawrence, late....... Easarctagh, wlecaetnidtaivetahels cet sicaere A 1146 ‘ MIEIEURE BLD <.5/5. avin orcie sc ascwerecesccccpence 56.0: +.* 69.4, °° TILE. NBEO. a's an cnn ane ns.ns mares aeeases vitae aed mue’ Bite ae’ fl AIR a Noi nd a bee se Ee ie 82.0 « Six other late varieties (average)......-.seeseeeseee 150s. * (1b Dae NE aise 6 Vn 'aiuiois nial sin in nielsith wlan’ ie eye bie BOBS OSD. alone maaess ile raic calle vicciesiss¢ -wepunscnssacvae CT i a IRE S P an ee pn 6.0, 0\oiaieiaie a'9.s oleic sn 9 ses ob0 0 6s BU oy eae lias he ae vince ce oeeciccececgucmes SO CTY bio Gitectewe Ruby, Burbank’s Seedling. Mr. Hollister. We have discarded the Ruby because of its poor quality. Mr. Grimes. Burbank’s Seedling has yielded 390 bushels to the acre, is of extra quality and at its best in the spring. (Mr. Grimes distributed specimens to several parties.) Mr. Storrs suggested that those who received specimens should report upon them at next meeting. Mr, Hollister. We have tried the Burbank’s Seedling and are much pleased with it. ‘ Early Rose, Brownell’s Beauty, Snowflake. Mr. McHenry. J have not computed the yield per acre, but have weighed and compared the seed and the product. Harly Rose pro- duced 56 times the quantity of seed planted, while Snowflake and Brownell’s Beauty produced 72 times the seel planted. These varieties I have found to be the best. Mr. Hollister. We find the Snowflake best for yield and for market. . Mr. Gould. I like it as well as any but the yield is not as good as Early Rose and it is a little inclined to rot. Mr. Brimhall. The Snowflake yields as well as Karly Rose and sells better. It brings 5 cents per bushel more, but turns black when warm weather comes. > Wes h ? alee 5) is Mr. a 2 chenien 10 ete eee single eye, planted in rows 3+ feet apart and dropp inches apart in the row and got 610 pounds potatoes. pounds Victor at same time and in same way and got § (540 pounds). The Dunmore is a good baking potato, ir ance like the Peerless. I generally get 180 bushels Early Rose. Mr. Gray proposed that the Society recom of potatoes for cultivation but the proposition was not s Hart's Seedling Strawberry. The report on Hart’s Seedling Strawberry was called for ual no : x member of the committee was present. . EOE Mr. Pearce commenced to give a verbal report and then the Sec- retary was directed to read report as contained in Report of Olmsted County Horticultural Society, printed in last transactions, _ Mr. Smith. Have cultivated it for two years. Had it in bearing last year. The Grange met at my house and pronounced the fruit the best on my place. I am much pleased with it. It stood the winters as well as any and it bears well. The fruit is not as hard — as the Wilson. The quality is not excelled and the size is good. - The yield has not been fairly tested. Mr. Hart requested me to name it. I have thought of “Winona” and “Hart’s Minnesota.” Would like to have the Society decide upon a name. Mr. Brimhall. Would say that the vines in Mr. Smith’s hands had every advantage of soil and care. Under these conditions the first was equal to any on vines of the same age. The flavor is un- excelled. Pres. Smith. It bore for a longer time than most varieties, and the size didnot fall off. Mr. Dart. If this berry is all it appears to be we have done all we as a society need do, and may let Mr. Hart name it himself. Mr. Elliot. think it as hardy as the Wilson. This year it came out as well though not protected. Know of none that will produce plants as well. It yields well but can’t say that it will do as well on all soils asthe Wilson. Don’t think it will bear as much hard usuage in shipping as the Wilson, but it stands up well. Mr. Grimes. I move to call it “ Hart’s Winona.” Minnesotva STATE HorTicULTURAL SOCIETY, 31 Mr. Pearce.—I move to amend so as to call it “ Hart’s Seedling.” This amendment was lost. Mr. Dart. I move to amend so as to call it “ Hart's Minnesota Seedling.” This amendment was carried, and then the motion to call it ‘‘ Hart’s Minnesota Seedling,” was carried. Mr. Grimes.—I move to recommend “ Hart’s Minnesota Seedling for general trial for amateur cultivation.” Motion carried unani- mously. Mr. Abernethy.—W hat is it a seedling from? (No one was pre- pared to answer this question.) HORTICULTURE IN MEEKER COUNTY. A report of General Fruit Committee on Horticulture in Meeker County, was read by Mr. Fuller. The paper was as follows: LircHFiELD, Mrnn., Jan. 15th, 1879. The past two years have been favorable for all kinds of fruit trees in this sec- tion. The very mild winter of ’77 and ’78, and the early spring following, put every tree on its best behavior last season. Tetofskys that had hardly made six inches growth since their setting, years ago, grew from three to five feet, and mpened up to the very tips. Perhaps the constant manuring and cultivation I had been giving them will partly account for this. I have scotch pines nine years from the seed, twice transplanted, that are from eight to ten feet high, many of them making last season a growth of over two feet. The dry, hot weather of mid-summer, especially that of '77, tried all kinds of trees not well cared for, and many failed. But all trees well cultivated or thoroughly mulched, came through both seasons well. Varieties of Apples. The Duchess and Wealthy are the only large apples I have offered for general cultivation. The Peach apple and Tetofsky seem equally hardy, though the latter needs a good deal of petting and pushing at first, and I now propose to put them only into hands that will care for them. I have also the White Astrachan and Haas, but they look sickly. But aman living in the timber about Kandiyohi Lakes tells me that both these apples are doing well with him. And yet the land there is low. Variety of Crab Apples. The following crabs I find reliable: Transcendent, Hyslop, Early Strawberry, Orange, Meader’s Winter, Beach’s Sweet, Stewart’s Sweet, Hutchinson’s Sweet and Minnesota. 32 ANNUAL REPORT. Minnesota—Orange. do not feel perfectly satisfied with it. The Orange has also been slow in bearing. Quaker Beauty. we ia The Quaker Beauty top kills somewhat the first year or two, but stands well a year or two afterwards. I have trees nine years old, looking well but blos- somed for the first time last season. , One tree, six years from the graft, not trans- planted, blossomed full. , General Grant. The first orchard planting of General Grant failed so badly that I gave them up. But subsequent plantings have done better, and I find they are domg well, through the country, are in favor with the people, and I feel disposed to give them another trial. Sweet Russet—Hesper Blush. The Sweet Russets are doing well on my grounds, and gave me some of their honey sweet fruit last season. The Hesper Blush is too tender for this section. Crops of 1877 and 1878. There was but little fruit in this region in 1877. The only currants I knew of grew on bushes on my grounds, standing close to a row of evergreens. Last year was favorable for all the small fruits, and bushes of all kinds were loaded. It'was equally favorable for apples, excepting the hard freeze when most of the trees were in full blossom, which killed most of the apples and plums. Some trees that were later in blossoming, like the Meader’s Winter, being full. Successful Orchards. I know of two orchards in this county that are doing exceptionally well. They are situated on the north side of timber, and on very rich ground, one of them being planted on a former cattle yard. In this orchard, there are three Haas trees perfectly healthy apparently and were full of fine large apples last season. There is another orchard in the timber, on a sandy knoll, that bears every year, while other trees in the vicinity do not. In visiting this orchard this past fall I thought I learned the reason. These trees have been mulched every year, until the ground under the trees is from 12 to 18 inches higher than the general surface. Survivors of Early Plantings. Through the county there are many Transcendants and Hyslops, and a few Virginia Crabs, that were set 12 or 15 years ago, that have done well. They are only a few, however, left of the many of all kinds that have been sold. Some Duchess have stood well but most of those early plantings are dead or dying. Minnesota SraTE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 33 Difficulties. ' The many failures of trees that were good and the still more failures of the rees that were not good, sold by tree agents fof the same character, and the hopper raids and the light wheat, and the low prices and the ‘little brass Kéttle,’’ and above all the big interest on big mortgages, on almost ever man’s farm, make the cultivation of fruit in this section rather difficult just now. But there is a good time coming. ‘ EHvergreens. I think much of evergreens, not only as things of beauty and ornament, but of great value in connection with fruit culture. I name the following in the _ order of their value here: Scotch Pine, Balsam Fir, Arbor Vite, White Pine, Norway Spruce, Austrian Pine. DISCUSSION. Mr. Grimes moved that the report be placed on file. The motion was carried and the following discussion ensued : Stewart's Sweet—Peach. Mr. Fuller. (In answer to questions.) Stewart’s Sweet we have found a good variety. The White Pine grows nicely but does not transplant as well as the Scotch. The Peach Apple is as hardy as the Duchess with me. Have had no blight in my section. I use a great quantity of ashes in my orchard, covering the ground for some distance from the trunks cf the trees. Mr. Jordon. The Peach Apple is too early for exhibition at the September fairs. Has about the same season as the Duchess. In qual.ty none is better and it keep about the same as the Duchess. Tetofsky—Peach—Duchess. Dr. Twitchell. The early falling of the leaves from the Minne- sota is a good feature as it indicates an early cessation of growth. I can’t see why any one should raise the Tetofsky when they can raise the Duchess. The latter bears about four times as much, the fruit is about as good and keeps four times aslong. Think the Peach Apple equally as worthless where we can grow the Duchess. Mr. Jordon. The Peach Apple is delicious in flavor, nice and delicate in texture ; has no equal in these respects. Equally hardy with the Duchess. 3 34 ANNUAL REPORT. | eee 9” Mr. Grimes. The Tetofsky has a place. It goes out of season : just about the time the Duchess comes in. I fear the Peach does not stay long enough to make it of value. The Duchess when ripe — is good and first-rate both for cooking and for market. Mr. Dart. The Tetofsky is very desirable for its season just be- fore the Duchess. It was ripe last year August 18th. Hvery man that raises apples ought to have a few of the Tetofsky. It needs, however, thorough cultivation and attention. Mr. Jordon. J can contirm that statement. The Tetofsky is a good heavy bearer when 8 to 10 years old. The Peach Apple like- wise has its place to fill. Mr. Gould. Tetofsky trees planted 10 years ago have not borne a peck of fruit in any one year, while the Duchess planted at the same time have borne 2 or 3 bushels in one year, Mr. Gideon. I have four Tetofsky 10 years old and the same number of Peach and have not had one peck of fruit from either. The Duchess of the same age have borne three to four bushels. Mr. Pearce. I think the Tetofsky is abused. It is a favorite of mine. The tree is wonderfully hardy. Its great beauty is the ear- liness of the fruit. My folks think more of it for cooking than of any other. Can begin using it when quite green and continue until ripe. Myr. Fuller. »The tree will not grow unless pushed by care and cultivation. RUSSIAN APPLES. The probable effects of the present open winter was proposed for discussion. Mr. Dart moved that no one be allowed to speak more than five minutes on any one leading topic, but the motion was not seconded. Mr. Grimes moved that the society hear from Mr. Spaulding, on Russian varieties of apples, which motion was carried. (Mr. Spaulding had a large number of varieties from Summit Nurseries on exhibition.) Mr. Spaulding. last year was the first year of fruiting. The fair was early and the fruit was picked much too early in order to place it on exhibition. Hence it is now wilted and not in good condi- tion. In 1869 when it was uncertain whether we could raise apples or not, Mr. Moulton sent to St. Petersburg and got cions of 300 varieties, which we top-worked on Transcendent and Hyslop. We Minnesova STATE Hor TICULTURAL SOCIETY. 35 fruited last year 200 varieties, and 80 of them, we believe, will be valuable. Many of these were ripe before August 1st, ahead of the Duchess and Tetofsky. Among the winter varieties are some fine ones that will keep till April. (In answer to a question.) We find several catalogue numbers bearing the same fruit and the same number attached to several different varieties, so that we cannot depend on names given in the catalogue. We have begun a new catalogue, and shall propagate under these numbers only. Have selected 80 varieties for propagation for trial. Mr. Jordon. Think we should go slow on extremes. We have 800 Russian varieties in Rochester, and Mr. Sias’ statement regard- ing them gives a fair idea of their success to this time. I hope we shall get something nice from them, but have not seen it yet. Be- lieve we shall grow our fruit from seedlings produced in this State.. Besides the Wealthy we now have at least one that is valuable, and many more coming forward. Mr. Gould. We must bear in mind that the Russians are not yet fairly tested. All have been top-worked and that is not a fair test even in a hard winter. Think Mr. Moulton is doing a great work in testing so many varieties. Mr. Spaulding. I came not with much of an ax to grind but principally to show that there are some undoubted winter varieties among them. The Secretary read here the following letters from Prof. Budd, of Iowa Agricultural College on the subject of Russian apples : CROSSING OF APPLES, OFFICE OF PROFESSOR OF HoRTICULTURE AND FORESTRY. Iowa State AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE, Ames, Iowa, Dec. 23, 1878. Prof. C. Y. Lacy. My Dear Srr:—Yours at hand. I do not know any one who has given so much attention to the crossing of the types or families of the apple as I have done for the past ten years. Knight demonstrated that all the families of the apple of Europe and Asia mingle freely, especially when planted in near proximity. Our native crab seems far removed, and natural crosses may be very unfrequent, yet I believe they are possible. The Soulard crab we have given critical study in tree, leaf, and fruit, the past season, and many of us believe it to be a cross, or, at least, as the French say, a ‘‘deflection.” I have some seedlings of the Soulard, which in leaf exhibit a still more positive variation from the parental form. a * 36 ) ANNUAL REPORT. History of Russian Apples. eit mates The Russian apples are interesting for study from this standpoint. exhibit just such variations in leaf, bud, cell-structure, fruit, and habit of gr as we might expect, taking their history into consideration as given by Dr. Regel, Dr. Arnold, and others. It is the most extended example of crossing of widely varying forms to be found perhaps in the world. It commenced away back in the early ages, when China was called ‘‘ far Cathay,"’ by introducing north of ¢he Caspian, the thick-leaved summer apples of northern China, the Siberian apples, and the hardier forms of the common apple from the Caucasus slopes, where it attained the highest perfection known in the early ages. These three widely varied forms here mingled and spread naturally by the process of seedling production, common to this day on the Russian steppes. On the Darwinian plan of the survival of the fittest, the hardier varieties went north, and still north, until at this day, at the northern limit of apple growing on these plains only summer varieties can be grown, on account of the shortness of the seasons. Russian history talks of the origin of their varieties in this way, and the varieties themselves confirm the story. Some of them, even among the winter varieties, retain the original Chinese leaf, bud, and style of growth. These Chinese leaves have trom one to two more rows of palisade cells than our common thin-leaved varieties. So these varieties, like Duchess in leaf, &c., stand our intense summer heats, as well as our arctic cold. Again, many of these varieties show in leaf, bud, wood and habit of growth, the Siberian form in a marked way. ‘These varieties will be as hardy as the others, but more apt to suffer with us by summer blight. Still again, among the Russian winter varieties, we have a queer mingling of the Chinese form, and the Caucassus range form. The size of leaves, their form, pubescence, netveining, margins, &c., are extremely varied, but they are all characterized by marked thickness of leaf. I will only add that it would take us about five hundred-years to originate as many hardy varieties in the natural way as the Rusians now have. Jn the arti- ficial way, if we were methodic and took advantage of the hints nature has given us as to the tendency of the Siberian to blight, we might work rapidly. This is too much of a question for a hasty letter. Yours fraternally, J. L. BUDD. Mr. Dart moved that the thanks of the Society be tendered and the letter filed for publication, which motion was carried. Mr. Pearce. Are the Russian varieties more disposed to blight than the natives? Mr. Dart. No. Mr. Pearce. I don’t know about that. Committee on Russian Apples. Mr. Grimes. This subject of Russian apples is an important one. I move the appointment of a standing committee to visit two * Minnesora STaTe HorTicutTuraL SOcrIery. 37 or three times during the season Mr. Moulton’s orchard of Russian apples, 5 Mr. Dart. IJ think the duties of the committee should extend farther. Might be charged we were partial. Mr. Gould. Would amend to make it the duty of the committee to report on Russian varieties of apples under cultivation in this state. Would also amend to make the committee consist of five instead of three. These amendments were carried and the follow- ing successively. nominated and elected to serve upon the commit- tee: J. T. Grimes, E. H. S. Dart, J. M. Underwood, A. W. Sias, A. W. Latham. Comuinittee on Seedling Apples. Mr. Hollister. Move the appointment of a committee of three to report on Minnesota Seedlings at the next meeting of the Society. The motion was amended to make the committee consist of five members and then carried. The following were successively elected to serve: D. Day, Farmington; F. G. Gould, Excelsior; G. W. Fuller, Litchfield ; M. Pearce, Rochester; J.S. Harris, La Crescent. ORGANIZATION OF LOCAL SOCIETIES. The report of the committee on the Organization of Local Soci- eties was called for and was read by Mr. Harris, the chairman. The report was as follows : Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the State Horticultural Society :—The Com- mittee on the Organization of Local Societies would respectfully report, havmg given the matter a careful attention and would submit the following for the con- sideration of this meeting. Peculiar Need of Horticultural Progress. In agriculture, commerce and manufactures Minnesota is making unparal- elled progress and commanding the favorable attention of the whole civilized world. With one single exception, within her borders is found every element and every article is or can be produced in abundance that is essential to promote the-health, happiness and prosperity of a mighty nation. Our grain fields, our dairies. our sheep folds, and our lakes, rivers and brooks, stocked with the best of fish bid defiance to grim want, and with only such an amount of skillful labor bestowed upon them as is essential for the perfect development of the physical nature, the earth yields her increase and we have bread enough and to spare. The one exception is fruit alJ owr own—the lucious apples, melting pears, grapes that hold ‘wine in the cluster,’’ and all the smaller fruits plenty and convenient where we may pluck them from the tree and vine fresh and ripe, and this must / 38 ANNUAL REPORT. be supplied through the agency of horticulture. The disas was in the very 1 ‘past when there was but a faint’ hope that this want would be met, but thanks to the information collected and sent out by the State Horticultural Society the persistent efforts of some of our people in making trials and pes i Enough has already been accomplished to encourage us in the belief that fruit can, and yet will be, successfully grown here in quantity sufficient to satisfy our varied wants. When this shall be, and how it is to be done, are the grave ques- tions we are called upon to meet, and it depends upon the solution and answer to the latter question whether the answer to the first shall be, ‘‘Very soon,”’ or “Far - away in the future, after generatious have passed away.’’ Therefore we are called upon to consider the question ‘‘ How shall it be done.”’ We do not profess to have matured any plans on the subject, and now only introduce it that it may enlist the attention and stir up the minds of you who know and feel how important it is that our horticulture should overtake and keep pace with our progress in all the other arts and sciences. We believe that political economy, public policy, and the influence which horticulture exerts upon the condition of society demand for it the fostering care of the State government; but to secure that care there must first come an awakening and educating, for even the legislature is not awake to its importance. It may be that before we have a legislature in sympathy with us, we will have to begin at the cradle, and raise up a generation that is familiar with natural science, who by study and observation have learned how plants live and grow and produce their fruit; how they may best be propagated with a view to secure hardiness; what methods to pursue to produce varieties by crossing and hybridizing, with a certainty of improvement, and have at least a superficial idea of the influence that horticul- ture exerts upon society. But for this we can not wait. What shall be done? Horticultural Societies the Means. The most effectual means that at present appears to be available in awakening an interest favorable to horticulture and hastening the desirable end, appears to us to be the establishment of a system of district or county societies, which shall hold frequent stated meetings for the discussion of various questions bearing upon the subject and the conducting of systematic experiments. In every com- munity where such an organization has maintained a live existence for a reason- able length of time, we quickly detect an air of refinement and spirit of emula- tion among the people to make their homes and their surroundings pleasant, comfortable and beautiful. It requires no arguments or array of facts to prove to us that such associations should be organized and kept up all over our State, and that they would not only be useful in their several localities, but would prove a source of wealth, power and influence to the State. How shallit be done? Plans for organizing. One plan that suggests itself is that this State Society take the matter in hand and mature a method of organizmg them under its auspices, and holdmg them as subordinates, assigning to them their work, and requiring them to keep in correspondence and co-operation withit. To carry out this method would require the appointment of a commission to enter the field and push forward the work, and perhaps for many years have an oversight of them, at an expense of one to three thousand dollars per year. We see at once that this is not practicable, for Minnesora STATE HorricuLTuRAL SOcIgTvY. 39 we have neither revenue or endowments at our disposal. [Nothing but a single copy of our annual transactions in pamphlet form for each member; all that the great North Star State can afford to spend in this way to make our people pros- perous and happy. Doubtless individual members of this society have spent double the amount of their hard earnings for the same-cause] Another method which suggests itself, is placing the matter under the care and direction of the Agricultural College of the State University. There it would require an extra appropriation from the State, to put and keep it in complete working order; and past experience in the getting of appropriations should con- vince us that this is hopeless. The last, and only practical method, is to enlist the mterest of the indtisntinal members of this State Society and all fruit growers throughout the State in the enterprise; and we trust that when you return to your homes you will immedi- ately enter upon the work. And we recommend that this society do, before the final adjournment, adopt suitable resolutions and recommend a form of by-laws and constitution and order; the same to be printed in circular and sent to those interested in every county in the State. We also present a form of constitution and by-laws that we think, with some / reconstruction may be adopted for the use of county societies. CONSTITUTION. 1. This association shall be known as the......../...... ..+++Horticultural Society. 2. Its object shall be to improve the condition of pomology, horticulture and gardening, and to discuss and disseminate information upon all questions per- taining to the art and science of horticulture. 3. Its members shall consist of annual members, paying an annual fee of one dollar; of life members, paying a fee at one time of ten dollars; and honorary members, who shall only be persons of distinguished merit in horticulture or kindred science, who may be admitted to all the privileges of members except the privilege of voting for the election of officers. 4, Its officers shall consist of one president, one vice president, one secretary, one treasurer, and an executive board of five; all to be elected at the annual meeting, and to serve until their successors are chosen. The president and sec- retary shall be members of the executive board. 5. ‘This society shall hold monthly meetings at a place designated at each last previous meeting, and an annual meeting on the .. Saturday of December; and immediately after the‘annual meeting the outgoing secretary shall report to the secretary of the State Horticultural Society, giving the names of the officers elect, the number of members, number of meetings held during the year, and number of volumes in library and synopsis of transactions and result of experiments con- ducted under the auspices of the society. 6. All surplus moneys accumulating in the treasury of the society shall be expended in the purchase of seeds, plants and scions, for experiment and distri- bution among the members, or in the establishment of a library, as may be decided by the majority vote of the members present at any annual meeting; and in no case shall such funds be devoted to any other use. 7. This constitution may be amended at any annual meeting, by a two-thirds vote of the m2mbers present. 40) ANNUAL REPORT. BY-LAWS. Annrottt 1. The president shall preside at all meetings of the society ; call meetings of the executive board, and under its direction have a general super- _ vision of the affairs of the society, and deliver an annual address upon some sub- ject connected with horticulture. And he shall appoint a general fruit committce, composed of one person from each town within the jurisdiction of the society, at the close of each annual meeting. Arr, 2. The vice president shall preside in the absence ot the president) Arr. 3. The secretary shall keep minutes of all meetings; have charge of its papers, books and reports; conduct the correspondence, and prepare and forward an annual report to the secretary of the State Horticultural Society beforeshe 10th of January each year; and shall receive for so doing his necessary expenses for postage, stationery, printing and expressage, and shall render an annual detailed account of such expenses incurred, which shall be referred to a special auditing committee. Art. 4. The treasurer shall receive and keep an accurate account of all moneys belonging to the society, and dispense the same upon the written orders of the president and secretary, which he shall retain and file as vouchers; and he shall make an annual report to the society of the receipts and disbursements, which, with the vouchers, shall be referred to the special auditing committee, as provided in section three. Art. 5. At each regular meeting, a subject shall be selected for discussion at the next meeting, and one or more persons be designated to write an essay upon some subject having a bearing or influence upon horticulture. Art. 6. Itshall be the duty ot each member of the fruit committee to make an annual report upon the fruit crop in his respective district, and the genera] condition of horticulture, and note the result of any experiments coming under his observation. And it shall be the duty of the committee at each annual meeting, to recommend for the consideration of the society, a suitable list of fruits for general cultivation. Art. 7. These by-laws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any annual meeting. J. 8S. HARRIS, Chairman Com. DISCUSSION. Mr. Brimhall moved that the report be accepted and placed on file, when the following discussion ensued: The secretary stated that only one society reported its proceed- ings for the last transactions. Mr. Harris. Tf it could get only one delegate from each county, the State society would have its usefulness gréatly extended. Think there is a great demand for horticultural information, and if we could show the advantages arising from organization in connec- tion with the State society, local societies would be organized. Mr. Dart. These societies might die even after they were organ- Minnesora STATE HorrTicvuLtTvuraL Socirery. 41 \ ized. It needs as many active horticulturists for a successful socie- ty as Olmsted county has, and not many counties can furnish that number. To strengthen this society we should do a good solid work that we shall not have to go back upon. Several years ago we got to recommending things that cowd not stand. The win- ‘ters of 72 and °73 did not take that spirit out of us entirely. If we will say “if hardy, productive and good and not otherwise, we will recommend,” we will gain the confidence of the people and credit with the legislature. Olinsted County Society. Mr. Pearce. Not many men are needed, but enough fair, honest men for officers. In Olmsted county we have such a society. We meet, and the reporters are present, and our proceedings get into the papers, and are copied elsewhere. Our society has thus been useful in giving usa reputation. If we can keep harmonious and industrious the society will continue and prosper. Mr. Fuller. ‘I take these notes home and they are published and distributed, and serve the purpose as well asa society could. A county society could do no more. McLeod County Society. Mr Storrs. Two years ago we organized a society and appointed a winter meeting, but could not get it, the officers having forgot- ten all about the appointment. I believe a society could do much good, because many want to grow trees, and do not know how, and might learn through such a society. Mr. Underwood. Think perhaps in Wabasha and Goodhue we could find enough horticulturists to make a society, and I wonder if by complimentary letters and our own presence we would not greatly contribute to its value and success ? Mr. Gould. I believe this society can do some good by encour- aging the formation of local societies. They would spread informa- tion. Most of the people not reached by the State Society do not know what to plant or how to find out. They ask if the fruit is good; not whether the tree will produce or stand. If they knew that the strawberry would grow anywhere it would be planted more. Local societies would spread information of this kind. Be- lieve that when we recommend varieties we should except the west- ern prairies. 42 AnnuaAL REPORT. Mr. Elliot. I am getting interested and would like to have the discussion continue. We havea society here, and it has become something of an effort to keep it intact and active. Mr. Kenney. I believe by taking small boys and teaching them to set trees and take caréof them is a good way to produce horti- culturists. They do not give up the practice when they once learn how. Mr. Gideon. I think that the horticulturist must be resi by the education of the parent before the child is born. Mr. H. E. Hawkey.—Think we should not depend on foreordi- nation alone, but somewhat on the education of the child. Hennepin County Society. Mr. Elliot—About a year ago we got up a society here and started with some enthusiasm, but now it is pretty hard work to keep it alive. Mr. Hollister—Had we better try to form these societies in advance of the want? Believe that when they are wanted they will be formed and maintained without so much effort. Mr. Latham.—We need to press this knowledge upon the people, because they are very ignorant upon these matters, and subject to great impositions, The motion to accept the report and place on file for publication was carried. Mr. Latham.—-If this report is simply printed in the transac- tions it will not be seen by many. I move the appointment of a committee to draft a suitable address to the people, and with a con- stitution and by-laws to offer for publication to the leading papers. The motion was seconded. Mr. Dart—-Our Fruit Lists distributed will do as much good. Don’t think an exhortation to form societies will amount to much, since it appears that not more than two or three counties can sup- port and maintain a society. People like to be humbugged, and will be, and we may as well pursue the even tenor of our ways. The motion was carried. Motion was made and seconded to adjourn to 7:30 p.m. Carried. Minnesora State HortTicvutTuraL SOcieryY. 43 ’ TUESDAY EVENING. The society was called to order by Pres. Smith at the appointed time. Motion was then made that the same persons act in connection with another, as the committee to prepare the address, constitution and by-laws. Mr. Pearce was elected as the third member. The full committee thus consists of J. S$. Harris, A. W. Latham and M. Pearce. MR. TUTTLE’S ADDRESS. Rey. Mr. Tuttle was present and made a short address of which the following is a fragmentary report: Mr. President aad Gentlemen of the Society— It is somewhat late for me to address you, since I should more properly have done so this morning, but I am nevertheless glad tobe with you A most elevat- ing and humanizing vocation is that of horticulture. A lover of horticulture must be a companion of nature, and cannot be far from the Author of Nature. One in the circumstances of the horticulturist can’t be either a very narrow or a very bad man. Hence I am glad to address you, because I know whom I address. The story tells of a tree that bore twelve manner of fruits. You seem by your: display here to do the same even in mid-winter. It would not be surprising if you had met to confer on building ice-houses, or to tell of arcticexplorations. But that you have met for the purpose set forth in your programme, testifies to your judgment, perseverance and faith. Iam not myself much of a horticulturist. I came here and built because of the beauty of the place, and I planted only shade trees. Had I done differently I might have enjoyed more. I abandoned the idea of growing apples, believing it impracticable, and thinking I had enough enjoyments. ButI heard of apples grown in Minnesota, then of bushels and then I saw them, and year by year my unbelief grew less, and now the sight of apples grown in Minnesota occasions no more surprise than in New York. I remember some years ago a picnic excursion to Minnetonka was advertised, and it was stated that along with sight of Indian bones the sight of an apple orchard would be afforded. It was an object of wonder, but now I shall not be surprised sometime to hear of a peath orchard in that region. PRESIDENT SMITH’S REPLY. President Smith replied to the remarks of Mr. Tuttle somewhat as follows: 44 AynvaL REpPorT. cnt We, the horticulturists of Minnesota, will do our best to realize ghieas anticipations. We have proved that we can raise apples and we hope to plenty of them. The change in the condition of horticulture is hardly grea than ih the city of Minneapolis, since I first placed foot in 1t, crossing the river by ferry. You, therefore, can hardly be as proud to entertain us as we are ‘@ be entertained by the city of Minneapolis. MR. MENDENHALL’S PAPER. At the close of these remarks a recess of ten minutes was taken to examine the fruit and other articles on exhibition. Upon com- ing to order Mr. Mendenhall was called upon tor his paper on destructive insects, which he read as follows: CURRANT AND GOOSEBERRY WORMS. Importance of the Currant and Gooseberry. As our climate does not admit of our growing all varieties of fruits without great expense, it behooves us, by judicious culture, tu bring to the greatest per- fection, as to quality and productiveness, such kinds as do succeed here. Among these the ‘‘small fruits’’-—currants, gooseberries, strawberries, raspberries and cranberries are our main dependence, and seldom utterly fail. I put currants and gooseberries at the head of the list, on account of their hardiness, productiveness, marketable qualities and general excellence. Both these fruits are easily grown, and while they richly repay any extra care that may be bestowed upon them, will bear neglect, in matters of soil and situation, better than most other kinds. One sort of neglect, however, these shrubs will not long survive, and that is, neglect of their insect enemies. It is my purpose at this time to call attention to some of the more conspicuous currant and gooseberry pests, from whose ravages our plants have already suff- ered or are likely to suffer within a few years. In order to guard against, or to fight advantageously any insect foe, it is very necessary that we should become acquainted with its appearance, its transformation and its habits. Wecan then strike at the most vulnerable point, and with vigilance and perseverance effect its practical extermination. Imported Currant Worm—History. The most destructive of all currant pests is the ‘‘imported currant worm,’’ the larva of a medium-sized saw-fly called by entomologists nematus ventricosus. This insect was introduced into this country at several different points upon plants imported by nurserymen from Europe. ‘These unconscious importers, in ignorance of the habits of the insect. failed to take proper precautions against it, and dearly have they had to pay since for their carelessness. Like many other imported pests (its natural enemies having been left behind in the voyage across the Atlantic) it multiplied with much greater rapidity in this country than it had ever done in Europe, and in 1865, four or five years after its first appearance, it had spread widely over the eastern States, and caused a great diminution in the currant crop. By 1868 both currants and gooseberries were nearly a failure \ Minnesota Srare HorticvtTuraL SoOciery, 45 throughout the New England States, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Northern Illinois. The plants themselves, generally perished during the second or third seasons, from the repeated defoliations by this insect. The plants upon which it subsisted having thus generally died out, in the sections of the country mentioned, the pests were naturally “‘starved out,’’ and for some years have practically disappeared. Nurserymen and gardeners have taken heart again and begun replanting. But it will require all their vigilance and industry to prevent a recurrence of their losses in a few years. I am happy to say that the ‘‘imported currant worm” has not yet, to any great extent, crossed our borders, but we are in its ‘‘line of march,’’and may expect, sooner or later, to find its easily-read hieroglyphics on our currant leaves. Therefore, since being ‘‘forewarned is being forearmed,”’ I will attempt to draw, for the benefit of those concerned, a pen and ink pottraitof this most unwelcome foreizner. Description. The worm which does the damage is a ‘‘talse caterpillar,’ so called, in common with ali the larve of a certain family of Hymenoptera, from its resemblance to the larve of butterflies and moths, which are the only ‘‘true caterpillars.’’ It may be distinguished from the latter by the presence of seven pairs cf prolegs, whereas true caterpillars have sometimes Jess, but never more than five pairs of prolegs. When first hatched it is of a dull green color, but after the first molt it becomes thickly studded over with shining black spots, and has a round black head. It acquires a length of about three quarters of an inch, and after the last molt it again becomes of a plain green color. Habits. . It feeds upon the leaves of the gooseberry as well as the currant, but prefers the latter. It seldom gnaws the edges of the leaves, but cuts holes, at first small and round and afterwards large and irregular, in the blade. The first brood of this insect appears quite early in the spring, and devours the first leaves. About the middle of June the worms drop from the leaves and3burrow an inch or so under ground, or conceal themselves under fallen leaves, and spin around them- selves oval cocoons of gummy, brown silk. Within these they change to pupe and in about two weeks the perfect insects emerge. These are four-winged flies, with broad wings, soft bodies, and are rather slow andjtheavy in flight. They are termed ‘‘ Saw flies,’’ from the saw-like form and manner of using the oyi- positor. In this species the males are entirely black, while the females have a dull orange-colored body. The latter do not, like most other saw flies, cut slits in the tissue of the leaf in which to deposit their eggs, but place the latter in rows like strings of beads, along the mid rib and principal veins of the leaf. These eggs soon hatch and the second brood of worms appear simultaneously with the starting of the second growth of leaves. When full fed, they spin their cocoons and lie dormant through the :winter, changing to flies early in spring. Rip. Prevention and Remedy. In order to prevent the introduction of this destructive insect into our State, nurserymen and all others receiving plants from the east, should take great care to shake off and burn every particle of earth and litter from the roots, before 46 ANNUAL Report. . } waa © planting, and should also burn the moss or straw in which they wooinaae Pa When the worms have once become established, there is no other remedy than — to pick them from the bushes, where they very soon betray ‘themselves by ‘ts holes they gnaw in the leaves, and to dust the leaves thoroughly with . White Hellebore. gee Native Currant Worm—Description and Habits. We are troubled to some extent by a Saw fly larva, closely allied to the one just described, which occurs throughout the more northern States, but only occasionally becomes a serious pest. This is the ‘‘ Native Currant-Worm,” (Pristophora grossularia, Walsh.) This worm is somewhat smaller than the imported species, and of a plain, green color, with a black head. It does not gnaw holes in the leaves but feeds from the edges. Like the former species it is double brooded, but the second brood passes through all its transformations, and early in the fall the flies, both sexes of which are black—lay their eggs upon the twigs of the currant and gooseberry bushes—not upon the leaves like other the Saw fly. Hibernation therefore takes place in the egg state. This species probably originated upon the wild gooseberry and still prefers the gooseberry to the cur- rant, but during some seasons is quite destructive to both. Remedy. Usually, however, its natural enemies, in the shape of various cannibal insects and parasites, keep it pretty well in check. Whenever observed in destructive nunibers a liberal dose of white hellebore powder will rid the bushes of its pres- ence, Other Worms. Besides these hymenopterous pests, the currant and gooseberry are sometimes considerably injured by the attacks of various caterpillars of the ‘‘measuring- worm’’ or ‘‘span-worm”’ family. Among these is a handsome “looper” of a bright-yellow color adorned with white lines and showy black spots. It is when full grown, an inch or more in length, of cylindrical form, and has but two pairs of prolegs in addition to the six pointed thoracic legs. This worm makes its appearance during the latter part of May, and feeds upon the terminal leaves and the racemes of flowers or setting fruit, sometimes seriously diminishing the crop. When full grown it conceals itself among rubbish around the roots of the plant, or burrows slightly underground and changes to a naked, oval, shiny- brown chrysalis, from which in about two weeks the moth escapes. The latter is Of a dingy yellow color, having the wings marked with several indistinct leaden colored spots. The antenne are feathered. This moth may often be seen flut- tering about the bushes in the daytime, during the latter part of June or early in July. It is then engaged in placing its eggs on the main stems or large branches of the plant, where they remain without hatching until the following spring. It is easily kept in check by picking the worms from the leaves, or capturing the sluggish moths in a net. Several other species of ‘‘measuring-worms’’ are found on the currant and gooseberry, but these seldom occur in such numbers as to do serious damage. A large, dark, spiny worm is frequently found upon the plants under consider- Minnesora State HorricvLtTvraL Sociery. | 47 ation, during midsummer, This is the larva of one of our most common and handsomest butterflies, called, on account of a silvery, comma-shaped mark on the under side of the hind wings, the ‘‘Comma butterfly”’ (Grapta progne. Cram.) The chrysalis is suspended by the tail, is rather rugged-looking, of a brown color, prettily ornamented with silver spots. Besides these worms that feed upon the leaves, the currant bush is subject to the attacks of two borers, which bore the stems and are sometimes so numerous as to kill out the plant. The first of these is an imported pest that has spread generally over the United States. It is a little clear-winged moth very much resembling a small wasp. This insect lays its eggs in the axils of the buds, and the little white grubs upon hatching penetrate the stems, and burrow up and down until they (the stems) are completely hollowed out. Before entering the chrysalis state the grub cuts a passage through the bark, leaving only their outer skin to cover the hole. This the moth when ready to come out easily breaks through. The second, and quite as destructive borer, is the larva of a small, narrow, brown beetle with a broad, oblique, yellowish band, above which is q | white spot on the middle of each wing. The larva is footless, and feeds upon the pith of the stalks, thus killing them. The most sure semedy for these borers is to cut out the dead stalks, containing the pupe, during winter, and burn them. R. J. MENDENHALL. DISCUSSION. After the reading the following discussion was held: Mr. Grimes. I move the report be placed on file’for publication. The motion was carried. Currant Borer. Mr. Fuller. I have found many branches of currants hollow, and following up the stem have found a grub. My. Dart. Would like to know if any variety is more subject to these borers than others. Have had the Cherry, and found that more subject to them. Mr. Smith. The Cherry and Versailles are both more subject. Mr, Elliot. All plants that are not perfectly hardy and vigorous, are more subject to insects than those that are. Grape Bud Borer. Mr. Harris. A cea Bide beetle goes to work and eats out the buds of grapes. If numerous enough they will kill the vines. They sometimes go into the apple trees. Haye eaten the buds from three Duchess trees. The only way known to destroy it is to shake down into a basin and pinch between the fingers. 48 . ANNUAL Report, \ Mr. Jordon. Ihave been bothered with the same insect. — Have re : not seen it on the prairie. It continues to live through the sum-— mer, but does no harm, save when the vines are leaving out. 5 ae Mr. Gould. Have seen them for four or five years, and re have done more or less injury for several years. Think can see the eggs on branches when the vines are lifted, and by destroying these can check their work. Mr. Mendenhall. I hardly think these eggs can be those of the beetle in question. Since the adjournment of the meeting the following full descrip- tion of the insect under discussion has come under the eye of the secretary, in the proceedings of the W. N. Y. Horticultural So- ciety: ‘“‘There is an insect wich gives the grower of grapes a good deal of trouble. It is about the size of the lady bug, of a brilliant metallic green; 1t makes its appearance when the buds first begin to swell, and eats out the centre; itlays its eggs at the roots of the leaves, and from the eggs come a brown slug, which eats the leaves and sometimes destroys the fruit. Few persons are aware that the slug and the fly are the same. In cool weather, or in early morning, or at cool of the evening, they can be easily caught; but they have a peculiar way of drop- ping to the ground when disturbed, and then it is almost impossible to find them. The only way to destroy them is by picking them off. Put one hand under where they are, and catch them with the other; if you miss it, it will drop into the hand below, and thus be secured.”’ Mr. U. 8. Hollister read his paper on Variation of Plants Under Climatic Influence, as follows: THE VARIATION OF PLANTS UNDER CLIMATIC INFLUENCE. Under this head I shall include and consider as belonging to tke subject all organic structures having the elements of plant life—whether it be a tree, a cereal, a vegetable or flower. Nature. Nature—in the creation of vegetable organism—is profuse in enigmas, strange freaks of hybridization, and consequent wonderful transformation, adaptation to climatic conditions, and the needs of men who live under lke influence. Nature has to do with our subject as the willing servant of the Creator, and as paying tribute to the skill of the horticulturist. Nature stamps her imprint upon our mountains, lakes and rivers, and her pride is evidenced in her grandeur, but she is proudest when she stands among the trees, the fruits and the flowe.s of her kingdo~. Minnesota STATE HorTicuLtvrRaAL SOcIETY. 49 Regard for Nature's Laws. a As horticulturists we must bear in mind the eternal fitness of nature’s laws, and we of Minnesota long since learned better than to transplant a child of the tropics to our stubborn clime, but are compelled to look to our own latitude for valuable additions to our orchard and garden stock. Other conditions being equal, southern latitudes are more exuberant of plant growth. That which our latitude lacks in this seeming extravagance, is made up in a quicker growth and hardier structure. Plants vary in Nature according to Climate. The white oak is typical of hardiness, of strength andendurance. It flourishes in the swamps of Tennessee, a gigantic, tough and wiry king of the forest—its texture as strong and flexible almost as steel. I have followed it north, through Kentucky, lllinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota, and find with each degree of lati- tude it assumes less proportions, is of slower growth and meaner texture, until at the northern limit of its growth it is a dwarfed monarch. There is another tree, a beauty everywhere, of stronger growth south than at the north, that shows itself in a wide range of latitude, and an adaptability to circumstances that is wonderful. It is the red cedar. I have seen it in the bayous of the gulf, and in Georgia, upon the Cumberland mountains, resting upon the outcropping azoic rock, and sending its roots into the crevices for sup- . port; again upon the scant soil of the mountain side, then upon the rich alluvial soil of the bottom lands, and standing away out in the Tennessee river, 1ts trunk above water, its roots forming weird arches of support; and under all these con- ditions its growth seemed about equal, and its bright green verdare the same. Its color there is vastly different from the shade here. In winter it is a bright grassy green, and is one of the most pleasing evergreens in the South. We find it in Louisiana, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minne- sota—a monster in its southern limit, a pigmy on its northern line. Hardy enough to stand the scorching sun of the tropics, and endure the blasts of an arctic winter. The white pine reverses the order of growth, and is a monster in Minnesota, and ascraggy subject in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. These illustrations are given to show that even the hardiest trees, and those of widest distribution, are subject to changes of climate to a very great degree. Variation of Fruit Trees. The fruit trees are more marked in sensitiveness. There is not one of our long list of apples but will grow seuth of the Ohio river, but not one in a thousand from that location will thrive’north of forty-three and a half. The season of ripening changes with changes of latitude, in fruits and vegeta- bles. The autumn apple of Tennessee, if it could be transplanted here, would, in all probability be a winter apple and a good keeper. ‘The Baldwin is a fall apple in Kentucky, and the Fameuse would come in about the season of our Duchess. The best keeping apples become perishable when grown in the South. + 50 ANNUAL REPORT. Small Fruits. s - wi ite We: find the huckleberry or blueberry all the way from Georgia to Minnesota, ee and our wild creeping or trailing blackberry is known in the southern states as the dewberry, and has there the same general characteristics as here. The cranberry is not profitably grown south of the Ohio river, and ‘tis to a strange exception to the general rule. But to offset this advantage we cannot grow oranges, lemons, peaches, quinces, apricots, pawpaws, persimmons or mul- berries. That queen of small fruits, the strawberry, will do well under good culture wherever Indian corn will ripen. Just as good crops can be produced in Minne - sota as in southern Illinois, and the same is true of our hardier Raspberries. It is a remarkable ruling of nature’s laws, that while we have hardly a tree or ' shrub but seems benefitted, by removal to a more southern climate, they have — thousands that will not endure one vlast ot our northern winter. It seems as though much of the grand and the beautiful gave place to the strictly usefal in our northern home. Instead of the live oak with its wide, spreading arms, festooned with the gray beard of the forest, the wierd sycamore, with glamorous leaf and white trunk, the beautiful cypress, the lordly tulip tree, we have the pine, the oak, the maple, the ash ancl the elm, and our southern brethren have these also. The magnolia gaudiflora, the most beautiful fowering tree in the world—the queen of them all—we dare not even imagine it might grow here. Flowers. Many of our familiar annual flneons or such as are compelled to be annuals, if grown out of doors, become perrennials in the south. The Antirrhinum and Dianthus will bloom until exhausted, in Florida, and our house ivies grow in luxuriant profusion over walls and gables in Tennesse. Cereals and Vegetables. The cereals and vegetables bear important testimony in way of illustration. These latter are not so marked in habit of growth as in time required to arrive at maturity. They accommodate themselves wonderfully to circumstances, requiring a long or short season to arrive at maturity according to the location. Earliness and Climate. It has long been a theory that the further north the seeds are grown the sooner the product will come to maturity. It is an established fact that cereals attain the highest degree of perfection near tlte northern limit of their growth, and the same is true of vegetable seeds. This perfection of quality is of no use to the planter, unless some of the valu- able characteristics follow the seed to the product. If the earliness of a grain or vegetable im its northern home is carried to any marked degree to the product when planted south, a very important considera- tion is attained, and our theory can be made to represent something practical and profitable in agriculture and horticulture. Minnesora STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 51 Earliness is often a prime factor in gardening operations. Itis very easy to imagine that a week’s time gained m the marketing of a single staple market crop, might double the profits of a market gardeners whole year’s work. Experiments with Wheat and Barley. In the case of the grains we find some interesting facts demonstrated by the French Minister of Agriculture in regard to Norwegian seed grains. One peculiarity noticed only in wheat and barley, is that the grain grown as _ far north as 70th parailel was very plump and heavy, and that when sown in France the crop was very much earlier than that grown from the native seed —but was also uniformly of inferior quality. Wheat grown in Norway from seed from Alten, in the 70th parallel, ripened in seventy-four days from the time of sowing, while the product of seed grown further south required 105 days to ripen. , Barley grown at Alten was sown near Vincennes, France, on the 7th day of April and harvested the 18th day of June, or a gain of thirty-seven days over grain grown from French seed. Like experiments were made with peas, beans and corn, with very similar results, and it was proved conclusively that seed brought from a higher lattitude uniformly matured the crop earlier. In the new north- west it is of importance to procure the earliest seed stock as a matter of self pro- tection, and south of us just as highly important as a matter of profit. This text, that the further north seeds are grown the sooner the product will mature, had been so lightly treated by southern seedsmen with whom I have been in correspondence, that I determined to test it to my satisfaction; and I will give the results of my experiments. Experiments with Tomatoes. The Trophy Tomato is well known as a very late sort, while the General Grant is as well known as the earliest big tomato. Last season I had occasion to change seed of the General Grant, m order to secure a more perfect type than I had been growmg. The seed was procured from Central Illinois. And I might say here, that in all trials, seed of all the sorts was planted on the same day, transplanted at the same time, and in matters of soil and treatment served just alike. AJl other stock seed of tomatoes were Minnesota grown. Our Trophy Tomatoes ripened at the same time as the Illinois General Grant, while plants grown from our own General Grant seed ripened their fruit five days in advance. Experiments with Peas. Tom Thumb peas were sold too close, and we were compelled to plant four bushels procured from Philadelphia. Stock grown from our own seed was har- vested and threshed before thefother was fit to pull; fully six days difference, and the latter were of more rampant growth, though both were of undoubted purity of stock. Experiments with Corn. Early Minnesota corn from Minnesota seed was five days in advance of Illinois seed. Early Crosby four days, and Moore’s Concord six days in favor of home 52 wy ANNUAL REPORT. ~ grown seed. Dent corn from Southern Illinois did not ripen an ear, while t h same type of Minnesota growth was ripe in ninety days from pane seed from Tennessee, a large red, did not ripen until frost. ~ USD Squash—W atermelons. - Boston Marrow Squash gave a week in favor of Minnesota, from seed in com- petition with the product of Indiana seed. Gipsey Watermelon, from Minnesota seed, ripened in fair season, while an attempt to grow them from seed grown in Tennessee, was a failure. Phinney’s Early Watermelon, grown from Minnesota seed, was ten days in advance of the product of seed from Southern Illinois. There is no use in extending this list. The theory was based upon reasonable philosophy, and it is practically sustained. Our State is rich in the varied conditions of soil, attitude, exposure, and in the right altitude. It is located to produce the cereals in the greatest perfection, to grow fruits of peculiar excellence, and vegetables of the finest quality. The horticulturist in being obliged to labor for success, has no spontaneous growth to compete against honest endeavor. Our fruits are the product of our skill and intelligence, and no accidental success without work must be expected. What nature denies us spontaneously, she is willing to lay at our feet if we are worthy of it, as a reward for toil. The paper was ordered on file for publication, with the remark that it was complete, without any debate. FRUIT CULTURE IN OLMSTED COUNTY. Mr. Cotterell’s report one Fruit Culture was read by the Secre- tary, the writer being absent. The following is the report: Dover, OtMsTED Co., Mrnn., Jan. 9, 1879. Dear Srr:—I feel as though I was not competent for the task you have assigned me, but as you are so pressing on the occasion I will make an attempt. You will please observe that I do not make horticulture my study by any means; consequently I have not the time to spare, that I should wish, in that business. My farm of two hundred acres, all under cultivation, my stock and other things take up some of my time. . Beginning. In 1856 I came to Minnesota and procured myself as good a claim as I could and commenced to raise wheat like my neighbors, did not feel very well satisfied until I began to plant trees—was successful in getting a good wind-break on the west and south of my dwelling. I broke up a few acres adjacent to that, raised one crop off it and the first apple tree peddler that came along I gave him my patronage for a small order; I met with great disappointment, my high prized apple and pear trees proved to be the smallest kind of Siberian Crabs, and other choice kinds, totally worthless; I still continued to buy and plant in a small way until I got a very nice orchard, although many of the kinds were too tender for this climate, as the years of 1872 and 1873 proved. Minyesora STATE HorrTicuLTvraL Sociery. 53 \ First Fruit. The first fruit of any quantity I raised was in the year of 1865. The year 1866 I made my first exhibition of apples and pears at State fair at Rochester. I feel proud that I was at the organization of this soaiety and gave my testimony in favor of apples being raised in preference to crabs. Since this society was formed we have met together to exchange views, and a great deal has been written on the subject until I have confidence that it is no trick to raise apples in Minnesota. Preparing Soil, Planting and Care. ” I have never taken any extra pains in planting. I prefer to prepare my grounds in good shape as for any other crop. I plant a little deeper than in the nursery; set the tree to lean a little towards the southwest. I cultivate a few years with some crop that will not shade the ground; mulch around my trees with a view to keeping the soil in a uniform moisture, also to retard the sap in early spring. I prune superfluous twigs, or rather buds, in the spring. I do not let the cattle or any quadruped mangle or in any way injure the tree, then I wait the result. : Protection. The following will show that I am not very particular how or when I plant: A. W. Sias came to me in the latter part of June, told me he had a lot of trees left on his hands in St. Charles, if I would plant them he would receive his pay _ the next spring, for what grew. I planted, was careful to mulch them, they all grew and produced fruit until the years of 1872-3, and invariably those that nearest to my windbreak on the west are alive, in good condition and are pro- nounced by parties this season to be the largest and best they have seen in Minnesota. Those consist of Red Astrachan, Sops of Wine, Talman Sweet, Greening, St. Lawrence, Haas, Goldea Russet, Red Romanite, Calvert and some others. Fall Planting—V arieties. I have at different times planted in the fall and fail to see any disadvantage from it. The kinds that I have been most successful with are Tetofsky, Red Astrachan, Duchess, Sops of Wine, St. Lawrence, Haas, Fameuse, Golden Russet, and T'alman Sweet, ripening in the orderI have given them. I have other kinds growing and doing well, not forgetting the Wealthy, but they have not fruited. Situation slightly rolling towards the north. Soilis dark loam clay subsoil. As I am situated on the prairie, I consider my windbreak of the utmost importance. Profit of Fruit Culture. t You wish me to state, if no secret, the profits of fruit culture compared with my other crops. I have no acurate way of informing you on that. I can only say that the profits of wheat culture in this section was minus this year, of 1878, the small amount we have brings 35 cents per bushel. Our apples in the early part of the season met with ready sale at $2.00 a bushel. About the middle of season we sold at $4.00 per barrel, and when apples in the market from the South were a drug, we could sell at $3.00. 54 . ANNUAL REPORT. - Our net proceeds from apples were over $300, besides supplying a large family and friends for the summer and winter, as my cellar will testify, besides several R. L. COTTERELL,. ; barrels of ‘vinegar to sell next year. DISCUSSION. The report was ordered on file for publication, and the following discussion ensued: Quality of Minnesota Apples. Mr. Harris. Ihave seen the Red Astrachan from Minnesota, that would sell for $1.00 more per bushel than the same from IIli- nois, Mr. Jordon. It was evident at the Centennial that Northern apples were more highly colored and flavored than those grown further south. Canada and Minnesota apples were better than Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado apples. New York pears were better than California pears. The Wealthy is better than any IIli- nois, oreven Michigan, apples. The crabs are poor and insipid when grown at the south. Mr. Harris, The St. Lawrence, grown here, is a good eating apple. In Ohio and the east it is not a good eating apple. Mr. Grimes. I agree in regard to the quality of Minnesota fruit, and the same holds in regard to vegetables. But it must be remembered that fruit shipped here must be picked before it is ma- ture, which materially affects its color and flavor. The Wealthy. Mr. Elliot. When the Wealthy came into market last year, the grocery men said they could not pay $1,75 per bushel. They took them, however, when I agreed to take back all that were left unsold. They came the next day for more, and said there was something about the Wealthy that their customers liked. JI estimated that I handled 75 to 80 bushels of Wealthy last year. Mr. Latham. Children choose the Wealthy before other apples, and note the difference between the green and the colored sides of the same fruit. Communications from Messrs Peffer and Phillips were read by the Secretary, and a motion made to file for publication, which was carried. The following are the letters in full: > a ee o 8 9 ii Zeke ee eee ~~ Mrynesors Srare HorricutturaL Sociery. 55 PewavkeEsz, Wis., Dac. 30th, 1878. Thanks for Transactions of State Horticultural Society of Minnesota for 1878. I find them interesting. Have you ours for 1878? If not let us know. Mr. Gideon's Wealthy is the hardiest and best tree and fruit for the North- west. Duchess the same except the fruit. I have fruited Wealthy now six years in succession, and it is getting better every year; have not lost any trees by blight, except the first year, in nursery rows; set my first scions in 1870; top grafted Wealthy and Molly on one tree; also Utter’s Red on same tree, twelve grafts each. Molly bore fruit first, but has proved rather shy in bearing; fruit uregular, sweet, has black spots and is worthless with me. Wealthy improves by age, as for size and also quality. We got it the second on our recommended first hardy list, and Plumb’s Cider taken off and put on the last or sixth. In Pomological Society’s session for 1877, it is with 2* for Wisconsin. Hope you will send a delegate to Nashville, fall of 1879, and see to it, as it is the worthiest of all 4or extreme Northwest, all things considered. Cordially, GEO. P. PEFFER. West Sauem, Wis., Jan. 16th, 1879. Prof. C. Y. Lacy, Minnepolis, Minn.: 7 Dear Srr:—Until within a few days past I had intended to have been present at your annual meeting, but press of business prevents me. I have always anti- - cipated a pleasant time at your meeting, and neveras yet have been disappointed. The Wealthy. I am indebted to your society for many valuable experiences, and to one of your former members, the late lamented P. A. Jewell of Lake City, for severul valua- . ble varieties grown in Minnesota, the most valued of whick is the Wealthy, with which I am much pleased. I had some very fine fruit the past season grown on trees set in the spring of 1876. Trees two years old when set. I urged the adop- tion last winter of a resolution at our Wiconsin meeting placing the Wealthy on our list of five hardiest varieties, and was gratified to see it placed there before the meeting closed. My Wealthy apples attracted much attention at our State fair last fall. They were fine. I hada very satisfactory crop of fruit the past season, my high location escaping the frost entirely. Premiums. I feel a great interest in the proceedings and discussions of your society, and thinking some of you might feel some interest in my progress, I give you a list of premiums awarded to my fruit.at our State fair in 1878. I think there were fourteen competitors from the ebstern and southern portions of our State. I speak of this to show that I still have faith in my location and soil. First I took second premium on best show, not to exceed thirty varieties. First, on best ten varieties adapted to Northwest. First on best five varieties adapted to Northwest. First on best ten winter varieties. First on best five varieties winter. Second on best ten varieties showy apples. First on best display of crab apples. 56 "6 ANNUAL REPORT. My Transcendents, Hyslops, Gen. Grant and No. Twenties were un ‘ni Took first on best plate of Transcendents, and first on best plate Hyslops, : first on~best seedling apple. I raised every apple I exhibited, in my Liste aS ard. : ail k Pears—Amber Cane. T raised some fine Flemish Beauty Pears for the first time last summer. I pur- chased seed and succeeded in getting a number of our farmers to try the Early Amber Cane, and it has given very satisfactory results both as to yield and quality of syrup. I anticipate the pleasure of meeting Mr. Gideon of your State at the meeting in Madison this winter. ’ Fruit vs. Fast Horses. I see by your programme that he is to stir up a rivalry, and no doubt try to" establish at least an equality in the vocation of raising fruit vs. fast horses. As Uncle Wilcox told me last fall, ‘‘ It’s a shame to our county fair; $750 for pre- miums on horses and cattle, and $8.00 for apples.’’ Beup and doing, brother horticulturists, there is a work to do. My trees went into winter in fine shape, and so far seem all right, twenty-four degrees below being the coldest at my place. Mr. Stickney, of our State, spent a day with me last fall, which I enjoyed very much. My compliments to President Smith, Messrs. Grimes, Elliot, John Hart and the rest of your members. Wishing you a pleasant and profitable meeting that will result in good to us all, Iam Yours truly, A. J. PHILIPS DISCUSSION. Flavor and Color. Mr. Fuller called attention to an article by Mr. Vick showing the importance of high color and its relation to flavor. Mr. Hollister. The Ben Davis is an iustance of the value of high color. Because of this it sells readily although quite im- ferior in flavor, Mr. Dart. From 1} acres I have received $150 for fruit in addi- tion to that used in my tamily. Have before received $75 for fruit from the same trees. Mr. Gould. I have some Wealthy that are highly colored and some that are not and the difference in flavor is also very wide. Mr. Hollister. I have Baldwin’s not colored and colored and can see no difference in flavor. Profits. Mr. Harris. J have two St. Lawrence trees from which I sold two or three years ago $45 worth of fruit besides that used in my own family. The trees are 24 years old. Mryyesora Stare HorricutruraL SOciery. a7 Mr. Dart. Our early apples come into market fresh while taese foreign ones are not fresh. I have therefore been able to sell these early ones for enough to buy twice as much of the foreign fruit. The Society adjourned to meet Wednesday morning at 9 o’clock. WEDNESDAY MORNING. PREMIUMS FOR FRUITS. The society was called to order by President Smith at 9:30. The report of the Committee on premium list for horticultural products at State fair was read by E. B. Jordan, chairman. After the read- ing the report was made the subject of a discussion during which many objections were found and several suggestions were made. Motion was made and carried to refer back to the committee for further consideration. TREES FOR FOREST PLANTING. Mr. Pearce. I move that a committee be appointed to report a list of trees for forest planting. The motion was carried and Messrs. Pearce, Fuller and Elliot appointed such committee. PREMIUMS FOR PLANTS. Mr. Tyler. I think there should be a committee to report on mode of exhibiting or staging plants and premiums to be offered for the same. A motion to this effect was carried and Messrs. Tyler, Mendenhall and F. J. Kerridge successively nominated and elected. A motion was also made and carried that the committee be requested to report to-morrow morning. FRUIT CULTURE AND FAST HORSES. Mr. Gideon was called upon and proceeded to give his address upon Fruit Culture and Fast Horses. After he had read a well worded arraignment of the fast horse charging it successively with SERS ~ Anwnuat Report. and while he was proceeding with the discussion of agul laws a relations, a motion was made to discontinue the reading as bein af irrelevant. The motion was not voted upon, but after several sug- co gestions were made Mr. Gideon refused to continue the reading in the face of the objections urged. < Se FRUIT CULTURE IN GOODHUE COUNTY. The report of Mr. Norquist upon his efforts at fruit growing was then read by the secretary, after which motion was made and car- ried to file for publication. The following is the report: — Rep Wine, Mrynesota, JANUARY 20th, 1879, Prof. Chas. Y. Lacy, Secretary Minnesota State Horticultural Society. Location. Dear Srr:—I herewith give you a short report of my fruit farm. Eight years ago I bought forty acres of land two miles from this city, located on a round hill three hundred feet above the surface of the Mississippi river, sloping south, north and west. Beginning—V arieties. In the spring of 1871 I procured fruit trees and planted on the north side. Varieties I planted—Hyslop, Haas, Ben Davis, Tetofsky, Duchess of Oldenburg, Red Astrachan, Transcendent, Soulard and Wild Goose Plums. The hard winter of 1872-3, ail of the Ben Davis and Red Astrachan were killed, the Haas partly injured. The Duchess, Tetofsky, Transcendent, Hyslop and Soulard, are to-day in a thrifty growing state, bearing fruit in abundance, I have replanted {partly of Conical, Orange, Early Strawberry, Hesper Blush, Wealthy, and Minnesota. All of these are doing very well; no blight, only on the Transcendent where the land was cultivated. Of strawberries, Wilson's Albany, Col. Cheney, Kentucky, Monarch of the West, and Green Prolific, are the best on my land. Of raspberries, Black, Seneca and Davidson’s Thornless, Red, Turner and Brandywine, are all of them hardy and prolific. Grapes. My vineyard is located on a hillside sloping southwest, the soil a sandy clay, quick and warm. The vines are planted eight by eight, the rows running south- west and northeast. I cultivate three feet on each side of the rows, leaving two feet in the middle uncultivated, to prevent washing. In the fall the vines are laid down and covered four inches deep, taking soil from the uncultivated partIn the spring the soil is laid back when uncovered. I manure annuaily, with stable manure, composted being used aiternate years with lime or ashes. / - Minnesota STATE HoRTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 59 In the spring of 1871, I bought eight hundred vires, Concord, Delaware, Hart- ford, Clinton, Oporto, Eumelan, Rogers No. 15, Martha, These vines had been badly mixed in the bundle, some without labels, but the following winter labeled the tender vines; they were all killed. Concord, Delaware, Hartford, Northern Muscadine, Clinton, Oporto, are doing very well. In the fall of 1877, from seven hundred vines, I ae in Red Wing market 4,700 pounds at ten cents. In the spring of 1878, part of the vines were frosted late m May, and bore no fruit. This crop of 1878, only 4,000 pounds. Four years ago I added to the vineyard, for trial, Champion, Janesville, Rogers No. 4, Lady, Brighton, Newton, Moore’s Early, California Seedling, Worden’s Seedling. Concord and Delaware are my best grapes for profit. The Janesville is a hardy early grape, but second in quality. Champion, the earliest of all is third in quality. Worden’s Seedling ripening one week before Concord, better flavor and perfectly hardy. Lady, Brighton, Newton, Moore’s Early, were planted last spring, only on trial. I may know something about them another year. I have taken a lively interest in fruit culture for nearly fifteen years. During that time I have noticed many losses of fruit trees in this county, mostly from lack of hardiness in the trees. In the winters of 1872-3, the tender trees mostly killed out, but the Duchess and crabs are annually producing fruit. The blight has done no damage, only on level and cultivated ground, on Transcendent and Meader’s Winter. The farmers are annually adding to their orchards crabs and hybrids, raising all the summer fruits needed. I regret to state an instance of lack of knowledge as a step backward in fruit raising in this vicinity. A party from the State of Ohio, two years ago canvassed this county, representing themselves as nurserymen, raising fruit trees on pur- pose for Minnesota, recommending standard apples and pear trees, Weaver and Wild Goose plums, and Lady grape vines at three dollars each. This party delivered in Red Wing, in two days, five thousand dollars’ worth of trees and vines. I have inquired of several parties about these trees, and the reply is nine times out of ten, ‘‘ They are dead.” I will close this by saying that: we will probably attain knowledge and profit by the losses of others. Yours respectfully, JOHN NORQUIST. A brief discussion followed the reading: Mr. Norquist. (In answer to question.) Have had some mildew on Oporto, Clinton and Rogers No. 4 and No. 15. REVISION OF FRUIT LISTS. It was then moved to take up the fruit lists for revision, and the motion carried. ie The lists recommended for ‘‘general cultivation,” for “planting in limited quantities,” and for “general cultivation in favorable localities,” were ordered to stand unchanged. To the list recommended for ‘favorable localities in southern portions of the state,” Mr. Harris moved that Red Astrachan be added, but the motion was not seconded. / \ 60 ANNUAL REPORT. To the list recommended for “general trial throughout alin state,” Mr. Harris moved that the Walbridge be added, but the motion was not seconded. Messrs. Fuller and Smith. It has killed down entirely. > Mr. Dart moved that the Peach Apple be added, which motion was carried. Mr. Jordon moved that the Walbridge be stricken from the list “recommended for trial,” which motion was carried—5 for and 4 against. It was moved to strike off the whole list recommended for “trial,” which motlon was carried unanimously. To the list recommended for “trial by amateurs and pomol- ogists,” Mr. Harris moved to add Malinda, Walbridge, Yearly’s Winter, Frosts Seedling and Hotchkiss Greening. TERMS OF RECOMMENDATION. Mr. Jordon stated the condition under which cions of the last named are offered is that they shall be used for testing only, and not for disposal to other parties by gift or sale. Mr. Dart. Don’t believe that we ought to publish the fruit on such terms. Mr. Jordon. Would like an expression of the society on this point. Mr. Hollister. Believe the originator ought to have an owner- ship in his new varieties, and that the condition is a fair and proper one. Mr. Underwood. Think we may leave the owners to advertise their own new varieties. Mr. Dart. There are numerous seedlings that we can put on the list without submitting to that condition. Mr. Jordon. I move that Hotchkiss’ Greening be placed on the list, subject to the condition. The motion was lost. The motion to put on Malinda, Wal- bridge, Yearly’s Winter and Frost’s Seedling was then carried by a vote of 9 for and 1 against. See fruit list on page 13. CRAB APPLE LISTS. From the list recommended for “general cultivation” Mr, Harris moved to strike the Hyslop. / Minnesora Stave HortTicuLrTurRAL Socrery. 61 Mr. Dart. The tree is a poor bearer and the fruit is poor. The motion was lost, 5 tor and 8 against, and the list left unchanged. The list recommended for “planting in limited quantities” was continued unchanged. Minnesota—Whitney’s No. 20. To the list recommended for “general trial” Mr. Brimhall moved that the Minnesota be added, but the motion was not seconded. Mr. Jordon. It gives no fruit. Motion was made to add Whitney’s No. 20 which was carried, 7 for and none against. General Grant. To the list recommended for trial by amateurs and pomoiogists Mr. Harris moved to change the Gen. Grant from list tor “general trial.” Mr. Fuller. The tree is fine and a good grower, and the fruit is fine. It has done well in my locality for five or six years. Shall continue to plant and cultivate it. r Mr. Jordon. Had hoped to make a funeral pile of it at this meeting. Mr. Harris. The Gen. Grant among others could not be sold last fall. Dr. Twitchell. My neighbor said to me that all the trees he put out next year should be Gen. Grant and Haas. Mr. Dart. The Gen. Grant is a little liable to bight. This is its only objection. Think it should be retained somewhere. Mr. McHenry. My two year olds killed badly last year. Mr. Brimhall. Mine blighted and I would not want to set out any more, ; Mr. Storrs, It is doing well west of here and giving satisfac- tion. Mr. Pearce. “% will be thrown out after ten year’s trial. Mr. Latham. I move to amend to strike from all the lists. Tne amendment was lost by a vote of 7 for and 7 against, and the mo- tion was not voted upon. The meeting then adjourned to 1.30 p. Mu. 62 | ANNUAL Report. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. LETTERS FROM J. W. BOXELL AND JOHN HART. The meeting was called to order by President Smith at 1.45. Letters from J. W. Boxell and John Hart were read by the Secre- tary and ordered on file. The latter discussing matters of pro- gramme, is given as follows: Winona, Jan. 20, 1879. Prof. C. Y. Lacy, Secretary State Horticultural Society: Dear Srr:—I received the programme of your annual meeting, commencing the 21st inst., at Minneapolis. I am sorry to say I cannot attend. There is no use to form an excuse; the truth is best; I find that greenbacks with me are very scarce just now. For the last year our crop of fruit has been destroyed by the late frost in May. Strawberries. Even our strawberries, with some of the berries quite large, were all cut off. Instead of turning red they turned black. There were but very few berries to be seen at the time your committee visited our place. However, we are not discour- aged in the least, as some of our loss,was caused by our own carelessness. Had we planted on higher ground than we did we were all right. Some of our neigh- bors who had fruit on the ridgeand prairie, had good crops. All in the valleys and along the streams were destroyed. Not even a wild plum could we see last fall. I see you are going to have an address from the pioneer fruit grower of Minnesota, Mr. Peter M. Gideon of Excelsior. We aresorry we cannot have the pleasure to listen to the father of fruit growers of Minnesota. Horticultural Exhibition. I see what we think to bea very important question, asked in your programme: ‘‘Are special horticultural exhibitions practicable? are they desirable?” We should think they are, and the most important to fruit growers and others, espe- cially the exhibition of small fruit in their season. We think there are two points in our state where an exhibition of small fruit might be held. We would name Rochester for southern Minnesota, and leave you to name a point for northern Minnesota. At present all the fruit growers of the east are holding exhibitions of fruit in their season, and why not we adopt the same plan with benefit to our state and ourselves. Yours with respect, JOHN HART, . Winona, Minn. Minnesova STATE HoRvVICULTURAL SOCIETY. 63 Mr. Harris then read his report on the horticultural exhibit at the State Fair. It was moved to file for publication, with such insertions as should go with it, which motion was carried. The report was as follows: HORTICULTURE AT THE STATE FAIR OF 1878. Purpose of Premiums. The State Agricultural Society of Minnesota, with the view of encouraging the cultivation of fruits, plants and flowers among all classes of people, and to aug- ment the resources of the State, and promote the moral and financial improve- ment of the producing classes, as well as to secure greater attractions to the annual fairs, have in time past offered and awarded certain prizes for the finest and greatest number of varieties of apples, the finest and best grown plants and most beautiful flowers. Defect in Plan. This plan. though defective in that thus far it has not given scope enough in the classes to embrace the children of public and Sunday or mission schools, and those engaged in domestic service, without bringing them into direct competition with endowed institutions, professional horticulturists and people of wealth, is accomplishing a vast amount of good, and will undoubtedly add greatly to the morality and intelligence of our people and stimulate them to increase the beauty and co.nfort of many humble homes. Value of Fruit. ® Fruit has not only become a luxury but an almost indispensible article of human food, and must, as the quality is improved and quantity is increased so that there is enough and to spare to place it within the reach of all classes of society, do much toward dimmishing the habitual use of intoxicating and stimu- lating beverages—a practice that is the direct cause of a large proportion of the pauperism and crime that now exists in our State—by satisfying that craving of the human appetite for something more refreshing and exhilarating than the plain bread and meat diet. And the increased cultivation of plants and flowers will have a humanizing effect, and be in many instances the means of producing desirable results. Future of Horticulture. I believe, as the noble art of horticulture continues to advance, it will yet become a branch of study in all our public schools, and that many of the greatest and best men of the future will arise from those who have learned lessons of patience and inward purity in the study and practice of this the first and best of the arts. Results of Prizes and Exhibitions. As the prizes are offered for the best articles, those who design to compete for them are stimulated to study and experiment to produce articles that are as near 64 ANNUAL REPORT. as possible to perfection, and the thousands of visitors at the fairs bemg favora- bly impressed with the beauty and utility of the articles and learning something of the methods of growing them, will return to their homes fully determined to do likewise or even better, and that alone will prove an ample return for the labor and expense involved. Progress Shown. By comparing the last four with those of previous years, we see that a most wonderful progress has been made in the horticultural department. Less than twenty years since orchards, nurseries, and plant houses were almost unknown in this State. The earlier premium lists were largely copied from those of other states, and contained the offer of small prizes for the best fruits and flowers, which brought out a meagre exhibition, although the best available, of such§fruit and flowers as would not at this time receive a passing notice, in fact at some of the fairs two square yards of table room was more than sufficient to hold the entire collection of fruits and flowers. We now have not a perfect but a liberal pre- mium list for the department, and scores of men bring forward grand collections of fruits and flowers and compete tor the prizes, and 1t requires a large hall to accommodate the treasures of Pomo and Flora that they may be shown to ad- vantage. Unfavorable Circumstances. There were several circunistances that were considered unfavorable for having a great display of fruit at the last fair, September 2d to 7th, 1878. A severe frost having occurred in May after the trees had blossomed and set their fruit greatly lessened and entirely destroyed the crop in some sections of the State. The time of holding the fair was a few days too early for showing grapes and the later apples to the best advantage except by those having the most favored locations, as the former were scarcely ripe and the latter not well colored up, and last, but not least, the great exposition to be held in Minneapolis was expected to (as it did) call away many of the exhibitors of former years. Number and quality of Entries. Notwithstanding all these unfavorable impressions floral hall was tastefully decorated and put into very complete order and filled to overflowing with the fruits and flowers of Minnesota making a magnificent exhibition. There were 242 entries of apples and grapes, comprising about 2,000 plates of apples and more than 100 of grapes. There was in the exhibition over 100/0f the named varieties of the apple, nearly as many more of seedlings, about 30 of Siberians and hybrids and over thirty of grapes. The very fair appearance of the apples and the good quality as far as tested, and the quantity as compared with the hardy and easily grown Siberian, must have a tendency to make a favorable impression upon the minds of the thousands who were in attendance at the fair, and doubtless many of them returned to their homes satisfied that fruit growing in Minnesota is a success, and fully determined to plant and own an orchard. The floral department, although limited to exhibitions chiefly in St. Paul and the immediate vicinity, was magnificent and spoke volumes for the taste and refinement of our people whose patronage warrants the extensive growing of such plants. . : \ \ ‘ ) Minnesora Stvave HorricunTurAL SOciIery. 65 Suggestions. The names of the exhibitors of fruits and what they had to show, and a list of the fortunate ones to whom were awarded premiums, and what they were awarded for, will be given before I get through. Permit me here to digress a little from the subject. The State Agricultural Society has given the control of the horticultural department over to the State Horticultural Society, while the entries in the department are made with the secretary of the former society. This practice is a fertile source of confusion and mistakes and I would recom- mend that hereafter if we continue to control the exhibition the entries be made direct with our secretary, and that we select the awarding committee and they also report to him. Again, every article competing for any certain prize should be arranged together to save useless labor and prevent unjust awards. Exhibitors and Exhibits—Houston County. The exhibitors from this county were J. S. Harris & Son, La Crescent, 225 plates of apples, including a general variety of autumn, winter and seedlings, also twelve varieties of Siberians. E. Evans, Mound Prairie, five varieties, as follows: Red Astrachan, Saxton, Duchess, Haas, and a seedling supposed to be Siberian, also other Siberians. B. Wooley, Hokah, two plates hardy and good seedlings, keeping all winter. J. Lottis, Hokah, four varieties, three of seedling apples of good size and fine appearance, one of them said to be a long keeper, and a seed- ling winter crab about the size of the Transcendent. Geo. Hartman, Hokah, ten varieties apples, one of Flemish Beauty Pears. Seven varieties of the apples were seedlings from medium to large size, equal to the same number of grafted varie- ties grown in the State; one a seedling of the Alexander, keeps until mid-winter. The pears were from a tree that survived the hard winter of ’72 and ’73, without injury, and has never blighted. The crop last year sold for $2.00. Andrew Hartman, Hokah, twelve varieities, nine of Seedlings one of St. Lawrence, one Greasy Pippin, one Perry Russet. Seedlings very fine. Henry Gosset, six plates as follows: Blue Pearmain, Sweet Pear, Rawles Janet, Ameriean Golden Rus- set, Perry Russet, Gloria Mundi. Jacob Daboll, six varieties: Haas, Famuese, Golden Pippin, Golden Russet, Perry Russet, Gloria Mundi. Antoine Boshel, Hokah, four, viz: Perry Russet, Price’s Sweet, Ben Davis and a Seedling. The orchards from which these exhibits were made had an aggregate fruitage this year of about 1,500 bushels of apples and 500 of crabs, and but for the frost in May would have more than doubled that amount, Winona County. The exhibitors were John Hart, George Clark, Mrs. H, Campbell and 8. Brain- erd. John Hart’s collection comprised about twenty-five varieties, some of them rare and most of them fine. Arrived too late to compete for premiums. George Clark had in his collection 36 varieties, all very fine. Gloria Mundi and Utter’s Large Red, magnificent. Mrs. H. Campbell, of Minnesota City, exhibited near 100 plates. Seventeen or eighteen varieties were grafted fruits, the remainder seedlings and crabs. J. Brainerd’s exhibit was very fine Duchess. The Winona county fruit was’mostly shown by an agent unacquainted with varieties of fruit , and consequently at a disadvantage. 5 66 ~ Amada REpPorRT. Olmsted Connty. R. L. Cotterell, of Dover, was the only exhibitor. He showed some twenty varieties of the hardy and best standard apples, and near a dozen of Siberians. He deserves honorable mention for so fine a display. Leading varieties were Sops of Wine, Red Astrachan, St. Lawrence, Haas, Duchess and Fameuse, the latter the best ever shown in the State. He made a serious mistake, which is not un- common with amateurs, in packing his fruit for transporeation, i. e. by mingling hard and soft varieties together in the same package. This greatly marred them by bruising the soft. Rice County. O. F. Brand was the principal exhibitor. Showed six varieties of Duchess Seedlings, all bearing strong resemblance to the parent, all as good as the Duchess and at least two of them better. Also showed Seedling Russets, Green- ings, &c., and Minnesota Crabs nearly equal to Fameuse. One variety of the Duchess is on the tables at this meeting, is pronounced better than the Peankee. May we not hope that further experiment with Duchess Seedlings will soon give us the hard, good long keeping variety we so much need. Nicollet County. There were two exhibitors from Nicollet county. S. B. Carpenter, St. Peter, showed Duchess, St. Lawrence, Haas, and winter seedlings, &c. Ernest Meyer thirteen varieties Siberians and five common apples—all good. Dakota County. C. L. Vercount, Hastings, made a fine display of Duchess and winter seedlings. D. Benton, Rosemount, showed Duchess and seedlings. Hennepin County. The exhibit from Hennepin county was very fair but composed largely of Rus- sian and Sibenan varieties with but a light show of the famous Wealthy. J. T. Grimes showed ten varieties apples and a large fine collection of Siberians. H. Van Nest, Duchess only. Wyman Elliot showed Duchess and four varieties Siberians, several varieties Native plums and a choice collection of green house plants in bloom. Washington County. Washington county was represented by A. D. Roe and John Mars. Mr. Roe’s display was of Native grapes, Standard apples, and Siberians; also some fine collections of flowers. John Mars’s exhibit was chiefly Duchess and Seedlings. Ramsey County. As would naturally be expected Ramsey county furnished a goodly number of exhibitors who carried off a number of prizes on grapes, apples and flowers. Truman M. Smith, St. Paul, made a large and fine show of grapes, apples and - Miywzsora Stare HorricunruraL Socmry. 67 Siberians. His display was tastily arranged and kept in the most perfect order. Splendid boquets of flowers were so interspersed with the fruits that the display was a center ot attraction. R. Knaupheide,{of Ramsey, the pioneer of grape growers in this State, and who received the first award for grapes ever made in the State at Fort Snelling, in 1860, made a fine exhibit of about thirty varieties grapes; a fewof hardy applesand Siberians. The grapes shown by Messrs. Smith and Knaupheide were fully equal to the same varieties grown in the most favored localities in the older states. W. EH. Brimhall had a good display of nine varie- ties apples and eight of Siberians; also vegetables and flowers. I. Odell showed seven varieties named apples and a seedling worthy of further trial. S. Nadeau, Little Canada, showed the First Premium Duchess of monstrous size, some Seed- lings and Siberians. H. J. Brainard had twelve plates of fruit. J. S. Martella had several plates of Russian varieties. D. W. Ingersoll, native plums and Siberians. J. Marthaler, seventeen plates apples and Siberians. Peter Bohland, Transcendent and Hyslop Crabs. C. I. Staples, H. G. Brush, P. F. Staples, Albert Spanglinburg, G. W. Goldinburg, and some others, showed a few varie- ties of apples and Siberians much the same as those mentioned. Northern Pacific. There was a good exhibition of Duchess of Oldenburgh apples and Transcend- ent and Hyslop crabs from tie line of the Northern Pacific railroad and other pomts of recent settlement, that was deserving of favorable mention. The Duchess were very large, solid and highly colored, and the Siberians marvels of beauty, and would do honor to any part of the State. Jas. Middleton, Frank Muleck, Center City; Otto Halmark, Chisago City, and James Merton, Pine City. were among the exhibitors. Iowa and Wisconsin. There were also three very fine displays of fruit from neighboring States. L. G. Clute, of Manchester, Iowa, showed thirty varieties of apples, besides Siberi- ans and hardy seedlings. E.H. Smith, Dubuque, Iowa, had an extensive col- lection of Siberians. A.J. Phillips, Salem, Wisconsin, a fine collection of the apples and Siberians. The most extensive exhibitors of flowers and greenhouse plants were Wm. King, Mr. Lehmke, J. C. Fleischer, Wyman Elliot, and Mrs. L. M. Ford. PREMIUMS AWARDED. Apples—Collections. Best and greatest variety, J.S. Harris & Son, La Crescent............ $25 00 Second best, L. G. Clute, Manchester, lowa..........sscceecssescrecs 20 00 (Phad best, (Geo. W. Clark, Winona, Minn. ... 6. . 00s) opslaclesmcame 10 00 Rey HOG. ALON. oa sce acadscetcccccusace ecledaaceses 10 00 Best show of Autum apples, J. S. Harris & Son, La Crescent.......... 8 00 Second best, L. G. Clute, Manchester, Iowa.........ssscescccsee sees 6 00 Third best, R. L. Cotterell, Dover, Olmsted Co......-.....eeceeeeeees 4 00 Moerth pest, Geo. .W. Clark, Winona . sis,.sj0' 6.0.0 00 oja/elSs a plawie'a win doe, 00 3 00 Best show of Winter apples, J.S. Harris & Son, La Crescent, Houston Co 10 00 . 68 ANNUAL REPORT. Second best, L. G. Clute, Manchester, Iowa........-sseeeseees Wnroe ’ Third best, R. L. Cotterell, Dover, Olmsted Co......... irra eeee Sebelahers Fourth best, Geo: W. Clark, Winona... 20)... 2020 cceecesececccbocnue Apples—Single Plates. Best Duchess of Oldenburg, 8. Nadeau, Little Canada, Minn...-...... Second best, 8. B. Carpenter, St. Peter. ..\. 220 ..cescee sels eleene ena Best Tetofsky, W. E. Brimhall, St. Paul.... 005 ccccsoe seevcoces use Second best, W. EH: “Brinwhally.).. 2. cisco a's lela eee bacee bitin ease Best Fameuse,’R. L. Cotterell, Dover. ..i. 05 \ cess vceusccsseeseueene Second best, J. S. Harris & Son, La Crescent... ......eeeeeeeseeeeees Best plate of Haas, S. B. Carpenter, St. Paul...........-2--ee00- eee Second best plate of Haas, Mrs. H. Campbell, Minnesota City.......-. Best plate of Wealthy, not worthy of premium........--..eeeeseeees Apples—Siberians and Hybrids. Best collection Siberians and Hybrids, A. D. Roe, Afton ... ....+..++. Second best, J. S. Harris & Son, La Crescent.... 1.21602 seeceee eee Single Plates of Siberians and Hybrids. Best Transcendents, C. F. Staples, West St. Paul...... ...-.. seceeees Second best, SA; ‘D:WRoe, Afton «5% 1.1. as aise Visine ole eiely i> ala bie ea toe Best plate Hyslop, Miss Sarah Ramaley, St. Paul » nielas nee be Biel veneed Second best, C. F. Staples, West St. Paul.......-...sseeeeeees time Best plate Virginia (namie lost)... 02... 20 ccc cchnccncs ceisnns penne Second best, J. T. Grimes, Minneapolis........20- ceeceeceeceeeeeces Seedling Apples. Best seedling apple for all purposes, Thos. Odell, St, Paul..........-- Best seedling Autumn apple, Mrs. H. Campbell, Minnesota City....... Best seedling Winter apple, deferred to the winter meeting of State Horticultural Society. (Norz.—The rules regulating the entering of seedlings, and awarding prizes upon them, are vague and imperfectly understood, and should come up before this meeting for reconstruction.) Grapes—Collections. Best and greatest variety, R. Knaupheide, Reserve town.......-...++. Second best, Truman M. Smith, St, Paul... .... .........seeeecncees Third best, ‘A: ‘D; Roe, Afton: (2... ke eis ok pes wc. oe eee Grapes—Single Plates. Best plate Delaware, R. Knaupheide St. Paul.......- BASS Ai joc) Second best Delaware, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul................... Best plate of Concord, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul................... mere pe Oe ot o> 00 sesesses mm DO = DDH po Ssssess Ss Pras y Minnesota STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Second best plate of Concord, R. Knaupheide, St. Paul...........2..+6. Best plate Rogers No. 3, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul..............+-- Second best plate Rogers No. 3, R. Knaupheide, St. Paul...-......... Best plate Rogers No. 4, R. Knaupheide, St. Paul...........---eeeeee Best plate Rogers No. 15, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul................ Second best plate Rogers No. 15, R. Knaupheide..........--se+eseee- Best plate Rogers No. 19, R. Knaupheide, St. Paul.........--.-+.+8- . Best plate Adirondack, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul..........--000200 Best plate Martha, R. Knaupheide, St. Paul.............s+seeeeeeees Second best plate Martha, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul................ Best plate of Creveling, Truman M. Smith, St. Paul .................. Second best plate Creveling, R. Knaupheide............0.essceevoeeee Best Northern Muscadine, Truman M. Smith.... ........eseseeeeees Second best Northern Muscadine, R. Knaupheide..............+e000 Flowers. Best display greehouse plants, E. F. Lemhke, St. Paul..............+. Second best display greenhouse plants, J. C. Fleischer, St. Paul......... Third best display greenhouse, Wm. King, St. Paul.........-...--.55. Fourth best display greenhouse plants, Wyman Elliot, Minneapolis.... BeeeME SETANIHING, 17) DIOGO «0-015 0 «ae caus = cst mene andere nine eas Second best display geraniums, in bloom, E. F. Lehmke, St. Paul..... Best single geranium in bloom, J. C. Fleischer, St. Paul.............. Second best geranium in bloom, E. F. Lehmke, St. Paul.............. Best double geranium in bloom, Mrs. Sarah Ramaley, St. Paul........ Second best double geranium in bloom, J. C. Fleischer................ Best display fuchsias, Mrs. L. M. Ford, St. Paul...............-..000ee Second best display fuchsias, J. C. Fleischer.............. 0c. cece eeees Best single fuchsia in bloom, Wyman Elliot............ceseeceeveoees Best display of roses, J. C. Fleischer, St. Paul...... ae et eas ee tiand Second best display roses, Wm. King, St. Paul............sseeeseeeee Peeeieniny or coleus, J.C; Fleischer... 000.0. ecceseees cue siases sens Second best display of coleus, EK. F. Lemke............... eee seeeeees Third best display of coleus, Mrs. W. #. Brimhall, St. Paul.......... Best display of foliage plants, J. C. Fleischer.............eeeceeeeeees Second best display of foliage plants, E. F. Lemke.................... Best display of climbing and trailing plants...............06+ ceeeee Second best display of climbing and trailing plant, J. G. Reihldaffer.... Best display of cut flowers, E. F. Lemke.........-....sccceceeccccccs Second best display cut flowers, Wm. King...........-..0.. cece eeee Third best display cut flowers, Mrs. T. M. Smith, St. Paul............. Best display dahlias, KE. F. Lemke, St. Paul................seeee0 « ‘ Desc displuy verbenas, A. TD. Roe, Afton. ......0......ccsacccceseeee Second best display of verbenas, Wm. King...........seeseeceeceeees Third best display verbenas, Mrs. W. E. Brimhall..................4. Best display gladiolus, Hollister, Castle & Co..........ecseeececceees NR reo A LGON + « + « « e's a0 doe Second best, Mrs. Truman M. Smith, St. Paul.............. sohetsh. ee Best display cactus, Mrs. F. M. Smith, St. Paul.........-. seeseeeees 2 Best display of greenhouse plants by amatuer, Mrs. A. Lastzir........ . 2 Second best, Miss Sadie Ramaly, St. Paul............ Seen oe seats 2 Third best, Wm. King, St. Paul....... ey EPP ics Peay: | $ Amount of Premiums. The total amount paid in premiums in this department is as follows: Apples.auth Crabs: ss55 323% nesses hens ss apo ne oes eer ae $ 169 00 Grapes-n’ sake baa a ete latsc tatnie Pali gies Vailas om noite atte Rate 72 00 Flowers endl FP lasrtes a 0.0% sais spose Sh vin et eo eke aol whe ee 285 00 —— $ 526 00 It will be seen at a glance that there are not as many premiums in proportion to exhibitors on apples as there are on flowers by more that 100 per cent. If there is any blame for this it must rest upon the State Horticultural Society. Insects and Birds, In floral hall, although under the auspices of the Agricultural Society, was another exhibit that properly belonged to us. Mr. Eugene Harris, of Houston county, a young student in natural science, made an exhibition of insects (two cases) injurious and beneficial to the horticulturist, about eighty preserved spec- imens of the birds of Minnesota and several of the smaller animals. These specimens were mostly collected within a year and preserved, stuffed and mounted at odd times and on stormy days, times when numbers of the young men of our state are lounging about post offices, stores and shops in the villages exposing themselves to the contracting of habits of idleness and dissipation. His occupation being school teaching in winter, labor by the month in summer imposed upon the work many obstacles and hindrances, but the result is a good illustration of what may be accomplished by diligence and perseverance under difficulty. The exhibition was very attractive to the young and very few passed it by without special notice and favorable comments. Knowledge is what will invest the horticulturist with power. It will make him able to profit by his friends and conquer his enemies. He has a host of them in the world of insects and birds. Object teaching is the impressive and effectual method and more’can be learned from such an exhibition with proper explanation than from whole libra- ries of written descriptions. It.1s possible for this society in a short period of time to secure a very complete collection of insects and of the birds of Minnesota, and the smaller animals, especially the rodents, many of which are especially hurtful toithe fruit grower. Such collections would become the nucleus of a fine inuseum for perpetual exhibition. and it set up in cases convenient for transpor- tation, would be one of the attractions of the annual meetings and prove a lasting benefit to us. J. S. HARRIS. The paper on House Plants by Mrs. E. Morse was called for and read by the writer, as follows: Muiyyesora Strate HorricvtTura SOcIETY. 71 HOUSE PLANTS. What encouragement and discouragement we meet with in our efforts to cul- tivate them. As the autumn days approach and we walk in our garden, among the flowers we have loved and tended through the summer, we understand how Bryant felt when he wrote— “The melancholy days are come, The saddest of the year,” and we wonder if we cannot take some of them into the house, to delight and please us through the long, cold winter, which we know will surely come, here inthe North. This often decides for us the question, ‘‘What are house plants?” Ours are the plants we can successfully transplant from the garden to the house. Now, if we had this in mind in the spring, and have been training some of them with this in view, happy and successful we may expect to be; but if not, disappointment awaits us; for a plant that has grown and blossomed all summer will not do so all winter, too, without a rest. There are many of our garden plants that do well in the window; such as lobelias, nemophilas, othonna oxalis, and many others as basket plants. But first let us take geraniums. Henderson says: ‘‘ For soil, rotted sod from a loamy pasture, and rotted 1efuse heaps, is what all his plants are grown and flowered in. Williams, in his ‘‘ Window Gardening,”’ say$: ‘‘ A rich loam, sand and thor- oughly decayed manure. These should be mixed in the proportion of one-half loam to one-quarter each of sand and manure. A good soil for plant-growing is not one that will hold water, but one in which water will pass away.’’ In our opinion this last sentence is of more importance in our culture of house plants than anything else. As for soils, we thik our garden soil here in Minneapolis, as God has mixed it, is about as near perfection as can be found for most plants, if we have good drainage. Take young plants of geraniums, pot them. Do not have the pots too large; for we know the pots must be filled with roots before we can expect any blos- soms. Then sink them in some bed, where we can give them water as they need it, and remove the flower-buds as they appear, and by Autumn they will be ready to delight us, and will give us blossoms abundantly the whole winter. We find there is a great difference in different varieties; some that are profuse in blooms out of doors will give no satisfactionin the house. The double ones that we desire so much are perfectly incorrigible, and will not bloom, save one exception, and that one almost makes up for the deficiency of the others by its beauty and good qualities. Of course we mean Asa Gray. We have tried so many kinds, and are still trying new ones, but thus far our praference lies with the following . named, and we doubt if any new ones will ever be found that will do as well as these old ones. Furst, and above every other, stands the Queen of Geraniums, pale peach-bloom in color; second, and almost equal to it, is Louis Veuillot, in- tense scarlet; Haidee, scarlet, with two upper petals crimson; Mrs. Whitey, pale pink; Blue Bells, dark pink with white eyes; Belle Helena, salmon color; Excel- lent and Queen of the West, both orange scarlet; White Clipper, white, and Mrs. Gladstone, white with pink eye. Of course we want some of the sweet scented ones, and here we take our choice, for they are as varied and different as the spices, sweet herbs and fruits they are named after. 72 ? AynuaL Report. epic : ae Then come heliotrope, mignonette and sweet alyssum, always blooming abund- antly and sweetly. We wish we could include the violet among our sweetthings, =» _ but they will not grow in the house for us. Can anyone tell us why, and if by ee perseverance we may in time succeed ? Roses and carnations are also very satisfactory, if we ean give them plenty. of . fresh air, sunshine, and many baths. But, lke ourselves, they cannot exist in- health without these three things. Here we will leave garden plants, and, as yon must have discovered ere this, that we are not florists, but only lovers of flowers, we will offer no apology for the manner in which we shall mix green-honse, hot-house, and garden plants, for we cannot confine ourselves even to cultivating the plants we are successful with, but are continually longing for and experimenting with all the lovely things that we can in any way obtain. First comes the ivy, which will grow and look well, regardless of neglect, but if we desire it in perfection, let us remember, “Of right choice food are his meals, I ween, In his cell so lone and cold ; The walls must be crumbled, the stones decayed, To pleasure his dainty whim, And the mouldering dust that years have made, Is a Merry meal for him.”’ Dickens fully understood its culture when he wrote that, for no better instruc- tion can or ever will be found for producing a luxuriant growth. The calla we cannot say comes second, for we think 1t ranks first, too. If we give 1t a warm place, with plenty of warm water and sunshine, it will grow and bloom in a manner perfectly wonderful, never seeming to need a rest. Then comes Daphine odorata, blooming almost constantly from December till spring in clusters of pearly whiteness, distilling a most delicious fragrance. Laurestinus, yellow jassamine achania, abutilons, bouvardias, fuchsias, prim- roses, always in bloom. Several kinds of cactus which bloom towards spring, hoya carnosa and bella which bloom only in summer. Dracena terminalis and Farfugium grande, with such beautiful leaves that they do not need to bloom. Ferns, lycopodiums, linaria and tradescantia, with afew vines, smilax, maurandia, cobeas, campsidium, the clinging fern Lycodium scandens, and one beautiful vine for which we have no name, only Australian vine. We also attemptforange tree, camellias and azalias; but after them we write ‘failure.’’ They still live, but look as though they did not wish to and did not intend to much longer. Begonias, in endless variety, some growing tall and blooming in tall, graceful drooping clusters, others as vines, and still others noted for their beautiful trop- ical leaves. : We read their name was given them by the great botanist Willdenow in honor of Michael Begon, a Frenchman, and patron of botany, who was governor of St. Domingo two hundred years ago, and that in this tropical country they grow in wondrous beauty. There are now several hundred species named in botanical lists, and very many of these are suitable for the window-garden. There are but few of the Rex varieties that we succeed in growing with any degree of satisfaction. While some few fully repay our care, others grow smaller day by day, andina little while are no more. Minnesora SrateE HorTicuLTurRAL SoOcrmery. re § If they could only talk a little plainer and tell us just what they want, instead _ of saying as the little discontented boy in the fairy story did, ‘‘Oh would that something would come near and take me away from here,’’ how gladly would we humor the beauties by giving them what they wanted, which we often think is a more even atmosphere, with moisture and warmth. We have several varie- ties of Amaryllis, but are not sure to what species they belong, except Johnsoni. They grow well, and sometimes bloom abundantly; but why do they not bloom every year when you give them the same treatment? To those who desire minute instruction regarding them, we would say we have found nothing so plain as a page in the January, 1878, Botanical Index, issued by L. B. Case, Richmond, Indiana. Several years ago we purchased a Pancratium Mexicanum, and as it was a nice large bulb we looked anxiously for indications of bloom, but it did not grow as we hoped. One day in our reading we came across an account of a lady's travels in the South, and how she tried very hard to get a root of Pancratium, but it grew so dcep in the sand that she could not with the small, helps she had, succeed in getting it. We had planted ours as we did our Ama- ryllis, bulb partly exposed. We threw down our paper, and took the deepest pot we could find and put our Pancratium bulbs as far down into it as possible. They liked it, for they began almost immediately to grow, and we are now hoping again forabloom. We have another bulb, which we think must be Pancratium rotatum. We obtained it with no other name than Florida Lily. We should much like to know if it is the same Phenix advertises as Vanilla Lily. The flower is white, sweet, and very unlike any other we ever saw. We have left our especial favorite until the last, for we want information. What can we do to make our cyclamens grow and bloom as they used to? When chil- dren, wandering over the prairies of Illinois, we almost worshipped the beautiful Dodecathern Media which grew in mcist places among many other flowers, wild and lovely, and we think it must in some far away time have been the great grand parent of the Cyclamen, which a few years ago seemed to try its best to please us, but now, and for two years past, they have not done well although we have tried new bulbs and old ones, and have given them everything we could think of for their good. We almost forgot to say we want every spring hyacinth and narcissus bulbs which never fail to give us blooms. We may plant them in soil, or we may put them in damp moss or a glass of water, and in that way will delight us. We hardly know, but think we have recounted some discouragements in these pages, and as yet have said nothing of the army of worms and insects that we have to fight continually. Some plants are more infested than others, but we think none are exempt entirely, without they are constantly watched and cleansed. If we keep them too eool and damp, then the green fly flourishes; if too hot and dry, the red spider is in his glory; if we give too much water the earth sours, and breeds angle and white worms abundantly. We use fertilizers very spar- ingly, for we don’t like worms. Last fall we sent for some refuse hops, thinking they would be nice to put on: my own benches to set the pots on, hoping they would also be death to worms and insects, but we found them so full of little white worms that we did not use them. We do not know from whence comes the mealy bug, or the scale insects, but we do know that if you once give them a chance you must fight them valiantly or they will take everything before them. We have a small conservatory, but it was only a porch enclosed with glass as an experiment, and is not properly ven- tilated and has no conveniences for water, though the last deficiency we supply ‘ - 74 3 AnnuaL Report. | Pact, by using one of Little’s excelsior pumps, a very great improvement over a com- mon watering pot. We would give more for a few squares of sky-light and. ventilation than anything else. SRE: If people only knew and realized how plants loved to grow towards thsi ) they would use glass instead of shingles for covering their conservatories. ’ We often ask, when is the right time to water our plants? Last winter we tried watering them at night, and they did very well, but last summer a florist told us the best time to give water was when the room was at its highest temper- ature, when evaporation would be most rapid. This seemed tous the right way, and time, for we remembered things in the garden grow very rapidly after anice warm rain. We think we might learn many a good lesson if we were Only a a little more observing of the manner in which nature treats her flowers and fruits, and where she originally grows them. And now, if what we have so imperfectly said shall be the means of calling out words of wisdom and instruction from those here present, who make this their constant study, which shall enable us all to attain to a higher degree of success in the cultivation of flowers, we shall have accomplished all we hoped. The love of flowers we have all inherited from our first parents, who were placed in that first garden to ‘‘dress and to keep it;”’ that perfect garden, for God planned and made it, made it for perfect happiness. May we not hope for much of earth, by happiness as we advance in understanding these “Bright gems of earth, in which perchance we see What Eden was—what Paradise may be?’’ DISCUSSION. Fumigation, Sprinkling and Immersion for Insects. Motion was made to accept and file for publication, which was - carried, and the following discussion ensued: Mr. Underwood. My wife fumigated with tobacco but found it disagreeable. She thought of carbolic acid and tried it by various methods but was not successful. She has succeeded better with a mixture of carbolic acid with glycerine made and used as follows: One-half teaspoon carbolic acid put in cup with about two table- spoons of glycerine. Mix thoroughly, then pour into a pail of water. To use it dip the parts affected into the mixture or syringe with force pump. It may take more than one application to exter- minate entirely, but it is more cleanly than tobacco in any form. Mr. Harris. I find that the persistent use of hot water by an expert is a success. Place a piece of card-board over the pot and invert it bringing the top of the plant into the water. I think this good for both aphis and spider. Another insect is a hopper that does much injury to house plants. Hot water at 170 deg. Fahr. will destroy them when used two or three times, Irresponsible deal- ers are sending out plants covered with insects. Thus we get the Minnesora Srate HorricvuLTvraL Society. 75 spider and mealy bug. Lime water will remove earth worms from pots. Have spent much time in trying experiments on the mealy bug. Am now trying ashes and I believe that lime or ashes can be used to rid plants of it. Frosted Plants—Watering. Mr. Underwood. Have immersed a large number of frozen plants in cold water a few moments until the frost was out and only a couple of them showed the effects of freezing. Mr. Fuller. Have watered my plants this winter with hot water in the saucers. The water was nearly boiling hot. Have used soot water on soil aad thus kept it free from insects. Mr. Grimes moved that a vote of thanks be tendered Mrs. Morse for her paper, which was carried unanimously. Mr. Grimes’ report on the horticultural exhibit at the Minneapolis fair was called for and read by the writer, after which motion was made and carried to place on file for publication. The following is the report: HORTICULTURE AT THE MINNEAPOLIS FAIR OF 1878. Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the State Horticultural Society:—The exhi- bitions of this society are properly connected with that of the State Agricultural Society, yet the past season we have had the pleasure of witnessing two fairs— the State Fair, and that of the Agricultural and Mechanical Association of Min- neapolis, both held at the same time and in close proximity to each other, which for completeness and success were perhaps never equalled in the history of agri- cultural fairs. Of the horticultural department of the State Fair it is not my purpose now to speak, for that has been written up by an abler pen than mine. Horticultural Progress. But when we look upon the horticultural products exhibited at the Agricultural and Mechanical Association, the first week in September last, taken in connection with that of the State Fair held at the same time, we are struck with wonder at the rapid progress and development made in the cultivation and production of fruits in the past ten years. Gentlemen, when I look back to the time when about a dozen individuals who were thought to be insane on the subject, first met together and organized what they claimed to be the Minnesota State Horticul- tural Society, and although they were frequently admonished that fruits could never be successfully grown in this cold clime, yet they went on planting out trees and seeds, experimenting against all discouragement and hoping at times almost against hope, looking for a reward abovethat of dollars and cents; and some of those same gentlemen stand here before us to-day, and I am constrained to say that there has been no improvement in their mental condition smee. But what has been the result? Let that diploma which was awarded us at the Cen- 76 ANNUAL Report. tennial Exposition answer—one hundred and nineteen named eo sta ard apples, the fairest, finest and most beautiful specimens that nature duced. Why, sirs, a gentleman came to me at the time and said, Dt by what secret process do you get that beautiful finish upon your fruit? — Treplied my dear sir, the secret is in the climate where it grew. I am certain from from what T saw at our late fairs that we could now furnish a much ae collection than we did then. Moulton’s Russian Apples, But my purpose is to write up the horticultural products of the late Minneap- olis Exposition. I find that there were thirty-six exhibitors of apples, seven of grapes, four of plums, and seventeen of flowers and green-house plants. Of the number Thomas Moulton, of Minneapolis, had a remarkable collection of oyer one hundred varieties of Russian apples, some of them even larger than the Duchess. Mr. M. claims that he has fruited over two hundred varieties of those apples, some of them ripening as early as the first of July, and others continuing in succession until May. He has many trees that he thinks much hardier than the Duchess, but this fact will have to be proven by further time and experience. Of this collection about fifteen varieties are winter fruit, in season from December to May. Now, just here is a point of great importance in our horticultural work. No one denies that winter apples can be grown in Minnesota, but it is well known that a late ripening fruit is also late in ripening up its wood, and consequently is not in condition to withstand the first shock of extreme cold weather, that sometimes occurs quite early in this climate, and consequently the trees are liable to be permanently injured or even killed outright. If we could get a good productive winter apple, perfectly hardy under all conditions of climate here, there would be millions in it for the future of our State. When this Russian collection comes to be sifted fown by careful selection, no doubt we shall get something valuable out of it. Minnetonka Exhibitors— Wealthy. Some of the finest fruit on exhibition came from about Lake Minnetonka, and it is doubtful if any section of the State can produce better. The Wealthy apple was out in all its glory, Mr. Gideon, the originator, minus. Why does he still persist in keeping his light under a bushel, now that the State pays for the gas? But the Wealthy has suffered nothing in other hands. Messrs. Latham, Gould, and Mann, of Excelsior, had more fruit of this variety, and better specimens than I have before seen on exhibition. Indeed, the whole collection of fruit was very fine; whether it was owing to the season or to the increased amount grown from which to select, I cannot determine. I am sorry that I cannot particularize, and give the names of each variety, but as I took no notes at the time, and have no recourse except to the entry books, which only give the names of the persons entering and the fruits on which there was a special premium; all else beg included in general collections. Exhibits of Messrs. Gould, Latham and others. Mr. Gould was awarded the first premium for the best collection of all kinds of fruit by one exhibitor. His display of Concord and Delaware grapes was very Minnesora SvatTe HorTicuLTurRAL Sociery. 77 fine. Mr. Latham also had the Duchess, Haas, Plumb’s Cider and some other varieties of apples, and on grapes took a regular list of premiums; on Concord, Delaware, Iona, Rogers No. 4 and 15. His grapes were exceedingly fine in appearance, and more fully ripe than any other. It was suggested to me that girdling the vines, and clipping the smaller bunches at the proper time, would have a very beneficial effect for exhibition purposes. . R. Knaupheide, of Reserve town, Ramsey county, S. Ellington, Bloomington Ferry, Hennepin county, and one or two others, had very fine collections of grapes. John Hart, the old apple seed planter, made a very creditable show of summer, fall and winter apples, also a plate of seedling pears. Mrs Campbell, _ of Winona, sent up the Duchess, Haas, Fameuse, and a large collection of seed- ling apples, some of which were quite large and of good quality. Geo. W. Clark, of Winona, also had a good exhibit of apples, but as neither he nor Mrs. Camp- bell were present to arrange and classify their fruits, they perhaps did not receive the consideration that was justly due. W.B. Henry, of Dayton, Minn., displayed several plates of fall, winter and seedling apples. A. Stewart, of Richfield, pre- sented a few plates of fail, winter and seedling Jronclads. There are other exhibitors which [ would like to mention, but even space must have a limit. ; Towa. _ The management saw proper to throw all the doors of competition wide open to the world, and in the fruit department we find no less than six competitors from the State of Iowa. _E. H. Smith, of Dubuque, carried off the first prize for the largest collection of apples, but with this exception no premium was awarded to any fruit shown side by side in competition with that grown within our own State. Decoration of Hall. The fruit, floral and vegetable hall was very handsomely decorated with ever- greens, showing admirable skill and judgment in projecting and carrying out this most difficult part of the work so.as to harmonize in good taste with all the sur- roundings. But I cannot speak in too high praise of the ladies and gentlemen of Minneapolis, who have made horticulture part of their study, and are always ready for any emergency of the kind that skillful fingers and willing hands can do. Floral Exhibits. In the floral department there were seventeen exhibitors whose collections were made up chiefly of greenhouse, window and bedding-out plants, the most con- spicuous of whom were G. A. Bracket, W. Elliot, Wm. Buckendorf and R. J. Mendenhall, of Minneapolis, J. E. Booth, of Minnehaha, and James Aldons. of Iowa City. Mr. Bracket made nine entries, consisting of green and hot-house foliage, decorative and specimen plants, fuchsias, begonias, colens, olander and plants in bloom. Mr. Elliot, fourteen entries; specimen plants and plants in bloom, bedding plants, geraniums, rustic stands filled with growing plants, boquets and cut flowers, the whole being festooned with choice hanging plants. Mr. Buckendorf, nine entries. Display of specimen succulent, bulbs and bulbous, rooted plants, 78 | ANNUAL REPORT. tuberoses, hand, table, and bridal boquets, funeral ornaments and floral des Mr.-Mendenhall had a very choice collection of specimen and ( J. E. Booth made 21 entries, consisting of green and hot-house, foliage, plants, plants in bloom, roses, bedding plants, succulent bulbs and p plants, also rustic stand filled with growing plants, boquets and floral ee roses and cut flowers. Mr. Aldon’s collection consisted of thirteen entries, green- house, decorative and groups of plants in bloom, also roses, dahlias and house plants. The specimens were all in fine condition, and arranged to the best ad- vantage for the inspection of visitors and judges. Of amateurs, or those growing a few plants for their own special use, I would mention C. A. Smith, whose collec- tion consisted of foliage and decorative plants. Wm. Grimshaw, wardian case filled with flowers. Mrs. Lizzie Morse, stocked aquarium and group of plants, and wardian case of ferns. Mrs. Rachel Riddle, house-leek growing in basket, fine specimen. Henry A. Lovering, Oleander tree, and Mrs. I. Atwater, speci- men plants and cut flowers. Of the class of plants above named, the collection was very near complete, and while we should regard them as household pets, and give them all necessary care and protection, we mu:t not forget that there are other plants and flowers seldom seen at fairs that are perfectly hardy im all situ- ations, and flourish with but little care, that are more suitable to adorn the sur- roundings of home with all their ennobling and refining influence, and make attractive the door yards of the rich and poor alike. Vegetables—University Exhibit. The vegetable section comprised no less than 262 entries, certainly very cred- itable, but not better than I have before seen on exhibition im the State, and in addition Prof. Lacy, of the agricultural department of the State University, presented a large collection of grains and vegetables, grown on the Experimental Farm. This collection was not entered for premium, but to illustrate the work in which the professor is engaged in his experiments as a scientific and practical farmer and to show the result of crops treated with and without fertilizers, and also the relative value of the same when applied to the growth of grains and vegetables, and also the results accruing from different modes of farming. This group was of more importance in a practical sense than all the overgrown specimens put together, because it teaches a lesson of demonstrated facts that may be learned even by the boy who is supposed to be too dull and stupid to make anything—but a farmer. Northern Pacific—Hennepin County. The Northern Pacific put in a good display of grains and vegetables, collected along the line of their road, by way of advertisement, showing that they are wide awake to their own interests. The Hennepin County Farmers’ and Gardeners’ Association had a large pyramid or monument (I am not sure which) of vegetables that loomed up in magnificent proportions, showing what combined effort and artistic skill can accomplish. Other Exhibitors. But I must fall back to the regular patrons of the show, who exhibit for pre- miums and that alone,‘and pile up in embryo mountains Nature’s monstrocities / ‘ Miyyesora SirateE HorticurTurAL SoOcIrry. 79 and call them vegetables, too coarse for use, for man or beast, but the judges say it beats the world, and here’s your premium. My friend Richard Poole, of Minneapolis town, had a full assortment of garden products, and I must say he well deserved the encouragement he received at the hands of the viewing com- mittee. And then there was D. C. Custer, Geo. H. Morrison, David Giles, Wyman Elliot, O. C. Chase and others, of Minneapolis, James Smith, of Lyndale, John Hooper, of Crystal Lake, James Archer, of Northfield, J. W. Mann, of Minne- tonka, and a number of others, all of whom know what first-class vegetables are and did produce them, but then old birds are sometimes caught with chaff, or rather those men were like the men travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho who fell among thieves who beat, and left them upon the paras without a cent to pay their tavern bills. How this was done it is not for me to say, but by permission you can all refer to one E. H. Smith & Co., of Dubuque. Iowa, who carried off more honors than all the other competitors together. Mr. Harris spoke of the abuse of premium taking on fruit col- lected and not grown by the exhibitor. Mr. Dart asked if such were not liable to prosecution for so doing. The answer was in the affirmative. FRUIT LISTS RESUMEED. Blight. The revision of the fruit lists was then resumed. It was moved that the votes be omitted in publishing the blight lists. It was moved to amend by stating in a note that there had been no blight the past year, and that these lists simply expressed the action taken at the last meeting. The amendment was carried. Grape List. It was moved to continue the grape list of fai year which mo- tion was carried. Strawberry List. It was moved to amend the strawberry list by adding Hart’s Minnesota Seedling to the list for “general trial for amateur culti- ‘vation,’ which was carried. Mr. Harris moved to recommend Kramer’s Seedling ‘for trial” which was carried by a vote of eleven for and none against. Raspberry List. It was moved to continue the raspberry list of last year, which motion was carried unanimously and the following discussion en- sued : 80 ANNUAL REPORT. Mr. Harris. In Houston county we must drop the Doolittle. rin Fe It is affected with a red rust. Mr. Jordon. The rust has not yet reached Rochostas ak Pres. Smith. Mr. Hollister says he will plant the Doolittle only. Mr. Harris. The Seneca is not affected. Mr. Grimes. Have grown the Ganargua for three years. it fruits well but does not produce plants. The fruit is large and better than any black-cap but not equal to the Turner. Mr. Underwood. The Mammoth Cluster does better than any other with me. Mr. Jordon. Of Davison’s Thornless I got some several years ago but they killed down every year. Planted twice and have now discarded them. Pres. Smith. I doubt the genuineness of Mr. Jordon’s plants. Mine were hardy. Mr. Grimes inquired concerning the Gregg but no one was pre- pared to give information. Pres. Smith called attention to the Henrietta on exhibition. Mr. Latham. Ihave got afew Highland Hardy. The fruit is better than the Turner, and the plants very prolific. Its hardiness I have not yet tested. Pres. Smith. Jhad last year the finest prospect for a raspberry crop but the hot damp weather struck it and the berries did not fill. i VISIT CF THE LEGISLATURE. In accordance with the invitation forwarded by the secretary, members of the Legislature had been coming in for some time and~ at this point Mr. Harris was called upon to address them, which he did briefly, alluding to the fact that the Horticultural Society as well as the Legislature was convened for a useful purpose, which would confer a benefit upon the people of the whole State. A recess was then taken for the purpose of showing the articles on exhibition and for testing a basket of Wealthy apples which Wyman Elliot, Esq., had distributed among those present. On calling to order, several members of the Legislature were called upon for remarks. Senator Buck expressed pleasure and satisfaction at the quantity and quality of fruit on exhibition. Mr. McCracken, of Fillmore county, expressed regret that so few members of the Legislature had come. He had no idea that such a good display of fruit would be made. Mr. Johnson, of Faribault, gave utterance to similar sentiments. Mr. Scriver, of Rice county, told his experience im setting trees ae ‘e py Oe eae een defevs) i * Minnesora STATE HorTicuLTvrRAL SOciery, 81 that were killed after coming into bearing by the hard winter. They were root-killed since they leaved out in the spring and then died. Had been thinking of the advantage of raising our own fruit to keep our money in the State. He said he was glad to have come. Was not disappointed, and promised any assistance he might be able to render in the Legislature. The paper of H. M. Thompson, on Uses of Evergreens, was read by the secretary, after which motion was made and carried to file for publication. The following is the paper : EVERGREEN TREES—THEIR USES AND MANAGEMENT. H. M. THOMPSON, ST. FRANCIS, MILWAUKEE COUNTY, WISCONSIN. The use of evergreen trees, and the extent to which they can be profitably planted, depends upon their adaptation for ornamental purposes, the value of the wood for economic uses, the extent of climatic modifications produced by for- ests, composed wholly or in part of evergreens, their adaptation to soil and local- ity, and in the knowledge, skill and care of the planter in sowing the seeds, the handling and planting of the trees, the form of planting, the subsequent cultiva~ tion and the management of the trees after becom.ng permanently established. For Ornament. In the use of evergreens for ornamental planting, their effectiveness will de- © pend upon the situation and the extent of the area, the kinds of trees used, and the system of planting. Grounds of limited extent admit either of group, or iso- lated planting. Ifthe trees are planted in groups, rapid growers, such as the Scotch, Austrian and white pines, the Norway and the white spruce, may be planted in the centre, and an admixture of slow growing kinds, such as the dwarf mountain pine, the arborvitz, the red cedar, and the known hardy dwarf varieties of the spruce, arborvite and the juniper species. In the isolated form of planting, the selection of the species and varieties will depend upon the area. The Austrian, Scotch and white pines, in favorable soils and situations will attain the height of 80 to 100 feet in 40 to 60 years, and require, therefore, a space of not less than fifteen feet in all directions horizon- tally from their base, to allow room for the development of the lower branches, and ensure a symetrical form of growth, which is essential to preserve the beauty of single specimens of trees. When the grounds or portions of the grounds are _too limited in extent to admit of the larger species, the dwarf species and vari- eties, can be planted singly or im small groups, due regard being had to the res- ervation of portions of the grounds, where the planting of flowering shrubs and dwarf deciduous trees will, by means of contrasts in form and foliage, add beauty to the display of nature in the summer, and enliven and brighten the winter scene, and thus afford pleasureable emotions, and shield the owner and the in- mates of his dwelling from the effects of the winter blasts, now so common on the treeless plains of this continent. 6 82 ANNUAL REPORT. For Manufacturing Purposes. The value of evergreens for forest planting 1s not to be measured by their lim- _ : - ited use for ornamental purposes, or by the present value of the marketable products, which owing to the low cost of timber lands, is far below the intrinsic value, taking into consideration the many centuries of time required to produce the primeval forest, and as compared with the supply, consumption and eisciesd and the future demands of an ever increasing population. It is estimated that over fifty per cent. of the various kinds of wood consumed is of the resinous species, principally white pine, and that with the continuance of the same ratio of increase of population, consumption of manufactured products as in the two last decades, combined with the same proportionate waste of mate- rial in the process of the manufacture of the rough lumber, and the continued destruction by casualties of the primeval forest now within the reach of the manufacturing industries and the centre of population, must necessarily result in a scarcity of available supply and enhanced prices, at a period of time long before the trees, if now planted in cultivated forest, can be grown of sufficient size for manufacturing into dimension lumber. For Protection, Besides the economic value of resinous woods, cultivated forests composed in whole or in part with an admixture of evergreens, are important factors in their effects in modifying climatic conditions; the extent of these modifications being largely determined by altitude, the extent, the form, the distribution, and, to some extent the species of trees contained 1n the forests. Form of Plantation. The limits of this paper confine us to the consideration of that portion ot the subject relating to the best form of planting and the most desirable species of evergreens to be grown. The method of planting forests in the square form seems to have been copied from the plan in vogue among the primeval forest pioneers, who having an imperfect knowledge of the climatology of forests, com- menced making clearings on one side of the tract of land, and extending the clearing year by year, leaving the forest reserve on one side or one corner of the farm. The general result of this form of forest reservation and plan of planting forests, is to dot the surtace of the country with groups of timber. The cleared fielis between these groups are swept by winds moving at times with accelerated velocity caused by the divergence of the atmospheric currents deflected by the groups and their junction with the direct current moving between the groups. To these causes and to the summer heated surfaces and to the rarefied atmo- sphere of the treeless spaces may be ascribed the rotary motion of air currents and the increased trequency of the devastating tornadoes in Wisconsin, Illinois and lowa, where the principal primeval forest reservations and the cultivated forests are in the group form. The isolated or group form of planting is aidonbtedly the best on the banks of streams to prevent their wear and caving, and upon embankments or hilly and broken surfaces, as a means of preventing their erasion, and the inundation and injury to the crop and soil of adjacent valleys and plams by the debris of sand and gravel, transported and deposited by torrents, and to preserve the soil ieee Sad pe ee ts ete ’ * iy ._ Minnesota State HorricvuLtturaL Socrery. 83 of the wooded surfaces by means of shade from excessive evaporation and thus prevent the drying of springs, and ensuring a more equable flow of water in the streams. Effects of Shelter Belts on Temperature, Winds and Moisture. The soil of rugged surfaces is usually thin and of inferior quality and only adapted to the growth of certain species of trees that naturally flourish in poor soils, and in such exposed situations, to which the Scotch pine is especially adapted and is recommended as one of the best evergreens for profitable plant- ing. 4 In the so-called Western States we have fortunately but limited areas of lands not suited for general agricultural uses, hence the principal portion of forest planting must necessarily be done upon tillable soils; and as the extent to which evergreens can be planted with profit, depends upon the system or form adopted. It requires, therefore, a limited statement of the advantages to be derived from the general adoption of the shelter-belt system. The soil of forests—as has been determined by a series of European observa- tions*—hbeing cooler in summer, and warmer im winter, than the soil of open fields, it is apparent, therefore, that heated air currents passing over forests must necessarily be reduced in temperature, and their capacity for saturation by mois- ture be correspondingly reduced and consequently a lessened evaporation of moisture from the soil, hence, with a properly systematized distribution of forests in the form of shelter-belts would tend to lower the summer temperature and increase the winter temperature of the surface air currents moving in any direc- tion and thereby lessening the evaporation of moisture in the summer and reduce the radiation of heat in the winter. Forests in the form of shelter-belts retard the velocity of surface air currents. The volume of evaporation of moisture from the soil, is proportioned to the velocity of thé winds as well as to the volume of atmospheric moisture. If by means of a system of shelter-belts, the velocity of surface winds is reduced one-half, a reduction in evaporation of moisture from the soil is effected, and the accumulation of moisture in the soil by rain fall in thefautumn, winter and spring, in excess of evaporation, is thus held in reserve for the support of vege- tation in July and August, when the evaporation is in excess of the rain fall, and thus ensues a more constant supply of moisture in the soil and be the means ensuring a larger yield of many kinds of farm crops. Whatever effect forests may have upon climate, it is evident that, as the ever-. greens retain their foliage throughout the year, they must necessarily effect a greater modification in the winter than the deciduous trees,zwhich have only their naked stems and branches to offer as a resistance to the winds. The degree of the modification of the winter temperature produced by evergreen trees would, aside from other climatic considerations, depend upon the form and extent of the forests. : It is a well known law that friction of any substances, liquids, gases or atmo- spheric air, generates heat. If it be supposed that there are two areas of land surface, each area to be two hundred miles square, having the same climatic con- ditions, and that the average velocity ot the winter winds is twenty miles per hour; one of these tracts of land to be planted with shelter-belts of evergreens around each forty acres, and that when the belts attained a-height of forty feet, *Prof. F. B. Hough’s Forestry Report, 1879. 8&4 ANNUAL REPORT, the average velocity of the wind be reduced to ten miles an hour. A : to ; the law of the radiation of heat, and the law above cited, two results AOS _ obtained: 1st. By means of the reduced velocity of the winter winds, the shelter-belt area ie would show a relative increase of temperature due to the lessened radiation of heat from the soil, as compared with the treeless area. 2d. There would be an absolute gain in the increase of the temperature i in the shelter-belt area, due to the friction of the air currents impinging upon the imnu- merable needle-like leaves of the trees composing the shelter-belts. What the precise difference in the winter temperature would be can ‘idle determined by a general series of observations extending over a considerable period of time. e Width and Compositton of Shelter-Belts. For the purpose of shelter, belts of one, two or three rows of evergreens will answer the purpose intended; but with a view to further profit the belts can be made seven or eight rods in width for the combined purpose of growing timber for farm use and market, and for shelter. In this form of planting cultivated forest, the evergreen can be grown at an enhanced profit, by a judicious admix- ture of larch, hickory, walnut and ash, etc., with the evergreens, and planting one row of Scotch pine or Norway spruce, or some other evergreen adapted to the soil and locality, upon each margin of the belts. By a series of systematic thinnings the hickory and the ash can be cut when they attain the size of hoop- poles, and these cuttings may be continued at subsequent periods for various uses, at a profit and -to the benefit of the evergreens; their wood being of but little value until they attain considerable age and size. The most valuable kinds of evergreen trees which have been tested and are known to be generally hardy or adapted to special soils and localities, and wor- thy of cultivation west of Lake Michigan, consist of the Scotch, Afstrian, Pitch, Mountain and White Pines, Norway and White Spruce, American Arbor vite and its hardy varieties, the Red Cedar and other species and varieties of the juniper family. Some of these species and varieties are of great value for both ornamental and economic uses. The species readily being propogated from seed, and the varie- ties from cuttings by the experienced planter Scotch and White Pines. The Scotch pine, although of European origin, seems to be at home in the north-west, making a rapid growth in all dry soils, even when planted in the most exposed situation, and subjected to drouth, and great extremes of tempera- * ture. The wood of this pine isstronger in every way, and the tree grows as rap- idly as the White pine, yet its wood is soft enough to be easily worked with ordi- nary carpenter tools, and the tree is subject to less percentage of loss in trans- planting and will prove more remunerative to the forest planter as a timber tree, and for the purpose of shelter, and should be largely planted in preference to the White pine, although the latter tree may be grown at a profit if carefully han- dled, and planted in proper soils and situations, or even in exposed situations, if protected by an admixture in the plantation of other kinds of trees. Minnesora Svate HorvTicvuLTurRAL SOCIETY. 85 Cost of Evergreens. Small evergreen seedlings are now grown from seed at the forest tree nurseries in immense quantities, and are sold at prices varying according to the size and quality of the plants, ranging from $5.00 to $35.00 per 1,000. The cost of the plants of suitable size for permanent planting, for one row on the four sides of a 160 acre farm, if planted at the rate of 1,000 to the mile, would not—including cost of boxes, packing, freight charges and labor in planting—exceed $100.00. Planters with limited means, not able to invest such a sum in one season, might extend the planting over a series of four years at an annual outlay of $25.00 in each year. Planting. Evergreens may be shipped long distances with perfect safety if properly packed and transplanted, with as much certainty of success as so many apple trees, provided that before and while planting, the roots are kept constantly moist and the earth compactly pressed on the roots, with loose soil on the surface, always planting deeper than they stood in the nursery, and properly mulching before the approach of the dry season of the year. Cultivation. The subsequent cuitivation need not extend later than when the trees cease growing for the season. The cessation of the growth of the pines, spruce and the fir, usually occur about the first of July. The subsequent growth of weeds with the aid of the mulch, will shield the young trees from the scorching rays of the sun and the effects of drouth in the months of July, August and September, and prevent the alternation of freezing and thawing of the soil in the late autumn, winter and early spring which so often proves injurious, or fatal. The arbor vitees and the junipers do not complete their season’s growing until autumn, hence they require c.ean cultivation through the whole season. Protection of Small Trees. If the trees are of small size and are planted in nursery row or in permanent plantation the cheapest method of winter protection is to run a one-horse single shovel plow, with or without wings attached, according to the distance of the rows apart, and ridge the earth up to the plants. The next spring the ridge should be reduced to a level with the cultivator and hoe, and this method should be continued for three or four years, or until the trees become deeply rooted and no longer liable to be injured or killed by being drawn out of the soil by the alternate action of frost and heat. Comparative Results. In conclusion, it may be said that if the resinous woods are so largely required for economic purposes, and if the trees exert so important an influence upon climate, and that by the means of their shade a cool retreat in summer and a greater relative warmth in the spring and the fall, invites the early arrival and prolongs the stay and provides for the more general distribution of insectiver- 86 AnnvuAbL REPORT. ous birds, and the effects of the shade and moisture retard the increase of n ious insects, and that all these causes tend to insure an increased yield of crops, and there results an increased value of the estate, based upon cheraticseate ' ie iveness of a well proportioned forest containing a judicious admixture of ever- greens, and the prospective value of the growing timber adds additional present value ; it is believed that a cash investment in the judicious planting of ever- greens will prove the source of much larger profitable returns than the same 4mount of money invested in forced improvements, or any other branch of farming. DISCUSSION. Influence of Evergreens. Mr. Fuller. My experience is in harmony with’ the statements of the writer. Am satisfied that the influence of limited numbers is already showing results. I have rows of evergreens all around my grounds and in the orchard I set about three evergreens be- tween each two trees, Scotch Pine. Mr. Kenney. I have great faith in the Scotch Pine. Mr. Pearce. In a grove of young pines in my neighborhood I can see a great difference in temperature. Can set a pine as well as any tree. Would set pines, Scotch and White, on tree claims. Mr. Fuller. Would set on the windy side one row and eight feet apart in the row. Mr. McHenry. Farmers in my locality think better of spruce. There is a growing interest in evergreens. Mr. Pearce. Isold one man 2,200 of them. Sapsucker. Mr. Dart. The Scotch Pine will bear all that has been said in its favor. Out of 150 set last spring I lost not one. It makes a rapid growth and is a beautiful tree. It has one enemy, the Sap- sucker. It had nearly ruined a large number of trees before I dis- covered it last spring. It makes hole after hole around the trunk and sometimes goes upward as well. Am certain it is not after erubs or worms but the sweet sap of the tree. Never knew them — on Scotch Pine till last spring. Mr. Harris. Think there is no tree so valuable as an evergreen. Am pleased with the essay and this discussion. Had better be careful in destroying the Sapsucker that we do not destroy Wood peckers. Two of the latter very closely resemble it. The Sap- ae nag Rabbits, fre hh . Would advise to put out corn in the ear for rabbits. e it will have the same effect on mice. . Jordon. My rabbits began on trees in a corn field before corn was gathered. 7 ae Mr. U: nderwood. Have ike arsenic on sweet apples for pe a and cats for mice. WEDNESDAY EVENING. The parlors of the Y. M. C. A. having been retained for the pre- sentation of the following paper before that body, the Horticultu- ral Society held no session, but the members having generally accepted the invitation to attend the reading of the paper, Dr. Hatch has kindly consented to its publication in these Transactions | BIRDS OF MINNESOTA. READ BEFORE THE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, JANUARY. 22, 1879, BY P. L. HATCH, M.D. Birds have always held a close relationship to man; whether economically or zesthetically considered. No one will question their presence in the Garden of Eden. A paradise of such material beauties as the pen of the inspired writer has given us, without birds, is inconceivable. We can have no doubt that at that sad hour “ When Nature from her seat, Sighing through all her works, Gave signs of woe that all was lost,”’ the sound of departing wings was the first to break the breathless silence of the dvomed Elysian. 88 ANNUAL REPORT. It is also matter of sacred record that after the life-freighted ark had drifted — upon the great deep that engulfed a world for one huudred and fifty days, the first to go forth over the turbulent, shoreless ocean, upon the errands of ma was a bird. Was service ever so grand, or message so priceless, leaves borne in the faithful beak of the returning dove-bird? Long before discovered the raven over his chamber door, that sombre bird had fed the perse- — cuted prophet in the wilderness, while another, by his cackling, had saved Rome. Poets, of all ages, have drawn their sweetest inspirations from their knowledge of the birds, from Job to Whittier. Prophets clothe angels, cherubim and sera- phim, of their mystic revelations, with their wings. By the direction of the flight of aquatic birds over ice floes and arctic eatin as well as the contents of their crops, science has recently gathered a new prom- ise of finding an open polar sea. And so, from the eventful morning of creation until now, the bird has been — conspicuous in almost every department of human events. Before proceeding to speak of those of Minnesota in particular, let us briefly inquire, What are birds? A complete answer to this question would consume too much time for this occasion, however profitable its consideration might be to you, or however grati- fying it might be to me; yet, for many reasons, that will become obvious as we pass along, it will be desirable to Lave brought before us in a general way, their relations to the rest of the animal kingdom. To do so, we shall be under the necessity of referring to the classification of animals as a whole. Let us use a figure, which, if not the best that might have been chosen, and deficient in many respects, is still sufficiently appropriate to serve our present purpose. It shall be that of a tree. Let the trunk represent the entire animal kingdom. It has scarcely risen above the earth before it is divided into two huge lesser trunks or branches so dissimilar in almost every particular as to forbid belief that they spring from the same root, yet so they do, and science calls one the Vertebrate and the other the Invertebrate branch of the animal kingdom; the latter of which is a division with which we have nothing to do on this occasion. The former, as the name indicates, represents the entire list of animals possessed of a backbone. ’ This is the typical feature of their structure, and is the revelation of a great plan. Tracing this branch of our tree a little higher, we see it has divided into four sub-branches, called classes. These classes unfold four different methods of executing the plan, and are named in the order ot rank upward, Fishes, Reptiles, Birds, Mammals. The fishes, like the others, have the backbone, but no arms, wings, or legs. They have appendages corresponding to legs and arms, called fins. Reptiles have a larger proportion of this typical bone, some of them so much that the Creator has withheld from them nearly everything else. Many of them, however, have legs, and nearly all equally inhabit land and water; but we find above the entire class another, occupying not only earth and water, but the air: the Birds. This is the third class in the ascending scale of the Vertebrates, and stands next to the Mammals, the highest, and the one which embraces our own species, or is completed in Man. Thus briefly have we sought and found the general relationship of the birds to the rest of the animal kingdom.. Of their earliest history very littie is known. Paleontologists, who look to the rocks for testimony about the remotest history of our planet, and depend upon fossiliferous remains of once living organisms for the numbering of the pages of Minnesora State HorvicuLTurAL Sociery. &9 the rocky history of the world, tell us that those remains of birds are found only so far back as the Cretaceous period., And’this is far enough, if we accept the ‘“eons’’ of modern speculation which have passed since then. Their earliest fos- siliferous remains, so far as is yet settled among scientists. were obtained in the chalk formations of Europe, without some very recent discoveries should be found to antedate them; which is not very probable. These, as had been anticipated, were the lowest in rank of the class, as they were web-footed swimmers. Others alittle higher in development, were obtained in the caves of Brazil, while those still higher were found in the upper Cretaceous, and extending into the lower Tertiary period. Looking still upward, they discovered that the Gallinz (to which the do- mestic fowls belong) that were rare in the Tertiary, were abundant in the Diluvium. The Perchers, that embrace the sparrows, thrushes, &c., and the rapacious birds, such as owls, hawks and eagles, were obtained in both the Tertiary and Dilu- vium. Feathers and eggs have been rescued from the Tertiary of Europe. But we must bear in mind that not a single species of these paleozoic forms exists at the present time. Those of which we are now to speak have taken their places completely. So far as known, the history of the birds of Minnesota begins with the notes of a few persons connected with the U. S. army stationed at the several forts. Ornithologists, like Audubon, and Nuttall, and Wilson, have visited this section, but they left us no records of their local observations. Mr. Trippe, a modern naturalist, made a small list of birds seen along the line of the preliminary survey of the N. P. R. R. which found its way into tne records of an eastern society the name of which I do not now recall. Trappers and sportsmen early noticed the game birds, from whom items of surpassing interest have occasionally come down, if true, yet it is patent that sportsmen sometimes are afflicted with a sort of visual illusion by which they see things too much magnified for the uses of science. Of all the earliest observers whom it has been my privilege to meet, the late Rev. Dr. Gear, of this city, was the most intelligent and reliable. Many years ago he was a chaplain at one of the forts. He never lost any opportunity to notice the habits or numbers of the song birds specially. ’ No systematic ornithological work was done until about 1860. Since then a large number of species and varieties have been carefully identified and recorded. We will now notice some of the more characteristic habits of the principal birds of the State, including those that visit us at the different seasons of the year, and those which are permanent residents. It is now autumn. ‘The frosts have laid their blighting fingers upon the foliage, and it has turned to sober gray or solemn brown. The approaching winter already looks sternly down upon the chilled earth from the ides of November. Fitful gusts of nurthwest winds whirl the rejected leaves in wild disorder along the borders of the woods, behind the fences and outbuildings. The Snow Birds have arrived in force from their more northerly summer homes. They occupy every thicket and secluded nook where seeds of the spontaneous vegetation may be found. They are easily recognized by their dark leaden color which is abruptly changed to white on the under parts and outer feathers of the tail, the latter of which is so characteristic while the tail is spread in the act of flying, that a child could not mistake their identity. The name, snowbird, was doubtless given them on account of their autumnal migration about the time of the first snows. This is the most numerous as well as the most extensively disseminated of all the feathered species that visit us in winter, their migrations extending from 90 - AnnvuAL REPORT. beyond the Arctic Circle to the Gulf of Mexico, and from the Atlantic ce un the Black Hills, and northwesterly to Alaska. The most southern limit of then winter residence is about two hundred miles south of this city, so we see ther but a few weeks before they have passed away from us. old Since the midble of September considerable flocks of Lapland Longspurs have attracted our attention to the plowed fields, where they spend much of their time — until in December, when they, too, suddenly disappear in a more omnis migration. The Snow Buntings now arrest our observation by the sheen of their nanan plumage. They keep in close flocks from only a few to many hundreds, and fly compactly, wheeling and turning as if moved by a single impulse. These eyvolu- tions show to great advantage the characteristic whiteness of the predominant coloration. Although more noticeable for this reason, and the unity of their dashing flight, they are no more welcome for all reasons, at this sombre season or during the long and inhospitable reign of winter, than the Redpoll Linnets, a smaller but more nunerous species of seed-eaters, that spend the winter amongst us. They have been here since the middle of October, Go wherever we may, on the prairies or in the woodland or brushlands, we see them in small and in large flocks, sweeping about, apparently as aimless as dry leaves before the fitful gusts of autumn winds. These flocks, alternated with those of the Snow Bun- tings, before mentioned, may be seen at the present time, wherever we go, out- side the city. The Linnets, which are smaller and darker plumaged than the Buntings, will be further distinguishable by the crimson of the head and breast of the mature males, while the females and young of the year, of both sexes, are wanting in this coloration which gives the species its common name, Redpoll. They remain all the winter, but leave for the north several weeks before the Buntings and Longspurs, and may be recognized in their flight at any time, by their call note, that is frequently repeated. About the first ot November, two species of Grosbeaks, formerly called Bull finches, put in their appearance—the Evening Grosbeak and the Pine Grosbeak the latter named from its habits of feeding upon the buds of the pines and other coniferous trees, is about the size of the Robin, but more compactly built, and has a large, stout bill, well adapted to the purpose of opening the cones and buds of the pines and firs. Until the attention has been arrested by these beautiful finches sufficiently to recognize their plumage, which is said to be the gayest of any of the land birds that frequent the inhospitable regions of the North, one might see them without surmising their identity or their comparative rarity. The other species, the Evening Grosbeak, which ornithologists have excep- tionally honored with one of the most euphonious names found in the categories of science, Hesperiphona Vespertina, is still more remarkable for the huge size of ° the bill, which is the largest and stoutest of all the United States fringilline, or seed-eating birds. The strongly marked particolors of black, white, yellow and olive green, make its appearance so marked as never, to be mistaken. Its summer residence is found to be, the ‘‘Rocky Mountains to the Pacific, north to the Saskatchewan, and east along the northern tier of States to Lake Superior." While with us, it remains mostly within the bounds of the taller, deciduous timber, and feeds upon buds principally. Nicollet Island, in the heart of our city, is a favorite resort, during a part of February and March, and some- times as late as the middle of May, when they hie away to their more northern breeding places, or their equivalent by altitude on the inland mountains. Bear- Re NN aol Sg ie ae , ‘* 7 4 Wiis : Minnesota Srate HorvicuLTuraAL SOcrery. 91 ing in mind that we are still in the latter part of autumn, or early winter, we will not forget to mention the somewhat irregular arrival of the Waxwing, or _ Bohemian Chatterers, as they are called in Europe. This bird is one of the few common to both Europe and America. The exquisite delicacy of its drab plum- age and the presence of bright red appendages to some of the wing-feathers re- sembling seeling-wax are all that is especially characteristic, as they do not sing. But they are welcome, for they remain with us all the winter to cheer us with their presence, and help us bear our burden of patience while waiting for the tardy spring. But we must not pass over those species which ever abide with us alike through the fervid heat of summer and the frigid cold of winter. Principal of these, we will only name the Pinnated Grouse or Prairie Chicken, dearest of all to the heart of the huntsman, and only more so than the Sharptail and the Ruffed Grouse or Partridge. Quails are scarcely to be mentioned as so few of them sur- vive our severe winters; yet so they do, to a limited extent, and when favored by a succession of mild winters rapidly multiply again—a single nest having been known to contain 24 to30 eggs. During some of the many winters I have spent here Woodcock, and one or two species of snipe, have been found in the vicinity of springs surrounded by marshy grounds, but this is not common. The little familiar Shore Lark, that ought to have been called Road Lark, which flits out from under your horse’s feet along almost any thoroughfare, especially upon the open prairie, and lights again just in front of you, is another waif of the winters here. Notice him closely, for he is confidingly noticing you, and you will see two little pencils of feathers rise from his head like symmetrical horns, giving him a pleasing and grotesque appearance. The little immortalized Chickadee will now insinuate himself upon our notice» as he goes from limb to branch on the shade tree, or a shrub, m search of the eggs and larve of insects, of which the eggs of the moth of the leaf-rolling cat- erpillar, the canker-worm, apple moth, and others equally injurious to vegetation - are favorite food. If so favored as to have trees near our dwellings, we can scarcely avoid -becoming familar with the Whitebellied Nuthatch and his less conspicuous cousin, the Redbellied, two of the busiest little bodies that ever you saw. You will know them at once by their habit of traversing the trunks and principal branches, head persisteutly downward in their search for the very same kinds of food as the last mentioned species. While these are thus employed, the Downy Woodpecker is not far away, and equally industrious in the destruction of the insect pests. Turning now to the forests in midwinter, we everywhere meet the ubiquitous Jay along our brushland approach, and in the denser thickets embraced in the forests themselves. Be sure he will herald our coming by his clamorous cry from every bush and tree. Exquisitely beautiful in form and plumage, and undaunted by the rigors of a northern winter climate, which ought to secure for him the affectionate friendship of man for his constancy, and his admiration for his beauty, like some ‘‘ birds of another feather,’’ he is peculiarly unfortunate in the ostenta- tion of his self-assurance, and turns those who would otherwise be friends, into relentless enemies. Knowing this he retaliates by attacking the eggs of others more welcome in summer, stealing from the corn-crib in winter, and in annoy- ing the hunter, by forewarning every other denizen of the forest of his approach. But stay thou accuser, man! Be not too hasty in passing judgment on him whom better acquaintance may prove to be thy constant friend. NUP how innrot eee tae let A SW ah like ea apt | Aas) ys whi itt BAY pak daub ds ‘ok A ‘ Fe * . .% . on Soe ak Ph 4 eet , ad Pi C4 i rie bat bar | 92 . ANNUAL REPORT. seein Sobins. caterpillars, and other noxious forms, that are eastieah forth when winter goes. His food is more varied than that of any other have, which may lead him to stretch the tenth commandment and som break the eighth, but on the whole he amply repays us for his poaching by ; offsetting good he does, ae When we have penetrated the silent forests sufficiently, we may catch a glimpse ; of the Black-back, three-toed Woodpecker, as he circles under the boughs of the evergreens, from tree to tree, but the chances are largely against us, and the loud hammering of the Pileated Woodpecker, in the echoing distance, may com- pensate us for our failure, by leading us by stealthy steps to where we may “see this rare bird. He is the largest by far of his order, in our State, resembling the ordinary hen for size, but the hen must be shining black, with the head covered with its brightest blood, to complete the possible illusion. While we are softly wending our way toward the spot where we hope to see this magnificent bird, we almost laid our hand upon the tiny Saw-whet Owl, which flits away a few rods, and lights upon the horizontal limb of a sapling but a few feet above the ground. Just now, forty feet above us, we see a pair of huge eyes, that are staring down upon us only a moment before taking to flight, as noiseless as the departure of a spirit. ‘This is the great Horned Owl. We may possibly see the Barred Owl, but the uncertainties multiply when we remember that his eyes are made for the daylight. These are all permanent inhabitants of the State, but the great Grey and Snowy Owls, the former of which is very rare and the latter more common, are only winter visitors from the arctic regions. The Redtail Hawk, the terror of domestic fowls, and the Redshouldered Hawk, equally the terror of the squirrels, remain within the borders of the State to a considerable extent. The beautiful Goshawk visits Minnesota regularly in win- ter from the higher latitudes. A single specimen of a Gyrfalcon, the famous bird of falconry, was obtained here a few years ago of a variety never before collected within the domain of the United States. It is common to northern Europe, and the higher latitudes of North America, breeding in Labrador, and about some portions of Hudson’s Bay. The White-headed or Bald Eagle has an abiding home in Minnesota. The Golden Eagle is only a rare visitant, or certainly breeds here very rarely if at all. But the winter is passing. The sun’s altitude has begun to conquer the frosts which have held the world in their icy grip, and the mantle of snows that has covered the earth begins to show severe rents in many places. The Shore Larks multiply as they come forth from the sheltered coverts, and their unpretentious melodies touch our awakened ears. The snows have not all gone before their nests are completed and the duties of incubation entered upon. These have not been finished when the male Robins, in renewed plumage, suddenly come in par- ties of from ten to twenty. Their proclivities to cling to the vicinities of the habitations of man, make it possible to know with the utmost precision the times. of their arrival, for they begin at once their most welcome songs. About the same time the Bluebirds appear, but less notably on account of their size, although scarcely less so by the singing. The females of both species soon fol- low, and about the 15th of April nesting has begun. Their insectiverous habits at this time are supposed to be so well known as to need no mention, and were it otherwise, time forbids; but I cannot refrain from asking a question or two which happily the statistics of science have answered. Miyyesora Srate HorticuttvraL Socrery. — 93 : How many persons are aware that the young Robin, while yet confined to the nest, eats forty-one per cent. more than its own weight of worms every day. “If laid end to end the length of these worms would be about fourteen feet, or ten times the entire length of the intestines? Man, at this rate, would eat about seventy pounds of meat, and drink five or six gallons of water, beer, whiskey, or something else every day to say nothing about the nights. As there are four young usually of the robins, and they bring out three broods each summer, a faint idea of the usefulness of this species may be obtained. Now, multiply the friends of the various interests of horticulture, agriculture, and so forth, by the numbers and proportionate size of all the insectiverous birds which rear their voracious broods within the limits of ovr State, and who is sufficient for the com- putation ? It is truly a ‘‘penny wise and pound foolish’’ philosophy that grumbles at the toll these friends levy upon our fruits and grains, when the great supply of their insectiverous food has been exhausted. To return to our observations of the migrations of birds, we must divide our attention with the Tree Sparrows that have joined the others in celebrating the sun’s transit across the Equator. On the partially denuded plowed field, along ‘the roadways, and in the weedy patches where the potatoes have been grown, they are sometimes innumerable. Amongst the leafless trees in the openings and thickets they are more scattered or broken into small parties. They breed about the head of Lake Superior and migrate to the south again in the latter part of October. Sometimes they remain in small flocks all the winter. Now begin to look for the Pigeons, in their long, sweeping lines of flight. But for want of more opportunity, we would follow them in all their habits during the entire season. Their modes of flight, feeding, nesting, rearing their . young, consisting of only one individual at each of three and sometimes four sit- tings. Wilson, one of the most conscientious ornithologists that history has any record of, computed the numbers of one flock of these gregarious birds in their flight. He estimates their numbers upon an average of three to the square yard, their movement at a generally accepted velocity, and the length of time they were in passing a given povnt, and found the flock to contain no less than two billions two hundred and thirty milhons two hundred and seventy-two thousand pigeons. This estimate he assures us was so far short of the actual number that no question could arise to the contrary. Now, let us pause a moment to inquire how much food would be required for the supply of tnis feathered host just one day. The answer to this question will afford a clew to the reason why they are provided with a form, wings and instincts that bear them along at the speed of sixty to ninety miles per hour. Caged pigeons are known to eat at least a half pint of acorns, nuts, &c., to each individual in twenty-four hours. If we adopt this ratio, it gives us a daily gequirement of seventeen millions four hundred and twenty-five thousand bushels to supply Wilson’s flock. These are not conjectures of the tancy but the sober facts of science, and an illustration of the truth of the old adage that “‘truth is stranger than fiction.” The season of migration having now been so far opened, the influx of various species is so great that to notice them separately would be impossible. We must be content to merely glance at them in groups. March has scarcely gone when ducks, geese, swans, pelicans, cranes, gulls, and but little later, herons, stilts, godwits, sandpipers, curlew, snipe, plover, and in short all the waders and swimmers, embracing mud hens, grebes, galinules and woodcock, are all here, denizens of different localities in the State. It will tax the naturalist to his Sa . AnntaL REPORT. utmost to record them. About the middle of April, some of the earlier syl ‘ line birds, or Wood-Warblers, flit into our midst in considerable numbers, remain with us but a short time before they disappear as unobservedly as they Bn came. RS These are the Yellow-rump Warblers, and during their stay destroy as many of the eggs of imsects hidden away in the bark of trees as any other known species. Few prettier sights are to be seen than when these birds are flitting — from twig to twig, in the highest as well as the lowest branches of the trees in their critical search for food. He is a lively little industrious fellow with cols and patterns never to be forgotten after having boen known. The Butcherbirds or Shrikes are now here as becomes evident by the esti young inice, &c., found implanted on the thorns and bushes near where they are located, This at a very interesting species and will reward us for observing its distinctive habits. The Swallows immediately follow, and at once enter upon their ceaseless search for aenal insects upon which they feed while upon the wing. The two migrations of Swallows have been called the two beats of nature’s great pendulum that divides the year. We hail their return in prose and in poetry, as if they brought upon their wings the sweet and final assurance of in+ augurated spring. Who has not felt like welcoming them back warmly after the long wintry months of their abscence, and cheerfully paid them homage by watching their ceaseless wheeling and veering in graceful curves, upward and downward, hither and thither, in lines and circles which however varied always return the individual to us with unfailing certainty. On some fine summer evening let us seek some secluded spot along the shores of our beautiful river, where we can command a close and uninterrupted view in all directions, and, selecting a single swallow, follow it in patience through its circuitous, zigzag, labarynthine gyrations for a time, and while noting its unva- rying return, let us calculate as best we may the distances passed over as if in straight lines, and see if the figures do not surprise us. Allowing him only ten hours a day in which to fly—and he employs sixteen— and a minimum speed of one mile in one minute, which is much below his actual velocity, how far does he fly in a day, a week, a month, a year, and the ten years of his average life? Two millions one hundred and ninety thousand miles in a litetime—equal to over eighty-seven times around the globe! What. a life of motion! Who does not envy the Swallow his wings! We could spend a whole evening upon the life history of this meteor amongst the birds. But I must hasten to mention the Flycatchers, a group of about twenty species not reckoned among the songsters, notwithstanding several of them are the finest of singers, Many, like the King bird, have very plain plum- age and hence attract but little popular attention; but some of them, like the Green blackcap, are decorated in beautiful colors. ® Most of this quite naturalized group build highly architectural nests, and rear their young here, quitting us only as the approach of frosts threaten their supply of insectivorous food, which is mostly obtained on the wing. Of their specific habits of feeding I would be glad to speak, in the interests of horticulture, but time forbids. It is an assured fact that they are the truest of friends to the farm and the garden, the orchard and the flowers. The first species of this group to arrive about the tenth of April, is the familiar, plaintive Pewe or Phoch bird, that builds under the old bridge, or some open outhouse near to water. I pass from this interesting family, further represented, as the season advances into May, by the Great-crested, Yellow-billed, Black-cap, Blue, Grey, &c. Minnesota STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 95 Now that the advancing sun has awakened the teeming earth to bring forth its varied productions and develop its hybernated insect lite, the Thrushes and _ Warblers come, like a great living wave, ours only a part of it, which extends from ocean to ocean, that rolls northward from about the first to the fitteenth of of May, varying with the seasons. Let us not imagine that this is visible to the closed eye. Our eyes, our ears and our hearts must be open if we are to witness it. Nobody can see it through the dust and cobwebs of a life absorbed by mate- nal gains. Like the approach of morning to the eye, eolian music to the ear, and the dawnings of love in the heart, this sweetest, grandest revelation of spring steals upon and envelops us in its extatic wonders, or leaves us to oblivi- ous slumbers upon the lazy couch of indifference, while it moves onward hke an etherial tide. Nothing could more perfectly illustrate the appropriateness of these figures of speech we have employed than the arrival of the first thrush, called the Hermit. Some little time in advance of all the others, he comes the “‘avaunt courier’’ of the approaching hosts. ‘‘ The dark, solitary cane and myrtle swamps of the Southern States are the favorite haunts of this silent and recluse species, and the deeper and more gloomy these are, the more certain are we to meet with this bird. So in migration, we must look for it in the shadows of dense forests, where the moist leaves and mosses have carpeted the sylvan halls of silence. Butthe Ruby crowned and Golden crested Kinglets, less cautious and in considerable numbers along the borders of streams, begin to break the silence; and then the little House Wren, the most thoroughly in earnest of all the song world, and just ready to burst if he doesn’t open his mouth, jumps upon the stage like a little ‘‘prima donna,”’ and fills the air with a solo that would wake the whole choir if only here. The concert thus preluded, is steadily swelled by the addition of another, and another warbler, until some morning early in May, a breath of coming summer suddenly opens the buds of many waiting blossoms, rendering the air fragrant with familiar aromas, the Mocking Thrush, or Brown Thrasher, as he is infelicitously ‘called, peerless amongst American songsters, mounts the topmost branch of some isolated tree and pours forth a volume of melody, which, for fullness, variety and sweetness, is utterly incomparable, and challenges all attempt at description. The entire woods have now become vocal with song. The warblers in endless varieties of decoration more delicate and beautiful than art can imitate or pen describe, representing some thirty species, some of which are very numerous, and the Sparrows, some of which are scarcely inferior in song or plumage tw the warblers, have registered themselves ‘present’ in full by their songs or their busy appropriation of insects and seeds not already consumed by the winter species. The gorgeous Baltimore bird, with notes as soft as a flute, the Orchard Oriole, Robin Redbreast, Grosbeak, a charming, soft, rich singer, the Cat Bird, than whom there is only one superior melodist, and that his regal relative the Mocking Thrush before mentioned, the Indigo Lird and Meadow Lark have each joined the grand chorus. We listen, wrapt in astonishment and admiration. This wondrous mystery of the Divine goodness,. The Bird! holds us spellbound. From the beginning to the end of its weird and wonderful life its history is one of surpassing charms and indiseribable fascinations. The egg, its elliptical marble palace of embryotic infancy, the most compre- hensible and symmetrical of forms, hke a mirror hung athwart the portals of nature, flashes into our thought the startling problem of life. A charming pen calls it ‘“‘a complete minature world, a perfect harmony from which nothing can 96 ANNUAL REPORT. be taken away and to which nothing can be added. I conceive that u apparent inertness it holds a high mystery of life and some accomplished + of God.’* Bask Cradled in the solitudes of the wild woods, the meadows, or the reedy mo- rasses, and warmed by the love that toregoes the ceaseless activities of the wing, it opens its portals in due time to the exit of a new life—a bird—helpless as a new born infant upon the mother’s breast. “It would die if it were not loved,” says the same enamored friend. Loved! Every mother loves from the ocean to the stars.’’ A few brief days and the warmth of the matured bosom has clothed it in downy robes, plumed its unfolding pinions and with a faith that honors the Infinite Goodness sends it forth upon the buoyant air, “‘a thing of beauty—a joy forever.”’ et And what shall we say of wings? Wings! Everything in nature sighs for wings. Compared by the measure of his aspirations, wingless man is the most impotent of all. His utmost dream of freedom clothes him with wings which bask upon the clouds. He looks down upon a world and would feign embrace it with his love. . From the rudimentary wing of the Penguin of the southern pole to the triumphant pinions of the Frigate Bird of mid-ocean, which science, not poetry, declares able to measure the trackless wastes at the almost unimaginable rate of 240 miles an hour, we have a gathering prophecy of final freedom and immor- tality. When the last mentioned bird so chooses, all distance vanishes, he breakfasts at the Senegal and dines in America.”’ THURSDAY MORNING. TREES FOR FOREST PLANTING. The meeting was called to order by the President at 9.00, The Committee on trees for forest planting reported the follow- ing: Deeiduous Trees. Cottonwood. White Willow, on moist soil. White or Rock Elm, on moist soil. Sugar Maple. White Ash. Box Elder. Butternut. Evergreens. Scotch Pine. White Pine. Red Cedar. Arbor Vite. SN oe Poe Minnesora STATE HorTicutTurRAL SOCIETY. 97 DISCUSSION. European Larch. Mr. Grimes. Think the European Larch should be on the list. Think this tree one of the best for all soils that we have. Mr. Hollister. It gives most satisfaction on sandy upland of any tree. I recommend that we place the Larch on the list. Mr. Jordan. Mr. Thompson said we could move evergreens at any season, but the Larch can only be moved very early in the spring. Would plant Scotch Pine mostly. My last orchard is surrounded on three sides with Evergreens. Two roads run through it, and these are bordered with them, and every twenty- fifth row of trees is of Evergreens. I set 2,500 Scotch Pines and lost only two trees. The trees were from St. Francis nurseries, the roots immersed in water and then in a puddle of mud till the trees were set. Mr. Grimes. I favor the Larch, but as it starts early it must be transplanted early. It is best to have the trees shipped in the fall, and heel them in for the winter, and make it the first business in the spring to plant them. Then you will have abundant success. Mr. Pearce. We made that list for the people. The Larch is my favorite tree. I can set a thousand and save every tree. I trim up in transplanting. For protection would set 18 inches apart and let them grow. If planted further apart they will make fence posts in eight or ten years. I plant at any time by trim- ming up. Of 100 transplanted eight or nine feet high not one was lost. For evergreens I would set on a tree claim, Larch, Balsam Fir, Scotch and White Pines. For general planting no tree is so good as the Cottonwood. I have seen a row of them 20 feet high that we set only three years before. No tree can take its place for first planting. Next to Scotch Pine with me is Balsam Fir. Mr. Dart. Don’t think we should reject the Larch because of the ignorance of the people. Let them learn. I prune up my Evergreens well. Trim up Scotch Pine so that I can see under the branches. Mr. Pearce. 1 do not take off the top, but I cut back all the limbs. Mr. Storrs. As regards the Larch J believe there’s something in the soil. It does well on the sandy soil of the prairie, but on the rich, black loam of timber regions it fails. Have tried it frequently. The Larch was added to the list by a vote of nine for and none against. Motion was made to adopt the list as thus amended, ( 98 ; ANNUAL Report. - Balsam Fir, Norway and Black Spruce. ¢ ry : Motion was made to amend by adding Balsam Fir, Norway and — Black Spruce, which amendment was carried by a vote of nine for and one against, andthe motion to adopt was then carried by a vote of ten for and one against. Mr. Gould expressed doubt concerning the success of the butter- nut. PRESIDENT’S SMITH’S ADDRESS. Motion was then made and carried to take up the regular order of business which was the address of President Smith. At its con- clusion motion was made and carried to file for publication, and a vote of thanks was tendered President Smith, The following is the address: Gentlemen and Ladies, and Members of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society :—I am happy to again meet you at this our annual winter meeting, and hope that you have all brought abundant fruits of your experience for the past year that you can offer for the mutual benefit of all. Iam also glad that we are to hold our meetings in and share the hospitalities of this city where the citizens and public are so noted for their love of and good taste in horticulture and rura adornments. I shall not take up your valuable time with a lengthy address, when I know that there are others here much more competent to address you, and those that this society are anxiously awaiting to hear, and those whose minds are amply stored with the knowledge of experience that they will gladly give for the benefit of all if the opportunity is offered them. But I can not let this opportunity pass without again calling your attention to some of the wants of Minnesota horticulture as they occur to me after twenty years apprenticeship at the business here in Minnesota. Now if I should repeat many things that have been said before you must not think strange for there are many axioms or truths in horticulture as well as other callings that will bear re- peating often, and thereby impress them upon the mind. Now we here in Min- nesota are differently situated from most of our brother horticulturists in the other states of the Union in regard to soil, climate and markets, and, with perhaps the exception of western Wisconsin and northern lowa, require different modes of treatment and different varieties for our markets from those of most of our other states. Glutted Markets. Now in iregard to markets for such as grow fruits, flowers, vegetables, plants or trees for sale, hoping thereby to earn a living for themselves and families, I must say the prospects are not as good as I wish or as good as in some other localities, for here we have more competition and more to contend against and less certainty of renumerative prices than almost any other locality. Our markets have changed within the last ten or fifteen years. Before that we could calculate something about the supply and probable demand and the etfect upon prices; oe. t - Minnesora STATE HorTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 99 now Minneapolis, St. Paul and all other towns or cities of any size reached by railroads are supplied not by our local and surrounding farmers, gardeners and fruit growers and seedsmen, but the whole United States from Florida to Cali- fornia, and even Spain, Italy, and the West Indies and the Bermuda Islands al) contribute to supply and overstock our small markets, and when once shipped here must be sold in this market for what it will bring, and being perishable and often far gone and unfit for food is often sold for much less than the cost of trans- portation, saying nothing about the cost to the producer. This is now the fact in regard to almost everything that is grown here by our holticulturlists for sale. I have seen the past season many times car loads of such stock sent here and sold that was unfit for use, when there was plenty of our own home grown upon the market good and fresh, and could be purchased at very low prices; but as the imperted stock must be sold it would generally find purchasers at some price. Now to enumerate some of those articles shipped here—asparagus, lettuce, rad- ishes, rhubarb, peas, potatoes, beans, onions, squash, tomatoes, cabbage, celery, cauliflower, cucumbers, melons, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, grapes, and in fact everything grown in this or any other climate that can be shipped here before being rotten and worthless. Now when we take into consideration that in the climate and soils several hundred or a thonsand miles south of this, all these things, or most of them, can be produced much earlier in the season, if not cheaper than in Minnesota, you will say at once that the prospects of our horticulturists is hopeless, or at least not very flattering. I say not necessarily so. There are two sides to this question. Remedy. But the facts above stated do now exist, and require horticulturists to look them squarely in the face and to meet them like men. And as we cannot adopt a protective tariff or other legal means to protect ourselves, or make our business more profitable, so that we will not be compelled to give up the ship, we must look out for other means to puta stop to this immense amount of importing of what we have enough and to spare, and in some way bring our own produc- tions into market, and create a demand for home-grown fruits, flowers, vege- tables, trees, plants, vines, seeds, roots, bulbs, &c., &c. Now the great question for not only this society, but each individual thereof to solve is, how can this be done? How can we create a demand sufficient to enable our own nurserymen, seed growers, florists, fruit growersand market gardeners to sell stock enough at fair prices to support themselves and families in competition with all that is im- ported and sent here for sale on commission. Some, or the most of you men, think this is a very small matter, but with me I know with many others, it is one of the utmost importance, and one, in fact, upon which our bread and butter must depend. Now I have studied this matter most thoroughly for some years, and for me I can see but one way out, and I will briefly state that, and if any one or all of you can suggest a better one, I, for one, will be most happy to hear it. My remedy is this: that we shall, one and all, study our callings, and see what our land, soil, location, and markets considered, is best suited for, and what crops or fruits we can grow to the greatest perfection, each and every man for himself. Then plant no more than what he can most thoroughly and properly prepare the ground for, and no more than what he can cultivate and keep clean, mellow and free from weeds as long as the same requires, and no more than what he can harvest and market in the best possible condition, and in the most 4 ‘ 100 ANNUAL REPORT. * careful and attentive manner. In other words let everything of Minnesota ;- growth, offered for sale in our markets, be of vastly superior quality, i in addition © to being fresh and put up in the most attractive styles. Then in that case I think Minnesota horticulturists would not suffer so much as now from competi- tion with imported stocks. As Daniel Webster once said about lawyers, ‘there was plenty of room on the upper shelf;’’ no competition there; or words to that effect. I have always found that whoever had anything ior sale better than was to be found upon the market or in common channels of trade, always found plenty of customers when once known, at fair and firm prices. To illustrate my meaning, who does not know that at this time, with the millions of bushels of wheat in our State seeking a market, that if one man had any quantity of good, hard, clean wheat that would weigh 60 to 64 lbs to the measured bushel he would not want for customers, no matter how much he might have, at prices far above all market quotations, while the farmer having wheat that was unsound, dirty and only weighing 40 to 45 lbs. to the bushel would not find cus- tomers at any price. This is equally true of butter. I know of one farmer who sold butter in St. Paul market for 19 years at 40 cents per pound the year round and to one customer during the 19 years’ time at this price, and he never has wanted for customers at this price, while thousands of tons of butter seeks a market at 3 to 10 cents per pound, and the same holds good in regard to all farm produce. The best not only commands the best price but is of the readiest and quickest sale. And why is this not true to a greater extent in fruits, vege- tables, flowers, plants. trees, seeds, and all horticultural products, they as a general thing being much more perishable. Now we here certainly have this advantage, if we cannot grow any better fruits and vegetables (which I most emphatically deny) we can put them upon the market in a fresher state and in a more attractive manner, and thereby enhance the price and our own profits. Much might be said on this subject but one illustration will serve to convey my meaning, I last summer saw two farmers in St. Paul market with currants for sale; one had his currants in two bushel baskets, had brought them 12 or 14 miles. They were picked over ripe and in a careless manner, some stems &c., and were originally vevy fine currants, but looked rather dilapidated or worse for carriage. He offered them for 50 cents per bushel and could not find a purchaser on the mar- ket and had to leave without selling, while the other had extra fine currants carefully picked, just ripe, and neatly put up in quart baskets and sold readily for 10 to 1214 cents per quart or $3.00 to $3.50 per bushel. Now parties will tell me they are poor, they cannot afford to cultivate well and buy the best vari- eties, and what they;do grow they cannot afford to buy crates and baskets for, cannot afford to put up in good shape for market, Now I will attempt to say no man who grows fruit or berries for market can afford to do otherwise than put it up in the best and most attractive manner if he wishes or expects to get a living at his business. Now to sum up I would recommend and think this soci- ety will sustain my views or most of them, that in order to succeed as a Horti- culturist in Minnesota, requires, ist. That a man love and take pleasure and pride in horticulture. 2d. That he should thoroughly understand or learn his business. 3d. That he should understand his soil, location and market in order to know what to plant. 4th. He should not attempt to raise more than he can cultivate in the very best manner, and harvest and market at the proper time and in the best and most attractive manner. Now, by observing these few simple rules, nearly all will succeed even here in Minnesota. i i a Minnesota STATE HorTicuLTuRAL SOCIETY. 101 Obituary. Since our last annual meeting one of our number and one of Minnesota’s most — active and intelligent pomologists has been called to higher, and, may we not hope, to a better sphere, and that our loss may be his gain. I refer to Dr. P. A. Jewell, of Lake City, and I hope at the proper time suitable resolutions will be an and spread upon the record, and copies furnished his friends and family. is illness was reported at our last meeting, and all regretted his absence, and were in hopes he would soon be among us again, to give his ripe experience and counsel, and advise us new beginners. I trust the committee on obituary will see that one is prepared for publication in our next Transactions. Retrospect. In closing, may I not be permitted to glance over the past year of 1878, which, taking the year through, was remarkable for the moderate winter weather and the extreme heat and wet of July, that damaged the wheat crop to such an extent, and at the same time ruined our raspberry crop, or mine at least. it blighted as badly and as quickly as did the wheat. The late frost in spring destroyed a large portion of the fruit of all kinds, not only in Minnesota, but in many other States. Apples, plums and strawberries suffered severely in most parts of our State; still the supply of Minnesota fruits of all kinds, with exception of plums, was never as plenty in the St. Paul market asin 1878. Had it not been for the late frost I have no doubt the quantity would have been doubled. Fruit at the Fairs. The quantity of fruits and quality on exhibition at our State Fair and at the Minneapolis Fair, I see by the programme were to have been read and discussed ere this, but notwithstanding, I must call your attention to that magnificent bushel of cranberries raised and exhibited by Russell, Lane & Co, of Morristown, Rice county. They and the State might well feel proud of such fruit; and should it not encourage others to embark in the culture of cranberries. The cranberries were accompanied with a statement of their name and cultivation, yield per acre, &c., a copy of which I hope will be received from the secretary of the State Agri- cultural Society, for publication in these Transactions. Agricultural College and State Reform School. I will here express my thanks, and I think this society and the county at large should thank our Secretary, Professor of Agriculture, State University, for the display of vegetable and other products made at our State Fair; also the State Reform School, and the officers and young men thereof. Such displays from State institutions always help at our fairs, not only to make a display, but to spread information among our citizens, and to show that taxes paid for their sup- port are not thrown away, and that we may yet expect great results from them in aiding agriculture and horticulture in our State. I hope that a committee will be appointed from this society to visit the University and State Reform School next summer, in the gardening season, and there learn all that will be of advan- tage to us of their new varieties and modes of cultivation, and show them that we appreciate their efforts, and that they can be of great and lasting benefit to _ Diseussion on the address was se meh byw tae COMMITTEE ON OBITUARY. i ee The ea moved that ne to consist of ‘ sa the same committee be requested to prepare an 7 obitaaees n the transactions. The motion was carried. CATALPA. Mr. Harris read a communication from Mr. Douglas, of Wauke- gan, on the Hardy Catalpa, and remarked that if the trees were hardy we ought to know it, and if not we ought to report the fact. Mr. Elliot mentioned the fact that one had ‘Deg growing on iS Mr. Pettit’s grounds for several years. : Mr. Harris. I move that it be the sense of the Horticultubal Society, that the Catalpa is not hardy in Minnesota, and that we do not advise the planting of it except for experiment. The mo- tion was carried, | | SECRETARY’S REPORT. The secretary made his report, and motion was made and carried to file, for publication with the proceedings. The following is the report: Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen:—The by-laws of our society make it the duty of the secretary to report at the annual meeting an abstract of the matter that has come into his hands. I suppose your president enjoys a monop- oly of suggestions of general policy, of regrets at past misfortune, of congratu- lations over successes, and of glowing anticipations concerning the future. I might therefore be pardoned if my report’ were only a dry and colorless presen- tation of facts. Some facts there are, however, which strike more forcibly the recording officer of your society than any one else. I trust you will permit me to make some ob- servations on these also. : — Minnesota SratTe HorvTicuLTvurRAL Sociery. 103 Progress. In the early proceedings of this society there seems to have been a constant and repeated effort to establish the feasibility of growing fruit, especially the apple, in this State. Paper after paper appears to have been presented to show that there is nothing in soil or climate more difficult to overcome than in regions where fruit culture had attained considerable progress. Report after report was read showing the isolated instances in which fruit had been obtained in greater or smaller quantities. Enthusiasts argued with a zeal which seemed almost to indicate a desire to establish their own faith on a sounder foundation. As time passed this subject has received less and less attention and in the proceedings of the later years 1t has been almost as notably absent as it was notably conspicuous before. The possibility of fruit growing has been settled, not alone in the minds of the founders and members of this society, but likewise in the minds of many others in nearly all parts of the State. Papers are now produced to show the best varieties, the best methods of propagating and the best modes of culture. Reports are now read to show the success of different varieties and the various methods of culture. Speeches are now made in defence of particular varieties or particular modes of culture as they were formerly made m defence of fruit culture in general. . Growing Reputation. The growing reputation of your proceedings abroad is another circumstance worthy of notice. In the last published transactions will be found a list of four- teen State and National societies in correspondence with your own. Nor is this an artificial and unfair exhibit, for this correspondence has been sought quite as often as it has been offered. Permit me in this connection to submit some of the letters that have been received. Letter from Hon. P. Barry. Mount Horr Nurser 1zs, Rocuxsrser, N. Y., February 21, 1878. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Minneapolis, Minn.: Dear Srr.—Your favor of 16th inst. is received, also transactions of your State Horticultural Society for 1876 for which I am vey much obliged. I find this to be a very instructive volume as regards fruit culture in your state. I will send as many volumes of ours as I can, but fear that will not be many, but I will gladly pay for your volumes. With congratulations, 1 am, Yours, P. BARRY. Letter from Hon. M. P. Wilder. Boston, Mass., Feb. 22, 1878. My Dear Srr.—I am much obliged for the copy of State Horticultural Soci- ety transactions for 1876 which you have the kindness to send me. The Minne- sota Society is doing a good work, not only for the state but the country. It is 104 ANNUAL REPORT. a q 1S by just such careful, practical and enterprising labors as your members a ar put i in action, that your state will soon enroll herself among those of eco sais! in pomological experience. Thus she will ascertain what fruits are adapt her location and thus greatly enrich and bless her people. I shall be g en receive the back volumes of your transactions. aa I send by mail a package of pamphlets and when this volume of the American Pomological Society proceedings is out will send that also. Yours, asever, with thanks for your notices of me. +: Se MARSHALL P. WILDER, _ Letter from Chas. Gibb, Esq. 80 AyLMER St., Monrreat, 23d Fres., "78. To Prof. Chas. Y. Lacy, Sec. Minn. S. H. Soc. DEAR Srr:—The reports of the Minn. 8. Hort. Soc. are now upon the shelves of the Montreal Hort. Soc’sjlibrary. They have been examined by many of our officers and members, and their worth to us in this like climate, is fairly under- stood. At the request of the directors, in the absence of the secretary, Mr. H. S. Evans, I write to ask if the Montreal Hort. Soc. could obtain from your society (or through your society from your State government, as the case may be) fifty copies of your forthcoming report, and if so, on what terms? These copies might be, either in paper or cloth. Paper we would probably prefer. This is all I am requested to ask, but if I may here express my personal views, I would venture to hope that in course of time some permanent arrangement might be made by which our horticulturists might thus profit widely by your written experience. The M. H. Soc. are about to issue another report, of which we will send you copies about two months hence. Were these reports equal to those of your society, some arrangement might be made on the basis of exchange; but as they are not, and are not likely to be, such would never do, for no arrangement could be lasting unless lastingly beneficial to both. Yours very truly, “CHARLES GIBB. Letter from Chas. W. Garfield, Esq. MicHIGAN STaTE PoMoLoGIcAL SOCIETY, SECRETARY’s OFFICE, GRAND Raprips, Apri 24, 1878. Chas. Y. Lacy, Minneapolis, Minn. My Dear Srr:—Would you like to exchange a few copies of your last report (say ten) for a like number of mine? I am doing this with nearly all the State horticultural and agricultural organizations. Again; is it possible for me to consummate an exchange of old reports with you? I can furnish you with nearly a complete set of ours. Please reply at your convenience. My last reports are in store at Lansing, and I shall go up there in the course of two or three weeks, and will forward you ten copies, if you so desire. Yours truly, CHAS. W. GARFIELD. -~ ¢ og CL a i ia til aa ie Mil ae tat | Se aul *'; > . A Miynesora Srate. HorricutturéL Socirery. 105 Prof. W. J. Beal, of our Agricultural College, is anxious to get your reports, to use in connection with his teaching. af Foreign Fame. I must also mform you that the spreading fame of your society is not limited by the shores of America but has crossed the Atlantic ocean, in proof of which I present to you the ‘“I'wenty-first Annual Report of the Horticultural Union of Bremen and vicinity for the year 1877." I would gladly give you a synopsis of its contents only that limited time and limited knowledge of German do not per- mit. I cannot forbear, however, calling your attention to the striking illustra- tions the volume affords of the value of scientific names for plants and animals. The scientific names are given in this volume and by reference to any botanical text book you, as well as I, can learn just what plant is meant. Were the pop- ular German names employed, not even a German scholar could tell you what plant was meant unless personally acquainted with it, and no German dictionary would afford assistance. Increased Membership. The signs of growing interest and appreciation do not all come from without the borders of our own State. Many names are found on the list of members for last year that have not before appeared on the rolls of the society. Some of these have forwarded their membership fees without solicitation from any one. A larger number have renewed their membership though at first induced to be- come members by the efforts of others. The number of members though not so large as the year previous yet presents no cause for discouragement. Doings of Other Societies. Programmes of several horticultural meetings have been received. In most of them we note some subjects of interest to peculiar localities, and also some sub- jects in which we have an equal or even greater interest. In the programme of the Michigan Pomological Society ‘Yellows in the Peach” is the first subject _ proposed for discussion, while ‘‘Horticultural Implements,’’ ‘‘Orchard Fertilizers and Cultivation,’’ ‘‘Progress in Floriculture’’ and ‘‘Insect Enemies’’ are subjects that command or may command our own consideration. There are some subjects also which seem to invite more of speculative discussion than we are wont to in- dulge in. Of this sort [ consider the topic ‘‘How shall we utilize our Rainfall.’’ At the meeting of the Ohio Horticultural Society ‘‘Pear Culture’’ seems to have been the peculiar topic, while the majority of the subjects treated would have been equally interesting to us. Some of them were ‘‘Culture and Diseases of the Grape,’’ ‘‘Rules for Judging Fruits,”’ “Utilizing Surplus Fruits,’’ ‘‘Pro- tection of Orchards,”’ ‘‘Forestry,’’ “‘Ornamental Planting about School Houses,’ and ‘‘Civilizing Influences of Horticulture.”’ The lowa Horticultural Society met Tuesday but no programme has been re- ceived. Tree Planting Laws. I will spare you further observations of this nature,”"and confine myself to more relevant matter. : é / ‘é 106 ANNUAL REPORT. At the last meeting of this society action was taken favormg an amended claim law, and an act to provide for sending a commissioner to Europe to exan ine and report upon forestry on that continent. The Secretary was directed to notity the Senators and Representatives of this State in Congress. This was done, and answers were received, promising compliance with the request of the Ss society. Executive Committee. The Executive Committee has met once since the last meeting of the society. There seeming to be occasion for it, a meeting was called on the State Fair grounds at St. Paul, Sept. 6th, when the following resolution was offered and unanimously passed: Resolved, That no products grown in whole or in part by State aid, shall be awarded a cash premium at this exhibition, but that the judges in the different departments be requested to pass upon such exhibits, and to award such honorary commendations as may be found just. Passed unanimously by the Executive Committee, Sept. 6th, 1878. Library. The library of the society has received important additions durmg the past year, among which the following are particularly worthy of mention: Proc. of Am. Pom. Soc., session of 1869 and session of 1871; 10 Addresses and other papers from Hon. M. P. Wilder. Proc. W. N. Y. Hort. Soc., 1874 to 1878, 5 volumes in paper, from P. C. Reyn- olds, Secretary. ; Reports Mich. Pom. Soc., 1871 to 1877, 7 volumes, in cloth, from Chas. W. Garfield, Secretary. Reports Mich. Bd. Agr., 1870 to 1877, 7 volumes, in cloth, from Prof. W. J. Beal, of Mich. Agr. College. Owing to accummulations of reports and proceedings in paper binding, which are difficult to preserve in good shape, the secretary has taken the responsibility of having some of them bound together in leather, at an expense that will appear later in this report. The following 1s a complete list of all the books and papers now 1m the library: Transactions Illinois Hort. Soc., 1868 to 1874, 6 volumes, in cloth. Entomology of Missouri, 1873, 6th report, 1 volume, in cloth. Report of Wisconsin State Hort. Soc., 1869, 1 volume, in paper. Transactions Wisconsin State Hort. Soc., 1871 and 1872, 2 volumes, in cloth. Transactions Wisconsin State Hort. Soc., 1874 to 1876, 3 volumes, in cloth. Pomology of Maine, 1873 and 1874, 1 volume, in cloth. Pomology of Maine, 1875 and 1876, 1 volume, in leather. Transactions and Papers of Nebraska State Hort Soc., to 1871, 1 volume, in leather. Transactions Nebraska State Hort. Soc., 1872, 1 volume, in cloth. Transactions Nebraska State Hort. Soc., 1877, 1 volume, in paper. Transactions Kansas State Hort. Soc., 1872 to 1874, 3 volumes, in cloth. Transactions Kansas State Hort. Soc., 1875, 1 volume, in paper. U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Report, 1876, 1 volume, in cloth. Reports of Fruit Growers’ Association and Entomological Society of Ontario, 1875 and 1876, 1 volume, in leather. a , MinnesoTa STATE Hor TICULTURAL SOCIETY. 107 Report of Michigan Pomological Society, 1871 to 1877, 7 volumes, in cloth. Reports of Michigan Board of Agriculture, 1870 to 1877, 7 volumes, in cloth. - _. Transactions Iowa Hort. Soc., 1877, 1 volume, in cloth. Transactions Illinois Dept. of Agriculture, 1876, 1 volume, in cloth. Proceedings W. N. Y, Hort. Soc. 1874 to 1878, 5 volumes, in paper. Fruit List for Province of Quebec, 1 volume, in paper, Transactions and Second Report of Fruit Committee of Montreal Agr. and Hort. Soc., 1876, 1 volume, in paper. Proceedings of Am. Pom. Soc., 12th session, 1869, 1 volume, in paper. Proceedings of Am. Pom. Bear 13th session, 1871, 1 volume, in paper. Nine Addresses by Hon. M, P. Wilder, 1 volume, in leather. Address by Hon. M. P. Wilder, at 15th session Am. Pomological Society, 1875, 1 volume, in paper. The Chronotype for February, 1873, containing Sketch of Life, and Portrait of, Hon. M. P. Wilder, 1 volume, in paper. Sketch of Life and Services of Hon. M. P. Wilder, 1 volume, in paper. History and Progress of Mass. State Board of Agriculture, with Report on Fruits, by Hon. M. P. Wilder, 1 volume, in paper. Catalogue of Phzenogamous and Acrogenous Plants Found Growing Wild in the State of Michigan, 1 volume, in’ paper. Proceedings First Annual Meeting Minn. Hort. Soc., 1 volume, in paper. Transactions Minn. State Hort. Soc., 1866 to 1873, 1 volume, in cloth. Transactions Minn. State Hort. Soc., 1874 to 1877, 5 volumes, in paper. Fifth Report Vermont Board Agriculture, 1878, 1 volume, in cloth. Twenty-first Annual Report of Horticultural Union of Bremen and Vicinity, 1877, 1 volume, in paper. It was moved that the society ratify and adopt the action of the executive committee on exhibition by State institutions. The motion was carried. Judging Fruits. The rules adopted by Ohio Horticultural Society for judging fruits were read by the secretary. A moticn was made to adopt these rules. Mr. Dart moved to amend by adding the point “hardiness of tree.” The secretary objected that it would be impracticable to observe it in making awards. Mr. Harris. I would have some such condition apply to seed- eee Elliott. There is much difficulty in keeping the fruit for the winter meeting, and I think it should be given to some one person to keep for the society. Mr. Dart. There is no difficulty in getting a statement of the condition of the tree and its prolificness, and I move to amend so 108 ANNUAL REPORT. account in making awards on seedlings and Russians.. This a aye ment was carried by a vote of eleven for and one against. _ ne The motion to adopt the rules was then carried. oy ee The following are the rules, with amendments: General Rules. 1st. In all cases the judges are to be governed by the letter and spirit of the — schedule under which the exhibitors have made their entries. The general ap- pearance of the fruit, care in its selection, and taste displayed in its arrange- ment or grouping, each entry being distinctly separated from the rest; these are all elements of the highest importance, and should receive appropriate con- sideration by the committee. 2nd. 1n every group, whether the single plates, the threes, fives, tens, or larger collections of fruits, there should never be more than one plate of any variety in any one group. Lists of the names of varieties exhibited should accompany each group, and must be attached to the entry card, and havea correspondmg number and designation—with or without exhibitor’s name, according to the rule. drd. The same plates of fruit cannot compete for different prizes, except in the grand collection of largest display (sweepstakes): though the several entries for the best ten, best five, or other numbers, and the best plate, may embrace the same varieties, but not the same plates of specimens: in each case they must be duplicates, and im sweepstakes they will count for a single variety. 4th. When the schedule prescribes the number of each kind, usually 3 or 5, to be placed on exhibition, the exact number must be presented, neither more nor less. 5th. In general collections of fruit by individuals, counties or otherwise, when the several species of fruits are specified in the schedule, they must all be pre- sented, or the collections may be passed by the committee. 6th. In all cases, but more especially in the display, or greatest and best col- lections, number of varieties is the prima facie test of superiority, other things being equal; but quality, relative value, their perfect condition, and tasteful appearance, will be considered, and should rank thus respectively: 1. Number. 2. Quality or value. 3. Condition, approaching perfection. 4. Taste in the display. To illustrate: on a scale of ten. Rank. No. 1 may have 100 plates—the largest collection........+++++++++eeesee-- 10 Quality, some inferior varieties..........++-eeeeeereees ase ceeeesrees 5 Condition of ‘fruits, rather poor i. 20/5. sxe ose st oat Sry 5 Taste in the display..........- vaagea reese ove oo0's a5 pelea en 5 OGG Lc 00.055 he o1n.e ore thesesci die chore, slate whccen ane etasil) stave aye alse eat 25 No. 2 may have 90 plates— ranking. ..........s0+eeseecteneececasseneneas 8 Quality, superior in most—ranking.....ceee. esse e cess eee seehivene ys: Condition of fruit, perfect—ranking...-..+-..++++eeee scree eeneenees 10 Taste in the arrangement, good —ranking......--..-+-.eeeeeeeeeeees ee Minnesora STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 109 ~ No 2 would, in this case, take the premium. In the case of single plates of the several kinds named, or in a competition for*the best plate, or basket of any kind of fruit, we may consider, condition, form, size, color, and texture with flavor. : On the same scale we may have two entries to decide thus: No.1. No. 2. i PURO. coker oye sete 10/Stem lost.......-. 8 IEEE wisi wid y bach ween Abnormalla.us i. i052 8iPerfect.i:. e200 10 EEN acai diols a ccu'v ope 46s Overgrown... .......s. SUMO VEL ao sain a= Se 6 acne va c.0e vase ss Hetlech:. sca. eemavee TON GO Gale a. cee we 6 Texture and flavor............ SUPOLIOE: ao ae nte'da es ac VONRII eae ss ss Po EE aire cals aigikeicke ankis'aa oped eOues AGI cine ee weeds wa eee 35 This scaling might be used in deciding between any number of single plates of designated varieties, competing with one another for the best plate of any kind, or for the basket premium, with assortment or single variety according to the words of the schedule. Special Rules. Thejudges should have an an ideal standard of perfection, in all cases, made up of the following particulars: Ist. The condition and general appearance of the fruit—which should be in its natural state, not rubbed nor polished, nor specked, bruised, wormy, nor eroded—with all its parts, stem and calyx-segments—well preserved, not wilted nor shriveled—clean. 2nd. The size in apples and pears, particularly, should be average and neither over-grown nor small—the specimens should be even in size. 3d. The form should be regular or normal to the variety and the lot even. 4th. The color and markings, or the surface to be in character—not blotched nor scabby. oth. When comparing different varieties, and even the same kind, grown on different soils, the texture and flavor are important elements in coming to a decision. 5 points. In judging Russian and seedling apples we must in addition to the above take into account 6th, hardiness of tree, and 7th, productiveness; these to be obtained from written statement of exhibitor. 7 points. In the class peaches, plums, etc., the important elements are size, form, color, flavor, and condition. 5 points. In grapes we must consider and compare the form and size of the bunches, the size of the berries, their color, ripeness, and flavor and condition. 5 points. In currants we shall have to examine the perfection and size of the bunches; and of the berries, their flavor and condition. 3 points. In gooseberries we shall look to the size, color, flavor and condition of the fruit. 4 points. In judging cherries we have as our guide, the size and form, the color, flavor, and condition. 4 points. 110 a - ANNUAL REPORT: © . “ In judging strawberries we shall compare the size and form, color, flavor, firmness-and condition. 5 points. They should be shown with stem and calyx. Raspberries may be shown with or without the calyx. In this fruit we shall — , have to judge of the size, color, flavor and condition. 4 points. Blackcaps must have size, color, flavor and condition. 4 points. Blackberries must be tested according as they present ‘size, color and ene flavor and texture, and condition. 4 points. In all cases it is well to have a convenient scale of comparison, for which the number ten is found to be easily managed. The highest figure denotes perfec- tion for the variety, and five is mediocre, below that is condemnatory. The total of the marks should exceed fifty per cent. of the possible number, or the entry must be passed as unworthy of award. TREASURER’S REPORT. The report of the treasurer was then called for. The secretary reported the absence of the treasurer, and made a statement of the condition of the treasury. The following motion was then made and carried. Resolved, That since the treasurer has received no money since his last report, the report of that officer be now dispensed with. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. President. It was moved, and the motion carried, to proceed to the election of officers by ballot, without nomination, and that baliots for president be taken. On the first ballot Wyman Elliot received a majority of all the votes cast, and was declared elected, but positively declined to serve; whereupon a second ballot was taken, in which J. T. Grimes received a majority of all the votes, and was declared elected. Mr. Harris moved to declare the election unanimous; which motion was carried. Vice Presidents. For vice president for the first district Mr. Fuller moved that the secretary be directed to cast the ballot of the society for E. Be & Dart. The motion was carried and Mr. Dart declared elected. In the same manner Ditus Day and U. S. Hollister were elected vice presidents for the second‘and third districts, respectively. Minnesora State HortTicuLTURAL Socievy. U0 Secretary. Fer secretary the third vice president was directed to cast the vote of the society for Charles Y. Lacy, who was accordingly de- clared elected. Treasurer. For treasurer the secretary was directed to cast the vote of the society for J. M. Underwood, and he was declared elected accord- ingly. Executive Committee. For members of the Executive Committee the secretary was suc- cessively directed to cast the votes of the society for— J. S. Harris, of La Crescent. Wyman Elliot, of Minneapolis. T. G. Carter, of St. Peter, and F. G. Gould, of Excelsior. Delegates to Agricultural Society. For delegates to the meeting of the State Agricultural Society— Wn. E. Brimhall, of St. Paul. T. M. Smith, of St. Paul. Dr. R. W. Twitchell, of Chatfield. M. Pearce, of Rochester, and G. W. Fuller, of Litchfield, were successively elected. It was moved that the delegation be empowered to fill vacancies, and the motion was carried. MR. JORDON’S STATEMENT. The secretary moved that Mr. Jordon’s tabular statement on varieties of apples be republished in the transactions of the society. Mr. Dart objected that it would be taken as the action of the society, but the motion was carried. The statement will be found in appendix. MR. HARRIS’S FRUIT REPORT. Mr. Harris offered his report as member of General Fruit Com. mittee, and it was ordered to beffiled for publication without reading, The following is the report: 112 . | ANNUAL REPORT. ~ REPORT OF THE GENERAL FRUIT COMMITTEE, FIRST DISTR > To C. Y. . Lacy, Sec. State"Horticultural Society: ay 4 : ‘) oe Climate and its Injuries. tanaer The lowest temperature at any time last winter ranged from eight to fourteen degrees below zero in different sections of the district, and continued at that but a few hours; and for weeks in succession did not drop down to zero. Little snow — fell at any time, and quickly disappeared. Thaws were frequent. The prevail- ing winds were south and southwest. Moisture was abundant in the earth, and air mists and fogs occurred frequently, and consequently trees, plants and vines that were reasonably hardy survived the winter with little or no protection. Some Philadelphia raspberries were injured on southern ‘exposures, probably from premature start in early spring. Sprig commenced to open very early, but received check from cold weather in April, and fruit trees were not in bloom much in advance of their usual time, and came forward very slowly. Severe frosts occurred on the mornings of May 11th, 12th and 13th, cutting the fruit badly on low grounds and in the valleys, but doing very little injury on the bluffs and high grounds. Blight, Insects, dc. Much less blight has occurred than for many years past. Insect ravages have not been as extensive as in some past years, but the canker worm is on the increase, also the steel blue grape beetle. Birds were very plenty and very destructive to the fruit. Field mice and rabbits are a great pest, and at this time are making fearful havoc with the young forest and orchard trees. Apples and Crab Apples. The average apple crop was nearly as good as on any previous year, as the trees on the bluffs and ridges bore to their fullest capacity, making up for the deficiency in the valleys. The varieties that have come under my notice as fruit- ing the best are Duchess of Oldenburgh, St. Lawrence, Price’s Sweet, Haas, Fameuse, Red Astrachan, Fall Stripe, Jeniton, Talman Sweet, Alexander, Sops of Wine, and some varicties of seedlings. In some cases the Russets bore well, but generally were shy in bearing. Ben Davis is doing well on some of the ridges. Crabs and Siberians have not done as well as in former years. The blight seems to have checked their fruitfulness and somewhat affected the quality of the fruit. Hyslops were fair, but the Transcendent seems to bring the best returns. The new varieties have not done well enough so far to create any great sensation. Apple trees made a fair and apparently healthy growth, and the fall being rather dry and frosts holding off late, except on very rich and low grounds, they have generally matured their wood, and are apparently in good condition to survive a hard winter, unless there may oceur injury to the roots in sandy and gravelly soils from lack of moisture. The prospect seems to be good for a medium crop next season. The trees that were severely injured in the winter of 1872 and 1873, continue on the decline, and will soon all have perished, but the orchards planted since that date are doing well and look promising. The num- ber of trees planted last spring exceeds that of previous springs for several years. ; +} oe Minnesota STATE HorTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 113 Pears. a 5 As far as I know there are but two bearing trees in the district, both in the town of Hokah. They came through the hard winter without injury, have never blighted and are bearing good crops. Young trees have been planted in limited quantities, and are generally promising well. The variety is Flemish Beauty. Plums and Cherries. The cultivation of the tame plum has been mostly abandoned and the crop of native plums was mostly a failure; whether this should be attributed to insects or blight Iam unable to say. Cherries are not much cultivated but bore a crop wherever the trees were found. Small Fruits. The strawberry crop was the best for many years and the season of bearing continued longer than usual. The Wilson, Charles Downing and Kramer Seed- ling did the best; Green Prolific and Col. Cheeney not of much account. Cur- rants were a fair crop, although in some instances injured by spring frosts. Raspberries were a short crop. The prospect is that we shall be compelled to throw out the Doolittle on account of blight and red rust. The red raspberries were plenty for a few days; after which the birds took the whole crop. Among blackberries the wild were abundant, and the Snider is promising well. Grapes. Grapes in some vineyards were an abundant crop and remarkable for their size and quality, especially those of Brownsville and La Crescent; in other towns the late frosts cut them and mildew and rot has prevailed moreor less. The Concord is the most exempt from disease. Salem, Rogers 15, Diana and Isabella are among the most affected. Have not noticed the Janesville. All Hybrids suffered more or less. Nurserymen. Our principal nurseries have suspended operations. Their plea is that they cannot raise and furnish good trees at prices to allow them to compete with for- eign nurseries, therefore this district is an open field for tree peddlers and hum- bugs. For our protection against all such we petition the State Horticultural Society to devise and perfect some mark to put upon the agent representing a re- sponsible nursery, that we may be able to distinguish him from the smoothed- tongued frauds who doubly rob us by taking our money and our time in finding it out. Varieties. The following is a list of fruits we recommend for cultivation in this district. Apples for general cultivation: Duchess, St. Lawrence, Haas, Fameuse, Red Astrachan, Price’s Sweet, Tallman Sweet. For trial: Wallbridge, Wealthy, Plumb’s Cider, Sops of Wine. 8 114 ANNUAL REPORT. Pears, for trial only, Flemish Beauty. Siberians. and Hybrids, Early Strawberry, Transcendent, Maiden’s Blush, Pride of Minneapolis. Grapes—Concord, Delaware, Clinton. Paes Plums—Only the best natives. ars Currants—Red Dutch and White Dutch or White Grape. Raspberries—Seneca Black Cap and Turner, red. Strawberries—W ilson, Charles Downing, Downer’s Prolific. For trial: Ken- tucky, Kramer's Seedling. Resvesialls submitted, JOHN S. HARRIS, La Crescent, Minn. The society then adjourned to meet at 1:30 p. m. THURSDAY AFTERNOON. MINNETONKA FRUIT FARM. The meeting was called to order by Pres. Smith at 1:45 o'clock, The Secretary was called upon to read Mr. Gideon’s report to the Board of Regents, of operations on Minnetonka Fruit Farm. It was moved that a copy be requested for publication in the transactions, which motion was carried. The following is the report: To the President of the University: Srr:—As Superintendent of the experimental fruit farm, I herewith send the following report of my doings, On the nineteenth of April last I got notice to proceed with the work. On the next day began the clearing, and by the sixth of May had the ground cleared, plowed, and 795 trees set, and two days later under good fence. The trees set were crown and root grafts. About three-quarters have done well, the growth ranging from one to five feet. The loss was occasioned by the heat and dryness where brush and logs had been burned. The varieties set were our best hardy seedlings, alternating in row with the best long-keeping varieties that could be procured, all worked on hardy seedling stock. In same manner I propose to fill vacancies next spring, having on hand the best of stock to do it with. On another part of the premises I set a few grapes last spring, about one-half being seedlings from our best grapes, the soil and location being all that could be desired, and I expect to set some five or six hundred more next spring. is point President aaah propel UB retire and hake ewell remarks, in which he thanked the society for the and courtesy he had received, he introduced his successor. MR. GRIMES’ ADDRESS. able Members of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society, In assuming the duties of the chair I desire to return you my humble and sin- cere thanks for the honors you have been pleased to confer upon me. I assure you, gentlemen, that I accept this position with some reluctance in view of my — inability to perform its duties so well as your worthy retiring president has done. ~ But I know the members who compose this society, and I know, gentlemen. that you will sustain the work through your executive and other committees, and as individual members, and more especially through your worthy and efficient sec- retary, im whom! have implicit confidence. I accept the position you have assigned me, and will endeavor to discharge its duties to the best of my ability, trusting that you will sustain me, and render all the assistance in your power, and whatever I may lack in judgment, or my imperfections may be that you will overlook them in view of the great work we have before us. Once more, gentlemen, | thank you for the honors bestowed upon me. DISCUSSION ON FRUIT FARM REPORT. Mr. Jordon explained that Mr. Gideon had grafted ne hardiest, long keeping varieties of apples that we can grow, such as the Walbridge on his hardy seedlings, and planted these trees alter- nately with the seedlings. Mr. Tyler. ‘To get good results you must fertilize by hand and six pints of seed obtained in this way is worth six bushels of any other. We get in this way our best grapes and by it we can greatly improve our native plums. MR. UNDERWOOD'S PAPER. Mr. Underwood was called upon for his paper on the growth and GROWTH "AND MANAGEMENT OF TREES IN ome Mr. President and Gentlemen :—Having a deep. upc in the cess of a society to which I feel closely allied through the able him, whose memory I cherish with many lasting regrets for hisv I thought I could do no less than comply with our worthy secret: best I could, and leave the fitness of the appointment for others in the iimited space to which I must necessarily confirm my renee des if shall say anything that will be of interest to you in a general way I shall be s isfied. ‘ Seeds and Planting. ee Se Trees in the nursery are usually grown from the graft. Apple seed is procured at large cider mills, or of seedsmen, and is worth’ from $5.00 to $7.00 per bushel. It should be fresh and well prepared. You can mix it with damp sand and freeze it before sowing; or soak it in warm water until it swells, changing the water frequently so as to prevent fermentation. The ground on which to sow the seed — should be high prairie land, and new is preferable as there will be less weeds. Plow it deep in the fall and subsoil; then harrow well and leave in good condi- tion for early sowing, which should be in Mareh or April, in drills twenty to twenty-four inches apart. Cultivate well until frost cuts the weeds, and just before freezing dig and pack in sand in the cellar. Cions and Grafting. Cions are better cut in November, or befcre very cold weather sets in and packed in new saw-dust or sand, care being taken that the temperature is not high enough to start their growing, and that they do not dry out. : The process of grafting I need not describe as it is familiar to all, but will say that after a great deal of experimenting, I am fully satisfied that a medium length cion of say three inches, on a root of the same length, or a long root and short cion, for the promptness and uniformity of starting, with the vigor of growth derived, will more than counterbalance the advantages claimed for any other method. Perhaps the most important part of grafting is the manner in which the wax- ing isdone. I would use thin manilla paper and lap so as to make it several times thick, to strengthen and secure the grafts for handling but more particu- larly for weeding and cultivating among, as it is here that the care taken will be amply rewarded. Keeping the Grafts and Planting. The care of grafts. until time for setting should be much the same as that of roots or cions, with this addition that I would raise the temperature sufficiently Minnesora Stave HorticuctTvuraL Socrery. 117 a fortnight before planting to knit well the union of the graft and swell the buds. If possible select new ground on which to plant, that you may have less weeds, - and where the snow will lie well during the winter; but if the ground is old it should be thoroughly enriched. Plow it deep in the fall and sub-soil it, then _in the spring plow it again as soon as it is dry enough to work, drag thoroughly and roll or plank it. Mark out in rows north and south 314 feet apart, using a - long rope stretched tightly and make the impression by walking on it. ’ For setting I preter a flat iron or steel dibble which any blacksmith can make. It should be 8 inches long and 2 inches wide with the shank put through a short shovel handle with nut on the end. In the field do not expose the grafts long to sun or wind, mud the roots ina mortar of rich eartb; then make a hole with the dibble that will admit the graft without crowding it down, and by another insertion of the dibble press the earth against it very firmly at all points but more particularly at the bottom. Plant six inches apart, and leave only one bud in sight. Cultivation. As soon as the weeds show themselves, with a careful horse and a good culti- vator, turn the surface ground away from and within two inches of the row. The best implement I have found for this purpose is one of my own devise. I took our Perry scarifier that we tried a season to find some use for, and put in teeth made the same as those in Van Brunt’s seeder except that they are a little larger, and on the two corners I put a scraper tooth six inches long and four _ inches wide. Running one of these close to the row I can speedily put it in good shape for weeding. The best and cheapest way to do this is to hire women or girls and boys, and give them one each of the two kinds of hand weeders sold by D. M. Dewey, Rochester, N. Y. Wath these they can speedily and safely clean the weeds and earth away. When the weeds start again, reverse the shovels in your cultivator and turn the earth back to the row. The ground should be kept clean and stirred frequently until July, when usually it will be better to stop the cultivation and encourage the early ripening of the wood. Aphis. Should they be attacked by the Aphis, dip them in a weak solution of carbolic acid, saltpetre, or Paris green in water, or a strong decoction of tobacco. The latter we have used most, but I feel sure there is something better. Cultivation Second Year. Tn the fall, if you have cultivated as you ought and the season has been favor- able, your trees will have grown from two to three feet high, and you will have a nice crop of weeds and pigeon grass to hold the snow, and protect the trees during the winter. If, however, you haye not got a uniform growth, and many are only six inches or a foot high, you had better cut them back to the ground in the spring, and leave only the strong ones, which, if the winter has not been severe, will need cutting back to the first strong bud. Begin cultivating very early the second year, so as to turn the ground up to the sun for warmth, and 118 ANNUAL REPORT. thereby encourage an early growth. After the ground is sufficiently to warrant it, put on the cultivator with the seeder-like teeth, and pulverize it thoroughly. Next, to and between the trees use a narrow potato hook for clean- ing out the weeds and loosening the soil. i Pruning. eh I ae i This, I believe. covers all the essential points in cultivating during the period necessary to put trees on to the market, but to give directions for pruning trees is much more difficult, as it must necessarily vary. 1st, with the variety; 2nd, the particular condition they may be in; and 3d, the season, whether wet or dry; and each of these conditions being subject to greater or less variations. If your yearlings have made the extra growth mentioned, and have come through the winter without serious injury. you can, with the same success the second year, have a fine lot of trees ready for the market, one-fourth of which will be five to six feet; one-half, four to five feet; and the remainder three to four feet and culls. Some of the varieties will need to be kept trimmed up pretty well, and much can be done by rubbing off the leaves and sprouts before they get too old and need the knife; but bearmg in mind that the leaves are the lungs of the tree, and that through them it must largely depend for sustenance, you will avoid taking off too muchat a time, or you will stunt, rather than increase the growth. Varieties like the Haas and Wealthy, in their habits of growth, will need very little pruning, and it will need to be done largely with the knife after the limbs are too large to rub off. The reason is, that while they are fast growers they do not form many limbs, and most of what they do have must be left for foliage. The Duchess and Tetofski need much the same treatment for the reason that they are slow growers, particularly the latter. Many kinds, however, will, from the upper limbs, throw out a vigorous growth of laterals, which will supply the needed want, and the lower limbs, and foliage can be kept rubbed and trimmed off. ‘Two-year-olds that are not dug for market, will need to be trimmed in the spring to whips. Avoid cutting too close to the body, but of course do not leave any of the limb. Cut the top or central shoot back so as to have from six to eighteen inches of the last year’s growth, cultivate and care for as in the second year, and spend your leisure time in looking for some one to buy them or else enter your farm under the ‘‘timber culture act.’’ Ifyou should have any three year old trees left on your hands you can, in the spring, cut the top off to the last or second bud on the previous year’s growth, and keep on doing so each suc- cessive year; but what will be the final result, deponent saith not. DISCUSSION. Taking Up Trees in Autumn. Mr. Pearce. I practice taking up trees in the fall, tying in bun- dles of a hundred, heeling in for the winter and planting again in the spriig. The labor required does not exceed the loss by stand- ing in the nursery row, and trees are obtained from this method in a very healthy condition. Mr. Dart. I have tried wrapping the graft and setting without wrapping, and the latter does not answer with small ones. Minnesora STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 119 Mr. Underwood. It pays to wrap to strengthen the graft in its place for the first weeding. Mr. Pearce. By transplanting I also get the advantage of numerous fibrous roots. Mr. Dart. If you transplant every winter how are you to know if you have got a hardy tree to sell? Then you don’t want too short and fibrous roots. Mr. Pearce. Mr. Sias and Mr. Somerville practice this method, and with the soil properly prepared eg put in v trees almost as fast as a man can walk. PREMIUMS FOR FLOWERS. The committee on premium list for flowers and display then re- ported and the following discussion ensued : Mr. Dart. J think too mach is given to the florists as compared with the fruit men, and the latter ought to ask the florists to be just. ; Mr. Tyler. The florists are looking out for themselves. Mr. Underwood. I see that the florists have premiums for many things. This is right but the fruit men should have the same. PREMIUMS FOR FRUITS. A motion was made and carried to have the report of the com- mittee on fruit premiums read before acting on this report. The report was read by Mr. Jordon. Wines and Vinegar. Mr. Smith. I move to strike wines and vinegar from the list for the report assumes that they are worth less than the fruit is worth before manufacturing. Mr. Jordon. I second the motion. I don’t believe in having anything to do with them. Mr. Hollister offered the following substitute, which was accepted by Mr. Smith. Resolved, That the wine and vinegar list be referred to State Agricultural Society to be placed on list with domestic manufacturers. Mr. Harris. I should drop them aside from these reasons. The motion to refer wines and vinegar was carried. 120 ANNUAL REPORT. Apples. fi" ae Mr. Harris moved to reduce the premiums on Duchess to five sal three dollars; which motion was carried. _ Mr. Harris moved to raise the premium on Wealthy to eight, five, and three dollars. Mr. Jordon. That throws the larger premiums into the han | ot nurserymen, for they have most of the Wealthy, while many Duchess are exhibited by farmers. Mr. Smith. I @ove to amend so that we offer each and every other apple recommended by the society, three, two and one dollar; which amendment was carried. The report as amended was then carried, and the report on apples adopted as amended. Crab Apples. A motion was made to adopt the report on crab apples. Mr. Harris moved to amend to reduce premium on best collection ot crabs to ten dollars; but this amendment was lost. Mr. Smith moved to amend so as to make the premiums on all the varieties of crab apples recommended by the society, three, two and one dollar; which motion was carried. The motion to accept the report of the committee on crabs, with the above amendment, was carried. Seedlings. Mr. Dart moved to amend the report so that fall and summer apples shall have the same premiums as winter apples; and the motion was seconded. Mr. Harris moved to amend so that a statement regarding hardi- ness and productiveness shall accompany each entry; but this had already been adoptediby the society. Mr. Smith. The demand for fall apples is greater than for winter. The amendment was carried, and the seedling list adopted with this amendment. Grapes. Mr. Smith. ITmove to amend the report so as to offer premiums of three, two and one dollars for the varieties recommended by the society, and to reduce the premiums for best and greatest variety to fifteen, ten and eight dollars. Minnesota Srave HorTicuLTuRAL SOCIETY. 121 Mr. Fuller moved to amend the amendment so as to drop the vest and greatest variety, but this was lost. Mr. Dart moved to amend the amendment so as to reduce the premiums on best ten varieties to ten dollars, but this was also lost. Mr. Dart moved to amend the amendment so as to make the pre- miums on varieties recommended for trial two dollars, but this was lost. Mr. Harris moved to amend the amendment so as to make the premiums for best and greatest varieties, ten, eight, five and three _ dollars, which motion was carried. The report on grapes was then carried with these amendments. For premiums on seedling grapes the report of the committee was accepted. Pears. Mr. Dart moved to strike out premiums on pears, but the motion was not seconded. Mr. Harris. J move to amend the report so as to make the pre- miums for the best collection five, three and two dollars, and for the best plate of any variety, five dollars. _ The amendment was carried and the report as amended also car- ried. Plums. Mr. Dart moved to amend so as to make the premiums on the best plate of native plums five, three and one dollars, which amend- ment was carried. Peaches. The report of the committee was adopted. Blackberries. Mr. Smith. J move to amend the report so that a statement shall accompany entry, showing the hardiness of the bushes, which amendment was carried. Mr. Harris. I move toamend soas to cut off the highest premi- .um, which amendment was carried and the report carried as amended. Ee: ida gil call for the ‘proportion of m A te and to amateurs. rehptidile, wDMibey The motion was carried. The following is a tabulated list of the premiums ~ society: : Minnesora STATE HorticuLTvraL SOoOcrery. 123 Premiums for Fruits at State Fair—Report of Committee, as amended and adopted by the Horticultural Society—All fruits exhibited for premiums must be grown by the exhibitors. First |Second| Third |Fourth}| Fifth APPLES. Best. | Best. | Best. | Best. | Best. | | | Best and greatest variety, not less than five BOPCIMGHS CACD) 62. sc seek se see aise cee Ea $25 00 |$ 20 00 |$ 15 00 | 10 00 | $8 00 Best show of autumn apples adapted to Min- ETRE feacle re s)one - eihie eieie ie a]e - ders tenes caeesss ce cscicecceue 3 00 2 00 |. em alainiera||(staiets Best 6 Verbenas (assorted) not less than three EMAAR ALAC Yo nja nie Jo bis pi) 0 /a.a/ jn-a1e spn His choy ates 2 00 TOON fers: orajene sie elsteeieiotssifine aamaiay Best i al of Gladioli, not more than 1 spike MUI PRCO BUTI O DY 8c oie fed nina v'<-aisrnie ciottieisiclenesivieles acres 5 00 oy OO) ea taretal otuintel Narcratateversts (= wan wil Best 12 Asters (assorted) ................cccceeee 3 00 PAOOGE| ss acieraiaici | crcre athvals's! lence etoreye BOSE OLASUCTS (ASSOTECA). . 0.000 cee cree wseccieecee'e's 2 00 EMD |ete cveleretel ema etats otal eratereraceiers BGsiGISMlay OL PANSIOS. ...c0%.0.00 cece sacs scenes ss 3 00 BOO H| ce Wee Selle otis ee mate ete BGS UPRIMA O DASKEL. sco. seseaccccesccsceoensces SLOW ZOO) |e scwelesten sabe lelsialeicteisie Best Rustic Stand, with bark..................... 700} 500] 300 |........}...0...- Best display of Cut Roses, true to name......... 5 00 3 00 DOD) sacelaecell ines PAGED SES CULL ce's cierc aipteit s veide daiceisigiceeecsce siecle 2 00 1M SoReal ame cca) poococ ac CSM LOUSMCOSINIDS o:0'sin\ - 0 a’a's's o's vio sina civ ccletosiscceinsiae 1 00 BOSINS Secpewll se sen ates feietarmieetee Best assortment of Annuals...................06. 5 00 3 00 BN OD" terala aie este lctaleraterstat CSU OUQUECL. -icccccecesccsdececcacticwacs 5 00 ZOD} Ve sate cotae'| weiss a eva) ermaterete : Tesi 87 6500) 00 0) eae 5 00 3 00 200i | dcenieuae loseeee ie Best Basket Cut Flowers...................000.0: 5 00 3 00 200 | ..0ccee|-seeveee Best Minature Landscape—Villa Residence....| 15 00 | 10 00 |........|...cssee[eceeeeee BREA NIVOUEMNS vse ss cdc cecisvotecsces sche recesses 5 00 STOO sretetals synced lp aialera | senate Best display of Pinks in bloom, not more than | Mamenmoneach, NAME.~..20i.6 lessees cnnces 5 00 £3 RS ORBRRA iSneinemsral noaadetd Best display of ‘Tri-color and Silver-edged Gera- RPM ROMSBOLLE() 52255, 1 ola/ae siurdvimeiciaisie Sle see o/die\sie's 5 00 3 00 |. nc esee| essen cesifnecewcee Best display of Bronze Geraniums (assorted)... 5 00 SOO |e sidcrivtce||lerrarc cheprettaste erate BCRUMOUDISECLUDIAS. ......00606.s0ncescesecesces 3 00 OA rene Inne rige So] HARE cis FOR AMATEURS. Best display of Green House Plants ............ 15 00} 1000 BOO) Marcte atti lee eters : Best 3 Geraniums (assorted) in bloom........... 5 00 BOD) | icherere atars | eater lta arene BOS MHUPLE GeTaNiM. 2... ...06 cee csseveeneces a UU CePA soba ceebl HbCooLcall cook aso- PACSUN PVOMGELANIUM . sc ices cc. «ewalsis clang cecas Ds ODI ste aiaveve wal] sve /heverepacal| inte eretare etal lente ISGSEDOUPIEMNUCHSIA.. ...- cs le ees uccecousccce cece DVI (o's x70, ejnrots!| sien, o atnyaiel| whereas terateial tetera RCS MMP IER NUCH. co5\5) 00a sevecicesenscce seine ss ol OO antares ata/otfletatsiatele/a/al ates efatefaiel|latetetetereeta Best design for Natural Leaves, Ferns and MINED U EC eee see roe tr cin Bic do's < cdiclowslarc anes sis o/s 5 00 B00) |e cCifaces [ince atdonl{ndetemette Best Managing Basket:........6-...scase5 ceececes 200) | eeletsvne sell supe ascie’s oj| Riva stator ester teeta Best display of assorted Roses, true to name.... 5 00 SOO) |iSic'a) a/c:ai0' | mietoraserenetel | sateen terete Best display of Foliage Plants................... 5 00 DOO" ls crerateta acoilgiorate ee ern a ‘ fhpee ee ‘Sc. to be on the: tables ty 10 o'clock committee be appointed tomeet one month before the sh of competent men wnat shall be notified at once to give you | the apis have sai their awards, under penalty of dinqualifeat 01 All 12 and 6 entries to be shown in uniform size pots, not over 8 RESOLUTIONS OF RESPECT. Mr. Fuller reported resolutions on the death of the Jewell, of Lake City; and the report was wee a Wi follows: | Mr. President. gd Your committee on resolutions expressive of the sense of this society in the sss loss of its fellow member, Dr. P. A. Jewell, of Lake City, would submit the following: Tribute to the Memory of Dr. Jewell. 7 . Ma Wuereas, It has pleased our Heavenly Father, since our last winter’s session, to take from this life our highly esteemed associate and member, Dr. P. A. — Jewell; Resolved, That we do most earnestly mourn the loss, while in the Rock 3 pie’ beauty of manhood, of one so dear to us as a devoted member of our society; and that we recognize it as a privilege to bear testimony to his exceeding worth. Resolved, That in the life of our fmend were brought to notice a laudable ambition, an untiring perseverance, a devotion to the best interests of horticul- ture; as well as that of all worthy demands of humanity, that calls torth our highest respect and admiration. Resoleed, That in his death, the interests of fruit-growing in the Northwest, as well as this society, have lost a most valuable contributor and friend, which, to all interested must be recognized as an irreparable loss. Resolved, That in testimony of the respect in which we hold his memory, these resolutions be entered upon the journal of the proceedings of this society. REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. Mr. Hollister reported for the auditing committee, and the sce: was accepted. It was as follows: The auditing committee having examined the account of disbursements made by the secretary during the lant fiscal year, and the vouchers accompanying the same, find the total expenditure to be $46.36, all of which is properly accounted for. U. 8. HOLLISTER, WYMAN ELLIOTT. EE ~ Minnesora Svatve HorricutTvrAL SOciery. 127 ROOTS FOR STOCK. P. C. Sherren’s paper on the cultivation of root-crops, was placed on file for publication, without reading. It was as follows: LAKE Como, Str. Pau, Dec. 30th, 1879. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Secretary of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society. Dear Srr:—Having accepted your invitation to read a paper on the Culture of Beets and Carrots for Stock, I below state my experience in doing so. For some years in England, previous to my coming to this country I grew Mangel Wurtzel, which is a coarse kind of beet to feed to stock, and found them profitable to raise, as the yield is enormous. I have for many years here grown beets for market, and have always made a rule to grow an extra quantity of the different kinds of table beets to feed to my cows and pigs inthe winter, believing it paid me well to do so. The market price of vegetables the past season having been so unremunerative I considered my beets and carrots would be of most value to me to use them for food, consequently I reserved the whole of them for that purpose. I raised this year over 100 bushels of the Improved Long Orange Carrots (seed bought of Hollister) on thirty rods of soil, which I considered well paid me to feed. I give each of my horses half a peck of carrots every day instead of a feed of oats. They eat them with a great relish, and it keeps them more healthy than if confined to all oats and hay. I feed carrots at noon, and oats night and morn- ing. I am also now feeding some tomy cows that are giving milk, and they are doing well on them. Carrots pay to grow for stock. The various kinds of table beets may be grown profitably to feed to stock, the yield per acre being equal, if not more, than that of carrots. The land intended for carrots should be heavily manured the previous year, for some other crop, as they will grow forked on freshly manured land. I usually raise my parsnips and carrots on land that potatoes have grown on the previous year. Freshly manured land will do for beets. Mangle Wurtzel and Sugar Beets are the most profitable roots to grow for feed., the yield of them being so enormous when the land is well manured and well cultivated, from 800 to 1000 beets may be grown pn an acre. All kinds of roots should be sown in drill, and if grown in large quantities the rows should be wide enough apart to cultivate with a horse, to save labor, and must be kept clear of weeds the whole season, to ensure a good crop. If you think the above worth reporting at the society’s annual meeting, you are at liberty topresent it. Iam, sir, Yours respectfully, P. C. SHERREN. HART’S MINNESOTA SEEDEING. The report of the committee on Hart’s Seedling Strawberry having come to hand was read and ordered on file for publication. . \ aX . Al ivey,s \; iss p Sarge committee appointed to visit and nS on John mar E strawberries and cream, and many sihes good things too n After satisfying the inner man to our heart’s content, we proc the merits of the new candidate for public favor, secretly wishing be appointed a committee to visit the Hart’s Seedling annual visiting the vines we found that owing to late frosts there was b ing of well matured fruit, but the vines were well laden with withere and fruit in theembryo state that had evidently been killed by the: on from these we should say it is a good bearer, better than the V American, Monarch of the West or Russell’s Prolific, all ot which v growing in close proximity to it. The Hart’s Seedling is a strong grower bling in vine and leaf the Russell’s Prolific, of which we judge it to bea The fruit is uniformily large, moderately firm, slightly conical and form, color crimson scariet, fruit stalks long and stout, leaves large and numer ous, being from three to five leaflets on a stalk; blossoms large and perfect, vi hardy—standing summer's sun and winter’s cold without apparentinjury. = a And now in conclusion we wish to congratulate Mr. Hart, and also the ied Horticultural Society. PS: Mr. Harris. Last summer at the time of the May frost Mr, — Hart’s vines were literally loaded with blossoms and fruit. The — berries are large and the texture better than the Wilson or Down- __ ing. The society is safe in recommending for trial. The season is the same as Wilson. ; ‘a The meeting adjourned to meet at 7:30 P. M. THURSDAY EVENING. HORTICULTURE IN MCLEOD COUNTY. The society was called to order at 7:45 o’clock, = The report of Mr. Storrs was called for and read by the:secretary, after which it was ordered on file for publication. The following is the report : MinneEsova STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 127 ROOTS FOR STOCK. P. C. Sherren’s paper on the cultivation of root-crops, was placed - on file for publication, without reading. It was as follows: - Laxe Como, Sr. Paut, Dec. 30th, 1879. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Secretary of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society. Dear Srr:—Having accepted your invitation to read a paper on the Culture of Beets and Carrots for Stock, I below state my experience in doing so. _ For some years in England, previous to my coming to this country I grew Mangel Wurtzel, which is a coarse kind of beet to feed to stock, and found them profitable to raise, as the yield is enormous. I have for many years here grown beets for market, and have always made a rule to grow an extra quantity of the different kinds of table beets to feed to my cows and pigs in the winter, believing it paid me well to do so. The market price of vegetables the past season having been so unremunerative I considered my beets and carrots would be of most value to me to use them for food, consequently I reserved the whole of them for that purpose. I raised this year over 100 bushels of the Improved Long Orange Carrots (seed bought of Hollister) on thirty rods of soil, which I considered well paid me to feed. I give each of my horses half a peck of carrots every day instead of a feed of oats. They eat them with a great relish, and it keeps them more healthy than if confined to all oats and hay. I feed carrots at noon, and oats night and morn- ing. I am also now feeding some tomy cows that are giving milk, and they are doing well on them. Carrots pay to grow for stock. The various kinds of table beets may be grown profitably to feed to stock, the yield per acre being equal, if not more, than that of carrots. The land intended for carrots should be heavily manured the previous year, for some other crop, as they will grow forked on freshly manured land. I usually raise my parsnips and carrots on land that potatoes have grown on the previous year. Freshly manured land will do for beets. Mangle Wurtzel and Sugar Beets are the most profitable roots to grow for feed., the yield of them being so enormous when the land is well manured and well cultivated, from 800 to 1000 beets may be grown on an acre. All kinds of roots should be sown in drill, and if grown in large quantities the rows should be wide enough apart to cultivate with a horse, to save labor, and must be kept clear of weeds the whole season, to ensure a good crop. If you think the above worth reporting at the society’s annual meeting, you are at liberty topresent it. Iam, sir, Yours respectfully, P. C. SHERREN. HART’S MINNESOTA SEEDEING. The report of the committee on Hart’s Seedling Strawberry having come to hand was read and ordered on file for publication. 128 ANNUAL REPORT. VERA RocuusteR, January 21, 18 19. To the Minnesota State Horticultural Society : Your committee appointed to visit and report on John Hart’s Seedling § berry did so last June. We were met at Stockton by Mr. Hart, who c us to his home some three miles below. We were cordially received by wife and daughter who soon invited us to partake of a most sumptuous strawberries and cream, and many other good things too numerous 1 After satisfying the inner man to our heart’s content, we proceeded to the merits of the new candidate for public favor, secretly wishing that Ww be appointed a committee to visit the Hart’s Seedling annually r visiting the vines we found that ownig to late frosts there was but a ing of well matured fruit, but the vines were well laden with withered blo and fruit in the embryo state that had evidently been killed by the frost. Julene from these we should say it is a good bearer, better than the Wilson, Great American, Monarch of the West or Russell’s Prolific, all ot which we found growing in close proximity to it. The Hart’s Seedling is a strong grower resem- bling in vine and leaf the Russell’s Prolific, of which we judge it to be a seedling. The fruit is uniformily large, moderately firm, slightly conical and regular in form, color crimson scariet, fruit stalks long and stout, leaves large and numer- ous, being from three to five leaflets on a stalk; blossoms large and perfect, vines hardy—standing summer’s sun and winter’s cold without apparent injury. And now in conclusion we wish to congratulate Mr. Hart, and also the State Horticultural Society on the discovery of another new Minnesota Seedling Straw- berry that, in our humble opinion, will prove a great acquisition to our already fine list of American Strawberries, and as we are unavoidably absent from the present session of the society, we hope you will give this new candidate the at- tention its merits seem to demand. Respectfully submitted, M. W. COOK, A. W. SIAS, GEO. W. MASON, Committee. Mr. Harris. Last summer at the time of the May frost Mr, Hart’s vines were literally loaded with blossoms and fruit. The berries are large and the texture better than the Wilson or Down- ing. The society is safe in recommending for trial. The season is the same as Wilson. The meeting adjourned to meet at 7:30 P. M. Minnesora STATE HorRTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 129 THURSDAY EVENING. ha HORTICULTURE IN MCLEOD COUNTY. be The society was called to order at 7:45 o’clock, The report of Mr. Storrs was called for and read by the secretary, after which it was ordered on file for publication. The following is the report : WInsteED, Mrinn., Jan. 8, 1879. Prof. C. Y. Lacy, Secretary of Minnesota State Horticultural Society: Dear Srr.—Your card of the 2d inst. at hand, requesting a short report of the condition of trees in my vicinity. I shall accordingly endeavor to condense my report as much as possible, and therein submit such facts as I deem most suitable for circulation. The last three winters have been quite mild and fruit trees have not suffered any to speak of, but the late frosts of last spring however, did considerable damage to the fruit crpp. Apples, plums and cherries were almost an entire failure, except in some localities were the apple crop was medi- um fair. The currant and strawberry crop was good where the vines were properly covered, but grapes were not very abundant. In general, however, the display of fruit at Hutchinson, at our county agricul- tural fair, was better than in any year previous. Salt. Cleanliness is a.subject which I consider to be a very essential matter m orchards. Young trees should be washed at least once every year with strong soap suds which contain a few drops of carbolic acid in each pailful. I have used salt with marked success, putting it on the ground around thetrees. It is about five years since I adopted that course, and can say that my trees look healthier and thriftier than ever before. I hold it to be a preventive of fire blight for the reason that I have never had a tree blighted since I commenced the use of salt. The quantity used should be not less than a pint, and more according to the sizeof tree. For the past three years we have been top work- ing the most tender kinds on hardy crabs; and they are doing well. The Haas top worked on Transcendent makes the best union of any which I have tried up to this day. Pears — Varieties. The Flemish Beauty Pear is also proving itself worthy on Transcendent, Virginia Crab and Hebron. The Wealthy was growing very well here on the Mountain Ash, until destroyed by grasshoppers in 1877. Among the different kinds which have proved themselves most excellent, are the following: the Wealthy, Winstead Pippin, Tetofsky, Duchess and Haas; of crabs, Transcend- ent, Virginia, Whitney’s No. 20, Early Strawberry, Orange, Conical, Brier’s “The two ‘ast ere are from Reaver Pate Wis., where they 0 are now testing from fifty to sixty other varieties, of which sc valuable. As stated before, some losses were caused by late | however, not discouraged in consequence of the casualty, but 1 some of the hardier kinds, which move enables us to say eee fruit-raising a success. Protection. I have only a few words more to say, and those in regard to p ot some of our trees. It may be done with little trouble and expense nomically managed. In the fall I set a strip of board on south side of enough so as to reach from the limbs, and drive in the ground so that the ’ will not blow it down. This I ‘do just previous to the freezing of the gre Then after the ground 1s thawed up and settled I gather them for the next, I have dispensed with mulching since I began the practice of deep ple wah except the first year after settmg. I deem mulching necessary on light, nie © soil, but in general I observed throughout this county and vicinity, that where orchards are mulched and manured they are more liable to blight than those that are otherwise treated. My soil is a black clay loam with clay subsoil. I stili might say more about the subject, but as brevity is ae I will close. Hoping this will meet your demands, I remain » Yours truly, 0. D. STORRS. DISCUSSION. Salt, Pears and Pear Stocks. Mr. Storrs. I apply dry salt broadcast on the surface to a dis- tance of three or four feet from the trunk. Have had pears top- worked for only two years. Never have had any blight in my orchard save on two trees of Transcendent and General Grant, and when I used salt the blight stopped. Mr. Spaulding. I had trees set for two years which began to blight. I poured a quart of salt water down the roots which stopped the blight, but on the other side of the fence where noth- ing was done the trees were killed to the ground. Mr. Jordon. I grafted Flemish Beauty Pear on almost every- thing two years ago. The worst success was on Transcendent. It was better on Tetofsky and about the same on Duchess. It was better yet on Mountain Ash and White Thorn. Shall next use crab roots grafted, with White Thorn and the pear top-worked on 4 this. Mr. Storrs. J had unfruitful plum trees and a Hyslop also, and a Minnesora Starr HorvicuttvraL Society. 131 I put two quarts of salt on the soil around each. Both bore full the next year. Then the next year I salted each alternate tree and have since used it more freely. Mr. Jordon. I have known pears to do well on White Thorn. Have found that grafting by splitting sometimes gives no beetle, while if cut a beetle is produced. Mr. Pearce. Iam inclined to think we shall yet raise pears. I know of a man who had 300 to 400 before the winter of 1872-3. In the spring nine-tenths of them were killed. From those that lived he reserved twelve on quince roots. They are now ten feet high and have never killed. The others he gave away. Those that got them say that they are also alive. Mr. Sias raises a few pears every year. He has the pear on a Juneberry and supported by a trellis. Have seen another tree twelve feet high and full of fruit. Mr. Harris. Wave grafted many pears on thorn, but only one tree lived long enough to bear much fruit. Mr. Jordon, Have had pear trees in a cooley for eight years which blossomed several years but had the blossoms killed by frost. In a similar location near by the Wealthy killed down. Mr. Elliot. Was agreeably surprised when I saw Mr. Jordon’s place last winter and remember saying I should plant pears on it. Mr. Harris. Believe we may grow pears after experiments in grafting on different stocks. Mr. Fuller. Before the winter of 1872-3 I had 300 pear grafts on Mountain Ash. Some of these are now a mixture of pear and Mountain Ash. But I have many fine pear trees now. One came through the hard winter. Mr. Underwood. Have grown pears on Mountain Ash success- fully. Think the Flemish Beauty as hardy as Fameuse apple. It has great recuperative power and those with any life at all recov- ered atter the hard winter. Don’t believe that it will be practicable to graft on Juneberry or Thorn. Don’t think it practicable on the apple either. Have set many grafts on apple without success. Mr, Dart. Don’t think pears will do much on Mountain Ash. I had fifty on Mountain Ash which did badly; while those on pear roots did pretty well. A partial report on articles on exhibition was read by Mr. Fuller and ordered to be filed for publication when completed. The report has not, however, come to hand. = “suggest in ‘your dhikers ; been absent from home Mi train f | in several counties, which gave him the best opportunity of collec mation as would be of interest to your society. akira 0-d you on fruit culture, and having no time to find a more z for him, I have to comply with his wishes on this short noti been closely at home the whole year and have paid but littl matter, therefore please excuse me for the meagre and ed : important subject. Speaking in general I cannot report any pri horticulture in this part of the state, say west of the Minnesota various causes for this deplorable fact. Great many farmers in planting anything but wheat, oats and corn, while others raise fruit are entirely discouraged by those innumerable dra presume are always to be found in a new country. During the 1 years grasshoppers, rabbits and other vermin have been the cause’ tion of many nicely growing orchards and where people succeeded them, trees were injured by blight and other diseases, so with all and expense farmers have but little to show in the line of Le Sueur county where they had no grasshoppers thing 3 little more prosperous. They have 7 not been troubled by the blight, as we have on this side of the river. Speaking of my on my own place and the immediate neighborhood where more for the px of fruit culture has been done than in any other part of the county, I can say but little that is’encouraging. I lost last summer a great number of my old transcendents, in consequence of yearly attacks of blight, by which they suffered the most in the summer of 1876. In the year of 1877 all those that finally died - last summer, showed a sickly appearance. The leaves being of a yellow ish color. Blight appeared again among my trees last summer, but to no ‘such an extent. Many of my Soulards and old cherry trees also died, haying been injured in the winter of 1877 by the unusual warm weather, followed by hard frosts. All of the latter were over fifteen years old. Looking around in my_ neighborhood I find more or less the same discouraging aspects. At Mr. Miner’s place I noticed that his seedling crabs which have yielded him from five to twenty bushels to a tree of miserable little apples, with the exception of the Duchess, but even they have commenced decaying in several places. Looking at those beau- tiful apples raised on Mr. Carpenter’s place, and exhibited at the State Fair, for which the first premium was awarded to him, most any person having no knowl- edge of the condition of the trees on which they have grown, would feel encour- aged aad hopeful for the prospect of fruit growing in our State, but those very trees I found decaying. The only thrifty orchard in this part of the county 1s that of Mr: Lambert, situated on the second bluff west of St. Peter, on a north- ——— ow hey did not i kill, but skeen was iauseokey rry I cannot attend Lies swt ae - Hoping you ing discussion, I eae sh ae ea Oe Yours tinny Rita : ae E MEYER. jection, on Saeed of its dinoddeagine tone, 8. [have a brother-in-law there who is growing fruits G raise. Ht} Mr. mised. I think if we ask a man to report we should give his paper due consideration, if we believe it to be true, and I have no doubt that report represents the facts as viewed by the writer. Mr. Underwood. We began smothering yesterday, and I am sorry for it. Don’t want to do it any more. ARBORETUMS. The Secretary read Dr. Warder’s communication on establishing Arboretums, which was ordered on file. It was as follows: To the Horticultwral Society of Minnesota: Greetings from an absent friend, from a friend who may never have seen any of you, and who yet claims friendship for all those, everywhere, who work in the samecause. Horticulture, in its broadest sense, is indeed a cause that is especially productive of good to the human race, not merely in an esthetic sense, but in the most practical manner: so also in its specialties, from the floral adornments of the greenhouses, and of the parterres and shrubberies, or from the creature comforts of the vegetable garden and orchard; from the lawn, the avenue, the grove and the shelter-belt; and even from the larger plantations, that may aspire ‘to the title of artificial forests: all, all may contribute to the betterment of our race. than tees nisin eae ‘connected with the great seats rable Botanic-Gardens, experimental nurseries (. Baihiehaliens where the students of any of the specialties of horticulture may find a1 fund of information and ample opportunity for observation and In our aoe and new West these admirable institutions have x n ful soils, _. True it is, the thought germs were widely disseminated eae during the discussion, already a quarter century ago, of the great t trial education. Yes, those who advocated that great movement, culminated in the noble grant of congress of lands for this purpose, fondly hope that their longings for the new education which ‘‘should knoweldge of things rather than of words,’’ were indeed, now to be Alas, in too many cases, to be woefully ‘Gieaprioiiiedt Where can | among all the results of this legislation: the model we had pictured to ourselves A of industrial education? The answer is awaited with anxiety—but it comes not. Awe In such great institutions for learning things, the projectors and early advo- cates of the system, fondly anticipated seeing Arboreta established among the — first advances in the new departure, and had that been done, we should ere this have had laid for us the broad foundations of an American Forest-Science, the ~ A.B. C. of which must be a familiar knowledge of our own trees, the natives, and the desirable exotics. pda In how few, alas, of our so-called agricultural colleges, are any such object les- sons to be found. And where some attempts have been made to establish Arbo- — reta and Botanic Gardens, how small, as yet, are the beginnings, and how fee- ble the support rendered them from the great fund provided by the bounty of the Nation. ; These thoughts have been suggested, and these weary lamentations have ee excited, by the receipt of the annual report of the Director of the Arnold Arbo- retum, and also of the Botanic Garden of Harvard University, at Cambridge, Massachusetts. Here, then, in an institution of learning, which was already established, and which is sustained largely by private munificence, must we look for the great results we had hoped to receive trom the agricultural land grant, through the institutions which under its benificence were to have given the peo- ple that for which they had so earnestly pleaded, instruction in agriculture and the mechanic arts. From this report of the enthusiastic Director, Prof. C. 8. Sargent, we learn that much work has been done in the Botamic Garden, and that the Arboretum is in progress, for the necessary planning of which alone, $2,000 was at once raised by private subscription of twelve public-spirited individuals. Among the results of the establishment of the Arboretum the director cites a large correspondence from those desirous of procuring information, “generally ointing to the solution of these two problems : 1. How shall the worn out and exposed portions of the Atlantic seaboard be covered with trees again in the cheapest and quickest manner. How shall the treeless western states e ee ig be best rendered more habitable and productive through covering portions of them with forest growth, and especially what trees shall be selected for this purpose.” The director reports that he has succeeded in obtaining legislation in Massa- chusetts and Rhode Island exempting certain lands from taxation for the encour- agement of tree planting. ba ~,/ _—— — Cee eS a ay > oa Ture = oy eo ? +2 oe > ‘Minnesora Srave HorvicutTurAL SOcrmervy. 135 ‘By the direct inspiration of the Arboretim Reaey four hundred thousand trees have been planted during the year,”’ eg : ‘and through its correspondents in the Rocky Mountains, it has at last become possible to procure for cultivators in this country and Husqpe, large quantities of seeds of some of the peculiar trees of that region * * which have heretofore been practically unattainable.”’ Large interchanges of plants and seeds are noted, amounting to 18,919 plants and 1,267 packets of seeds, distributed during the past year. Valuable contri- butions from public institutions and private individuals have also been received. And now, my good friends, while each is trying to advance the cause of Amer- ican Forestry, let us all be thankful that one great institution of learning in our country (though not included in the category of those that were created by the congressicnal land grant already 1e‘erred to) is still able and willing to advance: so nobly the great interests of Sylvi culture in the United States, where, to pro- mote the interests of one state or section, is happily to advance the interests of all. Good hail to old Harvard! Let us emulate her good works ! Yours respectfully, JOHN A. WARDER. A LETTER FROM MAYOR RAND. A letter fon Hon. A. C. Rand was also read and ordered on file. Tt was as follows: Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Secretary, dc. Dear Srr.—I very deeply regret that my business calls me away from the city during the days named for your annual meeting. On the 14th I will leave for Chicago and remain there for a week or longer. My business there I cannot postpone. There can hardly be any diversity of opinion as to the value of the work your society is engaged in, and I would esteem it a great pleasure to assure the society of my faith in the outcome of their good work and to welcome them heartily to our city. With a renewal of my regrets, I remain, Very respectfully, A.C. RAND, Mayor. The secretary called attention to the exchange of reports men- tioned in his report, and it was voted to refer the matter to the secretary. PLACE OF NEXT MEETING. An invitation was received from Mr. Fuller to come to Litchfield. It was moved to refer the matter to the exeeutive committee. Mr. Harris spoke in favor of St. Paul or Minneapolis, as being more central and convenient. Dr. Twitchell. I consider this the only suitable place, save Rochester and Winona. The meeting eee y ——— ws ewe So = PPENDIX. APPHNDIX A. OBITUARY. P. A. JEWELL. Drep—At his residence in Lake City, on Saturday, May 25, 1878, Puinzas Anson JEWELL, aged 49 years, 4 months and 15 days, The deceased was born in New York, January 10, 1829. At the age of twenty- five he entered Oberlin College, but subsequently changed to the medical depart- ment of the Michigan State Umiversity, where he graduated. During the war he answered the call for physicians in the Army of the Potomac, and entered the hospital at Washington, remaining there until disabled by severe illness. His health required him to discontinue the practice of his chosen profession. In 1863 he was united in marriage with Catherine J. Underwood, M. D., and located at Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he engaged in the nursery business. The subsequent failure of Mrs. Jewell’s health led him to seek 2 home in Minnesota. He spent a year in looking over the State for a favorable location, and in April, 1869, settled in Lake City, establishing, in company with his brother-in-law, J. M. Underwood, the Lake Pepin Nurseries, that have since become so favorably known throughout this and adjoining States. Yor a year or more his health had been very poor, and for several months he was confined wholly to his room, his recovery being deemed almost hopeless; receiving the best treatment and care that medical attendance and loving friend- ship could bestow. At his own request, a post mortem examination was made on Saturday, which was conducted by Dr. Edward A. Patton, assisted and wit- nessed by Drs. G. R. Patton and C. D. Vilas. The examination disclosed the fact, unknown and unsuspected by either Mr. Jewell or his physicians, of the existence of a large cancer in the stomach, which was undoubtedly the cause of his long illness and death. Such, in brief, are the main features of biographical interest in the life of a prominent citizen just passed away, who was intimately known and sincerely respected in this community. His business gave him an extended acquaintance, being away from home a great deal m attendance upon pomological and horti- cultural meetings, in the discussions of which he always sustained an active part. He made a close study of our climate, and its adaptability to certain varieties of fruit and ornamental trees. His experience has been especially successful, and will in the future, as in the past, prove highly valuable to all interested in this 140 ANNUAL REPORT. subject. Recognizing the necessity for new varieties of apples that were 1 hardy than, those being set, with such repeated failures, in this State and Wi: sin, he resolved to go to Russia, and if possible, bring back something th uld stand our climate, and to this end was making all his arrangements forthe sum- _ mer of 1868; but in the winter preceding, while traveling in the southern part of this State and in northern Iowa. he found, as he thought and has since dem-— onstrated, a most valuable acquisition to the desired end, in a large collection of. seedling Siberians; and in a letter to a friend he wrote, ‘‘I shall defer my pro- posed trip, as I have found a young Russia here.” He immediately secured the stock, and showed his confidence in it by planting and propagating it extensively, and as a result, we have many valuable varieties, both for their hardiness and improved quality of fruit, as many fine orchards throughout this country and Canada can testify. Perhaps no one act of his life tended more to establish confidence in the minds of many in the ultimate success of fruit growing in this northern climate than the planting for himself an orchard of five thousand apple trees, which now stand as a beautiful and lasting monu- ment to his indefatigable energy and enterprise. In the death of Dr. Jewell, the cause of radical temperance in Minnesota sus- tains an irreparable loss. Upon the platform he was more than ordinarily gifted, as a clear and forcible speaker, while in the ranks, as a temperance advo- cate and worker, he was active and influential. His heart beat responsively to every cause in the interests of humanity, tending to its educational improvement and moral elevation. Had life and health been longer granted him he intended before long to have entered more actively into the work im behalf of some of the many projects for human advancement. In his personal and private life Dr. Jewell was one of the most lovable of men. His mild, unobtrusive manners, his uniform courtesy, shown alike to all, and at his home or elsewhere during his business leisure, his brilliant and genial con- versational powers, will not soon be forgotten. If we were disposed to find fault with him it would be that he was perhaps too modestly exclusive, although adapted by education and every essential quality of practical excellence to adorn the highest public positions in the gift of his fellow men. It is unnecessary, however, to allude at any length to these things, or bestow any encomium upon the character of a man like Dr. Jewell, here where his life was so well known as a compendium of generous thought and practical goodness. The words of the funeral address are fittingly eloquent and comprehensive: ‘¢ He carried about with him everywhere an atmosphere of spiritual dignity, which was felt as a reproach to all meanness; of chastity, whose very presence rebuked vulgarity; of simplicity which made liars ashamed, and of moral enthu- siasm, which inspired, encouraged and uplifted all weaker aspiring and all wavering souls with whom he came in contact.”’ The funeral tribute of love and honor was paid on Monday afternoon. The occasion was respectfully observed by a very large concourse of friends, who were present to mingle their offerings in the last rites that can be shown the dead by the living. The spacious rooms of the residence were filled with sympathizing friends, while many, unable to obtain admission, occupied settees that were placed on the lawn in close proximity to the parlor windows. The exercises par- took of an unusual but nevertheless pleasing character, in being conducted by an intimate personal friend of the deceased, (not a clergyman) Dr. T. H. Evarts, of Rushford. His admirable address, which is, in its literary character and appro- priateness, above comment or criticism, the tender grace and modest mein of his lives as his are triumphs, and their close _ An immortality : weep not for him. — i “A practical rebuker of vain Birtley ita i een Bolder in deeds than words, from beardless youth To the white hairs of age, he made his life _ _ A beautiful consecration to the Truth.” And ~ 5 ee 2 boa BAS ah ie 4 xe See Sag eee : * Nt peat ae For the encouragement of the famt-hearted, I will give a lis of apples and crabs I have fruiting in my orchard, which cc acres. Be it remembered that the late frosts in May killed n buds, and many of my trees are entirely barren of fruit. The tabular list gives first, how grown, top grafted on crabs or of fruit, quality, hardiness of tree, origin if known, what grafted being top grafted, with other remarks on fruitfulness of tree, ete., é umns explain: t for top grafted, r for root, and t r for top and root Size, | large, m medium, s small, v s very small. Quality, g good, m medium, p poor, v very. Season, e early, s summer, f fall, w winter, | late. dent Se Hardiness, h hardy, which would not indicate that they would acc generally on the prairie, but v h would; t tender. Origin given when known. ye If top grafted T for Transcendent, H for Hyslop, being the best vari as a stock, or best suited as a stock. Minnesota SraTE Horricutturat Society. — 143 *Did not bear this year. LIST OF VARIETIES. Cl : S sp ; os sae Ble. 2 5 S35 so NAMES. = Bee foe S2 REMARKS. ‘< Fe: bb 2 3 & Pan (oe Lute r . : = cS 4G ee S/$ |S 1215 |# ies f Rin i@la |e io |a oS re | | os | ee | ee eee —_—_—— of Oldenberg..| r 1 g s |vh /Rus.|..../Very prolific. Rae s jo ele'e se (t&r 1 m j}ew] h |Mo.|t |Very prolific, [Proiifie. ealthy (hybrid)...... t&r) 1 |vg}| wivh|M. |e |Top grafts well on Crabs. : ln t&r) m{vg! s |vh /Rus.| t |Proiifiec, f Astrachan*..... Ee} me) Di -Cis, ov y (Ruse fee vce) {lands. RE beatae. r mjivg/]s Loa) NEOTEL Kine Favorite in clay and timber waukee...............7&t/ m | vg{lw] t |.....| t |Nothardy enoughfor Minn Goodenough............ oe |) Oo} De leWatt- LV re hones ah A “ Blue Pearmain......... t aS ee eee tie [ears t JUNC: .... -. Ailincs 3) 5 faa Ta Ue at soy Ce a Head les ge t |Too tender for profit Domenistic... -| © | 1 | g | w ] bh jRus.|..../Think it may prove of val. Fameuse... |r &t} m |} g jew} t |Can.| t /Very prolific. BEN AVIS) sc... 1.--.- r&t}/ m|gif{ilwj] t |Ky. | t |Have fine trees on trans. Seek no Farther, Ohio.) t mj|vgi|w a0 t |Not a success even on crab. Rollins’ Prolific......... t mj|p f|w h jm. |b |Very prolitic. Molly Apple............ t mj/}s |w he |e } Early Harvest t TH |SMev es eticl h |Promises well. Bialingaiees.;.0--------- t&rim |p |lw] h |vt. | t [Worthy ; it keeps till July. Worgunock, (No. 565)..| mj} g f h |Rus.} d |Has borne but this year. Autumn Strawberry...) r mivg] f Gy (a ...|Not hardy enough for Minn Northern Spy.......... t 1 g |w t |.....| t |Not hardy ; even erabs. Tetofsky* ---.......-..) © | m | vg] es|vh /Rus.|-.-./One of the best early. Price’s Sweet*. 4/28 m|vg]| f t |.....]---./Tender, but prolific bearer. Jeniton......... AV m}m {fiw} t |Mo.|t [Proves hardy on trans. Dickerman... jt & ty m | g wih |M. |t |Newseed’g not fully test’d. Plumb’s Cider. GST vel |) ms! ew bh le t |Not so hardy as others. Talman Sweet. . al ear m g w | Hew erase ...|Very tender. . Crabs or Hybrids f Early Strawberry -\E&r) s |vg}/es|vh fla, | t |Best early crab ever tested, Transcendent... Cae 1 p 8 jvh].....|.--./Subject to early blight. yslop...-... A] ee 1 P LCM Es ail eee A good sort. Conical Crab. iv&t} 1 |vg}1lf] h j.....| t |Annualbearer ; never fails. TANGLE: <2... jr &t} m |vg¢}lew]vhiIa. | t /A failure on trans. Beech’s Reed -| ro) mj|vg}_f |vh{M, |....!Can’t be beat for all uses. Beech’s Sweet.......... r&t|/ m|v¢g|lfivhin, t |Excelient for cider, Beech’s Green Winier..| r m |g Ww ivh|M. |..../Not fully tested. Sweet Russett.......... r m g |e@wivh |Ia. |.-...|Excellent qual. ; shy bear’r. Palmer’s Sweet pew 1 g { ;vh|M. |.. .!A little dry when over ripe. Malakoff ..... att oe r&t; 1 vg| f t |Wis.| t |A little tender. Pride of Minneapolis*.| t St ee) f h IM. t |{Excellent for cooking. Honey Sweet t 1 vg} f |vb jIa. | sd |Sweet as honew. Soulard......... r NTS AA Oc fear hcl rae Pee Fit only for cooking. Sylvan Sweet r m p f h Ila. |..../A little bitter. Florence Gideon, No. 3) t Mee s j}vb |jM. j; h |A prolific bearer. Martha Gideon, No, 5../f &r} 1 g f j|vh /|M. | t {A fine market sort. Minnesota*............. t&r| 1 g jew] h |M. |{t p [variety. Gen. Grant.............) © | 1 | m | £ | h /Ia. |..../Blights too bad to be asale Meader’s Harvest... .. ri 1 m |-esjvh |Ia. |..../Fine cooking ; sour eating. Meader’s Red Winter..|jr & t} 5s vgz/w j|vh iia. t |Subject to blight. Meader’s Green........ r&t) m |vg¢|w {vb iia, | t Simmons’ Haryest.....| © | vs | m |es|vh |WWis,|..../Ofbest stock to graft upon Minnehaha..... . een ss r&t} 1 vg} f |vh{M. | t |Seedling of my own. Akin’s Green Winter../r&t} vl] p w lvh|M. |t [Not worth propagating. Angular Crab........... r s g f jvh ila. |....]Very productive. Meader’s Blush.........] r Meas w | h jfa, |....|Poor bearer while young. Hesper Blush........... r m |g {jew/Vh Ia, |....|A shy bearer with me. Hesper Rose*........... t&r) vl/vgjes|h jla. | t /LToo much subject to blight. Quaker Beauty......... Y mig /l wy; h {la, |....!A shy bearer. ; PIVANSICLAD ho. cccc.- oe t Ss 2 f Pees. t j|Am disappointed in size. Wittie Crab... o.5.....% r&t) | |vgjef} h |M. |..../Seedling of my own. Virginia Crab,..%.'...... r&t} m {/vg/efivh/Va. | t |Very productive. Piel BUS UNO dae wliec.ss r s m w}-h |M. sess! | Note lr | am | & ow] me (Me icc] (AM very productive, “ NGageeee r m |g Sve ire Evin eaten) Badger State*...... 7. &t) m |} vg} f£ | vb | Wis.) t |Has not borne much. Three new Seedlings not yet named. | Besides the foregoing, we have growing in our experimental orchard over one hundred varieties of apples and crabs that have not yet borne fruit, which I may report upon in my next issue. Many of them iussians we are testing. 144 ANNUAL REPORT. APPENDIX, C. 2 ae REPORTS OF COUNTY AND LOCAL SOCIETIES. OLMSTED COUNTY. Rocnester, Mrnn., Ava. 15, 1879. Chas. Y. Lacy, Esq., Minneapolis, Minn. Dear Srr:—Your favor of recent date, asking for copy of proceedings of our County Horticultural Society, list of officers, etc., is received. I herewith send you a copy of the proceedings of the sixth annual meeting, held in March last, as published in the Record and Union; also copy of published proceedings of the June meeting, from which you can select such portions as you deem of impor- tance or interest to horticulturists. Our county organization is not large, but 1s still maintained, despite all discouraging attendant circumstances. Our nursery- men and fruit growers have labored patiently for years to advance the interests of horticulture in this section of the State. Their efforts have been rewarded, thus far, with gratifying results. Repeated and numerous experiments have demorstrated the practicability of producing an abundance of choice apples and small fruit in Minnesota; and in spite of many partial failures and discouraging drawbacks, they are looking forward hopefully to the future, confident of greater success to crown their efforts. As you are well aware, we have several fine nurseries here, all under the man- agement of experienced and painstaking nurserymen. Mr. E. B. Jordon, of the Evergreen Nursery, also has some 15,000 trees in orchard, many of them in bearing. His trees are remarkably healthy, and almost entirely free from the bhght which has been so prevalent and destructive this season. Mr. A. W. Sias, one of the oldest nurserymen in this State, and I may say, one of the most reliable, has a fine nursery on College Hill, well stocked with hardy varieties of apples, as well as leading varieties of the strawberry, rasp- berry and other small fruits. He has experimented extensively with Russian and native varieties of apples, and propagates only the best and most hardy trees. Mr. M. W. Cook, proprietor of the Rochester Nurseries, is our champion small fruit man, and I[ enclose you a brief item on ‘‘Strawberries,’’ clipped from a recent number of the Record and Union. Muyyesora Stare HorricurruraL Sociery. 145 % The soil and climate of Southern Minnesota are very favorable to the growth of fruit of all kinds, and more attention should be given to horticultural interests. _ But the people are at last becoming better informed upon the importance of these _ matters, and learning, too, that their material prosperity largely depends upon the extent in which they engage in horticultural pursuits. Even this year we should have had a large quantity of fruit for local consumption, but for the unfavorable season. Still, several hundred bushels of delicious berries and bar- rels of choice apples were marketed by our fruit growers. At the end of another year we hope and expect to make a still more favorable report. Hastily and very respectfully, yours, Ss. D. HILLMAN, Sec’y Olmsted Co. Hort. Soc. Annual Meeting. The sixth annual meeting of the Olmsted County Horticultural Society was held in the office of the Record and Union, on Saturday afternoon, March 18th, 1879. There was not a large attendance, but the proceedings were of an inter- esting character, especially to horticulturists, and we devote considerable space to a report of the discussions on fruit growing. The meeting was called to order by the President, A. W. Sias, who stated the object of the meeting. ‘The first business transacted was the election of officers for the ensuing year, resulting as follows: President—A. W. Sias, post office Rochester. Vice President—W m. Somerville, Viola Center. Treasurer—M. J. Hoag, Rochester. Secretary—S. D. Hillman, Rochester. The question for discussion was then taken up, to wit: ‘‘ Foreign versus native fruits.”’ Mr. J. Bamber, of Rochester town, opened the discussion. He said he came to listen rather than to make any remarks. He had experimented with fruit in Minnesota, and had watched with a good deal of anxiety the progress made by others. He set thirty-six trees in 1855, and lost them all by the end of the second year. He next set thirty-eight more trees, bought from a Rochester, N. Y., nursery, with similar results; and his experiments were mostly failures, except with the Duchess and Transcendent. He thought our main dependence for fruit here must be upon native seedlings, whether raised from standard apples or hybridized from standards. There were some kinds of Canada fruits that might perhaps do well in this climate. Mr. William Somerville said he would agree with Mr. Bamber, that our main dependence for fruit was in our Minnesota seedlings, but he did not think Canada varieties were well adapted to this soil and climate. In Canada the early frosts destroy the leaves and cause the wood to ripen for winter; while here the leaves were liable to remain on the trees, causing the sap to continue to flow until late in the season. It was necessary to raise varieties that would ripen early, and a few such kinds, like the Duchess, for instance, might be obtained from Russia. But that country afforded only summer and fall varieties, while the great need was to supply good standard winter varieties. Trees should be propagated from native stock which had been thoroughly acclimated. If this course were to be adopted he had no doubt the time would soon come when Minnesota would FL teeing sc Annual REPORT. eee become a, fruit-growing State, and as fine fruit might be produced where. . Bisa: Mr. M. W. Cook said the kind of tree that page he beet tho ve wan The Duchess has done more for fruit growing in this State than any other vari He remembered when they used to talk as discouragingly of f ) Michigan as some now do of Minnesota. They found out what kinds by testing them. He favored Russian varieties. Mr. Somerville said we needed more winter apples. It was we as the fruit season of apples changed in different climates. ate ; Mr. Sias said there was no doubt of that fact, as he had observed i Hag ap rience in the South. He then proceeded to read an interesting paper on the sub- ject under discussion. He asserted that native varieties had always taken pre- cedence over foreign varieties in the older States of the Union, and have in all respects been successful and remunerative. He cited as authority a letter 1 received from Hon. M. P. Wilder, of Boston, and Dr. Haskins, of Newport, V Native fruits stand higher in the estimation of those qualified to judge than for- eign varieties; and as a rule, a variety attains its highest degree of perfection where it originates. ‘The same was true of plums, grapes, gooseberries, etc. Those who advocated such ideas were accused of having an *‘ axe to grind,” which was magnified into a monstrous bugbear. In conclusion he said it was hardly necessary in confirmation of these facts to cite what had been accomplished by Messrs. Cottrell, Rollins, Gideon, and others, in the good work of devoloping our native varieties, but suffice to say, “what man has done man may do.”’ Mr. M. J. Hoag said he understood the Duchess was a winter Tae in Russia. He thought hardy varieties could be produced from native seedlings. We should pick out the best and hold fast to that. He inquired as to the opinion of others in regard to the plan of planting evergreens with apples, to protect them from the sun. Mr. Cook said he would plant apple as that were able to stand without ever- greens, and put the evergreens where they belonged. Mr. Sias exhibited specimens of canned fruit, and said he had one seedling which produced more apples than his fifty Russian varieties. The latter blossomed too early, and were injured by the frost. Mr. Bamber inquired as to the St. Lawrence as a hardy tree. Mr. Sias said he thought highly of it, but it had been mostly displaced by other varieties. On motion of Mr. Hillman, it was decided unanimously, as the sense of the meeting, that, as a rule, native varieties of fruits should be given the preference over foreign varieties. For general cultivation for five best varieties, the society recommended the Duchess, Wealthy, Elgin Beauty, Haas and Rollin’s Prolific; for trial, Rollin’s Pippin, St. Lawrence and Rollin’s Russet; for general cultivation of the hybrid varieties, the following: Early Strawberry, Orange, Meader’s Winter, Beach's Sweet, Beach’s Red, Hutchinson’s Sweet, Maiden’s Blush, and Power's Crab. On invitation of Mr. Cook it was decided to hold the next meeting at his resi- dence, in the month of June next, at which time the subject of strawberries will be discussed. : The meeting then adjourned. “4 Miyyesora Stare HorvicvuL,tTuraL Socmery, 147 ry %. ; "7 JUNE MEETING. 4 ee mew,” : Strawberry Culture. the Olmsted County Horticultural Society held a scene last aces after- mS noon, June 27, by invitation of the President, A. W. Sias, at his residence on College Hill, to discuss the strawberry question. A very neat evergreen arbor had been erected for the occasion, just in front of his residence, affording ample shade and a cool retreat. Beneath this was spread a large table, ornamented . ‘with beautiful fowers@nd richly laden with refreshments, which the ladies know so well how to prepare. Fine specimens of the strawberry were exhibited from the grounds of M. W. Cook, A. W. Sias, J. M. Hall, and others. Mr. Hall’s ‘berries, mostly of the Green Prolific variety, were particularly fine; many single specimens measuring four inches, and one five inches in circumference. After some informal discussion the meeting was called to order, and the merits of the berries and other good things were discussed in a practical way. Mr. Sias then arose and made some remarks. He’said the object of the meeting was to discuss ‘‘Strawberries, the best methods of cultivation, etc.’’ As for the success- ful cultivation of strawberries in a season when ice formed a quarter of an inch - thick after they were in blossom, he preferred to take a back seat; but there were those present who could raise them under such discouraging circumstances. He was glad to see so many ladies present. he society had been trying for six years past to get up successful meetings unaided by the ladies, but had succeeded indifferently; but when they were well represented, as on this occasion, there was avast improvement. The man who opposes his wife’s attending horticultural and agricultural meetings, and who says she ought not to go, and that the proper place for women is at home to take care of the children, he would denounce as an old fogy.. If he said she should not gv, he denounced him as a tyrant. He said he wished to impress the fact upon the ladies that their help was needed. He said some of them were well posted upon the subject of floriculture, and he hoped hereafter to hear from them. M. J. Hoag said he could raise strawberries, but he was not a speechmaker. Downer’s Prolific had done the best with him. It stood the frost well. It was the most profitable berry, and of fine flavor, It was of medium size, very prolific, and stood the frost when the Col. Cheney was entirely killed. The Boyden also stood well. He mulched his vines well in the fall with clean straw. This was removed after the picking season, and the ground thoroughly evltivated. He considered 5,000 quarts per acre a fair crop, but said as high as 11,000 quarts had been produced. Failures were due to lack of cultivation. Mr. Sias said he had been experimenting somewhat with the new variety of strawberry known as Hart’s Seedling, and was highly pleased with it. From twenty-two plants set out a year ago, he now had over 1800 healthy plants grow- ing. The berry is large, of good shape, fine favor, and is very productive. B. F. Perry said his experience was limited, but he recommended thorough culture; plant in May on clean, rich soil. He spoke highly of Hart’s Seedling, and thought it the best variety to be obtained. A unanimous vote of thanks was tendered the worthy President for the interest taken to make the meeting pleasant and enjoyable; after which the meeting adjourned. . Veet aidiea x theswall: onder Wis Meee jen ee ' with them when the dew was on the leaves. oy You can mention above, if you think best; or simply gi give > Hastily yours, ~ ae My wy r alae i ‘- ¥ % \ i cen Sau Sate | ul Rv ek “ a Nt oe 4 i) re . Ne Lo al aA ene! ne